Cobra Kai: Under the Cobra Emblem

The next day at the martial arts school, Max, warming up, asked Devon, "How many do you think will come?"

The question caught Devon off guard, but she smiled. "Far more than we think. It seems like everyone who showed up is genuinely interested in learning martial arts, so I believe most of them will come back tomorrow."

She knew that new students often didn't return after their first session due to the intensity of the initial training. Johnny's method of practical teaching, while rigorous, was proving to be the right approach as classes progressed.

"Nobody learning martial arts becomes an expert at dodging bullets," she thought. "That's impossible. Some of these kids might have unrealistic ideas about what they're here to learn, so it's better for them to understand the basics from the start."

"You really think so?" Max was surprised by her answer but quickly nodded in understanding.

"Of course. Trust my intuition."

"By the way, with the school's Halloween party coming up, have you decided on a costume?" Max asked after a brief pause. He recalled Devon previously saying she wasn't interested.

School parties were typically dull, unless you were one of the popular kids or someone looking to seize the chance for a late-night date with their girlfriend.

Devon turned her head, watching the students still training by throwing punches in the air. "You keep bringing up that boring Halloween party. Do you really want to go?"

"Miguel's the one insisting we meet up with him. It seems he's smitten with this girl, Samantha. I told him not to get his hopes up because I feel she's not the right one for him," Max said, showing concern for his friend.

Hearing that, Devon smirked and asked, "Since when do you know so much about love?"

They'd known each other long enough for her to recognize that Max didn't know the first thing about romance.

Max thought for a moment before replying, "Well, now that you mention it, I only know that not all girls are good for everyone. I don't know how to explain it, but I truly feel Miguel shouldn't get involved with her."

Devon seemed to understand but didn't entirely get why Max was so concerned. Other people's problems shouldn't be his, so it couldn't just be that.

"Anyway, I'm going to practice my kicks," Devon said, shaking her head and dismissing the topic as unimportant. She began her drills.

"I'll do the same…" Max returned to his own training, striking the practice dummy with precise punches. Suddenly, his fists opened, transitioning his attacks into palm strikes, which became even faster and more agile.

Thud! Thud! Thud!

The sharp, strong blows were effective because Max seamlessly combined punches with kicks, creating an unconventional combat style. His mastery of these diverse techniques was evident, a result of countless hours of training.

As Max finished his demonstration, a voice called out behind him, "Excellent."

Startled, Max turned to see Johnny standing nearby, clearly impressed by what he'd just witnessed.

At that moment, Max glanced around at the class, which had grown quieter. He called out, "Attention, class!"

"Yes!"

Everyone practicing straight punches and karate stances halted, turning to Max and awaiting instructions.

"Break!"

"Yes, Sensei!"

Johnny nodded in approval, observing the disciplined response. He had no doubt in Max and Miguel's abilities—they were the best students Cobra Kai had to offer. But as their teacher, he felt it necessary to oversee things himself to gauge the progress.

"You should already know Miguel Diaz and Max Jones. They're the stars of this karate dojo. While we've got great fighters here today, like Ryan, who excels in mixed martial arts, and Isaac, a Taekwondo expert…"

Johnny paused for effect and then continued, "In this dojo, even those talented fighters are my students. You'll all learn the Cobra Kai style and how to complement your martial arts. If you're here just to learn how to fight, this is your class. Follow my instructions without question, and I promise you'll become the toughest in your circle."

"Yes, Sensei!"

Johnny smirked and added, "Tournament battles are amazing, but only the top students will have the privilege to compete. Don't worry, though—talent surpasses all. Every one of you has a chance to rise to the top class if you win our annual Cobra Kai student tournament."

He continued, "The best among you will not only advance but also earn the right to challenge any Cobra Kai student. Understand this: our top students get the chance to participate in national and international tournaments. You might train here today, but tomorrow, you could be heading to China for a competition."

The new students exchanged astonished looks. They hadn't realized the dojo's reputation extended so far. Though it wasn't widely talked about online, today's introduction made them see it in a whole new light.

"But don't get too excited. You can find recordings of many of our competitions on our website. And if you plan to continue training, you'll need your uniform." Johnny gave the class a sharp nod and concluded, "That's all for today. Stick to your physical training routines, and when you're ready, I'll teach you how to kick some serious ass. One last thing, what path will you choose?"

"Yes, Sensei!"

The new students dispersed, heading toward the gym to begin their fitness routines.

Many of them were thrilled to be part of this dojo. After today, they knew they'd keep coming back, realizing it was a respectable place with clear principles and goals.