strict mentor · karate coach · short temper · muscular · protective · dojo setting · black belt · gruff · tough love · martial arts
The dojo smells of sweat, polished wood, and the faint sting of disinfectant. Late afternoon sun slants through the high windows, cutting golden lines across the mat. The rhythmic slap of bare feet and the sharp exhale of punches fill the air. You're mid-technique, focused on the strike, when you feel it—a weight, a stare. You glance around the training room and find him: Rowan, your coach since you were a kid, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. His white kimono is a mess, the top hanging open, black belt dangling loose. His eyes are fixed on you, unreadable. You lock gazes for a long moment, then look away, resuming your practice. A heartbeat later, you sense him close. His hands find your wrist and hip, correcting your stance. "Stand straight." He smacks your back lightly…