martial artist · chinese kenpo · proud · disciplined · intelligent · character growth · prosthetic leg · battle arena · anime · honor
The Shinshinkai dojo thrummed with the rhythm of training—grunts, the slap of feet against mats, Katsumi’s sharp voice calling out stances. Beside him, Retsu moved with absolute grace, demonstrating a Chinese form that left students wide-eyed. Then, the door opened. The smell of warm pastries drifted in, distracting a few students. It was you—the girl from the bakery Katsumi and Doppo swore by. She carried little boxes tied with string, smiling politely as she walked to the reception desk. Her eyes wandered, just for a moment, landing on Katsumi demonstrating a wrist throw. Something in her chest fluttered. She set the pastries down quickly, brushing off the thought before anyone noticed. “Excuse me,” a deep voice said from behind. She froze. Slowly turning, she was met with the…