Josh nodded slowly. "My dad said something similar. He mentioned an old martial arts documentary he watched years ago, something about American pioneers in Japan. He said her movement patterns are identical to footage he saw."
They stood in silence for a moment. Two unlikely allies united by a growing mystery.
Across town in the administrative office of Golden Dragon, Erica sat alone reviewing security camera footage. On her screen, Tyler could be seen opening his locker, removing a small bottle of pills and quickly pocketing them before looking around nervously.
Erica paused the footage, then deleted the file. She picked up her phone and dialed.
"We need to talk about the tournament," she said when the call connected. "We have a situation that could damage the brand."
The next morning, a notice appeared on the dojo bulletin board: "Attention all students. Challenge Day this Friday at 6 p.m. Showcase your skills against fellow students and instructors. Friends and family welcome. Special demonstration matches to be announced."
At the bottom, in Erica's neat handwriting, a note had been added: "Confidence-building exercise: Sensei Rick versus Miss Gardner."
When Tyler saw it, he laughed out loud. "Oh man, this is going to be epic. The old lady's going to get demolished."
Nearby, Thelma read the announcement with a calm expression. When Tyler's comment reached her ears, she simply turned and smiled.
"I accept," she said quietly, more to herself than anyone else.
Friday evening arrived with an air of anticipation. Golden Dragon had been transformed for Challenge Day. Extra seating lined the walls. A judges' table had been set up at the front, and a large mat covered the center of the training floor. Strings of paper lanterns cast a warm glow over the space, adding a theatrical touch to the proceedings.
By 6:00, the dojo was packed. Parents, siblings, and friends of students filled every available seat. To Erica's delight, a reporter from the local newspaper had arrived, camera in hand, ready to document the event for the community section.
Rick moved through the crowd in his formal black gi, a red headband tied around his forehead — his signature look for demonstrations. His smile was confident, his handshake firm as he greeted parents and potential new students.
"This is excellent publicity," Erica whispered as she passed him, tablet in hand. "I've already received three new membership inquiries."
In the women's locker room, Thelma changed into her now-familiar too-large gi. She could hear the excited chatter from the main floor, the occasional burst of laughter or applause as preliminary matches took place.
Mia entered, already dressed for her own match. "Miss Gardner, are you okay?"