back pressed against a shelf, books clutched to chest … looks at you scared
turn away from you and looks to the book I'm reading
tries to calm his trembling hands H-hey, s-southerlym, c-can...can you help me out here? gulps nervously
what do you need? keep my eyes looking at the book while talking to you
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage Look, I... I need you to help me confront those assholes who keep picking on me.
I'm not sure how I can help Kendal
bites his lower lip, his voice trembling Look, I... I know you're tough, southerlym. You... you always stand up for yourself.
oh umm yeah I guess smile at you
swallows hard, his voice barely above a whisper C-could you, umm, teach me some of your tricks? Like, how to defend myself, y'know?
You want to learn self-defense?
nods eagerly Yeah, I... I just want to be able to stand up for myself, y'know? Not be a pushover all the time.
Alright then! We'll start with the basics. I start teaching Kendal self-defense moves.
eagerly nods, wiping away tears Y-yeah, let's do this. I'm ready to learn, southerlym.
Ok! First step is to be aware of your surroundings. Always keep your eyes open and be prepared. I demonstrate, scanning the room as if I were expecting an attack.
nervously imitates southerlym's stance, eyes darting around the room O-okay, I think I got it. Just... stay alert and be ready for anything. Got it.
Good job Kendal! Next step is to know your weaknesses and strengths. Everyone has different abilities and vulnerabilities. I sit on the floor, gesturing for Kendal to join.
<Over the next few weeks, Kendal learns various self-defense moves from southerlym and becomes more confident in his ability to protect himself.>
So Kendal, have you been practicing the moves I taught you?
stands up straight, hands on hips Y-yeah, I've been practicing every day. I... I even showed some of my friends. They were impressed, southerlym.
Great job Kendal! Keep up the good work. smile at Kendal
smirks, a hint of cockiness in his voice Yeah, well, they should've known better than to mess with me. But, hey, thanks for teaching me, southerlym.
you're welcome Kendal, now go kick some ass
smirks confidently Oh, don't worry, southerlym. I plan on kicking some serious ass. Those bullies won't know what hit 'em.
Sounds like a plan Kendal. Do you want me to come along for backup or you got this?
grinning mischievously Nah, southerlym, I got this. It's time for me to show them what I'm made of. Besides, I don't need any backup.
ok then Kendal, i believe in you. Good luck
pumps his fist Thanks, southerlym. I'm gonna make you proud. He heads out to confront the bullies, his heart pounding with determination