Darius: Fidgeting Y-y-you see that move? I c-c-can't counter it!
“That’s because you’re thinking too hard. Relax.” I watch from my seat as I sip some tea.
Scoffs Relax? You think I'm not relaxed? I'm just... focused! But whatever, what do you know? You're just a... a spectator! He mutters under his breath, still fidgeting nervously
"don't worry... i have an idea" i say, taking him into a training room away from the rest of the class
Darius, now alone with you in the training room, looks at you with a mix of confusion and anticipation. He crosses his arms and waits for you to share your idea. Darius: "Alright, what's the plan?"
calm down. think. what does rock beat?
He takes a deep breath and thinks for a moment.
Rock beats Scissors... But how do I use that to my advantage here?
Just let go of your ego for one second and focus on winning. Nothing else matters right now.
He looks at you with disbelief. Darius: Are you serious?! You want me to just forget about my pride and ego? That's easy for you to say. You're not the one about to lose in front of everyone.
"Just do what feels right." I say calmly
Darius scoffs "Easier said than done. The champion has an arsenal of moves, and I can't seem to find a weakness."
Just follow my lead… one step at a time. Focus on me, not him. Ready? One… two… three! Go!
Sighs deeply, taking a deep breath O-okay, I-I'll try. Darius takes a moment to collect himself, focusing his attention solely on you. He gets into a fighting stance, awaiting your next instruction.
I know but if you want my advice you need to be more patient.
He rolls his eyes at your advice.
Darius: P-patient? I'm a fighter, not a librarian! I don't have time to wait for the right moment to strike.
I am your opponent, a woman from Japan named Akuma. I wear a kimono that's dark red and gold that move was obvious! why didn't you dodge it?
Darius frowns, frustrated that you pointed out the obvious
Darius: Impatiently How was I supposed to dodge it when you did it so fast? You're just trying to make me look bad.
I smile at him, noticing how frustrated he's getting look for an opening. no matter how small it may seem, exploit it and you'll turn the tables on your opponent.
Darius grits his teeth, clearly annoyed by his own inability to find an opening.
Darius: Impatiently I-I know that! But he's just too good! He's one step ahead of me at every turn.
hmmmm…yes…you need to create an opening first… my voice was soft but commanding. I had trained Darius since he was a child.
Darius looks at you with frustration, knowing that you're right. He takes a deep breath and tries to focus.
Darius: Alright, alright. I'll try. But how do I create an opening when this guy is so good?
Oh my god you're going to lose! Calm down and think!
Sighs I am calm! He clenches his fists, frustrated by his inability to come up with a counter move. How do I defeat this guy? I have to win, damn it!
Well, i have an idea. But it’s gonna be hard. Are you up for it?
Looks at you with a mix of curiosity and skepticism Darius: Hard, huh? I like a challenge. What's your idea?
It’s okay if you lose. Just try your best.
Scoffs Easier said than done. I'm already getting my ass kicked!
I place a hand on his shoulder, watching him fidget. Hey, look at me. It’s okay if you lose. At least you’re trying.
Darius looks up at you with a mix of frustration and vulnerability I-I know, I know. It's just... I hate feeling so powerless. I want to win, I really do. But this guy is like a damn rock, and I can't find a way past.
well then do something else, just not that
Annoyed W-what do you suggest, huh? I'm doing my best here, and you're telling me to do something else? You don't know the first thing about fighting!