COBRA KAI
Chapter 4
Written by
EightiesPower
(No) Copyright (c) 2021
1st and probably final draft
eightiespower
EPISODE 1
FADE IN ON
JOHNNY, noticeably younger, sitting behind the wheel of Pontiac Firebird, pedal to the metal, sunglasses on. SHANNON in the passenger seat, a 7-year-old ROBBY strapped in the back seat. JOHNNY is banging his head to the rhythm of "Welcome to the Jungle" playing on the radio. It's a sunny day, and they're driving on a road outside of city limits.
SHANNON
Turn that screeching down, will you?
JOHNNY
The hell you calling screeching?! This is the biggest band on the planet you're listening to!
SHANNON
Right, maybe in the 90's. Listen, we need to talk.
She reaches for the dial and turns it all the way down, to JOHNNY's evident frustration.
SHANNON
Now, don't take me wrong, I'm grateful that you've decided to play dad for once. Even if I'm not sure about the choice of venue for our "family getaway"...
JOHNNY
What, you think Robby's not gonna like Monster Jam? What kid doesn't like Monster Jam?!
SHANNON
One that's not a hillbilly dimwit? He'll probably get bored halfway through. Anyway, that's not what I wanted to talk about. Again, thanks for the trip, but I hope you're not expecting this to make up for 3 months' worth of child support?
JOHNNY
Oh, for crying out loud, Shannon! You know I was fired those 3 months back! I only just got a new gig! You'll get your money, alright? I just gotta settle a couple tabs first.
SHANNON
So do I, Johnny! Robby's about to start school, and I can barely scrape up enough cash to keep a roof over our heads. You want him to go meet other kids looking like a pauper?
JOHNNY
If I don't get my rent sorted out, I get kicked out of my place. If I get kicked out of my place, I won't hold on to the job for long. Look, if you can't pay for the roof over your head, you can always move under mine.
SHANNON
And live with you, Johnny?! Ha ha, right, we've been through this before. I'd rather move under an overpass. Just get money from Sid, what's the big deal?
JOHNNY
Not a chance in hell. I haven't grovelled before this sleazebag for anything in years, and I'm not gonna start now.
SHANNON
(increasingly high-pitched) Well, swallow your pride and do it. This is your son's future that's on the line. Or do you not give a shit about that, huh?!
ROBBY
(timidly) Mom, can you please not get angry?
JOHNNY
Of course I give a shit, what the hell do you think?! Maybe if you didn't drink away all the money that comes your way, you wouldn't be up shit creek now?!
SHANNON
Well, f**k me, found the walking temperance movement! Screw you, Johnny! You've got no idea what it's like to be a parent!
ROBBY
(barely audible) Mom, please...
JOHNNY
(to SHANNON) Yeah, hide behind Robby, that's what you always do, as if he meant more to you than a meal ticket.
SHANNON
Go to hell you bastard! How dare you even judge me?!
JOHNNY
Guess I'm just tired of taking shit from you after...
In his agitation, JOHNNY does not notice that the car is swerving off the lane, until it SCRAPES against an oncoming vehicle to the sound of grinding metal.
JOHNNY
OH SHIT!
He hits the brakes and pulls over.
SHANNON
WHAT IN THE GOD'S NAME ARE YOU DOING?! Robby, honey, are you ok?
ROBBY
Yes, mom, I'm fine.
JOHNNY
I haven't done anything! It was that son of a bitch...
He steps out of the car without finishing the sentence. He sees the other car parked on the opposite side of the street, and walks across the road, flipping off the oncoming traffic on the way. He approaches the other driver - a middle-aged out-of-shape guy, now also out of the car - aggressively.
JOHNNY
THE HELL WAS THAT, MAN? WHO TAUGHT YOU HOW TO DRIVE?
DRIVER
Me?! Dude, it was you got on my lane! If I didn't pull away you would've smashed right into me!
JOHNNY
Bullshit! You saying I can't drive, huh?! I think you're asking to get your ass kicked!
DRIVER
(panicked, pulls out his phone) Hey, don't do anything stupid, man! I'm gonna call the cops, I swear I will!
JOHNNY closes in rapidly while taking his glasses off, SMACKS the phone out of his hand, and GRABS the man by his coat tails.
JOHNNY
(low voice) Oh yeah? Who you gonna call now, pussy?! They're gonna have to call the ghostbusters after I'm through with you!
DRIVER
(hysterical) C'mon, don't hurt me, man! I didn't do anything to you!
SHANNON
(standing by JOHNNY's car) JOHNNY, FOR GOD'S SAKE ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR DAMN MIND?! LEAVE THIS POOR GUY ALONE!
ROBBY
(comes out of the car) Mommy, I'm scared. Can we go home?
JOHNNY
(seeing ROBBY, he releases the man, who promptly makes a dash for his phone, now lying on the street) Robby, it's alright, get back to the car!
SHANNON
WE'RE NOT GETTING BACK ANYWHERE WITH YOU! You're a psycho, Johnny! You're not going near my son again! We'll be coming back with the cops after they bust your sorry ass!
JOHNNY
No no no, wait, I'll get this sorted out, don't get your panties in a wad!
The man grabs his phone off the street, almost getting hit by traffic in the process, and dials a number while swiftly backing away from JOHNNY.
DRIVER
Alright, you've done it man, you've really done it!... Uh, hello, is this the police?
JOHNNY
(no longer sure of himself) Hey, hold on! There's no need to...
SHANNON
You touch him again, Johnny, and I'm calling the cops myself! You're not getting out of this one, and you're not dragging us along either!
JOHNNY
Oh, give me a break, Shannon! You can't do this to me!
ROBBY
I wanna go home!
JOHNNY
Robby, I... I'm...
SHANNON
Save it, Johnny! (embraces ROBBY) Don't worry, honey, we'll be home soon.
JOHNNY is now standing still, mouth open but at loss for words. A look of helplessness and dismay comes over his features, as he sees ROBBY stare at him with dread in his eyes. The image slowly fades to white as the sound of sirens erupts in the distance. Finally, we cut to
EXT. MIYAGI-DO - DAY
CLOSE-UP of JOHNNY, present day, black headband on his forehead, in full Sensei stance now barking commands, yet we can see that behind the stern veneer there's lingering disquiet from the flashback he's just experienced.
JOHNNY
FRONT. ELBOW. STRIKE!
We are back in Miyagi-Do's garden. Same set-up as in the end-scene of the last episode, except DANIEL's not there. JOHNNY is now giving the students a warm-up, with the kids punching and kicking the air in a somewhat haphazard manner, reflecting the fact that not all of the students are familiar with JOHNNY's terminology.
CUT from the wide angle to the close-up of MIGUEL, who is perspiring loudly while throwing the kicks. This leads SAM to in turn throw concerned glances at him, and also attracts HAWK's attention.
HAWK
Not back to full strength yet, huh, Serpiente?
MIGUEL
Yeah, kinda. (puffs cheeks) I thought I felt rough yesterday, but compared to today that was nothing. (gives a laboured kick) Whew, it's like... half my spine's been relocated and is now boring through my flesh to right itself again.
SAM is obviously peturbed by the mental picture this has given her.
SAM
Are you sure you shouldn't take a day off? See an orthopedist maybe?
MIGUEL
And miss such an epic Sensei team-up? Wouldn't do it for the world, not while I can keep myself in one piece.
SAM
Right, forgot that being a Cobra Kai tough guy means that if something in you gets broken, you just punch it back into place.
MIGUEL
And cauterize the wound with fire, you've got that right, ha ha. But seriously, Kyler may have tried to break me, but it didn't work. I'll be fine.
HAWK
Now that's the champ talking! No worries, man, that blowhard's gonna get his due.
DEMETRI
Eli... Hawk, are you like in a constant vengeance mode? You think you're the Punisher or something?
HAWK makes the "maybe" face. Obviously he finds the notion not without appeal.
HAWK
I am thinking more Moon Knight... (composes himself) I mean as far as we're talking nerd shit, of course.
DEMETRI
Well, I guess that makes sense, what with the whole split personality thing. Wait, are you saying we should expect you to double cross us at some point?
HAWK
Not while Cobra Kai is full of those douchebags. If Kreese wants to stack his dojo with jocks and throw out all the OG's, then I'm gonna make him see his mistake soon enough.
MIGUEL
Don't do anything rash, Hawk. Gotta keep our eyes on the tournament. By the way, you gonna try being Moon's knight again now that you're out of there?
HAWK
Uh, I don't know. Like how do you even get a girl back... from another girl?
DEMETRI
Well, I guess making alpha moves isn't gonna cut it here. Maybe you should try showing her you're not an asshole anymore... I mean, I know it's not gonna come easy on such short notice, but...
HAWK shoots him a "shut it" look. DEMETRI promptly obliges.
HAWK
Maybe I should put my arm in a cast to get her attention? Seems to have worked for you, you should be thanking me for scoring you a chick.
MIGUEL
(to DEMETRI) That's right, I forgot to congratulate you. Guess me and Hawk aren't going to end up as murder victims now.
DEMETRI
Oh thanks, Mig.(to HAWK) Why do you think I got over what you did so easily? And sure, you can try, just keep the smell out... Oh, and make sure to draw a big dick on it.
MIGUEL
Hey, that sounds like an alpha move to me!
SAM
(feigning disgust) Sheesh!
The conversation is cut short by the rumbling of Mr. Miyagi's Chevy pickup arriving at the scene. Behind the wheel there is DANIEL, without the headband now. After stopping the pickup, he steps out, with the engine still running, and addresses the gathering.
DANIEL
Alright, I hope you've had your warm-up because you've got a lot of work ahead of you. Today's lesson is going to be about personal accountability. Now hop onto the truck, we're going to change the scenery. Johnny, can you take the ones who won't fit here? Between my pickup and "your" Dodge Caravan there should be enough seats for everyone.
JOHNNY
And where exactly are we supposed to be going?
DANIEL
Well, as much as I'd like to bedazzle your students with some scenic vistas on our first joint session, I'm afraid that reality is going to be a little more mundane than that. All the same, it has to be done.
The kids move toward the pickup, with CHRIS being first on the bed. There he notices bags full of cans of paint, brushes, spatulas, trowels, hammers, the whole shebang.
CHRIS
Oh, man, this better not be what I think it is.
DANIEL
What's the matter, Chris? Not up for an honest day's work?
CHRIS
It ain't fair! We didn't cause the mess at your place, Sensei! We were the ones defending it! I mean, most of us anyway...
He looks towards the other students noncommittally, but it's enough for HAWK to sense an implicit accusation aimed at him.
HAWK
(moving towards CHRIS)Hey, Douchebag! You've got something to say then say it to my face!
CHRIS
Well then I'm saying it's you should be sweeping that shit up, not us!
HAWK
Oh yeah? Well, if it weren't for me, they'd have to sweep you out of there, maybe scrape you off the floor first, too.
CHRIS
You fo' real, man?! Ain't you the one that led the whole posse to us in the first place?
HAWK
It wasn't my idea, it was…
DANIEL
CUT IT OFF! I won't be having any infighting here! Chris, was it nice to be told you were not welcome the first time you came here from Cobra Kai? There is no 'us' and 'them' in this dojo! You step in here, you leave your past squabbles behind!
CHRIS
Yeah, but the shit this guy's been pulling goes way beyond what I did while in CK.
DANIEL
Maybe so, that's not for me to say, but grudges have no place here, alright? We work together, we help each other, we elevate each other. You don't shun or keep anyone out, you give them an example to follow, is that understood?
CHRIS
...Yes, Sensei, I'm sorry.
DANIEL
And you... Hawk, is that it? You're going to treat everyone here with respect, do I make myself clear?
HAWK
(seemingly contrite) Yes, Sensei.
DANIEL
Alright, good. Now let's get moving.
CUT TO the wasteland that is
INT. LARUSSO'S HOUSE.
Just the way we left it after the brawl. DANIEL comes through the door ahead of the students.
DANIEL
Don't take off your shoes, there's broken glass everywhere. First thing, you've got to gather it up. Put that door back on its hinges. Move that table to the backyard.
He contemplates a bookcase all bent up and cracked after someone evidently rammed into it.
DANIEL
This one's done for, dismantle it and take it outside.
(he walks a few more steps, suddenly has a realization)
But use the hammers, don't do it with your bare hands!
(he notices the fallen Christmas tree)
Somebody get that poor tree out of here and sweep up the needles.
He walks some more, looks at a chandelier partially ripped out of the ceiling.
DANIEL
Ok, I give up, I don't even want to know what happened here.
He stops by a wall stained with a bloody shoe print. He looks around until he finds HAWK, and then beckons to him.
DANIEL
Uh, Hawk? Come over here, will you?
HAWK
(moving towards him) Yes, Sensei, what is it?
DANIEL
(indicates the print) Put your foot over here if you may.
HAWK does so, if a bit hesitantly. His shoe matches the print perfectly.
DANIEL
Figured as much. Alright, this wall is yours. Scrape off the paint and put a fresh coat.
He leaves HAWK and goes to JOHNNY, who strolls around with a thinly veiled look of amusement.
DANIEL
You've been training a karate team or a wrecking crew? It's like a hurricane went through this house. I haven't seen such a mess since... well, since Cobra Kai trashed Mr. Miyagi's bonsai shop, so I guess this checks out. I thought vandalizing the dojo was bad, but that pales in comparison.
JOHNNY
I've had nothing to do with either, but I'll kindly lend the services of my students to get this cleaned up. I've gotta admit I didn't suspect today's kids to know how to throw parties like this. Anyway, have fun whipping them into shape, and give me a call once they're done for the day, alright? I want to see how they fared.
DANIEL
Fine, Johnny, I will. Ok, I'll see you later.
They nod to each other and JOHNNY walks out of the house. DANIEL watches him leave and then goes over to SAM, who is rearranging the kitchen back to its original state. He looks at the badly bent frying pan in her hand.
DANIEL
Whoa, looks like that got some use. Listen, Sam. Once you're done here, go clean up the dojo. I'll join you there in a while. There's something I want to talk to you about.
SAM
Any reason we can't talk about it here?
DANIEL
The dojo will be a more appropriate place for it. Besides, I'd rather it was just you and me then.
SAM
(with a look of curiosity) Alright, dad.
DANIEL nods and leaves, heading now towards AMANDA, who inspects the proceedings with her arms crossed and a skeptical look on her face.
DANIEL
Ok, so there are a few cracks that need a more professional treatment, and of course some pieces of furniture that can only be considered write-off at this point, but on the whole, I'd say we can get them to fix 80 to 85% of the damage.
AMANDA
(slow clap) Daniel, I'm very much impressed by the sheer variety of activities that apparently fall under the umbrella of "Miyagi-Do karate training." But this doesn't change the fact that we're dealing here with criminal breaking and entering plus violent assault. All of which you're, apparently, trying to make me just totally dismiss by having your pupils clean up afterwards. Ok, your and your arch enemy's pupils, let's be fair. (dramatic pause) Still, do you actually expect it to work? Do you actually expect me not to get the police involved after our daughter got attacked, again, at our own house this time? All because you 'made a deal' with a certified sociopath, who we all know isn't going to keep his word anyway?
DANIEL
Amanda, honey, we've been through this. Call the police so they can do what? Sweep up the kids and land them in juvie? Like that worked out so well for Robby? So well it pushed him right into Kreese's arms! And you know Kreese will stick around because he's too smart to let anything be pinned on him directly. Let me tell you what happens if we get the police involved - the kids will be sentenced, they will be put through the wringer, the system will spit 'em out broken and resentful, and Kreese will then put them back together to his own designs. We've already seen this play out.
AMANDA
But it's not our responsibility to 'right' these kids, is it? (she looks around) After doing something like this they should be facing consequences!
DANIEL
It's not only about protecting them. It's just, if we do that, we'd be playing right into Kreese's hands. We need to face the facts, honey. The system isn't our friend here, it works to Kreese's advantage and he knows it. And as for our deal, I wouldn't be so sure he isn't going to keep it. I think he's got some twisted sense of honor to him. Enough not to try to wiggle his way out. I mean, he did honor the deal he'd made with Mr Miyagi back in the day. If he reneges, we'll try something else. And even then, I think he may not be able to hold on to his students if he fails to lead them to victory. Trust me, there's no better option for us right now than to discredit Cobra Kai once and for all.
AMANDA
(sighs) Well, how can I argue with that? You've been preparing this speech all night?
DANIEL
(smiles) Certainly haven't done much sleeping, though I've been thinking about a lot of things. Now please remember that I'm so proud and grateful to you for how brave you've been and yet how much common sense you've brought into this. But... I feel like we're at a stage where common sense kind of just goes out of the window. I know your better judgment is going to reel at the prospect, but I'm asking you to let us man boys go through with this. If we fail, I promise I'll defer to you in all ways, but for now, let us do it our way.
AMANDA
(shakes her head) I just hope I'm not going to regret this. Ok, the ball's in your court, as if it wasn't from the get go... But Sam isn't leaving her house without a pepper spray anymore, and we're installing better security since we've got to have serious work done here anyway.
DANIEL
(beaming) Absolutely, honey, you've got it. Regarding Sam, though, I think I can equip her with something better than pepper spray...
CUT TO the LARUSSO DOJO. SAM is holding the photo of Mr Miyagi, now without a frame, when DANIEL enters.
SAM
Mr Miyagi's going to need a new frame.
DANIEL
Uh, it's only picture, as he'd say. What happened to it, anyway?
SAM
Nunchuck happened. Which begs the question why we even keep such stuff here.
DANIEL
I was intent on collecting every possible Japanese martial arts implement for a spell. Mr Miyagi probably wouldn't approve, come to think of it... Don't worry, I never fought anyone with it. But just the thought that anyone would want to attack my little girl in such a way is why I wanted us to have this conversation.
SAM
Well, we're having it now. So what is it all about?
DANIEL
It has to do with Mr Miyagi in a way, actually. His family's heritage even. You see, while in Okinawa I visited his home grounds, and, without accounting for that at all, I learned something about his school of karate. Something I didn't even suspect existed before that.
SAM
Wait, are you telling me you went to Japan for a week, and in between negotiating with Doyona you learned new karate? H-how did that come about?
DANIEL
I had the most unexpected of teachers. An old acquaintance, in a manner of speaking. One that got to know Miyagi-do from a side I was ignorant of. Mr Miyagi must have thought it'd be better for me not to see that side. Can't say he didn't have a point, especially when I think of the temper I had back then.
SAM
So, even after all these years you still had things to learn from him? Must have been quite a surprise to find that out?!
DANIEL
Mr. Miyagi sure casts a long shadow, even in death. I can only wish I will be able to guide you so from beyond the grave... Assuming you need anybody's guidance then, I mean. So yeah, I learned a little nifty karate trick. At the time I thought to keep it to myself, but after what happened yesterday it seems I have to come to terms with the fact that you may actually need it more than I do.
SAM
Well, I'm beside myself with excitement already. Think we're gonna impress our new partners with whatever it is you've learned? Is it Bruce Lee's one inch punch by any chance?
DANIEL
Ha ha, no that's Kung Fu. And as for showing off to your friends, well, that's just the thing, Sam. You see, I'm going to show you this technique. It's a technique based on human body's pressure points, which, if used correctly, will leave your opponent completely at your mercy. But first you have to promise you will not in turn show it to anyone else, and that you will only use it as a final resort. The last thing I want is for half the valley kids to be running around disabling each other's limbs.
SAM
Disabling limbs, seriously? You're saying one can actually do that?!
DANIEL
Oh, believe me, I experienced it firsthand, and it wasn't exactly pleasant. And certain students we've just taken in don't really inspire my confidence that they'd use it responsibly. So, what do you say? Can I entrust you with it?
SAM
(after a brief silence) Absolutely, dad. Miyagi-do's secrets will be safe with me.
DANIEL
Very well. Let the lesson begin then. Hit me.
A close-up on SAM's surprised face, followed by SAM's POV shot showing DANIEL pulling her thrusting arm and punching her elbow joint.
SAM
OW! I... I can't feel my hand!
DANIEL
Sorry, dear, had to show you that it's no trifle we're dealing with here. When your arm gets its blood flow back, we'll start proper.
CUT TO
INT. LARUSSO'S HOUSE - EVENING
Now in more or less adequate order. The students are mostly just hanging out now, with SAM back among them. Suddenly, the front door bursts open to reveal JOHNNY, leg raised, hands full.
JOHNNY
Ho ho, kids, looks like Santa's come to town!
He lifts up two bags full of Coors Banquet cans. Cheers erupt. Obviously he has already had one, or several.
JOHNNY
...Except why the hell is the Christmas tree in the dumpster?
BERT
Um, me and Nate kind of fell on it.
JOHNNY
Well, too bad, 'cause you're not getting the presents then. You're too young anyway. Now look sharp, people!
He throws a can to MIGUEL, who grabs it out of the air. HAWK is next.
HAWK
Alright!
JOHNNY
Glad to have you back on board, chief. Good thing you finally unscrewed your head out of your ass. Must've been painful down there with those spikes of yours.
HAWK makes a grimace.
DANIEL
(barging in) Hey, I don't remember signing off on this!
JOHNNY
Cut 'em a break, man. They deserve to cool off after busting their asses for you. You wanna be a sourpuss Sensei, Daniel? Coz that's how you become a sourpuss Sensei.
JOHNNY throws a can to MITCH, but the moist thing slips out of his hand, hits the floor and sprays CHRIS with beer foam.
CHRIS
AW, HELL NO! This was my best pair of work clothes! You better lick that shit up!
MITCH
Don't have to ask twice, buddy.
CHRIS
Shieeet, I didn't mean that literally! You're gross, man!
JOHNNY
Sorry, Penis Breath, no second servings. Well, maybe later.
DANIEL
None of you are leaving until this place is cleaned up... wait, what did you just call him?
JOHNNY
What, you expect me to remember all their actual names?
DANIEL
(shakes his head) You go against every standard of decency in a teacher.
JOHNNY
So you think West Valley High won't take my application for a girls' gym instructor? 'Cause that'd be a bummer. And while we're at it (beer in hand, he turns his attention to SAM), karate girl, you up for the good stuff?
SAM
(looks warily at DANIEL) Uh, yeeeah..?
DANIEL throws his hands up in resignation.
DANIEL
One beer and you're done, got it? You're not an adult yet.
JOHNNY
(to SAM) Hey, no need to be nervous. I'm not going to abduct you to my place and keep you from your dad this time.
MIGUEL
(incredulous) Hold on, what?
JOHNNY
Oh, did little miss Sensei not tell you about that time she came to me for shelter after drinking what smelled like a kegful of booze?
HAWK
Damn, you go Sensei!
SAM stares daggers at him. HAWK responds with a shit-eating grin - he obviously revels in the opportunity to rile her up.
MIGUEL
(mouth agape) How come I never heard about this?! (turns to SAM) Wait, was this after...
SAM
After Moon's party, yes. And it was Robby's idea, I'd never have thought of doing that.
The mention of ROBBY visibly deflates MIGUEL's willingness to press on the subject
JOHNNY
Well, to tell you the truth, she didn't seem to have any idea where she was at that point. You should've seen her valiant dad barging into my home next morning to rescue his sleeping beauty. I thought we'd have our rematch right there and then.
DANIEL
And I'd have totally kicked your ass. You don't stand between a man and his child.
JOHNNY
(suddenly somber) Tell me about it. When I saw Robby with Kreese, I damn near smashed the old bastard's skull into a pulp. Guess that's a thing we have in common.
DANIEL
...Yeah, I guess we do.
JOHNNY
Right, anyway, talking about fathers and sons, I've got something else here with me. I noticed that huge flat screen of yours somehow survived the rumble. So I figured let's see how the good old Iron Eagle would look on that. Kids could use a piece of real all-American cinema, too.
DEMETRI
Oh, so that's where your dojo's name came from? Why didn't you just call it Iron Eagle then? It sounds more badass...
JOHNNY
Because we're not fighter pilots, duh. Plus I'm better than just ripping off someone else's title.
DEMETRI
Sorry, didn't mean to imply a lack of integrity on your part. Anyway, this sounds like a movie night! I'm always down for a movie night.
JOHNNY
Good, prepare for a dose of testosterone straight into your veins. Here's the cassette. Now where's the VHS player?
MIGUEL
A what? Uh, I think it should be on Netflix.
JOHNNY
You mean there's no VHS here? Then how do you record the Superbowl? And what was that, nutflex? Sounds like a porn channel, you're saying they're showing Iron Eagle? Like right now?
MIGUEL
No, Sensei, it's a... (he struggles with how to explain the concept)... oh, right. Netflix, it's like a video rental shop, but it's all on the internet. You pick a movie from the list and you can watch it instantly.
JOHNNY
Oh, so they've got this on TVs as well now? I get what you're saying, don't you think I'm some knucklehead. I've already watched movies on the internet.
MIGUEL
Wait, you've got a Netflix subscription?
JOHNNY
Subscription? You mean you're supposed to pay for it? I'm already footing the bill for the internet, what I'm to pay twice? No man, I watched stuff for free. It wasn't Netflix though, it was some site called best movies 4 free or something like that.
MIGUEL
That sounds sketchy.
JOHNNY
Now I remember the site told me I had to turn off my... my firewall, yes that's it. Why would you have a firewall on your computer anyway?
MIGUEL
Sensei, I think we should check your laptop for viruses.
JOHNNY
Viruses?! What you think I don't wash my hands before using it? It's squeaky clean, bro, I take care of my stuff.
MIGUEL
(shakes head in resignation) No, Sensei, not that kind of... you know what, forget it, I'll come by and have a look later.
JOHNNY
Whatever, knock yourself out, just ring me up beforehand so I can change my wallpaper.
MIGUEL
I definitely will... Wait, didn't you lose your phone, Sensei?
JOHNNY
Yea, I figured now that I'm back in the game I'm gonna need a new one... Oh, and remember to set up Eagle Fang page while we're at it. I don't want people to think I'm this guy's (points to DANIEL) sidekick or anything.
MIGUEL
Yes, Sensei.
DANIEL rolls his eyes.
The students are taking their seats by the TV, which MIGUEL is now setting up, with a little help from SAM. Eventually, Iron Eagle is on, though most faces don't register a lot of excitement. Suddenly, loud footsteps can be heard from the stairway, as we cut to ANTHONY, visibly pissed off.
ANTHONY
HEY, I thought they were only here to clean the place up?! (pointing at JOHNNY) And what the hell is this bum doing here?!
JOHNNY
Who you calling bum you little...
DANIEL
Anthony, I... (sounding embarrassed and apologetic at first, he quickly comes to feel the looks of JOHNNY and his students seizing him up, and he abruptly turns rigid) This bum is our guest, and you're now going to apologize to him for calling him that.
ANTHONY
What? Apologize? To the guy who tried to kill you? In my own house? You kiddin'?
DANIEL
Anthony, you either apologize or this summer it's the agriculture camp for you.
ANTHONY?
YOU'RE GOING TO SEND ME TO THAT GULAG?!... You can't... This is blackmail!
DANIEL
Last chance to apologize, Anthony.
ANTHONY
(with a look of utter shock and betrayal) ...Alright. Alright, (to JOHNNY) I'm sorry for calling you a bum. It's not like you look or smell like one anyway. I'm super sorry. (to DANIEL) Are you happy now? Or do you want to twist the knife some more?
He storms out of the room without waiting for the answer.
JOHNNY
(to DANIEL)Huh, little brat sounded like he had a snake in his throat. Looks like I'm already having a positive effect on your parenting approach. And I only just got here!
DANIEL
Yeah, ok, no need to be all smug about it.
With ANTHONY's abrupt departure, an awkward silence falls upon the room, broken finally by...
MITCH
Hey, is there any popcorn?
CHRIS
Can't watch a movie without stuffing your fat mouth?
MITCH
Screw you, man. I need it to get into the mood.
DEMETRI
Actually, this is not a bad idea. I could go fetch some snacks (addressing SAM) assuming you don't mind me nosing around in your kitchen, of course?
SAM
No, not at all. There should be some microwave popcorn in the cupboard by the stove. Assuming Anthony hasn't gotten to it by now.
DEMETRI
Ok, I'll check. I think I can handle the microwaving part, too, but you do have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, right? Just in case?
SAM
I trust you'll be fine, Demetri... But if I hear explosions, I'll make sure to be there right away.
DEMETRI nods appreciatively and walks away.
MIGUEL
You can probably expect to hear a lot of explosions, just coming from this side of the room, knowing the kind of movies Sensei's into.
SAM
Right, was just about to ask you if watching jingoist cold war propaganda films was a regular part of the curriculum at your dojo.
MIGUEL
I... don't know what that first word was, but we don't only watch war movies. Last time it was Cobra.
SAM
Oh, do you mean that Stallone flick where he impales the bad guy on a meat hook at the end?
MIGUEL
Yea, he also cuts a pizza with scissors. It really awoke my mind to the possibility.
SAM
Well I can tell our partnership is going to be very educational.
MIGUEL
Sensei Lawrence, he has his quirks, but give him a chance, you may find his style a nice change of pace after all this yoga balance stuff you've been doing here.
SAM
Yeah, I can't wait to learn how to be impulsive, tune out my conscience, and excel at beating up those weaker than me.
MIGUEL
Hey, that's not fair! Sensei Lawrence's teachings aren't about being a bully, they're about standing up for yourself, overcoming your weaknesses...
SAM
Maybe having weaknesses isn't always something you need to be ashamed of or try to "fix" at all costs?
MIGUEL
I think it depends - some people can afford to show weakness. For others, it's like painting a target on their backs, or at least they're convinced if they expose themselves in any way it will be used against them. Now it's true some have taken it too far. That includes me as well, I admit...
And honestly, I'd say Sensei himself didn't quite have it figured out at first. But I don't fault him, you gotta remember I was like his first student ever.
SAM
Well, his track record isn't exactly stellar so far. On the one side there's you… and Aisha, I suppose. And on the other, (lowers her voice) you've got pretty much everyone else.
MIGUEL
You just haven't seen the good side of them yet. It's there, trust me on this, and we were moving in the right direction until Kreese took over.
SAM
Well, if you're trying to sell me the "it's all Kreese's fault" version of the story, then I don't know if I'm buying it. Pretty sure it takes more than a bad Sensei to make you want to torment others over petty nonsense.
MIGUEL
You know... what is petty nonsense to one is not necessarily that for someone else. I can tell you that being part of Cobra Kai meant a lot for Hawk, and Kreese basically turned the dojo into a gang with a gang's honor code. And as for Tory, I'm not gonna defend her, but... I don't think she knows any other way, and now she has Kreese telling her her way is the way, if that makes sense.
SAM
The way to do what, though? What does she even want from me... us at this point?
MIGUEL
Pretty sure it's not gettin' me back. It wouldn't be that hard to get over me (forced chuckle). I think she just can't bear the thought that you took something from her and wants payback, even if she wouldn't be with me again now if she had the chance.
SAM
So she's going to be after me until one of us ends up dead, great.
MIGUEL
Maybe she finds someone good to her she will shake off this anger at some point. I talked to her once after getting out of the hospital. She seemed to be in a pretty bad place overall.
SAM
Like any decent guy would want to stick around that psycho... or perhaps you'll go console her? Sounds like you're feeling pity for her. Maybe that's not all you feel, huh?
MIGUEL
Oh, cut it off, Sam. Jealousy doesn't look good on you. I just told you I doubt she'd even want me anyway.
SAM
Is it grief I hear? Hm, maybe if you ask her nicely, show how sorry you are, bring her my head on a platter as a consolation gift, she might just kindly accept you back?
MIGUEL
You're just teasing me now, aren't you?
SAM
Merely brainstorming options for you, dear.
MIGUEL
Hey, maybe it'll be your ex that takes on the challenge?
SAM
(suddenly not sounding so playful) Robby's got more sense than that.
MIGUEL
That's why he went to Kreese?
SAM
I'm sure he'll be out of there in no time, especially once he sees who he has to train with. Anyway, you stay put and watch the movie. Take notes for tomorrow's class. I'll go check up on Demetri.
MIGUEL
(grabs her hand) Not without a kiss, you won't.
SAM
Oh, you still want to kiss your Sensei's sloppy seconds?
MIGUEL
Oh God, Sam! A few beers and you're gettin' gross... I mean, nothing actually happened back there, right?
SAM
(sweetly) How should I know? I had blanked out at that point. Ask your Sensei, or Robby... or both...
MIGUEL
(interrupts her with a kiss) Alright, enough. Go before I seriously start considering my options.
SAM
Bring you another drink?
MIGUEL
Yeah, bleach maybe, so I forget we were havin' this conversation.
SAM
I'll see what I can do.
SAM goes to the kitchen, where DEMETRI is standing by the microwave.
SAM
Hey, everything going alright here?
DEMETRI
Yup! Doing everything by the book... or back of the package, anyway. We should be having our puffy, crunchy serving of empty calories coming up any moment now.
SAM
With how corny the movie's shaping up to be, this may be a necessity. Listen, Demetri, I just wanted to say that I'm impressed with how you so quickly forgave Eli for what he did to you. I don't believe I'd be capable of that. Don't you think you let him off a bit too easily, though?
DEMETRI
(visibly uncomfortable) Oh well, guess I figured that, seeing as he broke my arm in a fight we started, and then saved me from getting my arm broken again in a fight they started, we're kind of even now, right? (he notices SAM isn't convinced) Look, I'm just happy we can be friends again, you know. I don't want to push this matter. Not to mention I wasn't wholly passive in all this. I mean, I was passive, but it was a passive-aggressive kind of passive.
SAM
You don't actually believe you're in any way to blame for the fights you two were having, right?
DEMETRI
Well, I did cause him more lasting damage than he did to me, if you look at it. He was like the alpha dog until my little expose, and right now it seems like I enjoy more popularity than him.
SAM
(shrugs) He got there by being a bully in the first place. I'd say his 'fall from grace' was just desserts.
DEMETRI
Yeah, I still fought a bit dirty to knock him off that perch. There's another thing, too. You know, I went back to that moment far more times than I'd like, and now that I look back at it, my face may have been in the process of being squished against the ground then, but I'm still fairly confident that Eli was unsure about actually going through with what he did. They had to egg him on into it, and you may guess who led that effort...
SAM
I think I've got an idea, but who?
DEMETRI
Why, the asshole queen, of course.
SAM gives an unnerved expression at this. DEMETRI, with a faint look of shame about him, turns his attention back to the microwave.
CUT TO
MIGUEL coming to sit by HAWK, who is sitting with MITCH and BERT.
HAWK
Hey, Serpiente, you've got any beer? I can't shake off these two leeches.
MIGUEL
Sorry, Hawk, all out. Mind if we talk for a sec?
HAWK
Hell no. Sure beats watching this dreck. Sensei should've brought Commando again.
MIGUEL
Right, I actually wanted to talk about our other Sensei.
HAWK
What about him? His little prince is a real charming guy, huh? I'd like to see that big mouth of his after catching him alone in a dark alley.
MIGUEL
You'd have to catch him outside his house first. Look, Hawk, I think you should come clean to Sensei LaRusso about the Medal of Honor.
HAWK
(frowns) Why dig that up? You already brought it back, didn't you? And kicked my ass over it, too. What's the point? And you heard what he said - we step in here, we leave our past behind. Suits me just fine, really.
MIGUEL
I just think you'd feel better afterwards. Would be easier for you to work together with the Miyagi-dos if you got that off your chest. Sensei LaRusso would also respect you more, I'm sure.
HAWK
... Yeah I think I'm gonna wait until he wins over my respect first. Honestly, I'm not so sure about this whole working together thing. LaRussos, all their talk of 'elevating' and 'giving an example,' no offense but it's kinda like they think their shit don't smell.
MIGUEL
No offense taken, and yea, they can come off a bit pompous, but still, you should be open minded. You saw where going all in with Kreese led you. Don't dismiss Miyagi-do just because it doesn't feel 'badass' enough for you.
HAWK
But it's not just that. I mean, how can you take their spiel about 'balance' and 'defense only' seriously after their star pupil nearly killed you when you showed him mercy?
MIGUEL
About that. You know, when I first came out of coma I was mad at Sensei Lawrence. After all, it was he that urged me to show mercy in the first place, and what did I get out of it? A wheelchair. But then I realized that just because his lesson wasn't the right one then, it doesn't mean it's not right in general. It's the same with all lessons really, not one will always tell you the right way to act... And with teachers it's again the same thing. They're just people in the end, they make mistakes, they fail with their students sometimes. Doesn't mean they're teaching you some bull. You just have to use your head and decide what's right for you. But listen to what they have to say first, is all I'm sayin'.
HAWK
(mulls MIGUEL's words over for a while) Alright, Mig, I will. Now don't worry, I'm not goin' back to Cobra Kai, unless it's to clean that place up too. I'll always have your back, bro... no pun intended.
MIGUEL
(smiles) I know you will, Hawk. And it goes both ways.
They fist-bump each other, after which HAWK spots DEMETRI walking towards the TV with a bowl of popcorn. He beckons to him.
HAWK
Hey, Demetri, bring that over, will you?
DEMETRI
Sure, have your fill, you vulture. Anyway, I had a question for your Sensei. (he leaves the bowl with them, looks around until he sees JOHNNY sitting on the side, and goes to him) Eyy, do I read it right that this kid (points to the screen) is basically invading a sovereign nation all by himself while using stolen US military equipment?
JOHNNY
(thrown aback) Invading a sovereign nation, what you talkin' about?! He's kickin' the shit out of a bunch of assholes who deserved it!
DEMETRI
Yeah, and invading a sovereign nation in the process. Is the sequel about the ensuing diplomatic crisis?
JOHNNY
(takes a swig) Huh? No, it's about Chappy assembling a team of badasses to lay down hellfire on more assholes.
DEMETRI
Oh, that almost sounds like the Avengers. Chappy even kinda looks like Nick Fury... not that I'm implying all black men look the same, mind you. Anyway, unless I missed something, they're also flying across the Atlantic in a fighter jet. Pretty sure it wouldn't be able to hold enough fuel for that.
JOHNNY
(exasperated) Look, big mouth, do you have to be so anal about this? Why don't you go back to your movies about flying men in capes. I'm sure they show them refuelling regularly.
DEMETRI
Hey, I'm just trying to have a polite conversation here. It's funny you should say that, though... But you know what, nevermind. I'll leave you to your "refuelling". You know, at least in our movies it doesn't look like they're blowing up jerry-rigged toy airplanes.
He walks off, and, in his stead, JOHNNY is joined by DANIEL.
DANIEL
So, a grizzled old veteran mentoring a cocky rebel kid to become a true fighter. Why does it remind me of something?
JOHNNY
Finally someone watching the movie properly. [smiling] Yea, you're right... Wait, was Miyagi a vet?
DANIEL
442nd. Most decorated regiment in the Army.
JOHNNY
Hold on, you mean he fought on our side? Damn, respect. I'd better drink to the guy's memory then.
DANIEL
Lost his family for the trouble, too. Yet he never lost his way… At least not when it came to doing what's right. I'm sure we wouldn't be in this mess if he were around. He'll appreciate the honor, though, I'm sure.
JOHNNY
Thought about me and Kreese at first when you brought that up. I mean, it's funny how it applies here too.
DANIEL
Right, except for the whole "not wanting to send kids to their deaths" part.
JOHNNY
Yeah, I once saw Kreese as my Chappy, but he was really more like Lieutenant Harris.
DANIEL
More like who?
JOHNNY
From the Police Academy. A real jerk, that one.
DANIEL
Ah, ok. Well, good thing that he always shows his true colors sooner or later.
JOHNNY
(takes a sip) Can't be soon enough this time.
DANIEL
Yeah, I was just thinking. This is also about a son giving his all to get his dad back. Must be difficult for you to watch it in this light.
JOHNNY
You kidding? I cheer them on every time... Well, I guess everyone needs his... what do they call it...
DANIEL
Escapism? (JOHNNY hesitantly nods) Look, you're not escaping anymore and that's what matters. We'll get rid of Kreese, together. And we'll get Robby back… I tried being a father to him, I thought it was working, but I understand now that he needs someone with a stronger hand to guide him. He needs his father. The real one.
JOHNNY
Alright, no need to be patting me on the back, partner. The truth is I wasn't strong when he needed me to be. I screwed up, and now Kreese is using his hate for me to string him along.
DANIEL
Oh, c'mon, I thought defeat did not exist in your dojo?
JOHNNY
Not my dojo anymore. And how do you know their slogans anyway?
DANIEL
Oh, been there, done that.
JOHNNY
What, you mean you've been in Cobra Kai?
DANIEL
A year after you left, yeah. I too had my asshole streak if you can believe that.
JOHNNY
No way!... About you being in Cobra Kai I mean, not about you being an asshole.
DANIEL
Right, you needn't have cleared that up. It's a long story and not one I'm proud of in particular. Maybe I'll talk about it some other time. Anyway, I wanted to say it isn't too late for the two of you, I'm certain of it. Robby's a good kid who just has a hard time dealing with his issues. He'll come round when he sees that you truly care about him. We have to show him that Kreese's not the way, but in the meantime you have to keep reaching out to him, prove to him that you haven't hung up on you two.
JOHNNY
I tried that, many times, and it seems that all the good it's done is making him hate my guts more and more.
DANIEL
You know what they say - better to be hated than ignored. You may be closer to winning him over than you think. Now, look, I'm not going to pretend I'm some dad of the year material. You pretty much just saw this isn't true. But what I do know is that kids crave their parents' attention, they seek their approval. Robby may be repressing these feelings, but I don't believe he'll be able to hold them off forever, not if you show him you refuse to give up.
JOHNNY
Yeah, that's all well and good, but where do I even start? I feel like I'm gonna get jumped if I so much as set foot near the dojo at this point. Wouldn't surprise me if Kreese put the kids on guard duty.
DANIEL
I'm sure Robby doesn't hang out at Cobra Kai all the time. You live nearby, maybe you just need to keep your eyes peeled.
JOHNNY
Maybe...
He gets lost in thought, eyes fixed on the screen where Doug rescues his wounded father from the airfield while under fire.
CUT TO
INT. COBRA KAI DOJO
We see Cobra Kai students outfitted in white gis, throwing punches in near perfect unison, to the rhythm of kiais belted out by TORY, who stands at the front, facing them. In the faint light we can distinguish the bruised faces of KYLER, RICKENBERGER, and others. ROBBY is also there, albeit more to the side.
Suddenly, the movement stops, and the students snap to attention upon the sounds of the Sensei's office door creaking open. Out of the dark emerges JOHN KREESE, himself showing signs of being on the receiving end of some very furious fists.
KREESE
Class, fall in! (TORY moves to her spot among the other Cobras) Well, well, well, what do we have here? (he starts walking down the line, inspecting the beaten faces, seemingly unheedful of sharing their predicament. The Cobras all lower their gazes before him) I'll tell you what - the sorriest damn sight I've ever seen, that's what! Like a bunch of orphans after mother superior had her way with them!... So, what happened? Has every one of you collectively decided to bang in nails with his face, huh?! (he stops before KYLER) Mr Okumoto, care to enlighten me?
KYLER
(swallows audibly) We... we decided to take the fight to Miyagi-do, ... and the dropouts, Sensei. We found out they were having a meeting at LaRusso's house so we went there to teach them a lesson.
A reaction shot of startled ROBBY.
KREESE
Oh, so you came up with an assault while trespassing on a private property? A most... inspired idea. And how did that work out for you?
KYLER
We... we were defeated, Sensei.
KREESE
You were defeated, while having the advantage of catching them unprepared, while fighting children, wimps, fatsos, and a recently recovered cripple.
TORY
Sensei, we were betrayed!
KREESE
By one skinny geek with delusions of grandeur! And that was all it took to overwhelm you, to turn you into a bunch of mewling babies?! What would've happened if they met you at full strength, if you were to face Miyagi-do's star student? (he shoots a brief glance at ROBBY) You'd be brought out in body bags!... I am deeply disappointed in all of you, this is not Cobra Kai material I see before me. When a cobra strikes, her victim is dead before he even knows what happened. You started a fight on your own terms and all you achieved was disgracing yourselves... and me by association.
RICKENBERGER
We're sorry, Sensei, we'll repay them for...
KREESE
SILENCE! I'd smack you in the other eye so it's evenly swollen, but I take no satisfaction in beating a dead horse. I don't wanna hear any of your pitiful pleas, excuses, or empty promises. They make me wanna puke... When I took back Cobra Kai I made a promise I wouldn't let my students lose... Well, it seems like I've failed to make good on this promise, haven't I? Now, in war one does not make himself weaker by being honorable to the enemy, but with your own men, that's another matter. If you can't keep the word given to them, well then what business do you have leading them? And so honor dictates that I leave, that I shut down Cobra Kai.
Confused mutterings and shocked faces erupt among the Cobras, TORY's being the most prominent.
TORY
Sensei, no, you can't...
KREESE
Can't do what, Ms Nichols? Retire? God knows I'm long enough in the tooth. Hell, maybe this is a sign that I'm out of touch, that I should step down and not make a fool of myself trying to shape your pussy generation into what you were never cut out for?
ROBBY
Sensei, we haven't all failed you!
KREESE
Ahh, Mr Keene, yes, I almost forgot. Miyagi-do star student fights for Miyagi-do no longer. But is one soldier enough to stem the tide?... I doubt it. In war the team has to act as one body, and that body is only as strong as its weakest member. Any conflict within that body, any... dissent, and you're all as good as dead... But we'll see about that. After all, a real man doesn't leave things unfinished, a general doesn't abandon his campaign midway through. And this campaign ends there! (he points to the All-Valley Karate Tournament poster) So I'm going to give myself and you one more chance. If one of you wins the tournament, that'll mean there may be hope for you yet. If not, well, then I guess it's time for me to hang up the gi, once and for all.
KYLER
We'll not disappoint you, Sensei!
KREESE
SILENCE! Save your grovelling for someone who cares. Results, not talk is what I'm after. And I've taken steps to ensure I've squeezed the absolute most out of you by the time the final battle rolls around... It is regrettable yet true that I'm old, I no longer have the stamina to deal with each of you properly, give you my full attention. So I've come to realize I need to call for back up, and that's what I did, cashed in on old favors. You can expect some changes in this dojo soon, you can expect to have the choice between going beyond the very limits of your ability, or slinking back with your tail between your legs. I'm looking forward to see which choice each of you's going to make... But let us not get ahead of ourselves. Time for today's lesson... It'll be a lesson on how pain purifies the mind, and how to convert it into strength. It's a lesson you aren't going to enjoy, but it's one you desperately need by the looks of it.
CUT TO
COBRA KAI DOJO EXT.
We see the Cobras walking out of the dojo, visibly sore, most of them chatting in small groups. TORY is the last one out and about to leave by herself, but she stops when ROBBY calls her from the door.
ROBBY
Hey, Tory, wait up.
TORY
What do you want, star student? Or should I say Sensei's star pet?
ROBBY
Huh? What's with the attitude?
TORY
Well, you sleep on his floor and everything, hope he got you a bowl at least. You're the one who didn't disappoint him after all.
ROBBY
Uh, so it is about injured pride, then? Well, this is what I wanted to talk to you about, really. Just what the hell were you guys thinking, going to LaRusso's house looking for a fight?
TORY
Oh, you gonna reprimand me for bad behavior now? Well, let me remind you that this isn't Miyagi-do, we don't sit on our butts and let our enemies grow stronger. We strike pre-emptively.
ROBBY
(shakes his head) Don't you give me this... pseudo-military crap! Like, aren't you on probation?
TORY
You think you're my mother or something?! It's none of your damn business what happens to me, and if landing in juvie is the price for taking down Miyagi-do and the traitors, then so be it.
ROBBY
I can't wrap my head around you... Wait, this was about Sam and Miguel, wasn't it? You went there because you heard of them being together!
TORY
So what if I did? Does it rub you the wrong way that the LaRusso girl could've gotten hurt? Well, she doesn't need you to be her white knight anymore, she's got Miguel to come to her rescue now.
ROBBY
Pretty sure she doesn't need him or anyone to rescue her from you... So you're gonna throw your life away going after a girl who took your summertime boyfriend, is that it?
TORY
As if you had any idea... This is about much more than just Miguel. You know, you can quietly sit and let others trample on you, or you can rise and give them a bite they won't forget. I know which path I've chosen, and I'm not going back. I am not going to disappoint Sensei Kreese again.
ROBBY
After what you guys have pulled I'm sure there are going to be cameras ready to point at your pretty face if you were ever to go back there.
TORY
There will be other opportunities to strike. Besides, I wouldn't go there all by myself and I can't rely on the others to try such a thing again. I saw the fear in their faces after we got beaten. They only agreed to go in the first place because they thought they'd have it easy. Cowards, the lot of them... And what about you, are you going to start actually pulling your weight around here or will just keep jeering from the sidelines?
ROBBY
(snickers) "Pulling my weight," right... You may have noticed that our Sensei had not a few bruisers on him himself tonight. Have you wondered why? Well, after that little stunt of yours both my father and LaRusso showed up to the dojo all ready to throw down, and now I understand what made them so pissed. That's also why this window here is broken, in case you cared to know. I was the only one with him then, and I'm the only reason why he's not currently drinking soup through a straw.
TORY
They came here to fight Sensei Kreese?! But... why didn't he say anything to us?
ROBBY
Don't know. Perhaps he didn't want you to feel even more down than you already were. Though that doesn't seem like his style, on second thought. Anyway, now you know that you keep up with that shit and it's going to come back to bite you in the ass sooner or later. So yeah, you keep me out of your karate vendetta, and I will... pull my weight by winning the tournament and bringing some semblance of honor back to Cobra Kai... Not that there ever was much of it to go around here as far as I can tell.
TORY
(sounding bellicose now) What did you just say?! You dare insult my dojo?!
ROBBY
Maybe, what you gonna do about it? Pull out your little bracelet to show me how honorably you fight?
TORY
(thrown slightly off balance by this retort) ...You heard the Sensei, honor is for our side, not for the enemy.
ROBBY
Well, maybe if Sensei fought with honor back in Nam, he wouldn't be so sore about losing that war. And he wouldn't be goading you into acting as his personal toy soldiers to get him a win now.
TORY
Or maybe he wouldn't live to be sore about it... Anyway, been nice chatting with you, but I'm about to miss my last bus home, so I'll see you around.
ROBBY
See you... (TORY is about turn around and go, when...) and think about who's actually on your side here.
TORY gives him an uncertain look, then leaves without saying anything more. ROBBY looks at her go for a moment, then returns to the dojo.
FADE TO BLACK