“Let’s make this quick.”
The timer started.
And within seconds, the smile disappeared from his face.
Because the woman he chose as an easy opponent…
Had just shown him a move he had never seen before.
Jason Mitchell was one of the most respected students at the Iron Valley Martial Arts Academy.
At twenty-eight years old, he had spent nearly two decades training.
He started as a child.
While other kids played after school, Jason practiced kicks and combinations.
While teenagers spent weekends relaxing, Jason attended tournaments.
His dedication was real.
His talent was undeniable.
Over the years, he earned multiple awards.
Eventually, he became one of the academy’s top black belts.
People admired him.
Young students looked up to him.
Parents pointed to him as an example.
But success changed him.
Slowly.
Quietly.
Jason began believing that experience made him superior.
He corrected other students constantly.
He criticized beginners.
He laughed when people made mistakes.
When someone struggled with a technique, he didn’t encourage them.
He showed them how much better he was.
Master Anderson, the owner of the dojo, noticed.
One afternoon, after watching Jason train with a younger student, he called him over.
“Jason.”
“Yes, Master?”
“Your technique is strong.”
Jason smiled.
“Thank you.”
“But your patience is getting weaker.”