Chapter 5

Ethan Cross had never been one to shy away from a challenge, and high school was no exception. The transition from 10th grade Junior High to high school brought new experiences, new people, and most importantly, new opportunities to push himself further. With a strong foundation in martial arts, combat training, and medical knowledge, Ethan had already developed the discipline and physical prowess beyond his years. However, high school wasn’t just about fighting—it was about finding new ways to grow, and for Ethan, that meant stepping onto the football field. Ethan had always been a natural athlete, but football was an entirely different beast. When he expressed interest in joining the team, his father had been supportive but firm. “Football isn’t just about strength,” Daniel Cross had told him. “It’s strategy, teamwork, and precision. It’s about reading the field the same way you read an opponent in a fight.” Ethan took that advice to heart when he attended tryouts. The field was crowded with eager freshmen, all vying for a spot on the roster. The head coach, Coach Reynolds, was a grizzled veteran of the sport, a man who had been coaching for over two decades. He had a sharp eye for talent and an even sharper tongue when it came to pushing his players. “Alright, listen up!” Coach Reynolds barked. “I don’t care how good you were in middle school. This is high school ball, and I need warriors, not whiners! Quarterback tryouts, you’re up!” Ethan stepped up to the line, gripping the football in his hands. He had spent weeks practicing with his father, who had drilled into him the basics of footwork, accuracy, and decision-making. He took his stance, scanning the field as Coach Reynolds called out the play. “Blue 32! Set, hut!” Ethan dropped back, eyes locked downfield. His receivers sprinted, cutting through the defensive coverage. He spotted his target—Ryan Carter, a lightning-fast receiver with incredible hands. Ethan planted his foot and launched the ball. It spiraled perfectly, hitting Ryan in stride. The other coaches nodded in approval. Coach Reynolds narrowed his eyes. “Not bad, Cross. Let’s see if you can do that under pressure.” The next series of drills were brutal. Defensive players crashed through the line, forcing Ethan to scramble, dodge, and make split-second decisions. By the end of the day, sweat poured down his face, but he stood tall. The next morning, the roster was posted. Ethan’s name was at the top—starting freshman quarterback.

Game day arrived faster than Ethan had expected. The first game of the season was against the Millfield Wolverines, a team known for its aggressive defense. As Ethan stood on the field under the bright lights, he felt a familiar rush—not fear, but focus. He had faced tougher opponents in martial arts competitions, but this was different. This was a team effort, and his teammates depended on him. The Millfield Wolverines were known for their aggressive defense, and Ethan was about to face his first true test. The stadium buzzed with energy. Fans packed the bleachers, cheering as the teams took the field. Ethan stood in the huddle, surrounded by his teammates. Ryan Carter patted him on the helmet. “We got this, man. Just trust me out there.” Ethan nodded, his mind focused. He had studied Millfield’s defensive plays, memorized their patterns. He was ready. The first quarter was a battle. Millfield’s defense was relentless, sacking Ethan twice and shutting down their running game. By the second quarter, they were trailing 7-0. Coach Reynolds called him over. “Cross, you’re playing too tight. Loosen up, read the field, and take control. You’re the leader out there.” Ethan took a deep breath and jogged back onto the field. This was just another fight—one he had to win. In the second quarter, Ethan found his rhythm. On a crucial third down, he rolled out of the pocket to avoid a sack and launched a deep pass to his best receiver, Ryan Carter. Ryan leaped over two defenders, securing the catch for a 40-yard touchdown. By the fourth quarter, Ethan and Ryan had connected for two more touchdowns, giving their team a comfortable lead. With one final drive, Ethan executed a perfect play-action pass, faking out the defense before hitting his tight end in the end zone for the game-sealing score. The final score: 28-7. The crowd erupted, and Ethan’s teammates mobbed him in celebration. After the game, Coach Reynolds clapped him on the back. “That was a damn fine performance, Cross. Keep this up, and you’ll be something special.” With Ethan at the helm, the team went on an incredible run, finishing the season 11-1. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and stay calm under pressure made him a natural leader.