A week before the court date, Thorn had a day off from the Farmers Market, and he had spent most of the day in the gym. Anton stood by the practice ring shaking the cage.

“Get in there, Thorn! Strike!”

Thorn started pounding on Maven and got him in an armbar. Maven tapped quickly and rolled out.

“Damn, dude! You’re on fire today!” Maven jumped up, patting him in the back.

Coach Anton rattled the cage. “Great work, guys. This is what my fighters do! You both are stronger than you have been in years. I don’t know what brought this fire in you, but keep up the good work.”...