Bully Lord

Part-100

He picked up the scattered vegetables, wincing slightly as the pain in his back throbbed.  A glance around the market confirmed that most of the vendors had packed up and were leaving.  The commotion had disrupted the usual flow of business.

James decided it was best to head home.  He hefted the bag of groceries onto his shoulder, the weight a familiar comfort.  Despite the unexpected turn of events, he had accomplished his initial task – buying vegetables for his mother.

As he walked away from the market, the System chimed in with an unexpected notification.  [Congratulations! You have learned a new skill: Bear Grip! by beating the thugs and showing courage.]  A small information window displayed details about the skill: 

[Bear Grip: Allows you to grab someone with a strong grip. You can exert up to 40% of your strength. Rank E (0/500). Cooldown: 0s.]

James blinked, surprised by the new ability.  He hadn't specifically requested enhanced grip strength, but perhaps the System had analyzed the situation and determined it would be beneficial.  He flexed his hand experimentally, a newfound sense of power coursing through his fingers.

While the day's events had been unsettling, they had also been transformative.  James had discovered a hidden strength within himself, not just physical but also a moral courage he hadn't known he possessed.  He had a newfound appreciation for the System's capabilities, but also a wariness of its potential dangers.

Despite the wave of accomplishment washing over him for acquiring a new skill and standing up for what's right, a knot of worry tightened in James' stomach. These thugs wouldn't forget the humiliation they suffered in public. They might even see him as a threat now.

He knew they could come back for him someday, seeking revenge.  He had to be prepared.  Taking a deep breath, he reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone.  With a determined tap, he dialed his father's number.

His father, a police officer hardened by years on the force, answered with a gruff, "James? Everything alright?"

James took another deep breath and launched into a hurried explanation. He started with the encounter at the market, detailing the extortion attempt and the leader's aggressive behavior. He then recounted his own actions, including the use of his Judo training . Finally, he mentioned the leader's surprise attack and his own fear of retaliation.

His father listened patiently to the entire story, his voice a steady presence over the phone. When James finished, a pause hung heavy in the air.  Then, his father spoke, his voice laced with a calm authority.  "Alright, son. I understand your concern.  This sounds like a group of troublemakers who need to be dealt with. Don't worry, I'll handle it."

James felt a wave of relief wash over him.  Having his father, a man respected in the community and well-versed in dealing with such situations, take charge brought a sense of security.  "Thanks, Dad," he mumbled, the tension finally leaving his shoulders.

After a few more reassurances and a promise to meet for dinner that night, James hung up.  He entered the house, the groceries forgotten for a moment as he replayed the events of the day.  He decided to act as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened.  He didn't want to worry his mother, and he wouldn't give the bullies the satisfaction of knowing they had shaken him.