Bully Lord

Part-50

Later, as the afternoon sun cast long shadows, James found himself at the park, the familiar scent of freshly cut grass and blooming flowers filling his senses. Today, the park wasn't just a refuge; it was a training ground. His sneakers pounded the pavement, a steady rhythm accompanying his determined breaths. He aimed for at least 10 kilometers that day, pushing his body further than usual. The System's ever-present demands fueled his determination – a significant boost in stats was within reach, and he wouldn't let this opportunity slip away.

Sweat beaded on his forehead, his legs burning with exertion, but James pressed on. Each kilometer conquered was a small victory, a testament to his growing strength. As he rounded a bend, he spotted a group of teenagers gathered near the basketball court, their laughter echoing in the air.  They paused, their gazes falling on James, his focused expression and determined stride a stark contrast to his usual demeanor.

Ignoring their stares, James reached a secluded area of the park, a large oak tree offering a patch of shade. Here, he transitioned from running to a series of shadowboxing exercises. He focused on his form, remembering the detailed illustrations from the martial arts book. His right leg pivoted, his core twisting as he threw a powerful uppercut in the air.  This particular move, designated as the "Kangaroo Cut" by the System, felt surprisingly natural, the knowledge from the book translating smoothly into physical execution.

A couple walking their dog stopped to watch, their faces etched with a mix of curiosity and amusement. James caught their gaze, a fleeting moment of self-consciousness flickering within him. But the feeling was quickly replaced by a surge of pride. He wasn't ashamed of his training, his newfound dedication to self-improvement.  In fact, the strange looks only fueled his resolve.  They didn't understand, but that didn't matter. He was doing this for himself, for his own strength and survival in this strange world ruled by the System.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, James finished his training session. His body ached, his lungs burned, but a deep sense of satisfaction filled him. He'd pushed himself, learned a new move, and most importantly, he'd taken another step towards reclaiming control of his own life. 

Exhaustion tugged at James' limbs, urging him to head straight home.  His muscles ached pleasantly, a testament to his rigorous training. He glanced at the fading light, the sky ablaze with the fiery hues of dusk.  Just a few more steps and he'd be back in the comfort of his own home, a steaming cup of tea and a warm meal waiting for him.

As he rounded a corner, however, a cacophony of jeering laughter snagged his attention. Curiosity, a nagging itch, replaced his desire for home. He peeked around a cluster of trees, his heart sinking at the sight before him.

A group of older teenagers, their faces twisted into cruel smirks, surrounded a smaller figure.  At first glance, James mistook the girl for an older woman – her clothes hung loosely on her frame, stretched taut over the generous curves of her body.  Her round face, flushed with tears, was framed by hair pulled back in a messy ponytail.  Each shuddering breath strained the buttons of her blouse, revealing a glimpse of soft, pale skin beneath.  She stood hunched over, her posture a reflection of their taunts.