Bully Lord

Part-81

Ryan's eyebrows shot up in surprise.  "A challenge, huh?"  A playful grin spread across his face.  "Alright, why not?  But don't blame me if you end up on your backside within seconds."

Relief washed over James.  This could work.  Technically, it was a challenge, and if he learned something in the process, it wouldn't be a complete loss.

Just then, Kashem Chowdhury reappeared, his face creased with amusement as he overheard their conversation.  "A challenge, you say?" he boomed, his voice carrying a hint of playful authority.  "Why not make it a proper match?  I'll be happy to judge."

James and Ryan exchanged a surprised glance.  Having Kashem, the head instructor and Mili's father,  as a judge upped the ante considerably.  But James, emboldened by the potential dual benefit – completing the mission and learning a new skill – readily agreed.

Before they could begin, James activated his "Know Your Enemy and Ally" skill once more.  This time, Ryan's stats displayed a slight increase, climbing from 203 to 204.  It wasn't a major jump, but it was a noticeable improvement within just a few days.  Clearly, Ryan wasn't just a cocky flirt; he was dedicated to his training, and his skills were constantly evolving.

This revelation both surprised and motivated James.  Here he was, a beginner with a mysterious system prodding him forward, facing off against someone with years of experience in a world he was only just beginning to understand.  A flicker of nervous excitement danced in his chest.  He might not win, but he wouldn't go down without a fight.

News of the impromptu match spread like wildfire through the training area. Curiosity crackled in the air as students gathered around, eager to witness a clash between the seasoned Ryan and the newcomer, James. Whispers filled the space, speculating on James' chances.

"Who's that guy?  He looks way too skinny to go against Ryan."

"Yeah, Ryan's a beast.  He's been training here for years."

"Maybe he's some kind of hidden prodigy."

Mili, standing beside James with a hint of nervousness in her eyes, nudged him playfully.  "Don't worry," she whispered, "Ryan might be strong, but he holds back a lot, especially against newbies.  Just focus on learning and don't get hurt." 

James appreciated her concern, but a different kind of tension coiled in his gut.  As he stole a glance at Kashem Chowdhury, the head instructor who had volunteered as their judge, a shiver ran down his spine.  Just like his father's stats before the fight, Kashem's remained frustratingly blank when James activated "Know Your Enemy and Ally."  The implication was clear – Kashem possessed a level of power beyond the System's ability to quantify.  The thought of sparring under the watchful eye of such an unreadable entity sent a jolt of nervous excitement through him.

Pushing those thoughts aside, James focused on the task at hand.  Ryan, clad in his pristine white judogi, seemed unfazed by the growing audience.  He stretched casually, a confident smile playing on his lips.  This was familiar territory for him, a friendly sparring session amongst peers.  For James, however, it felt like a step into the unknown.

Remembering his experience with Sourov, James decided to take a gamble.  He activated "Crisis Mode," AKA auto battle mode, a surge of adrenaline coursing through his veins.  He hoped Ryan, being a more formidable opponent, could withstand the temporary strength boost (it also boost his strength where he can use 100% potential of his current strength) without getting seriously injured.  A flicker of apprehension crossed Ryan's face as he noticed the subtle change in James' demeanor, a new intensity in his gaze.  The playful banter was over.  This was serious.

"Ready?" Kashem boomed, his voice cutting through the chatter.  James and Ryan nodded, their stances a study in contrasts.  James, fueled by the System's enhancement, stood tall, his body coiled with newfound power.  Ryan, grounded in years of training, remained calm and focused.

The whistle blew, marking the start of the match.  The crowd fell silent, their eyes glued to the two figures on the mat.  What ensued was a dynamic display of skill and strategy.