Bully Lord

Part-90

As James moved towards the locker room, he couldn't help but notice the shift in the atmosphere.  The initial hostility was replaced by a cautious curiosity.  Sourov, though still competitive, seemed intrigued by this unexpected turn of events.  Even the other club members, their initial shock fading, began to murmur amongst themselves.

[Mission Complete: Congratulations! All of your stats increase by +3.]

After James came back from locker room, he met coach Gin's grin.

"Alright, James," Coach Gin said, "we'll start with the basics and build from there. Training sessions are every day after school."

James nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. He knew this was the next step in his journey to become stronger and to fulfill his mission.

Sourov, still standing nearby, couldn't resist another jab. "Don't think just because you beat me once, you'll have it easy here."

Ignoring Sourov's comment, James focused on Coach Gin's instructions. "Let's see what you can do," Coach Gin said, directing James to the mat for some basic drills.

James's first few sessions were challenging. He was pushed to his limits, both physically and mentally. The other members watched him closely, some still doubting his commitment, while others began to respect his determination.

Ryan, who had initially been skeptical, started to see potential in James. "You know, you have a natural talent for this," Ryan said after a particularly grueling practice. "Keep at it, and you might actually become one of the best."

Coach Gin's words hung in the air as James processed the new reality. He was in the Judo Club, surrounded by surprised faces, yet a familiar blue glow flickered in his vision. A new mission notification had arrived:

**[Mission 15-18: (Chain Mission 1): Learn how to throw]**

**[Chain Reward: Hidden]**

**[Penalty for Failure: Lemon's 30 men will beat you into a pulp]**

James' eyes widened. This was unlike any mission he'd encountered before. Not only was it a chain mission, hinting at a series of challenges, but the penalty was brutally clear – a beating by Lemon's men.  He swallowed hard, the weight of the situation settling on his shoulders.

Looking around the room, his gaze met Ryan's. The playful smirk had vanished, replaced by a thoughtful expression.  An idea sparked in James' mind.  Despite their recent clash, Ryan was undeniably skilled.  Perhaps, James thought, this unexpected turn of events could be turned to his advantage.

With a determined glint in his eyes, James approached Ryan.  The other students watched with bated breath, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife.

"Hey, Ryan," James said, his voice surprisingly steady.  "I know things got a little rough yesterday, but…"  He hesitated for a moment, then continued, "I was wondering if you'd be willing to teach me how to throw?"

A surprised chuckle escaped Ryan's lips.  He looked at James, then at the stunned faces around them.  The absurdity of the situation, coupled with James' genuine desire to learn, tickled him.  Here was the guy who'd just beaten him in a wild brawl, now asking for his help.