Bully Lord

Part-91

Ryan crossed his arms, a playful glint returning to his eyes.  "Well, James," he drawled, "that's certainly an interesting request.  Considering you manhandled me with… unconventional techniques, to say the least."

James winced at the reminder, but held his ground.  "Look, I know I don't know much about Judo, but I'm here to learn.  And if you're willing to teach me, I promise I'll be a dedicated student."

Ryan studied James for a long moment, a silent conversation passing between them.  Finally, a slow smile spread across his face. 

"Alright, James," he said, his voice filled with amusement.  "You've got guts, I'll give you that.  And who knows, maybe I can learn a thing or two from your… unique fighting style as well."

Ryan, ever the enthusiastic teacher, launched into a detailed explanation of the De Ashi Barai, a basic Judo sweep that utilized an opponent's momentum against them. He described the footwork, the hip movement, the strategic timing – all the crucial elements that transformed raw strength into controlled throws. James, all ears, soaked up the information, the System silently analyzing each detail, storing it within its ever-growing database.

To solidify the lesson, Ryan offered a demonstration.  With a playful grin, he beckoned James closer.  "Alright, newbie," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice, "let's see if you can stay on your feet."

James braced himself, his muscles tense with anticipation.  Ryan initiated the throw.  It was swift, almost effortless.  His foot swept out, expertly connecting with the inside of James' ankle.  In a blur of motion, James felt his footing falter, his momentum redirected.  He landed with a surprised thump on the mat, the air momentarily knocked out of his lungs.

"See?" Ryan chuckled, extending a hand to help James up.  "It's all about timing and technique.  Strength is important, sure, but leverage is key."

James dusted himself off, a sheepish grin on his face.  The throw had been smooth, almost graceful, a far cry from his own brutish takedowns.  He understood the power of proper technique, the way it could turn a seemingly simple movement into a devastating technique.  He yearned to replicate it, to feel the satisfaction of executing a perfect throw.

However, reality soon set in.  Without the assistance of Auto Combat mode, his throws lacked the finesse, the explosiveness of Ryan's.  He attempted the De Ashi Barai on Ryan, mimicking the steps, the footwork, but his attempt felt sluggish, easily countered by Ryan's superior skill.  Frustration gnawed at James.  The System, while a powerful tool, wasn't a magic bullet.  Mastering Judo, he realized, would require more than just blind faith in its calculations. It would require dedication, countless hours of practice, and the development of his own physical prowess – a journey he would have to undertake one grueling throw at a time.

Exhaustion gnawed at James' muscles as the day's training session drew to a close. Despite his eagerness, he hadn't managed to land a single throw on Ryan. The frustration was palpable, a bitter pill to swallow after his initial victory.