Bully Lord

Part-94

The revelation piqued James' interest.  A national tournament?  That was an entirely different ball game.  "So, you're recruiting?"

"Not exactly," Ryan corrected, a mischievous glint in his eyes.  "We don't just accept anyone.  But you…" He paused, studying James with a newfound respect. "You showed some potential, even if it was a bit… unorthodox."

James cringed slightly, recalling his reliance on Auto Combat during their fight.  "Yeah, about that…" he began, stammering an apology, but Ryan cut him off with a laugh.

"Hey, it got the job done, didn't it?" Ryan said with a shrug.  "Besides, I'm more interested in your raw talent.  You have the build for Judo, and with some proper training, you could be a real asset to the team."

James felt a warmth spread through his chest.  Being recognized for his potential, not just the System's influence, was strangely validating.  Another question, however, bubbled up.  "Why me, though?" he asked.  "There are other guys in the school, like the… Bully Emperors?"

Ryan's smile turned into a smirk.  "Ah, the Bully Emperors," he said with a chuckle.  "Let me tell you two things about them.  First, even if they are strong even stronger than me, they wouldn't be caught dead putting in the actual work required for this tournament.  All they care about is showing off and picking streets fights and doing illigal things."

James nodded in agreement. He'd witnessed their antics firsthand.

"Second," Ryan continued, leaning in conspiratorially, "those guys have a… reputation for breaking the rules.  We don't want to win by disqualification, do we?"

James shook his head, a newfound respect blossoming for Ryan's integrity.  Here was a skilled athlete who valued sportsmanship just as much as winning.

The streetlights flickered on, casting a warm glow on their path. James couldn't help but reflect on his initial impression of Ryan. Back then, he'd seen him as just another schoolyard bully, a perception fueled by their first encounter. Yet, walking beside him now, James saw a different side. Ryan wasn't just competitive; he harbored a genuine passion for Judo, a burning ambition to lead his team to victory. And there was a hint of something else – a spark of light in his eyes when he spoke about the tournament, a mix of excitement and determination that resonated with James.

Suddenly, a wave of self-awareness washed over James. He compared himself to Ryan, seeing a stark contrast. Guys like Ryan, with their ambition, their dreams, and maybe even their romantic entanglements. In that moment, James felt like a plain, almost boring, character in his own life story. Before the System, his existence had been a monotonous routine of school, home, sleep, repeat. Now, however, it was peppered with unexpected challenges, hidden agendas, and a growing sense of purpose. The System, for all its mysteries, had injected a splash of color into his previously colorless life.

With a sigh, James stopped at a familiar intersection.  "Hey, Ryan," he said, a touch of regret in his voice. "This is where I turn off. Gym time."

Ryan, who'd noticed James' contemplative mood, simply nodded. He'd witnessed James' frequent gym visits and understood the dedication that fueled his progress. "Alright," he said, a hint of understanding in his voice. "See you tomorrow at practice. Don't forget, you're aiming for a perfect De Ashi Barai throws by next week."

James gave a determined nod. "Don't worry, I won't. Thanks for… everything, Ryan."

Ryan's lips curved into a genuine smile. "No problem, James. See you then."

James shook his hand as farewell. Ryan nodded, knowing from his past investigation that James frequented the gym, so he wasn't surprised by this.