Chapter 6 School Bully

After successfully defeating the Thunderhoof Boar, Kulas felt a surge of accomplishment. The virtual world had rewarded him for his skills and determination. His experience bar now read 390/800, signifying his progress towards level 5. With a quick glance at his character's stats, he admired his growth:

•Level: 4

•Health Points (HP): 180

•Strength: 7

•Agility: 18

•Intelligence: 12

•Stamina: 6

•Available Stat Points: 5

Equipped with the Lightning Edge sword, Kulas's virtual avatar stood as a testament to his efforts. His inventory included Thornback Boar Leather from his quest and a sum of 30 copper coins.

With the virtual sun beginning to set, Kulas made the decision to retreat from the forest. The night brought forth more formidable foes, and he understood the importance of knowing his limits. As darkness enveloped the virtual landscape, he logged out and returned to his physical reality.

In the real world, Ryan's routine remained familiar-exercise, contemplation, and preparations for school. However, the stark contrast between the virtual realm and the challenges of reality manifested in the form of bullies. Among them, Adam Peña, a notorious figure, targeted Ryan as his victim. Adam's reputation as the 7th-ranked fighter in the tournament elevated his intimidation factor. Despite his inner strength, Ryan adhered to his principle of nonviolence.

As the school day unfolded, tensions escalated. Adam's confrontations with Ryan were laced with provocation, igniting the smoldering tension. A pivotal moment arrived when Riz Dalera, a student monitor, intervened, adding a complex layer to the altercation. Riz's presence added nuance due to Adam's infatuation with her.

The situation quickly escalated, drawing Ryan and Adam into the school's structured framework for resolving conflicts-combat in the designated arena, with mutual consent. Adam's taunts persisted, ultimately culminating in an unexpected turn of events. Unfazed, Ryan calmly challenged Adam to a fight, shattering the expectations of their classmates.

Their agreement set the stage for an intense showdown, the arena becoming a battlefield for their rivalry. The spectators held their breaths as the fight commenced, accompanied by a wager of 10,000 pesos.

Ryan's agility and tactical awareness served as his strengths. Rather than engaging in a brute-force approach, he leveraged his martial arts training and virtual combat experience. His movements were swift and calculated, reminiscent of the fluidity he displayed in the virtual realm.

Techniques Used:

•Swift Strikes: Ryan's rapid punches and kicks were a testament to his honed martial arts skills, catching Adam off-guard with their precision and speed.

•Counterflow Stance: Adopting a defensive stance, Ryan deflected and redirected Adam's aggressive attacks, turning his opponent's strength against him.

The ensuing clash was a display of skill and strategy, as Ryan's agility countered Adam's ferocity. The battle unfolded in a flurry of attacks and evasions, each fighter pushing their limits and deploying their techniques.

The fight reached its climax in a matter of minutes. Adam's overconfidence led to his downfall, as Ryan's years of martial arts training and virtual escapades culminated in his victory. Adam lay defeated, unconscious on the arena floor-an unforeseen outcome that left everyone astonished.

The arena echoed with the contrast of victory and disbelief, with Ryan and Adam confronting each other's perceptions. Amidst the aftermath, Mhico, Ryan's best friend and a fellow player of Another World, approached the scene, his emotions a mixture of concern and exhilaration.

As Ryan and Mhico engaged in a conversation, Riz Dalera, a symbol of unexpected support, approached with a tangible sign of their encounter-a 10,000 peso reward. The gratitude exchanged marked the beginning of a new understanding, and Ryan's promise to treat Riz unfolded as a promise of camaraderie.

As night descended over the real world, Ryan returned to the digital realm. The events of the day had revealed hidden facets of his character and forged bonds that extended beyond virtual landscapes. The path ahead held the promise of both virtual quests and the challenges of reality, illuminated by the dual glow of his experiences.