Bully Lord

Part-207

James straightened up, smiling in response. “I’m ready to learn, sir. Thank you for taking the time.”

Kashem nodded and turned to Ryan. “And you, Ryan, I expect you’ll help James get up to speed. You've trained here before, so you know what I expect.”

Ryan smirked but nodded respectfully. “Of course, sir. I'll try to keep up.”

Kashem’s expression grew more serious as he folded his arms across his chest. “Before we begin, I want to make one thing clear,” he said, looking directly at James. “When you spar today, you’ll only be using Judo techniques. I know you’ve developed a habit of mixing styles, but today is about mastering the fundamentals. Agreed?”

James chuckled, a bit sheepish. In previous sparring matches with Ryan, he had relied on a freestyle approach, blending techniques from skill list and his limited karate experience to secure quick victories. Today, though, Kashem wanted pure Judo, and James respected that.

“Understood, sir,” James said. “I’ll stick to Judo.”

Ryan raised an eyebrow and grinned. “This should be interesting. No more sneaky punches or slaps, huh?”

James playfully nudged Ryan as they both stepped onto the mat. The atmosphere immediately shifted as they took their positions, bowing to each other in respect. Kashem stepped back, watching with hawk-like focus, arms still crossed as he observed their every movement.

“Begin!” Kashem called.

The match started slowly, with both boys circling each other, looking for an opening. James, though eager, stayed cautious, reminding himself to stick to the basics—footwork, balance, and leverage. Ryan was more experienced in Judo, and he moved fluidly, his body relaxed yet ready to strike.

James attempted the first move, stepping in for an *osoto gari*, a classic Judo throw where he aimed to sweep Ryan’s leg out from under him. But Ryan anticipated it, pivoting quickly and countering with a *tai otoshi*, a body drop throw that nearly sent James crashing to the mat. James narrowly avoided the full impact, regaining his balance and trying to reset his stance.

The sparring match continued with both exchanging moves—throws, counters, and grappling techniques. Kashem watched silently, nodding occasionally but saying nothing. His eyes were sharp, analyzing every movement, every flaw in their execution.

After several minutes, Ryan finally managed to get the upper hand, throwing James cleanly onto the mat with a swift *ippon seoi nage*, a one-arm shoulder throw. James grunted as he hit the mat, feeling the familiar rush of adrenaline and frustration.

“Not bad, Ryan,” James muttered, rolling to his feet. “You’ve been practicing.”

Ryan grinned, catching his breath. “Told you. No more punches.”

Kashem stepped forward, clapping his hands once to signal the end of the match. “That was good,” he said, his tone approving yet firm. “Both of you showed solid technique. But there’s something we need to work on—your fitness.”

James and Ryan exchanged puzzled glances. They were both fairly active, but Kashem had noticed something they hadn’t.

“You have the form,” Kashem continued, “but your endurance and strength need to improve if you’re going to last in serious competition. Judo isn’t just about technique. It’s about lasting longer than your opponent, having the stamina to push through when you’re tired, and the strength to execute throws when your body wants to give up.”