Part 1: The Ripple Effect
Daniel Park's fight with Zack had sent ripples throughout J High. As students dispersed, their conversations buzzed with excitement and curiosity about the new transfer student who had so effortlessly dismantled one of the school's most notorious bullies. Key figures within the school couldn't help but take notice.
Eli Jang's Perspective
Eli Jang, the former leader of Hostel, watched the fight with a mix of awe and nostalgia. Daniel's movements reminded him of his own teacher, a man whose strength and precision had been unmatched. "His technique is flawless," Eli thought. "It's almost like watching my old mentor fight." Eli's respect for Daniel grew, but he also felt a twinge of wariness. "I need to know more about him. Power like that... it always comes with a cost."
Vin Jin's Skepticism
Vin Jin, leaning against a wall with his trademark scowl, couldn't help but be impressed by Daniel's display. However, his cynical nature kept him from fully trusting Daniel's intentions. "He's just like all the others," Vin mused. "Pretending to be a nice guy. He'll show his true colors soon enough." Despite his skepticism, Vin felt a pang of envy. "Why does he remind me of my teacher? That warm embrace... I hate it."
Vasco and Jace's Respect
Vasco and Jace stood together, watching as Daniel helped Zack to his feet. Vasco, the leader of Burn Knuckles, felt a deep respect for Daniel. "He's strong and he fights with purpose," Vasco thought. "Maybe he can help us protect the weak." Jace, ever loyal to Vasco, nodded in agreement. "He's someone we can trust," Jace thought. "But we need to be careful. Strength like that can be dangerous if misused."
As the students began to leave, Daniel's voice cut through the chatter. "I don't know what you guys think of me and my actions, but starting from now, J High will not tolerate any kind of bullying. If I catch anyone bullying, you will regret it more than anything you've ever done." His usual calm and gentle demeanor shifted, radiating a chilling, almost monstrous aura. Key figures like Eli, Vin, Vasco, Jace, and Zack felt a surge of fear. "This guy... he's not to be messed with," they all thought, a rare unity in their perceptions.
For a few seconds, the entire environment seemed to be suffused with a heavy, oppressive pressure, like the air itself had thickened. The other students, less attuned to the subtleties of true power, shook off the feeling quickly, convincing themselves it was an illusion. But the key figures knew better. They had felt the weight of Daniel's resolve, and it was formidable.
After his proclamation, Daniel's demeanor returned to its usual warmth. He helped Zack up and patted his shoulder. "Let's get something to eat," he said with a smile, heading toward the cafeteria.
The cafeteria was bustling with activity. Daniel grabbed a tray of food and scanned the room, his eyes landing on Jinho, the timid boy who had been bullied earlier. He walked over and sat down beside him. "You need to eat healthy and start exercising," Daniel said, echoing Saitama's advice from One Punch Man. "If you don't, I'll make you do it starting tomorrow."
Jinho looked up, startled. "Why is he acting friendly but also bossy?" he thought. But the memory of Daniel's earlier intervention was still fresh, and he didn't want to risk disobeying. "Okay, I'll try," he muttered
Seeing the hesitation in Jinho's eyes, Daniel softened his tone. "I have a friend who's plump, fat, and ugly," he said. "But he's trying to make a difference. I believe he will because he wants to. Don't give up. You can do it too."
Jinho felt a surge of determination. "If he believes in me, maybe I can change," he thought. "Just like this morning. Breaking out of that bullying... it felt good." He resolved to try harder, inspired by Daniel's words.
As Daniel and Jinho ate, a group of girls flocked to their table, their eyes wide with admiration. "Can we get your number?" one asked. "What do you like? Would you come to karaoke with us?"
Joe, feeling threatened by the sudden attention Daniel was receiving, pushed through the crowd and sat beside him. "Back off," she said to the other girls, glaring at them.
Zack, still nursing his pride, sat beside Jinho. The smaller boy trembled, expecting another round of bullying. But Zack simply said, "I want a rematch."
Daniel chuckled. "Okay, buddy, but not today. Today, I'm busy with other things. Don't worry, though. In the future, you'll be craving the chance to escape from sparring with me." He laughed, a sound full of confidence and camaraderie.
Zack groaned inwardly. "I'm in trouble, aren't I?" he thought, but there was a hint of respect in his eyes.
As lunch ended, the students filed out of the cafeteria, chatting excitedly about the morning's events. Daniel's presence had already begun to change the atmosphere at J High. There was a sense of anticipation in the air, a feeling that things were about to change for the better.
Looking Forward
Daniel watched them go, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "This is just the beginning," he thought. "There's so much more to do." He glanced at Jinho, who was walking with a bit more confidence than before. "If I can help even one person, it's worth it."
With a final glance around the cafeteria, Daniel headed to his next class.