Dodging wasn't enough anymore.
Jared realized that quickly.
If he only avoided damage, the situation would repeat endlessly.
Conclusion: offensive action required.
The next punch came.
He dodged.
But this time—
He stepped forward instead of back.
BAM.
His fist connected cleanly with the leader's side.
The reaction was immediate.
Shock.
Pain.
Disbelief.
"…you—"
Jared didn't stop.
Another movement.
Another strike.
Not wild.
Not emotional.
Calculated.
"…force output within acceptable limits," he said.
"…WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!"
The other two hesitated.
That hesitation—
Was a mistake.
Jared turned toward them.
Distance: optimal.
Balance: unstable.
He pushed one.
Just enough.
The guy stumbled backward and collided with a chair.
The last one froze.
"…I'm done," he said quickly.
"…decision accepted," Jared replied.
Silence fell over the area.
The leader slowly stood up, holding his side.
"…this isn't over," he muttered weakly.
Jared tilted his head slightly.
"…probability of continuation: low."
They left.
No shouting.
No threats.
Just quiet retreat.
Iris walked over slowly.
"…you just beat them."
"…minimal effort."
"…you enjoyed that."
Jared paused.
"…slightly."
She stared at him.
"…that's not comforting."
Jared looked at his hands.
Then at the direction the bullies left.
For the first time—
He understood something clearly.
He wasn't the weakest person anymore.
Not even close.