I awoke with a groan, my body aching and my mood sour from the memory of my defeat. The simulation had felt so real, every blow and every burst of magic leaving a lingering impression on my mind. Despite the soreness, I wasn't physically injured. The system had a way of keeping me intact even through the harshest battles.
As I stretched, I noticed Raven stirring beside me. Her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled sleepily at me. "Good morning, love," she said, her voice soft and warm.
"Morning," I replied, trying to push away my frustration. I didn't want to dampen the start of our day with my sour mood.
Raven reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair from my face. "You look like you've had a rough night. Bad dreams?"
I forced a smile. "Something like that."
She frowned, concern evident in her eyes. "Do you want to talk about it?"
I shook my head. "No, it's fine. Just... one of those nights."
