Alex stood before the mirror, staring at skin that showed no trace of the brutal fight thirty minutes ago.
But the physical healing didn't erase the memory of struggle. Of Adrian's superior technique. Of strikes that connected because Alex couldn't read the combinations fast enough. Of nearly losing despite his overwhelming power advantage.
Alex turned on the shower, letting hot water run until steam began filling the space.
"Lilith," he said quietly, watching blood-stained water swirl toward the drain. "Why couldn't I defeat him the way I thought I could?"
Silence stretched for several heartbeats.
Then laughter filled his mind... not mocking or cruel, but genuinely amused in the way someone might laugh at an earnest question from a child.
"You've never lifted a finger in your life before today, do you? " Lilith's voice carried exasperation mixed with entertainment, like a teacher explaining obvious truths to a brilliant but inexperienced student.
