Ethan remained under the showerhead, letting the warm water cascade over him. His internal structure was completely restored, but the events of the day had left a deeper mark than any broken bone. This was a place for profound reflection. He knew the gravity of the situation remained, heavy and oppressive.
"System," Ethan said quietly, his voice barely audible over the running water. "I know you said you would let me handle things on my own, but I'd like one piece of advice."
[The System sighed with theatrical resignation.] "Do you know why I used to call you 'Defective Edison,' 'Temu Tony Stark,' and things like that?" the System asked, its voice less mocking, more pedagogical.
"No, I honestly never knew why you always called me those things," Ethan admitted, the memory stinging.
