The System had already suffered through that specific nightmare in a previous world. Even as a being made of pure data, the phantom trauma of being violently pummeled by its own Host for a "subpar scalp massage" was burned permanently into its hard drive.
It wisely decided that staying absolutely silent was the best way to preserve its digital life.
Back in the physical world, Heena let out a slow, steadying breath, burying the spike of pain behind her iron will. She looked down at the Ninth Prince, who was still trembling on the ground, trying and failing to push himself up.
"I am waiting, Your Highness," Heena said aloud, her voice echoing mercilessly across the courtyard. "Are you going to lay there in the dirt, or are you going to start your push-ups?"
The Ninth Prince gritted his teeth, tears of sheer humiliation mixing with the dirt and sweat on his face. He pressed his blistered palms against the scorching stone courtyard and tried to push himself up.
