Follow Up

Janet woke up, finding herself laying on a beach towel in the sand. She sat up and observed the sunny sky and majestic waves of the beach hub of the Training World. After a brief moment of disorientation, she remembered what had happened in the recreated simulation duel with Leftover. As she reflected on what actions could have resulted in a different outcome, a familiar couple in swimsuits and warm smiles approached.

"Welcome back Janet!" Tate said warmly. "Returning from the first dive into a simulation can be taxing at first, but it should get easier the more you partake. Would you care for a cold beverage?"

"Yes, thank you." Janet said, already feeling boosted by the kindness of the AIs that oversaw this world. She accepted an ice cold water with lemon slices, and felt the rest of her strength return after her first sip.

"If you're feeling up for it, would you like to talk about how you feel your training went?" Wasila asked gently.

"Sure!" Janet smiled. "I was definitely out of my league choosing Leftover as my opponent, and I had no chance of winning. But, I did last a little longer with each of the lives the buttons provided me."

"Yes, your analysis is right on Janet." Wasila responded kindly. "I would recommend setting up other simulations with opponents that are on a more even playing field with your current skill level, but the Leftover one is definitely a good training to continue to challenge yourself with."

"Sounds good!" Janet replied enthusiastically. "As I work in the field in real life, that should give me more simulation ideas I can use to also improve my skills here. Thank you both, this place is great. You guys are great!"

"Well, we are just doing what we are programed to do, but Mitch implemented emotions into us when he created Wasila and me. So I can sincerely tell you this.... the pleasure is all ours."

Three familiar figures then appeared in front of Janet, Tate and Wasila.

"Cerissa! Rick! Essie!" Janet called out excitedly. "Hey guys!"

To be continued....