New rules

Mary and Lex both looked towards the ball as it vibrated, no, hummed softly. It was very important that the system respond to him, for he did not wish to take drastic measures.

"You should not compare yourself to the Sovereign Galactic turtle," a young, immature voice spoke out loud. It almost sounded cute.

"It is rude to the turtle. You should be honored that it gives you so much attention, not throw a tantrum about feeling inferior."

Despite everything he had been through, Lex could not help his lip from twitching. He was under so much pressure, facing off against the system that had given him so much trouble, and here it was, with the cutest little voice, instructing him not to misbehave. The fact that the system sounded so sincere, instead of condescending as he had imagined, somehow made the situation worse. Or better. He could not tell.

"So you respond at last," Lex said, focusing on the matter. He could not afford to get distracted.