Chapter 20: Technology is Awesome
Xavier stepped into his apartment, the weight of the day pressing down on him. He moved to the pedestal where the Fragment of Goddess Astrea rested, its faint glow pulsing softly in the dim light. Kneeling before it, he closed his eyes and called out, his voice steady despite his exhaustion.
"Goddess Astrea."
Silence. Then, after a long moment, a voice echoed in his mind - cool and distant, like wind through ancient ruins.
"You have broken the condition. A penalty will be applied."
Xavier's eyes snapped open. "What condition?"
The air before him shimmered, words forming in glowing script:
[Condition: Must communicate with Goddess Astrea for minimum 10 minutes daily]
"I was hospitalized," Xavier protested. "I just got back and then went to eat."
The voice returned, sharper now. "Excuses change nothing. Speak."