Days as a Spiritual Mentor in American Comics Chapter 5698 - 4722: X Royal Family: Annihilation (4)

Clarkia emerges as a stunningly secluded island, predominantly cloaked in vibrant, ancient flora. Crystal-clear streams cascade into rivers that eventually merge into a sapphire-like inner bay. As twilight descends, the white sandy beaches are bathed in a warm orange hue, and the meadows radiate a golden luminescence, each vista a testament to this earthly paradise's sheer beauty.

This island is indeed a marvel of mutation. Clarkia itself possesses life—an ancient, wise totem that exclusively welcomes mutants. Following the devastation of Genosha, Magneto's creation, this living island transformed into the ultimate sanctuary for mutants.

"This is not at all what I envisioned," Stark remarked, his eyes sweeping over the crystal dome encrusted with countless verdant vines. "It seems my judgment was flawed; this is truly a premier tourist locale."

Twilight filtered through the crystal dome, projecting intricate, mystical patterns of light green onto the ground. These patterns rippled gently, akin to water waves, evoking the ambiance of a hidden underwater palace. The design was clearly deliberate, showcasing the mutants' dedication to crafting a beautiful home.

Shiller paused, gazing outward at an endless expanse of greenery. Exquisite, luminous plants swayed in the tiered, verdant valleys. The mingled fragrances of trees and blossoms intertwined with the damp mist from fountain pools as a tall figure approached.

As Magneto entered, Stark nearly failed to recognize him. Forsaking his customary black attire, Magneto was now adorned in silver armor. His cape shimmered like a golden wisp against the twilight, and a mask concealed a face that appeared markedly younger than expected.

"Greetings, travelers from the Prime Universe. On behalf of the X Royal Family, I extend a warm welcome," Magneto declared, stepping forward to shake hands with both visitors.

While Stark discreetly assessed Magneto, the latter was also subtly studying them. His gaze eventually settled on Stark, prompting him to comment, "I must confess, sir, your appearance is quite surprising without your iconic armor."

"Are you about to make that tired 'tin can' joke?" Stark quipped, a grin touching his lips. "Perhaps a 'can opener,' sir?"

Magneto appeared even more taken aback. He examined Stark more intently before stating, "I must admit, you are unlike any Iron Man I have encountered. How best to describe it? You seem... more at ease?"

"They are far too tense," Stark replied. "But yes, I am exceptionally relaxed. I suppose you can understand, when compared to the terrifying little demon awaiting me at home, saving the world feels rather like a vacation."

Magneto let out a soft chuckle. "Your daughter?"

"Indeed. Just before we departed for this place, she managed to dismantle one of my major gravity docks and magnetic induction devices. To prevent her from clinging to me and demanding we rebuild it together, I found myself ending up here, as you can see."

"Perhaps she is the true can opener," Magneto’s smile widened. "Enough talk for now, a welcoming banquet awaits. Please, follow me."

They exited the Crystal Palace into an open square. It was only then that they noticed the transmitter had been positioned on a hillside. Their mode of transport was neither a spaceship nor an elevator, but rather an ancient stone platform, intricately decorated with vine-like natural patterns, resembling a small, levitating island.

As Stark stepped onto the platform, he examined it with evident curiosity. He knelt, gently tracing the patterns, and after a moment, sensed something. "This is incredible; it feels alive."

Magneto was once again surprised, responding, "You are the first outsider to perceive that."

Standing on the platform and surveying the structures below the island, Stark commented, "This is a truly remarkable feat. You possess a living island, maintaining a harmonious coexistence with it—a relationship far superior to that between humanity and nature."

Magneto's mind stirred, a flicker of inspiration igniting, though he couldn't quite grasp it. Shiller turned his attention to Magneto and inquired, "Why haven't we encountered the Professor?"

"He... is occupied," Magneto replied, a hint of unease in his tone.

"Not even enough time for a brief visit?" Shiller asked, a puzzled expression on his face. "Apologies, but our universe's Professor X has a message he wished to convey. If it's not inconvenient, could he possibly connect with our brainwaves?"

Magneto appeared hesitant, still processing the situation. "You don't object... I mean, you maintain a cordial relationship with your universe's Professor X?"

"We are friends," Shiller confirmed. "In fact, Tony, Charles, and I are all part of the Luminous Alliance; we're quite close."

"The Luminous Alliance? What kind of organization is that?"

"It's a collective established within the Psychic_Battlefield, dedicated to fostering better development for both humans and mutants across the cosmos," Shiller explained vaguely, then added, "You must be aware of the circumstances in the Prime Universe, surely?"

Magneto nodded. "I've heard that mutants in the Prime Universe have not only founded a nation but have also extended their reach into space. Did the Luminous Alliance play a significant role in those achievements?"

"It's through our combined endeavors, I mean, regular folks, mutants, caped crusaders, S.H.I.E.L.D. and all other forces pooling their might for the optimal outcome."

"Truly remarkable," Magneto mused, a hint of awe in his voice. "I truly can't fathom uniting such a diverse array of powers; it seems an impossible feat. What message do you bear for Charles?"

"Our universe's Professor X wishes to impart a crucial reminder: never to blindly tread the path laid out by any single universe. You must forge your own unique way. At this pivotal stage, establishing independence carries far greater weight than mere development."

Magneto's brow furrowed slightly. Shiller elaborated, "This sentiment is shared by all of us, as well."

"I had assumed you were here to offer us assistance."

"Indeed, that is our intention. However, it is strictly aid, not intervention or subjugation. Ultimately, this is your universe, and this island is your sanctuary. This is precisely why we haven't dispatched excessive numbers; otherwise, it would cease to be assistance and would instead be perceived as an invasion."

Magneto paused, his gaze distant. "Some individuals appear to hold a differing perspective."

"I have heard that individuals from the Prime Universe have made their arrival. Where might they be situated?"

"They are at the main base," Magneto replied, a sigh escaping his lips. The weariness in his tone was palpable, suggesting that even without witnessing the scene, one could easily imagine the charged atmosphere upon the Prime Universe contingent's arrival.

"I would never diminish the standing of mutants from other universes simply because our own universe's mutants have achieved a more favorable position. On the contrary, every single struggle you have undertaken for the sake of racial independence and advancement merits profound respect. All your accomplishments possess considerable intrinsic value."

Magneto pursed his lips, his expression grim. "Given the present circumstances, it remains rather uncertain whether this can truly be deemed progress."

"You have established such a magnificent haven here," Stark interjected, his tone earnest. "Why, then, should this not be considered progress?"

"Really? Even after witnessing your universe's mutants' alien stronghold, you still maintain that Clarkia is superior?"

"Significantly better, and I mean that wholeheartedly," Stark affirmed. "Our universe's mutant base, located within the Andromeda Galaxy, was actually acquired from another party. While the subsequent construction was commendable, I must confess a certain disharmony with the aliens' aesthetic sensibilities. Their consistent emphasis on sheer utility leaves little room for discussion on that front."

Magneto let out a genuine laugh, his demeanor instantly lightening. "I am indeed pleased that you hold this view. When we first settled in Clarkia, it was Charles who fervently advocated for meticulous planning and design, rather than succumbing to the expediency of mere practicality. It brings me great satisfaction to know that his foresight is now being recognized."

Their journey continued from the stone platform, traversing a winding mountain path. They descended from the rocky trail beside the babbling creek and entered a tunnel. Emerging from the darkness, they were greeted by a breathtaking vista: countless dwellings, carved into the mountainside like caves, adorned with delicate, arched spires and vibrant stained-glass windows. Nestled amidst towering trees and peculiar shrubs, the scene evoked the enchantment of a fairy tale.

"It is truly beautiful," Stark exclaimed, his admiration evident. He promptly retrieved his phone, initiating a cascade of photographs. "I absolutely must have a word with Charles and the others upon my return. It's been over a decade, and the capital Sky Island in the Andromeda Galaxy remains precisely as it was. They really ought to consider a renovation."

Shiller gradually reduced his pace, halting before an exceptionally tall tree. He turned his gaze towards Magneto, inquiring, "What has transpired with Charles?"

Magneto regarded him silently, and Shiller pressed on, "I know the Professor rather intimately. It is simply inconceivable that he would remain silent when visitors from our universes have arrived. Precisely where is he?"

"He is indeed within Clarkia," Magneto stated. "However, at this very moment, he is with Moira, deep within an anti-gravity laboratory situated at the island's lower levels, engrossed in pharmaceutical research."

"I was never made aware that Charles possessed any background in pharmaceutical research," Shiller remarked, clearly unwilling to accept this explanation at face value. "Furthermore, engaging in research does not preclude communication. Has he somehow lost his abilities?"

"What leads you to such a conclusion?" Magneto inquired, a flicker of surprise crossing his features. "Who in this entire existence could possibly strip him of his formidable powers?"

"Numerous entities," Shiller responded gravely. "Sentinel Robots possess the capability to neutralize all mutants. You are undoubtedly more aware than I of how the very squad tasked with dismantling the Mother Module was utterly annihilated. Even the Phoenix Force could not emerge unscathed from such an encounter."

"Why would you possibly conceive that we would deploy Sentinels against Charles? The very notion is utterly horrifying!" Magneto declared with palpable indignation.

"Then it would appear someone is actively preventing him from utilizing his abilities. Could that individual be you, Magneto?"

Magneto opened his mouth, then paused, before replying, "I did, in fact, advise him to refrain from employing his telepathic communication abilities for the present time, as it might potentially cause discomfort to our esteemed visitors from other universes."

"And for what reason?"

"Pardon?" Magneto appeared momentarily disoriented, unsure of the specific nature of Shiller's query. He elaborated, "No sentient being relishes the sensation of their psychic landscape being subjected to intrusive scrutiny by others."

"Very well," Shiller conceded, seemingly with a degree of reluctance. He then posed another question, "Then why does he not emerge?"

"He requires safeguarding," Magneto declared with a profound sigh. "His choice to champion the multiverse nearly undid all our painstakingly laid plans. The decimation of our assault force represents an almost unbearable blow. I fear someone might..."

He let his head droop, as if words failed him entirely. Shiller lowered his gaze and responded, "It appears the circumstances are indeed dire. Yet, regardless of the obstacles, I must gain an audience with him. Can you assist me with this, Magneto?"

Just as Magneto prepared to interject, Shiller cut in, "Whatever justifications you've been given for shouldering the blame for these setbacks, you must realize it's unjust towards him. Primarily because the fault doesn't lie solely with him. How much fortitude must a spirit possess to remain unwavering, believing they haven't been forsaken in such a predicament? Erik, have you ever instilled that level of assurance in him?"

Magneto's fingertips quivered slightly. "He has consistently been the source of my confidence. This entire endeavor originated with Charles approaching me, revealing his strategy to establish a new Utopia for mutants. Even in the wake of Genosha's utter devastation, he managed to persuade others that mutants could still retain their autonomy and liberty."

"His plea must not be silenced. Even if your concern is that certain rebellious mutants might target him, at the very least, permit his voice to be heard once more. The number of individuals yearning to hear his pronouncements again might far exceed your current estimations."

Another pause settled over Magneto. "You've convinced me of your genuine camaraderie with Charles. You appear to possess a deep understanding of him. I can arrange for you to meet him, but our time is exceedingly limited. The United Nations conference is scheduled for the night after next."