Days as a Spiritual Mentor in American Comics Chapter 5750 - 4773: X Royal Family: Newborn (13)
Previously on Days as a Spiritual Mentor in American Comics...
"What is happening with this island?" Steve wondered, peering out the window. Clarkia remained as verdant and lush as ever. Following the storm, the sky was utterly clear, and water droplets clinging to the plants shimmered like scattered diamonds, bathing everything in a soft, hazy radiance. As small creatures cautiously emerged, the sounds of rustling filled the woods and undergrowth. The leaves swayed gently, dislodging dew, but before these tiny orbs could reach the ground, the minuscule beings had already vanished.
Yet, beneath this beautiful facade, a hidden danger lay in wait. While Stark’s physical constitution might not rival that of these superhumans, he was certainly robust among ordinary individuals.
He was supported by a professional nutrition team dedicated to optimizing his diet, received regular medical check-ups that promptly addressed any health concerns, and benefited from a professional medical team with access to a full spectrum of medical resources. Furthermore, he consistently engaged in physical training, ensuring all his health indicators far surpassed the average. Despite all these advantages, he was adversely affected by Clarkia.
This island was completely inaccessible to ordinary people. While it might offer advantages to mutants, it also presented significant challenges. As is the case right now, Stark’s sudden illness has necessitated the shortening of the planned three-day SWORD investigation to just one and a half days. This drastic measure was taken because neither SWORD nor Clarkia could afford the catastrophic consequences of Director Zhengxian encountering any problems on the island.
Magneto, who had recently returned, was also deeply concerned by this predicament. To cultivate a broader range of trade partners, it was essential to welcome visitors to Clarkia Island. Although a stay of one or two days should theoretically pose no issue, any unfortunate incident would leave Clarkia vulnerable in the international community.
Nevertheless, Magneto’s first course of action was to approach Shiller. As Shiller entered his office, Magneto offered a sincere apology: "I am truly sorry, Dr. Rodriguez. It appears we may have underestimated the island’s impact on ordinary individuals, and this has unfortunately affected your friend. Whatever apology or compensation you deem appropriate, please do not hesitate to ask."
Shiller took a deep breath before settling into a chair. "The current issue, given the circumstances, is that we must swiftly arrange for his departure. However, Tony is a man of his word; once he commits to assisting and formulates his own plans, he is not one to abandon them easily."
"This time, it was merely a common cold, not a serious illness; his fever has subsided, and he disdains appearing as a frail millionaire clinging to life, making him even more reluctant to leave. My other friends and I have been unable to persuade him."
"The most effective way to expedite his departure from Clarkia at this moment is for you to promptly meet his expectations. But we are all aware that this is an impossibility. Whether it pertains to industrial or agricultural development, the establishment of even a basic framework requires at least ten days to two weeks. There is no certainty that his health condition will not deteriorate during this period."
"Therefore, the most viable approach now is for you to devise a method that guarantees his safe stay on the island until he accomplishes his objectives. I will also exert my utmost effort to assist in finding a solution. My current suggestion is to have him wear the Battle Armor as much as possible. The Nano Armor presents no impediment, and wearing it continuously is perfectly acceptable; he has already consented to this."
"However, you must also acknowledge that an Iron Man in full armor commands a formidable presence in any universe or nation, especially our own. The use of the Mecha inherently hinders the projection of a friendly demeanor, potentially complicating his interactions with the mutants. Not to mention, do you anticipate other countries visiting? How do you imagine they would react upon seeing an Iron Man soaring overhead, fully armed?"
"Engaging operatives from the Central Universe invariably entails a cost, but not one as excessive or irrational as this. This represents a wholly senseless expenditure that harms both parties and benefits no one. Such scenarios must be resolutely avoided."
"If you possess any viable solutions, present them promptly, and subsequently, strategize their implementation. Should the situation fail to improve, we will be compelled to reconsider evacuating this entire plan."
Magneto found himself taken aback by Shiller’s composed and reasoned discourse, as well as the thoroughness of his analysis. It was clear that Shiller was genuinely invested in resolving the issue, rather than merely expressing discontent.
His reasoning was indeed sound. While utilizing the Mecha might be a feasible option, it was far from ideal. The justification was simple: the mere statement that "the Iron Man from the Central Universe is unaccustomed to it" was sufficient.
As he was there to offer aid and guidance, his preferences should naturally be considered. If he found prolonged wear of the Mecha uncomfortable, efforts should be made to allow him to avoid it, rather than summarily dismissing the concern with a casual remark like "it causes no harm." Even if ultimately compelled to wear it, a genuine attempt to accommodate him would demonstrate a positive attitude.
This situation could indeed deter overseas visitors. Particularly since Iron Man from the Central Universe has already demonstrated his undeniable power in the laboratory clash. If he were to appear on the island in such a fashion, foreign guests would realize that no security measures could possibly keep him at bay. The initial group of foreign visitors might be manageable, as they have already arrived and are unlikely to depart immediately. However, the hosting arrangements are not for a single group, and these guests have no obligation to maintain secrecy on their behalf. Once the first group departs and begins to speak of the formidable, fully-equipped Iron Man on the island, subsequent visitors will simply cease to arrive. The mutants' disposition is not a significant concern, despite the less-than-favorable impression left by the individuals from the Prime Universe. Due to their distinct Mecha designs, they can be differentiated, and it's improbable they would harbor any negative feelings towards the Iron Man from the Central Universe. If necessary, the mutants could simply maintain a distance. "This is indeed a predicament," Magneto stated, "but we do possess a potential solution; however, I am uncertain if you will find it acceptable." "What solution do you propose?" Shiller inquired. "You must have heard of the Clarkia Flower," Magneto said, producing a flower from beside him. "This is a unique remedy that exclusively affects the human race. Upon ingestion, it can mend most ailments and also forge a subtle connection with the Clarkian Totem, which might lessen the island's aversion to him." Shiller's brow furrowed deeply. He finally grasped why Magneto had questioned the acceptability of this approach. In reality, this method is indeed difficult to accept. Primarily, the Clarkia Flower is an herb for which no pharmacological or pathological research exists. Mutants discovered its effects incidentally and began utilizing it. Regarding potential side effects and long-term consequences, they have no understanding whatsoever. Research into its extraction has only just commenced, promising no immediate breakthroughs. In essence, all information pertaining to this herb remains a complete unknown. Even setting aside its purported benefits, such as disease healing, the consequences, whether positive or negative, of establishing a connection with the Clarkian Totem are entirely un Fathomable. Stark does not intend to reside here permanently; his visit is temporary, offering assistance. While forging a link with the Clarkian Totem might mitigate the island's rejection, any unforeseen repercussions would constitute a considerable issue. Shiller let out a sigh, appearing rather vexed. An additional complication is Stark's anxiety disorder. Though he currently appears perfectly composed, ingesting an un Fathomable substance carries significant risks for an individual prone to anxiety, akin to self-inflicted harm. Should he experience severe psychological distress manifesting physically after consumption, distinguishing between the herb's effects and his pre-existing condition would become impossible. If Clarkia were to be erroneously blamed for such an outcome, it would prove entirely counterproductive. "I have an idea," Magneto proposed. "The human scientists who became stranded on Clarkia have been here for some time. Their medical assessments indicate that most are in a state of suboptimal health. One female scientist has an abnormal uterine lining, and a male scientist suffers from mild meningitis. Prior to their repatriation, we can present them with the Clarkia Flower as a therapeutic gift. This way, we can extend a kindness while simultaneously utilizing them as a test case to detect any severe adverse reactions." Shiller paused for contemplation. This was indeed an astute suggestion. While not a rigorously scientific experimental protocol, it would undoubtedly suffice to assuage Stark's psychological concerns. As for the physical implications, Shiller felt they were not particularly problematic. For one thing, he had observed the Clarkia Flower and Totem, and they did not strike him as malevolent entities. Furthermore, regardless of the Totem's power, it would not breach the cosmic barrier. Once returned to the Central Universe, the connection would pose no threat. "Very well, let us proceed," Shiller assented, nodding. "However, where do you intend to send these scientists?" "We are planning to extradite them to SWORD. How SWORD facilitates their exchange with other entities is beyond our purview. Nevertheless, we are confident that SWORD will manage the situation capably. If they cannot, no other organization could." Shiller nodded in agreement once more. This was indeed a prudent course of action. He was only uncertain how Charles managed to persuade SWORD to assume responsibility for these individuals; though a minor point, it presented a degree of complexity.Magnéto, sensing Shiller's inquisitive gaze, lowered his tone. "Following this recent event, a notable number of scientists are now leaning towards seeking sanctuary in China. They aren't naive; they recognize that their prospects in the West are diminishing. The government will undoubtedly pursue them, making refuge in the East a logical choice. SWORD likely also wishes to retain a few key scientists. These individuals represent valuable assets, and mutants would prefer they remain rather than be forced to depart the island."
Shiller grasped the converging interests between these scientists and SWORD. Their expertise, a source of value, had paradoxically become a liability, marking them as targets. Today, mutants are scrutinized; tomorrow, another group might face similar persecution. This trajectory is inherently unsustainable.
To escape their former associates, a complete relocation to an unfamiliar environment, free from external pressures, would be necessary. While Clarkia offers certain advantages, it's not an ideal haven for ordinary humans. China, conversely, presents a more suitable alternative. Despite the cultural unfamiliarity, it promises safety and security, and language acquisition is hardly an insurmountable obstacle for such intelligent individuals.
"In that case, we should make haste then," Shiller replied with a soft sigh. "I'm not attempting to pressure you, but Tony has been experiencing restless nights recently. He's plagued by nightmares, and I find myself frequently pulling him from the depths of his dreams – an experience I wouldn't wish upon anyone."