3rd POV:
''WHAT!!!? What do you mean Bastion followed me here?,'' Kitty screeched terrified.
Bell rubbed his ear with his pinky, as her shrill voice hurt his ears a little. The girls, particularly those possessing the X-Gene paying close attention as it involved them as well.
''Exactly what I said. He followed here after you. Also it is Bastian now. With an 'a' not an 'o'. It is his current disguise you see. VERY important,'' Bell explained to her again.
''I don't give a fuck what his damn name is. You don't understand how powerful he is. He killed so many of us and he probably killed even more before following after me,'' Kitty harshly replied pacing back and forth.
''I do now how powerful he is,'' Bell began only to get interrupted.
''NO! You don't. He killed your variant. Maybe it was planned or maybe he was weaker than you. I don't know. But there is no way you can know his powers. Telepathy doesn't work on him. Since he is infected with some sort of techno-virus or whatever. His brain is essentially a computer and not organic. Even Jean or Wanda couldn't read his mind,'' Kitty tried to explain.
''But I CAN read his mind with my technomancy. Or well more accurately its sub category, technopathy,'' Bell explained calmly.
''Technomancy? As in, you can affect technology and shape it?,'' Gwen asked. Immediately latching on to that info. Seeing Bell nod, she ignored Kittys face of elation and began thinking and speculating.
''Bell, that is, like, great. We have to kill him now before he does any damage. Trask as well,'' Kitty immediately declared.
Ah, she was starting to calm down. She hasn't used her tic in a few minutes. Shame he would agitate her again.
''No,'' Bell denied.
''WHAT!!!? What do you mean no? Bell, please, he is a menace and will only harm us. Please don't try to convert him like Scott tried to. He is a irredeemable piece of shit. A monster!,'' Kitty pleaded with her boyfriend.
Jesus. The guy really affected her something fierce.
Bell held up a placating hand trying to make it clear that she should let him speak, before going on again on a tangent.
''I am NOT saying that, because I underestimate him or something. BUT I realized a few things recently about myself and decided to be more proactive about the world. Far more than I already was.
Come on. Please don't tell me you actually think the Satanaelists will ACTUALLY be enough to make a difference on the world stage,'' Bell lead them on trying to bring them to a conclusion. The public chose to describe the members of the Fellowship of Satanael as Satanaelists as it was a mouthful to always say, members of the Fellowship of Satanael or members of the FoS. It was a little similar to Christianity and Christians.
One was the religion, the other described the people following that religion.
''But Sugar, the UN gave people with the X-Gene Genosha. Does that not mean anything?,'' Rogue asked.
Bell chuckled mirthfully at her naivety. Well, he supposed he could not fault her for thinking like that. He had an edge when it came to politics.
''In the past, Kings use to ask their subjects, by what right people claimed their lands. Something that was supposed to be ordained solely for the Kings possession by God.
Merchants came and talked about contracts. Tradesmen and farmers claimed they worked the land in the Kings favor and so on and so forth
Meanwhile Knights and Nobles slammed down their swords on the table and declared 'By this right'
The truth is, that howsoever much humanity claims to have evolved, they still function largely the same as they did 1000 years ago or 2000. Violence and the strength to enact it was, is and will continue to be its modus operandi for quiet some time.
They don't care. Left, Right, Middle and who the fuck knows what else are all tools for them. To gain power. To split the population. This power takes the form of many things. Once it used to be a sword. Then bow and arrow. Then a flintlock. Then nukes. And today it is money and its power to buy anything.
Imagine, their disposition to people like the mutants or mutates. People that hold unfathomable power, vastly exceeding that of monetary weight.
You REALLY think, that Satanael stunt was the end of it? Now people are suddenly dancing amongst sunshine and rainbows and everything is good and dandy and fine?
The Satanaelists act as a buffer. Now that we have their numbers after months we now that they number 1.8 billion. But they are spread across multiple western countries. Which is good. Objectively western countries are just economically more powerful, you control these parts of the world and the rest follows, more or less.
Which is a testament to how proactive they are, trying to earn Satanaels love and not disappoint him by sinning. But these CEOs and politicians are rich. They can halt their progress. And the Satanaelists are not concentrated in one place.
The leeches can stall and buy for time to sway the other side of the population. With every flying asshole that takes a picture of a bathing person. With every invisible asshole stealing grandmas nickel. With every property damage incurred by normal people form enhanced individuals.
They are building a case against your people. And waiting for the right moment to strike.
This? This is just the waiting game.
I am sorry, I am talking so much, but I just want you to understand that the governments are not your friends.
Just you wait. They promised aid and donations to Genosha to help build it into a country. You will come to learn most governments will not abide by that doctrine,'' Bell rather longly explained.
''Sugar! Didn't you say that Pipen kicked Trask of from the Sentinel programm? Does that amount to nothing?,'' Rogue asked latching onto that knowledge.
''As I said, they are playing the waiting game. Look, Anna, these leeches are idiots. Plain and simple. There is just no other way to describe them. But the moment it comes to accumulating and consolidating power they start playing 10D chess.
You think Pipen does not have a personality evaluation of Trask? I looked into Trasks mind. He is a genius, I will give him that, but he does not understand human behavior. He would have gone behind Pipens back and launched the Sentinel programm anyway. Which would have cost them the publics perception.
And by the way, the Sentinel Prototype is not scrapped. It is locked under a heavy lock surrounded by top notch security. When the right time to strike approaches, they will begin construction again. Frankly, it is a smart move I have to admit,'' Bell explained.
The girls frowned and digested the conclusions Bell drew a little.
''Fine then. I am willing to admit almost all of your points are correct, but then what? How is leaving Bastion alive, helping us on that matter,'' Wanda asked frustrated. She might not be an X-Gene holder, but her brother was. Besides Bell was probably right. They would not settle just for mutants, but go for mutates as well.
''Well, Kitty did say Genosha was the biggest divergence aside from Zero,'' Bell said leadingly.
''You wish to use ALL of them as bait?,'' Gwen asked. She wasn't horrified. She knew Bell. He already had a plan, he just wanted to make all this more theatrical and dramatic. So long as he did not actually endanger someone for shits and giggles, then she didn't mind him goofing around like this. If her suspicion was right then, they were not quiet pressed for time anyways.
''Well, Kitty did say Bastion, sorry Bastian is a machine. And machines think logically...,'' Bell sing sang.
''Thus Bastion can't resist attacking such a concentrated place of mutants. I can see that happening, but then the question is when and how,'' Laura asked.
''The how is for now unimportant, because of the when. We will have years, until we need to worry about him attacking Genosha. Not only is he currently checking all places were Sinisters back up clones used to be, but Genosha needs to be built first,'' Bell informed suggestively.
''Yes. Seeing the utopia you built get destroyed in front of you would radicalize any survivor against humanity. Which would legitimize Bastions actions from most of the population and bring them to his side,'' Laura immediately understood.
''And legitimacy is good. It is hard to see a person that can bend steel with his bare hands be the victim,'' Gwen added.
''I'm assuming Bastion doesn't want to eradicate humans, only mutants and mutates. Correct? (*Kitty nodded*) In that case, he might be more interested in making humanity compliant. A lack of legitimacy would force him to make them subservient, which means he would need to constantly enforce his rule,'' Jean reasoned.
''I can't disagree with most points, but I still don't see why that matters. IF he attacks first, then why does any of this even matter?,'' Rogue asked.
''It is not about attacking first. It is always about what follows. In the same it does not matter who starts the war, but who finishes it. And afterwards? Anything that happened during the war and at the end can be used to push a narrative.
Look, even if our plan fails. I can just Deus Ex Machina that shit. I started keeping and eye on many things recently. Genosha and all our enemies included.
No offense, but for a while I didn't really care, about the X-Gene people. But, I can't deny seeing a coextence between the two could be glorious to see. Nothing worthwhile witnessing is easy after all. And IF we fail. We can just try again another way,'' Bell said. He genuinely wasn't doing this for amusement. By now it has firmly taken a far back seat in his mind. Oh, he was still gonna pull pranks and say stuff that was insane, but he was gonna be FAR more mindful of his actions otherwise.
That said. He still lived by his philosophies. IF people wanted coexistence. They must ACT and strive for it. Saying was not enough. They needed to DO. Even fight for it, if need be. Complacency and compliance and choosing comfort, was after all what kick started the wars in his original life.
He had an intense hatred for people like that.
Some girls frowned at his brass disregard for people, but they said nothing besides that.
''Ok. I can see, why letting Bastion do his things could be good, but how do we proceed from there? It is not just the public that matters you said. The governments matter as well. You, like, clearly distinguish between the two of them,'' Kitty asked, starting to calm down. She was even using her tic again.
''Money. The source and solutions to all of lifes problems,'' Bell joked.
''I thought that was supposed to be alcohol,'' Jean joked back.
''Mhm. That too. Jokes aside. Swaying the public is one thing, but you also need to push laws. For THAT you need capital. You need to brib-, I mean lobby for the right laws and practices. Sorry, I don't know why I stuttered there,'' Bell explained. Some of the girls rolled their eyes.
''Ok. But you said years. Not decades. We are talking about billionaires. How will you make enough money to offer push back? Where will you even find the the starting capital for your company?,'' Jean asked. Gwen already suspected, but no reason to rain on Bells parade.
Bell struck a heroic pose. Suddenly a soft wind was blowing through the room. His hair blowing a little.
''I will plunder the National Treasury and pull off the biggest heist in history,'' Bell declared.
Everyone except Kitty and Gwen starred incredulously.
''Nah. I am AFoxyScriptwriter. I am already a billionaire and in one year after forming my company I shall become the first trillionaire. Capitalism for the win baby,'' Bell deadpanned.
Wanda facepalmed.
''I can't believe I didn't realize it until now,'' she complained embarrassed. So all this time she was gushing over Bells movies and shows.
''Trust me, you are not the only one. I only realized it when he talked about his technomancy,'' Gwen placated.
Bell was a little disappointed that he didn't receive stronger reactions, but recent character development made him a little more mature on this matters.
''But how will you achieve that?,'' Kitty asked.
''Not everything at once. I will still decide that in the future. For now it is time to set the stage for another part of our plan. I will sway the governments, you will sway the public,'' Bell declared.
''And how will we do that?,'' Laura asked.
''Sensationalism. Go out there and perform for the camera. Most enhanced were already doing it. The Avengers. The X-Men. Etc. Now that I think about it. We also need a more proper and expanded taskforce in the future, to deal with criminal enhanced. But that is me thinking WAY to far ahead in the future.
Point is we need it more, before superpowered people become the new norm. Please try to be authentic or else people will notice. They are dumb, but not that dumb. It is a neat trick to strive for that balance,'' Bell said.
''I mean, I COULD join the Avengers,'' Jean suggested, looking for Bells approval. She was definitely not joining the X-Men. Her friends would be close, but that would also put her near Xavier.
Her joining the Avengers however, would also draw attention to her friends personal life. Bell, Gwen and Peter and Chat. Which is why she was asking for Bells approval in the first place.
''Hmm. Sure, do that. I will just keep a closer eye on things from the background,'' Bell agreed.
''Bell, up till now, you were more lax in keeping an eye on things. Did something happen?,'' Gwen asked.
''Yes, I realized some things I suppose. I was growing arrogant in my powers. The truth is there are many powerful people and I need to be more informed about things to... Well, I just need to be more informed,'' Bell explained.
The girls understood. He was worrying for them. Sure, he was trying not to be overbearing, but it must be difficult for him. They supposed it was one reason why kept them so informed of things. So that they had their own agency and he wouldn't make choices they would HARD disagree with. It would also, put them in these type of situations were they could discuss things and make choices that he would not HARD disagree with. As Jean just demonstrated.
Communication was important in a healthy relationship after all.
Rogue sighed.
''Alright, then I will join the Avengers. You said they are recruiting after all and, well, I suppose people already know me from the news. Actually, now that I think about it, I'm surprised I'm not bothered more by the media,'' Jean remarked. The students at her school left her mostly alone. Wanda she could understand. She barely spent time in the public. Either being at the X-Mansion or here in the HQ.
''You are unassuming. They expect a larger than life figure, only to find a normal dressed girl. They just glance over you,'' Bell reasoned. Jean nodded. Alright then she will join the Avengers once she graduates High School in a few months. It would also give her some time to decide what she does afterwards. She was after all immortal and had no reason to rush in life by going to college and all that other stuff.
''Just one piece of advice. Saving people is not enough. See people need three things in life. Food and water, a warm place and a roof over their head. And every time heroes and villains fight property gets damage most of the time. Use your telekinesis to repair stuff. It shows you'll go the extra mile, by actually caring for the little man. And it will be a giant middle finger to insurance companies, which will only help me in the long run.
Stark may throw his money around sometimes to replace their properties, but you will not inconvenience them,'' Bell pointed out.
Jean nodded. Right. She already knew she could do that with her telekinesis. Then again, the Phoenix made it possible for her to transmutate matter, among many other things, so doing what Bell suggested really shouldn't be hard for her.
''So, will we join the Avengers as well?,'' Gwen asked.
''Hmmm. I mean, it would serve our interests, but I actually don't want to have all our eggs in one basket. Being on the Avengers means making concessions, like following orders to a certain extent. I CAN do that, but sometimes I really need to do my own thing and that will just cause problems.
You and Peter can join if you want,'' Bell told her.
Gwen frowned. That would ruin their whole dynamic. After a few seconds, she decided not to join. It wasn't like they already didn't receive enough media attention anyway.
Wanda decided not to join. Mostly because, Stark and her had beef. Sure, she could put it aside, but it was just WAY to awkward.
Laura was on the bench, needing to thing more.
Kitty decided to remain on the X-Men team. Sure the X-Men did not receive as much media attention as the Avengers, but all the same the public was aware of them existing and stopping mutant criminals.
Surprisingly, Rogue decided to join the Avengers as well. Then again she was the most enthusiastic about both sides coexisting.
''Well, I guess in a few months the Avengers will expand. So hurray for them,'' Bell joked.
''So, we have Chthon to worry about in a decade. Bastion and the Governments. That teacher of the Sisterhood and the Darkhold. All the smaller enemies and who knows what else. We have our work cut out for us. Huh?,'' Rogue remarked.
''Well, at least we won't face the threats alone. Right?,'' Gwen tried to rally morale. And they will also pick up sorcery sooner or later.
''Yes. Together we stand a better chance,'' Laura agreed. The other girls nodded as well.
Bell silently and theatrically gagged behind their back. Way too much optimism, if someone asked him. This wasn't some magical fairy tale where anything could be defeated with the power of friendship and love. There were still dangers involved.
But he was not gonna ruin this for them. They were having a moment.
A web landed on his face.
''You are not THAT slick, Bell. Girls, jump his ass. It seems too many emotions at once disgust him,'' Gwen commanded imperiously.
Bell, failed to see in what way this was supposed to be a punishment as they all hugged him and pressed their body and assets on him. But sure. Punish him more, please.
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Wanda rang the doorbell to the Sanctum Sanctorum and waited for a few seconds. She looked down at the address that Bell gave her. Just to make extra sure she was at the right place.
Wong answered the door by opening it.
''Ah, Ms.Maximoff. We knew you were coming. Please come in. (*Wanda stepped in and Wong closed the door behind them*) The reading material in regards to Chthon are right this way. Please, follow me,'' Wong said, weirding Wanda out a bit. Bell told her that the Sorcerers were queer people and knew a lot, but it was still weird to see that in action.
''How did you know I am coming? Did Bell tell you?,'' Wanda asked, while following him and looking around.
''The Sorcerer Supreme divinated it,'' Wong replied simply.
Ah, Wanda understood. He must have used the Time Stone.
''What is that room over there?,'' Wanda asked, having her curiosity peaked by an interesting looking entrance.
''It is a room housing the less dangerous and uninteresting artifacts. Please, do not enter. Not only would you trigger the defenses and possibly get hurt, but even Mr.O'Quinn avoided causing us a headache. We are here,'' Wong said.
It was a study room, where a table stood with some books and scroll prepared on top of it.
That seemed to her, like a terrible waste of space. They could put more furniture in it. Then again it may be that sorcery was at play here.
''Thank you for helping us,'' Wanda politely replied.
''It is in our interest to keep you out of Chthons hands, so we are helping us in keeping the earth safe. Please, read the records and read them carefully,'' Wong informed, before departing.
Wanda took a seat at the table and opened an ancient looking book carefully. It was one thing to have information summarized to you, but Bell told her it would still be better to inform herself, about her situation. And she agreed.
As much as she wanted to do the same thing as Bell and create puppet clones, it was unreasonable as more magic would only accelerate possession. Telekinesis and telepathy were strong enough on their own.
The reason she would not stop using her magic completely was, because possession was going to happen one way or the other. There was no reason to put herself in a completely defenseless position, when she was already disadvantaged.
...
''Are you aware that it is already night. Your brother is worrying about you and even Mr.O'Quinn dropped by. Unnecessarily I might add,'' a voice came startling Wanda back from her reading. She turned around and saw someone that was not Wong.
''Are you Mr.Strange?,'' Wanda asked. That was the only other person she knew off, beside Wong that Bell told her about. Then again she was certain there were more people here even if she didn't see them.
''DOCTOR Strange,please. I earned that title, even if I no longer practice neurosurgery. Have you informed yourself more about Chthon and the Darkhold. Are you aware of your situation?,'' Strange asked redundantly. She spent the whole day here reading through the books. He was just trying to go somewhere with this conversation.
''I did. And yes, I am aware of my situation. More so than before at least,'' Wanda affirmed.
''Your situation is bleak, but not insurmountable. Do not despair Ms.Maximoff. With some effort and a clear head you and the rest of you can overcome this challenge. Merely remember that there are no easy solutions in life,'' Strange said making some hand signs as the books started flowing around neatly arranging themselves back on the study.
Wanda frowned. That did not really fit the image of the Strange Bell described to her.
''Should you wish to learn more, know that you and the rest of his harem are welcome here. As I was made aware Mr.O'Quinn and I are friends,'' Strange moved on past her frown.
''You are aware of his harem and treat it so normally. How come?,'' Wanda asked.
''Believe it or not, it happens far more than people would like to admit. Both throughout humanities history and in other civilizations as well. Besides it is merely a matter of observing the correct timeline. There are quiet a few timelines were Mr.O'Quinn is only together with one woman,'' Strange revealed.
Wanda didn't really like what she heard.
''Timelines? You mean parallel dimensions?,'' Wanda asked instead.
''Well, yes. The terms are interchangeable. I just prefer to use this term, as it can get confusing with the Mirror Dimension existing,'' Strange shrugged.
Wanda made a sound of understanding.
''I'm sorry for imposing. Thank you for allowing me to use the the records,'' Wanda thanked him, making him nod. He guided her to the entrance and watched her exit. Wong came to stand near him after a moment.
''And? Did you change the timeline?,'' Wong inquired.
''Changing the timeline is not as simple as having a single conversation. Besides, you know well I need to meditate before I can use the Eye of Agamotto,'' Strange replied, making Wong nod. Right, the Eye of Agamotto required intense focus for one to make use of it. He may have jumped the gun there a little bit.
''I am more interested in who can evade both mine and Mr.O'Quinns scrying. Whoever the interloper is, must be a mighty foe indeed. Both experienced and well practiced in the arts of mystery, with experience to add,'' Strange remarked. Which is impressive, he reluctantly admitted, as the figure made contact with Wanda and even then he could not discern their identity.
''You think it is another demon or elder god like Chthon? Or maybe even a cosmic entity?,'' Wong asked.
''No. Whatever the case, I can trace the energy used by that figure to disguise themselves. It does not match with any of the threats earth had to worry about. It is merely a cleverly used trick to disguise oneself. I know that much at least,'' Strange replied firmly. He COULD use the same energy to find the location of the person, but he already tried that and nothing came of it. Which meant they escaped to different dimensions, which was different from Chthon or Dormammu, who lived more in a pocket dimension. Wong nodded.
''I shall return to my study and mediation chamber, If you need me, you can find me there, but try not to disturb me from my meditation unless I am absolutely needed,'' Strange informed.
''Of course,'' Wong agreed. He wouldn't have come out otherwise in the first place, if he didn't need to accomplish (or try to at least) something, he wouldn't have come out of his study in the first place.
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''Pete, look,'' Chat said as they all walked down a street. The 5 of them looked up and saw a person with wings fly over them.
''Bro, is that dude carrying grocery bags?,'' Peter asked. The guy seemed pretty leisure and A.R.A.C.H.N.I.D hasn't reported anything stolen by a flying enhanced so it was probably fine.
''I know bro. Can you believe buying your food in this day and age? Guy is probably too poor to order door dash,'' Bell tsked. Gwen looked skyward, but smiled fondly anyway without saying anything. She knew what he was doing. Ever since he revealed he was AFoxyScriptwriter he was making far more elitists jokes.
She wasn't gonna ruin this for him however as Peter didn't know about that fact.
''Didn't I encounter you buying groceries for your mother last week as she couldn't do so herself? You are essentially calling yourself poor,'' Chat pointed out making Peter chuckle.
Bells eyes moved left and right.
''Rules for thee, but not for me. Checkmate, scrub,'' Bell proudly defended himself.
''I see. How mature. Well, anyway, back to our topic. Thank god, Mumpf lost. How was he even elected to run as presidential candidate? Have you heard some of his speeches? It is ... I shudder about its contents,'' Chat shook her shoulders.
''Oh, don't worry. He'll be back in four years. Next time he'll win,'' Bell casually proclaimed. They passed by a person handing out pamphlets trying to get people to join the Fellowship of Satanael. Only Chat took one making the guy seem very happy at potentially having spread his religion. They already forgot about Bells claim or chose past it.
Peter looked at it and saw a christian cross surrounded by six black feathered wings and couldn't help but think back to the conversation they had about symbols. For a while they walked in silence as Chat read the pamphlet.
''You know, I'm thinking about converting,'' Chat said.
''You do? I thought you were a proud Christian?,'' Jean asked.
''Well, yeah. But honestly, from what I have seen the Fellowship of Satanael IS basically Christianity. Just more adherent to the truth, I guess. I just disagree with their fervor to uphold virtues at all cost,'' Chat replied. That was honestly the biggest reason she hasn't joined yet.
''You think killing is wrong?,'' Bell asked.
''What? Of course I do!,'' Chat replied.
''Ah, but you see. Claiming killing is wrong is a MORAL standpoint. If you do decide to join you have to change your world view to match that of Satanelists, Satanael and the Phantom Thieves or Priests as everyone calls them,'' Bell informed her.
''Honestly? Even without them I would advertise for killing. Sometimes it is just the only possible solution,'' Jean added. Peter and Gwen frowned. They were the most against killing. Sure Gwen has made her peace with Bell killing, but it was another thing to do it herself.
Bell knew of that. Peter was mature enough to make his own choices, but Gwen was a little more his responsibility which meant he was going to treat her differently. There was after all a reason why their enemies aren't dead yet. He was working towards her breaking her no killing rule.
''I just can't comprehend how so many Christians switched over to the Fellowship of Satanael so peacefully. Wasn't there multiple holy wars fought between the evangelists and catholics? Especially with that attitude to murder. How can they hear that and still convert?,'' Peter asked.
''You do understand that people hoped for any sign of God existence and finally received one. Only to learn, that apparently he washed his hands off us after creating us. It was his son instead that showers us with love and did all the things we accused god of doing, including sending Jesus down.
Have you not heard Satanael about considering abandoning us, since we disappoint him so much?
We are talking about fanatics here. They take his message utterly serious and venerate him and his teachings. Including the actions of his priests.
The moment anyone would have tried to stop them from converting, they would have been lynched. Like immediately on the spot, regardless of who it might have been,'' Bell reasoned.
''To be fair, I am more impressed that they are not pushing for people from other religions to join. Like, there is not even so much as a pips about that from the FoS's side,'' Jean remarked as she pressed the button and they all waited at a crosswalk for the light to turn green. At best they have been inviting people to inform themselves about their religion, like the pamphlet in Chats hands.
''I mean, that would technically fall under the category of them committing the sin of pride, since they would claim they know better. Which, they don't. Didn't Satanael say that all religion originate from him anyway and that people have mutilated his message or something. So that is a moot stance for them to take anyways,'' Gwen argued.
''Besides, they have been active. I mean just look at the streets. This is NYC we are talking about here, for fucks sake. And yet the streets are cleaner then they have ever been. Sure, there is still trash here and there, since not everyone is a Satanaelist. The changes they have brought is small. But it is still impressive nonetheless and recently they have been realizing that real change need to come from the top of the system. They can kill Gestapo agents all day, but change needs more than that.
Even IF you don't agree with the messages, people might still join, because evidently they are trying to make the world a better place. We will see how this develops in the coming years, since the CEO will obviously push back and then there is also the other half of the population,'' Bell shrugged at the end.
''Do they really already number 210 million in americe already?,'' Peter asked incredulously.
''More like 213 million, but yes,'' Jean said.
They watched as a taxi driver threw out a coffee cup some meters away, only for a person to pick it up and throw it back inside. They taxi driver got out and started arguing with the other person.
''I mean, I can get the message, but do they really have to be so intense?,'' Chat muttered.
''As opposed to what? Treating them with kids gloves. Trying not to hurt the other persons feelings?
There is such a thing as being so accommodating that you are complacent again,'' Bell scoffed.
''Excuse me? I couldn't help but overhear what you said. Sorry, for interrupting but this is important. You see, I am a moderator of the Fellowship of Satanael homepage and I am an analyzer as well. Could you repeat what you just said,'' a stranger asked, whipping around on the spot to talk to them when they passed each other.
''Huh? I said there is such a thing as being so accommodating that you are complacent as well,'' Bell said. He found it very rude for him to barge like that in their conversation, but as he was not registering as a threat, he might as well get him to leave quickly.
The stranger brought a notepad and quickly wrote the sentence down.
''That is a interesting viewpoint. How far would you enforce it?,'' the stranger asked.
''What? It is just a stupid self-explanatory sentence. Don't be a dick, don't accommodate someone to the point where they will be allowed to become a dick as well,'' Bell said, a little confused. The stranger wrote some more and nodded in understanding.
''Thank you, this might have just given us a more accurate understanding of Lord Satanaels words. May his blessing go with you,'' the stranger thanked them again, apologized and then departed.
The 5 watched after him.
''I swear, the universe must favor you in some way. Of course, YOU get to shape a part of the new religion. This is ridiculous,'' Peter threw his hands in the air. Bell, Gwen and Jeans mouth twitched.
Mate, he CREATED that religion. This was not the universe favoring him. This was some divine comedy shit.
...
''Ugh, finally. My legs are killing me,'' Chat complained. The 5 crashed at Stans Papis Pizzeria, sitting down at the table.
''Trust me, it was worth it. This place, serves the best pizzas in town,'' Peter assured her.
''Uhuhuh, thank you Peter for that compliment. Though I always say my Pizzas can be improved. Excelsior, after all,'' Stan said chuckling at the end. He just so happened to overhear Peter compliment him, when coming over to pick their order.
''Well, if more people thought like you, you might lose us as customers. For now you get to keep us filling your pockets,'' Gwen joked. Stan nodded wisely and whispered conspiratorally.
''We can't have that. You are right. Now! The usual for you three?,'' Stan nodded, making Peter, Bell and Gwen nod. Stan scribbled away for a bit in his notepad.
''Now, you two on the other hand are new faces. Welcome, to Papis Pizzeria. I have to satisfy your bellies and convert you into regulars. Or something, as my motto goes. Now. Name and order please,'' Stan chuckled. He scribbled down their name and order as they talked. Then he told them all to wait a little and went away.
''You guys eat here a lot?,'' Chat asked after Stan departed.
''A lot is an understatement. Bell is friends with Stan. He brought us here and ever since then we are held at gunpoint by our taste buds,'' Peter joked. In a way it was funny. They also came and ate at Stans place in their super hero disguise too. More like picked the pizza up and ate it somewhere else, but still.
Stans business seemed to grow after people notice them buying food from this place regularly, which made Peter happy for Stan. That guy seemed like an upstanding and decent human being.
''Really? How did came to be. No offense, but you two are in a completely different demographic,'' Chat asked Bell. He shrugged.
''I actually don't know. It just happened. Honestly, we just talk most of the time. It is fun,'' Bell said, shrugging his shoulders. Chat hummed.
''By the way, have you heard? The Fisk foundation is holding a charity event to sell the Radiant Ruby in a few weeks. Apparently the money is supposed to go to a non profit organisation that will build schools in Africa. Do you think Wilson Fisk is also a Satanaelist?,'' Chat asked.
More like, this was money laundering for his mafia. OR a method for tax evasion. He MIGHT have a bit overdone it, when looking for his enemies.
The guy had both dirty money and clean money, so it could be either or.
Fisk, didn't register previously on his defenses as it used to take more than that. Like being an ACTUAL threat to him or his. But that used to be his arrogance talking. He made some changes and OH BOY. There were a lot more enemies now.
He would sit here for hours if he started thinking about them. Or seconds. But either way they played no role right now and could be used later for something.
You know what? Screw that. He created a clone puppet in space and sent him out for the sole purpose of spying. The clone puppet transformed into a small device and latched onto a satellite.
Now that he thought about it. How did that even work? It was his mind in that puppet body and yet, he could not do so many things at once in his original body. After a few seconds, Bell argued that, it had something to do with mentality. The mind could only do so much at once with one body, but if one had a second body, especially, if one focused on only one task then it was easier. His processing power probably only made controlling multiple bodies easier. So, really, it was the body that was a problem.
''Does it matter? Weather this is a publicity stunt or a charity, the people of Africa will receive funds. Two things can be true at once,'' Gwen said. Bell leant a little into his seat, to get more comfortable. She still had much to learn.
''I doubt ALL the money gets to the people of Africa. SOME money at least, is probably someone pocket somewhere,'' Peter said. Jean nodded in agreement. Bell wanted to kiss him non homo erotically.
See! This guy gets it.
Their order came and they dug in.
---
''I have to say. Most people around you are pretty nonchalant about death and murder I have to say,'' Stan pointed out. Bell decided to stay a little after they ate and the other departed.
''You disagree?,'' Bell asked, taking a sip of his tea.
''No. Merely remarking upon something. The others from different dimensions have adopted a more strict killing policy,'' Stan remarked, washing his glasses again.
''Yeah? Let me guess. Their lives are a tragic mess?,'' Bell deadpanned. Stan threw his head back and barked a short laugh.
''Correct, my friend. You would be indeed correct,'' Stan said. A pity, he thought to himself. BUT this were the consequences of their actions or non actions. He would like all to do better, but if they refused, then what could he do?
''Well, there does come such a time, where the blame falls solely on your shoulders. If they are dumb enough to think they could reform their enemy that is trying to kill them multiple times, then I have no sympathy for them,'' Bell brassly shrugged his shoulders. Stan nodded not really agreeing, but more like understanding.
''By the way, that was quiet rude of you! Calling me lazy,'' Stan complained. Bell rolled his eyes.
''This again. Dude, you know I appreciate your genius in creating the universe, but you literally created the Living Tribunal for the sole purpose of upholding your duties. It is not like I have called you useless or a fake. Which, by the way, how did you create the universe? Like, now with my understanding, I can appreciate the complexity involved in ...EVERYTHING, I guess,'' Bell asked. Stan frowned.
''You know, I actually don't know. i woke up and I just knew stuff. Stuff about everything really. Or I guess most things, now that I know someone more powerful then me sent you. You think, I am meant to be merely a programm to do someone elses duty, like with I and the Living Tribunal?,'' Stan asked inquistively.
''Well, that depends. Can the Living Tribunal disobey you?,'' Bell asked.
''No,'' Stan immediately replied.
''In that case, can you destroy the entire multiverse cluster, wipe out everything and then start creating the universes anew? Please, don't do that, by the way. But just try to look and see if something would stop you,'' Bell asked.
''I... I think I could destroy everything, but I can't really tell if it is a command or my own position,'' Stan replied.
''Then congratulations, you now feel what every human feels day in and day out. Jokes aside, take it from someone that once had similar fears like you. That you are an instrument for someone else. Make the best of it. I might sound cliche, but genuinely, make the best of it. If you have free will, then great. You can do anything, yet chose to be here, baking pizza. If you don't have free will, then did it ever matter? Find your happiness where you can and pray that you don't get smited down. Like baking pizza I guess,'' Bell tried to motivate him. Maybe it was not such a good idea to open up this subject with Stan.
Still, it seemed he bounced right back from his musings and smiled.
''I'll have you know, baking pizza is a perfectly valid practice and not something one should be afraid of doing. I genuinely don't understand, why some jobs are supposed to be beneath others. Like, as a office worker, you have tor realize a plumber keeps the houses clean and smelling fresh. Or a cleaner, keeping places clean and healthy. Or me filling you bellies,'' Stan complained perplexed.
''I KNOW! That is what I always said as well. It is embarrassing to argue like this and frankly an insult to anyone with a functioning brain to argue otherwise. Hell, it is undignifying to me that I have to defend this self explanatory shit,'' Bell ranted, almost throwing his cup sideways as he didn't pay attention and gesticulated.
''What do you think caused such sentiments to develop?,'' Stan asked.
''I can tell you. Capitalism, classism, superiority complex of 'educated' people, as if they would hold such a position in the first place, if they were truly educated. Take your pick. You know what the funniest part is? Some people, very few but still some, actually and genuinely expect a bachelor degree from someone that wants to work as a trashman or the like. I'm sorry, I just can't with this people,'' Bell shook his head. Since Stan, 'gave' his omniscience to the Living Tribunal, he might not know about that, which is why Bell revealed this information.
Honestly, it was a toss up. Bell never quiet understood if Stan knew something or not. What did he mean, he 'gave' his omniscience away. Was it like him, when he arrogantly thought he could be omniscient, but wasn't because he chose not to be? Did he get to pick and chose? After a certain point he gave up trying to understand. Maybe he needs to gather more experience, before understanding that.
''No way! I knew things got bad. But this bad? I'm sorry, but this is just not sustainable. This type of system will crash, if it is allowed to grow,'' Stan scoffed.
''Oh, trust me. I know. I am half tempted to let the economy utterly crash, but well, I want to make a company for my own purposes,'' Bell revealed. Stan stilled, before resuming.
''Knowing you and the worldview you have, this can only go one way,'' Stan joked.
''Ah, geez, you're making me blush over here from all these compliments,'' Bell 'shyly' turned his face away.
Stan chuckled and wanted to say something more, but several police cars sped by. Both of them looked at the outside a little through the window. Bell pushed himself up from the counter table.
''Have fun,'' Stan called after him.
''See you next time,'' Bell said holding his hand above his head in a form of goodbye.
Once, Bell went away, Stans jovial expression turned contemplative. Talking with Bell, always made him confront topics he never really thought about.
...
Well, as Bell said. Does it really matter? There was just no way of truly knowing. Just make the best of it.