American comics farmer: start by adopting the villain savior.

Chapter 208 The door cannot be opened from this side; let's explore the area ahead later.

"You know him?"

Lionel keenly noticed Clark's sudden pause in his gaze.

He followed that frozen gaze to the pale figure inside the medical pod, his tone calm as if it were just a casual remark, "That seems to be true. I remember the information says he's from Smallwell."

Clark nodded subconsciously and sighed:

"He was a classmate of mine in the class next to mine. He had leukemia, and I even donated some money to him."

Upon hearing this, Lionel nodded calmly, his tone even carrying a sigh of compassion:

"Yes, he is a poor child."

"Acute lymphoblastic leukemia offers little hope with conventional treatment."

Turning his head to Clark, Lionel's gaze behind his glasses appeared very sincere.

"So this is part of the 'Rebirth' project, Clark."

“We are using technology that surpasses current medical standards to try to cure these patients who have been given a ‘death sentence.’ Stuart is one of the volunteers participating in the clinical trial, and his family can no longer afford the exorbitant treatment costs.”

“Those meager donations from the community and schools are ultimately just a drop in the ocean and cannot change the fate.”

"And we chose to give him and his family new hope."

Lionel raised his hand and gently pointed to the medical pods, his voice low and deep:
"Here, they are given a new lease on life."

"This is the true value that technology should bring to humanity."

"Defeat disease and prolong life."

"Isn't it?"

Clark stared blankly at the quiet face of Stewart in the medical bay, then looked at Lionel beside him, who was speaking earnestly.

He truly is a close friend of both his uncle and father.
Uncle Lionel was indeed different from those businessmen who only pursued profits; he was a man who had truly transcended vulgar interests and possessed a broad mind...

This is a display of humanitarianism and a strong sense of responsibility…

This not only dispelled much of the doubt that had just arisen in his heart, but also replaced it with a complex emotion mixed with sympathy and admiration.

He exclaimed from the bottom of his heart:
"Uncle Lionel, what you are doing is truly amazing."

Lionel simply smiled gently, as if it were nothing to boast about, but simply a matter of course.

He gently patted Clark on the back, signaling him to continue.

"The value of life is paramount, but the quality of life is equally important." He subtly shifted the topic, lightening his tone again, "Let's take a look at these little gadgets that can make daily life more convenient; I think you'll like them even more."

They walked through the medical area and arrived at a place that was more like a technology experience center.

Lionel casually picked up a seemingly ordinary thermos, gently pressed the button on the bottom of the cup, and the water inside instantly steamed up, then condensed into tiny ice crystals in the next second.

"The adaptive temperature control cup ensures that you can enjoy your beverage at the set temperature, whether it's -50 degrees Celsius or at the edge of a volcano."

He introduced it casually, then pointed to a screen on the wall that was as thin as a cicada's wing.

"A holographic home management system can manage all the appliances in your home, monitor energy consumption, and even adjust the indoor lighting and music according to your mood preferences before you get home."

He paused, then looked at Clark with a hint of amusement.

"By the way, if your Kent Farm's barns and chicken coops are willing to connect to my smart agriculture system, I would be happy to provide technical support."

Imagined the hen in the coop receiving commands from a holographic screen, and Clark couldn't help but chuckle. The heaviness he felt earlier because of Stewart dissipated a bit.

“I think they probably prefer their dad and uncle’s whistling.”

“Haha, you’re right, some traditions are indeed irreplaceable.” Lionel laughed heartily as he spoke.

The two walked side by side like that.

Lionel, like a knowledgeable and generous guide, constantly showed Clark all sorts of ingenious civilian technology products.

Materials that can automatically repair scratches.

A pocket-sized, portable screen that can be used without being plugged in.

Clark was so engrossed in the future world the other person described that his eyes grew brighter and brighter.

Time flew by, and before they knew it, the two arrived at a large alloy door that was clearly different from the other areas.

The gate was heavy and had no markings or windows on its surface.

It exudes a sense of wariness, as if keeping strangers at bay.

Clark peered inside curiously, instinctively adjusting his glasses, but the special lenses seemed to have lost their effect this time, completely blocking out the view behind the door.

"What's in here..." Clark couldn't help but ask.

Lionel gently raised his hand to interrupt him, shaking his head with a hint of apology on his face: "I'm sorry, Clark, the door can't be opened from this side."

Let's explore the areas ahead later.

“After all, the space inside is undergoing final construction and testing, so it’s not convenient to open it to the public.” He spoke gently and then naturally changed the subject. “Moreover, to be honest, I have some important company matters to attend to immediately, so time is a bit tight.”

"Today's underground tour will have to end here for now." He turned to Clark with a venerable smile and extended his right hand. "However, I am truly glad to have had the opportunity to show you around and share these small sparks that may change the world."

Clark was taken aback, then grasped it without hesitation.

The feeling of being treated as an independent individual, rather than an ignorant child, welled up inside him, catching him off guard with joy.

He nodded, showing his understanding in a very sensible way.

“Okay, Uncle Lionel, thank you very much for your hospitality and visit today. I have learned a lot.”

"If you like it and gain something from it, that's the greatest affirmation for me."

Lionel smiled, released his hand, and led Clark back the way he came.

They rode the elevator again, and with a slight feeling of weightlessness, they rose from the depths of the earth, where countless secrets and cutting-edge technology were buried, back to the surface, a symbol of secular power and prosperity.

The elevator doors slid open silently in the lobby of the Luther Group Twin Towers.

The hustle and bustle of the outside world and its light seem to carry a sense of being in another world.

And to Clark's surprise, God was already there waiting.

The little guy stood in a corner of the spacious and magnificent hall, with his back to the huge floor-to-ceiling window, outside which was the dazzling night view of the entire metropolis.

But his small figure seemed out of place against the bustling backdrop. His small face, which was exactly like Salafir's and always carried a somewhat aloof or bored expression, was now clearly shrouded in a gloomy cloud.

Contrary to Clark's expectations, he wasn't overwhelmed by shopping bags; he was simply carrying a rather understated, even somewhat plain, black suitcase.

Clark strode over, somewhat surprised, and said, "Shen Du? What are you doing here...?"

Based on his knowledge of the city's obsession with collecting shiny things, and with the 'unlimited' black card given to him by Uncle Lionel, he thought his brother would bring back half a shopping street.

Raising her molten gold eyes, she glanced at Clark with a blank expression, then looked at Lionel walking behind him, gave a soft snort, and didn't answer.

Clark blinked, looking at Shen Du's obviously unhappy little face and the "spoils of war" that were far from what he had expected, and felt puzzled.

Grey, who was standing nearby, stepped forward at the opportune moment, bowed slightly, and explained in her usual clear tone:
"Just as we were halfway through shopping, something unexpected happened on the shopping street."

“A group of reckless criminals attempted to rob a jewelry store, causing some disturbance.” She spoke calmly, as if stating a trivial matter. “Therefore, for the safety of the capital, we have ended our trip early.”

Upon hearing this, Clark couldn't help but raise his hand to his forehead, a look of bewilderment on his face.

What a terrible coincidence!

It's rare for even the gods to show interest, let alone something like this?
The safety situation in the metropolis is surprisingly...

The sound of police sirens he had heard on the road flashed through his mind instantly.

Could it be that the Gothamites have attacked?!
"Is the shopping street alright? Is anyone injured?" Clark asked instinctively.

Grey nodded and reassured her, "Don't worry, nothing serious has happened."

“The veteran hero ‘Captain Comet’ happened to be nearby at the time. He arrived in time, quickly dealt with the criminals, and brought the situation under control.” She paused and added, “However, even so, by the time the riot was resolved, we were already on our way back under the escort of security personnel.”

Clark breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing that no one was injured and that the hero had arrived in time.

He turned to his younger brother, who was clearly having his spirits dampened, and put on a gentle smile, pointing to the suitcase: "At least... there was still quite a haul, wasn't there?"

Even if I don't know what's inside, it's better than going home empty-handed... right?

Shen Du raised his molten gold eyes, coldly glanced at Clark, and let out a clear snort, the meaning of which was self-evident.

That's an entire jewelry street!

Clark was momentarily speechless at the cold snort, and was about to speak.

But then, as if remembering something, she quickly turned to Lionel, who was still smiling, and said apologetically, "Uncle Lionel, I'm so sorry, Shen Du... may have been a bit of a disappointment. Thank you for your generous hospitality and the thoughtful arrangements for today."

A hint of a smile flashed in Lionel's eyes, and he waved his hand.

"It's alright, safety is always the top priority." He spoke magnanimously, as if he didn't care at all. "Since the gods like it, there will be plenty of opportunities next time."

"My card has always been with Locke, hasn't it?"

"And today... I am very happy to be able to show you around, Clark."

Uncle Locke would never willingly take Shen Du to raid an entire shopping street, vowing not to stop until they maxed out their credit cards...

Thinking of this, Clark couldn't help but chuckle, but still politely said, "Thank you again, Uncle Lionel. We'll take our leave now."

With an impeccably gentle expression, Lionel nodded and then instructed Grey beside him, "Ms. Grey, please make sure to get Clark and Shen Du back to the hotel safely."

“Yes, Boss.” Grey immediately bowed in response.

Lionel's gaze lingered briefly on the two brothers before he nodded slightly, his tone indicating busyness: "Uncle has some matters to attend to, so I won't see you off any further."

With that, he turned gracefully and walked calmly toward the elevator. He didn't look back, but simply waved casually with his back to them, as a final farewell.

The elevator doors slid open silently, swallowing his tall figure, then closed, the indicator light flashing as it carried him away from the floor.

Clark looked at the numbers flashing above the elevator doors and let out a soft breath.

He looked down at Shen Du beside him. The little guy still had a stern face, ignoring the closed elevator doors, only clutching his suitcase tighter. "Let's go, Shen Du, let's go back to the hotel."

As Clark spoke, he reached out to ruffle his younger brother's hair as was his habit.

"Humph."

Shen Du snorted coldly, took short strides, and walked towards the gate on his own, his small figure exuding an aura of "keep away, strangers."

Clark smiled helplessly, exchanged a glance with Grey, and quickly followed.

Grey led them through the still magnificent but now much emptier hall to the car that was already waiting at the door.

Settle into the comfortable back seat and close the car door.

Looking out the window at the rapidly receding cityscape, Clark leaned back in his chair, feeling the fatigue wash over him once more.

I experienced even more today.
The epic battle at the expo, Uncle Lionel's stunning technology
This trip to the metropolis was definitely worthwhile.
Back in the hotel's luxurious suite, Shen Du still had a stern face. Without saying a word, he walked to the living room, picked up the order board in the room, and with obvious anger in his fingers, slapped down five different sundaes in quick succession before throwing them heavily out the door.

A waiter in a smart uniform will come quietly to collect it shortly.

Seeing his younger brother's sullen expression, Clark was both amused and annoyed, and couldn't help but tease him, "Shen Du... haven't you noticed that you've gained a little weight recently?"

As he spoke, he gestured with his hand near his cheek to indicate the outline of Shen Du's face, and then vaguely traced the thinner face of Salafir in his memory.

A feigned serious sigh in contrast:
“Look, Salafir’s face doesn’t seem to be this round…”

Shen Du: "..."

"hiss--!"

Clark gasped, feeling a burning sensation on his buttocks. Startled, he sprang up from the sofa like a spring, frantically patting the smoking area and his pants.

"Hey! You little brat... not again?!"

This little guy's temper is getting worse and worse!
Clark put on a stern face, about to reprimand his younger brother.

But his phone suddenly rang, interrupting him.

Clark took out his phone and looked at the caller ID on the screen.
uncle?

He quickly pressed the answer button, temporarily putting aside the idea of ​​finding Shen Du to settle accounts.

Her tone was tinged with excitement, as she wanted to share her amazing experiences at Luther Corporation that evening: "Uncle! Let me tell you, tonight Uncle Lionel took us..."

but.
The voice on the other end of the phone sounded somewhat deep, interrupting him: "Clark."

My uncle's tone didn't sound as relaxed as usual.

"I just heard Shen Du say..."

"Lionel took you on a tour of his building?"

Clark was taken aback by his uncle's slightly serious tone and nodded subconsciously, even though the other couldn't see him: "Yes, I just got back not long ago. Uncle Lionel showed me a lot of amazing technology..."

Locke paused for a moment on the other end of the phone, seemingly choosing his words carefully, before slowly asking, his voice tinged with barely perceptible tension: "Clark...did you...see anything special...well, 'strange' there? Or rather, did your Uncle Lionel himself show anything...strange?"

"Strange? Strange place?"

Clark held his phone, his face full of confusion.

"No, Uncle."

Nevertheless, Clark still recounted his experiences that night, from riding the downward elevator to seeing pulse weapons, exoskeleton armor, super-soldiers, and various civilian technologies.

Then, she recounted her unexpected encounter with Stewart and Lionel's explanation of the 'Rebirth Project' in detail.

Locke listened quietly on the other end of the phone without interrupting.

Only after Clark finished speaking did the sound of his uncle seemingly letting out a barely audible sigh of relief come through the receiver.

The previous tension disappeared, and her tone became relaxed again.

"...I see. Okay, I understand."

Locke paused, then changed the subject, his voice returning to its usual gentle tone: "That's good. I won't disturb your rest any longer. What time will you be back tomorrow night?"

Clark pondered for a moment, glancing at Shen Du, who had already picked up the first sundae and was viciously scooping up the ice cream with a spoon, and said with a helpless smile, "That depends on Shen Du."

"?"

Locke expressed his doubts.

"He might be thinking of making up for the jewelry street he didn't get to visit today before he goes home," Clark explained with a hint of sarcasm.

Locke's voice, a mix of amusement and exasperation, came from the other end of the phone: "That kid... really... you should tell him to tone it down."

“Yes, I’ll keep an eye on him,” Clark replied with a smile.

See you tomorrow night, Uncle.

"Okay, then be careful, see you tomorrow."

Locke put the phone down from his ear, looking much more relaxed.

Ron's resolute face remained expressionless, his gaze fixed on Locke.

A moment of silence hung in the air.

Locke looked up at Martian Hunter, his voice calm:
"Rong En, you heard it all, didn't you?"

"I'm sorry... Regarding Lionel, I choose to believe my friend until I have solid evidence."

“We’ve known each other for so long that… I can’t easily associate him with some of the speculations.”

Rong En remained silent for a long while before nodding and saying calmly:

“In that case, I respect your decision, Locke.”

"Trust is one of the most precious cornerstones of human relationships."

Then he seemed to want to ease the somewhat tense atmosphere.

"No one can predict the future, can they?"

Rong En began, trying to lighten his tone, "For example, there was once a guy who claimed to be from the future who came to me and vowed to tell me the winning lottery numbers for tomorrow, just in exchange for some currency in this era."

"I excitedly asked him, 'What are the winning numbers?'"

He coldly replied, "I come from a future without lotteries. I'm just a conman trying to scam some money using the concept of 'future.'"

"."

Locke, who was lost in thought, was stunned by the sudden lame joke. He glared at Ron and said irritably, "Is this the time for lame jokes?"

He rubbed his temples. "No one's here yet..."

"It's so well-made up, it looks just like the real thing."

future?!
This word struck his haystack-like thoughts like a sudden spark.

Locke blinked, and a bold and clear idea instantly took shape.

"Rong En".

“You make a good point.” His voice held a hint of eager excitement. “In that case, why don’t we go directly to the ‘future’…or rather, to another ‘universe’ to verify the ‘past’?”

“Parallel universes?” Ron’s mind raced, and he immediately grasped the core of Locke’s words. “You mean… contact that ‘Clark’ from last time?”

"Correct!"

Locke nodded, his thoughts becoming clearer. "If the histories of the two parallel universes are basically the same in terms of major events, then by comparing Lionel's behavior and development at the same point in time in different universes, many questions may be answered."

"If it really is Lionel, then has the Lionel on his side done anything wrong?"

"."

"This Locke"

But Rong En's face showed obvious hesitation.

"But that would be too risky... The stability of the spatial structure, the disturbance of the flow of time, even..."

He paused, then threw out a name, his tone becoming serious, "Locke, have you ever heard of Jason Garrick?"

"Jason Garrick?"

Locke felt the name sounded familiar, as if he'd heard it mentioned in an old newspaper clipping or during casual conversation in a small-town teahouse. "I think I vaguely remember it..."

"flash."

Ron gave the answer directly, and seeing the understanding flash in Locke's eyes, he continued to explain, "Mr. Garrick, one of the core founders of the Justice Society."

"But he has been missing for many years."

"According to Mr. Nelson and Mr. Scott, Mr. Garrick, during a crisis many years ago, deliberately rushed into a time-space turbulence to prevent a disaster, and then..."

"Lost in the cracks of a parallel universe, and still can't find the way back."

"Lost in a parallel universe..."

Locke repeated it in a low voice, a strange feeling rising in his heart.

He clearly remembered that Giorno Giovanna, who had traveled from the future, had explicitly mentioned that the Speed ​​Force could serve as a stable anchor point for locating and traversing parallel universes.

Jason Garrick, as the original Flash from his own memories, must have an extremely deep connection with the Speed ​​Force. How could he easily lose his way and not be able to return?

Perhaps... that old hero chose to stay in some universe on his own, or encountered some special circumstances and actively cut off contact, rather than simply getting lost?

However, looking at Rong En's extremely serious expression...

Locke suppressed his speculation for the time being, without interrupting his Martian friend who was earnestly trying to learn about 'human emotions'.

He smiled easily, patted Ron on the shoulder, and said confidently, "Don't worry, Ron. Times have changed."

"I am now fully confident that I can safely and precisely travel between two specific worlds."
-
P.S.: The next chapter will be tomorrow morning~
(End of this chapter)