479

Sentinel Project

Ronan was taken aback, then cautiously asked, "Supreme Wisdom, was Hulan's final decision truly erroneous?"

"In this universe, many actions appear futile—courage beyond measure, sacrifices that seem in vain... These deeds often appear unnecessary," Supreme Wisdom spoke slowly.

Changing tack, he continued, "However, the opposite of futile actions isn't necessarily meaningful."

"What do you mean?"

Supreme Wisdom elaborated, "Wisdom lies in conserving strength, but at that moment, Hulan had few options. He couldn't contend with the Sun God. Yet he upheld the dignity befitting a warrior."

"...Intelligent beings often believe they choose between good and bad, yet reality often presents choices between bad and worse."

"For instance, no creature chooses death—whether ant, you, or I. Our choice lies in how we face death with dignity. In that regard, Hulan achieved this. We needn't fault him."

Ronan fell silent, then nodded, "I understand, Supreme Wisdom."

Supreme Wisdom added, "Discarding personal idolatry marks rare progress. Any Kree who achieves this earns my respect."

After a pause, he continued, "Hulan held high hopes for you in life. Therefore, I appoint you the new Supreme Accuser, leading the Kree Empire's Accuser Corps."

"Will you accept, Ronan?"

"Yes." Under Supreme Wisdom's mandate, Ronan had no choice but to accept his promotion without hesitation.

Returning to reality, Ronan opened his eyes to find all Accusers around him kneeling in deference. "Supreme Accuser!"

---

**United States, New Jersey**

This facility served as a training ground for the Strategic Science Corps. Presently, some of America's foremost scientists and engineers sat together, discussing their plans.

Oddly, two dwarfs were among them, seated in chairs where only their heads peered above the table—a comical sight amidst the serious discourse.

Though diminutive in stature, these two were revered for their unparalleled intellect, standing among the world's most brilliant minds.

One dwarf perused a document, remarking, "The 'Sentinel Project' is theoretically sound. Based on mutant genetic analysis, we've gleaned insights into the genetic basis of mutant abilities."

"Moreover, Mystique's genetic data has provided invaluable knowledge, revealing her unique mimicry abilities."

Another corpulent dwarf asked, "Has experimentation commenced?"

A scientist countered with a hint of sarcasm, "Are you referring to human trials, Dr. Zola? If so, your experience in such matters surpasses mine."

Zola fell silent.

Dr. Arnim Zola, once a member of Nazi Germany under the infamous Red Skull, was now a part of America's Strategic Science Corps (future S.H.I.E.L.D.) post-World War II, thanks to "Operation Paperclip" integrating Nazi scientists.

Advanced in years, Zola's expertise in human experimentation was unmatched.

Though taciturn, his comment unsettled a taller, bearded scientist, who resembled a Middle Eastern mercenary. "Dr. Pym, this is a dark chapter in history, but we've been left with little choice by Sodium."

"Apologies, Crowe," Dr. Pym replied.

Interrupting the tense atmosphere, Howard Stark interjected, "Pym, the Sentinel Project cannot proceed any further."

Pym was taken aback. "Why? We've made significant breakthroughs, and these sentinel robots could decisively combat mutants."

"Perhaps, but their deployment risks exterminating mutants altogether," Howard shook his head.

"And wouldn't that be preferable?" Pym countered. "Recall the Cuban Missile Crisis. Mutants nearly brought about humanity's downfall."

Howard's gaze hardened. "The Cuban Missile Crisis was engineered by Sebastian Shaw, not representative of all mutants. We can't judge all mutants for the Shaw's actions, just as we can't hold everyone who served Hitler accountable."

Zola interjected support, "Indeed, I concur with Howard."

"As do I," Crowe added.

Pym hesitated.

Howard sensed his reservations, adding, "Moreover, you may not know—the god who appeared off Cuba warned us against provoking a conflict with mutants."

"You mean the ancient Egyptian Sun God?" Pym queried.

"In myths, most Sun God depictions trace back to him, according to the Strategic Science Corps' research," Howard affirmed. "If you wish to delve deeper, I can grant access."

Pym fell silent.

Howard continued, "I've relayed the Sun God's warning to the White House. Should the Sentinel Project proceed, the White House will intervene. It's best we halt now."

Though reluctant, Pym relented, "But... this project is my life's work!"

"No project is purely theoretical. When Einstein postulated E=mc², nuclear weaponry became inevitable," Howard reasoned. "Once perfected, Sentinels will emerge."