Metals That Rewrite History
Failure does not end plans.
It refines them.
HYDRA, recognizing the failed assassination and dwarven presence, shifted strategy from confrontation to observation.
The unknown had become deterrence.
Wakanda Approaches
Wakanda perceived opportunity rather than threat. A secret diplomatic mission arrived in Arcadia, marking a meeting between two hidden civilizations.
"Arcadia seeks no enemies it does not understand," Lee Soo-yeon said.
"As does Wakanda," T'Challa replied.
Mutual recognition replaced suspicion.
Mithril
Dorgrin presented a silver fragment.
"Mithril."
Lightweight, resilient, and resistant to energy distortion, it astonished Wakandan science.
"This could reshape global material science," T'Challa observed.
"It will not be sold," Lee Soo-yeon answered.
"But it can form partnership."
The Hidden Alliance
A limited exchange agreement emerged:
Mithril research collaboration with Wakandan materials science.
Not trade.
Not alliance.
A shared evolution.
Global Reaction
Despite secrecy, intelligence agencies detected patterns.
HYDRA recalculated.
S.H.I.E.L.D. monitored cautiously.
China observed strategically.
A new variable had entered global power equations.
Ending
Dorgrin remarked:
"Humans fight over metals. You build civilizations."
Lee Soo-yeon replied:
"Metals are not power. What we create with them is."
End of Chapter 17