"Why were you confused?" Bruce asked the voice in his mind.
"Because humans always held an utterly unnecessary wariness toward great power," the voice from within the black diamond replied. "They refused to believe that their hearts contained the rage capable of driving all things. They were content with weakness, utterly devoid of ambition."
"But I have all of those." Bruce issued an understated invitation and said, "A mere glimpse of the rage in my heart should be enough for you to understand that I am different from everyone else."
"That remains to be considered. Are you planning to let me in?"
"I find it strange. Did you patiently coax every host like this?" Bruce asked, turning his gaze toward the corpse of the man by the roadside.
"Of course not. These foolish ordinary people went mad with fear the moment they heard my voice. I could only control their bodies and could not communicate with them. You are the first person capable of answering my questions rationally."
"Very good. It seems we're a match made in heaven. What can you help me do?"
"What do you desire?"
"Knowledge. Endless knowledge."
"Then I can give you what you want."
"What makes you say that?"
"I come from a great existence beyond your imagination, from the very beginning of creation. I have listened to every secret throughout the evolution of the universe..."
"Tell me one first."
The strange voice seemed to choke, letting out an "oh." Bruce's tone remained light, making it sound less like he was communicating with a mysterious voice invading his mind and more like he was haggling over groceries by the roadside.
"You say you possess great power, but perhaps you don't. Even if you do, perhaps you won't give it to me. You have to demonstrate