In the guest room where Clark was staying, Schiller set his umbrella beside him, pulled over a chair, and sat down. Then he looked at Clark and asked, "How have things been at Metropolis University lately?"
"Um... actually, pretty good. I only started university this year too. I heard that after the new mayor took office, Metropolis University got more funding, and they even replaced the grass on the athletic field."
Clark tried to sit up in bed, since he felt it was slightly impolite to talk to someone while lying down, but Schiller waved a hand, indicating that there was no need.
Schiller turned and adjusted the desk lamp, making its light a little softer. Then he looked at Clark and said, "There's no one else here now. You can tell me how you really got here, can't you?"
"I, I really just..." Looking into Schiller's eyes, Clark suddenly found himself unable to continue. He felt as though the professor had seen right through him, yet he had no idea why.
"You don't need to worry, Clark. You aren't the only person in this world with special abilities." Schiller sighed softly and continued, "I understand. You don't want others to see you as a monster. You want to be an ordinary person and live among ordinary people. I'm the same."
Clark's lips trembled, but he silently turned his head away, as though he did not want to discuss the subject. Yet at the instant he turned, he saw a small flame rise from Schiller's hand.
Clark's eyes widened as he stared at Schiller's hand. There was no mechanical device there, yet the flame danced and burned in his palm, brighter than the desk lamp.
"My God! You... you too..." Clark's mouth hung open, as though he had no idea