Reckless Action

Work around The Monolith continued. Fitz wanted to say something, but Agent Coulson's question had yet to be resolved.

"If it's an infectious disease," Leopold Fitz said, "I can solve it, as long as you give me time."

"I don't think you can devise a solution when facing a parasite that can lie dormant inside the body and consume flesh and blood in an instant. Even if you could, a self-aware parasite would not let you succeed." The Arcanist spoke in an electronic voice. "If Jemma Simmons has been infected, then she is no longer herself. Her thoughts will be twisted and controlled by the parasite, and her memories will become weapons against those she once knew." He pointed at the Artificial Human below, who carried a flamethrower. "This is the final safeguard: airtight Power Armor and fire. Fitz, I'm sorry, but burning is the best way to handle this."

Agent Coulson gently squeezed Fitz's shoulder, trying to offer what comfort he could. "How much do you know about this, Salomon?" Coulson looked up at the knight in ornate black armor. "Don't lie to me. Was The Monolith your objective all along? Did you manipulate my mind?"

"Because I cannot let a team like yours stake humanity's fate on a desperate gamble. I don't know why you became like this after dying once, but if this were the old S.H.I.E.L.D. or Nick Fury, you would understand that my actions would have their support." Salomon said, "The current S.H.I.E.L.D. cannot bear responsibility for the consequences of failure. You are nothing but vigilantes now, not law enforcement. You value humanity's fate just as highly as your own feelings and those of your companions, skipping around at the edge of extinction-level events as you please. Saving the world isn't some fucking romance drama