Simona stood to one side, watching the two ill-fated girls, a trace of sympathy flashing in her eyes. They possessed godlike potential, yet could only live in the darkest, dampest sewers. How ironic.
"Deformed freaks?"
Lucian suddenly chuckled, the sound echoing through the spacious room.
"Broaden your horizons a little, girls." Lucian rose and walked to the floor-to-ceiling windows, looking down over Manhattan's entire steel forest. "You've come to the right place now. Vought International, the company standing before you, is the largest Supe stronghold on this planet."
Sara and Jean raised their heads at the same time, staring blankly at the tall, straight figure with his back to the sunlight.
"This world is far more dangerous than you imagine." Lucian turned and looked down at them. "You saw the Skrulls in the livestream broadcast across the internet. Alien civilizations are already sharpening their blades in the shadows, and fleets in the depths of space could grind Earth to dust at any moment. Hiding in the sewers like rats won't help you live any longer before true destruction arrives."
Lucian pointed to the sofa in front of him, motioning for them to sit.
"Put away that self-pitying weakness. Now that you're at Vought, stop treating your abilities as a curse." Lucian's tone was calm, yet carried an unquestionable authority. "I have the world's finest laboratories, the most comprehensive training facilities, and the greatest resources. I'll arrange first-class treatment, customized diets, and personal instructors for you. Every material comfort you've gone without, Vought can provide."
Lucian's gaze settled on Jean's red hair, dry and frizzy from years of malnutrition, and his tone softened a fraction:
"Eat better, and get your body and hair healthy. Then do everything you can to develop that potential in your minds."
"As for the price, it's