Chapter 387 Shiller's Big Misfortune? _2

"I recognize that not everything in this world can be done by the book. If it were, we would likely be unable to solve the majority of dilemmas we face,"

"I hold no resentment towards certain actions taken by you and Nick. Even though some of your methods may be questionable, someone needs to do what you do, and I understand that."

Stark spoke gravely, "However, this doesn't excuse you from attacking S.H.I.E.L.D.'s base, taking hostages, threatening us, nor does it mean you can collaborate with Hydra to eliminate key figures!"

Just as Shiller was about to reply, Stark interjected, "I realize it was your alternate persona responsible, but if one of your personalities is Hydra, it means you require treatment!"

Stark approached Shiller, apparently trying not to rattle him further, and extended a hand, "Listen, I hate the phrase 'I'm doing this for your own good' as much as the next person, but I must say it this time…"

"Just because we're friends does not give a free pass to the dangerous behavior of one of your personalities. We must stop it to prevent you from potential harm."

While Stark was speaking, neither Peter nor Steve interrupted. They had never seen him this earnest before. They didn't quite comprehend Shiller's peculiarity, but Stark understood it all too well.

Stark regarded Shiller as one of a kind, much like himself. But, since they couldn't find a third example, Stark remained uncertain if reaching this level of singularity required fulfilling one unique condition or if there were other factors involved.

He wasn't sure if a person who attained this level of individuality could still suffer from personality disorder, or if another personality, if it existed, shared the same worldview and potentially posed a threat. If that were indeed the case, it would complicate matters significantly.

Just as Stark was about to further persuade Shiller to see reason, a portal opened in mid-air, and a furious Strange strode out. To Shiller, he vented, "You tricked me into carrying out experiments on that spacecraft, then pinned the blame on me for being Hydra? All this just to bypass me and negotiate your shady deals with Mephisto? You do realize this counts as a breach of trust, don't you?"

It was obvious that Strange was incensed. His money evaporated before his eyes. He waved his hand, and the ring behind him flared even brighter, seemingly ready to lunge at Shiller, "The Sanctum's legal team is on its way here; you owe me an explanation!"

Shiller was about to retort when suddenly there was a roar of helicopter blades cutting through the air. Nick, hanging from the helicopter's ladder, yelled, "Great hiding spot! You wrecked my best secret base and cost me millions of US dollars! Next time you hatch a scheme, how about a heads-up?"

"Shiller, you must come with us..."

"You owe me an explanation!"

"Explanation, I need an explanation…"

"Why did you do it?"

"What about Hydra?"

"You've gone too far, you know?"

"Stop!" Shiller raised his voice, drawing a deep breath before turning to Strange, "What about the experiment? Wasn't it successful on the spacecraft?"

"Well, yes... " Strange hesitated, "We did succeed, but that doesn't mean you can frame me!"

"How exactly did I frame you?"

"You..." Strange would mount an impassioned defense, explaining the intricate plot constructed by Shiller to deceive Iron Man and Captain America. But after mentally revisiting the situation, he realized that Shiller indeed hadn't framed him.

"So what if they refer to me as "Doctor" in Hydra's organization? Am I not a doctor? Or is there only room for one doctor in this world?"

"But you deliberately misled me..."

"How did you manage to be misled?"

With his arms crossed, Shiller continued, "Besides, how did I breach our agreement? Who told you I bypassed you to conduct business with Mephisto? If you insist on drawing this conclusion, then I'm claiming your share..."

"Wait, what? I have a share?"

"Of course, you're the Supreme Magician."

Strange's countenance faltered slightly. He touched the ribbon in hand, fiddling with the ring. Shiller then queried, "Are you planning to stay here and negotiate the terms of the deal with me?"

The portal reopened with a "whoosh ", Strange stepped inside. Before leaving, he warned, "you better offer me a satisfactory price, or else..."

With Strange gone, Shiller turned to Nick. Pointing to the side, he commanded, "Leave here! Otherwise, I will immediately confess my tax evasion to the IRS, turn state's evidence against you, and apply for the witness protection program."

At the mention of the IRS, Nick signaled the chopper pilot without a backward glance, "Let's go!"

"Hey. Nick! You're just leaving? You genuinely believe he'll turn himself in??" Stark shouted at the departing Nick, who yelled back, "Haven't you realized it yet?! He's a lunatic!"