"I know, every small African country has its helplessness." Banner's voice echoed in the lab, saying: "I have made several scientific expeditions to Africa and even spent a long time in East Africa, it is not exactly a pleasant experience."
"Although it might sound harsh, but most countries in the world don't have the ability to withstand risks. The collapse of any link can lead to a total breakdown," continued Connors.
"Wakanda is already the most advanced country in Africa." Shiller, sitting next to the lab bench watching the computer said, "A modern high-tech country, not only with independent armed forces but also super soldiers. If there is one drawback, it would be too reliant on one type of resource."
"However, this can't really be considered as a drawback, they live on a rich land. There's no reason not to use resources that are readily available to strengthen themselves."
"What do you plan to do about this?" Connors looked at Shiller and said: "I heard you've formed something called the Luminous Alliance. To be honest, if it weren't for Professor Xavier being part of this alliance, I would definitely oppose a group like you gathering together..."
Shiller chuckled and said: "If molten steel truly is an alloy invented by Stark, then Wakanda indeed would be in danger."
"You must know that though Stark is a sentimental person in some respects, if it involved the interests of the entire human race, he wouldn't hold back, even if he and T'Challa are good friends. Once Stark ramps up production, vibranium will genuinely lose its foothold."
Connors frowned, looking at Shiller and said: "Are you implying that molten steel isn't an alloy created by Stark?"
"Yes, it's actually a naturally occurring extraterrestrial mineral."
"That's impossible." Banner immediately refuted Shiller's claim: "No mineral comes out of the rock layer in that state. Even vibranium needs to be refined before it can be used."
"In fact, molten steel has been refined, but it was refined by something called Melt Fire Energy. You can equate this to a form of magical energy. The mining and refining of this mineral happens simultaneously..."
Looking at Shiller's expression, Connors had a bad premonition. He said: "It seems, your trip to the Andromeda Galaxy is quite interesting, would you care to share with us?"
Meanwhile, Stark was on the phone with T'Challa. After listening to the Sulfur Dwarf's story, T'Challa also felt very touched. He said: "I've known for a while that the people of Wakanda regard vibranium too highly. They believe it's what separates us from other African countries and that losing vibranium means losing everything."
"In a sense, they're right. But if a small country like ours can't secure such important resources without wise decisions and foresight, then there's no point. My ancestors and my predecessors have dedicated their lives to this cause."
"I think you're right. In the end, Wakanda must break away from this reliance on resources, and the key lies within me and my citizens."
T'Challa is a very progressive person, he's good at listening to other people's opinions. Every time Stark talks to him, he feels refreshed. Stark said: "I think the key should boil down to you, T'Challa. Haven't you noticed? Anyone who communicates with you will have a positive impression of Wakanda. And Stark is not someone who easily praises others..."
T'Challa laughed and said: "I know that, and it's an honor to be praised by the world's most gifted scientist. Although current circumstances are difficult, I believe I can turn things around. Wakanda cannot always rely on others. We will carve out a path of our own and not repeat the mistakes of those civilizations you mentioned."
"Then good luck to you. I look forward to the day you become the African Emperor."
"Oh, don't say that." T'Challa laughed heartily. He thought Stark was joking. He said: "Although Wakanda is the most developed nation in Africa and we have good facilities and a strong army, we never thought about using such power to invade other countries."
"Both I and the past Kings of Wakanda believe that our faith teaches us to harness the raw power of our inner beast, but also to maintain calm and peace to retain our humanity."
Stark also was moved by this. He said: "With you as the leader, Wakanda will progress even further."
"Alright, I have many assignments to get to, we'll talk more later." There was a relaxed tone in T'Challa's voice. Stark's words had evidently helped ease his anxieties over the past few days.
When he calmed down and started thinking, he realized that the utilization of new materials was not that simple. At least for the foreseeable future, the majority of essential equipment would still rely on vibranium.
Just as Stark was about to hang up, he heard a loud noise coming through the phone from T'Challa's side. Stark frowned and asked: "What's happening?! Hey! T'Challa!... Black Panther! Are you okay?!"
"Erik! Get out of here! This is the palace, not a place for you to be!"