The Solution (2nd Edition)

Mikey

While Xen smiled at everyone like The Joker, I humped back in my seat and ran mental diagnostics. Then when they were relatively clear in my mind, I kept my voice low and reported my hypothesis to Chon. "Commissioner Gordon, listen up! Sat behind him, Xen has the world's biggest construction company. The world's leading bio-holodome pioneer. And the world's most renowned aeronautics engineer. There's no doubt in my mind. Regarding The Solution, the plan must be to build something..." While I emulated The Dark Knight and wrestled with more imaginative thoughts, Sarah and Chon deliberated.

    Seconds later, Chon responded. "Well, based on his associates, I agree they plan to build something. The question is, what...?"

    "Guys, by the time The Solution's done, I reckon Xen will've unveiled some sort of, Polar City Red, or maybe an ocean-bound Axiom!"

    "Mikey," Sarah seethed, "in English, please..."

    Damn I was excited but tried to keep my voice to a whisper. "Guys, I think he'll reveal construction plans for bio-holodome refuges; floatin' arks; or maybe even galactic ones!"

    "Really, Mikey?" Chon hissed. To confirm my thoughts, I buffered my lips and nodded hard.

    "Big guy, I hope not," Chon added while pinchin' an eyebrow. "Before the aimless speculation continues, Xen needs to be forthcoming, more specific, and anytime now would be great."

    As we looked up again, Xen resumed his monologue. "Now please, everyone, be aware that none of my associates will be answering questions today," he stated. "Their contributions are saved for, tomorrow... Therefore, please direct any questions for them through me."

    Xen set his sights on Cat Woman sat in the front row. "Ms. Albers of Green Justice," he said invitingly, "the first question is yours..."

    "Mr. Secretary, last month you stalled on my questions in New Vancouver, and you're still stalling now," she purred. "What is The Solution?"

    "Ms. Albers," Xen smiled, "as I've always maintained, The Solution will be a beacon of light for the dark days ahead - dark days I fear our world should strategically prepare for."

    "Can you be any more specific?" she bit back.

    "No, Ms. Albers, I cannot," Xen said evasively. His frowned forehead caused his hairline to recede.

    "Mr. Secretary, nobody here is stupid. Based on the professional skill sets of your associates, you clearly plan to build something. So, tell us," she mused.

    "Ms. Albers, I can see there are no flies on you." Xen chuckled uncomfortably. "And, 'yes', we will propose the construction of 'something'. However, all will be revealed tomorrow."

    Probably to Albers' dismay, Xen flitted his eyes back a few rows. "Miss. Dwyer of ATV, the next question is yours."

    "Mr. Secretary; regarding the Chinese presidential candidates; why does Minister Lee Mishina have more of your support than President Ming Du Han? I might not be the coldest lager in the fridge, but am I missing something...? After all, they're both green-minded, both have supported your reforms and optional schemes. And, in recent interviews, both have unknowingly pledged support of tomorrow's summit which still has no clear agenda. Your thoughts please?"

    "Miss. Dwyer," Xen breathed, "I can elaborate. We live in a time of climate austerity. With the world having changed as much as it has, the bid to salvage what remains has been, and will always be my top urgent priority. Therefore, The Solution and the up-coming election walk hand in hand. Moreover, the President's manifestos for re-election just aren't extreme enough. Naturally, it is Mishina's green radicalism and his technological foresight which has earned him my endorsed support."

    Once done with Carla's question, Xen's eyes had moved to the row we were sat in. "Mr. Lai of BTV, the next question is yours..."

    Like Sarah, I got a little flustered and fidgeted when Xen called Chon's name. Even though my wingman had mad skills 'n' ability, I just hoped Chon was ready to make a hard-hittin' statement, just like the juggernaut, Bane.