- In Marvel: I Start by Marrying Scarlett Witch [Complete]
- MWM Chapter 385
“Keep things as they are for now. Once we’ve made further connections, focus all research efforts on the spiritual energy converter and genetic enhancement.”
After killing the High Evolutionary and using the Phantom Demon Emperor Fist to control the head of the Counter-Earth base, Leo gave a series of orders. Then, he and Wanda spent a few days exploring Counter-Earth before leaving a shadow clone to oversee the operations and departed the planet by ship.
How could Leo give up a planet almost identical to Earth and completely under his control?
He simply changed the entire research focus of the Org Group.
The High Evolutionary’s dream was to evolve animals into a lifeform more perfect than humans, endowed with superior intelligence and high moral values.
But Leo didn’t care about such things. His only concern was how to make himself stronger.
So, without altering the structure of the organization, he wanted the research to focus on completing devices that could convert any energy into spiritual energy and develop gene-enhancing drugs to further strengthen the body.
“Captain, where are we headed next?” Star-Lord asked as he piloted the ship away from Counter-Earth.
Leo thought for a moment and replied, “Let’s go to Xandar. A few days ago, we received communication saying they’ve finished modifying the Dark Aster.”
“We’re about to get our own battleship. That’s awesome!” Star-Lord excitedly pushed the accelerator to full throttle.
“In three days, we’ll be at Xandar,” he said as the ship shot through space, disappearing into the vast universe.
After passing through four space wormholes, thanks to Star-Lord’s exceptional piloting skills, they arrived at Xandar on the third day.
Unlike their quiet arrival last time, this time Leo’s ship was given a grand reception by the Nova Empire. Dozens of Nova Corps ships escorted them, and they landed on the top platform of the Nova Corps headquarters, where Nova Prime herself awaited Leo. She greeted him with a handshake, following Earth’s formal etiquette.
“Mr. Leo, thank you for eliminating the grave threat of Ronan and avenging our fallen imperial soldiers and the innocent civilians of our planets. You’ve saved countless future lives that he could have taken.”
Nova Prime was treating Leo with such respect not only because he had dealt with Ronan but also because of the terrifying individual strength he had demonstrated.
She had reviewed footage from the TS-214 planetary garrison, which captured the entire battle between Leo and the Dark Aster, as well as internal surveillance from the Dark Aster.
Given Leo’s formidable power, even the Nova Empire preferred not to provoke him. Since they already had a cooperative relationship and shared core values, it made sense to maintain a strong alliance. With such a powerful ally, they would have a significant advantage should they ever go to war with the Kree Empire again.
Thus, Nova Prime treated Leo with great courtesy, practically elevating him to an equal standing.
“It was my duty. The Guardians of the Galaxy were formed to take down people like Ronan—ambitious individuals who threaten the peace of the universe. By the way, you mentioned the Dark Aster was ready. Can we take a look?”
Leo, uninterested in unnecessary pleasantries, shifted the conversation to the topic that interested him most—the Dark Aster.
Nova Prime, understanding his intentions, immediately called for the lead designer responsible for the modifications to escort Leo and his team to the ship refitting base where the Dark Aster was stationed.
“Per your request, we didn’t change the overall appearance or most of its functions. We’ve added an intelligent operating system, so the ship can now be fully controlled by an AI. Of course, it can also switch to manual mode, which is more efficient than the AI in certain situations.
We’ve redesigned the interior using Earth aesthetics, expanded the recreational and living areas, and equipped it with the most advanced facilities. The ship can sustain 50,000 people for 200 years.”
As the designer enthusiastically explained, Leo gained a general understanding of the new Dark Aster.
Overall, it met his expectations.
In truth, he wasn’t particularly concerned about the Dark Aster’s combat abilities. He primarily wanted a large enough space station that could remain just outside Earth’s orbit, serving as a base.
This would allow his scientists on Earth to collaborate with those from across the universe, maximizing their value and advancing his objectives.
After spending three days on Xandar to rest and prepare, Leo and his team were ready to depart again—this time, returning to Earth.
During the months of their cosmic journey, Wanda had thoroughly enjoyed herself, and Leo had accomplished all he had set out to do.
The side quests were completed, he had accumulated significant small world time, and he had gained access to advanced cosmic technologies. By now, with the help of his shadow clone, the spiritual energy converter was likely well on its way in the research phase.
He had also established a secure base in the cosmos. Should anything happen on Earth that he couldn’t handle, he now had a fallback option.
“Athena, set course for Earth,” Leo ordered, standing in the newly renovated captain’s hall of the Dark Aster.
“Understood, Captain Leo,” a young, confident female voice responded, the simulated voice of the ship’s AI system, Athena.
The massive new Dark Aster, emblazoned with the Guardians of the Galaxy’s symbol, slowly lifted off from Xandar, pierced through the atmosphere, and shot toward Earth, becoming a streak of light in the endless void of space.
“Finally, we’re going home!” Wanda said with a happy smile, leaning against Leo.
The intergalactic journey had been an incredible experience for her. She had seen sights beyond her wildest imagination, encountered strange and fascinating planets and aliens, and made many new friends.
But ultimately, their home was still Earth. That’s where their friends were, and where many cherished memories were made. After being away for so long, returning to Earth was something she was now looking forward to.
It was like going on a long trip for months, but the best feeling was still that first moment of lying in your own bed at home.
“Honestly, I’m not really looking forward to going back to Earth. That’s where my mom died, and there’s no one else left for me there,” Star-Lord said from behind them, sounding less enthusiastic about the trip back.
Ever since he’d grown up and gained the ability to protect himself, Yondu had stopped restricting his freedom. But every time he thought about Earth, he remembered it as the place where his mother died, and that always made him too afraid to return.
“Peter, you should go back for a visit. From what I’ve heard, your grandfather is still alive. He might still be waiting for you to come home,” Leo said with a smile, turning to look at him.
Three days later, as Earth finally came into view once again, a new notification sounded in Leo’s ear:
[A new main quest is available. Please check the panel for details.]
(End of chapter)