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Yelena did not object.

She was grateful for her encounter with Natasha—not only because it freed her from Dreykov's grasp but because it opened the door to a new world.

Even if that world wasn't as beautiful as she'd imagined, and even if it was dangerous at times, it made life more thrilling. More legendary.

She knew that her future with Natasha wouldn't be confined to Earth. Together, they would explore the vast expanse of the universe.

Natasha glanced at Yelena, a subtle smile playing on her red lips, before turning to Leon. "We've secretly funded 137 orphanages across the globe. The funds cover education, meals, and general support. We've also been monitoring the children's conduct."

She continued, "From the initial phase, about 500 children have been selected for observation. Over the next year, we'll invest heavily in their education, learning resources, and nutrition. Among them, we're identifying those with exceptional talent. The World Admissions Association will recruit and develop these individuals, and we'll allocate significant resources to their growth—especially for those destined to become scientists."

Natasha didn't linger on the topic of funding; she mentioned it casually, as though it were an afterthought. With the help of advanced artificial intelligence, gray and shadowy industries had been forced to divert funds seamlessly, making this initiative relatively simple.

Leon nodded thoughtfully. His talent cultivation plan was already taking shape.

The approach was straightforward: by secretly investing in orphanages worldwide, they could identify children who met the criteria for character, ability, and potential. Once selected, the children would be transferred to specialized educational facilities.

There, with the help of the Sky Blade's computer, they would undergo enhancements to improve their breathing techniques, consume nutrient solutions to build physical strength, and receive ideological training to prepare them for a larger purpose.

That purpose was theocracy. Supreme loyalty to the divine.

Leon envisioned himself as the ultimate god, embedding the consciousness of divine power into these children to secure their unwavering allegiance. During their critical growth period—starting at the age of thirteen—they would enter the second stage: the infusion of the Sky Blade and the Super Soldier Gene Serum.

Unlike the serum injected into others, such as Wanda, this variation emphasized unlocking potential rather than dramatically increasing physical strength or fitness. This careful adjustment minimized the risk of mental instability or rebellion, ensuring the children remained loyal and balanced as they grew into the super-soldiers they were destined to become.

Through rigorous, high-intensity training, the children would enhance their physical strength and fortify their willpower. In addition, their super genes were engineered with built-in loyalty to the Leon family, eliminating the possibility of betrayal at the genetic level. It was a two-pronged approach.

Of course, this didn't erase their free will—it was merely an added layer of insurance. Leon had no desire for the warriors he trained to turn on him one day. While any betrayal wouldn't pose much of a threat, the mere idea was distasteful.

However, the Sky Blade genetic engineering ensured such betrayals wouldn't occur.

This was precisely why Leon sought to create his own "kingdom of God." He wanted to be certain that the warriors he nurtured would remain steadfastly loyal.

Everyone involved in the plan understood this, except for Hulk, who remained blissfully unaware. Natasha, Yelena, and Melina were all directly participating in the initiative.

"Our base is located on our Pacific island," Melina reported. "Construction is expected to be completed within a year. Additionally, some of the Black Widows have agreed to join us." She glanced at Leon after finishing her update.

Leon nodded silently before asking, "What are your thoughts on the matter?"

"These children are essentially the consequences of Dreykov's actions," Melina began. "Their parents either refuse to accept them or were killed by Dreykov's schemes. Most of them are alone, with no families to return to."

She sighed before continuing, "After years of intense training, they're incapable of reintegrating into normal society. They're trapped, unsure of their futures. But they're good children. With the right guidance, they can become exceptional assets."

"If left unchecked, they could become dangerous, unpredictable beasts. But if they're handled properly, they could be invaluable allies," Melina concluded, her tone heavy with pity.

Natasha and Yelena remained silent, but Wanda, clearly moved, spoke up while cutting into her steak. "I think they're doing well. The world hasn't been fair to them. In a way, we're not so different."

"And they've already gone through years of training," she added. "That saves us time. All we need to do is ensure their loyalty."

Wanda wasn't lacking in methods to guarantee that. If necessary, she could subtly influence the Black Widows to maintain their allegiance without compromising their free will.

Leon understood her point. Glancing around the table, he noted that both Wanda and Sergei were in agreement.

"Very well," Leon said. "Let each of them give a blood sample, and I'll prepare the corresponding genetic serum for them. Over the next year, they can begin learning breathing techniques and the principles of the three-color Haki."

"After that," he continued, "they'll be ready to serve as instructors for the first wave of children. They'll teach and train the next generation themselves."

He turned to Wanda. "Additionally, you should evaluate the children's potential for magic. This will give you a foundation to train a new generation of young mages when you eventually become the Sorcerer Supreme."

Wanda grinned and waved her fork in the air. "No problem~~"

"In addition," Leon continued, "once you, Sergei, and the other three-color Haki masters reach a high level, we can move on to the next phase of training."

"Next phase?"

Sergei and the others froze, surprised that there was still more to do.

Leon's expression turned sharp as he replied, "You've had plenty of time to rest. Don't tell me you're okay with others surpassing you in the future?"

He leaned forward slightly, his tone tinged with challenge. "It's time for you to experience a whole new world."

Sergei exchanged a glance with Pietro, who raised an eyebrow, a flicker of excitement in his expression. "Alright... So, what's this new world about?"

Leon's lips curled into a sly smile. "Hell."

"Hell?"

The room went quiet, all eyes fixed on Leon. Even Hulk, who had been happily entertaining himself on the side, stopped mid-motion.

The giant looked left, then right, his confusion evident. Finally, his gaze landed on Leon, his wide, copper-bell eyes narrowing slightly as he tried to process the word. His expression turned fierce, though it seemed more puzzled than threatening.