After crossing over again, Malrick did not immediately move to the next world. Instead, he returned to the Biochemical world, a place he had not visited in years.
The moment he entered the universe, the familiar World Consciousness greeted him energetically, like an eager dog. Universal energy rippled outward in waves, and the consciousness sent him a message.
"Malrick, welcome back, so, so, so…"
Though it had evolved greatly since his first arrival, the World Consciousness still lacked true self-awareness. Its communications were instinctive, simple reflections of its joy.
"You always react like this, but for you, I've never left."
Malrick dispersed the swirling energy, as if gently pushing away its eager presence. Every time he crossed over, he returned to the moment he had last left.
In terms of linear time, he realized that despite his adventures in the Resident Evil world, more years had actually passed there than in the Marvel universe.
"Nine years, evolution, evolution, evolution…"
The World Consciousness pressed on, its focus returning to evolution. Malrick placed a hand on his hip. Evolution was the world's instinct. Years ago, after the Biochemical world absorbed the benefits of global evolution, the consciousness occasionally sought guidance from him. Malrick, however, rarely agreed, fearing the potential consequences—another zombie crisis could erupt.
"Don't even think about virus or fungus-based evolution," he said firmly. "I'm here this time to take Jill Valentine and the others to explore other worlds."
The World Consciousness wavered anxiously. "Stay… God… don't leave!"
It feared that if Malrick took Jill Valentine and her companions, he might not return. Alone, the World Consciousness would feel helpless.
Malrick chuckled. How could it worry over such things?
Just as he was about to offer reassurance, the consciousness transmitted more information.
"Merge world, evolve, you, become stronger, next door…"
"Next door? You mean there's a neighboring world we can merge with to evolve?" Malrick asked, intrigued.
"Powerful, success, evolution," it responded. With him present, the merge would pose no threat to his authority.
Malrick considered the idea. He thought of the Black Robe world he had recently controlled, leaving behind an m-body that became a World Consciousness. Maintaining a link between m-body and his consciousness consumed energy—not much, but enough to accumulate as he expanded to more worlds. Splitting his consciousness too many times would become a serious burden. Perhaps merging worlds was the solution.
"Then let's try it. Pull that world over, and I'll assist with the merger."
The World Consciousness responded with delight but noted that pulling the neighboring world would take time.
"I'll wait for your news here," Malrick said.
He released an m-body to embody the abstract Biochemical world and then turned, flying toward Earth. The consciousness observed, surprised by the m-body and the subtle changes Malrick had brought.
Nine years had passed since the apocalypse in the Biochemical world.
Nine years ago, Earth had been divided among three powers: Rabbit Country, the Seville Republic, and European forces. Now, the lines between these powers had blurred. The largest administrative body was no longer the original three but the International Alliance, founded by Malrick.
The shift came from the emergence of superhuman survivors and the global migration of Rabbit Country survivors, who now numbered nine hundred million. Their aptitude for management reshaped institutions, integrating them across the world.
A year ago, Jill Valentine had retired from her long tenure, followed by Ada Wong. They had initially held key positions to stabilize the post-apocalyptic order. Now, they planned to accompany Malrick in his search for little Sherry.
"This time, I'm afraid you two cannot come along just yet," Malrick said in the mansion at Raccoon City, distributing wages.
Ada Wong, overwhelmed both physically and mentally by the sheer amount, barely propped herself up with her hands, eyes half-lidded.
"You have better employees elsewhere and fear we'll take their jobs?" she said lazily, exhaustion thick in her tone.
Jill Valentine, having already received her full wages, rested her chin on her hands and asked gracefully, "It's been a year, Malrick. Last time you underwent transformation, it was inconvenient to take us. Is it still not possible this time?"
Malrick shook his head. "It's not about me, Jill. The World Consciousness is preparing to integrate another world, driving the evolution forward."
He continued distributing wages. "You two need to return temporarily to guide others in preparation."
"When will it begin?" Jill asked, attempting to sit upright but weakly collapsing back. Moonlight streamed through the window, illuminating her figure.
"Soon. I'll notify you when the World Consciousness provides feedback."
Noticing Ada Wong's tension, Malrick quickly finished distributing wages to comfort her. As she received her share, her muscles relaxed, releasing the accumulated stress.
Malrick then helped Jill Valentine to her feet. "No accidents will occur. I'm watching. Ensure others are prepared and calm."
Jill nodded, but hesitated. "My wages are distributed, right? Double-check the accounts. Ada Wong worked overtime—give her the extra share."
"Everyone receives an equal share. That's final," Malrick replied.
The next day, Malrick departed the Biochemical world once more. He would only return when the World Consciousness began the process of merging with another world.
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