The spacecraft's cabin was indeed compact, but remarkably complete.
"This ship is equipped with numerous weapons systems."
As he spoke, Howard activated a device next to the pilot's seat and retrieved a controller.
"This is the weapon control interface. It manages various firepower options. When facing space predators, it will give you the means to defend yourself."
Following his commands, weapons throughout the ship illuminated one after another, all entering combat readiness.
"Hmm...it looks impressive!"
Marcus was quite satisfied with the spacecraft. After all, this was the only vessel he could pilot alone.
With this ship, he could act more freely, able to leave Earth and visit other civilizations throughout the universe.
"As long as you're satisfied. I built this spacecraft by integrating both Skrull and Kree technologies—it should exceed your expectations."
Howard's face radiated confidence as he spoke. Like his son, he maintained absolute faith in his abilities.
From his perspective, the weapons systems were merely appetizers. The ship's true functions would surpass everyone's imagination.
Raising his hands to operate the virtual display at the pilot's station, Howard summoned a holographic starmap dotted with countless nodes.
"This is the universal star chart. Every node represents a galaxy containing civilization." Howard pointed to a specific marker on the virtual map. "Our solar system is located here. According to the universal designation, Earth is planet C-53."
Numerical designation was the simplest and clearest identification method, widely adopted throughout the cosmos.
With innumerable civilizations across the universe, not all species knew what other worlds called themselves. Numbers provided clarity and universality.
"I'm familiar with that system."
Marcus had accessed the memories of Kree individuals; his understanding of the universe wasn't far behind Howard's.
"Then do you know where the nearest space jump node to Earth is located?" Howard asked.
This gave Marcus pause—he genuinely didn't know Earth's space jump node coordinates.
Space jump nodes didn't emit detectable spatial fluctuations. They merely served as coordinate markers between planets.
Performing a space jump at a designated coordinate would reliably transport you to your destination. However, jumping from an unmarked location risked materializing in unknown territory.
Landing in an ordinary galaxy might be manageable, but appearing near a pulsar or black hole would mean certain death.
Therefore, all space-faring species—unless in dire emergency—would never attempt jumps from non-designated nodes.
Star charts served not only to map civilizations but also to catalog these critical jump nodes.
Howard expanded the solar system section of the map, revealing a pulsing coordinate marker before Marcus.
"This is Earth's space jump node. It's relatively close—about ten minutes by spacecraft. However, according to Talos, even reaching the nearest civilization requires approximately twelve hours of jump time."
Though space jumping dramatically reduced interstellar distances, it didn't simply open a direct wormhole between two locations. Space jumps still incurred a time cost.
"Even so, that's remarkable. Traditional propulsion would require decades just to exit the solar system!"
Marcus smiled. Twelve hours was nothing—barely longer than a good night's sleep.
"Indeed." Howard nodded slightly. "Beyond these systems, the ship contains extensive living amenities, addressing all necessity concerns during space travel."
He had anticipated every requirement for the spacecraft, including both combat capabilities and survival facilities.
Marcus found himself highly satisfied. The vessel demonstrated excellent balance across all systems—a truly comprehensive spacecraft.
Of course, when facing certain space predators, its combat effectiveness might prove somewhat inadequate.
But Marcus wasn't concerned. He possessed methods to enhance the ship's combat potential, significantly improving its performance.
"I appreciate this spacecraft immensely. It may become my vessel for exploring the universe."
Hearing Marcus's words, Howard couldn't help but laugh. This was only the first-generation model—using this design as a foundation, he could create even more powerful vessels.
He still remembered the footage Fury had shown him; alien fleets remained a grave threat to Earth.
The two disembarked from the spacecraft and walked toward Howard and Maria's living quarters.
They discussed many topics along the way—life during these past years, developments on Earth, and more.
They arrived at Howard and Maria's residence, which Howard had transformed into an ecological park nearly identical to Earth's environment.
Countless vegetables and fruits grew abundantly, while Maria reclined on a deck chair, gently swaying in the breeze.
"Maria, look who's come to visit!" Howard called out.
Hearing her husband's voice, Maria looked up from her chair. A familiar figure appeared before her.
"Marcus?" Maria rose from her recliner in surprise. "I heard Howard say you'd returned, but I thought he was joking."
"Indeed I'm back," Marcus smiled. "It seems you and Howard have created quite a comfortable life in space."
Though just a small ecological park, Howard had replicated Earth's environment perfectly. Combined with surrounding virtual projections, without careful observation, no one would realize they weren't actually on Earth.
"It's not as exciting as it might seem. Though spacious, it grows monotonous, especially after you've seen everything around you."
For over a decade, she had explored the battleship inside and out. Even the surrounding space environment, she had experienced multiple times.
Initially, she had wandered around with great enthusiasm, exploring both warships. Now such activities held little interest.
Beyond tending to flowers, plants, and various crops in the ecological garden each day, she spent her remaining time teaching Skrull children to sing.
These green-skinned aliens had startled her at first, but she gradually acclimated to the shapeshifting Skrulls. In her estimation, apart from their appearance, they differed little from humans.
She regarded the Skrull children as her students, providing welcome entertainment.
The group entered the living area, and Marcus took a sip of the black tea Maria had poured.
"Your tea-making skills remain exceptional!"
After complimenting Maria, Marcus set down his cup and leaned back on the sofa, regarding Howard and Fury.
"I didn't ask outside, but now that we're alone, I'd like to raise a question."
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