Marvel: Mutant Ascension

Evan sat in his study, reviewing the steps he had outlined for the acquisition of viable mutant DNA. He had already determined that traditional human augmentation was flawed—mutant genetics were the only viable path to sustainable evolution. Now, the process had to begin.

This wasn't a task that could be delegated blindly. The quality of the DNA samples would determine the stability of his future enhancements, and failure was not an option. He needed the best genetic material available, even if it meant getting his hands dirty.

Phase One: Black Market Genome Trade

The black market was the easiest but least reliable source. Various underground laboratories and rogue scientists had been trafficking in mutant genetic material for years, extracting DNA from captured mutants, stolen research, and illegal medical trials.

Evan, using an encrypted network of proxies, arranged a meeting with a well-known genetic trafficker known only as Dr. Weiss, a former bio-engineer turned smuggler. The meeting was set in a hidden underground lab beneath a decommissioned subway station—far from prying eyes.

The air in the underground chamber was thick with the scent of chemicals and sterilized equipment. Dr. Weiss, a gaunt, middle-aged man with wire-rimmed glasses and an unsettling smile, placed a cold storage container on the steel table between them.

"These," Weiss said, tapping the container, "are some of the finest mutant DNA samples you'll find on the market. Extracted from subjects with high regenerative capabilities and unique biological adaptations."

Evan opened the case, revealing vials of mutant blood samples, tissue cultures, and genetic sequencing reports. He picked up one of the vials, inspecting the label.

"This sample is degraded," he said flatly, setting it aside. "It's been exposed to improper storage conditions."

Weiss frowned but composed himself quickly. "We can work out a discount—"

"I'm not here for defective stock." Evan's gaze was cold. "Give me something of actual value, or we're done here."

Weiss hesitated before reaching into a separate containment unit. He pulled out a sealed vial with a unique biometric lock.

"This one," Weiss said, his voice lower. "It's untainted. I had to pay a fortune to get it out of a classified facility before they burned the remains."

Evan took the vial, scanning the genetic data. The sample contained a stable X-gene sequence with high biological adaptability.

This would do—for now.

Phase Two: Government Classified Projects

While the black market trade had provided a starting point, Evan knew the true breakthroughs were locked away in government-controlled research facilities.

Mercer Biotech's rapid rise had granted him an advantage: several government agencies were already negotiating contracts with him, unaware that he was using those negotiations to gather intelligence.

Through layers of backchannels, he identified a covert genetics research facility operating under a classified government contract. This was a place where mutants had been experimented on for decades, their genetic data stored in deep archives—hidden from the world.

Evan had no intention of negotiating for access.

Instead, he arranged for an infiltration operation.

Using a network of high-level corporate spies, he identified weaknesses in the facility's security—shift changes, blind spots, digital vulnerabilities. A well-placed bribe ensured that key personnel would be conveniently absent during his planned intrusion.

The night of the operation, a handpicked mercenary infiltration team, outfitted with the best equipment money could buy, breached the facility's perimeter. Their goal:

Secure primary genetic archives containing classified mutant enhancement research. Extract viable DNA samples stored under deep freeze conditions. Leave no trace of the intrusion.

The operation went smoothly—until an unexpected resistance team was deployed.

The government had anticipated a breach and had stationed a contingency security unit—enhanced human operatives, trained to eliminate threats without hesitation.

Gunfire erupted in the corridors, and alarms blared. Evan, watching from a remote surveillance location, issued immediate tactical orders. The mercenaries adapted, using high-powered EMP disruptors to disable security systems, while their combat specialists neutralized the threat.

Within minutes, they had extracted the required genetic material and disappeared before reinforcements arrived.

Back at Mercer Biotech's hidden lab, Evan examined the samples.

They were flawless.

Phase Three: Direct Extraction from Live Test Subjects

The most dangerous but effective method was retrieving DNA directly from live subjects.

Using intelligence gathered from both government research databases and black-market reports, Evan pinpointed the location of a secret mutant prison facility—a place where captured enhanced individuals were experimented on in complete secrecy.

A high-risk extraction mission was prepared. Unlike the previous operation, this one required precision. The facility housed high-value mutant captives, and any mistake could expose Mercer Biotech's growing influence in the underground world.

Under the cover of night, a stealth insertion team infiltrated the compound. The mission was two-fold:

Extract targeted mutants with specific biological markers that met Evan's criteria. Secure fresh, undamaged DNA samples.

The facility was heavily guarded, but they weren't prepared for an assault at this level. Using an advanced distraction technique, Evan's operatives disabled outer defenses while the infiltration team moved inside.

Once inside, the team encountered mutants in containment chambers—some half-conscious, others barely alive after prolonged experimentation.

Evan monitored the operation remotely, ensuring that only the most viable candidates were selected. No unnecessary risks. No distractions.

His focus was singular: obtain the best genetic material and leave.

By the time the facility's alarms fully activated, Evan's operatives had already extracted two high-priority mutant subjects and secured multiple DNA samples.

Evan sat in his lab, reviewing the collection of samples before him. He had acquired everything he needed.

High-quality mutant DNA samples from various sources. Extracted genetic markers from live subjects. The classified research data on failed enhancement projects.

With this, he could finally begin the next phase: breaking down, filtering, and integrating these genes into a workable biological framework.

This was the foundation of his future evolution.

The pieces were finally in place.

Now, it was time to reshape himself into the pinnacle of existence.