The vastness of space gradually gave way to the familiar blue-green sphere of Earth.
Thragg decelerated as he approached the planet's atmosphere, his keen eyes taking in the continents, oceans, and swirling cloud patterns below.
The journey had taken him considerably less time than anticipated - a mere nineteen hours rather than the full day he had expected.
'Interesting', he thought, hovering at the edge of Earth's atmosphere. 'My flight speed has increased. Perhaps the integration of my first life's memories has had physiological effects as well as mental ones.'
Thragg looked down at his hands, and for a moment, he realised that he saw something beyond the physical - a faint luminescence that outlined his form, pulsing with power.
'I can see my own soul,' he realized. 'This situation has led to something more... A grander affinity to the spiritual perhaps?'
If so then this was beyond great, for one of the greatest weaknesses of the Viltrumites has always their complete inaptitude when it came to anything magical or spiritual.
Eventually he dismissed this knowledge to something he will contemplate later and reached into a concealed pocket of his uniform, withdrawing a small device no larger than a human coin.
It activated at his touch, displaying a three-dimensional holographic map of the planet below, with a pulsing red dot indicating Nolan's location.
'Suburban America,' Thragg noted. 'Playing house.' Though not maliciously. A simple observation.
He descended into the atmosphere, his body automatically adjusting to the change in pressure and temperature.
The friction of entry caused a brief flare of light around him - a shooting star that few would recognize as anything more significant.
As he approached the North American continent, he slowed his descent further, becoming invisible to conventional radar and the naked human eye.
Night had fallen over this part of the world. Lights from cities and towns created patterns across the landscape below, a testament to humanity's conquest of darkness.
Thragg followed the signal to a quiet suburban neighborhood - neat houses with manicured lawns, all looking remarkably similar to his enhanced vision.
He paused high above, watching, observing. And then he saw something unexpected - a figure awkwardly ascending into the night sky, clearly struggling with control.
'Mark Grayson,' Thragg realized. 'His powers have just manifested.'
He watched as the young half-Viltrumite attempted to stabilize his flight, wobbling dangerously as he rose higher.
In the timeline Samael knew, Mark had crashed during this first attempt, damaging property but remaining unharmed due to his newfound durability.
But now Thragg was here, observing this pivotal moment. And he made a decision.
As Mark began to lose control, tumbling backward and starting to fall, Thragg moved with lightning speed.
One moment he was high above; the next, he was directly behind the boy, catching him effortlessly with one massive hand.
"Careful, young one," Thragg said, his deep voice calm and measured. "Flight requires focus."
Mark's eyes widened in shock, his body going rigid as he realized someone had caught him - someone who could fly just like he suddenly could.
"What - who - " Mark stammered, twisting to look at his rescuer.
The sight that greeted him was unlike anything he had expected. A towering figure with with a perfectly groomed mustache, and a physique that made his father's impressive build seem modest by comparison.
The stranger wore a uniform of red and white, with a cape that billowed in the night breeze.
"You're not my dad," Mark finally managed, stating the obvious.
"No," Thragg agreed, slowly descending toward the ground with Mark still held securely. "I am not."
"Are you - are you like him? Like us?" Mark asked, his voice a mixture of fear and excitement, recognizing the symbol on Thragg's chest as the one his father said belonged to Viltrum.
Thragg studied the boy's face, seeing the features of Argall in his grandson. "I am Viltrumite, yes. As are you, partially."
They touched down on the lawn in front of the Grayson home. Mark stumbled slightly as Thragg released him, still unaccustomed to his new abilities.
"How did you-" Mark began, but was interrupted by the front door of the house bursting open.
Nolan Grayson emerged at a speed no human could match, his senses having alerted him to a powerful presence near his home.
His expression shifted from alert readiness to shock as he recognized the imposing figure standing on his lawn.
"Grand Regent," Nolan breathed, immediately dropping to one knee and lowering his head in a formal bow. "You honor us with your presence."
Behind Nolan, Debbie appeared in the doorway, confusion and concern written across her face. "Nolan? What's going on? Who is-"
Her words died in her throat as she took in the scene: her husband kneeling before a massive stranger while Mark stood nearby looking equally stunned.
Mark had never seen his father show deference to anyone. Nolan Grayson was Omni-Man, Earth's greatest hero, invincible and proud. Yet here he was, kneeling like a subject before his king.
Thragg observed this tableau with interest, noting the shock on both Mark's and Debbie's faces. This moment - this first impression - would set the tone for everything that followed.
"Rise, Nolan," Thragg commanded, his voice carrying authority without needing to be raised. "You have served the Empire well in your time on this planet."
Nolan stood, though his posture remained respectful. "Thank you, Grand Regent. We... weren't expecting you quite so soon."
"My journey was swifter than anticipated," Thragg replied simply. His gaze turned to Mark, who stood awkwardly to the side. "Your son has just discovered his heritage, it seems."
Nolan's eyes widened slightly as he looked at Mark, understanding dawning. "Today? You've manifested today?"
Mark nodded, still too overwhelmed to speak coherently.
'It seems Mark has yet to tell his parents. Interesting. This does not align perfectly with my memories. Good to know. It means I can not rely on them to give truth always.' Thragg noted to himself seeing the interaction.
"A fortuitous coincidence," Thragg said, "The next generation of Viltrumite has awakened on Earth."
Debbie stepped forward cautiously, maternal protectiveness overcoming her fear. "I'm sorry, but who exactly are you? And how do you know about Mark?"
Thragg turned his attention to the human woman, studying her with interest. This was the female who had captured Nolan's heart, who had diverted him from his mission.
In the original timeline, Nolan had chosen her and Mark over his duty to the Empire.
"I am Thragg, Grand Regent of the Viltrum Empire," he stated, his tone formal but not unkind.
"I lead our people across the stars. And I know of your son because he is of significance to our future."
Debbie looked to Nolan, who nodded slightly, confirming Thragg's words.
"Perhaps," Thragg continued, "we should continue this conversation inside. There are matters to discuss that should not be overheard by your neighbors."
Nolan quickly nodded. "Of course, Grand Regent. Please, honor our home with your presence."
The formality in Nolan's speech was striking to both Mark and Debbie, who exchanged confused glances.
This was a side of Nolan they had never witnessed - deferential, almost subservient.
As they moved toward the house, Thragg placed a hand on Mark's shoulder, feeling the boy tense beneath his touch. "You have much to learn, young Grayson. But you have potential. Great potential."
Mark swallowed hard, looking up at the towering figure beside him. "Thank you... sir?"
A slight smile touched Thragg's lips. "Grand Regent will suffice for now."
Inside the modestly sized living room, Thragg's presence seemed to fill the space entirely.
He surveyed the human dwelling with curiosity - the furniture, the decorations, the family photos on the walls.
All of it so ordinary, yet it had been enough to sway one of the Empire's most dedicated agents.
"Nolan," Thragg said, turning to face Omni-Man. "I have come to Earth because circumstances have changed. The original mission parameters are no longer applicable."
Nolan's expression tightened slightly. "Has there been a development with the Empire, Grand Regent?"
"In a manner of speaking," Thragg replied. "I have received intelligence that necessitates a change in our approach to Earth."
"Intelligence?" Nolan questioned carefully. "From our network?"
"From a source beyond our network," Thragg said, echoing his words to Kregg. "One that has provided insight into potential futures - futures that would be detrimental to the survival of our race."
Debbie, who had been standing slightly behind Nolan, stepped forward. "I'm sorry, but could someone please explain what's happening? What mission? What intelligence?"
Thragg turned his gaze to her, appreciating her directness despite her obvious fear. "Your husband was sent to Earth to evaluate its suitability for Viltrumite expansion.
Our race faces extinction, Mrs. Grayson. A plague reduced our numbers from billions to mere thousands. We seek compatible genetic material to rebuild."
The bluntness of his statement caused Debbie to pale slightly, but she stood her ground. "And that's why Nolan is here? To... what? Prepare Earth for invasion?"
Nolan tensed, clearly uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation. This was not how he had planned to reveal the truth to his family.
"That was his original mission, yes," Thragg confirmed. "But as I said, circumstances have changed." He turned back to Nolan.
"You have not yet eliminated the planetary defense systems as previously instructed."
It wasn't a question, but Nolan answered anyway. "No, Grand Regent. I was... gathering more intelligence before proceeding."
"The Guardians of the Globe you called them," Thragg stated. "You were to eliminate them first."
Mark's eyes widened in shock. "What? Dad, what is he talking about?"
Nolan's expression became pained as he looked at his son. "Mark, there are aspects of my mission that I haven't shared with you or your mother. It's complicated-"
"It is indeed complicated," Thragg interrupted. "But perhaps now simplified. The conquest of Earth as originally planned will not proceed."
All three Graysons stared at him in varying states of confusion and relief.
"Instead," Thragg continued, "we will take a different approach. Earth has value beyond what was initially assessed.
Its heroes, its technology, its potential allies - all may serve the Empire in ways previously unconsidered."
Nolan's brow furrowed. "Grand Regent, forgive me, but this is a significant departure from established protocol. The High Council-"
"The High Council follows my lead, Nolan," Thragg said firmly. "And I have determined that Earth will serve us better as a willing ally through prior negotiation than immediate conquest."
Mark, who had been struggling to process everything, finally found his voice. "So... you're not here to invade? To take over?"
Thragg turned his attention to the young half-Viltrumite. "We are here to ensure the survival of our species, Mark Grayson. That has not changed. But the methods by which we achieve that goal are adaptable."
He moved to the window, looking out at the quiet suburban street. So different from the grand halls of Viltrum, yet there was something... appealing about its simplicity.
"Your father has spent twenty years on this planet," Thragg continued. "He has integrated into its society, formed attachments, created a family." He glanced meaningfully at Mark.
"Produced offspring that carries our bloodline. These are not failures of his mission, as some might view them. They are adaptations. Evolutionary advantages."
Nolan looked stunned. "Grand Regent, are you saying that my... my life here is acceptable to the Empire?"
"I am saying," Thragg replied carefully, "that I see value in what you have built here. Value that may serve our people better than simple conquest."
The relief on Nolan's face was palpable though tempered with caution. He knew Thragg too well to believe such a dramatic shift in policy came without conditions.
"However," Thragg continued, confirming Nolan's suspicions, "there will be requirements. Expectations. The survival of our race remains paramount."
"What kind of requirements?" Debbie asked, her protective instincts clearly on alert. Deciding that later she will ask Nolan about all this. For now she'll try to follow along and keep her shock down.
Thragg turned to face them fully, his imposing presence filling the room. "The Viltrumite breeding program must continue. Our numbers are critically low. Every viable genetic combination must be explored."
The implication hung in the air, causing Debbie to step closer to Nolan, who placed a protective arm around her shoulders.
Thragg's gaze swept across the three Graysons, measuring their reactions.
The human woman's protective stance, the son's confused defiance, Nolan's cautious diplomacy. All of it provided valuable information.
"What happens now is straightforward," Thragg stated, his deep voice resonating through the modest living room.
"Earth will be given an opportunity to work with us peacefully. Your governments, your heroes, your scientists - all will be approached with an offer of alliance and mutual benefit."
He clasped his hands behind his back, his cape settling around his imposing frame. "We will request their cooperation in identifying those with the most potential genetic compatibility with Viltrumites.
Those who might contribute to our species' survival while benefiting from our strength and knowledge."
Mark's brow furrowed. "So... you want to find humans to... breed with?"
"To put it bluntly, yes," Thragg confirmed. "Though I prefer to frame it as a genetic partnership. One with benefits for both species."
"And if Earth refuses?" Debbie asked, her voice steady despite her evident concern. "If people don't want to be part of your... genetic partnership?"
Thragg's expression hardened slightly. "If Earth's leaders refuse this generous offer and choose to resist instead, then I will personally ensure the planet's conquest. It would take me no more than an hour."
The statement hung in the air, its implications clear. Not a threat, but a simple statement of fact.
"While I would endeavor to minimize human casualties - your species is far too valuable to allow needless deaths - I cannot promise there would be no loss of life in such a scenario." Thragg's gaze fixed on Debbie.
"War, even brief war, has its costs."
"You can't just-" Mark began, his voice rising with indignation.
"I can, young Grayson," Thragg interrupted calmly. "And I will, if necessary. But I would prefer not to. The peaceful path offers advantages for all involved."
Nolan tightened his grip on Debbie's shoulder. "The Grand Regent is being more considerate than most would be, Mark. The traditional approach would have been immediate conquest."
Mark stared at his father, disbelief evident. "Dad, you can't seriously be okay with this!"
"I'm not saying I'm okay with it," Nolan replied carefully looking carefully at Thragg, hoping the Grand Regent doesn't see his choice of words as disapproval towards his methods.
"I'm saying we should recognize that the Grand Regent is offering options that wouldn't normally be considered."
Debbie stepped forward, her maternal instinct overriding her fear. "And what about Mark? What about Nolan? Are they expected to participate in this... breeding program too?"
Thragg nodded, appreciating her directness. "Yes. All Viltrumites, including those of mixed heritage, have a duty to contribute to our species' survival."
He noted the horror that flashed across Mark's face and the tension that tightened Nolan's jaw.
"However," Thragg continued, "in recognition of Nolan's two decades of service and the... unique circumstances of your family, I am prepared to offer a grace period."
"A grace period?" Nolan questioned.
"Yes. You and your family will be given time to adapt to these changes. A few years, at most, before you will be required to fulfill your duties to our species." Thragg's gaze settled on Mark.
"Time for the young one to complete his human education, to master his Viltrumite abilities, to mature."
"A few years?" Mark's voice cracked slightly. "And then what? I get assigned some... breeding partner?"
"You misunderstand," Thragg replied. "You would have considerable say in the selection process. Compatibility extends beyond mere genetics.
Psychological harmony, mutual attraction - these factors contribute to successful pairings."
"Oh my God," Mark muttered, running a hand through his hair. "This is insane."
"Mark," Nolan warned, but Thragg raised a hand.
"The boy's reaction is natural," he said. "This is much to process, especially for one raised with human values and expectations."
Debbie, who had been watching the exchange with growing concern, spoke up again. "And what about Earth's governments? Do you really think they'll just agree to this arrangement?"
"Some will, some won't," Thragg acknowledged. "Those that recognize the benefits of Viltrumite alliance - advanced technology, protection from cosmic threats, genetic enhancement - will likely be receptive.
Others may require... persuasion."
"You mean threats," Debbie challenged.
"I mean demonstration," Thragg corrected. "Of both what we can offer as allies and what we can inflict as enemies."
He turned to Nolan. "Which is where you come in. As Earth's greatest hero, your endorsement of our proposal would carry significant weight. You will help facilitate the initial diplomatic contacts."
Nolan nodded slowly. "I understand, Grand Regent."
"Good." Thragg's gaze returned to Mark. "And you, young Grayson, will begin your proper Viltrumite training immediately.
Your father has taught you human values; now you must learn the ways of your paternal heritage."
"I just got my powers today," Mark protested. "I can barely fly!"
"All the more reason to begin now, before you develop bad habits," Thragg replied. "Your training will be accommodated around your human schooling, for now. But it will be rigorous."
Mark looked to his father, seeking support, but Nolan merely nodded slightly, indicating that Mark should accept this arrangement.
"Fine," Mark muttered, crossing his arms. "But I still think this whole thing is crazy."
"Your opinion is noted," Thragg said dryly. "In time, you may come to see things differently."
He turned back to face all three Graysons. "I require accommodations for tonight. Tomorrow, we will establish more suitable arrangements and begin implementing our new approach."
"We have a guest room," Debbie offered reluctantly.
"That will suffice," Thragg agreed. "Nolan, we have much to discuss privately. The rest of you may retire."
"Now wait just a minute," Debbie began, her protective instincts flaring. "You can't just come into our home and start giving orders-"
"Debbie," Nolan interrupted gently. "It's alright. The Grand Regent and I need to discuss matters of Viltrumite concern."
"But-"
"Mom," Mark said, surprising everyone. "Let's just go upstairs. Dad can handle this."
Debbie looked at her son, then at her husband, clearly conflicted. Finally, she nodded. "Fine. But this conversation isn't over, Nolan."
As Debbie and Mark headed upstairs, Mark cast one last confused and somewhat resentful glance at Thragg before following his mother.
When they were alone, Thragg's demeanor shifted subtly - still authoritative, but with a hint of something almost like camaraderie.
"Your mate is spirited," he observed. "I can see why she has affected you so deeply."
Nolan remained cautious. "Debbie is... unique. As is Mark."
"Indeed." Thragg moved to the window, looking out at the quiet neighborhood. "You've built quite a life here, Nolan. One worth preserving, perhaps, within the larger framework of our species' needs."
"Thank you for the consideration you've shown them," Nolan said carefully. "The grace period is... generous."
"It is practical," Thragg corrected. "Forcing compliance too quickly would breed resentment, resistance.
Better to allow adaptation time. Besides, your son is young. His genetic contribution will be more valuable once he has fully matured."
Nolan nodded, though his expression remained troubled. "May I ask what changed, Grand Regent? This approach is unlike anything I would have expected from Viltrum."
Thragg considered the question.
"Let us say that I have gained perspective," he replied carefully. "Insight into potential futures where our traditional methods lead to... unfavorable outcomes."
"Precognition?" Nolan asked, clearly skeptical. "Or some form of temporal technology?"
"Neither," Thragg said. "But no less reliable. You simply need to know that my presence here serves the ultimate goal of Viltrumite survival and prosperity."
"There is another matter we must discuss, Nolan. One that requires your complete attention."
Nolan tensed slightly. "What matter is that, Grand Regent?"
"Your position on this planet," Thragg stated instead. "You have established yourself as its greatest protector. This provides you with access and influence that will prove invaluable in the coming transition."
"Yes, Grand Regent. The humans trust Omni-Man implicitly."
"As they should," Thragg replied. "You have saved them countless times. Now you will save them again, by guiding them toward cooperation rather than resistance."
He placed a hand on Nolan's shoulder, feeling the tension in the muscles beneath. "I have served as Regent for centuries, Nolan. I have kept our people alive through plague, civil war, and decline.
I have made difficult decisions that others could not. Now I am making another such decision by altering our approach to Earth."
Nolan nodded, clearly relieved that whatever he had feared Thragg might say wasn't forthcoming. "I understand, Grand Regent. I will do whatever is necessary to ensure the success of this new strategy."
"Good," Thragg said, removing his hand from Nolan's shoulder. "Your loyalty to our people has never been in question. Your effectiveness, however, will be measured by results."
He moved toward the window again, looking out at the quiet neighborhood. "This world has changed you, Nolan.
Made you question values and methods you once accepted without thought, I can see it, so try not to deny it.
Though I will admit that perhaps there is wisdom in that change, wisdom our people could benefit from."
Nolan joined him at the window, standing slightly behind and to the side - the position of a lieutenant to his commander. "What happens now, Grand Regent?"
"Now," Thragg said, "we begin the work of reshaping the future. Tomorrow, you will introduce me to the leaders of this world.
We will establish diplomatic relations, offer technological exchange, propose mutual defense agreements."
"And the Guardians of the Globe?" Nolan asked. "Now that their elimination is no longer commanded?"
"You will introduce me to them instead," Thragg replied. "As an ally against greater threats."
"They'll be suspicious," Nolan warned. "Especially Cecil."
"Suspicion is natural and healthy," Thragg acknowledged. "We will address it with transparency - selective transparency, but transparency nonetheless."
He turned to face Nolan directly. "This path will not be easy, Nolan. There will be resistance. But it offers the best chance for both our peoples to thrive."
Nolan nodded slowly. "I understand, Grand Regent."
"Now, I believe your mate and son are anxiously awaiting your return upstairs. Go to them. Reassure them. We will continue our discussions tomorrow."
Nolan hesitated briefly, then nodded and headed for the stairs. At the bottom step, he paused and looked back. Still dissatisfied by the earlier explanation.
"Grand Regent... why now? After all these centuries, why come to Earth personally at this moment?"
"Because sometimes, Nolan, the universe offers second chances. Opportunities to correct the course of history before mistakes are made. I intend to seize this opportunity."
With that cryptic statement, he turned back to the window, dismissing Nolan with his posture.
'Knowledge is power,' he thought. 'And the knowledge of Nolan's heritage is power I will hold close for now.
When the time is right - if the time is ever right - I may reveal it. But not before I've secured my position as the Emperor and the future of our race.'
After a moment of silence, Nolan cleared his throat. "If you'll follow me, Grand Regent, I'll show you to our guest room. It's... modest by Viltrumite standards, but it should provide adequate privacy for the night."
Thragg turned from the window and nodded. "Lead on."
They ascended the stairs, Nolan moving with the careful precision of a man acutely aware of the power following behind him.
The wooden steps creaked slightly under Thragg's weight, though he moved with surprising grace for his size.
At the top of the stairs, Nolan led him down a short hallway, passing closed doors that Thragg presumed belonged to Mark and the master bedroom.
At the end of the corridor, Nolan opened a door to reveal a small room with two twin beds, a dresser, and a window overlooking the backyard.
"As I said, it's modest," Nolan apologized, gesturing for Thragg to enter. "The bathroom is across the hall."
Thragg surveyed the room with mild amusement. The beds were clearly designed for human proportions, their frames appearing almost childlike compared to his towering form. The ceiling was high enough that he wouldn't need to stoop, but only just.
"It will suffice for one night," he said, stepping into the room. His cape brushed against both walls of the narrow space simultaneously.
Nolan lingered in the doorway, clearly uncertain about the protocol of hosting the Grand Regent in his suburban home. "Is there... anything else you require?"
"No," Thragg replied. "You may go to your family. I'm sure they have many questions."
"Yes, Grand Regent." Nolan hesitated, then added, "Good night," before closing the door.
Alone in the guest room, Thragg removed his cape and draped it carefully over the dresser.
He examined the two beds, then pushed them together with a single, silent movement. Even combined, they would barely accommodate his frame, but it was better than the alternative.
He sat on the edge of the makeshift bed, feeling it sink dramatically under his weight. The frame creaked in protest but held.
Removing his boots, he stretched out experimentally, his feet extending well beyond the end of the mattress.
For a moment, the absurdity of his situation struck him.
The Grand Regent of the Viltrum Empire, the mightiest being in the universe, lying in a human guest room on beds meant for children, planning to reshape the destiny of two civilizations.
A slight smile touched his lips as he closed his eyes. Phase one was complete. He had arrived on Earth, established his authority, and set the stage for a new approach to Earth-Viltrum relations.
The secret of Nolan's bloodline remained his alone, a card to be played only when its strategic value was optimal.
Tomorrow would bring new challenges - introducing himself to the Guardians, establishing diplomatic channels with Earth's governments, beginning Mark's training.
And beyond that... the multiverse awaited. The interface had promised access to other worlds, other realities, once certain conditions were met.
What those conditions might be, Thragg could only speculate. But he was patient. He had lived for centuries and could wait a little longer for such power to unlock.
For now, Earth offered more than enough opportunities and challenges to occupy his attention.
With these thoughts, the Grand Regent let the darkness of sleep take him, unworried, for none could harm him even in his most vulnerable state.
----------------------------
(Author note: Hello everyone! Hope you all enjoyed the chapter!
Yeah, Thragg is gonna do the peaceful approach first, do you think it will work or will he have to make an example?
How do you think the situation with Mark, Nolan and Debbie will go?
Well, I am quite interested in your responses and I hope to see you all later,
Bye!)