One week had passed since Earth became a protectorate of the Viltrum Empire.
Seven days of adjustment for humanity, as Viltrumite representatives established their presence in major cities worldwide, as scientists began working with alien counterparts, as governments restructured to accommodate the new power structure.
In that time, Thragg had chosen his seat of power – the peaks of Mount Everest.
The highest point on Earth seemed fitting for the ruler of the Viltrum Empire, symbolically placing him above all of humanity.
The harsh conditions that made the mountain inhospitable to humans posed no challenge to Viltrumite physiology, and the remote location provided security while still allowing Thragg to reach any point on the globe within moments if necessary.
Now, standing on a massive, flattened plateau near the summit, Thragg observed as a young woman manipulated matter before his eyes.
Samantha Eve Wilkins – known to the world as Atom Eve – stretched out her hands, pink energy flowing from her fingertips to reshape the mountain.
Massive blocks of stone rose and shifted, forming walls and towers, archways and battlements.
A castle was taking shape – not built, but grown – from the mountain itself.
The structure combined elements of Viltrumite architecture that Thragg had described with human design elements.
Tall towers with thin spires stretched toward the sky, while thick walls of compressed stone formed a barrier around the perimeter.
Beside Thragg stood Mark Grayson, watching with obvious awe.
The young half-Viltrumite had spent the past week in a state of adjustment, coming to terms with both his heritage and Earth's new status.
"Impressive," Thragg remarked, his deep voice carrying easily despite the thin air. "The girl has remarkable control over her abilities."
Mark nodded, still watching Eve work. "Yeah, she's amazing. I've never seen her create something this big before."
Thragg studied the young hero's expression with interest. The admiration in Mark's eyes was evident – and not merely for Eve's powers.
'Her manipulation of matter exceeds what I would have expected,' Thragg thought to himself.
'In the original timeline, she was powerful, but not to this degree. Fascinating how many differences there are and how some are so much more useful.'
Eve had begun working on the interior of the castle now, creating grand halls and chambers, staircases and balconies.
Sweat beaded on her forehead despite the freezing temperature, showing the mental effort required for her actions.
After another twenty minutes of work, she finally lowered her hands, the pink energy fading.
The castle stood complete – a fortress worthy of the Grand Regent of Viltrum, gleaming in the harsh mountain sunlight.
"It's done," Eve called, her voice slightly strained from effort. "What do you think?"
Thragg surveyed the structure with a critical eye. "Exceptional work, girl. You have exceeded my expectations."
Eve approached, brushing a strand of red hair from her face. "Thanks. It should be stable down to the molecular level. I reinforced the structure to withstand the extreme conditions up here."
"The temperature variations, wind stress, and seismic activity will not affect it," Thragg agreed, having analyzed the construction himself.
"You have created something that would have taken traditional builders years to accomplish, and with far greater precision."
Eve smiled, pleased with the praise despite her wariness of the Viltrumite leader. "I've never done anything this big before. It was... challenging."
"Yet you succeeded admirably," Thragg noted. His gaze shifted between Eve and Mark, who had moved closer to his classmate. "You two attend the same educational institution, do you not?" He suddenly asked.
Both teenagers looked surprised by the question.
"Uh, yeah," Mark confirmed. "We go to the same high school."
"Interesting," Thragg said, his tone casual but his eyes shrewd. "Perhaps you should pursue her, Mark. She seems intelligent, beautiful, and powerful enough, with good genetics for a half-Viltrumite like yourself."
Mark's eyes widened in shock, his face flushing red. "What? I don't - we're not - "
Eve's cheeks colored to match her hair. "That's not... we're just friends."
"A solid foundation for any pairing," Thragg observed, seemingly unperturbed by their embarrassment.
"Your offspring would likely possess remarkable capabilities – her molecular manipulation combined with your Viltrumite strength could produce a truly exceptional genetic line."
'That is if they are genetic in this timeline,'
"My powers aren't genetic," Eve interjected quickly, desperate to change the subject. "They're the result of a government experiment. I was altered as an embryo."
Thragg tilted his head slightly, considering this. "A shame. But that does not make you unsuited for Mark.
Non-genetic enhancements can still produce valuable adaptations in subsequent generations through epigenetic factors."
Mark looked like he wanted the mountain to swallow him whole. "Can we please talk about something else?"
Sensing their discomfort, Thragg decided to relent. "I am not going to force either of you into anything," he clarified with a shrug.
"That is not how I wish to repopulate the Viltrumite race. It was merely a suggestion, should you be willing to pursue it. I believe you would be quite compatible, based on my observations of your interactions."
Before either teenager could respond to this unexpected clarification, a figure appeared in the sky – General Kregg, descending rapidly toward the newly constructed castle.
He landed before Thragg, dropping to one knee in a formal salute.
"Grand Regent," Kregg acknowledged, rising only after Thragg nodded permission. "I bring a report on the genetic partnership program."
"Proceed," Thragg commanded.
"We have received approximately two hundred and thirty-seven volunteer applications from human females worldwide," Kregg reported. "Initial screenings for genetic compatibility and health factors have been completed."
Thragg's expression remained neutral, but his interest was evident. "Do they each understand their duty correctly?"
"We have made the terms explicit," Kregg confirmed.
"Each volunteer has been informed that while they will be provided with a life of luxury and the highest standard of care, they will be exclusively paired with their assigned Viltrumite partner.
No other romantic or sexual relationships will be permitted once they enter the program."
"Good," Thragg nodded. "Has it been made clear that this exclusivity is necessary to eliminate complications regarding paternity?
We cannot waste time determining whether offspring possess Viltrumite genes when every moment counts in our repopulation efforts."
"Yes, Grand Regent," Kregg replied. "All volunteers have acknowledged and accepted these terms."
Thragg's eyes narrowed slightly. "And what of their character? Have you conducted background investigations to ensure they haven't betrayed previous partners?
That they haven't betrayed their partners for the luxuries offered? I have no interest in introducing the blood of traitors into Viltrumite lineages."
Mark and Eve exchanged uncomfortable glances at the turn in conversation, but remained silent.
"Extensive background checks have been performed," Kregg assured him. "Those with histories of infidelity or deception have been eliminated from consideration.
As you have taught us, both spiritual and genetic factors from parents can influence offspring. We seek only those of honorable character."
"Excellent," Thragg seemed satisfied. "Our research on genetic inheritance patterns has always emphasized the importance of character traits alongside physical capabilities. Prepare the final candidate list for my review."
"It will be done, Grand Regent," Kregg promised. He hesitated, then added, "There is one other matter. Several governments have expressed concern about the program, fearing coercion despite our assurances of voluntary participation."
Thragg's expression hardened slightly. "Arrange meetings with these government representatives. I will address their concerns personally.
The repopulation of our species is non-negotiable, but I have no desire for unwilling participants.
They would only produce complications and inferior offspring due to the spiritual troubles and incompatibility during the process."
Kregg nodded, then glanced at Mark and Eve, clearly uncertain whether to continue with them present.
Thragg noticed his hesitation. "You may speak freely, General. These young ones should understand the realities of our situation."
"As you wish, Grand Regent," Kregg continued. "The medical technology transfers have begun as promised.
Human scientists report significant progress in adapting our treatments for their physiology. Early tests suggest cancer and several genetic disorders can be eliminated within months."
"Good," Thragg nodded. "This will demonstrate our commitment to improving human life, as promised. What of the resistance movements?"
Mark tensed at this, and Eve's eyes widened slightly.
"Small and disorganized," Kregg reported dismissively. "Primarily online discussion groups at this stage.
The Global Defense Agency is monitoring them. Director Stedman believes most will dissipate as the benefits of Viltrumite rule become apparent."
"And if they do not?" Thragg asked.
"Then they will be dealt with appropriately," Kregg stated. "With minimal force, as you instructed."
Thragg nodded, then turned to Mark and Eve. "You see? We keep our promises. Earth will benefit from Viltrumite protection and technology.
In return, we ask only for cooperation and assistance in ensuring our species' survival."
Mark looked unconvinced but said nothing. Eve, however, found her voice.
"And those who don't want to cooperate?" she asked carefully. "What happens to them?"
Thragg regarded her with what might have been respect for her boldness. "Non-cooperation is not the same as active resistance, girl.
Those who wish to live their lives quietly, neither assisting nor opposing us, are free to do so. Only those who actively work against Viltrum interests will face consequences."
"What kind of consequences?" Mark asked, unable to remain silent any longer.
"Proportional ones," Thragg replied simply. "I am not a tyrant, Mark. I am a ruler. There is a difference."
Before Mark could respond, Thragg turned back to Kregg. "You have additional duties to attend to, General. You may go."
Kregg saluted once more, then launched himself into the sky, disappearing within seconds.
Thragg surveyed his new fortress with evident satisfaction. "Your work is complete for today as well, Samantha Eve Wilkins. You have my gratitude."
Eve nodded, still processing the conversation she had just witnessed. "Um, you're welcome... Grand Regent."
"Mark will escort you home," Thragg continued. "Tomorrow, General Kregg will begin Mark's formal Viltrumite education. But his true combat training will come from me."
Mark looked surprised. "I thought Kregg was handling all my training."
"Kregg will teach you history, culture, and basic combat forms," Thragg clarified. "But you require special attention as a half-Viltrumite. Your unique physiology demands a customized approach that only I can provide."
There was something in Thragg's tone – not quite warmth, but perhaps a hint of personal interest – that seemed to catch Mark off guard.
"Oh. Okay. Thanks," he managed.
Thragg nodded. "You may both depart. Mark, be at the GDA headquarters tomorrow at 06:00 hours for your first session with General Kregg."
As the teenagers prepared to leave, Thragg added, almost casually, "And do consider what I said about compatibility. The choice is yours, of course, but observation suggests you already harbor mutual attraction."
Both Mark and Eve blushed furiously again, avoiding each other's eyes.
"We'll, uh, keep that in mind," Mark mumbled, then quickly took to the air.
Eve activated her powers, surrounding herself with pink energy and following him into the sky.
Thragg watched them depart, a slight smile playing at the corner of his mouth. Young ones were so predictable, regardless of species.
Their embarrassment merely confirmed what he had already observed – there was indeed attraction there, though perhaps neither had fully acknowledged it yet.
From what he understood, Eve and that Rex boy had already broken up because of his infidelity.
That boy had potential from what he knew from his first life memories, but such traitorous acts are something he despises, so he isn't one he will take much note of till he fixes himself.
He turned to enter his new fortress, the Castle of Viltrum, as he had named it. The structure was impressive, a worthy seat for the ruler of Earth and the Viltrum Empire.
From here, he would guide both civilizations toward a future that, in the original timeline, had never had the chance to unfold.
As he walked through the grand entrance hall, Thragg reflected on the past week. Earth's integration was proceeding more smoothly than even he had anticipated.
There had been protests, of course, and some isolated incidents of violence against Viltrumite representatives, but nothing organized or effective.
The benefits he had promised were already beginning to materialize. Viltrumite medical technology was being adapted for human use.
Agricultural innovations were being implemented in regions plagued by food insecurity. Energy solutions that would eventually eliminate fossil fuel dependence were in development.
And most importantly, the Viltrumite breeding program had begun.
Two hundred and thirty-seven volunteers was a promising start, though they would need many more to rebuild their population to sustainable levels.
Thragg reached the throne room – a magnificent chamber Eve had created according to his specifications.
The ceiling soared nearly a hundred feet overhead, supported by massive columns carved with the history of Viltrum.
The throne itself was positioned at the far end, elevated on a dais and crafted from a single piece of the mountain's heart.
As he sat upon his throne, Thragg activated the interface that had first appeared to him aboard his ship. The translucent blue display materialized before him, visible only to his eyes.
[STATUS] Name: Thragg (formerly Samael)
Race: Viltrumite
Position: Grand Regent of Viltrum Empire
Strength: Supreme
Age: [Classified]
[ATTRIBUTES]
Physical Power: Planetary+
Durability: Planetary+
Flight Speed: Massively Faster Than Light Combat
Skill: Master of All Viltrumite Techniques
Intelligence: Strategic Genius
[FUNCTIONS]
Universal Travel: PARTIALLY UNLOCKED
Conditions for full unlocking: Establish stable control over the current world.
Potential Destinations: 1 currently available
Thragg's eyes narrowed at the change in status. The function that had previously been fully locked was now partially available.
What did that mean, precisely? How would the system determine when his control was "stable"? And what was this universe that had become available?
He attempted to access more information, but the interface remained stubbornly vague, providing only cryptic descriptions of the potential destinations:
[DESTINATION 1]: Universe of Different Evolution – Various biological abilities.
Interesting, he wondered what this universe could possibly be. He has been contemplating if these worlds he can eventually travel are worlds he knows or not.
From his first life, this world was mere fiction, but it of course is not, so it stands to reason that possibly many other worlds he believed fiction to be real.
If the comics knowledge he learned from "Invincible" are to be trusted, he can for sure know there are two Multiverses known to him as "DC" and "Marvel" existent.
Though currently, he has no interest in traveling to them, for even he recognizes that his power is insufficient if something unexpected happened in these worlds.
These contemplations though were for the future.
For now, he needed to as the interface stated establish "stable control" over the current world, though that begged the question, what defined his current world?
Was it this entire universe? If so it would take centuries at minimum, or was it Earth itself for it was the focus in the "Invincible" comics?
If it is the latter than this interface as he is beginning to suspect has some profound connection to his first world. To his first life.
Deciding that this will all naturally come later, Thragg dismissed the interface with a thought and leaned back on his throne, contemplating his next steps.
The Guardians of the Globe remained a potential issue – broken but not eliminated. The Immortal, in particular, had lived too long to accept subjugation easily. He would need watching.
Cecil Stedman was cooperating for now, but the man was too intelligent and too devoted to Earth's independence to be fully trusted. He too would require careful monitoring.
And then there was Nolan and Mark Grayson – father and son, both with Argall's blood flowing through their veins.
In the original timeline, they had proven to be Thragg's downfall. But here, now, with his foreknowledge and careful management, perhaps they could become his greatest assets instead.
Particularly Mark. The boy was young, impressionable, still forming his identity and values.
With proper guidance – Thragg's guidance – he could become a true Viltrumite leader, embracing his heritage while retaining the compassion and adaptability his human side provided.
Particularly his usefulness against the hateful Scourge Virus. He still needed to deal with the Coalition soon, and rip off that traitor Thadeus's head, though all that is in good time.
For now though he will focus on bringing the boy to his side, acting the good caring uncle that he actually is, that Mark needs to start appreciating.
For he now has been preventing quite the traumatic experiences from happening to the boy.
Thragg smiled slightly. The Age of Viltrum was proceeding exactly as he had envisioned.
Earth was adapting. The Viltrumite race had begun its path to restoration. And soon, perhaps, other universes would open to his exploration and conquest.
All was as it should be.
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(Author note: Hello everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the chapter!
Do tell me how you found it. A bit of a more relaxed chapter compared the previous ones.
This fic for those who haven't read the tags is a kingdom building focused fanfic.
So expect there to be focus on that, and action when the time is.
Also, what do you think the availaible world is? I'm curious to hear your thoughts.
Well, I hope to see you all later,
Bye!)