Chapter 71

"Are you seeing this, Reed?" Sue asked, pointing at the screen that showed a group of humanoid figures making their way from the cargo bay towards the cockpit.

"They... they look human," she noted, her voice filled with wonder. Sue turned to Reed, her eyes wide. "Could they... could they be like us? Do we share the same genetic structure? Did humans originate from here? Is it—"

"Sue, hold on a moment," Reed interjected, a soft chuckle in his voice as he placed a hand on her shoulder. He knew just how fast her mind worked, especially in situations like these.

"We're going to have our answers, Sue," he said calmly, giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze. "But we need to deal with the immediate situation first. Let's see what they want, and then we can start asking the questions. There's plenty of time for that."

His reassuring words seemed to calm Sue down a bit. However, there was a noticeable tension in the air, a product of the uncertainty they all felt as they waited for the humanoid visitors to reach the cockpit.

Reed and Sue watched intently as the group of scientists began to scan the device. Even though they were watching from a screen, it was evident that these individuals knew what they were doing. The sophistication of the technology they were using was unlike anything Reed had ever seen.

"Look at that handheld scanner," Reed pointed out, his eyes glued to the screen. "It's taking readings in real-time. The analysis speed is... it's remarkable."

"I've never seen such a device," Sue chimed in, equally fascinated. "It's like our tech, but leagues ahead. It's so efficient, so...advanced."

Reed nodded in agreement. He was a scientist through and through, always curious and excited to learn. "We could learn so much from them, Sue. If we could open a dialogue, share knowledge..."

"Assuming they're friendly, Reed," Sue replied, a note of caution in her voice. Despite the potential for scientific advancement, they were still in an unknown situation. "But you're right, this could be an incredible opportunity for us."

As they watched, the group of scientists continued to work on the device, their actions efficient and clearly well-coordinated. The Fantastic Four could only wait and observe, hoping that this strange encounter would lead to a peaceful resolution.

"Did you see that, Reed?" Sue exclaimed, her eyes wide as she watched the alien device being effortlessly miniaturized and contained. "They just... shrunk it down. Just like that!"

"I... I did," Reed stuttered, equally surprised. "That's... I mean, I've read about Pym particles in action during World War 2, but that's on a whole other level. It's... it's..."

"Incredible?" Sue supplied, the corners of her lips twitching upwards.

"Exactly, incredible," Reed echoed, completely amazed. "I mean, think about it, Sue. The potential applications are limitless. It's not just about reducing physical objects; this technology could revolutionize storage, transport, even space travel!"

Sue nodded, equally amazed yet cautious. "You're thinking about asking them for this technology, aren't you?"

"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't," Reed admitted with a sheepish grin. "This could be a game-changer for us."

"We'd better wait and see how this situation plays out, Reed. We don't even know if they're friend or foe yet," Sue warned.

Reed nodded, understanding the caution behind her words. "Yes, you're right, Sue. Let's take this one step at a time."

Watching the scientists leave with the alien device, Reed and Sue could only speculate about the future, their minds swirling with the possibilities this encounter could bring.

"Captain," Astrid's holographic form stood tall on the bridge of the Genoshian patrol ship. Her holographic eyes surveyed the crew before she addressed the captain. "You have secured the device?"

"Yes, ma'am," the captain replied, a hint of pride in his voice. "Our team got it without any resistance. It's en route to the science division as we speak."

"Excellent," Astrid responded, nodding in approval. "For now, maintain your position. Do not engage or communicate with the unidentified ship."

"Aye, ma'am," the captain saluted. "They will be kept under watch. We await further instructions."

"Good," Astrid concluded, before her hologram flickered out, leaving the captain and his crew in silence.

Meanwhile, aboard the Marvel-1, Reed and Sue watched the sequence of events unfold with a mixture of awe and apprehension.

"They've left," Reed noted, his gaze fixed on the monitor as the boarding party's ship detached from theirs and drifted away.

"And we're... just being left here?" Sue asked, her brows furrowing in confusion. "What are they going to do with us?"

Reed sighed, a hand running through his hair. "I don't know, Sue," he admitted. "I really don't know."

Silence descended upon the ship as they both shared a look of uncertainty, unsure of what was to come.

***

"Lydia," Astrid's voice resonated softly through the room, carrying the good news. "Our science team has started analyzing the device. It appears to be a navigational unit, although heavily damaged."

Lydia, perched on the edge of her desk, nodded. "Can we use it?" she asked, her tone hopeful.

"I believe so," Astrid confirmed, "Even in its current condition, we might be able to extract valuable data. We could possibly narrow down the radiation spectrum tied to this device and, by extension, to Annihilus."

A sigh of relief escaped Lydia's lips. "Finally, some good news," she murmured, her gaze drifting towards the window, where the endless cosmic expanse stretched out.

After a moment of silent contemplation, she turned back to Astrid. "Arrange a meeting with the Fantastic Four. But...I won't be the one to meet them."

Astrid raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

"Send Emma Frost," Lydia clarified, her voice firm. "We can't afford to set a precedent where I am involved in every minor incident. We have capable individuals for a reason."

"Understood," Astrid responded, nodding. "I will notify Emma and inform the captain of your orders."

"Good. Keep me updated, Astrid," Lydia replied, standing from her desk. "I'm counting on you."

"Of course, Lydia," Astrid responded with a smile. "You know you can always rely on me."

***

A holographic image of Emma Frost flickered into existence before Astrid, an inquisitive look on her face.

"Astrid, what can I do for you?" Emma asked, her voice as smooth as ice.

"Lyd... I mean, the Empress has a task for you, Emma," Astrid started, "You've been assigned to represent the Empire in a diplomatic mission."

"Interesting," Emma tilted her head slightly, "Who am I meeting?"

"An Earth-based group called the Fantastic Four," Astrid explained.

Emma's brows furrowed in confusion, "Fantastic Four? I haven't heard of them."

Astrid nodded, "They're new. The Empress wants you to extend an offer for them to join our Empire, or at least establish communication between us for potential future cosmic threats to Earth."

"And why aren't we offering them our technology?" Emma asked, a hint of suspicion in her voice.

"Lyd... the Empress," Astrid corrected herself quickly, "thinks that despite their benevolent nature, their leader, Reed Richards, has a habit of unintentionally causing problems. Like, causing the escape of a being called Annihilus."

A slow nod was Emma's response. "So, we're offering a helping hand, but with limitations."

"Exactly," Astrid confirmed. "Think you can handle that?"

Emma gave a confident smirk, "Of course, Astrid. Just make sure to send me all the information we have on these Fantastic Four."

"Will do," Astrid nodded, "And Emma, I know you're always quick, but the Empress stressed urgency on this matter."

"Understood," Emma affirmed, her figure flickering as she prepared to disconnect, "I'll depart immediately."

With that, Emma Frost's image vanished, leaving Astrid to continue her work.

***

Reed, glancing at the communications console, clears his throat. "This is Reed Richards again, we would like to know how long we are expected to remain stationary here," he spoke into the mic.

The voice of the Genoshian Captain echoed back, as firm and stern as before. "Unidentified vessel, remain patient. A representative is en route to your location to discuss the matter. Any act of movement or powering engines will be considered as hostile intent."

Johnny rolled his eyes. "Great, a diplomatic visit," he scoffed, "Sue, do we have any of those fancy cucumber sandwiches?"

"Johnny, this isn't a tea party," Sue replied, a bit of anxiety in her voice. She turned to Reed, "What do you think their intentions are, Reed?"

Reed sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "I don't know, Sue," he admitted, "But for now, we just have to stay put. We'll be diplomatic, cooperative. Hopefully, we can work something out."

"Let's just hope they don't start shooting first," Ben grumbled from his corner, arms crossed over his chest.

"We'll handle it," Reed reassured his team. He turned his gaze to the viewport, towards the unknown expanse of space that stretched out before them.

Minutes turned into hours as the Fantastic Four waited for the arrival of the Genoshian representative, the tension in the air palpable.

"Oh my god, Reed," Sue gasped, her eyes wide at the sight of the gigantic spacecraft that materialized before them. "It's... it's enormous!"

Reed, just as awestruck, could only nod, the scale of the technology on display beyond anything they had encountered. His train of thought was interrupted by the Genoshian Captain's voice over the comms.

"Unidentified vessel, our representative has arrived. Stand by for towing sequence."

As the Marvel-1 was caught in the tractor beam and started being drawn towards the larger ship, Johnny and Ben came forward, their casual banter stopped short by the sight before them.

"Woah," Johnny muttered, "Now that's a ship!"

Ben, uncharacteristically silent, just nodded.

The Marvel-1 was gently guided into the gargantuan ship, huge bay doors parting to welcome them. The ship came to a gentle hover over a platform, seemingly prepared for their arrival.

A new voice came over the comms. "This is Commander T'lan. Unidentified vessel, you are above your designated landing platform. Please initiate your landing sequence."

Reed swallowed, pressing the controls to begin the landing sequence. The ship descended gently onto the platform.

"Also," the commander continued, "Please disembark from your vessel upon landing. Our representative is awaiting to meet with you."

Reed turned to his team. "Alright, let's be on our best behavior. Remember, we're here in peace. Let's find out what they want."

Nods went around the room as the Fantastic Four prepared to meet their Genoshian host.

Emerging from the Marvel-1, the Fantastic Four were met by the sight of a woman, looking very human, dressed in an elegant and regal attire. Guards, stern and imposing, stood in formation behind her.

Sue, eyes sparkling with excitement, was the first to speak. "Reed, she looks human! Do you know what this means?"

Reed, too, was noticeably excited but maintained his composure. He turned his attention to the woman. His scanner on his arm confirmed the presence of oxygen, and he gingerly took off his helmet, prompting the others to follow suit.

"Hello," Reed said warmly, stepping forward. "I'm Reed Richards. This is Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm. We are scientists from Earth and came here following an energy signal. We mean no harm."

Emma smiled in response, "Welcome, Fantastic Four. I'm Emma Frost, representative of the Genoshian Empire. I'm already aware of your intentions and your... 'accidental' intrusion into our space. But there's no need to worry, we don't consider you a threat. However, there are certain matters we must discuss, primarily concerning a certain device in your possession."

The Fantastic Four exchanged glances. It was clear that this encounter was far from over, but at least the immediate threat seemed to have passed.

Emma turned, indicating the way forward, "If you could please follow me, we've arranged a place for discussion."

As they walked through the gargantuan ship, Reed and Sue were like kids in a candy store. Their eyes darted around, taking in everything from the unique lights on the ceiling to the intricate design of the weapons carried by the guards, and even the fabrics of the uniforms worn by the personnel they passed.

"Look at those lights, Sue," Reed pointed upwards, "their efficiency must be ten times that of what we have back home."

"And the fabrics," Sue added, lightly touching her own suit, "I bet their comfort and utility is leagues ahead of our own."

"Do you think these weapons use plasma energy?" Reed asked, squinting at a guard's rifle. "Or perhaps a more advanced form of energy propulsion we're yet to understand?"

Their questions and observations overlapped, their excitement palpable. Emma, leading the way, just chuckled lightly, not interrupting their excitement with answers. This situation reminded her of when Tessa and Astrid would lose themselves in their own technological discussions, ignoring the world around them.

Johnny glanced at Ben, smirking, "Looks like the eggheads are having fun, huh, Ben?"

"All I know is I wouldn't want to arm wrestle one of those guards," Ben replied with a low chuckle, looking at the uniformed personnel with wary respect.

Their banter carried on, adding to the lively procession, as they followed Emma Frost to the conference room.

As they all took their seats around the sleek conference table, Emma gracefully took her own seat at the head, her regal attire flowing around her.

She folded her hands together, looking at them with a cool and collected gaze, "Could you please explain how you obtained the device we found in your ship?"

Reed leaned forward, folding his hands on the table. He cleared his throat and began to explain, "It was an accident, really. You see, we were running an experiment in wormhole travel, trying to explore other dimensions. During one such experiment, our ship was inadvertently damaged and we ended up in what we later found out was called the Negative Zone."

His brow furrowed as he continued, "Stranded, we stumbled upon a... creature... he called himself Annihilus. At first, he appeared to be our savior, helping us find the materials we needed to repair our ship. But as we spent time there, we began to notice alarming things about him, about his dominion."

Sue took over, her voice quivering slightly, "Annihilus... he'd extinguished all other life in the Negative Zone. We realized we were in the company of a monster."

Reed nodded at Sue's statement, then resumed, "We managed to make a hasty exit but Annihilus followed us through the wormhole back to Earth. We just barely managed to close it in time after we crossed over."

Johnny chimed in, "Yeah, it was a close call. That bug guy had a whole swarm of ships ready to follow us. Good thing Reed closed that door in his face."

Reed sighed, "I'm afraid we were quite naive. We didn't realize the device was a navigational unit for interdimensional travel. We thought it was just another piece of his technology."

Emma listened quietly, taking in the Fantastic Four's recount of their encounter with Annihilus. It was quite a story, but it seemed to fit with what Lydia and Astrid had briefed her about.

Emma looked at each of them in turn, her expression revealing her understanding of the situation. "So, you're responsible for unleashing a cosmic level threat into our universe," she stated, more than asked.

Reed and Sue looked at each other, confusion lining their faces. Emma continued, "Annihilus has been laying low since he entered our universe, likely building up his forces to conquer it."

Reed's face paled at this. The realization of what they had unwittingly done weighed heavily on him. His hands tightened into fists on the tabletop, his knuckles turning white. "If only we had been more careful," he whispered, more to himself than anyone else.

"We might not have had a chance to correct our mistake if not for the device you took from Annihilus," Emma added. "It might lead us to his current location. We've been searching for him with little luck, even with the assistance of other galactic empires."

"Other civilizations? There are more out there?" Sue asked excitedly. She was about to ask more questions but was interrupted by Emma raising her hand.

"Your questions will have to wait, Ms. Storm," Emma said calmly, "We have more pressing matters at hand. Like your current standing in the Genoshian Empire."

Emma looked at them calmly, her gaze steady. "Empress Lydia Howlett has expressed her desire to invite you into the Genoshian Empire," she said, gauging their reactions.

The Fantastic Four looked at each other, the name ringing familiar bells in their minds.

"Lydia Howlett? Isn't that..." Reed began, before Johnny interrupted.

"The X-Woman who fought alongside the Avengers in the Battle of New York?" he finished, his eyes wide with recognition.

"Indeed, she is the same Lydia Howlett," Emma confirmed, nodding her head. "She has since ascended to the role of Empress, leading our Empire against threats like Annihilus."

There was silence as they absorbed this information. The thought of joining an empire led by a superhero they admired was enticing, but they also had many questions.

"Your invitation is quite generous," Sue started, her brows furrowed. "But we need to know more. About this empire, its rules, its goals. And what it would mean for us to join."

"I understand," Emma replied, her expression unreadable. "That's precisely why I'm here. To answer your questions and provide any necessary clarification."

Emma leaned back in her chair, studying the Fantastic Four intently. "The Genoshian Empire is built on the principles of peace, understanding, and co-existence," she began. "We're not conquerors seeking to subjugate other civilizations under our rule, but rather we seek to integrate them. To create a harmonious existence where all species can learn from one another, and prosper together."

Her eyes flicked to Sue, who was practically bouncing in her seat with excitement. "We currently co-exist with several species within the Empire's borders. Mutants, humans, the Skrull, Inhumans, to name a few."

"Wait, you said the Skrull? And the Inhumans?" Johnny interrupted, his eyebrows rising in surprise. "The same Skrull that have a reputation for being shapeshifters and the Inhumans of Attilan?"

"Yes, the very same," Emma responded, a smile playing on her lips. "We believe in nurturing diversity, and each species within the Empire brings something unique to the table."

Reed was nodding thoughtfully, his mind clearly racing with the possibilities. "And you recently integrated new species?" he asked, his gaze intent on Emma.

Emma nodded. "Indeed, we did. The Nova Corps saw our efforts in the war against the Kree and gifted us several new territories. We are currently in the process of integrating the civilizations residing in those areas."

Sue's eyes were sparkling. "That's incredible. The diversity, the learning potential...it's almost like a utopia," she murmured, looking awestruck.

Emma's smile widened. "That's the aim. To create a utopia where everyone, regardless of their species, can flourish."

"Indeed, peace and harmony are our ultimate goals," Emma clarified, her tone firm. "But that doesn't make us pushovers. The Genoshian Empire is a blend of monarchism, militarism, and imperialism. We maintain peace, by force if necessary."

Her eyes took on a distant look as she continued, "In fact, the energy reading you detected may have been a result of our recent conflict with the Shi'ar Empire."

Reed frowned, looking intrigued. "Conflict?" he asked, leaning forward in his seat.

Emma nodded. "Yes. A rather violent one, I might add." She paused for a moment, considering, before deciding to show them the footage.

As the video started, a hushed silence fell over the room. The Fantastic Four watched with wide-eyed fascination as they saw Lydia, the Empress, talking with Gladiator, the leader of the Shi'ar Empire. Then, the scene shifted to a battle so intense it seemed to defy comprehension.

Planets crumbled like sandcastles under the forces unleashed by the two combatants. Stars flared and died, succumbing to the raw power on display. The very fabric of space seemed to tremble and cry out, begging for mercy.

And then, they saw Gladiator, once the proud and mighty ruler of the Shi'ar, on his knees, broken and defeated. "I yield," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

The video ended with Lydia standing tall and undamaged above the defeated Gladiator, a scene that struck an awe-inspiring contrast to the devastation around her.

Johnny was the first to break the silence. "Wow, that was... intense," he said, looking a bit pale.

Sue gave a short nod, her eyes still glued to the screen where the video had played. "And she did all of that?" she asked, disbelief clear in her voice.

Emma simply nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Yes, she did. Empress Lydia Howlett, our leader and protector."

Reed looked thoughtful, his brow furrowing as he considered the information. "The scale of power is...astounding," he said finally, turning to Sue. "The energy required to accomplish such feats defies most known laws of physics."

Sue nodded, mirroring his thoughtful expression. "Bending light, generating enough energy to destroy celestial bodies..." she trailed off, shaking her head slightly. "And the most perplexing thing is, how are these individuals even capable of generating such power? It doesn't make sense with what we understand about biology and energy conservation."

Reed chuckled softly, an amused sparkle in his eyes. "When have we ever let 'making sense' limit our thinking, Sue? Perhaps we need to rethink our understanding of power and energy."

Sue smiled back, "Perhaps you're right, Reed. This is the thrill of discovery after all, isn't it? New frontiers of knowledge to explore." She paused for a moment, her expression becoming serious again. "But it also begs the question: How do we deal with entities that possess such power? Can we even hope to comprehend them?"

Emma coughed lightly to recapture their attention, a hint of a smile playing on her lips as she watched them discuss. "I can see you're both as curious as we hoped. But let's return to the matter at hand," she said.

She let the silence linger for a moment before continuing. "Empress Lydia believes that your skills, experience, and... boundless curiosity could be of great use to our Empire. She has specifically mentioned the possibility of you joining our Exploration and Scientific Department."

Reed looked intrigued, his mind already spinning with possibilities. "Your Exploration and Scientific Department... I presume it conducts research across the galaxy? Studying cosmic phenomena, alien civilizations, that sort of thing?"

"Exactly," Emma confirmed, "It behaves much like what you already do, but with a larger scope, more resources, and with the support of an interstellar Empire."

Johnny, who had been quiet, piped up, "So what you're saying is... we'd be space explorers, officially?"

Sue chuckled at his excitement. "We already are, Johnny. We'd just have a more... official title, it seems."

Emma nodded, "And the support and resources that come with that official title. The Empire values scientific pursuit and exploration highly. You'd be free to follow your interests, with the understanding that any significant discoveries would be shared with the Empire for the benefit of all."

Reed and Sue shared a glance, then Sue asked, "And if we decline?"