Three days later, the world was abuzz with the ongoing repairs, especially in Vill-City, and the upcoming declaration of a single world government. Vill-City High School had been rebuilt in two days and was now ready to resume its session. Mark McCoy, having left his apartment early, arrived at school ahead of the bus, only to be met with astonished gazes from students all around the compound.
Some students viewed him with jealousy, fear of his alien heritage, or anger, while others praised him for his heroic actions. Several recorded his arrival on their smart devices, stunning Mark and making him a bit shy. A group of students, a mix of males and females, quickly approached him for selfies, further astonishing him with their swiftness and enthusiasm.
As he walked into the school hall, the scene mirrored his entrance outside. A few girls took pictures with him, some even giving him kisses on the cheek and praising him for saving the school. Boys greeted him with the usual friendly gestures, shaking hands and offering compliments. Amidst this, Mark's gaze fell on Amanda and Mark Junior.
"Look who's here. Mark 2 in the house! You're like a celebrity now for saving the entire school from collapsing on us all," said Mark Junior, giving a playful jab on Mark McCoy's left shoulder. "Ouch!" he added, wincing slightly.
"Have you been working out, Mark?" Mark Junior asked, rubbing his knuckles.
"Amanda," Mark McCoy said softly.
"Mark 2," Amanda replied with a sweet, calm voice, her left eyebrow slightly raised.
Mark felt flattered by the way Amanda said his name, blushing as he playfully explained the whole Mark 1 and 2 thing as Mark Junior's idea, a nod to Ironman's AI assistant. In the middle of this, Amanda kissed him, catching him by surprise.
While all this was happening, Terra observed from a distance, secretly watching Mark's daily life as both human and alien, trying to understand how he balanced both sides of his dual heritage. She marveled at his ability to navigate this complex existence, pondering the future challenges he would face.
Meanwhile, at the Guardians of Earth headquarters, the heroes convened for a video conference call with President Baraq to discuss their next moves to strengthen Earth's safety and security against alien invaders. The president urged the heroes to seek help from wherever they could to defend Earth from the imminent Tetronian threat.
"In three days, the world will be governed by a single leader," President Baraq said over the video call. "Whoever is elected as president of the planet will have full control over the entire population and its resources globally. Just as I am addressing you, so are the leaders of every nation."
Turning his attention to Tetra, President Baraq asked, "Can Terra be trusted?"
Tetra responded, "Yes, Terra can be trusted. Additionally, there are other Tetronians who could aid us in battle." Although the president remained skeptical, voicing concerns that they may have been compromised, he shifted the conversation to a new superhero they had been monitoring before his sudden disappearance. He suggested making contact with this hero, unaware that he was referring to Mark, Tetra's son.
Tetra's expression changed to one of worry, but the president soon dismissed the meeting. As the heroes left the room, Teknight remained behind. The president wanted to discuss Teknight's ongoing project, an artificial universe intended as a contingency plan in case things went sideways.
"Teknight, how is the progress on the artificial universe?" President Baraq asked once they were alone.
"The project is advancing well, Mr. President. We've made significant strides in creating a stable and habitable environment," Teknight replied.
"Good. We may need it if the situation with the Tetronians deteriorates. We need every possible advantage to ensure humanity's survival," Baraq said gravely.
Teknight nodded. "Understood. We'll be ready."
"Owen Reyes, I know it's hard losing your body during your encounter with the Geranian alien tech, fusing your mind, body, and soul as one. They foresaw this event, but never explicitly stated it would be the Tetronians. You were chosen to inherit their most valuable tech, which you've enhanced," said President Baraq.
"Hmm..." sighed Teknight, worry evident in his voice.
"I know you've been trying to revive your original body on Saturn, away from this unforeseen circumstance. But is that what Julie would approve of, after you gave her a second chance to live and then erased her memory?" the president continued.
"It was for the best," Teknight replied softly. "If I had taken her advice earlier, instead of relying on my ignorance with Xalda—"
"You were only a teen with powers beyond your comprehension. Now, you're wiser. After all, they both fully acknowledged you and loved you equally," said the president.
Hearing this touched Teknight's artificial heart, bringing a flood of memories he didn't want to see. Swiftly, he diverted the topic. "Mr. President, I've retrieved the Xentrocurnia prime tech from the shattered remains of Tetroid. With this technology, we can not only accelerate the pace of UI (Upload Intelligence) to the AI universe (Meta verse) but also enhance its capabilities."
"Excellent," President Baraq replied, ending their discussion on a hopeful note.
As the call ended, Teknight turned back to his work, focused, fully aware of the weight of the responsibility he carried. He found something astonishing that made him question himself internally about the remains of Tetroid. The technology was ineffable to describe, yet it had been easily defeated by a single punch from Mark, which stunned him. Upon further examination, he discovered that its power source, while barely intact, could be harnessed for other purposes.
After extensive testing, Teknight was stunned to create a powerful virus from Tetroid's remains. This virus, which he named Ultra Virus, had the potential to kill any being in the multiverse. However, knowing the risks, he also developed a cure known as the Ultra Cure, capable of curing any known virus in the multiverse instantly. This cure was the only counter to the Ultra Virus, but both were still prototypes needing further testing.
Teknight couldn't help but marvel at the duality of his discovery—both a potential weapon and a safeguard. The weight of this power pressed heavily on him, as he knew the implications of what he had created. Yet, in the face of the looming Tetronian threat, he understood that every tool, every edge, could mean the difference between survival and annihilation.
Meanwhile, Tetra left the headquarters, her mind racing with thoughts of Mark and the looming threat of Tetramand and Tetora. She knew that the coming days would test them all, and she could only hope that Mark was prepared for the challenges ahead.
As the day drew to a close at Vill-City High School, the students were reminded of the upcoming exams. Mark McCoy and Mark Junior walked their usual route home, bidding farewell to Amanda along the way. After a short distance, Mark McCoy parted ways with Mark Junior, continuing his journey solo. Unbeknownst to him, Terra had been trailing him, her eyes fixed on her target.
Eventually, Terra revealed herself, her expression serious. "Mark McCoy, you never cease to amaze me," she said.
"What do you mean, Terra? Why so serious all of a sudden?" Mark asked, sensing the gravity in her tone.
"Your planet teeters on the brink of invasion, yet you go about your daily life as if nothing's amiss," Terra's voice rose in urgency. "You should be honing your strength, preparing for the battles ahead. If you hope to defeat the empire and claim the throne, you must train relentlessly. The empire won't hesitate to launch another assault on Earth," she warned, her intensity growing. "Perhaps Tetra's decision to keep the truth from you was a grave mistake."
"That's been on my mind," Mark replied, his voice steady.
"Then why aren't you training with me?" Terra asked, a hint of jealousy creeping into her voice. "Instead, you waste your time with that human girl."
"Her name is Amanda," Mark retorted, realizing Terra had been trailing him. "Wait, how did you know that? Have you been monitoring my every move? That's an invasion of privacy," he added, accusingly pointing at Terra.
Terra's expression turned sinister. "You're offended. Good. Use that to defend yourself against what's coming."
Before Mark could respond, Terra swiftly grabbed him by the neck and flew into the air. Mark struggled to break free, trying to reason with her.
"What are you doing? This is insane! You're insane!" he shouted, finally breaking free mid-air. They hovered, facing each other.
"I must admit, I've never seen a Tetronian as powerful as you, aside from Tetramand," Terra said, her voice laced with a mix of surprise and admiration.
"It's because I'm born of two worlds," Mark replied, his resolve strengthening.
"Indeed you are," Terra said, her expression softening slightly. "You need to embrace that strength, Mark. Your potential is immense, but it's meaningless if you don't push yourself to your limits."
Mark took a deep breath, absorbing Terra's words. "You're right. I can't afford to be complacent. But training doesn't mean I have to abandon everything else in my life. I can find balance."
Terra nodded, though her eyes still held a glimmer of skepticism. "Just remember, the time to prove yourself is approaching fast. Don't waste it."
With that, Terra flew off, leaving Mark to ponder the challenges ahead. He knew he had to find a way to harness his dual heritage fully, not just for himself but for the sake of Earth and everyone he cared about. But his thoughts were abruptly interrupted as Terra suddenly appeared at immense speed, knocking him off balance mid-air. She struck fiercely, but Mark skillfully dodged her attack, all the while contemplating her sudden aggression.
Terra paused, and they hovered, facing each other intensely. "But your humanity is a weakness, corrupting your true heritage," she declared, her tone firm with conviction. "You need to embrace your Tetronian side. Violence is in your blood. War and death define who you truly are - a conqueror. Sentiment has no place in war. It's in our blood. Hesitation makes you weak; it's either victory or defeat!"
Terra's expression turned calculating. "I'm not seeking world domination, Mark. Initially, I came to aid your mother in defeating the empire. But when I discovered your existence and your remarkable power as a hybrid, my objective shifted. Once the old empire falls, a new one should rise, free from outdated laws. And that's where you come in. With you by my side, we can forge a new Tetronian race. You are a remarkable specimen," Terra's words carried an unexpected hint of admiration.
"Or we could leave this world behind, Mark, and start anew," Terra continued, her eyes burning with intensity. "I love you, and that's why I want this with you. It's inevitable, whether you want it to or not. Your mother would understand."
Mark shook his head, incredulous. "If you're not crazy, then I think you're insane. We barely know each other, and we've only met four days ago."
Terra smiled, unfazed. "Fighting you is a humbling experience, Tetraman."
"Enough with the false modesty, Terra," Mark retorted, his tone sharp.
Terra's grin grew wider. "Ready for the fight of your life, Mark?"
Mark's voice remained firm. "I don't want to fight you, Terra."
Terra's expression turned enigmatic. "Fight on your terms, or don't fight at all."
Mark's confusion deepened. "What do you mean by that?" he asked, his brow furrowed in puzzlement.
Terra's expression turned grave. "You have no choice, Mark. When the others come, they'll show no mercy or compromise. There are far more powerful Tetronians out there, ones even your mother and I struggle to defeat. You'll soon face them if you don't leave with me. Each Tetronian is ruthless in their own way, with unique abilities. To protect Amanda, that fragile human you care for, you must fight me. It's the only way to grow stronger, to understand our tactics, and to think like a Tetronian. Otherwise, she'll fall victim to your people's brutality, whom your mother dares to defy."
Mark's voice was laced with conviction. "You're sounding like a mean Tetronian, Terra. But... I love her."
"What does that bitch have that I don't? Mark, let's face it - I'm better looking, stronger, faster, smarter, and just plain superior," Terra snapped. "Love isn't going to save this pathetic planet; it's what you earn after you've saved it."
"Integrity and more humanity than you'll ever have. That's what Amanda has. Tetronians are sick," Mark shot back, his voice laced with disgust.
Terra sneered. "How little you know of your own people, Mark. You should be pleased and honored that a superior female Tetronian like myself wants to be with you. It's a privilege most Tetronian males can only dream of."
Mark stood firm. "I am not that kind of Tetronian. Amanda and I belong to each other."
Terra's voice remained calm yet demanding. "Be glad that I'm only here to fuck you, Mark, as my new objective and for personal reasons. If I had come to conquer Earth, your planet would already be mine.
"Mark's tone darkened. "I'll be kind enough not to break you in half."
Terra's response was unsettling. "Oh! I love where this is going."
Mark quickly clarified, "What? No! That's not what I meant," but Terra swiftly tossed him aside.
As they clashed mid-air, exchanging blows, Terra said, "I hope this fight does not breach our alliance."
Mark replied, "It depends on the outcome."
Terra's next move was brutal, clapping Mark's ears with a resounding impact, causing them to ring and bleed. Mark drifted back in pain as Terra watched with excitement.
"I won't budge or grudge," Terra said, watching Mark clean the blood from his ears, his eyes burning with determination.
"Then there's nothing else to do but fight," Mark replied, his voice firm with resolve.
The skies erupted with the clashes of their combat, each blow resounding with impact. "That's more like it," Terra said, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "I've been holding back, even when we last sparred. I could have countered your powers back then. Now, I'll show you my true strength. It will amaze you."
Terra's expression turned sinister. "It's a shame Tetra won't witness my triumph over you. I'd love to claim you, Mark."
"Do you really think you can overpower me, Terra? Let alone seduce or force yourself on me?" Mark retorted, his voice laced with disgust.
Terra's grin grew wider. "One of those options has to work. Either way, it's happening soon." She laughed maniacally. "You should worry about saving Amanda from the clutches of a Tetronian pervert. I'd love to witness her demise. She's just a helpless human."
Enraged by Terra's insult, Mark charged towards her with incredible speed. Their forearms clashed, generating a massive impact and shockwave that resonated through the atmosphere. Locked in a fierce stare, they struggled to break free from their deadlock. Terra's words had ignited a burning rage within Mark.
"You'll pay with your life, Terra. I swear it," Mark growled, his voice trembling with fury.
Terra smiled, seemingly pleased. "Now you sound like a true Tetronian."
With a simultaneous burst of strength, they broke free from their forearm lock and collided with their fists. The energy released sent Terra flying into a nearby forest, where she crashed and destroyed everything in her path.
After quickly recovering, Terra dodged Mark's tetra beams, which obliterated the forest. Amidst his relentless assault, Terra unleashed a powerful magic blast that brought Mark crashing down from mid-air.
Thick smoke enveloped the area, allowing Terra to turn invisible and multiply herself. She attacked Mark from every angle, each strike more fervent than the last. Forced to defend himself, Mark unleashed his tetra breath, dispersing the fog and extinguishing the flames while stunning several of Terra's clones.
The forest now lay deserted, scarred by burnt trees, bushes, and devastated landscape.
Mark activated his tetra vision to scan for Terra, but she descended upon him with blinding speed. Just as she was about to strike, Mark's tetra hearing detected her, allowing him to catch and toss her aside midair. However, more of Terra's clones emerged from every angle, overwhelming Mark. He unleashed his tetra vision to incapacitate a few and freeze others, but the sheer number of clones soon overpowered him.
As the clones pinned Mark down, the real Terra observed from midair, only to be shocked when all her clones suddenly shattered, exploding into pieces. Mark resurfaced with immense power and rage, his eyes blazing with fury.
Terra smirked with sinister intent and charged toward Mark, their collision leveling the entire forest. Terra revived dead vines with her magic, sending them to attack Mark, who dodged every assault with swift reflexes. As he closed in on Terra, she unleashed a powerful magic attack that immobilized his body and infiltrated his mind.
Inside Mark's mind, he was stunned by Terra's sudden presence. She congratulated him on his efforts, acknowledging him as a worthy challenge. "Your physical strength is impressive, but this is one battle you won't win easily – the war of the mind," Terra said, appearing naked alongside Mark.
Terra explained that she had the upper hand in Mark's mind, boasting that only a few Tetronians had barely escaped her mind tactics. She warned that whatever happens in the mind affects their bodies.
Mark realized Terra's trump card was her telepathy. "I've faced telepaths before; I always find a way," he said, charging at Terra with immense speed. He thrust his fist into her chest, and Terra bled out, dropping dead. But it was only an illusion – Mark had already lost.
Terra had overpowered him the moment she activated her telepathic magic. As she assaulted Mark's mind, she simultaneously dominated his body, making him subconsciously experience his defeat while she engaged in sexual pleasure with him.
"You see, Mark, you have a lot to learn, and only I can teach you. Power is everything, but without skill, it's nothing but a mere bonus. With both, you could be unstoppable," Terra said, grinding against him with unbridled intensity. Mark watched helplessly, unable to speak or defend himself, as tears slowly fell down his cheeks. Terra smiled, tasting his tears with her finger before kissing him with fierce passion.
When Mark finally released into Terra, she dismounted, and in an instant, he regained his senses. He felt a wave of shame for being taken advantage of and sexually abused by Terra.
"You put up a good fight and lasted longer than any Tetronian male. It was an honor to have you, Mark. We should do this more often," Terra said as she took off, leaving him behind. "I hope you enjoyed the royal treatment," she added, her voice echoing in the breeze. Mark collapsed from exhaustion in the middle of the desolate forest.