Heralds of Galactus

Richard had explained nearly everything that needed explaining. The purpose of calling this meeting had merely been to warn everyone of the severity of the situation, and he was not particularly interested in discussing tactics or plans for what came next.

Stark, meanwhile, was already planning to rush back after the meeting and gather his Illuminati partners for a meeting. A cosmic giant that devoured planets descending from the heavens, humanity and Earth facing an unprecedented trial—it sounded exactly like the kind of mission meant for a group of human elites like them.

The Pentagon general was still trying to boss the superhumans around, carrying himself like a haughty superior. Everything he said implied, "You all have to listen to me."

Richard had no intention of sitting there and listening any longer. Just then, the communicator in his arms rang.

It was the contact device the Nova Corps had given him, allowing them to seek his help in emergencies while also letting the Corps immediately notify him of any developments on Earth.

Nova Prime herself answered the call. The white-haired woman, her face full of worry, informed him that they had observed three of Galactus's Heralds appearing near the Solar System. They were now speeding toward it.

As everyone knew, Earth was the only life-bearing planet in the Solar System, so it was obvious who they were coming for.

Nova Prime said she had already dispatched Novas as reinforcements. They had just set out and would still need some time to reach Earth.

Richard thanked her for her goodwill, but he estimated that the reinforcements would not make it in time.

If they allowed the Heralds to reach Earth before fighting, they should be able to hold out until the Novas arrived. But Richard did not intend to do that.