Urd opened her eyes, finding herself alone. Zod, as always, had risen punctually. She had hoped to savor a peaceful morning lying against his chest, but his discipline won out; he was up by eight as usual. She thought back to the previous night. Whatever it was—love or something else—she only knew that Zod hadn't rejected her kiss. That was enough.
To Zod, though, the previous night was hardly significant. He once had practical concerns over such things, but now, with his electromagnetic powers, he could ensure total control over his biology.
Back at the lab, No. 18 had patiently awaited his return. When Zod entered, she stood immediately, her gaze on him without a word.
"Black Queen, set up her tasks for the day," Zod ordered his AI assistant.
With the success of No. 18, Zod's mind raced toward new creations. Channeling atoms, he began forming another artificial being, the image already clear in his mind.
"The power of atomic manipulation is impressive," he thought. "Imagine what could be achieved with control at the subatomic level."
He recalled Molecule Man, one of the few entities able to rival even the Beyonder's power with elemental control alone. If that's what's possible, then why should I stop here?
Focusing on the new creation, Zod fashioned a tall, striking figure with icy blue hair and a bitterly cold aura. He placed a finger on her brow, sending a wave of electromagnetic energy through her, activating her mind and awakening her.
"Am I... Esdeath?" she murmured, eyes adjusting to her surroundings.
Crafted with a genetic mix that mimicked Iceman's powers alongside a weakened Kryptonian gene, Zod had carefully structured Esdeath's personality and memories, instilling a regal, dominant bearing akin to the Esdeath he remembered.
"Nothing like shaping reality in the palm of your hand," Zod mused, watching as Esdeath, her gaze filled with awe and loyalty, looked upon him as her creator.
This allegiance mirrored the legendary loyalty of Akafir to his "Father." For Esdeath, Zod was that creator—a figure of reverence. She embodied the character he'd once admired. In a world where Zod could manifest his favorite characters, he realized with amusement, he could practically build a Kryptonian dynasty on Earth.
"Esdeath," he addressed her, "from today, you are part of the World Serpent, though you answer only to me."
Esdeath nodded, unwavering.
Satisfied, Zod knew he had more plans for his newfound abilities. He already felt detached from his previous colleagues and acquaintances, as if they were outdated. His creations represented "new energy," a dynamic force replacing the outdated structures around him. It was why, he admitted, he'd never make a suitable leader. His approach—swift replacement of the obsolete—was a mindset common among scientists but unsuited to the intricacies of governance.
These reflections quickly faded as he moved to his next endeavor.
At Blade Technology Industry's satellite launch facility, Zod combined atoms to construct three flawless satellites, which he teleported into orbit. Built from his "atomic alloy" and equipped with magnetic beam nuclear fusion reactors, these satellites could switch between fusion and solar power for extended operational lifespans. Invisible to conventional technology, they remained undetectable except by the most advanced systems.
"Blade Technology now has its own private satellite network," he declared upon returning to the office. Employees immediately noticed an improvement in connectivity.
"Boss," Urd greeted him. Dressed elegantly, she radiated an energy that caught everyone's attention. She had resumed her duties, efficiently placing a stack of documents on Zod's desk.
"Do we really have this much business?" Zod groaned, glancing at the files.
"These are the projects you personally approved, including the magnetic beam nuclear fusion power stations. So far, only a few nations, such as Japan, have shown real interest," Urd noted, pulling out the respective file.
Zod nodded, acknowledging this first step toward rolling out his new energy source.
"And here," Urd continued, displaying another document. "The moon mining proposal. The U.S. is hesitant."
Zod's true aim was to establish a base on the moon—ostensibly a mining site but equipped with high-powered weaponry for Earth's defense. If the Chitauri were ever to invade, a single strike from his lunar weaponry would deter any further incursions.
"Then there's the seawater desalination and development initiative," Urd added, moving on to the next file.