A cosmic clash unfolds as Nova, the fiery herald of Galactus, stumbles upon the war-torn planet Birj, considering it a potential feast for her master. But her arrival triggers a violent encounter with Terrax, a former tyrant wielding a devastating energy axe that absorbs cosmic power. Terrax drains Nova’s energy and pursues her across space, setting the stage for a confrontation with the Silver Surfer.

Meanwhile, the Surfer seeks solace on Morovus, where he reunites with Kili and the shape-shifting Skrull hatchling, Precious. Their peace is shattered when Nova crash-lands, weakened and pursued. Terrax arrives, and his axe begins siphoning the Surfer’s power as well. Only Precious, with her unpredictable negative fireballs, manages to repel Terrax temporarily.

The trio seeks aid from Galactus, but the Devourer of Worlds rejects both Nova and the Surfer, furious at their failures. Terrax, ever ambitious, offers himself as a new herald, promising to end Galactus’ hunger. Intrigued, Galactus grants Terrax a summoning beam, setting him loose upon the universe.

Back on Birj, Terrax blackmails his people, threatening to bring Galactus unless they accept him as ruler. The Surfer and Nova intervene, but Terrax’s axe again proves nearly unstoppable. In a desperate gambit, the Surfer transmutes his cosmic energy into negative fireballs – mimicking Precious’ power—and finally neutralises Terrax. Nova seizes the axe, and together they reclaim their strength.

Nova questions her future without Galactus, while the Surfer, still haunted by loss and rage, vows to pursue justice. Galactus, alone once more, gazes upon a dead world, murmuring for his lost heralds.

Rebirth | Down to Earth (Part 1)