A new Elder may be emerging at Marvel, one that will have huge impacts on both the Fantastic Four and quite possibly, the entire Marvel Universe. According to the Marvel solicitations for Fantastic Four #20, a "never-before-seen Elder of the Universe" will appear in the book... and could change the Fantastic Four forever.
The Elders of the Universe have always been an exclusive club in Marvel lore, considered to be the last among an ancient race. Important Elders have included the Collector, the Grandmaster and perhaps Ego the Living Planet. Considering such characters play an important cosmic role, the identity of a new Elder could have a wide range of implications for the Marvel Universe.
According to Marvel's official announcement, Fantastic Four #20 will feature the return of long-time ally Wyatt Wingfoot, who must dodge Mole Man and his army of Kaiju until back-up can arrive. Unfortunately, back-up only consists of the Human Torch and his newfound alien "soulmate" Sky - and if the cover is any indication, they're gonna need a bigger team to stop this menace. It's unknown how this newfound Elder of the Universe will fit into all of this.
The Elders of the Universe were first mentioned in Avengers #28 during the first appearance of the Collector. In addition to their longevity, the Elders seem to have a laundry list of powers both collectively and individually, including time travel, matter manipulation, healing and more. One can only wonder what bag of tricks this new Elder will bring, and how it will fit into the Fantastic Four (more like Three) and their current bout with the Mole Man.
It's also important to note the Elders of the Universe have played a large role in the MCU so far. Jeff Goldblum's Grandmaster played an unforgettable role in Thor: Ragnarok, Kurt Russell's Ego featured heavily in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and Benicio Del Toro's Collector played critical roles in both Guardians of the Galaxy and Avengers: Infinity War. While it's not exactly known what this new Elder of the Universe will bring to the table, an appearance in the MCU is certainly not out of the question. A new Elder of the Universe could also play a role in the major cosmic events currently befalling the Marvel Universe. After all, several Elders witnessed the coming of the Annihilation Wave, and with another Annihilation-level event unfolding with the Cancerverse, it's possible this new Elder's appearance may be more crucial than anyone predicted.
The Mole Man and his biggest Kaiju return to the surface, with all of their righteous wrath aimed at one man... Wyatt Wingfoot! How can the Human Torch and Sky possibly save him? Y’know, this really would’ve been a good time to have brought ALL of the Fantastic Four! Also this issue: Meet a never-before-seen Elder of the Universe! Who are they, and how will they change the FF’s life... forever?
Fantastic Four #20 goes on sale in March.
Source: Marvel