The Avengers (Marvel;Re)/Issue 3 (Captain America)

This is the third issue of Captain America's Avengers comic book series, part of the Marvel;Re initiative and the story arc, The Madness Beneath. The story is preceded by The Avengers (Captain America) #2 and succeeded by The Avengers (Captain America) #4

Synopsis
The Avengers have expanded. Through the Avengers Wave protocol, Earth's mightiest heroes have expanded their ranks, inducting many other superhumans to aid them in fending off the growing threat of the universe. As the leader of the Avengers, Captain America is privileged to lead his own team of Avengers. Many were unable to fathom the Super-Soldier's choices, but the Star-Spangled Avenger knows best that nothing is impossible and his team could be an example to the world of superheroes. Together, they stand against the worst reality and unreality can throw at them as the Avengers. Captain America and his Avengers were tasked to apprehend a rogue Kree Pursuer and her oceanic compatriots. Needless to say, their mission was a disastrous failure and now, the Avengers lie beaten and captured under the sea, chained within the presence of a man who claims himself to be the All-Father...

Previously in Avengers...

 * A distress call from Namor and a tip from Ronan the Accuser led the Avengers to battle against the latter's niece, who was apparently possessed by a spiritual entity who came to Earth seeking the Serpent Crown.
 * Unfortunately, "Earth's Mightiest Heroes" failed after realizing they were fighting against something well beyond their capabilities.
 * Preliminary reports stated that Tanalth the Pursuer sought to summon Set, the Elder God of Evil, using the Serpent Crown's power. They were wrong. The Pursuer has succeeded in summoning another ancient deity with the Serpent Crown, but not Set himself... but a forgotten Asgardian terror from the unknown.

Sestanivor, the Blue Embassy
Chained and defeated, the Sentinel of Liberty's Avengers are trapped deep beneath a prison-fortress holding a prisoner of the most damned kind. A forgotten god from the past, claiming himself to be the 'All-Father', unquestionably of the Asgardian kind, stands in front of the captured heroes alongside his two maidens of destruction, Skirn, the Breaker of Men and Nerkkod, the Breaker of Oceans, respectively formerly known as Tanalth the Pursuer and Namora, cousin of Namor, the Avenging Son. A dark day, indeed, for this is supposed to be the Avengers' first mission, yet it has turned out to be their first failure... and the world shall pay a heavy price for this.

After revealing his identity, the 'All-Father' personally examines the Avengers, relishing in the fears that flare within their souls. Though they are among the bravest of their worlds, it's not that easy to muster your courage in the presence of a god of fear. Ultimus, Balder, and Hiroim stare at Ghost Rider blankly right into her empty eye sockets. Cul takes a moment to process his sentences before letting him go. Utilizing telekinesis, Skirn / Tanalth picks up the still-intact Serpent Crown, which pulses with energy. She grabs it and hands it over to her father for examination. Cul solemnly nods several times. It may not be like it, but this is an expression of disappointment: something that Tanalth and Nerkkod quickly take notice of. Cul slowly approaches his daughter, and for the first time, the Avengers actually see her afraid. Skirn recoils when he walks towards her but is frozen in place by none other than the Serpent himself. Nerkkod cannot do anything but stand still as she knows what's coming. At least, she's able to give her a telepathic encouragement, known to both the Serpent and Skirn herself, but ignored by the former.
 * Captain America: "So you're the Serpent 'Tanalth' was rambling about."
 * Cul Borson / The Serpent: "I am Cul Borson, firstborn of Bor Burison and Bestla, rightful King of Asgard, the God of Fear, the Serpent of Terror. And you are?"
 * Steve Rogers / Captain America: "I am Steven Rogers, Captain America."
 * Cul Borson: "You're a human? (Turns to Skirn and Nerkkod) How is this possible?"
 * Warlock: "Uh, why is Subject: Cul Borson confused at the fact that Captain America is human?"
 * Alejandra Jones / Ghost Rider: "Honestly, if it wasn't for your weird-ass skin tones and sentences, I wouldn't be able to tell which one of you are humans or not. No offense."
 * Balder: "I thought your kind can identify the souls of individuals, so you can tell which race they belong to?"
 * Ultimus: "Conveniently, you humans and Asgardians look pretty much the same!"
 * Hiroim: "Look who's talking, Kree."
 * Ghost Rider: "Hey, just saying! Even this old güey doesn't know how the f**k humans are supposed to look like!"
 * Victorious: "Um, didn't humans look different way back before we are... here?"
 * Warlock: "Self-friend Victorious is correct! But, considering Asgardians like Subject: Cul Borson and self-friend Balder themselves look like humans, self is still confused how he's unable to tell which one of us is human."
 * Cul Borson: "(Sharply turns and rushes at the speed of light at Warlock, grabbing his neck) Are you human?"
 * Captain America: "NO! Leave him alone, Cul!"
 * Warlock: "(Looks straight into Cul's eyes) Self is a Technarch. Self is neither a human nor a native of Earth."
 * Cul Borson: "(Slight laugh) Oh, has Aesheim always been the center of the universe?"
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "It seems so, Father Cul. My host's memories tell me that Aesheim has been visited and invaded multiple times by her own race and many others."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "It is also home to many other dark things as you know it, Great Serpent."
 * Cul Borson: "Is that so?"
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Do you remember the rumors of another serpent god dwelling within the bowels of Aesheim long ago, father?"
 * Cul Borson: "This is his crown of power, yes?"
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Indeed, father. With its power, we managed to break through the enchantments that sealed your prison."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Father... did I do any wrong?"

Upon reaching her, the Asgardian God of Fear softly touches her face before smiling at her. The Serpent looks down for a moment before staring up to her once again, proceeding to deliver a grim line. Skirn and Nerkkod look at each other, surprised, while the Avengers are looking on with utter confusion as the three converse with their own dead language that none of the Avengers can register with their mind. Cul rubs his beard in contemplation when Nerkkod assists her sibling up. This show of abuse instills rage and disturbance within the Avengers, despite how both Skirn and the Serpent are their enemies. Balder spits at his uncle's face in defiance, the Serpent smirking in response to such an act. Cul shuts down his nephew by uppercutting him so hard he's released from his powerful restraints. Balder is nearly killed by this act, but the moment he's freed from the chains, his powers return to him, including his invulnerability. The Avengers look on in concern as the Serpent walks right past them to confront Balder himself, already in a battle-ready stance with his sword summoned in a flash of light into his hands. Cul's statement confuses the Avengers as he also sounds confused after hearing what Balder has stated. Their confusion turns to worries when Cul smirks again and rubs his beard before delivering another line that unveils his true nature. Balder pauses for a moment as he thinks over what Cul has said, his mouth exhausted of words and confusion wreaked upon his brain. While so, Cul takes a moment to sit on a nearby stone, looking at the Avengers.
 * Victorious: "Jó Isten, kapitány, this is disturbing."
 * Captain America: "If this is what I think it is, then you may close your eyes, Vic."
 * Warlock: "Uh, why is his fingers on her mouth?"
 * Balder: "By Odin, no..."
 * Hiroim: "This cannot be!"
 * Ghost Rider: "You have no idea how many indecent thoughts I'm picking up right now. Even from you, Warlock."
 * Warlock: "Hey, self is curious!"
 * Ultimus: "Your curiosity is misplaced, Technarch!"
 * Ghost Rider: "Your curiosity is also 'misplaced', enfermo!"
 * Captain America: "All of you, cut it!"
 * Cul Borson: "(Tranquil rage) Do you have any idea what threat you have brought upon us?"
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Father, Set couldn't possibly a threat to us! He is unable to breach the dimensional barrier imprisoning him from Aesheim!"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "I do not mean to offend, father, but I agree! My host remembers well that he cannot enter this universe willingly!"
 * Cul Borson: "Does your host know that it is possible for him to possess a weak-willed being and manipulate his way to regain power? Or better yet, does she know that utilizing the powers of another god for whatever purposes there are without permission will incur the wrath of said deity?"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "I don't understand! I can see from my host's memories of this being called 'Doctor Strange' invoking the name of gods of both light and dark without being suffering the consequences! Hoggoth, Oshtur, Cyttorak, Chthon!"
 * Cul Borson: "Then he is a dead man, indeed! Now, we have another elder thing coming for us and I do not have the power to fend him off (powerfully throws Skirn away to a wall)... yet."
 * Balder Odinson: "Is that how you express fear, 'All-Father'? By venting your frustration upon your children?!"
 * Cul Borson: "What care do you have, oaf? I sense a fear within you unlike anything I've ever known. You fear death... but you love her, too."
 * Balder Odinson: "I don't know what you speak of, troll!"
 * Cul Borson: "I am the God of Fear, meek one. Your worries are as visible to me as the sun is to every one of us."
 * Cul Borson: "You are bold. I appreciate that. I assume you are a blood of Odin?"
 * Balder Odinson: "I am! And I will be the death of you when..."
 * Balder Odinson: "(Wipes out the blood from his mouth) I thought you would've hit harder."
 * Cul Borson: "Let us see, o' nephew of mine, how mighty you truly are. (Extends his arms) Strike me down, now."
 * Warlock: "Self-friend: Balder, don't do it! Don't let him goad you into combat! Subject: Cul Borson is more powerful than any of us! There's no telling if Subject: Cul Borson can kill you!"
 * Balder Odinson: "I will not die until Ragnarok comes to pass, Technarch! You will do well to remember that?"
 * Cul Borson: "(Retracts his arms) 'Ragnarok'? Ragnarok?"
 * Balder Odinson: "What are you smiling about?!"
 * Cul Borson: "Oh, on the contrary, I pity you for still being bound to such a covetous cycle of death and rebirth. Even after years, my brother—your father—has yet to succeed in realising the deception of Ragnarok. How miserable. Knowing this makes me so... sorrowful I could just kill you to save you from further torment."
 * Balder Odinson: "You are not bound by Ragnarok?! How is this possible?!
 * Cul Borson: "Freeing my kin of the chains of Ragnarok has always been my goal, and that includes you and your so-called 'All-Father'."
 * Ultimus: "Really? I was getting the impression that you were some sort of ancient evil who wishes to dominate the universe. Not that I know if Ragnarok is a good thing or not."
 * Cul Borson: "Perhaps the word you are looking for is that I am not... (pauses) benevolent."
 * Hiroim: "You are a god of fear. What manner of being that feeds upon the fear of others is 'benevolent'?"
 * Cul Borson: "O, I am not malevolent, greyskin, but do not think I am a meek one. I take full responsibility over the pain and deaths that have been caused by my daughter, Skirn, and I assure you, after I have finished my quest for power to save the Nine Realms, I will resurrect whoever has died in this quest of mine and restore what is broken. Do not presume I am a petty murderer like that one-eyed cur you call 'Odin All-Father', mortal."
 * Captain America: "You condone killing others to attain your goal!"
 * Cul Borson: "As if you are any different from me in that regard. You think I relish destroying the Tenth Realm and all who barred my way? You have no idea how many times my pleas fell on deaf ears. Conquest was the only option... and I see no difference in this time of age. Ragnarok is a curse that has remained on the Yggdrasil for far too long... and I have no intention of letting it exist."
 * Balder:  "If you 'free' us from Ragnarok, our immortality shall cease to exist!"
 * Cul Borson: "We have ALWAYS been immortal, boy! Only gods may kill other gods, but every death we suffer is nothing more than a nuisance. We will always return as the universe wills it. Ragnarok is nothing but a lie fabricated by the (unintelligible curse) to prey upon our endlessness; to restrain our freedom to do what is right upon the greater cosmos. You may be here, standing side-by-side by creatures unbound by Ragnarok, but whatever act you do, no matter how drastic or outrageous it is... will not free you from this torturous cycle of death and rebirth."
 * Balder: "You speak as if Ragnarok is a thing of evil, a-"
 * Cul Borson: "Because of Ragnarok, your father killed my brothers, Vili and Ve even before we erected our golden realm. Because of Ragnarok, the Nine Realms suffer death and destruction every cycle without reprieve. Because of Ragnarok, we have no true fate other than walking the same path over and over again. You think having your divinity doubted is something we, gods, are meant to accept? Are you satisfied seeing everything that you hold dearly degenerate, suffer, and die for a billion years, spanning 141,412 cycles?!"
 * Cul Borson: "What about you... 'Avengers'? What have you to say?"
 * Warlock: "Self is wondering what the Tenth Realm has to do with Ragnarok. Self has gotten the impression that there have always been ten realms, but because of Ragnarok, there are - for a lack of better term - officially nine dimensions as part of your World Tree. Knowing that, doesn't it seem hypocritical that you are attempting to destroy Ragnarok while you've eliminated a dimension not part of such cycle?"
 * Victorious: "I... cannot understand what you're asking."
 * Ultimus: "He is asking him why he destroyed the Tenth Realm even though that act seems to support the concept of Ragnarok while he himself opposes the very concept. (Mumbling) I still don't get Ragnarok."
 * Cul Borson: "In the beginning, there were Ten Realms. Heven, like the rest of the realms, emerged from the Yawning Void as home to a race of winged majestics we called angels. Believe me, we only used such a term because of their resemblance to the holy servants of the One-Above-All. Now, they were staunch allies to Asgard and the rest of the realms before the coming of the first Ragnarok. When Ragnarok became... something we deemed 'natural', Heven's angels became increasingly more hostile, just as the rest of the Realms were. They became greedy bastards, I'll tell you that."
 * Hiroim: "You imply that every inhabitant of the Ten Realms were at peace before Ragnarok. How were you able to be aware of the pecularity of Ragnarok?"
 * Cul Borson: "It took me several cycles to discover the wrongness of Ragnarok. I remembered when I was the All-Father in the fiftieth cycle, when I hung myself at the edge of creation to gain knowledge. That... was when I glimpsed my true enemy. They... who lived beyond in shadows..."

The moment Cul stopped his sentence in crypticness, a blinding pillar of light beams from the sky into the sea, penetrating the prison-fortress' roof in an explosion so destructive its debris are sent flying throughout Sestanivor, the beautiful city housing the Serpent's ancient dungeon. Within the chamber the Avengers, Cul, and his two Worthy remain, the Bifrost transports a particularly mighty Asgardian into the scene. This is no ordinary Asgardian, however, as the expression on Cul's face can attest to.

The Avengers, stunned by the newcomer's presence, are left frozen in awe. The Worthy immediately enter their combat stances, brandishing their energised hammers while gritting their hammers with resolve and cautiousness. Cul, unfazed by this event, simply smiles before speaking up to he who emerges from the Bifrost.


 * Cul Borson: "Brother."

A brief moment of silence ensues between them as the two brothers stare at each other. An eternity ensues between them, countless years of history flowing back and forth throughout their memories. Of war and death. Of tragedy and suffering. Of snow and laughters. Of truth and lies. The moment Cul delivered his statement with a grim and bitter tone, Victorious, Captain America, and Balder are shook as they think of the implication behind what he said. Ghost Rider, Ultimus, and Hiroim can only raise their eyebrows and look at each other in confusion as they're not exactly in touch with the concept behind the conflict. Warlock, who has access to the internet, knows what Cul's speaking about, though he's not exactly bothered by the implication. In a burst of yellow light, the Serpent, Skirn, and Nerkkod disappear from the prison, leaving a disgruntled Odin with the baffled Avengers, who are immediately freed from their chains by the Odinforce. Upon the Serpent's departure, Balder walks up to his father and inquires a number of important question. Odin instantly pauses for a brief while before answering, the tone of uncertainty and doubt leaking from his soul and into his words. However, the Odinforce's subconscious manipulation of reality forces the Avengers to accept the lie he answers their question with while subliminally calming down their minds. All this, without the heroes' awareness. Upon hearing Odin's implied request, Steve contemplates for a moment in silence, looking at his teammates afterwards while massaging his forehead. Despair engulfs the Sentinel of Liberty for a moment before Balder continues the conversation, patting Steve's back. For a being supposedly as cynical as Balder, his words managed to instill some measure of hope into the tired Captain, whose superhuman stamina has been wearing down ever since he fought Tanalth in the Serpent Temple. Within his heart, he still feels a hint of fear, undoubtedly due to prolonged exposure to the Asgardian God of Fear, even with the Odinforce's so-called 'calming' influence. After gathering much of his strength, Rogers speaks up his mind. Usually, Odin's pride would prompt him to annihilate whoever doubted his strength. Now, the All-Father, who in his infinite wisdom also sees the truth behind the Captain's words, does not let his pride blind him, instead informing them the best thing he can offer them in humility. Before answering his question, Odin summons the Bifrost upon himself to prepare his transportation, the rainbow bridge beaming once again from the heavens and into the seas. Just before he disappears from Sestanivor, he leaves the Avengers surprised and wordless, inadvertently terrifying them even more by revealing how many Worthy are there. And with that, the All-Father disappears from their sight. The surprised heroes blankly stare at whatever's in front of them, their silence broken by the curses of Ghost Rider. Rogers pulls out his Avengers Identicard out of his pocket and presses it, reactivating the apparently electronic card to communicate with the AI managing Earth's Mightiest Heroes' network. In an instance, the Avengers' identicards emit a distinct sound, attracting the heroes' attention. Warlock, in particular, emits a rather loud noise that comes right from his body. Silence reigns once again as the Avengers look at Warlock, surprised and taken aback. All, except Ultimus. Ultimus stares at the Rider blankly, his mind rushing with emotions of confusion, annoyance, and surprise, which culminates in a simple answer. Without further ado, Warlock transforms himself into a submarine, which the Avengers enter. Inside the vessel, which has interior more similar to those of the X-Jet and the Avengers' Quinjet, the 'curious' Ghost Rider asks the Technarch a question. Upon listening to her, Balder looks at her with a chuckle. Alejandra, noticing this, chuckles back, much to the horror of the rest of the Avengers, except Hiroim and Warlock himself. Alejandra begins to regret her naughty thought as she slowly takes a seat. The other Avengers follow suite, noticing the disappointment in her face. The heroes share no words with one another until Warlock speaks from the intercom once again. The Good Captain falls asleep. The rest of the Avengers take notice of his loud snores and watch on in interest. Rising up from her seat and approaching Captain Rogers, Victorious touches his forehead and channels a portion of her Power Cosmic to wake him up gently. Five seconds later, Rogers slowly awakens with a yawn. Warlock, as a submarine, quickly emerges from the ruins of the Serpent's temple and rushes through the Atlantic Ocean to reach the Avengers Hydrobase. Its passengers, not expecting how Warlock speeds through the ocean, are sent flying back to their seats as they brace for the worst to come.
 * Odin: "Brother."
 * Cul Borson: "Have you nothing to say, One-Eye?"
 * Odin: "You have made the gravest mistake returning to the universe, wretch."
 * Cul Borson: "You haven't changed, I see. How paltry. For all your... (stands up) infinite wisdom, you have no thought of peering through the veils of reality itself to see the truth."
 * Odin: "You are a stain upon our history, Serpent. You are a mistake to creation and an affront to everything that exists. You were never meant..."
 * Cul Borson: "... to discover the enslavers you so fervently worship that you killed Vili and Ve for their favor?"
 * Ultimus: "Technarch, who is this Vili and Ve this regal god killed?"
 * Warlock: "If Prose Edda is correct, then Vili and Ve would be both the brothers of Subject: Cul Borson and Subject: Odin Borson."
 * Victorious: "(To Odin) You killed your brothers... to gain... what power?!"
 * Balder: "Father, this... mongrel could not be speaking the truth! You said that Vili and Ve died in battle against Surtur and Ymir!"
 * Cul Borson: "Your uncles were never meant to die, Balder. But ever since your father sacrificed them to Those Who Sit Above in Shadow for power, all they ever experienced throughout the Ragnaroks... is death."
 * Odin: "If you think your so-called 'revelation' has inspired fear in my heart, then you..."
 * Cul Borson: "You need not to remind me that I can no longer terrify you, Woden. I, on the other hand, need not to remind you that you have no power over me. (Slams his staff, creating a circle that grows into a sphere that engulfs both his children and him) Soon, brother, this will be over. I promise you. You will be free, and you will thank me for what I am to do. The souls of the fallen will not be wasted, and they will be repaid a thousand times over once I am done. We will meet again, Brother Odin... and if you are truly as brave as you think you all are, Avengers."
 * Balder: "Father, who is this brother of yours?! Why have I never heard of this 'Cul Borson"?! Does the rest of Asgard know of this?! How did Uncle Vili and Ve truly die?!"
 * Hiroim: "His honesty and relatively affable nature put into question if he really is a threat to the greater universe. I am no longer sure if he is a threat to be stopped... but considering his children have murdered quite a 'few' souls along the way..."
 * Warlock: "Self agrees. Self has calculated his threat rating, considering his manners, power, and motivation. If we are to believe that what he said is true, then he wouldn't actually be a threat at all. At least to parties aside from Asgard or the Nine Realms. Or ten. Self is no longer sure."
 * Victorious: "You have a lot to explain, you..."
 * Ghost Rider: "Vicky, chill. Remember that this triple-hijueputa is stronger than the pola that wiped the floor with our asses, and the last thing we need is having a beef with another culiao who eats planets for breakfast."
 * Ultimus: "That would be Galactus. This one looks nothing like the Eater of Worlds."
 * Ghost Rider: "You get the point, chapero."
 * Captain America: "People, let's just take a moment to breathe - if any of you need to do so - before we go digging for answers."
 * Balder: "Father, you have yet to ans-"
 * Odin: "(Angrily) Cul is a relic from a forgotten past! (Simmers down) An enemy of the Nine Realms and destroyer of the Tenth Realm. You wish to know what happened to that realm? He and his bastards marched into Heven, tore it off the Yggdrasil, reasoning that he did so to 'free' them of Ragnarok while murdering legions by his own hands with such glee and satisfaction! By so, he doomed Heven and her angels by stripping them off their immortality. Without Ragnarok, all the races of the World Tree shall perish conceptually. The very essence and meaning of our individuality, personality, and soul will disappear, and we have no way to return to our eternal lives. As for Vili and Ve... yes, Balder, they died in battle against Surtur and Ymir and... (looks down, frowning) I was unable to save them, for I was battling the God Tempest."
 * Balder: "So you 'sacrificed' my uncles while you were fighting the storm that is now within my brother's hammer, which technically meant that you did gain power?"
 * Warlock: "Subject: Cul Borson mentioned Those Who Sit Above in Shadow instead of the God Tempest. Are they one and the same, Subject: Odin Borson?"
 * Odin: "That is correct, yes."
 * Ultimus: "Hmph. Great. So, a misguided former member of your kin is roaming the universe with the Head Accuser's niece and the naked king's cousin. Certainly, I will be chasing after the Serpent alongside the entire Kree Armada in hopes of returning Tanalth to her former senses."
 * Odin: "That will be unnecessary. I will personally see to this situation myself. However, I must admit that I am doubtful of my chances of victory over my brother."
 * Ghost Rider: "You... could've just killed him a few minutes ago, you know?"
 * Warlock: "Self objects but... self agrees."
 * Captain America: "We need to inform both Namor and Ronan the severity of this situation. This is way beyond our capability, as much as how I hate to admit so."
 * Hiroim: "We still need to prepare in the event they return to this world. That is, if they break their promise of not hurting anyone of this world, which sounds quite sincere."
 * Victorious: "So... what do we do now, Captain?"
 * Captain America: "We-"
 * Odin: "(Interrupts) Should I return to you battered and helpless, Captain, then... (sigh) I trust you will not let Cul sully the universe like he did many years ago."
 * Balder: "Fear not, paragon. We may have lost our battles, but we have yet to win our war. We were alone before; a single team of Avengers. Should my father fail in stopping the Serpent once and for all and the responsibility falls on to us... remember who we are, Captain. Remember that we are Midgard's mightiest heroes, and that the Avengers are not just a single team."
 * Captain America: "(Looks at Balder, smiling while patting his shoulders back before speaking to Odin with conviction) I do not mean to offend you, All-Father, but something tells me that you will fail to stop the Serpent, even with whatever plan you have in mind. When that near-inevitable moment arrives, do you have anything that can help us to defeat him?"
 * Odin: "A weakened demon deprived of his limbs, power, and children. That, is what I can promise you."
 * Ghost Rider: "That's too much of a stretch, don't you think?"
 * Balder: "Let us hope it is not. Say, father, how do you intend to defeat the Serpent? His power seems impossible!"
 * Odin: "The Odinforce will grind his bones to dust, and my warriors will eviscerate the Worthy from crown to toe."
 * Balder: "Warriors... (contemplates) who among the Nine Realms, aside from your children and our enemies, are strong enough to fight the... Worthy?"
 * Odin: "They will be enough, my brave son. I shall not risk the deaths of my children to the God of Fear, for even he is unworthy to stand in your presence."
 * Warlock: "Hmm... Subject: Odin Borson, may self ask you a question?"
 * Odin: "Make it quick, Technarch."
 * Warlock: "How many of the Serpent's children - the Worthy - are there?"
 * Odin: "Eight."
 * Ghost Rider: "PENDEJO, ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! We got ourselves trashed by one guarra and now there's EIGHT of them?!"
 * Warlock: "Maybe self should contact the X-Men for help..."
 * Balder: "Let the All-Father handle this one, Avengers. Pray that he succeeds in this task, and that he has answers to the lies he has told."
 * Victorious: "Wait, what?"
 * Balder: "Uncle Vili and Ve... the Tenth Realm... I just can't believe this to be true. The Serpent may be lying, but my heart is telling me that he's correct..."
 * Captain America: "Whatever the Serpent is doing, we can't just let him go from galaxy to galaxy killing people with fear. Many will suffer... and we will pay the price for not being responsible."
 * Warlock: "If self may, self suggests self-friend Captain America to not take it too hard upon one's self. This has become our burden together, and not just us, self sees."
 * Hiroim: "I concur. Now, what are we going to do, Captain?"
 * Captain America: "AVENGER, you there?"
 * AVENGER AI: "At your service, Captain."
 * Captain America: "How far is the Hydrobase from our position? We need to regroup somewhere safer, and that's the closest place I can think of."
 * AVENGER AI: "Calculating... the Avengers Hydrobase is currently five miles away from your position."
 * Captain America: "Okay that's far, but thank you, AVENGER. Can you upload the waypoint to my team's identicards?"
 * AVENGER AI: "Certainly, Captain."
 * Ghost Rider: "What the - Warlock, that your card I hear?"
 * Warlock: "Indeed, self-friend Alejandra Jones! To prevent self from losing the card, self has decided to integrate the identicard to self's body! Do not worry, self-friend Steve rogers! Self does not corrupt the AVENGER and in the event that it's hacked, self is practically a techno-organic firewall for the AI! Self loves the AVEN-"
 * Victorious: "What?"
 * Ultimus: "The Technarch has fallen in love with the computer. Predictable."
 * Warlock: "Hey! Self does not recognize the human concept of 'romantic love'! Self just..."
 * Captain America: "Warlock, just... (pauses, struggling to contain his laughter for the moment) can you take us to the Hydrobase?"
 * Warlock: "Right away, self-friend Rogers!"
 * Victorious: "I... can't believe you... you..."
 * Ghost Rider: "(Softly hits Victorious' back) You'll get your chance, chica."
 * Captain America: "Hold on, Avengers. I still have some words to tell. Ultimus?"
 * Ultimus: "(Sighs) Yes, yes, it was an honor to fight with you, but I must remind you that I might rejoin you later."
 * Captain America: "You did good, Ultimus. And yes, we will meet again, but I just wanna tell you how thankful we are to have you for the time being. You may return to Ronan to report on this turn of events. Let him know that we may need the Kree's help for this one."
 * Ultimus: "Heh. Once, we were enemies, and now we are fighting side by side as allies. Strange times call for strange alliances."
 * Ghost Rider: "If you don't turn Earth into your own prison planet, I think we can be friends, for real."
 * Ultimus: "(Immediately blasts away from the scene, flying at superhuman speeds into Earth's orbit to head to Ronan's ship)"
 * Victorious: "Uh, Alejandra... did you get that idea from looking into his... soul?"
 * Ghost Rider: "Yup."
 * Hiroim: "You mean to tell us that the Kree have intentions to turn Earth into a prison planet?"
 * Captain America: "Cut it out people. Right now, the Kree are our allies, and it's best for us to keep our manners well. Alejandra, you may be able to see through individual souls, but not everything you know has to be said."
 * Ghost Rider: "Y-Yeah... I am... sorry about that. Well, I hope what I saw within him was just something more akin to a suggestion instead of an initiative."
 * Captain America: "One problem at a time. Warlock, you ready?"
 * Ghost Rider: "Hey, Warlock. You runnin' on autopilot?"
 * Warlock: "Technically speaking, self is the autopilot. Why?"
 * Ghost Rider: "You mind if I get on the wheels?"
 * Captain America: "Alejandra, remember that Warlock is our teammate and not a vehicle like your motorcycle!"
 * Balder: "For curiosity's sake, Captain, why won't you let the Spirit of Vengeance drive the Technarch?"
 * Captain America: "We are not having this argument."
 * Hiroim: "What happens if she drives this vessel that is Warlock, anyway?"
 * Victorious: "She'll turn him into one hell of a ride."
 * Warlock: "(Sadly) Does... self-friend Alejandra wants to turn self into... a Hell Warlock, like self-friend does with self-friend's bike?"
 * Warlock: "(Sarcastically) Awh, self-friends do really care about Warlock."
 * Captain America: "Just... (groans) take us to the Hydrobase, War... lo-"
 * Ghost Rider: "Wow. He just... slept."
 * Victorious: "I'll wake him up with the Power Cosmic. As much as how I sympathize with him, this is not the time to rest."
 * Balder: "Are you sure that's a good idea, Lady Vic?"
 * Hiroim: "The Captain will not be pleased, I assume."
 * Captain America: "(Yawns) God... that felt so good. (Slowly opens up his eyes, widening only when he takes notice of the Avengers looking at him with smiles on their faces) What the- did I just fall asleep? How long was I out for?"
 * Warlock: "Self-friend Captain America should know that Warlock has access to classical songs that may assist self-friend in resting much more peacefully."
 * Ghost Rider: "That does not sound right, Warlock!"
 * Balder: "It seems that even a super-soldier like you can get tired. I thought you've already slept for far too long in ice (chortles)."
 * Captain America: "Maybe I'm gonna need more sleep this time around... but I know this isn't the right time to rest. I apologize, Avengers. (Groans again) Never felt pressure like this one before. Alejandra, please do not turn Warlock into your transportation to hell."
 * Ghost Rider: "Aye, aye, capitán."
 * Warlock: "Self-friend Avengers, please put on self-friends' seat belts, because we will be heading towards the Hydrobase within (counts down) five, four, three, two, one..."
 * Hiroim: "I swear teleportation is much more comfortable than this!"

The Moon
On Aesheim's natural satellite, the Serpent and his two children appear from a bright flash of yellow light that temporarily inscribes an ancient rune upon the Moon's ground. Upon arrival, the Serpent curiously examines his surroundings and notice the celestial object's emptiness compared to those of Aesheim itself. For an ancient Asgardian, Cul Borson has never set a foot upon the Moon until today.

Cul observes the ashen satellite and the sight of Earth, savouring the sight before the inevitable hell that is to come. Attempting to speak to his daughters, Cul finds himself wordless seconds before he realizes that the Moon has no air. Without air, he cannot speak with anyone, and so, he opts to communicate with his children telepathically. The two join their father, watching present day Aesheim from the Moon, marvelling at its beauty.
 * Cul Borson: "My children, do you hear me?"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "I hear you, father."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "As do I."
 * Cul Borson: "Can you believe what Aesheim has come to be, children? In all honesty, I am quite pleased that the inhabitants of that realm know not of its bloody history, even way before the dawn of their dreaded wars and 'superhumans'."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "It has become something more than what we used to fight upon, indeed."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "Father, as you have stated, Aesheim has many superhumans that may act well as our siblings' hosts, like this 'Namora' I inhabit now."
 * Cul Borson: "I agree, but I need to inform you that your siblings are on their way, even as we speak now., and they bear powerful hosts from many corners of the universe."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Finally! The eve of battle grows near..."
 * Cul Borson: "(Turns to Skirn / Tanalth) My dear Skirn... I apologise for what I did to you from before, for my frustration flared as hot as the Sun itself. However, I must remind you to not needlessly spill the blood of innocents. We've attracted my brother's attention, and that will be the only attention we have."

Looking down in reluctance, Skirn struggles to restrain her annoyance, for she is practically unable to revel in the bloodshed that it's grown so accustomed to throughout its life span. With obedience and clarity, it nods in agreement. Knowing every thought and memory of his Worthy, Cul rubs his beard for a good while, thinking for the answers to her question. After a brief moment of silence, Nerkkod / Namora opts to voice a question (still telepathically, of course). Within that instance, Nerkkod's body overflows with power from her father himself, engulfing her with a stream of yellow light. After this new enhancement, Nerkkod gleefully smiles as she expresses her contentment. Nerkkod attempts to utilize her hammer to fold the space around the Moon, but Cul immediately restrains her by grabbing her hand and staring at her with warning in his words. Nerkkod proceeds to approach and comfort its sibling, encouraging it to lift its spirits. The brief moment of comfort comes to an end when Cul notices a number of meteors streaking from far away at different ranges, undoubtedly heading towards the Moon. Seeing this, the Fear God slightly smiles and announces to the Worthy. Seconds later, the first meteor crashes before the feet of the Serpent, unleashing a shockwave that kicks up enormous amounts of dust. After the dust settles, a figure with a literally smoking body can be seen kneeling in respect to the Asgardian regent, announcing his identity. Gripping his hammer and standing up, the Worthy known as Mokk, the Breaker of Faith, salutes its father and siblings, hosted by the body of the being known as Aarkus, the Vision of Smokeworld. No, he is not Vision, son of Ultron. A scant few seconds later, the second and third fireballs crash near them, unveiling two burly Worthy, who shortly announce their arrivals. Respectively hosted by the bodies of the Chitauri Warlord, the Warbringer, and the Black Order's Black Dwarf, Kuurth and Angrir stand up and salute their father and siblings. The bolstrous bruisers themselves greet one another by crashing both of their hammers. The clash sends a massive shockwave throughout the Moon, but the lack of air means that there is practically nothing that can be heard of their hammers' supposed explosion effect.
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Yes, father. I will... restrain myself from killing undeserving ones."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "Father, absolve me for my ignorance but... I have two questions I assume you know are within my mind."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "I wish not to offend you, father, but I wonder what your plan is to shatter Ragnarok."
 * Cul Borson: "I already know what has to be done, noble Nerkkod, for the hosts of Angrir and Greithoth have given me an idea worth dying for. Do you trust me, child?"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "Yes, I do, father."
 * Cul Borson: "As to your other question, no, you are not useless. When I bestowed upon you power over the oceans and their creatures, yes, you only had control over the waves and all that lived below. But now... you have power not only over those, but also the ocean... that is space."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "Father... father, thank you! This is... beyond what I could ever imagine! Father, I feel... the strands of reality itself! The flow of the universe... just... everything around me and more!"
 * Cul Borson: "Not. Now."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "I-I apologise, father! I was just too excited..."
 * Cul Borson: "So I see, Nerkkod... Breaker of Space."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "Thank you, father. This... is an honour. I will hone my skills along the way, so that I may smite all who seek to oppose you."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Congratulations, sister. Congratulations."
 * Cul Borson: "You need not to bitter, beloved Skirn. The title of the Breaker of All, which you used rather pettily on Indigarr – this I know – still belongs to Skadi, but you need not to be envious! You have done well despite the deaths you had to inflict, and I honour you as the one who freed me thanks to your cunningness. Must I remind you that you, as the Breaker of Men, have the power to break the living? In breaking the dominance, pride, and courage of enemies, you are unparalleled among the Worthy."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "You are correct, father. Forgive me for my jealousy."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "Fight to your strengths and never relent, sibling. Alone or together, we are formidable, and none shall defeat us. That is father's decree... and may it be true 'til the end of eternity."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "'Til eternity's end, yes."
 * Cul Borson: "Stand tall, children. Your siblings are coming."
 * ???: "I, Mokk, the Breaker of Faith, has returned."
 * ???: "Kuurth, the Breaker of Stone, is ready to smite."
 * ??? #2: "As do I, Angrir, the Breaker of Souls."

Just a few seconds later, another fireball slams into the Moon's surface and unveils the presence of another Worthy, also kneeling in salute before arising to join his siblings.


 * ??? #3: "Greithoth, the Breaker of Wills, stands ready to serve, father

Greithoth, hosted by the body of Gabriel Summers, better known as Vulcan, embraces its father and siblings in this silent reunion. The expressions of pride and satisfaction can be seen on each and every one of the Worthy's faces. The Serpent? Not so much, as he realises that not every one of his children are present.


 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf: "(Grunts) Father, is the absence of Skirn and Nul the cause of that gloom upon your face?"


 * Mokk, Breaker of Faith / Vision (Aarkus): "They are still alive, right, father? You always know where we all are."

Cul looks down with his eyes closed for a few seconds before bringing a dire warning to his children, moments before they are able to see a gigantic fireball approaching from beyond Pluto. Preparing their hammers, the Worthy prepares for combat, subtly altering their stances to allow them to enter combat much easier when the situation presents itself. Moments later, the gigantic fireball slams into the Moon's surface, sending a powerful shockwave throughout the satellite that elicits a sense of terror within a certain hidden settlement...
 * Cul Borson: "I know where they are, Mokk... but something is wrong with Nul. Something... has happened to his bonds with the host."
 * Cul Borson: "Prepare your hammers, children. Your sibling is not who he seems."

Attilan, the Blue Area of the Moon

In his throne room, the Silent King sits solemnly, accompanied by his family and a number of other Inhumans as the hidden city itself trembles by the force of the latest 'meteor impact'.
 * Gorgon Petragon / Gorgon: "Cousin, what are we supposed to tell the people?"
 * Medusalith Amaquelin / Medusa: "There is nothing we can do to stop whatever's happening out there, Gorgon. We can only hope that it does not affect us other than sending us these shockwaves."
 * Karnak Mander-Azur / Karnak: "If whoever is responsible for this comes to Attilan, we have to be ready to fight to our last."
 * Frank McGee / Nur: "Or, you know, maybe just, go somewhere else with Eldrac's help. We've practiced for mass evacuation, right? And that includes moving the city itself."
 * Crystalia Amaquelin / Crystal: "Provided we have enough time. Now, we not need to worry about anything, right?"

Black Bolt responds with a nod. Medusa, ever the knowing wife, notices a change within his mind. This promptly attracts the attention of the rest of the Inhumans present, as they, too, suddenly fear for themselves as their king hesitates. Black Bolt, however, is left unable to answer even the telepathic requests of his wife. Deciding to reply, Black Bolt gestures her a message through sign language that she proceeds to translate. Back to the other side of the Moon Arising from a sizeable crater, Nul, the Breaker of Worlds, 'hosted' by the former Herald of Galactus known as Tyrant, salutes the Worthy and announces its presence. Power emanates from his body, just as the rest of the Worthy also exude great power. However, for one whose power once matched those of Galactus' and now enhanced by Asgardian magics, some may say that Nul's host has way too much power to begin with. Nul's expression turns into dread as the Worthy begin to close in and surround it with their hammers prepared. Seeing this, Nul telepathically speaks up once again. Yielding to Cul's will, Nul disappears from the scene when the Hammer of Nul drops from Tyrant's grip. True enough, the former Herald of Galactus' mystical enhancements disappear, returning him to his initial appearance. Despite Nul's absence, Tyrant is still an imposing figure with power even the Serpent senses as formidable. Once he drops the Hammer of Nul, Tyrant walks up to the Serpent, sizing up to him with a fearsome yet fearless look in his eye. The surrounding Worthy increase their alertness during this occasion.
 * Medusa: "Husband, why are you scared?"
 * Medusa: "Someone out there is bringing forth... the fear..."
 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "Hail, All-Father! Your beloved child, the Breaker of Worlds, Nul, has returned. (Stands up and notices its father and siblings looking plainly into its eyes) What is it that troubles you all, my loved ones?"
 * Cul Borson: "Nul, it is of great joy for us to be reunited with you! However, I cannot hope but wonder why you have forgotten the fact that I can see your very soul. In fact, I am utterly confused why your host did not submit to your influence."
 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "Father, I have obeyed your task of finding the strongest being I could find... and this was the one I found."
 * Cul Borson: "Nay. Not this strong. You were never meant to be bonded with him until this... creature took you and bent you to his will instead!"
 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "(Briefly pauses) There is no point of lying to you, father. But I must inform you that..."
 * Cul Borson: "Just because his goals align with us does not mean that he truly wishes to assist us in our endeavor, Nul. Now, Tyrant, explain yourself! Lest you suffer the direst of consequences!"
 * Tyrant: "(Nods) So, you are the Serpent, Cul Borson? Heh. When your child spoke of you, I thought you would've been a more powerful wreck. Another would-be conqueror of the universe who wants to selfishly change the universe."
 * Cul Borson: "(Sarcastically) Oh, so killing Galactus to claim his place and satisfy your need for bloodthirst and vengeance a selfless cause?"
 * Tyrant: "I would not call murdering the Beyonders called Those Who Sit Above in Shadow an altruistic cause myself. Do you not know the consequences of doing so, old man?"
 * Cul Borson: "That like you, claiming the mantle of Galactus, I shall become the One Who Sits Above in Shadow myself?"

The revelation strikes into the hearts of the Worthy, whose eyes widen in surprise. From their souls, they know that Cul has spoken the truth. But until this day, their father has never said anything about becoming the very cretins he has always sought to destroy.


 * Kuurth, Breaker of Stone / Warbringer: "No, this cannot be... father, what will become of us if you..."


 * Tyrant: "(Grins, telepathically laughs) Who knows, 'siblings'? Perhaps, you would all be Beyonders as well, provided any of you can even stand in their presence!"


 * Mokk, Breaker of Faith / Vision (Aarkus): "What knowledge do you have of Those Who Sit Above in Shadow, Tyrant?"


 * Tyrant: "They are Beyonders, and that is all that I can say. Your father knows this well, yes? Knowing so is like knowing that fire burns, Worthy. Now, little serpent, perhaps now you know what agreement I am to make with you, yes?"


 * Cul Borson: "To allow you to wield my child's power to kill Galactus is to bring even more death and misery upon the universe, which I cannot allow."


 * Tyrant: "And you assume this quest of yours will not bring death upon the souls of countless lives?"

In cold rage, Cul demonstrates his hidden strength by telekinetically choking the former Herald of Galactus with such a force that the tyrannical bio-mechanical being's arrogant expression vanishes within an attosecond. Tyrant finds himself struggling to break free of the Serpent's choke as the Asgardian also disables his motoric functions. When he fires powerful energy beams from his eyes to incinerate him, Cul immediately slams him down, forcing him to take the apocalyptic explosion of his beams that also creates a giant crater beneath the Worthy's feet.

After the dust settles, Tyrant is seen recovering from the center of the crater. Angered and shocked, Tyrant looks up and sees Cul and the Worthy floating above him. Telepathically, the Serpent gives a stern warning to him.

Gritting his teeth and regaining his strength, Tyrant rises above the crater to confront the Serpent, floating as the Worthy surround him without mercy in their hearts. Despite all that has happened, Tyrant is fearless and unfazed. Cul is powerful, but that does not mean that Tyrant is weak. In response to his retort, the Worthy immediately rush at him, attempting to destroy the unworthy cretin into nothingness. Before they can even get into striking distance, Tyrant unleashes a mighty energy burst that disorients both the Worthy and the Serpent. Before the Serpent can respond, Tyrant rushes and delivers a mighty earth-shattering hook into Cul's jaw that nearly sends him flying back to Earth if it isn't for Nerkkod / Namora's act of teleporting him back. First responding to Tyrant's challenge is Angrir, Breaker of Stone, utilizing the strength of Black Dwarf, the strongest of Thanos' lieutenants, to charge at him and send him rolling through the moon. Before Tyrant can recover, Angrir brings down its hammer on his head to annihilate him, unleashing a massive soundless explosion that shakes the Moon itself. Of course, the Inhumans of Attilan are affected by this as their city is literally hit by a 6.0 SR-earthquake. If Angrir didn't restrain itself like it did on Maveth, the Moon would've been destroyed.
 * Cul Borson: "Do not think I was cut from the same cloth as you, Tyrant. Whilst I seek the deaths of these Beyonders to free my kin from the enslavement of theirs we call Ragnarok, you seek the doom of Galactus so you may take his place and wreak your pent-up, million-year frustration upon reality by consuming worlds without restraint in the bloodiest, most violent of ways. You assume you are powerful as you have defeated some of this universe's greatest champions, and that I am naive for knowing nothing of the wider universe and the terrors it holds. Fool, I have dared the God of the Void in his own court of darkness, brought the Lords of Fear trembling in their own realms, tasted the Black Vortex, and subjugated the killers of gods. You are nothing more than a murderous, petulant child without a vision or purpose."
 * Tyrant: "What do your claims mean if all you have done so far is to fail, Serpent?"
 * Tyrant: "Come now, Worthy. Let us see what makes you truly mighty!"

Angrir smashes Tyrant once again, only this time it fails when Tyrant catches its hammer with his bare hand. A few seconds later, Kuurth / Warbringer follows suite, and Tyrant also catches its hammer, surprisingly matching the two powerhouses' strength with each of his hands.

Greithoth, the Breaker of Wills / Vulcan responds to his statement by blasting a powerful energy blast at Tyrant's back from behind as both Angrir / Black Dwarf and Kuurth / Warbringer disengage. Tyrant is sent flying forward into the hammer of Skirn. Smashing his face hard, Skirn / Tanalth sends Tyrant flying back again into the hammers of Angrir / Black Dwarf and Kuurth / Warbringer, who inflict grievous damage onto him by smashing both of their weapons into his chest and face, forcing him to fly up into the embrace of Mokk, the Breaker of Faith / Vision (Aarkus), who turns into a thick cloud of smoke that immobilises Tyrant while electrocuting him numerous times, prompting him to silently scream to express pain.
 * Tyrant: "Is this all the power you have? Pitiful! The Breakers of souls and stones have no strength whatsoever!"

After seconds of suffering, Mokk / Vision (Aarkus) drops him into a black hole that Nerkkod creates, which immediately collapses, crushing Tyrant under insurmountable amount of pressure before he is freed from it by a giant thunderbolt summoned from a rift in reality Cul forms above the Moon, unleashing another gigantic, soundless explosion that devastates a large chunk of the celestial object.

The Peak, SWORD orbital station

Right after the explosion on the Moon, SWORD's personnel begin scrambling in panic as they try to figure out what has just happened. Even Abigail Brand, the calm and collected director of the agency, loses her cool as the station's energy sensors go wild.


 * Abigail Brand: "(Incoherent babbling, with some curses and alien languages thrown in)"


 * Ronan the Accuser: "By Hala, did you see what has just occurred?"


 * Ultimus: "I guess that would be the Serpent the Avengers and I encountered on Earth, but I personally wouldn't dare pursue the bastard, even if he's on this mudball's blasted moon."


 * Korath the Pursuer: "I concur. (Sigh) Ronan, you know your niece is there, yes?"


 * Ronan: "Yes, and yet we are helpless to do anything to free her of her... demon, for this situation is something even well beyond our capabilities. Tell me, Ultimus, what did that 'Balder' creature said about his father saving our lives?"


 * Ultimus: "That we should pray for him to succeed in defeating the Serpent responsible for this."


 * Ronan: "Tch. For someone who's as close as it is to a god, what do you think?"


 * Ultimus: "The matter of divinity is not something I would lay my hands upon, Head Accuser. However are we not the Kree? What gods we battle, we fight and finish to the last."


 * Korath: "Hrh. Gods... that reminds me of something, Ronan."


 * Ronan: "What is it, old friend?"

A grim expression appears on Ronan's face as he deeply contemplates Korath's question. Even in the midst of the chaos within the Peak, the Head Accuser's focus on the subject matter. In the end, he delivers a straight and concise answer.
 * Korath: "Would now be a good time to unleash GB-004?"
 * Ronan: "No. Inform the Supreme Intelligence to prepare the Starforce and evacuate all major Kree settlements."
 * Korath: "(Pauses for a while, freezing in surprise) Is... that possible? I wish not to doubt the Supremor, but... this task is..."
 * Ultimus: "He'll find a way, Korath. If the Supreme Intelligence is truly who he is, then he will love this challenge."
 * Korath: "Very well, then. Cover me, brothers. This will take a while."

Analysing his surroundings, Korath sneaks away from the Peak and into the Kree spaceship, Ronan utilising his Universal Weapon to bend the light waves around him and dampens his footsteps' noise so nobody on the station can notice him. Seconds after Korath can be seen entering the ship in stealth, Abigail Brand approaches the two Kree. Abigail looks at them in silence and annoyance before blurting out a curse. Back on the Moon
 * Abigail Brand: "Great. The Moon's become a battleground to whoever the crap just decided to open up two freaking black holes and shake it to its core. Say, (sarcastically) great Accuser, what shall we do now?"
 * Ronan: "Nothing. Whatever battle is happening there is inconsequential to neither your planet nor mine."
 * Abigail Brand: "Oh, I thought you cared about your niece?"
 * Ronan: "Yes, my niece is currently possessed by a demon, and I'd very much like her to return to my arms."
 * Ultimus: "Instead of bashing the Head Accuser with sarcasm and foolhardiness, why do you not answer the question of if anything you have in your disposal can stop this disastrous madness?"
 * Abigail Brand: "You f****in' Kree."
 * Ultimus: "(Sniggers) You mortal."

Rising from a smoking crater with a shattered body and numerous burn marks, Tyrant struggles to stand up as his self-repair systems kick in, also struggling to recover the wounds he has endured. For all the damage he has taken, however, Tyrant is no stranger to hellish pain. Gritting his teeth and standing on one knee, Tyrant stands alone against the Worthy, who approach him with their father in their presence.


 * Tyrant: "Impressive. You are not the weak wreck I thought you were."


 * Cul Borson: "Judge no being, living or dead, by their appearance, monster."

Moving at a speed that even surprises the Worthy, Tyrant projects a number of bio-mechanical tentacles from his body that impales the Worthy, nearly penetrating the Serpent himself if it wasn't for his own mystical speed, allowing him to deflect the tendril with his own staff. Seeing his children in pain, Cul attempts to free them by blasting the tentacles with a number of chain lightings, but fails to do so when Tyrant telekinetically pulls him towards him. Tyrant delivers a mighty uppercut that nearly cracks the Serpent's chin that would have sent him flying off to another solar system if the Serpent did not stand his ground.
 * Tyrant: "Oh, I never judged you weak from your look. In fact, just because you aren't weak doesn't mean you're stronger than me."

Taking the punch and using magic to dampen the pain and root himself on the ground, Cul catches Tyrant's next punch and counters him by unleashing a massive energy punch that sends Tyrant stumbling despite having generated enough force to remove a planet straight from its orbit. Realising this, Tyrant smiles and attempts to kick him off the Moon, only for Cul to vault over his head and tapping his back with a staff, leaving a magical orb that turns into a black hole that attempts to suck Tyrant in from the inside out.

Though unable to remove it, Tyrant responds by quickly turning back and grabbing Cul by the leg and slamming him to the ground over and over again. When Greithoth / Vulcan flies at him with hammer in hand and energy blasts beaming from his eyes, Tyrant simply raises his free hand to block his attacks. Upon striking range, Greithoth / Vulcan fails to attack him and gets grabbed in the face by Tyrant. From a distance, he can also see the rest of the Worthy charging to attack him, rushing at him with breakneck speeds that he unfortunately can perceive.

Restraining none of his strength and speed, Tyrant weaves through the Worthy's attack and utilises both the bodies of Cul and Greithoth / Vulcan to whack away the Worthy. After Mokk / Vision (Aarkus) turns itself to smoke to evade Tyrant's swing of Greithoth's / Vulcan's body, Tyrant opts to straight up blast the Breaker of Faith with his eye beams, which successfully hit its immaterial body. This act renders it unconscious for a moment and for that brief moment, the mystical markings on the Vision's body disappears.
 * Tyrant: "(Smirks, delivering the line sarcastically) Family."

Skirn, the Breaker of Man / Tanalth, seemingly notices and tries to slam her hammer on Tyrant's back, where the black hole the Serpent put lays on. Aware of this, Tyrant brings up the Serpent's body to absorb the damage. In other words, he uses him as a shield against Skirn's / Tanalth's hammer. True enough, Skirn / Tanalth ends up smashing Cul's face by accident.

Stunned in fear, Skirn staggers and expresses her disbelief.

Before Skirn / Tanalth can express her regret, Tyrant smacks it away from the Moon with Cul's own body. Enraged, Cul telekinetically pulls back the flying Skirn / Tanalth and alters her trajectory to Tyrant with her hammer prepared. Two seconds after Tyrant knocks it back, Skirn / Tanalth returns, cracking Tyrant's face and sending him hurtling back, freeing both Greithoth and Cul. While Tyrant is clumsily staggered, Cul telepathically instructs his children to attack in unison. Minus Mokk / Vision (Aarkus) and the absent Skadi, the Breaker of All, the Serpent's children unleash a mighty combined lightning blast into the black hole on Tyrant's back, eventually resulting in a small explosion that engulfs Tyrant's own body.
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "No... no! Father, I didn't-"
 * Cul Borson: "Hit the rift, my children!"

In the aftermath of the explosion, Tyrant can be seen motionlessly laying on the ground, his body left with cosmic burns and crushed. Cul telekinetically puts Mokk's own hammer to Vision's grip, instantly restoring Mokk's grip on the alien policeman. Wasting no time, Mokk / Vision rejoins its father and siblings.
 * Kuurth, Breaker of Stone / Warbringer: ""Father, is he dead?"
 * Cul Borson: "(Turns to his child) What do you sense, Angrir?"
 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf: "His soul has gone dormant. He is not dead."
 * Cul Borson: "Good. Nul won't be able to break any world with a dead host."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Father... absolve me of my sin! I did not mean to..."
 * Cul Borson: "You are forgiven. Was that not an accident, my child?"
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Yes, yes, father, that was... an accident."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "Father, look! Mokk, he's..."
 * Cul Borson: "Is everything going well inside, my Breaker of Faith?"
 * Mokk, Breaker of Faith / Vision (Aarkus): "Though reluctance still has a shelter in his heart, the Aarkus being grasps our cause well."
 * Cul Borson: "As I have known."
 * Greithoth, Breaker of Wills / Vulcan: "Father, what shall we do with this Tyrant person?"
 * Cul Borson: "My child, even before he has arrived, I know that he has conspired against me. He has prepared a weapon known as the Ultimate Degenerator that uses the energies of the universe to separate you from your hosts. With the energy that has been gathered from you, my children, the weapon shall unleash an inescapable beam that will kill me. How it operates, I do not know, but what knowledge I have of it I harvested from his mind."
 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf: "He was able to predict you, father... how is this possible? Could it be that this... thing is an ally of Odin?"
 * Cul Borson: "Impossible. I saw in his memories that he has fought one who may have a connection to him, but there are no other creatures he has encountered as close to an Asgardian as the equine noble known as 'Beta Ray Bill'."
 * Mokk, Breaker of Faith / Vision (Aarkus): "One of Odin's or not, we have to move fast. Our skirmish must have attracted the attention of the inhabitants of this moon."
 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls: "Ah, the Inhumans? I could smell their fear even from here, far from their hidden city. Truly, they thought their end was at hand."

Hearing Kuurth and aware of the Inhumans' condition himself, Cul lightly pokes his staff to the ground before proclaiming what he has done.


 * Cul Borson: "How sad. They feared for their existence over thousands of years. Millennia of concerning about whether or not they shall survive the passage of time within this ever-changing universe. A recent dread in their hearts remained from the days of their Silent War, and they were suspicious of the humans and their so-called liaisons. That was all until seconds ago. Now, they have nothing to fear of the universe whatsoever."


 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Until whatever terror from beyond this reality rips through the veils of space and eat them all."


 * Cul Borson: "(Glares at Skirn) Don't."

Without wasting a second, Cul telekinetically puts the Hammer of Nul into Tyrant's hand. In a matter of moments, Nul manifests within Tyrant once again, all his wounds recovered and runes of power appearing all over his body. Reinvigorated and recovered, Nul reappears and proclaims his return, standing and flexing. Cul turns to both Angrir / Black Dwarf and Greithoth / Vulcan, the two of them looking at their father with curiosity.
 * Mokk, Breaker of Faith / Vision (Aarkus): "Father, what should we do with this Tyrant creature?"
 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "Thank you, father. I should have beaten myself up for doubting that you are unable to beat this... monster, but all I can offer is an apology for my lack of faith..."
 * Cul Borson: "I would not blame yourself for thinking so, my child. I must admit that Tyrant is... a mighty adversary, to say the least. His powers are phenomenal, even... I must admit, bordering those of mine. If it wasn't for you, my children, I would have been destroyed."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "We were simply doing our duty, father. Now, where shall we head to?"
 * Cul Borson: "My children... I am sure you know what has taken my interest within your hosts' memories."
 * Greithoth, Breaker of Wills / Vulcan: "The M'Kraan Crystal... its phenomenal power will surely aid us in our crusade! But... forgive me father, I do not think its power is enough for us to defeat Those Who Sit Above in Shadow."
 * Cul Borson: "Hence why it is our secondary objective. Now, now, dear Angrir, what does your host know about the God Quarry?"
 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf: "The God Quarry is a graveyard of gods, father. My host ventured there with his master and brothers to recover the strength of the former. To the Black Dwarf's knowledge, only three sisters and the Quarry's trial awaits us."
 * Cul Borson: "I see. To attain the ultimate power, I have to prove myself worthy. (Scoffs) Ironic."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "I take it that we are heading to the God Quarry first, father?"
 * Cul Borson: "Indeed, we are. Now, Namora, how about you take us there with what new power I have granted you?"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "(Smiles gleefully) Right away, father. Stand close, my family. This is going to be a bumpy ride."
 * Kuurth, Breaker of Stone / Warbringer: "Ha! Is that a human term, I hear?"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "(Smirks) Suit yourself."

The Worthy converge on Nerkkod before the Breaker of Space folds the space around them. In no time, the Worthy are gone, nowhere to be seen on the Moon. Moments after their departure, the Moon can be seen slowly recovering the damage that it has sustained during Tyrant's battle with the Serpent. The cracks and craters that harmed the celestial object are undone and the Moon returns to its former natural beauty. A few seconds later, three unidentified figures walk into the scene, conversing.

That very moment, the third figure's identity is revealed to be Khonshu, the patron god of the Earth vigilante known as Moon Knight. Khonshu's remark is accompanied by the reveal of the second speaker: the Unspoken, a forgotten king within the long history of the Inhumans.
 * ??? #1: "Smart fool. For someone who wishes to avoid unneeded attention, that Asgardian has made the stupid choice of conferring on the Moon."
 * ??? #2: "He's made quite a mess, as well. Although I am well-impressed by his restraint. He could have destroyed the Moon with his power."
 * ??? #3: ""Can't we all destroy this place if we wanted to?"
 * ??? #2: "(Chuckles) Oh, little moon god, have you no love for your home?"
 * Khonshu: "Frankly, I am getting quite tired of staying on this barren satellite for years. My worshippers are scattered by my own avatar, who's not the best creature I have worked with in millennia, and I am tired of getting sidelined in the Council Elite. You know, it would be good if at least one of your people worshipped me, elder one. Do they not reside here due to my hospitality?"
 * The Unspoken: "You speak to the wrong liege, Khonshu. I care not if one of my kin worships you or not. But, if I regain Attilan's throne with your aid, I'd be glad to grant you the entire population as your worshippers."
 * Khonshu: "Tempting. But you've nothing to offer me and there is no way I am accepting you as a follower of mine."
 * ??? #1: "Or perhaps I could be the one blessing the Inhumans to lead them into a new age of greatness..."
 * The Unspoken: "If your 'blessing' means their slaughter, then I cannot allow that. But murder is not your way, is it? You prefer corrupting the hearts of sentient beings to reflect the darkness in your heart before relishing the slaughter. Is that correct, demon?"

The first speaker, apparently the Dragon of the Moon, smirks a sinister smile as it towers the Unspoken and Khonshu. The two, however, are unfazed. The Dragon viciously roars at the Ennead, who simply looks straight in solemness, unimpressed.
 * Dragon of the Moon: "Close enough, Inhuman. Close enough. For a genetic mistake, you are a rather astute figure."
 * Khonshu: "Now, now, Moondragon..."


 * Dragon of the Moon: "Do NOT call me that!"
 * The Unspoken: "Friends, let us not get ahead of ourselves, shall we?"
 * Khonshu: "(Sarcastically) I apologize, Unspoken One. I mustn't forget that we were only gathered here to enjoy a tussle that has passed a few moments ago."
 * The Unspoken: "That is correct, and now, the festivities have disappeared. Come to think of it, we are the only ones who know where the Serpent and his children are heading to, aren't we?"
 * Khonshu: "For what has transpired here, I am sure that we're not the only ones who know of this."
 * Dragon of the Moon: "Ah, yes, of course. Who else could have missed such a crucial event? What else... could the Watcher miss?"

The trio turns back to see Uatu, the Watcher, who stands several feet away from them.


 * The Unspoken: "If it isn't the fabled Watcher. I am surprised your people hasn't disowned you for all the heroic interventions that you've done."
 * Uatu: "I am surprised that you are still the pompous, ungrateful whelp you were, nameless one."
 * The Unspoken: "(Words slightly staggered) Ha! Did you hear that? Even the Watcher does not know my real name."
 * Uatu: "Honestly, your name isnt' worth remembering at all, Inhuman."

The Unspoken quickly reverts to silence as both Khonshu and the Dragon of the Moon let out small laughs to celebrate the Unspoken's roasting.


 * Khonshu: "Oh, Uatu. I never knew you were one for humor."
 * Uatu: "I never knew you're a proper god, Khonshu."

Now, it is time for the Dragon and the Unspoken to laugh at the mockery that Khonshu has received. Enraged, the moon god leaps straight at the Watcher to destroy him. Unfortunately, the Watcher simply steps aside and lets Khonshu punch the Moon's surface with such a force that it shakes. Noticing Uatu's position, Khonshu attempts to crush him by smashing him with two giant pillars of moon rocks raised from the ground.


 * The Unspoken: "Tell me, Dragon. Who do you think will win this confrontation?"
 * Dragon of the Moon: "I will. Once both of them are weakened, I will consume them to increase my strength!"
 * The Unspoken: "(Glances at the Dragon, raising a single eyebrow) Really?"
 * Dragon of the Moon: "Why not?"

Before the pillars can crush Uatu, the Watcher switches positions with Khonshu by teleportation, the latter ending up getting crushed instead. The small altercation ends with a proclamation of the Watcher.


 * Uatu: "Enough. I am here only to observe, not to fight."
 * Khonshu: "(Stands up and speaks angrily) You have drawn my ire, Uatu. No one survives drawing my wrath! I am Khonshu, the God of Moon and Vengeance, and..."
 * Dragon of the Moon: "Are you so petty that you wish to risk the destruction of your home just to wipe off the smile on the Watcher's soul, Khonshu?"
 * Khonshu: "(Calms down and growls at Uatu, filled with tranquil fury) Until next time, Watcher."
 * Uatu: "I am curious as to why the three of you are here despite how unrelated all of you are."
 * The Unspoken: "You watched us watching the battle between the Serpent and the Tyrant, yes? That's exactly why we're here."
 * Uatu: "I see."
 * Dragon of the Moon: "Tell us, o' Watcher. With what information you have gotten, what shall you do with them?"
 * Uatu: "I will keep it in mind, Dragon. Just like any other secrets, wars, and crises I have observed."
 * Dragon of the Moon: "Heh. You do not see it fit to share it with your pets on Earth?"

Uatu stays silent for a while, staring back at Khonshu, the Dragon, and the Unspoken with sternness.
 * Uatu: "I do not see the relevance in doing that. Just because I sympathize with Earth doesn't mean I am ineffective, demon."
 * Dragon of the Moon: "(Laughs) One day, I will devour you and know all the secrets that you've held, Watcher. I will corrupt your entire race and turn them all to my bringers of chaos!"
 * Uatu: "Do you seek to do that for yourself, or for the meagre attention of your father?"

The Dragon's expression turns from one of malicious glee to cold hate. Khonshu and the Unspoken feel the rage radiating from it so much that they walk three steps away from it due to the disturbance they feel.


 * The Unspoken: "This dark serpent has... family issues?"
 * Dragon of the Moon: "That is none of your concern, Uatu! All you need to know is that I shall deliver your race a suffering beyond imagination. When I am done with you bald scholars, you will all beg me for the sweet release of death!"
 * Uatu: "I have heard that utterance told a million times through many mouths. You should know better that hollow threats are unsuitable for children of Set."

The Dragon snaps, roaring at Uatu with such a fury that a dark storm brews around the Moon and red thunder bolts strike the Moon's surface. This outrage stops when the Dragon disappears from the scene, teleporting to another dimension with spite in its soul. Once it's gone, Khonshu and the Unspoken look at Uatu. With that said, Uatu returns to whatever lair he has on the Moon, teleporting away to leave the moon god and Inhuman alone. Without parting words, Khonshu and the Unspoken also leave the scene, the former flying away while the latter disappearing in a shroud of mists.
 * Khonshu: "That was unneeded."
 * The Unspoken: "Watcher, what did you hope to accomplish by doing... that?"
 * Uatu: "The Dragon has always been an enemy to life. Not just to the Watchers, but to everyone. I may not be able to kill it right now, but I have made it know its place."
 * Khonshu: "(Folds his arms) You're bold. I retract my oath of vengeance against you. But you know the consequences of what you have done, right?"
 * Uatu: "I have borne many consequences, Khonshu. (Turns back and slowly walks away, looking at the duo one last time) You simply do not see how plentiful the scars are."

Eastern Lemuria
Inside a large chamber within a building which lies in the domain of the Deviants, a reptilian woman lays unconscious on a vertical operating table of sorts, her hands and serpentine lower body restrained by metallic bonds. The woman, Llyra, awakens with a grunt and reacts to her surroundings in confusion.


 * Llyra: "Urgh... b-by Set, where am I? W-Why am I..."

Llyra's question is responded by a charismatic yet stern voice, coming from the Deviant warlord, Kro, who lords over the Deviants.


 * Kro: "Greetings, Llyra Morris. Usually, I would cut straight to the execution out of how enraged I am over what your son and his compatriots have done to my people, but..."
 * Llyra: "M-My son? L-Lyron? Llyron... (eyes widen, suddenly shouting) Llyron! No, my son! Where is he?"
 * Kro: "I'm afraid I am unable to answer that question for this moment. He and his companions entered the Serpent Temple some time ago and only one of them returned."
 * Llyra: "Only... one of them? I... I remember the feeling of being carried by metallic arms..."
 * Kro: "Ah, the... (embarrassedly speaks the name) Sea Urchin. He asked me to take care of you under your son's orders. I was not able to reprimand him for his disrespect of me, but the human was too eager to return to the 'battle'. I assumed that the adversaries he was to fight were the Avengers and the Kree leaders of those troublemakers who devastated the Atlanteans' Lemuria."
 * Llyra: "The Avengers? They were in the Temple? What were they doing?"
 * Kro: "From what I could infer, they were attempting to prevent Set's return by securing the Serpent Crown from the Kree. Why the Kree would bother with Set is beyond my knowledge... but you must know something concerning this. Am I right?"

Peeking into her own memories, Llyra attempts to piece together recent events to answer Kro's question.


 * Llyra: "I... I remember! I was with Nagala in the Serpent Temple just... just... minding our business."
 * Kro: "Hm?"
 * Llyra: "I jest not, Deviant. We were only there because... because..."
 * Kro: "There was nowhere else you Set worshippers could reside in?"

For a moment, Llyra looks into Kro's eyes in silence as she ponders upon what he has just said.


 * Llyra: "You disdain Set and his followers. Your dislike of one of Set's prophets, Ghaur, is known to me."
 * Kro: "He nearly sacrificed his own people in a failed ritual to summon your god to this world. Conveniently, I was chosen as one of his so-called 'sacrificial lambs' after I had struggled to keep the Avengers off his back. Clearly, Set has never been the best deity for even a race of abominations like us, Deviants, to worship."
 * Llyra: "I see. Are you going to kill me after I tell you everything you need to know about the true scope of this situation?"
 * Kro: "Krang, Attuma, and the rest of Eastern Lemuria would be displeased to know that a Deviant from Western Lemuria has killed one of their own, much less their most prominent leader (slight laugh)."
 * Llyra: "You're lying."
 * Kro: "Just because I impersonated the Devil does not mean I am always a liar, Llyra. Come, I'll show you how desperate I am to prove that I am not lying."

That moment, Llyra is freed from her restraints and slithers up to Kro to see what he's talking about, a look of suspicion on her face. Kro immediately leads her to the edge of the chamber, where the two can see the ruins of Western Lemuria, littered with many dead Deviants and destroyed structures. Outside, viewers can see Tutinax, the Mountain Mover, lifting an enormous remnant of a building fifteen times larger than himself while the Deviant twins, Deborah and Donald Ritter, merged as the Dark Angel, flies out of a giant hole beneath the building Tutinax bears with wounded citizens. Dromedan, a Giganto, El Toro Rojo, and Spike can also be seen assisting in the recovery of the survivors of Tanalth's attack, lifting and clearing out remains of both ruined buildings, Kree Sentries, and Deviant corpses.


 * Kro: "Now, do you see it, Llyra?"
 * Llyra: "Believe me, Kro, what befell upon your people had nothing to do with Set."
 * Kro: "Then please, tell me why the Kree were seeking the Serpent Crown?"

Llyra opens up her mouth to speak, but she is left wordless when her eyes turn up to see a petrifying sight outside the oxygen dome of the Deviant city. Noticing this, Kro turns his attention to what has piqued the sights of both Llyra and the other Deviants in Eastern Lemuria. In awe and annoyance, Kro speaks to Llyra.


 * Kro: "Nothing to do with Set, you said?"

Outside the protective dome of Eastern Lemuria, the Serpent Temple can be seen floating around the dark waters while Llyron himself can be seen in front of the temple, folding his arms while observing the city as if he is brooding. Swimming beside him are his loyal servant, Naga. Even from afar, Llyra can recognize her son's figure.


 * Llyra: "M-My son! He is alive!"
 * Kro: "(Sigh) So I see. And now he's returned with a Serpent-Man by his side."
 * Llyra: "Let him in, Kro! I wish to speak with him."
 * Llyron: "(Telepathically to Kro and Llyra) That won't be necessary."

Alarming Kro and Llyra, Llyron proceeds to demonstrate what 'new' magic power he has by phasing through the Lemurian dome alongside Naga and later, the Serpent Temple itself. This act surprises the Deviants, eliciting a number of responses.


 * Tutinax: "(Roars) Look who has returned! It is the Kree's slave Atlantean!"
 * Glomm: "(Mocking) O, Prince Llyron! Have you returned to us for forgiveness, penance, or suicide?"
 * Thunder: "He bears the Serpent Crown on his head! He thinks that the Serpent Crown will save him from our fury!"
 * Morjak: "Well, would you look at that, Gelt. The fool's gonna try to kill us again. Where are her Kree chicks, though?"
 * Gelt: "Seriously, Morjak?"

Upon hearing the Deviant's words, Llyron raises his hand in the air and forms a fist. This simple action causes every Deviant in the city -- without exceptions and including Giganto -- to drop to their knees, gritting their teeth in pain.


 * Llyron: "You think my mere presence warrants your mockery? Silly lowborn. That behaviour is loathsome. Even for me."

Llyron calmly walks towards the Deviants, who are all still pinned to the ground by his magical force. Llyron looks at the Deviants one at a time, the serious yet uncaring expression on his face never changing. Except when he turns his eyes to Tutinax, who responds by roaring back at him in defiance. For this display, however, Set is pleased and delivers a retort.


 * Llyron: "For a Deviant, your bravery is quite commendable. It's unfortunate that you're a primate, mongrel (touches Tutinax's forehead, knocking him out cold)."

Eventually, he locks his eyes on Glomm, walking towards him. Panicking, Glomm begins rapidly morphing his slimy body in an attempt to escape. However, all of these attempts are futile and he completely freezes up when Llyron reaches him and gently places his hand on Glomm's head. Glomm's eyes begin glowing bright white and he once again starts struggling to break free, though this time he is screaming his head off in pain the entire time.


 * Kro: "Halt!"

Llyron takes his hand off Glomm's head and turns to Kro. The moment Llyron's hand is removed, Glomm's eyes stop glowing and he begins panting in exhaustion.


 * Glomm: "(Panting) Kro... oh, Kro, you don't know how grateful I am, even though you're still the worst ruler I've ever known."


 * Kro: "(Faces Glomm for a moment) Save it, shapeshifter. (Turns to Llyron again) Although Glomm is not the best creature I've ever known, he is still one of my people! I cannot allow you to harm him in any way so long as I, the sovereign general of the Deviants, live!"
 * Llyron: "Your people greeted me with hostility and jest at my expense. If I allow them to live, then they shall slander me and none shall believe that I am capable of punishment. If you were in my shoes, you would be doing the same as me. You know this."
 * Llyra: "(Runs / slithers quickly to her son) Llyron!"

Llyron turns to his mother, who places a hand on his cheek.


 * Llyra: "This man is the ruler of an entire species. Slaughtering them would undoubtedly cause a war! Even if you killed him along with his people, I'm sure someone would take his place. You can't risk a war! I You know that."
 * Llyron: "Hmm... yes, I can see why a slaughter of them would be unwise for the plans I have for the foreseeable future... but at the same time--"
 * Naga: "My lord."
 * Llyron: "Speak."
 * Naga: "With all due respect, this woman who you are speaking with has been nothing but loyal to you for the majority of her life. Do you not think that you should repay her loyalty?"

After processing Naga's words, Llyron -- or at least Set possessing the body of the Sub-Mariner's son -- sees Llyra's serpentine lower body and instantly remembers who she truly is. Besides, she is Set's longest surviving high priestess.


 * Llyron: "Wise words, Naga. Very well! These cretins will not be punished for their actions against me. Repeat such an offence, and I will make sure the oceans turn red with their blood. Tell anyone of this show of mercy of mine, and I will wipe out every single one of you."

Llyron waves his hand and the spell on the Deviants is removed, allowing them to once again move their bodies. The annoyed Deviants take a good few steps away from Llyron, having enough of his antiques. After the other Deviants have dispersed, Llyron speaks up.


 * Llyron: "That was refreshing. Now, do we have a more suitable place to confer?"
 * Kro: "How about you tell us first where your friends are, Llyron?"
 * Llyron: "They're all dead, Kro. The so-called Abominable Snow King and Lord of Crustaceans fled, and the others died because of that Kree whore."
 * Kro: "You feel no remorse for them? I guess the Serpent Crown you wear has something to do with your newfound foolishness. (Turns to Naga) What have you done to him, Serpent-Man?"
 * Naga: "All will be explained if you grant us a place to talk of matters, Kro. Now, would you like to waste any more time?"
 * Kro: "(Grunts, turns back and walks away) Follow me."

Moments later, the four are seen inside a ruined court: a place once utilized by the Deviant Priestlords to command their race. Now that they and their leader, Ghaur, are gone, the court is seldom used to deal with injustices among the Deviants.


 * Llyron: "Apologies for giving your legions of men a command without your permission, Sovereign General, but this conversation requires our isolated attention."
 * Llyra: "Llyron, are you feeling unwell?"
 * Llyron: "I beg your pardon?"
 * Llyra: "You threatened to slaughter a large group of people without even a second thought. That's... not you. And the way you've been speaking, it's... I'm lost for words of how to describe it. There's something different. Something wrong. What's gotten into you?"

Naga and Llyron turn to one another, the latter addressing the former telepathically.


 * Llyron: "Does she not notice the Serpent Crown upon my head?"
 * Naga: "Master, not everyone who has worn the Serpent Crown is host to your power. I, for example..."


 * Llyron: "Point taken. (Verbally speaking to Llyra) You're unable to see me as anything but your son? Can you truly not see beyond this mask of flesh? And here I was thinking that one of my high priestesses would be able to recognize me in any form."

Llyra squints at her son for a bit, unable to understand the meaning behind his words. Llyron smiles at her, sparking a sudden realization on her part. Connecting his son's personality change and the crown on his head, she instantly drops to her knees (or, she would if she had any) and begins begging Llyron for forgiveness.


 * Llyra: "Oh, forgive me, Lord Set! Forgive me for my inability to see beyond what is the material! I am but mortal! Forgive me for the flaws that come along with my nature! Forgive me!"
 * Set (Llyron): "Arise, then, Llyra Morris. Let you serve me as you are able to."

Llyra gets back up, dusting herself off from being on the ground.


 * Kro: "So, you're the Great Serpent, Set. I must admit, I'm somewhat disappointed. Ghaur said that you were fierce, gigantic, and all-powerful. Yet, here you are, forced to talk through the form of Namor's child. If you were truly as powerful as claimed, one would think that you'd have the power to break your bindings and actually appear to us in-person."
 * Naga: "Hold your tongue! You dare speak that way about the Slithering God!?"
 * Set (Llyron): "Waste none of your breath, Naga. Fools such as him are only ever driven deeper into their beliefs by men who attempt to defend their gods. Their pride is truly sickening."
 * Naga: "Master, Deviants have no gods, and the only one who worships you is Ghaur."
 * Set (Llyron): "My point still stands."
 * Llyra: "I doubt he'll ever do so, so I will apologize on his behalf, Lord Set. You see, he believes you to be partially responsible for a tragedy that has recently befallen his people."
 * Set (Llyron): "Don't waste your concern on me. I'm not affected by petty insults. If I were, half of the universe's population would be my enemies."
 * Kro: "Tch. It matters not. Why are you here, Set?"
 * Set (Llyron): "Well, you see, I'm aware that my skills of deception are phenomenal, but underneath my calm lies a stormy mind of spite and hate."
 * Llyra: "What is it that has displeased you, Lord Set?"
 * Naga: "Someone laid their hands upon the Serpent Crown and used it summon another god. The Kree brute who attacked your city and our temple was a thrall of his."
 * Set (Llyron): "My crown... this crown of pure power... has been violated to free that Aesir impostor! For that, I believe a proper punishment is in order. Wouldn't you agree?"
 * Llyra: "What kind of punishment?"
 * Set (Llyron): "Well, you see, as ashamed as I am to admit it, I'm not... here. Oh, don't get me wrong, I am here spiritually and mentally, but I'm not here physically. I'm just the mind. My body is still locked away. Because of that, no matter how much I augment my current host with my power, my strength will only grow to match the Green Goliath. But, as I'm sure you're aware, I am able to gain the power of the gods that I devour. The Serpent of Fear and his children, the Worthy, are more than enough to amplify my might a thousandfold!"
 * Kro: "And how do you plan on consuming them?"
 * Llyra: "Y-You said that your power would only be able to reach that of the Hulk's? And I thought the... Aesir only had one child?"
 * Set (Llyron): "He has eight mighty children with powers beyond mortal imagination. Although I have never fought their father, let alone them, I know strength when I sense them. I am an Elder God, whilst he is nothing more than a pretender with powers stolen from the darkest corners of the universe."
 * Kro: "Can you swallow your pride for a second and tell us what you really are going to do?"
 * Set (Llyron): "Hm?"
 * Kro: "You heard me."
 * Set (Llyron): "I wasn't talking to you."

Set opens his mouth and acid flies out from the back of his throat and into Kro's face. Kro instantly drops to the ground, screaming and wriggling in pain. Llyra is taken aback by this, but she steels her soul and gulps her saliva, hiding all the sympathy she had for the Deviant who treated her well before this turn of events.


 * Llyra: "(Hesitates) Was... that necessary, Great Serpent? Kro possesses a phenomenal healing factor."
 * Set (Llyron): "He is not a part of my plan, Llyra. And my acidic saliva is divine. I doubt he'll survive this gift of mine. (Kneels down near Kro) Do you hear me, Kro? After living for so long... it's the end of the line."
 * Kro: "You..."

Kro's body goes limp as the acid continues to eat away at his skull. Upon Kro's death, Set claps his hands together and laughs briefly.


 * Set (Llyron): "Deviants. At least his corpse will do wonders to increase my strength."


 * Llyra: "My lord?"
 * Set (Llyron): "What have you to say, Llyra?"
 * Llyra: "Forgive my asking, but what will happen to my child's body?"
 * Set (Llyron): "Do not worry. I will return to you your child once Cul Borson has been disposed of."
 * Llyra: "Thank you, Lord Set. In you, I put my trust."
 * Naga: "Wise choice, Llyra."
 * Set (Llyron): "(Puts the Serpent Crown off his head and hands it to Naga) Naga, do not let anyone know we're here. You know what to do. I do not wish anyone to know what we are about to do. Even these Deviants."
 * Naga: "Your will is my command."

Wearing the Serpent Crown, Naga projects a powerful telepathic wave that subconsciously alters the mind of every inhabitant of Eastern Lemuria to avoid entering the court Set and his followers are in. When this happens, Cataphrax, a Deviant warrior who was about to enter the court to check on his warlord, Kro, forgets what he is supposed to do, shrugs, and returns to whatever he was doing before all this.


 * Cataphrax: "By the Toad-God, what was I doing? (Walks away)"
 * Set (Llyron): "(Telepathically overhears what Cataphrax) Wait, did that Deviant at the door invoke the name of Tsathoggua?"
 * Naga: "Would you like to let him in, master?"
 * Set (Llyron): "(Ponders for a while) No, you need not to do that. Now, to waste no time, I shall tell you of my plan. Listen closely. Naga, can you hear me?"
 * Naga: "Loud and clear."
 * Set (Llyron): "Now, Earth's mightiest heroes, the Avengers, came to my temple assuming that I was the one to be summoned, yes?"
 * Llyra: "That is true."
 * Set (Llyron): "Good. I shall come knocking on their doorstep and let them capture me. I will convince them to let me kill that Asgardian weakling. 'Our battle would be so deadly that both of us would be destroyed and therefore, make the universe a better place!' Such are the approximation of the words I shall use to persuade them."
 * Llyra: "Lord Set, won't they be aware of how greater of a threat you will be if you consume the Asgardian?"
 * Set (Llyron): "Their Captain would have told them how mighty that jester, Cul, is, and so those who believed him -- who is everyone -- shall accept the possibility that I perish in fighting the Asgardian. But to truly attain power great enough to match the Snake of Fear, I will require... a show of force that will undoubtedly push the Avengers to support my cause."
 * Llyra: "What do you propose we do in pushing for the Avengers' support?"
 * Set (Llyron): "Have you heard of AIM Island, my dear?"
 * Llyra: "Advanced Idea Mechanics, yes, I have heard of them. AIM... how do you know of them?"
 * Set (Llyron): "I know many things even in exile, high priestess. Courtesy of the one I ate after Hyppus. Oh, his eyes were the most useful things I have ever consumed in an eternity."
 * Llyra: "I see. Where do Naga and I factor to in this plan of yours?"
 * Set (Llyron): "You have a duty in gathering the Sons of the Serpent to my cause, Llyra. They will be crucial in my meeting with the Avengers. Naga, on the other hand, shall assemble the greatest dark sorcerers of this world to assist in my... ascension."
 * Naga: "It shall be done, master."
 * Set (Llyron): "You would do well if you recruit the Stygian first, Naga. Do not mistake his lack of physical presence as a sign of his death. His fellow cultists reside in the City of Sickles. Though they worship the Marrow God, they will not deny your request. Wear the Serpent Crown (the Crown begins glowing with more power while Naga is wearing it) while you visit the dark masters, and they will accept you. Tell them that I promise them a kingdom of darkness beyond the stars where they are free to do whatever they want. They do not have to worship me, but they will all gain great favour if they choose to accept my proposition."
 * Naga: "And if they do not accept?"
 * Set (Llyron): "(His mouth, eyes, and ears glow, speaking the next sentence as if it is a spell) My crown shall not be removed from your head, and you shall not die even if your body is nonexistent. This is prevalent until you have finished your mission. If you have at least recruited five to our cause, you will be rewarded handsomely. The same goes for you when you accomplish your task, Llyra."
 * Naga: "My loyalty to you is a reward of its own, Lord Set."
 * Llyra: "I concur. This is a great day for us, Lord Set. We will make that 'Cul Borson' pay for his insolence!"
 * Set (Llyron): "Good. Now, see that your tasks are done. We shall regroup on R'llyeh when your missions are done."

Without words, Llyra and Naga mobilize, exiting Eastern Lemuria together with Naga masking their position using the Serpent Crown. Llyron, still in the Deviant court, stands over Kro's corpse.


 * Set (Llyron): "Your regeneration will serve me well, Kro. Thank you for being such a weak prey."

With that, Set savagely feasts upon Kro's corpse, gnawing and chewing at his bones and flesh like a lion mauling a gazelle.

Avengers Hydrobase
Being an Avenger does not always mean that a hero fights against world-ending threats 24/7. Sometimes, they're assigned in more idyllic roles, such as protecting important sites such as the Hydrobase. Despite its lack of use by the Avengers, the Hydrobase has yet to be abandoned due to its strategic value in monitoring possible threats from the deep blue sea, including the mercurial temper of the Sub-Mariner and many other abominations from the hidden depths. It also serves well as a comfortable vacation space and residence, so when Ms. Nadia van Dyne, AKA the Wasp (worry not, her step-mother, Janet van Dyne, has given her the permission to use such name), daughter to Maria Trovaya and Hank Pym and a student of the Avengers Academy institute, was given an internship opportunity with Earth's Mightiest Heroes, she was more than overjoyed to be put on the Hydrobase's monitoring duty. Her enthusiasm allows her to remain motivated and excited even several hours into the duty, contrary to the demoralized Avengers, Wonder Man and Swordsman.


 * Jacques Duquesne / Swordsman: "(Groans while sitting on a chair) Why can't you get bored, cher ami?"
 * Nadia van Dyne / Wasp: "(Flying around while shrunk, curiously exploring the command center before enlarging herself and sitting on the chair in front of the command computer) Why not? I've spent 70% of my life looking at empty walls and jumbling equations! Can't you let this Пчелка (little bee) have some fun?"
 * Simon Williams / Wonder Man: "See, Jacques? (Sarcastically) The power of enthusiasm beats superhuman stamina."
 * Swordsman: "(Smirks) Just don't screw up with anything, Nadia. You may understand things better than us, but we don't want our intern to break anything delicate."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "(Switches camera views on the monitor to observe the base) Trust me. If I wanted to break things, I would have done that the second I set foot on this island."
 * Wonder Man: "Uh, Nadia?"
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "(Turns to face Wonder Man) Hm?"
 * Wonder Man: "We've got company."

Nadia immediately snaps her sights back on the monitor and is notified that an unknown vessel bearing the Avengers Identicard signatures of Captain America's team is coming.


 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "It's Captain America and his cool crew! They're heading here within..."

Nadia's words are cut when the sound of a ship docking is heard outside of the facility.


 * Swordsman: "That was quick."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "(Excited) Well, what are you two waiting for? We have to greet them!"

Nadia shrinks and flies away before the veteran Avengers can even follow her. The two look at each other, Swordsman shrugging and smiling before running out of the facility to meet Captain America and his Avengers.

Warlock, in his submarine form, emerges and allows Captain America and his Avengers to step out before transforming and landing on the Hydrobase himself. The Avengers are soon met with the view of the Russian Wasp unshrinking herself and running towards them, Wonder Man and Swordsman clumsily following her. Nadia, not caring for privacy whatsoever, hugs Captain America and expresses her glee.


 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "(Hugs Rogers) Captain Rogers! Oh, you have no idea how long I've waited for this moment! It's an honor to meet with a legend like you and (incoherent babbling)."
 * Captain America: "(Glances at his Avengers, Wonder Man, and Swordsman while slightly laughing) That's good to know, Nadia, but I'm here because my team has encountered a dire threat that needs the Avengers' whole strength."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "(Looks up and stops hugging) Oh, uh... I see! Okay then, I'm guessing you need the Hydrobase's computer to contact the rest of the team?"
 * Captain America: "That is correct."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "A-Alright then! Follow me!"

Nadia scurries off, practically running away from Cap's Avengers while muttering to herself of how awkward she made herself to be. In no time, she disappears from the scene, leaving Wonder Man and Swordsman to attend to the team.

- In the command room, the Avengers are seen conferring. After Captain America tells the other heroes of his team's predicament, Swordsman is the first one to give a piece of his mind.
 * Swordsman: "Kid's motivated. I'll give her that. She'll be a good Avenger."
 * Captain America: "She Hank's kid?"
 * Swordsman: "Yup. Not Janet's though."
 * Captain America: "Doesn't matter. I'm just hoping she'll be a worthy successor to either Hank or Janet in the future."
 * Wonder Man: "Speaking of which, Cap, did you just say that you need every Avenger team?"
 * Captain America: "That's right, Simon. Or at least, those that are available as of now."
 * Wonder Man: "(Surveys Cap's team) Something went wrong, did it?"
 * Captain America: "Big time."
 * Wonder Man: "How big?"
 * Captain America: "It's... complicated."
 * Swordsman: "Hm, I see. How complicated?"
 * Captain America: "The 'threat' is either harmless or as dangerous as Galactus."
 * Swordsman: "(Looks at Wonder Man in curiosity) I am... confused, but I believe in you, Captain. Come now, let us discuss this inside the command room."
 * Captain America: "Thank you, Jacques. Avengers, form up on me."
 * Swordsman: ""So, Balder's uncle killed his other uncles and now he's back and wants to break the cycle of Ragnarok by means that we aren't sure of?"
 * Balder: "Indeed, and one of his children has taken a great many lives and possessed the niece of a Kree Accuser, who we were tasked to apprehend prior to the revelations."
 * Warlock: "We inferred that there are six more children out there who inhabit the bodies of unwilling hosts and may terrorize and kill other denizens of our universe to further the Serpent's goal, which to be fair, does not seem to be threatening to Earth."
 * Balder: "From a certain point of view."
 * Hiroim: "The Serpent promised to spare Earth from devastation and resurrect the lives lost and repair the things broken in his quest. The point of contention here is if it is truly worth it to avert the Serpent's crusade. If we do so, we may prevent the needless deaths of many, who, if they were to die, the Serpent promised to revive. If we do not, then... (shrugs) we can only see the consequences of Ragnarok's removal from the Asgardians and let things be restored. All this, assuming he was honest this entire time."
 * Wonder Man: "Hmm... you know, honestly, I personally don't want any of us picking fights with this 'Serpent' dude and his children. One of them wiped the floor with you people -- no offense -- but now, she's gone and..."
 * Ghost Rider (Alejandra Jones): "Look, how about we just free the hosts of La Serpiente, get them to their parents, guardians, planets, or whatever, and then we let the Serpent do his thing?"
 * Balder: "He left much unsaid about whether he'd attack Asgard or not in the aftermath of his mission."
 * Victorious: "Umm, if I may speak up, I think it's inevitable that we will fight these 'Worthy', considering that Balder's father asked us to do so and... (gulps) he didn't have much confidence in telling us that he's going to fight the Serpent."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "Hey, don't you think it's rather egoistic for us to not save alien lives and planets, even though we've no concern for them? None of them likes getting killed for some 'noble quest' without knowing what's going to happen next. People don't like to be afraid, and I'm not talking about the Serpent and his children themselves. Besides, don't you think it's time for us to begin helping the bigger universe instead of just, sticking to this place? Not that that's the wisest suggestion since we're still struggling to keep our heads in the game on this planet..."
 * Captain America: "You have a point, Wasp. If we don't stop the Serpent, there's no telling what calamity may befall Balder's people. Lying or not, we can't put our trust into some ancient god with ambiguous morality, despite his gentlemanlike demeanor. Who's not to say that his actions may have irreversible and unforeseeable consequences?"
 * Warlock: "There are many possibilities in this scenario, Captain. But, after self has taken into account everything that has happened and our prior mission, self has calculated that we, indeed, should take the fight to the Serpent and his children. Self knows that his words are not to be trusted, but self suggests every one of us cautiousness in facing him, both in combat and in -- for a lack of better term -- ideology. Self-friend: Captain America may have seen 'righteous individuals' such as Subject: Adolf Hitler embarking in 'well-intentioned' actions, but Subject: Cul Borson isn't like anything we've ever faced."
 * Captain America: "What makes him different from Hitler aside from his powers, Warlock?"
 * Warlock: "His promises and aims can actually be backed by his power. Self does not stand with Subject: Cul Borson, but self advises us all to not see Subject: Cul Borson as he is. 'Do not believe in your eyes' may be the best expression for this."
 * Victorious: "That is very wise of you, Warlock, but how are we going to find Cul and his children? My cosmic senses are no longer able to detect them, even if they worked under the sea previously."
 * Captain America: "Strange can handle that for us. Nadia, can you open up the comms to the Avengers Wave's leaders? It's time to give them a wake up call."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "One issue, Captain: my dad and step-mom are in space with their team."
 * Captain America: "Warlock, can you do something about that?"

TBA

AIM Island, Boca Caliente
===Xandar - Team Luke Cage vs Kuurth, Breaker of Stone (Warbringer)===

Chandilar
TBA

Trivia

 * Khonshu standing unfazed while the Dragon of the Moon roars right in his face is a reference to the video game, Darksiders.
 * This is the reference in question (0:39-0:50).
 * Part of the section "Eastern Lemuria" was written by GazzaB9 at the request of his friend and writer of the issue, Jacky 50A.