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 dark serpent god who dwelled within the bowels of Aesheim ages past, 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 in 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 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 isn't 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! You know well of 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?"
 * Warlock: "Self can. Now, can Subject: Wasp please move away from the console? This may be a bit grotesque for eyes as young as yours."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "(Looks at Warlock with eyes wide open and an expression of confusion) Eyes as young as... mine?"
 * Warlock: "Just a bad attempt at a joke. Please stand back."

After Nadia complies, Warlock begins to bond with the console, 'hacking' and turning it into a slag of techno-organic mass that loses its shape for a moment before reforming to its original shape.


 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "Okay, that's just... weird."
 * Warlock: "Told you so. Captain, you may proceed. Just use the console regularly. We should be able to reach Subject: Ant-Man's comms now."
 * Captain America: "Thank you, Warlock."

Team Ant-Man
Captain Rogers operates the console and contacts Ant-Man through his Identicard. On the other side, Ant-Man and his team, consisting of the Wasp (Janet van Dyne), Moon Knight (Marc Spector), Vision, Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew), She-Hulk (Jennifer Walters), and Hercules, are seen resting inside their spaceship. Among Ant-Man's Avengers, only Vision remains awake due to his robotic nature. Their ship's autopilot system is currently navigating the vessel to Earth, allowing the Avengers to sleep after a long and grueling cosmic mission of theirs. Hercules, particularly, snores loudly, though none of the other Avengers pay attention to him.

When Ant-Man's Identicard rings, Vision notices this and notifies Pym.


 * Vision: "Doctor Pym, it appears that your Identicard is ringing."
 * Henry Pym / Ant-Man: "(Slowly wakes up, groaning and speaking softly) Bloody hell, what is it now..."

As Henry wakes up, the other Avengers follow suite. Hercules' bearish groan immediately refreshes his teammates, much to their annoyance.


 * Janet van Dyne / Wasp: "Herc, can you please stop snoring for once... I still need some beauty sleep here."
 * Jennifer Walters / She-Hulk: "Oh hey look, that's our cameo call!"
 * Wasp (Janet van Dyne): "Geez, Jen, can you please stop with your nonsense for just a second?"
 * She-Hulk: "Your call, Jan. Just sayin' that your husband should accept that call. I've got a feeling that this is very important."
 * Hercules: "(Groans again) What is it now? Is it another mission?"
 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "(Scrubs his eyes and sighs) I'm too damn tired for this... Vision, can you please redirect the call to Jessica's Identicard?"
 * Jessica Drew / Spider-Woman: "Seriously, Hank?"
 * Vision: "The task has been done."

Spider-Woman accepts the call eventually and her Identicard projects Captain America's holographic view. Seeing this, Spider-Woman immediately notifies the team of this with hastiness.


 * Spider-Woman: "Guys, it's Captain America!"

The team immediately wakes up and gathers around Spider-Woman to know what's happening... except Moon Knight, who remains sitting. His mask makes it impossible for anyone to tell if he's asleep or not.


 * Captain America: "Hello? Can you hear my voice?"
 * Spider-Woman: "Loud and clear, Cap. Hank, you may wanna take this one."
 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "Alright. (Grabs Spider-Woman's Identicard) Hello, Captain. Everything going well down there?"
 * Captain America: "(Shakes his head) Not good. My team and I failed to stop a hooligan, and now a forgotten god is loose and he's on a warpath that could threaten the rest of the universe, including our Asgardian allies."
 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "Oh sh**... you need our assistance for this one? We'd be happy to help, Cap."
 * Captain America: "I'm calling in all the Wave Avengers for this one. Think you can make it to the Avengers Mansion in an hour?"
 * Vision: "We are currently seventy light years away from Earth, Captain. At most, we will reach the Mansion within six hours. We may be able arrive within less time, but that would severely damage this ship's engine."
 * Captain America: "Alright then. I'll go get Strange to teleport you there, okay?"
 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "Copy that, Cap. We'll get there as soon as we can. We won't let you down."
 * Captain America: "Good to know, Hank. Good luck. Captain America out."

Rogers taps out of the comms and Ant-Man's Avengers begin to argue about how they are supposed to reach Earth within such a limited timeframe.


 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "Okay, how the f**k are we supposed to get to Earth in an hour when we're a thousand miles from there?"
 * Spider-Woman: "He said he'd get Doctor Strange to 'port us in, right? Pretty sure we've got nothing to worry about now"
 * Hercules: "He said he was going to summon the other Avengers, as well. This is quite a serious matter, isn't it?"
 * Wasp (Janet van Dyne): "You didn't hear him mention something about a forgotten god going ham on the universe, Herc?"
 * Hercules: "Oh come on, we've just saved the universe ourselves! We, heroes, tend to overcome the impossible most of the time!"
 * Vision: "Keyword: most."
 * She-Hulk: "Don't be overconfident, y'all. We're entering another story that's not ours now, so it's best for us to stay focused and be prepared."
 * Wasp (Janet van Dyne): "Ugh, whose story is it then now? Cap?"
 * She-Hulk: "His team, to be more exact."
 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "Alright, just calm down, everyone. Vision and I will try to boost the engines so we can reach the Earth earlier. I don't want Strange or Cap to be bothered even more, so it's best for us to get there by this damn ship ourselves. We good?"
 * Spider-Woman: "Yeah, we're good. Now, to return to sleep..."

While Hank and Vision repair the engines, Moon Knight, motionless and in a trance-like state, is visited by a figure known to him and only seen by him. The figure stands beside the Moon Knight and the Crescent Crusader moves his head in acknowledgement of him. None of the other Avengers see Spector moving from his place for even an inch of comfort.


 * Khonshu: "Hello there, Spector. I take it you are happy that you and your merry band of heroes have saved the universe?"
 * Marc Spector / Moon Knight: "Not even close. What do you want, Khonshu?"
 * Khonshu: "I am sure you have heard tidbits about what was informed to you about the impending Asgardian threat, yes?"
 * Moon Knight: "Do you have anything to do with that?"
 * Khonshu: "Let's just say I saw him and his children fighting on the Moon against... one of their own. Trust me, it makes sense eventually."
 * Moon Knight: "What is your point, then?"
 * Khonshu: "You and your team will be sent to die fighting against those monsters. I do not want my avatar to die getting killed by Asgardian excrement, so I am here to offer you these..."

Khonshu presents to Moon Knight an antique piece of armor and four pieces of an ornate sword, both of which are seen floating through the air. When Hank walks back to fetch some parts, he phases through the armor, sword pieces, and Khonshu himself. Seeing this, Moon Knight stands up and examines the equipment.


 * Moon Knight: "(Examines the new gear) Why are you giving me these?"
 * Khonshu: "Unlike Galactus and his ever-changing heralds, I choose you and you alone as my avatar in this sick, sad universe to cleanse the blackness of evil. You will not die of old age, yes, but you will die of combat. Frankly, these artifacts aren't potent enough to grant you victory over even one of the Worthy, but they will help you stand your ground against them. Besides, how long has it been since I've granted you gifts, anyway?"
 * Moon Knight: "(Pauses and touches the armor, sliding his fingers across it) This armor. How strong is it?"
 * Khonshu: "It's five hundred times more durable than your current armor, courtesy of my blessings, but please, don't get cocky. You may not trust me, but take my word for granted when I tell you that the Worthy can reduce adamantine to scrap within minutes. Once you put it on, you are capable of perceiving falling stars crashing from one end of a galaxy to another and move as fast as light itself, as well as phase through obstacles like your automaton friend. You won't be able to run as fast as you'd expect, but your agility will be unmatched even by Spider-Totems."
 * Moon Knight: "(Looks at Khonshu) Do I get to keep it?"
 * Khonshu: "Didn't I tell you that this was a gift?"

Khonshu may not be able to see through his mask, but he knows well that Spector feels relief and satisfaction within his heart: something he has rarely known of from his avatar. The Moon Knight switches his attention to the sword pieces, observing them with curiosity.


 * Moon Knight: "What about these? They are clearly parts of a sword, so why are they not assembled?"
 * Khonshu: "Assemble them, then. After all, these are yours now, aren't they?"
 * Moon Knight: "How?"
 * Khonshu: "By hand or mind. Either works."

Moon Knight opts the latter and concentrates, eventually assembling the sword and gripping it with both hands. He swings the sword around, phasing through Khonshu, the ship's hull, Spider-Woman, and his chair. The sword is very light and it hums with power.


 * Moon Knight: "I gotta say, for a lunatic god, you know how to find your weapons."
 * Khonshu: "That's not my weapon, per se. But then, I can't let such a relic blade fall into uselessness after millennia."
 * Moon Knight: "What is this thing, anyway? Where'd you get it?"
 * Khonshu: "I recovered it from a temple in Libya. This weapon is called... the Scarab. It was wielded by... well, let's just say he's still alive on your planet and he'd be angry at you for possessing such a magnificent weapon. That is, if he encounters you, which is a possibility I find very unlikely. Thanks to my blessings, you can assemble, disassemble, and manipulate the weapon's trajectory -- if you chose to throw it -- and size at will. It is sharp enough to cut through worlds and harm the immaterial. You can practically engage every opponent there is with your new gear, provided you remember that you are still human and that your limitations persist."

Moon Knight disassembles the sword and turns his attention to Khonshu.


 * Moon Knight: "What else do you have?"
 * Khonshu: "Seconds after I depart, your armor will be instantly equipped and you can summon your sword and its fragments anytime you want. You can switch from this gift-armor of mine to your regular, flimsy suit anytime you like, and your team will be on Earth before you even know it. Anything else you'd like to say, Mr. Spector?"
 * Moon Knight: "(Pauses before replying) Thank you."
 * Khonshu: "(Smiles) You are welcome."

With that, Khonshu disappears from the scene and Moon Knight returns to his seat. Seconds later, Moon Knight is already equipped with his new armor, which promptly attracts the attention of the other Avengers.


 * Spider-Woman: "(Is sitting beside Moon Knight before noticing the change) Hey, hey, what the f**k? Where did you get that thing?!"
 * Wasp (Janet van Dyne): "(Rises from her seat to see Moon Knight) Huh?! Spector, what the-?"

The Avengers are left unable to react further more towards Spector's new gear when their spaceship instantaneously gets teleported to the hangar of the Avengers Mansion, also surprising Edwin Jarvis, who is maintaining the lawn near the hangar. Edwin falls flat on the ground and the Avengers inside their specially-modified Quinjet take a moment to perceive what has just happened.
 * Edwin Jarvis: "Oh dear! Where did that Quinjet come from?!"
 * Hercules: "Uh, weren't we in space seconds ago? A-And... uh, Moon Knight? Where did you get..."
 * Moon Knight: "(Stands up and exits the ship, turning his head and delivering a remark) Khonshu has given me his favour for the coming battle. What about you, Olympian?"

Moon Knight walks out of the ship, surprising Jarvis with his armor and soon, sword, which he assembles while passing the Avengers Mansion's groundskeeper. The other Avengers exit the ship and see Moon Knight phasing through the Mansion's walls, prompting them all to practically freak out.


 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "HOW THE F**K DID HE DO THAT?! HE WASN'T ABLE TO DO THAT BEFORE!"
 * Hercules: "(Pauses, giggles, then talks) Friend Hank! It appears that the situation the Captain has informed us is so dire that even the Moon Knight's god has blessed him to help us undertake the mission to come! Knowing that, I will not simply wait for the battle to come but to prepare myself! It is time for me to contact Olympus Group to recover my divine armaments. I surely hope Hebe knows where they keep them in storage. Now if you excuse me, I shall ready myself so I am not outmatched by an Ennead worshipper in the field of battle! I will be back!"

Hercules jumps over the hangar's brick walls and into the streets, making his way to the Olympus Group Building by foot.

The team slowly make their way towards the mansion's interior, Vision also phasing through the same wall Moon Knight phased through previously.
 * Ant-Man (Hank Pym): "Alright, we're about 56 minutes early, so... does anyone want to upgrade themselves again?"
 * Wasp (Janet van Dyne): "Let's just (helps Jarvis get back on his feet)... refresh ourselves in the Mansion first, alright?"
 * Vision: "I agree."

Team Thor
Meanwhile, back on the Avengers Hydrobase, Captain America continues his summoning of Avengers by contacting Thor's team, whose members are currently staying inside their 'official' HQ, which is a rundown bar that's actually not too far from the Olympus Group Building.


 * Jessica Jones: "(Wakes up, groaning and rubbing her head) Damn... what happened?"
 * Thor Odinson: "(Extends his hand and assists Jessica Jones in standing up; speaks sarcastically) Good morning, Mrs. Jones. I take it you have a good hangover last night?"
 * Jessica Jones: "(Stands up) F**k if I know, Thor. (Clears the dust off her clothes and looks around) Man, this place has just gone to sh*t. What happened?"
 * Thor: "You were possessed by Loki and caused some ruckus. Fortunately, (displays the jar where Loki is imprisoned in, him being stuck in the form of ice cream) this insidious rascal has been contained."
 * Jessica Jones: "Oh yeah, now I remember... (snatches the jar from Thor) this f**ker made me 'accidentally' eat him."
 * Loki: "(Speaking in his green ice cream form, his facial features invisible) Well, what can I say? I am a good god of mischief."
 * Jessica Jones: "(Sniggers) Reminds me of the whole Hong Kong incident back in the days."
 * Thor: "Do not mention that disaster of an event, Jones."
 * Jessica Jones: "(Sarcastically) Sorry."
 * Thor: "Well, you know what I'm truly sorry of? (Genuinely speaking, his tone becoming somber) I'm sorry that I let you be taken advantage of again, Jessica. I... I promised you that you won't have to repeat a cycle of torment similar to that which the Purple Man brought upon you."
 * Eros / Starfox: "Why, would you look at that? Until a few minutes ago, he was speaking like a goofball!"
 * Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch: "You should have known better as a fellow immortal, Eros, that even the likes of Thor do not consider the meaning of life's entirety as a joke."
 * Starfox: "W-What? Wanda, what are you saying?"
 * Brian Braddock / Captain Britain: "She is saying that Thor does not act as if every moment of his life is a joke, Starfox."
 * Starfox: "Hey, when did I ever consider my life a joke?"
 * Jessica Jones: "Guys, can you please shut the f**k up? (Sighs and speaks to Thor) It's not your fault, Thor. It's not like you watched me getting possessed, anyway. You weren't there; nobody was there! It was unexpected, anyway."
 * Loki: "It was quite an enjoyable experience, I should say."
 * Rick Jones / A-Bomb: "Shut the hell up, Baskin & Robbins."
 * Loki: "Or what, you impotent blue Abomination? Perhaps, when you wielded the Destiny Force, it was right for me to fear you, but now? Even behind that carapace of yours, you are still the lonely, crooked, insecure delinquent you were long ago..."
 * A-Bomb: "(Angrily walks up to Loki's jar, threatening to kill him and attempting to snatch the jar away from Jessica Jones) Oh, I'll show you fear when I eat you and let my Gamma-irradiated stomach acids reduce you to nothingness!"
 * Captain Britain: "(Quickly restrains A-Bomb) Get a hold of yourself, boy! You crush that jar, he'll be free and haunt us for the rest of our lives! You eat that bastard, you'll provide him with another instrument of chaos!"
 * Loki: "(Chuckles) Oh, you'll never know what I..."
 * Thor: "(Grimly) Loki, you say another word and I'll make sure you never see for the rest of your life."

For the first time in a hundred years, Thor's threat actually silences Loki for once.


 * Scarlet Witch: "Thor? Who's Sigryn?"
 * Thor: "Oh, Sigryn? She's the only person Loki has truly ever loved."
 * Jessica Jones: "That's... okay, honestly, is it just me or was that too harsh?"
 * Thor: "I assure you, nothing is ever too harsh for Loki."

Thor's Identicard beeps afterwards and he responds to it, removing it from his pocket and displaying the holographic image of Captain America.


 * Thor: "(Speaks in a more lighthearted manner) Captain! It is good to see you. What have you to say, Captain Rogers?"
 * Captain America: "Good to see you too, Thor. My team needs the help of every Avengers Wave teams, and that includes yours. Are you free for the moment?"
 * Thor: "We've just wrapped up the capture of Loki, Captain; we are ready for whatever task you have."
 * Captain America: "That's wonderful. Tell me, Thor, have you ever heard of someone called the Serpent, Thor?"
 * Thor: "Just the Midgard Serpent."
 * Captain America: "What about someone called Cul Borson?"
 * Thor: "(Pauses, pondering on the Serpent's true name) I'm sorry, did you just say Borson?"
 * Captain America: "That's right. This 'Cul' person said that he was you and your brother's uncle and a god of fear. He intends to break the cycle of Ragnarok, and your father entrusts us, the Avengers, with the task of defeating him in case he is defeated. Problem is, Odin said that without much faith in his own words, and we -- including Balder -- agree that he is going to inevitably fail."
 * Thor: "I see. You should know, Captain, that even though my father is the All-Father, he is imperfect. He has won a million wars, but he has also lost a million other battles. Where do you want us to assemble, Captain?"
 * Captain America: "Avengers Mansion. We'll confer there in an hour. Think you can get there in time?"
 * Thor: "We'll be there, Captain. You need not to worry."
 * Captain America: "Thank you, Thor. Cap out."

Captain America immediately cuts off his transmission, but the scene remains focused on Thor's team for the moment.


 * A-Bomb: "Uh, so... are we going to go against your uncle, Thor?"
 * Thor: "I thought my only uncles were Vili and Ve, and they're dead. Never have I heard of this 'Cul' individual! Nevertheless, there must be a reason behind... (sighs) forget it. Let us head to the Avengers Mansion, friends. We'll..."

Thor's sentences are interrupted by another Avenger's passing, who enters the bar and greets the God of Thunder and his team.


 * Hercules: "Thor! Avengers!"
 * Starfox: "It is Hercules!"
 * Jessica Jones: "Oh, wow, how did this guy get here?"
 * Thor: "Hercules!"

The Olympian and the Asgardian embrace one another before sharing remarks.


 * Hercules: "So, this is your Avengers' headquarters! And I thought it'd be somewhere closer to Asgard?"
 * Thor: "This place is a convenient spot for us to hang out, so I picked it as our headquarters."
 * Hercules: "Ah, indeed. (Looks around the bar and spots a clover sign) Oh, you sneaky Asgardian! Wasn't this the Leprechaun?"
 * Thor: "You are very perceptive for a drunkard, Hercules! (Herc and Thor laugh) Do you remember this place? We used to drown ourselves in mortal mead for years here!"
 * Hercules: "That is true! And we used to indulge ourselves in ravishing its maidens, too!"


 * Jessica Jones: "Wait, what?"

Thor and Hercules go silent when they realize what the latter has just said.


 * Hercules: "I-It's not... what you think I said..."
 * Jessica Jones: "Herc, if what you said meant what I think it is, you're really going to be in a world of pain!"
 * A-Bomb: "I mean, Herc's screwed a lot of girls throughout the years so..."
 * Hercules: "Can we PLEASE not discuss that? I am here just to check on you people on the way to the Olympus Group to get some of my old gear."
 * Thor: "Ah, you heed the Captain's call?"
 * Hercules: "That is true. He said that there was a forgotten god or something that could threaten the universe and your kind, especially! Since my team thought that it's a serious matter, we decided to 'upgrade' ourselves, so to speak. Oh, and you know that Ennead lover, Moon Knight? His god gave him a new set of armor and a sword just moments after the Captain ordered us here! The battle to come MUST be that important that even Khonshu decided to intervene!"
 * Thor: "Did the Captain tell you who the threat is?"
 * Hercules: "No, I'm afraid. (Whispers) It's a relative of yours, isn't it?"
 * Thor: "An uncle of mine, in fact. An uncle who I have never heard of who calls himself the God of Fear."
 * Hercules: "I see. Do you... object to fighting this uncle of yours?"
 * Thor: "Nay. Not for now, anyway. The Captain should explain this when we are assembled in the Avengers Mansion."
 * Hercules: "I concur. Now, if you excuse me, I must go to prepare myself for war. I suggest you and your Avengers do the same, Thor. (Delivers the line while walking out) We'll never know of what's to come!"

After Hercules departs from the bar, Thor's Avengers look at their leader. The Asgardian quickly responds with a commanding order.


 * Thor: "We have approximately one hour to prepare. If you are in need of transportation to reach your weapons, artifacts, and other things that could help you in fighting a god, then the Bifrost will be open for your use. All you need to do is to say where you are going and Heimdall will transport you there. I must depart for Asgard now. See where the All-Father is and prepare for battle."
 * Heimdall: "(Looking the scene from the Rainbow Bridge) You have got to be kidding me."
 * Scarlet Witch: "Thor, what do we do with Loki?"
 * Thor: "Stow him in the fridge and enchant it so he may not escape it, Wanda."
 * Scarlet Witch: "Alright then. (Receives the Loki jar from Jessica Jones and complies with Thor's order)"
 * Thor: "Good luck, everyone. We'll see each other in the Avengers Mansion. You are dismissed."

With that said, Thor immediately gets transported to Asgard by Heimdall via the Bifrost, followed by the other Avengers also getting teleported to destinations unknown by the Bifrost.

Team Iron Man
In the aftermath of his victory over Doctor Doom, an unarmored Tony Stark is seen sitting on a stool, drinking a nice glass of martini in the Stark Tower, which is in the process of being repaired after his battle with Latveria's ruler. While trying to get himself drunk, Tony receives a phone call which he rather clumsily accepts. Tony turns back and takes a good look at the remnants of Doctor Doom's Doombot army. Tony smiles and responds to Steve's statement. After Cap goes offline, Tony stands up and asks FRIDAY a few demands. Despite having completed his armor selection, Tony keeps scrolling through FRIDAY's holographic display to see what weapons are available to him. When he stumbles upon a certain image, Stark's cheerful demeanor turns bleak. Stark's face lights up in confusion and a small pint of rage. While suiting up with pieces of the Model 45 Deep-Space Armor and entering the Thorbuster armor, Tony asks FRIDAY for one last favor.
 * Tony Stark: "FRIDAY, who's that on the phone?"
 * FRIDAY: "The call appears to originate from the Avengers Hydrobase. However, I am unable to determine the caller's identity due to an alien presence meddling with the frequency."
 * Tony Stark: ""Ah! Must be Cap and his Technarch buddy. (Accepts the phone call) Heyo, Steve, what's up?"
 * Captain America: "Tony, are you free for the moment? My team has encountered an enormous problem, and now we need the help of all Avengers Wave personnel."
 * Tony Stark: "How big of a problem is it?"
 * Captain America: "Thor's uncle wants to terrorize the universe."
 * Tony Stark: "Okay, not to sound blunt here, but, why is this our concern?"
 * Captain America: "I'll explain later in the Avengers Mansion. Right now, we need as much firepower we can get."
 * Tony Stark: "Don't worry. I've got more than enough firepower for this one. You want me to call the other Avengers, as well? I'll take the burden of your chest for free this time."
 * Captain America: "(Brethes in relief) Thank you, Tony. Oh, but please do not summon the reserve Avengers except Strange. I'm - we're - in dire need of him."
 * Tony Stark: "You got it, Steve. When are we assembling?"
 * Captain America: ""Within an hour. You are sober, right?"
 * Tony Stark: "Well, I was about to get myself drunk until you called, so that's that."
 * Captain America: "Alright, good to know. I'll see you in the mansion at ten. Cap out."
 * Tony Stark: "FRIDAY, please notify all members of the Avengers Wave protocol to assemble at the Avengers Mansion immediately. Tell them that Cap is in dire need of assistance and firepower."
 * FRIDAY: "Done. Would you like me to prepare the Godkiller Mark II for the mission?"
 * Tony Stark: "Whoa, whoa, whoa, no, no, no! Not now! (Briefly pauses before realizing something) Cap didn't say if we're going to space or not... FRIDAY, how about you keep that thing warmed up for the next hour? I'll tell you when it's needed."
 * FRIDAY: "Yes, sir. Warming up the Godkiller now."
 * Tony Stark: "Now, what am I going to wear?" (FRIDAY shows Tony a holographic display of his armors) The Bleeding Edge's screwed, that adamantium tuxedo was a one-time gig, and I don't think Extremis is as adequate as it was years ago."
 * FRIDAY: "Considering Captain America wants the Avengers to fight Thor's uncle, I suggest you armor up with the Thorbuster."
 * Tony Stark: "(Snaps his fingers in satisfaction before recalling an incident from the past) FRIDAY, do you think ol' Goldilocks will be pissed off at the sight of that thing?"
 * FRIDAY: "No, I don't think so. The situation at hand is of greater concern than the remembrance of a conflict long past."
 * Tony Stark: "Right. Let's hope he doesn't get any funny ideas seeing me in that armor. Now, I'd say I go for the Model 45 for my underwear. What do you think, FRIDAY?"
 * FRIDAY: "Mister Stark, please do not refer your regular armors as underwear."
 * Tony Stark: "(Giggles) Alright. You got me there. Say, FRIDAY... can you, uh, repair these Doombots so I can use them as cannon fodder?"
 * FRIDAY: "You seem to be very well-prepared, Mr. Stark."
 * Tony Stark: "Gotta have a use for them, you know. And no, I'm not letting them be this place's bodyguards; they tend to turn sentient when left alone."
 * FRIDAY: "Very well, sir."
 * FRIDAY: "Sir, I observe that you have lost your joy."
 * Tony Stark: "Just an old wound, FRIDAY. Nothing more."
 * FRIDAY: "You are referring to the Stark Sentinels."
 * Tony Stark: "(Sigh) Sometimes, I wonder why the hell did I build these things."
 * FRIDAY: "Sir, if you wish to be free of your past sins, then perhaps, you should deploy the remaining Stark Sentinels to battle."
 * Tony Stark: "W-What?! How many of them are there?! W-Where are you storing them?! H-How on Earth could those things even remain? I asked them to be decommissioned!"
 * FRIDAY: "The two Stark Sentinels from the Hong Kong incident were, indeed, scheduled to be demolished by Damage Control. However, their armor plating were too dense to even be damaged by Damage Control's vibranium drills. Without any other practical and accessible way for them, they were stored in the old Stark Enterprises Missile Launch Facility, where they lay dormant to this day."
 * Tony Stark: "(Sigh) I gotta do physical inventory counts myself the next time around. To be fair, it was my fault for being ignorant at the time, but now? (Claps) I'm not screwing up anymore. FRIDAY, get the Sentinels combat-ready alongside the Doombots and Godkiller. Be ready to teleport them to my position when I ask you to."
 * FRIDAY: "Copy that, Mister Stark. Anything else you need?"
 * Tony Stark: "FRIDAY, what is Rhodey wearing right now?"
 * FRIDAY: "The Model Three armor, sir."
 * Tony Stark: "Tell him he's got an old date to attend to in ten minutes. He's not the only one getting improvements today."
 * FRIDAY: "An old date, sir?"
 * Tony Stark: "You still have that alien armor Rhodes wore like, a decade ago?"
 * FRIDAY: "Ah, the Eidolon Warwear. You wish to have him equip that armor, I see."
 * Tony Stark: "Yup. (Closes the Thorbuster armor's cockpit) And now, I'm ready to kick some major Asgardian ass. Thanks for the assist, Friday."
 * FRIDAY: "You are welcome. Godspeed, boss."

Tony proceeds to fly out of the Tower, heading towards the Avengers Mansion in no time. - Disconnecting from the Hydrobase's computer, Captain America turns to address his teammates while Warlock stops bonding his own body with the computer.


 * Captain America: "We need a whole lot more than just teamwork to succeed in defeating the Serpent."
 * Warlock: "Ironically, self can only upgrade other people and objects by bonding, similar to a Klyntar!"
 * Balder: "Unlike a Symbiote, however, a Technarch like you is far more pleasant entity to bond with."
 * Ghost Rider (Alejandra Jones): "(Slight laugh) Really? And I thought you and I had a pleasant bond."
 * Hiroim: "(Giggles) Oh, you two lovebirds. And I thought you had a wife, Asgardian."
 * Balder: "She is deceased. One day, I'll meet her again in Hel - no, I mean Valhalla."
 * Ghost Rider (Alejandra Jones): "Well, if you love her, then... maybe you shouldn't play with fire (smirks)."
 * Victorious: "Eh-hehe, I am not so well-versed in this... well... you know."
 * Captain America: "(Sigh) Being... alone has its perks, Zora. But now is not the time to speak of any of those. We have to be at the Avengers Mansion by ten o' clock, so if any of you need to get yourself some R&R, do it now. I'm heading to the Sanctum Sanctorum to get Doctor Strange to teleport Ant-Man's team to the mansion."
 * Victorious: "Kapitány, my cosmic senses are telling me that Dr. Pym's team is already in the mansion..."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "W-Wasn't he in space just like, a few minutes ago? I don't recall anyone on dad's team being able to teleport."
 * Captain America: "Now, that's a miracle. That's one less labor for Strange to deal with, then."
 * Wonder Man: "Cap, does Ms. Rookie over here need to join us?"
 * Captain America: "(Turns to Nadia and pats her shoulder) Stay here while we sort out the mess, Nadia. I... I can't guarantee your parents' survival, but I'll do my best to ensure that everyone returns alive."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "It's alright, Captain. I believe in you."
 * Balder: "Heh. I guess to ensure everyone's survival, we have to prepare for the worst."
 * Warlock: "Does self-friend: Balder have anything in mind about preserving one's self? Self knows that self-friend: Balder is invincible and won't die until Ragnarok, but surely, (half-joking) self-friend: Balder has to defend his own beauty, yes?"
 * Balder: "(Smirks) I do, in fact, have an idea on how to ensure the Worthy's defeat, even though nothing is certain as of now. It will... change me, yes, but it won't be permanent."
 * Ghost Rider (Alejandra Jones): "Well, what is it?"
 * Balder: "You'll see. In the meantime, I must return to Asgard to attain a powerful weapon to defeat the Worthy. I will not be late. Heimdall!"

With the blink of an eye, Balder is teleported to Asgard by Heimdall via the Rainbow Bridge, leaving Captain America and the other Avengers by themselves.


 * Ghost Rider (Alejandra Jones): "Always in a hurry, huh?"
 * Captain America: "I'm just hoping that at least he returns in one piece and with some that will really help us against the Worthy."
 * Warlock: "Oh, yeah, about that... self-friend: Captain America, we don't know where the Serpent and his children are..."
 * Captain America: "That's why I have Doctor Strange on the line. And if he can't do it, then... (sigh) we'll keep whatever preparations we have on stand-by until the next week. We don't want to be caught off-guard by future Worthy invasions. Even if they're not the ones attacking, it's good to actually be prepared for once. Usually, we're the ones who get jumped on."
 * Victorious: "Captain Rogers, what if not every Avenger makes it to the mansion?"
 * Captain America: "We'll manage. Let them handle with whatever situation they're dealing with at the moment, then we'll summon them."
 * Victorious: "Good to know. So... now, can we go to the Avengers Mansion?"
 * Captain America: "You sure you don't want ask Doom for help for this one?"
 * Victorious: "I... I think not, Captain. I'll... manage."
 * Ghost Rider (Alejandra Jones): "(Smirks) Just let loose a bit, Vic. You're stronger than you think you are."
 * Hiroim: "I concur. But, before we depart for the Avengers Mansion, I have a question."
 * Captain America: "What is it?"
 * Hiroim: "What are we supposed to tell Namor about his son? We did not come for him after Odin arrived."
 * Victorious: "My senses can't pick up their location anymore... átkozott! We have failed Namor..."
 * Warlock: "We'll take the blame together. How does that sound? It's as if Subject: Namor cares for Llyron, anyway."
 * Ghost Rider (Alejandra Jones): "Oh, brujo, you've no idea how great a father's love is for his children."
 * Captain America: "Don't worry. Everything's going to be fine. Now, can you take us to the mansion, Hiroim?"
 * Hiroim: "Including these two (Wonder Man and Swordsman)?"
 * Swordsman: "(Smirks) We're part of the Black Widow's Avengers, homme gris. That, you should know."
 * Hiroim: "I see. I should acquaint myself with other Avengers outside of this team, then. How about the girl, then? Shall she one day be an Avenger?"
 * Wonder Man: "There's a reason she's a student of the 'Avengers Academy', buddy. Well, yeah, not everyone there will be an Avenger, but at least they'll be vigilantes and superhumans beneficial to society."

Nadia van Dyne smirks at Wonder Man's remark.


 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "Well, what do you know? I am going to be beneficial to society."
 * Hiroim: "(Laughs) You are smart, child. You'll be a great hero once you've completed your studies, and when that time comes, it'll be an honor to fight alongside you."
 * Wasp (Nadia van Dyne): "I'm... flattered. You know, you could be a good teacher at the Academy!"
 * Hiroim: "(Turns to Captain America) Could I?"
 * Captain America: "If you're still with us 'til the end of all this? I'll talk to Pepper Potts about it."
 * Hiroim: "Good. Now, I can make the Warbound proud by teaching young warriors the ways of Sakaar. Gather up now, Avengers. We have no more time to waste."

Utilizing the Old Power to form a white circle beneath the heroes' floor, Hiroim takes them to the Avengers Mansion' interior, leaving Nadia van Dyne in the Avengers Hydrobase, alone but inspired for the future that is to come.

The God Quarry
On a mysterious planet with red skies, the Serpent and his children arrive after being transported through the depths of space by Nerkkod, the Breaker of Space, formerly known as Namora. For a planet located at the far end of the universe and without a sun, it's quite a surprising sight for mortals to see that there are plants growing around the place. However, the Serpent himself knows that this planet, which houses the power-granting God Quarry he has been seeking, is a nexus of powers, both magical and cosmic. The moment Nul says that, the forest around them clears, seemingly dissipating into the air. The land among them suddenly becomes akin to a desert and a loud rumbling sound is heard from in front of the Worthy. A sinkhole forms a few kilometers away from their position, attracting the group's attention. The Worthy quickly enter their combat stances and turn around, faced with the view of the Coven, who are floating ominously. The Worthy all look at their father, who looks back with the same expression of confusion on his children. Though the Worthy would usually slaughter whoever directly/indirectly insults their father, they are well aware that the Coven are more than capable of erasing them from existence within the blink of an eye.
 * Cul Borson: "This place is powerful. The grounds, the trees, the mountains... they are saturated with the powers of dead gods."
 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf: "My host's master, Thanos, claimed that this is a graveyard of gods... and the birthplace of the Infinity Stones."
 * Kuurth, Breaker of Stone / Warbringer: ""Ah, the Infinite Six... the only stones I have not been able to shatter... yet."
 * Mokk, Breaker of Faith / Aarkus: "Wonderful. Perhaps, we can grab some newborn Infinity Stones for Father to utilize to defeat the Beyonders?"
 * Cul Borson: "No. We are not here for them. We are here for the God Quarry, and that is all."
 * Greithoth, Breaker of Wills / Vulcan: "Father, will the God Quarry's power be sufficient to use against Those Who Sit Above in Shadow?"
 * Cul Borson: "I do not know. But that doesn't mean that we are to relent. There is a reason why we also seek the M'Kraan Crystal, my children. If the Quarry refuses to grant me its strength, then the M'Kraan Crystal will suffice."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "We believe in your success, All-Father."
 * Cul Borson: "And I believe in you, children. Failure is never an option, but it is among the greatest teachers you will ever know. Remember that, my Worthy."
 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "Wise words, Rightful Father. Now, where can we find this God Quarry?"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "The God Quarry... there it is! That must be the Quarry!"
 * Cul Borson: ""Be wary. The Coven haven't made their presence known yet. Do you sense anything on the horizon, Nerkkod?"
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "Nothing... nothing at all."
 * ??? #1: "Then you..."
 * ??? #2: "... are not..."
 * ??? #3: "... prepared."
 * Coven #1: "Welcome to..."
 * Coven #2: "... the God..."
 * Coven #3: ".. Quarry, Cul Borson."
 * Cul Borson: "(Interrogative) You know me."
 * Coven #1: "We see..."
 * Coven #2: "... the future..."
 * Coven #3: "... as it is."
 * Coven #1: "We have foreseen..."
 * Coven #2: "... your arrival..."
 * Coven #3: "... for millennia."
 * Cul Borson: "I assure you, I did not even know of these witches until Angrir told us. (Addressing the Coven) However, I take it that you know why I am here?"
 * Coven #1: "Your quest..."
 * Coven #2: "... against the Beyonders..."
 * Coven #3: "... is laughable."
 * Cul Borson: "You do not believe that the power within the God Quarry is sufficient to defeat Those Who Sit Above in Shadow?"
 * Coven #1: "The Quarry..."
 * Coven #2: "... grants victorious aspirants..."
 * Coven #3: "... insurmountable power."
 * Mokk, Breaker of Faith / Aarkus: "Then, what exactly do you consider laughable?"
 * Coven #1: "Your quest, ..."
 * Coven #2: "... successful or not, ..."
 * Coven #3: "... is inconsequential."
 * Cul Borson: "My people and the rest of the World Tree's inhabitants will enjoy the true fruit of immortality, no longer enslaved to the Beyonders' will."
 * Coven #1: "Then you..."
 * Coven #2: "... should have given..."
 * Coven #3: "... the Golden Apples..."
 * Coven: "(In unison, speaking with a stern tone) ... to everyone."
 * Cul Borson: "The Apples are not infinite in number. When I am through with the Beyonders, every being within the Yggdrasil will no longer require them. We will all be endlessly immortal and free to forge our destinies."
 * Coven #1: "And what happens..."
 * Coven #2: "... when you must..."
 * Coven #3: "... sit above..."
 * Coven #1: "... in shadow..."
 * Coven #2: "... alone, ..."
 * Coven #3: "... without your children?"
 * Cul Borson: "I may be the only one to bear the burden of becoming a Beyonder, but I do not simply ignore my children. We will retire to where Those Who Sit Above in Shadow would be deposed from and only return to this universe when needed. We will assist our kin whenever they need help strike out against those gods who would violate the sanctity of the universe. For once, I hope the three of you wouldn't be counted amongst them..."

The Coven look at one another with sinister smiles on their faces before looking upon the Serpent and delivering a string of remarks, implying that they approve of Cul's attempt to gain power from the Quarry. At that very moment, the Worthy and their father are transported to the edge of the God Quarry. Looking down, the Asgardians observe the petrified remnants of deceased gods and marvel at the view. SHANK! A giant spear suddenly flies through the air and impales the Serpent, sending the Serpent hurtling back and shouting in pain. The Worthy quickly turn their attention to whoever has just thrown that spear and the God Quarry near-instantaneously disappears as if it's not even there. The Coven smile at the turn of events and comments on the situation. The Serpent grunts as he attempts to recover, surprisingly hurt by the Gungnir, which is soon recalled by its righteous owner, Odin, who has apparently come to the God Quarry alone. Skirn / Tanalth immediately rushes to aid its father, avoiding the flying Gungnir, which is recalled to Odin's hand with ease. Cul gets up and sees Odin standing alone against the Worthy. The Raven God grips Gungnir, the Spear of Heaven, with his right hand, and on his back, he carries the Odinsword, the Oversword of Asgard. To complete his arsenal, Odin also brings the Scepter of Supremacy, Thrudstok, equipping himself with all these in hopes of killing Cul and his children (or at least freeing the Worthy's hosts from their possessors).
 * Coven #1: "You will face the greatest challenge of your life within the Quarry, ..."
 * Coven #2: "... bitterness unlike any other, ..."
 * Coven #3: "... and the universe's cold and merciless grip."
 * Coven #1: "So tell us, Cul Borson of Asgard..."
 * Coven: "(Together) Are you ready to face fear itself?"
 * Cul Borson: "(Without hesitation) I am ready."
 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "Even after an eternity of isolation, I still can't believe how many gods have died to this day."
 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf: "This is where gods die, Nul. Should our father fail his trial, he may as well become one of these forgotten statues."
 * Cul Borson: "Worry not, my children. Your father shall not abandon you. But for now, you must wait here until..."
 * Coven #1: "It seems..."
 * Coven #2: "... that your brother..."
 * Coven #3: "... is outraged, Serpent."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "FATHER!"
 * Cul Borson: "(Coughs) That... actually hurt."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "Father! Y-You have been wounded by the Gungnir!"
 * Cul Borson: "I know. Worry not, Skirn... (regenerates the damage with magic, sliding his hands across the wounds) that one-eyed cur can never bring himself to kill me."


 * Odin: "Surrender while you still can, Serpent. Depart from this universe, and I will let you keep the miserable remnants of your life."
 * Cul Borson: "You come here equipped to end the universe, yet you ask me to surrender? I appreciate your pleasantry, but you cannot hope to stop me now."
 * Odin: "(Tranquil fury) You will die. You and your pathetic children will all die in this place. I will shove your corpses down the God Quarry and let you be trapped forever in a never-ending cycle of pain and torment befitting of your nature."
 * Cul Borson: "(Nods and turns to the Coven) Do you approve of what he has said?"
 * Coven #1: "We will be..."
 * Coven #2: "... the ones..."
 * Coven #3: "... to bury you..."
 * Coven #1: "... when you die..."
 * Coven: "(Together) ... here."
 * Cul Borson: "(Sarcastically) Good. At least my corpse won't be sullied by the hands of this one-eyed slave."

Joining his children in a line of battle, Cul's body begins emanating a powerful aura, empowering his children, who can be seen engulfed with the same blue aura Cul generates. Taking a combat stance with his gnarled staff, Cul attempts to telepathically coordinate his children in attacking Odin, until the current All-Father himself picks up on their mental conversation and delivers a revelation.


 * Odin: "Oh, Cul, you poor cur. You think I am stupid enough to fight you and your children alone?"

Behind Odin, the Bifrost slams into the ground as an uncharacteristically enormous beam, teleporting what appears to be a number of individuals -- no, not simply individuals -- warriors. When the dust settles, the Worthy and the audience get a good look at Odin's warriors: the brutal Bloodaxe; the enigmatic Enchanters, Magnir, Brona, and Enrakt; the redoubtable Roger 'Red' Norvell; the hallowed Hrinmeer, the Flame; the thunderous Tanarus; the devastating Durok; the cursed Kurse; the gracious Gruenhilda; the magnificent Marnot; the judicious Jack Frost; the husky Hrimhari; the Silent One; and to round the roster, the furious Fafnir of Nastrond.
 * Kuurth, Breaker of Stone / Warbringer: "Ah, so the Desecrator has found himself aid."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Oceans / Namora: "I count sixteen of Odin's lackeys. What are your orders, All-Father?"
 * Cul Borson: "We have yet to attain the power to free them from Ragnarok, so children, however strong your blows may be, do not kill them. Mind of my instructions, and we will triumph over my brother and attain the God Quarry's power."
 * Odin: "Do you not get it when I said that you will die here, Cul? This force of mine I assembled is meant to kill you, and there is no way you shall survive the coming onslaught."
 * Cul Borson: "Is that so?"


 * Cul Borson: "(Clicks his tongue) What makes you think these mercenaries will be of any assistance to you, Odin?"
 * Odin: "While I separate your head from your shoulders, they will butcher your children into pieces and scatter their remnants into the cosmos."
 * Cul Borson: "And what makes you think they will do that?"
 * Odin: "Why don't you find out yourselves? Read their minds, wretch."

Cul attempts to probe their minds and finds himself unable to hear their thoughts. A powerful magic has shielded their minds, and it becomes apparent when Cul sees that Odin, utilizing the Odinforce, has also enhanced his warriors just as Cul did with his Worthy.


 * Cul Borson: "You catch up fast. I commend that."
 * Odin: "You'll appreciate me when I split your skull in two, wretch."
 * Cul Borson: "Is that so? I'm afraid..."
 * ???: "I'm afraid I will be the one to do such a deed for the atrocity you have brought upon my people, snake!"

A figure leaps out from the ranks of Odin's warriors, landing near Odin with sword in hand. Upon glancing at her, Cul immediately recognizes what she is, but not who she is.


 * Cul Borson: "Oh, child, if only you had known what I know..."
 * ???: "You massacred Heven, razed it to the ground and raped its angels to death for a pointless war. I will have your head, Serpent... so swears I, the last daughter of Heven, Angela!"
 * Cul Borson: "(Sheds a single tear) Child... how many lies have Odin implanted in your mind?"
 * Aldrif Odinsdottir / Angela: "You will know how your existence is very much a lie when I..."
 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "When we eventually defeat, you will all finally know how merciful we are compared to your so-called 'All-Father'!"

Nul / Tyrant attempts to deliver the first strike by slamming his hammer down, but before he can do that, the Enchanters cast a spell that immobilizes the entire Worthy and the Serpent himself, surprising them.


 * Nul, Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant: "What? What is this?!"
 * Enrakt: "This is the power of the Living Talismans, enhanced by the omnipotent might of the Odinforce. If you hadn't wished to destroy Ragnarok, you wouldn't have suffered."
 * Cul Borson: "You have no idea what suffering truly is, boy!"

Utilizing his own power, Cul breaks himself and the Worthy free from the magical restraints, the power feedback being so great that the Enchanters are sent stumbling, falling flat on the ground. Before the sorcerers can even recover, Cul telekinetically reaches out to them and snaps their neck. The Odinforce's energy trace immediately disappears the moment their bodies hit the ground, motionless and without a sign of life. Odin's warriors look upon their corpses with shock and disbelief. It appears that the Odinforce is unable to defend them from Cul's power.


 * Cul Borson: "You are fortunate that I wasn't aiming to kill them, Odin. Otherwise, you would have lost this fight seconds ago."
 * Red Norvell: "Yeah, sure, you're not gonna kill us all... our hospital bills will (gulps)."
 * Odin: "Your unwillingness to kill is what will doom you, cretin!"
 * Cul Borson: "So it seems. Children... please show these gentlemen and gentlewomen the way off-planet."
 * Nerkkod, Breaker of Space / Namora: "As you wish, father."
 * Angrir, Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf: "(In the Worthy's own ancient language) Break them apart, siblings!"

The Worthy charge at Odin's warriors while the two All-Fathers clash with their staff and spear, respectively, the impact of their weapons' contact generating a huge shockwave that reverberates throughout the planet. Bloodaxe and Gruenhilda go head-to-head against Skirn, the Breaker of Men / Tanalth, Red Norvell and Tanarus prove their mettle against Angrir, the Breaker of Souls / Black Dwarf, Marnot and Hrinmeer the Flame confront Greithoth, the Breaker of Wills / Vulcan, the Silent One and Jack Frost contend with Nerkkod, the Breaker of Space / Namora, Hrimhari and Fafnir of Nastrond test their mettle against Kuurth, the Breaker of Stone / Warbringer, Kurse and Durok brawl against Nul, the Breaker of Worlds / Tyrant, Angela battles Mokk, the Breaker of Faith / Vision (Aarkus), and the Enchanters are still motionless.

Performing a side swipe, Skirn's hammer strike is narrowly avoided by the Valkyrie, Gruenhilda, who jumps over the Worthy's hammer and stabs it right in the face, the Odinforce-strengthened sword piercing clean through its face. Skirn is sent to its knees after such a damage. Seconds later, Bloodaxe follows through the Valkyrie's movement by decapitating the Worthy. Its hammer and head falls and its body slumps over, much to the two warrior-maidens' surprise.
 * Jackie Lukus / Bloodaxe: "That was easy."
 * Gruenhilda: "Be wary, wielder of the Bloodaxe! Everything is not as it seems..."
 * Skirn, Breaker of Men / Tanalth: "(Telepathically) Obviously, Valkyrie."

Soon, Gruenhilda and Bloodaxe suddenly find themselves being grabbed by the neck by Skirn's headless body, which ambushes them after teleporting behind them. Skirn's head reattaches itself to the body and its hammer flies up to face the two warrior women. They attempt to cut Skirn's wrists, but unlike the previous result, their weapons instead get stuck on her flesh. Before they can react any further, Skirn's hammer blasts a set of energy beams that enter their eyes. Seconds later, the two's Odinforce enhancements disappear and they are reduced into a pair of sobbing wrecks, crying out in panic and remorse. Skirn takes a small amount of time to observe them in interest, especially Bloodaxe. Even if the bulky figure is crawling away with tears of blood, she still grips her axe. Whatever her fear is, Skirn senses that it has something to do with the axe.

TBA

Counter-Earth - Team Thor vs Angrir, Breaker of Souls (Black Dwarf)
===The Conductor's Train - Team Iron Man vs Greithoth, Breaker of Wills (Vulcan) === ===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).
 * Deceased characters in this issue are:
 * Kro
 * Part of the section "Eastern Lemuria" was written by GazzaB9 at the request of his friend and writer of the issue, Jacky 50A.