193

Chapter 193: The Hero's End

In the vast expanse of space, a spaceship sailed through the cosmos. It was filled with Avengers. If Thor's Millennium Falcon hadn't been so spacious, it might not have fit.

The ship traversed numerous wormholes before finally halting in orbit around a stunning planet.

A Marauder ship approached, and aboard it was a familiar face—Yondu.

Yondu answered the call, "Is everyone here? Thanos arrived about twelve hours ago on a donut-shaped ship. I don't know the details and didn't dare get too close."

Carol Danvers exited the spaceship. "I'll investigate first."

Having missed "Infinity War," Carol felt a need to prove herself, to avoid being sidelined.

Moments later, she returned. "There are no satellites, no spaceships, no armies, and no ground defenses. It's just him."

"That's enough," Thor replied quietly.

The planet was a beautiful world of lush landscapes, vibrant flowers, and melodious birds.

Thanos, looking frail, picked a fruit from the ground and placed it in a bag. He then limped towards a dwelling, each step marked by heavy breathing. His body was covered in scars, a stark contrast to the imposing figure he once was.

His old battle armor hung outside the house, as if bearing witness to his life's journey.

He slowly prepared a pot of soup, added a handful of seasonings, and abruptly looked out the window.

Despite his weakened state, his sense of danger was still sharp. He quickly raised his hand in defense.

Suddenly, a blinding light from Captain Marvel surged in, knocking him to the ground. She swiftly advanced, climbing onto his neck and tightening her grip.

Thanos gasped for air, struggling to rise as Carol fought to maintain her hold.

Simultaneously, Iron Man and Hulk smashed through the window, each grabbing one of Thanos's arms and holding him firmly.

Thor entered the room with the others, cast a glance at Thanos, and sheathed his battle axe.

He felt a moment of disorientation. The scene before him seemed to blur with his memories, with familiar scenes but different outcomes.

He examined Thanos's empty right hand and asked, "Where is the gemstone?"

Carol's grip on his neck loosened slightly. "Answer him!"

Thanos rasped, "I don't know..."

"Boom—"

Iron Man shoved him roughly. "Are you kidding me?"

Iron Man's motivation was to retrieve the stones and resurrect Vision, despite Thanos's injuries.

"I'm not lying. I genuinely don't know where they are now."

Thor pressed, "Without the power of the six stones, you lack the ability to destroy the infinity stones. Tell me, where did you put them?"

"I don't know if the stones are still there, but they're no longer with me, and I don't remember where I left them..."

Iron Man, anxious and frustrated, urged, "We need to search for them; he must be lying!"

At this point, Gamora spoke up, "What he says is likely true. My father could do anything, but he never lies..."

"Thank you, daughter," Thanos croaked. "Perhaps I was too harsh on you in the past..."

Thor looked at Jean Grey, who nodded in agreement. Thanos hadn't shielded his thoughts from intrusion, and from what she saw, he genuinely didn't know the stones' whereabouts.

It seemed there was nothing more to extract from him.

Their visit wasn't solely about retrieving the stones.

"Well, we'll find the stones. In any case, you've committed unforgivable crimes against the universe and nearly caused countless deaths. Do you have any objections?"

Thanos managed a grim smile. "I acknowledge my actions, but I never saw them as crimes. The universe needs balance, and I was merely its enforcer. Unfortunately, I failed in the end."

Thor dismissed any further argument. "There's no point in debating your philosophy. Failure comes with its own consequences."

Thanos remained silent.

Gamora stepped forward. "Let me handle this."

Thor studied her for a moment, then said, "Fine. Killing someone who cannot fight back is rather dull."

He waved his hand dismissively and walked towards the door.

Seeing this, the others also left, leaving only Star-Lord and Gamora behind.

Star-Lord looked at her with concern. Even in his weakened state, Thanos could still be a danger to Gamora if he were to lash out.

Gamora whispered, "Step outside. I need to speak with him alone."

Star-Lord hesitated but eventually complied, stepping outside.