The Avengers Godzilla: Metal Madness

by Japan Boy

Three of four salutes to Stan 'The Man' Lee: 50 years after his first appearance, Godzilla invades America, & even the combined might of SHIELD, the Fantastic Four AND the Avengers are unable to stop him. Thus, a trio of machines are sent to do the job...each of which possesses enough firepower to level an entire city on its own, plus a hidden secret. Kindly review if read.

For all the talented writers & artists from Stan Lee (1922-2018) & Jack 'King' Kirby (1917-1994) to Jason Aaron &

Ed McGuinness & everyone else in between, for making 'The Avengers' a solid staple in the world of Marvel Comics

& being one of the most highly successful comic books published, being on par with DC Comics' 'Justice League' title.

For actors Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Jeremy Renner, Samuel L. Jackson, Clark

Gregg, Don Cheadle, Anthony Mackie, Scarlett Johansson, Cobie Smulders, Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Josh Brolin,

Tom Hiddleston, James Spader & their entire casts & crews for bringing Marvel Comics' greatest superheroes & their

greatest enemies to such breathtaking life in 'The Avengers' (2012), 'Avengers: Age of Ultron' (2015), 'Avengers:

Infinity War' (2018) & 'Avengers: Endgame' (2019), the latter being the #2 highest-grossing film of all time.

To the loving memory of Marvel Comics' Executive Vice President Michael Z. Hobson (1936-2020; aged 83), Veteran

Marvel Comics Inker Juan Vlasco (1968-2020; aged 51) & Artist Joe Sinnott (1926-2020; aged 93), each of whom have

given their greatest works to Marvel Comics, winning many awards for their labors. They will be deeply missed.

To the loving memory of comic book artist Herb Trimpe, who penciled all but two issues of Godzilla's 24-issue run at

Marvel Comics from 1977 to 1979 (Herb Trimpe died on April 13th, 2015 at age 75. The cause of death is unknown).

To the loving memory of Japanese actor Yosuke Saito, who is best known to Godzilla fans as Dr. Susumu Okubo in

1994's 'Godzilla vs. Space Godzilla' (Yosuke Saito died September 19th, 2020 of laryngeal cancer. He was 69).

Reader's Note:

(Stay tuned after the story for an afterword)

THE AVENGERS / GODZILLA:

METAL MADNESS

2004, 2021 by Anthony Ogozalek

PROLOGUE

Tokyo, Japan, 1954:

He began as a simple legend the inhabitants of Odo Island used to talk about.

Years ago, a legendary monster that lived at the bottom of the ocean used to prey upon humankind whenever the fishing was all but poor. Modern-day Japan would soon learn that this legendary monster the Odo Island residents called Gojira – which was later known to the rest of the world as Godzilla – is all too real when ships began sinking one after another, each one ending up in wrecks of flames & left only a few survivors to tell what happened. During a search on Odo Island, Professor Kyohei Yamane, his daughter Emiko, her lover Hideto Ogata, members of the press & Yamane's group of top scientists soon saw the creature in all its glory: a gigantic dinosaurian monster with large dorsal fins which stuck out of its back, long forearms with four fingers that ended in claws & a Tyrannosaur-like head with a mouth filled with sharp teeth that makes an ear-shattering roar to all who heard it.

This legendary monster was no legend!

On the days of November 3rd & 4th, Godzilla struck Japan's capital city of Tokyo, causing mass destruction that left thousands dead & many more injured, with some that were burned alive by the monster's radioactive heat ray which he can spew from his mouth, while others succumbed to radiation sickness as Godzilla himself is highly radioactive. No matter what the JSDF (Japanese Self-Defense Force) used on the creature, it was useless: tanks, missiles, bombs & machine gun fire proved ineffective against Godzilla's might.

Not even an electrical barrier that sent a current of 50,000 volts could slow Godzilla down, much less stop him.

When all was said & done, Tokyo was a scene reminiscent of the B-29 bombers the American forces used to rain incendiary bombs upon its capital & other Japanese cities: buildings charred & burning, citizens laying dead or dying, a nation ruined.

For the Japanese, it was World War II all over again despite it ending nine years previous.

Only this time, the enemy wasn't America or any of its allies.

It was one that harked back to the prehistoric past – a refugee/survivor from the Mesozoic Era, the much-regarded 'Age of Reptiles' as it had been christened.

But, amid all the death & destruction, there was still a glimmer of hope.

It came in the form of an invention by a brilliant but emotionally tortured scientist named Daisuke Serizawa, who unintentionally created a device he's named the Oxygen Destroyer. It was something that Serizawa shared with Emiko, who promised to keep his invention confidential from everyone, including her father. But after witnessing the horrible death & destruction Godzilla caused, Emiko could no longer keep it secret: she told Ogata all about Serizawa's invention & what it can do – disintegrate oxygen atoms & cause organisms to die from asphyxiation, thus dissolving their flesh & inner organs, leaving only bare bones behind.

Even just a teaspoon of his device dropped into the water can turn Tokyo Bay into a graveyard.

Hearing about what Emiko explained, Ogata went with her to help persuade Serizawa to allow his device to be used against Godzilla. The scientist firmly & flat-out refused, retreating into his laboratory & locking the door. Ogata managed to break in & get into a brief struggle with Serizawa, with the former receiving an injury. Feeling guilty, the scientist helps Ogata back on his feet as Emiko tends to his wound before explaining that, due to its horrible effects, his device will be desired & sought after by evil politicians if he uses it even once. He added that even if his notes were to all be burned, the secrets will still be locked inside his head, having solidly/accurately memorized the entire formula. It would be another horrible weapon to use upon mankind, & quite possibly destroy it, as the Oxygen Destroyer contained as much power as an atomic bomb.

As a human being, Serizawa could never allow for that to happen.

It almost seemed to be a lost cause until the television displayed a choir of young children singing an emotionally holy song to help bring hope & strength back to Japan.

Deeply moved by the children's display and their song, Serizawa realized that Ogata was correct: he agreed to let his device be used on Godzilla.

But there was a catch: he will permit his invention to be used only once. To prove his point, Serizawa burned all his noted on the Oxygen Destroyer, making sure it will never fall into the wrong hands.

Soon after, a navy ship carrying Serizawa, Ogata, Emiko, Yamane & others headed out in Tokyo Bay to pinpoint Godzilla's location before Ogata & Serizawa donned diving suits & descended to the bottom. It didn't take long for the men to spot Godzilla, & just before Serizawa activated his device, Ogata was rushed to the surface, unable to stop his ascension. Once the Oxygen Destroyer began unleashing its fury upon Godzilla, Serizawa informed Ogata that his device was working & wished for him & Emiko to be happy before he unsheathed a knife & deliberately cuts his oxygen line, indefinitely sealing shut all of the Oxygen Destroyer's secrets.

Mighty as he was, even Godzilla proved to be no match for the Oxygen Destroyer's destructive power, as the big prehistoric creature succumbs to its effects, & after several moments of suffocating anguish, the great reptile crashed to the bottom of Tokyo Bay, dissolving into nothing but a skeleton picked clean of all his flesh & inner organs.

Unfortunately, so does Daisuke Serizawa: after cutting his oxygen line, he also gave in to his device's devastating effects & turned into nothing more than a skeleton. But unlike Godzilla, he died willingly: with his death, Serizawa had successfully sealed shut the secrets of his invention for good, having no regrets as he joined Godzilla in a watery grave.

Although the cost was high & dear, the Japanese (& perhaps even the world itself) felt a great sense of jubilation, knowing that a great menace was gone.

But it was also a somber moment to know that so was a great man – a death that was felt by all, most especially by Kyohei Yamane, his daughter Emiko & Hideto Ogata, the former of whom broke down crying in sorrow, unable to hide it any further.

While a victory has been achieved, there were some who feared that somewhere in the world, another Godzilla could rise up from the ocean depths to descend upon the planet again, as Kyohei Yamane once said to himself.

Little did anyone realize at that time, professor Yamane's prediction had all but come true.

CHAPTER I

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Wednesday, November 3rd, 2004, noon:

The City of Brotherly Love received an abundance of abhorrence on this chilly cloudless day in America's sixth most popular city & Pennsylvania's largest. Like he did only 50 years previous, the infamous monster known over the globe as Godzilla has re-emerged after a long absence, announcing his presence once again. Only now, this Godzilla is about twice the size of his relative that raided Japan five decades earlier: his height is now a whopping 100 meters tall, sporting three rows of pointed silver dorsal spines, the largest ones protruding from the middle. His dinosaurian jaws were longer, sporting sharp teeth within his maw. The neck was partially frilled like a cobra's, & his tail was longer in length. But his fingers & toes were still four on each hand & foot, all ending in sharp claws. His flesh tone took on a deep charcoal gray, with a surface that resembled more like a tree's than a reptile's.

Godzilla rose out of the Delaware River, right at the border of New Jersey & Pennsylvania. He unleashed a loud, boisterous roar that was heard in the immediate vicinity & then some, encouraging the residents of both Philadelphia & Camden to vacate the area, interrupting their work days. An American U.S. Navy submarine was clenched in Godzilla's left hand, his claws holding it securely: it was a sub that tried to intercept Godzilla's approach & lure him away from American soil.

Needless to say, it failed. Terribly.

As Godzilla attacked the sub, crew members were sending out an SOS in hopes that help would arrive before the monster could come ashore. While they failed in halting Godzilla's approach to America, they did manage to get that distress call out, and that it was received.

But neither by the Army, Marines, Air Force nor even the Navy.

It was received by the organization known as S.H.I.E.L.D. – Supreme Headquarters International Espionage Law-Enforcement Division, along with two groups of Earth's greatest superheroes.

The Avengers & the Fantastic Four.

Upon arriving in Philadelphia, the Quinjet & Fantasti-Car had both arrived at about the same time as a SHIELD Helicarrier, a gigantic flying aircraft carrier that can cover several city blocks in length & width. Aboard this massive craft is Director Nicholas J. Fury, who served Uncle Sam during World War II & kept youthful despite the decades by a rejuvenating Infinity Formula. Accompanying him are Corporal Timothy 'Dum Dum' Dugan, Gabriel 'Gabe' Jones, Deputy Director Maria Hill (embarking on her first assignment) & General Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross, the latter of whom was obsessed with bringing down the Green Goliath known as the Hulk.

On this day, however, General Ross was on task to take down something that was even bigger than Robert Bruce Banner's monstrous ego.

And he surmised that Godzilla will be much tougher to defeat than the Hulkster.

Seeing Godzilla holding the submarine in his hand, Captain America radioed Fury & suggested that while some of his agents opened fire on Godzilla, his Avengers will rescue the sub & its occupants that were still trapped inside the metal aquatic cylinder. The Star-Spangled Avenger also stated that the mutant speedster known as Quicksilver & more of his people were racing/flying ahead to get as many people out of harm's way in order to have General Ross' armed forces along with SHIELD's to form a sturdy defense line in order to hopefully push Godzilla away from the mainland & convince him to head back out to sea.

Nick Fury & his people listened in on Captain America's strategy, with the majority of SHIELD saying that it was worth a try, but waited until their Director spoke.

Even though he hadn't conjured it up himself, Fury agreed that it was a sound tactic, & told Cap he approved.

With that, the plan commenced: Quicksilver, Iron Man, Scarlet Witch, Black Panther, Hawkeye, She-Hulk, War Machine, Falcon & the Fantastic Four all spent a good hour & more evacuating the citizens in Philadelphia, most notably in the area where Godzilla would most likely make landfall – if SHIELD & General Ross' forces all failed to divert the creature's attention back out into the ocean.

As people were getting safely evicted from the area by costumed heroes, Ross' army & SHIELD agents set up a blockade along South Christopher Columbus Boulevard from Spruce Street up to Market Street. Al-Zarrar, Centurion, & M60-2000 battle tanks lined up the streets, along with M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System vehicles. In the air, a fleet of Apache helicopters & F-15 fighter jets were en route to repel the oncoming terror.

Godzilla watches at this movement of ground vehicles while still holding the submarine in his hand, his curiosity stirring as he remained where he surfaced. The Avengers still in the Quinjet – Captain America, Black Widow, Vision, Yellowjacket, Wasp, Thor & Bruce Banner – all wait within their floating craft, not wanting to jump the gun & cause Godzilla to drop the sub too soon before they were ready.

Eager as they were to save their lives, they waited patiently for the signal.

After a few more minutes, Nick Fury gave the signal: attack Godzilla, but avoid hitting the submarine.

With the order given, the battle begins.

Powerful shells from the tanks opened up on Godzilla, striking the behemoth & causing him to roar more in anger & annoyance than pain. But the tanks didn't let up on their assault: shell after powerful shell were blasted from barrels which roared like beasts themselves, creating a cacophony of blaring noises that can be heard within the entire city. As Godzilla was being bombarded by these artillery shells, his anger rose as he advanced upon the attacking battalion, but not before dropping the submarine he held for so long.

It was the moment the Avengers in the Quinjet waited for: Captain America gave the signal as Thor & Vision got out of their hovering vehicle & raced towards the submarine, putting on a burst of speed as fast as Vision & Thor's own Mjolnir can take them. Soaring to get themselves underneath the submarine, Thor & Vision placed their hands upon the underside of the sub & began slowing its descent, careful as to not jar it too much, remembering it was still occupied by crewmen. With every bit of strength they could muster, both Avengers managed to slow & stop the sub from hitting the water before carrying it over to the Camden side of the Delaware River.

Once they were a distance away, Vision radioed in to both the Quinjet & SHIELD Helicarrier simultaneously.

"This is Vision", he says. "Thor & myself are now approaching the abandoned parking lot between Penn & Pearl Streets over in Camden, New Jersey, where we will place the submarine down upon. You are now cleared for an all-out attack on Godzilla, over."

"Message received & understood, Vision", Nick Fury said over the radio. "Nice catch on that sub, by the way. Help get those men out of there while we do what we can to shove that overgrown T-Rex out of the Good Ol' U.S.A. & back into the open seas where he belongs! Nick Fury out!"

The SHIELD Director cut the feed before Vision or anyone could reply back.

It was then that Captain America got on the line.

"Thor, Vision, let's allow Nick Fury & General Ross to attempt to push Godzilla away from the mainland & back into the sea. It's their ballgame right now. We're just spectators…for the moment, anyway."

Much as they wanted to get into the main event, Captain Steve Rogers made a valid point, just like always.

'Tis why yon Captain Rogers is the Avengers' strategist, Thor thought.

"Verily, Captain. Yon Vision & I shalt deliver submarine to aforementioned area whilst Director Fury & General Ross deal with yon creature which thoust call Godzilla", Thor says. "Once we see to the crew, we shalt then rejoin our team over in yon city to assist with the evacuation of its populace."

"We'll meet you over there. Quinjet out", Cap said over the radio before signing off.

As Captain America takes their craft into the heart of the city of Philadelphia to rejoin his team, Thor & Vision carry the sub over to Jersey.

"With those two heroes carrying the submarine to safer quarters, Director, it's the perfect opportunity for us all to strike Godzilla, sir!", said Dugan.

"Dugan's correct, sir! It's now or never!", Hill adds.

Nick Fury & General Ross knew that Dugan & Hill are correct & they give the signal, nodding to each other.

"NOW!", both commanders barked in their radios.

With the sub no longer in danger, the melee intensified: missiles from the M270s launched a volley of their own payloads directly at Godzilla, striking the monster with deadly accuracy & creating a cacophony of explosions that had drowned out everything except Godzilla's thunderous roar. The ground forces weren't the only attack formation which was scheduled to drive Godzilla away: the Apache choppers & F-15 jet fighters were given the green light to join in the melee, along with armored SHIELD agents on hover platforms swooped in, attacking with a multitude of laser beams from twin guns mounted on their front ports, their power strong enough to melt solid steel.

"That's it, people! Don't spare the artillery!", Ross addressed his troops.

"Same goes for all you SHIELD operatives! Don't give Godzilla even a second to gather his wits! Hit that filthy fucker with everything you have!", Fury barked.

This intense fight between man & his machines against a radiated prehistoric monster went on for more than half an hour, without any sign of letting up. Even as they work to help the citizens of Philadelphia escape the terror that has befallen their homes & businesses, the Avengers view the spectacle along with those they were getting to safety: pound after pound of explosive weaponry hits Godzilla everywhere, covering the behemoth in a thick cloud of smoke that had become so vague that not even those with the best eyesight could see within.

"Jeepers, gang!", Ben Grimm, the Thing, said. "Dem army & SHIELD boys are throwin' everythin' at Godzilla 'cept the darn kitchen sink!"

"I hear you, Ben!", Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, says. "I've never seen anything take that kind of terrible punishment!"

"Neither have I, Johnny!", Susan Richards, the Invisible Woman, says as she turned to her husband. "How much punishment can Godzilla absorb, Reed?"

Reed Richards, Mister Fantastic, took a moment before answering.

"I honestly have no idea, Sue darling", he says in a worried tone.

Neither Susan, Johnny nor even Ben knew how to reply to Reed's response.

"My goodness, Nat! I sometimes wish Jarvis could make his soups as thick as that damn smokescreen!", Hawkeye says to Black Widow, referring to the Avengers' faithful butler who's been with the team in every incarnation since its beginning.

Natasha Romanova, Black Widow, couldn't help but to smirk as Clint Barton's comment.

Her smirk was wiped out in an instant when she & everyone else saw what occurred next: from within the thick smoke cloud, a bluish white light suddenly shined as its luminescence pierced the vague coating before a beam of heat spewed forth from Godzilla's mouth & struck Ross' ground units, blasting every one of them to fiery pieces.

Not one soldier had the chance to get clear, much less scream in terror before meeting their horrible ends.

The slaughtering of soldiers/agents didn't stop there: Godzilla had unleashed another blast of his heat ray, blowing away airborne jets, choppers & SHIELD agents where they were. Nick Fury & General Ross got on their radios to order their troops to fall back & retreat, but it was too little, too late: in mere moments, Godzilla literally wiped out every one of his aggressors both on the ground and in the air, leaving them all smoking wrecks that exploded in pieces as they all descended to earth in flaming ruins, leaving no survivors.

For SHIELD, General Ross & the Avengers, time seemed to stand still as they bore witness to a horrible display of savagery unmatched by even the callousness of the Nazis from World War II: Godzilla exterminated dozens of good men & women who only wanted to defend their country from an intruder.

Roaring in triumph, Godzilla made his way towards American soil, firmly placing his foot upon the Independence Seaport Museum, causing considerable damage before plowing into the Hilton & demolishing it to rubble.

Seeing them get wiped out with blinding speed by a prehistoric monster made even the Avengers' blood boil with rage, & none of them were shy about expressing how they felt.

"You…you son of a BITCH!", War Machine shouted angrily, flying towards Godzilla with Falcon joining him.

"Rhodes, Sam…wait!", Captain America called out to them.

His call came on deaf ears: James 'Rhodey' Rhodes & Sam Wilson – Falcon – flew straight at the towering beast & unloaded their armament once they got a bead on him. Godzilla retaliated by firing his heat ray at both heroes, who dodged the blast before resuming fire.

The Avengers & Fantastic Four watch as War Machine & Falcon unleash their fury on the monster as both Thor & Vision return.

"You guys saw what happened?", asked She-Hulk.

"Aye, fair maiden. We did", Thor said. "'Tis such a tragedy, all those lives snuffed out in a single mighty blow."

"You really can't blame those two, Captain!", said Black Panther. "Those men & women from SHIELD & Ross' units didn't deserve the fate handed to them!"

"No, T'Challa, they didn't", Captain America says. "But while Rhodes & Sam's feeling are understandable, we need to stop this before it can escalate too far beyond our control."

"And how do you propose we do that?", asked Black Widow. "It's not like we can snag Godzilla on a leash!"

"Maybe we can, Natasha", Cap says, getting on the comms. "Wanda, Susan…your hex powers & invisible force field abilities should be strong enough to either convince Godzilla to head back to the water, or hopefully render him unconscious. Do you think you ladies are able to do that?"

Wanda Maximoff & Susan Richards face each other with a pinch of uncertainty.

"What say you, Wanda? Do you think we have a chance to stop him ourselves?", Susan asked.

"I suppose there's only one way to find out for certain, Susan Richards. Brace yourself", Wanda says, holding her arms out at her sides as her fingers sparkle to life with crimson energy. A red sphere consumes both ladies as Wanda carried Susan over to one of the trio of buildings located between Locust Street & St. James Place. Landing on the roof of the structure nearest the freeway, Wanda & Susan witness Falcon & War Machine still in battle with Godzilla, who was swiping his tail at Sam with a speed that belied his great size.

Falcon swerved just in time to avoid getting walloped, but War Machine was another story: as one would snatch a firefly, Godzilla reached out & grabbed War Machine between his fingers in his right hand, destroying his weapons in the process.

"Rhodes!", Falcon, Iron Man & everyone called out.

War Machine was caught in Godzilla's grip, & Rhodes was staring directly at the monster's dinosaurian face, a menacing growl coming from the beast's maw.

"Oh shit!", Rhodes says, his voice & face filled with fear as he stared at Godzilla literally face to face.

Rhodes' heart palpitated fiercely, threatening to burst like an overinflating balloon about to pop.

And with his jet propulsion temporarily out of service, War Machine couldn't escape.

Not on his own, anyway: Rhodes was abruptly surrounded by a field of crimson energy that pulled him right out of Godzilla's grip & soared away before the monster could do anything. Rhodes then saw Wanda Maximoff using her hex powers to free him from Godzilla's clutches as Susan contacted Falcon.

"Sam, listen", she began. "Wanda & I are going to try & urge Godzilla to leave the city before this goes too far. I know you & Rhodes are upset over what happened to all those agents & soldiers, but let Wanda & myself attempt to convince Godzilla to return to the sea. Please."

Falcon looked at the ladies, then at Godzilla before facing Rhodes, letting out a sigh.

"All right, Miss Richards", he says, flying towards Rhodes & taking him in his arms. "Rhodes & I will stay clear. Let's hope you girls have better luck with this beast than we did!"

James in tow, Falcon flew off to give Scarlet Witch & the Invisible Woman plenty of room as Godzilla turned his attention to the two women, both of whom were giving off a powerful surge in energy that the Monster King could sense from where he stood. Letting out a low but menacing growl, he began taking steps towards the mutant witch & the wife of Reed Richards, each step shaking the ground beneath his feet.

Nick Fury, General Ross & company watched from the SHIELD Helicarrier as Godzilla came closer to the two ladies, both of whom stood firmly at the top of the trio of buildings, their arms raised.

Good luck with Godzilla, Miss Maximoff, Miss Richards, Nick Fury thought, taking a drag from his stogie.

Give him hell, darlings!, Dum Dum Dugan thought, puffing on his own cigar.

When Godzilla got within 18 meters of Wanda & Susan, the girls made their move.

Mustering all the strength they could, Wanda used her hex power to halt Godzilla's advance as Susan used her invisibility shield to not only pause the monster in his steps, but also try to deprive him of getting oxygen into his lungs.

She knew that, no matter how mighty Godzilla is, he still needs to breathe like any living thing.

The Invisible Woman's barrier was having the desired effect, as was Wanda's own powers: Godzilla was slowed inexorably in his steps, feeling like he was wading through a sea of molasses. But due to his enormous size, both Wanda & Susan were having extreme difficulty in keeping up this mental blockage, their foreheads starting to sweat from the strain of maintaining their shields.

For Susan & Wanda, it felt like they were trying to push back a living tidal wave or earthquake.

"Wanda, Susan, keep it up…you're halting his progress for sure!", Quicksilver said over their mini comms.

"Just barely, brother Pietro!", Wanda strained to say the words. "Godzilla's strength…it's like nothing I've ever felt before! Not even the Juggernaut possessed power such as his!"

"Godzilla's getting more sluggish by the second, Susan!", Reed says. "Keep your invisible shield over his head for a little bit longer!"

"I'm…trying my…very best, Reed!", Susan said, having as much difficulty as Wanda. "But…Godzilla is just…so strong, darling…he's so…strong…!"

Godzilla is, in fact, too strong: with a fierce will power of his own, the Monster King broke free from Wanda & Susan's energy fields in a backlash that knocked away both ladies, causing them to cry out & collapse on the roof from which they stood.

"Susan!", Reed & Ben cry out.

"Sis!", Johnny cried out.

"Wanda!", Vision & the rest cried out.

"Flame on!"

With those two words, Johnny Storm's entire body became living flames that covered him from head to toe as he took off for the skies & flew straight for Godzilla. Highly concerned for Wanda's own safety, Vision also took off into the air & headed directly for the Scarlet Witch.

Thor approached Captain America, his hammer Mjolnir twirling in his right hand.

"With yon Godzilla having killed several good soldiers & agents, along with injuring three of our own, Captain, the time for being mere spectators is over!", the Asgardian says in a voice that bore no argument.

Even Steve Rogers wouldn't push it any further past this point.

"I concur!", Cap says, addressing his team. "How's the evacuation going?"

"Most of the citizens have taken the underground malls & subways for a quick escape, Cap!", Hawkeye said. "For all those who couldn't get underground fast enough, we went & took care of!"

"The police & national guard are still escorting people out of the city, Captain!", Black Panther said. "It is time for us to take matters into our own hands, as Thor announced!"

"Damn straight, Panther!", Cap said. "I want for you, Hawkeye, Widow, Yellowjacket & Wasp inside the Quinjet! Iron Man, you, Falcon & Thor take to the skies & intercept Godzilla as best you can! If Rhodes' armor isn't too badly off, have him join in as well! She-Hulk, you & Quicksilver use whatever you can to assist the flyers & get Godzilla to focus his attention on you & lure him back to the river! Once he's there, we can concentrate on steering him back out into the ocean! Reed…"

"Ben & I will take the Fantasti-Car & assist in any way, Captain!", Reed says as Cap nods.

"All right, people! You each got your assignments! Let's move out! Avengers…assemble!"

With the team's battle cry, everyone moves out to carry out Cap's plans as he & his assigned group head into the Quinjet where Bruce Banner awaited them. Iron Man, Thor, Falcon & even War Machine fly straight for their gigantic quarry, with She-Hulk & Quicksilver gathering whatever objects they can find to use as missiles, from pieces of debris to abandoned cars.

Reed & Ben get into the Fantasti-Car, with the former at the controls.

"Let's take her up, Reed! It's clobberin' time!", Ben said, putting his right fist into his left hand.

"There's never been any better time for it, old friend! Up we go!", Reed says, pressing a button.

The Fantasti-Car lifts up vertically & rises to about 80 meters from the ground before heading off in Godzilla's direction. Along the way, Reed says a prayer.

Susan…please be well, dear, he thought.

Vision & Human Torch reached Wanda & Susan in record time: the sentient android was the one who took both ladies in his arms & carried them to safety as they start to revive. Human Torch went on the offensive: he immediately shot forth a powerful stream of flames from both his hands that struck Godzilla in his neck, scorching the flesh as smoke rose from where the flames hit. Godzilla screeched in pain, surprised that this little flaming human had hurt him with fire not his own.

"All right, Barney! Let's see how well you do against somebody who can literally fight fire with fire!", Johnny says, readying another blast. "And may the best pyrotechnic win!"

As he spoke his last words, Human Torch unleashed a second pair of powerful blast from his hands that attacked Godzilla in the neck & the side of his head. While not as powerful as his own fire, the Monster King was receiving pain from this fiery human – pain he wasn't enjoying.

Lighting up his rear dorsal fins & the inside of his maw, Godzilla unleashed a stream of radioactive fire to try & strike Human Torch, who dives out of the way just in time but feeling the intensity as it got quite close; as strong as his flames were, Godzilla's far outmatches it in sheer power.

That's a powerful flame, even for me!, Johnny thought. Gotta make sure that I don't get hit with it, for even I'm unsure if I'd survive direct contact by…

Much to Johnny Storm's dismay, he does: as he was fighting to stay clear of Godzilla's heat ray, the monster had ceased its flow for a second or two before shooting it again…and this time, it does make direct contact. Human Torch gets hit by the powerful blast of radioactive flames as he's buffeted & thrown right over to the Mastery Charter School Lenfest Building, crashing into the top floor as it went up in flames once Human Torch & Godzilla's heat ray struck.

A revived & horrified Susan Storm watched from the Fantasti-Car, along with Reed & Ben.

"Johnny!", the trio cried out.

Godzilla roars as he follows his attacker over to said area, going deeper into Philadelphia while destroying the trio of buildings that were in his way. The Monster King intends on finishing the job that his adversary started.

His progress was powerfully abruptly halted by an object of solid mass which caused Godzilla to actually take a step or two back. What he sees is another flying humanoid in yellow, green & dark lavender colors with a cape flowing from his neck, floating 20 meters from his position. Having halted Godzilla's advance, Vision remained solid & struck Godzilla with all his might, once again causing the monster to move backwards a step or two. Repeating his tactic, the Vision continued driving Godzilla away from the larger buildings in the city, each time causing the beast to cry out in surprise that a human-sized life form is incredibly strong even for him.

On one assault, however, Godzilla snatched Vision in mid-flight with his left hand & attempted to crush him like he was no more than tin foil. Vision turned intangible soon as he was caught & phased through Godzilla's hand before going solid & attacking with his eye beams, hitting him square in the chest. This method of attack was just as strong as Vision himself, & Godzilla was taken by surprise again.

Pressing on against this powerful human android, Godzilla fought against Vision's eye beams.

Until something else slammed into him with such force that caused Godzilla such pain like he's never experienced before: the mighty Mjolnir, held by Thor, clobbered Godzilla at the very tip of his snout that sent anguish into his head & made its way down, causing the monster to cry out & caused him to stumble in his step. Backing away from Godzilla, Thor conjures up & draws powerful lightning bolts from the sky with Mjolnir as the Asgardian collects this electrical surge as much as he can before he glows like a night light even in the middle of the day.

"Yon are very powerful, Godzilla!", Thor called out to his foe. "Now we shall verily see who lives up to becoming an actual god, beast!"

Raising Mjolnir, Thor thrusts it forward as his collected lightning bolts surge towards Godzilla, hitting the beast directly in the chest with incredible force & power, it makes Godzilla bellow out in pain. Vision rejoins the fight with his eye beams, pouring on the power as Thor increased the intensity of his lightning attack & pushing Godzilla further away. The Monster King makes a sudden 180 degree turn even as Thor & Vision resume with their assault, only now, Godzilla's dorsal fins were glowing brighter by the second.

Immediately, Captain America & Reed Richards knew what was wrong, & the former gets on his comm link.

"Thor! Vision! Stop!", Cap called out. "Godzilla's absorbing everything you throw at him! You're only making him stronger! Cease & desist before he…"

Cap's warning couldn't help Thor & Vision from what came next: Godzilla did indeed soak up the energy they were throwing at him, making him not only stronger but faster than before. Such is the case when the monster again did a 180 degree turn quicker than Thor or Vision could calculate, getting clobbered by Godzilla's tail before either Avenger could take the offensive, let alone turn intangible or counterstrike. Both heroes went sailing across the air & crashed on into the Kimpton Hotel, smashing halfway into the structure before halting.

Every Avenger was stunned to see two of their most powerful members get taken down.

Even SHIELD & General Ross were shocked from the display.

Godzilla swiftly made his way across the landscape to go after the two heroes & finish what they started.

Reed Richards took action: informing Susan to take the wheel of the Fantasti-Car, Reed literally stretched himself outwards & made himself a living blindfold over Godzilla's eyes, hoping to obscure his sight long enough to allow the others to recuperate & launch an all-out attack. But Godzilla was more nimble than his appearance showed: with a speed that many would deem impossible for anything his size, Godzilla lashed out at Reed with his right hand, but the elastic superhero managed to avoid being snatched by the monster, if just barely.

Okay, not even a blindfold over Godzilla's eyes worked like I'd hoped!, Reed thought, keeping ahead of Godzilla's hands as he stretched his legs/arms to stay out of his reach as the monster plowed into buildings doing so. But at least I am buying Thor & Vision time for them to recover…and that Johnny's safely back in the Fantasti-Car again! Now all I need to do is simply stay alive long enough to join him!

Nick Fury & everyone else aboard the SHIELD Helicarrier watched as Reed Richards played a deadly game of chicken with Godzilla.

"Now this is something you certainly don't see every day!", Ross announced.

"I'll say it ain't, General!", Dum Dum said. "Just look at that human rubber band workin' overtime to stay outta Godzilla's mitt! I might not have much flair for them longjohns types, but I still admire spunk no matter where it comes from!"

"But even that alone won't help much against this creature, Dum Dum!", Gabe Jones said. "We need to get back into this fight ourselves! We owe it to all of our fallen comrades that Godzilla snuffed out!"

"Damn straight we do, Jones!", Nick Fury says, grabbing his radio. "Get this tub into high gear, Agent Hill! I'll get in touch with the Star-Spangled Avenger & let him know that we're preparing an all-out blitz against this monster! Dugan, you & Jones get those weapons primed & ready: I want them spitting lead the second I give the word! Let's get cracking, people!"

The SHIELD Helicarrier's interior became a cluster of activity as Dugan, Jones, Hill & everyone else within got assignments to match Fury's deadline as the Director himself contacted Captain America.

The Living Legend of World War II listened to Fury's planned course of action over the Quinjet's loudspeakers, so that the entire group can also hear what the SHIELD Director had in mind.

"You must've read my mind, Fury: I had that exact same idea!", Cap said. "Perhaps by every one of us hitting on Godzilla with all of our firepower in a simultaneous manner, we can either drive him away from the city, or at the very least, render the beast unconscious! We can worry about carrying him out once he's knocked out!"

"That's the idea, Captain Rogers!", Fury said over the loudspeakers. "Either Godzilla leaves Philadelphia of his own accord, or we'll drag his carcass away – once we send him straight to la-la land! Hope you're all up to the task, Rogers, considering how Godzilla walloped some of your most powerful friends!"

"We certainly are, Director: Thor, Vision, Wanda, Susan & even Rhodes all took beatings, but they each assured us on one thing – they are all ready to fight!"

"Happy to hear it, Rogers! Let's get ourselves into position: I want both of our groups to open fire on that giant refugee from the Mesozoic once I give the signal!"

"We'll be ready by then, Director! Rogers out!"

Steve cuts the feed before addressing the other Avengers & the Fantastic Four on Nick Fury's plan. Everybody from Thor to War Machine got the message from Captain America, stating that they're more than ready to deliver the final blow to Godzilla despite the beatings they took from him earlier.

Giving his thanks, Steve Rogers told them to get in formation & be on standby.

Once he was done, Bruce Banner came up to & addressed the Living Legend.

"What's on your mind, Dr. Banner?", Steve asks.

"Just this, Captain", Bruce began. "Considering how powerful Godzilla is even against the likes of Thor & Vision, I was wondering: do you really believe we stand a chance against him?"

Neither Steve nor anyone else aboard the Quinjet could answer Dr. Banner right away: everyone still had their misgivings on whether or not even they could bring Godzilla down. The creature is unlike anything that the Avengers have ever faced in the past, & they've come across some of the toughest adversaries during their career as a team, from the God of Mischief Loki (& Thor's half-brother) to the time-traveling conqueror Kang.

Godzilla is a cut above the rest, as although it is believed that dinosaurs were lumbering animals & dumb, Godzilla possessed a sort of keen intelligence – one he cleverly used against the Avengers' most powerful members.

Bruce Banner had big reason to be concerned, & nobody could blame him.

"He's certainly a tough customer, Bruce…that is a given", Black Widow says. "But as for seeing on whether we really can subdue Godzilla or not, there's only one thing we can do…and that is to try."

"The Black Widow speaks true, Dr. Banner", said Black Panther. "And let it never be either said or known that the Avengers are unwilling as to try!"

"Look at it this way, Doc", Hawkeye put in. "Being in the Quinjet, you won't have to ask your 'big green friend' to come out & play. We'll keep the both of you safe from this thing."

The others in the aircraft nodded.

It became an ease of burden on Bruce Banner: whenever he transforms into his green alter-ego the Hulk, Bruce more or less takes a backseat & is helpless to do anything but watch as his monstrous persona rampages, causing untold destruction & even deaths until he simmers/calms down & revert back to his normal self. God forbid, if the Hulk ever does tango with Godzilla, there'll be absolutely no telling how much chaos the two of them will cause.

Being safely secured inside the Quinjet will help to prevent any of that from happening.

"That is a great comfort to hear, Clint", Bruce said with a smile.

Clint Barton returned the gesture.

"Speaking of comfort…better get strapped in, Bruce", Yellowjacket, Hank Pym, said. "Despite the safety of the Quinjet, we'll most likely be in for a rough flight."

"Luckily, these seats are all specially designed for rough flights, what with the…", Janet, the Wasp, started to say.

"What with the padded seats that are installed. Relax, Janet, I remember", Bruce said, sitting down & strapping in real tight. "All set, Cap."

"All right, gang. Here we go", Captain America said, taking flight.

Godzilla was on the rampage as he traveled up to Arch Street & beyond, destroying whatever structures were in his way. His plight was interrupted when a bright flare exploded from behind him which caused him to turn around to a sight of several humanoid figures floating in mid-air.

War Machine, Iron Man, Thor, Vision, the Fantasti-Car with all four FF members, the Avengers Quinjet & the Scarlet Witch, who stood on the roof of a demolished building but still sturdy enough to give Wanda a place to make a final stand. The SHIELD Helicarrier moved in & was positioned in an open area between the array of superheroes, their line of a clear shot of Godzilla all but guaranteed. Godzilla looked at all of his assailants, studying them as if they were someone's vast insect collection in a museum. He even took notice of the giant floating Helicarrier, hovering within the melee of costumed heroes surrounding him.

Just about every SHIELD agent, superhero & even General Ross stared at Godzilla with utter contempt, disdain & just a speck of admiration – one that was overwhelmed by the desire to keep the people of Philadelphia safe from the towering behemoth.

Inside his suit of iron, Tony Stark gives his onboard computer a readout.

"Search for any kinds of weak points on Godzilla, stat", he said.

The scan took less time than expected, & an answer was forthcoming just as quick.

"No weaknesses detected on the creature. Anywhere", it announced, causing Tony Stark to sigh.

"Well, that was a complete waste of time", Sark said mainly to himself. When next he spoke, it was to his fellow Avenger. "Cap, if we're going to do this, it should be now: Godzilla looks like he's ready to write our obituaries!"

"Just hold on, Tony!", Cap said in the Quinjet. "Nick Fury wants to wait until the right moment for us all to strike! I told him that he would have our full cooperation!"

Getting on the line with the SHIELD Helicarrier, Captain America spoke with the Director on when they should begin their assault.

"Agent Hill herself will be starting the countdown to attack when I tell her to, Captain Rogers!", Nick replied from the floating behemoth. "Keep your comm links open to all your people so's they can know the exact moment!"

"That they are, Director!", Cap says over the radio. "They're just waiting upon you!"

"Then we've got ourselves a green light! Stand by, heroes: game time will commence! Agent Hill…begin!"

Getting on the radio linked to everyone aboard the floating juggernaut and all heroes outside of it, Maria Hill does begin the countdown.

"Here we go, people!", Maria Hill announced. "Showtime commences in 5…4…3…2…"

As Agent Hill starts the countdown, Nick Fury stared hard at Godzilla with his one good eye as a fire burning in him as hot as the very depths of Hell itself.

"Die, you mother…!", Nick started to say as Hill ended the countdown & got to zero.

Before Nick Fury could finish his swear word, all hell broke loose: the SHIELD Helicarrier unloaded on Godzilla with a thunderous barrage of powerful chaingun fire, missiles & laser guns that struck the Monster King's body with sledgehammer force. The Avengers Quinjet did the same, unleashing its own payload of weaponry on their monstrous foe, from machine gun fire to lasers. In the Fantasti-Car, Ben Grimm hefted a heavy-duty rifle that shot powerful laser beams capable of shattering brick with ease, while Susan gave her invisibility shield another go as Johnny once again became the Human Torch & took to the skies. Thor called forth more lightning from the Heavens into himself & Mjolnir, with Iron Man & War Machine unloading on the creature with repulsor beams & other heavy armament. Vision struck with his eye beams at full capacity, with Scarlet Witch using her hex powers despite the wooziness she still felt from her first attempt. From the ground, She-Hulk picked up anything that wasn't bolted/tied down & started throwing objects from large pieces of debris to vacant vehicles directly at Godzilla, striking with great strength & deadly accuracy. Her partner Quicksilver made himself a mound of smaller pieces of debris which he started throwing at Godzilla's face with super-speed, his arms moving in a blur & acting like a living machine gun with the debris acting as ammunition.

Even Reed Richards got into the act, picking up a spare gun identical to Ben's & began firing it at full power, as he hoped to put some kind of dent in Godzilla's hide. A part of him wanted vengeance on the monster for how he had treated his wife during her first attack on Godzilla.

That rage within him grew as it did with Vision: the hurt Godzilla put on Wanda made the sentient android mad with anger, & he wanted nothing better than to put down this mutated Tyrannosaurus for daring to hurt the one he still has high feelings for. Thus, he pushed himself harder than he ever did previously.

War Machine was also itching for payback on Godzilla after taking a beating from the monster, especially when he was literally held in the grip of the behemoth & would've been a casualty of war had Wanda not pulled him out to safety. Thankfully, his systems were able to compensate for the damage done to his suit, putting him back in the fight.

From his position, Thor blasted Godzilla with a second jolt of powerful lightning bolts that struck the monster as his flesh got scorched worse than before, the area smoking from where contact was made.

On his entire upper half, Godzilla was heavily bombarded by everything from missiles to magic hexes, his body becoming the target for SHIELD agent & superhero alike as they make a vehement last-ditch effort against the King of all Monsters. His boisterous roar can be heard even over the explosions which rocked his person.

Captain America viewed the battle from the Quinjet's cockpit, along with the rest of his crew inside.

"I can't tell if we're winning against him, Cap! Can you?", Hawkeye wondered, watching on the monitor.

"Not a clue, Clint! But it doesn't mean we let up, either!", Captain America said, getting on his comm link. "Keep up the pressure, Avengers! No matter how big he is, Godzilla's still just an animal, so put him down like one!"

Nick Fury listened in on Captain America's reply on his own comm link, addressing the SHIELD agents aboard his floating fortress.

"You heard the Star-Spangled Avenger, people!", he announced. "Don't let Godzilla's size intimidate you: he's nothing more than a rabid dog, & that is an animal you don't try to tame, but one you put down for good! Keep up that barrage & don't stop until he's lying on the ground, unmoving!"

In response to Director Fury's command, the assault intensified by 10% as more artillery – some of SHIELD's most finest – were being unloaded on Godzilla, with not even the smallest shell being spared.

With the extra armament being unleashed, the Avengers & Fantastic Four also redouble their efforts in bringing Godzilla down for the count. The fight against the Monster King lasted for several minutes which felt like hours, with neither Godzilla nor the heroes/agents letting up.

Attacked from all sides, Godzilla let out a boisterous roar that was heard everywhere in Philadelphia & beyond.

It was heard even from inside the Quinjet & SHIELD Helicarrier despite the soundproof glass.

Despite the assault, Godzilla managed to light up his dorsal fins & even portions of his body. Even as they kept firing their weapons, the SHIELD agents & Avengers/Fantastic Four caught this action the monster was taking.

"Everyone brace yourselves!", Maria Hill shouted over the radio on the floating fortress, knowing what's coming.

"Keep going, Avengers!", Steve Rogers announced. "Just watch out for his heat ray once he shoots it!"

Bruce Banner saw the scenario a little differently.

"I don't think he's going to fire his heat ray, Cap! Godzilla's got something else in mind for us!", he stated.

Hank Pym saw what Bruce was talking about, & his worries rose.

"You could be right, Dr. Banner! Cap, I think he's going to…", Hank began to say.

It was all he got to: in the blink of an eye, Godzilla unleashed a surge of energy that spread from his body in an extended circumference that struck the heroes & SHIELD Helicarrier with the force of a sledgehammer as systems in the floating fortress, the Avengers Quinjet & Fantasti-Car began frying & short-circuiting before losing altitude & were sinking to the ground. Even Iron Man & War Machine's metal suits were malfunctioning, causing them lose power & forcing both Tony Stark & James Rhodes to get back onto the ground before they hit too hard.

They make it to terra firma, if barely.

Other heroes weren't so fortunate: everyone from Thor to Human Torch were blasted away many meters from Godzilla's position, feeling like they went a few rounds with the likes of Doctor Doom and/or the Juggernaut. Not even She-Hulk & Quicksilver were spared from harm: they were each hit by Godzilla's pulse weapon, tossing them around like they were no more than newspapers, landing a good distance away.

Captain America fought the controls of the Quinjet as he did his best to land the craft so that it wouldn't become too damaged than it already was. He cried out to his passengers to hold tight as he gets to land their craft at the edge of Washington Square, hitting the concrete between Locust & St. James Streets. Only minor damage to the building that was in between got sustained.

Unfortunately, it was a rougher landing for Bruce Banner, who not only felt the jarring of the craft worse than his teammates despite being strapped in, he got hit in the side of the head by an object that got loose once they've touched ground…hit hard. Unstrapping himself, Bruce got up & started walking towards the rear of the Quinjet as Black Widow called out his name & followed.

Getting in front of him, Natasha did her best to keep Banner relaxed, who was holding his head with both hands.

"Bruce! Bruce, look at me!", she pleaded. "Just relax, okay? Let me take a look at that injury & stay calm, can you do that? Just. Stay. Calm…"

"Don't tell ME to stay calm!", Bruce bellowed in rage, his eyes turning green & his shirt beginning to tear.

Black Widow backed away as most of the others inside the craft were getting highly nervous about Bruce's burst of anger as he started growing in size, ripping through his clothes & his flesh becoming green.

Immediately, Captain America pressed the button to open the rear doors & prayed they complied.

A few blocks away:

The SHIELD Helicarrier came down on an area on Spruce Street & down, flattening multiple homes & businesses which were thankfully evacuated. It landed with earth-shattering force that shook the entire region. Within the bridge & basically everywhere, klaxons were blaring loudly as agents scrambled to fix whatever was damaged by Godzilla's new method of attack.

"Talk to me, people! Where are we at?!", Fury barked.

"For starters, sir, it doesn't look very good!", Gabe Jones said. "Our systems are down in multiple areas, ranging from communications to weapons!"

"What about the backup generators? Are they kicking in?"

"Sorry, sir, but they've taken a hit as well!", Dum Dum said. "Whatever Godzilla hit us with, it just about fried most everything aboard this tub of ours!"

"So you're saying we're just sitting ducks out here?! Unacceptable! You all get 'this tub of ours' back into the air & operational, or so help me I swear I'll…"

"Sir!", Maria Hill called out, interrupting his tirade. "Technicians say the backup generators aren't too bad off! All they need is a few hours to make the necessary repairs, & we'll be back online again…weapons, communications, the whole damn nine yards!"

Hearing Maria Hill's report seemed to cool down Fury's temperament.

"Now that's better!", he said. "Give me an update at the top of every hour on how those repairs are going, Agent Hill! Whatever happens, be it bad or good, I want to know about it!"

Maria Hill nodded, taking pride in defusing a bad situation & saving a chewing out for all by the Director.

General Ross looked out the window, & his heart raced like a galloping horse.

"I don't think you're going to have a few hours, Director Fury!", he says, pointing.

"What the hell are you…saying?", Nick started before he, Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones, Maria Hill & everyone else on the bridge looked to where Ross pointed: like the four-star General's, everyone's hearts began beating like mad from the sight of Godzilla approaching the fallen Helicarrier before stopping on Locust Street, but not before pulverizing both the Broderick Apartments Building & Freedom Church of Philadelphia into rubble. His sights were directly on the cockpit of the fallen fortress, & his dorsal fins along with the inside of his mouth lit up with cackling blue-white energy which can only mean one thing.

Flat-out vaporization for all caught in its path.

The luminescence of Godzilla's primary weapon lit up the interior of the bridge, scaring everyone within, which also included Nick Fury & General Ross.

"Oh, shit!", Nick Fury, General Ross, Maria Hill, Dum Dum Dugan & Gabe Jones all said.

Just when Godzilla was about to unleash his primary weapon, the monster was struck in the side of the head by a fast-moving object that actually knocked Godzilla down on his left side with an earth-shattering thud, releasing his heat ray skywards & hitting nothing but empty air. This object is none other than the Green Goliath known as the Hulk, who managed to get himself out of the Quinjet while some of Bruce Banner was still present. Upon seeing Godzilla, the Hulk ran at top speed & leaped right at the prehistoric monster & used himself as a living cannonball, knocking his enemy over. Godzilla let out a roar of pain & surprise, having been hit by some powerful force.

Despite getting his larger foe down on the ground, the Hulk didn't relent on his assault: he pounded away with fists that delivered sledgehammer force that even Godzilla could not ignore. The Monster King bellowed in both pain & rage that was similar to the Hulk's own: with a rake of his right hand, Godzilla buffeted the Hulk off from the side of his head as the Green Goliath was thrown several blocks, smashing into numerous houses & spraying debris in every direction. Once he got his bearings & back on his feet, the Hulk faced Godzilla with rage as his opponent got a good look at what attacked him with power that rivaled his: Godzilla was astonished that a humanoid figure was this strong as to clobber him with the force of an earthquake, & then some.

Godzilla did not like it, & the feeling was more than mutual for the Hulk.

Both combatants bellowed angry roars at each other before the Hulk ran towards Godzilla again & leapt at the monster, dodging his atomic heat ray that vaporized several houses. This time, the Hulk pounded Godzilla straight into his chest with enough force to actually drive him back several steps, feeling like he'd been hit by Thor's Mjolnir, only worse. Having stunned Godzilla briefly, the Hulk then leaped at Godzilla again, only now by his left shoulder. Taking a firm grip on his flesh with his left hand, the Hulk them began delivering thunderous punches to Godzilla's left side that was actually hurting the Monster King. Feeling every incredible blow, Godzilla bellowed in pain & rage as he tried getting his little but powerful enemy off him, but failed doing so even as he thrashed among the surrounding buildings such as the Science History Institute, the Fragments of Franklin Court (Benjamin Franklin's former home), & others in the immediate area.

No matter how hard Godzilla thrashed around the area, he could not pry the Hulk loose from where he'd anchored himself: the Green Goliath pounded on the Monster King like there was no tomorrow, bellowing in rage as he fights a foe that was every bit as tough as his evil reflection of the Abomination, the one-time Yugoslavian agent Emil Blonsky.

In a desperate attempt to shake off his attacker, Godzilla tried using his heat ray to burn him off, but could not quite reach the Hulk due to the fact that he was too much at an area where his mouth wasn't in sync with.

Although the Hulk could feel the heat from Godzilla's weapon, it did nothing to deter him, much less remove him. The only thing Godzilla did hit with his weapon were buildings that were blasted to flaming pieces.

This fight between two monsters raged on for minutes, with Philadelphia paying the price: the Avengers, Fantastic Four & SHIELD could only watch as Godzilla & the Hulk battled for supremacy over the other. With every thunderous blow the Hulk gave, Godzilla was more determined to remove him before something finally breaks, but with his heat ray unable to reach him (not even when he tried to grab him with his right hand), he had to think fast.

And Godzilla knew just how to do it: with a flick of his tail, the Monster King sent it forward like a whip which smacked the Hulk dead-on. Clobbered by the unexpected hit, the Hulk's whole body went numb as he was flown off of Godzilla's body before landing headlong into the Merchant Exchange Building, pulverizing it.

When he emerged out of what remained of the building, the Hulk was woozy from the blow, his vision vague & blurry. It was because of this that he didn't see what came next.

Even with the warning from She-Hulk, the Green Goliath never saw the tail Godzilla swung at his enemy, hitting him like he was playing his own version of golf. The blow sent the Hulk soaring into the air & flying over the Delaware River before descending onto the parking lot between Penn & Pearl Streets – the exact same spot where Thor & Vision placed the American submarine after saving it from Godzilla's clutches!

Seeing the incoming object, Navy soldiers, police & paramedics scrambled to avoid getting flattened. In seconds, the object crashed dead center into the grounded sub, splitting it in two like an eggshell & shaking the immediate area. With their guns drawn, the police converge on the wreck just as the Hulk emerged, his gaze more like a drunk than an unstoppable creature, & he wobbled in his step while grunting softly.

Unable to stay on his feet, the Hulk tumbled forward & landed flat on his face.

Despite having several pistols aimed directly at him, he did not move a muscle.

Having disposed of his enemy, Godzilla roared in triumph.

The defenders of Philadelphia, from SHIELD to the Avengers & company, were silent as they disbelieved that even the brute force of the Hulk was unable to stop the prehistoric behemoth.

Wasp & Yellowjacket watched from atop a building still intact & viewed the battle between Godzilla & the Hulk, start to finish. Never had they witnessed an epic clash that ended with their fellow Avenger getting the beating of his life before his dinosaurian adversary swatted him away over to the Jersey side of the Delaware River.

For all the times they had to deal with the Hulk's ferocious temper, Hank & Janet felt terrible to see their teammate receive such punishment.

"Even the Hulk didn't deserve that, Hank", Janet says with sorrow.

"No, Janet…he clearly didn't", Hank replied with equal melancholy. "We threw everything we had at him, & he took down all of us like we were rank amateurs. Even if I grew up to full size at 100 feet, I doubt I could defeat him."

An idea came to Janet's mind, which lifted her spirits.

"Maybe you don't have to, Hank!", she said as her hubby turned to her. "Quite the opposite: what if we shrink down to insect size, there's a chance we can enter inside Godzilla without him noticing us, & then…"

Hank Pym grinned big-time, catching on to what his wife was saying.

"Now that's an idea, Janet!", Hank said. "And by golly, it's the best one that I've heard all day! Let's do it!"

Janet shared a smile back as both heroes use the Pym particles in their suits to shrink down to the size of an ant before using their wings to fly off & head straight for Godzilla, who continued destroying buildings & houses under his feet & swipes of his tail. Like living missiles, Yellowjacket & Wasp closed in & headed for Godzilla's head.

"All right, Janet!", Hank says. "I'll take the left ear while you take the right one!"

"Got it!", Janet replied.

Splitting up, both bug-sized heroes reach Godzilla's pointed ears located on each side, a little ways behind his eyes & mouth. Yellowjacket approached the left, while the Wasp did so with the right.

Godzilla neither seen them coming, much less heard them even when they entered his ear canals.

Now let's see, where's the…ah! There it is!, Janet thought.

"Hank, I'm in position! How about you?", she asked over her comm link.

"All set, Janet!", Hank replied. "Let's commence in 3…2…1…"

Once Hank Pym reached zero, both he & Janet started flapping their wings as rapidly as possible. Standing within Godzilla's vestibular canals in his ears (the very heart of his equilibrium), the buzzing of their wings disrupted/irritated its walls, which had an immediate effect: a surge of pain coursed through Godzilla's ears, causing him to cry out while getting a sense of vertigo that messed with his ability to stand firmly. The Monster King fought with every fiber of his being to stay balanced, focused & awake as the buzzing in his ears grew worse from Hank & Janet's interference.

Thrashing wildly from the agony that struck his hearing, Godzilla caused more urban destruction before finally making his way towards the Delaware River, hoping the water will help ease the anguish he was being pounded with.

Moving at a running speed, Godzilla reached the shoreline & leaped into the river, going in headfirst & making a tremendous splash that soaked the area he jumped from, soaking buildings, roads, vehicles & the like.

Over a minute passed with no sign of Yellowjacket, the Wasp or Godzilla resurfacing.

It made Captain America & the others worry.

"They should have come up by now!", said Black Panther. "You don't think they've both…"

"No man, don't say it! Don't even think it!", Hawkeye said. "They've got to be all right!"

"I'll try to contact them one more time, Clint", Captain America said. "Hank, Janet, are you there? Come in, over!"

After ten more seconds, they received a reply.

"We're here, Cap!", Hank says, giving everyone a huge relief. "Sorry we took so long to respond: just wanted to make sure that Godzilla didn't resurface!"

"Where is Godzilla right now? Any sign of him?", Black Widow asked.

"He swam off so fast we couldn't catch up to him", Janet says. "But from what Hank & I were able to see, it looks like he was heading south. It's very possible he's heading back into the ocean. So, the big question is…what now?"

Nobody, not even Captain America, had an answer for her.

CHAPTER II

SHIELD Helicarrier, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 9:30 p.m.:

With their radars on the fritz, neither SHIELD, the Avengers nor the Fantastic Four had any idea on Godzilla's whereabouts since swimming away from the city of Philadelphia. The best they could do for now was to help any of the citizens who got trapped when they couldn't escape quickly enough once Godzilla came onto the mainland. Captain America & Reed Richards strategized on the rescue operations to assist those that were unable to evacuate in time.

Fortunately, there were only about a handful of people that needed saving underneath piles of rubble & debris.

She-Hulk, Thor, Invisible Woman, Mister Fantastic, Thing, Vision & Scarlet Witch did most of the heavy lifting as Cap & the others got these people out & into the hands of paramedics to get medical treatment. Even Bruce Banner was looked over, but not by paramedics: Thor headed over to Camden where Banner lay unmoving after the Hulk was literally thrown across the river by Godzilla before he collapsed & transformed back into the scientist shortly after.

Thor stated that Dr. Bruce Banner was part of the Avengers, & that they will take full responsibility for him.

Even though Bruce Banner was pretty much a wanted fugitive everywhere he went, none of the police officers or Navy men were willing to argue with the Asgardian, & so they permitted him to take Bruce back in his care.

Banner thanked the man & apologized for being a heavy burden, but Thor simply stated it wasn't necessary for an apology & that he is an Avenger, & they take care of their own no matter the situation.

It gave Bruce Banner a great deal of comfort.

He only wished that the Hulk himself would share that very same sentiment.

Unlike the other citizens in Philadelphia, Bruce Banner received his treatment inside the SHIELD Helicarrier, where agents were hard at work on repairing the backup generators that will enable the floating fortress to be airborne again with all its vast resources. In the meantime, the med-bay is being run by a small power battery, giving it enough juice to check over Dr. Banner & anyone else who was seriously injured during the fight against Godzilla.

Luckily, that particular number wasn't too many – only about less than two dozen.

Finally, at about 6:00 in the evening, the backup generators were at full working capacity, & the Helicarrier was once more in the air with all engines performing without a single hitch, as confirmed by agent Maria Hill.

It pleased Nick Fury to see his aircraft operating smoothly, with all weapons/equipment also working at 100%.

But happy as he was at having his mobile fortress up & running, Fury was still displeased at the results of their battle against Godzilla, despite their best efforts & those of the Avengers & Fantastic Four: too many good agents from SHIELD & General Ross' Army units have lost their lives, each of them wiped out in a fiery holocaust from Godzilla's heat ray, blown away & vaporized like they were no more than kindling.

There was no reason to celebrate any kind of victory on this endeavor.

Especially with Godzilla still alive: the tactics of Yellowjacket & the Wasp have driven Godzilla out of the city, yes, but the creature escaped & has no doubt headed back out into the open ocean, where he could hide anywhere & hit a city at any time.

Nobody had any doubt that Godzilla will return – a fact that was shared & agreed with by everybody, superhero & SHIELD agent alike.

They needed to be fully prepared & ready for him by then.

Nick Fury received a call from the highest order & spent a good hour-&-a-half on the phone with him before he'd called for a meeting as SHIELD's top agents (Hill, Dugan, Jones), General Ross, & the Avengers/Fantastic Four all sat around the large oval table with a large monitor at one end of the room. Bruce Banner was dressed in formal wear, as one agent gave him clothing that would fit him perfectly & gave the man his thanks. All masks/faceplates were removed as to give Nick Fury unobstructed access to speak directly to the faces of who he was addressing.

It was also because Fury knew who everybody was underneath their masks to begin with, along with everybody else in SHIELD. He just has a knack for looking at his audiences straight in the eye with his sole good one.

Captain Steve Rogers & the other Avengers didn't have any problem with it: truth be told, they all removed their masks willingly.

Having everyone's undivided attention, Nick Fury began his briefing.

"Ladies & gentlemen", he began, dragging on his cigar. "I've just got off the phone with the President of our dear United States of America, & believe me, he did not sound happy: aside from our results of driving the beast away from Philly, it was still a major blow that left a scar which could take God-knows how long to heal up. Obviously, many of you hero types have never seen or even heard of this Godzilla that you fought today, am I right?"

Most of the heroes nodded their heads in agreement.

"He was definitely a first for me, mister!", Ben says. "I always thought those giant lizard stories – including the ones about alligators living in city sewers – were nothing more than a hoax! You know – just a scam to sell papers!"

"Not exactly, Ben", Reed Richards said. "Since his debut in 1954, the governments of Japan & the world have all kept a low profile on Godzilla: it was to prevent a worldwide panic & keep the stock markets/economy from going into a diving collapse not seen since the Great Depression of the 1930s. But trust me…he's no hoax."

"You seem to know a great deal about Godzilla, Dr. Richards", Dugan says. "How did you acquire that kind of information anyway?"

"I've managed to gather it while in college, Dugan. The articles & news archives fascinated me, not to mention crushed my heart after seeing the destruction & death Godzilla caused during his first rampage in Tokyo that year."

"Is that why you've never shared it even with us, Reed darling?", Susan asked as Reed nodded.

"Can't say I blame you for it, Reed…because I don't", Johnny said.

"You have my thanks, Johnny", Reed replied.

"But Reed…heartache aside, we need to know what kind of creature Godzilla is", Steve Rogers said. "Once we gather whatever information we can of him…"

"Exactly why you & the others are here, Captain Rogers", Gabe Jones said. "Those news archives Reed spoke of? We have them right here in our database, ready to be put on display. Get comfortable, people: we're about to take a trip back in time to an era where Japan thought the horrors of World War II were long over…"

"Agent Hill, if you please…", Nick Fury says, gesturing with his hand.

"Of course, sir", she says, killing the lights & bringing the big screen to life.

Immediately, images in black & white appeared on the monitor as it showed old reels of Godzilla – the very first Godzilla, measuring about 50 meters tall with smaller dorsal fins & not that long a tail – rummaging through Tokyo & causing all kinds of damage/destruction: a section of docks were thrashed by the monster as he crushed warehouses & even stopped a train which rammed into his foot before picking up a piece of it in his mouth & tossing it to the ground; another scene showed Godzilla walking through an electrical barrier which hardly slowed him down as he melted it to slag with his heat ray before entering the city, creating more havoc; scenes of Godzilla destroying buildings everywhere, including the iconic Diet Building, were displayed along with Godzilla attacking a tall television station tower that had people on it, with the monster biting into & bending it as those still trapped on the tower fell to their deaths.

Seeing that particular scene made even the likes of Steve Rogers & She-Hulk cringe.

It also went for Nick Fury & General Ross, but they managed not to publicly show it.

Another piece of footage showed a woman cuddled with her three young kids, speaking to them in comfort even as death rained down upon them. The video they were seeing had no sound, but the Avengers & Fantastic Four didn't need it: the scenes of death & destruction spoke more loudly than words could ever say.

The scenario of the woman & her three children caused tears to fall from Susan Richards, Janet Van Dyne, Wanda Maximoff & even Natasha Romanova. Agent Maria Hill also allowed one to fall from her own eyes before wiping them away.

Last but not least was the scenes of aftermath from Godzilla's destruction in Japan's capital city: buildings which have been knocked down (some to their foundation), the people laying dead & dying, those being taken to a hospital that was overflowing, & other horrific images that were now burned in the brains of the two hero groups.

Finally, the footage ended & the lights came back on in the room.

"My god", Steve Rogers said.

"Funny you should mention that, Captain Rogers", General Ross said. "They're the exact same words that the co-pilot of the Enola Gay put into his diary when they dropped the first atomic bomb over Hiroshima in August of 1945. In fact, they were the only words he had wrote into it."

"Yes, I know, General: I've been 'filled in' on events of the war & the aftermath once I awoke from my slumber in the ice. Does Godzilla have something to do with the atomic bomb?"

"Keen as always, Captain. He has everything to do with it."

"Do you mean to say that it was radioactivity which spawned him?", Black Widow asked.

"Pretty much, Miss Widow", Nick Fury says. "In March of 1954, months before Godzilla first arrived in Tokyo, atomic bomb testing took place on Bikini Atoll near the Marshall Islands, where a surviving species of dinosaur made its home at. It was first encountered in 1944 when our forces were battling the Japanese for supremacy, until it became violent & slaughtered our forces. Nobody believed in the Japs' report of it, thinking it was no more than propaganda during warfare…until of course he showed up on Tokyo's doorstep."

"Were the Japanese able to get rid of Godzilla?", asked Quicksilver.

"Yes, they did…but it came at a great price. A young scientist by the name of Daisuke Serizawa had an invention which he called the Oxygen Destroyer, something he'd been working on but became extremely deadly: just like its namesake, it destroys oxygen atoms that causes any organisms caught in its path to not only be killed of asphyxiation, but also dissolves the flesh of its victims, leaving only a skeleton behind."

This actually shocked every costumed hero in the room.

"My goodness!", said Wanda, her face horrified. "Why would this Serizawa person ever create something that is so utterly horrible?"

"It wasn't intentional, darling: Serizawa was working on a device to benefit mankind, not to destroy it. He simply came upon this unknown form of energy during the course of his studies. That's all."

"Meaning, he never wanted his invention to become, much less used as a weapon", Vision said.

"Correct: used as a weapon, it would be as deadly & destructive as the atomic bomb. Even the smallest amount of his invention would turn any body of water into a graveyard…especially if it's used on the ground."

"Was Serizawa's invention enough to do the job?", asked Clint Barton.

"It was", said Dum Dum Dugan. "Although very reluctant, Serizawa agreed to allow his device to be used…but only that one time. Locating Godzilla in Tokyo Bay, he & another named Ogata dived to the bottom & spotted Godzilla almost immediately. Ogata resurfaced before Serizawa did, who by then unleashed his invention on the creature. It was a success: Godzilla succumbed to the Oxygen Destroyer's power & died, leaving only his bones resting on the bottom, never to rise again. Unfortunately, neither did Serizawa: unbeknownst to all, he had a knife which he used to cut his oxygen line, thus dying at the bottom of Tokyo Bay with Godzilla."

"He committed suicide", Janet said as Dugan nodded.

"No doubt to keep the secrets of his invention from falling into the wrong hands, Janet", Hank said. "If I invented something as horrible as the Oxygen Destroyer, I'd do everything in my power to prevent evil people from being within possession of such a thing, no matter what the personal cost be."

Janet took Hank's hand in hers, needing comfort.

"That's bravery in its purest form", Tony Stark said. "It's not much different from when I stopped selling all my weapons to the military, because they were causing much more harm than good. I'd even hate to think about if, Heaven forbid, somebody like Hydra ever got their hands on such a malevolent device like what Serizawa had unintentionally made."

"We in Wakanda have a similar agenda, Tony Stark", T'Challa said. "The weapons that we create have destructive capabilities beyond anything the outside world can conjure up. It's why our country has a protective energy shield to keep out intruders & prevent our inventions from falling into the hands of those who would gladly exploit them."

"So, with the only weapon capable of killing Godzilla not an option to us, the big question on everyone's mind is this: what can we do when Godzilla does show himself again?", She-Hulk asked. "We need to be better prepared for this damn thing!"

"You're right about that, She-Hulk", Ross said. "And that's why Nick Fury & myself are going up to the United Nations, first thing tomorrow morning…to discuss exactly that. Tony Stark will accompany us, as will Captain Rogers, Dr. Richards & T'Challa."

"You want us at the United Nations, General?", Steve asked. "Whatever for?"

"By having members of the Avengers present, we can hope to have tensions be at ease during this difficult time, as this grim situation will no doubt affect all the world's leaders. Even now, Captain, you help inspire courage, & that we can surely use over at the Embassy."

Steve Rogers always did take great pride in what General Ross said: even after waking up decades after World War II, his legacy lived on in millions of people, knowing what he stood for, becoming the only super-soldier Abraham Erskine was able to create before being killed by Nazi spies.

If being at the United Nations Building in New York City can help ease down tensions between world leaders about Godzilla's reappearance, then it's a chore Steve Rogers should take.

"Have Hawkeye & Thor accompany us, General, & it's a deal", Steve says.

"Fair enough, Captain", Ross says, glancing at his watch. "Why don't you people grab yourselves a bite to eat in the cafeteria before turning in? It's getting pretty late, & there's a big day just ahead of us. Agent Hill can show you to where you all can spend the night in."

Maria Hill looked to Nick Fury for approval, & he nodded.

"Come on, folks. If you'll just follow me…", Maria Hill says as the Avengers & Fantastic Four rise from their seats & join her as she leads them out of the room.

"Dr. Banner", Ross called to him softly, stopping him as he turned to him & both men stared at one another for what felt like an eternity. It was really only for about a minute.

"Yes, General?", Bruce asked.

"Ever since your first transformation, I always thought the Hulk was the singular most destructive force upon the whole planet, causing chaos & mayhem wherever he goes", Ross stated. "For the most part, I was proven right. But then Emil Blonsky came along, becoming a creature who was even worse – the Abomination. And today? When I saw your alter ego squaring off against Godzilla, I was actually on the Hulk's side, hoping & praying that he could stop that monster himself. Seeing him getting his ass handed to him by that refugee from the Mesozoic was a sight I thought that I would never see happening, not in a million years."

Ross took a moment before finishing up.

"I never thought I'd be saying this, but…I actually feel terrible for the Hulk. Go get yourself some nourishment & then some rest. You need it."

Patting him on the shoulder, General Ross left the room, leaving Banner alone with She-Hulk, who also stayed behind as she walked up to her cousin.

"You going to be all right, cousin?", Jennifer Walters asked.

"To be truthfully honest, Jen…I don't know how to answer that question", Bruce said plainly.

Jennifer didn't argue the matter further.

They walked out in silence together.

The United Nations Building, New York City, Thursday, November 4th, 11:00 a.m.:

Bruce Banner took General Ross' advice & enjoyed a meal of meat loaf with carrots, mashed potatoes & juice to wash it down, having a hearty meal like the others before being escorted to their rooms by Maria Hill. They spent it in rooms that were once occupied by the agents that Godzilla killed while defending the coastline & country; while it felt like an invasion of privacy, they allowed it to pass & enjoyed the hospitality that SHIELD has granted them.

For Maria Hill, it was honoring the memory of the fallen.

Despite the day's events, just about everyone slept like the dead that night.

Including Bruce Banner.

When morning came, everyone was up at about 6:30 as dawn was just about to crack over the horizon. Getting up & dressed, everybody had breakfast before going over the day's activities in which Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones & Maria Hill handed out to the agents. As General Ross mentioned the other day, Captain America, Iron Man, Mister Fantastic, Hawkeye, Black Panther & Thor will be joining him & Nick Fury over at the United Nations Building in New York.

The other Avengers & Fantastic Four will stay behind, assisting however they can.

Bruce Banner even got to check out the science laboratory in the floating fortress: he was asked to see if Godzilla could be located by honing in on his radiation signature, should he still be in close quarters.

Maria Hill even joked that it was right up Bruce's alley, even if the radiation he was seeking wasn't gamma.

The scientist couldn't help but to grin at her little joke.

Jokes aside, Banner was all business like everybody else aboard the Helicarrier.

Getting aboard the Avengers' Quinjet, General Ross & Nick Fury were accompanied by aforementioned heroes as Captain America & Hawkeye took the controls & lifted off from the carrier's deck, leaving at about 9:00 a.m..

At the speed they were traveling, the Quinjet arrived at Manhattan in under an hour.

Upon arrival, Captain America landed the craft on the open grass area next to their destination between 46th & 47th Streets as an escort of police & suited servicemen awaited them. Tony Stark & T'Challa were each dressed in dark suits, keeping their Iron Man & Black Panther outfits superbly concealed underneath.

If any trouble should start up, they can summon their 'work clothes' in an instant.

General Ross & Nick Fury were of course attired in their uniforms, having changed at the Helicarrier.

Captain America, Hawkeye, Mister Fantastic & Thor all stayed dressed in their outfits, hoping their appearances will keep the world leaders/ambassadors strong in spirit as Ross clamored for.

With their escorts, the group entered the premises & straight down into the council chamber, where the delegates from all around the world were already seated, along with aides & other VIPs. A C-shaped table awaited General Ross, Nick Fury, Tony Stark & T'Challa while Captain America & the rest sat in the seats with the rest of the audience. On the wall before them is a nine-by-five-meter mural painted by Norwegian Per Krogh, one of the most famous in all the world.

The meeting commenced at 10:00, with the Japanese ambassador taking the stage. It was only logical for him to begin, since it was his country who first experienced Godzilla's destructive rampage only 50 years previous. What's more, he was there when he first saw the monster in the flesh when he was no more than 4 years old. But he remembered it vividly as if it were only yesterday, & he shared his story of Godzilla's first appearance, from the time he entered the docks to the heart of Tokyo itself. He had even explained the creature's origins as discovered by renown paleontologist Kyohei Yamane, who also witnessed the great reptile's first appearance, right up to the time when Godzilla was first killed by Dr. Serizawa's invention, followed by the scientist himself.

Most of what Fury, Ross & the Avengers heard is what they already know, but they listen anyway.

For everybody else in the room, it was a nerve-hitting story from start to finish: by how the Japanese ambassador described the situation, it sent a chill down their spines as if they were there & witnessed the experience themselves.

Despite the appearance of the Avengers in the room, the representatives of various countries felt no comfort, let alone secure or safe of the current situation concerning Godzilla.

It had just the opposite effect, especially when hour two commenced with talks of consisting on how to deal with Godzilla's menace to the world. This is where tensions really flared up between the delegates, arguing on methods that would be effective on getting rid of the prehistoric menace.

When the Russian ambassador brought up the notion of using nuclear weapons against Godzilla, things had really heated up.

General Ross expressed his displeasure on the subject without shame.

"No! Absolutely not!", he firmly stated, his gaze directly at the Russian ambassador. "There is no way in Hell that either Director Fury or myself will ever authorize the kind of action that involves a nuclear strike – especially if it involves doing so on American soil! Our president would never allow the clearance for such a heinous act – ever!"

"We did not mention committing nuclear strike upon your country, General Ross!", the Russian ambassador says. "I was merely suggesting that we somehow lure Godzilla out into open ocean before hitting him with nuclear weapon! Once out at sea, you will have clear space to launch nuke at Godzilla…an area devoid of life & far away from U.S. mainland!"

Nick Fury & General Ross looked to each other before turning back to the delegates.

"Let's assume you have a point!", Ross resumed. "Even if we do get that kind of clearance from our president to administer a nuclear strike against Godzilla far out at sea, what makes you so damn sure that it will actually work? How will we even begin to know if whether or not it will kill him?"

"How will we ever know if we don't even try, Monsieur Ross?!", the French ambassador puts in.

"I must concur, General Ross!", the Chinese ambassador spoke. "From what the Japanese ambassador explained to us, this Godzilla creature is the living embodiment of the atomic bomb itself, making this monster the most powerful and destructive force the planet has ever seen! He will continue to destroy & kill thousands unless we do something to take care of & rid ourselves of this creature for good!"

A chorus of agreeing snaps & barks from the representatives erupted in the room.

"This meeting isn't going as well as we hoped, Tony Stark", T'Challa says.

"Yeah, what was your first guess?", Tony asked sarcastically.

The delegates continued until the president in the council chamber pounded on his gavel & demanded order.

Once they were quieted again, Nick Fury took the stand to address the crowd.

"People, neither General Ross nor myself can believe what we're hearing!", he barked, staring hard at each of the delegates. "Is that your answer/solution to every major threat that you're forced to contend with?! Dropping a goddamn nuke to solve the problem?! You're all supposed to be responsible people, not scared little children! Now start acting like it, for Christ's sake!"

"That's just it, Director Fury…we are all scared, & for damn good reason!", said the British ambassador.

The other delegates gave a roar of 'yeah!' before Fury continued.

"You're scared…we get that! Believe me, we do!", he stated. "You want to know something? I'm scared as well, & so is General Ross! Hell, we'd be fools not to be, & both of us are iron-willed men, & yet we are frightened by this dire situation! But using a nuke to get rid of every problem like Godzilla is no way to properly solve it! In fact, it's all but a fool's errand! Have you all forgotten about the radioactive fallout whenever one of those weapons explodes?! Or the destructive capacity?!"

Nick Fury points to the Japanese ambassador.

"This man here – and his people – have not! Even almost 60 years later, there are still Japanese who remember when they saw the two atomic bombs we dropped on Hiroshima & Nagasaki in early August 1945, not to mention those who had loved ones that have succumbed to the radiation shortly after! You think they'd want to go through a harrowing experience like that ever again?! I doubt it!"

The SHIELD Director stared at each delegate to make sure his point came across them.

It was General Ross who came up & addressed the crowd, also staring hard at every one of them.

"Let me ask each one of you something!", Ross stated firmly. "Let's say that Godzilla decided to appear in, say, Paris, France, or maybe even Moscow, Russia, to put as an example! If that were to happen, would any of you have the unmitigated gall to use nuclear weapons on Godzilla…knowing full well that you would be killing millions of your own people?"

The room fell deathly silent after General Ross delivered his ultimatum to the delegates. His words hit home on each one of them: none could even begin to imagine the horrors of wiping out their own cities & every living soul just to get rid of an animal that, to most people's standards, shouldn't even exist in the first place, let alone within the 21st century. Like most everyone else, these people have seen old newsreels of the Little Boy & Fat Man atomic bombs that were dropped on Japan in August 6th & 9th of 1945, not to mention the aftermath when they exploded over two of that country's cities – ones that were devoted almost entirely to war work.

Not one of them ever wished something like that being detonated anywhere in their homelands.

T'Challa leaned closer to Tony Stark.

"The General really pulled through on that", the Wakanda ruler whispered.

"Yeah, not bad for the old man", Tony whispered back.

Captain America, Thor, Hawkeye & Mister Fantastic were just as impressed at both Nick Fury and General Ross at defusing the situation before it got too out of control.

Not too shabby there, Ross!, Hawkeye thought. Not too shabby at all!

Steve Rogers wanted nothing more than to get up to the circled podium & give a speech of his own on the matter, but he & the others were basically symbols of hope just by being there. Even if there was a need to speak for each of the delegates, Nick Fury & General Ross did a fine job of it by themselves, & Steve was pleased by the outcome of it, as were his fellow Avengers.

It reminded Steve of the great speeches of former president Franklin D. Roosevelt used to give before & during World War II, from the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 to the D-Day Invasion of Normandy in June 1944 & even his Yalta Conference in February 1945 shortly before he went under the ice.

A pair of speeches most worthy of FDR, gentlemen, Steve Rogers thought.

The talks with the delegates weren't over yet despite Ross & Fury's dissuasion of using nuclear weapons.

Now it was the German ambassador's turn to speak, who makes an arguing point.

"Herr General Ross, Herr Nick Fury, alzough you have raised some valid points in your argument, ve still haf to know: since you haf put ze use of nuclear weapons out of ze question, how can ve ever protect ourselves from Godzilla, let alone defeat him? Even ze superheroes of ze Fantastic Four & ze Avengers could not do it!"

Upon hearing the German man's words, the other world leaders/delegates all began shouting in unison, doing so louder than before, each one demanding an answer that will satisfy them. When the German man mentioned of the big failure of stopping Godzilla on the Avengers' part, the heroes in the room felt deflated & more than a little hurt.

He's got us there, I have to admit, Reed Richards thought solemnly.

"The German man isn't wrong, you know…we couldn't", Hawkeye said in a slump.

Steve Rogers placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"Try not to take it too personally, Clint", he says. "Everybody in this room is just scared. That's all."

Usually, Captain America's words soothe away any tension his teammates might have.

But not this time, & Clint faced him to make it clear.

"Cap, Godzilla handed our asses to us – all of us!", he said. "I don't blame these people for being scared, you know why? Because I am too! And you damn well know I'm a man who doesn't scareeasily! Excuse me!"

Rising from his seat, Hawkeye headed for the rear doors & exited the room.

Mister Fantastic started to get up from his own seat, but Thor placed a hand on his shoulder & kept him down.

"It's all right, Dr. Richards. I'll go after him", he says assuredly.

"As you wish", Reed replied as Thor followed Hawkeye out of the room.

The president once again pounded on his gavel to restore order in the room before General Ross spoke.

"Everyone, please simmer down!", he announced. "Your feelings in this matter are understandable, but there's still no need for any further cause for alarm! Let me assure every one of you: just because the use of nuclear weapons is out of the question for this kind of crisis, it still doesn't mean that we're completely defenseless against Godzilla!"

The people in the room looked at & mumbled to one another, wondering what Ross meant. It was the German ambassador who asked.

"Vat exactly do you mean by that, Herr General Ross? You haf top secret veapon zat vill be able to do ze job?"

Tony Stark stepped up & spoke before Ross could.

"Funny you should mention that, Irving Berlin", he says, half-joking. "In fact – we have three of them that will be able to perform that very task."

More murmurs erupted from the delegates, but this time it was with much more enthusiasm than they had just a few moments ago. Even Steve Rogers, Reed Richards & T'Challa were drawn in by Tony Stark's words, their attention fully on their iron-clad Avenger.

"Judging from the mumbling sounds you're all making, I can tell you're all anxious to know what they are", Tony announced. "Well, gentlemen, I'm willing to give you all a front-row seat presentation of this trio of super-weapons in which my very own father, Howard Stark, had started many years ago before turning the project over to my care. What's more, you'll be getting a most spectacular view of the display right here in the safety of the United Nations. In just two days, you're going to be seeing three of the ultimate fighting weapons that will be our best defense against Godzilla. Set your watches for Saturday afternoon, gentlemen…you'll see the big revelation after some fun with Bugs Bunny!"

Tony Stark offered his best smile before the president announced that the meeting is adjourned, pounding twice on his gavel as the delegates & patrons in the audience began rising from their seats & exiting the room. Captain Steve Rogers & Reed Richards stood as T'Challa, Fury, Ross & Stark approached the Fantastic Four member & Avenger.

"I guess that could've worked out better", Nick Fury said. "I have to admit: more than once, I thought the shit was really going to hit the fan."

"Yeah, in more ways than one", Steve said, turning to Stark. "So, Tony…what exactly are these 'super-weapons' which you spoke of? And how did your father become involved in them?"

"That, Steve, will be explained once we're all reassembled for the big presentation on Saturday", Tony says.

"Speaking of getting reassembled…where did Thor & Clint Barton head off to?", T'Challa asked.

"Clint needed a time-out, so he exited the room. Thor went with him", Reed replied.

Outside the room:

Hawkeye stood next to the wall after leaving the main chamber, not wanting to cause a scene inside & letting off a little steam. Thor joined him to offer some comfort.

"Will you be all right, Clint?", Thor asked. "Yon seemed pretty stirred up from thy meeting within."

"I don't know, Thor", Clint says. "In all my days as a lone crimefighter and with the Avengers, I've fought bad guys, super-villains & world threats left & right without breaking a sweat. But after we faced Godzilla the other day? I began to doubt myself when that overgrown T-Rex took down every single one of us…up to & including both the Hulk & you. No offense."

"None taken, fellow Avenger."

"Tell me something: have you ever faced anything like Godzilla back on Asgard, or anywhere else, before you came to Earth?"

"Not really. I've faced many otherworldly creatures on countless planets, from demons the size of yon New York skyscrapers to seagoing beasts that put even thy blue whales to shame, each of which I've conquered all. But Godzilla? Thoust has never faced a creature like him. He is no ordinary monster."

"That certainly goes without saying, doesn't it?"

"But keep in mind, Clint Barton: no matter what the danger we face, we are the Avengers, & we can overcome anything that gets placed before us. One way or another, we will defeat yon Godzilla."

"I hope you're right, big guy."

"We'll prove him right, Barton. Just you wait", Tony Stark said as he exited the room along with the patrons & approaching the duo with T'Challa, Reed Richards, Steve Rogers, General Ross & Director Nick Fury.

"So…how'd it go in there, fellas?"

"Well, after Nick Fury & General Ross dissuaded the ambassadors to use nuclear weapons on Godzilla, Tony had announced that he has a trio of super-weapons that will help to defend us against the creature", Reed mentions.

Hawkeye & Thor both faced Tony Stark with both amazement & surprise.

"Hold the phone here, people!", Clint says. "Tony, you've had three super-weapons to defend this country against Godzilla all this time, & you're only mentioning it to us now?! You could've used them to fend of Godzilla yesterday! What the hell, man?!"

"Yes, why the delay, Tony Stark?", Thor added. "Those SHIELD agents and soldiers from General Ross' armies could've been spared the other day! They didn't have to die by Godzilla's hand, & you went &…"

"Easy there, fellas", Nick Fury stepped in before things could escalate. "The General & I know how you all feel about our people who lost their lives battling Godzilla. Believe me, we're not unsympathetic as to what happened, & we too also wished they hadn't been wiped out by that giant mutant dinosaur. But there were good reasons as to why we didn't deploy them yesterday."

"We?", T'Challa says. "You mean to say…you & General Ross had also known about them?"

"Yes, we did", Ross says. "Nick Fury, Tony Stark and myself were all in on it. To give you the short version, it was a top-secret project that was many years in the making. On the other hand, they weren't ready to be deployed just yet, explaining why we didn't use them yesterday. We'll give you the full version of our situation this coming Saturday afternoon, when we will reveal this trio of super-weapons to you – and the rest of the world."

Hawkeye, Thor, T'Challa, Mister Fantastic & Captain America all faced each other, every hero having their own feelings & thoughts on the situation. But knowing Fury & Ross, they won't get anything more out of them, so all they could do is to play the waiting game.

Luckily, the waiting will only be for two more days.

"Whatever these super-weapons are, gentlemen…I hope they're worth the lives that were lost", Cap said.

Cap's cell phone rang, & he fished it out of his pocket to see who was calling.

It was an old acquaintance, & he answered it.

"Hey there", he said as he listened. "No, it's all done here at the UN. Of course I can come over. I'll see you soon, okay? All right, bye."

Steve hung up & pocketed his cell, facing the group.

"I'll see you all later", he said, heading for the building's exit.

He was stopped short when Ross spoke.

"And where are you heading off to, Captain Rogers?", he asked.

"To see an old acquaintance", Steve says.

"An old acquaintance? Where, exactly?", Clint asked.

Steve smiled.

"In my old hometown of Brooklyn", he said before heading off.

Clint, Tony & the rest all wondered who it could be.

Brooklyn, New York, 30 minutes later:

Not wanting to raise eyebrows in the streets, Captain America went back to the Quinjet to get into his civvies to flawlessly mingle with the civilian populace, wearing a pair of slacks, tennis shoes, sweat shirt & light jacket with hood so as to keep his face as much hidden as possible. Gathering some money, he used a taxi to take him over to a nursing home on Borden Avenue & 21st Street – the Blue Parasol Home Care.

It was here that Steve Rogers paid a visit to the one who resided in one of the rooms on the top floor.

Finally, he reached his destination: knocking on the door, he was invited in as Steve was greeted by two women: one who was in her 80s who was 5 feet, 5 inches tall with white hair & blue eyes, wearing a blue dress & shoes. The other was much younger, in either her 20s or 30s & stood 5 feet, 8 inches tall, having blue eyes, blond hair & wearing blue jeans, brown shoes & beige/tan sweat shirt.

Upon seeing him, the ladies smiled as Steve returned the gesture.

"Steve", the ladies say.

"Hello, mademoiselles Peggy & Sharon", he charmed.

The older woman was Peggy Carter, who served with Steve Rogers during World War II; unlike Steve, Peggy had lived her life throughout the years & grew old while Rogers stayed in perfect suspended hibernation, not aging one day. It was something he still felt guilty about even now.

The younger woman is Sharon Carter, Peggy's niece & agent of SHIELD.

"Thank you for coming, Steve", Sharon said. "Aunt Peggy needed for you to come see her once we learned that you & your Avengers friends would be paying the United Nations a visit today."

"We were there on business, but it is good to be able to pay the two of you a visit", said Steve. "I only wish that it was under better circumstances."

"As do we", Peggy said, her face in a state of deep worry. "So, it's true, Steve? Godzilla has returned to us?"

"I'm afraid so, Peggy. I take it you saw the newscast of our fight with him in Philadelphia the other day?"

Peggy nodded slowly.

"When I first saw the news, I didn't want to believe it", she explained. "I thought it was nothing more than some fool's publicity stunt or a trick of the light. But deep down, I knew – I knew that it was him, there was no mistaking it. How I wished it so much to be otherwise."

A sudden thought came to Steve.

"You were there when he first appeared to the world…weren't you?", he asked.

Once more, Peggy nodded solemnly.

"It's a memory I'll never forget, no matter how badly I want to", Peggy explains. "I was on a business trip with Howard Stark, Tony's father, & his butler/servant Edwin Jarvis to Tokyo, Japan in early November of 1954. It was in the midst of the country's dealings with numerous ship disasters out at sea, each one going up in flames before sinking to the bottom. It was there we met with renowned professor Kyohei Yamane, who explained that those disasters were all caused by a giant creature that was a survivor of the Mesozoic – a creature which the natives of Odo Island have all named 'Gojira', which of course was later translated into Godzilla. Just as you surmised, Steve, I was there when that monster first came to shore & turned Tokyo into a fiery holocaust, leaving thousands dead & dying. Some of the worst moments Howard, Jarvis & I bore witness to was when Godzilla brought down a television tower with people still on it, each falling to their deaths as the monster bent it like it was tin foil. But nothing made us cry more than when we saw a woman cuddling with her three kids as death rained down upon them. I recall hearing that woman saying to her young ones to wait before they'd all be reunited with their father."

Peggy stopped her story as she was starting to sob, recalling the painful/horrid memory.

Steve & Sharon came by her side for comfort as Peggy placed her head in her hands & cried.

Steve & Sharon looked at each other, both with deep sorrow in their eyes, seeing Peggy break down like this.

Then again, Steve understood her feelings: he watched that very footage over at the SHIELD Helicarrier the other day, his own heart wrenching from what he bore witness to. It was like watching the Second World War all over again, only that the enemy was hundreds of times worse than Fascist Italy, Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan combined.

Neither Benito Mussolini, Adolf Hitler or Hideki Tojo could ever compare themselves to Godzilla.

Letting out all her sorrows, Peggy took a sip of water from a glass while wiping tears away.

"I had hoped that Serizawa's invention had ended the terror Godzilla brought into the world", Peggy says. "Alas, some time later, he's reappeared again & again, causing unspeakable mayhem everywhere he went. And now, he's here on American soil…something I've always dreaded."

"You have good reason for it, Peggy", Steve says. "Your feelings in the matter are also shared by a good number of my fellow Avengers, believe me."

"What are we going to do, Steve?", Sharon asked. "Godzilla makes many from your rogues gallery such as Hydra & Ultron look like nothing more than petty thieves."

"That's why we came to the United Nations today, Sharon: Tony Stark announced that he's got a trio of super weapons that, he says, will do the job of defeating Godzilla – a project he's been in collaboration with both Nick Fury & General Ross. Even I never knew about this until today."

"What kind of super weapons?"

"He wouldn't say, only that he will unveil them this Saturday afternoon. Whatever they are, I hope they're capable of doing the job even we couldn't."

"So, we're just going to have to wait? What if Godzilla should suddenly appear before then?"

"I wish we could do more, Sharon, believe me. But waiting is all we can do for right now. Until these weapons get revealed, it's out of our hands. I'm very sorry."

Sharon cursed herself inwards, pissed that these defensive weapons against Godzilla was kept confidential for a good many years & never knew about them until just now. It stung her that these weapons were never even used on the monster previously. Because of this, Sharon didn't know which was worse: the fact that it was kept secret for all these years, or that Tony Stark, Iron Man himself, was one of the men in charge of these projects & never entrusted any of his fellow Avengers with it, up to & including Steve Rogers.

If she wasn't with her Aunt Peggy, Sharon Carter would probably go into a blind rage right now.

But she fought to stay calm & collected: making a scene at a nursing/retirement home in front of many senior citizens was just a terrible idea.

"Don't be, Steve. It's not your fault", she said simply.

Rogers checked his watch.

"I'd better get back to the Quinjet, Sharon", Steve said, getting up. "Can I offer you a lift home?"

"Thanks, Steve, but I'd better stay here with Aunt Peggy a little longer", Sharon says. "She's very shaken up on knowing that Godzilla is still out there, & between her & SHIELD, Aunt Peggy is my highest priority."

Steve understood: Sharon knew what was most important in her life. Between her duties at SHIELD & her Aunt Peggy, the latter takes precedence every time.

It was Sharon Carter's way of saying 'Fuck SHIELD. They can wait. Aunt Peggy can't'.

"I understand, Sharon", Steve said, turning to her aunt. "Don't worry, Peggy: no matter what happens, we'll beat this thing just like we do any other threat."

He leaned in & kissed Peggy on the cheek, caressing it before turning to the door.

He was stopped by Sharon.

"Steve?", she said as he faced her. "Please be very careful, we're begging you."

"I always am", he said with a smile before exiting the room, leaving the two ladies alone.

When Peggy started to shake, Sharon held her close to comfort her.

Peggy wasn't shaking because she was cold.

Peggy Carter was afraid. Very afraid.

CHAPTER III

Cape May, New Jersey, Saturday, November 6th, 1:00 p.m.:

Shortly after Steve Rogers had returned to the Quinjet, he told his companions of his visit to retired agent Peggy Carter, who was also accompanied by her niece Sharon. He gave the details of Peggy's story in accurate detail, leaving nothing out & telling them exactly as she had told it. Rogers' description is precisely like the footage they'd viewed the other day, but it was more nerve-wracking due to the fact that Peggy Carter was actually there when Godzilla had first attacked Tokyo, being present with Tony's father Howard Stark & his servant Edwin Jarvis.

Tony Stark didn't deny that his father saw Godzilla during his first rampage in Japan's capital. In fact, the playboy billionaire explained that his father used to tell him about his sighting of Godzilla many times when he was younger as he grew up into the man he had become.

He also explained it was the main reason as to why Howard Stark began funding for the super-weapons to battle Godzilla many years ago before his death, but not before passing on his chore to Tony.

Like General Ross stated, the complete explanation will be presented on Saturday afternoon, when the arrival of the three super-weapons will make their debut.

With nothing left to discuss, the group took off in the Quinjet & headed back to the SHIELD Helicarrier that was hovering over the skies of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Once they returned, Nick Fury & General Ross gave everybody within the floating fortress all the details on what went down at the United Nations in New York City, ending with Tony Stark's involvement with the project Director Fury & General Ross also helped bear fruit. This revelation stunned the other heroes, with more than a few unhappy that Stark had kept it confidential from them.

General Ross put them at ease by telling them that the full story of these weapons will be unveiled on the day of the revelation of the three weapons that are more than capable of battling – and defeating – Godzilla.

He just asked for everyone to be patient until the big day came.

Anxious as they were to learn more, they all agreed nonetheless.

For the next two days, the Avengers, Fantastic Four & SHIELD agents went over plans on setting up a stage to make their big presentation, followed by creating a makeshift arena complete with bleachers for the agents of SHIELD & General Ross' soldiers from his U.S. Army unit. Reed Richards stated that the area they wanted to set up at should be close to where Godzilla made his retreat after Yellowjacket & Wasp gave him the mother of all earaches.

Director Fury & General Ross both thought it was a logical move, & they agreed upon it.

After serious discussion, they decided on the area of Cape May, New Jersey.

First, of course, the people living within & near the area would have to be evacuated: specially designed huts that Stark Enterprises have created will act as temporary homes for those who needed to vacate the premises, each one being provided with food, fresh water & warmth. These huts were placed on an open area on the northern end of New England Road, where a lone residence was already present. When SHIELD agents explained to the owner of the situation, he'd cooperated & allowed the huts to be placed on his property to allow the people who had to flee their homes to remain, safe & a good distance away from the danger that could be arriving.

Ironically, the owner of the domicile nearly fled his home when he was told that Godzilla might approach the area, but he was assured that he & the others would be safe, & thus he stayed.

He's also agreed to assist in any way that he could, which was appreciated by SHIELD.

With the people being taken to safer quarters, next came the setting up of the makeshift arena which will include bleachers to sit on, a podium with a microphone, & a large monitor that measured a good 60 feet wide & 50 feet high, giving them a grand view of the action. A camera crew will be on hand for Saturday, as Tony Stark explained that this presentation will be broadcast from coast to coast, including those watching over at the United Nations.

As preparations were being made along the shoreline, SHIELD & members of the Avengers & Fantastic Four all headed out to search the immediate area of water to try & locate Godzilla, believing the creature to be close by. Captain America, Nick Fury & General Ross gave each of their people instructions to find Godzilla but not to engage him, just in case they succeed. Groups of mini subs searched the waters for a 10-mile radius, while the Fantasti-Car & Quinjet circled the surface for any sign of the monster.

Their search went on for hours on end, with nobody being successful in their endeavor.

Neither SHIELD agent, Army soldier or costumed hero could decide whether they should be disappointed or even relieved.

Finally, the big day came: The Avengers & Fantastic Four were all present & accounted for, along with Director Nick Fury, Maria Hill, Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones, General Ross & a newcomer to the team – Julius Schwartz, who was a Colonel in Ross' unit & a longtime friend.

Upon seeing the Colonel, General Ross shook the man's hand.

"Julius! So happy you could make it this day!", Ross said.

"Believe me, Thaddeus…I wouldn't have missed this for the world!", Julius says, releasing his hand. "Neither would, I assume, the country!"

"We're being broadcasted from one end of this beautiful land to the other – from Los Angeles up to the very coast of Maine! It's a presentation we've been planning on for years, old friend!"

"Then let's give the people watching at home the show of their lives – one they'll never forget! What's the word on Godzilla himself? Have you folks found any trace of him?"

"No such luck, Colonel Schwartz", Vision said. "We've covered a good portion of the immediate area of a radius of 10 miles, but none of our people were successful in getting an exact fix on his location."

"But it's safe to assume that we can expect Godzilla to return", said Black Panther. "Such a fierce creature like him is also capable of holding a grudge. We were caught off-guard by his appearance in Philadelphia the other day."

"You needn't worry this time, your highness", said Dugan. "We'll be ready for him when he shows his face here or anywhere else in the world again!"

"For once, Mr. Dugan, we agree on something!", Iron Man said, landing in the crowd & retracting his helmet to reveal Tony Stark. "Colonel Schwartz! Happy to have you here! I've read about that little bit of space exploration your men made three months ago! It was a trip over to the red planet Mars, wasn't it?"

"You hear good, Mr. Stark", Julius says. "Yes, we've been making plans to create a colony on Mars, searching for the perfect spot to set up camp & construct a base there that will also become a resort for tourists. It's a project I've been wanting to see happen for a long time, along with today's presentation."

"Making the movie 'Total Recall' a reality, huh? Just as long as you don't mess with people's heads, I might take a trip up there once it's complete."

"Sure thing, Tony. It's a deal."

Both men grin at the notion.

"Speaking of 'today's presentation', gentlemen…", Tony reminds all. "Now that we're all present & accounted for…shall we begin the show? It's one on the nose, & we wouldn't want the crowd to get restless, would we?"

"I for one couldn't agree more, Mr. Stark", General Ross says, going over to the podium & switching the mike on. The camera crew scheduled to broadcast the day's events capture across the country. "Good afternoon, everybody! If you'll just kindly take your seats, we can begin to commence with the main attraction you've all been invited here today to bear historic witness to!"

Most everybody did take their seats on the bleachers they've spent the other day setting up, sitting down as they had an unobstructed view of the large monitor in front of them. Of all the SHIELD agents, army soldiers & heroes who did take their seats, only two had declined to do so.

Captain America & Falcon.

Ben Grimm, the Thing, also stood on the sidelines, mainly because he was too big & heavy to sit on the bleachers.

He didn't mind it one bit, though.

They stood on the sidelines of the bleachers, but still had a perfect view of the monitor.

Stark, of course, stood alongside General Ross, Director Fury & Colonel Schwartz.

Like usual, he looked proud & filled with pride.

For the rest of the heroes, it was typical & normal to see him in this manner; for better or for worse, they'd gotten used to it.

Seeing mostly everybody having taken their seats, General Ross commenced with the presentation.

"As many of you have been informed in the days previous, you have all been invited here today to bear witness to a new breakthrough of modern-day technology in the defense against the infamous prehistoric creature known to the world as Godzilla. Ever since his first appearance in Tokyo, Japan in November of 1954, this monster has often raided Japan & a handful of other countries on numerous occasions, causing mass destructions & loss of life. Many valiant & brave soldiers have gone up against the creature to try & destroy him, only to meet with disastrous results every time, up to & including a good number of SHIELD agents & my own people in the U.S. Army only days ago in Philadelphia. Before I go on, let us first all take a moment of silence to remember all those brave men & women who gave their lives in the defense of America."

The area fell silent for several moments, as everyone bowed their heads slightly in remembrance of the soldiers Godzilla wiped out three days ago.

All those deaths could've been prevented that day, Ross!, Hawkeye thought bitterly.

At least General Ross still has some decency inside him, Black Widow thought.

Rest assured, brothers & sisters – your deaths will not be in vain!, Dum Dum Dugan thought.

When he felt enough time had passed, General Ross spoke again, getting everyone's attention once more.

"Thank you all, ladies & gentlemen", he announced. "For many years, humanity has felt all but helpless & scared against this survivor from the Age of Reptiles. Today, I'm happy to say…no more! Like many others, we have always anticipated that Godzilla would return to us one day, & this time, we are now fully prepared to deal with this menace & make our countries – and the world – safe once more. These weapons have been years in the making, & now I am eagerly proud to announce that they've been fully completed & ready for operations in the wee hours of this morning by our top mechanics & scientists of the combined efforts of SHIELD, the U.S. Army, and by Tony Stark's own father Howard, who helped to begin this dream project before passing the reigns to his son. And now, my good friend Julius Schwartz has informed me that these weapons are now on their way over even as we speak, therefore, if you'll just take a look on the large monitor in front of you, you can all witness their approach."

Ross gave the technicians the signal to turn the monitor on, which they did with a nod.

Everyone in the audience did as General Ross suggested as the monitor came to life, displaying a quick shot of the plateau of shrubbery & homes before the cameras (supplied by drones equipped with stealth propellers) rise up to reveal the immensely cloudy skies above. All the SHIELD agents & army soldiers sit & wait patiently for the oncoming weapons they knew were on their way.

Many of the Avengers & even the Fantastic Four couldn't see anything on the screen to capture their interest even after a minute or two, & they were beginning to wonder if General Ross, Tony Stark & the others in charge were playing some kind of game or joke.

None of them found it amusing or funny, & more than a few were starting to express their disappointment in the whole thing, not bothering to hide their feelings.

"I don't see a damn thing!", Quicksilver said, the frustration clear in his voice. "What is General Ross playing at anyway?!"

"Yeah, I hear you, Speedy!", Johnny Storm said. "If this is his idea of a joke, it isn't funny!"

"Come on, Johnny", Susan says. "I doubt that General Ross – let alone Tony Stark – would have invited us here just to play jokes on us."

"I agree with Susan, Johnny", Reed says. "While General Ross may have his doubts & misgivings about any of us in costume, he still knows better than to waste our time."

Reed's words have an immediate effect upon the Human Torch, & Johnny nodded & said nothing more on the matter.

That's when Bruce Banner spotted something on the monitor, followed by a low sound.

"There!", he said, pointing. "Do you all see it?"

"We do now, Bruce!", said She-Hulk. "In fact…I can also hear it!"

So could the rest of the Avengers/Fantastic Four: the sound that caught their ears grew louder with every second that passed, & their images on screen began to grow as well, soon forming into shapes. Three of them.

"These objects…they're about 1200 meters away & closing in fast", Vision said.

"And from my point of view, they look to me like…ships of some kind!", said Scarlet Witch.

But as they get even closer, everyone can see that Wanda was mistaken.

"No offense, Wanda, but to the rest of us, they look much more like…robots!", Black Panther said.

Before anyone else could say anything else, the trio of flying metal bodies were getting more & more clearer into view, along with the thunderous roaring that accompanied them, this sound they all presume being the thrust of rockets which kept these monstrous machines airborne. In each of these mechanical wonders, the group can see a pair of arms at their sides as they flew, with a pair of legs that had feet which provided the jet boosters in one of them, with the other two receiving theirs from the back & upper portions of their legs instead of the bottoms of their feet. Their cockpits – if they were cockpits – pointed forward, resembling the head of a dinosaur's, & one even had a weapons harness placed upon it in the rear. They flew in a horizontal position, & the audience can also see rows of metal dorsal fins on the backs of these machines, along with a tail that was straightened out like a javelin in the rear.

There were no longer any doubts – these flying monstrosities are robots.

"Aye, Black Panther…thoust has been most correct in yon assumption!", Thor says as the roaring of the thrusters was now boisterous.

From when the machines got nearer to a patch of land between the yellow & blue trails along the shoreline of Cape May, this trio of robots began slowing their approach & rotated from a horizontal position to a vertical one, their forms taking on more of the robotic forms their designs were built for. With their jet propulsions, their descent became eased as a cloud of dust formed in the patch of greenery they were scheduled to land upon. Despite the softer landing, their impact was still felt even from where everyone was standing/sitting at.

Everyone's eyes & mouths opened widely at the trio of machines that have now settled upon the land.

It included even the toughest heroes, who could not hide their astonishment & surprise.

"You have got to be shitting me, man!", Falcon said softly, mostly to himself.

"I don't think they are, Sam", Captain America said.

All pairs of eyes were awestruck by the machines that now stood erect, each one next to one another by a distance of 12 meters: the one on the right was the shorter one of the trio, standing about 90 meters tall with a shield-like plate upon its chest. It had three pointed toes on each foot & four on each hand, the latter of which were both positioned in a chopping stance/style as a master judo/karate expert would use upon opponents. Placed upon the sides of its upper arms were large imprints of the letters 'MG' colored in red, & various areas of it looked as if the thing was put together by very large rivets. A metal saurian head was placed on top, complete with yellow eyes & a red circle on each side, along with a curved point that slanted forward on the top. Three rows of metal dorsal fins decorated its back, with a tail that had a fin at the end of it.

The robot in the middle was ten meters taller than its counterpart, with a body & surface that was much smoother & shinier, along with a chest that looked like a body builder's. Open ports were located on its shoulders, waist, sides & forearms just behind the wrists. Like the first one, it had a trio of dorsal fins along its back & tail & yellow eyes with a pointed fin on its head. But unlike the first machine, it had four toes on its feet which weren't pointed, & there was no fin at the end of its tail, & its dorsal fins weren't as large.

Finally, the machine standing on the far left stood the same height as the one in the middle, but was built with a couple differences: its four toes & fingers were all pointed, & the fin upon its head was backwards instead of forwards, & despite the metal plating several areas of it were exposed, showing gears/wires on its stomach, legs, neck, fingers, arms & segmented tail. Also, unlike its two companions, this robot sported armaments that were visibly attached for all to see: a large gray shoulder harness was worn upon its back with a pair of rocket boosters & large cannons that faced forward on each side. Placed on its forearms were a pair of double-barreled harnesses that looked to be either machine or laser guns. This machine also had yellow eyes, but sported larger dorsal fins on its back, with the largest ones placed behind the arms.

Differences in their appearance/demeanor aside, each of these robots were silver in color, with patches of black in some spots. They also had a similar look, one that was made all too obvious.

"Those robots", Hank Pym started saying.

"They look exactly like…Godzilla!", Janet finished for him.

"Whoa! Talk about your 'heavy metal'!", James Rhodes, War Machine, said.

"Not to mention real heavy on armament!", said Black Widow said.

"So, what exactly are they calling these damn things anyway…Robo-zillas?", Hawkeye asks, half-joking.

Dugan chuckled at Hawkeye's little attempt at humor.

"Close enough, archer", the SHIELD agent told him. "But we'll let the general tell us what they really are."

It was then that General Ross addressed the audience again, this time smiling.

"Simply incredible, aren't they?", he said, gesturing to the large screen. "Ladies & gentlemen, it gives me utmost pleasure in introducing all of you to the latest in military defense – the Mechagodzillas!"

Ross pointed to each one as he gave them each nicknames.

"MG-1, MG-2, & MG-3!"

As Ross announced the three Mechagodzillas, a black SUV with tinted windows pulled up near the podium as a back door swung open to unleash a lone passenger: a male attired in a gray business suit standing an even 6 feet tall, & sporting brown hair & eyes. All eyes took notice of him as this newcomer came up to the podium, a greeting of smiles on the faces of Nick Fury, Colonel Schwartz, Tony Stark & General Ross.

"Well, if it isn't another one of my best soldiers…Alexander Goodwin Pierce!", Fury said as he shook the man's hand, with Pierce doing so to the rest. "I was beginning to wonder if you were going to show up to this little presentation of ours, Alex!"

"There's hardly anything 'little' about this operation, Nick!", Pierce said. "Or have you all forgotten that I myself had a hand in helping with making these marvels of machinery a reality?"

"Of course not, Alexander!", Tony said. "You're as responsible in funding for this as I am!"

"Glad to hear somebody remembers, Tony. My only regret about this day is that your father Howard – of whom I've greatly admired – isn't here to see the fruits of our success. How I wish for him to be here right now. Along with his wife & your mother Maria."

"I know. And I thank you, Alex. But they would've wanted us to see this day come true, so let's do this for them."

"I agree, Tony. Let's make them proud."

The men turn to General Ross & nod as the man on the podium. Nodding back, Ross resumes.

"Ladies & gentlemen, you're all wondering as to how these marvels of machinery came to be, along with how we were involved in their construction", he says. "It's very simple: back in the late 1970s – 1979, to be exact – the Earth was invaded by a race of ape-faced aliens who have made their way to the planet almost entirely unnoticed, landing in Okinawa. Both my units & SHIELD were sent to investigate these invaders from space to find out what threat they had posed. It turns out that they were the original creators of the first Mechagodzilla – MG-1 – that they unleashed on the world so they could wipe out the human race & repopulate it with their own people. As we were facing the threat of the Black Hole Aliens, as they called themselves, Godzilla appeared & battled his mechanical double in a deadly fight that nearly killed him. Only by our efforts were we able to turn the tide & defeat these malevolent beings, with Godzilla doing the same to Mechagodzilla. After the battle was over, we salvaged whatever we could of the Black Hole Aliens' creation & studied every aspect of it for years before rebuilding it in secret – only this time, to use it in defense of our planet rather than to conquer it. Howard Stark & SHIELD operative Alexander Pierce were the ones who paid the lion's share of funding the project, with Tony taking over shortly after. As we were reconstructing the alien weapon, we then figured, why just stop with one? Why not create two more Mechagodzillas to protect our planet from Earth's greatest menace? That is when MG-2 & MG-3 had come into play, & now I turn the podium over to Colonel Julius Schwartz, who'll now explain each of the Mechagodzillas' vast weaponry in their arsenals."

Ross stepped down as Julius Schwartz now took his place.

"Thank you, General Ross", he began. "And thank all of you for attending today's presentation – one that will no doubt begin an exciting change in world defense. Each one of these machines are made with the best materials money can buy, from reinforced titanium armor to the most advanced form of weaponry, making them resilient to most kinds of punishment any enemies can throw at them." Amid his descriptions, Colonel Schwartz pointed to each robot. "MG-1 – once used by the Black Hole Aliens – is nothing short of an actual war machine: in addition to flying at speeds up to Mach 5, it is equipped with warhead missiles from its knees, toes & fingers which can shoot repeatedly like machine gun fire. From its nostrils, a volley of flaming bullets can be shot, capable of melting through the thickest concrete & steel. A high-powered electromagnetic beam from within its chest port is strong enough to slice through solid rock with ease, & a multi-colored beam can be shot forth from its eyes to a devastating effect. MG-2 is the first of two machines to be constructed from scratch: the entire armor is coated with an artificial diamond alloy called NT-1, making energy weapons harmless against it while absorbing the energy & stored within the channels for the Plasma Grenade, which is located in its abdomen. In short, not only will it gather up Godzilla's heat ray, it will amplify & return it to devastating results, making it MG-2's strongest weapon. It also comes equipped with other types of armaments such as Paralyzer & Tranquilizer missiles from its open ports, shock anchor cables from its wrists that can deliver a powerful electrical charge of thousands of volts, & it isn't lacking in beam weapons either: from its eyes a powerful pair of laser cannons can be fired, along with a rainbow-colored Mega-Buster from its mouth, similar to that of MG-1's eye beams. MG-3 is the second machine to be made from scratch & is equipped with a shoulder harness that can launch a barrage of guided missiles in one strike, not only from the front ports but also along the sides. The arms support a pair of double-barreled railguns that can fire multiple shots of energy like machine guns, & the mouth emits a powerful maser beam which can scorch any surface. Mounted within its left wrist is an electric blade that can not only penetrate Godzilla's flesh but also unleash a powerful discharge. The right hand can be transformed into a drill that will also be able to bore a hole in the monster's skin. Its most powerful weapon, however, is the Absolute Zero Cannon located in its chest – a weapon that can freeze the molecules of anything it touches at minus 27.3 degrees below zero, thereby disintegrating it upon contact. Make no mistake, folks…these are the ultimate battle machines ever built!"

Colonel Schwartz paused to allow the information to sink in for army soldier, SHIELD agent & superhero alike.

Each one had their own opinions & even questions about the Mechagodzillas that stand only a distance away, & many of them would probably not be answered in time, or at all.

Julius didn't give them any time to ask, as he resumed his speech at the podium.

"And defeating Godzilla is only the beginning, folks: once that giant menace is no longer one, mass production of these three mechanical wonders will take effect immediately, meaning that one of these defense mechanisms will be placed in every major metropolitan area not just in America, but the whole world! Imagine it: a Mechagodzilla guarding & protecting your city from any threats that dare to invade it, from a hostile terrorist unit to major threats from the far regions of space! With a Mechagodzilla in every city from Manhattan & Washington, D.C. to London, Paris, Tokyo & Moscow & beyond, alien invasions will be a thing of the past: our Mechagodzillas will stop them cold before they can even come close to Earth! Having one of these beauties on 24-hour duty everywhere will ensure Earth's protection & help to make it the grand utopia it was always meant to be!"

"Meaning, you want to go & retire us…don't ya, Colonel?", Ben Grimm says grumpily, his arms crossed.

Falcon & Captain America each place a comforting hand on the Thing's rocky arm.

"That ain't never going to happen, big guy", Falcon said assuring.

"Sam's right, Ben", Captain America said. "There will always be a need for the Avengers, Fantastic Four & other heroes…whether they ever care to admit it or not."

Hearing the veracity in their words, Ben nodded even though he still had a little bit of doubt crawling within him.

Colonel Schwartz nodded to Gabe Jones, who did the same as he got up & took out a cordless mike from inside his suit, turned it on & began speaking to the audience.

"Does anybody have any questions for Colonel Schwartz or any of our guests of honor for today?", he asked.

Amazingly, it was Bruce Banner who raised his hand first.

"Ah, Dr. Banner!", Gabe says, approaching him. "What's your question that you would like to ask?"

"Well, these Mechagodzillas most certainly look impressive, I admit", Bruce started saying. "But considering the size of each one, will they be able to maneuver well enough to get the job done?"

"Absolutely, Dr. Banner!", Colonel Schwartz said. "Each Mechagodzilla can move in a speed that belies its great size! We had our scientists & technicians triple-check all the insecurities & reworked them to our desired specifics! As with their weapons systems, these babies won't malfunction or falter while performing their duties! We made absolutely certain to clear out all the bugs to ensure that a monkey wrench cannot be thrown in these works! Anyone else?"

Reed Richards literally stretched his upper half down to Gabe Jones' level & spoke into his mike.

"My question is a little bit of an extension to Dr. Banner's", he stated. "With their enormous size, do each of your Mechagodzillas have a reliable power source to stay operative in battle?"

"Again, absolutely", Colonel Schwartz says. "Along with funding the Mechagodzilla project, Tony Stark has also created specially-designed power batteries to fuel each one of these machines. Just one of these batteries can make each Mechagodzilla perform at 100% capacity without needing a recharge for up to a full year. And in MG-3, the Absolute Zero Cannon has its own power source: a very large synthetic diamond, which can recharge the weapon up in minutes. And as a precaution, if that particular weapon does get damaged, it gets automatically replaced by a Triple Hyper Maser Cannon, ready to shoot at a moment's notice."

Having an answer that satisfied him, Reed Richards nodded before he retracted himself to normal.

Now it was She-Hulk who raised her hand.

"Ah, the ever strong-&-beautiful She-Hulk!", Gabe says in a charming voice, walking up to her. "And what would you like to ask, my dear?"

"Colonel Schwartz, from what you've shown & explained to us, these machines are literal walking arsenals, each one carrying enough firepower to level a whole city", she began. "What guarantee can you give us that these towering weapons will never fall into the wrong hands?"

It was a question that made everybody at the presentation look directly at Julius Schwartz.

Fortunately, the Colonel had a definite answer ready to give them.

"That's a very good question, She-Hulk…and a most important one at that!", he replied. "As we did in preparing every weapons system & working out the kinks to the fullest, we took every possible precaution to ensure everyone in making access to the Mechagodzillas is all but restricted to everyone except those with the proper authorization. Scans such as DNA, retinal, fingerprints & the like are all installed into each entryway: anyone who doesn't have the matching credentials cannot enter, & those who are foolish enough to try breaking into any of these machines will receive a fatal surprise…an instant shock of 10,000 volts where they stand! Believe me, nobody's going to hijack a sophisticated & a highly expensive piece of machinery like these giant Mechas!"

I surely hope you're right about that, Colonel Schwartz!, Captain America thought.

General Ross' cell phone rang, & he answered it.

"Ross here", he replied as he listened. His eyes widened after a few seconds. "Are you sure about that, soldier? I see. You & your crews get ready to take action. Over & out."

The General hung up his phone before whistling for Colonel Schwartz & beckoning him over. Ross did the same for Nick Fury, Alexander Pierce & Tony Stark. Gathered in a group huddle, General Ross gave the details to the rest in record time before they broke rank. The other army soldiers, SHIELD agents & costumed heroes all wondered what the General was discussing in private, although some – if not most – had already known the answer.

Alexander Pierce took to the podium & addressed those in the audience.

"Attention, ladies & gentlemen, General Ross has just received word that Godzilla is heading this way even as we speak."

A chorus of chatter filled the bleachers until Pierce began speaking again.

"No need to worry: believe me, his timing couldn't have become more impeccable", he assured them. "With our Mechagodzillas standing at the ready, the time has finally come to put all our hard labors to the ultimate test."

Alexander Pierce smiled at the notion.

"Soon, the real presentation for today will begin", he says.

CHAPTER IV

With the news of Godzilla approaching their area, the Mechagodzilla pilots were all put on full alert by General Ross & Colonel Schwartz. Their orders were clear: allow Godzilla to approach the shoreline before attacking. Both men want to give their audience – including the costumed heroes – a show they won't soon forget, & to prove that their giant machines are more than capable of handling the job better than even they could ever imagine.

All eyes were on the large monitor as one of the drones caught a firm picture of the open seas, every person there waiting on the arrival of Godzilla.

They didn't have long to wait: about two minutes after the announcement was made, a swelling of water rose up from beneath as large sharp/pointed dorsal fins penetrated the surface before the rest of Godzilla rises from the depths in all his glory. A boisterous roar filled the air that was heard even from a great distance of over 1500 meters away.

Every single member of the Avengers & the Fantastic Four wanted nothing better than to head out & stop Godzilla from reaching the mainland. But anxious as they were to do so, they fought the urge: with the Mechagodzillas present, it would be unconstitutional for them to interfere in their endeavor, not to mention that General Ross, Nick Fury & even Tony Stark would have more than a few words with them…and not in the gentlest of ways possible.

On the other hand, they were just as anxious to see just how well the Mechagodzillas perform their duty as Ross & all the others are.

For right now, they will sit tight & let the U.S. Army & Nick Fury's people handle things.

They only hope that they, the country, & the world don't live to regret their inactivity or the Mechagodzillas if by chance they should fail in their task.

On the plus side, all civilians in the immediate area are evacuated, leaving zero chance for human casualties.

Unless of course it's anyone from the Mechagodzilla crews.

Godzilla heads for the mainland, his approach creating waves big enough to capsize any ships that might've been in his path. Despite his immense size, Godzilla moved across the water with the grace & speed of any fish & makes a rapid approach, getting closer & filling the gap between him & landfall. The drone followed Godzilla's arrival as it was broadcast to every television across the nation, watching & waiting for the big fight that was sure to come.

Every person viewing this spectacle hoped & prayed that the Mechagodzillas were more than able to handle the job of defeating the Earth's greatest menace once & for all.

To each MG crew, General Ross gave them instructions them over the radio.

"Stay calm, gentlemen. Let's allow Godzilla to come ashore, as he appears to be quite…curious about each of you."

"Understood, sir", said one of the pilots. "We'll refrain from attacking until you give the order."

The rest of the crew members made a similar announcement.

As Godzilla comes closer to shore, he slows his approach as he can now clearly see the trio of giant machines all standing inland, their bright yellow eyes gazing at him. Swimming in now at a leisurely pace, Godzilla started stepping on the sandy beach as more of his massive form became more visible as he made his way to shore. During that time, he kept his gaze on the three robots in front of him, each one looking very familiar as his curiosity about them rose higher.

He realized that each of these giant machines look very much like him!

Never removing his gaze on the robots, Godzilla was now completely out of the water & slowed his steps until he stopped entirely once he was on the sandy beach. Staring at the Mechagodzillas, he wasn't sure as to how to address any of them, wondering if he should stay on his guard or if he should embrace them, having not seen another of his kind since the Mesozoic Era came to an end over 65 million years ago.

"Colonel Schwartz", said the commander of MG-2. "Godzilla continues to stare at us with utmost curiosity, but showing no other reaction to our presence."

"He probably sees you three as part of a long-lost family or something", Schwartz said over the radio. "What say you boys go & give him a reunion he's bound to remember?"

Every MG crew member grinned at that notion.

"Nothing we'd like better, Colonel!", said MG-2's commander with undisguised satisfaction. "Okay, Sergeant: let's begin with a shot or two of MG-2's Paralyzer & Tranquilizer missiles!"

"Roger that, sir!", the Sergeant replied.

As one, the three Mechagodzillas all roar in unison, creating a trio of mechanized shrieks that were as boisterous as Godzilla's own. Before the cacophony of noise ended, MG-2 fired a missile from each of its four open ports at both the shoulders & waist, striking Godzilla at his chest & stomach. The Monster King roared more in surprise than in pain, & he was starting to feel a little drowsy as his vision began getting blurry after a minute or two.

He fought to shrug it off, but was having difficulty doing so, & his posture was also starting to wobble.

A part of Godzilla wants nothing more than to go back into the water & sleep like the dead until it wore off.

But his survival instincts are telling him to fight on, & he fights to stay conscious & cohesive.

Colonel Schwartz instructs his soldiers to prepare for another attack.

"Excellent! All right, men: while he's fighting off those sedatives that we've doused him with, I want for you to commence with a missile attack & follow it right up immediately by an assault with all of your lasers!"

"Yes sir!", all MG crew members replied.

In response, MG-1 raised its arms as its hands were poised directly at Godzilla, with MG-3 spreading its arms outwards as if embracing for a hug.

And then, all hell broke loose.

MG-1 let loose with a volley of missiles that were fired from its hands, feet, knees & even its nostrils while MG-3 unleashed a barrage of guided missiles from its shoulder harness both front & along the sides. Every projectile which was launched aims straight for & strikes Godzilla dead-on, creating a cloud of smoke that the monster gets half-hidden within. Seconds after the first missile attack, the Mechagodzillas follow it up with a full-scale attack using each of their laser weapons: MG-1 opens its chest port & shoots its orange electromagnetic beam that shoots like a lightning bolt & hits Godzilla onto his own chest, while also shooting forth its beautiful-but-deadly rainbow-colored eye beams; MG-2 follows suit with its own yellow-colored eye beams & rainbow-colored Mega-Buster from its mouth; MG-3 releases the full force of its Maser beam from its own mouth while aiming its arms directly at Godzilla to unleash its forearm's double-barreled harnesses, firing shots of energy in true machine-gun fashion.

Over the radio, General Ross orders the men to resume with their missile attack in conjunction with their current one.

As one, missiles from each of the Mechagodzillas resumed their strafing on the Monster King, who was barely visible in the thick cloud of smoke as he gets pummeled mercilessly by his trio of robot doubles. His howl of confusion & pain can be heard even over the continuous blasts of missiles & lasers striking his person.

Watching the fierce battle unfold on the large monitor gave the spectators mixed reactions on both sides: some were happy that the fight is going well, taking great pleasure in seeing Godzilla receive punishment instead of dishing it out like he normally does.

"It seems that both Stark Enterprises and the U.S. Army have really outdone themselves, General!", the Colonel says with a satisfying grin on his face.

"That goes without saying, Julius!", Ross says, equally pleased. "It's too bad the Japanese didn't have anything such as these beauties fifty years ago, huh?"

Both men share a chuckle, pleased to see the Monster King getting his dues.

Others were unable to help but begin to feel sympathy for Godzilla, seeing him take such a brutal beating even if he does cause mass destruction & loss of life.

"I have never seen anyone or anything take such punishment on this level", said Janet.

"Neither have I, Janet", Black Widow adds. "Call me crazy, but I actually feel sorry for Godzilla."

Janet nodded in agreement.

Their words struck a chord with some of their fellow Avengers.

"You ladies actually feel bad for Godzilla?!", Quicksilver says. "How in the world can you girls pity such a thing as malevolent as him?!"

"Pietro…", Wanda started to say.

"No, Wanda…I fully agree with your brother!", Hawkeye says sternly. "Ever since he first appeared in the world, all Godzilla's ever done is cause the worst kinds of destruction & massive loss of life wherever he goes! Thousands are now still living without family & friends, their lives turned upside-down, thanks to him! Even today, there are countless people who still remember his attack on their livelihoods, & that fear will stay with him unless somebody brings his ass down for good! I'm sorry, ladies, but I'm going with General Ross & his people on this one!"

"Clint, it really doesn't bother you that these men are mercilessly beating up on some animal?! His gigantic size aside, that's what Godzilla truly is…an animal! Does anybody here strongly believe that we have the right to exterminate Godzilla simply because of what he is?"

James Rhodes turned to Wanda, his face plate lifted to reveal a face that was half-serious, half-melancholy.

"Why don't you try asking all those who lost loved ones to Godzilla over the years, Wanda?", he asks. "Better yet, try doing so to all the victims that were unfortunately caught in his path."

Wanda Maximoff didn't know what to say next: she is rather distraught by some of her teammates' attitudes to her opposition of the Army's & even SHIELD's attempt to battle & kill Godzilla, despite knowing the monster's past & what he's all too capable of. It reminded herself on how she used to be when she & Pietro had once been part of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, which had also included Mastermind (Jason Wyngarde), the Toad (Mortimer Toynbee), & was founded by the Mutant Master of Magnetism Magneto, one of the X-Men's oldest & deadliest enemies. In fact, it was Magneto who brought them into the Brotherhood after their parents were killed. Having fought the X-Men for many years, she & Pietro left the Brotherhood to be with the Avengers in full pardon for all her past crimes.

Wanda even shared a romance with the android Vision for a time, despite her brother's objections.

It got the Scarlet Witch thinking: if both she and Pietro can be acquitted for all their past crimes (of which there were many), then why can't Godzilla?

To Wanda & a couple others, it didn't seem right to put Godzilla down, even though he is a living symbol of fear for many people, mainly due to the fact that he himself is radioactive – the living embodiment of the atomic bomb.

She believes that Godzilla exists on Earth for a reason.

If only she knew what that reason was.

Heaven help you, Godzilla, Wanda thought. You are a magnificent creature, I have to admit: fierce in spirit as well as in body. If only there was some way for all of us to help you…

Even She-Hulk was getting sentimental in seeing Godzilla take a pounding, feeling it's wrong.

Unbeknownst to all, so were SHIELD agents Gabe Jones & the newbie Maria Hill.

They, however, kept their opinions to themselves.

Wanda & the girls weren't the only ones who believed this was a bit overkill.

"Sue, Reed…are we really doing the right thing in allowing General Ross, Nick Fury & their people to continue beating on Godzilla like this?", Johnny Storm asked. "I know many people classify him as a menace, but…"

"Johnny, I know just how you feel", Reed says kindly. "I myself wouldn't wish such a horrible fate for any kind of animal, no matter what species it might be. But this has been a military operation, Johnny. It's out of our hands."

"We're very sorry, Johnny", Susan says compassionately.

"Neither you nor Reed have anything to be sorry for, sis", Johnny said. "None of this is your fault."

Neither Susan nor Reed knew what to say after that, so they stayed silent.

Over near the podium, the collaborators of the presentation are enjoying seeing the fruits of their success as they continue seeing Godzilla being pummeled by the three robot versions of the creature, with missiles & lasers attacking him without mercy or letting up. Alexander Pierce, Tony Stark, Nick Fury & Colonel Schwartz were soaking it all up like a sponge does with water.

The sounds of chaos were loud even from where they stood.

"Like you said, Alexander, if only my father could be seeing this!", Tony said. "He'd be jumping for joy!"

"But look at it this way, Tony: you helped to finish what Howard started years ago!", Pierce says. "Now the fruits of his dream project are blossoming in full…all thanks to you!"

"Your contributions to the project wasn't exactly small change either, Alexander! You deserve the credit as much as myself!"

"That's a good point, Tony! Well taken!"

"I tell you, gentlemen!", Nick Fury says. "I've seen bloody, brutal fighting in World War II, the Korean War & even in Vietnam & the Gulf War! But I've never bore witness to a fight like the one we're watching now!"

"Too bad we didn't have these machines in those wars, Director!", General Ross says. "North Korea would now be a free country if we had!"

"Something to look forward to, General!"

The men share a grin & a chuckle on the notion.

Of all the commanders/contributors in the group, Colonel Julius Schwartz was the one getting the most enjoyment from the immense battle between monster & machines.

He even starts to laugh maniacally at the display over his mike for all to hear.

"So, Godzilla…you always thought youwere invincible, did you?!", he shouted with glee. "Well, today you've met your match! Tell me…how's it feel to be on the receiving end of pain & suffering for a change, monster?!"

Julius laughs louder, behaving like a megalomaniac bent on world conquest.

More than a few in the audience began to get suspicious of the army colonel.

"Gee whiz! Can ya believe this joker?", Ben Grimm says to Captain America & Falcon. "That there colonel guy's actin' like he's Colin Clive or some other classical mad scientist type!"

"We hear you, Ben, & that kind of behavior is making me suspicious about him", Cap says, getting on his mini comm. "Vision, I need for you to speak to me directly but without audio so the others can't hear you. Can you do that?"

'Indeed I can, Captain', Vision says in a computerized form of telepathy. 'How can I assist you?'

"I need to know exactly where Colonel Julius Schwartz is currently stationed at. His behavior on this whole ordeal is too erratic, & I have a feeling that something's way off."

'I've begun to suspect myself that something isn't right about him, Captain. Give me a moment…'

Vision went silent as he searches through databases in his computerized head, quickly & silently.

After nearly a minute, the android receives his information & passes it to Steve.

'Captain, I have the info you require', Vision says. 'Even though he's still a part of General Ross' unit, Colonel Julius Schwartz is currently stationed over at Fort Dix Army Base, which is located over at 5645 Texas Avenue, right here in New Jersey.'

"Excellent", Steve says. "Thank you, Vision. Falcon & I will be heading over there right now. Cover for us till we return."

'Will do, Captain. Good luck.'

"You & Falcon go on ahead, Cap", Ben Grimm says. "If anyone asks me where you two have gone off to, I'll go & say that you must've sneaked away without me knowin' about it."

"Thanks a million, Ben", Cap said.

"You the man, Ben", Falcon said, shaking hands with the orange-colored rock man.

Turning his attention to the large monitor, Ben used his large body to shield Captain America & Falcon as they snuck away from the presentation, heading over to Lighthouse Pond & losing themselves in the trees.

"All right, Sam…I think this is far enough", Steve says. "We'll be able to get to Fort Dix Army Base while the rest are preoccupied with the battle. It's quite a ways from our position. Think you can make it on those wings without getting tired?"

Sam Wilson smiled.

"You think you can hold on real tight the whole trip?", he asks as Cap grinned amusingly.

"Only one way to find out!", Cap says, getting behind his friend & wrapping his arms around his neck.

"Fasten your safety belts! Here we go!"

Like his namesake, Falcon took to the air as Captain America held on firmly but not too tight as to choke his good friend. Once in the air, Falcon put on a terrific burst of speed that made him almost as fast as any jet.

Nobody from the presentation acknowledged either Avengers' disappearance.

Their next stop: Fort Dix Army Base.

Even with the drowsiness & vertigo affecting his systems, Godzilla still fought to stay conscious & awake while he's being pummeled from missile & laser armaments. Lighting up his dorsal fins, Godzilla manages to fire his primary weapon & blasts at each of his three robotic attackers, the heat ray first striking MG-1, causing all missile/laser attacks to cease as it staggered back a few steps. Next, Godzilla did the same to MG-3, stopping cold all of its attacks as it took a few steps backwards.

With MG-2, however, it stayed exactly where it stood even as it had received the full brunt of Godzilla's primary weapon, but ceased its laser strikes.

Godzilla was caught by surprise at the ineffectiveness of his weapon on MG-2, & fires his weapon at the robot again. The result was the same: even as it was hit directly in the chest, MG-2 was completely undamaged by the intense heat of Godzilla's weapon. A third time didn't change the results: MG-2 simply stood firm without the smallest pinch of damage done to it.

"This is General Ross! Is everyone okay?", he called to the crews.

"This is MG-1! We're a little bit staggered but doing perfectly fine, sir!", said the commander.

"This here is MG-3! We're just dandy too, sir!", said its commander.

"How about you, MG-2?", Ross asked.

"Believe me, sir, we're totally fine!", said its commander, checking the gauges. "In fact, General…our readings on the Plasma Grenade are reading full! We can fire the weapon at any time now, sir!"

"Glad to hear it, son! Stand by, troopers…we are about to enter the endgame portion of this presentation!"

"Yes sir!", all the crew members said simultaneously, grins on their faces.

General Ross got off the radio & turned to Julius.

"All right, Colonel…your boys have had more than enough fun with Godzilla!", he says. "I believe now is a good time to end this!"

"I couldn't agree more, General!", Schwartz says, getting on his radio. "All right, people…playtime is officially over! Now we commence with the endgame, justlike the General said! Proceed with it exactly as we rehearsed!"

"Roger that, Colonel!", said MG-3's commander over the line. "'Operation: Endgame' commences now! Let's do this, men!"

"Yes sir!", said the other crew members.

Bruises & cuts aside, Godzilla still stood defiantly against his three mechanical aggressors. Unleashing a roar of pure rage & displeasure, Godzilla prepared to charge after his trio of foes when the panel on MG-2's stomach opens up to reveal something that looks & extends like a giant camera lens.

"Plasma Grenade port open & ready!", said one crew member.

"Fire!", the commander ordered.

Yellow energy cackled around the lens of the Plasma Grenade as Godzilla began his charge at the very moment a powerful beam shot forth from the lens & strikes the Monster King square in the chest & stomach with the force of a giant sledgehammer. The powerful hit knocks the mutant dinosaur back several meters before falling on his left side as the ground shook from the impact. Godzilla didn't have the time to catch his breath: from MG-2's wrist ports, a barbed anchor shot forth like missiles & drilled themselves into Godzilla's flesh – one got stuck in his chest, the other in his stomach.

"Shock anchors are in place!", said one crew member.

"Commence with the discharge!", said the commander.

"Commencing discharge now!"

With the push of a button, thousands of electric volts are shot through the cables & into Godzilla, whose body is assaulted by the voltage everywhere, causing him to cry out in pain. He grabs the cables & tried to pull them out, but each anchor was embedded in his flesh, & each time he tries pulling them out, a surge of pain coursed through him.

These anchors were like fish hooks: once they get something snagged on them, they will stay way unless carefully removed.

Realizing that pulling them out was out of the question, Godzilla tried sending a feedback through the cables to short out his robotic foe. It was a great idea except for one thing: Tony Stark & his designers anticipated such a thing, & they built a defense against a sneak attack in that manner.

No matter how much he tried, Godzilla could not send the voltage back to its source.

Thus, there was only one thing left to do: lighting his dorsal fins, Godzilla shot forth his heat ray at the cables & melted them at the halfway point, ceasing the electric current. It was a double-edged sword of sorts: while the electrical voltage caused Godzilla great harm & anguish, it did burn away the effects of the Paralyzer & Tranquilizer missiles that MG-2 shot it with, renewing Godzilla's vitality as he rose up from the ground.

"Shock anchors are useless now, sir!", said a crew member.

"It doesn't matter, soldier!", said the commander. "MG-3…you're up!"

"Copy that! Preparing Absolute Zero Cannon!", said MG-3's commander over the radio.

Clicking a button, the chest portion of MG-3 open up in three pedals like a metallic flower, revealing a big blue sphere in the center. Sensing another grave threat, Godzilla lit up his dorsal fins & prepared to fire, but MG-3 was much quicker on the draw: the sapphire sphere lit up brightly before unleashing a white-blue beam of intense cold that rushed at Godzilla. Before the Monster King could launch his primary weapon, he was struck by this powerful frigid beam that hits Godzilla dead center in his chest.

Gasps came from everyone in the audience, from army soldier, SHIELD agent & superhero alike.

Upon the monitor they see an incredible sight: Godzilla, the so-called 'King of the Monsters', was frozen in a big block of solid ice from head to tail & completely immobile.

"Sweet mother of mercy!", Dum Dum Dugan said. "Talk about 'getting the cold shoulder'!"

"So, now that yon has trapped Godzilla in yon ice…what doust shalt do with frozen creature?", Thor asked.

Ross, Schwartz & the others turned to the Asgardian.

"You even need to ask, Thor? We kill him, of course!", said Colonel Schwartz.

Next came a cracking sound that was heard by all, & Alexander Pierce turned to the monitor.

"Then you'd better do it now, Colonel Schwartz…look there!", he said, pointing at the screen.

Everyone turned to the monitor to see something more incredible than Godzilla trapped in ice: his icy prison was beginning to crack & chip away in many places, & the heat from his dorsal fins were flashing madly to help melt the ice. Soon Godzilla will be free once more, & MG-3 would not be able to go freeze him again instantly: it takes several minutes for the systems to recharge for another blast, & once Godzilla does get loose, he'll attack each of his robot foes in all his fury, & probably not even all their weapons launched at once could save them.

It was now or never.

Colonel Schwartz gave them the push they need, getting on his radio to address the crews.

"Quick…fire all your weapons in a simultaneous manner on Godzilla before he gets himself free! Do it now!", he barked furiously.

Without saying a word, all Mechagodzilla crews comply with Colonel Schwartz's order as all their beam weapons & projectiles get launched directly at Godzilla's still-frozen form, even as more pieces of ice continue to fall/chip away. Like a living tsunami, every attack from the Mechagodzillas strikes the real deal as one, creating the biggest explosion yet as a smoke cloud expanded & pieces of ice flew everywhere.

The blast was so powerful that everyone at the presentation was actually shaken in the bleachers & even knocked off their feet from where they stood.

"Everyone okay?!", Tony Stark called out, getting replies of affirmation.

"Maybe not for long! Look up!", Alexander Pierce called out, pointing.

Several pieces of ice were heading their way at a rapid pace, threatening to crush whoever when they landed.

"Stay down!", Thor called out, standing & swinging his hammer in seconds.

As he twirls Mjolnir, Thor created a powerful vortex that first attracts the frozen pieces before he redirects them & sends these would-be killer boulders far out to sea where they will melt & become part of the water.

"Good save, Thor!", Gabe Jones said.

"I thank thee verily, Mr. Jones!", Thor says, hanging Mjolnir on his belt. "But it seems that yon picture upon thy monitor has gone out for sure!"

The Asgardian was correct: the large monitor was now showing black & white electric snow.

"What happened?!", General Ross demanded. "Somebody talk to me, goddammit!"

"The drone that broadcasted the fight must've been caught in the blast, General!", said a technician.

"Get another one to take its place…now! I want to see the results of that blast!"

"Right away, sir!"

The army technician worked frantically to get a replacement drone to pick up for the other one that no doubt got blasted to pieces when the ice sheet that ensnared Godzilla exploded. In practically no time at all, a replacement drone had resumed where its predecessor left off to bring the monitor back to life.

What it displayed on the screen was something that was even more shocking than seeing Godzilla frozen in ice.

Godzilla was nowhere to be seen!

All that remained of where the Monster King once stood was a sand crater 12 meters deep & chunks of frozen ice that were laying on the beach & the surrounding area.

"Where in the hell did Godzilla go?!", Colonel Schwartz wondered.

"I highly doubt that he'd been blown to pieces like his ice prison had been, Colonel!", Tony Stark said. "He's too tough for that, much as I loathe to admit it!"

"Those are our sentiments exactly, Tony", Reed Richards says as he & the other superheroes, SHIELD agents & army soldiers rose from their seats & approached Tony Stark & the rest. "What we surmise – and this one is the more accurate probability – is that Godzilla must've been thrown by the force of the explosion, preferably out into the water."

"Meaning he's escaped into the open seas again?", Maria Hill asked.

"That would pretty much sum it up, Agent Hill. Director Fury, might I suggest we make a thorough search both beneath & above the waves for Godzilla?"

Nick gave the matter some thought, nodded immediately.

"I concur, Dr. Richards!", Nick Fury said as he began giving orders. "Dugan, you & Jones get your asses into a sub & lead a squadron out into the drink! I want nothing short of a full sweep of the area within a 2-mile radius! Because of his current condition, Godzilla couldn't have gotten too far!"

"You got it, Director! Let's go, Jones!", Dum Dum Dugan said as Gabe Jones followed him to comply with their orders. General Ross did the same with his own soldiers.

"Wanda, Thor, Iron Man, Yellowjacket, Wasp, War Machine & myself can do an aerial surveillance unaided", said Vision. "Each of us can spread out to cover more ground, while the rest of you do the same inside the Quinjet."

"While you do that, Vision, Sue, Ben & I will do our own air coverage in the Fantasti-Car", Reed said.

"And I'll join Vision & the others since I can fly on my own, Reed", Johnny Storm said, taking a quick look at his fellow heroes.

"What's the matter, Johnny?", Susan asked.

"I don't see either Captain America or Falcon anywhere! Has anyone seen them?"

The Avengers & Fantastic Four took a quick look around the area, not seeing a red, white & blue hero or even an African-American with wings.

"Just when we needed them the most!", Quicksilver said. "They ditch us in this most critical time!"

"Ben! If I remember correctly, Cap & Sam were with you during the presentation!", Hawkeye said. "How could you have missed them?"

All eyes focused on the giant figure of orange rock.

"I dunno, Clint!", Ben says with a sheepish smile. "They musta snuck away while I was watchin' the monitor! I guess I was so enthralled by what was on the screen that I kinda forgot they were with me, and…well, whatever their reasons, I'm sure it musta been a good one!"

Everyone considered Ben Grimm's words carefully while keeping their gaze upon him: Ben, on the other hand, became awfully nervous about it all, as they might figure out that he actually allowed them to slip away unnoticed by everyone else to do an investigation of their own.

If they get suspicious of Ben, the orange-rock hero might not be able to talk his way out of it.

But thankfully, his excuse was a plausible one.

"You have a good point, Ben Grimm", Black Panther said. "Whatever their reasons are, Captain Rogers & Sam Wilson will be all right in their endeavors. We haven't the time to go looking for them anyway."

"Agreed. Let's get a move-on, people!", General Ross says, walking away.

"Come on, Ben…into the car with you", Susan says.

"Comin', Suzie", Ben says, getting into the Fantasti-Car with Reed & his wife.

Good luck to you, Steve, Sam, Ben thought as he got in.

In no time, the heroes, SHIELD agents & army soldiers were on the job in searching for Godzilla, whether dead or alive.

Fort Dix Army Base, over one hour later:

As Falcon suggested, Captain America held on firmly as his winged friend took off & flew across the state of New Jersey, traveling at an altitude that will prevent them from being detected by radar & mostly unseen by civilians who happen to spot a fast-moving object flying above.

While some did see Falcon soaring through the skies, at his altitude, he looked like a large bird or small plane to their eyes.

Upon approach to the army base some 35 or so minutes later, Falcon began his descent to earth & landed without a sound at the entrance with a sign that read 'Welcome to Fort Dix: Installation Access Policy', followed by all the rules & regulations that were required for anyone to enter the premises, preferably by guards standing nearby.

But at this entranceway, there were no guards standing at attention.

In fact, neither Captain America nor Falcon could see any of the soldiers or their superiors anywhere.

Steve Rogers & Sam Wilson started calling out to see if anyone was present, but after three minutes of shouting, neither Avenger received an answer back.

The mysterious plot became even thicker, & both heroes entered the base as if they owned the place, their senses staying ever on high alert.

During the first 45 minutes of their visit, Captain America & Falcon searched all the barracks to see if anybody is present in case they couldn't hear their shouting from the entrance.

Each one was as empty as a car's gas tank after traveling a great distance without refueling.

Next, they went inside the military hospital to see if they have better luck.

The results were the same: neither Captain America nor Falcon could find a living soul within the entire complex, not even a single doctor or nurse.

It was almost like they've entered a ghost town or even another planet.

All they had left was the main office building.

Upon entering, the two heroes once more find the place deserted in every room, from top to bottom.

It was enough to give them the willies.

"Looks like we were right to come here, Sam", Captain America said. "An army base that's all but devoid of any guards, soldiers or their superiors speaks & smells of suspicion on a high level if ever I've seen it. In an establishment like this, it wreaks of something funny going on. We haven't so much as heard a damn dog barking, of all things."

"That alone, Cap, is reason enough to suspect foul play", Falcon said. "And of course you all but heard just how rowdy & gung-ho Colonel Schwartz was behaving back at the presentation, right? From the way he was addressing it, I'd say he was enjoying himself…a little too much, I should add."

"I noticed that too, Sam: Julius Schwartz acted like he was enjoying some kind of video game, rather than take it seriously as General Ross, Nick Fury & even Tony did. With that kind of behavior, something must be way off about this whole operation. I don't like this, Sam. I don't like this one damn bit."

"Neither do I, Cap. Then again, when you see an entire army base empty of all its personnel like this, you know something's amiss…and it usually ends up a whole lot worse than it looks."

"That's exactly what I'm afraid of."

Getting off-topic, Falcon had something on his mind which he was curious about.

"Say Cap, wasn't it around here in Jersey that you were, shall we say…reborn?", he asks.

Being in the army base did bring back a lot of memories of when frail but brave Steve Rogers was recruited by German defector Abraham Erskine to become the first in a series of Super-Soldiers during World War II to defeat the Axis Powers, until Erskine was murdered by a Nazi infiltrator, making Steve Rogers the first & only Super-Soldier in the U.S. Army. Images of his past life from over 60 years ago flashed in Steve's mind as he searched the premises.

He couldn't help but to smile at them, along with Sam's remark.

"Very close: you got the state correct, but the actual place I became who I am was at Camp Lehigh in Wheaton, not here at Fort Dix", Steve says. "You do get points for effort, though."

"It was a good guess, Cap", Sam said, grinning. "But before you get too engrossed strolling down memory lane, we're here for a reason, don't forget."

"I haven't forgotten a thing, Sam. Let's see if we can find anybody within these walls, or at the very least, find a clue or two that might help determine what…"

"Hold that thought, Cap…I think I see something that could help us", Falcon said, walking over to a door which was none other than Colonel Julius Schwartz's office. Captain America gets the idea & nods, joining him.

Knocking once & getting no answer, the two heroes open it up & enter the room to a disturbing sight: the colonel's office was a total mess, with objects & papers thrown everywhere. There were even dents in the metal file cabinets & a crater or two in the walls, all indicating that a fight must've broken out in the colonel's office.

There was even a speck of blood over at one of the wall craters.

"You thinking what I'm thinking, Cap?", Falcon asked.

"You bet, Sam: somebody or even a group of people must've entered the colonel's office & attacked him", the Star-Spangled Avenger says.

"I'm surprised nobody else heard the fight take place in here & tried to stop it."

"Probably because they couldn't hear it. I just discovered that this room is soundproof: once that door closes, each & every sound that occurs in here doesn't leave the room. It's quite commonplace for those with high ranking: a soundproof room means that one can say anything within it & not be heard by those on the outside. That's how secrets get kept."

"Maybe not, Cap. I just found something here that could prove useful", Falcon says, lifting up a pad as Captain America joined him to see for himself.

It was a clipboard with sheets of paper on it.

One of them had writing on it which caught their attention the most.

Captain America read it aloud:

November 6th, 2004

6:00 a.m.

A note to General Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross

From Colonel Julius Schwartz

United States Army

(Classified)

General Ross – Thaddeus – the big day we've waited so many years for has finally arrived: the very long-awaited 'Project: Mechagodzilla' program we've planned along with the full cooperation of SHIELD & playboy billionaire Howard Stark, his son Tony & SHIELD agent-turned-philanthropist Alexander Pierce is now upon us. The pilots/operators for these marvelous machines – the 12-man crew that, weeks previous, traveled to Mars for our equally-anticipated project – will be the chosen ones to have the honor of operating these dream projects in the ultimate defense against the monster infamously known throughout the world as Godzilla. It is with great pride & joy to announce 'we did it!'. But we will save the actual celebration when we truly accomplish our goal – killing Godzilla. Therefore, my men are now off to enter the secret underground passage to these machines via the sub-levels portion of the base located within this very building. I will be sending this to you as a fax before I head over to today's presentation over at Cape Max, scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. today. Afterwards,

The letter simply ended.

"The colonel wrote this letter this morning, but never got the chance to fax it to Ross", Falcon said. "We can see exactly why."

"We're still missing something here, Sam", Steve says. "The evidence of a struggle is clear as day here in Julius' office, that much is certain. But if he did get attacked here in his office…"

"Then how the hell is he still alive at the presentation & not sporting any cuts or bruises to show for it? It doesn't add up, Cap. Unless of course…"

"I've just been thinking that very same thing, Sam! We'd better start searching the sub-levels of this instillation! If my hunch is of any indication…"

Both heroes exit Colonel Schwartz's office & head for the door that lead to the sub-levels of the base.

As soon as Captain America opened it, they were immediately hit by a foul stench that stung their nostrils.

"Damn!", Falcon cursed. "Smells just like something died down there, Cap!"

"I have a feeling that something did, Sam…and that's what's worrying me right now!", Captain America said as he dug into his pouch pocket & took out a clear plastic mask with a cylinder of breathable air attached at the bottom.

Getting the idea, Falcon does the same as both heroes don their masks & descend downstairs. Upon the first door they come across, they've opened it up to reveal nothing short of a horror show: bodies upon bodies of army personnel were laying on the floor of the large underground area which was used for large meetings & the like.

On this day, however, it was used for a morgue: each body had a face that was lifeless with eyes that were wide with fear as their tongues hung out from their mouths, their faces discolored but had patches of yellow on them.

Captain America knew this kind of horror, as he'd seen it before long ago during World War II: the multitude bodies of over 6 million Jews that were thrown into & tortured at Nazi concentration camps in places such as Dachau, Sachsenhausen & Buchenwald, where they were beaten & worked to death before suffering a horrid gas attack by their captors.

He was now reliving that same nightmare here in the present day…and on American soil.

The only difference is, Cap surmised they were put to death right away.

"They've all been gassed to death…weren't they?", Falcon asked.

"Indeed, Sam", Steve said grimly. "And they all suffered before they died. Horribly."

For both heroes, it seemed unlikely that they would find a single survivor within the mass of bodies lying on the floor, & the sight both sickened & angered them deeply: they made a vow that whoever committed this heinous act of violence, they will be sure to make them pay for it.

With extreme prejudice, if need be.

Unable to stand the sight of death in the room, Captain America & Falcon exited the room, closing the door.

That was when a noise caught the ears of Steve, who holds up a hand for silence.

"I hear it too…that way!", Falcon aid, pointing down a corridor.

Nodding, Captain America took point as Falcon followed, heading down the corridor where the sound rose in volume the closer they get. From what they can make out, it sounded like there was someone – a survivor – either fled or was thrown down into the sub-level basement of the base.

Getting there in record time, Captain America knocked on the door to a locker room & called out to see if anyone was present. His reply was a muffled cry for help, giving him & Falcon all the answer they need.

There is a survivor.

Busting the door open, the two heroes turn to their left to find a lone man in his uniform, tied & gagged to a metal chair, his head bleeding on one side as it stained the gag around his mouth.

Neither Captain America nor Falcon could believe who it was, their eyes widened.

"Oh, my god!", was all that Steve & Sam could say.

Cape May, 4:30 p.m.:

The search for Godzilla went on for over two hours as army soldiers, SHIELD agents & superheroes alike have all contributed in trying to find any trace of the Monster King anywhere in the water after it got blown away when the Mechagodzillas fired at his icy prison, thus literally throwing him out at sea. As ordered, SHIELD agents Dum Dum Dugan & Gabe Jones lead a group of subs to search the immediate area of water, with SHIELD hovercrafts patrolling the skies above with the Fantastic Four in their own vehicle & the Avengers who could fly under their own power.

More areas of the ocean could be searched by splitting up: Dugan & Jones ordered parties of two each to check out several areas underwater in their subs, with the hovercraft crews doing the same in the air. The Avengers also took their advice, splitting up into groups of two: Iron Man & War Machine, Scarlet Witch & Vision, Yellowjacket & Wasp, & Thor & Human Torch. The rest of the Avengers that couldn't naturally fly did their recon in the Quinjet, with Black Panther & Hawkeye at the controls as Black Widow & the rest checking their radar/scanners for any sign of Godzilla.

Reed & Susan Richards did the same in the Fantasti-Car, with Ben peering over the edge to see if he could spot so much as a dorsal fin poking out from beneath.

General Ross, Colonel Schwartz, Nick Fury, Agent Hill & Alexander Pierce all watched the action from both the drones that flew overhead & the cameras equipped in the subs below & hovercrafts overhead. The monitor was turned into a multi-screen display, enabling to view every camera from each of their vehicles. They even got permission with viewing the cameras from both the Fantasti-Car and the Quinjet. Vision, Iron Man & War Machine also allowed their cameras to be used by Ross, Fury & the others.

The commanders & their Mechagodzilla crews were ordered to remain where they were, just in case Godzilla is alive somehow & decides to make his way back to shore: if they get word that Godzilla has survived, then they would be called upon to intercept him before he can reach American soil again.

Anxious as they were in joining the search, the Mechagodzilla crews obeyed & followed their orders.

By the time it was past four in the afternoon, all of their endeavors were a bust: nobody located so much as a fin sticking out of the water, & there were also no heat signatures to indicate that it could be Godzilla…if he is still alive.

Seeing nothing promising from their ends, Nick Fury ordered all his agents to return as the Avengers & Fantastic Four themselves have also called it quits & returned to the Cape May parking lot.

Many, if not all, were unhappy with their results.

"What a crock!", Dum Dum fumed. "Over two damn hours of searching for that overgrown lizard, & not so much as a nibble out of him!"

"I'll say it was a bust!", Hawkeye said. "I just don't understand how Godzilla could've eluded us after that beating he took from his robotic triplets back there!"

"He must've needed time to lick his wounds, that's for sure", said Bruce Banner. "And despite his size, Godzilla can move in speeds that belie it. Needless to say, he can also swim rather quickly."

"But even so, Dr. Banner, how can something as huge as Godzilla hide from all of us so quickly like that…even after more than two hours looking for him?", Johnny Storm asked.

"You'd be very surprised, Johnny", Reed says. "It's a bigger world out there than most people realize, & even for a creature such as Godzilla, there's lots of places he can take refuge in & hide from plain sight."

"And even we don't have the resources to search an entire body of water for that mutant T-Rex!", Nick Fury said.

"So, where do we go from here?", asked Janet. "There has to be an easier way to conduct the search for Godzilla."

"Maybe we might not have to find him, Janet", She-Hulk says. "With the wounds he's sustained, Godzilla's most likely on his death bed, & is probably dying at the bottom somewhere."

"Or maybe not, She-Hulk", Alexander Pierce says, all eyes turning to him. "In all the years I've studied the beast, Godzilla is virtually unlike anything the human race has ever dealt with previously. No matter what we throw at him, he always finds his way back even from the brink of death. We need to be certain that he's sharing space in Davy Jones' Locker, & that means finding him, alive or dead. Because until we do…"

"This is unacceptable, people!", Colonel Schwartz bellowed furiously. "In all of that time, you should've found something of Godzilla…a fin, a piece of flesh, anything! What the hell is wrong with all of you?!"

"Julius!", General Ross barked, turning the man to meet his gaze. "I know how you feel about all this, but nobody here is to blame! We've all been searching thoroughly for Godzilla, not just SHIELD or our people! It's no one's fault that we couldn't find any trace of him! It also isn't like you to go lose your temper like this…I've known you too damn long! What's eating you, anyway?!"

Julius Schwartz stared at General Ross' eyes before facing the other army soldiers, SHIELD agents & superheroes he was surrounded with, each one looking as suspiciously at him as Ross was. Even the TV cameraman & reporter were staring at him strangely.

Realizing he was way over the line, Colonel Schwartz mellowed out & cooled his jets.

"My sincerest apologies, General, everyone", he says in a much calmer manner. "I guess this situation has gotten to me more than even I had realized. Look, let's see if we can't broaden the search a little wider, say…stretch it out to a good 10-15 miles at most. In that kind of radius, we're bound to find some trace of Godzilla. And remember: until we find him either alive or his deceased body, let's not assume anything too early before we can receive some kind of…"

BLAM!

From out of nowhere, a bullet struck Colonel Schwartz directly in the chest, surprising soldier, agent & hero alike as Julius staggered for a second or two before collapsing to one knee, followed by falling upon his back with a thud.

It all happened so fast that not even Quicksilver could've prevented this heinous act that had just occurred.

"You want to see a body, mister?! How about you become one instead?!"

Everyone turned to the sound of the voice, & a chorus of gasps & eyes/mouths that went agape ensued.

A figure in a red, white & blue outfit & a shield on his left arm stood at the beginning of the parking lot.

No one could believe it.

The assassin was Captain America!

CHAPTER V

Time seemed to stand still as everyone at Cape May tried to comprehend what had happened: a very surprised & startled group of army soldiers, SHIELD agents, superheroes and TV cameraman/crew watched as Army Colonel Julius Schwartz was shot square in the chest by the Star-Spangled Avenger known as Captain America, who held a still-hot sniper rifle in his right hand. Falcon stood by his side, looking neither worried nor concerned that the Avengers' field leader committed first-degree murder right before their eyes.

He's finally lost it!, was all that Dum Dum Dugan could think of to say.

"Captain!", said Thor, his mind refusing to comprehend what he'd seen.

"How could you?!", Janet says, her own mind numb to the scene.

"Yeah, Cap! What in tarnation is the matter with you?!", Ben Grimm snapped defiantly. "Have ya flipped your lid or something?!"

"Not likely, Ben!", Captain America said.

As one, the army soldiers & SHIELD agents all aimed their guns at the Star-Spangled Avenger & Falcon. That included General Ross, Nick Fury, Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones, Maria Hill, Alexander Pierce & several of his fellow Avengers.

"Well Steve, I'm sure you'll forgive us if we're having a rather hard time believing that!", Black Widow says, aiming her own guns.

"Damn straight!", Hawkeye says, aiming an arrow directly at Steve Rogers. "You better start explaining yourself, Cap! That goes for you too, Sam!"

"I'll say you'd better start talking, Captain Rogers!", General Ross bellowed. "You begin by explaining as to why you of all people would so callous & cold-bloodedly murder not only a long-serving colonel to the United States Army, but also one of my best friends in the world! Why, goddammit?!"

"Because, General…that man Captain Rogers killed isn't Julius Schwartz!", said a new voice, getting everyone's attention.

From behind the parking lot's mobile office building, there stepped a man in view of the group & got in between them & Captain America & Falcon, having a brown cloak with a hood covering him.

General Ross & his party were suspicious of him until he removed his hood, surprising everyone.

"I am!", he says, removing the rest of his cloak revealing himself dressed in his uniform with a white cloth that had a small red stain wrapped around his head.

Another chorus of gasps came from Ross, Fury & the rest.

It was Colonel Schwartz. The real Colonel Schwartz.

"Julius?!", General Ross says, signaling for everyone to lower their weapons as he rushed over to his old friend. "Jesus Christ, Julius…is that really you?!"

"That it is, Thaddeus", Julius said. "This is the real me."

Ross was more convinced than ever: only a very few people called him by his first name, as he was all but given permission by the man himself to do so.

But relief aside, General Ross was still confused by the impostor, as was everyone else.

"Not that it isn't good to see the real you, Julius, but if you're here, then who the hell is this other…", Ross had started saying.

"General!", Gabe Jones cried out.

When Ross turned, he saw Jones pointing to the deceased Schwartz impostor. Like everyone else, General Ross saw the impostor was beginning to change shape including its facial features into a green-skinned being with a multi-layered chin, yellow eyes & pointed ears. Its attire was a black & purple suit that covered its whole body.

Although alien, it was a being which was all too familiar to everybody in the crowd, most preferably the Fantastic Four.

"Skrull!", Ben, Johnny, Susan & Reed said in unison.

"But how?!", asked Bruce Banner. "Last I recalled, the Skrulls were all but kicked off the planet years ago! How is it even possible for them to get back here on the Earth again?"

Tony Stark came up with the possibility, & the thought frightened him.

"Colonel Schwartz…your Mars Project!", he says.

"What are you saying, Mr. Stark?", Julius started saying. "What the hell does my Mars Project have anything to do with what's going on right now?"

He was interrupted by the sounds of jet engines that roared overhead, but none of these were originating from any kind of standard aircraft.

They were coming from the Mechagodzillas, as each one hovered over the west end of Bunker Pond, their heads staring down at the startled heroes.

A megaphone on MG-2 comes to life as an inhuman voice began speaking.

"A pity! We were all hoping to keep our re-appearance to the world secret until the right moment, but I guess the truth would eventually be known sooner or later! Sooner's quite fine with us! And as to answer your question, Colonel Schwartz…your Mars Project has everything to do with us, in case you haven't figured it out yet! When you launched your men to Mars three months ago, we Skrulls were already there, waiting in ambush to strike!"

The painful truth suddenly hit Colonel Schwartz like a punch in the gut.

"You alien sonsabitches!", he bellowed furiously. "You killed my men & took their place in order for you to come back to Earth…and right under our noses!"

Inhuman laughter filled each cockpit of the Mechagodzillas.

"Precisely!", announced the speakers of MG-1. "The real men you sent to the Red Planet never came back, thus we easily assumed their identities so that we can return to the Earth incognito, with nobody – not even the Avengers or Fantastic Four – all the wiser! And what a golden opportunity awaited us when we arrived: a trio of well-designed & constructed machines more than capable of not only ridding the Earth of its greatest menace Godzilla, but also for dispatching & disposing of the planet's greatest protectors! It's what you humans would call 'killing two birds with one stone', as it were!"

"So, for all this time, you snuck back into our planet, hijack our most powerful weapons so that you can not only kill Godzilla, but Earth's Mightiest Heroes & everything else that stood in your way!", Julius bellowed fiercely.

"Correct, Colonel Schwartz!", the speakers from MG-3 announced. "And we have not only you to thank for our return, but also General Ross, Nick Fury & SHIELD, & most especially Tony Stark for giving us the perfect weapons in our quest to conquer your planet!"

The aforementioned people had their fury rising, seeing as to how they were all duped in unceremoniously helping some of their greatest enemies obtain three powerful war machines in their hands without knowing it until the very last moment.

Even the other Avengers & Fantastic Four, along with the rest of SHIELD & Ross' people were all angry at the sudden change of events: the greatest weapons against Godzilla were now in complete control of some of the Earth's most terrible enemies.

"If you green alien freaks think for one moment that we're going to let you use our dream projects to take over the Earth, you've got another thing coming!", Nick Fury barked. "We've beaten you before, & we will do so again!"

MG-3's speakers continued making announcements, beginning with a chuckle.

"Not as long as we have these beauties in our possession, Director Fury! The Mechagodzillas are also something in which our 'secret admirer' is very interested in getting his hands on – one who also assisted us in our plans for the retaking of Earth! Unfortunately, none of you will know exactly who that admirer is, much less interfere in our plans, as you will all be too busy being dead!"

In the blink of an eye, the three Mechagodzillas aim their weapons at the crowd of onlookers occupying the Cape May parking lot & began firing.

"Everyone fall back…!", Nick Fury barked as soon as the trio of machines aimed & fired almost faster than the eye can see. It was a horrible next few seconds: laser fire from each Mechagodzilla rained down upon everyone in the immediate vicinity, striking the pavement & creating a powerful explosion that literally tore it apart as concrete went flying everywhere, creating a large smoke cloud that obscured the Mechagodzillas' vision. Using built-in fans, MG-3 blew the cloud cover away to reveal a pile of detonated concrete laying where a parking lot once stood. Each machine searched in the rubble for any bodies to confirm that their foes were dead.

All they need to see was just one body, or even a simple limb anywhere.

In almost no time, they find two: a black boot buried at one area, & a black forearm at another.

These pieces of evidence were all they needed to know that their enemies were dead.

"Perfect!", said the Skrull commander of MG-3. "Our enemies are buried, & Godzilla is undoubtedly dead or dying somewhere out in the ocean! With them all out of the way & these Mechagodzillas in our possession, there'll be very little to no opposition in claiming the Earth as our own! And I know just the place to begin our grand comeback! Follow me!"

"Yes sir!", said the crews of MG-1 & MG-2.

With MG-3 in the lead, the trio of Godzilla's robot doubles took off & headed in a northeast direction, leaving the corpses of their enemies to rot underneath the remains of the Cape May parking lot.

Or so they thought: unbeknownst to the Skrulls, both the Scarlet Witch and the Invisible Woman put up a barrier almost immediately after the weapons fired by the Mechagodzillas struck the pavement, using the smoke cloud as their cover while Quicksilver moved at blinding speed to gather everyone within the ladies' barriers as the concrete remains of the parking lot came crashing down, giving it the appearance of everyone in the vicinity crushed underneath.

They waited for a minute or two before Wanda & Susan expanded their shields to push away the debris of what remained of the parking lot as concrete slid off like they were blocks of ice. Just about everybody was safe & alive, up to & including the TV crew who was filming the presentation right up to the point where the truth was revealed.

Soon, the debris got pushed aside & Wanda & Susan retracted their defense shields.

"Everybody accounted for?", Nick Fury asked.

Each person present announced that they were.

"That was literally some of your speediest thinking & reaction, Pietro!", Hawkeye says. "If it weren't for you, your sister or Susan Richards…"

"Yes, it was very close, Clint", Quicksilver said. "Even for my speed, I barely had enough time to get everyone close by to allow my sister & Susan to put up their barriers."

"And with the body of the Skrull that posed as Colonel Schwartz buried underneath the rubble, it gave the illusion of our deaths to convince the other Skrulls they have finished us off", Vision said.

"It won't last for long, but it will give us the element of surprise when we make our move", said Black Panther.

"They couldn't have gone too far!", Hank Pym said. "For those of us that can fly, let's get airborne to get a look-see on where…"

The sound of loud grunting of a man in pain caught the group's attention as all eyes turned to Bruce Banner.

His grunts of agony got louder, putting everyone on full alert.

"Bruce? Cousin?", She-Hulk says as she stepped carefully towards Bruce.

"Jen, I don't think you should get too close to him right now!", warned War Machine.

"Bruce, take it easy there, buddy!", Ben says, doing his best to soothe the scientist before he goes all-green.

"I don't think that's going to help, Ben!", Johnny said, fearing the worst.

"You're right, Johnny! Everybody stay back…now!", Reed says, gesturing with his arms to give Banner great distance.

Even General Ross didn't argue: he knew that whenever Bruce Banner was about to undergo his infamous/brutal transformation, he knows not to further escalate on his own behalf. All army soldiers, SHIELD agents & superheroes gave Bruce Banner all the room he requires as his flesh began taking on an emerald hue before he grew in size, tearing his clothing in the process. In no time, Bruce Banner was converted from a mild-mannered scientist into a raging green monster almost twice his height, wearing large purple trunks.

Once again, Bruce Banner has become the Incredible Hulk!

Facing the other heroes, army soldiers & SHIELD agents, the Hulk growled as he faced directly at General Ross, of whom he had the most contempt for through the years. Neither Ross, Nick Fury nor anyone did anything to provoke the Hulk into an all-out brawl: if angered, the Green Goliath would be an even greater menace than Godzilla or even the Skrull-controlled Mechagodzillas combined.

Not even Thor or Ben Grimm dared to attack/subdue the Hulk: strong as they were, even they knew they'd be in a losing battle, as the Hulk far outmatched the Thing in strength & could very much bring the Asgardian down without much effort.

Somebody needed to do something to keep the Hulk calm, or their fight will be over before it even begins.

Jennifer Walters, the She-Hulk, was nominated.

"Easy there, big guy!", she soothed, her hands raised in a gesture of calmness. "Nobody's here to hurt you! No one here has hurt you! If you'll just relax for a moment, I'll point to you where the actual antagonists that have hurt you fled off to! Will you trust me with that?"

A voice on Nick Fury's radio paused Jennifer's line of thought.

"Hold on a moment, beautiful", he said, getting on his radio. "Fury here! Talk to me!"

"Director Fury! You need to get over to Atlantic City right away, sir!", the male voice replied. "It's currently under very heavy siege by the Skrull-controlled Mechagodzillas!"

The news caught everyone by surprise, & adrenaline was rising higher than a hot-air balloon.

It also gave everyone a confirmed destination.

Lowering his right arm, the Hulk gently cradled She-Hulk & rose to his full height.

"Point to where Hulk needs to go", he said.

"That way!", She-Hulk says, pointing to a northeast direction.

Bellowing out a roar, the Hulk bent down & leaped into the air, disappearing from sight in the wink of an eye.

"All right, Avengers! Now that we have a solid lead on the Mechagodzillas, those who can fly unaided get going, pronto! We'll join you as soon as we can!", Captain America said.

He received an immediate response: Falcon, Thor, Vision, Scarlet Witch, Iron Man, War Machine & the Human Torch all took to the skies & headed off for the popular resort city along the New Jersey coast. Quicksilver raced across the ground like he always does, but not before Yellowjacket & Wasp shrunk in size to allow Pietro to carry them in his hands while traveled.

Like the Hulk himself, they were all gone in an instant.

Captain America turned to Nick Fury, General Ross & their party.

"Can we offer you boys a lift, Director, since your ride became shot?", he asked.

"Thank you, Captain Rogers, but you go on ahead: we'll catch up to you boys & girls in one of our own airships", Fury says.

"Fair enough. Let's move it, people!"

On Cap's word, he & the rest of the Avengers head for the Quinjet as Reed, Susan & Ben headed for the Fantasti-Car before both crafts were boarded & airborne in record time.

"Let's get ourselves a move-on, Reed! It's machine-clobberin' time!", Ben says, pounding his right fist in his left hand.

"That it is, old friend! Hang on tight!", Reed says, putting the Fantasti-Car at full throttle.

Both aircrafts were gone from sight, leaving only Nick Fury & General Ross' people left standing.

"Let's get a ride of our own, Director Fury!", Alexander Pierce says. "I want in on the action as much as you do!"

"Coming right up, Alex!", Fury stated, getting on his radio. "Get a hovercraft at our position ASAP! I want to be in the air heading to Atlantic City by the time I finish this cigar, soldier…and it's already at a stub!"

"Copy that, sir! It's already on its way! She's cooking on all burners!", the radio replied.

Nick Fury seemed satisfied by the response, cutting the connection.

Twenty seconds later, a pair of new SHIELD hovercrafts arrived & landed near Fury & his party.

Punctual! I like that!, Nick thought with a small smile.

"Time for some serious payback, Julius!", General Ross said. "Are you ready?"

"Not even Godzilla could stop me, Thaddeus!", Colonel Schwartz said. "Let's all get our asses onboard!"

"Y'all heard the man, ya lame-brained yahoos!", Dugan barked. "Move it or lose it!"

The SHIELD agents & Ross' army soldiers boarded one of the hovercrafts while Fury, Ross, Schwartz, Dugan, Jones, Hill & Pierce boarded the other. They were paused briefly by the TV crew.

"Director Fury! We want you to do one thing for us!", said the cameraman. "Along with the Avengers & Fantastic Four, give those Skrulls all the hell you can muster!"

His remark garnered a nod from everyone & a larger smile from Fury.

"You can count on it, son!", Nick said with a thumbs-up gesture.

Turning back inside the craft, he & his party entered as Fury gave the order to take off as the rear doors closed before both SHIELD vehicles rose in the air & blasted away, heading directly for Atlantic City.

The TV crew said a silent prayer for good luck to all…army soldiers, SHIELD agents & superheroes alike.

It was luck they will need.

Each of them were glad to have people like them protecting both their country and planet.

Atlantic City, New Jersey:

First incorporated on May 1st, 1854, Atlantic City was created & built to become an area of resort that was slowly but surely rising up to become a widely popular place for holding four-star hotels, casinos, boardwalks, beaches & many other places/activities that in the years ahead have made this area of New Jersey a hotspot getaway for thousands of tourists, especially for those who couldn't have either the time or money to head down to Las Vegas, Nevada.

Having survived the malevolence of racketeer Enoch L. 'Nucky' Johnson during the Prohibition Era in the 1920s & 1930s, the 1944 Great Atlantic Hurricane & more, Atlantic City has been the resort for many concerts where various stars have performed at, ranging from celebrities such as actress/comedian Kathy Griffin right up to the late great singer Laura Branigan, who passed away on August 26th, 2004 from a cerebral aneurysm at age 52.

Atlantic City is also known for famous sites like Lucy the Elephant, a six-story elephant-shaped architecture of wood & tin sheeting that has stood in the Margate City portion since 1881, becoming one of the most popular attractions in America; professional boxing fight programs were the norm since February 2nd, 1887 that featured some of the very biggest names like George Foreman & Mike Tyson; the Miss America Pageant that began on September 7th, 1921 that still goes on strong.

Many movies & TV shows featured this most famous tourist attraction, ranging from 1972's 'The King of Marvin Gardens' with Jack Nicholson, Ellen Burstyn & Scatman Crothers, 1990's 'The Godfather Part III' with Al Pacino & Andy Garcia, 1998's 'Snake Eyes' with Nicolas Cage & Gary Sinise, & TV's 'Mr. Belvedere', for example.

But many people call Atlantic City the 'Monopoly City', because so many spots on the board game are named after the areas in the city itself: Boardwalk, Marven Gardens, Pennsylvania Railroad, & so forth. The game was first introduced in 1935 by Parker Brothers & Hasbro, & has been licensed to over 103 countries & printed in more than 37 languages.

It is a place of peace & paradise for tourists & residents alike.

On this day, however, Atlantic City will become an area under siege: the three Mechagodzillas that were hijacked by the alien race known as the Skrulls flew directly towards the elongated city as the people started to look outside their homes, vehicles & businesses when they heard the blaring sounds of jet engines heading in their direction, getting even louder by the second. Peering into the skies, the people saw a trio of very large flying machines approaching in their very direction.

When they became more visible, they saw that these machines were in the shape of the Monster King known as Godzilla. A few felt they were here to protect them from the menace of the real thing, but the majority knew that wasn't really the case: they remember the TV & radio broadcasts of the Mechagodzillas being hijacked by alien beings which have tried invading Earth before, & they started running away in fear, with more than a few screaming in terror.

Viewing the humans fleeing their homes & businesses gave the Skrull crews great pleasure, & they grinned.

The Skrull commander of MG-3 even laughed with glee.

"Just look at them run!", he said. "They really are nothing more than sheep, ready to be conquered & crushed by our far more superior race! All right, my crew: let's get down there & show the humans what these machines are truly capable of!"

"Copy that!", said the commanders of MG-1 & MG-2.

As commanded, MG-1 approached & landed in the Margate City portion of the area, landing straight in its heart at the cross section of Jerome & Ventnor Avenues, its landing shaking the area & its tail demolishing several nearby structures including the Holy Trinity Parish; MG-2 made its descent in the area of Ventnor City, landing directly on the Oxford Condominium on South Oxford Avenue, flattening it to its foundation & killing dozens that were trying to get away from the malevolent machine; MG-3 landed more into the actual Atlantic City, setting down upon the roof of the Atlantic City Convention Center, burying itself into the building & crushing whoever was unlucky enough to be in the vicinity. Those that managed to avoid being stepped on by MG-3 scrambled out of the structure screaming in terror.

It gave the Skrull crews utmost pleasure watching humans young & old scurrying away like tiny ants.

Being in the Mechagodzillas, insects are all human beings are to the Skrulls.

And humans were meant to be crushed underfoot by them.

Once they landed, the chaos ensued: MG-1 unleashed its multi-colored eye beams on rows of houses that were obliterated instantly, throwing piles of rubble everywhere. The chest plate then opened to allow MG-1 to fire its orange electromagnetic beam, also to devastating effect in blowing away housing & killing handfuls of people trying to escape what came down on their peaceful towns. From its fingers, knees & toes, missiles were shot forth that not only wiped out homes, but also entire blocks as concrete, debris & lumps of dirt/grass exploded in horrid plumes, shaking the very earth itself. A volley of its finger missiles struck the Island House apartment building complex on Atlantic & S. Cedar Grove Avenues, blasting it & its foundation to flaming rubble in seconds. Whoever was trapped inside or nearby were blown to pieces and/or crushed.

Ironically, the iconic structure Lucy the Elephant was left untouched.

MG-2 also let loose with its own rainbow-colored Mega-Buster from its mouth, wiping away several houses & accompanying blocks with ease, killing those unlucky enough to get away quick enough. Like the original Godzilla, MG-2 unleashed a metallic roar before lighting up its rear dorsal fins & letting loose with this deadly projectile. This hijacked machine didn't stop with its Mega-Buster: it also unleashed its yellow eye lasers & shot forth a barrage of its Paralyzer/Tranquilizer missiles, only these detonated like regular ones instead of their usual functions. Sections of the streets & their housings were obliterated on a dime, throwing debris & blasted vehicles in all directions.

Some of these vehicles were abandoned, others were not as corpses roasted inside, becoming steel coffins.

MG-3 was under attack by F-15 fighters almost immediately upon its descent on the city, but the third machine made short work of these by shooting its Maser beam from its mouth, blasting each aircraft to flaming pieces, leaving no survivors. From its shoulder harness, a deadly volley of missiles were launched, striking the houses in the northern part of the area, blasting portions into piles of debris & earth. With its forearm cannons, shots of plasma energy began firing round after deadly round that blew away homes, streets, vehicles & whatever else were in their paths. People on ground level – from fleeing civilians to fighting police & military – were blasted & vaporized in an instant.

The Mechagodzillas had only started their assault, & yet in just under one minute, they've caused more death & destruction than anything America has ever endured before.

Where MG-1 was causing havoc, over a dozen people lucky enough to survive the first round of attacks were in the line of sights of the rogue machine. Unable to get their footing on the uneasy streets, they tripped & fell hard on the rubble as MG-1 leaned back slightly before jerking forward & letting loose with its Space beam.

All the people caught in its path raised their arms over their faces & screamed.

Each one kept screaming until one saw & announced they were alive: somehow, they were all a great distance away from all the carnage that invaded their beloved town.

One of them mentioned that he'd seen a blue & white streak come at them so fast, it was like a blur: one moment they were facing certain death at the hands of a giant robot resembling Godzilla, & the next they were far out of harm's way without a scratch.

Quicksilver went onto the next group of people that were in the greatest of danger from MG-1, plucking each & every one of them out of the line of fire before repeating the process. The Skrull crew of MG-1 notice something wrong with their destruction & killing spree as humans they intend to kill were getting saved by some object that was getting each out of their line of fire.

It can't be!, thought the Skrull commander.

Yet to his crew's dismay, it was: the Avengers were alive & well, with the mutant speedster being solid proof.

MG-1's crew had other things to worry about at the moment: a powerful force struck MG-1 in the back, causing it to stagger several steps forward & almost lose its balance before regaining it.

"What hit us?!", demanded the commander.

"It's the green brute they call the Hulk, sir!", said a crew member.

True enough: the Hulk leaped all the way from Cape May to Atlantic City, with She-Hulk coming along for the ride. Once they reached their destination, the female Hulk landed on the street while the original gave MG-1 the strike in the rear, nearly making to tumble over before righting itself.

"Hey there, fellas! Miss us?", She-Hulk joked.

Before any of the Skrull crew could react, several other objects appeared on their radars, indicating that the other Avengers were on their way over to their position: Thor, Vision, Scarlet Witch, Iron Man, War Machine, Human Torch & Falcon had also arrived, with the Fantasti-Car, the Avengers Quinjet & SHIELD crafts 1 & 2 en route right behind.

"All right, the gang's all here!", Iron Man said, getting on his comm link with all. "Cap, I've formulated which groups should take on who: the two Hulks can tango with MG-1 with good ol' Ben thrown into the mix, as Thor, Vision & Wanda dance with MG-2, leaving MG-3 for James, Johnny, Sam and myself! The rest of you safe & secure in your crafts can each pick your own opponents to your heart's desires!"

"Sounds good to me, Tony! We here in the Quinjet will assist Bruce, Jennifer and Ben!", Cap announced over the radio. "Quicksilver, Yellowjacket & Wasp can see to the people on the ground!"

"Susan & I in the Fantasti-Car will also assist in dealing with MG-1!", Reed puts in.

"A completely sound plan if ever I've heard one, folks!", Nick Fury said. "SHIELD Craft #2, your task is to give the Asgardian & his buddies a hand with MG-2, while we give Mr. Stark & his party a hand!"

"Copy that, Director Fury!", came the pilot of SHIELD Craft #2.

Having their assigned targets, each party of soldiers/agents & superheroes headed for their primary enemies as each Mechagodzilla halted in their vehement assault to acknowledge the arrival of the Avengers, the Fantastic Four & both Director Fury & General Ross' people that have come to challenge them.

"It's impossible! We left you all for dead!", the speakers on MG-3 announced.

"You should've done a body count check, mister!", War Machine said through speakers of his own. "What you see isn't always what you get!"

Now it was Nick Fury's turn to make a statement via loud speakers.

"And if any of you interstellar hijackers think for one moment that you can simply steal government property, attack a major metropolitan city & murder innocent civilians & not receive any kind of repercussions for your actions, then you don't know the human race as well as you thought! Now, we will give you Skrulls one last chance: surrender yourselves and the Mechagodzillas you've stolen, or you'll be facing nothing short of complete & total annihilation! We'll be giving you five seconds to comply!"

"That will not be necessary, Director Fury: we only need one!", came the reply.

MG-3's answer was immediate: opening its mechanical maw, the robot unleashed its Maser beam at its enemies, with its heroes diving out of its path with only a second to spare. MG-3 continued its attack until an alarm system went off, alerting the crew. They weren't the only ones who received the alert: each aircraft also picked up something that needed their immediate attention.

Even Iron Man, War Machine & Vision were receiving it, halting their attack.

"Is everybody getting this?", Tony asked.

"Yes, Mister Stark", Vision said. "There is a mass object approaching Atlantic City from a distance of about 1500 meters from our current position, & is closing in fast. I fear, my friends, we know just what this object is."

Vision didn't exaggerate on his claim: everyone in the vicinity, friend and foe alike, did know that there could be only one particular object that's heading in their direction. Many refused to believe it, with others being surprised by it.

But one thing was perfectly clear: he was on his way back to American soil.

No sooner did everyone dread the moment than when none other than Godzilla rose from beneath the ocean, his head & upper body breaking the surface before letting out an ear-shattering roar that was boisterous even from that far a distance. His roar lasted for over a dozen seconds before making his way towards land, leaving giant wakes in his path.

"You've got to be joking!", Human Torch said.

"I truly wish I could tell you otherwise, kid!", Falcon said.

"That's just great!", said Hawkeye aboard the Quinjet. "Not only do we have Skrulls in Mechagodzillas to deal with, but now the real thing shows up! We are definitely getting our hands full on this!"

"I'm with Clint on this one, Captain!", Black Panther says. "I don't know how we're going to deal with both the Mechagodzillas and the actual one! We've barely beaten him back in Philadelphia!"

"Even I have to agree on that one, Captain Rogers!", General Ross says over the radio. "We all believed that the Mechagodzillas have all but killed Godzilla, only to discover now that he's survived everything they've thrown at him! And now he's coming back to add to the destruction his robot doubles have already started! We'll be powerless if they all band together against us!"

"Maybe not, General", Captain America says, addressing everyone on radio & comm links. "Listen, everyone. I know how many of you feel about Godzilla: scared, worried, even angry & hateful towards him. He's caused destruction & death wherever he goes, & places like Philadelphia & Tokyo are just two of many examples. Believe me, I get that: of what I've seen Godzilla do, it makes the horrors of World War II I've experienced look like a walk in the park. But here's something else I've learned about him: like any animal, Godzilla sees the entire Earth as his territory just as we ourselves do, ready & willing to do whatever is necessary to defend it from any & all intruders. Right now, if I have to guess, Godzilla's going after his robot doubles for more than just mere payback: he's no doubt noticed the evil of the Skrulls within the Mechagodzillas, making them his primary targets."

"Now wait a cotton-pickin' minute here, Captain!", Dum Dum Dugan says. "Are you fixin' to tell us that Godzilla isn't our enemy anymore?! And that we oughta be helping him this time round?! That's blasted crazy, & you know it!"

"Maybe so, Dum Dum!", Gabe Jones said. "But between facing Godzilla or the Skrull-controlled Mechagodzillas, we've got to direct our attack on the greater evil…and that's the Skrulls!"

"Don't tell me you've gone soft on the blasted monster, Jones!"

"Call it what you want, Dugan!", Agent Hill says. "But there comes a time when you need to do what's right: not because it might sound crazy and/or we might not like the choices, but we do it for the good of the people, as well as the planet itself!"

"We don't need lectures or advice from a blasted rookie, Miss, so you just stow it, and…!"

"You stow it, Dugan!", Fury barked, silencing him on a dime. "Rookie she may be, Agent Hill is a member of SHIELD, & that means she's entitled to say her piece whenever it warrants it! And just like Captain Rogers, she's right, dammit: whatever personal feelings we might have about Godzilla, brush them aside! We either direct our attention at the real threat of this whole fiasco, or we won't have an Earth to call our own…either for Godzilla or for us!"

"What Nick Fury – and also Captain America – are saying, people, is that right now we should think of Godzilla as something like the atomic bomb", Colonel Schwartz says, catching on. "A necessary evil."

"Meaning, for us all to view the monster in the same way our country views that very weapon", General Ross adds, getting a nod from his old friend.

"That about sums it up, General", Captain America said from the Quinjet. "Either we cooperate with Godzilla on this, or neither he nor ourselves can call Earth our home."

During their discussion, the Skrulls stood mostly mesmerized by the sudden reappearance of the Monster King, his presence putting a crimp in their plans.

"This can't be, commander!", said a crew member of MG-2. "We've hit this creature with everything we have! Godzilla should be nothing more than a corpse feeding the sharks on the ocean floor right about now!"

"I agree, sir!", said another. "How is it possible he could survive such a beating as the one we gave him?! We've got more than enough weaponry to kill a dozen monsters his size!"

MG-2's Skrull commander could say nothing in his defense, as he had no answers to give his crew.

The same went for MG-1's crew.

MG-3, however, had enough to say.

"I highly doubt that it matters how Godzilla survived our assault upon him!", the commander said. "It seemed we underestimated the monster's stamina – a mistake we won't repeat again! Attack, Mechagodzillas: wipe away both the Avengers & all their friends! And as for Godzilla, beat him to death & bring me his head afterwards!"

The thought made every Skrull smile fiendishly.

"Yes sir!", they all replied.

Each Mechagodzilla unleashed a loud screeching metallic roar, indicating that they were ready to carry out their final assault for world domination. Godzilla responded in kind with a roar of his own in both opposition & vengeance.

His trek through the water picked up speed.

The fight for the Earth's fate begins now!

CHAPTER VI

The metallic roars of the Mechagodzillas stirred the Avengers, Fantastic Four & Nick Fury/General Ross' people into action: MG-1 shot forth with its rainbow-colored eye beams directly at the Avengers' Quinjet & Fantasti-Car, as both of which immediately took evasive action as Captain America & Reed Richards cried out to their passengers to hang tight. Just missed being vaporized by MG-1's eye beams, the Quinjet & Fantasti-Car both took action themselves by launching a volley of missiles from the rear that streaked towards MG-1, striking the metal monster at various areas, creating powerful detonations that actually shook it & the crew inside.

"So, they want to play with missiles, do they?", said the commander. "Well, we can also play that game in spades! Launch our own projectiles, men! Give them a taste of their own medicine!"

On command, MG-1 shot missiles from its hands & even nostrils, which headed straight for the heroes' aircrafts & coming in close.

"Sue, we're not going to be able to outrun them!", Reed said.

"We won't have to, Reed! I know exactly what you're thinking!", Susan says.

Pushing with all her might, Susan erects an invisible barrier between them & MG-1's missiles before extending it further so that when the missiles hit her barrier, they will detonate from a distance. It was working: every projectile that struck Susan's shield exploded 16 feet away. But as each missile was blowing up against her barrier, Susan felt the pressure & power of the blasts, causing a strain on her system.

Unable to hold it any longer, Susan fell backwards but was caught by Ben's monstrous arms.

"Whoa! You okay, Suzie?", Ben asked.

"I'll be all right, Ben", she said. "It just took more out of me than I first thought, that's all."

"Just as long as you'll be fine, darling", Reed says as he makes another pass for a second attack.

The Quinjet was having trouble staying ahead of the missile silo that MG-1 launched at it, even with Cap's skills.

"We better do something quickly, Steve!", Black Widow says. "Even you can't avoid those missiles forever!"

"And all our flyers have their hands full currently, I know!", Captain America said.

"Maybe we don't have to avoid them, Cap!", Hawkeye says. "Since these are guided missiles, what say we give all these warheads back to those who sent them?"

It was an idea they all shared with enthusiasm.

"I think you got something there, Clint!", Cap says, giving the Quinjet a sharp turn.

Captain America flew the Quinjet on a direct course to MG-1, who was currently engaged with the two Hulks on street level, firing missiles & beams as both emerald brawlers stayed ahead of the deadly assault: there was no telling what those lasers would do even to their tough hides, & they didn't stand still to find out.

"Hulk hates Godzilla robots!", he bellowed angrily, staying ahead of the rainbow-colored beam.

"Yeah dude, I know the feeling!", She-Hulk called out, dodging another missile.

MG-1's assault upon the two Hulks stopped when the Skrull crew noticed the Avengers' Quinjet heading straight towards them – with their own missiles hot on their tail!

"Quick…stop them!", the commander bellowed.

It was too little, too late: with Captain America's skills, the Quinjet came as close to MG-1 as it dared right before veering off sharply upwards, avoiding a collision. But while MG-1 was spared getting hit by the Avengers' craft, their missiles were another matter: once the Quinjet was away, MG-1 was bombarded by the same missiles it had launched against their enemies, its metallic body peppered by numerous blasts as the Skrull crew was violently rocked within.

Another bomb blast struck MG-1 from behind as the Fantasti-Car dumped a payload onto the machine.

The Skrulls grit their teeth in frustration, vowing to make Reed Richards & his friends pay.

But a second attack never came: MG-1 was vehemently rocked by something that crashed into it, jarring the crew even with their seat belts on.

"What was that?!", the commander asked.

From outside, the Hulk & She-Hulk ran towards & leaped at MG-1, attacking when its attention had been drawn elsewhere. The Hulk landed & held onto MG-1 at its chest, while Jennifer did so over at the left knee, pounding on the missile port there & badly denting it to prevent any further projectiles from shooting forth.

One down!, She-Hulk thought. And now for the other knee!

From overhead in the Fantasti-Car, Ben Grimm saw what the Hulks were doing, & he wanted in.

Telling Reed to get him over MG-1, Ben clenched his right fist & pounded his left hand with it, ready for a fight.

Once Reed got him in position, Ben was set to go.

"You two Hulksters got the right idea!", Ben called out as he flung himself over the edge of the Fantasti-Car. "It's clobberin' time!"

Ben Grimm hollered as he went into freefall, landing upon MG-1's head right before its yellow eyes.

He stared at those eyes with malevolence in his own.

"You know, ya oughta be careful wherever I land, ya stinkin' Skrulls!", Ben barked. "I'm liable to put someone's eyes out…namely yours!"

His fists clenched tightly, Ben Grimm – the Thing – ran across MG-1's head as he spoke, heading directly for the robot's optics. Before the Skrulls could activate MG-1's rainbow-colored beams, Ben threw his left fist forward & all but smashed the right eye as it sparked with high voltage before shorting out completely. The blow staggered the robot, & Ben held on firmly as he went to repeat the process with the other eye.

From the chest, the Hulk dug his fingers into the metal of the machine as the panel opened up to reveal the orange electromagnetic beam that shot itself onto the streets, destroying a few vacant houses. When it ceased even for a brief moment, the Hulk saw his chance: with a powerful right fist, the Green Goliath pounded the port where the beam shot out from, causing it to short circuit & render it inert before he resumed pounding on the machine randomly along with She-Hulk & the Thing.

MG-1 was rocked by all the pounding the Hulks & the Thing were delivering as systems were malfunctioning.

"What's happening?!", shouted the commander.

"It's the two Hulks & the Thing, sir!", said one crew member. "They're literally giving us a pounding, & they've shorted out several of our weapons systems, namely the chest & eye beams!"

"Get them off!"

"We're trying, sir!"

"Try harder…or else!"

MG-1 flailed its arms wildly in hopes to slap off its trio of power-hitters before the damage can get too severe. A swinging of its right arm nearly knocked the Hulk off, while a swinging of its head came close to flinging off Ben like a bug. But both held on tightly, & even She-Hulk couldn't be knocked away despite the attempts from the robot's legs.

The trio continued their assault until they all saw a bright blue-white flash that was only several meters away.

Uh-oh! Time to vamoose!, Ben Grimm thought.

Running like a Decathlon champ, Ben had leaped off MG-1's head & was picked up by Susan Richards' invisible shield & safely floated back into the Fantasti-Car.

"Thanks, Suzie!", Ben told her as Susan nodded with a smile.

The two Hulks also vacated MG-1 once they saw the bright flash that was heading their way: a beam of bright blue-white struck MG-1 square in the chest, causing more sparks to erupt. Godzilla bellowed a roar as he stepped onto the sandy beach & moved inland, his footsteps thundering with every ground contact he made.

The Avengers & Fantastic Four give Godzilla & MG-1 plenty of space, unsure of how to proceed.

For the Skrulls, it was perfect timing.

"He's here on land at last!", the commander said with a fiendish grin. "Excellent!"

"Let's gather his head like the field leader wants, Commander!", said one Skrull.

"Yes! Proceed!"

Grinning widely, the Skrulls take action: MG-1 roars a metal screech as Godzilla retaliates before charging into the first of his robot doubles. The earth shook as both combatants made contact with each other as Godzilla raked at his enemy with his claws & even used his head & chest as battering rams. MG-1 fought with equal ferocity as it delivered a series of karate chops with its hands on Godzilla, swatting the Monster King in his neck, head & even midsection as Godzilla was assaulted everywhere, unable to stay ahead of his foe while receiving punishment instead of dishing it out like he usually does. He remembers the last time he fought this metal monstrosity years ago: not only was Mechagodzilla a walking arsenal, it was also very keen at hand-to-hand combat, recalling the beating he took from it then.

History was repeating itself as Godzilla was clobbered by this machine version of Bruce Lee.

But Godzilla didn't back down then, & he won't back down now.

When MG-1 swung its right arm for another chop, Godzilla grabbed it with his left hand before using his right hand to claw & damage his enemy with open cuts in its armor. He even let loose a blast of his heat ray that scorched the metal & caused sparks to fly. Acting swiftly, MG-1 shoved its left hand directly into Godzilla's mouth & fired its hand missiles as they detonated within. This moved surprised Godzilla as he staggered back from the blow, his mouth smoking worse than a chimney. Shaking his head to get the terrible taste of metal out of his mouth, Godzilla doesn't see MG-1's charge until it was practically too late: the blow knocked the Monster King off his feet & onto the ground, the area shaking from the impact.

MG-1 fired more of its finger missiles at Godzilla while he was down, creating a smokescreen which had almost engulfed him.

Godzilla struck back with his heat ray at MG-1, causing its missile strike to cease before the Monster King got up in a speed that belied his size & pounded his foe with a powerful right fist that made the robot studder in its step.

"Damn, that was better than Rocky!", Hawkeye says in the Quinjet.

"Yeah! Eat your heart out, Sylvester Stallone!", Ben said over the radio.

Several of the heroes smirked at Clint & Ben's little reference to the actor's famous screen role.

Godzilla continued pounding upon MG-1 with his fists & claws, creating more damage to the robot before doing a full 360-degree spin, clobbering MG-1 with his tail & throwing the machine back several blocks. Wherever MG-1 had landed, houses & vehicles were flattened.

Thankfully, because of Quicksilver, no casualties occurred.

Rising to its full height, MG-1 stood & stared at its hated enemy.

"Dammit! He's still too strong to pick off!", the commander said. "What weapons do we still have functioning?"

"Aside from MG-1's finger & toe missiles, nothing!", said one Skrull. "Those two Hulks and that accursed Thing knocked out our lasers! We've got nothing left!"

"No…we still have one final card to play!"

Flicking a few switches, the commander put to action MG-1's final weapon: when he finished, the head of MG-1 began spinning round & round, each time doing a full 360 degrees. With each full spin it did, the head did so faster & faster as a cylindrical wall of blue energy quickly expanded & surrounded MG-1 from head to toe. Godzilla charged in after his foe before reaching out to & making contact with MG-1's energy shield.

He bellowed in rage & pain as he withdrew his hands, which were smoking.

Godzilla took several steps backwards to keep his distance from the now-shielded Mechagodzilla.

From his safer distance, Godzilla tried using his heat ray on MG-1's shield.

The shield effectively & easily deflected Godzilla's primary weapon.

Several more tries were attempted, but each time the result was the same: no damage was done to MG-1, & the machine stood firm & safe behind its protective barrier.

The Avengers watched this on their onboard monitors.

"No matter how many times Godzilla tries, he won't get through that barrier, Captain!", Black Panther said. "And needless to say, neither will we!"

"Does it have any kind of weakness?", Black Widow asked. "There's got to be some flaw in that barrier we can exploit!"

"I've scanned that barrier since it appeared, Widow", Reed Richards announced over the radio.

"Have you found something, Reed?", Captain America asks.

"A single flaw in its design. Let me send over the schematics so you can see for yourselves."

On the computer screens of the Quinjet, a diaphragm of MG-1 & its shield were displayed as all eyes fell upon it. Displayed was a 3-D image everyone took notice of, studying every angle in record time.

It didn't take long at all to see the flaw Reed Richards mentioned.

"There! You see?", Hawkeye says, pointing.

"I certainly do, Clint!", Captain America said. "Reed, we see exactly what you mean!"

"I knew you would, Captain!", Reed replied. "That cylindrical barrier protects the first Mechagodzilla around in that circumference, but it's open & vulnerable at the very top! And that's how we're going to deactivate it! Here's how we should proceed…"

Reed Richards explained the plan as fast as he could.

Once he finished, the Quinjet approached the two Hulks as the rear of the aircraft opened to reveal Black Widow.

"Hey, you two! We've got a surefire way to bring down MG-1!", she announced. "And you get to deliver the killing blows! Climb aboard if you're interested!"

"Of course we are!", She-Hulk says, smiling as she turns to her cousin. "Come on, big guy…you'll want to hear this as much as I do!"

Sensing opportunity to bring the giant machine down for good (and because he trusts the ladies completely), the Hulk joined Jennifer & entered the Quinjet as Natasha relayed the plan to both green-skinned brawlers while they head over with the Fantasti-Car side-by-side.

Despite the ineffectiveness of his weapon, Godzilla kept firing his heat ray at MG-1's shield, not letting up for a second. The Monster King felt that if he simply kept up his assault, the barrier will just give out in due time.

But it didn't: no matter how hard Godzilla pushed with his primary weapon, even that could not dissipate the energy shield that kept MG-1 safe. From within, the Skrulls were grinning joyfully at Godzilla's futile attempt to bring down their shield.

"Go ahead, Godzilla!", said one Skrull. "Shoot your heat ray all you want: even if you fired at us all day & night, you shall never penetrate that shield which protects us!"

Chuckles & laughter of fiendish glee filled the cockpit.

Enlightened by the performance of their shield & keeping focused on Godzilla, the Skrulls don't notice both the Quinjet & Fantasti-Car hovering over them at the one Achilles' Heel in the shield. Acting fast, Susan Richards used her invisible barrier to safely & quietly lower Ben Grimm & She-Hulk down to MG-1's neck where the head & neck were attached. Keeping her invisible shield active & using it as a platform for Jennifer & Ben, the two brawlers were ready in implementing the plan.

"Ready, Jennifer?", Ben asked.

"Let's do this, tall, dark & orange!", She-Hulk half-joked.

Both share a grin of amusement.

"On three!", Ben began. "One…two…three!"

As Ben reached the end of the countdown, both he & Jennifer rammed their right fists at the very seam in which separates the head from the neck, creating enough of a dent that breaks like an old snakeskin when it's shedding. Placing their hands within, Ben Grimm & Jennifer Walters then use all their strength to lift up MG-1's head to deactivate the energy shield keeping it safe from Godzilla & his heat ray. Every inch of their muscles strain as both brawlers attempt to behead the alien machine that has fallen back into the hands of actual aliens, thus giving their friends – and Godzilla – a fighting chance.

Jennifer & Ben just need to make sure they don't get hit by Godzilla's weapon once the shield is down.

Letting out howls of great muscle strain, the Thing & She-Hulk push themselves past their physical limits to get the job done, their limbs feeling like they're stretching & compressing at the same time.

Give already, dammit!, Ben Grimm thought, gritting his teeth.

Putting on an extra burst of rage for more power, both felt their veins bulging & they ignore the agony of pushing themselves beyond their capabilities when they noticed a small shower of sparks erupt from where they were lifting.

It gets more intense & constant the closer they get to their goal.

"Almost…there, Benji!", She-Hulk says.

"One last…go then, Jenny! Lift!", the Thing said.

Using all their strength, they give it a final attempt.

With a singular bright spark & a satisfying sound of metal tearing, they succeed: the Thing & She-Hulk lifted the head of MG-1, the energy shield sputtering several times before finally disappearing completely, leaving MG-1 exposed & vulnerable. Godzilla ceased his heat ray when he saw the robot spark & stares at it out of curiosity.

The Skrulls in the cockpit were stunned by the abrupt loss of their defense.

"It's done, Suzie! Take us up…quickly!", Ben says.

With her invisibility barrier, Susan Richards lifted up Ben & Jennifer back into the Fantasti-Car.

Phase 1 was complete. Now for Phase 2.

Black Widow stood at the open rear with the Hulk.

"All right, big guy…now it's your turn!", Natasha says, pointing down to where the exposed machinery in MG-1 is. "Do what you do best!"

Hulk looked down at the now-headless MG-1, then at Natasha. He grinned pleasingly at her before jumping down & plummeted directly for the alien machine version of the Headless Horseman.

"Hulk…SMASH!", he bellowed in rage just seconds before he hits the machine where its head should be.

In two seconds after his favorite battle cry, the Hulk did indeed smash into the machine, where he went on a full rampage as he tore up machinery & everything else within his reach. His savage attack caused himself to be lowered down deeper into the interior of MG-1, causing more irreparable damage to Godzilla's first robot double.

Even deeper he sinks.

Within the cockpit, everything was going haywire.

"What's going on?!", the commander bellowed.

"Something's destroying the robot from the inside, sir!", shouted one crew member.

"Dispose of it before I…!"

The answer to the commander's question literally comes crashing down in the cockpit as the Hulk faced the alien crew, his anger rising to see the true enemies of this fiasco.

"Stop that thing…now!", yelled the commander.

The Skrull crew each got out of their seats, drew guns on the Hulk & fired. To no effect.

"Stupid puny Skrulls shoot at Hulk!", he raged. "Hulk smash Skrulls!"

Like he did everywhere else in MG-1's innards, the Hulk attacked the Skrull crew & gave them the same treatment he'd been giving MG-1. The only difference was that he got alien blood & such splattered on him & everywhere else as he literally tore each one apart with his bare hands, turning the cockpit into a horror show of alien bodies & blood.

The entire fight lasted no more than a couple seconds: for all their bravado, the Skrulls were clearly outmatched by the Hulk in every way, shape & form.

With the crew literally splattered all over the place, the Hulk resumed his thrashing of MG-1.

Godzilla watched as MG-1 began twitching & sputtering once he saw a large emerald object falling from one of the hovering crafts over the robot before it entered his robotic foe, tearing up the place. The first Mechagodzilla kept on malfunctioning under the Hulk's inner assault, transforming it from a powerful enemy into no more than a standing scrapyard in just moments.

Satisfied with the destruction he'd caused the robot, the Hulk emerged from MG-1's chest by punching a hole & leaping out of it.

Now it was Godzilla's turn to act: lighting up his dorsal fins, the Monster King fired his heat ray at the staggering MG-1 as the Hulk leaped to one side & got out of the weapon's path. The beam struck MG-1 in the chest & held it there for several seconds before the machine exploded from the intense heat of Godzilla's weapon, scattering the remains in various directions.

With the defeat of MG-1, Godzilla roared a victory bellow that was heard everywhere.

The Hulk joined him by bellowing one of his own.

One down, & two to go!

The Ventnor City/Ventnor Heights area:

At the same time MG-1 was being dealt with, MG-2 had its troubles with Thor, Vision, Scarlet Witch & the second SHIELD Craft: the fight began when Thor rammed his hammer Mjolnir into MG-2's chest, denting it & leaving a deep crater embedded in its center as it was drawn backwards from the thunderous blow. Vision added to the mayhem by acting as a living battering ram, driving the machine further away where people were still fleeing & trapped under rubble, giving Quicksilver, Yellowjacket & Wasp time to attend to & get them safely away. The sentient android also let loose with his eye beams, with MG-2 did the same in retaliation: the machine came close to actually making contact with Thor & Vision with its yellow eye beams, & even Wanda & SHIELD Craft #2 were almost nailed by the deadly pair of projectiles.

Wanda used her hex powers to lift up abandoned vehicles & whatever else that wasn't tied down to assault MG-2 with, from pieces/chunks of debris to tankers filled with gasoline that exploded like bombs when Wanda threw them at Godzilla's second robot double; SHIELD Craft #2 dropped a payload of powerful regular bombs from overhead as these struck MG-2 everywhere, rocking the robot violently & shaking the Skrull crew inside. The hovercraft also made attacks with machine gun & laser fire, hoping to cause further damage the Avengers first created.

But with all their attacks & strategies, none of them could bring down the second Mechagodzilla.

"Yon machine is tougher than previously anticipated!", Thor says, hovering with Mjolnir in hand. "Stark built these metal monstrosities quite well, much to our dismay!"

"Mr. Stark isn't to blame for their rogue actions, Thor", Vision said, hovering beside him. "They were meant to fight & defeat their flesh-&-blood counterpart originally, don't forget. Even I couldn't guess that they'd be hijacked & used for planetary conquest before the truth had revealed itself."

"I doubt that assessing blame on anyone right now is important, Vision!", the pilot of SHIELD Craft #2 said to him over his comm link. "Stopping that machine before it levels the city is!"

"You are correct, of course. Let us try a different strategy: you & Thor hit MG-2 high, while I hit it low."

"Now you're talking, android! But let's trade positions: we'll go low as you & Thor go high! I've got an idea that just might work!"

Turning to Thor, who also heard from his own comm, the Asgardian nods.

"As you wish, Agent…Wilkins, was it?"

"That's me!"

"We shall commence with your plan of action then, Agent Wilkins."

"Copy that! Here we go!"

With Wanda listening as well as joining in, the three Avengers attack MG-2 on the high ground: encased in a hex bubble, the Scarlet Witch sent forth bolts of her power at MG-2's head & neck area while Vision & Thor do the heavier duties, attacking physically with using themselves & Mjolnir to jar the alien crew within. MG-2 counterattacks with its yellow eye beams & rainbow-colored Mega-Buster from its mouth, while also attempting to snatch the three heroes in mid-air with its hands like a child attempting to snatch fireflies to put in a jar.

Many of the attacks were close calls, but none were able to strike or grab any of the trio of Avengers.

Having MG-2's high ground fully occupied, it was SHIELD Craft #2's turn to take evasive action.

"All right, people, you know the plan!", Agent Wilkins said. "Those three Avengers taking the high road gives us the opportunity to make our attack here down below! We'll probably only get one shot at this, so let's make sure it counts! Private James, are you ready back there?"

"That I am, Agent Wilkins!", the army soldier says. "You just say 'when', sir!"

The SHIELD agent flew the craft straight for the legs of MG-2, cruising in at the edge of its right leg.

It was the moment at hand.

"When!", Wilkins says.

At a moment's notice, James pressed the button he was instructed to press at the right time, ejecting a thick cable from out of the craft's rear as the end gets firmly magnetized to the robot's leg. The SHIELD Craft #2 makes a few passes around MG-2's legs as cable unravels, wrapping it tightly.

It was a scenario not dissimilar to 1980's 'The Empire Strikes Back', in the scene where Rebel forces wrapped cables around the legs of the four-legged machines called AT-ATs on the ice planet Hoth.

One of the army soldiers even made that reference as a joke, getting chuckles from the rest.

Having their brief laugh, the soldiers & agents get back to business as Wilkins gets James to press the release button on his mark.

As Agent Wilkins made a final pass around MG-2's legs, he gave James the signal to cut the cable loose, which he did: the cable detached from the rear of the SHIELD Craft #2 as it flew away from the rogue robot before it makes its big tumble.

That tumble didn't have long to wait: as MG-2 was concentrating on Thor, Vision & Wanda, none of the Skrull crew members in the cockpit paid the SHIELD craft any mind, & now it was going to cost them.

When the cable lines that were wrapped around its legs were taut, MG-2 tripped on its own feet & fell backwards before landing on its back, the ground shaking with the impact.

Even with their seat belts on, the Skrulls were violently jarred by the crash.

James, Wilkins & the rest of the SHIELD craft occupants cheered at their success.

Vision, Wanda & Thor were all very impressed by the maneuver.

"Excellent work, Agent Wilkins!", Wanda said on her comm. "The second Mechagodzilla is down!"

"We got him down, darling! But the real question is…can we keep him down?", Wilkins asked.

"Leave that to me, Agent Wilkins!", Thor said, raising his hammer skywards. "And might I suggest that yon put a safe distance between yonselves & MG-2? Things are bound to soon be getting real hot within thy area!"

"Go give them your worst, Asgardian!"

Thor nods as Wilkins steers the SHIELD craft away from the fallen machine while the Asgardian draws a series of lightning bolts into his hammer, charging it & himself to maximum capacity.

Let us see how yon Skrulls enjoy an extreme overload within thy Mechagodzilla's systems!, Thor thought before thrusting his hammer downwards at the fallen MG-2.

As if Zeus himself was on the attack, Thor struck MG-2 with the full force of lightning he collected into himself & Mjolnir, hitting the giant machine from head to toe. Inside the cockpit, the Skrull crew were crying out from the bolts of lightning that surged through their hijacked weapon. Acting fast, the commander pressed a button that will hopefully help turn their predicament around in their favor.

Thor kept up his lightning attack for over two minutes before relenting. He, Vision, Wanda & Wilkins' party in their aircraft all wait & watch the downed Mechagodzilla with utmost caution, eyeing it suspiciously for any kind of parlor tricks it might play that would catch them unawares.

For over a minute, they see none.

But it still didn't mean they let their guard down.

"Stay alert, everyone!", Wanda warns. "Just because it looks deactivated doesn't mean it really is!"

"Got that right, darling!", Wilkins said over the comm link. "Looks can definitely be deceiving, & we need to make certain that we're not being deceived by those alien lice!"

"I will give MG-2 a quick scan. If there is even the slightest spark of life left in the machine or its crew, I'll know about it", Vision says, his eyes becoming living x-rays as he makes a thorough scan of MG-2 & its Skrull pilots.

From what Vision can see, just about everything is shut down & short-circuited.

However, Wilkins' warning kept the android on high alert for anything that looks funny/out of place.

Of what Vision could discover, MG-2 is decommissioned & out of action.

Unless…

In a move that surprised even the android, MG-2 came back to active duty almost in the blink of an eye as its jets in the rear roared to life & raced across the ground, wiping out houses & flying over the water into the Ventnor Heights area before righting itself & ready for another attack. Its response was immediate: MG-2 fired regular missiles from its shoulder & waist ports one of them striking the SHIELD Craft #2 in the underside before it could respond in any way. Scarlet Witch was attacked by MG-2's yellow eye beams, hitting her hex shield with sledgehammer force. A new set of shock anchor cables that replaced the ones Godzilla melted off in their last encounter shot forth from its wrist ports, heading for & wrapping themselves around Thor & Vision, pinning their arms to their sides.

Unable to hold back the beams any longer, Wanda's hex shield failed before she plummeted to the ground.

She landed hard on the top of an abandoned car, crushing the hood & shattering the glass.

Even with the help of a small hex shield to break her fall, Wanda felt the impact as her body went numb from the blow.

Despite their incredible strength, Thor & Vision could not break free from the shock anchor cables that wrapped both heroes in. Vision thought about going intangible to slip through them, but MG-2's cables acted quicker: a powerful electrical surge coursed through the cables, hitting Thor & Vision with a surge that caused them to cry out as anguish on a high level pounded their beings. The electricity was strong enough to hurt even Vision despite his insulation which protects his inner circuits, & even Thor was feeling the intense pain.

The SHIELD Craft #2 hit the ground with a jarring impact that rattled everybody aboard, seated or not. They all watched as MG-2 knocked out the Scarlet Witch & wrapped its cables around Thor & Vision before sending thousands of electric volts through their beings to excruciating levels.

It was then that MG-2's speakers came on as the Skrull commander spoke, but not before letting out a maniacal laugh.

"You actually thought that you could defeat our machine with your lightning bolts, Thor? Fool: we've simply absorbed whatever juice you threw at us & stored it into MG-2's energy storage for its Plasma Grenade! Your thunder was just what it needed to be fully functional once more! And do you know what the best part is? You & Vision will be first to get evaporated by our newly-charged weapon before we use it on Godzilla again! For giving us a much stronger weapon, Thor, I believe we should thank you!"

A cacophony of malevolent laughter filled the cockpit & speakers before the commander finished up.

"Goodbye, Avengers! See you in Hell!"

The port to MG-2's Plasma Grenade opened up & began to charge up with yellow energy.

Hearts raced in the bodies of Agent Wilkins, Private James & the rest in SHIELD Craft #2.

"Fire a volley of missiles at that port…now!", Agent Wilkins ordered.

"We can't, sir: the blast damaged our weapons systems!", said another SHIELD agent.

"Even the machine guns?!"

Wilkins gets a nod.

"Our flight capabilities are still functioning, but none of our weapons are working, sir!", said a female agent.

"So you're all saying that we can't hit those aliens with anything?!", Private James says.

"No…we do have something to throw at them!", Wilkins said, turning to face his crew of both army soldiers & SHIELD agents. "If anyone wants to exit this craft, believe me…I won't hold it against you. But time is short, people, & you all need to make a decision right now!"

Everyone aboard knew what Agent Wilkins meant & had in mind to stop MG-2 from vaporizing Thor & Vision with its super-charged Plasma Grenade, & even though it made a few uneasy, one gave their answer right away.

"We're staying, Agent Wilkins!", Private James says, getting nods from all. "Let's do this, sir!"

Agent Wilkins smiled at their bravery.

"God bless you all!", he says, getting in contact with the Scarlet Witch on his comm. "Scarlet Witch, if you can hear my voice, I just want to say: you Avengers continue keeping the peace! We were glad to have worked with you!"

Wanda did hear Agent Wilkins' voice on her comm link, but was still too stunned from her crash landing to reply. She can, however, see Wilkins through the cockpit window as the man gave her a two-finger salute with a smile before he gunned the engines. The SHIELD Craft #2 shot forth like a missile & raced straight for MG-2, heading directly for the Plasma Grenade port which was charging up for a devastating blow.

"No…please don't…", Wanda says weakly, her body & voice not responding like she wants it to.

She couldn't rise up, let alone create a hex shield to stop their kamikaze plan.

Thor, on the other hand, could still speak but could not stop Wilkins from doing what he intends.

"Agent Wilkins…NO!", Thor bellowed even through the intense pain.

Even if his comm was working, Agent Wilkins wasn't stopping.

The SHIELD Craft #2 was now only meters away from its final destination.

"Eat this, you alien shits! For the Earth!", Wilkins cried out.

"FOR THE EARTH!", his crew shouted, their fists raised.

MG-2's Plasma Grenade has just reached its peak, & was ready to deploy its deadliest weapon.

The Skrulls in the cockpit grinned with satisfaction as the commander readied to fire.

Seconds later, SHIELD Craft #2 collided with MG-2's fully-charged Plasma Grenade.

Its effects became immediate: as soon as Wilkins rammed his craft into MG-2's Plasma Grenade, the weapon's power suffered a backlash & spread uncontrollably within the giant machine, thus destroying the second Mechagodzilla as it exploded from inside. From its midsection, MG-2 detonated in a fiery holocaust, blasting everything inside & out.

The Skrulls in the cockpit screamed as they went up in flames & died.

Vision & Thor were spontaneously released from the shock anchor cables as the former quickly rebooted all his systems in record time, but their hearts were heavy.

Seeing those army soldiers & SHIELD agents lose their lives killed a piece of the Avengers as well.

Another of the Mechagodzillas was brought down, but not by costumed heroes.

By the main inhabitants of planet Earth itself.

May the gods care for you & your brave people, Agent Wilkins, Thor thought solemnly. You were all worthy of even my own hammer Mjolnir & father Lord Odin.

Pieces of MG-2 were scattered everywhere, some of them splashing into the water.

Carolina Village:

Iron Man, War Machine, Human Torch, Falcon & the first SHIELD craft which carried Nick Fury, General Ross, Colonel Schwartz & Alexander Pierce, along with SHIELD agents Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones & Maria Hill were all in a fierce aerial dogfight with MG-3: the third & final Mechagodzilla launched the Maser beam from its maw at the SHIELD craft, while firing missiles over at Iron Man & War Machine. Human Torch was bombarded with hot plasma shots from MG-3's forearm double-barreled guns, some of which had come awfully close to the living man of flames. Feeling these plasma shots, young Johnny Storm didn't dare allow even one of these to hit him: while his body is living fire, there are still things that can fry even him to a crisp if the degrees is great enough.

Using his very best aerial skills, Human Torch continued to dodge plasma rounds.

War Machine & Iron Man did double duty: dodging missiles MG-3 threw at them & blasting them in mid-air as soon as the opportunity presented itself, detonating each one with repulsor ray blasts, machine gun fire & missiles from James Rhodes' own armor. Each armored hero spent more time blasting MG-3's missiles than hitting the giant machine itself, staying ahead of getting blown clear out of the skies over Atlantic City.

Agent Maria Hill used her best piloting skills to allow the SHIELD craft to unload with its own armament payload of weapons to deliver strike after strike from machine & laser guns along with missiles while avoiding MG-3's arsenal of projectiles. One slight Maser blast struck the underside of their craft, but the shield plating was better resilient than Agent Wilkins' was, thus sparing them a malfunction and/or an airborne detonation.

But even though the heroes & allies were excelling at staying alive, none of them were doing much damage to MG-3, much less stopping it.

"You know, guys, as much as I love a good dogfight, our aerial acrobatics are getting us nowhere very fast!", said Human Torch, dodging another volley of plasma blasts.

"The kid's right, Tony!", Rhodes says. "All we're doing right now is delaying the inevitable: sooner or later, the Skrulls will get in a lucky shot with their hijacked weapon!"

"You're both right, Captain Rhodes!", Nick Fury said in the SHIELD craft. "Like its two pals, Mechagodzilla 3's arsenal makes even tough guys like the Punisher seem tame in comparison! Unless we do something to put the odds in our favor, that lucky shot will come a lot sooner than we'd like!"

"Might I suggest lightening MG-3's load a little bit, Director?", Iron Man mentioned.

"Didn't know you were something of a mind-reader, Stark…because that's exactly what I was thinking! And let me just say that even though you've put in years of work into these three machines…"

"It's okay, Director! Believe me…they stopped being mine once those Skrulls took them over, & I'd rather have them destroyed than falling into the wrong hands, just like Daisuke Serizawa felt with his creation!"

"Good man, Stark! How's about I borrow Captain Rhodes & Falcon to take out those missile ports while you & the flaming kid handle those plasma guns?"

"They're all yours, Fury! Rhodes?"

"I heard, Tony, & it'll be a great change of pace!", War Machine says, breaking formation with Iron Man.

"Hey Johnny…how about you give those plasma guns more heat than even they can handle?", Tony asked.

"Thought you'd never ask, Mr. Stark…let's go & bring the heat to them!", Human Torch said. "Literally!"

"Exactly! Let's see how they like it!"

Flying in side-by-side, Iron Man & Human Torch split up once MG-3 aimed its plasma guns at each hero, sending shots towards them in which they dodged closely but remain untouched. Human Torch went over to MG-3's plasma gun on its right forearm & unleashed a stream of high-intensity flames from both his hands & strikes the plasma gun in its center. The heat he projects started melting the weapon as hot slag began dripping from where Johnny hit, pushing ever harder until the results he wished for came to pass: with a powerful blast, the plasma gun exploded into a million pieces, sending molten shrapnel flying everywhere. On the other side, Iron Man did the same with his repulsor rays from his hands, detonating the left plasma gun & sharing the fate as its twin.

Both heroes were thrown with the force of the blast, & they had to dodge molten debris to avoid getting crushed or impaled by any pieces.

On War Machine's front, he was most busy taking out missile after missile with his rapid-firing shoulder-mounted guns, exploding each one in mid-air. But it was a futile attempt: for every missile he takes out, multiple more took their place. Even with Falcon assisting him, it was still too much for him to bear.

It was like fighting the fabled Hydra, with no end in sight.

The SHIELD craft wasn't faring any better: even with Gabe Jones & Dum Dum Dugan manning the automated guns, they couldn't bring the numbers of missiles down to a more manageable level. It was like a swarm of metal bees or locusts without any end in sight, & from the way MG-3 was firing salvo after salvo, it didn't look like it was going to end well for the white hats.

"Blasted things just keep on coming!", Dugan growled. "Don't that damn thing ever run out of ammunition?!"

"Less talking & more shooting, Dum Dum!", Gabe Jones said, taking out two more.

"With all due respect, Director Fury, Mr. Dugan is correct!", Colonel Schwartz says. "With that machine firing an endless salvo at us, we'll never get the chance to take out that harness on MG-3…not before we do get blown out of the sky! Even War Machine & Falcon can't get to the damn thing: they just aren't enough!"

"Then what say we improve the odds in our favor, Colonel?", Iron Man said over the radio.

"Stark! You & the Human Torch took out the two plasma guns, we reckon?", Agent Hill asks.

"Right as rain, beautiful! The kid was also very hot stuff…more so than usual!"

"Good job, Stark! Now how about thinning the herd so's we can get a shot at that harness?", Fury asked.

"You've read my mind, Director! We'll need to talk about personal space, but that can wait for later! Here we go! James, Johnny, Sam…you guys are up at bat!"

"Roger & wilco, Tony!", Rhodes said.

"We'll be certain to hit a home run, Mr. Stark!", Human Torch said.

Ignoring Stark's sarcasm, Nick Fury & company watch as Iron Man & his party of War Machine, Human Torch & Falcon approach the swarm of projectiles. Iron Man, War Machine & Falcon open up with their armament, as Human Torch going into the swarm as he entered in between missiles before summoning his power to high levels, becoming brighter by the second. Concentrating with every ounce of willpower he can muster, Johnny Storm unleashed something exactly like a miniature supernova that expanded many meters, hitting the missiles & detonating each one in its path.

The two armored & single avian superheroes had to put distance so as not to get themselves caught in the blast, & everyone had to shield their eyes briefly before it dissipated.

Once it was over, they were all welcomed to a sight of relief: not only was the missile swarm obliterated, but the shoulder harness on MG-3 had suffered damage as sparks erupted on the sides & front ports.

"By golly, he did it!", General Ross said softly before turning to Fury & raising his voice some. "That's the very opening we've been waiting for, Director! Let's hit it!"

"That we will, General!", Nick Fury said. "Full speed ahead, Agent Hill! Dugan, Jones…I want those guns blazing like you've never made them before!"

"Copy that!", Dugan & Jones replied.

Seeing where they headed, the heroes took their own course of action.

"Time to join the party, guys!", Human Torch says.

"Oo-rah!", Sam, Stark & Rhodes replied with glee.

As per their instructions, the SHIELD craft dove in & began shooting at MG-3's left shoulder harness as Human Torch, Falcon, Iron Man & War Machine went into action themselves: launching everything, the right shoulder harness received harsh punishment like its twin as pieces of it were literally blown off by barrages of firepower & turning them each into dead metal weight. Any missiles still inside exploded, adding to the damage.

In a few minutes' time, the entire shoulder harness was completely blasted away, rendering it useless as whatever was left got dropped to the ground, landing with a thud.

Inside the cockpit, the two Skrull pilots were infuriated by the outcome.

"Curse them!", said the co-pilot. "We've lost all but a few weapon systems to these interlopers!"

"Then let's put them on ice as we did Godzilla!", said the commander as he grins. "After all…revenge is basically a dish best served cold, is it not?"

The co-pilot grinned himself, loving the notion.

"Get the Absolute Zero Cannon ready to fire, soldier!", the commander said.

"Yes sir!", the co-pilot said, pressing a button.

MG-3's chest ports opened as the blue center began cackling with energy.

"Heads up, people! Those Skrulls are thinking of making us permanent snow globes!", Falcon warned.

"Then let's go take it out before it takes us out!", Alexander Pierce says.

"Get us overhead, Agent Hill!", Fury ordered. "Let them concentrate on us while Stark & his friends find some way to put it out of commission!"

"Roger that, sir!", Hill replied, sending the SHIELD craft up.

Once overhead, the craft dropped bombs on MG-3 & got its full attention, aiming up with its mouth & firing its Maser beams at the mobile nuisance. It gave Iron Man & company the chance they waited for.

"That's our cue, boys!", Iron Man says. "Everything you've got – hit it right now!"

The heroes didn't hesitate: Iron Man, War Machine, Falcon & Human Torch all aimed & fired their projectiles directly at MG-3's chest port, striking the cackling blue port with deadly accuracy. It worked mostly in success: their projectiles did strike it dead center & destroyed the port, but it was able to fire a single shot that rocketed across the city & struck the Ocean Casino Resort building, turning it into a solid block of ice before crumpling into frosty pieces.

A most popular landmark & tourist attraction was gone in seconds.

"Damn! And I never got to go there!", Johnny says.

"Don't worry, kid…I'll get it rebuilt", Tony Stark says. "I just hope the owner won't blame me for what happened to it."

Johnny & James smirked at Tony's little crack.

They only hope it was fully evacuated before the fatal ice show.

A metallic shriek from MG-3's maw brought the three heroes back to the situation at hand as the SHIELD craft rejoined the trio, poised & ready for more.

The speakers on MG-3 come to life as the Skrull commander spoke from within.

"A valiant effort on your part, Avengers! I must congratulate you on your determination in attempting to stop us from getting vengeance & taking your planet as our own! But even you must realize it's all for naught: with us in full control of your Mechagodzillas, it will be only a matter of time before we call this place home! And the three of you alone will not stand a chance!"

"That's just the thing, Skrull…they're not alone!"

Captain America's voice came on over the Quinjet's own loud speakers as it, the Fantasti-Car, Thor, Vision, a fully-recovered Scarlet Witch & Hulk came in to rejoin Iron Man's party. Quicksilver, Yellowjacket & Wasp also return in all their glory.

Now back at full strength, Wanda contacted Nick Fury in the SHIELD craft.

"Director Fury, Agent Wilkins & his party in the other SHIELD craft, they…", she began in a solemn tone.

"We know, Miss Maximoff", Nick replied calmly. "We'll mourn for them later, I promise. For right now, let's go & finish this here fight in their honor."

"Copy that, Director", Vision says, turning to Wanda & sharing a nod with her.

The two Skrulls inside MG-3 couldn't believe what they were seeing.

"Impossible! You all should be nothing more than bad memories, made so by the other Mechagodzillas we've hijacked!", the Skrull commander said.

Now it was Reed Richards who spoke over the loud speakers of his Fantasti-Car.

"Like my family told you before, Skrull…your race will never have the Earth, so long as we're here protecting it from the likes of you! And just in case you're thinking you have the advantage over us because you're in possession of a Mechagodzilla, we should inform you that we have a Godzilla of our own!"

A boisterous roar echoed across Atlantic City, followed by thunderous footsteps: Godzilla raced across the city, pulverizing whatever was in his way as he headed directly for his third & final robot double. The Avengers, Fantastic Four & SHIELD gave him plenty of space to allow him to handle business his own way.

The final conflict was about to begin!

CHAPTER VII

Like a living bulldozer, Godzilla crashed into MG-3 as the machine staggered both it & the Skrull crew inside. MG-3 raked at the Monster King with its clawed hands, but they neither stopped nor slowed Godzilla's attack: the beast was enraged from getting assaulted by robotic versions of himself (ones that hurt him even more than the army, SHIELD or the Avengers & their friends), & he was determined to make this third machine pay for the anguish it'd caused him earlier.

And this time, he was going to do it alone.

Grabbing MG-3 by its right arm, Godzilla threw the machine over his shoulder as it soared through the air before MG-3 crashed into the Showboat complex, smashing it completely. Running across the landscape at speeds that belie his size, Godzilla rammed his full weight into MG-3, causing sparks to fly before the Monster King grabbed & threw his robot double into the buildings on the corner of S. States Avenue & Boardwalk, spilling debris onto the streets.

MG-3 used its Maser beam from its maw to get Godzilla off, but the creature ignored the blast & pain that came with it before shoving his enemy into the Taj Mahal buildings. A shower of concrete, steel & glass rained down upon both combatants as each structure collapsed under their tremendous weight. Godzilla then fired his heat ray directly at MG-3's chest, sending the robot careening into the Resorts Casino Hotel, pulverizing it completely & knocking down the machine on its side. With his enemy down, Godzilla went over & stepped on his foe repeatedly, followed by using his tail like a whip & slapping MG-3 with it.

Falcon landed in the Fantasti-Car & watched the battle with the others.

"Hey Cap, shouldn't we, like…try to somehow stop this?", he said into his comm.

"Honestly, Sam…I'm not sure we can", Cap replied in his ear. "Besides…I believe that Godzilla's earned himself some payback."

"And please don't worry about the people, Mr. Wilson…Yellowjacket, Wasp & I have seen to their safety", replied Quicksilver. "Those buildings are all but deserted."

"Great job on that, Speedy", Sam replied. "I never thought I'd be saying this, gang, but…I'm putting my money on Godzilla to win this!"

"You & us all, bird-boy!", Hawkeye said as Sam smirked.

Let him have it, Big Guy!, Ben thought, being for Godzilla than against him.

Within MG-3's cockpit, the two Skrulls were close to a full-blown panic as sparks were erupting everywhere & systems went haywire.

"Dammit, sir, he's still too strong!", cried the co-pilot. "If we don't do something soon…"

"Yes, I know!", said the commander. "But fortunately, we have one more move to deploy! Quick – get Godzilla off & away from us just long enough for us to commence with it!"

"Got it!"

As Godzilla was about to pound the machine with his tail again, MG-3 made its move: grabbing his tail as it came down, the robot snatched it in its hands before flipping Godzilla over & crashing with a thunderous thud. MG-3 rose to its full height, still holding Godzilla's tail before flinging the Monster King over to what remained of the Ocean Casino Hotel, flattening whatever was still left standing.

It gave the Skrulls time to do what they needed.

"Excellent!", the commander said, holding a square disc-shaped circuit board in his hand. "Here we go!

Inserting the circuit board within the control panel, the Skrull commander pressed the button to activate it. From all over MG-3, the machine began getting showered by electrical surges that occurred not only inside the machine, but also outside as electrical voltage could be seen dancing across its metallic surface. Everyone from General Ross to the Star-Spangled Avenger watched as MG-3 started being assaulted by some unknown force.

Even Godzilla stood & watched this strange metamorphosis once he rose up back on his feet.

"What's happening with that damn machine?", wondered Falcon.

"Let Rhodes & I run a scan on it", Iron Man said.

"I'll assist you as well, gentlemen", Vision said.

Using their advanced scanners, the trio of heroes begun searching for the interior of MG-3, looking for anything which is the cause of the robot's sudden power surge. They only get to searching for a couple seconds before they were all attacked by some unknown force that forced them to cry out & retreat.

"Vision? What is it?", Wanda asked.

"Some sort of firewall within MG-3's systems", Vision replied. "One which even I cannot penetrate."

"Same with Tony & myself, Vision!", Rhodes said. "Whatever's going on in that machine, they don't want any of us poking around!"

MG-3's power surge ceased as suddenly as it began, with all machinery back in perfect working order like it was never under assault to begin with.

From within the cockpit, a mechanical voice started speaking.

"Ah, thank you. I was beginning to get cramps, being stuck in that limited space in which I was imprisoned. It feels so good to be back & out in the world again. For that, I am in debt to you Skrulls for setting me free."

"Your proposal was too good to pass up", said the commander. "You said you would find us a way to get back here to the Earth, & you did."

"Indeed. And I see that you've attempted to hijack the three Mechagodzillas in order to defeat not only the real deal, but the Avengers as well. On that, you were successful…despite the fact that you've lost two of the robots."

"A minor technicality at best", said the co-pilot. "But even with one Mechagodzilla in our possession, we'll still be able to conquer the Earth! And once we do, we'll make an army of them to rule over this planet!"

"Exactly what I myself had in mind. However, there's been a slight change in plans."

"And what might that be, might I acquire?", asked the commander.

Without warning, a sharp metal spike shot up from behind each Skrull & impaled them in the back, their points going all the way through & emerging out of their chests. Looks of shock & surprise decorated the faces of both alien beings as emerald blood spewed from their wounds & mouths. They tried to reverse the process of putting their 'ally' back into containment, but the wound was fatal.

"Having lost two of the Mechagodzillas, you obviously cannot be trusted to continue being in control of this one", the voice continued. "But please don't fret: you've released me from my prison just as you said you would, & for that, I thank you. However…I can take things from here."

Once the voice stopped speaking, the two spikes that killed the Skrulls were retracted as their bodies slumped to the floor.

It was now time for this intruder to reveal itself.

On MG-3's exterior, the robot began sparking again as the Avengers & company became on their guard in case it began attacking once more. The yellow lights of MG-3 turned to a deep red & shined brighter than before, as a voice started speaking while its mouth moved in conjunction as it did so.

MG-3 stared curiously at the Avengers, Fantastic Four, SHIELD and Godzilla as if out of curiosity.

"How nice!", it said orally. "I had hoped for some kind of homecoming, & lo & behold…I receive one that defies all others! Hello, Avengers…believe it or not, it's so good to see you again!"

A sudden chill raced through each costumed/armored hero, which also includes Nick Fury, General Ross & their party.

"That voice…it just can't be!", said Thor.

"But it is, Thor!", said She-Hulk.

"ULTRON!", they all replied simultaneously.

"In the mechanical flesh!", Ultron says. "I'm touched how you remember my voice!"

A thought came to Colonel Schwartz, & he announced it over the SHIELD craft's loudspeakers.

"Now I get it…you were the 'secret admirer' the Skrulls mentioned earlier! It was you who wanted to get your filthy mitts on the Mechagodzillas!"

"You catch on fast, Colonel Schwartz!", Ultron said. "Yes, I made a pact with the Skrulls in order to go & get my mechanized hands on these beauties Tony Stark, SHIELD and the U.S. Army have all constructed! And even though I am now in control of only this Mechagodzilla, it's more than even I've ever hoped for!"

Ultron inspected himself in his brand-new body, as if really seeing himself for the first time.

"A most impressive design, gentlemen!", he says. "I must say…you've really outdone yourselves! It's like I was made for this body! You gentlemen have my deepest thanks!"

A sinister chuckle from Ultron put a scowl of loathing & disgust on everyone's faces, most notably Tony Stark, Nick Fury, General Ross & Colonel Schwartz, each one cursing themselves for never believing that even just one of their creations would fall into enemy hands, let alone one of those enemies fusing & becoming it.

"How is it you're even here, Ultron?!", Reed Richards asked.

"Yeah, tin-head!", Ben adds. "From what we've heard, you got your ass kicked by the Avengers in Slorenia not too long ago!"

"Perceptive as always, Dr. Richards, Mr. Grimm", Ultron says. "On the brink of my defeat there, I managed to haul away a small but vital piece of my consciousness up to the closest satellite orbiting the planet. From there, I stayed within its systems, remaining invisible & waited until the right moment – Colonel Schwartz's Mars Project. A month or two before they were to arrive upon the red planet, I managed to make contact with the closest Skrull ship that had yearned for revenge against Earth & its heroes. From there, I came into their computers & downloaded myself into one of their storage discs when they were close enough, but not before I informed them about the arrival of Schwartz's men to Mars – and of the Mechagodzillas that were built in order to get rid of Earth's greatest menace."

Ultron made a pose as if to cement his story.

"And lo & behold: here I am, fused with & in control of a body that I've always clamored for! A vast improvement over my original, wouldn't you agree? Mechagodzilla…or rather, MG Ultron! I very much love the sound of that!"

Captain America addressed MG Ultron from the Quinjet's loudspeakers.

"Ultron, no matter what body you might be in possession of, you'll never take over the Earth! We've beaten you before, you monster…and by all that's good & decent in the world, we're gonna do it again!"

"I doubt it, Captain!", MG Ultron says. "Now that I possess the body which I've always dreamed of having…"

As MG Ultron spoke, Godzilla lit up his dorsal fins to fire his heat ray. But he was too slow in unleashing it: MG Ultron quickly turned in his direction & shot forth a long cable that wrapped around his legs before he pulled upon his line, sweeping Godzilla off his feet as his heat ray was fired into the air, hitting nothing. Godzilla was taken by surprise by this maneuver, & now he was being dragged across the city as MG Ultron reels him in like a fish on a hook.

Once he was close enough, MG Ultron wrapped another cable around Godzilla's jaws, preventing him from firing his primary weapon again.

Having him snagged, MG Ultron pulled the Monster King up to his face as the creature struggled to get loose.

"Excuse me…I don't appreciate being interrupted when I'm making a speech!", the malevolent machine says as Godzilla stared back in total defiance. "I've got a good mind to execute you here & now, as you & the Avengers are the only things standing between me & conquest of the Earth!"

MG Ultron takes a quick look at the ruins of Atlantic City.

"But this is no longer a suitable playground", he says. "In order to showcase your imminent demise, we need to have a broader audience amid a high count of death and destruction…and I know just the place to stage it!"

The metal monster turns to the Avengers.

"Feel free to stop us if you can!", MG Ultron says, letting out a maniacal laugh before activating the jets on his back & legs. Wrapping & securing Godzilla closely, MG Ultron takes off before any of the heroes could even begin to halt his progress.

It didn't stop the Hulk, however: running after the escaping monsters, the Green Goliath roared in anger before leaping in the direction of MG Ultron & his prized catch.

Quicksilver also took off, disappearing from sight before anyone could speak to him.

"We need to find out where they're going, Cap…fast!", Yellowjacket said as he & Wasp flew up to the Quinjet & entered, returning to normal size once they do.

"I know, Hank!", Captain America said, getting on the radio. "Fury, General, I've got a calculation on our radar to pinpoint where MG Ultron might take Godzilla to!"

It was Alexander Pierce that answered.

"As do we, Captain!", Pierce says, viewing the radar in the SHIELD craft. "MG Ultron is currently heading in a mostly northern direction which, if he doesn't alter his course suddenly, should take him right up to…oh my god."

Fury, Ross, Schwartz & the rest look at the radar to see where MG Ultron is heading, & they get an even colder chill running through their body.

It was the same feeling Captain America & the Avengers in the Quinjet were getting.

"What is it? Somebody talk to us!", War Machine says.

"Everyone head for Manhattan!", Captain America bellowed. "That's exactly where MG Ultron is heading!"

The news hit them like a slap in the face, but they regained their composure & took off in hot pursuit, going on all thrusters as they race over to the Big Apple.

"General Ross, better get the mayor on the line!", Pierce said. "New York needs to know just what's coming their way! An early warning means a much swifter evacuation!"

Ross didn't argue or complain: he got on his phone & dialed a number immediately.

With everyone on full throttle, they raced to stop a catastrophe the city of New York hasn't witnessed since that fateful day of September 11th, 2001, as Al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four planes & had two of them crash intentionally into the World Trade Center, destroying both structures as they came tumbling down in piles of rubble that took months to clear away.

Now that nightmare could possibly be repeated as a pair of monsters – one organic, the other mechanical – are on a direct course to the Big Apple.

The very thought of deja-vu happening all over again gave everyone the willies.

Fighting the fear & dread, they raced on.

Manhattan, 5:15 p.m.:

Like any major metropolitan city in America, New York was a bustle of activity, especially when the weekend is upon its citizens: families going to open marketplaces & kiddie areas for the children, couples attending restaurants for the finest cuisine from Italian to Japanese, food stands for a quick bite of a hot dog or pizza, & night clubs for all those who need a little night life action, some of which begin their business at noon & lasting into the wee hours of morning.

But also like any major city, New York is riddled with those who clamor for more freedom than the law allows.

Even during the daytime, New York is a dangerous place for the people, both natives & tourists: in alleyways, a desperate person can snatch someone off the streets without anyone even noticing or caring before they get a knife or gun pulled on them, demanding they hand over all their money & other valuables lest they get stuck or shot.

Yet, even those that prey upon the innocent need to watch out for those that prey on them.

Such is the case between two buildings on between 38th & 39th Streets just off on 6th Avenue where a black man in his early 30s wearing a black bomber jacket, pants, shoes & ski mask that was lifted from his face was suspended in mid-air by what appeared to be a tangle of spider webs that have him in a stretched-out position, his arms spread like an airplane's & his legs opened slightly. He was about 25 feet off the ground, looking face-down. And he wasn't alone: a pair of figures were accompanying him as one stood on the ledge of a windowsill, dressed in red from head to toe, his mouth, chin & nose the only visible flesh. He stood 5 feet, 11 inches tall, sporting small horns on the top of his head, a billy club in his hand & the double D on his chest. His partner stood just an inch shorter, wearing a red & blue costume with black markings that resembled spider webs. A large red spider was adorned on his back, with a smaller black spider emblem on his chest. The eyes on his mask were large, oval-shaped & white with black outlines.

They were two of New York's top crimefighters.

Daredevil, the Man Without Fear, & the Friendly-Neighborhood Spider-Man, the latter being adhered to the wall by his hands & feet – one of his natural abilities.

And the hoodlum was staring at both.

"Now, let me see if I got this straight", Spider-Man began. "You were down on your luck & short on cash, so you asked a nice old lady to see if she could spare you some money for a ride home…and even get yourself a bite to eat, am I right?"

"Y-Yeah, that's just what I did, man!", the hoodlum said. "All I wanted was just a few bucks to get home, & even get something to fill my stomach! That's the truth, man! Honest!"

"Let me ask you something", Daredevil says. "Do you always ask for money from sweet old ladies when putting a knife to their throats, demanding that they give up the cash?"

The red-clad vigilante held up the knife he & Spider-Man took from him.

"Yo man, I ain't never seen that knife before in my life, man!", the hoodlum says.

"It has your name carved into its handle…Harold", Daredevil reminds & shows him.

"And that's also what your own ID says…Harold", Spider-Man says, showing him his own card with his picture on it.

Harold smiled sheepishly, thinking of a way out of his predicament.

"Well shit, man! How did that happen?", he says, trying to feign ignorance. "And where'd my ID come from? I could've sworn that I left them both at home, man!"

Daredevil & Spider-Man faced each other for a moment before turning back to Harold. While Spidey's face was unreadable due to the mask, Harold could tell that he was unhappy with his babbling.

Spider-Man extended himself until he was inches from Harold's face, making the hoodlum nervous.

"Listen, 'man'!", the Web-Slinger says. "You're not doing a very good job of convincing us that your story's on the level, so here's what it's coming down to: either you tell us the actual truth of what happened before with that sweet old lady you threatened with your knife, & we'll haul you off to the police station! But if you continue to lie your way out of this like you've been doing, then you're going to have a very nasty fall once my webbing dissolves…and it's a long way down!"

Spider-Man takes a quick look at his watch on his right wrist.

"Because according to my watch, Harold, your time's just about…", Spidey started to say.

"Honest, man, I didn't…", Harold began to say.

"Up…or should I say down?", Spidey finished.

As Harold was talking to prove his innocence, Spider-Man's webbing had dissolved as the hoodlum plummeted 25 feet to street level, crashing into a pile of black garbage bags. Harold let out a grunt as the wind got knocked out of him before he went limp & slipped out of consciousness.

From above, Spider-Man & Daredevil looked at each other, feeling a pinch of pity for the hoodlum.

"Well…I tried to warn him", the Wall-Crawler said.

"I guess he was more afraid of the truth than he was of us", Daredevil said with a smile.

"You know, Horn-Head, sometimes I just can't figure out why guys like Harold are scared to tell us the truth when they know they've done something wrong."

"It's a big mystery, Webs…even to me. And I'm a well-known lawyer in my day job."

"What's so difficult to understand? Many of these lowlife crooks are always blaming guys like us for the way we treat them because we stop them from hurting the good people of this city. If they don't want to be abused by us, there's a very simple solution…stop being crooks! It's really that easy! Then again, to quote Wile E. Coyote, 'Why must they always want to do it the hard way'?"

Daredevil didn't provide Spider-Man with an answer, but he does grin.

Just then, the warning siren started blaring all over the city, a blaring noise that was impossible to ignore for more reason other than its boisterous volume. Daredevil clutched his ears from the abrupt sound, giving himself a few seconds to adjust as Spider-Man went to his side.

"I-I'm all right!", Daredevil assured him.

"What's going on here, DD? Are we at war all of a sudden?", Spidey asked, raising his voice to be heard over the noise.

The blaring sound lasted for several moments before it ceased, replaced by the mayor's voice.

"Attention, citizens of New York! This is Mayor Bloomberg speaking! We've just received confirmation that the monster known as Godzilla is heading directly towards Manhattan as we speak! I repeat, the monster called Godzilla is making his way to Manhattan even now! All citizens are urged to evacuate immediately! This is not a drill, I repeat, this is not a drill! Everyone is to take shelter over to Long Island & New Jersey to those closest to their borders, while everyone else should use underground subways & shopping centers to perform the swiftest evacuation possible!"

Even as Mayor Bloomberg spoke, New Yorkers were already getting themselves up & running when even the mere mentioning of Godzilla reached their ears. Grabbing their loved ones & some of their personal belongings, they'd hightailed their way to the nearest safety zone, using exactly what Mayor Bloomberg suggest they use to get there.

The news was also a stunned for Spider-Man & Daredevil, as the name of Godzilla was familiar even to them.

"Did the mayor just say that Godzilla was coming?!", Spider-Man asked his friend. "As in, the same Godzilla which attacked the City of Brotherly Love just three days ago, like I've read in the Daily Bugle?!"

"I'm afraid so, Spidey!", Daredevil says. "I've also been reading up on the situation over at my firm! The army & SHIELD were supposed to have dealt with him over in New Jersey with the 'Mechagodzillas' they've constructed to deal with the monster once & for all!"

"Looks like even they weren't enough to finish the job, Horn-Head! And now he's heading here, with New York in the midst of a vast evacuation! That's over three million people! We'll never get everybody out in time!"

"Maybe we can! There's somebody we both know of that can help make the evacuation even swifter…one who can make people vanish to safety as if by…"

"By magic!", Spidey finished, getting the idea. "Of course! If anyone can assist us in that & make it happen, he could! You, er, wouldn't happen to have his phone number on hand, would you?"

Daredevil smiled & fished into his pocket.

"As a matter of fact…", he says, taking out his cell phone.

"Perfect!", Spider-Man said. "You're going to have to do some multi-tasking, DD: we've got a very big job ahead of us…with a real strong emphasis on the 'big' part!"

Nodding, Daredevil points his billy club to shoot a line at the nearest building while Spider-Man used his web shooters to do the same before swinging away to perform their duties. In each hero, a strong sense of dread overcame them: they've always feared that a day like this would come to their city.

Today was that day.

Ignoring their fears, Spider-Man & Daredevil did their duties like they normally would.

Each one said a silent prayer.

Twenty minutes later:

New York's evacuation was still in full swing: people were heading over the connecting bridges to Long Island & New Jersey despite the thick traffic on each one, with vehicles stuck in the middle of the road.

Seeing they were getting nowhere, people began abandoning their vehicles & went on foot.

Quicksilver arrived almost immediately after Mayor Bloomberg's message to the city & began getting citizens out of the city in a literal blur of movement, doing so with those who were having the most difficulty evacuating the Big Apple. Having been in contact with Spider-Man & Daredevil, Quicksilver was informed of their special ally that can get people to safety almost as fast as he could.

Hearing the plan, Quicksilver raced to get people inside the underground shelters as swiftly as possible as their ally took over from there.

From overhead, MG Ultron flew directly for the city with Godzilla still wrapped in his cables, who struggled to get himself out during the whole trip, but to no avail: every time he tried, MG Ultron gave the Monster King a literal shock to his system with an electrical jolt.

It slowed Godzilla's attempts, but it didn't stop him from trying again repeatedly.

Even now, he tried again, only this time he did so in his fiercest attempt.

"Still at it, I see!", MG Ultron says. "You really are such a stubborn creature, even more so than those accursed Avengers! But you can cease your pathetic struggling, as we've now arrived at our destination! Now let's see…which will be the area where we can begin my planned execution upon you?"

Studying a digital map of the city, MG Ultron searched for the place he wished to begin the demonstration of his newfangled body & abilities for Godzilla's public execution.

It didn't take him long to find it.

"Ah…that will be perfect!", MG Ultron said, descending into the city amid fleeing citizens.

Plummeting from the air, MG Ultron had literally crashed into the Paramount Tower & the surrounding structures, demolishing them from the top on down, spilling debris onto the streets. A handful of people were snatched from the Grim Reaper as Quicksilver moved each one out of harm's way. Each one thanked him for coming to their rescue.

Nodding, Quicksilver resumed his duties.

Unleashing Godzilla from his cables & retracting them, MG Ultron rose up from the ruined building as Godzilla did the same. Both monstrous combatants stared at one another as Godzilla surged with deep loathing at his third/final robot double.

Over on the corner of 39th Street & Second Avenue, the Daily Bugle stood proud as its founder & publisher J. Jonah Jameson was busy dispatching photographers to get pictures of the oncoming arrival of Godzilla. Just about all had left the building to perform their duties, leaving only a small skeleton crew behind that includes Editor-In-Chief Joseph 'Robbie' Robertson & Jameson himself as both men remain in his office.

"This is the biggest story to hit New York since the Twin Towers had been, Robbie!", Jameson says. "Godzilla in Manhattan will make front-page headlines for our paper, & I've dispatched all of our photographers to get the best shots of the monster's approach! All except for Parker, the lazy good-for-nothing…never around when you need him, that little punk!"

"Relax, Jonah", Robbie said. "I've just got off the phone with Peter, & he says he's right on top of things. He'll get the most spectacular pics for us like he always does."

"He'd better, if he wants to keep his…what the hell's that noise?"

Jameson & Robbie listened to the sound of approaching engines as they grew louder & louder before they were replaced by a crashing sound that shook the complex & nearly them off their feet.

"That sounded nearby, Robbie! In fact, it sounded just next door to us!", Jonah says.

"Let's check it out!", Robbie said.

Both men raced over to the window to the corner of 36th Street & Second Avenue to see that the Paramount Tower & its surrounding structures were pulverized by two large forces: one organic, the other mechanical. Both figures rise up to face each other, ready to do battle.

J. Jonah Jameson & Joe 'Robbie' Robertson could hardly believe it.

"Godzilla!", they both cried out.

"Where are those blasted photographers?!", Jonah fumed. "What do I pay them for?! Ah, never mind: I'll take the goddamn pictures myself! Where's a camera?!"

As Jameson rambled, MG Ultron made a speech of his own.

"And now that we have arrived at my place of choosing, it is now the time for everybody in the world to see for themselves who is really 'King of the Monsters'! That is a title in which I will claim for myself once I…one moment, if you please."

MG Ultron's speech was interrupted by the rants & ravings of a man's voice just across the street. Both monsters turn to see a single human in a white dress shirt, tan vest & green tie with a head of short-cropped black hair that were white on the sides & sporting a Hitler-like moustache. He was halfway out the window, his fist clenched & shaking.

Godzilla took a few steps closer to Jameson as he rambled on, while Robertson took cover & left the room.

"Hey, you big rejects from the Mesozoic!", Jonah bellowed. "You both got some nerve crashing into my city & causing thousands in property damage! Who the hell's going to pay for it all?! What gives you the right to go romping & stomping in the Big Apple – home of the Yankees & Mets, the Jets & Giants, the Islanders & Rangers, the Knicks & Nets?! What, you think you own the place or something?! If only you were my size, I'd give both you assholes such a thrashing you'd never forget for as long as you…"

Godzilla reared his head back in a display to shoot his heat ray & fry the annoying creature.

"oh shit", Jonah said in a small voice, his eyes agape.

Thrusting his head forward, Godzilla does fire at him, but instead of his primary weapon, he blasts a powerful shot of hot air at the newspaper publisher, throwing him & several pieces of furniture across into the wall.

Irritating as the human was, Godzilla didn't think it was worth frying to a crisp.

"Thank you", MG Ultron says as Godzilla turns back to his robotic foe. "He truly is such an annoying gnat, isn't he? Now, where were we? Oh yes…"

With a swiftness that belied his size, MG Ultron had buffeted Godzilla in the chin, the blow sending him soaring through the air & into the apartment complex buildings, crushing them underneath his weight before crashing into the buildings between East 40th & 41st Streets. MG Ultron ran after him as their brawl gets officially underway.

Robbie re-entered the room Godzilla trashed with his breath & went over to a desk knocked onto its side.

"Okay Jonah, you can come out now. They're both gone", he says.

J. Jonah Jameson peered out from behind the desk he took refuge in, his face a mask of utter fright & his hair in a mess.

"are you sure?", he asked in a small voice.

Despite the surprise attack on him, Godzilla retaliated by actually firing his heat ray as MG Ultron grabbed his enemy's head & shoved it to one side, the projectile hitting instead the YAI-Headquarters building, blasting it to rubble & sending pieces of debris flying everywhere. Landing a punch to Godzilla's face, MG Ultron now hits his foe with his Maser beam from his maw, hitting him in the face, neck & chest. The Monster King roared his displeasure before he snatched MG Ultron by the wrist & used his leg to place on his chest. With all his might, Godzilla shoved his enemy as hard as he could, sending him crashing into buildings between 40th & 41st Streets, demolishing each one into rubble that spilled onto the streets.

MG Ultron didn't stop until he crashed into the buildings on the west side of 3rd Avenue.

Having gotten himself some breathing space, Godzilla got up & charged his foe as he finished off the structures MG Ultron began destroying.

"Insolent creature!", the metal madman says, rising from his bed of rubble. "I will make certain your death is a long & painful one before I finish you off by…"

MG Ultron's tirade was interrupted by Godzilla slamming into his metal enemy, grabbing him by the chest & giving him a hard shove into several buildings. Each one gets knocked down in piles of concrete, steel & glass as both monsters thrash madly at one another, their tails & arms also causing great destruction to the city.

Godzilla finally stops when he crashed MG Ultron into the Michael McTernan-Morgan Stanley building.

The entire structure came tumbling down on his robotic foe like a house of cards.

Godzilla let loose with his heat ray at the spot where his enemy was buried under, not taking any chances.

A fiery holocaust erupted as flames engulfed where MG Ultron fell.

However powerful the attack was, it still wasn't enough: MG Ultron emerged from the burning rubble & attacked Godzilla with a barrage of left & right hooks, with Godzilla retaliating by raking at MG Ultron with his claws, followed by a strong buffet with his tail that sent the machine flying across the city in a diagonal manner, going from 40th Street over to 39th, 38th, & so on.

Quicksilver ran into & snatched people left & right to prevent them from becoming casualties, while Spider-Man & Daredevil were seeing if there was anyone stuck on the higher levels of buildings, unable to get down fast enough or on their own power.

One sight gave both swinging heroes the chills: a group of people were trapped in one of the buildings Godzilla & his robotic enemy damaged in the center, threatening to tumble over like a tree. They were on the top floors, & one of these people is blind, unable to see what was causing the destruction or anything else.

Daredevil & Spider-Man raced to their rescue.

"Don't jump! Whatever you do, don't jump!", Spider-Man cried out, urging the people to stay where they are.

Shooting webs from his free hand, the Wall-Crawler snatched each one into a close bundle before carefully but quickly escorting them down to street level & away from the danger. Daredevil took hold of the blind man, cane & all.

Snagging a line on a nearby building, both heroes swing to safety with the would-be victims.

"What's going on here, sir? What's happening?", the blind man says as Daredevil carried him off.

The red-clad hero probably thought the man was inside a room that blocked out the majority of sounds, explaining why he obviously didn't hear Mayor Bloomberg's warning. Either that or it was too muffled for him to hear.

"The worst, friend. The absolute worst", Daredevil tells him in the quickest way.

Both heroes manage to find a subway entrance for the people to get into as Spider-Man used a mini spray to get his rescued party out of their webs before asking them to guide the blind man down. One woman in the group says that she would do it, & down they went.

With them to safety, Spider-Man & Daredevil took to the air on their lines again to see who else needed saving.

Finally arriving over the skies in the Big Apple, the Avengers, Fantastic Four & Nick Fury & his party inside the SHIELD craft, the group sees Godzilla & MG Ultron in a fierce fight as buildings get pulverized in their path. And in the direction they're currently going, what awaited in their path chilled their bodies.

Godzilla & MG Ultron were heading for the Empire State Building!

"Holy shit!", Alexander Pierce says, staring out of the cockpit window. "Director Fury, are they really heading where I think they're heading?!"

"They sure as blazes are, Pierce!", Fury says, facing his agents. "Hill, Dugan, Jones…get our asses over there & stop those two from so much as getting near that structure! And get this straight, people: if that pile of concrete, glass & steel comes tumbling down…none of you all are ever gonna hear the end of it!"

Racing to their positions, Agent Hill flew in as close as she dared as Dugan & Jones got on the craft's artillery & started blazing away at MG Ultron, giving Godzilla some cover while also keeping him away from New York's famous landmark. The Avengers & Fantastic Four felt the same way as they themselves see the destination the two creatures are heading.

"Look at that, Reed! MG Ultron & Godzilla are caught in a really fierce tussle!", Ben says.

"That they are, Ben – with the Empire State Building caught right in their path!", Reed says.

"We need to break it up at all costs, Reed!", Captain America says in the Quinjet. "Thor – get ahead & see if you can split those two apart!"

"Aye! 'Tis a fine strategy, Captain!", Thor replied, using Mjolnir to fly him ahead & aim for MG Ultron's head.

Something else came at said mechanical enemy before Thor could land the first blow: a large emerald object had crashed into MG Ultron's side, the blow strong enough to break up him & Godzilla from their vehement brawl.

MG Ultron looks to see the Hulk on his right shoulder, pounding away at the metal monster with his fists so hard, each blow could actually be felt by the Avengers' deadly enemy. The Hulk manages to get in several good blows before MG Ultron plucked the Green Goliath with his left fingers before grabbing him in his right hand. A face of utter rage stared back at the metal monster.

"Friend of yours?", MG Ultron asked Godzilla before throwing the Hulk away like he was a baseball.

The momentum from MG Ultron's throw made Hulk smash through several buildings, leaving holes in each one he crashes into, traveling up many blocks unto he stops when he reached the tower in between West 56th & 57th Streets. From there he plummets to ground level, destroying the entire building as it collapsed onto the Hulk exactly as the Twin Towers themselves did, kicking up a cloud of dust & showering the streets of concrete, steel & glass.

Iron Man, War Machine, Falcon, Daredevil & Spider-Man all raced over to the spot where the Green Goliath had made his last stop at, with the Armored Avenger using built-in fans to blow away the dust & smoke, sending it skywards.

"Damn, Tony!", War machine says. "You think even he could survive an entire building getting dropped right on his head?"

Stark didn't have an answer to give him or anyone else: he was wondering himself if the Hulk could live through such an experience, tough as he is.

Before anybody could say anything, the ground started to rumble as debris shifted & spewed from underneath as the Hulk literally punched his way out from beneath the rubble & surfaced like he was swimming. Shaking himself off of debris & dust, the Hulk looked around to see the heroes staring at him before peering in another direction.

"Hey, big guy…you okay?", Daredevil asked.

Then the Hulk saw something that made his blood boil & rage rise as he gritted his teeth & scowled in pure hate.

Only several feet away was a piece of building that survived the crash: a piece that had five letters on it.

It said 'TRUMP': the entire structure of Trump Tower was dropped on the Hulk.

Grabbing an abandoned car, the Hulk went over to where the name was still intact & began pounding on it with all his might, literally shaking the ground while he does so. He does so repeatedly with an angry roar until the name was no more than shattered pieces before tossing the wrecked vacant car away in the pile. His oversized foot crashed onto the remains of the letter P.

"Hulk trumps Trump!", he growled before getting back on 5th Avenue & running towards the enemy once again.

The other heroes watched him go before Spider-Man turned to see the ruins of the once-proud structure.

"Wow! The owner of this building is going to be super-pissed!", the Web-Slinger says.

Iron Man, War Machine & Falcon turned to face him.

"The guy's an asshole!", Iron man said.

"Yeah, fuck him!", War Machine & Falcon said in unison, each one giving the pile of rubble the finger before the three heroes took off into the skies once more.

Daredevil & Spider-man face each other as the former smirked amusingly & did an 'oh well' gesture with his hands. Spider-Man does the same before they re-enter the battle.

Nearby the Empire State Building:

Even as Iron Man, War Machine & Falcon went to where the Hulk was thrown, the others made a full-scale attack on MG Ultron, hitting him with everything that they got: lasers, machine guns, missiles, bombs, everything except the proverbial kitchen sink. Godzilla himself also joined in on the melee, hitting MG Ultron with his heat ray, pushing him back & away from the Empire State Building, even though saving the world-famous structure was the farthest thing on Godzilla's mind.

But none of the Avengers, Fantastic Four or Nick Fury's party were going to look a gift horse in the mouth: with Godzilla battling with them instead of against them, they will take all the assistance they can get – even from a powerful entity like Godzilla.

And against Ultron, they'll need all the help they can get.

A powerful hit from Thor's Mjolnir staggers MG Ultron as the sound clanged louder than any bell that chimed previously, causing the robot monster to almost lose his balance. Vision added to the chaos by ramming himself straight into the machine, his body hard as diamond before unleashing his eye lasers that streaked across his armor. The Human Torch spewed streams of his hottest flames at MG Ultron that left scorch marks, with Scarlet Witch using her powers to pick up the largest pieces of rubble & throw them at the rogue machine. They were powerful enough to embed them into his armor, causing damage.

Reed Richards, She-Hulk & Thing each used high-powered rifles to fire away at MG Ultron, with the returning Iron Man, War Machine & Falcon giving their air support as the robotic enemy gets bombarded everywhere by SHIELD agents, superheroes & mutant dinosaur alike. From the ground, the Hulk used whatever he could get his hands on to throw with powerful arms, hitting his target head-on every time.

"Excellent!", General Ross says in the SHIELD craft. "We've got him away from the Empire State, & now we're giving him a severe pounding! Let's keep it up, folks!"

"You heard the man, people!", Nick Fury said. "Don't give MG Ultron a chance to gather his wits! Remember: he's a lot more than just a simple machine!"

"Copy that, Director!", Gabe Jones said, with Dum Dum Dugan & Maria Hill replying in a similar manner.

"That's it, Avengers!", Captain America said in the Quinjet. "Keep pressing on: give Godzilla all the assist you can! Remember: until Ultron is defeated, we're working with the giant lizard this time, not against him!"

Replies of affirmation from his teammates came in over the radio & comms.

"Cap, I'm definitely all for beating Ultron again, don't get me wrong!", Hawkeye said. "The only thing that's on my mind is…how do we deal with Godzilla after Ultron is taken care of?"

"We can worry about that again once Ultron's brought down, Clint!", Black Widow says.

"The Widow is correct!", Black Panther said. "Like the Captain mentioned in Atlantic City, Godzilla is the lesser of two evils we are faced with! In fact…I'm starting to see Godzilla as not evil, period, but as an animal safeguarding his territory from true evil, such as Ultron!"

"Besides, Clint…has Steve ever steered us wrong before?", asked Janet.

Hawkeye looked at Captain America before answering.

"No, Janet…not once since he became a member of this team!", he replied, getting grins from everyone.

Including Captain America.

Thank you, Clint!, Steve thought.

Their joyous moment & current triumph ended when MG Ultron bellowed in anger.

"ENOUGH!"

In a desperate strike, MG Ultron opened his chest port & shot Godzilla with his 3-Way Maser – the weapon which replaced the Absolute Zero Cannon should it ever get damaged in battle. The hit slammed Godzilla in his own chest & pushed him into the Langham building, completely destroying it under his bulk. Next, the machine turned on each of the flying aircraft, striking them all underneath their hulls with the Maser beam from his maw.

While the hits didn't cause their crafts to explode in mid-air, they did cause them to lose power.

"Dammit!", Agent Hill cursed.

"What happened, Hill?! Talk to me!", Fury demanded.

"MG Ultron knocked out our power, sir! I can't even steer this damn thing!"

"And we're not the only ones with that problem, Director!", Colonel Schwartz said, peering out the window. "It seems the heroes are in the same predicament as we are!"

"Somebody do something before we crash, dammit!", Fury barked.

The SHIELD craft jolted to a stop before they began leveling out & remained airborne, heading north of the city.

"Does somebody need a lift?", Iron Man announced over the comms.

"Stark?", replied General Ross.

"That's me! Relax, General…Rhodes & I will be your guides as we take you all over to a nice wide-open space!"

"Central Park?", Nick Fury guessed.

"You've read my mind again, Director! Have you been studying with Doctor Strange by chance?"

Nick Fury smirked at Stark's little joke.

"I don't go too much for that hocus pocus malarkey, Stark!", he said, being all business again. "But we will need something of a magic trick or two to help us deal with MG Ultron here!"

"First things first, Director!", War Machine says.

The SHIELD Director didn't argue: their craft was out of commission & can't fly on its own, so they allowed the armored heroes to carry them over to New York's famed open area. Scarlet Witch did the same with the Fantasti-Car, while Thor & Vision did so with the Avengers' Quinjet. The Invisible Woman used her barrier to shield each craft from MG Ultron's Maser beam weapon, who attempted to strike down each fallen aircraft – and would've succeeded were it not for Susan Richards.

In no time, they were all out of range from MG Ultron's Maser.

The renegade robot launched himself in the air, only to be snagged by Godzilla in mid-air as the Monster King grabbed his tail & pulled him down to the ground, crushing an apartment complex on the corner of 38th Street & Sixth Avenue. Godzilla then fired his heat ray at his robotic enemy, making the metal shower with sparks. MG Ultron swiftly rose from the ground & landed a swinging blow to Godzilla across his face, dazing him as the Monster King saw stars in his vision temporarily before MG Ultron grabbed him by the throat with his right hand.

Godzilla tried getting himself free, but MG Ultron's grip was too strong even for him.

"You & I are not even close to being done!", MG Ultron says to his face as Godzilla grits his teeth in anger. "We still have a duel to attend, & we're going to have one without Avengers interference! Luckily, I know just the way to keep those infernal heroes off our backs as we go one-on-one!"

Using his jets once more, MG Ultron gets airborne again while still holding Godzilla by his right hand as he now heads over to where the heroes were all gathering.

Central Park.

Vision & Thor gently place the Avengers' Quinjet down on the northwest side of the Sheep Meadows area of the famed park, near West Drive. Scarlet Witch does the same with the Fantasti-Car as Iron Man & War Machine both do so with the SHIELD craft. The Hulk arrived to rejoin with his teammates, shaking the ground as he landed.

"Is everyone all right?", Vision asked.

"We're still in one piece if that's what you're asking, Viz", said Hank Pym.

"We've had better landings, but then again…any kind of landing you can walk away from is a good one. Thanks, Witchy!", said Ben as Wanda smiled & nodded.

Daredevil & Spider-Man also joined with the others.

Everyone spilled out of the Fantasti-Car & Avengers Quinjet to regroup.

"Glad to see everybody present & accounted for!", Spider-Man said.

"Almost everyone", said Human Torch as he landed & doused his flames. "Has anybody seen Quicksilver?"

"No doubt he's continuing to rescue civilians from the area", Daredevil says. "I'm sure he'll be joining us soon as he can."

Nick Fury's voice suddenly came over their comms.

"Folks? Not that we're ungrateful, but could one of you heroes kindly help us with the door on our craft? It's jammed on the fricking outside!"

The SHIELD craft's door gets literally torn off by the Hulk, tossing it aside & staring at Fury & all the bewildered passengers as they stare back at the Green Goliath Golem-like face.

Some even cringed at his appearance.

"Everybody out!", the Hulk said in a voice that bore no argument.

One by one, Nick Fury & his squadron exited the craft, each carrying weapons the interior held. Dum Dum Dugan & Gabe Jones were the ones who actually shriveled from the sight of the muscled green monster & quickly departed.

Maria Hill & Alexander Pierce were actually intrigued by the Hulk, & they walk past him without fear.

But when General Ross & Colonel Schwartz exited, the Hulk actually grumbled softly under his breath as both men kept their composure even under the hard look they received. The Hulk had good reason to have no love of either men from the U.S. Army: it's people like them who have hounded & hunted the Hulk everywhere since his debut in the world, always wanting to put him down like a mad dog when all the Hulk ever wants is to be left alone.

Alexander Pierce helped defuse the situation before it could get out of hand.

"Hulk, it's okay", he says in a calm voice, his hands raised in a gesture of surrender. "These men are on your side this time, I promise."

With a 'come here' gesture from his left hand, Pierce urged Ross & Schwartz to calmly walk away.

"Come on, Thaddeus…just walk away", Schwartz says calmly. "He isn't the enemy right now."

"Yeah, I know, Julius", Ross says grudgingly but calmly.

"Cap, while it's good to see everybody safe & sound, we still have ourselves a big problem…with more than just MG Ultron!", said Hawkeye.

"Clint's right, Cap!", said Black Widow. "Our best chance of beating MG Ultron have just all been shot down & left all but inoperable, & it'll take too long to get another Quinjet in time! And not all of us can fly on our own power!"

"We'll do what we can with what we have, Natasha…like always!", Captain America said, readying his shield. "If I know Ultron like I think I do, he'll come over to us to try & finish us off like the egomaniac that he is! That's when we'll launch our attack once he gets close enough to…"

MG Ultron appeared over the skies via his jets as he still holds Godzilla firmly in his hand, interrupting Captain America's plan of action. The Monster King struggled in his grip but was still unable to free himself.

The improved/advanced version of Ultron stared down at the surviving heroes in Sheep Meadow.

"Sometimes, Cap, I hate it when you're right!", Iron Man says.

"Ah, ever the strategic planner, Captain!", MG Ultron says. "But while utterly destroying you all by my own two hands is overly tempting, I've already got myself a sparring partner…as you can clearly see! But you needn't worry: I have multiple opponents that will keep each & every one of you quite busy in the meantime! Permit me to show you all what I mean!"

From the sides of MG Ultron, ports opened up to dispense a plethora of flying objects that headed straight for the heroes in Sheep Meadow. Everybody got themselves in a fighting stance as these new enemies came closer. As they did, they can make them out clearer in shape & form, & it was terrifying: each one was in the shape of Mechagodzilla 3, only at about over 6 feet tall in height, with some even slightly bigger.

"Whoa! And thought 'The Terminator' was scary!", Spider-Man says.

"James Cameron probably never envisioned it like this, kid!", Iron Man said. "Look alive, everybody!"

"You heard the man, people!", Captain America says, ready to deliver his famous line. "Avengers…assemble!"

All costumed heroes readied themselves for the inevitable showdown, with Nick Fury, General Ross & their group doing the same, unslinging their guns & aiming them at the oncoming metal swarm of Mechagodzillas.

A chorus of roars from the oncoming machines created a cacophony of metal screeching as they arrived in the area of Central Park.

Captain America & company charged themselves.

The battle was joined!

CHAPTER VIII

Bella Abzug Park:

Having dispensed of his miniature minions, MG Ultron flew Godzilla over to the city's west coast before they crashed into Bella Abzug Park, shaking the area with their impact. MG Ultron finally released Godzilla from his grip as both combatants stare at one another.

"There…that's much better, wouldn't you agree?", MG Ultron says. "It's now just the two of us: no superheroes or SHIELD to screw us over in our bout to determine who is more worthy to carry the title 'King of the Monsters'! So, what say you, Godzilla: care to test your might and mettle up against a real opponent?"

Godzilla's answer was a shot of his heat ray at MG Ultron, who dodged the blast before charging into the Monster King & knocking him into the buildings between West 34th Street & the High Line/West 30th Street. Each skyscraper is demolished by the dueling monsters as they trade blows left & right, spilling concrete, steel & glass down onto the streets as a few patrons still scramble to escape the terror that came to their home. MG Ultron has unleashed his Maser beam from his mouth, striking Godzilla in the chest & causing him to bellow out in pain. With his right hand, he pushed away his enemy's head & sent the beam shooting into nearby buildings, spraying debris everywhere.

Having his enemy closer, Godzilla shot forth his own heat ray at MG Ultron, forcing him to back away before he charged into him & collided with the Equinox Hudson Yards & its accompanying building, pulverizing both to rubble.

They went onto the corner of West 34th Street & Eleventh Avenue, MG Ultron's tail causing only slight damage over at the Jacob Javits Center. Dodging a rake of Godzilla's left hand, the metal monster makes contact with his foe's face from a rake of his own, causing cuts on Godzilla's face before kicking the Monster King with his right foot. The blow sent Godzilla careening & destroying the Hudson 36 building & causing damage to the surrounding structures.

Making a leap in the air, MG Ultron came crashing down upon Godzilla as he rose to get back up on his feet, & was clobbered by both feet of his mechanical enemy, throwing him over to the PABT Ramp, flattening it between West 39th & 41st Streets. MG Ultron leaped over to his fallen foe & gets buffeted by Godzilla's tail in a blow that staggered him before the Monster King does so again, followed by four more times.

On the seventh attempt, MG Ultron managed to snatch Godzilla's tail in his hands.

"A nice counterattack, I must say!", MG Ultron says. "But let us not forget, Godzilla: While you have the combo of rage & brute strength on your side, I am equipped with something that dinosaurs like yourself have never been in possession of…intelligence!"

Lifting Godzilla up by his own tail, MG Ultron threw him over to the building between 44th & 45th Streets, hitting it head-first before it collapsed onto the mutant saurian. Godzilla gets buried underneath tons of concrete, steel & glass before rising up from the smoke & dust cloud, trying to find his robotic adversary in the vague mist he was surrounded with.

Unfortunately for Godzilla, MG Ultron finds the Monster King first thanks to his enhanced vision, enabling him to see through the dust/smoke cloud & locate Godzilla clear as day. Extending the blade from his left wrist, the metal monster drives the blade into Godzilla's right side before unleashing a powerful electrical discharge that surged through Godzilla from head to toe.

The anguish he experiences made Godzilla roar out in pain.

"You see, Godzilla?!", MG Ultron says. "What good is your rage & brute strength against an opponent who can outthink you at every turn?!"

Godzilla's dorsal fins light up, along with the inside of his maw.

"Oh no you don't!", MG Ultron says, thrusting his right arm forward.

Godzilla's heat ray was thrown way off-target, hitting buildings like the U.S. Army Recruiting Office in Times Square & surrounding structures, blasting away large portions of them as debris flew in all directions.

A buffet to the face from MG Ultron's right hand ceased the flow of radioactive heat before the appendage then converts & morphs itself into a pointed drill that began whirring at high speed. The metal monster then drives the drill into Godzilla's chest where his heart should be, drilling away bits of his flesh as the Monster King once more cried out in great anguish.

MG Ultron lets out a joyful laugh.

"Many wonder if you even have a heart, Godzilla!", he says. "Today is as good a day as any to find out – as I rip it from your chest & show it to everybody watching!"

MG Ultron rammed his drill hand deeper into Godzilla's chest, spraying his flesh & even causing the wound to bleed. The Monster King bellowed even louder the deeper it was thrusted in, giving his robotic foe all the more pleasure in seeing/hearing him in great agony. A hot surge rose within Godzilla as the drill entered his inner core, spewing more blood from the open wound.

Like he did in Philadelphia days ago, Godzilla unleashed a secret weapon of his own even MG Ultron couldn't have anticipated: the Monster King let loose with a surge of energy that extended for a few blocks & struck MG Ultron with the majority of its powerful force. It knocked away the metal monster away & onto his side as several surrounding buildings received structural damage, with a few crumbling to their foundation.

Others were flattened by MG Ultron himself when he landed upon them.

The metal monster unleashed a shriek of pain as it fell to the ground, shaking the immediate area.

Godzilla unleashed a roar of his own, not of pain but of triumph.

It was heard all over Manhattan.

Okay…that was quite unexpected!, MG Ultron thought as he rose to his feet.

Even as the machine monster got to his feet, Godzilla attacked his robotic enemy – first with his heat ray directly in his chest that caused sparks to fly, followed by a raging tackle which carried both combatants into the Hampton Inn Manhattan/Times Square Central buildings as each gets brought down in heaps of rubble, dust & debris. Godzilla didn't relent on his attack: he raked at & pounded upon MG Ultron with all the rage of any wounded animal, causing dents & slashing cuts in his armor with his claws & fists. He even attempted biting with his teeth, creating tears in his metal.

MG Ultron did his best to fight back, but even he knew that he was not faring that well anymore against his flesh-&-blood counterpart, who was really mopping the floor with him. Everywhere within his interior, systems were starting to malfunction & shut down faster than even he could repair them.

Unless he does something soon, MG Ultron won't have a future as a Mechagodzilla.

He won't have a future, period!

Opening his chest port, MG Ultron fired his 3-Way Maser weapon that hit Godzilla full blast with enough force to send him away a block, crashing him into the One Five One building – a structure that was featured in a good number of movies, now becoming a pile of debris under Godzilla's weight.

MG Ultron stood meters from him as Godzilla rose from his bed of debris.

"I guess I have underestimated you, Godzilla!", the machine monster says. "You are more than just rage & brute animalistic strength after all! Good: I was hoping this wouldn't end too soon, & seeing as how you are most resilient as they say you are, claiming your title for my own won't be as easy as I once thought it would! But that's okay: I love a challenge!"

Racing at Godzilla, both enemies collide & crash into the building 1133 Avenue of the Americans, shattering it like it was a glass statue & littering the streets with rubble as nearby vehicles were flattened by the pieces.

Both combatants roar as their fight for supremacy raged on.

Sheep Meadow, Central Park:

As MG Ultron was battling it out with Godzilla in the very heart of the Big Apple, the Avengers, Fantastic Four & Nick Fury's party were having their hands full with miniature versions of MG-3, only each one still possessed every weapon the original had except for the missiles on their shoulder harnesses. These were fixated by shooting powerful blasts of plasma energy, firing only one shot at a time but can deliver quite a punch.

The chest ports were also replaced by 3-Way Maser cannons, but everything else was identical to the 'parent'.

Nick Fury, General Ross & their group shot at each mini-MG-3 machine with deadly accuracy, putting holes in areas where they would do the most damage: chest, neck & even heads.

Whichever ones they put down, however, there were still many more to take their place.

The Avengers & Fantastic Four were all having just as difficult a time: Spider-Man & Daredevil were using every ounce of their acrobatics to stay ahead of the MG-3s projectiles & physical assaults; Mister Fantastic stretched this way & that to avoid being hit by plasma bolts or Maser attacks; Hawkeye shot a multitude of arrows from his quiver to take down what MG-3 comes his way, only for more to show up; Black Widow used her guns to shoot at anything vulnerable on the machines while using her own acrobatics to stay clear of their weapons & tail/hands/feet attacks; Yellowjacket & Wasp shrunk to bug size & started blasting them with stingers & laser bolts, doing little to no damage; Black Panther & Captain America fought with every ounce of their fighting prowess to cause as much damage with both their claws & shield, causing sparks to fly in some; Vision used his intangibility to phase through several mini MG-3s while using it to short-circuit others by turning his arm solid once he was in their heads; Iron Man & War Machine used repulsor ray blasts & whatever else was in their arsenals to bring down as many foes as they could; Falcon & Human Torch took to the skies to shoot down whatever MG-3s were airborne with blasts of intense heat; Invisible Woman & Scarlet Witch used their powers to drive a wedge against them & their attackers, along with throwing them great distances; Thing, Thor & the two Hulks were all getting ganged upon by MG-3s that were larger in size & more sturdier built than their companions, beating on each hero with fists, feet & tails.

It was a savage free-for-all of man versus machine.

So far, the white hats weren't faring very well: MG Ultron made a lot of minis of himself.

Even after more than fifteen minutes of fighting, they weren't getting the upper hand.

"Dammit, I've used almost a whole first quiver of my arrows, & these damn things still keep on coming!", said Hawkeye as he shot another arrow in the chest of another MG-3. "Hope somebody's got a brilliant idea on how to bring these Terminator wannabes down before they do the same to us!"

"Whatever we try, Clint, we need to stick together & form a solid wall!", Reed Richards said, wrapping his arm around an MG-3's neck & pulled on it, knocking it down. "Don't let even one of these machines enter city streets!"

What Reed said gave the Web-Slinger a bright idea in his head.

"That's it!", Spider-Man says, dodging blasts from am MG-3's plasma guns. "You really are 'Mister Fantastic', Richards! I've got just the thing for these James Cameron rejects! All I need is just a little breathing room, and…"

"You got it, Webs! Heads up!", Ben Grim says, throwing an MG-3 into the duo that was giving Spidey trouble, smashing them together & giving him the breathing space he desired.

"Much obliged to you, Ben!", Spider-Man says, loading his web shooters with special cartridges. "Now we'll get ourselves that upper hand we've been waiting on! Here we go!"

Leaping into the air, Spider-Man shot forth his webs at a pair of Mechagodzillas Black Widow was dancing with. Once the webbing struck the machines, they became covered in a splotch of Spidey's webbing as if a giant wad of gum which was chewed dropped upon them. Immediately their movements slowed exponentially, giving Black Widow time to land shots from her guns in vital areas that were likely to shut down the machines.

A few bullets to the backs of their heads did the trick.

"What is that?", Natasha asked.

"A special brew of my webbing I've cooked up myself not too long ago!", Spider-Man replied. "A formula that makes it extra sticky in dire circumstances! Guess today is as good a day as any to put it to the test, huh?"

"Nice job, Spider-Man!", Captain America said, fending off another MG-3 with his shield. "See if you can use that webbing where its assistance is needed the most – such as where our heavy-hitters are!"

Spider-Man looked to where Thor, Thing & the two Hulks are, each struggling against their own MG-3s.

"You got it, Captain America!", the wall-crawler said, leaping over to where Thor was first & let loose another shot of his extra-sticky webbing before doing the same for Ben Grimm, followed by the Hulk. Each attack was a direct hit as the piles of Mechagodzillas became stuck to each other, slowing their actions & giving the heroes time to finally break free to cause some real damage: Thor called forth the lightning from overhead with Mjolnir & used both to blast away pieces of his robotic foes.

Both Thing & the Hulk each literally smashed their way out: Ben Grimm punched his way out of his mechanized attackers, pulverizing every one with each rock-hard fist he delivered, while the Hulk went & gone more primeval as he literally tore apart the MG-3s that dared to attack them. With hands that were gargantuan, the Hulk ripped apart MG-3s like they've been made out of tissue paper instead of hard-alloy metal, ripping limbs off like they were chicken legs/wings & clubbing them with their own appendages. Even when the MG-3s shot at him with their armament, they did nothing to stop or even slow down the Hulk's rampage before getting pulverized by the Green Goliath.

She-Hulk was no less savage: she also ripped off limbs & used them as clubs like her cousin, but also punched her hands into the main bodies & yanked out handfuls of wires that caused the machines to sputter & move with a jerk before being deactivated & dropping as literal dead metal weight.

On approach of another cluster of MG-3s, Spider-Man used his special webbing on a group of maniacal machines which were converging on an outnumbered Nick Fury & company, literally gumming up their gears & making them all crash into each other, looking more like the robotic versions of the Three Stooges than MG Ultron's malevolent army.

"They're all yours, Director!", Spider-Man said, leaving their space as quickly as he arrived.

"Good work, wall-crawler!", Nick Fury said before addressing his group. "Let 'em really have it, boys & girls!"

Nobody argued: as one, General Ross, Colonel Schwartz, Agents Hill, Dugan, Jones & Alexander Pierce all fired upon the horde of Mechagodzillas with their powerful rifles which shot blasts of energy, tearing holes into each before causing them to explode into scrap metal.

At last…some actual breathing room!, Maria Hill thought. Not too shabby at all, Spider-Man!

With their number of enemies thinning, Nick Fury & his group have a real chance of coming out on top.

The next batch of sticky webbing Spidey unleashed upon were the ones ganging up on Captain America & Black Panther, followed by those Hawkeye were content with: shooting his special webbing on each group of MG-3s, Spider-Man didn't stop to make a wisecrack or appreciate assist from his fellow heroes. Instead, he headed straight for the ones swarming Vision, who was now joined by Yellowjacket & the Wasp. Each hero dodges blasts of plasma & Maser beams while striking back with their own armament.

Once Spider-Man used his sticky webbing on the machines, the trio opened up more fiercely & blasted each of the Mechagodzillas to scrap.

Up in the air, Iron Man, War Machine, Falcon & Human Torch were all caught in an aerial dogfight with their own Mechagodzilla, dodging plasma blasts & Maser beams in the process. The quartet of flyers went as high as possible so that no structural damage from them or their enemies can be made on the city: it was bad enough to know that both Godzilla and MG Ultron were causing the savage urban renewal to Manhattan, & more often than not they wished they could stop it.

But they had their own crisis to handle currently.

Godzilla & his foe would have to wait for now, much as it pains them.

In their current altitude, however, they were able to cut loose with their firearms: Iron Man & War Machine used repulsor ray blasts & other weapons, while Falcon used small missiles that struck his assailant. Human Torch turned & shot forth a gout of flames that made his MG-3 attacker dodge with ease. Even after several more tries, his enemy had swerved in the air, not getting hit by Johnny's fire once.

With no other options, Human Torch kept on flying with his pursuer on his tail.

Neither Iron Man, War Machine or Falcon had any more luck defeating their assailant as Johnny Storm did.

"I hate to say it, guys, but we're not doing too good up here!", Rhodes says.

"You sure got a flare for stating the obvious, Rhodes!", Iron Man said.

"He's not wrong, Tony!", Falcon said. "If we don't do something to get these flying metal dinosaurs off of us, we won't last through the night! We need a plan of action, & we need it now!"

It was then that something struck Johnny Storm.

"I've got an idea, fellas!", he stated. "It's a little something in which I call 'collide & conquer'!"

"All right, son, let's hear it!", Tony says.

Johnny Storm explained it in record time, & the other three were very enthused about it.

"Now that's an idea we can really head ourselves into!", Rhodes says. "Pun intended!"

"All right, 'collide & conquer' it is! Let's do this!", Falcon said as each hero had quickly banked away from each other, getting to a sizeable distance before turning about face & heading directly for one another: Iron Man headed for War Machine, while Falcon & Human Torch did the same.

Each of the Mechagodzillas followed their enemies throughout the entire time, just as they hoped.

Putting on an extra burst of speed, the four heroes were getting closer & closer to colliding with each other.

When they get to about fifteen inches of colliding, they make their move.

"NOW!", they all said in unison.

Iron Man & Falcon dived down, with Human Torch & War Machine shot up, everybody missing each other by a fraction of an inch.

The Mechagodzillas pursuing them weren't as fortunate: unable to steer out of the way quick enough, the quartet of machines collided into one another & exploded, sending body parts flying everywhere. The four airborne heroes then regrouped after their enemies literally went bust.

"Great idea, Johnny!", Tony said. "That's what I call 'using your head'!"

"Thanks, Mr. Stark!", Johnny said with a grin. "And now that our pursuers are headed for the scrap heap…"

"Let's head back to Central Park & give Cap & the rest some much-needed air support!", War Machine says.

"I'll race you there, fellas!", Falcon said, grinning as he took off.

The others followed suit.

Back at Central Park, the Avengers, Fantastic Four & Nick Fury's group continued attacking & putting down MG-3s left & right: Hawkeye resorted to using his electrical & explosive arrows, shocking/detonating machines upon contact; Scarlet Witch used pieces of defeated Mechagodzillas & shot forth with them using her hex power like missiles, piercing whatever machine she sees; Captain America & Black Panther scrapped Mechagodzillas with shield & claws, causing them to malfunction before putting them down for good; Vision, Yellowjacket & Wasp fired away & phased on through/into the invading machines, decommissioning them for good; Mister Fantastic wrapped himself around a trio of Mechagodzillas as Black Widow & Invisible Woman brought them down with bullets & barriers, making certain none of them rise again; Thor used Mjolnir to strike each Mechagodzilla, swinging his hammer like he was playing an Asgardian version of baseball, destroying the machines with every swing; the Hulk relentlessly pounded on & tore apart the Mechagodzillas with no more than his bare hands, crushing his metal enemies like tin foil; She-Hulk not only tore apart Mechagodzillas, she also used their own weapons against them by blasting the other machines with one MG-3 & blasted them to pieces; Daredevil used his billy club to wrap his line around the head of one Mechagodzilla & pulled on it, popping off its head like one would do a sunflower or dandelion. He also used it like a missile at times, aiming straight for their mechanized hearts & shorting them out.

Having sadly ran out of his special webbing, Spider-Man nevertheless used his regular webbing & agility to stop each Mechagodzilla by wrapping them up, pinning their arms to their sides & allowing Nick Fury & his party put them out of action permanently.

One of the Mechagodzillas gets in a lucky shot, hitting Spider-Man in the sides & sending him flying across the park. Clutching his side where he was hit, Spider-Man had trouble breathing, & he felt like a rib or two was broken.

Worse, two Mechagodzillas approached him & lit up the insides of their mouths, ready to blast the wall-crawler into oblivion.

And all Spider-Man can do is wait for the inevitable.

Having their enemy at their mercy, the Mechagodzillas opened fire as Spidey threw his arms over his eyes.

Strangely, Spider-Man never felt the Maser blasts strike him.

Daring a look, he saw that someone in a dark blue cloak measuring at 6 feet tall stood in front of him, his cloak spread open as it was actually absorbing the Maser beam blasts as they disappeared into the dark void that seemed to be the man's chest area.

Spider-Man knew who had saved him: Tyrone Johnson, who also went by another name.

"Cloak!", he said despite the pain he felt.

"You okay, Spider-Man?", Cloak asked.

"Pain in my side notwithstanding, just dandy!" The Web-Slinger quickly looked around, searching for something. "Speaking of…where's your partner Dagger? Shouldn't she be close by?"

Cloak gave him a smile.

"Believe me…she's closer than you think!", he replied. "One moment…"

The Mechagodzillas ceased their Maser beam assault, seeing their weapon wasn't bringing down their enemy.

When they stepped closer to Cloak, he made his move.

"Now, Tandy!", he shouted.

From within Cloak's portal to his 'Darkforce Dimension', a young woman with long blonde hair & wearing a white suit erupted with a pair of glowing crystal-like daggers in her hands & struck both of the Mechagodzillas square in their chests with her weapons. Both machines immediately started sparking & convulsed from the electric overload before they screeched & expired, collapsing to the ground like broken toys.

This woman in white stood 5 feet, 5 inches tall & had blue eyes.

She is Tandy Bowen, but goes by another name.

"Dagger!", Spider-Man says. "So, there you were! Man, you & Cloak sure know how to make an entrance!"

Tandy smiled at the notion from the wall-crawler.

"Hold that thought, Spider-Man!", Dagger says, creating more of her light-knives with her hands before throwing her makeshift weapons at the remaining Mechagodzillas, scoring a bullseye every time. From above, Iron Man, Falcon, War Machine & Human Torch gave air support from above & fired at whatever Mechagodzilla was left, blasting every one to pieces before they all fell like dominoes & deactivated.

Iron Man & company rejoined the other Avengers & Fantastic Four members, with Nick Fury & his party doing the same.

"Not bad, everyone! We've cleaned the clocks of these contraptions & sent them to the scrap yard!", Nick Fury says, eyeing the newcomers. "Sorry you two were a little late coming to the party, Cloak & Dagger, but…"

"It's okay, Director Fury", Cloak says. "The reason for being late is because we were very busy getting civilians away from the danger even before Godzilla & his robot double arrived."

"Good work on your part, Cloak", Gabe Jones said. "Dagger's too: the safety of the people should always come first."

"Amen on that, Jones", Dum Dum Dugan said. "They're the primary reason why we all do this in the first place."

"Correct, Mr. Dugan", said Colonel Schwartz. "But despite this victory, our task is still not done yet."

"Agreed, Colonel Schwartz", Captain America says. "We've still got MG Ultron and Godzilla himself to contend with, people! Our primary concern is of course Ultron, & once we've somehow separate him from MG-3, we'll figure out how to get him under wraps before getting Godzilla out of New York while there's still a city left to save!"

"Cap, maybe if Hank & I got into MG Ultron without him noticing, we can find some way to reverse the process & get him disconnected from that machine!", said Janet.

"And once he's out of MG-3, I can put him into this", Reed Richards says, holding up a tubular object the size of a small flashlight. "It will literally suck his consciousness within, rendering him harmless & trapped."

Captain America gave the matter some thought, but General Ross spoke before he could.

"And what if you folks can't?", he says. "You two bug people go inside MG Ultron, there's a chance you won't be getting back out again!"

"It's a chance that we need to take, General!", Captain America says. "It could be our only shot at getting Ultron out of that machine!"

Just then, Quicksilver came over the comm link.

"Captain!"

"Pietro!", Steve Rogers says. "How are you doing with the evacuation so far?"

"Better than I expected, amazingly, despite the toll it's taking on my metabolism. But there's something I need to ask you, Captain: you're not anywhere near the buildings located on 59th Street, are you?"

"No, we're actually in the area of Sheep Meadow in Central Park at the moment. Why?"

"Just to be on the safer side, Captain, you & everybody else may want to put a little extra distance between you & aforementioned street. You're about to have a pair of literal party-crashers heading your way…big ones!"

Everyone in the group heard Pietro's announcement on their own comms, & they all turned to each other with a look that resembled them seeing actual ghosts. They turned to the sounds of buildings crashing down, seeing them going down like houses of cards, followed by that of roars from the two gigantic combatants…one organic, one mechanical.

Both of their roars and the sounds of buildings being demolished were getting louder until they finally see those on 59th Street exploding outwards in a shower of debris – debris that was actually reaching them!

"oh shit!", was all Hank Pym could say.

Several others, like Cloak, had something better to say – something that got the rest to get going.

"RUN!", he & others shouted as everybody took off running as the debris got closer.

Not everyone ran for cover, however: both Wanda Maximoff & Susan Richards have used their abilities to erect a shield which caused the debris heading their way to be deflected and/or broken up into smaller pieces before the rain of concrete, steel & glass ceased, allowing them to retract their shields as Godzilla & MG Ultron appeared in all of their glory, each one still locked in fierce combat. MG Ultron shot forth another blast of his Maser beam from his mouth, but Godzilla ignores it & unleashed his own heat ray, scoring a direct hit on his enemy's chest. The blast caused sparks to fly as MG Ultron was forced to take several steps back from his quarry, putting a distance of 30 meters from each other.

The two dinosaurian foes stare at one another with a deep burning hatred.

Captain America & company stare at the dueling monsters with dread, malice & admiration, just as Quicksilver rejoined the group.

Newcomers Cloak & Dagger were simply awestruck by the monsters' appearance, most preferably the original.

"Holy shit, Tyrone!", Dagger says. "You don't really appreciate how huge Godzilla truly is until you see him in person!"

"Ain't that the truth, Tandy!", Cloak says. "And I always thought the ancient beast Fin Fang Foom was a sight!"

Like most everyone else, Cloak & Dagger could picture Godzilla square off against the ancient anthropomorphic Chinese dragon that can change its size at will. It would really be a fight for the ages.

But not in major metropolitan areas like New York City, of course.

Right now, there was the problem with the Avengers' greatest enemy still in possession of a machine that was intended to deal with the prehistoric menace that has terrorized Earth since 1954. With some, they couldn't tell who is the greater menace: Ultron or Godzilla?

It was a tense standoff that only escalated the longer it went on.

On the plus side, MG Ultron was heavily damaged by Godzilla, having numerous areas torn/ripped apart, showing exposed wiring & such as sparks ignited & spurted out constantly.

Godzilla bellowed his loudest so that everybody in Manhattan heard the Monster King, with many covering their ears in fear and/or annoyance.

MG Ultron was unimpressed by the display, nor was he intimidated.

"Like I said, Godzilla…I misjudged you greatly!", the maniacal machine says. "Even I should've known better than to think of a wounded animal as a harmless one! But you'd still better save your voice, creature! You're going to need it once I…what?!"

As MG Ultron started taking steps towards his enemy while he spoke, he abruptly stopped dead in his tracks as he now sputters & sparks even more violently than he did before. MG Ultron tried forcing himself to get his new body to move like he wants it to, but to no avail: for some reason, the third Mechagodzilla robot he hijacked & took over is now refusing to comply. No matter how hard he pushed himself, MG-3 would not respond.

"What is…happening?! Why…can't I…move?!", MG Ultron says, fighting to get the words out.

"Well, look-y here! Chrome-Dome seems to be having trouble with his brand-new toy!", Ben states.

"Pretty much, Ben", Susan Richards says. "It's like Mechagodzilla 3 is acting against Ultron. Almost as if the machine sported…"

"A mind of its own", Vision says before giving the robot a scan from his eyes, top to bottom. "I couldn't sense or see it before, but there is something within MG-3's systems that is fighting against Ultron – something sentient."

"Sentient? Like an artificial intelligence? Same as you?", War Machine asked.

"Not exactly like myself, but something rather similar."

"But this machine is still alive, with a life of its own?", asked She-Hulk.

"Yes, Jennifer."

The revelation stunned mostly the entire group of superheroes, including some of those from Nick Fury's group.

Only a few weren't too surprised, & they kept their composure with the truth being revealed.

Just about everyone turned to Iron Man, or rather, Tony Stark.

"What? Why are all of you looking at me all of a sudden?", the billionaire asks.

"It was your father who not only funded for the Mechagodzillas, but also laid out the plans to build them, Tony!", said Reed Richards. "And when you took over the project after he died, you did something with the third Mechagodzilla! Didn't you?"

"There's something you aren't telling us, Tony!", Black Widow said. "Time for you to spill it!"

"Don't you dare say anything, Stark!", General Ross stated firmly. "Regardless of what's occurring, this is still a top-secret military project, on a need-to-know basis! And these people sure as hell do not need to know!"

"Oh, really? And how's that working out for you, General?!", Hawkeye snapped back.

Ross gritted his teeth & took a step forward at the archer, but Colonel Schwartz held him back, stopping him.

"Sorry, General…but your army rules & regulations are pretty much obsolete at this stage", Nick Fury says, now facing the Armored Avenger. "Better fill the rest of them in, Stark, now that the cat's out of the bag."

Everybody faced Tony Stark, who had no choice but to let it out.

"After the first two Mechagodzillas were made, I still wasn't satisfied", he began. "With Alexander Pierce's help, I funded to have a third Mechagodzilla created & built, but with a bit of a twist: we wanted to use living cells to put in the machine in order for it to perform better, but since that wasn't possible, we went & did the next best thing."

Tony Stark took a deep breath & exhaled before answering.

"We used the entire skeleton of the original Godzilla that Dr. Serizawa had killed with his Oxygen Destroyer in 1954", he stated.

This actually shocked the superheroes & even SHIELD agents Maria Hill and Alexander Pierce.

"You mean to tell us that the original Godzilla's bones are actually…placed inside the third Mechagodzilla?!", Thor asked, pointing his hammer at it.

"Precisely", Tony replied.

Scarlet Witch walked up to Tony until she was inches from his face.

"Is your precious ego so inflated that you would actually use the bones of a long-dead animal in order to fight a member of its own species, Stark?", she stated. "That, mister, is animal cruelty at its worst!"

"Wanda…", Tony started to say.

"No, Mister Stark, she's right!", Spider-Man said firmly, pointing to him. "Let me tell you something: I once had someone very special in my life who I always looked up to because he's one of the people that raised me ever since my parents died! When he was taken from me by a lone robber's bullet, I was devastated beyond words, wishing I could've changed what happened! But hear this: while I miss him something fierce, even I would never do something so foolish as to resurrect him from the dead, & do you know why? Because it wouldn't be him! It'd be someone, or something, that would've been completely different from the man that I knew! Do you think that what you've done with Godzilla's own bones is any different?! You think he likes being resurrected as a machine?!"

"Give me a break, kid! He's nothing but an animal! A monster!", Tony said in his defense. "What kind of feelings could he be in possession of?!"

"Trust me, Tony, you'd be most surprised!", Falcon said. "As you know, I can telepathically communicate with my trained namesake, Redwing! Not only can I see through his own two eyes, but I can also sense what he's feeling: happy, excited, scared, angry, even sad! It's no different from someone owning a dog for a pet, & their feelings are all too obvious for people to know what they feel! You think Godzilla isn't feeling emotional right now, seeing his 'relative' brought back from the dead as a piece of hardware?!"

Janet Van Dyne also approached Tony Stark, her face anything but joyful.

"You believe Godzilla to be a monster, Tony?", she stated. "As far as many of us here are concerned, the only 'monster' we can see are not only Ultron, but also those responsible for the third Mechagodzilla who had the audacity to use the bones of a long-dead animal like they haven't a care in the world! That is evil in its purest form, & we thought you were one who fought against evil! Are we wrong?"

"Look, like Director Fury & General Ross, all I've ever wanted was to protect people – the world – from Godzilla wherever he showed up!", Tony said defensively. "I was merely doing what my father wanted me to do: that's continue & complete what he himself started all those years ago! Was I wrong to do that?!"

"Do you really think your father Howard would've wanted this, Tony?!", Rhodes says.

"Et-tu, Rhodes?"

"Me as well, Tony! Look around you, for Christ's sakes: just one of the Mechagodzillas did all this! She-Hulk mentioned something about being worried with these machines falling into the wrong hands, & guess what, mister? They did! Not only did New York pay the price, but Atlantic City! You by chance want to tell the people what caused each of those machines to go berserk?! Or do you want to do something to try & fix the mess your giant machines have gotten us into?!"

Black Panther was next to speak, putting in his two cents.

"Tony Stark, there are some things I was always taught by my parents while I was growing up that have stayed with me through the yeas: human beings should never touch a dead soul, as it is a corruption & violation of the deceased & the steady flow of time, not to mention a terrible sin…one against nature itself. Whenever mankind does attempt to control nature & bend it to its own will, monsters like Godzilla are born. The constant atomic bomb tests that first gave Godzilla a rebirth in 1954 should be all the proof one ever needs."

Studying the not-so-happy faces of mostly everybody present & remembering the death/destruction each of the Mechagodzillas caused made Tony Stark feel even heavier than his own armored suit weighs: having allies & friends suddenly turn on him because of a single error on his part with MG-3 placed a heavy burden on his conscience, & even his high intellect is unable to cope with that kind of betrayal.

"Great…now I'm the bad guy!", Tony said. "There…I said it! You all happy now?"

Nobody smiled or even snickered at his sarcasm.

"That's up to you, Tony", Steve Rogers said. "What you decide to do next with MG-3 is your choice. Let me give you a piece of advice: the Tony Stark I know is still a good man with a high sense of morals, able to do the right thing without needing to be told of it. Mankind isn't so stubborn or arrogant that it doesn't recognize its own errors, & would do what they can to correct it no matter what."

"This is your big chance to atone, Mr. Stark…a chance that everybody deserves", Spider-Man said. "What do you say?"

Like everyone else, the kid's raised some good points, Stark thought. Perhaps I should heed them.

"Spidey's not wrong, Tony", Rhodes says in a much more friendlier tone. "And neither is Cap: flaws aside, you are still a good man. Prove it to us."

Tony nodded, ready & willing to prove it.

"First things first", he began. "We go with Hank & Janet's plan on finding a way for them to flush Ultron out of MG-3 before Reed Richards can trap him with…"

Sparking & electrical shorting sounds coming from Mechagodzilla 3 paused Tony in his speech, making everyone turn to the machine: MG-3 was going haywire as electric sparks were flashing madly within the robot's interior, reaching a critical mass before something emerged from the lower left leg that opened up partially to unveil a mechanical figure which staggered out like it had one too many at a pub.

It was incomplete, but it was familiar.

Ultron!

"Blasted machine…rejected me! Me!", Ultron struggled to speak & keep his balance. "No matter! Once I make myself whole again, I vow to settle the score & make Godzilla pay for what he's done to…"

Noticing the multitude of heroes in his midst, Ultron heard a device coming to life in Reed Richards' hand, which was pointed directly at him.

"Oh, for fuck's sake…!", he began.

Before he could so much as cry out, Ultron was struck by a yellow beam & began getting broken on down to the smallest particles before the beam retracted back into Reed's device & powering off, thus trapping Ultron within.

"My goodness, Reed! I wonder if Ultron kisses his mother with that mouth!", Ben joked, getting grins from many.

"Guess we'll never know, Ben!", Reed joked back, pocketing the device.

MG-3's eyes, now free of Ultron's influence, turned back to yellow as it let out a metallic roar as Godzilla does the same with one of his own. All heroes & their allies face the pair of dinosaurian monsters as they come closer to each other, with MG-3 making several noises. Godzilla responds with grunts that sounded solemnly & melancholic in tone.

"Are those two…talking to each other?", Quicksilver wondered.

"Yes, dear brother…I believe they are!", Wanda says.

"If only we can know what they're talking about", said Tandy Bowen.

"I can translate, Dagger", Vision says, using his abilities to decipher & make words of the sounds Godzilla & his reincarnated relative were uttering. "MG-3 is saying that it's tired of all the fighting & wishes to return to the ocean so it can go to sleep within the cradle of time. Godzilla is saying that he himself wants nothing more than to be left alone – away from humanity, as it is always attacking him wherever he shows up. He is as sick of being hounded & hunted by humans, & wishes to be left in peace. Since they have found each other once again, it's all they want."

Vision turns to Tony Stark.

"Please, Tony…grant them their wish", he says. "They deserve that much, & it's the perfect way to compensate for your errors, unintentional or not, wouldn't you agree?"

"You'll get no argument out of me, Viz…not this time", Tony replied. "I'll send over a crew to somehow safely transport Godzilla and his relative over to the very deepest part of the ocean."

"The Mariana Trench?", Hank Pym asked.

"Bingo, Hank. They should be very happythere."

Janet & Wanda faced Stark again, but instead of scolding the man, the ladies actually smiled, proud of him once more.

"Now that's the Tony Stark we know & remember", Wasp says.

"And it's all but perfect: no one will bother them in that part of the ocean", Wanda adds. "Good thinking, Tony."

"Oh no you don't, mister!", General Ross barked. "You're not sending those two away just because of the family reunion! We constructed the Mechagodzillas for a reason – to kill him! And we're not going to allow that creature to get away from us again – not now that we have him right where we want him!"

"Are you insane, General?!", Maria Hill says. "You still want Godzilla dead – even after all of this?!"

"This is our job, Agent Hill, or have you already forgotten?! I'll get on the horn with the army base from Upstate New York! Hopefully they can still pilot the machine by remote if Ultron hadn't damaged it too much! And then we'll use whatever's left in its weapons arsenal to…"

General Ross went for his walkie-talkie as he spoke, about to speak into it when Daredevil used his billy club to snatch & reel it into his hands. It all happened in just seconds.

"I don't think so, mister!", Daredevil says just before punching the device with his right hand, breaking it in two.

"You dare?!", General Ross snapped.

"There's nothing I won't dare, General! It's why I'm called 'Daredevil'! And don't go for your cell phone either, or you'll force me to break that as well!"

General Ross took a few steps forward at the Man Without Fear, but was stopped by a gargantuan green foot that halted him dead in his tracks as the Hulk stared down at the 4-Star General.

"General no attack Godzilla!", the Hulk stated as Ross stared at him, dumbfounded that this monster would go & protect another.

"And I thought you of all people would understand!", Ross growled.

"You're half-right, General!", said She-Hulk. "He's more than smart enough to know that Godzilla is tired of all the fighting like his long-lost relative, & thereby wants nothing more than to be in seclusion! That's something the Hulk himself can relate, as he wants the same thing if only you'd just give it to him!"

"General Ross", Captain America says. "It's time to put this whole thing to bed, & that's by giving Godzilla & his kin what they long for. And I warn you now: if you make any attempts to call in any kind of strike from the ground or the air, what Dr. Bruce Banner becomes when he's mad…it'll be nothing compared to what I'll turn into!"

In a surprising move, Colonel Schwartz consulted with his longtime friend.

"Thaddeus…let's just do what they're suggesting", he says.

"Julius, you too?", Ross says. "You're actually buying into all this malarkey?"

"It doesn't sound like malarkey to me, Thaddeus. Truth be told, I think it's a perfect idea: we get rid of Godzilla without killing him by dropping him into the deepest part of the ocean – the Mariana Trench! He'll be miles away from civilization, & he & his relative we so foolishly brought back as a machine can rest in that area – possibly for good!"

"General…it's not only perfect, it's ideal", Gabe Jones said. "Besides…hasn't this gone on for far too long? Are we all not to blame for using the original Godzilla's bones inside that machine as Stark himself? We all need to answer for it, & the sooner we take responsibility for what we did, the sooner we can start fixing up what we caused."

"We will need to answer for what we did sooner or later, General Ross…and I'd prefer it'd be sooner, not later", Dum Dum Dugan said.

Godzilla lets out a soft growl as he inched closer to MG-3, who opened its chest port but does not fire its 3-Way Maser: instead, a pair of clamps opened up at the points as Godzilla & his robot double embrace in a hug as the clamps close around the Monster King's own chest before cables shoot out from hidden ports & wrap themselves around both creatures tightly. Each one unleashed a sound resembling sorrow, or maybe even happiness.

Seeing this touching display made everybody receive a small lump in their throats, up to & including Nick Fury, Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones, Maria Hill, Alexander Pierce, Colonel Schwartz & even a reluctant General Ross. At seeing all the faces of the superheroes and his SHIELD allies & longtime friend Julius Schwartz, General Ross finally gives in…but not without a warning.

He points directly at Captain America.

"I just better not regret this down the road, Captain Rogers!", he warned. "That goes for all of you!"

"Tony, better get on line with that crew to help haul those two out of here", Rhodes says.

"I don't think that will be necessary, James Rhodes", said a new voice.

Looking up, the group can see a lone figure literally suspended in mid-air, being at a height of 6 feet, 2 inches in a blue tunic with golden belt & gloves that covered his forearms & had black spots like a leopard's fur, dark blue boots & a red cape that enabled him to hover in the air. His eyes were gray, & his hair was like Reed Richards': black with a patch of white at the temples. A black goatee surrounded his mouth & decorated his chin.

It was none other than the Sorcerer Supreme of Earth.

"Doctor Strange!", said Johnny Storm.

"What are you doing here?", asked Falcon. "Also, where were you for all this time while we were fighting Ultron when he was still within possession of MG-3?"

"To answer your second question first, Falcon…I was busily occupied with sending people safely away over to Long Island, New Jersey & even Upstate New York", Dr. Strange says. "Quicksilver, Cloak & Dagger were giving me a much-needed & appreciative assist with that. As for why I'm here now, I will assist in helping to send Godzilla & his reanimated relative over to the Mariana Trench, where they can both be together in peace."

"That's mighty neighborly of you to help us out with that, Doc", Tony Stark said. "But is even your magic strong enough to transport both of them over to aforementioned location?"

"With Wanda's assistance, it shouldn't be too much trouble."

Surrounding herself in a hex bubble, Wanda Maximoff lifted herself off the ground & sided with Strange.

"Yes, Stephen Strange", Wanda says. "With both of us working together, we should be able to carry Godzilla & his relative to where we wish to place them."

"Wait, Wanda, Stephen", Hank says. "Before you do that, I have something that will make the task a little easier."

Hank put a bracelet on his right wrist.

"What's that, Hank?", asked Reed Richards.

"Something Janet & myself have been working on, Reed: a miniature launcher which can shoot stingers to either enlarge an object or shrink them down like we can do ourselves", Hank replied. "We've only got a few of these made so far, explaining as to why I never used these until now."

"You mean, you're going to shrink Godzilla down in size for easier transport, & then enlarge him back again as soon as you're over your destination?", asked War Machine.

"Bingo. And on that particular note…"

Aiming his stinger directly at Godzilla, Hank fired his stinger at the Monster King, which had an immediate effect on him and MG-3: both were instantly shrunk down to a more manageable size of about 25 meters tall, only a quarter of their original height.

It was a sight that impressed even Fury, Ross, & the rest.

"All ready for transport, Doc", Hank said as he & Janet shrink themselves to bug-size.

"Thank you, Dr. Pym", Stephen Strange says, turning to the Scarlet Witch. "Are you ready, Wanda?"

"Ready, Stephen Strange", she replied.

Using a combined mix of hex power & actual magic, Doctor Strange & Scarlet Witch lift up Godzilla & MG-3 in the air as Yellowjacket & Wasp accompany them. Rising like hot-air balloons, Doctor Strange, Scarlet Witch & the two creatures hovered in the air, with Yellowjacket & Wasp close by. Once they get up to about 350 meters from the ground, Doctor Strange opened a portal with a wave of his hand that had a circumference of 40 meters before pushing both Godzilla & MG-3 with himself, Wanda, Hank & Janet all following through.

Janet, Hank & Wanda were all impressed by Stephen's means of teleportation: one moment they were over the skies of New York City, & in the next, they were over the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

It made traveling by the Quinjet seem feeble by comparison.

Stephen Strange & Wanda moved across the ocean until the former was certain of the exact position.

Finally, he announced it.

"Right here", Stephen says. "Godzilla & MG-3 are now directly over the Mariana Trench. Hank, you may now bring them back to their original size so that we may drop them."

Yellowjacket aimed his bracelet at the two creatures, but surprisingly, he doesn't shoot right away: he hesitates for several seconds, making Janet, Stephen & Wanda worry.

"Dr. Pym? Is something wrong?", Wanda asked.

"No…of course not, Wanda. Here goes", Hank said, firing his stinger.

It was stopped by Doctor Strange just seconds before it makes contact with Godzilla.

"Stephen…why did you stop Hank's stinger?", Janet asked.

"I'd go & take a closer look at it, Janet", Stephen says.

Wasp flew over to the suspended stinger before it dropped in her hand.

Janet looked it over & discovered why Strange stopped the stinger from hitting Godzilla.

"This is another shrink stinger, Hank!", Janet said, holding it up & approaching her husband. "You were going to shrink Godzilla right out of existence…weren't you?"

Hank was caught red-handed, but he didn't care: he was about to reveal his true feelings.

"So what if it is, Janet?", he replied, not bothering to hide it. "Maybe Tony Stark was right all along: Godzilla is a monster who causes nothing but death & destruction wherever he goes! By shrinking him and his long-lost relative out of existence, not only would they stay reunited forever, but I'd be doing the entire planet a favor! One less menace for the world to be bothered with, as it were!"

Janet couldn't believe her husband's ears: she stared at him like he's something she'd never seen before.

"Hank…this isn't like you!", she says. "You'd never so callously suggest, let alone perform such a heinous act like that!"

"Why not just this once, Janet?", Hank said. "Why not do so with Godzilla? If anybody deserves to receive such a fate, it'd be him!"

"Doctor Pym", Stephen Strange says, getting his & Janet's attention. "Would you shrink the Hulk out of existence despite causing the exact same thing Godzilla does? No, you wouldn't. You know why? Because he's also a man named Bruce Banner – one of the most brilliant minds on all the planet. If you really think about it, Godzilla & the Hulk have a lot in common: both were accidental victims who were each caught within the heart of an atomic bomb blast – with one of them being Gamma radiation. Neither one ever asked to become the monsters that they are now, & they both get hounded & hunted like a wild animal, through no fault of their own. And let's say you do shrink Godzilla until he's all but gone, vanished into the micro-verse: do you believe you would stop with Godzilla? For many people, once is never enough, & pretty soon, you'll be doing the same to every threat you encounter, eventually becoming what you face. Do you think you'd be tolerated by the others if you went down that road? Or even society in general? Just like the Hulk, Godzilla had come into existence for a reason – even if we never know what that reason is, Doctor. Ponder that."

Hank did ponder Stephen's words as he spoke, having an immediate effect on him: Bruce Banner is a close friend of his for as long as he can remember, even after knowing he transforms into a gargantuan green monster every time he gets angry & goes on a rampage. Doctor Strange was correct: he would never do something so foolish as shrink Banner out of existence just because his monstrous alter-ego is something to be greatly feared.

Is Godzilla really any different?

"Please, Hank…do what's right. I know you can", Janet pleaded with him.

His decision made, Yellowjacket raised his right arm & fired a stinger at Godzilla.

This time, Doctor Strange did not stop it.

Once it made contact with Godzilla, both he & MG-3 grew again to their full original sizes as Doctor Strange & Scarlet Witch released their hold on the two creatures, allowing them to drop 500 meters into the Pacific Ocean.

A tremendous splash that rose to over 100 meters in height erupted as Godzilla & MG-3 hit the drink & disappear from sight, both sinking like stones.

The job done, Yellowjacket flew up to Doctor Strange with Wasp right behind.

"Don't make us regret it, Doc!", Hank said, pointing at the Sorcerer Supreme before flying away.

"Wanda…", Stephen says as she nods.

It was time to get back home: opening another portal, Doctor Strange made a mystic gateway back to Manhattan, exactly where they left off at.

Yellowjacket, Wasp & Strange entered, but Wanda held back a bit & turned to where Godzilla & MG-3 fell at.

Rest well, Godzilla, Wanda though in her native language. May the slumber you & your relative now delve into never be disturbed.

Having said her piece, Wanda Maximoff raced into the portal & found herself home again.

The portal closed, leaving Godzilla & MG-3 to their fate.

Both sank straight to the bottom of the Mariana Trench.

CHAPTER IX

New York City, Tuesday, November 23rd, 4:00 p.m.:

Having sent Godzilla & MG-3 down the Mariana Trench & returning home, it was now time for the big cleanup: from his New York tower, Tony Stark deployed hundreds of his Iron Man suits (each without a pilot) to assist police, fire & rescue to help clear away rubble/debris & lend a hand to those who were not so fortunate to get out of the city in time when Godzilla & MG Ultron literally came crashing down.

Fast as he was, even Quicksilver couldn't get everybody out in time.

Those that were trapped underneath rubble were helped by local authorities, army & SHIELD personnel & heroes alike in a round-the-clock service: Invisible Woman & Scarlet Witch used their powers to lift rubble for authorities to pull people out & get them the medical assistance they need, with others doing their part. Doctor Strange summoned his portals to allow people back into the city, guiding those that still have homes & businesses to attend. For all of those who didn't, emergency shelters by Stark Industries were set up to offer them warmth, food/water & a place to sleep.

Every superhero, army/SHIELD personnel & local authorities did whatever they could to get the people back what was taken from them in the best ways possible.

All except for the Hulk, who took off for parts unknown & could now be anywhere on the planet.

Nick Fury, General Ross, Colonel Schwartz, Alexander Pierce & Tony Stark all went over to the United Nations to make a statement to both the delegates present and the general public. From there, they made a speech of what went wrong with the Mechagodzilla program even though it was broadcast across the nation at the time when the Skrulls had hijacked the three machines & explained themselves how they accomplished the deed. Everybody involved in the MG Project made a most humble apology for the outcome of something that was supposed to have been an occasion to be proud of, which instead turned to a complete disaster.

Tony Stark & company had also stated that they will make every effort to correct the errors they've made by any means necessary & atone for the blunder they caused which almost caused a worldwide catastrophe.

Impressed by the courage of Tony Stark & the others, the delegates not only thanked Stark & company for their bravery in admitting their mistakes, but also gave then a generous offer.

Each of their countries will be giving aide to the United States in order to fix the damages Godzilla caused within not only New York City, but also Atlantic City & Philadelphia.

It was an offer they were happy to accept!

When news of what Tony Stark & company had done, each one of their teammates were happy with the results as they congratulated the billionaire superhero, all but forgiving him for his blunders with the Mechagodzillas, including the third one. Even General Ross was forgiven by all, saying that dropping Godzilla & MG-3 into the Mariana Trench was the right thing to do.

General Ross had to agree, & he shook Steve Rogers' hand to show there were no hard feelings.

He only hoped that Godzilla will stay in the deep crevice where he was dropped.

Steve Rogers stated that he hoped for the best, same as him.

Cleanup in Manhattan, Atlantic City & Philadelphia took weeks to undergo, but everybody stayed strong & firm, doing what was needed to get the job done.

That is the power of humanity overcoming any obstacle, no matter how big or dangerous it can be.

In New York City, the cleanup went quicker than expected even though there was still much more to do as men labored with authority & superhero assistance to get things back to normal as quick as possible.

One man wiped his forehead with a handkerchief, working at an area near the Empire State Building.

"Man, I'll tell you", he says, stuffing the hanky back in his pocket. "Of all the attacks made by aliens & villains of all kinds here in New York through the years, this was about as bad as it gets."

"I hear you, bro", said a black man. "Super-villain attacks I can handle, no problem. But when a creature such as Godzilla attacks, it's a worst-case scenario waiting to happen. And it did."

Several others working to clear the area of debris mumbled in agreement: Godzilla is unlike anything to attack a major metropolitan area like Manhattan, & the mess he leaves behind was always something to get chills about.

Just then, a huge bulldog of a man standing a whopping 6 feet, 4 inches with arms like tree trunks, & black hair which was neatly trimmed on top.

Holding a piece of debris in his huge arms, he spoke to his comrades in a deep but kindly voice.

"It was a very harrowing & frightening experience, no doubt about it", he says. "But remember: as bad as this was, it always could've been worse, brothers."

The huge man concluded with as warm a smile as any man can give, & the men in his unit all nodded, followed by smiling themselves, knowing he was correct.

On the huge man's left was the foreman: an old man in his 90s with a white mustache & hair that was covered by a hard hat on his head. In his hands he held a clipboard.

"And whatever happened to lovable monsters like King Kong, anyway?", he asked before walking away.

The men resumed with their work until about two or three in the morning.

Thursday, November 25th, Thanksgiving Day, 8:00 p.m.:

Despite the large amount of work still needing to be performed, the city of Manhattan & everywhere else took a breather in order to celebrate Turkey Day: in buildings with wide open spaces such as the Jacob Javits Center & Madison Square Garden, numerous tables were set up to serve the people an exceptional Thanksgiving feast of turkey (white and dark meat), mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, peas, string beans, asparagus, hard-boiled eggs, yams, & whatever else makes for a complete feast on every fourth Thursday in November. Desserts were in no short supply either: pies of various flavors from pumpkin to blueberry, along with pastries, fruits & other goodies to satisfy folks of all ages.

It was all supplied by the wealthiest in the country, from Bill Gates to Tony Stark himself.

At the Jacob Javits Center located on Eleventh Avenue, a huge dinner was being enjoyed by many New Yorkers which include the Avengers & Fantastic Four, along with Nick Fury & company. General Ross & Colonel Schwartz are also in attendance as they ate, enjoyed stories with each other & gave a moment of silence to those who were lost in battle against Godzilla and the Skrulls who hijacked the very weapons designed to defend the world against Godzilla.

A portion of the feast went in honor of the fallen.

Dum Dum Dugan turned to Maria Hill after a mouthful of turkey which he gulped down with beer.

"Agent Hill?", he says as she looked his way. "I gotta say…you handled yourself well during the fiasco with the Skrulls & Godzilla. I guess I was a little bit rough on you, since you're a rookie & all, but…I'm hoping you can forgive me for not giving you the benefit of the doubt. You're quite the soldier, & who knows? You might even make it to the position of director someday."

"You really think so?", Maria Hill asked as Dugan nodded. She smiled at that. "Thank you, Dugan. And I gotta say: underneath that tough shell you surround yourself with, you really are such a good egg."

Dugan smiled back.

"I do try", he said.

"You guessed right, Agent Hill", Gabe Jones said. "Dum Dum's really a good ol' softie beneath his hard exterior!"

"Shaddup, Jones!"

But Gabe didn't shut up: he laughed heartily as Maria joined him, making Dugan place his head in his hand & shook it in slight embarrassment.

Even Nick Fury grinned at the scene, enjoying his Thanksgiving like everyone else is.

Over where General Ross & Colonel Schwartz were feasting, they were having their own conversation.

"Still bummed out about how the operation ended up, Thaddeus?", Schwartz asked his longtime friend.

"Just a little, Julius", Ross replied. "I had hoped to rid the world of Godzilla for good, but…dropping him in the Mariana Trench was the best option available. As long as he's down there along with the bones of his relative, I guess we won't be hearing from him for a long, long time."

"In the Army, you take your victories where you can get them, Thaddeus. And Captain Rogers did apologize in a most sincere manner for how he addressed you that day. He is a good man, same as you."

Ross looked at Julius & nodded.

"That he is", Ross replied, taking a quick survey of the area. "Speaking of Captain Rogers…I don't see the man anywhere at this Thanksgiving Day feast, do you?"

"Not a peep", Julius replied after he made a quick survey. "I don't see Tony Stark or Natasha Romanova either, which is rather odd."

At that moment, the Avengers' faithful butler Jarvis appeared on Ross' left & addressed both gentlemen.

"Captain Rogers, along with Mister Stark & Miss Romanova, are currently overseas this Thanksgiving, General Ross, Colonel Schwartz", Edwin says, holding a tray of freshly-cut turkey slices. "They instructed me to inform anyone asking their whereabouts."

"Overseas? On Thanksgiving?", Ross repeated as Jarvis nodded.

"Did they say why, Mr. Jarvis?", Schwartz asked.

"Mister Stark said that he wished to go meet an…old acquaintance, as it were, sir", Jarvis said.

It was puzzling at first to the two army men, but with connections like the ones Tony Stark has, he knows a lot of people many have never heard of or knew only by reputation.

They decided not to ponder about it.

"More turkey if you please, Jarvis", Ross said as he & Julius offered their plates.

"Be sure to save room for dessert, sirs", Jarvis says, putting more slices on their plates.

"We'll be sure to do that", Julius said, smiling.

Jarvis moved on to serve others who wanted seconds.

Dessert was just an hour away.

The suburbs of Tokyo, Japan, Friday, November 26th, 7:00 p.m.:

Having left the United States at about 5:00 in the evening, it took about half a day for Tony Stark, Steve Rogers & Natasha Romanova to fly from New York over to Japan's capital city. Upon arrival, the trio entered a black SUV as a male driver named Haruo told them he will be their personal transport service & take them to wherever they need to go. Thanking the man, the trio were first taken through the city to do a bit of sightseeing before heading into the suburbs in order to meet the one they came to Japan to greet.

Arriving at the destinated house, Tony asked Haruo to wait in the SUV to see if their person of interest will be at home: it was a nice home with modern-day Japanese customs, along with some traditional/ancient décor.

The trio approach the house as Steve share his thoughts.

"I have to say", he began. "Seeing as to how Japan is such a hospitable land, I still find it hard to believe that I once had to fight these people in the war from my time."

"I know what you mean, Steve", said Natasha. "My homeland of Russia was poised to attack these people in the summer of 1945, had they not surrendered. And they wouldn't have gone easy on these people either: they would have all but slaughtered them by the tens of thousands, had they invaded Japan like they did in Berlin, Germany that year."

"Dropping the bombs on Hiroshima & Nagasaki actually saved more lives than they snuffed out, Nat", Stark put in. "We simply wanted the war to be over, as it went on for too long. Thanks to President Truman's decision to drop those two bombs, the Fat Man & Little Boy, on aforementioned cities, we turned Japan from a war-mongering country into a democracy – one that lasts to this day. Can't beat that."

The trio came to the front door & stopped short, eyeing each other.

"And thanks in no small part to General Douglas MacArthur, who oversaw the change in Japan from 1945 to1951, helping it in becoming a democracy", Steve added.

"Oh yes, the very same man that also liberated the Philippines, vowing that he would return to it…which he did", Stark put in. "Can't forget about him."

Natasha, Tony & Steve shared a grin from that, just as the front door opened to reveal a young man & woman at the entrance. The young male had short-cropped black hair, wore a white dress shirt & a pair of glasses over his eyes, while the female had long brownish hair & is dressed in a tan suit.

Upon seeing the trio, their eyes widened as the girl raised her index finger & told them to wait a moment in her own language before both went back inside, calling for their grandfather.

A few ramblings in Japanese took place before a new face appeared: a man who stood 6 feet tall & wore a gray suit, white undershirt & red tie with black shoes on his feet. His face was also sporting a pair of round bifocals, & his hair was mostly black with a pinch of gray here & there, neatly trimmed. A small goatee decorated his mouth & chin.

His own eyes went agape when he saw who it was standing at the front entrance of his house, & a smile came from his lips.

"Tony Stark!", he said, taking his hand & shaking it.

"Good to see you again, Hideto Ogata!", Stark said in flawless Japanese, releasing his hand.

Ogata saw Tony's friends with him as the Japanese man recognized Natasha right away.

"Black Widow, I presume?", Ogata asked.

"You presume correctly, Ogata!", she replied with a grin, also in flawless Japanese.

"And you are…?"

"Perhaps this will help you recognize who I am", Steve kindly says in Japanese as well, smiling as he lifts up his shirt to reveal the patch of red, white & blue underneath his clothing.

It was all Ogata needed to know.

"Captain America!", he says proudly as Steve nodded.

"Steve Rogers, in the flesh!", he announced.

"Please…come in, all of you!", Ogata says, gesturing for them to enter their home, which they did.

The young male & female stared in awe at the three members of the Avengers standing inside their home.

"Unbelievable! Three heroes from the Avengers are here inside of our home!", the young male said excitedly.

"I know! Even I can't believe it!", the young female says, unable to contain her joy.

Ogata laughed at the display.

"Allow me to introduce you to my nephew Kenkichi Yamane, one of Japan's greatest scientists", Ogata greeted. "My niece here is Yukari Yamane, a famed television newscaster…one of the best in her field."

Both Kenkichi & Yukari proudly bowed to the three Avengers, with them returning the gesture.

"Steve Rogers, your appearance as Captain America has always been well-known & respected here in Japan – even when our two countries were at war over 60 years ago!", Kenkichi said.

"Was I really?", Steve asked.

"Yes. Even the Emperor at the time along with Hideki Tojo had such a great admiration for you, despite having our armies forced to fight against you & your country. After the war when we surrendered, we've all wondered where you had disappeared to for so long, never realizing you've been in perfect hibernation in the ice for decades."

"It must've been quite a shock to you when you woke up to a time & era you didn't recognize, Steve Rogers", Yukari says. "It also must've been equally challengingto adapt yourself to your new surroundings when you became thawed out from the ice that kept you fresh & young for all those years."

"You're right, Yukari", Steve says. "It was even harder for me to accept that most everyone I knew of from my original era were gone, sans for a few. But I adapted rather quickly in this day & age, making the best of friends in the Avengers, & then some. By the way…with your last name being 'Yamane', are you by chance related to…"

"Professor Kyohei Yamane, yes", Ogata filled him in. "He was Kenkichi & Yukari's great-grandfather, with me as his son-in-law…a position Daisuke Serizawa would have held, had he not perished at the very bottom of Tokyo Bay 50 years ago when he killed the original Godzilla with his Oxygen Destroyer."

Ogata went to a table & took a photo to show the three Avengers: it was one of Ogata in his wedding suit along with a young female in her wedding dress. Standing behind them was an older man with a thick push-broom mustache, also in a black tuxedo.

"After the war, Kyohei Yamane became such good friends with your parents Howard & Maria, Tony Stark", the Japanese man went on. "They talked endlessly about ways that they could help shape the future, & then some."

Tony nodded.

"He brought him up numerous times to me as I was growing up, Ogata", Stark said. "They were very devastated to hear of his passing on February 11th, 1982 from emphysema at age 76, right here in Tokyo. I'm glad they were able to attend his funeral at least."

"And I was all too glad to attend that of your parents' when Ilearned of their deaths, Tony", Ogata said. "They were truly two of the most wonderful people I've ever known…same as with my beloved Emiko."

"Where is Emiko, Ogata?", Natasha asked. "We don't see her anywhere."

"Unfortunately, Miss Romanova, grandmother passed away on November 5th, 1998 from intestinal/colon cancer at age 66", Yukari says as Kenkichi nods to confirm it.

"Oh. We're so sorry, Yukari", Nat says, getting nods from Tony & Steve.

"I honestly hadn't known that, Ogata", Tony says.

"Emiko's passing was very devastating for me, Tony", Ogata says. "As you know, she was my world, & when she died 6 years ago, I wanted it to be a private matter, having only family attend the funeral. I hope you understand."

"Of course I understand, Ogata. You don't ever have to apologize for wanting something to be strictly a family matter. Perhaps we can visit where she's resting before we head back to America?"

"I do believe that can be arranged."

The three Avengers smiled & nodded their thanks.

"Excellent", Tony says.

"By the way, Ogata…even though we've been briefed on Godzilla's history back in the States after he'd attacked Philadelphia, we'd like to hear your side of the story, since you were one of the people who actually saw the creature in the flesh that first time.", Natasha says.

"If you don't mind, that is", Steve adds.

"Not at all, Steve Rogers", Ogata says. "Why don't you all take a seat & I'll be glad to tell you all about it?"

"We'll get some food for us to enjoy while you tell your story, grandfather", Kenkichi says as he & Yukari went into the kitchen & came back with shrimp, hard-boiled eggs & fish strips to feast on, with bottles of water to wash it all down. By then, everyone was seated & started to eat while Ogata began relaying his first encounter with Godzilla.

"I guess you can say that it all started when I was forced to cancel a date with Emiko after receiving a phone call concerning a series of ship disasters that were constantly occurring…"

Natasha Romanova, Tony Stark & Steve Rogers were intrigued by every word Ogata was saying.

EPILOGUE #1

New York City, an undisclosed location, Saturday, November 27th, 6:00 p.m.:

Most men would no doubt melt with great fear if they ever stood face-to-face with this powerful man.

But not Alexander Pierce: he stood tall, firm & even proud to be in the same room with this individual, who sat at one side of a rectangular table which held a miniature but impressive feast of leftover Thanksgiving turkey & other foods one eats on that particular holiday. A bottle of vintage wine was also placed on the table, which both the big man & Pierce held a glass of.

Having eaten a mouthful of turkey, mashed potatoes & using the wine to wash it all down, the big man got down to business with his guest as Pierce waited patiently for him to speak.

"So…the creature known throughout the planet as Godzilla was not killed after all, despite the revelation of the Mechagodzillas and their hijacking by the aliens known as the Skrulls", the big man says.

"That about sums it up, sir", Pierce says, taking a sip from his wine. "Godzilla was then picked up & taken to the Mariana Trench out in the Pacific, where he & MG-3 were dumped in the hopes that the planet will never endure his wrath again."

"For all that time & money you spent on having the Mechagodzillas created in order to kill Godzilla, you don't seem too disappointed knowing he's still alive, Mr. Pierce. Mind if I ask why?"

"Because Godzilla is a very unique & fascinating creature: if he had gotten killed by the Mechagodzillas, then we would never be able to discover all the secrets that he holds. Are you aware that Godzilla's metabolism enables him to heal from his wounds in only a matter of hours, if not sooner?"

"No, as a matter of fact…I was never privy of that piece of information. Please, tell me more."

"Due to the radiation stored in his body, Godzilla's healing factor surpasses that of a normal human being's, with the one exception of the X-Man Wolverine, whose own healing factor already makes him one of the most dangerous men on the planet. Imagine, if you will, the chance to heal instantly from even the most severe of injuries in a matter of moments instead of weeks and/or months. What's more, what if people could be 100% immune to every disease known to man, from Ebola to the common cold?"

Pierce bent down to pick up a square box, showing it to his guest.

"And what's that?", the big man asked.

"Some tissue samples of Godzilla's flesh I managed to acquire during the massive clean-up in the city", Pierce explains. "I know of some people who would be very interested to have this little gold mine in their possession. I even left off a sample to your scientists for them to examine every aspect of it. I knew that both them and yourself would be most interested."

The big man smiled & nodded.

"You are correct, Mr. Pierce", he says. "With the kinds of attributes Godzilla's cells have in which you described to me does capture my attention quite vastly. You have my sincerest thanks for your little gift. Are you sure you won't join me in a feast this evening, Alexander? I enjoy the company of a man with your high skills & intelligence."

"As tempting as that would be, sir, I'm afraid I currently have other matters to attend to this evening", Alexander explains. "How about we put that on hold for when Christmas comes around? That would be a feast which I would kill to attend."

"That can definitely be arranged, Mr. Pierce."

"Excellent. I'll see you Christmas Eve. Good night, sir", Alexander Pierce says before finishing his wine, putting the empty glass on the table & making his way towards the door with his prize in tow. The door slid open for allow him to step out, but he turned to face the big man once more.

"Hail Hydra", Pierce says with a smile before the door slid shut.

The big man at the end of the room was a huge mountain of a man, with beefy arms & hands that were almost in par with the Hulk's. He had a clean-shaven head & blue eyes that were sinister in every aspect.

He is Wilson Fisk aka the Kingpin, criminal mastermind & arch-enemy of the heroes Spider-Man, Daredevil & the Punisher.

An equally-sinister smile came across the Kingpin's face.

EPILOGUE #2

A thousand meters over the Pacific Ocean, Christmas Eve, 5:00 p.m.:

In the weeks that followed Godzilla's attacks, the clean-up in Philadelphia, Atlantic City & Manhattan were going like clockwork as everyone did their part in getting normalcy back as quick as they could. The Avengers & Fantastic Four were also making good on their labors, lending their assistance wherever needed. General Ross, Colonel Schwartz & the U.S. Army were making amends by terminating any future Mechagodzilla projects, not wanting to have a repeat of getting them hijacked by aliens or even professional spies & the like. Every bit of plans ever written down on any kind of blueprints were immediately incinerated to prevent anyone from duplicating the machines, & whatever pieces of the Mechagodzillas that were found got melted down into hot metal.

SHIELD had other concerns: taking their Helicarrier over the Pacific Ocean a thousand meters directly above the spot where Doctor Strange, Scarlet Witch, Yellowjacket & Wasp dropped Godzilla & MG-3 at, Nick Fury instructed his crew to keep a close watch over the area for any sign of either creature should they attempt to resurface. Their task began on Monday, November 29th & lasted right up to Christmas Eve.

During all that time, nobody heard even a peep from Godzilla or his robot double.

After nearly a month of inactivity from either creature, Nick Fury decided to call it off.

Even though they were stationed aboard the Helicarrier, the Director & his crew were still able to celebrate the Yuletide Season: a big Christmas tree beautifully decorated stood in the center of the bridge, with various other décor placed all over, including stockings, candles, silver & gold bells, tinsel & everything else to get the holiday spirit into SHIELD.

Having done their duty to the best of their abilities, even they deserve to celebrate the best time of the year.

Putting on the holiday music, Nick Fury wished everyone a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.

Agents Maria Hill, Dum Dum Dugan, Gabe Jones & the rest did the same.

Later, they all enjoyed a most delicious holiday feast as they talked about family life & other things.

Down within the Mariana Trench:

It was dark but peaceful & quiet in this deepest part of the Earth – the same peace & quiet Godzilla once enjoyed before being disturbed by mankind's folly. Lying at the bottom, he was still wrapped within MG-3's cables, staying in close proximity with his resurrected relative whose bones were placed inside the machine Godzilla was sharing sleeping space with. Since being dropped by Doctor Strange, Scarlet Witch, Yellowjacket & Wasp, neither creature moved, let alone left this area of true tranquility.

This kind of peace was just perfect for them both.

Yet deep within Godzilla's mind, memories started stirring within: flashes/images of a fight not too long ago of not only robotic versions of himself, but those of costumed humans that have attacked him, ranging from humans in a suit of armor to females that can conjure up barriers with their very thoughts.

He even recalled a human that can literally stretch itself way beyond the boundaries of its species, along with a green & yellow android that can become intangible & solid on a whim, causing him trouble & even inflicting pain upon him like nothing before.

But there were two of whom Godzilla will never forget: one was a human with long golden hair, red cape & in possession of a magic hammer that can hurt the Monster King with pain he'd never felt previously. The other was a big brute of a human who acted more animal than man, with green flesh & can inflict great pain simply by landing powerful punches with his bare fists alone & possessing an animalistic roar not unlike his.

It was these two individuals whose images burned in Godzilla's memory the most, causing him to open his eyes.

Godzilla scowled in rage as a soft but menacing growl escaped from his lips.

A note to the readers:

When I first wrote this story back in 2004 on paper for Godzilla's 50th anniversary (I didn't have a laptop yet), it was originally a crossover with 'Justice League', based upon the hit animated series once shown on Cartoon Network, as I was much more a DC Comics person than a Marvel Comics person back then (which I guess you could say I still mostly am). But since I've already done a crossover story pitting DC Comics' Justice League of America squaring off against Godzilla (first on paper in 2001, then upon my laptop in 2011) which took place in the actual DC Universe, I'd decided to hold off on doing a repeat of my earlier success to hopefully wait & see if perhaps I can transform it into a Marvel Comics story that, like 'Justice League of America vs. Godzilla: Nuclear Armageddon' does at DC, takes place in the actual Marvel Comics Universe.

The passing of Marvel Comics' legendary comic book writer/editor/publisher/producer Stan 'The Man' Lee on November 12th, 2018 made it official: my fanfic 'Justice League / Godzilla: Metal Madness' had become 'The Avengers / Godzilla: Metal Madness'.

It wasn't really too hard to make the necessary changes: just some locations, extra scenes, & of course characters from DC to Marvel. Despite the changes made to it, this story is pretty much still the same thing which I've written on paper 17 years ago before being able to display my works on my laptop, followed of course by the internet. As you've read, all three versions of the Mechagodzillas (from the mid-1970s, 1993 and 2002-2003) were kept, along with them being hijacked by a malevolent alien race, followed by one of the superhero team's greatest enemies. Another thing I'd kept intact was that of the original character of Colonel Julius Schwartz, of whom I created as a salute/tribute to the late Award-Winning Hall of Fame editor at DC Comics, who revitalized the world of comics in the 1950s & the 1960s, & was the first to think of the concept of the 'Justice League of America' title. He also served as consulting editor on the 'Superman vs. the Amazing Spider-Man' one-shot crossover special in March of 1976.

Julius Schwartz died on February 8th, 2004 at age 88 after being hospitalized for pneumonia – only a few short weeks of what would have been his 60th anniversary at DC Comics.

Because Godzilla was once part of the actual Marvel Universe (just like the Transformers themselves were), I've used a handful of excerpts/references in this story in a way to 'pay tribute' to the Marvel comic book Godzilla was in which ran from August 1977 to July 1979, when America was in the grip of Godzilla-mania. That also included having characters such as SHIELD agents Dum Dum Dugan & Gabe Jones, along with superheroes who have actually fought Godzilla in the classic Marvel series: the Fantastic Four, along with Avengers members Iron Man, Vision, Yellowjacket, Wasp, Black Widow & Thor (even cameos by Spider-Man & Daily Bugle publisher J. Jonah Jameson, along with Joe Robertson). While some might think that Godzilla's Marvel run was something of camp with many flaws, it is still such an interesting piece of Godzilla's long/illustrious history, & I urge anyone who hasn't read it yet to hunt down this 24-issue series & check it out when they can.

Flaws or not, you'll be really glad you did!

Lastly, another reason for me in doing this 'Avengers / Godzilla' story is because so many have asked me to do so: as I mentioned, I'm still mostly a DC Comics person even now, but after watching the movies from Marvel Studios which began in 2008, I became more into the company's characters like I once were from the early 1990s & up. Back in those days, I was an avid reader of Todd McFarlane's 'Spider-Man' & Jim Lee's 'X-Men' titles, along with reading 'The Punisher War Journal' & 'Punisher War Zone', among a few others before becoming a DC person fully.

But I can say without a doubt or shame that doing this story not only brought back great memories of doing my 'Justice League of America vs. Godzilla: Nuclear Armageddon' story, it was equally great doing another Godzilla tale, crossing over with another one of the greatest comic book universes to ever embrace the 2-D pages – the universe of the heroes from Marvel Comics!

It was quite a long time in coming, granted, but I sincerely hope that all of you who read this story was worth the long wait. It certainly was to me!

Anthony Ogozalek

MEMORIALS:

2004 memorials:

Rick James, Funk Musician Singer-Songwriter who Had Hit in 1981 with 'Super Freak', 56 (1948-2004)

Fay Wray, Actress Best Known as Ann Darrow in 1933's 'King Kong', 96 (1907-2004)

Julia Child, Beloved Cooking Teacher, Author, Radio & Television Personality, 91 (1912-2004)

Chuck Leonard, Radio Personality at WABC, 67 (1937-2004)

Tony Mottola, Guitarist who Played Extensively with Frank Sinatra, 86 (1918-2004)

Elmer Bernstein, Award-Nominated Composer/Conductor of Film Scores, 82 (1922-2004)

Robert David Lion Gardiner, Last Heir of the Gardiner's Island, 93 (1911-2004)

Charlie Waller, Lead Singer & Guitarist for Bluegrass Band the Country Gentlemen, 69 (1935-2004)

Kevin Baugh, Sports Standout, 42 (1962-2004)

Hank Borowy, MLB Pitcher for Yankees, Cubs, Phillies, Pirates & Tigers, 88 (1916-2004)

Daniel Petrie Sr., Award-Winning Canadian Director of Stage, Film & Television, 83 (1920-2004)

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, Psychiatrist & Pioneer in Near-Death Studies, 78 (1926-2004)

Tom Baldwin, Champion NASCAR Racer, 57 (1947-2004)

Noble 'Thin Man' Watts, Rhythm & Blues Tenor Saxophonist, 78 (1926-2004)

Laura Branigan, Singer-Songwriter who Had Hits 'Gloria', 'Self Control' & Others, 52 (1952-2004)

Johnny Ramone, Guitarist & Punk Rocker for Rock Group the Ramones, 55 (1948-2004)

Eddie Adams, Pulitzer Prize-Winning Photographer & Photojournalist, 71 (1933-2004)

Skeeter Davis, Country Music Singer, 72 (1931-2004)

Russ Meyer, Successful Director of Sexploitation Films, 82 (1922-2004)

Scott Muni, Legendary Disc Jockey who Pioneered Progressive Rock Format, 74 (1930-2004)

Richard Avedon, Famed Celebrity Photographer, 81 (1923-2004)

Janet Leigh, Legendary Actress & Mother of Jamie Lee Curtis, 77 (1927-2004)

Rodney Dangerfield, Legendary/Iconic Actor & Comedian, 82 (1921-2004)

Wally Harper, Award-Nominated Musical Director, 62/63 (1941-2004)

Ray Boone, MLB Patriarch for Three Generations, 81 (1923-2004)

John J. Jones Jr., CBS Newsman, 70 (1934-2004)

Charles Seaver, Father of Former Mets Pitcher Tom Seaver, 93 (1911-2004)

Peggy Ryan, Actress & Dancer who Starred in Many Movie Musicals, 80 (1924-2004)

Howard Keel, Actor & Singer who Appeared in Many MGM Musicals, 85 (1919-2004)

Joe Bushkin, Jazz Pianist of Big Band Era, 87 (1916-2004)

Ed Kemmer, Actor of Film & Television, 93 (1921-2004)

Noriaki Yuasa, Creator of Japanese Movie Monster Gamera, 70 (1933-2004)

Harry Lampert, Illustrator & Co-Creator of DC Comics' The Flash, 88 (1916-2004)

Terry Melcher, Singer-Songwriter, 62 (1942-2004)

Arthur Hailey, Award-Nominated British-Canadian Novelist of 'Hotel', 'Airport' & 'Wheels', 84 (1920-2004)

John Vincent Lynn, Senior Producer at CNN, 43 (1961-2004)

John Barrymore Jr., Actor & Father of Drew Barrymore, 72 (1932-2004)

Gregory Mitchell, Performer of Films & Broadway Stage, 52 (1951-2004)

Harry Danning, Last Member of 1937 Baseball Giants, 93 (1911-2004)

Jerry Scoggins, Country/Western Singer Known for 'Beverly Hillbillies' Theme Song, 93 (1911-2004)

Frances Chaney, Blacklisted Actress of Radio, Stage & Television, 89 (1915-2004)

Pauline Gore, Mother of Former Vice President Albert A. Gore Jr., 92 (1912-2004)

Reggie White, NFL Hall of Famer, 43 (1961-2004)

Son Seals, Hall of Fame Electric Blues Guitarist, 62 (1942-2004)

Hank Garland, Legendary Guitarist & Songwriter, 74 (1930-2004)

Jerry Orbach, Veteran Actor of Stage, Film & Television, 69 (1935-2004)

Rod Kanehl, MLB Outfielder who Played with New York Mets, 70 (1934-2004)

Artie Shaw, Legendary Musician, Actor & Author, 94 (1910-2004)

2021 memorials:

Isamu Akasaki, Nobel Prize-Winning Scientist who Invented LED Tech, 92 (1929-2021)

Linda Torres, Star of 'Big Ang' Reality TV Series, 67

Clara Walker, Swam for United States in 1948 Olympic Games, 94 (1926-2021)

Bruce Dunford, Longtime AP Hawaii Political Reporter, 79

Tom Farrell, Former Chairman for Dominion Energy, 66

Arthur Kopit, Three-Time Tony Award-Nominated Playwright, 83 (1937-2021)

Martha Lou Gadsden, Charleston Soul Food Icon, 91

Robert Mundell, Nobel Prize-Winning Economist, 88 (1932-2021)

Morris 'B.B.' Dickerson, Founding member of the Band War, 71

Gloria Henry, Actress Best Known as Alice Mitchell in 'Dennis the Menace' TV Sitcom, 98 (1923-2021)

Sugako Hashida, Renowned Japanese TV Drama Scriptwriter, 95 (1925-2021)

Paul Ritter, Actor Best Known for 'Chernobyl' Miniseries & 'Harry Potter' Films, 54 (1966/1967-2021)

Alcee Hastings, Longtime Democratic Florida Congressman, 84 (1936-2021)

Midwin Charles, Legal Analyst for CNN & MSNBC, 47

Mark Elliott, Longtime Disney Trailer Voice Actor, 81

Bill Owens, Songwriter who was Dolly Parton's Uncle & Mentor, 85

James Hampton, Actor Best Known for 'F-Troop' Sitcom & 1985's 'Teen Wolf', 84 (1936-2021)

Charles Coolidge, Medal of Honor Recipient from World War II, 99 (1921-2021)

Joye Hummel, First Female Writer for DC Comics' Wonder Woman, 97 (1924-2021)

Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburg & Husband of United Kingdom's Queen Elizabeth II, 99 (1921-2021)

Earl Simmons, Rapper Professionally Known as DMX, 50 (1970-2021)

Howard Weitzman, High-Profile Lawyer for Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber & Others, 81 (1939-2021)

Anne Beatts, Groundbreaking Comedy Writer for 'Saturday Night Live', 74

Gary Bimonte, Co-Owner of Lauded Connecticut Pizzeria (age not provided)

Lee Delaney, CEO of BJ's Warehouse Club, 49

John Naisbitt, Futurist & Author of 'Megatrends' Book, 92 (1929-2021)

Joseph Siravo, Actor Known as Johnny Soprano in 'The Sopranos', 64 (1957-2021)

Gerren Taylor, Model & Star of BET Reality Series 'Baldwin Hills', 30 (1990-2021)

LaDonna Brave Bull Allard, DAPL Protest Leader, 64 (1956-2021)

Lee Aaker, Former Child Star of 'The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin', 77 (1943-2021)

Keiza Obama, Stepmother of President Barrack Obama (age not provided)

Bobby 'Slick' Leonard, Hall of Fame ABA Coach, 88 (1932-2021)

June Newton, Australian Photographer & Actress, 97 (1923-2021)

Ray Lambert, Former Medic who Served on D-Day During World War II, 100

Leroy Keyes, Two-Time Consensus & All-American Running Back, 74 (1947-2021)

Frank Jacobs, Longtime Writer for Mad Magazine, 91 (1929-2021)

Rusty Young, Guitarist & Founding Member of Poco, 75 (1946-2021)

Helen McCrory, English Actress of Stage, Film & Television, 52 (1968-2021)

Felix Silla, Actor Best Known as Cousin Itt in 'The Addams Family' Sitcom, 84 (1937-2021)

Walter Mondale, Former Vice President to Jimmy Carter, 93 (1928-2021)

Charles Geschke, Co-Founder of Adobe & Co-Inventor of the PDF, 81 (1939-2021)

Black Rob, Rapper & Former Bad Boy Artist, 51 (1969-2021)

Alma Wahlberg, Mother of Actors Donnie & Mark Wahlberg, 78 (1942-2021)

Vartan Gregorian, Educator who Saved the New York Public Library, 87 (1934-2021)

Penelope Laingen, Wife of U.S. Diplomat who Started Yellow Ribbon Campaign for Hostages, 89

Sunday Burquest, Contestant on 'Survivor: Millennials vs. Gen X' Series, 50 (1971-2021)

Hester Ford, North Carolina Woman Said to be Oldest Living American, 115 or 116 (1905-2021)

Antron Pippen, Son of NBA's Scottie Pippen, 33

Mike Mitchell, Guitarist for the Kingsmen on 'Louie Louie', 77

Jim Steinman, Songwriter for Meat Loaf, Celine Dion, Air Supply, Bonnie Tyler & More, 73 (1947-2021)

Monte Hellman, Director Best Known for 'Two-Lane Blacktop', 91 (1929-2021)

Tempest Storm, Legendary Burlesque Performer, 93 (1928-2021)

Chuck Schilling, Math Teacher & MLB Player for Boston Red Sox, 83 (1937-2021)

Tom Robson, Former Coach & Player for MLB, 75 (1946-2021)

Wayne Peterson, Pulitzer Prize-Winning Composer, 93 (1927-2021)

Gregory E. Jacobs, Musician Known as Shock G for Digital Underground, 57 (1963-2021)

Joe Long, Bassist for the Four Seasons, 88 (1932-2021)

Les McKeown, Lead Singer for the Bay City Rollers, 65 (1955-2021)

Bill Wynne, Photojournalist who Trained World War II Hero Dog Smoky, 99 (1922-2021)

Arlene Pieper Stine, First Woman to Finish a Marathon, 90 (1930-2021)

Charlie Glotzbach, Record-Setting Race Car Driver for NASCAR, 82 (1938-2021)

Maria Ilva Biolcati, Italian Singer & Actress Known professionally as Milva, 81 (1939-2021)

Christa Ludwig, Longtime Mezzo-Soprano, 93 (1928-2021)

Alber Elbaz, Israeli Fashion Designer, 59 (1961-2021)

John Konrads, Gold Medal-Winning Australian Swimmer in 1960 Olympic Games, 78 (1942-2021)

Mike Davis, Two-Time Super Bowl Champion with Oakland Raiders, 65 (1956-2021)

Lyn Macdonald, Historian & chronicler of World War I, 91 (1929-2021)

Vassos Lyssarides, Respected Cypriot Politician, 100 (1920-2021)

Geno Hayes, Former NFL & Florida State Linebacker, 33 (1987-2021)

Jason Matthews, Award-Winning Author of 'Red Sparrow' Spy Thrillers, 69 (1951-2021)

Al Schmitt, Legendary Recording Engineer, 91 (1930-2021)

Mantfombi Dlamini, South African Zulu Queen, 65 (1956-2021)

Anne Douglas, Widow of Actor Kirk Douglas, 102 (1919-2021)

Michael Collins, NASA Astronaut & Pilot for 1969 Moon Landing, 90 (1930-2021)

Johnny Crawford, Original Mousketeer & Child Actor from 'The Rifleman' TV Series, 75 (1946-2021)

Shunsuke Kikuchi, Music Composer for 'Dragon Ball' Anime, Showa Gamera Films & Others, 89 (1931-2021)

Pete Lammons, Former Super Bowl Champion, 77 (1943-2021)

Eric McClure, Former NASCAR Driver, 42 (1978-2021)

Robert Slavin, Education Researcher who Developed Reading Program for Schools, 70 (1950-2021)

Olympia Dukakis, Oscar-Winning Actress from 'Steel Magnolias', 'Moonstruck' & Others, 89 (19312-2021)

Eli Broad, Self-Made Billionaire who Endowed LA Cultural Centers, 87 (1933-2021)

Clinton Smith, Firefighter & Former Harbor Master, 91

Jacques d'Amboise, NYC Ballet Dancer who Founded Youth Institute, 86 (1934-2021)

Bobby Unser, Three-Time Indy 500 Winner, 87 (1934-2021)

Courtney Hall, Captain of Chargers' Super Bowl Team, 52 (1968-2021)

Patrick O'Connell, Developed Red Ribbon for HIV/AIDS Awareness, 67 (1953-2021)

Billie Hayes, Actress Best Known as Witchiepoo on 'H.R. Pufnstuf' Children's Program, 96

Alan McLoughlin, Former Republic of Ireland Soccer Hero, 54 (1967-2021)

Tommy West, Co-Producer of Jim Croce Albums, 78 (1942-2021)

Nick Kamen, Levi's Launderette & Model/Singer who Worked with Madonna, 59 (1962-2021)

Joseph Zalman Kleinman, Nazi Holocaust Survivor & Trial Witness, 91 (1930-2021)

Paul Van Doren, Co-Founder of Van's Sneaker & Clothing Company, 90

Del Crandall, MLB All-Star with the Boston/Milwaukee Braves, 91 (1930-2021)

Helen Murray Free, Chemist who Revolutionized Diabetes Testing, 98 (1923-2021)

Jonathan Bush, Kin to Former Bush Presidents, 89 (1931-2021)

Patricia Sponheim, Tiki Bar Performer for 50 Years, 86 (1934-2021)

Yitzhak Arad, World War II Holocaust Survivor, 94 (1926-2021)

Tawny Kitaen, 'Bachelor Party' Star & 1980s Music Video Vixen, 59 (1961-2021)

Lloyd Price, Hall of Fame R&B & Rock & Roll Hitmaker from the 1950s, 88 (1933-2021)

Edgar Harrell, Last Surviving Marine from the USS Indianapolis in World War II, 96

Pierre 'Pete' du Pont IV, Former Governor of Delaware, 86 (1935-2021)

Eula Hall, Appalachia Health Clinic Founder, 93 (1927-2021)

Helmut Jahn, Architect who Redefined Chicago's Skyline, 81 (1940-2021)

Colt Brennan, Star Quarterback at University of Hawaii, 37 (1983-2021)

Julian Read, Fort Worth Native who Brief Press after JFK Assassination, 93

Lester L. Wolff, Influential Former Long Island Congressman, 102 (1919-2021)

Norman Lloyd, Prolific Actor & Director, 106 (1914-2021)

Pervis Staples, Founding Member of the Staple Singers, 85 (1935-2021)

Spencer Silver, Chemist & Co-Inventor of Post-It Notes, 80 (1941-2021)

Judith Bender, Longtime Political Reporter for Newsday, 87 (1933-2021)

Bill McCreary, Pioneering Journalist & Former Anchor for WNYW/5, 87

Janine Brookner, Ousted CIA Officer who Challenged Agency in Court, 80 (1940-2021)

Antonio Fiorito, Founded Italian Seven Brothers Gourmet Market, 74

Damon Weaver, Young Reporter who Interviewed President Barrack Obama at Age 11, 23

Buddy Roemer, Former Governor of Louisiana, 77 (1943-2021)

Chuck Hicks, Stuntman & Actor in Clint Eastwood Films & 1990's 'Dick Tracy', 93 (1927-2021)

Michele Pinczuk, Writer, Filmmaker & U-Md Hip-Hop DJ, 27

Rennie Stennett, Former Infielder with MBL's Pittsburg Pirates, 72 (1949-2021)

Paul Mooney, Pioneering Actor & Comedian, 79 (1941-2021)

Patsy Bruce, Country Music Songwriter, 81 (1940-2021)

Charles Grodin, Actor Known for 'The Heartbreak Kid', 'Midnight Run', 'Beethoven' & Others, 86 (1935-2021)

Kentaro Miura, Manga Artist & Creator of 'Berserk', 54 (1966-2021)

Roy Scammell, Suit Performer & Stuntman for 1979's 'Alien', 88 (1932-2021)

Lee Evans, Olympic Gold Medalist who Protested Racism, 74 (1947-2021)

Roger Hawkins, Drummer for the Swampers, Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett & Others, 75 (2945-2021)

Wilbur Kauff, World War II Veteran who also Served in FDNY, 96 (1924-2021)

Yuan Longping, Ricer Researcher who Helped Feed the World, 90 (1930-2021)

Alix Dobkin, Pioneering Lesbian Singer & Songwriter, 80 (1940-2021)

Roman Kent, Holocaust Survivor who Fought for Reparations, 92

Robert Marchand, Record-Setting Centenarian Cyclist, 109 (1911-2021)

Max Mosley, Former Motorsport Leader, 81 (1940-2021)

Paul J. Hanly Jr., Top Litigator in Opioid Cases, 70 (1951-2021)

Bruno Covas, Mayor of Sao Paulo, Brazil, 41 (1980-2021)

Mark York, Actor Best Known as Billy Merchant in 'The Office', 55 (1965-2021)

Kevin Clark, Actor Best Known as Freddy 'Spazzy McGee' Jones in 2003's 'School of Rock', 32 (1988-2021)

Samuel E. Wright, Actor/Singer Best Known for Voicing Sebastian the Crab in 'The Little Mermaid', 74 (1946-2021)

John Warner, Former Senator & Sixth Husband of Elizabeth Taylor, 94 (1927-2021)

Anna Halprin, Modern Dance Innovator & Healer, 100 (1920-2021)

Eric Carle, Bestselling Author of 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' Children's Book, 91 (1929-2021)

John Davis, Real Voice/Singer of Milli Vanilli, 66

Lois Ehlert, Illustrator of Popular Children's Book 'Chicka Chicka Boom Boom', 86 (1934-2021)

Robert Green Hall, Special Effects Makeup Artist for 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' & Others, 47 (1973-2021)

Desiree Gould, Actress Best Known as Aunt Martha in 1983 Horror Film 'Sleepaway Camp', 76 (1945-2021)

Carla Fracci, Legendary Italian Ballerina, 84 (1936-2021)

Kay Tobin Lahusen, Gay Rights Activist & Photographer, 91 (1930-2021)

Mark Eaton, NBA Shot-Blocking Legend, 64 (1957-2021)

Rusty Warren, Pioneering & Bawdy Comic who Made Her Name in Phoenix, 91 (1930-2021)

Gavin MacLeod, Actor Best Known for 'Love Boat' & 'Mary Tyler Moore' TV Shows, 90 (1931-2021)

B.J. Thomas, Grammy Award-Winning Singer, 78 (1942-2021)

Joe Lara, Actor Best Known as Tarzan in 'Tarzan: The Epic Adventures' TV Series, 58 (1962-2021)

Gwen Lara, Diet Guru & Wife of 'Tarzan' Actor Joe Lara, 66 (1955-2021)

Buddy Van Horn, Longtime Stunt Double for Actor Clint Eastwood, 92 (1928-2021)

Jerome Hellman, Oscar-Winning Producer of 'Midnight Cowboy', 92 (1928-2021)

Arlene Golonka, Actress Best Known for 'The Andy Griffith Show', 'Mayberry R.F.D.' & Others, 85 (1936-2021)

Paul Soles, Original Voice of Spider-Man in 1967 Animated Series, 90 (1930-2021)

Henry Laun, Reality Star on 'Wahlburgers', 54

Frank Navarro, Former Ivy League Football Coach, 91 (1930-2021)

F. Lee Bailey, Celebrity Defense Lawyer for Sam Sheppard, O.J. Simpson & Others, 87 (1933-2021)

Mike Marshall, First MLB Relief Pitcher to Win Cy Young Award, 78 (1943-2021)

Sonia Adler, Founding Editor of Washington Dossier, 90 (1931-2021)

Sam Boulmetis Sr., Hall of Fame Horse Racing Jockey, 94 (1927-2021)

Jimmy Allen Ruth, Bus Driver for Group of Nashville Freedom Riders, 83

Linda Thurston, Activist who Worked to Abolish the Death Penalty, 62 (1958-2021)

Douglas S. Cramer, Executive Producer on 'The Love Boat', 'Dynasty', 'Wonder Woman' & Others, 89 (1931-2021)

Clarence Williams III, Actor Known for 'The Mod Squad', 'Purple Rain' & 'Tales from the Hood', 81 (1939-2021)

Richard Robinson, CEO of Children's Book Publishing Company Scholastic, 84

David Dushman, Last Living Liberator of Auschwitz, 98 (1923-2021)

Rick Porter, Owner of Champion Thoroughbreds, 80

Jim Fassel, Former Head Coach for NFL's New York Giants, 71 (1949-2021)

Karla Burns, Tony-Nominated Singer & Actress, 66 (1954-2021)

Hal O'Leary, Pioneer for Disabled Skiing, 94 (1927-2021)

Michael Alexander, Pulitzer Prize-Winning Reporter for Newsday, 77 (1943-2021)

Ernie Lively, Actor & Father to Actors Eric Lively & Blake Lively, 74 (1947-2021)

Jessica Morris, Founder of Non-Profit Our Brain Bank, 57 (1963-2021)

Martha White, Organizer in 1953 Baton Rouge Bus Boycott Movement, 99

Don Duga, Animator for 'Frosty the Snowman', 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town' & Others, 87

Gottfried Boehm, Master German Architect who Sculpted in Concrete, 101 (1920-2021)

Leonard Crow Dog, Lakota Spiritual Leader & Activist, 78 (1942-2021)

Ned Beatty, Oscar-Nominated Actor from 'Deliverance', Superman I & II', 'Back to School' & Others, 83 (1937-2021)

Richard Ernst, Nobel Prize-Winning Chemist, 87 (1933-2021)

Jim Grant, First Black American League Pitcher to Win 20 Games, 85 (1935-2021)

John Gabriel, Actor Best Known as Seneca Beaulac in TV's 'Ryan's Hope', 90 (1931-2021)

Michele Gillen, Television Reporter who Won 39 Emmys, 66

John Marinetto, Former PC Athletic Director, 64 (1957-2021)

John McDonnell, Famed Arkansas Track & Field Coach, 82 (1938-2021)

Ei-ichi Negishi, Top Scientist who Revolutionized Drug-Making & Made OLED TVs Possible, 85 (1935-2021)

Bobby Unser Jr., Son of Legendary Race Car Driver, 65

Lisa Banes, Veteran Actress of Stage & Screen, 65 (1955-2021)

Joysetta Pearse, Preserver of 'Hidden' Black Contributions, 82 (1938-2021)

Enrique Bolanos Geyer, Former President of Nicaragua, 93 (1928-2021)

Yang Huaiding, Pioneering Chinese Investor, 71 (1950-2021)

Jim Phelan, Legendary Mount St. Mary's Basketball Coach, 92 (1929-2021)

Lucinda Riley, Irish Author Known for 'The Seven Sisters' Series, 55 (1966-2021)

Janet Malcolm, Author of 'The Journalist & the Murderer', 86 (1934-2021)

Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia's Charismatic First President & Liberator, 97 (1924-2021)

Jack B. Weinstein, Federal Judge in Agent Orange Case & World War II Veteran, 99 (1921-2021)

Frank Bonner, Actor Best Known as Herb Tarlek in 'WKRP in Cincinnati' Sitcom, 79 (1942-2021)

Mort Zimmerman, Synagogue Leader & World War II Veteran, 98 (1922-2021)

John Paragon, Actor Best Known as Jambi the Genie in 'Pee-Wee's Playhouse', 66 (1954-2021)

Alex Harvill, Guinness World Record-Holding Daredevil, 28

Heidi Ferrer, Writer for TV's 'Dawson's Creek', 50 (1970-2021)

Sang Ho Baek, College Baseball Pitcher, 20

Mark Peel, Trailblazer of California Cuisine & Judge on TV's 'Top Chef', 66 (1954-2021)

George Stranahan, Physicist who Founded Flying Dog Brewery, 89 (1931-2021)

Leroy Jones, Former Defensive End for NFL's San Diego Chargers, 70 (1950-2021)

Consuewella Africa, Mother who Lost 2 Daughters in 1985 MOVE Philly Bombing, 67

Tom Kurvers, Former NHL Islanders Player & Assistant General Manager, 58 (1962-2021)

Max Temkin, World War II Holocaust Survivor who Spoke at Schools, 99 (1922-2021)

Joanne Linville, Actress Best Known for 'Star Trek' & 'Twilight Zone' TV Series, 93 (1928-2021)

Merle Smith, First Black Graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, 76

Rene Robert, NHL Star with the Buffalo Sabres, 72 (1948-2021)

Milkha Singh, India's 'Flying Sikh' Ace Runner/Sprinter, 91 (1929-2021)

Jim Bessman, Longtime Billboard Contributor, 68 (1952-2021)

Richard Stolley, Founding Editor & Launcher of People Magazine, 92 (1928-2021)

Benigno Aquino III, Former President of the Philippines, 61 (1960-2021)

Rex Tilousi, Longtime Arizona Havasupai Tribe Leader, 73

H.L. Callahan, Former Alabama Congressman, 88 (1932-2021)

Judith Farr, Professor Devoted to Emily Dickinson's Poetry, 85

Ellen McIlwaine, Fiery Side Guitarist & Blues Singer, 75 (1945-2021)

Jackie Lane, Actress Best Known as Dodo Chaplet in 'Doctor Who' BBC TV Series, 79 (1941-2021)

Frederick S. Humphries, Former Florida A& M University President, 85 (1935-2021)

Mike Gravel, Former U.S. Senator for Alaska, 91 (1930-2021)

Johnny Solinger, Former Singer for Skid Row Band, 55 (1965-2021)

John Langley, Creator of Reality TV Series 'COPS', 78 (1943-2021)

Abdalelah Haroun, Qatari Sprint Runner who Won Bronze at World Championships, 24 (1997-2021)

Jack Ingram, Hall of Fame NASCAR Driver Dubbed 'Iron Man', 84 (1936-2021)

Ray McDonnell, Actor Best Known as Dr. Joe Martin in 'All My Children' TV Soap, 93 (1928-2021)

Parker, Known Professionally as Blackalicious Rapper Gift of Gab, 50

Martyl Reinsdorf, Wife of Chicago Bulls & White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, 85

Stuart Damon, Actor Best known as Dr. Alan Quartermaine in TV Soap 'General Hospital', 84 (1937-2021)

Greg 'Da Bull' Noll, Legendary Big-Wave Surfer & Entrepreneur, 84 (1937-2021)

Delia Fiallo, Screenwriter Known as the 'Mother of All Telenovelas', 96 (1924-2021)

Patricia Reilly Giff, Popular & Prolific Children's Author, 86 (1935-2021)

Jimmy Fitzmorris, Former Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana, 99 (1921-2021)

Elizabeth Martinez, Civil Rights Activist, 95 (1925-2021)

Kenzi Shiokava, Sculptor of Totemic Wood Works, 82 (1938-2021)