Avengers X Kingdom Heart: Endgame Chapter 2 - Fractured Trust, a Kingdom Hearts + Avengers Crossover fanfic

Avengers X Kingdom Hearts - Endgame

Disclaimer: I do not own these characters or properties. Marvel Studios is owned by Disney Entertainment and Marvel Comics. Kingdom Hearts and their characters are jointly owned by Disney Interactive and Square Enix. This work is pure fan fiction and how both worlds of Kingdom Hearts and the MCU would mix together. There may also be cameos from other franchises that pop up. Please Enjoy.)

Chapter 2: Fractured Trust: The Weight of Loss and Strained Alliances

***AVENGER'S COMPOUND - DAY 12 AFTER THANOS' SNAP***

The night sky stretched out above them, a tapestry of shimmering stars that seemed to stretch on infinitely. The moon, in its tranquil radiance, cast a gentle glow over the Avengers compound, illuminating the rooftop where Kairi, Goofy, and Lea sought solace. The stars twinkled with a soft brilliance, as if they held secrets and whispered promises of hope.

Kairi's eyes were drawn to the vast expanse above, where the stars formed a celestial map of countless worlds and endless possibilities. She marveled at their beauty, finding comfort in their distant presence. The moon, like a guardian overseeing their troubled world, bathed everything in a soft, ethereal light. It was a gentle reminder that even in the darkest of times, there was still beauty and wonder to be found.

Goofy, always one to appreciate the simple joys, stood beside Kairi, his gaze fixed on the stars. He couldn't help but smile, his eyes sparkling with childlike wonder. "Gawrsh, just look at 'em stars! Ain't they somethin'?" His voice held a sense of awe and reverence, as if he understood the profound mysteries the heavens held.

In the serenity of that moonlit sky, the trio found solace and renewed purpose. They understood that the universe was vast, and their battles were far from over. But with each twinkle of a star and each gentle breeze that rustled their hair, they felt a renewed sense of hope.

The night sky, with its boundless wonders, served as a reminder that no matter how dark the path may seem, there would always be light to guide them. It was a beacon of hope, whispering promises of a brighter future, of a universe restored.

Kairi gazed up at the stars, her eyes filled with a glimmer of hope. "Each one represents a world, a life, and a story. We have to believe that there's still hope out there, that we can bring the universe back towards the light."

Goofy, always the optimist, nodded in agreement. "Yep, Kairi, you're right. We may have lost a lot, but we can't give up. We gotta keep pushing forward and find a way to fix this mess. We've faced tough challenges before, and we've always come out on top."

Lea, leaning back against the rooftop ledge, exhaled a deep breath. "Yeah, it's tough seeing our friends gone, but we gotta stay strong for 'em. They wouldn't want us wallowing in sorrow. We gotta keep fighting, keep pushing forward, and make sure their sacrifice wasn't in vain."

Kairi nodded, her determination shining through her gentle smile. "Exactly, Lea. We have to honor their memories by carrying on their legacy, by fighting for what's right. And we have to trust in Bruce, Ienzo, Even and Rocket to trace Thanos' steps, to find a way to rectify his actions. We'll bring back balance to the universe, one way or another."

Goofy placed a reassuring hand on Kairi's shoulder. "And don't forget, we're not alone in this. We have friends here at the Avengers, people who've faced their fair share of battles. Together, we can overcome anything."

Lea glanced up at the night sky, a mixture of determination and sorrow in his eyes. "Yeah, we'll bring back the light. We'll make sure their sacrifice means something. And we'll do it for them, for everyone we've lost."

As they sat together, the stars above them seemed to twinkle with a newfound sense of purpose. The weight of their losses was still present, but so was the unwavering strength of their resolve. They would face the challenges ahead with determination, knowing that their fallen friends would be watching over them, guiding them every step of the way.

Lea's gaze turned distant, his thoughts drifting back to the nostalgic memories of Twilight Town. He couldn't help but smile as he reminisced about those carefree days spent atop the clock tower, indulging in the sweet embrace of Sea Salt Ice Cream. Roxas and Xion, his dear friends from that time, filled his heart with a mixture of joy and longing. He yearned for their presence, for the laughter and camaraderie they shared.

"Man, I miss those days," he whispered, a hint of wistfulness in his voice.

Goofy nodded in understanding, a wistful smile gracing his features. "Ahyuck, I know what ya mean, Lea. I miss Donald and the King somethin' fierce. But deep down, I know they'll find their way back to us. They always do. Friends like that, they never truly leave us."

Kairi's gaze drifted to the stars, her heart filled with a mixture of hope and yearning. "I feel the same way, guys. I miss Riku, Stephen and I miss Sora. But I have to believe that they're out there, fighting their own battles, finding their way back to us. They're my light, and I know they'll come back to me. We just have to stay strong until then."

In the quiet solitude of the night, their words hung in the air, a shared sentiment that echoed across the universe. They understood the ache of longing for those they cherished, the yearning for their return. But amidst the vast expanse of stars, they found solace in the knowledge that their bonds transcended space and time.

Kairi, Lea, and Goofy exchanged puzzled glances, their eyes searching the darkened sky for any sign of the disturbance. The stars above seemed to flicker, their brilliance momentarily dimmed. And then, through the haze of uncertainty, they caught sight of a familiar sight—the figures of Steve Rogers, Natasha Romanoff, Bruce Banner, and James Rhodes emerging from the facility.

Steve, now clean-shaven, led the group, his gaze fixed upon something beyond their line of sight. Natasha, ever vigilant, stood by his side, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any potential threat. Bruce, with his gentle demeanor, appeared more solemn than usual, his mind undoubtedly pondering the mysteries of the situation. And James, ever loyal and resolute, kept a watchful eye on their surroundings.

As Kairi, Lea, and Goofy leaped from the rooftop, their concern mounting, they joined the group in their journey towards the source of the disturbance. The ground quaked beneath their feet, a chorus of creaks and groans echoing through the air. The Avengers' shared sense of urgency propelled them forward, their steps quickening.

And then, through the chaos, their eyes fell upon a sight that filled them with both relief and a renewed sense of purpose. Carol Danvers, the indomitable Captain Marvel, descended from the heavens, the mighty Benatar cradled safely in her grasp. The landing gears deployed, bringing the spacecraft to a gentle touchdown.

Kairi's heart soared as she recognized the ship and the survivors it carried. "It's Carol! She's brought the survivors," she exclaimed, her voice tinged with both joy and determination. Lea and Goofy shared her sentiment, their eyes filled with a renewed sense of hope.

Suddenly, their peaceful night under the tranquil star filled sky was shattered by a sudden disruption, as the very foundations of the Avengers facility quaked and trembled. At first, the vibrations were subtle, like ripples in a calm pond, but they soon intensified into a violent shudder that reverberated through the compound. The peaceful serenade of the starlit sky was drowned out by the cacophony of metal on metal and a humming sound - like an engine.

As the entry hatch of the Benatar slowly opened, revealing a scene of weary survivors. Tony, Riku, and Aqua emerged, their bodies weakened and their spirits drained from the hardships they had endured. Nebula, ever faithful, provided support to Tony, his weakened form leaning on her for stability.

Steve, his eyes filled with a mix of relief and sorrow, rushed forward to meet Tony. A tangle of emotions coursed through them both as they locked eyes, their shared history etched in every line on their faces. Tony, gripping Steve's arm, found solace in his presence, a silent understanding passing between them.

"Couldn't stop him," Tony uttered, his voice heavy with defeat.

Steve's gaze softened, the weight of their shared losses evident in his eyes. "Neither could I," he admitted, the weight of the world bearing down upon him.

Tony's voice trembled as he uttered his deepest anguish. "I lost the kid."

Steve, understanding the depth of Tony's pain, reached out a hand to comfort him. "Tony, we lost," he said, his voice filled with sorrow and regret.

Tony's eyes searched Steve's face, searching for answers, for reassurance. And then, as if answering his unspoken question, Pepper Potts, the love of his life, appeared before them. Her voice filled with a mix of relief and disbelief, she cried out, "Oh, my God! Oh, my God!"

Tony, a flicker of hope igniting within him, embraced Pepper tightly. In that moment, their connection was a balm for their wounded souls, a reminder that amidst the chaos and loss, there was still love and solace to be found.

"It's okay," Tony whispered, his voice choked with emotion. Though the scars of their ordeal were deep, their love remained steadfast, an unwavering beacon of hope in the darkest of times.

Steve and Pepper guided the weak Tony inside of the compound, where aid was ready to help Tony recover from his ordeal. As Carol dusted off her hands from carrying the Benatar from the depths of space - she saw Nat, Rhodey and Bruce approach her.

Natasha extended her hand to Carol, a gesture of gratitude and respect. "Thank you, Carol," she said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "You acted bravely to find Tony and the survivors."

Carol nodded and shook Nat's hand, her expression reflecting a mix of humility and determination. "It's the least I could do," she replied, her voice filled with quiet resolve. "We're all in this together."

Bruce approached the group, his eyes filled with a mixture of relief and concern. "Carol, why don't you come inside?" he suggested, his voice gentle yet firm. "We have a few things to discuss which happened in your absence."

Carol's gaze shifted from Natasha to Bruce, acknowledging the importance of their conversation. "Of course," she responded, her voice steady. "Let's go."

As they made their way into the compound, the weight of their shared experiences hung in the air. The battles they had fought, the losses they had endured, and the challenges that lay ahead were all pressing upon their minds.

Exhausted and weakened, Riku and Aqua stumbled their way towards Kairi, Goofy, and Lea, their steps heavy with the weight of their losses. Lea quickly moved to support Aqua, wrapping his arm around her waist to steady her trembling form, while Goofy embraced Riku tightly, offering him the strength to remain standing.

Kairi's eyes welled up with tears as she looked upon her fellow Guardians of Light, her heart heavy with the knowledge of the losses they had suffered. With a trembling voice, she asked the question that hung heavily in the air. "What happened?"

Riku, his voice filled with sorrow, spoke the painful truth. "We couldn't stop Thanos," he admitted, his voice weighted with grief. "We lost good people to the snap."

Aqua's fragile composure shattered, tears streaming down her weary face as the exhaustion and anguish overwhelmed her. "Terra... Ventus..." she choked out between sobs, the pain of losing her beloved friends cutting deep into her soul.

Kairi's own eyes welled up with tears, her heart breaking for Aqua's devastating loss. She reached out, pulling Aqua into a tight embrace, offering solace and understanding in their shared sorrow. The remaining Guardians of Light, Lea and Goofy, moved closer, forming a circle of support and love, each of them feeling the weight of their own losses.

In the embrace of their companions, they found a momentary respite from the harsh reality they had faced. The bond between them, forged through countless trials and shared hardships, provided a source of strength and comfort. No words were needed in that moment, as their shared understanding transcended the need for conversation.

In the embrace of their companions, Lea found solace in their unity. He let out a soft chuckle, his voice laced with a mix of pain and gratitude. "Look at us, still standing together despite all the pain we've endured," he remarked, his eyes gazing at the faces of his friends.

Goofy nodded, his ever-present optimism shining through. "That's right, Lea. We've been through a lot, but we're still here for each other."

Kairi, her voice filled with determination, wiped away her tears and took a deep breath. "You're right. Let's get inside and find help for Riku and Aqua. They need medical support and rest."

With their shared understanding, the team moved as one, supporting Riku and Aqua in their weakened states. Lea gently lifted Aqua into his arms, cradling her with care, while Goofy did the same for Riku, ensuring their safety and comfort.

As they made their way towards the entrance of the Avengers compound, their steps slow and deliberate, they carried not only the physical weight of their friends but also the weight of their shared experiences and the hope that still burned within their hearts. They knew that despite the pain and loss they had suffered, they would find strength in their unity and forge ahead, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Nearby, Nebula watched the solemn gathering of the Avengers and Guardian of Light survivors, her metallic eyes taking in the scene with a mixture of sorrow and gratitude. She sat beside Rocket, their unlikely friendship forged through shared pain and resilience. Nebula's cybernetic hand gently rested on Rocket's furry head, a gesture of comfort and connection.

In the silence between them, they understood the weight of the losses suffered, the sacrifices made, and the indomitable spirit that kept them moving forward. Nebula's journey from a broken and loyal servant of Thanos to a fierce warrior fighting for the side of good had been a long and difficult one. And in Rocket, she had found not only a companion on this arduous path but also someone who had taught her the power of friendship, loyalty, and acceptance.

As Nebula's hand caressed Rocket's head, a silent understanding passed between them. It was a moment of solace amidst the turmoil, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there was still room for compassion and connection. Together, they would face the challenges that lay ahead, drawing strength from their shared experiences and the bond they had formed.

Twelve long days had passed since the devastating snap, leaving them shattered and emotionally drained. Each of them carried scars, both visible and invisible, from the battles they had fought and the lives they had lost. The weight of the universe's suffering rested upon their shoulders, threatening to crush their spirits.

But amidst the darkness and despair, they found solace in the company of their fellow survivors. They clung to the bonds of friendship and love that had endured throughout their journey. In the presence of their closest companions, they discovered a flicker of light, a ray of hope that whispered of brighter days to come.

Though their hearts were heavy and their souls weary, being surrounded by those they cherished brought a sense of comfort and strength. The heroes understood that even in the darkest of times, the power of connection and support could help them endure. They leaned on one another, sharing their pain, their fears, and their hopes for a better future.

In these moments of togetherness, the survivors found the courage to keep going, to rise above their own personal struggles and continue the fight. They drew strength from the unwavering loyalty and unwavering commitment of their comrades. They were reminded of the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of adversity.

Yes, they were broken. Yes, they were exhausted. But they were not alone. They were surrounded by a circle of trust, understanding, and unwavering support. Through shared experiences, laughter, tears, and silent embraces, they forged an unbreakable bond, a lifeline that sustained them through even the darkest of times.

***THE NEXT MORNING - DAY 13 AFTER THE SNAP***

As the sun began to cast its warm golden rays upon the world outside, Kairi's weary eyes fluttered open, feeling the remnants of exhaustion weigh heavily upon her. The previous night had been long and arduous, as she had dedicated herself to aiding Tony, Aqua, and Riku in their recovery. The medical attention they required had taken its toll on her own well-being, but the strength of her determination had propelled her forward.

Slowly rising from her bed, Kairi stretched her tired limbs, feeling a faint soreness in her muscles from the exertion of the previous day. She knew that her friends were on the path to recovery, albeit a slow and gradual one. Aqua and Riku had benefited from the restorative effects of the potions Goofy had acquired from the Moogle store, replenishing a fraction of their strength. But for Tony, the situation was more dire. Dehydrated and malnourished, he required urgent medical support to nurse him back to health.

In the medical wing of the Avengers HQ, Tony lay soundly asleep, connected to various monitors and a drip that provided him with essential fluids and nutrients. Pepper, his steadfast companion, stood vigilantly by his side, offering her unwavering support and love. Kairi couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards Pepper, who had been a pillar of strength during these trying times.

Gazing out of the window, Kairi's gaze lingered on the horizon, where the sky met the Earth in an ethereal blend of colors. She knew that this new day held answers to the questions that had plagued their minds since their return from space. What had transpired out there? What had become of their fallen allies and the fate of the universe itself?

Drawing a deep breath, Kairi steeled herself for the challenges that lay ahead. It was a day to gather information, to seek understanding, and to forge a path towards redemption. She knew that the road ahead would be fraught with uncertainty and hardships, but she was determined to face them head-on.

Leaving the comfort of her room, Kairi made her way towards the heart of the Avengers HQ, ready to join the others in their quest for answers. As she walked, a flicker of hope ignited within her, fueled by the bonds of friendship and the unwavering belief that they could restore balance and light to the universe once more.

As Kairi made her way through the corridors of the Avengers HQ, a delightful aroma wafted through the air, teasing her senses and beckoning her towards the source. Following her nose, she found herself in the kitchen area, where Goofy stood busily preparing breakfast with a cheerful demeanor.

"Good morning, Kairi!" Goofy greeted her with a wide grin. "I thought I'd start the day off right with a hearty breakfast for everyone. Oh, and the coffee's all brewed and ready if you need a pick-me-up."

Kairi smiled warmly at Goofy's thoughtfulness. Despite the exhaustion that lingered within them all, his lighthearted spirit provided a much-needed spark of positivity. "Thank you, Goofy. You're always so considerate."

Just as the coffee aroma wafted through the air, Lea walked into the kitchen, accompanied by Carol, Aqua, and Riku. Their weary expressions and sleep-deprived appearance spoke volumes about the toll their recent ordeals had taken on them.

Lea reached for a cup of coffee, his voice laced with a touch of exhaustion. "Morning, Kairi. Goofy. I don't know about you guys, but I could use a little caffeine kick to get me going."

Carol joined him, pouring herself a cup. "I could use it too. It's been quite a night."

Concern etched across her face, Kairi turned to Aqua and Riku, who appeared emotionally and physically drained from their time stuck in space.

"Aqua, Riku, are you both okay? Can you stomach some coffee after going without food for days?"

Aqua and Riku exchanged weary glances, their bodies still recovering from the strain they had endured. Aqua spoke softly, her voice laden with exhaustion, "I think a small cup won't hurt. We could use a little something to keep us going."

Riku nodded in agreement, his eyes heavy with fatigue. "Yeah, a little boost might help."

As they all gathered around the kitchen table, cups of steaming coffee in hand, Kairi couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the bond they shared. Despite their physical and emotional weariness, they stood together, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The aroma of breakfast filled the air as Goofy served up a nourishing meal, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there were still moments of simple joy and sustenance to be found. It was a testament to their resilience and their determination to push forward, to rise above their hardships and continue fighting for the light.

As the team sat around the table, sipping their coffee and savoring the breakfast, a heavy silence hung in the air. The weariness of their recent experiences weighed upon them, threatening to fracture the bonds that held them together.

Riku's question broke through the quietude, directed at Kairi. "Where were you all this time, Kairi? We were worried sick after you disappeared during the battle with Xehanort. You could have at least called or messaged us to let us know you were ok."

Kairi's heart sank at the accusation in Riku's voice. She had hoped to avoid this conversation, to shield her friends from the truth of her absence. But seeing the exhaustion etched on Riku's face, she knew he deserved an explanation.

Riku's question pierced the air, his voice filled with anger and frustration, directed straight at Kairi. The accusation cut deep, and Kairi's heart sank as guilt washed over her. She had hoped to avoid this conversation, to shield her friends from the truth of her absence. But now, facing Riku's exhaustion and anger, she knew she had to face the consequences of her actions.

"I... I'm sorry, Riku," Kairi stammered, her voice trembling. "I didn't want to worry you. I was found by Doctor Strange... He helped me recover and kept me safe. I thought it was best not to contact anyone until I was back with all of you."

Riku's frustration only grew, his anger boiling over. "You were with Doctor Strange? And you couldn't even let us know? We were left in the dark, worried sick about you!" His voice cracked with emotion, the weight of their recent battles and losses clearly taking a toll on his weary soul.

In the face of Riku's anger, Kairi's eyes welled up with tears. She had never meant to cause him pain, but her absence had inadvertently hurt him deeply.

"Riku, I'm truly sorry," she pleaded, her voice filled with remorse. "I didn't realize how much it would affect all of you. I thought I was doing what was best at the time."

Riku's frustration turned to anguish, and his voice quivered as he spoke, laden with the weight of survivor's guilt. "You don't understand, Kairi. We lost. We lost so much. And Strange... he gave the Time Stone to Thanos. He played a part in all of this, and now he's gone too."

Kairi's heart sank further, her mentor and ally now lost. The pain of losing Stephen Strange added to the growing sense of despair. She wanted to defend him, to explain that they were all fighting a difficult battle, but she knew Riku's exhaustion and grief were clouding his judgment.

Lea, Aqua, and Carol, all weary themselves from their own trials, rushed to calm Riku down, their voices filled with empathy and understanding. They knew that Riku was at his breaking point, that the weight of their recent losses and the toll of their journey had pushed him to the edge.

"Riku, please," Aqua pleaded, her voice filled with compassion. "We're all hurting. We've all lost so much. Let's try to find a way to heal together."

Lea, his usually lighthearted demeanor overshadowed by the weight of their circumstances, added, "We're a team, Riku. We need each other more than ever. We can't let anger and grief tear us apart."

Carol, her eyes filled with empathy, stepped forward and placed a hand on Riku's shoulder. "Riku, why don't we take a moment? Grab your coffee, let's go outside and talk. We need to find a way to support each other through this."

Riku, his anger beginning to subside, looked into Carol's eyes and nodded, realizing the truth in her words. Taking a deep breath, he reached for his coffee and followed Carol outside, leaving the weight of their conversation behind for a moment, in search of solace and understanding. As they stepped out into the fresh air, Riku's tense shoulders began to relax, and he allowed himself to absorb the quiet tranquility of the surroundings.

Meanwhile, Goofy, ever the peacekeeper, attempted to break the tension that lingered in the room. With a warm smile, he spoke up, "I hope my food and coffee wasn't the main reason for the outburst. I just wanted to start the day off right for all of us." His genuine concern shone through, reminding everyone of his kind-hearted nature.

Lea nodded in agreement, a small smile playing on his lips. "Don't worry, Goofy. Your breakfast is always great. We definitely needed it after what we've been through."

Aqua, her voice filled with exhaustion and vulnerability, chimed in, "Riku and I have been through so much in the past twelve days. Being stuck in the void of space was not easy, physically or emotionally. I'm still trying to process everything... Grief is different for everyone."

Lea nodded in understanding, his tone softening. "Yeah, grief hits us all in different ways. We go through the five stages, just not necessarily at the same time."

Kairi, tears welling up in her eyes, tried to hold back her emotions. She felt the weight of her decision to stay in exile while Doctor Strange helped her, now questioning if it was the right call. The loss of Strange only added to her sense of guilt and sadness.

Just as the emotions threatened to overwhelm her, Steve Rogers walked into the room, his keen eyes quickly spotting Kairi's tears. Concern etched across his face, he approached her gently and asked, "Kairi, what's wrong?"

Kairi, her voice quivering, struggled to find the words. "It's just... everything. The decisions I made, the losses we've suffered... I'm just overwhelmed right now."

Steve's expression softened with empathy as he placed a comforting hand on Kairi's shoulder. "I understand. It's been a tough journey for all of us. We're here for you, Kairi. Lean on us. Together, we can find a way forward."

Feeling the warmth of Steve's support, Kairi let her tears flow, finding solace in the compassion of her newfound friends. In that moment, she realized that even in the face of despair and uncertainty, they were not alone. Together, they would navigate the depths of their grief, healing and finding strength in each other's presence.

***OUTSIDE***

Outside, under the gentle glow of the morning sun, Carol and Riku sat in a quiet corner of the compound. Riku poured his heart out to Carol, recounting the harrowing events on Titan—the overwhelming power of Thanos, the shattering of his keyblade, and the desperate struggle for survival during their twelve days stranded in space. He spoke of the weariness that had settled deep within his bones, both physically and emotionally.

Carol listened attentively, her eyes filled with empathy as she absorbed the weight of Riku's experiences. "I can't even begin to imagine how difficult it must have been," she said softly. "To endure such hardships, to face your fears head-on... You've shown incredible strength, Riku."

Riku's gaze lowered for a moment, reflecting on the battles fought and the losses endured. "It's been a challenging journey, but I'm grateful to have made it back," he admitted, a touch of vulnerability in his voice. "I know I need more rest, both for my body and my mind."

Carol nodded in understanding, her gaze unwavering. "Take the time you need, Riku. Healing is a process, and it's important to give yourself that space. You've been through so much."

Riku let out a tired sigh, a small smile tugging at his lips. "I should apologize to Kairi first, though," he said, a hint of determination in his voice. "We've all been through a lot, and I shouldn't have let my frustrations get the best of me."

Carol chuckled lightly, a glimmer of mirth in her eyes. "Perhaps we should grab some more of this coffee before we do anything else. It seems to be working wonders for the soul," she remarked, holding up her nearly empty cup.

Riku couldn't help but chuckle, the weight on his shoulders momentarily lifting. "You're right. A good cup of coffee can do wonders."

As they sat there, basking in the warmth of the sun and sharing a moment of levity, Riku felt a glimmer of hope. The road ahead might be fraught with challenges, but with the support of his friends and newfound allies, he knew he would find the strength to face them. And as he prepared to make amends with Kairi, he carried with him a newfound appreciation for the simple moments of connection and the healing power of shared laughter.

***AVENGER'S HQ - CONFERENCE ROOM***

Later that morning. Rhodey, Tony, Steve, Natasha, Kairi, Lea, Aqua, Riku, Goofy, and Carol gathered in the conference room, their expressions heavy with sorrow and determination. A holographic display flicked to life, rotating through the faces of their fallen comrades.

Wanda. Vision. Bucky. T'Challa. Maria Hill. Cloud. Donald Duck. King Mickey Mouse.

The room was filled with a solemn silence as the team took in the names of those they've lost.

Rhodey broke the silence, his voice tinged with sadness.

"It's been thirteen days since Thanos came to Earth," he states, the weight of the recent events evident in his tone. Tony, weakened and confined to a high-tech wheelchair with an IV drip, gazes at the rotating faces, absorbing the magnitude of their loss.

Sam Wilson. Secretary Ross. Sharon Carter. Scott Lang. Hope Van Dyne. Hank Pym. Nick Fury.

The holographic display continued, and Carol struggled to maintain her composure as she looked upon the face of Nick Fury, her emotions momentarily surfacing.

Terra. Ventus.

Aqua's eyes welled up with tears as she saw the images of her missing friends. The pain of their absence is palpable in the room.

Natasha, with a heavy sigh, resumed speaking, her voice filled with grim realization.

"World governments are in pieces, as you can imagine. But the parts that still work are trying to take a census. It looks like he did what he said he was going to do." The holographic display continues, revealing more names.

Ansem the Wise. Yen Sid. Jane Foster. Erik Selvig. Dr. Strange. The Barton family. Quill. Drax. Mantis. Groot. Sora.

Kairi and Riku exchange a glance, their regret and sadness intertwining as they see the name of their lost friend.

Peter Parker.

Tony's gaze falters when he sees Peter's name, unable to bear the weight of the loss. Rhodey, understanding the pain in Tony's eyes, switches off the holographic display, ending the visual reminder of their fallen allies.

Natasha's voice resonates in the room, her words heavy with the devastating truth.

"Thanos wiped out fifty percent of all the living creatures." The weight of that reality settles upon the team, their resolve to make things right growing stronger.

Stark's voice was laced with frustration as he demanded answers from his comrades.

"Where is he now? Where?" he questioned, his eyes searching the room for any clue to Thanos' whereabouts.

Steve met Tony's gaze, his expression solemn. "We don't know," Steve replied, his voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "He just opened a portal and walked through."

Just then, Tony's eyes catch sight of Thor out the window, he was sitting on a nearby bench outside, lost in his own thoughts. Concern etched across Tony's face as he observed his friend's troubled state.

"What's wrong with him?" Tony asked, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.

Lea, leaning casually against the wall, smirks and responds, "Oh, he's pissed. He thinks he failed. Which of course he did, but you know there's a lot of that's going around, ain't there?"

Tony's retort came swiftly, laced with sarcasm.

"Thanks, pissant," he quipped, his tone dripping with both annoyance and a hint of camaraderie.

Lea's smirk widened, and he crossed his arms, leaning more comfortably against the wall. "No problem," he replied nonchalantly.

Steve interjected, steering the conversation back to their urgent task.

"We've been hunting Thanos for nearly two weeks now," he states, his voice heavy with the weight of their fruitless efforts. "Deep Space scans, and satellites, and we got nothing. Tony, you fought him."

Tony's surprise is evident in his voice as he responds, "Who told you that? I didn't fight him. No, he wiped my face with a planet, played mind games with the Keyblade DigiDestined over there." Tony Pointed shakily towards Aqua and Riku, their defeated expressions reflecting the truth of his words, "while the Bleecker Street Magician gave away the store. That's what happened. There was no fight."

Steve absorbed Tony's words, understanding the magnitude of the situation. "Okay," he conceded, acknowledging the futility of their previous efforts.

Tony's voice carried a hint of resignation as he concluded, "He's unbeatable."

"Did he give you any clues, any coordinates, anything?" Steve asked, his voice tinged with anticipation.

Tony's response is tinged with bitterness and regret.

"Pfft!" Tony scoffed.

Kairi looked concerned at Tony's attitude, looked at Nat - who too had a face of worry showing.

Tony continued. "I saw this coming a few years back. I had a vision. I didn't wanna believe it. Thought I was dreaming".

Steve Rogers stood his ground, his eyes meeting Tony's seething gaze. "Tony, I need you to focus," he asserted, trying to regain control of the situation.

Lea, ever the observer of their dynamic, remarked with a knowing tone, "Oh, boy - here we go."

Tony's anger bubbled to the surface, his voice dripping with resentment. "And I needed you. As in past tense. That trumps what you needed. It'ss too late, buddy. Sorry," he retorted, his frustration palpable. He stood abruptly, pushing objects off the table with a resounding clatter, causing everyone in the room to wince at the noise.

Interrupting the escalating tension, Rhodey stepped in front of Tony, attempting to diffuse the situation. "Tony, Tony, Tony!" he called out urgently, trying to bring his friend back from the edge.

Riku joined in, adding his voice of reason. "Tony, relax! You're still weak."

Tony's seething anger found an outlet in his words. "Alive and otherwise, what we needed was a suit of armor around the world! Remember that?" he challenged, his voice filled with a mix of accusation and desperation.

Steve's calm demeanor held steady as he responded, "Well, that didn't work out, did it?"

Tony's frustration reached a boiling point as he lashed out, his words dripping with bitterness.

"I said, 'we'd lose'. You said, 'We'll do that together too.' And guess what, Cap? We lost. And you weren't there. But that's what we do, right? Our best work after the fact? We're the Avengers, we're the Avengers. Not the Prevengers," he declared, his tone filled with a mix of anger and disappointment.

Aqua, her voice filled with empathy, pleaded with Tony to calm down. "You made your point, Tony. Please just sit down," she implored.

Tony begrudgingly complied, his anger slowly simmering. Rhodey's voice of reason cut through the tension. "Okay," he said, trying to restore a semblance of order.

But Tony's frustration still lingered, his words laden with resignation. "Nah, nah. Here's my point. You know what?" he stated, his voice tinged with exhaustion.

Rhodey continued to coax him, "Tony, you're sick. You need rest."

Kairi added her plea, "Stressing won't solve anything. You need to rest, Tony."

In a moment of relative calm, Tony shifted his attention to Carol, Riku, and Aqua. "They are great, by the way," he remarked, acknowledging their strength and resilience.

Rhodey persisted in urging Tony to sit down, trying to rein in his friend's 's voice lowered to a venomous whisper as he stepped closer to Steve, the tension in the room palpable.

"We need you three. You are new blood. Bunch of tired old mules!" he hissed, his words biting with a sense of betrayal. "I have nothing for you, Cap! No coordinates, no clues, no strategies, no options. Zero. Zip. Nada. No trust. Liar."

The room was engulfed in an uneasy silence, the weight of their fractured unity hanging heavily in the air. The rift between Tony and Steve, born from their divergent paths and the losses they had suffered, threatened to tear the Avengers apart at their core even further

Tony's frustration reached its boiling point, and he unleashed his pent-up anger upon the group. "Where the hell was Sora through all this? We could have used him!" he bellowed, his voice filled with accusation.

Kairi, taken aback by Tony's sudden outburst, tried to defend herself. "We don't know where Sora is. He disappeared after the battle with Xehanort, to find me" she explained, her voice tinged with desperation.

Tony scoffed dismissively. "Always full of secrets, aren't you? Just like your friend Strange," he retorted, his eyes narrowing with suspicion.

Unable to contain his rising anger, Riku stepped forward, his voice laced with determination. "Back off, Stark! Leave Kairi out of this," he demanded, his fists clenched tightly at his sides.

Tony, undeterred, shot back with equal ferocity. "You think you're so righteous, defending the? They're the ones who let us down, kid!" he sneered, his tone dripping with contempt.

Sensing the tension escalating, Aqua stepped forward, her voice steady but firm. "Enough! We are all tired and weary. This argument won't solve anything," she interjected, her gaze shifting between Tony and Riku.

Tony, his anger not easily quelled, turned his attention to Aqua. "Not now, Nightingale. This is between me and him," he snapped, his voice laced with frustration.

As Tony moved closer to Riku, ready to tear into him with renewed vigor, his body suddenly betrayed him. A sharp pain coursed through his veins, causing him to stumble and fall. Goofy's alarmed cry pierced the air, capturing everyone's attention.

"Tony!" Goofy shouted, rushing to his side, concern etched on his face.

Tony, his voice weakened, insisted, "I'm fine, just a momentary... hiccup." But before he could finish his sentence, darkness overtook him, and he succumbed to unconsciousness. The room fell silent, the heated argument abruptly coming to a halt as the reality of Tony's condition settled in. The team rushed around Stark, knowing that his short temper wasn't his fault and he needed more medical attention.

***TWILIGHT TOWN - OLD MANSION GATES***

At the gates of the old mansion in Twilight Town, a rippling portal materialized, revealing two figures emerging from its depths. The first was a time traveler. Their eyes shimmered with determination, their movements swift and precise. Beside them stood a mysterious figure cloaked in black, the hood obscuring their face, casting an air of intrigue and secrecy.

As they stepped onto the grounds of the mansion, the cloaked figure, known only as the Guide, broke the silence.

"Welcome to the past," their voice resonated with an otherworldly timbre, hinting at the vast knowledge they possessed. "200 years to be accurate."

The time traveler, their presence emanating an aura of purpose and urgency, gazed at the mansion with a mix of curiosity and awe. Their identity, for now, remained shrouded in mystery, their true name yet to be revealed.

"What brings us here?" the time traveler inquired, their voice tinged with a sense of determination.

The Guide, their words measured and enigmatic, responded, "The one you seek is inside, hidden away from prying eyes. We have come to unveil the secrets that lie within these walls."

The time traveler's eyes widened with anticipation, their mind racing with the possibilities that lay ahead. Their journey through time had led them to this moment, to uncover truths that could shape the destiny of worlds.

Surveying the tranquil beauty of the mansion and its surroundings, the time traveler marveled at the serenity that cloaked the place. It was as if time had stood still, preserving the elegance and charm of a bygone era.

The Guide, their eyes gleaming with ancient wisdom, acknowledged the time traveler's sentiment. "Indeed, this place exudes a certain allure. Perhaps, in the midst of chaos and darkness, any refuge can be a beacon of beauty."

As the time traveler absorbed the Guide's words, their mind brimmed with questions and anticipation. They knew that their journey had only just begun, and that the secrets held within the old mansion would unlock the path to their ultimate purpose.

The time traveler, contemplating their next move, pondered the wisdom of seeking counsel from their friends in this era. Memories of past adventures, shared laughter, and unbreakable bonds flooded his mind. They understood the value of friendship, the strength that came from unity and support.

"Have you traveled through time before?" the Guide asked, their eyes glimmering with curiosity.

The time traveler nodded, a mix of uncertainty and determination in their expression. "Yes, but not by my own power. External forces have influenced and guided my journey thus far."

A spark of recognition flickered across the Guide's face. "Chaos control, I presume?"

The time traveler's eyes widened in surprise. "Indeed, Chaos control has played a pivotal role in my previous temporal journeys."

The Guide's voice took on a soothing tone, reassurance lacing their words. "There is no need to fret. I assure you, your friend is occupied at the moment. This timeline has experienced its fair share of peculiarities and disturbances."

The time traveler listened intently, a mixture of relief and curiosity intertwining within them. The mention of strange activities in this timeline piqued their interest, fueling their determination to uncover the truth behind the mysteries that lay ahead.

As they stood in the presence of the enigmatic Guide, the time traveler understood that their path was veiled in uncertainty. However, their resolve to navigate through the unknown remained unyielding. With newfound purpose, they prepared themselves to embrace the challenges and discoveries that awaited them, trusting that their journey through time would reveal the answers they sought.