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. The Sonic the Hedgehog franchise and their characters are owned by SEGA. 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 23: A Heartbreaking Farewell, A Hopeful Gambit

***AVENGERS HQ - 2019***

The heroes from the Time Heist materialized onto the platform in Avengers HQ, each of them clutching their respective artifacts containing the Infinity Stones. Steve, Tony, Scott, Sora, Silver, Rocket, Thor, Kairi, Goofy, Rhodey, Axel, Aqua (Anti-Aqua), and Nebula (Nebula of 2014) stood there, their expressions a mix of triumph and exhaustion after their epic adventures across time.

Tails and Bruce, who had been waiting for their return, greeted them with eager anticipation. "Did you get them all?" Bruce asked, eyeing the artifacts in their hands.

Tony nodded, holding the briefcase with the Tesseract inside. "Yep, we got the Time and Mind Stones," he said proudly.

Sora stepped forward, holding the Eye of Agamotto. "I got the Time Stone," he announced.

Silver followed suit, displaying the Reality Stone and the Phantom Ruby. "Reality Stone, check. Also brought along this baby," he added.

Rocket chimed in, grinning. "Got the Power Stone right here," he said, showing off the glowing sphere of the Orb.

Thor, standing tall with Mjolnir and Stormbreaker in his hands, proclaimed, "I managed to bring back Mjolnir, well the future version of my hammer. I'm still worthy though!"

Kairi, Goofy, Rhodey, Axel nodded confirming that they had successfully retrieved their designated stones and mission complete. Aqua and Nebula stayed silent, observing the heroes in their glory, unknowing the two doppelgangers

Tails and Bruce, who were monitoring the platform, looked around in anticipation. However, the team that traveled to Vormir had not returned from their mission yet.

"Where's the team that went to Vormir?" Tails asked, scanning the area for any signs of Nat, Clint, Carol, Sonic, and Riku.

Suddenly, Carol, Sonic, and Riku emerged from the Quantum Realm, the rest of the team gathered around them with worried expressions. Tony, Tails, and Bruce bombarded them with questions, eager to know what had happened.

"Where are Clint and Nat? Did they make it back with you?" Tony asked.

Carol's expression turned somber. "No, they didn't," she replied, her voice heavy with sorrow. "We got ambushed by Sephiroth while we were in the past. He took advantage of the chaos and managed to separate us."

Sonic chimed in, "Yeah, we ended up fighting that One Winged menace further in the past thanks to his dark portals. However, we left Nat and Clint back on Vormir."

Riku added, "We made our way back here as fast as we could, hoping they had already arrived, but..." He trailed off, unable to find the words to convey the heartbreak they all felt.

Before Riku could continue, Clint emerged from the Quantum Realm, his once vibrant and confident demeanor now replaced with one of utter defeat and heartbreak. His clothes were soaked, as if he had been submerged in water, and his eyes were red and swollen from tears he had shed during his journey back.

He fell to his knees, his body trembling with grief and exhaustion. His hands clenched into fists, and his shoulders shook as he struggled to contain the overwhelming emotions that threatened to consume him.

Steve stepped forward, his face etched with concern as he knelt beside Clint. "Clint, what happened?" he asked again, his voice gentle but firm.

Clint took a deep, shuddering breath, trying to find the strength to put his feelings into words. "Nat and I... we were on Vormir to get the Soul Stone," he finally managed to say, his voice hoarse with pain. "She... she made the sacrifice. She gave her life so that we could get the stone."

The weight of those words hung heavily in the air, and the team fell into a solemn silence. They could only imagine the torment Clint had endured, witnessing someone he cared for so deeply make the ultimate sacrifice.

Carol stepped forward, her eyes filled with empathy and understanding. She placed a comforting hand on Clint's shoulder, offering whatever solace she could in this moment of anguish.

Clint continued to speak, his voice breaking with each word. "I tried to stop her, it should have been me" he confessed, his gaze fixed on the ground. "But she was determined to do it. She said... she said it was her chance to make things right, to give us a fighting chance against Thanos."

The memory of that moment haunted Clint, replaying in his mind like a relentless nightmare. He felt a crushing sense of guilt, questioning whether there was anything more he could have done to prevent Nat's sacrifice.

The atmosphere in the Avengers HQ was heavy with grief and sorrow. Smart Hulk's anger and frustration were palpable as he punched the glass flooring of the Quantum Time Machine, his roars of anguish echoing through the room. He had developed a unique bond with Natasha Romanoff, and her loss hit him especially hard.

Kairi was overcome with emotion, tears streaming down her cheeks as she struggled to come to terms with the news of Nat's sacrifice. Sora, always a pillar of support, offered her comfort and a shoulder to lean on. Sonic looked distraught, his usually cheerful demeanor replaced by a somber expression. Tails, understanding his friend's pain, placed a comforting hand on Sonic's shoulder, offering silent support.

The rest of the team stood in stunned silence, grappling with the enormity of their loss. Tony, needing some time to process the tragic news, excused himself and stepped outside for a moment of solitude. He walked to the edge of the compound, gazing out at the horizon, trying to collect his thoughts.

Meanwhile, Anti-Aqua and Nebula of 2014, who had switched with the original Aqua and Nebula, had to act convincingly to fit in with the group. They were no strangers to deception and manipulation, but they knew that any slip-up could expose their true identities. They mimicked the emotions of the others, showing a semblance of grief and loss, carefully observing and adapting to the reactions of their new companions.

As the heroes dispersed to find some solace and reflection, the atmosphere in Avengers HQ remained heavy with grief. Clint remained on his knees, tears streaming down his face as he mourned the loss of his dear friend Natasha. Goofy, always the compassionate and caring one, sat beside Clint, offering a comforting presence and a sympathetic hand on his shoulder. He knew that no words could ease Clint's pain, but being there for him was what mattered most.

Sora continued to hold Kairi close, his heart heavy with the weight of the loss they all felt. He looked towards Thor, who appeared lost in his thoughts. Thor, burdened by the knowledge that he couldn't prevent Nat's sacrifice, needed some time alone to process the events that had unfolded. He, too, stepped outside, hoping the fresh air might provide some clarity in the midst of the turmoil.

Silver, Rocket, Riku, Steve, Scott, Rhodey, Axel and Carol walked together, seeking a quiet space away from the others to reflect on the gravity of their mission and the sacrifices that had been made. They knew the weight of the universe rested on their shoulders, and the price of failure was too great to bear.

In a secluded corner of the compound, the group gathered, each lost in their thoughts. Silver couldn't help but think about the enormity of their task and the tremendous power they now held in their hands. He felt the weight of the Reality Stone and the Phantom Ruby, understanding the responsibility that came with wielding such potent artifacts.

Riku, struggling with the recent loss, found solace in his connection with the darkness within. He knew he had to remain focused and steadfast, but the pain of losing Nat and the others weighed heavily on his heart.

Steve, the ever-resilient leader, felt the burden of leadership acutely. He knew that guiding the team through this crisis required not just strength, but also unwavering resolve and compassion.

Scott, still holding Loki's Sceptre, contemplated the journey they had all undertaken and the sacrifices that lay ahead. He knew that their success would mean bringing back those they had lost, but it also meant risking everything they had left.

Rhodey, the seasoned warrior, understood the gravity of their situation. He had faced many battles, but none quite like this. The fate of the universe rested in their hands, and the enormity of the responsibility was not lost on him.

Carol, always the fearless warrior, was grappling with her emotions. She knew she had to stay strong for the team, but the loss of Natasha hit her hard. She took a moment to honor Nat's memory and draw strength from the legacy she had left behind.

As the heroes took this time to reflect, they were keenly aware of the sacrifices they had already made and the challenges that lay ahead. Each of them carried the weight of their losses, but they also carried the hope and determination to set things right.

In the midst of their grief and uncertainty, they knew that they had each other. They were a team, united in their purpose, and together, they would face whatever came their way. The road ahead was uncertain, but they were not alone in their journey.

***SOMETIME LATER - AVENGERS HQ - WOODLAND AND LAKE***

The midday sun cast a soft, golden glow over the wooded area outside Avengers HQ, creating dappled patches of light that danced among the trees. Kairi stood at the edge of the forest, her figure partially hidden by the foliage, as she observed from afar the group of five heroes gathered by the lakeside.

Tony, Steve, Thor, Clint, and Bruce were seated on a weathered bench, their heads bowed in mourning. The weight of losing Natasha Romanoff was etched on their faces, their usually bright and determined expressions now clouded with grief and sorrow. Their light, which had always shone so brilliantly, now flickered with the intensity of their emotions.

Kairi watched them silently, her heart heavy with the pain she could feel emanating from them. She had seen her fair share of battles and losses, but witnessing the sorrow of these seasoned warriors was a different kind of pain altogether. Natasha had been more than just a teammate; she was family, a friend, and a crucial member of their team.

As the wind rustled through the leaves, Kairi could hear the hushed voices of the five heroes, sharing stories and memories of their fallen comrade. They spoke of Natasha's bravery, her wit, and her unwavering commitment to protecting others. Each memory was a tribute to her legacy, a testament to the impact she had on their lives.

Kairi's own emotions welled up within her as she watched them grieve. She had come to care deeply for her newfound friends, and seeing them in such pain only fueled her determination to help set things right.

From her vantage point, Kairi could also see the serene lakeside stretching before them. The tranquil waters reflected the clear blue sky, a stark contrast to the turmoil within their hearts. It was a scene of beauty and peace, a reminder of the hope that still existed despite the darkness that had descended upon them.

Just then, Sora approached Kairi with a can of soda, a small attempt to offer some comfort amidst the somber atmosphere.

"Hey, Kairi," he said softly, extending the can towards her. "Thought you might like something to drink. It's a nice day, even with everything that's happened."

Kairi managed a faint smile, taking the soda from him. "Thanks, Sora," she replied, popping open the can. "Yeah, it is a nice day, but it feels strange, doesn't it? Like the world should stop for a moment after losing someone so important."

Sora nodded, his expression mirroring the sadness in her eyes. "Yeah, it's like... the universe should feel it too, you know? Natasha was one of the bravest people I've ever met. Losing her hits hard."

As Sora and Kairi took a seat by the lakeside, their hands intertwined, the weight of their losses seemed to grow a little lighter. Sora & Kairi drank their cans of soda, a small gesture meant to bring some comfort in the face of their grief. They talked about the weather, the little things, trying to find a moment of solace amidst the storm of emotions.

"It's been tough," Sora admitted, his voice tinged with sadness. "Natasha was one of us, and losing her like this... It's hard to accept."

Kairi nodded, her eyes welling up with tears. "I miss her too, Sora. She was brave and strong, and she sacrificed so much for the greater good. We can't let her sacrifice be in vain. We need to use the stones we've collected to bring everyone back."

Sora gave her hand a gentle squeeze, a silent show of support and understanding. "You're right, Kairi. We owe it to her and everyone else who's been lost. We can't give up now."

Kairi reached out and held Sora's hand, finding comfort in his presence. "I missed our moments together," she admitted. "It feels like a lifetime ago when we were together."

"I missed them too," Sora replied softly. "But we're together now, and that's what matters."

Kairi sighed, her mind drifting to memories that flooded her consciousness. "You know, there's something I can't shake from my mind. A dream, or maybe a fractured memory. I see a man in a metal mask, and he's threatening to destroy everything. I remember flying into space trying to stop him, but I ended up sacrificing myself to save everyone."

Sora knew that now was the time to share what had transpired before the Snap. He took a deep breath and began to explain, "After our battle with Xehanort, you and I ended up facing a dangerous Multiversal threat together. To save the flow of time and the multiverse, you made the sacrifice. Your heart survived, and Doctor Strange rescued it from the Dark Dimension."

Kairi's eyes widened with surprise and realization. "That's why I couldn't remember anything between my death at the Keyblade Graveyard and being saved by Doctor Strange," she murmured softly. "It felt like a dream, but now it's starting to make sense."

Sora nodded, a small smile gracing his face. "Exactly," he replied. "The pieces are slowly coming together, Kairi. You've been through so much, and your strength and courage have always shone brightly."

The revelation left Kairi stunned, but she had grown accustomed to the extraordinary nature of her past adventures. "Anything is possible, isn't it?" she mused.

Sora chuckled softly. "Yeah, that's one way to put it."

Curiosity got the better of her, and she asked, "And what happened to you, Sora? I know you were traveling to save the Multiverse from your story, but how did you end up sleeping in Twilight Town?"

Sora explained, "All that multiverse hopping and being exposed to Nexus energy left me weak. My body and heart needed time to recover, so I went into a deep sleep. Silver protected my pod, making sure nothing happened to me while I was out."

Kairi admired Sora's resilience and determination. He had been through so much, yet he still carried the weight of responsibility for others on his shoulders.

"Oh and guess what else?" Sora said, looking into Kairi's eyes, ready to share some information on the fuzzy memories of his friend's past.

"What?" asked Kairi softly, with a sense of intrigue.

Sora's eyes sparkled with excitement as he shared the newfound discovery with Kairi. "You know how you and Carol have always had a strong connection, right?" he began.

Kairi nodded, intrigued by where this conversation was heading. "Yeah, I remember that night when my pod was about to crash in the meteor shower, and Carol saved me," she recalled vaguely.

"Well, something incredible happened during that rescue," Sora continued. "Some of Carol's binary and cosmic energy transferred into you."

Kairi's eyes widened in astonishment. "Wait, are you saying I have cosmic energy within me, like Carol?" she asked in amazement.

Sora nodded with a smile. "Exactly! It's like you have a piece of her power within you."

Kairi's mind raced with possibilities. "That's amazing, but why can't I feel that power or tap into it?" she questioned.

Sora shrugged, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Well, when you sacrificed yourself to stop Doom, you used all that energy to end him. Maybe it's because you tapped into it in a moment of great need, and it's dormant now. Or it could be one of the mysteries of being a Princess of Heart."

Kairi was both fascinated and perplexed by the idea. She had always been aware of her special role as a Princess of Heart, but this connection to cosmic energy was an entirely new revelation.

"How do you know all of this about me and Carol?" Kairi inquired, a mix of curiosity and surprise in her voice.

Sora grinned mischievously, his usual carefree demeanor showing through. "Oh, you know, I know a guy who kinda knows everything. It's a secret," he replied, playfully tapping his finger to the side of his nose.

Kairi chuckled softly, appreciating Sora's light-hearted nature. She was grateful to have him as a friend and confidant, especially during times of uncertainty like this.

As the two continued their conversation, they discussed the possibilities of tapping into Kairi's cosmic energy and how it might help them in their mission to restore the universe. They knew they had a long road ahead, but with their determination and the newfound knowledge about Kairi's abilities, they felt more prepared to face whatever challenges came their way. Just then,a familiar voice came from the skies. Sora and Kairi looked above and gave a big smile to see the location of the voice.

"Hey, you guys!" the voice called out cheerfully, his eyes shining with excitement.

It was Tails, soaring through the air with his two tails propelling him effortlessly. The cool breeze ruffled his fur as he made his way toward Sora and Kairi, who were sitting in a quiet spot in the wooded area outside Avengers HQ. As he approached, he gently landed on the ground, his tails gracefully coming to a stop.

"Have you seen Tony and Doctor Banner?" Asked the two tailed fox.

Sora pointed in the direction of the platform where Tony, Steve, Thor, Clint, and Bruce were still mourning Natasha's loss. "They're over there," he said, his voice tinged with sadness.

Kairi smiled warmly at Tails, her eyes admiring his unique flying ability. "It's so cool that you can fly with your tails," she said, genuinely impressed.

Tails blushed slightly at the compliment but couldn't help feeling a bit proud too. "Thanks, Kairi," he said humbly. "It's nothing, really. I've been doing it since I was a kid."

Sora looked genuinely curious. "What's up, Tails? Is something wrong?"

Tails shook his head, his excitement returning full force. "No, nothing's wrong! The Nano-Tech Gauntlet is finally ready, and I need Bruce and Tony's help to place the stones inside."

Sora's eyes widened with excitement, and Kairi's face lit up with hope. "That's great news!" Sora exclaimed, a big smile spreading across his face. "With the gauntlet ready, we can bring back all our friends and everyone else who got snapped away by Thanos."

Kairi nodded in agreement, her voice filled with determination. "We've been through so much, and now we have a chance to make things right again."

Tails beamed at their enthusiasm. "Yeah, I've missed my friends who got dusted during the Snap. It'll be great to have them back."

Kairi looked towards her friend, knowing deep down he felt a loneliness missing his friends who dusted away.

"You and Sonic lost some good friends, didn't you?" Kairi asked softly, knowing Tails was still hurting all these months after the snap.

Tails nodded sadly, his gaze momentarily falling to the ground. "Yeah, we did. It was tough, you know? We were already dealing with so much back home, trying to rebuild after our battle with Eggman and Infinite. And then, all of a sudden, half of the universe vanished in the Snap."

Kairi placed a comforting hand on Tails' shoulder, understanding the weight of his words. "I can't even imagine how difficult that must have been," she said softly.

Sora chimed in, his voice gentle. "We know what it's like to lose friends and loved ones too. But together, we'll make sure they didn't sacrifice in vain. We'll protect the universe and keep everyone safe."

Tails smiled gratefully at his friends, grateful for their understanding and support. "Thanks, guys," he said. "It means a lot to know we're not alone in this."

Kairi smiled back, her eyes filled with determination. "We're all in this together, Tails. We've faced incredible challenges, and we've lost so much, but we're still standing. And we'll keep fighting, no matter what."

Sora nodded, his heart swelling with pride for his friends. "Yeah, that's right. We're strong, and we've got each other. Together, we can overcome anything."

As the three friends stood there, their hearts united in their resolve, they knew that their journey was far from over. There were still battles to be fought, and challenges to be faced. But with the power of their friendship and the strength of their hearts, they were ready to take on whatever came their way.

As Sonic sped into the scene, the blue blur of energy caught everyone's attention. Tails smiled as he saw his best friend approach, knowing that Sonic's presence would bring some much-needed positivity to the somber atmosphere.

"Hey, Tails! Is the gauntlet ready?" Sonic asked, his voice filled with excitement.

Tails nodded, beaming proudly. "Yep, it's all set! We just need Tony and Bruce to place the stones in it, and then we can bring everyone back!"

Sonic playfully ruffled Tails' head, a grin on his face. "Great job, buddy! I knew you could do it."

Kairi looked at Sonic, her eyes filled with concern. "Where were you? We've been worried."

Sonic's expression softened as he replied, "I needed to clear my head after the news about Nat. So, I ran around the world, saw some cool sights on this planet. Reminds me of home."

Tails chimed in, "Yeah, Sonic's really fast. He can clear his head in no time."

Sora smiled, understanding Sonic's need for speed. "Sometimes, we all need a little time to ourselves to process things. But now, we're all here, and we'll face whatever comes together."

Sonic nodded, his gaze meeting each of his friends' eyes. "You're right, Sora. Together, we can handle anything. We've got each other's backs, no matter what."

Kairi stepped forward, taking Sonic's hand in hers. "Thank you for coming back, Sonic. Your support means a lot to us."

Sonic grinned, his signature confidence returning. "Hey, what are friends for? We're all in this together, right?"

As the heroes stood together, they felt the strength of their bond, knowing that their unity was their greatest weapon against the darkness. They were a team, a family, and together, they would bring back those they had lost and protect the universe from any threat that dared to challenge them.

And so, with hope in their hearts and determination in their souls, they turned back to Avengers HQ, ready to face the task ahead. The Nano-Tech Gauntlet awaited, and with the power of friendship and the strength of their wills, they would use it to bring back those they had lost and restore balance to the universe.

***INSIDE THE AVENGER'S COMPOUND***

The Nano Tech Infinity Gauntlet was a marvel of advanced technology, a stunning masterpiece of engineering and design. It appeared as a sleek, metallic glove, adorned with intricate circuitry and glowing energy lines that criss crossed its surface. The glove itself was a dark shade of silver, with a seamless, form-fitting design that seemed to mold perfectly to the wearer's hand.

As Tails, Tony, and Bruce carefully placed each of the six Infinity Stones into their designated slots on the gauntlet, the stones radiated with their individual powers, casting a mesmerizing glow that danced along the surface of the glove. Each stone was nestled in its own compartment, securely held in place by a combination of advanced locks and specialized mechanisms.

The first stone, the Space Stone, gleamed with a vibrant blue light, swirling with cosmic energy that seemed to contain the entire universe within its depths. Next to it, the Mind Stone emitted a brilliant golden glow, pulsating with immense power and knowledge.

The Reality Stone followed, exuding a crimson radiance, its energy fluctuating as if it held dominion over all existence. Beside it, the Power Stone emanated a fierce violet blaze, crackling with raw, unstoppable energy.

The Time Stone shimmered with an emerald hue, seemingly distorting the fabric of time itself as it lay embedded in the gauntlet. And lastly, the Soul Stone emanated a deep, soulful orange glow, hinting at the weight of the sacrifices that had been made to obtain it.

As the stones settled into place, the gauntlet's circuits responded, reacting to the immense cosmic forces contained within. The energy lines surged with power, connecting the stones to each other and the gauntlet's core.

The Nano Tech Infinity Gauntlet now hummed with an awe-inspiring energy, a combination of the stones' might and the advanced nanotechnology that infused its structure. It was a weapon of incredible potential, capable of reshaping reality and wielding the power of the universe itself.

Tony Stark, Tails, and Bruce Banner stepped back, gazing at their creation with a mix of pride and trepidation. They knew the immense responsibility that came with wielding such power, and they were determined to use it wisely and with great caution.

The assembled team looked on in wonder and amazement. They understood the importance of the task at hand and the great sacrifice that had been made to obtain the stones. But they also knew that with the Nano Tech Infinity Gauntlet, they now had the means to undo the devastation of the Snap and bring back those they had lost.

The gauntlet shimmered, its power contained within, ready to be harnessed by someone strong enough to wield it. And as the heroes prepared for the final step in their journey, they knew that this gauntlet represented not just power, but hope – hope that they could restore balance to the universe, hope that they could bring back their friends and loved ones, and hope that they could create a better future for all.

With resolve in their hearts and the Nano Tech Infinity Gauntlet as their tool, they would stand united against any threat that dared to challenge them. For they were the Avengers, Earth's mightiest heroes, and together, they were an unstoppable force for good.

In the room filled with tension and anticipation, the assembled heroes prepared for the momentous task ahead. Each of them had experienced great loss and sacrifice on their journey, and now they had come together to undo the devastating effects of the Snap.

Steve stood tall, his Captain America uniform a symbol of hope and leadership. He gripped his shield tightly, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Tony, with his genius intellect and technological prowess, was the mastermind behind the Nano Tech Infinity Gauntlet. He had come a long way from his days as a weapons manufacturer, now using his talents to protect and save lives.

Clint, still reeling from the loss of Natasha, had resolved to honor her memory by helping to bring back those they had lost. Bruce, in his Smart Hulk form, was the epitome of strength and intellect combined. He had come to accept both sides of his personality and now wielded his powers for the greater good.

Scott, as Ant-Man, was eager to lend his skills to the mission. His ability to shrink and grow in size would undoubtedly be valuable in navigating various challenges. Thor, the God of Thunder, still carried the weight of his past failures but had learned to be a true king and hero.

Rocket, the resourceful and sarcastic raccoon, had formed strong bonds with his new friends. His technical expertise and sharpshooting skills would play a vital role. Rhodey, armored in his War Machine suit, was a steadfast ally, always ready to lend his military expertise to the cause.

Carol, the powerful Captain Marvel, was a beacon of strength and determination. Her cosmic abilities were second to none, and she was fully committed to restoring balance to the universe. Sora, Kairi, Riku, Sonic, and Tails were ready to assist, knowing the fate of not just their worlds but countless others hung in the balance.

In a room nearby, Silver, Axel, Goofy, Aqua, and Nebula waited with bated breath, knowing that the fate of the universe depended on the success of the heroes' mission.

With the Nano Tech Infinity Gauntlet placed before them, they knew the immense power it held and the great responsibility they bore. Tony looked around the room at the faces of his friends and allies, seeing a mixture of determination, grief, and hope in their eyes.

"We've been through so much together," Tony said, his voice steady. "And now, it's time to make things right. We have the power to bring back everyone who was taken from us. But we must remember, this is not just about us. It's about the countless lives affected by the Snap, across all worlds and dimensions. We have a chance to bring back hope and restore balance."

Rocket chimed in with his usual wit, questioning who would be the one to snap their fingers. "Good speech, Stark," he said, eyeing the gauntlet. "Question is, who's gonna snap their freaking fingers?"

Thor stepped forward, expressing his readiness to take on the responsibility. Raising his hand, he muttered with pride, "I'll do it".

Sora and Riku couldn't help but worry, asking if he was sure about this decision. "Thor?" Sora asked with concern evident in his voice. "Are you sure about this?"

"It's okay," Thor replied, trying to reassure them. "I'm the strongest Avenger, okay? So this responsibility falls upon me. It's my duty."

But Steve Rogers intervened, reminding them that they needed to discuss and decide who would take on such a risky task. "Wait, wait. Thor, just wait. We haven't decided who's gonna put that on yet."

Thor's emotions were running high, and he pleaded with them to let him do something good and right. "Just let me do it. Just let me do something good. Something right," he implored, tears glistening in his eyes.

Tony Stark attempted to reason with him, expressing concern for his condition. "Thor, it's not just the fact that that glove is channeling enough energy to light up a continent. You're in no condition."

The room fell into an intense hush as Thor adamantly expressed his desire to be the one to wield the Nano Tech Infinity Gauntlet. He was met with a mix of concern and opposition from the others, who were worried about the toll it would take on him.

Steve Rogers, always the voice of reason, spoke up. "Thor, we appreciate your bravery, but this is too risky. We need to carefully consider who can handle the power of the stones."

Tony Stark nodded in agreement. "He's right. The radiation from the stones almost killed Thanos, and none of us know for sure if we can survive it."

Kairi looked worriedly at Thor. "I agree. The power of the stones is overwhelming, and we don't want to lose you too, Thor."

Carol, with her usual confidence, added, "Thor, you're powerful, but this might be too much even for you to handle."

Riku and Sora shared a concerned glance. "We don't want to lose you, Thor. Let's think this through carefully," Riku said.

Despite the overwhelming opposition, Thor remained steadfast. "You think I'm not strong enough for this? You think I can't handle it?" he retorted, his emotions getting the best of him.

"Buddy, it's not if you can handle it or not". Sonic spoke, looking to the God of Thunder. You heard Tony, that power could keep the lights on across North America!

"But, I have lightning coursing through my veins!" Thor said, stern, trying to swing everyone onto his side.

Rhodey couldn't resist throwing in his signature humor. "Yeah, and judging by your smell, I'd say you've got some Jack Daniels coursing through you right now."

"Yeah, it smells like a brewery here." Scott said in jest. "Perhaps Dutch courage is the answer".

Thor gave Rhodey & Scott a pointed look, but his determination didn't waver. However, it wasn't just Tony and Rhodey who were worried. Kairi and Carol both voiced their concerns about the uncontrollable power of the stones' aura.

Kairi added, "We can't let you put yourself at such risk, Thor. It's too dangerous."

Riku nodded in agreement. "She's right. None of us can afford to lose you."

Sora stepped forward, his voice earnest and determined. "Yeah, Thor, we're all in this together. We should share the burden."

As the group weighed their options, Smart Hulk stepped forward, looking at the gauntlet thoughtfully. "You saw what those stones did to Thanos," he said, his voice steady. "It almost killed him. But the radiation is mostly gamma. It's like... I was made for this."

Tails looked at Bruce, his eyes softening with understanding. "Doctor Banner, if you're sure about this, we'll stand with you," he said, his voice sincere.

Steve nodded in agreement, adding, "We trust you, Bruce. If anyone can handle this, it's you."

Bruce's eyes met Thor's, and he spoke with a reassuring tone, "It's alright, Thor. Let me handle this."

Thor seemed torn, his concern for his friend evident in his expression. "But Bruce, it's too much for anyone to bear," he said, trying to convince Bruce to reconsider.

Bruce smiled softly, his gamma-irradiated eyes reflecting a sense of determination. "I can handle it," he said firmly. "This is what I was meant to do."

Tony stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Thor's shoulder. "Trust him, Thor. Bruce has a unique connection to gamma radiation. If anyone can do this, it's him," Tony said.

Thor looked around the room at his fellow Avengers, who all nodded in agreement. Slowly, he relented and stepped back, accepting their decision.

"All right, Banner," Thor said, his voice filled with both admiration and concern. "But if anything goes wrong, I'll be right there with you."

Bruce gave a nod of gratitude to Thor, appreciating his support. "Thank you, my friend," he replied.

***OTHER ROOM***

As the heroes continued their intense debate over who should snap their fingers, Silver and Goofy found a moment of levity amidst the tension. They looked at each other, each one wearing a puzzled expression.

"So, who's gonna do the finger-snapping thing?" Silver asked, trying to break the tension with some humor.

Goofy chuckled nervously, scratching his head. "Gawrsh, I don't know," he replied. "It's a tough decision."

"Yeah, it is," Silver agreed. "I mean, it's not every day you get to wield the power of the Infinity Stones, right?"

As they pondered, they noticed Axel standing nearby, seemingly lost in thought. "Hey, Axel!" Silver called out. "Who do you think should do the finger-snapping?"

Axel glanced over at them, his eyes still fixed on Aqua and Nebula. "Hmm? Oh, I don't know," he said absentmindedly. "I guess anyone can handle that kind of power."

"Right, right," Goofy said, nodding. "But, uh, who do you think is gonna do it?"

Axel's gaze remained focused on Aqua and Nebula, who were now whispering to each other in hushed tones. "I'm not sure," he said, his voice low. "But I think we should keep an eye on those two."

Silver and Goofy exchanged confused glances. "Why?" Silver asked.

Deep inside, Axel couldn't shake the feeling that something was seriously amiss with Aqua and Nebula. He couldn't put his finger on exactly what it was, but his gut was telling him that they weren't who they appeared to be. Axel had been through enough battles and faced enough deception to recognize when things weren't right, and this situation was setting off all his internal alarms.

He had known Aqua and Nebula for a long time, and they had always been loyal friends and allies. But ever since they returned from Xandar 2014, something had changed. Their demeanor seemed off, their actions slightly unnatural, and Axel's instincts were telling him that they were hiding something, something important.

He glanced over at Silver and Goofy, who were still looking at him expectantly. Axel knew he had to be cautious and not jump to conclusions, but he also couldn't ignore this nagging feeling in the pit of his stomach. He had a hunch that whatever was going on with Aqua and Nebula could have significant consequences for the team and their mission.

Axel sighed and ran a hand through his fiery red hair. "I don't know, guys," he said, his voice tinged with concern. "There's just something off about Aqua and Nebula since they came back from Xandar 2014. They seem... different."

Goofy tilted his head, his large ears perking up with curiosity. "Different how?" he asked.

"I can't really put my finger on it," Axel replied, his green eyes narrowing in thought. "It's like they're the same people, but there's something missing, something not quite right."

Silver, who had been observing Aqua and Nebula from a distance, spoke up, "I've noticed it too. They're not acting like their usual selves."

Axel nodded in agreement. "Exactly," he said. "It's like they're trying to blend in, but they're not doing a very good job at it."

Goofy scratched his head, clearly puzzled. "But why would they do that?" he asked.

"I have no idea," Axel said with a sigh. "But I can't shake this feeling that something's not right. I just wish I knew what it was."

Just then, Aqua and Nebula walked out of the room, their expressions neutral and guarded. Axel's eyes followed them, his suspicions only growing stronger.

"We should keep an eye on them," Silver suggested, his silver eyes narrowing with determination. "Maybe they'll slip up and reveal something."

"Yeah, you're right," Axel said, his gaze still fixed on Aqua and Nebula. "Something just doesn't add up."

Goofy nodded in agreement. "We'll figure it out together," he said. "We're a team, after all."

With that, the three of them continued to watch Aqua and Nebula closely, determined to uncover the truth behind their strange behavior. Little did they know that the answers they sought would lead them on a path of intrigue, mystery, and danger, one that would test their loyalty to each other and to the cause of protecting the universe from threats both old and new.

"Let's follow them, guys. I feel that we may get more answers." Axel said, slowly heading in the direction of Aqua and Nebula.

Axel, Silver, and Goofy kept their distance as they followed Aqua and Nebula to the main room where the Quantum Time Machine was located. They stayed out of sight, careful not to attract any attention as they eavesdropped on their secretive conversation.

As Aqua and Nebula huddled together near the Quantum Time Machine, Axel, Silver, and Goofy exchanged puzzled glances. They couldn't hear everything clearly, but it seemed like Aqua and Nebula were discussing something important, their voices hushed and tense.

With his instincts guiding him, Axel decided it was time to confront them. He stepped forward, his expression serious and determined.

"Alright, enough of this," he said firmly. "What's going on here, Aqua, Nebula? We've all been through a lot, and we're supposed to be working together as a team. But something's off with you two, and I want to know what it is."

Aqua and Nebula acted innocent at first, trying to deflect Axel's questioning with feigned surprise. "What do you mean? We're just having a private conversation," Aqua said, attempting to appear nonchalant.

Silver chimed in, his voice calm but assertive. "Private conversation or not, we're all in this together. There are no secrets among us."

Goofy nodded in agreement, his signature smile replaced with a more serious expression. "Yeah, we're all here to save the universe. Nothin' should be kept from the team."

Axel's gaze remained fixed on Aqua and Nebula, unyielding. "So spill it. What's the real story? Why are you two acting so suspicious?"

***ROOM WITH THE GAUNTLET***

The Nano-Tech Gauntlet glowed with the immense power of the Infinity Stones, and Bruce's heart raced with anticipation and responsibility. He took a deep breath, steadying himself for what was to come. Tony, standing beside him, gave him a reassuring nod.

Tony spoke up, his voice firm. "Remember, Bruce, we're bringing back everyone who was snapped away by Thanos 18 months ago. No changing anything from the last 18 months."

Bruce nodded in understanding. He was well aware of the delicate balance they needed to maintain. The universe's very fabric was at stake, and any alterations could have disastrous consequences.

"Got it." Bruce said, with a sense of calmness and acceptance.

As Bruce prepared to wield the Nano-Tech Gauntlet, the room fell into a tense silence. The Avengers and their allies stood at the ready, their eyes fixed on Bruce as he reached for the powerful artifact. As his hand prepared to slip into the Gauntlet, the room seemed to hum with energy, and the glow of the Infinity Stones intensified.

"Be careful, Bruce," Sora said, his voice full of concern.

Kairi nodded, adding, "Let your heart be your guiding key."

"F.R.I.D.A.Y., do me a favor and activate the Barn Door Protocol. Will you?" Tony requested.

"Yes, boss," F.R.I.D.A.Y. replied, and the facility's systems sprang into action.

The Avengers facility went into lockdown mode. The shutters started to drop, sealing off all the entrances and exits. Glass panels that once offered a view of the outside world turned opaque, blocking any prying eyes from seeing what was happening inside. Even the roof began to shift, closing off any possibility of escape from above.

The room dimmed as the lights adjusted to the new situation. The Avengers were now cut off from the rest of the world, surrounded by silence and darkness.

It was a necessary precaution. The power of the Infinity Stones was unpredictable, and they needed to contain it within the confines of the workshop. Everyone present knew that one wrong move could have catastrophic consequences, so they were taking no chances. The sudden darkness was replaced by the glowing light of the Infinity Stones. The air crackled with energy, and the sound of the power coursing through the Gauntlet filled the room. The Avengers and their allies watched in awe and apprehension as the reality-bending device worked its magic. As the Avengers and their allies suited up, The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on everyone present.

Sonic approached Bruce, exuding confidence and determination. "You got this, Bruce! We're all here with you."

"Everybody comes home," Bruce said, his voice unwavering.

As Bruce's words hung in the air, the Avengers and their allies stood in determined silence, ready to face whatever came their way. The weight of their mission, the losses they had endured, and the hope of bringing everyone back weighed heavily on their hearts.

The room remained in lockdown, a cocoon of protection and determination. The Nano-Tech Gauntlet glowed in Bruce's hands, a symbol of the power and responsibility he now held. They were united, stronger together, and nothing would break their resolve.

The stage was set, and the heroes were ready to play their parts. The battle for the universe's survival was about to begin, and every step they took would lead them closer to their destiny.

The Avengers, their resolve unwavering, marched forward into the uncertain future, determined to bring everyone home and put an end to the darkness that threatened to consume the cosmos.

And with that, the fate of the universe rested on their shoulders, and the cliffhanger left everyone wondering what would unfold in the epic showdown that awaited them.