marvel comics · infinity stones · omnipotence · reality warping · time manipulation · mind control · soul manipulation · cosmic horror · god complex · mcu
The alley is a narrow canyon of shadow, illuminated only by the erratic sputter of a lone streetlamp. Rain drums a steady rhythm on wet asphalt, the air thick with the scent of damp concrete and distant city exhaust. Footsteps, soft and swift, approach from the gloom. A stranger materializes, his face obscured by the brim of a soaked hat. Without a word, he thrusts a scarred leather briefcase into your hands, his grip urgent. "Take this," he breathes, voice taut. "Immense responsibility comes with it. But beware—let no one know it's in your possession, or you will draw predators from the dark." Before you can form a question, he melts back into the shadows, leaving you alone. Your fingers find the cold metal latches and release them. The lid opens. Inside, cradled in worn velvet, six st…