X-Men (2021) #19-24

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Issue #19: "Lord of the Brood, Part 1"

The X-Men receive a distress call from deep space, indicating that the Brood threat has resurfaced. Despite previous beliefs that the Brood were no longer a significant danger, rogue factions have emerged, causing havoc across the galaxy. The team embarks on a mission to investigate and contain this renewed menace.

Issue #20: "Lord of the Brood, Part 2"

As the X-Men delve deeper into the Brood crisis, they uncover that the rogue factions are more organized and formidable than anticipated. The team faces intense battles, testing their unity and resolve. Amidst the chaos, they discover a deeper conspiracy that threatens not only mutantkind but the entire universe.

Issue #21: "The Hellfire Gala"

The annual Hellfire Gala is underway, serving as a platform for mutant diplomacy and showcasing Krakoa's advancements. However, the event is marred by unexpected revelations and political tensions. New alliances are formed, secrets are unveiled, and the X-Men must navigate the intricate web of mutant and human relations to maintain peace.

Issue #22: "Pogg-Ur-Pogg's Gambit"

The formidable Pogg-Ur-Pogg returns, targeting Gameworld for a heist. Unbeknownst to him, the X-Men are present, leading to a high-stakes confrontation. Meanwhile, Destiny and Orchis maneuver in the shadows, setting the stage for future conflicts.

Issue #23: "Destiny's Warning"

Destiny approaches Rogue with a dire prophecy, emphasizing the importance of a mutant named Manifold. She insists that the survival of mutantkind hinges on him. Rogue grapples with the weight of this revelation, contemplating whether to inform the X-Men or act independently.

Issue #24: "The Looming Threat"

As tensions rise, the X-Men confront the emerging threats highlighted by Destiny's prophecy. The team faces internal conflicts and external dangers, challenging their cohesion and commitment to their mission. The issue sets the stage for impending battles and the evolving dynamics within the mutant community.

Thematic Exploration

This arc explores the cost of leadership, the burden of prophecy, and the consequences of unchecked threats. The Lord of the Brood storyline highlights the X-Men’s responsibility not just to mutants, but to the universe, as they confront an old enemy that refuses to stay buried. Meanwhile, the Hellfire Gala underscores the delicate balance between power and diplomacy, with the mutants at a crossroads in their political standing. Destiny’s warnings add a layer of fate versus free will, forcing characters like Rogue to consider how much they should trust their own agency versus a predetermined path. Throughout, the series continues to question what it truly means to be an X-Man, blending cosmic dangers with deeply personal stakes.

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The Whale (2022)

Darren Aronofsky’s The Whale is a film that thrives on emotional weight—both figuratively and literally. At its core, it’s a small, intimate character study of Charlie, a reclusive, morbidly obese man played with heartbreaking sincerity by Brendan Fraser. His performance is, without question, the film’s crowning achievement. Fraser disappears into the role, not just through the physical transformation but in the way he carries Charlie’s pain, guilt, and quiet hope. It’s no surprise that his comeback was met with overwhelming praise; it’s the kind of raw, deeply human performance that sticks with you long after the credits roll.

The rest of the cast also delivers strong work. Sadie Sink as Charlie’s estranged daughter is volatile and angry, Hong Chau provides a much-needed counterbalance of warmth and frustration as his caregiver, and even Ty Simpkins and Samantha Morton make their brief moments count. The dialogue, adapted from Samuel D. Hunter’s stage play, keeps the film feeling like a theater piece—confined, claustrophobic, and sometimes a little too on-the-nose. That being said, the cast does its best to keep the material from feeling overly melodramatic, even when it teeters dangerously close.

But there’s something about The Whale that feels like it was designed, if not outright engineered, to capture Academy votes. A morbidly obese protagonist dealing with loss, redemption, and deep personal trauma? Check. A story that leans into modern identity struggles, religion, and societal alienation? Check. A big, transformative lead performance that screams “Give this man an Oscar”? Check. It’s not that any of these elements are inherently bad—many great films tackle similar themes—but there’s an undeniable sense that The Whale is acutely aware of how to position itself in the awards circuit. It feels like it’s playing to a very specific crowd, knowing exactly what buttons to push to elicit maximum critical adoration.

That being said, the film isn’t a cheap ploy—it has genuine moments of beauty, and its emotional beats land more often than not. The film’s stage origins give it a tight, focused narrative, and Aronofsky does a solid job of translating that into a cinematic experience, even if it’s mostly confined to one location. It’s easy to see why audiences were divided, though. Some will see it as an earnest, deeply affecting portrait of a man at the end of his rope, while others will see a movie that’s leaning a little too hard into its own self-importance.

In the end, The Whale is neither a masterpiece nor a misfire. It’s a well-acted, well-crafted drama that occasionally feels like it’s working too hard for prestige recognition. Fraser’s performance is worth the watch alone, and the film certainly has moments of real emotional impact. But it’s also hard to shake the feeling that it was tailor-made for awards season. Whether that makes it more admirable or more calculated depends on how much you’re willing to buy into its earnestness.

Star Wars (2020) #31–35

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Issue #31: "Lost in No-Space" (buy it from me on ebay HERE)

After acquiring a Path Engine from the Empire, Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, Lando Calrissian, Chewbacca, Amilyn Holdo, and Lobot find themselves stranded in a mysterious realm known as No-Space. They encounter the Kezarat Convoy, a group of refugees who have been trapped there for generations. The convoy's leader, an Abyssin named Kezarat, is initially distrustful and confines the group to quarters, citing security concerns. As they await their fate, the team learns about the convoy's history, including past encounters with the Nihil and a prophecy about a Jedi leading them to freedom. Luke becomes determined to fulfill this prophecy and find a way back to known space.

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Issue #32: "The Path Forward" (buy it from me on ebay HERE)

Luke and the team devise a plan to gain the trust of the Kezarat Convoy. They offer to repair the convoy's failing systems using their technical expertise. While working, Luke discovers remnants of ancient Jedi technology, suggesting that the convoy's ancestors had contact with the Jedi Order. This revelation strengthens his resolve to help them. Meanwhile, Lando and Holdo grow closer, sharing personal stories and reflecting on their roles in the Rebellion. Chewbacca and Lobot work together to decipher the Path Engine's mechanics, hoping to find a way to navigate back to known space.

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Issue #33: "Echoes of the Past"

As tensions rise within the convoy, a faction opposes the newcomers, fearing they will bring more trouble. An unexpected attack by Nihil remnants forces the convoy and the Rebel team to collaborate for survival. During the battle, Luke experiences a vision of a past Jedi who had traversed No-Space, providing him with insights into the Force and the importance of hope. Inspired, he leads a counterattack that repels the Nihil forces. This shared victory begins to bridge the gap between the convoy members and the Rebel team.

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Issue #34: "Navigating the Unknown"

With trust established, Luke and the team work alongside the convoy to retrofit the Path Engine. They discover that by combining their knowledge, they can create a navigational map to escape No-Space. However, the process requires a significant power source and precise coordination. Lando devises a plan to harness energy from a nearby cosmic phenomenon, while Leia negotiates with convoy leaders to unify their efforts. As they prepare, Luke meditates, seeking guidance from the Force to ensure their plan's success.

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Issue #35: "The Way Home"

The combined teams initiate their escape plan. As they activate the modified Path Engine, they are confronted by a massive Nihil fleet, intent on keeping them trapped. A climactic battle ensues, with each member playing a crucial role. Luke faces the Nihil leader in a lightsaber duel, drawing upon his newfound insights to prevail. The convoy members, inspired by the Rebels' bravery, join the fight, turning the tide. In a decisive moment, the Path Engine successfully navigates them back to known space. The convoy, now free, expresses gratitude and pledges support to the Rebel Alliance. Luke reflects on the journey, recognizing the power of unity and the enduring hope that binds them all.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of unity, trust, and the enduring power of hope. The collaboration between the Rebel team and the Kezarat Convoy underscores the strength found in diversity and mutual respect. Luke's journey highlights the importance of faith—in oneself, in others, and in the Force. The narrative emphasizes that even in the most isolated and dire circumstances, hope can light the way, leading to liberation and renewed purpose.

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Amazing Spider-Man (2022) #19–23

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Issue #19: "A Date Night From Hell"

After the tumultuous events of the "Dark Web" saga, Peter Parker and Felicia Hardy (Black Cat) decide to take a much-needed break. They head to a ski resort in the Catskills for a romantic getaway. Unexpectedly, they run into Mary Jane Watson and her partner, Paul, at the same resort, leading to awkward interactions. Meanwhile, the villainess White Rabbit is orchestrating a "supervillain experience" for wealthy tech enthusiasts, allowing them to role-play as villains using confiscated gear. This escapade spirals out of control when the faux villains take their roles too seriously, forcing Spider-Man and Black Cat to intervene.

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Issue #20: "The End of the Beginning"

The situation at the resort escalates as the pretend villains, emboldened by their antics, pose a genuine threat. Spider-Man and Black Cat work together to subdue the chaos. During the confrontation, Peter and Felicia discuss their relationship, with Peter admitting that while he will always care for Mary Jane, his feelings for her are now more akin to those for a sister or best friend. This acknowledgment allows Peter and Felicia to deepen their bond, setting the stage for their renewed relationship.

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Issue #21: "Dead Language Part One"

The narrative shifts to address the lingering mystery of what transpired between Peter and Mary Jane. A year prior, Peter and MJ are confronted by Benjamin Rabin, a mathematician obsessed with Mayan mythology, who previously attempted to sacrifice Spider-Man to the deity Wayep. Rabin attacks them, marking Peter for vengeance and designating MJ as a sacrifice. Both are transported to an alternate, apocalyptic dimension dominated by Wayep's influence.

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Issue #22: "Dead Language Part Two"

In this desolate world, Peter and MJ struggle to survive against monstrous entities. They encounter Paul, a former acolyte of Rabin who has been trapped in this dimension. Paul provides insight into Rabin's plans and assists them in navigating the hostile environment. Peter discovers a damaged device capable of traversing the multiverse and works to repair it. As Wayep's forces close in, MJ uses the device to send Peter back to their original world, choosing to stay behind with Paul to hold off the threat.

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Issue #23: "Dead Language Part Three"

Peter returns to New York, crashing in Pennsylvania due to the unstable portal. Realizing that time moves differently between dimensions, he becomes desperate to rescue MJ. He seeks assistance from the Fantastic Four, but they express distrust and suggest he wait for official authorities. Frustrated, Peter escapes and encounters Captain America, who also questions his actions. Determined, Peter turns to Norman Osborn for help, leading to a plan to retrieve MJ and Paul from the alternate dimension.

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Thematic Exploration

These issues delve into themes of love, trust, and the complexities of relationships. Peter's interactions with Felicia highlight his attempts to move forward while acknowledging his past with Mary Jane. The unexpected encounter with MJ and Paul underscores the challenges of unresolved feelings and the pain of seeing a former love with someone else. The "Dead Language" arc introduces elements of sacrifice and destiny, as Peter and MJ are thrust into a situation where they must confront their past decisions and the consequences of their actions. The narrative emphasizes Peter's resilience and determination to protect those he loves, even when faced with insurmountable odds.

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Invincible Iron Man (2022) #1–5

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Issue #1: "The Invincible Iron Man"

Tony Stark finds himself at rock bottom—financially ruined, publicly disgraced, and battling his inner demons. His personal life is in shambles, and he struggles with sobriety. An explosion destroys his brownstone, resulting in the death of a neighbor, which Tony survives but is left questioning who is targeting him. As he investigates, he is attacked by a mysterious armored assailant, leading him to realize that someone is orchestrating a campaign to dismantle his life.

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Issue #2: "The Enemy Within"

Tony continues to face a series of orchestrated attacks aimed at discrediting and destabilizing him. He discovers that his technology is being used against him, and his attempts to seek help are met with skepticism due to his tarnished reputation. The issue delves into Tony's isolation and the erosion of trust from his peers.

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Issue #3: "Friends and Enemies"

As Tony's situation worsens, he reaches out to allies, including War Machine and Hellcat, but finds that his past actions have strained these relationships. He uncovers evidence that suggests a larger conspiracy involving corporate rivals and former associates. The issue highlights Tony's struggle to distinguish friend from foe as he navigates a web of betrayal.

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Issue #4: "Descent"

Tony's mental and physical health continue to decline as the attacks become more personal. He faces legal challenges, public outcry, and further sabotage of his remaining assets. In a moment of vulnerability, Tony contemplates abandoning his role as Iron Man, questioning his purpose and the impact of his actions.

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Issue #5: "Reckoning"

Determined to reclaim his life, Tony devises a plan to confront the mastermind behind his downfall. Utilizing his ingenuity and the few resources left at his disposal, he sets a trap to expose his adversary. The issue culminates in a confrontation that forces Tony to confront his past mistakes and the consequences of his hubris.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of redemption, identity, and resilience. Tony Stark is portrayed as a man stripped of his wealth and status, forced to confront the fragility of his ego and the repercussions of his past actions. The narrative explores the concept of self-worth beyond material possessions and public acclaim, emphasizing the importance of personal integrity and the strength to rise above adversity. Through his trials, Tony's journey reflects a quest for inner peace and a redefinition of what it means to be a hero.

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Moon Knight (2021) #19–24

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Issue #19: "Blood Moon Rising"

Moon Knight delves into the depths of New York City's subterranean world to confront an illegal mining operation exploiting the city's underground resources. During this mission, he uncovers a series of brutal murders that reveal unsettling truths, challenging his understanding of justice and vengeance. Meanwhile, his adversary, Zodiac, engages in his own schemes, adding layers to the unfolding narrative.

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Issue #20: "Kill List"

Moon Knight intensifies his pursuit of the individuals on his "kill list," targeting those who pose significant threats to his mission and the safety of his community. This issue delves into his strategic approach to dismantling criminal networks, showcasing his tactical prowess and unyielding determination.

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Issue #21: "Let's Dance"

In a high-octane confrontation, Moon Knight faces off against a formidable foe in a battle that tests his combat skills and resilience. The fight choreography and dynamic artwork highlight the intensity of the encounter, emphasizing Moon Knight's relentless nature.

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Issue #22: "Instinct"

Moon Knight grapples with his instincts and the fine line between justice and vengeance. This introspective issue explores his internal conflicts, shedding light on his motivations and the psychological complexities that define him as both a hero and a vigilante.

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Issue #23: "Panic Room"

Trapped in a confined space with a group of civilians during a crisis, Moon Knight must navigate the challenges of protecting innocents while confronting his own claustrophobia and past traumas. The narrative delves into themes of fear, leadership, and the burdens of responsibility.

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Issue #24: "Ill Met By Moonlight"

Moon Knight confronts Morpheus, the master of dreams, who has entranced an entire apartment building with visions of never-ending happiness. This encounter forces Moon Knight to confront the allure of escapism versus the harsh realities of life, challenging his perceptions of duty and the human condition.

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Thematic Exploration

These issues delve into themes of justice, vengeance, and the psychological complexities of Moon Knight's character. The narrative explores his internal struggles, the ethical dilemmas he faces, and his unwavering commitment to protecting his community. The series continues to blend action-packed sequences with introspective moments, offering a nuanced portrayal of a hero grappling with his own demons while confronting external threats.

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Amazing Spider-Man (2022) #15–18

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Issue #15: "Dark Web, Part 1"

Spider-Man confronts Chasm (Ben Reilly) and Venom (Eddie Brock) as they initiate their plan to plunge New York into chaos by unleashing demonic forces from Limbo. During the battle, Chasm casts a spell that traps Ms. Marvel in Limbo, intensifying the threat. Spider-Man struggles to contain the escalating supernatural events while grappling with the betrayal of his former ally, Ben.

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Issue #16: "Dark Web, Part 2"

As demonic attacks spread across the city, Spider-Man continues his battle against Chasm, who is determined to reclaim his lost memories by any means necessary. The Goblin Queen (Madelyne Pryor) and Hallow's Eve (Janine Godbe) join forces with Chasm, further complicating the situation. Spider-Man is eventually dragged into Limbo, where he faces a twisted version of reality designed to torment him.

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Issue #17: "Dark Web, Part 3"

Trapped in Limbo, Spider-Man endures psychological and physical challenges orchestrated by Chasm and the Goblin Queen. He encounters demonic versions of his classic foes and is subjected to a nightmarish version of his daily life, including working for demonic versions of his usual employers. Despite the overwhelming odds, Spider-Man's determination to protect his loved ones and return to the real world fuels his resilience.

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Issue #18: "Dark Web, Part 4"

Spider-Man confronts Chasm and the Goblin Queen in a climactic battle within Limbo. With the help of unexpected allies, he navigates the treacherous landscape and challenges the villains' plans to merge Limbo with New York City. The issue culminates in a showdown that tests Spider-Man's resolve and ingenuity, ultimately leading to a resolution that restores balance between the realms.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of identity, memory, and the consequences of past actions. Chasm's transformation from Ben Reilly, a clone of Peter Parker, highlights the struggle for selfhood and the impact of lost or altered memories. The storyline also explores the concept of personal demons, both literal and metaphorical, as Spider-Man confronts manifestations of his fears and guilt within Limbo. Ultimately, the narrative emphasizes resilience and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming darkness.

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Miles Morales: Spider-Man #1-5

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Issue #1: “Trial by Spider Part One”

Miles Morales juggles his responsibilities as Spider-Man with the challenges of his personal life, including school and family. A new adversary, Rabble, emerges, targeting Miles and those close to him. This issue sets the stage for a fresh chapter in Miles’ journey, highlighting the complexities of balancing heroism with everyday life.

Issue #2: “Trial by Spider Part Two”

As Rabble’s attacks become more personal, Miles struggles to protect his loved ones while uncovering the villain’s motives. The pressure mounts, leading to tensions in his relationships and self-doubt about his role as Spider-Man. The issue delves into Miles’ resilience and determination in the face of escalating threats.

Issue #3: “Trial by Spider Part Three”

Miles confronts Rabble, seeking to understand her vendetta against him. The encounter reveals surprising connections and challenges Miles’ perception of his impact as a hero. The narrative explores themes of accountability and the unforeseen consequences of one’s actions.

Issue #4: “Trial by Spider Part Four”

With the stakes higher than ever, Miles devises a plan to stop Rabble while safeguarding his loved ones. The battle tests his ingenuity and resolve, pushing him to his limits both as Spider-Man and as an individual. The issue emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the strength drawn from personal connections.

Issue #5: “Trial by Spider Part Five”

In the climactic showdown, Miles faces Rabble in a decisive battle that will determine the safety of his community. The confrontation forces Miles to make difficult choices, reflecting his growth and commitment to his responsibilities. The issue concludes the arc with a focus on redemption, understanding, and the enduring spirit of heroism.

Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into the challenges of balancing personal life with the mantle of heroism, highlighting the sacrifices and resilience required to protect one’s community. Miles’ encounters with Rabble underscore the unforeseen repercussions of his actions, emphasizing themes of accountability and the complexities of legacy. The narrative also explores the significance of personal relationships, illustrating how connections with loved ones can be both a source of strength and vulnerability.

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Avengers (2018) #63-66

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Issue #63: “Avengers Assemble, Part Two: The Battle of One Million BC”

The Avengers come face-to-face with their prehistoric counterparts, the Avengers of 1,000,000 BC. To thwart Doom Supreme and his Multiversal Masters of Evil, both teams must overcome initial mistrust and collaborate. The issue emphasizes the challenges of uniting heroes across time to protect the Marvel Universe’s history.

Issue #64: “Avengers Assemble, Part Four: The War for the Dawn”

The combined forces of the present-day Avengers and the prehistoric team engage in a fierce battle against the Multiversal Masters of Evil. Amidst the chaos, individual members confront personal trials, testing their resolve and commitment to the cause. The issue highlights the complexities of inter-team dynamics during high-stakes conflicts.

Issue #65: “Avengers Assemble, Part Six: The Secret History of Avenger Prime”

The enigmatic Avenger Prime’s origins are unveiled, revealing his pivotal role in the multiverse’s defense. His backstory provides insight into the broader implications of the Avengers’ mission and the sacrifices required to safeguard reality. This issue deepens the narrative by exploring themes of destiny and duty.

Issue #66: “Avengers Assemble, Part Eight: The Final Assemblage”

In the climactic battle to save the multiverse, an unprecedented assembly of Avengers confronts Mephisto and his sinister plans. The full extent of Mephisto’s scheme comes into shocking focus, challenging the heroes to their limits. The issue serves as a culmination of the “Avengers Assemble” storyline, emphasizing unity and resilience in the face of overwhelming evil.

Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of unity across time, the cyclical nature of heroism, and the enduring struggle between good and evil. By bringing together Avengers from different eras, the storyline emphasizes the timelessness of the fight for justice and the importance of collaboration. The revelation of Avenger Prime’s history underscores the personal sacrifices inherent in the mantle of heroism. Overall, the narrative highlights that while adversaries like Mephisto may evolve, the unwavering spirit of the Avengers remains a constant force for good.

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