Fantastic Four created by Jack Kirby and Stan Lee

Thor created by Jack Kirby, Larry Lieber, & Stan Lee

FANTASTIC ADVENTURES #3:

Starring the FANTASTIC FOUR & THOR:

"Journey’s End!"

Written by Jeff Melton

Previously: Reed Richards, investigating a new power source in the Negative Zone, decides to take a trip into the Negative Zone in order to harness its power. However, he disappears, leading the Fantastic Four and Thor to enter the Negative Zone and find him. There, they discover that this was an elaborate trap by Annihilus, Blastaar, and Terrax. After a pitched battle, Terrax and Blastaar are overcome, but Annihilus betrays his former allies, stealing their power and amplifying it. In a battle with the super-charged Annihilus, Thor is attempting to channel Annihilus’ power into a portal when he is apparently disintegrated in front of the eyes of the heroes.

In Sector 17 of the Negative Zone, Annihilus glows with power, taunting the Fantastic Four, who can only stand, stunned by the sight that has greeted their eyes. Mr. Fantastic holds Sue in his arms, still kneeling down beside her. The Thing is standing on a neighboring rock, glaring at Annihilus. Johnny Storm is starting to stir behind Reed and Ben, his nearly unconscious form lying on a cluster of rocks where Annihilus had dispatched him.^*

{* In last issue’s colossal struggle, of course!}

"I don’t understand how your power increased to the point it apparently has," Reed comments. "I’ve managed to wake Sue with ammonia smelling salts," he adds, mentally, "but she is still too groggy to help us much if he decides to attack. I need to buy us some more time."

"I see no reason why I can’t indulge your scientific curiosity," Annihilus remarks, smiling his sinister grin, reveling in his moment of triumph. "After all, your culture observes the custom of honoring a dying man’s last request."

"Don’t be so cocky, ya blasted insect!" the Thing warns Annihilus. "Ya still ain’t put us down yet!"

"Calm down, Ben," Reed thinks to himself, wishing that Ben could read his mind. "Annihilus," Reed calls out. "You managed to steal Terrax’s power, but I fail to see how you increased the power in the manner you have."

"Do not think that you are the only one who is capable of monitoring the ‘outside world’, Richards," Annihilus comments sarcastically. "I have been watching your world for quite some time. I am aware that your nemesis, Doctor Doom, stole the Silver Surfer’s power and used it himself.* That may not be a pleasant memory for you, Richards, as it cost you a devastating defeat."^** Annihilus stops for a moment, looking over at Reed, savoring the moment and enjoying his taunts on his old enemy. His victory would not be complete without the image of a helpless Reed Richards, unable to stop him, emblazoned on his mind. He fully intends to take in the full effect of his victory in this manner.

{^* This event took place in the classic Fantastic Four #57 (Dec, 1966).

^** In Fantastic Four #58 (Jan, 1967)}

"Yeah, we know about all’a that!" the Thing interjects. "But, the ol’ bucket ‘a bolts got his head handed to him in the end, didn’t he?"^*

{* This is pretty much what happened in Fantastic Four #60 (March, 1967)}

"Indeed, but I am not Dr. Doom," Annihilus counters. "I took components from Dr. Doom’s research, however, and used it to siphon not only Terrax’s power—as you surmised—but also Blastaar’s power. The ignorant oafs played well into my hands, as I told them what they wanted to hear."

"I was also intrigued by the research of Professor Sturdy," Annihilus continues, "who managed to siphon off the powers of the Living Laser, Whirlwind, and Power Man and transfer them to Count Nefaria.* The aspect of his research that most interested me was the fact that he was able to increase, geometrically, the powers of those three before transferring it to Nefaria. I incorporated his design into the one from Doom, and improved on both."

{* As recounted in the classic Avengers #164-166.}

"Fascinating!" Reed exclaims. He cannot control his thirst for scientific knowledge, even in the midst of the enormous danger in which the group finds itself. "The scientific applications of such a process...!"

"Yes, you are ever attempting to find a benevolent means of using power, Richards," Annihilus comments, sending out a charge of energy that blasts the rock directly in front of them, sending debris towards Reed and Sue. Reed quickly stretches out his arm, using it as a "rubber band" to deflect the debris out of the way, where it flies through the darkness of space. "Need I remind you that it was that very desire that brought you here in the first place?!"

"Why, you no good...!" the Thing exclaims, leaping across the distance separating him from Annihilus. He holds out his fist to hit Annihilus. "It’s clobberin’ time!"

"Ignorant brute!" Annihilus responds, putting up his arm and sending out a blast of pure energy that blasts the Thing squarely in the chest! It reverses his momentum and sends him crashing back against a cluster of floating rocks, demolishing them. He lies on the ground, his chest smoking with the after-effect of the blast.

"That was such a casual discharge of energy from Annihilus, and it put Ben down," Reed silently considers, as he notices that Sue is stirring once more.

"What...?" she moans softly.

"Easy, darling," Reed responds in a whisper. "You are not prepared to get to your feet as of yet, and I do not want for Annihilus to be aware that you are regaining consciousness."

To Reed’s surprise, the Thing has risen to his feet, and has lifted a large bolder, three times his own size, over his head. "I’m still stingin’ from that blast!" the Thing thinks to himself. "But, it’s about time to make ol’ insect face sting a little too!" With that, he throws the bolder at Annihilus. "Chew on this, ya %@$&@#&!"

The bolder hits Annihilus, and buries him under its tremendous weight. Johnny has recovered, and flies up beside Ben, to watch the events. "Nice shot, Ben!" Johnny compliments his teammate.

"Yeah, not too bad," the Thing replies, "if I do say so myself!"

However, all of the heroes are taken aback by a loud explosion, sending debris and large pieces of the bolder in all directions! Johnny uses his flame to melt what he can, while the Thing punches what comes his way, and his body deflects the rest. Mr. Fantastic puts Sue down and stretches his body out in front of them, blocking everything that comes their way.

"If you thought to destroy me with a mere rock," Annihilus proclaims, "then you were sadly mistaken!"

"Uh-oh," Johnny comments.

¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤

Meanwhile, on the other side of the Negative Zone, Thor floats through the darkness of space.^* To his right, in the distance, are exploding rocks and a reverse vacuum that is sending them his way. There are also several figures, heavily armored, flying around him. They are all brandishing weapons, which are pointed at the thunder god. Although their armor covers their faces, their apprehension can be seen in the caution of their movements.

{* Come on! You didn’t really think I’d kill Thor, did you?!}

"In truth," Thor mutters, looking around him. "I was stunned by the explosion that sent me hither."

"Hold fast, intruder!" one of the armored figures commands. "I would know who you are and why you have come to Sector 71!" As he speaks, the other heavily armed soldiers surround Thor. There are 10 in all. The other soldiers are carrying lances, which seethe with energy.

"Thy tone would bring an enemy where a friend might easily remain," Thor replies, putting his outstretched hand forward. "There is no need for enmity between us."

"Answer, intruder!" the leader demands, and Thor is prodded by two of the soldiers behind him. "I have never seen your like!"

Thor quickly grabs the two lances that struck him a moment before, jerking them forward—oblivious to the energy surging through them—sending the two soldiers who struck him flying forward, where they are pounded by flying rocks! The rocks continue to shoot out from the large center of the vacuum outward, flying past the combatants, striking them intermittently on their journey outward into space.

"I have no desire to fight thee," Thor explains. "But, the lord of the storms will not tolerate an unprovoked assault on his person!" As two more soldiers rush menacingly towards Thor, he unleashes blasts of anti-matter from his hammer, which send them back, reeling from the attack. They call out in pain, obviously injured by this manner of attack, and unprepared for it.

"What manner of energy is he using to attack those men?" the leader thinks to himself, watching with great interest—and some concern—at the result of the Thor’s defensive maneuver.

The others quickly move forward, as if to attempt to overcome Thor, but their leader puts out his hand, stopping their advance. "No, that will not be necessary," he informs them. "We are unfamiliar with you, and wanted to make certain that you posed no threat to our people."

"The god of thunder wishes no ill to any man," Thor promises.

"I am Krakor," the leader of the soldiers says, offering his hand in friendship. Thor takes it in kind. "We of Sector 71 have lived in peace for many years, but of late have had to protect ourselves from many attacks. Also, we must ever be vigilant, because the explosions from the other side grow more frequent."

"I quite understand," Thor responds, while looking around. Now that he doesn’t have to concern himself with an attack, he can take in the sights that surround him. What he sees greatly surprises him. There is a great amount of light in the distance. Although he is in space between worlds, he sees twin suns in the distance. He was unaware that there were suns in the Negative Zone. He had always considered it to be a dark, foreboding place.

"My people love peace as well," Thor continues, while his eyes fix on a planet in the near distance. He is surprised by its beauty and the life that abounds there—quite a contrast to the other side of the Negative Zone—the only part of the Zone that he had ever been aware of. "However, we are trained from an early age as warriors, because we have many enemies who would overcome us if we were not ever vigilant."

Thor and the others fly towards a large planet. He can see in the distance other planets. "Krakor," Thor mentions, looking around, then at the leader of the band of soldiers. "There is something I must ask. I hath come here from the other side of the Negative Zone..."

"From beyond the explosive zone...?!" Krakor exclaims in disbelief. "But, such a thing is not possible!"

"I thought the same when I came hither," Thor replies. "I came not from the other side of the Negative Zone, but rather from another universe entire."

"Your words defy belief, my friend," Krakor responds. "But, I sense that they are truthful." He puts his hand on Thor’s shoulder in the warrior’s way. "Such things are for our scientists, my friend. We must take you to our monarch, and give you a feast worthy of your warrior prowess!"

"Aye, my friend," Thor agrees. "However, my friends even now do battle with fiends from the other side."

"I must admit, my friend," Krakor comments, as he and Thor fly towards the planet, with the other warriors flying shortly behind, "that your words surprise me. I did not think that anything could survive beyond the explosive zone."

"Not much does," Thor admits.

"You must tell me all about it, my friend," Krakor comments. "What is it like on the other side? From early childhood, I have heard stories, of course. Of demons and fire...! But, to actually go there...!"

"It is the mirror image of this place," Thor responds, as the two enter the stratosphere of the planet. Thor cannot help but be taken in by the beauty of the planet. Below, he sees mountains in the distance and seas directly beneath them. The skies are blue with streaks of purple, and there is a tinge of moisture in the air. Below, Thor beholds a glistening city of silver, glowing against the twin suns that radiate eternal light on the planet. "Where thy planet is a symbol of light and beauty, the other side of the zone is a picture of death and decay."

There is a slight trace of disappointment in Krakor’s face, as if his childhood dreams have just been dashed. "I...see," Krakor comments. He then presses a button in his wristband, and speaks into it. "We have entered. You can put up the barrier once more."

"Barrier?" Thor asks, with unhidden curiosity.

"Yes, a barrier," Krakor responds. Thor looks back and can see a large barrier covering the planet below. It is almost invisible, but has slight traces of black mixed in, brought out with more definition by the light of the suns. "You see, with the constant assault of the exploding rocks, our world would be pulverized if not for the barrier."

"Thine world is so beautiful," Thor comments, looking around, as they fly downward, towards the city below. "How has it been kept thus, if the rocks and meteors have assaulted it?"

"It has not always been thus," Krakor replies. "There was a time when there were fewer explosions, and none with the intensity to reach our planet. I have even heard that there was a time when there were no explosions, although this was in ancient times. Our scientists came to realize that the explosions were increasing, and the barrier needed to be erected to protect us all. It took many years, but the speed had to be increased once the attacks from outside began."

"Thou hath mentioned these attacks before," Thor responds with interest, as the group of warriors lands outside of the large city on the shores of one of the largest rivers on the planet. "I would know more of this. Of what nature are these attacks of which thou doth speak...?"

"There have been random incursions from unknown assailants," the leader replies. They stand at the gates of the city, which has a large wall built around its perimeters. He speaks once more into the small communicator on his wrist. "Open the gates." Then, he turns back to Thor. "These have started only in the past few months, but they have caused some devastation. We have had to increase our fortifications and even build this wall around our city."

"Aye," Thor replies, remembering that the Asgardians had to do the same to protect their city eons ago. "My own people, the Asgardians, had to build a large wall around the Golden Realm ages ago to defend against the encroachments of the giants and other races that wouldst wage war ‘gainst us. Well doth the son of Odin understand thine plight."

"There seems to be great parallels between our people, Thor," Krakor comments, even as the doors to the city open wide. "I would learn more of your people."

"And I of thine," Thor agrees. "But, tell me: We could have flown down into the city. Why came we here outside the gates?"

"Ah, you do not know of the energy shield that covers the city above the walls," Krakor says, nodding as if struck by a revelation. "When our assailant comes down into the city, he is repelled by the energy shield above the walls."

"Who is this assailant of whom thou doth speak?" Thor questions, as they walk through the streets of the city, drawing surprised and curious stares from the inhabitants. The people are all pink-skinned. They have webbed fingers and pointed ears. "Thou said that there were others as well."

"Yes, there is one who leads the others," Krakor explains. He looks at Thor, anger burning in his eyes as he speaks of his people’s most fearsome enemy. "We do not know what he looks like under the fearsome armor he wears, but he possesses green batwings, and cylinder that glows around his neck. He attacks without mercy, and is the stated enemy of all that lives."

"The way that thou doth describe him...!" Thor starts.

"And the ones he brings with him are the most loathsome creatures I have ever beheld," Krakor continues. "They are called the Borers.^* They eat through and destroy everything in their path...weapons, walls...everything in sight! We are only able to drive them off by driving away their master."

{* Remember these lovely creatures from Fantastic Four Annual #6 (Nov, 1968)?}

"’Twould seem that the villain of whom thou doth speak is a common enemy," Thor says, looking intensely at Krakor. "His name is ANNIHILUS!"

¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤

Speaking of Annihilus, let us turn our attention to the Fantastic Four, who are even now doing battle with the super-charged Annihilus on the other side of the Negative Zone.

"Admit it, Richards!" Annihilus proclaims arrogantly, while sending out super-charged blasts of cosmic energy at Reed and Sue with one hand and Johnny and the Thing with the other. "You have been bested intellectually, and you are doomed! It would be better by far to accept your fate than to attempt to battle against the inevitable destruction that awaits you!"

"I see things a little differently," Reed argues, stretching his upper body around Sue’s force field, with his fists clenched. Reed stretches out towards Annihilus, hitting him with both fists, but the cosmic energy surrounding Annihilus acts as a barrier, protecting him from such blows. "I recall you making such claims in the past, but always being defeated in the end."

"That’s tellin’ him, stretcho!" the Thing adds, while leaping at Annihilus, and slamming his right fist into Annihilus’ jaw, stunning him. "These villain types don’t remember so good!"

"Embrace the past then, fools!" Annihilus retorts, kneeling on one knee and firing a blast that strikes the Thing squarely in the chest, sending him flying back. "For, that is all you have!"

Sue concentrates, and sends out invisible spheres in the form of spikes, striking Annihilus, even through his energy barrier. "I’ve got to help the boys," she thinks. "It’s just hard to concentrate with this headache." Sue has not recovered, however, and her invisible spikes do not strike with the intensity that they would have otherwise done.

Annihilus, fighting off the effects of Sue’s attack, puts up his left hand and sends out a blinding flash that stuns everyone but Johnny, who flies overhead, preparing to strike with fireballs. Sue’s concentration has been broken.

"Do you think to defeat me with such a weak assault?!" Annihilus asks, as if he is offended by the thought. He sends out an energy blast that strikes Sue’s force field. She strains to keep it up, but soon falls to the ground, unable to continue.

Johnny sends out fireballs at Annihilus, who is momentarily caught off-guard. Ben, only ten feet away from Annihilus, is kneeling down, trying to adjust his eyesight after the blinding flash. "Cute trick," Johnny remarks, while attacking Annihilus. "But, it didn’t do a whole lot against me…did it?!"

"It was not meant for you, fool!" Annihilus replies defensively, while turning to face Johnny. "My attack produced precisely the effect I intended. So ineffectual are your attacks that I did not need to concern myself with them."

"Oh, yeah?!" Johnny is enraged at his powers being dismissed in such a cavalier fashion. His temper quickly flares up, and his flames grow more intense. "I guess I’ll have to show you just how wrong you are!" Johnny sends out blasts of flames at Annihilus, who is surprised by the fury of Johnny’s attack, but quickly raises his shields to protect himself.

Meanwhile, Reed stretches over to the Thing, who is rises and preparing to re-enter the battle. "Ben!" he calls out. "I have a plan."

"I don’t like the sound of this already!" the Thing responds flippantly. Then, turning to Reed, the two stand on a single, large, floating rock as they discuss strategy. "Whatcha got on your mind, stretch?"

"We need to reverse the process of Annihilus’ machine, Ben," Reed explains.

"WAITAMINUTE!" the Thing retorts. "Wouldn’t that mean givin’ Blastaar and Terrax their powers back!? Not a good plan, Stretcho!"

"What choice do we have, Ben?" Reed asks. "Annihilus is the greater threat. With his penchant for mass destruction, coupled with those powers, the consequences are staggering to calculate!"

"I dunno, Reed," the Thing replies, obviously not convinced.

"I will need to study the machine," Reed explains. "Right now, I do not know the full effect of reversing the process. However, I am convinced that this is the only way to deal effectively with the problem. Even if their powers are returned, Terrax and Blastaar should not pose a substantial threat in their weakened conditions."

"I still don’t like the idea of exchangin’ one enemy for three!" the Thing replies, apprehensively.

"I understand your concerns," Reed agrees. "However, none of us have been able to challenge Annihilus at his advanced power level, whereas we were able to overcome Terrax and Blastaar…"

"With Thor’s help!" the Thing quickly points out. "And, I don’t know about you, but I don’t see ol’ goldilocks right now!"

"Ben, there is no time to argue about this," Reed responds, growing irritated. "I must determine if there is a way to reverse the process, or Annihilus will use his powers to go to Earth…and, quite possibly destroy every living creature there!"

Ben’s face grows serious, as he considers what Reed has just said. He knows well that Annihilus has made such threats in the past, and realizes that he may now be able to carry out that threat. "All right, Reed," the Thing replies. "Whatcha need?"

"I just need for you and Johnny to occupy Annihilus’ attention until I can do the research I need," Reed explains.

"You got it, Reed!" the Thing replies. Then, turning to watch Johnny get blasted in the chest by Annihilus, he starts to leap off toward the battle. "It looks like Johnny needs all the help he can get anyway!"

"And, Ben…," Reed starts, a look of concern in his eyes.

"Don’t worry," the Thing responds to his unspoken request. "I’ll keep an eye out for her too."

"Thanks, Ben," Mr. Fantastic replies, even as he stretches away toward the machine. Ben leaps off towards Annihilus, jumping across great distances with his powerful leg muscles.

"It’s clobberin’ time, ya ugly galoot!" the Thing exclaims, hitting an unsuspecting Annihilus directly in the face, stunning him with the tremendous impact of the super-powered blow. Johnny looks on, trying to hide his relief that Thing has re-entered the fight, even as he recovers from Annihilus’ last attack.

"I hate to admit it," Johnny says to the Thing, as he flies overhead and prepares to join in the attack, "but I’m actually pleased to see you!"

"Yeah, yeah," the Thing responds, while hitting Annihilus in the stomach with another powerful blow. "Save the mushy stuff for TV, willya?"

"Away!" Annihilus calls out, leaning back, while a surge of power shoots through his body, sending cosmic radiation in all directions…much of it hitting the Thing and Johnny, driving them back!

Annihilus smiles with satisfaction, as he notices the difficulty the two heroes are having getting to their feet again. Johnny’s flame was momentarily snuffed out, but parts of his body are already starting to flame on. The Thing, who was caught with the brunt of the blast is on his knees, trying to get to his feet.

"MAN!" the Thing thinks to himself. "I feel like Thor lost his hammer in my head, and it’s tryin’ to get out!"

"See how easily you are overcome by my superior power?" Annihilus asks, basking in his confidence and power. "Have another taste of what is in store for you!"

"We have another idea!" a voice from behind Annihilus shouts. He turns to see that it is Blastaar and Terrax, infuriated and ready to fight. Terrax is brandishing his battle-axe, and Blastaar stands beside him. Terrax continues: "You will pay dearly for stealing our powers!"

"I should have expected such a betrayal from the likes of you, Annihilus!" Blastaar chimes in.

The two villains leap as one at Annihilus, who stands firm in preparation for their attack. He sends out an energy blast that drives Blastaar back, smashing against a cluster of rocks. Terrax, however, has sidestepped the energy, and brings his axe forward, striking the energy shield surrounding Annihilus.

"I will kill you for your betrayal!" Terrax proclaims. "I have killed many before I received my powers! You will be no exception!"

Annihilus backhands Terrax, sending him reeling on his feet. "Your petty threats do not concern me!" Annihilus proclaims. "How easy it was to convince you that your former MASTER was after you again. Your cowardly fear of your MASTER prevented the light of reason from ever entering your brain. Your fear made you so pliable that you were unaware that you had the very power to leave the Negative Zone whenever you desired." Annihilus kicks Terrax in the face, causing him to drop his battle-axe. "All the while, I was studying your powers and determining a way to transfer them to myself. The Fantastic Four—who were present during your most humiliating defeat^*—provided an excellent opportunity to complete my plans, and seal your fate!"

{* Annihilus is referring to Terrax’s defeat at the hands of the Silver Surfer, which occurred in Fantastic Four #260—an issue which also marked what was thought to be Terrax’s death…JM}

"ENOUGH!" Terrax argues, weakly trying to return to his feet. He reaches for his battle-axe, but Annihilus steps on it, keeping it away from him. "I will kill you where you stand for your effrontery!"

"Pity for you that you have no such power to do so!" Annihilus replies sharply, blasting Terrax in the face, and sending him to the ground, where he is overcome by unconsciousness.

Blastaar leaps through the air, tackling Annihilus around the waist and bringing him to the ground! "You stole the powers that were my birthright," Blastaar exclaims, "but you could not take my natural strength! It will be enough to give you pause…and to teach you a much-needed lesson in humility!"

The Thing takes the opportunity to rejoin the fight, hitting Annihilus in the face before he has the opportunity to rise from the ground. "I’ll probably hate myself for this in the mornin’!" the Thing comments. "But I gotta help Blastaar!"

Using the cosmic power to boost his already superhuman strength, Annihilus throws the Thing and Blastaar off of him. Johnny flies overhead, striking at Annihilus with rings of fire, which encircle the Negative Zone villain.

"Nothing is stopping him!" Johnny thinks to himself. "But, I know Reed’s up to something. I saw him and Ben talking. I’ve got to help buy him some time!"

However, Johnny’s attack only stuns Annihilus for a moment—time enough for Annihilus to build up another charge of energy, which he directs at Johnny. The cosmic energy hits Johnny in the chest, sending him crashing onto a large floating rock, where he lies unconscious, his flames snuffed out once more.

The Thing and Blastaar charge Annihilus together—something that neither of them are particularly comfortable with. "I hope Reed’s happy!" the Thing thinks to himself facetiously, as he charges towards Annihilus. "We’re not only givin’ these creeps their powers back, but I gotta actually fight with him!"

"Do not get in my way, brute!" Blastaar comments arrogantly. "The final kill must be mine alone!"

"That is something neither of you will lay claim to!" Annihilus responds sharply, turning his powers on them, forcing them back. He continues to channel energy at them, even as they charge him. Blastaar soon falls to the ground, unable to move against the great pressure exerted against him. The Thing, despite the pain, pushes forward.

"Ya ain’t gonna stop me that easy!" the Thing calls out.

"Amazing!" Annihilus remarks, while continuing to channel the energy at the Thing, who grows every closer, resisting the waves of energy pummeling his body. "You have already survived enough energy to level a city, and still you continue!"

"Yeah, I’m just hard-headed, I guess!" the Thing responds, grabbing Annihilus at the chest, his large hands clutching the armor Annihilus is wearing, causing it to dent, even as Annihilus continues to pour more energy into his attack. The Thing slumps to the ground, overcome by unconsciousness, falling at Annihilus’ feet! His fingers slide down Annihilus’ chest on the way down, causing great gashes in his armor.

"It is done," Annihilus proclaims. "And now, before I slay you all, I will show you how easily I open a gateway to your world…and you will know that I will completely annihilate it!"

"NO!" Sue calls out, trying to get to her feet and summon enough energy to fight Annihilus, but she realizes that she cannot do so. She watches through her tired eyes as Annihilus opens up a portal to the Earth. She can see a city in the portal, teeming with life. Though her vision is blurred and her head aches, she tries to gather enough strength to resist.

Annihilus sends out a blast of energy at Sue, which strikes directly in front of her, bringing her to her hands and knees and sapping the last vestiges of her strength. "You may watch, but not interfere, with my plans!"

The portal grows larger, even as Annihilus starts to step into it. "I shall return shortly to finish you all." Annihilus promises, although only Reed and Sue are able to hear his threats, and Reed is concentrating on the energy transfer machine.

"Nay, villain!" a regal Asgardian voice calls out, halting Annihilus in his tracks, even as Thor and some of the armored warriors enter through a portal of Thor’s making. "There will be no more destruction this day! So says the prince of Asgard!"

Just as Annihilus turns to face Thor, he is hit squarely in the face by Mjolnir, which cuts through his force fields as if they were not there, knocking Annihilus from the portal and forcing him through a series of floating rocks, smashing them as he goes! As Thor flies off after Annihilus, Krakor directs his warriors to do the same.

"Come!" Krakor commands. "With our lances charged with the energy that Thor has shown us, we will pay back Annihilus for the destruction he and his servants have caused to our home!"

Thor reaches up and grabs his returning hammer out of the air a few feet in front of Annihilus, who is wearily getting to his feet. "How...?" Annihilus asks, still unsteady on his feet, even as Thor continues to approach. "I thought you dead...destroyed by the explosion!"^*

{* See last issue for the exciting details!}

"Nay," Thor responds, landing in front of Annihilus. He swings his hammer, hitting Annihilus hard in the face, bringing him crashing back through another cluster of rocks. "Thine attack merely reacted with the portal I was opening to channel thine energy away...sending me to the other side of the Negative Zone!"

Annihilus, on one knee, puts his hands together and directs a massive blast of cosmic energy at Thor. "I must say that is a disappointment," Annihilus admits. "However, it is one that is easily rectified."

Thor puts his hammer up in front of him, absorbing all of the energy that is sent his way. "This hammer did at one time contain sufficient energy to restore Asgard,"^* Thor comments. "It can absorb all of the energy thou can release!"

{* In Thor #301, of course.}

"I will put your theory to the test!" Annihilus retorts, continuing to send energy Thor’s way, while the hammer glows with the intensity of the energy it is absorbing.

However, while Annihilus was distracted with his battle with Thor, Krakor has led his warriors around behind Annihilus, circling him. At Krakor’s command, the warriors send out the energy from their lances at Annihilus, striking him hard and sending him to his knees in pain!

"Strike, my warriors!" Krakor commands.

Mr. Fantastic, seizing the opportunity, stretches across the distance separating them, and places a harness on Annihilus, while the villain is still on his knees. "Fortunately, I was able to fashion this harness as a conduit through which Annihilus’ power can be transferred back to his machine," Mr. Fantastic explains. Krakor looks at Thor, to verify that Mr. Fantastic is, indeed a friend. "Now, it is time to determine if my experiment will function properly."

"Thou can trust the word of Reed Richards, friend Krakor," Thor answers Krakor’s unspoken question and helps ease his mind. "In truth, hath battled Annihilus far longer than I."

Annihilus struggles against the effects of the harness, as he feels the stolen energies leave his body. Soon, however, he can find no more and falls back, overcome by unconsciousness.

EPILOGUE

Reed stands with Sue, his arm around her slim waist. Across from them are the Thing and Johnny Storm. Thor stands to Reed’s right, with Krakor and his warriors.

"I would like to thank you all for your assistance," Krakor comments.

"No problem," the Thing responds flippantly. "It’s already forgotten!"

"Yeah," Johnny adds. "Not too hard since we didn’t even know it was happening!"

"The existence of your people," Reed says, ignoring Ben and Johnny’s remarks, and looking at Krakor, "and the fact that the other side of the Negative Zone is teaming with life only adds to the fascination of this dimension. I would like to spend some time studying the differences between your side of the Negative Zone and this one. I am certain that there is much that can be learned..."

"I think that can wait," Sue interrupts. She knows all too well that her husband’s thirst for knowledge is virtually unquenchable, but she also knows that she’s seen enough of the Negative Zone to last her a while. "Right now, I’d like nothing better than a nice warm bath."

"I’m just relieved that you were uninjured by Annihilus’ attacks," Reed comments.

Krakor walks up to Thor, and the two clasp hands in the way of the warrior. "Many thanks, friend Thor," Krakor comments. "Come...join in the celebration of my people! You will be an honored guest!"

"Though twould be an honor, Krakor," Thor declines. "I must see to the safe return of the Fantastic Four to Midgard. Drink an extra flagon of mead for me."

"That I will gladly do, my friend!" Krakor replies, smiling broadly. "But, come any time you like. Your presence will always be welcome among my people!"

Thor opens up a portal to the other side of the Negative Zone, and the warriors enter, disappearing from view. Krakor stands back for a moment, saluting Thor before he enters the portal as well.

"It’s time to go home," Sue comments, pulling herself to Reed, even as Thor opens up another portal leading to Earth. The New York skyline can be seen inside the portal.

"I’m just glad we have a home to go home to!" Johnny adds, as he flames on, and starts flying toward the portal, leaving a flame trail in his wake.

"Yeah, an’ ol’ Benjy’s got a lotta thinkin’ ta do," the Thing thinks, while also moving toward the portal. "Why’re there so many blamed complications?!"

"You’ll have to give us the energy signature that you used against Annihilus so effectively, Thor," Mr. Fantastic states, turning to the mighty thunder god. "You never know when he might show up again." "I am looking forward to learning more about Krakor’s race," Reed adds to himself. "The exploding area of the Negative Zone has always been fascinating, but if it is truly expanding...the consequences may be staggering. It does explain, however, how the Negative Zone itself is so barren of life."

While Reed has been lost in thought, he is not aware that they have returned to Earth, and it takes a nudge from Sue to bring his focus back on the land of the material, and away from the land of scientific conjecture. When he does realize what is happening, Thor has taken to the air, and is starting to fly off, waving at the Fantastic Four members he is leaving behind.

"If thou ever may need the assistance of Thor again, thou hath but to ask," Thor comments. "I bid thee all goodbye for the nonce."

"I know what you’re thinking, Reed," Sue comments, looking intensely at Reed. "But, before you bury your head in any microscopes, we need to finish packing."^*

{* The Fantastic Four are planning a trip to Titan. See Fantastic Four #435 for details.}

"Of course, Susan," Reed jokes, as the four heroes start to walk in. "I wouldn’t even think of anything else."

THE END

Well, that wraps up this three issue journey to the Negative Zone. I hope everyone enjoyed the ride as much as I enjoyed piloting them. There are some revelations regarding the Negative Zone in this issue that I think make sense, and I’m curious how everyone will react to them.

I’ve always seen the Negative Zone as a pretty desolate area, but a pretty enigmatic one. The exploding area of the Negative Zone, in particular, has always been interesting, and I thought it would be good to utilize this as a portal (of sorts) to the other side of the Negative Zone.

As always, I await everyone’s comments. My e-mail address is jx2melton@aol.com. Now, on to letters:

Jeff,

I enjoyed this issue as much as I did the first one. I like the idea of Annihilus stealing Terrax's cosmic power. I can work with that angle when I eventually get around to doing my own Annihilus story in FF. ;-)

Your characterization is bang on. The only thing I would work on is a few more descriptions... of the characters, the setting, devices, what have you. A few descriptions help flesh out a story. Not everyone who reads fanfic read comics (I know most do but not everyone... the majority of my readers don't read comics so this is how I know this ;p).

This is a very straight comic book adventure tale. It is a bit different than what I would have done. That is probably why I am enjoying this so much... it is a change from my own dense style. ;-p I like what is happening and I look forward to the rest of the story.

Keep up the good work,

Tim

I’m glad you enjoyed the story. I thought Annihilus stealing Terrax’s and Blastaar’s powers was perfectly in character, and (hopefully) came as something of a surprise—I’m certain it did to Terrax, if not Blastaar. :o)

The FF are a lot of fun to write, as I’m sure you know, and I think characterization (particularly consistent characterization) is vital with fictional characters. I’m glad you’re enjoying the way I write the characters. As for the descriptions, you’re right. I did more with descriptions in the first issue. I’m no scientist, but I’ll see what I can do with the machinery. :o) I never really gave any thought to anyone other than comics fans reading the fan fiction stories, I suppose. I’ll keep that in mind, although I think that can be taken to extremes, too. One of the things that always annoyed me about Claremont on the X-Men is the way he felt the need to tell us who the X-Men were and what their powers were every issue. I think that kind of thing can be over-done too.

Thanks for the kind words, Tim. This mini-series has been a lot of fun thus far, and I appreciate your efforts in helping to make it happen.

Thanks for the copy. Great job on it. I had meant to write you about the previous version but I've been so wrapped up in summer classes it completely slipped my mind.

Anyway, I really enjoyed the banter between the members of the FF -Ben's dialogue in particular was quite enjoyable. I also liked how you weaved FF continuity into this version, without it seeming referenced just for the sake of being referenced.

One thing, and I wish I had written this to you before, because it would have been more useful - I had a problem with the very first sentence, particularly the phrase "As Ben walks into the room..." A little more detail is needed here - what room? what does it look like? That sort of thing. But it's not that big a deal - I struggle with that sort of thing all the time (and quite often fail miserably). Nevertheless, it's a good idea to keep that sort of thing in mind – in written fiction (as opposed to comics) we can't assume the readers automatically know what everything looks like or where the location is.

A minor complaint, compared to how much I enjoyed the issue. Quite a plot you've got started, and I'm very much looking forward to seeing the rest of it. I'm particularly interested in seeing what kind of role Goldilocks will play.

Good work!

Cheers,

Matt

Thanks for the kind words, Matt. For those unenlightened few (:)), Matt’s the current writer on Thor, and not doing a bad job at that. I understand how a busy schedule gets. It’s been a few years since I’ve been in school, but I’ve certainly been there.

I really enjoyed writing the FF, particularly Ben (who has always been one of my personal favorites). The FF’s role in comics is so solid that most people have a pretty good understanding of who they are and how they should act (except for Claremont and DeFalco, anyway). And, they’re a lot of fun.

You’re not the only one who has commented on the descriptions, and I’ll work on that. I guess with the scene you mentioned, I thought the story would explain itself (as to what room it was, when Ben saw all of the machines). I think you’re right in that we need to keep in mind that there’s no art accompanying the writing. I’ve always been annoyed with writers who were excessively verbose in their descriptions when the art is there, but that’s not the case with us, is it? :+)

I’m glad you enjoyed the first issue, and I hope you were pleased with Thor’s role in the series. I’m a big Thor fan, and I enjoyed writing the character in this mini-series.

Great job, Jeff. It's not easy sustaining a fight for an entire issue, but you pulled it off well. Lots of fun all around. I'm looking forward to finding out just what Annihilus is up to.

Matt

I’m glad that you’re enjoying the series. I enjoy writing fight scenes. As for Annihilus, he’s a lot of fun to write, and I hope everyone was happy with his machinations during the series. Thanks for the kind words, Matt.

Well, it’s been a blast. I hope everyone enjoyed this series as much as I did. I’ll see you soon in other projects.

Jeff Melton