With Thanos' command to prepare for an assault, countless bizarre creatures emerged from the spaceship behind him.
The ground trembled like the stampede of thousands of cavalry with a roar. The monstrous horde moved forward like a dark cloud descending upon a city, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
There were the Chitauri soldiers who had invaded Earth in the first Avengers movie, the Outriders resembling zombie dogs from Infinity War, and giant ape-like creatures led on chains, along with dragon-like flying warships that blotted out the sun.
This vast array of monsters, far exceeding the numbers seen in previous battles, were Thanos' war assets amassed during his conquests. Now, these legions were assembled behind Thanos, with his four loyal lieutenants, Ebony Maw, Black Dwarf, Proxima Midnight, and Corvus Glaive, standing at the forefront.
In the original comics, a character named Supergiant did not appear in the movie universe for various reasons.
These lieutenants stood respectfully behind Thanos, ready to unleash destruction at his command.
...
"Oh my, Thanos, the legendary conqueror, can't handle a one-on-one fight and needs to gang up on me with his minions?"
Despite standing alone against the massive army, Li Yue showed no sign of concern. Instead, he taunted Thanos with a relaxed expression.
Li Yue knew Thanos' preparations for a full-scale assault on Earth but chose not to intervene. He knew that the Avengers would soon be arriving through portals, having had ample time to gather since he snapped his fingers to bring back the vanished people.
Eager to witness and participate in this epic battle alongside the Avengers, Li Yue did not end the conflict prematurely by using the Gauntlet to erase Thanos' army.
"Your name is Li Yue, correct? It seems you were right when you said I would remember your name. You've earned that respect by defeating me and inflicting serious harm. Your strength is remarkable."
"But no matter how powerful you are, you're still just one person. Behind me stands an entire army. Can you alone stop me from annihilating this planet's inhabitants?"
Thanos spoke with a mix of gravity and admiration, his eyes fixed on Li Yue, who remained unfazed.
"No, no, no, you purple potato. You've got it wrong. He has never been alone!"
...
Before Li Yue could respond, a voice called out from afar, getting closer with each word, filled with playful mockery.
Clang!
As the voice finished, its owner landed beside Li Yue, revealing himself as Tony Stark in his red and gold armor.
"Hey, Mr. Li Yue, we're here to support you!"
Tony's faceplate opened, revealing a familiar, smiling face.
Just as Tony finished speaking, another figure landed beside him, surrounded by lightning and holding Stormbreaker and Mjolnir. Thor had arrived, carrying Rocket, holding the red Gauntlet, on his shoulder.
"Thor, it seems like you've slowed down! You should consider losing some weight!"
Tony teased, turning to Thor.
"Hmph! Stark, don't get too cocky. I was letting you win! Plus, you weren't carrying a passenger."
Thor retorted defensively.
"Wait a minute, Thor. Who are you calling a passenger? Maybe you're just too heavy to fly! Stark might be right—you do need to lose weight!"
Rocket jumped down, ready to argue.
"..."
Thor, at a loss for words, turned to Li Yue.
"Mr. Li Yue, what kind of lightning energy were you using?"
Thor's first question was about the energy Li Yue had used.
"You already know the answer. Yes, it is exactly what you think it is."
Li Yue answered nonchalantly.
"So it is the power of lightning..." Thor muttered, understanding.
"Li Yue, you knew Nebula was an imposter, right? Why didn't you say anything? I nearly handed over the Infinity Stones to her!"
Rocket complained, feeling betrayed.
...
"Sorry we're late, Mr. Li Yue!"
Rhodey, in his War Machine armor, landed heavily. His armor, loaded with heavy weaponry, was slower than Tony's more advanced suit.
More figures appeared, running towards Li Yue. Unable to fly, they made their way on foot, except the Hulk, who leaped great distances.
Hulk was the first to arrive, with Ant-Man riding on his shoulder. Soon after, the others joined—Captain America, Hawkeye, Nebula, and Gamora.
"Mr. Li Yue, we'll finally get to fight alongside you!"
Captain America said, smiling as he approached with his shield.