Chapter 251: The Exterminator Destroys Earth
The Celestial Judicator began to examine Earth's current state. He was surprised at how far the inhabitants had advanced. Quickly, he assessed Earth's technology, noting it wasn't mighty but still impressive.
As the Judicator, his memory was exceptional. It had been over a million years since his last visit to Earth when there were hardly any intelligent life forms. The Celestials had descended, modifying a portion of humanity sparking the first human civilization.
Now, over a million years later, he doubted Earth's advancements could have reached the level of altering timelines. Could Earth possess the technology or some artifact capable of such feats?
The Judicator couldn't fathom a single individual gaining divine power and altering timelines through sheer will. To him, such a possibility was inconceivable.
After contemplating, the Judicator sent out a message. Soon, a rift appeared before him, and from it emerged another Celestial clad in armor — the Exterminator, a powerful enforcer of the Celestials.
"What's happening?" the Exterminator inquired.
"Earth's civilization has violated the taboo of altering the entire universe's timeline. Do you know anything about this?" the Judicator replied with a frown.
"What do you mean?" the Exterminator asked, puzzled.
"Someone has reshaped this universe's timeline," the Judicator explained. "It's our duty to maintain the balance of the multiverse."
"Then I shall destroy Earth and restart their civilization," the Exterminator declared.
"And if possible, retrieve the weapon or artifact that altered the timeline," the Judicator added.
"Of course, I'll secure any dangerous artifacts," the Exterminator agreed. "I'll also make those mortals understand that wielding powers beyond their control comes with rules and consequences."
The Judicator noticed a tremor of excitement in the Exterminator's voice — the anticipation of destroying a civilization.
"Go ahead," the Judicator nodded, confident in the Exterminator's capability.
The Exterminator departed, and Arishem, the Prime Celestial, appeared soon after.
"What's happening?" Arishem asked.
"Earthlings have altered the timeline. We decided to destroy their civilization and reset it. Also, what happened to the Celestial seed on Earth?" the Judicator asked.
"It was stopped by the Eternals and Earth's sorcerers. I've started anew on another planet," Arishem explained.
"Stopped by the Eternals and sorcerers?" the Judicator was surprised.
"I was about to judge Earth, but Galactus arrived, so I withdrew," Arishem said, shaking his head.
"Galactus? Why is Earth still intact?" the Judicator felt a growing sense of unease.
...
The Exterminator arrived on Earth, clad in armor resembling a bio-suit, even covering his head. He wielded a hammer that emitted immense power. Walking through a space rift, he remained unaffected.
Upon reaching Earth, the Exterminator raised his hammer, gathering golden energy. A bolt of golden lightning descended towards Earth. He showed no mercy, intent on bringing destruction.
A hum resonated as golden magical runes appeared around Earth, clashing with the energy and creating ripples. This disturbance shook the bases orbiting Earth.
In the S.W.O.R.D. space station, alarms blared.
"What's happening?" Nick Fury demanded, his face dark.
A technician displayed an enormous life form outside Earth on a large screen.
"Who is it now? Why do we always face such massive threats?" Fury muttered angrily, feeling helpless but relieved the magical barrier protected them.
The Exterminator noted the magical force around Earth, surprised.
"A civilization of magic? How intriguing. This isn't common anymore. This planet might offer unexpected surprises," the Exterminator murmured excitedly.
Each Celestial had unique traits. The Exterminator relished destroying planets and civilizations, finding particular joy in magic civilizations where individuals could sometimes challenge him.
"I'll need to use my true power to destroy this world," he said, his excitement growing. He raised his hammer, gathering immense power. The hammer emitted a blinding light, unleashing a terrifying energy wave towards Earth.
A roar echoed as the Earth shook, the magical runes fluctuating, struggling to hold.
In Kamar-Taj, Wang Yan and Thor sat, discussing recent events over tea. Thor, initially mourning his people, felt relieved knowing everything was restored.
"Thank you, Wang Yan. Without you, Asgard..." Thor began but paused, sensing something.
Wang Yan also frowned, looking skyward.
"What's this powerful energy attacking Earth?" Thor asked, alarmed.
"It's likely a powerful being responding to my reshaping of the timeline," Wang Yan surmised. Only gods could alter timelines, and sensing such changes required significant power.
"Then I can't stand by. I'll join you," Thor declared.
"No, stay here or return to Asgard," Wang Yan insisted, feeling the barrier around Earth straining under the attack. The assailant was likely as strong as the Death God, if not stronger. Thor's presence might hinder rather than help.
Thor, recalling Wang Yan's feat of reshaping the timeline, reluctantly agreed, knowing he'd be more of a burden than an asset.
Before Thor could respond, Wang Yan opened a portal and stepped through, disappearing. Thor gripped his Stormbreaker, feeling his inadequacy keenly.
"I must train harder. Only then can I truly be the ruler of the Nine Realms," Thor resolved.