Avengers #49 (464)

In "There Are No Words...", the Avengers face devastating consequences when Kang strikes back after their assault on his ship, unleashing destruction that levels a city and forces global surrender. Written by Kurt Busiek and illustrated by Kieron Dwyer, with inks by Rick Remender and colors by Tom Smith, this pivotal 2002 issue captures the Avengers at their most vulnerable. The cover by Kieron Dwyer underscores the scale of the crisis with a haunting, stark image of the aftermath.