Avengers / X-Men: Maximum Security #[nn]

When Earth's heroes keep meddling in alien affairs, a galactic council convenes to address the growing tension—leading to a high-stakes mission that tests the limits of interstellar diplomacy and the cost of peace.

In "Illegal Aliens," Earth finds itself caught between two forces: a council of alien races declaring the planet a prison, and the U.S. government deploying USAgent to hunt down Earth's most dangerous criminals for detention in newly designated prison wings. The story unfolds as these conflicting agendas collide, setting the stage for a tense clash of authority, justice, and the uncertain fate of those caught in the middle.

In "Winter's Edge," Thor readies his return to Earth as Balder faces off against Malekith’s enforcer, Pentigaar, in a desperate race to deliver a healing potion to the wounded Hogun—just as Beta-Ray Bill arrives to lend his strength to the fray.

In "Shell Game," Gambit teams up with a group of Maximum Security inmates to help an alien named Heth'sa recover a suit of ancient armor that eerily resembles the X-Cutioner’s costume. When Heth'sa uses the armor to alter his past, Gambit must pursue him through time to prevent a catastrophic shift in history.

In "Renewed Acquaintances," the X-Men and their Avenger allies infiltrate Ronan's citadel on a secret mission orchestrated by Xavier. With stakes high and trust tested, Carol makes the bold choice to let Rogue temporarily take her powers and memories to push forward.

In "Whatever the Cost!", Earth's mightiest heroes face their greatest threat yet as the truth behind the enigmatic Ruul comes to light, forcing them to confront a danger that could plunge the planet into chaos. With Ego's influence spreading and hope fading, the team must push beyond their limits in a desperate bid to stop an unstoppable force.