Thanos Annual # 1 2014 NM

Thanos Annual # 1 (2014), published in May 2014, is a one-shot special written and drawn by the character's original creators, Jim Starlin and Ron Lim, that serves as a prequel to the Thanos: The Infinity Revelation graphic novel. The story delves into the history and psyche of Thanos after a major defeat. 

The main story, "Damnation and Redemption," focuses on Thanos shortly after his initial defeat with the Cosmic Cube. Psychologically crushed and near death, he finds himself in the realm of Mephisto. 

• Mephisto's Domain: Mephisto subjects Thanos to pain and malice, hoping to finally enslave him.
• The Future Vision: Thanos is visited by an avatar of his future self, who guides him on a retrospective journey through his past and future.
• Journey Through History: The avatar shows the younger Thanos key events in his life, including the Infinity Gauntlet, Infinity War, and Infinity Crusade, providing context for his actions and how he recovered from past failures.
• The Revelation: Through this journey, Thanos learns that his current "defeat" was a result of his own future interference and that he can break free from Mephisto's grasp.
• Rededication: The experience reinvigorates the Mad Titan. When the journey ends and he awakens, he rededicates himself to his "quest of terror" with renewed purpose, setting the stage for future events. 

• Writer: Jim Starlin
• Penciler: Ron Lim
• Inker: Andy Smith
• Publisher: Marvel Comics
• Publication Date: May 28, 2014