As the Marvel crossover event Empyre approaches, new artwork has been released, teasing the fact that one of Earth's heroes will become an Accuser of the Kree Empire.

The image shows a Universal Weapon spinning through the air, with the hands of Captain Marvel, the Thing, Captain America, Iron Man, Thor and Mister Fantastic reaching out for it.

RELATED: Marvel's Warring Kree and Skrulls Unite in Empyre Propaganda Poster

The Accusers of the Kree Empire serve as its administrators of justice, and their Universal Weapons allow them to harness and manipulate the energies of the universe. The Kree Empire's Supreme Accuser, Ronan, was murdered during the Death of the Inhumans miniseries. The Empyre tie-in for Captain Marvel has shown Carol Danvers wielding a Universal Weapon, indicating that she may fill the role of Supreme Accuser-or become one of many new Accusers.

Other teasers for Empyre have painted the Avengers and Fantastic Four as villains, or shown the Kree and Skrull Empires -- once bitter enemies -- united in their goal to defeat the forces of Earth. This month's Marvel comics have featured an ad that showcases the new Emperor, Dorrek VII, better known as the Young Avenger Hulking, calling his people to war.

Empyre #1 is written by Al Ewing and Dan Slott, with artwork from Valerio Schiti. The comic goes on sale April 15.

KEEP READING: Captain Marvel Assembles a Heavy-Hitting Team for Empyre