Empyre: Captain America (2020 series) #1

The Cotati have invaded Earth to start their mission to exterminate all animal-based life in the universe. The US military is fighting them at Fort Myer in Arlington, Virginia and losing when Captain America arrives on the field to rally the soldiers and lead them against the enemy. Cap identifies the Cotati leader, Shi Qaanth whom the solders then fire upon, hitting him in the eye. Shi Qaanth’s tentacles bring down Cap’s aircraft and another vine goes down the mouth of Specialist Bennet before Shi Qaanth dissolves into the wind. Bennet seems okay and Cap assembles a squad consisting of Specialist Bennett, Sergeant Major Cherry, Sergeant Russo, and First Lieutenant Herrero; they fight their way through the enemy lines to sanctuary in the besieged Pentagon. Cap meets with General Woodley, suggesting that they go to the aid of Mexico and South America to support and strengthen America’s allies but Woodley disagrees, insisting American troops should be defending American soil, including Captain America. Cap goes out and informs his squad and the rest of their division that they are needed in Mexico to aid their allies and the troops enthusiastically join him….

Inside the Pentagon, Bennett lies in wait for the General and when he appears, the vines snakes from the soldier’s mouth to Woodley’s bringing him under the control of Shi Qaanth too….

Near Mexico City, Shi Qaanth marshals his forces and scatters seed that enters the ground, raising a giant made of tree and stone….