Chapter 3: I: The Amazing Spider-Girl
It was now September 20th, about 8 AM. Peter was having breakfast with Aunt May, and they were reading the Daily Bugle.
"Looks like you got another front-page story," said Aunt May proudly as she bit into her toast.
"I only took the photo; I didn't write the story," said Peter as he fiddled with his bacon.
"Yes, and while I do like the picture, the frontline is much left to be desired," she admitted. "I feel sorry for those who believe everything that is written in the paper. After all, anyone can see that Peter was trying to help those people."
The story was about Peter rescuing some people from a fire and capturing the arsonist. However, Jonah painted the story, saying that he started the fire and was working with the arsonist.
"What can I say? My boss is as stubborn as a rock," Peter shrugged.
"While I cannot condone what this young man is doing, at least he's trying to make the city safer," said Aunt May.
"So you like Spider-Man?" Peter blinked.
"I admit I had my misgivings when he first appeared, but I am changing my outlook. That said, I wish he would put himself in danger, especially after what happened with that terrible Shocker."
Aunt May hadn't precisely been a Spider-Man fan; she was utterly terrified that Peter was taking photos of him. He was pleased she had calmed down after four years, but he still didn't want to reveal his identity to her. He can only imagine what kind of fit she would throw herself into if she discovered that he put himself in danger.
"So, anything new today?" Peter asked to change the subject.
"Yes, I'm so glad you asked," said Aunt May. "Anna Watson's niece will be arriving later today, and the two of us have arranged a date for the two of you."
Unfortunately, Peter chose to drink a glass of orange juice then and nearly choked. He began banging on his chest to swallow the drink.
"Aunt May, I don't like blind dates," said Peter.
"Nonsense, Peter, I can assure you she's a nice young lady, and I'm sure the two of you will hit it off."
"I'm sure she's a nice girl, but I'm not sure I can make the date. I do have a lot going on."
"You don't go to work on Saturdays, all your assignments are up to date, and I personally make sure that your schedule is free," said Aunt May. "And if you do miss this date, I can promise you that I will make your life miserable until you're 40."
Peter just stared at her. "You know you can be quite frightening sometimes, Aunt May."
"Just be sure that you're ready by 6 o'clock this afternoon," said Aunt May. "And I would suggest that you spend the rest of the day preparing yourself for said date."
"Yeah, I was thinking that I would go out for some air," said Peter.
"Just be sure that you're back home in time because I was not making an idle threat," said Aunt May, giving him the look of a mother's evil eye, which was more terrifying than any other kind.
"I'll be on time, I promise," said Peter.
"Good, because I would so hate it if you broke that poor girl's heart; she is looking forward to meeting you."
Peter looked at her curiously. "What exactly did you tell her about me?"
"Oh, just your smart, funny and hard-working, you need to worry about," said May.
Peter, unfortunately, found himself with plenty to worry about. Now, it was practically being blackmailed into the date, and he dreaded to think what would happen if he missed it.
He went out with Gwen at around 10 AM to cheer himself up, hoping that she would cheer him up.
"I don't know why you're dreading this date. You haven't even met her yet," said Gwen.
"I just don't like blind dates; you can end up with anyone."
"Come on, the poor girl just lost her mother. I think that she's the one in need of cheering up."
"I know, and make sure I'll be there," he said. He then looked at Gwen. "On which note, I was hoping I could ask you for a favour."
"What kind of favour?" she asked suspiciously.
"Aunt May kinda gave me an ultimatum, saying that I would pay the price if I missed the date, and she does not carry idle threats. So, given my job as Spider-Man, I was hoping you could remind me just before 6:30 this afternoon."
"Let me get this straight," said Gwen. "You just ask your ex-girlfriend to help you stay on time for the date which you don't want to participate in."
"That about sums it up," said Peter, looking slightly embarrassed.
"Don't worry, I'll bear you out," she promised and then leaned in towards him with a smirk. "But you owe me big time."
"You're the best, Gwen," Peter smiled. "So, has your dad found anything on Shocker?"
"He's surprisingly tight-lipped and won't say where he got the equipment," said Gwen, frowning. "Either he's extremely loyal to someone, or he's keeping his mouth shut out of fear, and Dad thinks it's the latter."
"So you're saying a big crime boss is trying to make villains?"
Gwen shrugged. "I don't know, but you said it yourself, Shocker isn't smart enough to come up with that equipment."
"What did happen to his gear?" Peter asked curiously.
"In the evidence locker at Rykers."
"Didn't they just move Shocker there himself?"
"That's right."
Peter groaned. "So they decide to put his gear in the same prison he's in. Isn't that the same mistake they made up the Vault? I mean, I heard when the Breakout happened, the criminals were able to give their weapons just a few minutes later."
"They still haven't mentioned how all prisoners managed to break out of all four prisons," Gwen agreed.
"No one knew about the Raft until the Breakout happened," said Peter.
"So what do you think happened?"
"I've got no idea," said Peter honestly. "What I do know is that whoever caused the Breakout knew everything about the prisons. We're just lucky the Avengers banded together in an attempt to hunt them down."
"Not sure I'm uncomfortable with the Hulk being part of the team," said Gwen honestly.
"Come on, Gwen, go easy on the big guy."
Gwen frowned at him. "Why are you so quick to defend him?"
"Maybe because I know how it feels to be misunderstood. I mean, all we have been told is that he's a monster who endangers lives, and yet the Avengers are quick to protect him. It's just like with Jonah and me; he keeps on telling people that I'm a danger to society."
"There is a big difference," said Gwen. "He's a massive green giant of pure rage, and you're just Peter."
Peter laughed. "Thanks, Gwen."
"For what?"
"For being a good friend, considering everything."
"Hey, we may not be dating anymore, but that doesn't mean we can't be friends."
Then, suddenly, they were interrupted when a portal appeared just over the fountain. Peter quickly tackled Gwen to the ground just as two figures emerged from the portal.
The first was an old man in a green costume, but the second person drew Peter's attention. It was a young girl, maybe a few years younger than him, dressed in a Spider-Man costume. However, the costume is quite different from his; the spider logo is much more pronounced, and the legs are longer, with slightly more black than blue.
"You have any idea what you have done!" the old man yelled in a rage. "Your extra weight threw off my coordinates."
"You're the one who was stealing, and I'm suddenly the bad guy?" said the girl and then looked around. "Where are we anyway?"
"A better question is when are we?" the old man grumbled. "Thanks for your bungling with travel into the past!"
"What?" she said, stunned. "Okay, that's bad."
"And you'll pay for your meddling!" he roared as he raised his hand and fired a green beam.
The girl quickly somersaulted out of the way, and the beam struck the fountain, destroying it.
"Peter, what's going on?" Gwen asked.
"I have absolutely no idea, but I think this is a job for you know who," said Peter as he helped her up.
"Go, I'll try to evacuate everyone here," said Gwen.
Peter had absolutely no idea what was going on or who that girl was. He caught the old man saying he had travelled through time, but it was utterly absurd. What he knew was that the two of them were going to hurt a lot of people, and he had to stop them.
Back at the park, the girl was swinging from tree to tree, trying to avoid getting blasted.
"Will you calm down?" she said. "If we are in the past, the last thing we want to do is change history."
"You forget, I'm from a different dimension, so what happens in the past doesn't really affect me, and I might be lucky enough to erase you from history!" he yelled.
"Has anyone ever told you you have an anger management problem?" the girl asked.
"My therapist, and he had the nerve to call me legally insane!"
"I wonder where he got that from?"
The old man continued firing his energy blasts relentlessly without pause. Unfortunately, the girl was too busy dodging them to launch any counterattack and save bystanders.
"Keep dancing around, little girl; you can't keep this up forever!" the old man yelled.
Then suddenly, some webbing appeared out of nowhere, wrapping around his wrists, and then, suddenly, Spider-Man flew in and dealt him a dropkick.
"Then it's a good thing I'm on the job," he said.
The girl looked up and stared at him. "Dad?"
Spider-Man immediately stared at her. "What did you just call me?"
"Uh, long story," she said.
"Sorry to cut this family reunion short, but I have no time for this," said the old man, and he managed to burn through the webbing. "If you're wise, you will not interfere with me from now on, Spider-Girl."
"Spider-Girl?" Spider-Man blinked. "Okay, now I'm really confused."
"Let's say we discussed this after we catch the bad guy," Spider-Girl suggested.
"Good idea."
The two of them then fired webbing at the old man, but suddenly, he took off and flew into the city.
"He can fly?" Spider-Man stared.
"Thanks to that suit," said Spider-Girl.
"I know we agreed that we would discuss this after we catch the bad guy, but I kinda need an explanation now," said Spider-Man.
"I don't really know where to start," Spider-Girl admitted.
"Pst!" said a voice.
They looked around and saw Gwen beckoning towards them. "I suggest you have this conversation without any prying eyes or ears."
Spider-Man looked around and saw that everyone was starting to recover from the shock of what had just happened.
"Yeah, good call, Gwen," Spider-Man agreed.
"Auntie Gwen?" Spider-Girl stared.
"I beg your pardon?" said Gwen, putting her hands on her hips.
"Let's have this conversation on the rooftops," Spider-Man suggested.
He quickly put an arm around Gwen, and they web-slung to the nearest rooftop.
Once they managed to find an ideal rooftop, Spider-Girl looked down into the city in awe.
"Wow, New York hasn't really changed that much," he said.
"Explanations, please," said Gwen.
"Right, well, can you first tell me today's date?" she asked.
"September 20th," said Gwen.
"And the year?"
"2025."
"Wow, that means cover 20 years into the past."
Spider-Man's eyes widened when realisation hit him. "Wait, you called me dad earlier. So does that mean that your…"
"Yep, I'm your daughter," she nodded proudly. "And I'm your friendly neighbourhood Spider-Girl."
"I think I need to sit down," said Spider-Man, suddenly developing weak knees.
"You don't seriously believe her," said Gwen. "I mean time travel. She caressed up with something a little bit more original."
"Never knew you were such a sceptic, Auntie Gwen," said Spider-Girl.
"Okay, can you please not call me that?" said Gwen. "And since you're calling me that, I can assume that I'm not going to be your mother."
"I thought you didn't believe me," Spider-Girl smirked.
Gwen looked at Spider-Man. "She is most definitely your daughter; she drives me crazy just as much as you do."
"Okay, moving aside that you're my daughter, just who was that old guy trying to blast you?" Spider-Man asked.
"His name is Spyral, and to be honest, I don't know him that well," said Spider-Girl honestly. "I know yet some run-ins with the Fantastic Five."
"The who?" Gwen frowned.
"Oh, you know the Fantastic Five, basically the Fantastic Four with another member."
Spider-Man and Gwen just gave her blank looks.
"Oh, right, it's still too early," said Spider-Girl and chuckled awkwardly. "Spoilers."
"How will you give us information without trying to rip apart the space-time continuum?" Spider-Man suggested.
"Give me a break, Dad; this is new to me, too," she said.
"And I'm not sure I'll ever get used to that," said Spider-Man. "Just out of curiosity, who is your mother?"
"You haven't met her yet, and didn't you just tell me off for ripping apart the space-time continuum?"
"Oh, you're saying that the roles had been reversed; you wouldn't be curious?"
"No, I would be curious; I just think it's hypocritical that you asked me such a question when you told me not to answer such a question."
Gwen groaned. "Just what the world needs, two Parkers."
"I guess we are getting a bit off-topic," Spider-Man admitted.
"More than a bit," Spider-Girl agreed.
"So what exactly does this Spyral want?" Gwen asked. "Because it sounds like he never intended to come to him in the first place."
"No, he's actually from another dimension, and he was trying to get home, but of course, when I tried to stop him, I didn't realise that. You see, he stole some equipment, and I tracked him to this warehouse."
Spyral was in an abandoned warehouse, fiddling with a device. It was purple and pyramid-shaped, producing a green glow.
"Almost done, and soon I can bid this dimension goodbye," he said.
Unbeknownst to him, Spider-Girl entered through an open window, and she looked down at him from the ceiling. She immediately looked at the device; it appeared to be some generator, but far more compact than anything she had seen. However, she was deeply troubled by the amount of energy that seemed to be pouring into the device.
He then connected the two wires and activated the device, and soon a green portal appeared before him.
"Finally," he said, smiling. "Now I have to do is jump inside, and I'm back home. Of course, the moment the portal closes, it will send a shockwave that would destroy everything in a 5-mile radius, but what do I care?"
"I care very much," said Spider-Girl.
Spyral spun around and was soon dealt a devastating drop kick by Spider-Girl and fell to the floor.
"Foolish girl!" he roared. "You have no idea what you're missing with!"
"Says the guy that planned to destroy everything in a 5-mile radius," Spider-Girl countered.
"It's an unfortunate side-effect."
"I'm not gonna let innocent people die just because you want to get home!" Spider-Girl yelled and fired her webbing at the generator.
"No!" Spyral roared and fired an energy blast.
Spider-Girl quickly jumped to safety and pulled the generator into the water, dislodging it from the wires. Unfortunately, this caused it to go haywire, as if it were about to explode.
"Idiot girl!" Spyral yelled. "You pulled it out of its socket before it was fully charged, and as a result, you have short-circuited its systems!"
"I'm going to assume that bad," said Spider-Girl.
"You have just cost me my one chance of getting home!" Spyral roared and fired an energy blast.
Spider-Girl then held the generator and used it as a shield so that when the blast hit it, it created a portal. Then suddenly, both of them found themselves being sucked inside.
"And then I found myself here," said Spider-Girl.
"Sounds like Spyral's attacks or to supercharge the generator, but also prides navigational circuits, and it sent you here," said Spider-Man.
"Now I'm stuck in the past with an interdimensional scientist who doesn't seem to care about the space-time continuum," Spider-Girl groaned.
"Is there no way to get them back to where they were?" Gwen asked.
"It may be possible if we had that generator," said Spider-Man.
"Too bad it stuck 20 years from now," said Spider-Girl, folding her arms.
"Maybe not," Spider-Man pondered. "It could be very well possible that the generator found itself being sucked in since it wasn't anchored down. If that's the case. It might still be where you and Spyral exited from."
"So it's back at the park?" said Gwen.
"Only one way to find out," said Spider-Man.
May was at Anna Watson's house, ensuring everything was perfect for Peter's blind date. Anna Watson was roughly the same age as her but not as skinny.
"How's Mary Jane?" May asked.
"In the living room, getting her nails done," said Anna.
May looked into the living room and saw a young girl, her face obscured by a large houseplant, looking at her nails.
"Is she looking forward to meeting Peter?" May asked.
"To be honest, it's hard to tell with my niece," said Anna honestly. "She's never really had stable relationships; the last boy she dated was a… well, his teachers were not very complimentary and perhaps a very accurate."
"Then it's a good thing that she's going to be Peter; he's very kindhearted."
"Yes, but not entirely reliable," said Anna. "I mean, he seems to forget certain appointments, and some of the girls that he dated tend to lose their patience when he fails to show up."
"But he always makes up for it," May pointed out. "And the reason he misses these appointments is mostly due to his work. He seems to get in his head that he needs to support me, and I keep telling him that I'm perfectly fine."
"Apart from being behind on certain bills," Anna pointed out. "Look, there's no question that Peter is a hard-working young man and very driven, but Mary Jane is rather carefree."
"It doesn't help that he hadn't stayed in one place for very long, barely able to make any friends," May pointed out.
"That might change; it would seem as if she's decided to stay here permanently this time around," said Anna.
"What about her sister?" May asked curiously. "Isn't she expecting?"
"She is, but I gather the two of them didn't leave on the best of terms, and she refuses to talk about the subject."
Then, when they were preparing the meal, they heard the news report on the radio.
"Just recently, in Central Park, a new supervillain began to terrorise the place, but Spider-Man was on the scene. However, reports are rather sketchy because some people say they saw a Spider-Girl on the scene."
"A Spider-Girl?" May frowned.
"I hope that Peter's boss doesn't suddenly give him an assignment," said Anna. "From what I've heard, he's a rather demanding man."
"I'm sure that Peter is perfectly fine staying away from this," said May, though she wasn't too sure herself, as Peter tended to show whenever trouble began.
"Well, let's keep our fingers crossed. I hope that your nephew is not in any trouble."
"I think we're in trouble," said Spider-Man.
Spider-Man had managed to retrieve the generator at Central Park, but it was severely damaged, and he had just seen a news report about Spyral's sudden appearance.
"Fortunately, there aren't any good pictures of Spider-Girl," said Gwen as she looked through the articles on her phone. "Thankfully, some of them seem to mistake her for you."
"And we have to ensure it stays that way," said Spider-Man.
"How am I supposed to fight if I'm not supposed to be seen?" Spider-Girl asked.
"We'll have to lure him to a place without any prying eyes," said Spider-Man as he pondered.
"And how are we going to do that?" Gwen asked.
"Maybe by providing him the one thing he wants most of all," said Spider-Man, looking at the generator.
"But he could be anywhere in the city by now," said Spider-Girl.
"No, if he's as smart as you say he is, you will come to the same conclusion that the generator was pulled in with the two of you," said Spider-Man. "So, he'll be scouting Central Park to locate it. I'll just stand in the open with the generator in hand, and he will do whatever he can to get."
"What about me?" Spider-Girl asked.
"You and Gwen find a secluded spot, then once we have him trapped, we make our move," said Spider-Man.
"Wow, you're not pulling any punches," said Gwen, folding her arms. "Also, I haven't exactly agreed to your plan."
"Sorry, Gwen, you know the city a lot better than Spider-Girl," Spider-Man pointed out. "And time is of the essence."
Gwen sighed. "Then we'd better make this fast…" She then looked at her watch. "…because it's just gone past 1 o'clock, we've only got a few short hours before your date starts."
"This is more important than a date," Spider-Man pointed out.
"Uh, it might be important," said Spider-Girl. "For you know, you might be meeting Mom for the first time."
Spider-Man stared at her. "Wait, are you saying that Mary Jane Watson is your mother?"
"No, I'm saying that she could be my mother, and if you don't go on this date, I may not exist," said Spider-Girl.
"And the last thing we need on this time-travelling adventure is a paradox," said Gwen.
Spider-Man sighed. "Okay, you've made your point, both of you."
"Speaking of which, once we capture Spyral, how do I return to my time?" Spider-Girl asked.
"I might be able to jerry-rig this generator and get you back," said Spider-Man.
"That doesn't exactly inspire much confidence."
"I know, but it's all I've got."
"Well, I certainly can't stay here wearing this mask all the time."
"Why did you take it off?" Gwen asked.
"Because I'm frequently told that I look a lot like my mother, and I don't wish to complicate things any more than necessary."
"Yeah, I've been surprised enough to know that I'm going to have a daughter someday," Spider-Man agreed.
"Then let's get a move on; I think I'll already have a pretty good place we can set up this trap of ours," said Gwen.
"Just show me the way," said Spider-Girl.
She then wrapped an arm around Gwen and fired a web line, and soon, the two of them began to swing off into the distance.
"This has been one weird day," Spider-Man sighed as he fired a web line of his own, heading back towards Central Park.
When Spider-Man reached Central Park, he swung around with the generator under his arms. He could only wonder what the people on the ground thought he was doing, and he had a feeling that in the next issue of the Daily Bugle, Jonah would comment that he was showing off.
Admittedly, he was starting to get tired of swinging around aimlessly, and he was beginning to think that his idea wouldn't work. He was relieved when a call came in, forcing him to land in a nearby tree to answer it.
"Peter, it's Gwen. Both me and Spider-Girl are in position. I'm sending you the address now," said Gwen.
A few moments later, Spider-Man got the warehouse address where they planned their trap.
"Got it," he said. "But this is still no sign of Spyral. I'm starting to think whether my idea is going to work or not."
"But it's the only plan we've got," said Gwen.
"I know," Spider-Man sighed. "Though I feel silly swinging around Central Park out in the open."
"Spider-Man, you spend most of your day in tight spandex,"Gwen reminded him.
"Okay, I feel sillier."
"Well, if he doesn't show up soon, you're going to have to choose whether to remain your stubborn self or give up and go on that date of yours."
"At the moment, I'm starting to think my blind date is preferable to any of this."
Then suddenly, he sensed his spider-sense tingling and quickly jumped out of the tree just in time to avoid an energy blast. He quickly looked around for the source of the last and saw that it came from Spyral, who was now flying directly above Central Park.
"I might be able to do both after all," said Spider-Man.
"He's there?" Gwen asked.
"Yep, now I'll have a fun game of playing cat and mouse," said Spider-Man as he hung up.
"You will return what is mine!" Spyral demanded.
"Hey, finders keepers," said Spider-Man.
"I see the apple didn't fall far from the tree," Spyral growled.
"I tell you what, if you can catch me, it's all yours," said Spider-Man, instantly swinging away.
"I will not be toyed with!" Spyral roared, chasing after him.
Gwen was currently with Spider-Girl in the abandoned warehouse, and he had just gotten off the phone with Spider-Man.
"He's taken the bait," said Gwen.
"Good, I'll get ready. You'd better find someplace safe to hide," said Spider-Girl.
"So what's Spider-Man like in the future?" Gwen asked. "I mean, as a father?"
"Well, he does get on my nerves sometimes, and he could be overprotective," Spider-Girl admitted.
"He sounds like my dad," Gwen chuckled.
"But he taught me everything I know and supported me even though he disagreed with me. Like becoming a superhero."
"Peter really didn't want you to become a superhero like him?" said Gwen, surprised.
"Let's just say that Dad did more than just capture petty criminals."
Gwen really wanted to know more about the future, but she was terrified, too. Of course, all this made him wonder what kind of person Peter wouldn't marry. Part of her was disappointed that it wouldn't be her, though it was her own fault.
This contemplation was interrupted by the sound of footsteps outside, and they soon realised Spider-Man was arriving with Spyral.
"Hide," Spider-Girl whispered before firing a web line and pulling herself up towards the ceiling.
Gwen quickly hid behind some crates just before Spider-Man crashed into the warehouse. He had the ground hard, indicating that he had just been hit by one of Spyral's blasts.
"If you're not careful, you're going to destroy this thing," he groaned as he picked himself up.
Spyral then floated above him. "Any damage that might be caused can easily be repaired, but you could make things easier for yourself and simply hand over the generator to me."
"So you honestly expect me to hand this dangerous interdimensional generator, which is badly damaged, I might add, to you a guy that has no qualms blasting everything in sight."
"I won't ask again," said Spyral as he raised his hand towards him. "I have heard stories of you, and I must say I'm disappointed. They say that Spider-Man was a great hero in his day; it is clear that those stories were greatly exaggerated."
Spider-Man watched as Spider-Girl carefully positioned herself directly behind him so he wouldn't notice.
"I'm just the guy doing what is right," said Spider-Man.
"More like you tend to meddle with what you shouldn't, something your daughter appears to have inherited, but that is easily rectified. By removing you from the time stream, she would not have existed."
"You would kill me and wipe my daughter out of existence just because she got in your way? Overreact much?"
"I do not care what happens within this dimension; your future has no impact upon my reality. Besides, we have talked long enough, so I will give you this final ultimatum. Hand me the generator, and I'll spare your life. Refuse, and I will end you here and now."
"I prefer the third option: we take you down, and we stay alive," said Spider-Man.
Spyral frowned. "'We?'"
Spider-Girl then suddenly launched herself down towards him and tackled him. Once he was flat on the ground, she quickly grabbed hold of the power source on his back and removed it.
"No!" Spyral yelled. "It cannot be!"
Spider-Man then fired some webbing to cover his mouth. "That's enough out of you."
"Is it over?" Gwen asked as she emerged from her hiding spot.
"Not until we get back to my time," said Spider-Girl. "If such a thing is even possible."
No sooner had he said that than suddenly, a portal appeared right in front of them, and when Spider-Man looked through it, he saw another Spider-Man, and he had the feeling he was looking at himself.
"Dad!" Spider-Girl cried.
"I think it's time for you to get home, young lady," he said.
Spider-Man looked at the other Spider-Man. "Are you me?"
"That I am," said his future self. "Let me tell you, kid, you got one heck of an adventure coming up."
"Well, not that this hasn't been fun," said Spider-Girl as she picked up Spyral, "but I think it's time for me to get home."
Spider-Man looked at Spider-Girl. "Hey, Spider-Girl, you did well, and I'm looking forward to meeting you again."
"Thanks, Dad," she said.
She then leapt into the portal, which closed instantly behind her.
"Well, that was weird," said Gwen.
"No kidding," said Spider-Man.
Gwen then looked at her watch, and her eyes widened. "Peter, you need to hurry, it's 6 o'clock. You need to get ready for your date."
"We'll be all right getting home?" Spider-Man asked.
"Don't worry, I'm good, but you must get home pronto."
Spider-Man didn't need to be told twice as Aunt May's threat loomed over him like a menacing cloud.
Peter made it home with enough time to spare to get changed, much to Aunt May's relief.
"You are certainly cutting it quite fine, Peter," said Aunt May.
"Hey, I made it," said Peter.
"That you did, and I can't be happier," Aunt May smiled. "Mary Jane is looking forward to meeting you."
Peter wished he could say the same, but he dreaded this blind date. However, keeping Aunt May happy was much more important, so he had to fight through it for her sake.
They then heard the doorbell ring.
"She's here," said Aunt May excitedly, like it was Christmas Day or something. "Now, don't keep her waiting."
Peter made his way downstairs and braced himself as he opened the door. Then, he came face-to-face with Mary Jane Watson. His eyes widened as he stared at the most beautiful girl he had ever encountered. She had flawless features, an hourglass figure, long red hair, and dazzling green eyes.
"Your Mary Jane," he said, finally being able to speak.
Mary Jane merely smiled seductively. "Face it, Tiger, you hit the jackpot.
Chapter 4: I: The Spider-Slayer
It was October 5th at about 12:12 AM, and Peter was at Empire State University, reviewing the notes he had taken during Doctor Connors' class. Gwen was with him.
"So, how are things between you and Mary Jane?" Gwen asked.
Peter introduced Gwen to Mary Jane about a week ago, but he had been somewhat nervous. Generally speaking, introducing the girl you're dating to your ex-girlfriend was never peaceful, but he was surprised to find them hiding out.
"It's going well," said Peter.
The two of them had gone on a few more dates and were really hitting it off.
"That's good to hear, considering you were terrified about going out with her," Gwen smirked.
"Aunt May was very vague on certain details," said Peter, feeling his face turn pink.
"Like she's hot, for instance."
"That's one example," said Peter, suddenly feeling rather hot under the collar.
"But you haven't told her about your nightlife?" Gwen frowned.
"It's not exactly something I can say on a date," Peter pointed out. "I mean, I can't just go up to her and say, 'Hey, I'm Spider-Man by the way.'"
"But you do plan on telling her?"
"Let's just see how we go first."
Gwen narrowed her eyes, though not looking entirely convinced. "If you say so."
In truth, Peter was somewhat reluctant to reveal his identity to Mary Jane. It's not that he didn't trust her; he just wasn't quite sure how she would react, especially given the daily slander the Daily Bugle had spewed at him.
"Whoa, Peter," said Harry, running up to them.
Over the past few weeks, Harry has been hanging out with Peter more often than before; that said, he still hung around with Flash more than with him. Not that he didn't mind being friends with Harry, he found him rather fun to be around.
"What do you want, Osborn?" Gwen asked.
Gwen hasn't quite warmed up to Harry as much as Peter. Peter suspected that she had quite forgiven him for spurning him when they first met.
"Just want you to know that I'm arranging a little party at my place," said Harry.
"What kind of party?" Peter asked.
"You know, the fun kind. Like the ones that Flash boasts about hosting."
"I wouldn't know, I was never invited to one of them," said Peter.
"I was, but I wouldn't go without Peter," said Gwen.
"Oh," said Harry, who appeared to have been unaware of this fact. "Well, I'm hosting this party, and I'm inviting both of you so you can come."
"Can we invite friends?" Peter asked, thinking about bringing Mary Jane along.
"Sure, the more the merrier," Harry smiled. "I can't wait to meet him."
"Her," Peter corrected.
"Her?" Harry blinked.
"Yes, my friend is a girl," said Peter.
"Well, that's cool," said Harry, slightly surprised. "Well, the parties at seven; see you there."
Harry then turned around and walked away.
"Why is he surprised I'm bringing a girl?" Peter asked.
"Probably, Flash," Gwen assumed. "He still believes that you can't pull a girl, even though you went out with Liz and me."
"I had hoped that he would mature when he got into college," Peter sighed.
"I can't wait to see the look on his face when you come to the party with Mary Jane wrapped around your arm," Gwen smirked.
"That's assuming she wants to go," said Peter.
"I get the feeling that our Mary Jane is a real party girl," said Gwen.
Meanwhile, Jonah was in his office reviewing today's issue of the Daily Bugle.
"Am I the only newspaper publisher who doesn't see what Spider-Man truly is?" he grumbled.
"You can't argue that he's done some good," said Robbie as he leaned against the wall with a cup of coffee.
"I can argue with that, Robbie. He puts people in danger with his antics, and I'm very certain that he's behind them. How else can he arrive in time to save the people he puts in danger? Bad enough, he was showing off while on TV, but then he goes and steals the glory from the real heroes, the firefighters and police. It's time we put a stop to him once and for all."
"And how do you plan on doing that?" Robbie asked.
They then heard a peep on Jonah's intercom.
"Mr Jameson, there's Spencer Smythe here to see you," said Glory's voice.
"Well, send him in!" Jonah yelled irritably.
The door opened, and a man in his 50s with silver grey hair stepped inside his office. Next to him was a young woman with short black hair, wheeling a trolley with a large metal box.
"Doctor Smythe, I'm so glad you could come," said Jonah as he rose to his feet.
"How could I not, with a large donation that you provided," said Smyth, shaking his hand. "Allow me to introduce you to my assistant, Marla Madison."
"A pleasure, Miss Madison," said Jonah.
"Likewise," Marla nodded.
Robbie looked between the two men and became a little apprehensive. "Jonah, what's going on?"
"Doctor Smyth is an expert in robotics and arachnids, and he's offered to eliminate our spider problem once and for all," said Jonah, smiling.
"Please tell me you're joking," said Robbie.
"It is no joke, Mr Robinson," said Smythe. "Like Mr Jameson, I am convinced that Spider-Man is a menace. I reached out to him, and he agreed to fund my project to hunt and eliminate the said menace."
"It had better, considering how much money I put into this project of yours," said Jonah, folding his arms.
Robbie was appalled by this display. "Jonah, don't you see what you're doing?"
"Course I do, I'm getting rid of that masked menace," said Jonah proudly.
"Jonah, you're effectively creating a supervillain right here and now," Robbie pointed out.
"I am not a supervillain," said Smythe, looking insulted. "Mr Jameson, I think our conversation would go much better if your friend were to leave."
Jonah nodded and looked at Robbie. "Robbie, will you leave us?"
Robbie's side. "All right, but I still think this is a bad idea, Jonah."
Robbie then walked out of the office, and Jonah turned his attention to Smythe when he was gone.
"So, let's have a gander at this creation of yours," said Jonah.
"With pleasure," said Smythe. "Miss Madison, if you would."
Marla nodded and pressed a keypad on the side of the casing. Once she input the last number, the casing opened. Inside was a robot the size of a human, with tentacles instead of arms and legs.
"I was expecting something far more impressive," said Jonah critically.
"I will admit it is not much to look at, but its arms are made of the strongest components and should be more than strong enough to hold Spider-Man. Additionally, I have programmed it to trace and track Spider-Man, which is the most state-of-the-art visual software and advanced tracking program. If Spider-Man is within a 10-mile radius of this robot, he will be hunted down."
"It sounds impressive," said Jonah, not that he understood anything Smythe had just said. "But will it work?"
"I have every confidence in my work," said Smythe.
"And I'll be able to control it?" Jonah asked.
"Operating the robot is simple; even a child could control it," Smythe assured him.
Marla then placed a remote-control system with a monitor and a joystick on Jonah's desk. It looked like one of those old arcade games.
"We built it so that you would feel as if you're playing the game and the arcade," Marla explained, noting the look on Jonah's face.
"Give it a try," said Smythe.
Jonah sat down at his desk and pressed the control; the moment he did, the robot came to life. Then Jonah saw that his face appeared directly on the monitor where his face would have been.
"I like that," said Jonah. "I'll be able to stick it to the Webhead in person."
"I thought you would like that feature," Smythe smiled.
Jonah moved the joystick, and the robot moved in turn, as if he were playing a video game. The machine moved flawlessly, and not one of its tentacle-like legs got in its way. He then began to operate its arms, and they stretched to the other end of the office.
Jonah smiled at Smythe. "Now that is what I call technology."
"So would you say we put it to the test and begin our hunt for that masked menace?" Smythe suggested.
Jonah merely grinned. "You read my mind, Smythe."
It was 16:36, and Peter was getting ready for the party at Harry's place. He didn't know what to wear. He had never been invited to a house party before, but he felt formal wear wasn't necessary, so he changed into a clean shirt and jeans.
"You ready, Peter?" Aunt May asked, entering his bedroom.
"I think I'm respectable," said Peter.
"I'm so happy that you and Mary Jane are getting along," said Aunt May happily. "Who knows, maybe the two of you will end up married and have kids; I wouldn't mind being a grandmother."
"Whoa, whoa," said Peter. "We've only been going out a few weeks, Aunt May."
"I suppose you're right, but I'll keep my hopes up," she said. "Anyway, Mary Jane is waiting for you downstairs."
Peter made his way downstairs and found MJ waiting for him. She was wearing a black T-shirt and jeans, both of which accentuated her perfect figure, and he was certain she had washed her hair.
"You ready, Tiger?" she smiled.
"Sure, and the taxi should be here at any moment, but first, we have to pick up Gwen," said Peter.
"Wanting to take a girl under each arm, are we?" Mary Jane smirked.
"No, no," said Peter, feeling rather flustered. "It's just that her dad is busy at work and wants someone reliable to take her to the party."
MJ giggled. "I was only teasing Tiger."
Aunt May chuckled. "Well, you take care of yourselves and make sure you're back before 10."
"Yes, Aunt May," Peter moaned, rolling his eyes.
The two of them soon made their way outside.
"I quite like your Aunt, Tiger," said MJ.
"She's more like a mother, really. I never really got to know my parents," said Peter.
"Sorry," said MJ.
"It's not your fault," said Peter. "What about your parents? I know your mother died about a month ago."
"It's still a bit raw; that's why I moved in with my favourite aunt," said MJ.
"And your dad?"
"I don't like to talk about him."
Peter had a feeling MJ didn't have a very happy childhood, but decided not to press the matter. So, half an hour later, they were in the taxi, picked up Gwen, and made their way to Harry's place.
"So what's your friend like?" MJ asked.
"I would hardly call him a friend," said Gwen.
"Hey, he's trying," said Peter. He then looked at MJ's confused expression. "Let's just say that he hung out with a guy from our past."
"Let me guess, the football jock type who likes to bully those weaker than him," MJ guessed.
"Had one of those in your old school, huh?" Gwen assumed.
"Worse, I used to date one."
Both Peter and Gwen stared at her.
"Yeah, and he was a catastrophic mistake," said MJ. "He was nice at first, but then he started to become obsessive and began beating up any guy who looked at me."
"Sounds quite the character," said Gwen.
"I had to report him to the principal when he wouldn't stop, which got him expelled. I don't know what happened to him after that, but I was glad to be shot of him."
"Here we are," said Peter as they came to Oscorp Tower.
Oscorp Tower wasn't just a company building; it was also where Norman and Harry lived. At the very top of the building was a fabulous penthouse, which was currently hosting quite a party.
The party was practically in full swing. People were dancing to rock-hard music or treating themselves to the fabulous food on the table.
"Quite the party, Harry," said Flash as he placed his arm around Harry.
"Thanks, Flash," said Harry. "Peter and Gwen should be arriving at any moment.
"I can't believe you invited Puny Parker," Flash scoffed. "Gwen, I can understand; despite being a nerd, she's quite hot."
"Dad would only allow me to host this party if I invited Peter," Harry explained.
"Your dad is quite the blackmailer," said Flash.
"Dad wants me to hang out with the top of the class," Harry explained. "Also, apparently, Peter is bringing along a girl."
Flash scoffed. "What kind of girl would go out with Puny Parker?"
"Well, there was me and Gwen Stacy," said a voice.
They turned around and saw Liz Allen approaching them with a fizzy drink. There was a bit of tension, considering that Liz used to be Flash's ex-girlfriend.
"Yeah, and the two of you broke up with him," Flash reminded her.
"Actually, he broke up with me, Flash," Liz pointed out. She then looked at Harry and held out her hand. "Liz Allen."
"Pleasure to meet you, Liz, I'm Harry," said Harry, shaking her hand.
"Yeah, I kinda figured," Liz smiled.
"What's this about Parker bringing a girl?" said a snooty voice.
A girl with long blond hair was walking up to them, wearing perfect makeup.
"Harry, this is Sally Avril," said Flash.
"Pleasure," said Harry, extending his hand.
Sally, however, did not shake it, creating an awkwardness in the air.
"You're honestly saying that Parker managed to pull a girl?" Sally asked.
"That's what I'm assuming, considering he asked me if we could bring guests," Harry shrugged.
"What kind of girl would go with Parker?" Sally scoffed.
Liz narrowed her eyes. "Peter does have a great deal of integrity."
Sally scoffed. "And yet he couldn't make time for you when you two dated. I told you dating him was a mistake, and I'm glad you finally listened."
"I'm with Sally," said a new voice.
Approaching them was a muscular young man, completely bald, taller than Flash, with powerful, chunky arms.
"Thanks, Kenny," said Sally.
"Harry met Kenny McFarlane; he was my best mate from high school," Flash smiled.
"Call me Kong," he smiled. "I can't wait to see what kind of girl Parker dragged all the way here."
They then heard the elevator ping.
"Looks like we're about to find out that them now," said Harry.
The elevator door opened, and everyone's mouth fell wide open. Stepping out of the elevator, Peter had Gwen wrapped around one of his arms and Mary Jane in the other. The moment they saw Mary Jane with Peter, no one could find the words.
"Pete cleans up well," said Liz, breaking the silence with a slight smirk.
"No way, no way a girl like her would go out with a nerd like Parker," said Sally. "It totally goes against the status quo! She must've lost the bet."
The three of them then walked up towards them, ignoring their gaping mouths.
"Hey, guys," said Peter.
"Uh, hey," said Harry, looking dumbstruck.
"You might wanna close those mouths unless you want a fly flying in," Gwen smirked.
"Mary Jane, meet Harry, Flash, Kong, Liz and Sally," said Peter as he gestured to each and every one of them. "They're popular."
"Ah, the crowd," MJ nodded.
"That's right," said Sally, glaring at her. "And who are you?"
"Mary Jane Watson, I just recently moved into the neighbourhood," said MJ.
"By that, she means she moved in next door to Peter," Gwen explained.
"Wish I lived in that neighbourhood," said Harry.
MJ merely smiled at Harry. "That's sweet, Harry, but I'm afraid I'm spoken for the moment."
"Quick question, how did you end up with Parker?" Sally asked. "Did you lose a bet?"
"Our aunts are friends, and they arrange the thing," said MJ in a critical tone. Clearly, she did not like Sally. "Besides, Peter seems to have a habit of attracting good-looking girls to his side."
She then winked at Liz, who suddenly turned bright pink.
Harry then quickly moved in, sensing that tension was rising between everyone.
"Hey, this is a party, so let's go wild!" Harry yelled.
He then cranked up the music even higher, and everyone began to dance a lot more ferociously.
Around the same time, Jonah was getting the hang of Smythe's Spider-Slayer robots.
"I think I got the hang of it now," he said.
"Then let's begin showering," said Smythe.
"So this thing will be able to track Spider-Man?" Jonah asked.
"This will be its first real test, but I have every confidence in its abilities," said Smythe confidently.
"Then let's hunt for a spider," said Jonah, operating the controls.
The Spider-Slayer sprang to life and began to scurry away, climbing out the window and moving from rooftop to rooftop. As it did, it started scanning the area and suddenly picked up something.
"Ah, it would seem like we've already picked something up," Smythe smiled.
"Mr Smythe, I think we should go slow," Marla advised. "We still have not tested the scanning equipment."
"It worked in simulations, and I have absolute confidence in my design," said Smythe, waving off the concerns. He then turned his attention back to Jonah. "Mr Jameson, if you would like to do the honours."
"Gladly," Jonah smiled.
Meanwhile, at the party, Peter thoroughly enjoyed dancing with MJ, only stopping to get them drinks.
Liz then walked up to MJ. "So, Mary Jane, is it?"
"Just call me MJ," MJ smiled.
"Okay, MJ, it's nice to see Peter dating again," she said.
"Gwen did mention the two of you dated in high school," said MJ. "She's already told me about her time with Peter. Do you have any stories you wish to share?"
"Only that he is not always committed to a relationship," Liz warned. "Don't get me wrong, he does try, but sometimes I think he's not fully committed. Back in high school, everyone was certain that Pete and Gwen were perfect for each other. But then, after a year of dating, the two of them broke up; strangely, they never gave a reason why they broke up."
"Well, neither of us would like to say that we're committed to a relationship, yet, I mean, we have just met one another."
"Just to warn you, he does have a tendency to be late and forget certain appointments and then he gives flimsy excuses."
"Consider me warned."
Flash was immensely annoyed at Peter for somehow managing to pull the best-looking girl he had seen in his entire life.
"Look at him," said Flash to Kong, gesturing to Peter as he got some drinks. "He's so smug."
"He looks like he's enjoying himself," said Kong.
"Of course, he's enjoying himself, and he's now the centre of attention," Flash grumbled. "But I have something that will throw that smirk right off his face."
He and Kong then made their way outside to where Flash had parked his car. He opened the trunk, revealing a Spider-Man costume, and began to put it on.
"You're seriously going to dress up as your favourite superhero?" said Kong.
"I'm going to show that nerd just who is boss around here," he said as he put the mask on.
"So what do you think he's going to do when he sees you in it?"
"I don't know, with any luck, he'll wet himself."
Unbeknownst to them, they were spotted by the Spider-Slayer as they made their way back into the building.
"Ha, we found him!" Jonah yelled triumphantly.
"Excellent, now it's time to capture him," said Smythe.
"Hold on, there was nothing on the scanners," said Marla.
"Wait, isn't that Norman Osborn's place?" Jonah frowned. "He must be trying to steal Oscorp's secrets, and I'll be the one to stop him."
Meanwhile, everyone was enjoying themselves at the party, and Peter was surprised when MJ planted a kiss on his lips. However, his spider-sense began to buzz, and he looked around for the source.
"Peter, what's wrong?" MJ asked, frowning slightly.
Everyone immediately gasped as Spider-Man suddenly walked through the door.
"Spider-Man?" said MJ, sounding a little frightened. "What does he want?"
"MJ, don't worry. It's not him; it's an impostor," Peter assured her.
"How do you know?" MJ frowned.
"Uh, call it a hunch," said Peter.
Peter had a pretty good idea who was behind that mask, but maintained his composure.
Flash then marched up to Peter and grabbed the hem of his shirt. "Parker, it's time we had a talk."
"About what Spider-Man?" Peter asked, trying to hold back a grin.
"About those pictures you're always taking of me. I don't like them."
"Uh, I'm sorry."
"That's a little better, but still not good enough."
"Well, what would you like me to say?"
Flash suddenly saw the Spider-Slayer appearing through the window and instantly backed away.
"Argh!" he said.
"Okay? Argh!" said Peter, but he suddenly turned around and saw the Spider-Slayer smashing through the window.
It instantly approached Flash, and Jonah's face appeared on the screen. "Caught you red-handed, Spider-Man."
Flash was too scared to speak as he slowly backed away.
Meanwhile, everyone at the party panicked and rushed to the door. Peter immediately grabbed MJ and ran to the door.
"Get to safety, MJ!" Peter yelled.
"Peter, what about you?" MJ cried as the crowd carried her off.
"I've got a job to do," he said.
In the chaos, he immediately made his way into the bathroom. He quickly began to change into his Spider-Man costume.
"Flash, you really got yourself into a mess this time," he said.
The Spider-Slayer continued to advance towards Flash, who tripped and fell onto the floor.
"Wait, I'm not Spider-Man!" Flash cried.
"That would be more convincing if you weren't wearing a costume," said Jonah.
"Just look, I can't stick to walls!" Flash cried desperately, placing his hand on the wall.
Surprisingly, Jonah wasn't convinced and found himself wrapped in its tentacle arms.
"I have him! I have him!" Jonah cried triumphantly.
"Wasn't that a little too easy?" Marla frowned.
"Of course, it was easy; he fell prey to my creation," said Smythe smugly.
"Now, let's see who's behind that mask," said Jonah.
One of the tentacles then reached out towards Flash's mask and pulled it off him, but none of them recognised him.
"Who's that?" Smythe frowned.
"No clue," said Marla.
"Who cares, so long as it makes a front-page story," said Jonah.
At that moment, he was suddenly yanked away from Flash and crashed into the sofa.
"What just happened?" Jonah asked.
"I don't know," said Smythe, confused.
In fact, Spider-Man managed to get behind and fired a web line with one good Yang, who pulled him away from Flash. He landed next to Flash and helped him up just as Jonah got back up.
"There are two of them?" Smythe yelled.
"Great, they're multiplying," Jonah grumbled.
"Or we never actually caught Spider-Man," said Marla.
Spider-Man then turned and was rather surprised to see Jonah's face on the Spider-Slayer monitor.
"Gotta say I wasn't expecting to see you, pickle puss, piloting that thing," said Spider-Man.
"It's him; only the real Spider-Man can be that annoying,"said Jonah.
Spider-Man looked at Flash. "Let this be a lesson to you that costume is dangerous and shouldn't be worn lightly. Now you'd better get out of here while I handle flat top."
"You got it, Spider-Man. Go kick some metal butt," said Flash, and instantly dashed towards the door.
"I've caught you red-handed now, Spider-Man," said Jonah gleefully. "Here to steal Oscorp secrets, are we?"
"Uh, I'm here to stop a mechanical robot from hurting innocent people," said Spider-Man
"Yeah, like I believe that!"
Spider-Man knew that there was no point in trying to make Jonah see reason, though he didn't expect him to attack him with a robot. As much as he hated to admit it, the robot was actually rather impressive.
Jonah extended his tentacle arms straight at Spider-Man, who quickly somersaulted and stuck to the ceiling.
"Gotta say, Jonah, that is one impressive-looking machine," said Spider-Man.
"It was specially commissioned to take you down," said Jonah as he attacked him again.
Spider-Man nimbly dodged the tentacles and jumped onto the wall. "All this for little old me, I'm flattered."
"And now I'm going to flatten you!"
Spider-Man jumped out of the way again as the tentacles smashed through the wall, then fired webbing at the monitor to blind Jonah.
"I can't see a thing!" Jonah yelled.
"Take it easy, Mr Jameson, the controls are very sensitive," said Marla.
"Just rely on the scanners; they'll pinpoint his location exactly," said Smythe.
"Yeah, the only problem is those scanners of yours can't seem to locate him!" Jonah yelled.
"That's impossible!" said Smythe as he quickly shut Joan out of the way to look.
"Watch what you're doing!"
"This shouldn't be possible; by design, it is flawless," said Smythe.
As it turned out, Spider-Man had stuck himself to the back of the Spider-Slayer, and Smythe had programmed the scanners to scan the robot.
Spider-Man took this opportunity to try some plating to get a good look at the wiring, which was rather impressive. He could tell from an instance that the Spider-Slayer was designed to track using his spider-sense.
Admittedly, he even considered that his spider-sense reacted to radio frequencies and began to give him ideas. However, his immediate problem was dealing with the Spider-Slayer, so he started pulling wires out.
"I'm losing control of the Spider-Slayer!" Smythe yelled.
"Well, regain control of it!" Jonah barked.
"I'm afraid it's dead," said Marla.
Jonah immediately turned on Smythe. "You assured me that this Spider-Slayer could eliminate Spider-Man."
"This was only the first of a long line of Spider-Slayer; with additional funding, I should be able to improve on the design."
"Well, you can do it without my money!" Jonah roared.
"Mr Jameson, these are reasonable."
"Your machine can't distinguish between a kid in a costume and the real McCoy!"
"As I said, there are several things to improve upon."
"Not to mention, your machine destroyed Norman Osborn's house!"
"That was all you!" Smyther snapped back. "You were the one piloting the machine!"
"Gentleman, maybe this is not the best use of our time," said Marla.
"You stay out of this, Miss Madison; you're only my assistant!" said Smyther harshly.
Jonah stood to his full height and leaned in toward Smyther. "That's no way to speak to a lady."
"She's my employee, and I can speak to her however I want!"
"Not anymore, I quit," said Marla. She took off her badge and slammed it on Jonah's desk. "Find someone else to yell your rhetoric at!"
She then stormed off, slamming the door behind her.
"I think you had better leave as well, Smythe," Jonah advised.
Smythe looked as if he wanted to argue some more, but decided to leave and stormed past Robbie as he made his way inside.
"I take it things didn't work out," said Robbie.
"No, and what's worse, that menace made me look as if I'm the villain," Jonah grumbled.
"Well, I hate to add more salt to the wound, but Peter was at that party you crashed, and he just sent some photos," said Robbie.
"WHATTT?!" Jonah yelled at the top of his voice.
Peter had managed to get out of his costume and had just sent Robbie the photos he had taken. He would have loved to see Jonah's face when he saw them. He made his way down and saw quite a number of the guests having a go at Flash.
"That was absolutely pathetic, Flash," said Liz.
"It was just for a laugh," said Flash.
"A laugh that pretty much destroyed my home," said Harry. "How am I supposed to explain this to my Dad?"
"Peter, there you are," said MJ, rushing over to him. "When Flash came back down, you didn't show up. I feared the worst."
"Don't worry. Spider-Man was there and took the opportunity to take a few pictures," said Peter.
MJ looked at him, startled. "You mean you risk your life just to take a few pictures?"
"I need the money," said Peter, smiling innocently.
"Let's just be glad he got back in one piece," said Gwen as she approached him.
"Which is more than I can say for my place," Harry groaned.
"Do you need help cleaning up?" Peter asked.
"I could most certainly use the help," Harry nodded.
"You heard the man, Flash," said Liz.
"What?! Why do I have to help clean up?"
"Because you're the one who caused the mess!"
A few moments later, everyone made their way back upstairs to tidy the place up. They had to dispose of the relatively heavy Spider-Slayer. Peter helped with Flash and Kong, using his spider strength to move things along, and they were none the wiser.
"You know, I can safely say I never had parties like this one," said MJ as she mopped the floor.
"Sorry, it turned out like that," Peter apologised.
"Don't be. It was rather exciting, though I could have done without the near-death experiences," MJ admitted.
"Hopefully, the next party we go to will be a lot quieter," said Peter hopefully.
MJ gave a small smile. "So you still want to go out with me, Tiger?"
"You bet I do."
"You know, moving here may have been my best decision yet," said MJ, kissing him on the cheek.
The next day, Fisk was sitting at his desk when Wesley walked up to him with today's issue of the Daily Bugle.
"Mr Fisk, I think there's an article in the Daily Bugle you might find interesting," he said.
Fisk took the paper, which had the headline, in big capital letters, 'Spider-Man Leads Killer Robot To Corporate Millionaires' House!'
"And what really happened?" Fisk asked, knowing not to take the Daily Bugle at its word.
"Apparently, J Jonah Jameson hired a skilled scientist named Spencer Smythe to commission a robot to eliminate Spider-Man. Smythe designed a tracking algorithm he was confident had tracked Spider-Man, but, sadly, the robot attacked in the midst of a party orchestrated by Osborn's son. Also, the fact that Jonah's face was on full display on the robot was a bit of an embarrassment for him, and he immediately pulled out his funding."
"So we have a robotics expert with a vendetta against Spider-Man, who desperately needs funds," Fisk smiled. "Find out more about this Spencer Smythe."
"Yes, sir," Wesley nodded.
Wesley then walked out of the office, and Fisk smiled at himself.