Disclaimer: I do not own Spectacular Spiderman; or any of the songs that I mention in this fiction. Newsboys owns those rights. Nor do I own the slew of cameos that I'm allowing in this; such include TMNT, Rescue Bots, Marvel heroes, ect.
Be respectful those owners.
And PLZ Review!
***OC*****
"Welcome to your layer, Master Planner" Tinkerer greeted as Dr. Octopus walked in by way of his mechanical arms. The large man had his hands behind his back, a cruel smirk on his face and a look of cunning in his eyes. "Thank you Tinkerer," he replied lowly and smugly as he neared the group waiting for him.
Electro looked stunned for a moment, before he put his hand in the air slightly, an inquiring look on his face. "I still don't get it Doc. Why didn't you break out with Kraven and me?"
Doc Ock smirked and chuckled, lowering himself and placing a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Ah Electro…always so charmingly uncomplicated." He said pleasantly, before turning and slowly slinking off towards the main hanger. "When building a secret empire of super criminals, the safety and obscurity of a hospital bed has its advantages."
"Beats prison" Vulture said lowly, placing his hands to his side and watching the leader inspect all that was around him.
"Indeed." Octopus glanced back, his smirk never leaving his face as he extended his arms further and turned to face his group. "Spiderman searches for the Master Planner; leaving Octavius free to…heh heh…plan." The man extended one of his mechanical arms and retrieved a clipboard from Tinkerer, slowly putting his arms behind his back. "I assume, since you set my arms to retrieve me, we are finally ready to begin?"
"Yes. All that remains is calibration." Tinkerer replied, drumming his fingers together as though he were pondering. "And, of course, testing."
Dr. Octopus smirked at the proposition and turned, slowly heading for the main control panel. "Then it would seem that we have an advantage, considering that Oscorp plans on a wireless demolition today." The scientist lightly tapped a button with one of his mechanical arms.
"This would be an opportune time to test the equipment…as well as repay a certain businessman for his arrogance without interruption."
Electro smirked at the suggestion, before his expression changed. "But Doc…what about the Spider-freak?"
"Not to mention that goodie-two-shoes bat?" Tinkerer added, looking towards Otto for an answer, and for orders.
Octopus pursed his lips and kept his hands behind his back, looking towards the screens and pondering. Spiderman always posed a problem, which would be dealt with as the plan progressed…Flying Fox on the other hand…
"She seems to be taking our warning seriously." The doctor observed, drumming his fingers together and looking thoughtful. "Though chances are she's back from her little vacation…no doubt her dear cousin may be expressing her…concerns…"
There was a long pause, before Dr. Octopus pressed in a few buttons and set a tracking signal out. In less than six seconds, the number and location of Simone Vincent's cell phone was displayed. Octopus narrowed his eyes, and glanced back towards Vulture. "Fetch this girl and bring her to me. This will merely serve as a second warning to the Flying Fox; as well as keep her out of the way."
***MH***
Sophia walked down the streets of Manhattan, not really in the mood to ride the subway trains. It had been almost a week since she confessed her love to Otto…and promptly got his back to her. Was this how her mother felt when her father abandoned her to be with that more attractive flight attendant? Sure, Otto wasn't cheating on her…but it was clear that while he had her heart, she didn't have his. It was painful thinking that possibly…she meant nothing to him anymore.
He had kept her necklace…that was something she took comfort in. Sure he was hiding it, but she could SEE its sparkle in his pocket…though the darkness in his eyes really cancelled out that hope for her…still…how could she keep this up much longer?
Could she handle losing him? Or did she have to ultimately…follow her own advice?
Sophia supposed that in all actuality, she was afraid. Afraid that Otto would not feel as strongly as she did for him. That he would not see any reason as to why her feelings would matter to him. Rejected. Now THAT'S something she had expected when she had arrived; but he had assured her that he had blamed himself for the accident. She STILL blamed her own self. Chances were he had completely forgot about that and was more focused on…
…Just what WOULD he be focused on?
Sophia looked up slightly, a confused look on her face. Otto was always into science…always discussing properties and effects on the world; or on people. How could that possibly change so rapidly. Or was there a chance that it WAS his main priorities? But what could he possibly gain with science? Just science?...huh?
Sophia glanced down and picked up her phone as it vibrated and glanced at the message.
'Heading to Silver Spoon; still a few blocks away. Are you there yet?'
'Not yet, it will still be at least 15 min before I get there; and that's IF the crosswalks are agreeable the whole way'
'Don't worry, I'll get there and hold a table for us. Do you want anything specific?'
'Just a fruit bowl and a small mocha' Sophia looked thoughtful for a moment, and then continued. 'Make sure it has whipped cream!'
'Order up! I'll be arriving soon; love ya and see ya in a few!'
Sophia actually smiled gently at the text, and then continued on her way. Simone had gotten back just three days ago…but she hadn't shared with her cousin what had happened during Christmas. No, she couldn't have her own cousin trapped in a mess that was her own. Simone had enough of her own problems back on Griffon Rock. Still…it was nice to know that her cousin would always be there for her.
The woman sight slightly, feeling a wave of depression hitting her. She wasn't too sure how she was supposed to take all of this…
Lean not on your own understanding…
Sophia glanced skywards for a moment as she continued down the streets, absently reaching in her hat and scratching an itch in her ears. For a moment she had to pause…she THOUGHT she saw a large bird fly by…but it was gone before she could really SEE it…
The girl rubbed her eyes and chuckled. "Wow…I really must be tired and stressed…"
***SS***
Simone pressed a few more buttons on her cell phone. Frankie apparently was reporting that Chase and his little songbird girl were getting REALLY fond of each other. It was refreshing to see innocent moments of love, even if it was during a war. Someone once said 'True love conquers all' and 'The greatest of these is Love'. Hopefully they would apply to all that was going on here as well.
Sophia had become strangely silent, and that concerned Simone. In fact, since Thanksgiving, she seemed much more hesitant and quiet. It didn't help that apparently Sophia had hurt her hand during Christmas. Not to mention got a minor case of frostbite. WHAT she had done during Christmas must have been...unspeakable…so to speak…or not speak…oh whatever. Hopefully a little heart-to-heart over some coffee would cheer her up.
It was always a good thing to try and start the New Year on a good note. Unfortunately, Otto wasn't going to be a part of if…nor was Ray for that matter, who was on a trip to report to Rescue force 17. Ah hooray for being busy…and distant. Simone crossed her arms as she walked, her mind drifting towards Otto…the last time she had seen him, he had been so determined to take out Spiderman, placing others in danger. News from Flash was that they didn't have any way of helping…much to her disappointment.
Simone's thoughts drifted when she looked up, spotting an elderly man looking rather lost. The girl blinked, and slowly headed towards him. He seemed to ponder, before hesitantly walking down an ally. Simone quickened her pace; no doubt this man was a tourist and needed proper direction. She managed to get to the alley…and then paused, seeing nobody. The mute girl looked confused for a moment, walking deeper into the road.
This was a dead end…so…where was—?
Swoop!
"Dear girl; don't you know how dangerous it is to walk into Manhattan alleys all alone?"
Simone tensed and quickly turned around, only to be backhanded swiftly. The girl let out a unheard cry from deep within her throat and fell to the ground. Her head was spinning; and she could no longer really processes what was going on. Shaking her head, Simone looked upwards, her vision burred. Before her stood the Vulture, leering down at her with a dark smirk. He once again lifted his hand…and swiftly backhanded her near her temple. Simone promptly fell limp to the ground, allowing Vulture to quickly hover up and take her arms by his talons; and swiftly take flight.
Stillness…darkness…and a blur of light
Simone squinted her eyes when she realized that she was surrounded by bright light. Tucking her arms in, the girl let out a breath and slowly managed to crawl to her knees, putting a hand to her eyes and rubbing. Once she got her bearings, she looked up…only to see that she was in a large room surrounded by technology. Simone let off a sharp intake of air and scrambled to her feet- only to fall back on her toosh, finding that she was in a cage suspended in mid-air. Shivering from loss of body heat and sudden panic, the mute girl back as far as she could go, resting her back against the bars of the cage that she was trapped in.
Where WAS she?! How long had she been out?! WHO had-
"Hey up there! Stop your squirming!"
Simone gasped and looked downwards, seeing Electro far below her, holding up an electrified hand in her direction. "Or I'm gonna—"
"Now, Now, Electro. That's no way to treat one of our esteemed guests."
Simone looked from looking at Electro in panic, to quickly looking upwards as Dr. Octopus raised himself up on his mechanical arms to be at her level, his hands behind his back and a dark look on his face. The girl pressed her back further against the bars, but couldn't move any farther from her captor. Out of defense, the mute girl placed her arms in front of her, as though she was expecting some sort of…strike.
"Oh come now, Simone. Surely you can defend yourself. What with your fiancé being an Air Force soldier…" Dr. Octopus said lowly, narrowing his eyes, yet his smug smirk remained on his face. "…And your spectacular abilities as a bat."
The statement seemed to make Simone pause…and then make a face. Slowly she sat on her knees, and made a slow sign.
'Bat?'
Dr. Octopus scoffed and waved a hand in the air. "Oh don't play dumb with me, Simone. I am a scientist; I do not fool easily."
'No, really! What are you—'
"And still you insult me with your denials." Dr. Octopus shook his head in a disappointed manor. "tsktsktsk. I had so hoped to make this quick and easy; for Sophia's sake if not your own."
Simone's mouth went agape, before she slowly tried to stand…only to find herself slammed back down, landing on her toosh once more.
"That cage is suspended in mid-air, Simone. If you disturb the center of gravity, you'll find yourself unable to keep balanced." The large villain smirked and slowly turned his back on the mute girl, lowering himself to be more at level with his accomplices. "Now; I know you're a good little girl, and have concerns for others. But trust me when I say that I already have that cursed arachnid always playing the hero." Dr. Octopus slowly looked in Simone's direction and frowned. "I do not need you getting in my way as well…Flying Fox."
Simone looked shocked for a moment, before putting her hand up in protest…though the scientist turned his back on her, choosing to ignore what she had to 'say'. "All can be resolved, Simone. As soon as I have what I need, and as soon as you agree to stay out of my way; I will be more than happy to release you back into the comfort of your loving fiancé and your dear cousin." Doc Ock approached a door, Electro and Vulture close behind him. He then glanced back and frowned. "Remember, Flying Fox…I really do know where you live…you want to keep Sophia safe, don't you?"
Simone made no answer, but the horrified look on her face was answer enough for the villain. He smirked and slowly entered the door with his accomplices, the door shutting tight behind them.
Simone trembled at the statement, and slowly sat down, looking spooked.
If Otto…was saying…what she thought he was saying…then…
***CS***
"Ahh…these mochas of yours just get better and better" Sophia smiled as she took another sip of her coffee and gathered the rest of her order into her arms. "I'll just set these at my table and wait…Are you sure a mute girl hasn't arrived?"
"Well there was a deaf child, but she was six and accompanied by her parents; but that's it." The lady behind the counter replied.
Sophia looked concerned and glanced to the side for a moment…before looking back towards the woman and smiling. "Oh I'm sure she's probably caught in normal city traffic. Thank you." Taking her order, Sophia meandered through the coffee shop and took a seat by the window, placing the food and drinks out to wait for consumption.
After saying a prayer to bless the food, the girl helped herself to her coffee and fruit bowl. A blueberry muffin and a small latte eagerly awaited the arrival of Simone.
It did make her ponder her cousin's whereabouts. After all, Simone had only been 5 minutes away while she had been 25 minutes away the last time they 'spoke'. Wonder if she got sidetracked? It was possible with that girl. Sophia popped a piece of Strawberry in her mouth and took out her phone, making a quick text.
'I'm at the coffee shop. Where are you?'
The reply took its sweet time…which was odd for Simone. Sophia pursed her lips and glanced out the window. It was starting to get dark and she couldn't spot her cousin through the sea of faces outside.
Where could she be?
The girl let out a breath and forced herself to remain calm…but by the time she had finished her fruit bowl and her mocha…Sophia started to fidget. Still no reply from her cousin…and another 20 minutes had gone by. That made 45 minutes! Sophia gritted her teeth lightly and glanced outside once more…all she saw was a high school boy on crutches accompanied by a slender Hispanic girl coming into the shop.
OK…now she was worried.
Sophia glanced to the other side of the shop and noticed two police officers enjoying some café treats, and slowly got up, walking towards them.
"Excuse me? Officers?"
Sophia earned the attention of New York's finest and hesitated, before continuing. "Have either of you seen a young girl, about five feet, light brown hair?" Sophia took out her phone, punched a few buttons and then showed them a picture of her cousin.
"She's mute, and she's not really…informative…"
"Actually, no. My partner and I have been here for all of fifteen minutes, and before then we didn't notice anyone like that." The first officer replied, taking a sip of his coffee. His partner studied the picture for a moment, and then looked towards Sophia evenly.
"How long has she been missing?"
"Well, she was supposed to be here an hour ago" Sophia glanced back down to her phone, a concerned look in her eyes. "She's not answering her cell and…she was really supposed to get here before I did."
"It's the city, kid." The first officer replied, placing his cup down and smiling towards her. "Chances are, her Subway train got delayed, or she migh'ta got side tracked. I'm sure she'll turn up."
The second cop nodded in agreement. "Give 'er more time. If ya still can't find her, give us a call and our officers will be on the lookout for her."
Sophia glanced to the side for a moment when she heard a large boy yell to his girlfriend to get him a chocolate muffin, and then pursed her lips, pondering over the officer's words. Simone wasn't the type to get easily distracted, but things did happen in the Big Apple. After all, when Becky's family had visited, they got lost all the time…only problem with that theory was…they had only stayed for a week.
She and Simone had been here since the beginning of September.
"Thank you officers." Sophia nodded respectfully towards the law-enforcers and slowly headed back for her own table, growing all the more concerned.
She glanced at her cell phone to see if Simone had answered her text…there was nothing. Something was up…she just knew it…
"OOOFFF!"
"AHH!"
Sophia's thoughts were suddenly thrown off when a young teen ran into her, apparently too focused on retrieving his order. Finding herself knocked to the floor, the girl hissed at landing on her bandaged hand. Her nose twitched slightly, and she glanced upward, seeing a young male teen looking spooked. "Oh crap, I'm SO sorry miss!"
Peter Parker quickly gained his bearings and offered his hands towards Sophia, an apologetic look in his eyes. "I wasn't paying attention—are you hurt?" The boy paused and winced slightly. "Is your hand ok? What happened?"
Sophia slowly allowed Peter to help her up with her good hand and allowed herself to stabilize. Her nose twitched once more…what WAS that smell? Was it…this boy? Shaking off her musings, she smiled and gently let go of his hand. "I'm alright. Accidents happen…and my hand just got…pressurized last week is all." Sophia patted the boy on the shoulder and slowly retreated to her table. "Be more careful next time, alright?"
Peter watched the woman go and slowly headed for the counter to retrieve his order. Strange…he could have sworn he had heard her voice before…maybe she was the same girl that Gwen had helped here a few months ago. Speaking of Gwen…Peter glanced back towards the table where Gwen and MaryJane were waiting for him to pick up their order. They were talking about something…and Gwen looked…rather bummed. Probably about him.
He wanted to be more focused, but that was a problem in itself…being Spiderman and all.
Peter's thoughts were broken when the power of the building suddenly shut down without warning and the main worker at the front desk expressed his frustration by asking everyone to leave the shop.
Well that's the story of my life…
***VT****
"Vulture to Master Planner." The older bird-like criminal touched a com in his ear, while looking over the view of the city. "Everyone is in position."
"Excellent, Adrian." Master Planner's voice came over the line. "Target is exiting the coffee shop."
Vulture scanned the crowd that was retreating slowly from the disabled building. There were plenty of young girls that were coming out…one of which appeared to be a girl that Octopus ordered to be kept unaware of this whole ploy. Targeting Gwen Stacy would have to be executed at the right time. The slender man kept a watchful eye…and then paused slightly, finding his target.
"Master Planner, Target has been spotted. Awaiting next phase."
"Beginning isolation process." Master Planner replied. As if on cue, the police were called elsewhere, and as soon as they were out of range, the traffic lights all turned green. The change resulted in sudden confusion and mass chaos.
Sophia looked up from her attempt to text Simone, witnessing a HUGE pile-up; curtesy of the glitching signals. The girl gasped at the scene, others gathering around at the sight. Most people were crowding closer towards the wreck, which was exactly what she wanted to do. Though she wasn't a trained medic like Simone, working on Animals did have its advantages for basic injuries. Sophia tried to text her cousin once more; Maybe she would respond if she knew there was an emergency…
….weeerrrreeoooowww…
…Huh?
Sophia paused when a high-pitched wirr came to her ears, almost inaudible to everyone else and glanced towards her left. What she saw horrified her. Just a few feet away, Electro had shocked a young girl unconscious, followed by Vulture swooping down, grabbing her by the shoulders and taking off.
Sophia gasped at the sight of the Vulture flying off with the girl, and took a few steps up, gritting her teeth as she did so. They had-…those JERKS!
"Bring her back down this instant!" Sophia growled, running up towards the retreating Electro, earning the energy-man's attention. The villain glared at her and charged up his hand. "Ain't gonna happen, girlie" He crooned, showing her his electricity and taking a step in advance, making her step back. "Those girls have nothing to do with yo-…wait…I know you! You're that chick that defended Spiderman at Time Square!" He growled, not noticing that he had earned the attention of Peter Parker, who was among the crowd.
"Nice to see you again too, jerk…" Sophia muttered, also unaware of the attention they snagged. The girl clenched her fists and got into a defensive position, making the villain growl.
"Why you little—"
"Electro. Don't bother with her" Master Planner's voice came from his com, sounding strict. "The package is en route. Report back to base."
"Yeah…got it." Electro looked back up, then zapped Sophia's feet, causing her to land on her back and yelp in the process.
As she stumbled, Electro retreated into a van driven by Tinkerer and they sped away. Sophia scrambled to her feet and ran after the van for a moment, but it was futile. Stopping in the sidewalk, the girl growled…and then paused. Noticing that it looked like Spiderman was now swinging through Manhattan, after the same vehicle. Sophia watched the hero pursue…and contemplated Electro's words.
Those…girls? Hadn't they only captured one? What did he—
….Simone!
***SC***
"Master planner" Vulture greeted pleasantly as he landed gracefully on the ground of the lab. "Our guest has arrived. And she's kindly lent us her phone."
Simone watched from above, as she checked over the girl who had recently been dropped into the same cage. The dear was unconscious, but slowly recovering. Simone frowned and gently rubbed the girl's back to increase blood circulation. What on EARTH would Otto want with a regular teenager? Hadn't he done enough damage already? Trying to destroy Spiderman, Destroying his own personal life for power gain…tearing her cousin's heart in two. WHAT did he possibly have to gain from all of this?
This was low…this was so low…
"It seems you need help keeping track of your daughter, Captain Stacy." The distorted voice of the Master Planner came to her ears, and the mute girl glanced downwards, seeing Vulture swooping up and latching to the cage. Simone gasped lightly at the motion, but her nervous demeanor melted into a stressed, yet determined air.
Vulture only smirked at her in reply. "You would be wise to stay out of all this, Flying Fox. I'm sure you wouldn't want anything to happen to this nice young lady, would you?"
Simone gritted her teeth lightly, only glaring at the Vulture. So this was how it all ended between Otto and her family…she couldn't accept that! She shifted when the older man held out a cell phone closer to the girls.
"How did you get Gwen's phone!?" An enraged man demanded on the line.
"Oh call me Master Planner. As for the phone, why from Miss Stacy of course." Master Planner's voice came from the line as well.
"Gwen! Where is she?" the man on the other line barked, causing the girl beside Simone to stir.
"…mm….Dad?" Gwen groaned and looked up, adjusting her glasses so she could see better…however the first thing she saw was the last thing she expected. Vulture was hanging against the bars, a smirk on his face and Gwen's phone in his hand. To her right was a young girl who was also trapped, looking at her in concern. Gwen gasped upon realizing just WHERE she was and promptly tried to swipe for her phone. "Dad! Dad Dad Dad, help me!" She didn't get to continue, because Vulture promptly swiped the phone away and held it out of her reach.
Simone gritted her teeth at the motion…and quickly tried to reach for the phone as well, only causing the Vulture to fly down to the ground and land on his feet, holding the phone up tauntingly. Both girls watched the villain, before looking towards each other, a tense feeling in the air.
"What's going on? Where are we? Who are you? Why are we here? What do they want?" Gwen suddenly poured out, looking towards the mute girl in panic. Simone winced at the torrent of questions that was flowing out of the girl's mouth…and at the inability for her to answer all of those questions. The girl only gave the girl a hopeless look, before looking back down towards the Vulture, who was getting closer to the main hanger where Dr. Octopus was.
All of those were good questions, for this girl any way.
Simone looked back towards Gwen and made a few signs with her hands…to which the younger girl only stared blankly back. "I-…I can't understand sign language…Are you deaf? Can you hear me?"
Simone paused at the sudden lack of communication that she had. Oh great. Not only was she incapable of speech, she was unable to communicate with this young girl. Man, sometimes it really sucked to be mute. Normally having her cell phone would help, but as luck would have it, her device was in the hands of Dr. Octopus at the moment. Oh this was turning out to be a lovely day wasn't it?
***SM***
Spiderman quickly swung through the streets, his eyes narrowed and his determination through the roof. Of all the low tricks that the 'Master Planner' could pull, this topped them all. Sure he had been distracted by so many things; but putting Gwen in danger was the very LAST straw for him.
It was bad enough that Venom had taken an interest in Gwen during Thanksgiving; Now Gwen was being targeted during New Year's Eve?
What did the world have against him anyways? How did this 'Master Planner' even KNOW that he cared about her? What if the Master Planner WAS Venom?...No…there was no way that Eddie would have the patience and knowledge to set up something like this.
Spiderman landed near a building close to the water and looked over it. The building was exactly where it was reported to be. Thanks to his little interrogation trick with Tinkerer, the man had spilled everything he knew about how to find Gwen. Too bad he didn't keep him around to make him tell how exactly to get IN…
However he did mention an underwater entrance…Narrowing his eyes, the hero ran and dove in the water, unaware he was being followed.
***MPL***
"Why do you need this guy, Doc? With your brain you can hack into anyplace."
"I appreciate the vote of confidence, but the codes are kept in an isolated system." Dr. Octopus glanced in Electro's direction, a smug smirk on his face. "I have no means of access without his help." The scientist looked back towards the monitors and smirked…since Captain Stacy was so concerned about the safety of his daughter, he would make the perfect puppet.
And no doubt, Simone wouldn't use her bat screech with Gwen Stacy right next to her. His master plan would be a success, he could feel it.
Dr. Octopus paused when he saw movement on one of his screens. In popped Spiderman through the underwater entrance. No doubt Tinkerer had informed the hero of the whereabouts of the lab.
"I'm somewhat occupied at the moment." Octopus growled, glancing in Electro's direction, who clenched his fists in reply.
"I'm on it!"
Electro was quick to turn and speed out, leaving Dr. Octopus to continue manipulating the Police captain.
Gwen and Simone looked around the room, trying to find out if there was some way to escape from this cage. Gwen noticed the layout of the room and tried to determine their chances. Since there were suspended in midair, there was no way that they could just JUMP out into the open, even if they did manage to open the bars.
Gwen pursed her lips…and then looked in Simone's direction, who looked stressed. "Hey…is there any way you could fly us down?" she asked, making the mute girl look over. "Vulture said…you are the Flying Fox…aren't you?"
Simone made a face and started to turn in Gwen's direction.
"Well if she's the Flying Fox, then I SO have blackmail opportunities."
Both girls looked over towards the sound, only to see Spiderman hanging upside down over the cage. "Don't worry girls; I'll have you out soon!"
Before he could get the chance, he heard the sound of crackling energy below him.
"You're finished, Spiderman!" Electro snarled, hurling an electric current in the direction of the group, causing Spiderman to quickly jump away…and the girls to get shocked into unconsciousness.
"NO!" Spiderman quickly jumped upwards in an attempt to strike back at the electric menace; however, he only found himself SLAMMED into one of the many machines that was lacing the area. The weight of his body being hit into the technology caused major damage to it, resulting in some of the computers in the Master Planner's control room to go haywire.
"Electro" Master Planner's distorted voice came over the com firmly. "Take this conflict elsewhere!"
Electro paused and looked to the side sheepishly. "Uh…sure thing MP…"
Spiderman glanced upwards, narrowing his eyes thoughtfully. Apparently the damage to the tech around him had upset this 'Master Planner' guy. Quickly, the hero spun around and landed next to one of the machinery. Hopefully he could get the creep REALLY ticked.
"Whoa Max! Don't tell me you're afraid of a second-rate schemer with a funny voice?"
"First, I'm not scared of nothing!"
ZAP!
"Second, Master Planner ain't second rate nothing!"
CRASH!
"And THIRD! Don't call me MAX, Or I'll FRY YOU INTO NOTHING!"
Spiderman continued to jump on and off of the different machines around him, dodging Electro's attacks, but causing major damage to the circuitry around him. Many of the machines were on fire, and lots of them were crackling with over volted electricity. Some explosions caused structure damage to the building…allowing water to start gushing in.
Dr. Octopus winced sharply at the sudden jump of signals that his server was trying to continue to route, and quickly took his attention off of Captain Stacy and the rest of the monitors, his full attention on the monitor that held Spiderman and Electro fighting. DANGIT! They couldn't keep fighting in there; or his tech would be burnt to a crisp! This plan wouldn't work without all the instruments that held it all together. "ELECTRO! STAND DOWN!" He yelled into the distorted microphone.
It didn't help one bit, because Electro was too tied up by rage against the spider-freak. Octopus growled and continued to watch; unaware that one of his screens that he was no longer paying attention to was showing a new arrival in the underwater entrance room…which promptly climbed in and ran to one of the halls.
"Max! Maxie! Maximilian! Maximum!"
Dr. Octopus growled as he witnessed Electro being taunted by the hero…only to be knocked unconscious by his own power. Pursing his lips, the scientist thought quickly. He would have to settle this personally…but first. Turning his attention back towards the main computers, he made sure Captain Stacy was still cooperating with his plan. He thought he saw movement in one of his screens, but as soon as he looked at it, there was nothing. Gritting his teeth, the scientist moved to give the Police Captain more instructions…only to hear a loud explosion and quickly looked out the main hanger, seeing that his main defenses were now offline and Spiderman was moving to rescue the two girls. Water was gushing into the hanger faster now, which meant he was going to have to make a move…NOW.
"grr….If you want something done right…"
Spiderman caught Gwen in Mid-air after the explosion and landed close to the cage that both she and the other girl were in. The other girl was still knocked out thanks to Electro's blast, which was upsetting. If she really WAS the Flying Fox, then she'd have means to save herself…if she was conscious. How could he get BOTH of the girls to safety?
His musings were interrupted when a mechanical arm hit him Square in the face, and then SLAMMED him to the wet surface of the crippled layer. OK…so now he knew who the Master Planner was…
"Ungh…I thought the arms race was over." Spiderman groaned, trying to stand.
"Oh I've still got a few up my sleeves." Dr. Octopus crooned as he arrived, swiftly attacking his enemy with his free arms, and catching Gwen Stacy with another arm. Spiderman found himself quickly ducking and swinging through the air to get away from Dr. Octopus' arms. However, the scientist quickly stood on his own feet, allowing him to attack the arachnid more rapidly with his other mechanical arms.
One of the arms managed to get high enough to disturb the cage that Simone was still residing, causing the rattling to open the latch, and the unconscious girl went falling out.
Spiderman was quick to react, swinging away from Octopus and catching the girl in one arm, swinging upon a ledge and setting her against the wall. "Foxy! Come on! Wake up!" The hero got no response, causing him to groan. This so was not good…UNGH!
The hero found himself so tied up trying to wake up the girl, that it gave Dr. Octopus an opportunity to SLAMM his arms into Spidey; pinning him against the wall with two of his mechanical arms, and positioning on for a final strike.
…SNAP!...
"ARGH!" Dr. Octopus lurched forward as a wave of energy slammed against his back, causing him to stumble, letting go of both Spiderman and Gwen. Spiderman quickly gained his bearings and swung upwards, catching Gwen in his arms. He landed safely and looked back over…surprised by what he saw.
Dr. Octopus allowed himself to steady, before he quickly turned, upon hearing a swooping sound. He looked up, only to be PUNCHED in the face, causing him to stumble and fall on his back into the frigid waters. Dr. Octopus groaned and shook his head, trying to regain his bearings.
"…I headed your warning, Octopus…but you broke your own deal…"
Dr. Octopus' eyes snapped open at the sound of the voice, and the villain quickly sat up on his hands, gawking at the sight.
Flying Fox stood before him, fists clenched and wings folded behind her back. In her right hand was her energy whip, looking ready for round 2. Her eyes narrowed when she saw the look of pure shock on Octopus' face, as he slowly stood.
"But—you—! I—!" The scientist quickly looked upwards, taking note that Simone was indeed still out cold where Spiderman had placed her…and then looked back towards the angry Flying Fox. The stance she was in…her light brown eyes flashing behind her mask…left hand bandaged… The villain's mouth went agape as it hit him like a ton of bricks.
"Sophia!"
There was no real time for any other conversation or comebacks, because the sound of straining metal filled the room, causing all to look up. Water continued to pour into the room and it looked like it was starting to flow faster. Flying Fox grimaced at the sight, and quickly turned, eager to grab Simone and get her OUT of the drowning building.
As soon as she spread her wings, one of Dr. Octopus' arms shot over, wrapping tightly around her body and THROWING her across the room.
NO! Don't hurt her!
She's IN my WAY, you idiot!
We threatened her cousin! She's just-
The scientist looked up from his argument with himself, and found himself being kicked by a swinging Spiderman. The motion made Dr. Octopus snap out of it and snarl, quick to start rotating his arms and swinging for Spiderman. The hit made contact, sending the hero SLAMMING into the Flying Fox, sending them both a ways back and SPLASH into the water.
"You know this makes the THIRD time that you've slammed into me." Flying Fox growled lowly, looking up at the hero and frowning. "Kindly get your tail OFF, and then find time to SHOWER!"
"Look around Foxy, I'm taking a bath as we speak!" Spiderman quipped back, jumping onto his feet and glancing back towards the bat-girl to make sure that she got up.
"The NAME is Flying Fox." The girl shot back, looking in Dr. Octopus' direction and wincing at the sight. The villain had a young girl in one of his mechanical arms, and the rest of them looked ready for another strike. Flying Fox quickly glanced upwards; good. Simone was still on the ledge, far away from the gushing water. "Any ideas that doesn't involve hurting him?" Flying Fox muttered lowly, taking a few steps back and getting her energy whip ready.
"Not really."
"So be it."
Both of the hero's quickly jumped to the side as the mechanical arms came straight for them. Spiderman quickly ran across the walls, glancing backwards towards Dr. Octopus…who seemed more interested in fighting him rather than the Flying Fox. It didn't stop one of his arms from taking a swing at her, which she promptly dodged. This resulted in his arm quickly latching to her ankle, causing her to fall SPLASH into the water. Taking the opportunity, the mechanical arm wrapped itself around her tightly like a snake to its prey and held her upwards.
"AH! OTTO! OTTO STOP!" Flying Fox yelled…which only made the arm's grip tighter. "AHH! OTTO!"
Dr. Octopus grunted, his eyes narrowing dangerously as he tried to juggle aiming his arms at Spiderman…and fought with himself at the same time. He could FEEL the fight inside of him; and it was driving him mad.
Let her go! You're hurting her!
If I let her go; she will ASSIST Spiderman!
You can't do this to her! She's not a part of this!
She is NOW! SHE is the Flying Fox! One of the MANY snares to our plans!
I-…I-!...There must be a reason-
SHUT UP WEAKLING!
Dr. Octopus let off a scream and swiped his mechanical arms towards Spiderman…only to miss and hit the machinery routing the signals to his own brain. The scientist gasped as a wave of information came CRASHING into his brain…causing him to overload. Without that server to route the signals…it was too much for him to handle! Dr. Octopus' arms went limp as he fought with himself to keep stable, letting Gwen and Flying Fox fall. Gwen was quickly caught by Spiderman, who swung to safety, while Flying Fox was quick to spread her wings and fly to higher ground, landing on a higher platform and tucking in her wings quickly, cradling her left hand to her chest.
OH…That. Hurt…
Flying Fox quickly looked to the side upon watching Dr. Octopus destroy the connection to his own machine. The signals were shut down, allowing him to function properly once more. The bat-girl narrowed her eyes and looked pained. How could he DO such a thing to himself…to others? Didn't he understand how complex machinery could affect him? Flying Fox paused, watching the scientist slowly retreat towards the opposite ledge. "Otto!"
The Doctor stopped…and slowly glanced towards Spiderman and Flying Fox. "…Congratulations both of you" He muttered, sounding like he was in physical pain. "My lair…My Master Plan…all ruined."
"Thanks. I specialize in foiling." Spiderman quipped, slowly standing, holding Gwen in his arms. Flying Fox said nothing, but she leaned against the railing, looking towards Dr. Octopus in concern…and then quickly looking around for Simone. She…HAD been on one of these ledges.
"Only one option remains" Dr. Octopus muttered slowly, turning to face the emergency exits. As he did so, one of his mechanical arms reached out, wrapping itself around the unconscious Simone and bringing her to him. Another mechanical arm inserted itself into a special latch…and turned, activating the self-destruct in the building.
The alarms started blaring, causing Flying Fox to quickly look around her, noticing the patterns of the technology. Self-destruct…Self-destruct…Self-destruct. With a quick gasp, she perched herself on the railing, her gaze resting on Dr. Octopus as he climbed into an escape pod, Simone en-tow. Her eyes went wide. "OTTO NO!"
"Farewell Spiderman." The scientist muttered, before looking towards Flying Fox, who quickly spread her wings and dove for him. "…Farewell Sophia…"
"OTTO!"
Flying Fox didn't get to the pod in time, for it quickly closed and jettisoned away from the doomed building. She pounded on the door a few times in frustration, and looked up, knowing well that the pod was already at a safe distance…but knowing that her cousin was …
"Simone!"
Flying Fox growled and quickly looked around her, before spotting an opening to a second escape pod. Quickly, the bat-girl ran for it, sliding into the cockpit and quickly typing into the consul. Yup, this was defiantly the work of Otto Octavius alright. The layout and the mechanics were defiantly his style. Flying Fox looked upwards out the window of the pod. If she hurried, she would be able to catch up to him and hopefully rescue her cousin!
"I HOPE you know how to pilot this thing."
Flying Fox gasped and turned, noting Spiderman limping in, with a now conscious Gwen slowly approaching the pod. The bat-girl pursed her lips and then quickly nodded. "I can, I've worked with him before; I know how he works. Just get in, we need to catch him!"
"What about him?" Gwen asked, motioning down towards the left behind Electro, who was still unconscious from the fight.
Flying Fox winced…and quickly looked back out. If they didn't jettison NOW…then they would lose ALL chances of rescuing Simone! The bat-girl growled, knowing that with each second that she wasted, SOMETHING would be lost.
The girl let out a frustrated growl, and then quickly turned, spreading her wings and jumping off the ledge and diving for the out-cold villain. Once she got close to him, she had to plan her next move carefully…he was still powered up; so getting him INTO the water would be a huge, NO. Letting off a huff, the girl quickly kicked him into the air, and then caught him by the arms as he was air-born. Flying Fox let off a stifled grunt as she held the villain in her arms and flew back up towards the escape pod and the two waiting on her. MAN this guy was heavy.
Once she got to the pod, she threw Electro down on the floor and panted, letting herself land and tuck in her wings. "Don't touch him…he's still juiced."
"Wait, HOW did he not shock you?" Spiderman asked, sitting in one of the seats and holding his arm in pain. Flying Fox frowned and quickly assumed the driver's seat, pressing the release button and allowing the pod to jettison away from the underwater building. "I wasn't grounded. I was my own insulator." She replied, narrowing her eyes as the pod quickly made it away from the exploding building.
***MH***
"Unngghh…" Spiderman held his arm as he watched the Police below gather Gwen to safety and take Electro into guarded custody. It hadn't taken long for Captain Stacy to respond to the call that Gwen had made to him, claiming that he and Flying Fox had saved her…but now there was a matter of…
Spiderman paused and quickly shot a web at Flying Fox's back, seeing that she was fixing to fly off the roof of the building they were both perched on.
"What, no goodbye? No Happy New Year? No Good Job?" Spiderman asked, letting his web go and putting his hands in a shrugging motion. "Didn't know ALL bats were dark and mysterious."
Flying Fox looked towards Spiderman and frowned, tucking in her wings and facing him. Her expression didn't lighten…if anything it got colder. "There is no 'good job' in this. Yes, the young girl is safe; but I failed to get the other one." The girl clenched her fists and looked towards the horizon, her eyes narrowing in stress. "I can't possibly forgive myself if Otto dose anything to her."
"You know, you seem to know a LOT about Doc Ock" Spiderman took a step up, putting his hands on his waist. "Know why he was after Gwen in the first place?"
"Listen, Just because I worked with him at one time, doesn't mean I know what he's up to" Flying Fox looked back towards Spiderman, frowning. "All I know is that Dr. Octopus stopped being the Otto Octavius that I knew and lo-…" She paused suddenly, a look of pain on her face…before she turned her back on Spiderman and crossed her arms. "To answer your question; NO I don't know what he wanted."
Spiderman was silent for all of two seconds, before he took a few more steps up, a hand in the air. "Listen, Foxy; I don't blame you for what happened."
"First of all; I told you, its FLYING Fox…and second…I do blame myself." Flying Fox sagged and a look of hopelessness came to her. "This is all my fault."
"Last time I checked, you weren't the one who turned into a deranged idiot and just attacked the city with his madness." Spiderman paused and continued. "Besides…if you're really worried about him we could always…team up?"
Flying Fox gasped at the statement…and quickly turned, prodding Spiderman in the chest. "Listen Spiderman! You're young, I understand that; but Otto is NOT an idiot! Second, I have my own problems! I need to get my cousin back; and I am NOT going to team up with an immature boy who thinks he knows the first thing about heroics!"
"Of course I do!" Spiderman snapped back, waving an arm in the air. "I was told 'With great power comes great responsibility'"
"Whoever told you that was EXTREAMLY wise" Flying Fox replied, narrowing her eyes. "But you don't seem to be following it. Do you realize WHAT you're doing?! You just labeled Octavius without even THINKING of what he may be going through!" The bat-girl huffed and turned her back on Spiderman. "I've told you before…I respect and value you Spiderman…but I do NOT trust you."
Spiderman paused and winced. "But- I didn't—"
"And keep in mind" Flying Fox glanced back towards the hero. "Bats EAT Spiders." With that much said, the girl spread her wings and jumped off the building, flying off away from Manhattan Island, leaving Spiderman looking spooked.
***SW***
Dr. Octopus crossed his arms, watching the video feed from Time Square as the ball begin it's decent. To his left was Vulture, who looked equally as disappointed of the failed scheme that they had spent a month planning. Behind them was an armored car that contained Simone, who was huddled in the corner, hesitantly eating the small meal that they had provided her.
Vulture made a low 'hmm' sound…before crossing his arms and looking towards Dr. Octopus. "What do we do now, Otto? Surely you planned some sort of failsafe?"
Dr. Octopus glanced towards Vulture, but looked back towards the screen, placing his arms behind his back. He could feel a fight rising inside of him…Otto Octavius vs Dr. Octopus. The only time that happened was when it came to Sophia Vincent. Every other time it was flawless planning; Performing, Implementing, Executing…
…executing…
Dr. Octopus' eyes narrowed…and his gaze turned dark. "…I have indeed…tend to our guest…make sure she's well fed…"
Vulture looked confused for a moment…before he nodded and headed back for the armored vehicle, leaving Octopus watching the ball drop for the New Years alone.
The villain pursed his lips and his eyes narrowed darkly. Spiderman was in league with the Flying Fox…Said Flying Fox was none other than Sophia Vincent, the girl that Otto Octavius loved. Every time Sophia was near him, something went wrong; something was foiled...and he could never control himself properly. She was a snare…a problem.
NO! DON'T! OH PLEASE NO!
"…Sophia Vincent…must be destroyed." Dr. Octopus muttered to himself, watching the fireworks light up the night sky.