An Arachnids Adventure
Chapter - 8 - Changes
Oscorp Building - 20 Minutes Prior to Peter's Bite
Norman Osborn, Billionaire, Weapons Manufacturer, Technological Innovator, Brilliant Scientist, Widowed Father, all of these were but some of the many titles he carries.
Stormin' Norman could currently be seen walking through a technological marvel of a hallway at present, it's walls covered in sleek high definition monitor screens built into the walls, each displaying a feed, reading many different assortments of information.
To his immediate left there was a four-foot-tall and six-foot-long screen, on the left side of the screen could be seen a self-scrolling log of text, scrolling at a somewhat moderate pace, enabling anyone person to be able to read it in its entirety, it was a report of sorts, detailing someones most recent logs and discoveries, towards the end of the report were the words.
[Subject Name : Aleksei Systevich. Illegal Immigrant, Escaped Fugitive in home country, no known living family members, unlikely for anyone to come looking for him. - "The subject has been extremely responsive to recent stimuli, his bloodstream seems only slightly affected and irradiated, well within levels sustainable by the serum's self-preservation mechanism, however, if he were to ever go more than a few days without his recommended dosage, the subject's body would begin to deteriorate at a moderate pace. It seems this is an interesting and effective motivator. The subject seems to fear the potential end that might come his way. This has made the subject exceedingly agreeable and quite forthcoming in recent time. Thus, making recent work much easier than prior, whether with regards to this subject or those of prior failures. Due to recent Progress, we have been able to move forward with our pre-planned experiments. Whether due to the subject's intense desire for life and the prolonged desire to continue to survive regardless of the current circumstances or whether it is because we have made true progress, this has enabled us to go farther than ever before, we request permission to move forward with the prototype bio-mechanical limb and torso implants i.e Project : TITAN.]
At the very bottom of the screen was a stamp mark, displaying the words "Approved".
On the right side of the screen was a seemingly live feed of an operation room, a multitude of men and woman dressed in scrubs and face masks, seemingly concealing their faces and in turn identities, these people were surrounding a gurney with an immensely large man present on the table. The room the feed was displaying looked to be an operating room of sorts, though there was a variety of state of the art and even some 'futuristic' looking equipment, the room itself looked to be somewhat lacking, not in anything like decor, but it seemed somewhat dreary, the wall appeared to be adorned in a many-layered metal plating, the lights looked to be temporary and somewhat incongruous, out of place even, almost looking to be construction lamps.
Norman took but a quick glance at the wall-screen and then moved on with a slight smile on his face, it seemed he was moving with a purpose in mind and was in no mood to waste time looking back at anything else, though he was moving at a leisurely pace.
Norman's thoughts began to wonder, thinking back on his recent meeting with the tour group, and more specifically his son, especially his sons' deplorable performance, when speaking with that sycophant of a professor. Though Norman was loathed to admit it, it was true that the cretin of a man was in fact quite influential on the school board and the scholastic system itself in the state of New York.
Norman originally 'hoped' his disappointment of a son would have been able to make a good impression on him and in turn possibly make his future enrollment an easier flowing process. For whatever reason that he himself could not fathom, his son Harry had come up with the idea that he wished to enroll in a public school for his high school years, the very idea truly brought a frown upon Normans face everytime he thought of it, but it seemed his son had made up his mind.
"Curse this foolish mouth of mine...*sigh*.."
Norman began to think back on when his son had somehow gathered the courage to stand up to him, look him in the eyes and propose a deal of sorts, stating his wishes and then proposing a few incentives practically forcing Norman's hand.
Harry's Wishes? To attend a public school for his high-school years, the first time Norman heard this he felt both his heart and mind adamantly refuse this request.
There was simply no way in hell or back that 'HIS' son would be going to a public school. But seeing this was the first time his son had had the courage to make a stand he held back his outburst and listened on.
The more Norman heard and saw, the more he saw 'her' in him, thus the weaker his potential refusal became until finally he simply couldn't imagine refusing him.
Besides the point, Harry brought up a few good points himself, the fact that a well-to-do family's son disregarded his wealth for a few moments among the rabble would look quite good in the papers! Even the school he was looking towards entering wasn't any worse off in reputation to most private academies.
Midtown High School, it may not sound like much, however, the truth of the matter, was that the school had quite the illustrious history, both academic and athletic.
Truth be told with Harry' grades, to make that sort of jump would be difficult after all, Norman and Harry simply didn't live in that district.
To think that 'that' moment was the first in years since his wives passing that his son had truly looked him in the eyes and made his voice and more importantly his opinion known.
That moment had brought a smile on his face, seeing his normally lazy son speak up in such a business-savvy manner truly reaffirmed something in his mind. 'He's most definitely my son…'
Not that Norman had any doubts about his wife's loyalty, but the fact remained that his son truly took after 'her', whether it be his gentle demeanor, his somewhat lazy actions, or his moments of firm action. They resembled 'her' so very much…
For the first time on his little 'warpath' of a walk down this hallway, Norman stopped. He opened his suit jacket and reached for his inner pocket, in time he pulled out a tiny little golden and ornately engraved heart-shaped locket, and at the split of the heart, near the rounded top was a broken chain length, spanning a few inches, hanging off of the locket and resting on Normans knuckles.
"Emily...soon, soon our son will take his rightful place….soon he will be strong...and he WILL beat whatever took you away from us….soon he will do amazing things...after all, whatever he may be like now, I'm sure he'll grow out of it….after all, he's our son...my son…"
Norman's face once a gentle and fond look of remembrance as he looked upon the locket, began to turn rigid and taciturn and by the end of his spiel his face had morphed into a crooked smile, bordering on a smirk, his eyes, however, remained the same. More than likely due to his years of hiding his true emotions, Norman's eyes never really changed to convey emotion, they always looked...like they were smiling.
Before long Norman fell out of his reverie, put away his cherished possession and began his march anew.
After passing more than 7 different screens each displaying a different assortment of information, all of differing in-humane 'projects', each with their own significant points of research, for example the first screen he passed had a very real and effective use in military contracts, though none were quite as advanced as the first project, as well as the one Norman, had stopped in front of.
Norman looked to the screen in front of himself, reading through the information at a breakneck speed.
[Subject Name : William Baker (former), Current Name : Flint Marko, Escaped Fugitive, once a U.S. Citizen, Only one known family member, daughter, Ex-Wife is the current guardian of the child. Flint split from his wife due to impending prison time, seemingly one-sided, Wife still carries feelings and has not remarried. Unlikely to have anyone come looking for him. - "Amazing, The Subject has responded exceedingly well to all forms of genetic splicing, however, only respond's to an injection of earthly substances, this has given us ground for research on a multitude of levels, we originally grabbed Marko for a few key reasons, his former athletic career as a football player, as well as his fortitude as an underground boxer, the second reason was his abnormally responsive immune system, a medical marvel by all accounts, however, due to his previous 'circumstances' and as an inmate in prison, most scientists who heard of it turned away, the cowards. If they had looked into his record they would know he was booked for 'armed' robbery with an unloaded revolver. The subject is currently under the impression that should he survive his current experiments he would be able to return to his family a 'free' man, a promised new identity, little does the fool know we'll never let such a fine specimen go."]
Towards the bottom of the scrolling file was a formal request.
[We hereby request permission to begin Project : GAIA, with our current results we have no small amount of confidence that things should proceed well! However, due to the subject's insistence, we would like to begin with smaller particle assimilation, the subject has recommended sand for some reason. Due to the current ruse of a continued partnership, we saw no reason to refuse as well as the fact that sand was already on the list of potential beginning samples.]
At the very bottom of the page was an electronic stamping displaying approved.
Norman smiled and raised his hand to the screen, after touching the screen with his hand, a ray of light scanned his palm.
A few seconds later the entire screen in front of him slowly began lifting up revealing a doorway and a staircase leading down.
Before Norman could get down the stairs his phone rang.
Seeing who it was Norman frowned.
"What is that incompetent girl doing now?"
Sighing in exasperation Norman answered the phone with a gruff tone of voice.
"Samantha, what is it…?"
"M-Mr. O-osborn...there's been an accident…"
Norman hearing the stuttering and fearful tone of his assistant knew something had to be wrong, with an inner exasperated sigh, Norman's tone of voice toughened up a bit and responded.
"Is my son well?"
"Yes, sir, Young Harry is currently by my side…"
"Explain Then!"
Norman hearing of the events and happenings thought back to the boy who had left so deep an impression on him, a rarity even amongst those he deemed truly intelligent, even most of his subordinates or business partners didn't drum up enough interest within Norman's mind as that boy.
For two reasons mainly, one his young age and spry mind, being able to calmly rebuff himself, an old fox who has been in the business scene for years and knew how to handle a conversation. This is something most fully grown men can't do, and yet, he a 'child' the same age as his son was able to do so, let alone his obvious genius, otherwise, how would he have been able to join that tour group at such a young age.
Two, the simple fact that he's already been grasped by those fanatics over at the Baxter Building, this alone is reason enough to give Norman pause, even though he was said to be Susan Storm's protege instead of Richards, Norman knew best that in a place that fostered the betterment of science, it wouldn't take long for Richards to notice Peter. That and the fact that Susan Storm was a woman that no one should take lightly. Norman knew what kind of person Susan was, a true wolf in sheep's clothing, at least in terms of business.
The fact that Susan was content to keep the majority of her genius secret, whilst handling all business matters behind the scenes proved how sharp and possibly conniving she could be. In fact, if it weren't for that accursed old fool and his daughter, the Baxter Building would have already toppled over, Norman himself no doubt would have been the first to make an attempt, after all, there truly were a few keen minds in the Baxter Foundations reserves.
Before long Samantha had finished up her report, and with this new knowledge, Norman knew he would have to make an appearance, especially considering the fact that the young Peter had not yet awoken. If those 'crazies' at the Baxter Building caught wind of the situation, this situation may not end up well for him...especially that vixen, she might just fan the flames in an attempt to curb the current Oscorp Corporation's power. After all, whoever said any publicity is good publicity was an idiot.
This truly frustrated Norman for he wished to be present when Project : GAIA went live.
"Put my son on the phone Immediately, you useless shrew!"
Hearing his son's voice brought some clarity to Norman's mind, however, it wasn't enough to completely change his current mood, and as such he was about to begin a lecture. Before he could, however, he heard Harry say there had been a change of sorts in the situation and he then heard an abrupt dial tone…..his son had hung up on him….oh that boy...he truly was his son.
Norman sighed and did his best to hide his emotions before continuing down the stairway, after a few moments of darkness, a light began to creep its way onto the stairs.
Norman walked into a fully metallic room of sorts, looking to be sterilized to the maximum, further within the room, were an assortment of machines and computers, all state of the art and looking to be brand new. In front of these machines were a group of six men and woman in white 'cloaks' or perhaps more accurately speaking 'coats'. Similar to what you would see a doctor wear within a hospital whilst on duty.
The group of people all looked towards Norman and then continued their work, seemingly uninterested in this 'boss' of theirs, as if the only thing of interest to them was their work.
All but one of the 'scientists' or 'doctors' present began their work anew, this one who stayed standing and looking at Norman was wearing a badge or a pass of sorts clipped to his jacket over the right side of his chest, on the pass read the name Miles Warren. Miles looked to be as white as a sheet, around 30-35 years of age, however, he looked to be quite older more than likely due to stress related to overworking. His face had quite the bushy mustache colored a dirty blond, his cheeks covered in a few weeks of stubble, almost making his face look to be covered in a beard. His hair the same dirty blond as his mustache, straight and greasy and his hairline already seemed to be receding. On his nose overlaying his eyes was a pair of thick black glasses square in shape with large lenses.
This 'Miles' began to walk towards Norman with an almost unbecoming smile adorned his face. Wasting not a second more of his time, he opened his mouth.
"Mr. Osborn so glad you could make it, we were going to begin project Gaia soon, things have already been prepped and we are only a few minutes away from starting things up."
Norman hearing this sighed and said.
"I'm sorry, Warren, but I won't be able to watch project Gaia in full, there's been an event upstairs, unfortunately, I must make an appearance."
Miles hearing this was slightly disappointed that Norman wouldn't be there to see the project come into fruition, after all, if Norman saw things heading in a decent direction he might just decide to increase funds for their department, however, not even that could stop his wonderous mood as of late.
"I see, that's unfortunate indeed, so if you don't mind me asking, why are you here?"
"I've just come to congratulate you all before heading back up. I originally came with the intention to watch things progress but now that's an impossibility."
"I see, in that case, I on behalf of everyone on the team would like to extend our deepest gratitude." Finished with his thanks Miles looked towards his surroundings and saw not a single other person in the room paying the conversation any mind. Seeing this Miles let out an embarrassed cough and said. "Do forgive them they've been on the clock for almost 72 hours, with intermittent breaks, of course, they have about zero energy for anything other than work at the moment…"
"Haha, worry not, I hired them all because they were the best at what they do, not for their manners."
Hearing this, put Miles at ease and he began to send Norman out, unaware of Norman's true thoughts on the matter, he smiled his way to the stairs and saw him off.
Once Norman was out of sight and hearing shot, Miles 'smile' faded and grew into a scowl.
"Decrepit old fool, does he really think he can fool me? He came here to check and see if his oh, so precious project was working according to order."
Miles began to go further and further into his own thought's until a certain voice called out.
"Boss?" The voice came from one of the few female scientist's present.
Hearing this voice brought Miles out of his revelry, his scowl disappeared and his former look of resembling a pleasant conversationalist and an almost subservient smile bloomed once more.
"Yes? What is it, Dr. Strommel?"
"Is everything alright? We somewhat overheard the conversation? Will the current circumstances upstairs interfere with the oncoming project?"
The woman referred to as Dr. Strommel, looked to be somewhat respectful in front of Miles, almost looking fearful, whether of Miles himself or the possibility of the project stalling or maybe even both...no one knew…
Miles looked at his surroundings and noticed the people who once, paid not even the slightest attention earlier, were all looking at him in concern.
Miles thought to himself that these hypocritical, vile, rodents were truly ridiculous. The moment they hear of a potential issue with their oh, so precious project they all snap to attention, not even considering there earlier actions to be shameful.
Though Miles truly did despise these shameless people it remained that his facade did not crumble, not even in the slightest. His smile, seemingly ever-present, opened up to 'comfort' their worries.
"Don't worry, all is well, we may proceed as planned, in fact, since we'll be having no observers, we have no reason to overdo on the appearance of the project, after all, if no ones watching why make it pretty? We should just move on ahead right now!"
The group hearing his words all had their eyes gleam in a light resembling a sinister glow, similar to a pervert about to claim it's conquest.
After a few minutes of re-checking if their calculations were correct and checking if the machines administering the operation were in working order.
All was in order and Miles as the head of the project walked forward towards a microphone setup, in front of a monitor, screening a man lying down on a table surrounded by a group of strange machine's. Not like any normally seen in a hospital, the man was dressed in a hospital gown, he was restrained in place by straps around his wrists and legs, arms at his sides with one large strap surrounding his waist. The man's skin seemed to be somewhat damaged and permanently tanned, though there was no doubt his original skin tone was quite pale. His hair shaven in a buzzcut style similar to what a soldier would have, whether by choice or not. His hair color no doubt a dark drown, however, due to his current hairstyle it appeared lighter than it probably should. His face adorned with many a wrinkle despite his somewhat young age, the man could not even be considered middle-aged, possibly late twenties or early thirties. He appeared emaciated and drawn out.
Miles seeing the situation through the monitor smiled in a very amicable manner, almost as if the man through the screen could see him, it seemed this Miles was a very deceitful person himself, he seemed to be fooling even himself, that the sham of a 'relationship' between the two parties was, in fact, real and true.
But, the truth was, this was just who Miles was, a person who was able to change himself and his thoughts, or at the very least his outer self at the drop of a dime.
"Mr. Marko, are you ready?"
"Hey, Doc...yeah I'm good...do you mind if I say a prayer?"
The man strapped in, responded lethargically, he seemed truly tired...almost completely spent.
Miles hearing his 'patients' request immediately had the intention to scowl, yet he kept his inner emotions hidden and said gently.
"Of course, know that what you're doing now will only benefit future generations, though I myself don't believe in any religion, if there are any God's out there then they will bless you here and now."
Miles knowing how to get into most peoples good graces began a spiel to keep up appearances.
"An atheist, huh, well, most men of science tend to follow that route, so I won't blame you or hate you or your decision. After all, all men and women have been given the free will to make their own decisions and I for one won't be trying to deprive anyone of theirs. Me personally, I grew up Catholic, some habits have stuck over the years, though when I met my wife she somehow managed to make go to a right and proper Christian church..."
Miles hearing all this began to lose control of the tempered patience he had, he reigned himself in and simply let the fool strapped down their continue his 'foolishness'.
The man known as Flint Marko began to get lost in own monologue before catching himself and apologizing.
"Sorry Doc, got lost there for a second… I'll get done soon."
"No worries Marko, take your time."
Flint began a silent prayer to himself, mumbling his words of self-comfort and concern for those he might leave behind. By the end of the prayer, he finally said.
"Alma, Keemia...just a little longer...I'll be home soon."
Miles seeing Marko almost done, began to inform the other staff present to be ready for anything.
"Hey Doc, I'm ready..."
"I understand, we'll begin shortly, do you remember what you are to do?"
"Mhm, let things take their course, regardless of what happens, try to stay awake."
"Exactly, Marko I'm sorry, but the pain you're about to undergo will be heavy, I just hope you understand what's at stake here."
"I got it, Doc, don't worry."
Seeing the look of resolve on Markos' face, Miles smiled in a cruel fashion, as did most of the scientists present, more than likely in anticipation of the coming results whether positive or negative, it would still be a momentous leap for the team. Thinking of the potential data that was at their fingertips the group began to awaken from their somewhat drowsy state.
"Alright team, Begin Project : GAIA!"
The scientists present began to exercise their respective actions, some of them working away at their keyboards, others looking towards their monitor and recording data, some of them even stood up and walked next to Miles and looked at the procedure taking effect whilst recording the data present on the consoles present next to the monitor screening Markos situation.
Down in the operation room, Marko laid on the table looking towards the three large machines in front of him, he himself was only familiar with two of these machines, the last was one he had not seen before.
These machines all possessed one-factor in common, they each had a varying amount of needles present. At this point in time, all three machines began to whirl to life with their hydraulics more than likely powering up. Marko saw these machines begin to move into place next to each other, before long one of the machines he was familiar with took first place in front of him, nearing him in a manner he was somewhat familiar with.
The machine closest to him had one superbly long needle pressing towards Markos restrained body, the needle seemed to have a mind of its own. It began moving towards Markos right upper arm, if one were to be knowledgeable about such things, one would know that it was aiming for the major artery in his arm. The machine not wasting any time pierced his upper arm quite deep, moving directly into his artery, it then injected a certain amber colored liquid, into Marko's vein.
Before long had passed the entire vial had finished being injected, and yet before the needle withdrew, a certain appendage grew from the machine adjacent to the needle, it encased the area surrounding the needle with a foam of sorts, the needle then pulled out. Even though the machine had pierced Markos artery, and the needle had withdrawn there was no blood flow as would normally be expected. If one were to look closely at the puncture area one would notice that the foam that was previously surrounding the wound had now hardened quite quickly.
Though out the entire process Marko himself had a permanent grimace adorning his face. It seemed that this was not the first time Marko had undergone this process.
However the machine was not done with Marko just yet, it almost seemed to enjoy making Marko suffer and it cared not to give him a respite, it carried on with the same process on all of his remaining limbs, one vial of amber liquid after another was injected and emptied out. The slot that fueled the needle with its nectar was constantly rotating, similar in fashion to how a magnum's chamber would revolve with each shot.
Marko once again let out not even a whimper, simply staring up at the ceiling and gritting his teeth. His resolve steely in the face of the pain coming his way.
Up in the computer lab filled with scientists, Miles saw the situations and smiled even more than prior. He spoke up in glee.
"Has all the Earths Nectar been injected?"
The same female scientist from before spoke up whilst staring at her computers monitor.
"Yes sir, the responsive fluid has been injected successfully, with his bodies current acceptability levels, he should just be about at his limit and it should be enough for the latter half of the experiments process."
It seemed that the amber colored liquid was a base catalysis liquid ready to accept and aid Marko in the injection and reception of the broken down sand protons in the latter half of the experiment.
"Perfect, with it, injected into all of his limbs main arteries, the liquid will have spread into his heart by now, continue with the experiment."
Down in the operation room, Marko looked at the machines, feeling that the previous machine had finished its duties, Marko saw that a new machine, another he was familiar with had already approached himself and in front of him.
This machine looked to be quite similar to the previous machine only the vial's in this machine looked to be quite different or rather the liquid within the vial did at the very least. This liquid was dark as ink itself, it appeared much more menacing than that of the previous amber.
In truth, this liquid was, in fact, quite a bit 'thinker' that the previous liquid. Thus it would be a much more painful process when this liquid was injected. Even Marko in all his resolve began to fear the up and coming 'treatment'. Before he could let loose a breath the needle showed no remorse and plunged deep into his upper right arm once more, though in a different position than prior.
As the machine mercilessly punctured and began to let loose it's 'venom' Marko began to scream, his scream seemed almost inhuman, savage and blood curling, a shout vivacious enough to scare even the darkest and most menacing of ghouls.
"EEeeeeeaHAHAAAaaaaAAA"
Marko's once somewhat gruff and tough sounding voice changed pitch like a crooked xylophone being played by a tone-deaf toddler. His screams continued even after the machine had departed the area and began to move towards the next.
All the while, the scientist's observing had not even the slightest change in expression, still cold and still expectant.
The machine cared not for mercy or leniency, it continued its work.
Eventually Marko's screams did stop, not because he did not wish to but because he himself could not, there was simply no air left in his lungs to let loose, even though he himself wished to breathe in and take in air once more his body had entered a state of shock, though he still felt everything.
Only the occasional squeak or squawk escaped his still open mouth.
Whether due to perseverance or some freak accident, Marko managed to remain awake throughout the procedure.
Up in the lab, one of the male scientists there spoke up, not allowing Miles to ask the question present on his lips.
"The irradiated Sand-Proton mixture has been delivered and received."
Another one of the males present in the room spoke up.
"Sir, the chemical reaction has already begun!"
The only other female present took this time to speak up and said.
"The subject's body can only take so much stress, we need to begin the final stage of the experiment!"
Miles hearing the reports coming in smiled and ordered.
"Begin Indra's descent!"
Down below, Marko, despite the severe pain he was in, was nevertheless still conscious though he remained somewhat hazy.
Marko saw the new machine begin its journey toward his battered and devastated body.
Marko's once clear and bright eyes grew dimmer and dimmer until he shook and shivered no longer, he seemed to enter an almost comatose state. His eyes a dull luster and glazed over.
The machine was different in appearance then those from before, while it still had 'needles' this machine had many more than the two prior.
Although the metal prongs resembled needles in truth they were more like, long, thin metal conduits than needles. They were also carried in groups of twelve with a total of 5 groups or patches. One for the torso and one for each limb.
The machine, like those prior, showed no hesitation and moved forward, immediately stabbing into Marko's body.
With no reaction coming from the human below it, the machine sparked to life, sending bursts of electricity into Marko's body intermittently.
Markos body jolted and jumped if it weren't for the restraints holding him in place Marko might have impaled himself on the 'needles'.
Miles called out and asked.
"How are the readings, both the reaction and the electricity?"
"Sir the chemical reaction has been hastened and has reached a stable rate of activation."
One of the scientists responded.
"Sir we're running 50,000 Volts, the Amps at a stable rate of two dozen. Overall Watts well within predicted parameters!"
Hearing this Miles asked once more.
"With the current situation how long would it take for the experiment to reach a successful parameter?"
"Sir, 15 minutes at the most."
Miles paused and thought to himself for a while and then spoke up.
"At the current rate, the subject's body won't last long enough to succeed, Increase voltage to 100,000, decrease the Amp's current to 12."
"Yes, Sir."
Both scientists spoke up in affirmation.
The experiment continued for around 5 minutes before the scientist recording the data present spoke up.
"Sir there's been a change, it seems his body is taking to the protons more successfully than we originally thought! Permission to cease and scan!"
"Permission granted!" Miles was truly happy to hear this, and he gave word quickly.
Down below the machine finally ceased intermittently shocking Marko, the 'needles' soon withdrew from his body.
The machine in front of Marko soon pulled back and then revolved to reveal a singular large needle, before it pierced forward without the slightest delay.
This needle was the largest so far, it pierced directly into Marko's torso.
Up above the scientist who spoke up earlier began speaking in excitement.
"Sir, it's remarkable, the internal scan shows the subject's body has begun to heal—to recover at a remarkable rate!"
Miles hearing this grew unbelievably shocked, after all the field they were currently studying should have had no direct correlation to regeneration or healing factors!
This was completely unprecedented! The possibility never even occurred to the entire project team!
Marko was undergoing immense changes down on the table below, his body began to visibly heal at a remarkable level, his once sun-damaged skin began to clear up, his slightly emaciated form grew thicker and looked to be even healthier than before. The early stage wrinkles adorning his face slowly but surely disappeared.
The group of scientists were now all crowding the monitor Miles was standing in front of prior, each with their own looks of disbelief.
Miles ordered at the top of his lung.
"What are you all doing! Record all of the data you can!"
The group hearing his words awoke from their revelry and ran to their desks like chicken with their heads cut off.
The moment the female who was monitoring Marko's physical condition saw the current reading, she shouted out in horror.
"Sir! The readings' have flatlined, by all rights and purposes he should be dead!"
Miles hearing this panicked and said.
"What?! Are the sure the equipment is still working, it wouldn't be strange for it to malfunction after the recent electric beating it just took.
"Sir, as far as I can tell, everything is in working order, we made sure to double check the equipment before beginning, after all, we knew for a fact the equipment would take quite the electric shock."
Miles hearing this grew discontent, however, he knew that what they were saying was true.
Before he could recommend they begin resuscitation efforts, he heard another cry of shock.
"S—Sir, look!?"
Miles quickly looked towards the monitoring screen.
What he saw would haunt him for life, for if there was a feeling Dr. Frankenstein himself felt when he saw his monster begin to grow out of control. There was no doubt in Miles mind it felt almost identical to how he felt in that moment.
Through the monitor screening the live feed of the operation room they all saw, wisps of grains of sand begin to lift from Marko's body. Before long Marko's body shook as if he were awakening. Marko's eyes slowly opened, his previous dull greyish eyes looked to be alert and awake now.
Marko looked up at the 'familiar' ceiling and then a confused expression took over his face. Marko immediately tried to move his body, only to find out his body was currently locked in place.
Marko's confused expression only grew at this 'discovery'. He began to struggle against his current bondage. Shaking and fighting against them, before long the straps holding him down began to stretch and strain themselves against his body.
It almost seemed as if Marko would soon break free of his personal 'prison'. Seeing this Miles swallowed his initial fear and shock and spoke forth through the microphone.
"Marko, calm down, everything's alright."
Done speaking his quick and calming words, Miles took his finger off of the intercom button and looked towards the scientist in control of Marko's readings and asked.
"Do you still think those reading to be accurate? It's clear the subject is still alive and well."
"But, sir I just ran a diagnostics test and everything is reporting well. The equipment is no doubt working…"
Miles grew even more curious hearing this and looked towards the monitor and reached his hand forward once more to touch the intercom button.
"Marko? Can you hear me?"
"...*grooan*"
"Marko are you alright? You should know the experiment was successful! Only a little while longer till you can see them again, Alma and Keemia."
"...Alma….Alma!...ALMA?!"
Markos tone grew sharp and animalistic, his words similar to the way a child who only recently learned to speak, broken and with no diction.
Miles seeing this grew only more confused, one of the scientists present spoke up to shed some possible light on to matters.
"It looks like the subject went into shock...there was more than likely too much stimulus, so his brain went into a state of recess, more than likely to protect his conscious state of mind, he may have even reverted to a state of childlike simplicity, there's no way to know when or if he will ever return…"
Miles hearing this was at first saddened by the loss of potential research, after all, if he couldn't articulate well, it would be difficult to communicate. Then he thought of how easy it would be to potentially manipulate a child-like mind.
Miles smiled and spoke through the Microphone once more.
"Marko, calm down, all is well..do you know who Alma and Keemia are?"
Miles wished to test Marko's current state of mind, to see if he was still of sound mind.
Marko hearing this 'voice' once more, grew even more discontent at the fact that he couldn't see where it was coming from, he grew more and more agitated.
Marko hearing the 'words' Alma and Keemia, began to feel a warmth in his chest as thoughts of a warm-hearted woman and a beautiful child occupied his mind. Whilst Marko had many fond 'images' appear in his head with regards to the word Alma, he only had a handful come up with the word Keemia, along with these few images came a horrible feeling that overtook his gut. The pleasant feeling that came with the word Alma was soon overridden by the negative feelings of self-loathing and disappointment that came with the word Keemia.
He began to wonder, to question why he only had a few memories with Keemia, he grew angry and stressed over the fact that he didn't have more of them with her, with Keemia.
Marko's struggles soon began to grow. With his current mental capabilities Marko simply couldn't calm down, he could only grow more and more temperamental. Similar to a child who wasn't getting their way.
Miles soon began to talk more and more in an attempt to calm Marko. Little did he know that the more he spoke the more he aggravated Marko, his annoyance at the annoying voice that continuously spoke without showing itself, grew to a point that Marko could no longer control the growing animosity he had for it, that voice…
Marko's struggles grew fierce and desperate as if he would live or die alongside his effort to escape his bondages grasp.
As Marko continued he noticed a strange particularity, the more he relaxed his muscles the more 'loose' he felt, whereas the more he flexed his muscles the harder and tougher he felt.
Marko eventual decided to trust his instincts and simply relaxed and tried to simply pass through his restraints...and that he did.
His body simply moved 'through' the binds holding him back, Marko felt more 'free' than he ever had before at that moment.
The group observing the room through the monitor, all grew quiet and went completely still.
As the first to regain composure Miles spoke into the mic once more, doing his best to sound as firm as possible and said.
"MARKO! Be still, if any part of you wants to ever see your family again you'll contain yourself, Calm down and you'll still have a chance of seeing Alma and Keemia again!"
Marko hearing that 'disgusting' creature saying those 'hallowed' words again, let alone saying he wouldn't be able to see them again...Marko lost himself…..whatever little of himself remained anyway.
Marko hesitated no longer, completely trusting his instincts he let loose his rage and yelled, shouted and hollered.
"RRAAAAAAHHH!"
Marko's body suddenly destabilized and turned into sand and the sand then morphed into a giant face somewhat resembling Marko's own.
As Marko's yell let loose, it came from the giant sand faces own mouth and sounded as if a legion of mighty men all yelled out in unison. All of the 'voices' coalesced into one and the very noise shook the confines of the metallic operation room.
Midway through his shout, Marko noticed one part of the room sounded different than the rest, the giant face then turned and saw a tiny grate adorned in the rooms upper corner. A vent circulating fresh air into the room.
Seeing this Marko gave no pause and his 'body' of sand coalesced into a long stream of sand and then went through the vent without a moment's hesitation.
The group watching things went silent once more. One of those present then said.
"What have we created…"
Miles hearing this gulped and then said.
"Dr. Strommel immediately informs Security, I'll contact Osborn."
The crowd hearing this all gulped and went about their duties without a single delay.
In the Ambulance in Route to the Baxter Building
Peter, Gwen, and Cindy could all be seen, Peter sat atop the gurney looking towards the two girls, Gwen could be seen sitting on the bench to the Gurneys left-hand side sitting next to Cindy, she was looking at Peter quite sternly more than likely telling him to lie down. Cindy, on the other hand, could be seen off to the side, head down and blushing.
To those with an experienced eye, they would see she wasn't blushing from embarrassment but rather a more 'mature' reason.
Cindy refused to look Peter in the eye for whatever reason was plaguing her. Peter himself refused to take more than a glance at her.
It didn't take Gwen long, the bright girl that she is, to notice the strange air present in the ambulance.
Gwen finally grew the confidence to speak up.
"Peter...Cindy, what's going on, did you two have a fight? Why do you look so afraid to look each other in the eyes?"
If it were just Peter, Gwen would have been able to ignore things. After all, Peter was a fairly strange guy, there would be times that he would wander off or act strangely.
Cindy, however, was never the type to run away from confrontation. If she noticed something was out of place or strange she would be the first to address the issue. Yet this time around Cindy almost seemed...afraid. This was completely out of the norm for her.
Peter hearing Gwen mention the very obvious elephant in the room, Peter internally sighed and began to wonder how he was even going to begin explaining the current circumstances.
Peter had been occasionally observing Cindy and he had noticed she was most likely going through the same thing right now. The...attraction...right now was about to drive Peter insane. Peter has never once felt like this. Not even with MJ, he didn't even know what was going on himself, so trying to explain this to Gwen right now would be even more impossible.
"Gwen, I-"
[###########]
Before Peter could try and explain matters, he felt an immense 'force' strike at his head. Something was about to happen, Peter didn't know how he knew, but he knew something dangerous was coming and if he didn't do something, there was a very real possibility that he might die, not only him but those around him as well. Somehow Peter could even feel the way the danger was coming from
Peter opened his eyes and noticed that time had seemingly slowed down, and right as Peter was going to move and try and salvage the situation Peter felt a secondary pulse strike at his mental capacity.
This strike, however, was akin to a gentle touch compared to the earlier smashing force. Not only that but Peter could even feel as if this force meant no harm...instead it felt warm, familiar, and inviting, almost...enticing.
Peter looked towards this pulses origin with his pupils and saw Cindy, she like him seemed to be aware of the oncoming tragedy and by the look in her eyes, she probably felt what he did.
Little did Peter know what Cindy was feeling was in fact ten times stronger, as cruel as this may sound it was similar in fashion to how a female of a species feels when finding a suitable mate, satisfaction, want, sexual attraction and an almost immediate and inconsolate dependancy, it took almost all she had to restrain herself, if they weren't in immediate peril she might even lose control of herself and 'attack' him right then and there.
The earlier Striking force returned with greater urgency and oomph than prior, both Peter and Cindy knew they had to take action.
Peter looked towards Gwen and then back at Cindy, mentally instructing Cindy to grab Cindy, neither he nor she knew why they were able to communicate as such, but it remained that they could, they simply knew that the other party understood.
Then the two took action Cindy reached for Gwen and pulled her towards Peter, Peter quickly dragged himself off of the gurney and lifted it above the trio. He placed the gurney with its legs facing towards where Peter felt the immediate fatal danger.
The duo was moving too quickly for Gwen to catch up with their movements and say anything, she was simply being dragged around by Cindy, Cindy meanwhile was making sure she and Gwen didn't get in Peters way. Even going as far as moving Gwen's limbs out of the way of the gurney, after all, room was tight in the back of the ambulance with three adolescents and a gurney in place.
Peter slammed the gurney in place and hopped over and grabbed both girls into his embrace, Peter sat butt down and legs out, pushing against the wall with his feet and pushing against the gurney with his back.
Peter had placed the girls in order of protection, Gwen against his chest and Cindy behind her, both girls solidly in his lap, legs tucked in and elevated off the ground Peter himself keeping them so.
After the coming impact would hit the wall, the force would then pass through the gurney and then through himself, Peter hoped to kill off most of the impact with his sturdy body. Cindy was placed in the back, closest to the other wall in case Peter's strength failed him and they went crashing into the wall, as Cindy was athletic and for some reason, Peter felt she would be fine. Though he felt a moment's hesitation and guilt over his split decision, Peter knew he couldn't hesitate and thus took action firmly.
As Gwen was the weakest of the three and the most easily injured she sat in between the two, for the moment Cindy and Peter became Gwen's protectors.
Gwen finally having a moment of stillness, spoke up.
"Peter?! Cindy?! Wha-"
[CRAAAAASH]
*Author Note*
A chapter by new years you say...muhahahaha!
Take this! A horrid cliffhanger, for daring to give me!, This horribly busy man, demands!?
Alright seriously, I'd like to make an apology here and now, for the lack of updates, I know I stated previously that the holiday season would be busy for me and I really nailed the matter on the head. I've been mega busy as of late, whether with work, school, or the holidays, they've been eating away at me like crazy, so even the time off I did have, I've been dedicating to some serious self-care.
Now some good new's I officially found an editor of sorts...cough...cough, well at the very least someone to proofread. So that's nice, I'd like to take the time here to thank my friend Josh for stepping up!
Now for an update of sorts, tomorrow is new years eve, busy day for me, after that is my prep to return to school after winter break, school is a bitch, my work, however, seems to have reached a plateau of sorts so some goodish new...right?
With a new proofreader chapter releases might be delayed...sorry but that kind of thing takes time. Also should mention that Josh isn't some accomplished proofreader or anything, his words not mine. Love ya bud.
So If there are any hiccups along the way do please point them out so I can correct them :)
Chapter content was pretty fun to write, a bit difficult to find the time to do so without feeling horribly guilty though...so that's not good…..that cant be a healthy mindset. I feel like I'm beating a dead horse here but as I've said prior I'm a new writer here and I'm trying to get used to things. If any of you readers and fellow writers out there have any tips PM me or be nice and leave a review :)
Now, here, I would like to wish a belated Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!
This is your useless author here signing out! Bye Bye...Oh Wait, almost forgot, for those of you who took the time out of your busy schedules to come here and read this or leave a review or a like, or a follow. I genuinely can't thank you all enough! Till next time...whenever that is….should be soon, hopefully, next week...dunno yet, but I will hopefully reach a normal schedule soon! I wanna aim for one chapter every three days! Even though I'm slowly realizing how impossible that is...