Land of heroes.
First off thank you for your kind words and support for my family and me after we went through the ordeal of having our house robbed, it shows there are still good people in the world capable of caring for their fellow man.
Well here we are again folks, another chapter in the story that is Halo/Marvel, I had to split this because it was getting way to big so expect the fights scenes in the next chapter (which is at around 60% from being completed), so I have indeed selected the opponents while here you will see who else besides Peter will join the Master Chief in this sting op, mostly street types since I felt that they would be better suited instead of the global threat heroes.
You will also see a little of Miranda and the X-men as they deal with their kids snooping around. And heads up, Halo verse makes a cameo and since I am feeling the need to shake things up, to the first person to guess correctly what the assigned number to the Chief's universe means will get to choose which of the three X-ladies gets to spend some time with him. Here's a hint it is a character from the books of importance and appears in more than one, whoever gets it I will notify through a PM.
Also after the replies to some of the reviews from the previous chapter I will address and issue that has been asked of me by some of my fellow colleagues and readers who are also comic book readers about the current state of affairs regarding Marvel Comics new direction. If you do not wish to read that please refrain from doing so, also my intent here is to express an opinion and not incite tempers, I have had the distinct "pleasure" of being verbally bashed due to my opinions on recent story arcs that took place and do not wish for more.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything related to Marvel or Halo (God, I wish I did though.) enjoy.
"Speaking"
"Whispering – Cortana speaking in the armor"
"Redeeming Bias speaking"
*Thoughts*
*Sound effect*
-Media or transmission—
Chapter 11 part 1:
Parker Residence…
The woman known to many as Mary Jane Watson-Parker lived a rather unique life, now how unique one could ask? Although she was an accomplished model/actress it was her marriage that set her apart from other "normal" relationships, except for those who shared her status, that being married to a superhero. Which one? The often misunderstood yet still friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, or as she knew him Peter Parker, her loving husband.
Life hadn't been easy for them because of his dual lifestyle as a freelance photographer/teacher and heroic vigilante. But somehow through all the trials and all the struggles, the losses and victories, they made it work much to the surprise of many in the know of who he was under mask.
They had faced many tragedies in their marriage, the sad loss of a child, the kidnappings, near deaths experiences…but they endured, they stay together and support one another in their endeavors. She was honest with herself when she wished he wouldn't risk himself so much but deep down the words of his dearly departed Uncle would always bring him back to the mask.
So she would be his support when he needed it, because no one else could understand him like she could. Not his Aunt, not his Ex-lovers not his super heroic friends and allies, as that was her right as his wife and she would do so because he gave her just as much when she needed him too.
Today would be another unique day for her, as she would be receiving a special visitor who was in need of her husband's aid.
She was currently siting in the living room of their modest apartment, enjoying a nice soothing cup of tea and going over a script sent to her for an up and coming play.
*Hmm, I like the setup, good character build up…plot is a bit iffy though.*
She thinks as she goes over it, she was not going to just about to jump on any show as she had her standards and a critical eye on things, she liked to get a feel for a story before jumping into anything. The last thing she wanted was to get her into a role that turns out to be a sham of sorts
Her reading was interrupted when she heard a knock at the door.
*Huh? That's odd, Peter said he was going to be a little late for lunch and May didn't say anything about visiting.*
She thinks as she sets down the script and makes her way towards the door. Taking a look through the doors peephole she was a bit surprised to find a fairly large and somewhat pale man in the other side.
She debated the pros and cons of answering and then decided to do so but be ready for anything. Having dealt with some of the criminals who called New York home, and even brushing elbows with some of her husband's villains, she learned how to defend herself on the off chance she was attacked. But she was also aware that jumping the gun was a bad idea. So carefully she opened the door while leaving the chain on.
"Yes? Can I help you?"
"Good day, my name is John Mendez-Halsey; I'm here to see your husband Peter."
"Is he expecting you?"
"Yes ma'am, he said he would around at this hour."
"Would you mind waiting out here while I confirm that? I don't mean to be rude but…"
"I understand ma'am, one can never be too careful."
She gave him a nod before going back inside and towards the phone; they had their numbers on speed dial for emergencies so no need to dial. Thankfully the line is free and her husband answered quickly…from the sound of a certain cranky publisher's less than discreet bellows he is at the Daily Bugle.
-Hey MJ.—
"Peter, are you expecting anyone by the name of John Mendez?"
-Oh crap! I knew I forgot something!—
"I'll take that as a yes then?"
She quips much to her lover's embarrassment and her amusement since getting the chance to needle her husband good naturedly was something she liked.
-Yeah, sorry about that, JJ wanted his pictures overnight and I was tired that I completely forgot. Is he there with you?—
"Outside the apartment, I wasn't sure if he was on the level."
-Oh, ok I can see how that could happen but trust me he is more than on the level Honey. He knows about my "other" job, if you get my meaning.—
"Oh…" she was silent at that "…is he a part of your special group?"
-Something like that, I can't go into details over the phone but trust me you will not find a person more decent than him...except Cap but don't tell him I said that—
"Ok Peter, will you be long?"
She replies with no sign of doubt, if her husband said she could trust the man then she believed him. Peter was not the kind to trust anyone with his 'other' job unless they were really on the level.
-Well, JJ is just starting his typical anti-spider rant so I'd say…10 minutes before I can get out.—
-PARKER! GET YOUR ASS IN HERE OR YOU'RE FIRED! — The unmistakable bellow of J. Jonah Jameson is heard over the line, much to her displeasure.
*Note to self, make Peter his favorite dish tonight and plan for a long and pleasant time in the bedroom in the very near future.*
She thinks privately as she just knows how Peter gets stressed after dealing with his boss. How he managed to stomach Jonah Jameson when he got like that amazed her to no end, but despite his bad points, namely when it came to lambasting her husband she knew that the man did do some good things such as civil rights. And despite the fact he had death threats coming from many less scrupulous individuals, Jonah refused to back down.
"I'll see you soon honey, love you." She says warmly.
-I love you too MJ. — He replies equally to her.
*CLICK!*
Setting the phone back in its place she goes to properly greet the man.
*I hope he doesn't feel upset I had him wait out here.*
Opening the door she finds the Spartan patiently standing in the hallway with no sign of being tired or bothered.
"Sorry about that, my husband tells me you are aware of his other civic minded activities, still I hope you don't hold it against us for being cautious."
The redhead says as she lets him in their home.
"Not at all Mrs. Parker, I have read up on him and do not fault your precautions given the less than savory individuals he has met over the years."
John replies in kind and he meant it as well, Peter's list of enemies was long and thus he understood the caution they had.
"Please, call me MJ or Mary Jane, if Peter trusts you with his secret than there is no reason to be so formal around us."
"If you insist…Mrs. Par I mean MJ."
The Spartan replies a bit stiffly as he was not use to this level of informality with a civilian. With Commander Keyes & Cortana due to his…friendships with them yes and naturally with Karen given what she was to him also but with a perfect stranger? No, not completely if ever if he was honest with himself. Though the woman felt very much at ease around him once it was confirmed he was not out to harm either her or her husband, though he could easily detect the small undercurrent of caution she held she still had.
*Understandable in a way given what he has faced, how many have come after him and the one who acquired knowledge on his identity and pursuit of destroying everything the man holds dear.*
It was one thing he didn't like about this world's justice system; these criminals…these super villains were always imprisoned yet never executed for their crimes no matter how horrible or damaging. Often siting that their abilities render them mentally unstable to be fully held accountable, and while that is true in cases such as this Norman Osborn or Cletus Cassidy, others were well thought out individuals with massive ego's, intellects or resources.
In the UEG and UNSC men like these would be put down either in a court sanctioned sentence or in the case of say Doom or Fisk, covertly assassinated with a good cover up story in place as well as someone to step in and take in the reins of power until it could be removed. Sadly he couldn't do that here since they lacked the means by which to enact such a cover up as well as the inevitable upsurge in crime and terrorism that would come to fill in the power vacuum.
*Of course that hasn't stopped Cortana from trying given the threat Doom represents.*
He thinks as he recalls the moments he catches her researching the despot…or self-proclaimed world savior. The guy would have earned the firing squad back home. Or if Admiral Cole was still around, be stored in a HEV and fired right into a brown dwarf star, even the most corrupt in ONI would have gladly had the man executed for that. And if Doom pushed his luck with him one more time, then he was going to personally execute the despot and make sure nothing would bring him back.
His thoughts were interrupted as the woman was speaking to him.
"Would you like anything to drink while we wait for Peter? I have some tea on the stove if you like, or I can make some coffee if you prefer."
"Tea is fine."
He simply replies in a neutral yet still respectful tone.
She nods and goes to fetch some for their guest; she would admit he seems a bit… rigid when she recalls all of Peter's other friends and acquaintances in the cape community.
*Though given Johnny's and Felicia's live life to the fullest philosophy or Ben's in your face blunt honesty, I'm surprised I don't believe everyone's that way, still…*
Mary Jane couldn't help but feel this man was somewhat limited in his interaction with her. She would try to get a feel for him before her husband arrived, making an attempt to understand him before jumping to conclusions. The last thing she wanted was to make a conclusion that would be negative and sour any relations that were good between Peter and John Mendez Halsey.
"So Mr. Mendez, how is it you know my husband?"
She asks as she comes back with a cup as well as the tea in question.
"I met him several weeks ago when I and others chose to reveal ourselves to him and the other meta-human teams that live in this city."
"Oh, and who might you be?"
"Pardon?"
He naturally asks, though he does have an inkling of what she is asking.
"You're…um codename? Guess that's what I should call it?"
"I am not a superhero, I am a soldier from another reality with my rank being Master Chief Petty Officer and I am a Spartan II Commando. No doubt you saw the news already so I have no doubt the name is familiar."
"Wait a minute! You're the one who faced off against the Hulk!"
MJ simply could not help hide her amazement, his fight was all over the news and even Peter told her how brutal it was both on him and the other heroes. Namely on how badly either of them had been hurt, though the worst one was obviously the Spartan. How the heck he was still alive and right here in front of her was a miracle in itself.
"Yes I was, probably one of the most dangerous undertakings in my life to be honest."
*One in a long list of many such instances now that I think about it.*
John says to himself with a bit of weariness, showing he sometimes did grow tired of a life of conflict. If anyone thought Spartans reveled in war, namely he and the other Spartan II's, none of them did as war took a lot out of them. Will lost his ability to make jokes and lighten the mood and he would not even begin to talk about the grief they carried losing brothers and sisters in war…least of all him. He never forgot the deaths of so many of his brothers and sisters who died in augmentations. Sam's death was the hardest ever since the war with the Covenant started, along with Arthur and Solomon's deaths, Daisy's and many others.
MJ saw a look pass through his eyes but chose not to comment on it. She did not know his full story but she had seen enough and learned enough to know that prying into that was not a good idea unless the person was willing to talk about it.
"Well I don't know about this whole reality deal but considering the things you have been reported doing and the people you have saved that pretty much makes you a hero."
"No soldier should be honored for doing his or her duty, I simply do what I feel needs to be done to protect the people, though at times it is not easy."
"Oh? How do you mean?"
She asks as she takes a sip of her tea.
"I am at times…confused about your justice system's lack of action regarding the super powered criminals that wreak havoc on the city or at times the world. While there are indeed men and women capable of stopping them they are constantly placed in institutions that on occasion fail to contain them or at worst they plead insanity and get off light. And then come back to cause even more chaos than before."
"So you believe they should be executed?"
MJ's tone is neutral as she asks, waiting for him to speak before passing any judgment.
"In some of the more dangerous cases such as Norman Osborn, Otto Octavious or Cletus Cassidy…yes. These men have either gained terrible power or have the intelligence and attitude to misuse it and bring nothing but pain and misery to the populace. If they were back in my home reality, they would have already gotten the death penalty and be removed."
*SIGH*
"I somewhat agree with you, I don't say this to my husband as I don't want to upset him but there are at times I just wish they were gone so as not to hurt him or his family. He tries so hard to protect everyone and every time those…maniacs are on the loose he works himself something fierce to stop them from hurting anyone and when he fails, it just breaks my heart to see him suffer because he thinks he could have done more."
She says this sadly as she has seen it happen many times.
John sees this and hopes what he says next would help here feel better. In his point of view, Peter Parker was a good man and one of the rare ones who had a good sense of responsibility and willingness to do what they can for others. He was aware of Peter's reasons and respected them well and therefore felt he was a good person and the world needed more like him to balance off all the less than trustworthy ones.
"He is a good man, this city is very lucky to have a man so dedicated to its protection. From what I have read about his actions he has saved many lives against normal criminals and super criminals, some I am told outclassed him such as this Juggernaut."
"Oh that one was one of his most crazy ones, I mean I have heard stories about the guy being able to fight the Hulk but the fact that Peter managed to pull off that win was something no one could believe and let me tell about the time he faced the Hulk…"
And so for the next few minutes MJ entertained the Spartan with some of the adventures she was aware her husband took part in. He took this all in feeling it gave him a better feel for the man; he felt Johnson would have liked the man.
*Johnson always did have an odd sense of humor when in tough spots. He would have had a field day with Parker.*
It was at that scene that Peter arrived at seeing MJ holding the super soldier's attention. He couldn't help but smile at that, thinking just how lucky he was in having MJ in his life. If anyone way back had told him that he would marry a beautiful redhead who was an accomplished actress and model and accepted him for all that he was as a teacher, photojournalist and heroic vigilante, he would have called them nuttier than a fruitcake. And of course, all the guys back in high-school who called him a geek and a loser would have been eating their words in envy when they learned of him marrying MJ.
And as much as he did not want to bring back old memories…they would have been double envious if they learned he was once in a relationship, at times a rather physical one, with Black Cat.
*She wasn't kidding when she said I hit the jackpot.*
"Peter!"
She speaks happily as she got up to greet her husband.
He in turn simply met her half way and gave her a kiss on the lips in greeting.
John remained quiet, he could tell these two cared deeply for one another…a part him wondered if this is how it was with his "sister" Maria when she finally got married. He also wondered if he too could have that someday, something that came to him at times when he was with Karen and they way some of the female staff at Xavier's, Louise or the Stepford girls dotted on her.
*I have my hands full raising Karen, I doubt I could be much of a husband.*
He thinks privately, heedless of how many of the women who have witness his interactions with the girl think otherwise. In his view…his lack of being able to truly interact with people, namely those of the opposite gender in more 'normal' settings made that difficult. Apart from Maria though, he knew that some of his Spartans had relationships, namely the leader of Black Team and Black Two. He heard about it and the incident with Red Team and while he never talked to them about it, he never forgot it either.
The couple soon came back to their guest, with Peter offering his hand and which John took giving it a firm shake before getting down to business.
"So you said the not so jolly fat man of crime is up to something and you need my help."
"That is correct, he is smuggling either weapons or drugs into the country, it was also hinted at that he would bring in outside enforcers in case I make an appearance. You have had dealings with the man and know of what type of resistance could be expected."
"Well if it is Fisk we are talking about the man will have the resources to bring in any super powered crook or merc into this. From those he could use that I know would jump at the chance to work for him, there's Bullseye who has worked for the guy many times, from my enemies he's got heavy hitters like Rhino or Scorpion, technological you have Machinesmith and Spider Slayer and as for mercs I hear Taskmaster or even that lunatic Deadpool if he can get passed the guy's craziness factor are available."
"Hmm, I may need assistance then since it sounds like he can bring in anyone he wants."
The Spartan replies thoughtfully.
"Well you got me in your corner, no questions asked and if you're open to it I know a guy who has some skills that can contribute and has worked the streets." Peter speaks as he has a pretty good idea who would jump at the chance.
John thinks it over and nods that it is the correct course of action.
"I would like to speak with him in person to get a feel for them and let them know what they are getting involved with."
"Let me my get my suit since not every one of them knows Peter Parker is Spider-man."
"Understood, who do you wish to contact first?"
John accepts this as he realizes the man has to protect his family. A good choice as he had no doubt that while there possibly were some villains who were aware of Peter's past, the others might not and would not hesitate to attack MJ. And while having heroes who knew his identity was a good thing, sometimes it can be dangerous especially if those heroes in question turned out to be sleeper agents or possibly be captured and tortured for information.
"Oh that's easy; we need to nab a certain Devil who has made it his personal mission to mess with the man."
Peter replies with smirk as he would like to see the reaction Matt will have when he finds out the Spartan wants him in on this and that he knows who he is.
"I see, I will need an address then as well as inform the Commander that I will be procuring allies for the coming operation."
"Will she be joining in on this?"
Peter felt he had to ask, he knew the woman had training but against super powered foes? Well that was a whole other ball game though he also kept in mind how fierce Miranda was, even when she…got killed in the past. The sight of her being shot in the back by megalomaniacal alien was NOT something he liked to recall.
"No, we have some cases lined up and she will be dealing with some of them. I also feel the more focus on me the safer she will be as her, Karen, Redeeming and Cortana's safety are priority 1for me."
Peter smiled when he heard him include his adopted daughter's name; he had heard how fondly he spoke of her during the party and saw his interactions with the little girl at the mansion. He felt better knowing the man was getting something he was denied when he was conscripted so long ago. The idea of being stripped of all you are and being turned into a living weapon and knowing that a clone fated to die took your place, leaving you dead in the eyes of the world was abhorrent to him, very much. So any chance for John to reconnect with the human side of things was all right in his books. Though he recalled the way some of the women in the X-men and the female Avengers had eyes on him, which should be interesting in his books
"Well no time like the present then." Peter says as he gets up and writes down the address of Matt's law offices "…I'll get there first to give him a heads up."
John nods in turn at that and lets the man get ready and speak with his wife.
"Be careful out there Tiger."
His wife says as always whenever he is about to go out as Spider-man, he knows just how much she worries but that just gives him more reason to try harder and come back to her.
"You know I will babe, after all I am amazing." He replies with a smirk that gets a giggle and playful slap out of her.
"Don't smart with me Mr. Parker."
"Oh? But I thought that was what made you fall for me Mrs. Parker."
"Well it was that and some other talents you have."
The coy smile she gave had him go beet red which was certainly new to him.
*And I thought Felicia was only capable of doing that!*
"I-I-I should go um, meet Matt…so yeah I should do that."
"Of course dear."
Again she says with a coy smile.
*Maybe being friends with Felicia does have its benefits…not that I would tell her that, I mean seriously I can't tell if she was joking or not when she offered to have a threeway.*
She thinks with a slight blush, sometimes she was both worried and annoyed about what to expect out of her. Felicia was not all bad even though they had some history which was less than friendly, and they did get along well enough. But that suggestion always caused her a great deal of embarrassment.
One last kiss and hug and he was off to meet his colleague.
John for his part left soon after, though not before MJ spoke to him.
"I don't know what it is you are both getting involved in but please look after my husband."
"You have my word, and that is something I never break."
"Thank you." She says as she gives him a bright smile, one he can't help but return albeit smaller and more reserved.
With that said he headed off to prepare to meet a man without fear.
Meanwhile at Xavier's…
Miranda had been called by the Headmaster for a meeting; he didn't specify what exactly but felt it was something John needed to know urgently.
At first she asked if it was about Karen but he reassured her that though she was involved she wasn't in any trouble. Having that clarified relieved her somewhat so she decided to go in his stead as he was going to meet Spider-man in regards to the coming operation; besides she was his CO so there was nothing wrong with taking his place.
…and just maybe she would get to see Kurt again, a more mischievous part of her mind whispered.
She fought down a blush but couldn't resist checking herself in a nearby window, which of course is the time when the door opened revealing Ororo.
The weather manipulating woman caught her just as she was done and couldn't up but be amused as she remembered Kurt's cheery attitude the next morning after his date.
Flashback…
Ororo was currently having breakfast with Logan and Kitty; it was rare occurrence for them but one she could enjoy since they were all busy doing what they could to help the students. The attack had left marks but they recovered and that was something none of them had plans to forget.
"Good morning." She says pleasantly as she sits down with her plate of fruits and water.
"Morning Ororo." Kitty replies with a smile at her friend as she continued to chow down on the meal.
"Morning 'Ro."
Logan adds as well as he drank his coffee, not quite with the same jovial tone as his teammate but then that is to be expected of the man. It took a lot to get Logan on a good mood so when he did smile that was a good thing, but when he smiled in a different fashion, that usually meant something else and by far less than pleasant.
"How are classes Kitty?"
She asks the computer savvy woman as she was one of their best teachers in the tech department.
"Oh fine, hardly any trouble with the kids, may even found some who could begin the advance courses early."
"And you Logan?"
"Eh, one or two are all right, Ashida seems to get the hang of the basics though Keller and Vacarro are still giving me a headache I feel I should just wail on him a bit to knock him down a peg or get through his rock hard head that it ain't a wrestling match."
The feral grumbles earning a giggle from his first unofficial "sidekick" and an exasperated huff from the second team leader of the group.
Ororo knew how much he struggles with the Hellions as Emma was constantly looking out for them, given what happened to the previous group who held that name it was somewhat understandable still it sometimes caused some friction with the others. Emma's desire to protect the new generation of Hellions was an understandable goal to be sure, but sometimes overprotecting them only caused more problems than solved them.
"And what about Karen? I heard she was in your class too."
"Heh, she's a bit of a scrapper that one and a hard worker, she takes quick to the lessons and works hard to be the best at it, and she's damn honest about her efforts too."
Logan can't help but smirk, he honestly like the girl's go getter attitude since such honest desire to improve was hard to find anywhere.
"Well that's good to hear; John must be proud of her and no doubt encourages her to do her best whenever they are together."
Kitty can't help but comment.
"I figure that's why she tries so hard, wants to show him she can succeed…got to admit the guy may have a screwed up life but that one has taken a shine on him and she is aiming to prove herself."
"Well I don't think she needs to, he may not be like most people given the circumstances surrounding his life but still he has done very well for the child. Compared to most, he may not have the…experience of being with parents, but he does well as one himself."
Storm comments as from what she has seen despite his reserved nature he has proven himself to be a good parent. And while he no doubt had reservations about being a father, there was no doubt he would make a good one. Naturally she privately thanked the fact that none of her telepathic colleagues were around to pick up on the fact she had more…intimate reasons for the comment.
"That he does which makes me wonder how well he would do as a husband."
Katherine can't help but ask as she drinks some juice while giving Ororo a look that has her feeling a bit flushed as Katherine was already in the know on how Ororo had an attraction to them.
Logan just chuckles, Kitty still has a knack for getting under people's skin.
*Hell, she did that with me and then I got Jubilee doing it as well.*
He thinks, though he is quite fond of the two. He later spots Kurt making his way into the cafeteria; from the looks of things the man is very happy this morning. That was usually something that was worth discussing over.
"Hey Elf! Over here." He calls out to his friend thus bringing the women's attention to their teammate.
Normally Kurt would teleport there but chose to walk over still smiling.
"Guten tag my friends, it is a fine morning is it not?" He speaks cheerily, which only served to make everyone pay attention, and they had a good idea on what was the cause of their friend's good mood.
"Well someone is in a good mood." Kitty can't help but comment
"…it wouldn't happen to have anything to do with a date with a certain reality displaced Commander now would it?"
She has to resist laughing as he sees her friend feel a bit embarrassed, looks like she hit the nail on the coffin hard again.
Ororo is in the same boat, oh she was aware that he and the Commander had gone out but from the looks of things he may have enjoyed himself more than she thought.
*Good for him, a man like Kurt is entitled to some happiness in his life.*
"I vould hardly call it a date frau, it vas simply a dinner as thanks for the aid she provided for me during ze…altercation ve had with the Purifiers."
"Oh come now Kurt, from that brilliant smile you have it was more than a simple dinner." Ororo adds with mischievous smile of her.
"Yeah Elf, seems you and her had a time, you do more than kiss?"
Seeing his friend close to doing a spit take was well worth the look he got from him.
"I vas a complete gentleman Logan! Besides it vas not a date and she only kissed my cheek."
He nods only to realize he may have said more than he should as the women were now looking at him as a frog to dissect. And they did not disappoint him in the slightest.
*Oh verdammt*
"Details. Now."
Shadowcat orders with a serious look at her friend, one he finds mirrored on Ororo's much to his surprise. Logan simply looks amused by this all as he smirks.
So he goes on to say what they talked about and what they did after dinner, they three were none too pleased by the news that someone was mocking his looks. They all knew how much he hated to be looked like he was a freak but then the mood lightened when he told them what Miranda did…Logan's laughter was loud enough to draw attention but he couldn't help it.
"Elf, forget dating and marry her already."
Logan spoke between chuckles, which only grew as his friend blushed furiously.
"Logan! I hardly know her besides from vhat ve talked and besides once Dr. Richards secures them a way home they will leave."
"Well then you have to woo her of her feet before then." Kitty had that look that said she was about to do something drastic.
"Vhat?"
"Well I don't know about that Kitty, I mean Kurt does raise a valid point about their possible return."
Storm adds as she could see where he is coming from though she herself was hoping that she would have time to get close to John.
"Please, that doesn't stop Rachel or Betsy from trying to snag the Spartan…and I saw you looking very interested that day he and Logan went at it. Had quite a lot on you mind after that display I take it?"
Her friend said causing Ororo's face to go red once more and thus earning some laughs from the others.
End flashback…
It took her a while to calm herself or else she may unknowingly do something with her powers…still she had to admit to herself that she had given the Spartan more than a brief look that day.
*Well it seems Kurt wasn't the only one to enjoy the night of their outing.*
The weather witch thought with equal parts amusement and gladness things went well for her friends.
"Hello Miranda." She greeted warmly.
"Hey Ororo, I got Scott's call and since the Chief is busy at the moment I came in his stead."
Squashing that feeling of disappointment at not seeing the man she and others had a crush on as well as other more…intimate plans, she moved to lead Miranda to Scott's office as to her knowledge she has not been there.
"I hope it is nothing serious."
"Well…that really depends on how you see it."
Miranda couldn't help but voice some worry, super human threats were still unknown territory for her to be honest. And after the stunt with the Hulk, she was not in the mood for a repeat battle in the same situation.
"I beg your pardon?"
"Well, our friend Redeeming informed us that oversized tub of Lard known as the Kingpin is smuggling something into the country and because of the Chief he is bringing in some special help if you get my meaning."
"Super powered henchmen I assume."
Storm replies with a dry tone, she and the others had heard of the man despite avoiding any dealings with him since he had not yet made a move against mutants or them. That did not mean that they condone or approve of him and his methods one bit.
"Yep, so he went to Spider-man since he is one of the few who have had dealings with the man in the past."
Ororo had to agree it was a smart move, she had few encounters with the man but despite the odd way he chose to taunt his foes she knew he was a good man as she once heard how he defended a mutant child from being taken by Mister Sinister from Gambit and Beast as well as the occasional story from Logan who oddly respected him. Gaining Logan's respect is never easy due to his long life and all he had dealt with, so anyone who can earn his respect was all right in her book.
"A wise decision to seek out allies against an unknown opponent."
"I just hope things don't escalate beyond his control, if there is one thing I know about the Chief is that he hates snags and surprises, the war gave him too many of those for his and his fellow Spartans liking."
"No plan survives first contact with the enemy or so I've heard."
Ororo comments as she could understand the Master Chief's feelings on the matter since her and Scott hated it when the unknown struck at the least opportune moment. They had a long history of the whole mess themselves and had the scars on them to prove it as well.
"So true, I can't tell you how many times I cursed up a storm when it all hit the fan." The Commander grumbled.
Ororo decided to move the conversation to more pleasant topics as they made their way to their destination, chatting her up about her dinner with Kurt, how things were at the agency and if any news had come from their attempts to return home.
Finally they reach the headmasters office, calmly stepping inside Miranda spots several faces besides Scotts. Logan, Danielle and Emma are there, so is Karen and the triplets as well which catches the woman off guard for a moment.
*Hello Miranda.*
She hears the girls say in her mind, to her credit she is only startled a moment before smiling at them, she could swear she felt something warm trickle when she does that but she may have just imagined that.
"Hello girls." Miranda says to them in greeting and they smile in return.
They can't help it though, they like her and Louise, the two while startled at first by their need to sometimes communicate telepathically quickly took it in stride. And there was just this inner strength in them they felt drawn to, it was different from Frost's not as jaded they think.
Emma senses their feelings but she does not voice any concern over it, she respected the woman for what she had endured just as she respected Louise for taking a bullet for her girls...though she wasn't too happy at the way they sometimes looked at the Spartan, a bit amused yes but then again it was one of the follies of youth.
*At least it won't go as far or end as badly as mine did.*
She thinks grimly as she recalled her own crush and how quickly it died when the truth about her mutation came out. That coupled with her brother's death, oh how she missed him at times.
*Note to self, make time to visit his grave in the near future.*
"So what is the situation?" The Commander finally asks as she sits with Karen in her lap.
"It appears some students got a little too curious for their own good the day we had visitors to see John in action."
Scott says to her, he wasn't necessarily angry with the two teams but he wished they would stay out of trouble.
*They are some of our best students but they get into more trouble than I and the other originals ever did.*
He thinks to himself though from the smirk on Emma's face he may have thought that a bit too loudly.
"What exactly did they do and who are we talking about?"
"Well it was the Hellions and the New Mutants squads and somehow they hacked their way into the cameras and saw the match between the Chief and Logan."
Needless to say who the hacker was as the teachers all knew just how good Prodigy was once he mimicked Kitty and Hanks' gifted minds, one of the reasons Dani had his powers limited and showed him the consequences should he abuse his gift. However it seemed that things did not go as planned since it seems that he had got convinced to do something that he was NOT supposed to do.
"Have they figured out who he is or what he is?"
Miranda was all business now; this was the woman who led the charge in the final days of the war coming to the front.
"Them? No, the girls however were somewhat clued in as they and Karen came to me and Karen felt she could trust them with his secret."
"Is that true Karen?"
"Yes, they told me about the tape they found and they promised they wouldn't tell."
The little girl replied as honestly as she could.
"We did indeed do so." The triplets added.
"Ok, I just want you to know this is bigger than you think, who he is and what he is are very well kept secrets here because there might be those who would abuse that information. If Karen says you can be trusted I will believe her and believe that you too, please do not betray that trust we have given you."
The girls look at one another and realized that there was clearly more to Karen's father than meets the eyes, still they were nice to them and they trusted them to do the right thing.
"We shall make sure that your trust is not misplaced."
"I believe you, so…" the Commander now looked towards the adults "…now that we have that nipped in the bud, what exactly is the plan for the kids?"
"Well first off we have to make sure they didn't share the video to anyone and two we talk to them and make them understand they are not to share anything of what they saw with anyone."
"I can make certain they get the message one eye." Logan added as he wore a smirk that promised a very unpleasant time for the students in question. Scott already knew just WHAT Logan had in mind, and while it did work on occasion, he was not sure this would work.
"I don't think blunt force trauma is the answer Logan."
Cyclops replies dryly as he has heard just how tough the man is on the students, especially the Hellions team leader Julian Keller. Keller however did do a lot to get Logan's attention and his arrogant nature was more than enough to get on anyone's nerves. The only reason he could not do that was obviously Emma herself since she was going to take that personally. And if he did go through with letting Logan go at it, the result would be some VERY awkward times both in out of the bedroom, and that did not make things easy.
"That's a matter of perspective."
"Yours and yours alone apparently."
Emma snips, she did not like it when her students were singled out, it wasn't their fault they were at the top of the class as they were simply that good.
"I have an idea." Miranda says in hopes of preventing a shouting match…or worse.
"Oh? Do tell."
Danielle queried.
And she did, and despite some reservations from Emma and Logan's enthusiasm it was a very good plan they all could agree on. The girls just wondered what the reaction to this would be and if they could watch because this looked to be a most interesting turn of events.
Law offices of Murdock and Nelson…
Matt was currently going over some cliff notes for an up and coming case involving a murder victim's family hoping to get some justice for the murder of the father and husband. The Defense had come up with some strong alibies but he was positive they missed something as he noticed the accused heartbeat rose whenever the mention of his whereabouts came up in regards to where the victim was found.
"Make sure to secure a warrant to visit the crime scene immediately, accused shows heavy sign of distress at the mention of it. May be due to attempting to hide evidence about the full scope of the crime"
Matt says into a tape recorder he occasionally used to keep track.
He set down his notes and moved to get ready for lunch with Foggy when he felt a thump near his window followed by the sound of a heartbeat he was familiar with.
"Peter?"
Calmly he moves towards the window and opens it.
"Hey Matt, how's life treating you?"
Peter asks conversationally despite the fact he was in character and upside down. He originally had some difficulties doing this when he first started out, but apparently his spider side eventually allowed him to adapt to the rather interesting position.
"Well I would say it was going fine before you decided to drop in unannounced. That tells me that this is not your average social call."
The man without fear replies with a smirk.
Peter smiled behind the mask at that as he knew seeing Matt Murdock smirk like this was not something one saw every day.
"Listen something big came up and someone could use our help dealing with it. He'll be coming by pretty soon so we can all talk."
Matt considers that as he can easily tell the man is sincere, he simply nods and walks to his secretary outside.
"Joyce something came up and I won't be able to meet Foggy for lunch, please let him know and hold my calls since I have an urgent visitor coming, in fact take the rest of the day off as I may not in later in the day."
"Of course Mr. Murdock and thank you, I was hoping to deal with some matters anyway."
The woman said with a smile, she wasn't about to say no to taking half the day off.
"No problem and have a good day."
And with that he steps back inside just as Spider-man makes his way inside. Once he made sure the woman was gone he made sure to speak with his colleague.
"What can you tell me about our impending visitor?"
The blind hero asks as he takes a sit and invites his guest to do the same.
"Well first of, and don't panic, he knows who we are."
It was rare for Peter to see someone like Matt gape like a fish but this was one of those times and as much as he didn't want to laugh at the man he just couldn't help it.
"…how?" was all the man could ask in lieu of the news he just received.
"Well it's a long and complicated story involving reality hopping, A.I's in control of a powerful ship and her super soldier protector and his CO. By the way it's the Spartan if you are interested in knowing who is about to pay you a visit."
"The Spartan? You mean the one who fought the Hulk? THAT Spartan?"
Matt cannot help the incredulity lacing his voice at the fact that such a person was coming to see them because he needed help. And he had good reason for the reaction as well since ANYONE who could defeat the Hulk was not the kind who usually asked for help.
*Why would a man who bested the Hulk need OUR help?*
He could not help but think with all honesty.
"Listen I know it may seem odd but he ran into something regarding the human version of Jabba the Hut."
Spider-man could tell the mere mention of the Kingpin set Matt on edge and frown, he knew there was a long and dark history between the two so it was expected.
"What has he done THIS time?" He asks with a clear edge in his tone.
"He's smuggling something into the city, and because of the Spartan he has brought in special help if you get my drift. The Spartan also goes after any criminal large or small after all so ol' Lardy called the special help."
The man known to the criminal element as Daredevil did indeed, and could see how help would be required in this matter, if the Spartan was willing to face even lower ranking criminals even after tangling with enemies like the Hulk, then Kingpin would recruit only the best to make sure he had assets on him, just then someone knocked on the door.
"I think that's him."
"I'll get it." Matt moved calmly while keeping his cane in front of him, he didn't really need it but it gave off the impression he did as well as it gave him a handy makeshift weapon when in a bind and he had his fair share of that already.
Opening the door the sounds of the city gave him the picture of a fairly large man to his unique sonar like senses.
"I assume you're the friend Mr. Parker has been telling me about."
He asks the Chief while discreetly getting ready to defend himself, though the Spartan sees it and commends the man for his precaution.
He knew that despite the lack of sight this man was no pushover as he had read in the information about this world's heroes he was a very competent fighter. Again he was struck by how many of the non-powered heroes would have made fine Spartans if given the chance; they showed much resourcefulness and skill that would be very valued in his group. Though he decided not to mention it since considering the situation he was in, they would not agree with the whole deal, not that he could blame them if they said no and fight if ONI tried to take them.
"Yes, I go by John Mendez-Halsey, we met once during the murder trial of my adopted daughter's Mother."
The Chief replies as he holds out his hand.
"Of course, I thought your voice sounded familiar, though I never would have you to be the man who faced off against…"
"I would prefer we keep this conversation of the streets if you don't mind sir." The Spartan cut in.
"Oh yes of course my apologies, please come inside since Peter is already inside and you can call me Matt."
"And I prefer to go by John or Chief Matt."
Both men came into Matthew's office and sat to talk over what to do about the assault to come.
"So Peter here briefly explained you need help against whatever it is the Kingpin has in store."
"That is correct, despite my time here I have yet to encounter any more of the unusual criminal element and we thought it best to go people with experience."
John was honest when he said that, he did not need any surprises on this mission and since Matt and Peter knew the criminals with powers here, better to defer to them to avoid getting bogged in.
"Hmm, I see well I have no problem in helping and I know some people who would be interested in helping, let me give them a call."
Residence of Jessica Jones & Luke Cage…
*RING* *RING* *RING*
"Hold your damn horses!" A light brown haired woman shouted as she made her way towards the phone, though she did as carefully as she held her stomach showing she was pregnant and halfway through the second trimester.
"Yes?"
-Jess? It's Matt Murdock.—
"Matt! How are you? We haven't heard from you in a while." One now happy Jessica Jones, formerly known as Jewel, replied at her friend.
-I'm doing fine Jess, how is the baby?—
"Ugh a handful, half the time I want to strangle Luke for getting me pregnant and the other half wants to strangle him for the hunger binges I go through. I swear I lost count on how many odd combinations I have tried eating already."
She dryly remarks though she only joked as she did take care of herself for her baby's sake.
-Good to know, listen I got something that requires his unique brand of help, is he around?—
"Ooh sorry, he left like 30 minutes ago to meet up with some friends, you could try his cell."
-Can you pass me his number please?—
"Of course."
…
"Will that be all?" She asks politely.
-Yes, thank you for the help, take care of yourself Jess and if you need anything let me know ok?—
Matt offers as he knew the woman had suffered in her brief stint as a hero thanks to the Purple Man. These were among the risks in being a hero, even more so if the hero was female. The risks were always high for all heroes regardless of gender, but women had more risks in a sense due to a number of factors, and he knew more than once a number of villains who had less than stellar ideas towards female heroes.
"I will and take care of yourself too."
With that the call ended, before her child decided to remind her she was eating for two with a small kick.
"Okay, okay I got message shrimp yeesh!."
In China Town…
The powerhouse known to many of his friends and foes as Luke Cage was currently watching as his best friend and partner Danny Rand AKA Iron Fist spare with their friend and ally Shang Chi, a world renowned martial artist and hero.
They sometimes visited their friends they had made during their Heroes For Hire stint, and in this case they visited a local dojo/gym where the master combatant taught younger children as a favor to the owner of the dojo who was a friend to him.
Today as luck would have it two other good friends (or girlfriend in the case of Danny) were there, one Colleen Wing and Misty Knight who were also watching the friendly bout.
It was interesting contrast as Danny specialized in using his fists more than kicks, not surprising given his title though that did not mean he did not know how to time his kicks with his punches. Shan Chi was more versatile given his varied list of moves and his experience in fighting unique opponents yet oddly enough both men never seem to achieve victory over the other.
"Yeah, you get him Danny!" Misty cries out to her boyfriend.
"Jeez M, it's just a spar." Her friend spoke in an amused tone.
"Sorry, just seeing my man get all physical really pumps me up."
"Riiight, I bet that's not the only thing it does too." Colleen replies with a sly smile.
"Op up yours!" A very flustered crime fighter huffs much to the amusement of her friends.
It was at that point that Luke's cell rang…
*RING* *RING* *RING*
"This is Cage."
-Luke, its Matt Murdock.—
"Oh hey man, what's up?"
-A mutual crimson clad acquaintance to both us came to me recently with some information you may find interesting.—
"Oh? Do tell." The steel skinned hero requests with intrigue lacing his voice.
-Spider-man came to him with news about a smuggling shipment to arrive by the Kingpin, his source says there may some super powered muscle involved and wants some help. Daredevil has agreed to work with them and I suggested you, interested?—
"Hmm, can't say I'm not…"
By now Luke felt his interests peek, as the self-designated protector of Harlem as well as the surrounding areas he swore to make his neighborhood safer for his child and others, so far he was successful but on occasion he liked to help out in other places either with his friends or alone so this looked to be another case of the latter, seeing the others now looking at him he decided to talk to the man "…you mind if I out you on speaker, I got some friends here who might be able to help out on this little sting you and the old wall crawler has on."
-Go ahead.—
Luke did before looking to the others.
"Yo! Shang, Danny stop wailing on each other get over here! You too ladies, you're going to want to hear this."
The others shared a look before moving in close.
"What's the deal Luke?" The Iron Fist asks his friend.
"Listen up guys, I got Matt Murdock on the line and his got something that's just up our alley, go ahead and tell them Matt."
-As I explained to Mr. Cage, Spider-man was recently informed that the Kingpin is planning to smuggles something illegal into the country, Daredevil has confirmed his help and if Luke believes you could contribute then I believe him though the choice is yours.—
"This is Shang Chi Mr. Murdock; do we know what is being brought in or who is guarding it?"
-Sadly no on both accounts, with what I know and heard of the man it could weapons, drugs, stolen artifacts anything really. As for who is guarding it I have been told it will be regular guards and special enforcers, we can all guess what special means.—
The lawyer/hero spoke gravelly to his captive audience.
"Well boys, I don't know about you but it sounds like it could be something we should look into eh Colleen?" Misty asks her partner.
"I'm game."
"I too wish to aid Spider-man and Daredevil in this, it will be an honor to fight by their sides." Shang Chi added.
"I wouldn't be a good boyfriend if I didn't go and see how my girl kicks ass and takes name now wouldn't I? I'm in." Rand added as he winks at his lover who smirks at him.
*Oh the things I will do to that man when we get home.*
She thought with some lust tinting her thoughts...any others ideas where better left unsaid since it did not take a genius to know the direction where they went.
"Well there you go Matt, where do we meet?"
A moment of silence and some talking was heard over the line before they were given the time and place of the rendezvous point.
-I wish you luck please let me know if you will require my services later on, hopefully with a means to put the man behind bars.—
"Hell, we this group of bad ass SOB's what can possibly go wrong?"
"Famous last words."
Danny muttered getting a playful slap from his girlfriend, of course what they didn't know was Peter doing the same, Matt smirked humorlessly and the Chief thinking along the lines of everything and anything that could go wrong, he wasn't a pessimist as more of a realist having the voice of experience tells him as much.
-Then I wish you luck just the same, good bye ladies and gentlemen.—
"Take care Matt."
*CLICK*
With Matt, Peter and John…
"Well, there is your team Chief." Peter says to relieve the tension he felt.
"Let us hope that Mr. Cage is correct and nothing goes wrong, still I will try to prepare as best I can for all possible eventualities." The Spartan replies neutrally as he starts thinking up plans.
"Agreed, and if that will be all gentlemen I suggest we each prepare accordingly." Both the Spartan and the arachnid powered hero agreed and rose from their place and bid the man good bye…the players had been chosen and now the game was afoot.
Though unknown to them all important events were taking place, in a reality same yet different from their own…
Universe 145513264…
In the vast reaches of space a patrol fleet was doing a routine run in the area that surrounded the space of the Forerunner home world, what was special about this fleet was that it was entirely comprised of Neo-Covenant vessels 5 CAS Carriers and 10 CCS Battlecruiser's. With the discovery of the Forerunner home world and all information and technology within, it was decided by both government's that given the still growing human fleet and the ongoing internal and external struggle of the fledgling empire Neo empire a joint effort would be made to secure the technologies found there.
This would also be the first ever joint military and scientific operation of both empires since the end of the war. Both the Arbiter and Fleet Admiral Hood had high hopes this would be the start of many more such efforts that would help in the healing process that was the fragile peace between both their groups.
It was not easy, too little time had passed and tensions between both groups were still high but still both military leaders strived for peace in a volatile enviroment.
Commanding this small fleet was Fleetmaster Lai'Ro Feldum, of the ship Hope's Renewal one of the many veterans of the war, he stood at 8'2" tall and was dark skinned that contrasted with his lightered toned armor. He had seen much during the war and carried the scars of it as seen by a jagged scar on the right of his face and a missing finger on his left hand he lost during a battle with Jiralhane loyalists.
"Status Report." Deep voice that seemed to standard of the male of his species asks his sensor officer, a small Unngoy by the name of Yip Nap.
"All systems report nominal Fleetmaster." It squeaked.
"Good alert me of any anomalies you find no matter how small they seem pilot, maintain this course for 30 more minutes than plot a course to sector 2455-5531."
"By your will Fleetmaster."
"By your will Fleetmaster."
Both beings replied while the leader sat in his hover chair and went over reports, at that point he was joined by his XO a female Sangueli garbed in armor that marked her as an Ultra by name of Lian Charum, one of the fee females of her species who chose to live her life as a warrior than watch over the family keep like her sister had done.
She had fought hard to earn not only her place among her brothers in arms but also their respect as a fellow warrior and sword master.
"How goes things Fleetmaster?"
"All is calm for the moment Lian, which makes a part of me wishes for some combat yet at the same time…"
"…makes you glad nothing unruly shall happen so close to the home of the ancient ones." She finishes.
"Precisely, hard to believe we are now guarding the planet from where their mighty empire once stood and with our once foes the humans no less."
"These are strange times brother." Was the only reply she could give to his comments. Any further comments were halted as the sensor officer spoke up suddenly.
"Fleetmaster! Unidentified rupture opening of the port side, it is not slipspace."
"What? Identify what you can immediately."
"It is very small, not a ship…visual coming in now."
The screen showed a small probe, the design was a match to a human probe.
"It is definitely human made Fleetmaster, though I am receiving residual readings that do not match with slipspace travel and also it is transmitting a signal on the human's emergency band."
"What type of signal?" the ship's XO asks the small alien.
"A seven tone sequence, it repeats on 30 second intervals." He answers her.
"Hmm, did not the Fleetmaster Vadum and the Arbiter say we should be on the lookout for such a signal?" She asks her commanding officer.
"Indeed…" He replies before turning to the communications officer "…contact the nearest human patrol fleet."
"…"
"I have located one close by; the leading vessel is the Wrath of Harvest, a Cruiser Fleetmaster making contact."
-This is Captain Johannesburg speaking.—a man with a robotic eye and partially burnt face on the right speaks, he has a slight German accent to his voice.
"This is Fleetmaster Lai'Ro, we have stumbled upon a human probe that arrived by unknown means and emits a seven tone signal we were ordered to keep a lookout for."
The Captain immediately reacts to that news as his eyes widen, clearly showing the importance of the news given.
-What is you location? — The man asks quickly.
"Send him the coordinates." The Sanguelli orders his pilot.
"Got'em, stay with the probe, we will meet you there and then we will both head back to the defense fleet. If this is what I think it is then we will need to coordinate a response quickly."
Both CO's look at the screen at each other in confusion before Lian speaks.
"What is the significance of this probe that would garner such a reaction Captain?"
"You may have just found a very BIG clue to the location of the Forward Unto Dawn and its crew."
That surprised the crew; they all knew who was on that vessel.
"D-D-Demon."
One of the Unggoy whimpered. Even IF the Separatists were allies with the UNSC, the mere mention of the Spartans would always send shivers of fever down the spines of those who had ever faced them or seen them in battle and lived. The Unggoy got the worst of it while the Sangheili would still recall the thrill of facing one in combat and the honor it came to facing a worthy foe in the armored Super soldiers.
Things just took an interesting turn for the UNSC and their allies just as things would for the Master Chief and his allies.
To be continued…
So here we go, the stage has been set and half the player revealed, as you can see I went with a mostly human crew with the exceptions of Luke and Peter. Naturally their opponents will not be easy since they will be hardened killers with some having abilities that make them quite the problem. I figure many of you will ask if this will be the moment when it happens and a villain is KIA…the answer is yes, someone if going down for the last time, for my colleagues who are aware of who I plan to take out I ask for your discretion.
And remember our little game folks, whoever guesses what the Halo verse number means gets to choose the lovely X-Lady to spend time with the MC.
Now let's answer some reviews:
detheroc: Karen's evolution is still up in the air for the moment but I hope to get inspired to do something with her along that route eventually, I am aware of the gene song and I have thought about integrating into my story just haven't figured out how yet.
mkeeg91: Jen right now is just a candidate not the final pairing, and I am glad you support the role Karen is building in the Chiefs life. That thing with Valeria is cannon, it is what caused the team to break up for a while, check it out some time. And as you can see the experiment has completed its first stage, we now just have to wait for the second stage to begin.
Graybook: Thanks for your support, and yes Halsey is being considered among others, I am still debating on giving her a body and what type but I will consider your suggestion.
Freedom Guard: Always a pleasure to hear from you my friend, the date only got that good because of your support and i'll try to work in more normal aspect outside of his heroics from time to time. To better humanize him, and get him some time with the candidates for his sweetheart. Glad you liked that scene I cooked up with Karen and the Cuckoos.
Zazi The Beast: Well I have repeatedly asked for a secondary Beta who specializes in grammar but sadly there are no takers still I will keep the offer open. Tech exchanhges are iffy since Cortana has pirated and perfected his rivals tech so as not to annoy the man... you how Stark gets with his toys.
Jyggilag What happened here is a mix up on my part, when I started this story I planned to have this post Zero tolerance but it got away from me so now we have it where Colossus is alive though I can probably have that before the whole Breakworld debacle yet balance out my mistake by having this before Doom was sent to Hell.
Eventually I will sync it up with Cannon once we reach the point where Disassembled happens. X-23 will appear after the events of NYX occurred, she will meet up with John and he and others will play a important role in her life... I may decide that Karen needs a sister to look after and that Julian gets the chance Marvel denied him.
ShadowCub: Doom will not know what hit him when he tries to make a play.
ONI would like to see that though what I have planned for them will perhaps show them in a better light.
Jen is a candidate right now, she made the first move and now the other ladies need to step up.
Well folks that is all for the reviews. Now comes the part I really don't want to do but I feel it must happen so here is my opinion of the state of Marvel as we currently see it.
I do not favor the new Marvel we are living in where the X-men are broken and at each other's throats, the Avengers are no longer the champions they once were and where a good, compassionate and heroic person like Peter Parker was killed in such a vicious and cruel way. I know change is natural, even in a fictional world, but this...I can't support it, I just can't do that my friends.
Why? Why did this happen? Where did it all go wrong I ask, when was making money more important than good story telling and character development? I won't go into exact details of what was wrong in my view with AvX but that was even worse than what happened in Civil War. And what Marvel did to Peter was deplorable and cruel, he was their flagship character for years and THIS is the treatment the character gets?
No, I refuse to take part in this farce that is Marvel Now! I choose to make a stand and not buy anything from Marvel until I see something be done to rectify this gross misuse of characters who have seen my through some tough times in my youth. I have friends who keep me posted should it occur but right now it is not looking good…Marvel seems to have declared war on the Spiders, Kaine is said to be on the edge of giving up his chances of heroism, Flash is looking to be taken out and Miguel O'Hara seems to be slatted for execution by the body snatching bastard.
Is it any surprise I am angry when I hear these things? I am not asking you to join me, I am not asking you to take the fight to Marvel Execs, I am not asking for anything from you my readers and friends but to understand that I can't do anything for the cannon Universe but maybe I can do something here in fan fiction…I hope to succeed with your support...to all you true believers…to all of you who believe the dream has not ended…I say this…EXCELSIOR NOW AND FOREVER!
PEACE OUT!