"Wow, it sure is dark in here", Flash walked forward, keeping a close eye on the tunnel walls. "I hardly see anything."
"Agreed. Luckily our armors have good flashlights", Harry answered, walking right behind his friend. "But look at this tunnel! It's huge!"
"Ock has been very quick. He must have used his ugly allies to build this. I just can't understand why they help him over and over again. No one can take that loser seriously!"
"Yeah, but he's also very dangerous. You should know that by now."
"Maybe you're right. But if I was a villain, I wouldn't want to work with him."
"Who would? He forces and teases people. He won't share the glory with anyone. He's so selfish, cruel and rude."
"Right up to the elbow", Flash nodded and stopped to take a better look at this place. "Hmm, it seems that this goes deeper and deeper. Hate to say this, but I'm starting to feel weird..."
"What do you mean?", Harry started shivering under his armor.
"I don't know. My sense is getting restless, but it doesn't tingle. So no threat nearby."
"Lucky you! I wish I had the Spidey-Sense...", Harry muttered, then looked over his shoulder. "Hey, Dad! See anything?"
"No", Norman yelled back, digging some mud from the wall with his glove. Putting the sample on his palm, he analyzed it.
Nothing, just typical ground...
"I think we should hurry. We must find that goof and Peter asap. Before it's too late", Flash covered his face and started running.
"Hey, wait up!", Harry started flying. "Dad, come on!"
"Just a minute", Norman put the sample away, going after boys. "Not so fast!"
"Sorry Mr. O, but this is a mission and I'm not being lazy! Follow me!", Flash webbed so fast that even Harry had a hard time keeping up with him.
"Look Flash, it's nice that you're excited but please, slow down!"
But Flash didn't hear him. Grunting, Harry sped up, zigzagging from side to side.
"Urh this dust...Harry, stop!", Norman yelled. No use.
"Hey, I think I see something!", Flash pointed with his finger. "Hurry, slowpokes!"
"Oh yeah?! Well, here I come!", Harry started getting excited as well.
Did we find Pete?! I can't wait to see him again!
"Boys...!", Norman yelled.
Oh no, I will lose them! I can't see anything in this dust!
"Harry...", he looked around again. His son was only a tiny spot in the distance.
Damn it...
"HARRY!", Norman yelled loudly. Finally, he got the boy's attention as he stopped and hollered back.
"WHAAAT?!"
"Don't move so fast! My armor is not as fast as yours right now!"
"OH, SORRY! But -!"
"Come here!", Norman called out to him. Harry obeyed without arguing.
"Look, remember what you promised? You can't fool around here. We don't know how dangerous this place is."
"I do. Sorry. This is just so mysterious and cool!"
"Nothing, in this case, is cool. This is far from those Academy training sessions you've been through. This is a real situation and must not be taken lightly. Understood?", Norman asked. Sighing, Harry nodded.
"Good. Now, let's move. I want to get out of here", Norman passed the young man whose expression under the helmet was a mix of concern and confusion. Despite the denial, Harry knew his father had problems. He didn't honestly believe that he was the one needing therapy the most.
Is forgetting Ambrose just like that a wise choice? He won't go away if we don't do something about it. Must I arrange something?
Sure Harry was willing to try with Jordan if Norman came along as well. Family therapy sounded a good idea. In the past, he wasn't ready to talk. But maybe it was time to change the habit.
Keeping things inside is exhausting. And I think we both need a fresh start. But is Dad ready to move on and let Mom rest in peace? I can easily let go since I didn't know her. But she was Dad's love of life and the only one who accepted him. He has avoided others ever since...
"Hey, where did your friend go?", Norman's voice cut Harry's brainstorm off.
"Huh?"
"Didn't he run ahead? I don't see him anymore."
"Perhaps he did. Let's go after him", Harry suggested. To his surprise, Norman responded by a smile.
"Sounds good. You wanna go first?"
"Really?"
"Sure, I'm right behind you. Lead the way", the man stepped aside. Harry was even more confused.
What's up with him? First, he is so serious and then suddenly so calm, even playful. What is he hiding behind that smile?
Sweat started gathering on Harry's forehead.
Another breakdown?!
"Dad, is everything okay?"
"What do you mean?"
"No I mean you're not having any problems or something...?"
"Don't worry about me, I'm fine. As long as I know you're close, there's nothing to worry about."
"I see...", Harry answered, then started coughing. Norman whipped around, revealing his face.
"Son...?!"
"It's this dust. My eyes hurt."
"You're right, my throat feels like sandpaper. Seriously, where is he?!"
"Hmm...Flash, hey Flash!", Harry yelled. Soon, Osborns saw him running from the darkness.
"Guys, come quickly!"
"What's wrong?", Harry asked. "Did you find anything?"
"You bet! Now, hurry I said!", Flash rushed the father and son. "Come on!"
"Alright, alright!", Osborns flew after him. A moment later, they arrived at the end of the tunnel.
"Is this a way out?", Harry eyed up. "So high..."
"Yeah. Just wait for what you're going to see. It's...wild", Flash said, shooting his webs to the wall.
"Are you sure it's safe to go up there?", Norman sounded suspicious.
"Yeah, I didn't see anyone. Trust me, you don't wanna miss this", Flash started climbing.
"Okay, ready?", Harry chuckled nervously.
"No...but as we both know, there's no choice. Fly slowly and follow my moves", Norman headed up first, Harry coming right behind. He didn't want to be alone, not for a second.
*Light*
"Is that...?!", Harry narrowed his eyes. Luckily his helmet protected his face from this weird brightness.
"Oh yes. And we're getting out right about...now!"
Norman and Harry had to close their eyes because they couldn't see properly. When they were finally able to open them...they both went speechless.
"Told ya. I was surprised to see this as well", Flash crossed his hands behind his back. The trio stood in front of a huge jungle area.
"A...a jungle?!", Harry babbled.
"How...?", Norman didn't know what to say.
"This whole side is nothing but a forest. But the path goes right through it."
"But why would Ock do something like this?", Harry took a step forward. "What does he need a jungle for?"
"I don't even wanna know. But gotta admit, this place looks cool. Let's investigate", Flash started walking.
"I don't agree. We should just keep moving. This place looks suspicious and dangerous", Norman shook his head.
"Well, I think that...oh, cool! What is that thing?!", Harry noticed a giant, red flower thingy growing out from the grass.
"Hah, it looks familiar. Now, let me see...", Flash rubbed his chin. "Too bad biology was never my thing..."
"It's a carnivorous plant, but I can clearly see it's been genetically modified. Don't go near it", Norman put his arm in front of Harry as they passed the flower.
"Wow, you're right. Does it have teeth?!", Flash pointed out. "Sick!"
"It sure has. Just like Ock's style", Harry responded. The flower looked really creepy.
"Only he can do such sick things", Norman's expression turned annoyed.
"For once, I'm not complaining. At least it's not...", Flash was cut off as the plant grabbed a passing cockroach, tearing it violently apart. Blood and pieces of entrails fell all over the ground. The trio stared in complete silence.
"Eewww...", Harry gagged.
"Yeah...and now it's licking its so-called lips. Freaky!", Flash shared this reaction.
"I have seen enough. Come on, boys", Norman pushed Harry forward. He wanted to get his family out of this sick place asap.
"The trail goes through the area. Who wants to go first?", Flash asked.
"I go, I have the most prepared armor. Just don't wander off the road", Norman commanded, heading through the grass. Boys followed him side by side.
"Is he doing okay? He was against this mission after all", Flash wondered.
"I don't think he's doing well, to be honest. I know he's worried and stressed. And he said that we should just forget Ambrose for good", Harry told.
"And do you think it's a good thing?"
"Well, at first I believed so...but denying won't solve this problem. But Dad is way too weak to act so I'm gonna get rid of that maniac."
"You...?! How?"
"Not sure yet. You wanna help, maybe?"
"Sure! I can't wait to kick his ass! He deserves it", Flash clenched his fist.
"Well, it's a deal then. But don't tell anyone", Harry said seriously.
"Your crazy idea is safe with me."
"Okay. Now, I think that...", Harry stopped in his tracks. Norman stood a couple of meters from them, looking straight towards the forest.
"Dad, what's wrong?"
"I can hear something. My scanner says something big is coming towards us."
"Huh? I don't hear...", Flash's sense started tingling. "Or wait a sec, you're right! What is it?!"
"I don't know, but we better..."
"CRASH!"
"A tiger?!", Harry screamed when a huge one appeared from the bushes. Like the plant, it wasn't clearly a normal one. It was bigger than its usual counterpart and teeth, as well as claws were long and sharp.
"Nice!", Flash webbed out of the way. "What's next?! A whole zoo?!"
"Who cares! Just run! Or web! Or fly!", Harry screamed. He tried to move, but his boots were stuck in the mud. And at the same second, the cat spotted him.
"NO! AAAH!", the young man tried to shoot it but missed. Even Flash's kicks didn't work. "I'm gonna die! HELP!"
"NOT on my watch!", Norman yelled angrily, activated his weapons...
"SPLASH!"
Yelling in fear, Harry covered his face with his hands, even though his helmet protected him. He could feel how a bloody shover flushed over him and it was so disgusting.
"I told you not to mess with me! And since you didn't listen, you pay for it!", Norman hissed at the dead beast. Then, he turned to see his boy. "You're okay, son?!"
"Uhh...", Harry trembled. His whole armor was in blood and entrails. The smell was horrible.
"Wow...that was...", Flash wasn't sure what to say. "Heh, nice upgrade you got there, Harry!"
"Shut your mouth", the boy spat back. "Dad, did you have to shoot it?! Now, look at me!"
"I had to. It was the only way to save you. Don't worry, we will clean up your armor later", Norman said.
"How can you be so calm?! You shot that thing! You blew its head off!"
"I didn't have time to think. I had to act before it was too late."
"Your father is right, dude. Don't be such a wuss. Nasty happenings are part of being a hero. You wanted a real mission, well now you have it. So quit whining!", Flash said demandingly. But it wasn't the main point that Harry was worried about.
Dad killed a living creature! And without remorse. He acted like a robot and isn't even shocked. But I know the truth. He tries to keep himself together for me and denies his true feelings. It's just too bad that they come out uncontrollably instead and he doesn't realize it. Luckily, I do. I don't think he's gonna flip out again, but I'm worried about his stress level. Although for now, I keep observing.
"Okay, I get it. So, can we move on?! This place is creepy."
"I thought you were never gonna say that. Let's go."
*Moment later*
"Wow, that sure was one long road", Harry wiped his helmet after getting out of the tunnel.
"Yeah, but this is only a step one. We can't know for sure what's next", Flash reminded his friend.
"I'm starting to hate that word...", Norman muttered. "My scanner doesn't pick up anything unusual. So I think the coast is clear."
"Cool! In that case, can I be the leader this time? Please!", Harry suggested. Norman wasn't fond of the idea but he decided to bite his tongue.
Trust him.
"If you want. But take it easy."
Nodding, Harry walked first, then Flash and finally Norman. Eerie silence surrounded them and it was quite creepy.
"See anything yet?"
"I think so. Wanna bet what it is?"
"Hmm. Maybe it's some weird laboratory, full of skeletons and bones!"
"Yuck! In your sick dreams maybe", Harry showed his tongue.
"Well, what do you think, then?"
"Maybe this jungle continues. Who knows. I only hope Pete isn't anywhere here..."
"I don't think he is. If I know Octavius at all and Peter is with him, then this isn't his hideout", Norman joined the conversation. Boys turned to him.
"You really think so?", Harry rubbed his head.
"I'm certain. I think this is one of his research areas he abandoned when he noticed that they were useless."
"Sounds reasonable. Should we call Shorty and ask him to dig some information for us?", Flash asked.
"I can contact him", Harry opened his communicator, but it didn't work. "Hmm...no signal."
"My devices aren't working properly either", his father checked his. "Maybe we are too far away."
"Uhhh, it looks like we're on our own. But no matter! Flash and the Osborn dudes won't let anyone or anything mess with them!", he grabbed his hands around Harry and Norman's necks and pushed their heads with his own. Then, he let go and marched forward.
"Heh, Flash and his weird habits", Harry patted his father's shoulder who was a bit embarrassed.
"I just...I'm not used to such gestures. This is very confusing."
Harry smiled a little. He wanted to have a conversation with his father later but now wasn't the time. They needed to find Ock and save everyone.
"Weren't you supposed to lead us? Or am I in charge again?", Flash teased. Harry grunted back.
"No, you were the one goofing around. Okay, this spot where we stand is an entrance but it's blocked. How do we open it?"
"Leave that to me", Flash activated his weapons. "Hey Mr. O, give me a hand!"
"Sure. Harry, stay back", Norman commanded. Stepping aside, Harry watched how the duo shot several times, slowly mashing the wall into pieces. From behind it revealed a snowy forest.
"Okay, where are we now?", the Patrioteer looked around. "In Central Park?"
"This place does not look familiar at all", Agent Venom observed the view.
"I think we have reached out of the city. Look", Iron Patriot pointed at the buildings which were only tiny spots on the horizon.
"But how?! The tunnel wasn't that long", Harry shook his head.
"Or we didn't pay attention to it. But anyway, I would like to know what this place is. I can see no one has been here for a long time."
"So that explains why the entrance was blocked. Should we try a new one?", Harry thought, crossing his hands.
This isn't getting anywhere...and soon, we are too late! We will never find Peter like this!
*Branch breaking sound*
"Hmm?", Norman whipped around. He definitely heard something.
"Boys...I think I heard something again."
"Again?! Maybe it's a snow leopard now! What a joke!", Flash laughed.
"I don't care about what it is. Let's escape while we still can", Norman forced Harry behind him and pointed his lasers towards the bushes.
"Disagreed. We can easily be spotted, thanks to the eye-catching colors. Let's be brave and face this threat once and for all!", Flash activated his weapons as well. Harry followed his example, even though Norman covered him.
*Steps*
"What if it's Taskmaster?! Or Kraven?!"
"Then we're doomed. And we join with Toomes in Ock's statue garden. You have made a will, haven't you?", Flash asked Norman who stared back.
"I'm sorry...?!"
"Never mind. Just stay focus."
And so they waited what kind of threat would come from the forest. Everyone feared for the worst, especially Norman. If it was Ock's allies, his first job was to protect Harry and give him a chance to flee. His son's life came before his.
Your child is always the most important. I didn't understand it, but now I do.
But from the forest did not come Ock, Kraven or Taskmaster. Instead from there came a tatty man, about fifty-sixty years old. He had a ragged jacket, a hat and a plastic bag in his hand.
"Why'd ya pointing at me with those big toys, eh? Doesn't an old man get to walk here peacefully?"
"Hey, it's Timber!", Harry said happily as he eventually recognized the man.
"Who?", Flash and Norman asked at the same time.
"He's a homeless man living in a doss house where Aunt May delivers food every month. Peter took me to see that place once and Timber was there. We have visited him regularly ever since. Don't worry, he's a friend", the boy smiled and walked to the man.
"Hah, this is your threat?! And old man?! HEH HEH HEH!", Flash burst out laughing, putting his weapons down. "Give me a break!"
"Would you cut it out?!", Norman grunted in annoyance and hid his weapons too. He was more interested in this stranger who he knew nothing about. Why didn't Harry tell him anything about this?
"Hey, Timber. What are you doing here?", Harry greeted him.
"I can see you can talk and you do sound familiar. But I don't recognize you, machine man", Timber rubbed his bushy beard.
"Oh sorry", Harry revealed his face. "How about now?"
"But isn't that my boy Harry! Whatcha doin' in there?", Timber circled his young friend.
"This is my armor. Cool, isn't it?"
"Yes...I dunno anything about technology. That's one weird costume you have put on."
"Yeah, maybe. But what are you doing out here? I mean, haven't you heard what happened to the city?", Harry asked in confusion.
"I have. Man, my poor whiskers have never experienced such coldness!", Timber said, starting to laugh snottily. He smelled a little bit of disinfectant and alcohol. Despite he was homeless, the appearance was not the worst you could imagine.
"What a weirdo...", Flash whispered to himself, then said louder "How did you even survive? I thought most all of the citizens froze."
"I'm not alone, black creature. My homies are there as well."
"You mean the rest of the shelter's people?", Harry said, surprised.
"Indeed. We come and go and are familiar with the streets. But we're worried about Mrs. Parker. We haven't seen her in ages. I hope she's doing well."
"I'm afraid she is one of the victims...and Peter is too. We are trying to save them."
"That's very sad. But we haven't seen you around either."
"Uhh well I've been very busy and all...but don't worry, I promise to pay a visit soon. Anyhow, I would like you to meet my father Norman and that grumpy one over there is Flash", Harry introduced them.
"Krhmm...nice to meet you", Norman said. "I can see you know my son quite well."
"This young man here is a very dear friend of mine", Timber put his hand on Harry's shoulder. "He's been a great help, makes me feel so young again!"
"I'm happy to hear that. But we probably should..."
"You doubt me, don't ya? Maybe you should take that silver spoon from your throat and land down here on grassroots. You ain't gonna survive in this world for long with that attitude."
Norman didn't find a good response to this. He couldn't believe that a total stranger had slammed him mentally to the ground in front of his son. He felt so humiliated.
"Uhh...that was um, interesting joke, Timber!", Harry tried to save the situation. "Hey, you don't happen to know a place where could be a signal? We need to call our friend."
"Alex? What for?", Flash didn't understand the point.
"I think we need his advice on where we must go from here since we aren't familiar with this place and that's not the only problem. My batteries are dying, I need to charge them."
"Okay, I don't have better ideas. But where do we can find such a place?"
"There's an abandoned base station in the local field. I can take you there", Timber rubbed his hat.
"Good. Are you coming, Dad?", Harry asked Norman.
"I don't think you need me there", he muttered. "I'm gonna check the area while you head for that station."
"But doesn't your armor need charging too? We can continue right after that."
"No, I'm fine. Just go."
"Are you seriously gonna leave me here just like that?!", Harry couldn't believe his ears. "You said we must stay together all the time. What's the sudden change of mind?"
"Harry, you'll be fine. I see you in a bit", Norman sped up and soon disappeared out of sight. Harry just stood in place and stared after him.
"DAD! Wait up...!", he was ready to rush after him, but Flash prevented it.
"Let him go. I think he needs to be alone for a moment."
"But..."
"Dude, trust me. You don't want to see him now."
Calming down, Harry watched the dark sky. Somehow, he was very worried.
-o-o-o-
When Norman was sure that he had reached far enough, he landed on the ground. Taking his helmet off, he wiped his hair from his face. It was near that the boys saw it. And he knew that Flash had noticed his nervousness. Harry was too focused on his friend that he didn't see it straight. But Norman knew his boy wasn't stupid. He was certain the teen sensed something was off.
"What am I gonna do with myself...?", Norman leaned against the tree. Even though Harry thought he was the only one who had noticed his father's strange behavior, he was wrong. Norman had known the same all along. Ever since when Harry suggested taking more therapy lessons. And even before that.
I shouldn't have left him like that...but I can't show my feelings to him. He would only think they are his fault.
What was the problem, then? Well, it had something to do with Norman's personality. Once he was so self-confident, sure about things and he didn't have a problem bringing his opinion out. He didn't care about what others thought about him. But now, the situation was different.
A person I've never met sees me as an arrogant tyrant. Why does it bother me so much? Normally I wouldn't care. But now...
Maybe this was actually concerning Harry. He had so many things going on in his life what Norman knew nothing about. He felt like he had missed so much when he was away. Did he really know his son after all? He always thought he did. But what if not?
I didn't know he has helped poor people. I saw him as a threat immediately, but Harry trusted him. Am I too paranoid?
Norman knew that denying Ambrose's existence won't make him go away. He wanted Harry to forget him as quickly as possible, so he thought that avoiding to speak about him would turn the attention elsewhere. But he was wrong.
But what can I do about him?! Locking him up doesn't work. But I need to protect...
Suddenly, Norman lifted his gaze. That's right. Now he knew what bothered him and why he tried to deny it. Why he was unable to control his feelings and emotions in a real situation.
Lack of trust. That's the reason I can't sometimes handle myself. Thanks to my traumas and mistakes, I see everything as a threat. And since Harry isn't like me, I fear wrong persons take advantage of his kindness. I'm not saying he's naive, but he trusts people much more than I do. Like that homeless man back there. I judge everyone so easily, without giving a chance. But the main problem is, where's the line? How do I know when I should protect him and when I should give him some space?
Of course, Harry was that kind of type who cared for everyone. But Norman had always been the most important to him, ever since he was a little kid. It was like that for years, until they met Peter. Although they both were important to him in a different way.
I wanna be a good father. I do! I'm trying to change my habits so that Harry could be proud of me. I don't wanna be skeptical and I wanna open my heart for new people. I want that we have something special to share, like this homeless shelter and Academy life he has with Peter. I already support it, but I wanna find my own thing.
But to find something like that meant he needed to let go of demons. He wanted to be part of Harry's life, share things with him, show him the world, watch as he follows his dreams of becoming a hero.
And if I can't control my feelings, I might hurt him when I attack so impulsively. But when you see your child in danger, you don't think straight. You just act.
"Well, I won't get any chances by standing here", Norman put his helmet on. Maybe the change won't happen right away, but he knew that admitting things out loud was a good start. He had to tell Harry, too. Sharing things would make their relationship stronger.
Yes, my thoughts are much clearer. Now I know what I must do.
-o-o-o-
"That's the place", Timber pointed at the station when they came out of the forest. "But I don't know if it works."
"I'm sure it will. Thanks", Harry smiled and was ready to step in, until Flash yanked him back.
"Hold on a sec!"
"What now?"
"How do you trust this guy so easily? I have no idea who he is! And you have seen him only a couple of times. And still, you are ready to tell everything and follow him wherever he says."
"Hah, I didn't see you complaining back there. Why did you come here if you suspect him?"
"I couldn't have let you go alone either. We have seen several times what happens if you decide to do something alone."
"Are you implying something?"
"Since you put it that way, I'm gonna be honest. I think you're way too naive, Harry. You have no instinct of self-preservation. That's why you are always in trouble."
"Naive?!", Harry opened his helmet, revealing his angry face. "What do you mean by that?! Just because I don't automatically judge people like you do, I'm suddenly credulous?!"
"Oh please, I didn't mean it like that. But you should be more careful. This world is full of bad people and your position makes the fact even more crucial. You are the son of a billionaire and it makes you an easy target. That's why you must be careful with who you trust", Flash said.
"I appreciate your tips, but I know Timber is trustful. I have known him for a long time and he doesn't care about money. I know he may look different, but he has a good heart. And besides, Peter would have done something if there's something to worry about."
"Perhaps..."
"And besides, I don't trust everyone I meet. I was taught that when I was very young. But when I do find someone who shares my point of view, I'm willing to give him a chance. Remember, you were one of them."
"Maybe...", Flash muttered. Harry had good points, even though he didn't accept them all. "But this isn't about looking for some father figure or something?"
"Why would I need a father figure since I have a real Dad? And jeez, why should I explain my decisions to you? You don't like to be bossed around either! So if you don't like this, you are free to go. I'm not stopping you", Harry turned around, following his older friend into the building.
"Like father, like son...", Flash rolled his eyes and walked in as well.
What a bonehead family.
"This place looks promising. I try to get in touch with Alex right away", Harry said, while Flash chatted with Timber.
"So...how did you end up like this? I mean...how did you become homeless?"
"Flash, that's rude!"
"Don't worry young one, it's alright. Well, once I had everything. A home, a family, a nice job. But then I trusted the wrong people and made terrible decisions and my loved ones carried the consequences. Eventually, I noticed I was alone."
"Oh...that sounds hard. I'm sorry."
"Well, I sure regret my past. I awoke until it was too late. So remember this, boys. Think carefully about every choice you make. Someone will always pay for them, one way or another."
"Good point. Don't you think so too, Harry?", Flash shouted at his friend to the other side of the room.
"Whatever you say, pal, whatever you say", the teen answered sourly. Then, he tried his communicator. "Alex, can you hear me?"
"WHOOSH...WHOOSH...WHOOSH"
"Alex? You're there?"
"Can't get a signal?"
"Give me some time! Alex, it's Harry. Hello?"
"WHOOSH...Harry...?"
"Hey, I think I heard something!"
"Like what?", Flash asked.
"Listen!", Harry interrupted him. "Alex?"
"Hey...I can...WHOOSH...hear you..."
"No way, you did it! Flash walked to his friend, grabbing the communicator. "Hey, nerdy! How are you doing? Can you hear me? It's Flash!"
"Yeah...I can...but the signal is very weak. Where...are you?"
"We aren't sure. We followed that tunnel where the signal was coming from and I saw pretty nasty things."
"I see...what things...?"
"We tell you later", Harry pushed Flash out of the way. "Our connection might break, so we should be quick. I was wondering if you could gather some information for us?"
"Sure. Just tell me what do you need."
"Well, can you find out about our location? We have found pieces of broken octobots, but the signal itself is dead. Maybe we took a wrong turn at some point."
"Didn't Flash say something about a tunnel network? Have you checked them all?"
"Oh come on! Do you know how much time it takes to investigate them all?! Just use your brains and tell us where Ock is!", Flash snorted. Harry started to get very irritated by his bossy attitude.
"I do what I can. Let's see..."
*A couple of minutes of silence*
"Well? Do you see anything?", Flash tapped his fingers against a table. "Man, this is boring!"
"Can't you show any respect for his hard work?! Analyzing data and everything takes time. Trust me, I know what I'm talking about", Harry nodded.
"No wonder. You have grown up in a world like this but I'm not. My life is devoted to sports, junk food and kicking villains' butts. I don't need to understand science. It's not for me."
"Why do I even bother...?", Harry muttered so that Flash didn't hear. Finally, they heard Alex's voice again.
"Can you hear me, guys...?"
"Yeah, we're here. What did you find?"
"I...I don't know what to say. It's...it's..."
"What? Spit it out!", Flash commanded.
"I...I'm not sure. I...I don't think..."
"Alex?", Harry started to get worried. "You're okay in there?"
"Listen to me...it's...it's not what it seems! Remember, it's not what it seems!"
"What the heck are you goofing around there?! Did you discover our location?!"
"It's all a lie...be careful, everyone! Don't..."
"Alex?!", Harry shook his communicator. And suddenly...
"No...NO! BE CAREFUL! IT'S NOT WHAT IT SEEMS! REMEMBER THIS!"
"WHOOSH...WHOOSH...KLICK!"
*Silence*
Both boys stared at the black communicator, then at each other in silence.
"What...what was that all about?!", Flash cleared his throat.
"I...I don't know. The communicator is shut down completely now", Harry tried it.
"I think the generator must have gone off", Timber came back into the room, holding an old oil lamp in his hand. "I tried to fix it, but nothing."
"It's okay, this is better than nothing. Thanks anyway."
"Better than nothing?! Alex's babbling was very disturbing. I think he's gone nuts", Flash put his hands over his head.
"How nice of you, again! What if he got attacked?!", Harry said angrily.
"Attacked? You mean Ock or his puppets?"
"Who knows! And what did he mean by a phrase it's not what it seems?"
"No idea. But I guess that his pants just shuddered so badly that it made him panic. Don't overthink."
"Hah, well how about...?"
"THUMP!"
"Hmh?!", the trio stopped their conversation.
"Did you...did you hear something?", Flash whispered.
"I did. It sounded like a hit", Harry whispered back.
"THUMP!"
"Yeah. I don't think we are alone in here", Flash covered his face again. "We better check this place out."
"I can do that. You kids wait for me outside", Timber took his lamp. "I know how to move unseen."
"I appreciate your offer, but you better have some backup. Meanwhile, Harry can wait outside."
"Why do you always want to cast me aside?! I can take care of myself, thank you very much", Harry crossed his hands demandingly.
"It's not about that. But your father just landed in the backyard", Agent Venom pointed out of the window. "You better go to him so that we avoid unnecessary attention."
"Oh, right...", Harry turned around and rushed out where Norman already was looking for him.
"Dad!"
"There you are! I was about to check the GPS tag of your armor. But good that I didn't have to do it."
"Where did you disappear?! I was worried", the teen said.
"My apologies. I just needed some time to think. Hopefully, you didn't think I abandoned you."
"Not quite...but seeing you fleeing like that concerned me. I thought you had some seizure or something."
"I'm fine, I assure you."
"Really?"
"Yes. There is something I wanna tell you."
"Me too. You see, we..."
"No, let me say first. Trust me, everything else can wait", Norman interrupted Harry and put his hands on his shoulders. "You see, this is about our family."
"Okay...what is it, then?"
"At first, I wanna say how sorry I am. I was lost on what to do but now, I finally think I have found the right direction."
"Direction for what?", Harry repeated, confused.
"For everything. How I must go on from here, what I must do and what I must learn", Norman answered.
"Okay...?"
"I know it's hard to understand, but I try to explain this as straight as I can. I've been thinking a lot lately...and I wasn't quite sure about my thoughts. I kept thinking that denying and forgetting the past it's the best way to forget. But it's not."
"Does this have something to do with my suggestion when it comes to therapy? Of course, you are free to decide do you need it or not. I'm not saying what's best for you."
"But you were right. To move on, I need to let go of my past. And if it means talking to someone, then I'm ready to do it."
Harry couldn't believe his ears. Was this really Norman he knew? No way.
"Dad, what's the real reason behind this? You speak very strange things."
"You will understand in due time. But I just want to tell you how I feel. Your friend's sentence opened my eyes. I can't go on like this, doubting everything and everyone. I need to give life a new chance. People a new chance."
"Well, you have a point in there..."
"I know. I've been fighting against a change I must do. I didn't think I was ready for it. But seeing you making friends and getting excited about new things inspired me. I don't wanna be that cold, arrogant CEO forever. I want that people can see a whole new side of me", Norman explained. Now, Harry started to get a hang of this.
"Oh, now I think I'm beginning to understand. And your ideas sound great", he smiled.
"Thank you. But there's more. I need to tell you something I know you have noticed as well. It's about my ability to control feelings and emotions."
"Yeah...?"
"As you know, I'm not very good at expressing them. And it makes me unsure from time to time. Like how I killed that tiger without any regret. All I saw was you in danger. And then my instincts simply kicked on."
"But isn't that normal for a parent? Everyone would do the same if their kid was in danger...I think."
"But you can't deny wondering about it?", Norman looked at his boy.
"I guess not...you're right. I was worried about your ability to control them. That's why I think you should be more open about your feelings", Harry said unsurely.
"I know and I'm ready to make it work. It makes me learn new things about myself and how I can be a good father to you."
"Just remember that it takes time. I don't wait for miracles to happen."
"Mm-hmm. But one more thing..."
"Go on."
"I...I'm sorry how I have doubted you. I know you can make the right decisions and I should respect them. I'm glad you don't judge people so easily as I do. I just fear they might hurt you if they have bad intentions..."
"Flash said the same, he thinks I'm too naive. I just...maybe loneliness has made me yearn for company. Pete's always busy with Spidey stuff, you have your work and Flash and others...well, they all have their superhero careers. Sure I have too, but I'm different than the rest of them. I'm the only one who doesn't have superpowers. Sure there's Amadeus Cho, but he's intelligent and an official part of the Web Warriors. I'm just a student nobody remembers...", Harry sighed.
"Well, to me you are the dearest in the world. And that's why I need to keep fighting. Although, I have a favor to ask", Norman patted Harry's shoulder.
"Anything. Just name it."
"Tell me straight - am I too overprotective? Do you want more space?"
"I don't think there are right or wrong answers in this situation. Sure, sometimes you get on my nerves but then again, it's your way to show that you care. And just like you once told me, making rules is your way to show it. And what I did in the graveyard...I sure don't have a right to complain, at least for now."
"Maybe not...and we can always discuss this later. After Octavius is taken down."
"It's a deal. Something else bothering you?"
"Not at this point. But just for you to know, I have plenty of plans for the future. Don't worry, I won't do anything behind your back. Just gonna leave you something to think about", Norman smiled mystically.
"I can't wait...but anyhow, thanks for being honest, Dad. It eases my feeling too", Harry said a warm smile on his face.
"Glad to hear that. But hey, you said there's something you need to tell."
"Right...well", Harry explained what happened with Alex and how Flash and Timber were checking the place. Norman's expression turned serious.
"You mean there's something...?", he was ready to activate his weapons. Harry grabbed his arm and tried to stop him.
"We can't arise attention. Let's just wait until they come back."
"But why did your friend say such disturbing things?"
"I have no idea. But it worries me. What if he's in trouble?"
"Well, we can't help it if he is. We can only hope he manages."
"Yeah...", Harry said, looking towards the building. Flash and Timber had been there for a long time now.
"Dad, Flash has been in there for quite some time. I'm starting to worry..."
"Hmm...perhaps..."
"Did somebody say my name?"
"AAAH!", Harry screamed out of surprise as he heard a voice behind him and jumped backwards, turning around. Norman did so too and was ready to shoot...but both Osborns stopped in their tracks when saw Flash.
"Do you have to sneak around like that?! You scared me to death!", Harry said angrily, holding his chest.
"Sorry. I didn't see you from behind those thick trees."
"What were you doing out there anyway? I thought you went to check the building."
"I was going to, but then I heard voices from the forest and went to check them. I didn't find anything, though."
"Well, where's Timber? Is he still inside?"
"I'm not sure. He said he will come out after he has checked the place. But it was ages ago", Flash muttered.
"And he couldn't have come out without my knowledge. Now I'm truly starting to get bad feelings about this place...", Harry trembled.
"I can check the place once more, but it sounds so suspicious that you both better wait here", Norman covered his face. Before he could go, Harry grabbed him by the arm once more.
"Dad, please be careful. Maybe you shouldn't..."
"But you care for this man. And I'm willing to give everyone you see as a friend a chance. It helps me to be more involved in your life."
"Okay...if that's what you wish", Harry smiled a little, letting his father go who headed inside.
"Did you tell him about Alex?", Flash asked.
"Yeah. He is as confused as we. I have no idea what happened."
"He wasn't able to tell our location, I can tell."
"Nope. Looks like we need to find it out for ourselves."
"Sucks..."
"I know..."
"BOYS!"
"Ah?", boys turned towards the building. Norman waved at them at the entrance.
"Yes, Dad?"
"Come here! You need to see something!"
"This keeps getting better and better...", Flash murmured. "What now?"
"Is this that man's hat?", Norman held it on his palm. Harry confirmed the fact.
"Yeah, it is. What about it?"
"It's...well it honestly looks that it's been torn apart. Like an attack..."
"Or maybe that dude had enough and simply left. Not everything is full of drama", Flash slammed the idea to the ground.
"No, but this isn't like him. And hasn't your sense warned you?"
"Not really. Some signs, but not much. Why?"
"Don't you see it by now?! This place is beyond something we can't understand. And I don't know about you, but I feel that it's watching us all the time...", Harry looked up, seeing how ash fell from the sky.
"Watching?", Flash looked up as well, so did Norman.
"Yes, Flash. And I have a very bad feeling that we haven't even seen the true hell yet."
Yes, Harry, you're absolutely right. You have not.
