"You know where Peter is?!", Flash stared at Alex. Everyone did.
"Yes, at least I think so."
"But how can you be so sure?"
"Simple. His communicator is back on", Alex showed his tablet. "I've been trying to make it stronger and it has worked. But the process has been weak since Ock's internet is not very good."
"Hell, that's awesome! Great job, runt! Great job! YEAH!", Flash cheered.
"Oh my poor sweetheart...", May wiped her face. "I need to see him soon..."
"And you will. Finally, we are going to meet him again! I can't wait", Flash put his hands on May's shoulders. "Who knows what he's been through..."
"I'm also very relieved. But I'm a bit suspicious of this discovery. Why would Peter's communicator open again? It's like Octavius made it and is waiting for us there. I think we should discuss before doing anything", Norman nodded.
"Oh come on, Alex has made sure that no one has tracked him down! His symbol trick was also very great. What were they again...?", Flash asked.
"It's not important, Mr. Osborn knows and it's all that matters. Too complicated for your brains", Alex said, annoyed.
"Whatever. At least Pete is soon with us. Hooray, oh yeah!", Flash continued celebrating.
"Yes, great...", Norman turned to see his son who stood silently in the corner. He had not said anything.
"Son? How are you doing?"
"Uh, me? I'm fine", Harry muttered.
"You're sure?"
"Yeah, don't worry."
Norman raised eyebrows. He knew this boy was lying to him. His worry grew and grew. How is he able to fix their mental states after this?
I'm so worried. He's been through more than I can ever bear thinking.
"So, what are we waiting for?! Let's go get him!", Flash marched to the door. "Which way?"
"Hold on a moment! We need to follow this signal step by step, it goes off and on. We can't rush", Alex answered.
"Great, what else?!"
"We also need to make sure it's safe to go. As much as I want to find him but we need to be careful", May reminded Flash.
"Did Pete tell you that?"
"Yes and much more. Remember, patience. We have to think of everyone."
"I swear I'm strangling that guy who created this cursed word", Flash murmured angrily. "Hey, Harry! What are you thinking about this?"
"What...? Me?", Harry looked confused.
"Yeah. You have felt guilty after all. Now you can finally apologize for what you did!"
"Right...", Harry rubbed his neck. Norman and May gazed at each other. Both adults were concerned about his well-being.
"That's the spirit! So, how long does it take until we can go?", Flash was already very impatient.
"Five minutes, okay?! Five minutes! I try to place the exact location. You can upgrade your dear symbiote while waiting", Alex opened his tablet again. "Good, the signal is still on. Mr. Osborn, can you help me with this?"
"Y-yes of course", Norman went to help Alex. While everyone was busy, Harry sneaked out of the room and closed the door. Putting his hands in his pockets, he walked along the corridor.
"You have felt guilty after all. Now you can finally apologize for what you did!"
"How great", the teen sighed. Apologizing would certainly make things better. As if Peter would accept his pathetic excuses. A liar is a liar, no matter what.
For a moment I thought I got over these feelings. But now, I'm not sure...
Perhaps it was annoying how Harry dwelled in these emotions. But finding Peter was becoming real and that idea scared him. He wanted to find him of course but he was more scared of his pal's reaction. He feared that more than anything else.
I can't do this. I can't face him...I can't take it if he hates me.
Walking back to that balcony where Ambrose dragged him earlier, Harry noticed how it was still night. He had completely forgotten that they weren't in their world anymore.
Time goes so slowly...I have lost track of days a long time ago.
The wind blew Harry's face. At least one thing was normally around here.
Normal...how much I miss it.
Yeah, Harry didn't expect something like this when he joined The Academy. Anti-Venom and The Symbiote Saga madness were child's play compared to this hell.
Pete, where are you?! Please, if you can hear me...I'm so sorry. I know I should let go but they can't understand.
Crossing his hands, Harry leaned to look down. He couldn't see the ground from this darkness.
We're so high...
"I better get back or others start...", Harry turned to leave until something caught his attention. Something glowed at the bottom of the iland...some light.
What is that...?
Trying to see better, Harry blinked his eyes several times. But this edge covered most of the view. So he decided to climb over it, even though it was a very stupid idea. But curiosity was too strong.
"Hmmm", Harry took hold of the wall and climbed. He was already half over the edge when he lost his grip.
"Oh no...!", the boy screamed, searching for something to grab on but the wall was too slippery.
"HELP!", Harry started falling. As he was ready to face his doom, a piece of web grabbed him.
Hmm..?!
Slamming himself painfully against the wall, Harry put his hands around the "rope." He looked up and but didn't see anyone.
"Flash?"
Silence.
"Hey, is that you?! You can pull me up!"
Nothing. Harry cleared his throat and yelled louder.
"Hey, are you sleeping up there?! Pull me up!"
After several seconds that felt like hours, someone started pulling the boy up. Supporting his weight with his legs, Harry avoided looking down.
Almost there...
"Phew!", Harry took a deep breath when he finally reached the edge and spotted a hand reaching over it. It was too dark for him to identify whose it was. He only hoped that it wasn't Norman.
Somehow I don't believe so...
"Hey, thanks, guys! I thought I was done for. Hey listen, there's something down there and...", Harry grabbed the hand, pulled himself up...and froze.
"P-PETE?!", the boy's eyes widened as he recognized who stood on the balcony in front of him. Lifting his head, Peter stared into Harry's eyes. His face was full of darkness, anger...and hunger.
"A-are you real?!", Harry babbled. "Since if you're not..."
That was all Harry managed to say before his bff attacked. The young man didn't have time to get out of the way and he fell straight against the edge, hitting his head. Collapsing to the ground, his vision faded and darkness surrounded him.
"Find me..."
-o-o-o-
When Harry opened his eyes again, he found himself in Norman's arms, surrounded by others. Everyone looked very confused and worried.
"Finally you woke up! I was worried sick", his father squeezed him against his chest. "How many times I have told you, don't wander off!"
"I'm sorry. I just needed time to think", Harry apologized. He sure wasn't the easiest kid to raise.
"What were you doing out here?", Flash asked. "We found you lying on the ground."
"I...I don't remember", Harry lied. He didn't want to open up about his visions, no one would believe him anyway. He was fed up with Flash's insults.
"Are you sure? Because I don't -"
"If Harry says he can't remember, then he can't. So you don't have to push him", Norman commanded. Harry was thankful for this.
"Fine", Flash gave up. "So, what do we do now?"
"What do you mean?", Harry asked.
"I mean Alex lost Peter's signal. It was actually coming from here somewhere but it's dead now. So I thought that perhaps you saw something suspicious or out of the ordinary etc. But if you can't remember, then..."
"Wait, I did see something", the boy jumped up, rushing to the edge. "I saw a weird light coming from down there."
"A light?", everyone repeated like a stereo.
"Yes! But we're too high. I can't see it properly."
"Hmm, let me check", Flash swung over the edge and disappeared out of sight. While waiting, the rest of the group discussed the possibilities of Peter's fate.
"I still believe this is a trap. I don't think we should go. No offense, Mrs. Parker", Norman said apologetically.
"I understand your concern. You have to think about your family and I'm completely fine if you don't want to go further. But I must do this for my nephew."
"This situation is hard. Even though I'm putting certain things to the top of the list, I want you to know that I care for Peter. He's like a son to me. And of course, I want him to be found. It's just..."
"Need need to explain. I know", May smiled. Meanwhile, Harry followed how Alex tried to place the signal again.
"Any luck?"
"No. It's so close...like it's coming from underground. But I don't see any potential tunnels or holes", Alex shook his tablet.
"This keeps getting weirder. Why would his communicator come back online so suddenly? Maybe Dad is right and this is a trap indeed..."
"Well, we can always wait. But is that wise?"
"Nope. Miles is also missing and I want to find him as well. And the only way to put this shit behind is to face it", Harry nodded.
"True. Hey, Flash came back", Alex pointed out. The spider hero looked very excited.
"Oh boy, you have to see what I discovered! There is indeed a tunnel under there!"
"Really?!", Harry couldn't believe his ears.
"Yeah. That must be the one where you saw that light coming from. And it must be a path to Pete."
"I guess you're right...the signal is working again. And it's coming from...guess where?", Alex showed the screen.
"This is too good to be true...I still don't know", Norman crossed his hands.
"Come on, we are THIS close to end this fucking disaster! Just a little more! You can't give up now."
"I'm not talking about myself. Instead...", Norman eyed Harry so that his son didn't notice.
"Oh, I see. Well, I don't think Harry can have peace until Pete's fate is solved. You don't want him to dwell in guilt forever, do you?", Flash asked Norman.
"No, of course not."
"See? Then encourage him! Although if your connection isn't working, you can always give your attention to someone who needs it. I'm not complaining", Flash slammed Norman's shoulder playfully.
"Krhhmm, right", the older Osborn muttered.
"That's the spirit. Anyway, let's go! I carry you there one by one. Is everyone ready?"
"I am. You can take me first", May said.
"Sure. After all, ladies before men", Flash took the woman down. Next was Alex's turn, even though he was hesitant. A moment later, Flash swung back once more.
"Okey dokey, your turn my fellas! Ready?"
"I...I can't come", Harry stepped back. "I'm sorry."
"What is that?! Of course, you will!"
"No, I can't! I'm sorry but it's too much! I just can't."
"So you're leaving your pal in trouble when he needs you the most? I never thought you would be such a coward, Harry. You have been talking about this for weeks and when it's time to go, you act like a whiner. And no one likes a whiner", Flash mocked, being tired of this attitude.
"You do not talk to him like that! Harry has a right to refuse going there and if he is not up to it, he doesn't have to come", Norman started to get angry.
"Yeah yeah, blah blah blah. Sorry, but your opinions do not count anymore", Flash wrapped his webs around the Osborns and jumped from the balcony one last time. Covering his eyes, Harry screamed until he felt a thud under his shoes.
"There you go. That was cool, wasn't it?", Flash grinned.
"What the hell is wrong with you?! I told you I'm not ready for this! ASSHOLE!", Harry tried to hit Flash who dodged the attack and gave his friend a hard bitchslap.
"Wakey wakey, idiot! I'm not going to listen to you any longer, so keep your mouth shut. We're going to find Pete and Miles and no one's leaving until we have done so. Got it?!"
Not answering, Harry rubbed his cheek. Turning around, Flash walked towards the spot where May and Alex already waited. Norman was about to open his mouth to say something to this annoying little bully, but Harry prevented it.
"Let him be, Dad. I deserved this."
"What?! Of course, you didn't!"
"Yes, I did. Flash is right, I keep acting like a loser. I have demanded that we go looking for Peter and when it's about to happen, I suddenly feel the opposite."
"It's natural. You feel you let him down and that he hates you for it. But trust me, he does not."
"You don't know what people are capable of when they feel betrayed. I'm sorry, you must be tired of hearing this. Everyone else is."
"It's not that. I'm worried about your stubbornness. You don't believe anything I say, no matter how much I try to convince you."
"I won't apologize since it won't do any good. But I swear I'm trying, I am! And that's why there is something I need to tell you."
"Yes?"
"Don't freak out now but I saw Peter again. When I saw the light for the first time, I climbed over the edge to see it better and I almost fell. But he saved me!", Harry explained. Norman didn't know what to think or say.
"Dad, this IS true. He was there, right in front of me. Maybe I'm losing my mind and I hallucinate or something but I know he was real."
Before Norman could answer, Osborns heard yelling behind them.
"What are you doing?! Come on! This tunnel is leading somewhere!", Flash called. "Do I have to tie you up again?!"
"NO!", Harry nearly screamed back. "Man, sometimes I hate him so much..."
"Agreed. Well, I'd say that..."
"HEY!", Flash marched to the family. "Are you deaf?! If you are thinking about slipping away, ain't gonna happen!"
"We are not going to escape. As if we even could, thanks to you", Harry said angrily back. "Can't you let us be even for a second?!"
"Sorry, no. I'm not trusting you right now. And to make it work, you are gonna lead the way", Flash aimed his gun at Harry.
"What are you doing?! Put it down!", Norman tried to force Flash but the boy was too strong for him.
"Nah-a. Your son and I will check the tunnel while you wait here with Aunt May and Shorty. We'll be back," Flash made Harry walk. "You, move."
"You are nuts", Harry hissed.
"Thanks for the compliment. I tried to be nice but you kept fooling around. Now I'm gonna take the matter into my own hands and make sure that this operation is successful. Don't take it personally."
Turning around, Harry headed deeper into the darkness, Flash literally breathing to his neck. It was irritating but he didn't want to risk anything.
"How long must I walk?"
"As long as I say so. Man, these walls smell horrible. What causes it?"
"I don't know. And I don't even wanna know."
"Me either...well, let's continue."
*Moment later*
Boys had walked for several minutes and had not found anything. Wiping his face, Harry felt weak. He was missing weeks of sleep.
"Look, there is nothing here. Let's go back."
"Nope, we are gonna check this place fully. Others will wait."
"But they are defenseless! Besides, we need Alex to make sure if this is useful at all."
"Why do we need him when there's power?! I can handle this just fine", Flash answered. His shoulders twitched oddly.
"Flash, what happens to your shoulders?"
"What do you mean?"
"They move weirdly. And your head too...", Harry raised his eyebrows. Flash started gaggling.
"Oh yeah, just some fleas. You know I have them from time to time."
"Okay...but still, let's go back. Moving in a group is safer than going separately."
"Ohhhh you want to go back to Daddy, huh?! Well, I'm not going to let that happen. You need to become a hero and it means not sucking pacifier anymore."
"Why are you being so rude?! I don't want to fight with you! All I ask is that you stop trying to be my Dad's best friend! He doesn't like it and you are making him feel uneasy. And besides, your so-called father-son mumbo jumbo is total claptrap. You are saying like that because you're jealous of something I have and you don't."
"Stop it..."
"I'm not scared of you! And to make it clear, let me repeat it - MY Dad, MY life, OUR bond. And I'm NOT going to share him with you or anyone else! GET IT?!"
"SHUT UP!", Flash roared. "SHUTUPSHUTUPSHUTPSHUTPSHUP...!"
Retreating against the wall in horror, Harry followed how Flash's whole body started shaking. Foam dripped from his mouth and his eyes rolled in his head.
"Flash, are you okay?! Great, did Ambrose poison you worse than we thought?!"
"Ahh...", Flash was unable to regain control of his body parts. He collapsed to his knees and from there to the ground. Harry wasn't sure if he should touch him or not.
"Flash, can you hear me?! Please, fight!"
"Uhh...", his friend moaned. Pushing his fear aside, Harry ran to help.
"Come on Flash, you can do it! Don't let that idiot win!"
*Steps*
"What now?!", Harry lifted his gaze...and gasped again. There Peter stood once more.
"P-Pete?! Look, Flash needs our help! Please!"
No reaction.
"PETER! If it's really you, I'm sorry! I'm so sorry I betrayed you like that! Please, help me!"
No matter how Harry tried to talk to his friend, Peter just stared back. That hungry expression creeped the hell out of him.
"Why aren't you saying anything?! What has Ock done to you?! I know it's my fault..."
"HARRY! SONN!"
"Dad?!", Harry looked over his shoulder. "DAD, HELP!"
"We're coming! Where are you?!"
"I'm here! Hurry!", Harry yelled back, turning to see his friend again. But just like before, Peter was gone.
What is this? Am I really going nuts?!
"Hang on Flash, help is here soon. Just try to hang on", Harry kept chatting with his friend to keep him calm.
"AAARRRRRGGGHHHH!"
"DAD?!", Harry jumped up. Now tearful screaming filled the tunnel.
"AUNT MAY! ALEX!", the boy yelled. "WHAT'S HAPPENING?!"
*More yelling*
"Wait here pal, I'll be back!", Harry sprinted back and straight towards the entrance. What on earth was this cursed place?
"DAD!"
"OOAAAHHHHH! GET OFF ME!"
Running faster, Harry grabbed his phone and put the flashlight on. Soon he saw Norman, May, and Alex shaking some weird little creatures off them. They looked bats or something.
"What's going on here?!"
"These little devils attacked us all of a sudden! They are trying to drink our blood", Alex covered his head with his tablet.
"Great, what next?! Hey you, shoo! Shoo!", Harry waved his phone. Apparently, these monsters hated light since they scattered a moment later.
"Finally! Everyone okay?"
"I...I guess. I was bitten a couple of times, though."
"Me too...what were those things?", May asked. She looked very pale and afraid.
"One Ock's insane creations I bet", Harry helped Norman up. "I'm too tired to be surprised anymore."
"What happened to Flash? I thought he was with you."
"He was but he had a seizure or something. I had to leave him behind to help you", Harry told.
"Okay, understandable. But we better hurry so that nothing happens", Alex said. "This way?"
"Yes, go straight forward. I see you in a bit", Harry nodded. When his friend and May went ahead, the young man decided to use this opportunity to have a private conversation with his father.
"Dad, how are you feeling?"
"Not very good", Norman's face and hands were full of red bite marks. "These hurt and itch..."
"If only I was here sooner...why do I ruin everything?!", Harry kicked the ground in frustration.
"It's not your fault. The fact that you're safe is much more important. But Harry..."
"Yes?"
"Is there something you need to tell me?"
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"Just asking. I want to know immediately if something is wrong."
"Nope, I'm fine...", Harry lied. He didn't want to open up about Flash.
Now is not the time. Maybe later.
"What about these Peter-visions? You told me you saw him."
"Yes, I did, and just before I heard your screaming. He was standing there and I asked for his help and...wait a minute, why am I even telling this to you?! You only think I'm out of my mind", Harry stopped.
"No, I'm not thinking like that and you know it. I just...", Norman tried.
"Okay, whatever. Let's just go to Flash and keep moving. I don't wanna talk about this now."
"Very well. But remember, you are NOT crazy. Anyone's mind can easily break in circumstances like this."
Harry just smiled tiredly. Luckily he didn't have to defend or explain his actions further. Norman had finally noticed that sometimes it's better to be quiet.
-o-o-o-
"Here we are", Harry and Norman arrived at their friends.
"Are you sure this is the place where you left Flash? He's not here", Alex looked confused.
"What?! Yeah, I'm pretty sure", Harry circled the spot where Flash lay earlier.
"Perhaps he was taken. I see a bloody trail leading into the darkness...", Alex pointed with his finger.
"Why would they do that? That is very disturbing", May wondered. She had never been in a situation like this and that fact made everything scarier.
"Alright, time to face the facts. This wandering without a proper destination is useless. We have to make a detailed plan and follow it step by step. Otherwise, we all we'll be gone!", Norman crossed his hands.
"I have to agree with you, sir. But we don't have access to the balcony now that Flash is gone."
"Then there is only one choice. We follow this trail and see where it leads. Besides, I want to get out of this disgusting rat pit", Harry wiped his sweater. "Hey Dad, can you be our leader? You're the strongest of us."
"Son, didn't you hear what I said? We..."
"Hold on, Peter's signal is sending messages again. From...well, you already know. So, what is your decision?", Alex asked the father and son.
"Fine, fine, fine! We'll go, but all of you must listen to my orders. We don't know what's waiting for us so no one fools around or argue if I decide something. Alright?"
Boys and May nodded in agreement. It was a good sign, they trusted him.
"Hmm, it's better we move in pairs. I go first and Alex, you can walk with me in case we notice something. Harry, you walk Mrs. Parker right behind us. Remember to stay close to each other", Norman gave instructions before leading the way.
"It's getting stronger...uhh this smell! I hate blood", Alex held his nose. "Please, let us find the entrance soon..."
"Don't worry, we will. Have faith", Harry tried to sound positive.
How foolish I am...
"Everything will get better. We have already come this far and you have to believe in yourself, children. Trust me, I have years of experience and I know what suffering means. It won't last forever", May said gently. Harry looked at her until he felt a grasp on his shoulder and noticed that Norman squeezed it comfortably. It was their secret sign "Don't worry"
"Thanks, Mrs. Parker. Hearing that helps. Speaking of hope, my scanner says that we have reached the end. But I don't see a door or anything", Alex rubbed his hair.
"There isn't a door. Hear this?", Harry hit his shoe against the ground. "It's..."
*Ground collapsing*
"Oh nooo not again...!", Alex grabbed his arms protectively around his tablet as the group fell. They landed into an even deeper tunnel that resembled a slide and well, what do you think happened next?
"Did I mention how much and why I hate amusement parks?!", Alex's eyes were watery. "Because of these stupid slides!"
"That's nice but don't cling to me! We're only moving faster!", Harry yelled back.
"I'm sorry but I can't slow down! Oh my goddddd we're gonna die!"
"You're not helping...", Harry muttered. To his horror, the tunnel split into two smaller ones. Neither of them looked terribly inviting.
"Dad! Aunt May! The tunnel is splitting!"
"Choose one of them! We come right after you boys!", Harry heard his father answering.
"Okay, okay...which one?!", Harry whispered to himself.
"Harry, I think I'm...", Alex grabbed his mouth.
"I take the left side! Ready?!"
"Yes! Go ahead!"
As Harry was about to make his move, Alex's body gave up. He bumped into Harry so hard that it made the boy miss the tunnel where he was supposed to go. They hit themselves badly against the walls and got separated from Norman and May who slid past them, unable to stop moving.
"HARRY, NO!", Norman yelled before the adults vanished behind the corner.
"Great...just great!", Harry and Alex were now stuck in the right tunnel. They were too down to climb up and too afraid to continue sliding.
"Help...!", Alex squeaked as Harry held his hand with his other.
"Alex, what the heck happened?! Are you okay?"
"No...I feel horrible. I think my body locked itself! I can't move my legs or hands!"
"It's paralyzed by your fear. Try to relax a little!"
"Please tell me that's a joke!"
"Not really...", Harry panted. His grip was loosening.
"Harry, it's okay."
"Whaatt...?"
"If you don't let go, we both fall! You can still climb to the other side but only if you drop me!", Alex said.
"Not going to happen! I can't let my friends down anymore!", Harry protested.
"You have not let me down. Despite our disagreements, you have accepted me from the beginning. That's what friends do, right?"
"I...I don't know what to say. I know we just started getting to know each other but I truly like you. You have been a great help to Dad and me and..."
"Thank you. But don't waste your strength on me! You have to keep going for others! Go and find Peter and your father. They need your help."
"I...I can't! I'm..."
"Well, let me make this easy for you. Good luck", Alex stabbed Harry's hand with small scissors he always kept along.
"Ouch!", Harry had to release his hand and with that, Alex fell.
"Nooo!", the young Osborn yelled until his friend was gone. Swallowing is gasps, he climbed into the left tunnel.
Thanks, Alex...I won't forget this.
Settling himself against the ground, Harry started sliding. This tunnel was even steeper than the previous one.
"Dad! Aunt May! You're here?!"
Hah, as if.
The tunnel just continued, continued, and continued. Worry started growing...where was he going to end up?
To others, I hope...
Finally, Harry saw some light ahead. It looked very much the same he saw from the balcony.
I must be close...
Before Harry managed to do anything, he came out of the tunnel and fell straight into Ock's hands who was waiting in front of the hole.
"Gotcha! Some flight you took. Hello, Harry! How nice to see you so...lifelike."
"Whatta...?! Let me go!", the boy struggled to get free.
"But why? We just met! Come on, let's have a little tour", Ock turned around, making it impossible for Harry to escape since he was holding him so tightly. Now the boy was able to take a proper look at this place - it was a massive "world" which had been excavated under the iland. It's hard to describe how it looks but let's just say that in the middle of the space was some sort of pool, full of same looking reddish-pink slime like in The Symbiote Saga episodes. It steamed and looked disgusting as a whole. Behind it was some huge octopus statue.
"What do you like my little kingdom? Looks nice, doesn't it?"
Harry didn't answer. He kicked and hit his enemy but the grasp was tight.
"How did you know I was coming? Did you spy on me?!"
"Yes and no. Remember, this is my iland. I know everything that happens around here. You tried to be clever but unfortunately, it didn't work. Well done job for playing dead, though. You fooled all of us until Normie's behavior turned strange and Kraven informed me about it. Ugh, your father is the worst pretender I've ever seen", Ock muttered in disgust. Harry tried to find him or others in the room but they weren't present.
"Well now that you know everything, you can answer my questions. Why did you use robots? And where is all that ice? And most importantly, where's Pete?! I know you have him!"
Ock grinned and laughed his typical annoying laugh. Harry felt even more disturbed.
"What's with all of the questions? Oh right, you're an Osborn. You just can't keep your mouths shut."
"If you were more cooperative, I wouldn't have to ask. But you're too stupid to understand normal talking."
"If you say so."
Ock walked across the area until he stopped near the pool. Harry turned his gaze away from the slime, it caused too many bad memories.
"Right, here we are. Would you like to have something to drink? Eat?"
"No. I wanna see Dad and my friends", Harry said demandingly.
"What makes you think they're here? Oh my bad, you were snooping around in my sewers. Didn't know you like them."
"Shut up, you random pervert! Put me down!"
"You're getting on my nerves, brat. I suggest you quit."
"Likewise! I won't quit until I see others! And believe me, I have big lungs", Harry kept provoking. It was risky, but what else could he do?
"Fine. But the sight ain't gonna be pretty. Bring them in!", Ock shouted. Harry followed heart beating how a couple of soldiers brought Miles, Toomes, and Alex into the light. All of them were ice statues now.
"NO! Oh no no no no...!", Harry covered his mouth. "What did you do to them?!"
"We picked Rhino from my fish tank. He smelled so horrible that I had to, ugh...", Ock held his nose.
"You froze them just like you did to others...why?!", Harry wanted to know.
"Simple. They were in the way so I had to get rid of them. I thought Rhino would be useful to help your Papa with my research but then I remembered how he betrayed me. A traitor deserves a punishment."
Lifting his head, Harry stared at his enemy in horror. What if Ock did the same to Norman?
"You...you didn't freeze Dad, did you?! DID YOU?!"
"No. I need him. Even though we're not friends anymore, Normie has brains. And I need them, as annoying as it is..."
"Oh my goodness", Harry's heart beat fast. "Well, where is he?! How about Aunt May and Flash?!"
"Save your tongue, boy! There they are", Ock pointed up to stairs. When Harry spotted his friends, he felt a huge relief.
"Don't touch me!", Norman was furious as Taskmaster tried to drag him. May cooperated more willingly and Flash was still unconscious.
"DAD!", Harry screamed, trying to break free again. "DAD!"
When Norman heard his son's desperate voice, he stopped and looked down. His eyes widened.
"SON! OCTAVIUS, let him go!"
"Hi, Normie! How was your trip?"
"Release Harry this instant!", Norman ran the stairs down and towards the villain before he was tackled to the ground by the soldiers. Harry reached his hands towards him.
"Dad! Dad, help me!"
"It's alright, don't panic!", Norman tried to sound calm. It was hard.
"How sweet. I have always loved your father-son moments", Ock mocked Osborns. "So touching."
"Please, just let me go!", Harry begged.
"It depends on your father."
"What?! What do you want from me?!", Norman asked angrily.
"Just a moment. Mrs. Parker, how wonderful to see you. I hope you have been treated well", Ock smiled at May, who stared coldly back.
"I know you have done something to my nephew. Whatever it is, I hope justice will make you pay for it. I have nothing else to say to you."
"Hah hah hah, I love women with spirit! You and I must definitely go out someday. I call you", Ock winked and turned to Norman. "So, where were we? Oh yeah, your brat."
"If you hurt him in any way, I swear..."
"Hurt? Please, I'm not a monster", Ock now held Harry in one of his tentacles and squeezed the boy that he whined painfully.
"Don't! Just tell me what do you want and I do it. Just don't hurt him...", Norman pleaded.
"Now we're talking. So, I'm sure you remember a little deal you offered me when I was working for Hydra. The one I didn't accept back then."
"Yes-?"
"Well, now I'm ready to take it. So, what do you have in mind?"
"Are you serious?! That was then! But now you are just using me to take over the world. And as I told before, I will not be a part of it!"
"Really? Is that your decision?"
"I'm not saying anything until you reveal your true purposes. And better be honest", Norman threatened.
"I already told you", Ock answered. "Or have you forgotten?"
"I'm not talking about that! I want you to admit everything right in front of us!"
"And you haven't told your friends already? You expect me to believe that?"
"Yes, they know. But..."
"Oh now I get it, you are wondering about that little mess back there. Reasons are simpler than you think."
"Simple?! How can it be simple?! Why can't you admit anything straight?!", Harry spat.
"Harry, don't", Norman warned his son. He knew that Octavius hated mocking.
"It's alright Normie, your boy is right. He deserves answers, all of you do."
"Finally...", Harry muttered. Ock looked at him.
"Be careful, boy. Should I tell you...or your father?"
"Me?! What are you talking about?!"
"Norman, Norman. All this is your accomplishment", Ock showed the landscape with his hand. Everyone stared at him.
"Dad's fault?! That's the best you can do?!"
"Let me finish", Ock started getting angry. "The problem is that you don't see the whole picture. What has happened during this journey doesn't matter. What matters is where and why it started and what results we will get from it in the end."
"I don't follow you", Norman said, confused.
"Of course you don't. Your little brains focus on useless things and that's why you have forgotten to watch a bigger perspective. Love has sure done its things."
"Bigger perspective...?"
"Uhh...I got this idea from YOU, idiot! And no, I'm not talking about your torture that made me seek revenge. It has a part here yes but it's YOU, you, and you why everything has happened and why your family and friends suffer. Your decisions and actions."
"Don't take this out on me! Your..."
"Bottle up", Ock commanded. "To make things quick, I keep this as simple as possible. The reason why I froze the city doesn't matter. It has no other purpose than keep others out of the way. It could have been sand, water, whatever! But as a scientist, I wanted to create something eternal. And thanks to your thoughts as The Goblin, it inspired me to create a plan for world domination. I remember seeing on the news how you planned to make everyone goblins (S2 Ep 26). And then I thought, why not borrow the idea. I tried to make it work but you and Parker were always there to ruin everything. But now..."
"That doesn't still explain this quietness and robot goblins. Or that factory where we found those dead bodies", Harry interrupted his enemy.
"These soldiers weren't going to be permanent. As soon as they got the job done, I ordered to get rid of them. Robots were cheaper and easier to destroy. Should have used them from the beginning..."
Osborns and May stared at Octavius. Basically, this madman killed real people with no mercy as soon as they had served him. He wasn't going to let them live and that made Harry horrified. And since Peter had been there...
"You're disgusting. None of this is Dad's fault!"
"You may want to think about it twice. Because of him, I suffered and wanted to hurt you and your friends. Because of him, I created violent creatures and you were in a coma. Because of him, you are here now. And because of him, your grandfather has suffered for many, lonely years."
"Did that bastard tell some sob-stories? I can't believe a cynical criminal like you buys them so easily."
"You're just a child so you can't understand. But it won't change the fact that we're the victims of this man", Ock pointed at Norman with his tentacle. "And what happens from now on is his fault too. I pity you kid, I do", Ock looked "sad."
"And to make it better, you're going to force him to help? I pity you", Harry glared back.
"I have already come this far and my revenge is still yet fulfilled so yes. Think about it as the opportunity to make him pay for all of those lonely years you had."
"He doesn't have to pay! I have forgiven him! Put me down!", Harry kicked the air.
"Nope", Ock responded simply. "Your old man and I haven't discussed our deal yet."
"I'm not making any deals with you. Besides, you already made me help you with the guns. That's as much of a deal as you're going to get ", Norman refused.
"Is that so? Well, in that case", Ock turned around, throwing Harry straight into the pool. Aunt May and Flash followed right after.
"Harry!", Norman made a run towards the edge but Octavius wrapped one of his tentacles now around him.
"Wow wow, no running in the halls."
"What is this liquid?! Don't tell me it's dangerous!"
"Nah, too easy. If I wanna make a poison, I use rare chemicals. Your father knows a lot about them, btw."
"You planned this silence, didn't you?! You knew we were coming here!"
"I let you figure it out all by yourself. Not every question comes for free."
"You knew...and you tried to turn my boy into some threatful creature. You make me sick", Norman's eyes were full of hatred towards his former employee.
"I just allowed him to bond with his grandson. But I should have known it won't work. He's so weak. Just like his father", Ock crossed his hands.
Turning his head towards the pool, Norman tried to locate others. But he didn't see them.
Where are you?! Come on, come on, please...
"Now, let the show begin! I have waited for this forever...", Ock's red glasses glowed evilly.
"Show?! What...?!"
*Steps*
When Norman heard steps coming from behind him, he turned around and gasped. There he finally was, standing half in the shadows - Peter.
"P-Peter?! Oh my god, what have they done to you?!"
Not answering, the young man walked closer. His torn suit was covered in bloodstains, revealing scars all over the skin. His messy hair covered most of his face. But that wasn't what concerned Norman most, it was Peter's hand where he held a huge machete knife.
"Ah, Parker! Finally", Ock smiled.
"Peter, I'm so glad to see you! Are you all right?! What has Octavius done to you?!", Norman tried to communicate with his so-called son. No use.
"I wouldn't talk that much. He's not in a good mood."
"What have you done to him?! Why does he look like this?!"
"Long story. Treatment got a bit out of hand. I apologize."
Norman couldn't believe this. So Harry was right all this time, Peter had been in trouble. He didn't react or say anything and were like Norman didn't even exist. All of his doubts about his son sounded so wrong now.
Oh, son...I should have believed you.
"Peter, you have to listen to me! Harry has been worried sick about you! He didn't mean to hurt you! And now he, your aunt and your friend Flash are down there! You have to save them!"
Kraven and Taskmaster laughed at this scene in the background. Norman tried to ignore their mocking in the best way possible.
"Peter, please!"
"Time's up! And oh, looks like everyone made it", Ock pointed into the pool. May, Harry and Flash were in one of the corners that was the only dry part. The slime floated dangerously around them.
"SON! Are you all right?!", Norman yelled.
"Y-yeah! We're...", Harry stopped when he noticed Peter. "PETE?!"
"Yes, it's him! But he's..."
"PETE!", Harry jumped up. "Aunt May, it's Peter!"
"Oh my god...", May stood up as well. "Honey!"
Peter didn't answer them. He just stared forward.
"What's wrong with him?! Peter!", Harry called again.
"I don't know! He doesn't respond to anything I say either! I think Octavius has done something!", Norman answered.
"No kidding! Have you brainwashed my best friend?! You wacko!"
"I didn't have to. He did everything without force or pressure. He was already so down about your trick", Ock explained.
"I don't believe you! I bet you have tortured him in some dark basement or something! Why else would he look like this?!"
"That's what happens when you're snooping around in forbidden places. This spider has never learned to mind his own business so what happens? Exactly. I've been much fairer than I should have been."
"You fucking asshole! You created this mess, forced us to play it and now you're trying to make us responsible! I hope you die!", Harry yelled furiously.
"Don't worry, it happens to all of us eventually. But yours might come sooner than expected..."
"W-what?! What are you going to do?!", Norman's expression was a mix of horror, panic, and anger.
"As I said, it depends on you. Weapons must still be built and you have barely done anything. The beginning was promising until suddenly I began to sense stuttering in your behavior and decided to harden the stakes. I want you to see that I'm a serious man and what happens if you don't respect me or my brains properly", Ock looked very pissed off. That was a bad sign.
"He planned this...he and Ambrose made this plan so that we would have to come here. And I didn't understand...", Harry muttered, looking guilty.
"It's not your fault, dear. Now we must focus on saving your father and Peter", May patted his shoulders.
"I heard that. Don't worry, you will have a chance. So, Norman. What do you say? Ready to discuss again?"
"What do you want since I'm already forced to help you?!"
"Yes, but I want to make it official. Forcing means you're not giving your best effort. That's why you have options."
"Options?"
"Yes. I don't wanna make this long so here what I've been thinking: one day will come moment when I have to step aside and I need an heir to continue my legacy. And since Harry is like my own child, I was thinking..."
"NO", Norman cut him off. "NO, NO, and NO."
"LET ME FINISH", Ock smacked him. "I'm ready to switch places with annoying Spider-Man and your boy. If I can have him, I will let you, Parker, and others go unharmed after you have finished working and I promise that you will never hear from me again. Perhaps I can even free Fury and his pathetic puppets. But if you don't, I will make all of your lives eternal hell, especially your family's. And I don't mean what you have already experienced...it's going to be much, much worse", Ock listed his options.
"Are you out of your mind?! Why would I want freedom if my son stays here?! If you're going to take him, you will have to keep me as well!"
"That's the point. I only need your brains for this operation and nothing else. Torturing you is starting to get boring. But when it comes to Harry, he is young, skilled, and kind of intelligent. And since he has no natural superpowers, I can make whatever I want of him. I'm saving him."
"For the last time, no. You will never have him", Norman hissed.
"Fine. Then this is going to be short and easy. Parker - kill them", Ock ordered and at the same second, Peter jumped into the pool.
"NO, PETER STOP! Don't!", Norman screamed. "Stop it, please!"
"You had your chance. Kraven, prepare for takeoff! We must pick our oldest ally along before we head back to the city."
"Huh? Where is he, then?"
"At the gorge. Some family issues...don't ask."
"Whatever", Kraven left, Taskmaster following behind.
"I'm sorry to leave you but I guarantee you won't get bored! Say hi, Normie! This is probably the last time you'll see your beloved ones."
"No, put me down! HARRRYYY!", Norman yelled and struggled before he and Ock disappeared out of sight, after this madman's allies.
"DAAD! Dad!", Harry tried to swim after them but the pool was too deep. "Now what?! We must..."
*Swimming sounds*
Turning his gaze towards the water, Harry's face turned white as he spotted Peter rising from the "waves." Now he saw his bff better and the sight wasn't pretty. It was even worse than Harry had imagined.
Oh shit...
"P-Pete? Hey, good to finally see you! I knew I wasn't imagining..."
Taking steps forward, Peter lifted the knife in front of his face. Harry commanded May behind him and they retreated against the wall, covering Flash as well.
"Peter-honey, it's me! Don't you recognize me?", May asked.
"I don't think he does. Ock has done something that he isn't hearing us. Pete is like hypnotized or something", Harry answered, spreading his hands to his sides. It was horrible that he had to protect his best friend's aunt from him.
Well, I drove him into this...
"Pete, fight! Ock can't win this! I know you can hear me, so I'm once again apologizing for my mistakes! I should have never trusted Ock! I have no excuses for my behavior but you have to be stronger than this! Don't let him control you!"
Instead of listening, Peter kept approaching. Harry tried once more.
"Hey, where is my best friend?! Where is Spidey?! Come on, get your shit together, pal! Or are you seriously this weak?!"
That was enough. Putting a furious expression on his face, Peter started running towards the trio. Harry knew that he wouldn't be able to cover May and Flash properly in this position, so he took a deep breath and sprinted straight towards his attacking bestie.
"Harry, wait!", Aunt May tried to stop him.
"BOYS, STOP!"