The Greatest of Them All

by Kazama Yokaze

Peter was tired of being the universe's punching bag. Couldn't the poor guy catch a break? After the events of Kindred, a nice calming patrol seems like a great idea. Nothing could go wrong so soon after right? Norman is reformed, Kingpin as far as he knows is keeping his hands clean. No super world ending events on the horizon...a patrol sounds nice. After all what could go wrong?

11. Just Taking It Easy

I wanna apologize for the delayed upload of this chapter. If you've been keeping up with my FF profile, you know that I ended up sick 3 times within the month. I'm still carrying leftover's of whatever illness it was too and have a cough that doesn't hurt, but is annoying nonetheless xD

In regards to the chapter, I hope that while a little slow in pacing it makes up for it in character interaction because a lot of setup is happening here. For those of you wanting action, we're getting that next chapter.

Edit 10/08/2022: Some of you are too keen-eyed and remember Silver's explanation and Guard Off. I didn't forget about her, but with the delay of this chapter and the length, I didn't want to handle it this chapter. It's the same reason I haven't mentioned Quentin or Tessa's hirings xD Nonetheless for Silver I've edited the last few chapters to explain what's happening there! And also some general edits! Edit 2: Made some more edits for canonical errors I missed nothing too big.

---

Peter Parker - Ben and May's Home

The get-together was going well, in Peter's opinion. MJ was playing with Teresa while Anna and his parents watched on. Peter himself was cooking some hotdogs with Uncle Ben and chatting up Aunt May.

The grass was soft, the air was as clean as a New York suburb could hope, and the skies were only partly cloudy. Just enough to block out the sun and give the family some shade.

A gurgling voice echoed throughout the backyard, struggling to speak.

Pet–

Peter snapped his head around. Searching for the drowning voice. 'The hell was that?' He couldn't see anything, and the rest of the get-together attendants continued as though nothing was amiss.

"Peter, what's wrong?" May asked, noticing Peter looked troubled.

"Huh, what? Nothing, Aunt May. Thought I heard something." Peter said, stilling his head to smile at her.

"Tinnitus? Richard and Mary have told us that you listen to some pretty loud music, " Ben said with a concerned smile.

"Ah no, it's not that, Uncle Ben. I make sure to take care of my ears, you know." Peter said, chuckling. 'Not like I need to worry about that anyways; my healing factor brings my body back into tip-top shape within the day…actually, that was before I was sent back. I'd imagine it might be faster now.'

"I don't know, Tiger; you do listen to some pretty loud music back in our apartment," MJ interjected, jumping in with a smile to hug his arm.

'What the –'

Peter glanced alarmed at the redheaded woman now hanging off his arm. For a moment, he was caught up in her beauty, her long wavy hair framing her picture-perfect smile. His heart ached at the image combined with the feel of her hanging off his arm.

'This isn't right…'

He looked around, alarmed again, noticing that the sky was dark when only moments ago, it was a bright and sunny day.

He blinked. They were in the living room now. Felicia, also her adult self, was hanging onto his arm while an adult MJ spoke to an adult Gwen off to the side, smiling at each other. His parents and sister were now playing a board game while his aunt and uncle looked on.

"I'm glad you convinced me of this Spider." Felicia whispered into his ear. Causing him to look at her with an alarmed look still on his face, though due to her long hair he couldn't see anything except her tentative smile.

She continued as though she couldn't see his distress. "I didn't think I'd ever be able to stand the 'bland' side of you. I thought accepting that part of you and me would chain me down." The platinum blonde squeezed his arm. "But I've never been so glad to be wrong." She paused a nervous look on her face. "I love you Peter."

Peter felt a mix of emotions at the small speech and admission. Happiness, regret, worry, confusion. "Cat wha–"

He was cut off as the front door was kicked inward. A face that used to haunt Peter's dreams appeared.

'The burglar?'

Heart racing, he leaped to his feet, moving to place himself in front of his family.

"Dad get the oth–" Peter cut himself off as he turned to glance back at his family. Only Uncle Ben and Aunt May remained, the rest gone as if they never existed.

Unnerved, Peter faced the man who killed his Uncle.

'This can't be right…SHIELDs guarding this house as well. How'd they let a man like him slip through? I mean look at him!'

The robber didn't even glance at Peter and continued stalking forward, his mouth moved, but no sound escaped his lips.

Chalking it up to his ears ringing Peter rushed forward and prepared to slam the man into the ground but stumbled as he phased through the man.

'What?'

He could only watch in horror as the man reached his Aunt and Uncle before gesturing wildly and grabbed May's arm. Furious, Ben tried pulling him off and—

'Peter.' Death's gentle voice cut in, freezing the man and his family before they disappeared, the house along with it.

---

Peter's Room

Peter woke with a start and sat up. He took stock of his surroundings; he was in his room. It was still the middle of the night, based on the moonlight streaming in through his window.

'It was just a dream. Just a dream. Though I swore I heard De—' Peter's thinking paused as he gazed at the side of his bed.

Standing in a variety of poses that denoted patience, annoyance, and shyness, respectively, Death, Umar and Clea each stared at him, waiting. The way they were dressed, which were simple robes of black, black, and purple, gave him even more pause.

"Well?" Umar began with a scowl.

Peter's face went blank, and he reached to pinch himself on his arm. "Okay, nope, not dreaming."

Clea smiled. "Of course not my lor–ack," She winced as Death's arm retracted from her side. "I mean, of course not, Peter."

Wary but deciding to move along, he continued. "What are you all doing here?"

Umar scowled again, this time at Death. Who, upon seeing her scowl, rolled her eyes playfully before moving forward toward Peter.

"I saw your dreams Peter." The young man felt his breath hitch and she frowned. "I understand we're nearing the day your Uncle died."

Peter shifted and looked away, feeling her body settle and lean next to his. "That's in about 3 weeks. It's not that close."

Death hummed and motioned Umar and Clea to join them on the bed. With a huff Umar crawled over to fit on Peter's other side and he swore he saw her face flush as she mirrored Death's stance leaning against him.

'Probably from needing to crawl…'

Clea for her part only smiled sweetly and crawled to sit next to her mother.

Now uncomfortable Peter tried staring through his wall. "You still haven't answered why you are here."

He felt Umar tense against his arm. "I was under the impression that you required comfort so that you may have an easier time resting."

Now Peter tensed, his mind still remembering Umar's passion-filled kiss, and unable to help himself, felt his blood surge in anticipation. "While I appreciate the offer, I'm not in the best headspace right now…plus it'd be illegal to do anything until I'm of age."

Death snorted immediately after, and Umar squeezed his arm roughly.

"I did not mean carnal comfort, you buffoon! As much as I would desire to after 28 great years of waiting after I was already ready to delve into lust. The Mistress Death already explained to me your, what is the word, 'hang-ups' about cementing our relationship physically and also explained that it would be worth it to wait. I hope you realize then with that type of promise that you will eventually perform your duties as a husband." Umar said, anger bleeding into her tone.

Peter winced before nodding. "Sorry. Sorry, yes I know. Thank you as well for being understanding."

Umar huffed before squirming and dug her way closer to his side, Clea doing the same. "So. I will admit to not knowing how best to comfort you and for now am simply imitating Death. Quite frankly I never thought I would need to do so. But from Death's explanation, doing so is required for successful relationships. And I…" Umar trailed off, the shadows unfortunately hiding her face from his.

Clea tilted her head so that he could see her speak. "I think what my Queen is trying to say, Peter, is that you will have to be patient with us both and that she hopes our actions are helping."

Peter felt a sinking feeling in his gut. "Both?"

Clea giggled and brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. "Yes. Both of us. Umar has given me permission to join after Death explained her part in it."

Peter glanced at Death who's eyes gleamed with mirth and shrugged as if to say it was not her fault.

'And it's technically not. Clea is more than old enough to make her own decisions. But why would a woman want to join…whatever you call this?'

He shook his head, it was too late in the night to mull over thoughts like that.

"I will. Don't worry, I'm sorry, but you did catch me at a bad time. My dreams…" Peter trailed off. What could he say? His dreams were a mix of happy fantasy, and melancholic may have beens before descending into a worry he didn't think he would have.

'Honestly I'm surprised I wasn't revisiting the previous multiverse's death. What a silver lining.'

"...If it is your dreams that are bothering you, my consort. I can help." Umar stated after a moment.

Peter glanced at her with a raised eyebrow. "How so?"

Ignoring his comment, Umar warily asked. "We are resting here with him, correct?"

Death nodded.

Nodding in return Umar moved away from his arm and removed her robe, revealing her large pale breasts and taut stomach.

'Pink ti–.' Peter immediately turned his head upward and said nervously. "Um, what are you doing?"

"I'm getting ready for bed. I prefer to wear either nothing or light clothing when doing so." Umar said before nudging him to lie down.

"Um." Peter started to say as he moved as directed, fighting internally on how to act, before noticing Death shrug and divest herself of her own robe, and based on Clea's dropped robe she did the same; he closed his eyes before he could see anything. "How exactly is this supposed to help me sleep?"

Feeling Death and Umar take an arm and settle them between their breasts, he froze before feeling Umar's side push out a tad more pressure.

'Clea's pressed up against the wall so it's expected for her to get cl–No bad brain!'

"Ugh, there's little room here. If we are to do this from now on, I demand a bigger bed." Umar said with a huff before reaching to caress Peter's head, a feeling of drowsiness starting to creep up on him, unlike Orini's spell which rushed the drowsiness.

"Um, not that this isn't a gentle way to fall asleep." Peter started, his sense of touch coming alive as he felt their silky flesh press deeper not only into his arms but his sides as the women's legs moved to get more comfortable, wrapping around his own, their heat feeling as warm as the sun to him at that moment. "But this won't help with my dreams. In fact, they are probably going to be just a teeny tiny bit more active."

The young man felt Umar smirk into his ear as she started slowly rubbing his chest and pressed herself closer, her leg rubbing up against his clothed erection, and coincidently felt her vulva— 'Wet,'—causing him to draw in a sharp breath.

"Sleep, my consort. I promise you your dreams will be as vacant as the void." Umar whispered into his ear.

Clea's hand then reached over to caress his side as well. The image of how she would need to do so caused Peter to blush but accepted the attention he was receiving, trying to calm his racing heart and relax.

'I need to get used to this anyways… I did say I'd try. What, did I think I wouldn't be in situations like these?' He paused. He did, actually, which he cursed himself for. There was no guarantee that Death wouldn't have tried to keep being a part of Peter's relationships with, if his mind was going by anything, MJ, Gwen, and Felicia. 'And now Umar and apparently Clea… Which is kinda taboo, and I surprisingly don't feel guilty for that. In fact, I feel exci– No! Stop it, Peter. Just… try to sleep.'

Death continued rubbing circles into his chest as Umar let out a hum of budding contentment and slowly ran her fingers through his hair.

Peter didn't know when, but whether it took a few seconds or a few minutes, the combination of gentle warmth and peaceful motions lulled his mind to sleep.

---

Hours Later

Feeling warm as his mind slowly woke up, Peter made to move but stopped at the familiar feeling of pliant flesh pressing into his arms and body.

Alarmed now, he opened his eyes and turned his head left and right to see beds of hair, both black and white, belonging to naked women that were hugging some part of his body or touching him.

… Hope you don't expect me to be rolling in women by next week.

'Well, I guess I'm eating my words.' Peter snorted internally at remembering his statement to Death, finding though that he felt relaxed now that he knew the source of warmth.

'You certainly are my champion.' Death's voice echoed in his mind before her body snuggled closer to his own, and let out a sigh. 'Cuddling with a significant other is so fulfilling.'

'Yeah it really is…' Peter replied absentmindedly. Mind now trying to think of a way to leave the bed in a courteous manner. 'Maybe if I…'

The young man tried slipping his arm out of Umar's arms since Death was awake. He only got as far as his bicep escaping before Umar mumbled something and squirmed closer and undid his progress.

'Of course.'

To add insult to injury, Umar's movements made Clea groan in her sleep and hug Umar tighter, causing Umar to squeeze and snuggle closer to Peter.

Grunting, Peter sighed and rested his head back against his pillow, not wanting to wake up his bedmates unless necessary.

'Me and my big… mouth?'

Giggling Death tried comforting him. 'I think that would have happened regardless of you remarking upon their movements, my champion.'

Peter snorted softly and glanced down enough to view Death's face which held a smile. 'Be that as it may, they're a little more likely to wake up now. Aaaaaand I still have no idea how to get up without waking them.'

Curious, Death asked. 'Is there a reason you don't get up regardless? The dead's memories show that what you're doing is courteous to a certain point, but in that same vein, they also show that the other party in this situation would be understanding if their partner needs to get up.'

Peter frowned. 'You're not… wrong? I want to say. And if I need to I really will move regardless, just, it leaves a bad taste in my mouth if I get up and wake up someone if there is another way for me to leave.'

Death sighed and stilled against Peter's body before he felt the beginnings of a smirk against his arm.

'You will, as they say, owe me for this then, my champion. I think something reminiscent of our meeting will do.'

Peter frowned and tilted his head to look at her. 'What do you me–'

Before he could blink and with no sound of displaced air, Peter found himself standing next to his bed.

"What the–?"

'Have a great day~' Death sang before moving herself into Peter's former position to snuggle Umar, who was now frowning.

Peter could only stare as Umar's frown waned, and she settled into her new position as the one being held on two sides.

'Gotta admit it does give off the kind of imag– No. No. Stop it Parker. Get ready for the day first before contemplating fantasy made reality.'

Sighing to himself, Peter dressed and set his headphones around his ears. It was time to start the day, he needed to do some last-minute checks on the schematics, and then he had some time to kill before the get-together.

'Patrol or?...' Peter glanced at his phone in thought for a moment. 'Yeah, I haven't seen them in a bit too.'

He pressed the chat button.

---

Jean Grey - Xavier's School For Gifted Youngsters

The sun shone softly through the room's curtains and highlighted the room's owner's red hair and youth-filled face as she slept. A moment later, she scrunched her face, and with a whoosh, the curtains shut as they should have been when she went to sleep.

Smiling to herself, Jean rolled onto her side and hummed to get back to her dreams.

'I think I was having a picnic with Peter…'

VRRMMM!

VRRMMM!

The young adult sighed and reached out her hand to grab her phone that vibrated against the wooden desk it lay on; it floated over to her still vibrating, thankfully less audible with nothing to reverberate off of, before she quickly shut off her alarm.

'That's bett– Oh?'

Peter messaged their group. Early in the morning, or at least earlier than she thought he'd be up. Finding herself waking up fully, Jean opened the message.

Hey everyone! Was thinking about making a stop by the mansion after I finish with some last-minute stuff from the office. You guys want me to bring anything?

No one else had responded yet. 'Oh, scratch that. Of course, Emma did.' She was probably the only one other than Jean and Tessa of their group who'd be up by now. 'Not that I originally wanted to get up. But is it too much to want to act like the boys and sleep in?'

Jean sighed before glossing over Emma's text.

Could you please grab some pizza and soda, depending on your arrival time? We're finishing up food boxes today, and I think Mrs. Xavier deserves a break from cooking all of our meals.

Jean couldn't help but let out a low growl aimed at herself.

Once again, she was too slow in making herself stand out compared to the other women or girls around Peter.

Shaking her head, the crimson-haired teen typed out her reply.

Emma's right! Having pizza and soda to celebrate finishing the food boxes would be awesome! Plus, Mrs. Xavier would enjoy not having to cook again, and I wouldn't worry about toppings. We all love your choices, Peter! Trust me! I've checked before.

Hitting send, Jean had to stop from criticizing herself. Rehashing what Emma said wasn't the best way to stand out herself, but what else was she supposed to say? Hey, I wish I was the one to ask you about an opportunity to celebrate and include you. Look at how thoughtful I can be.

'I swear Emma coming out of her shell has been a blessing and a curse.' Jean thought to herself as she readied herself for the day. Choosing to wear a plain green t-shirt and some form-fitting denim pants and finishing her morning habituals, Jean exited her room.

Moving to the dining room, Jean couldn't help but note that the mansion was still empty after so many years.

'The professor did say that we'd eventually be taking on more students. But other than Hank last year, we've yet to gain any other students.'

She tried asking Peter and Tessa as they were the longest occupants of the mansion, or in Peter's case, the Professor's longest student. Unfortunately, Tessa and Peter didn't know what made the Professor choose a student or why it took so long.

'Especially when we know where there are plenty of mutant children that could do with an education.' Jean thought to herself, remembering why they were making food boxes in the first place.

Arriving at the dining room, Jean noted only one occupant with a plate of food. The sounds of sizzling escaped the door leading to the kitchen.

Jean smiled in greeting. "G'morning Tessa." She said, seating herself across from the Balkan woman, dressed in a simple black shirt and shorts, her hair in a bun.

Tessa smiled warmly, the black marks descending from her eyes, highlighting her sincerity and warmth.

'Morning Jean.'

Jean chuckled. 'Sorry, forgot the Professor wanted us telepaths to practice speaking to each other like this as long as no non-telepath is in the room.'

Tessa nodded, taking a bite of her food, eggs, and bacon. 'It's fine. I assume you saw the text from Peter.'

'Yeah.' Jean stared, confused. 'You saw and didn't reply?'

Tessa shrugged. 'Emma replied first and said what I feel was necessary for his visit, and I didn't feel it was essential to restate what Emma did or try to add to what was a request.'

Jean twitched.

While she was still unsure if Tessa liked Peter, she did tend to deflect Angel's and Hank's requests for a date. She stood out compared to Jean, who might as well be acting like a puppy compared to Emma's thoughtful response and Tessa's calm acknowledgment.

'Ugh…'

Tessa raised an eyebrow. 'Something wrong?'

Jean tried to calm herself, that wasn't supposed to be said in the 'public' thought space of her mind, and shook her head, standing up. 'It's nothing. Is Mrs. X in the kitchen? I think it's time for me to get some food as well.'

Tessa frowned but nodded her head. 'We've already told her of Peter's arrival as well, by the way.'

Jean nodded her head before abruptly closing her connection with Tessa, causing them both to wince and Tessa to stare pointedly.

Flushing, Jean ducked her head and made her way to the kitchen, wincing at the sigh Tessa let out.

'Stupid insecurity.'

Jean liked to think she's gotten better about it. It started when Annie was in the accident and fell into a coma when they saved her. Having her best friend ripped away from her and then only brought halfway back…

The feel of Jean's mind reaching out and snapping while suddenly seeing her own face through a darkening visage scared her.

'Wha–what's happening?'

Jean could feel everything Annie felt. Confusion, Pain, Fear, Safety in Jean's arms then…cold.

Feeling scared herself Jean tried remembering how it felt to be warm.

Fire flashed in Jean's eyes. Suddenly Annie was feeling hot, her body slowly warming up. Stitched and straining to stay that way due to Jean somehow.

Spurred on by that thought, she saw her face grow in intensity and the darkness receded, showing that Jean's mother was yelling into her phone behind her. Tears streamed down her face as she looked over Jean's shoulder.

Jean didn't know how long she held that position, but more and more people arrived, standing around, their voices a jumbled backdrop to Jean holding her friend.

'Why isn't anyone else helping?' Jean thought, her face changing into one of fear.

Annie didn't get any better than she did when Jean started, some feeling below her neck was stopping whatever Jean was doing.

'Please. Please God. Please. Aren't you supposed to help good people. Annie's good people.'

Slowly, Jean saw through Annie's eyes that Jean's eyes were getting tired, the fire she saw turning to embers. And the dark feeling of cold started overtaking Annie again.

'No…'

Jean started to let loose tears as she felt that snap again. This time she felt like someone had forced her out.

'Nononono.'

'...Child. Any more, and you'd have perished as wel—'

"—an. Jean? Helloooo." Gabrielle said genially. Knocking Jean out of her memory.

Jean recoiled, staring at the mature-looking woman. "Wh-what?"

Gabrielle frowned, noticing that Jean wasn't simply spaced out.

"Are you alright honey? I was trying to get your attention. I made your plate when I saw you in the door and thought you were simply too tired to say good morning." She paused, looking uncomfortable. "Was it about your friend again? Do you need to talk to Charlie?"

Jean short-circuited. She was prepared to be honest about her thinking about Annie and to deny needing to speak to the professor.

'Charlie?' Jean giggled, feeling her eyes water. And if Gabrielle's relieved smile was anything to go by, saying her real or fake pet name for the Professor was purposeful for this exact reason.

"I'm sorry Mrs. X. But Charlie?" Jean let out between another giggle.

Mock affronted Gabrielle huffed. "Of course. He's my Charlie, and I'm not ashamed to call him that." She smiled softly, reaching to hold Jean's shoulders. "But really Jean. Are you okay?"

Jean stiffened before nodding softly. "Yes. Mrs. X. I'm fine, really. Just feeling… lonely. I think."

Gabrielle smirked, eyes glinting. "Well, I heard Peter's going to be stopping by. Maybe you won't be so lonely then, huh? Big mansion. Lots of empty areas~"

Jean's face turned as red as her hair, imagination going wild. "Mrs. X I–Excuse me?"

The mature woman laughed loudly enough for Tessa to move and peek her head in.

"Everything alright?"

Gabrielle nodded rapidly, using Jean as support.

"Yes, yes, just teasing Jean about taking Peter somewhere empty in the mansion so she doesn't feel so lonely."

Her face now red due to embarrassment. Jean made to say something in her defense.

"Mrs. X wh–"

"Mm. That's a delicious idea." Tessa cooly interrupted, a hint of breathiness entering her voice, causing Gabrielle to let out another howl of laughter while Jean stared in horror.

'Another one…'

"What's so funny here?" Emma's voice cut in.

---

An hour ago - Emma's Room

A gentle lilting orchestra emanated throughout Emma's room, slowly waking her up.

Blinking her eyes before letting out a yawn accompanied by a stretch. Emma sat up to turn off her phone.

The brunette blinked again, finding that Peter had messaged the students of the Xavier Mansion.

'He's always so thoughtful.' Emma thought brightly before mulling over a response, wondering what they could need.

Trying to put herself in Peter's shoes and combining her knowledge of recent events, she asked him to fund a small celebration for their work being over. The fact that it would give Mrs. Xavier a small break was the cherry on top!

Pleased with herself, Emma checked her planner for the day to be sure of what she should do and nodded once committing the schedule to memory.

Dressing in a tank top and yoga pants for later. She brushed her teeth before moving toward the kitchen, knowing Mrs. Xavier was bound to be up already, along with the Professor.

Arriving, Emma smiled, noticing the woman was, as expected, already cooking some food. "Good morning, Mrs. Xavier."

Gabrielle smiled back, tiredness still visible on her face. "Good morning, Emma. Sleep well? I'm just about done with our early riser portions."

The young woman shook her head. "I'll be coming back later for breakfast. I planned for yoga to be my first activity for today."

"Ah, then, did you just want some company before you started exercising? I don't mind just talking till you decide to start. Or did you need something?" Gabrielle said, continuing to cook what seemed to be bacon and eggs.

"Yes. I wanted to let you know that Peter said he was stopping by, probably in the afternoon. He asked if he could grab anything before he arrived, and I asked him to bring some pizza and soda to celebrate finishing the food boxes today. I hope that's fine."

Gabrielle smiled again. "That works for me. Gives me time to rest so that I have the energy to make you all a big dinner. I've said it many times, but you kids are amazing. Not many your age volunteer like you all do and keep up with their academics. Trying to ensure you all have satisfied bellies is the least I can do. If someone else wants to step in for a meal or two, I won't mind." She finished with a laugh.

Emma preened at the compliment. Being told to accept the Professor's offer was a blessing in disguise. She didn't want it at first.

Excusing herself and heading toward her room, the teen continued her train of thought, deciding to meditate on it as she performed her yoga. Reflection was healthy, after all.

'Before Peter and his father talked, I think dad was close to throwing them out.'

---

4 Years Ago - Frost Estate

The sounds of her father's rage-filled yell barely coming through her room's door caught her attention.

'Is daddy on another phone call with the school?'

Emma rested her hand against her doorknob. She knew her father didn't like her eavesdropping on his conversations. More so when he was "picking up her messes," in his words.

'...it'll just be for a bit. Just enough so I'll know what to be prepared for when I head back.'

Sufficiently motivated, Emma turned the doorknob, exited her room, and walked briskly to the sounds of her father's yells.

"–SCHOOL OFFER! I SWEAR I'VE NEVER EVEN HEARD OF YOU UNTIL NOW, AND YOU THINK I'M JUST GOING TO SEND ONE OF MY CHILDREN OFF TO SOME UNKNOWN SCHOOL?"

Emma paused, too afraid to move forward toward the foyer's upper railing and see her father in his rage. A migraine started up, and she clutched her head.

'I'm not sure if I want a child of this man hanging around Peter.'

'What? Who's talking? Who's Peter?'

"Excuse me?" A cold, rough voice cut in.

"Richard, it's fi–" A patient voice tried saying.

"No, it's not fine Charles. This upstart–"

"EXCUSE ME IN MY HOU–"

"Shut up. I wasn't finished, you pretentious prick." The man said with venom, tone dripping with it as he continued. "You welcomed us into your home with derision, listened to my friend's offer with a half-ear, then had the gall to yell at said man when he just finished delivering a calm, rational offer for your child."

"IT'S PERFEC–" Emma's father cut himself off and squawked.

Fearful of the man who could apparently make her father squawk but also excited to see who could, Emma slowly walked forward. No one talked to her daddy that way, he was untouchable, and everyone knew that.

"Mr. Frost." The man interrupted again, his voice now a whisper. "I don't know why it's so hard for you to be polite and tempered in your disagreements. Even if the other party is insulting as you have been, someone should have taught you that only children act immature enough to yell so flippantly as you do."

Emma reached the railing and peeked over. She saw her father first, usually a tall, stern man. Instead, she saw that he was unconsciously buckling backward like a fearful man trying to hide.

The person he was starting to cringe from seemed to have only taken a step forward; he was slightly taller than her dad, with a bed of dark hair and a handsome face. Emma felt her face heat slightly at his stance and expression. Shaking her head, she stared at the rest of his group, which consisted of a bald, mature-looking man in a wheelchair and a kid that looked like the spitting image of the stout man, just cuter due to his small stature.

Emma winced internally.

Anyone looking in at the scene from the outside would automatically assume her father was in the wrong.

"So, if you're quite done throwing a fit, I'd like to hear from you a calm, rational reason to deny my friend his offer. Because, quite frankly I doubt we'd get an apology from you and that just doesn't sit right with me. I'd hate for this encounter to affect either of our businesses moving forward. Because believe me, I'm that undeniably petty so as to sink both our ships." The man finished with a harsh whispering tone.

Momentarily forgetting his fear, but apparently taking the man's words to heart, Emma's father stood straight, fury clear on his face. "Excuse me, but I don't even know who you are. What makes you think this encounter would affect my business, let alone your non-existent one?"

With a cold smirk, the man responded. "I'm the CEO of Parker Industries. Richard Parker, nice to meet you." Emma's father's breath hitched, and she saw his visage pale even further. "And quite frankly I'm thinking of blacklisting you and your company from ever receiving our technology. And before you try and bluff that you'd be unaffected due to mainly being in the transportation field. Keep in mind who's been dealing with the government more and more, don't deny that your business is reliant upon what contracts you have been given regardless of your civilian ones. Who do you think the government is going to want to keep in a dispute? The one who's been supplying our troops with decent, but run-of-the-mill transports, or the one who's supplied them with defense and medical equipment that's helped save lives for both civilians and our troops in the field?"

Emma's father stammered. "B-but this is just a private meeting. This has nothing to do with business."

"Don't give me that horseshit. You should damn know as well as I that everything we do reflects on our respective companies regardless of our situation. All you've shown me is Frost International is a belligerent, arrogant business partner. Now, as I said, instead of an apology, let's hear a calm, rational response to my friend's offer with your denial."

Emma's father shook with apoplectic rage as he crushed the chair's headrest he was using as a support, and Emma felt another migraine resonate throughout her head.

'Of all the– No. Stop Winston. You didn't create an empire by letting your pride get in the way when it could affect business. However hurt your pride is, this man is correct. That isn't how a Frost, let alone a man, should act. That doesn't mean that you need to take it lying down.'

Stiffening, Winston nodded before turning to look back at the bald man, releasing his hold on the chair.

"Professor Xavier, I'm afraid I will have to decline your offer for my middle daughter to attend your… school. I'm afraid that I've never heard of your school before now and I'm concerned about the quality of education my Emma could receive attending your school. Snow Valley School for Girls is highly reputable, and my eldest, Adrienne, has already graduated at the top of her class. I see no reason that Emma cannot do the same and receive the same benefits that all alumni of such a school receive. The social network they can build, and the scholarships afforded to graduates, to name a few. You'd be asking me to take what any parent would see as the superior choice in schooling away from her bright future."

Behaving as though the last few minutes never even passed, the bald man rebutted. "If you're worried solely about status, then yes, I'm afraid until my first student graduates, mine will have almost no reputation except for what you'll find of me."

Incredulous, Winston's face turned to one of rage before catching himself. "Excuse me. I'm afraid your statement caused me some… discomfort. Did you just say before your first student graduates, meaning you don't even have a singular class nearing graduation? Just one student? Who is it?"

Richard stepped back to grasp the child's shoulder and smiled proudly. "My son."

Emma saw her father become slack-jawed, truly caught off-guard. "A child. You're saying your school is hinging on its reputation growing from one child. Is this some ploy to have my daughter take his place and be the first to graduate instead? Is there some accolade to be gained for doing so?" As Emma's father finished speaking, a sneer crossed his face.

The man named Professor Xavier frowned. "As I said, if you are worried about reputation, you'll need to wait for Peter to graduate for anything of note to be said about my school unless of course, Peter's parents decide to announce his achievements early."

Emma's father paused, "What do you mean?"

Standing behind his son proudly, Richard spoke. "Why Peter's well on his way to earning his Master's in Biochemistry for one. Charles has been instrumental in teaming up with New York's universities to cover any gaps in his knowledge, but Charles' institution goes beyond simply the high school level. But what Charles means is that if we wanted to, we could announce to the world that Parker Industries' major successes in the tech and medical fields are thanks to my boy right here since he was 4."

Emma saw her father stare intently at the child, now named Peter. Who looked nervous at being focused on and for all the world looked like an average child. Not at all the genius, the two adults were making him out to be.

"Preposterous. If you had the next Tony Stark on your hands, Parker, you'd have let the world know a long time ago." Her father took a deep breath. "If that's all, I think I'm quite done listening to this…offer. Leave."

"I can prove it."

—BEEPBEEPBEEP.

---

Present - Emma's Room

Emma sighed as her memory faded into the background of her mind, and the shrill beep of her alarm replaced her consciousness. She got up from her stretching to turn it off before heading into the shower.

'That was worthless. Why is my mind hung up on that memory?'

Emma frowned. Was she simply remembering just to remember? Did she still feel the same as she did then?

She shook her head and focused on the key points and consequences of that meeting. From then on, her dad got better at putting up a front to communicate, even with his family. Everyone appreciated that, even if it felt disingenuous. The next thing was that Peter's showcase of Hot and Cold Retardent gel on the spot, not the finished product, of course, was so impressive that a look of hunger crossed his face, and he didn't bother questioning them any further. In fact, he became adamant that they leave so that he could deliberate.

Emma, at the time, didn't see the point or use case of Peter's invention and couldn't help but feel a smidge of jealousy toward Peter from the attention he suddenly received. It didn't help that outside of that meeting, further interactions between Peter and her father almost made it seem like he preferred Peter to any of his children. Her father was so enamored with earning just a hint of Parker's intelligence and eventual clout for the family name that he wasn't bothered that he caught her eavesdropping after they left.

While arriving and learning why Xavier even wanted her in the first place helped mitigate Emma's feelings on the matter– to help nurture her mutant powers. Only her father's wants made her decide to stay when Xavier offered to change her father's mind after finding out that she did not want to attend. Emma liked to think that her father's interactions with her were a lot more satisfactory now than they ever were when she attended her previous school. While she was no Peter Parker, and Emma was starting to think no one could be, her father was already asking her to help direct company projects, which Emma performed spectacularly, accepting her stay from then on. Much to Adrienne's consternation.

Emma felt a twinge of anger, jealousy, love, and confusion erupt at the thought of her elder sister. Even after learning more from the Professor, she could never read her sister's mind. Because of that, her attitude shifting from aloof sister to the doting older sister that lamented being unable to help the company like Emma was unnerving. It doesn't help that Adrienne asked about Peter almost all the time. If she didn't know that Adrienne was still hiding her modeling career from her father, she would question why Adrienne wore virtually nothing whenever she visited Emma, typically when Peter was present.

The teen sighed as she redressed into a white t-shirt and jeans. She was getting off-topic. The following consequence of that meeting was that of her making friends for once in her life.

She paused, feeling a sense of peace and joy at that thought. Emma was always aware of her relationship with the occupants of the Xavier mansion, but that awareness, combined with her recent bout of reflection, made it hit home just how much she needed that in her life. She wasn't as reliant on her father's approval, and it was ironic that she was receiving much more of it now than ever and found something of a second family with the rest of her class.

Walking back toward the kitchen, Emma felt herself smiling. 'Ah. That's why my mind thought of it. To let me know just how far I've come.'

The brunette grew curious at the howls of laughter coming from the kitchen and entered from behind Tessa.

"What's so funny here?"

Gabrielle leaned on Jean, who was bright red, for support and shook her head, trying to calm herself.

Tessa turned around to face Emma. "Gabrielle was just teasing Jean about taking Peter somewhere empty in the mansion so that she wouldn't feel lonely. I agreed, saying I should as well." She finished her statement with a shrug.

Emma felt another pang of jealousy spike through her. "Ah. I see." She paused; even though she learned to make friends doesn't mean Emma was a master at maneuvering through what she would consider an awkward joke seeing as how Jean and she might have another rival for Peter's affection. 'Deflection it is.'

"Mrs. Xavier, do you happen to have any more food for those of us up early? After my yoga, I am famished."

Calming herself down, the woman nodded and quickly served Emma and Jean a plate before shooing them out to the dining room.

Emma and Jean stared at each other as they sat down on either side of Tessa. An agreement passed through their eyes. They opened their minds as they were taught and gently knocked on Tessa's mind.

Rolling her eyes, the olive-skinned woman asked. 'Yes?'

Emma felt herself trying to emulate her father. 'Were you joking about taking Peter somewhere empty to have sex?'

She ignored Jean's embarrassment at it being said 'out loud'. It's not like the Professor was here to hear them.

Tessa sighed and rolled her eyes. 'Yes.' She then went back to eating her almost finished plate.

While their connection was not closed, both Jean and Emma were confused. Was Tessa not going to say anything else? Emma and Jean weren't subtle in their interest. Well, not subtle to the adults of the mansion or each other. The boys of the estate still tried asking each of them out on a date or tried flirting, and thankfully they kept it to just that. The point was that Tessa brushing them off irked them both.

Jean scooched herself closer, pouting. 'How can you just leave it at that? You know both Emma and I are interested in him as well.'

Tessa's face became tired before changing to stone. 'And?'

Emma scooted closer as well to stare. 'What do you mean, 'and?''

'Just that. There shouldn't be any need for me to be concerned that you both are interested in Peter. Women or men are bound to be attracted to their preferred sexual taste when they are as successful as him. In the end, all that matters is when I express my interest to him if he reciprocates or not.' Tessa said with a huff, though physically, she ate her food gracefully.

Jean and Emma bristled.

'Isn't' that–'

'Counting your–'

'Enough.' Tessa shouted to the two of them. 'If you didn't realize that I was also interested in him until now, that's on you, and I'd rather not spoil breakfast by getting into a spat about it, for that matter, you both shouldn't be surprised if anyone else pops up. I already said my piece, and anything further is just filling your curiosity. You both already know I'm a private enough person as is. Being grilled for loving someone is not something I am up for right now, so early in the morning.''

Jean recoiled, looking morose, while Emma drew a sharp breath.

The rebuke wounded her pride, the pride that Peter and the rest of the class, including Tessa, helped cultivate for herself regarding others.

'I'm sorry.' Emma said, moving to eat her breakfast mechanically.

Tessa shrugged, now looking more relaxed. 'It's okay. I'm not saying you can't be curious, just that satiating it isn't my concern' She paused and sighed. 'At least for right now.'

Jean and Emma perked up.

Rolling her eyes, Tessa shook her head. 'You both are hopeless. Like I said, not right now. Eat your food. If you want seconds, you have about 30 minutes before the boys get up.'

Feeling placated and taking the social out for what it was, Jean and Emma closed their mind bridge with Tessa and began eating.

---

Peter Parker - Outside Parker Industries

He's said it before, and he'd say it again till the end of time. Having parents that were about twice your age was both a blessing and a curse. Actually, a curse was perhaps too harsh. It was grating but in a good way. Like the fact that right now Peter's parents, more specifically his mom, were calling him shortly after he just got done meeting with them about Parker Particles.

"Honey, I'm going over your designs again with your father, is the power output on this right? We think you undersold just how much it can power in just one year. According to your math…I-it's … amazing– just like everything else you come up with, but how will we handle the excess power?"

Peter smiled exasperated, though only noticeable to himself and maybe Natasha if she was watching. "Mom, like I said, we can get a jump start on filling up battery cores. Slide 17 on the PowerPoint I shared with you has the schematics for those." He waited as he heard some rapid clicking on her end.

"Ah, I remember now. Hmmm." Mary sighed.

"What is it?" Peter asked, moving into the pizza shop to pick up his order.

"Nothing. Just feeling proud of my baby."

"Ah." Peter felt his face heat up before shaking his head and paying for the food before replying. "Um, I don't know what to say except thank you, mom. I love you."

"I love you too honey." Mary sighed again, this time exasperated. "And one of these days, you're going to learn how to take a compliment without feeling the way you do."

Peter felt an onset of guilt. He didn't doubt that his mom was wrong if he was a normal teen. 'She'd probably sing a different tu–' He caught himself. No, she would still probably say the same thing. And that's what made it worse. His mom and dad were nothing but supportive. Yet he still felt like an imposter.

"I gotta go mom. Friends to hang out with before I hang with the family and all that, plus this pizza's going to start feeling heavy if I keep using one hand. Don't forget to tell dad to send that letter to the VFX artist as well. I could use his expertise to finalize the designs for Augmented Reality."

Peter grew uncomfortable at his mom's silence before he heard her sigh in exasperation. "I'll make sure your father sends it out before today. And I need to start pushing these designs out to our factory team. You said you wanted this 'containment' device to be built first?"

Peter nodded, not that she could see it. "Yup. It's another safety precaution so that there's no chance of a human who's interacted with them physically from feeling any side effects. In fact it should prevent anyone from having to deal with them at all."

"Got it. I love you, and have fun. I expect to see you on time today as well, mister."

Peter let out a laugh. "I love you too, mom. I'll be there before the end of the day, I'm not staying long."

With that, Peter hung up and made haste to reach the city's outer edge. He'd probably need to take a cab there to make it believable how he arrived, which usually took an hour by car to reach the mansion.

He paused. 'Should probably call Natasha and let her know the plan for today… and to stay away until I call her. Unless she'd like to have her privacy invaded.'

---

Xavier's Mansion

"Thanks again!" Peter yelled. The cab driver just grunted as he drove off, presumably back to New York.

Peter stared for a bit before shrugging. He paid his fare and a mighty big one too. He even tipped the guy for making a slight detour to a grocery market for some soda!

'Oh well. If the man's not happy getting paid well, there's nothing I can do about it.'

Walking up to the gates, Peter took in the sight as always. The brown neoclassical mansion stood out against the backdrop of the green forest, its courtyard expansive yet inviting, leading to the oak doors of the home.

While his family could probably afford an estate like this, right now it just wasn't feasible for any of their lifestyles. His parents were the same as Ben and May in that it didn't take much to make them happy. Enough living space to have a small family was enough. No more, no less.

'I'd only live somewhere like this if my family was that large. Even then, I'd still be hesitant just because of the distance.'

Shifting the boxes, and the cases of soda on top, to one hand, Peter reached into his pocket to call Charles himself, he stilled as he felt a presence in his mind.

'No need Peter. I've sent Hank and Scott to help you. Though I doubt now, you'd need it.'

'Ah, thanks, Charles. And you're right. Spider-man is back!'

'Curious. It appears you've subconsciously gotten better at projecting your thoughts outside your mind shield's area.' Charles said voice tinged with not only curiosity but concern as well.

'Is that bad?' Peter asked with a wince.

'Not necessarily. It's something normally only telepaths need to concern themselves with. It's normally a by-product from keeping up a mind shield and still participating in telepathic conversations. Normally telepaths learn to separate their lines of thought into what you might call public space to speak. And a more private space that the human mind naturally tries to close off against. And depending on the experience of the telepath the privacy of which varies, hence a mind shield. In short, your mind has simply learned to project its thoughts outside of the shield when a presence is within your mind, whether you're conscious of it or not. And with Jean and Emma's tendency to relax their control around you I'd say chances are high they'd pop in unexpectedly. At least for a while.' Charles said with a laugh.

Peter slumped. 'So it is a problem.' Then he remembered that he's been able to 'feel' others in his mind. 'But wait, I noticed you entering my head. Wouldn't I be conscious of another presence then if I can feel it? So I could stop my conscious thoughts from being heard?'

Charles hummed, 'First, It's nothing I can't account for. I'll create a net of sorts. So that anything you already didn't want to be found out gets caught through what's going to be a mesh over your mind shield. Second, by and large it's a courtesy if a telepath is allowing you to feel them entering your mind in any shape or form. Jean and Emma, however, are still learning as you well know, and they are used to communing with Tessa or I where the goal is to do so undetected. However, I think with time and conscious effort you'll be able to keep your thoughts to yourself first and only allow them bypass your shield when you want similar to how Tessa or I manage.'

Peter nodded, satisfied with the answer, 'Alright, then hit me with it, Charles.'

'Already did as I was explaining its function.'

The young man was floored. 'Wow… that was fast.'

'Yes. The benefits of years of experience. I dare say the physical feats you can perform are just as astounding. I'll let you go now. See you soon.'

'Later!'

Peter felt Charles' presence leave his mind as Scott and Hank arrived.

Scott of course, was wearing his iconic shades, matching the red flannel shirt he wore buttoned up. The pair of jeans he wore denoted much use as they seemed frayed. 'Must have just returned from delivering the food boxes to Callisto and Co.'

Hank, by contrast, wore a blue polo and brown dress pants. His larger-than-average frame pushed the clothes to their limits. 'Aaaand Hank must not have helped deliver or he switched out clothes already.'

"Yo. How'd the food boxes go?" Peter greeted.

Scott shrugged. "Well, as can be expected. Callisto's still treating the Professor with a 25-foot pole. But they accepted the food, just like always."

Peter frowned, "You'd think by now she'd be a little more trusting."

Scott shrugged again, opening the gate. "Her loss if she can't recognize the Professor's kindness. Help him out, Hank, before Peter's arms collapse. How many pizza boxes and soda cases do you have there?"

Playing up his arms, being tired as Hank grabbed the food, Peter grinned. "Oh, about 4 boxes and 2 cases of Root Beer."

Scott frowned. "You better not eat it all."

Peter clutched his chest as though wounded. "I'll have you know I'm a lot better at taking a decent portion." He shrugged. "That and I won't be staying long. Got a get-together with my family."

Scott scowled but said nothing.

"That's great Peter." Hank chimed in, his voice slightly muffled due to hugging the pizza boxes close to his face. "How's work going?"

"Oh, same old same old. I created some perfect silent headphones with no sound in or out. And by the end of the month, hope to have a working near-unlimited energy source." Peter said off-handedly.

Hank paused, peeking his head behind the pizza boxes. "You're kidding?"

Peter grinned. "Nope. But like I said, the end of the month."

Hank hurried over to walk next to him. "Tell me more."

Scott huffed loudly, but Peter paid him no mind other than a glance. He knew Scott was probably just pissed off at the perceived disrespect shown to the Professor by the Morlocks. Or it could be just seeing the group of Morlocks in a horrible situation that has got him in a foul mood.

---

Inside the Mansion

"–1 Terawatt by our 5th year!" Peter explained excitedly to Hank, who continued looking at him in awe.

"That's amaz–"

Spider-Sense: Missile incoming.

"PETER!" David interrupted, excitement clear on his face, and attempted to tackle the teen.

"Woah there!" Peter exclaimed, catching the tween before he could hurt himself. 'With that much force I'm pretty sure he would have felt like he ran into a wall.'

David had a crooked smile that fit his spiky hair 'Who showed him that ridiculous hairstyle?' and was wearing a simple black shirt and brown shorts, they fit with his sneakers. The perfect outfit for a kid to run outside in the yard. 'Or the forest. Though I think Gabrielle would secretly task one of the older students to watch over him if that was the case.'

"David, you know better than to try and tackle someone. Especially someone taller and heavier than you." Scott chided before pinching the bridge of his nose. "Sorry, Peter."

Seeing David look guilty, Peter rubbed the kid's head, messing with his spiky hair. "It's fine Scott. David just got a little too excited. I'm sure he won't do so again. Thank you, though. I appreciate the concern."

Scott huffed. "Yeah but–"

"Oh, give it a rest, Scott. You're just hangry. You know David is a good kid." Hank chirped, moving past the group to the dining room area.

Chuckling and giving Scott a grin, Peter nudged David forward. "Come on little dude. Don't know if you noticed, but I brought you some pizza for the food boxes you helped your old man deliver today."

Entering the dining room, Peter smiled. "Hey everyone!"

Simultaneously Xavier's students greeted him back.

"Hey Peter!"
"WAZZUUUUUP!"
"Greetings Peter."
"Hi Peter!"
"Welcome back!"

"Where's Charles and Gabrielle?" Peter asked, giving everyone a small wave.

"We're in the kitchen, Peter. Be right out." Gabrielle called out.

"'Kay!" Peter replied. Nudging David forward, Peter sat at the nearest empty chair and took a moment to look over his friends.

First, there was the tallest of the bunch, Warren, or Angel, as he was nicknamed already, which Peter was both surprised by and not surprised to find out. Broad-shouldered just a tad more than one would expect due to hiding his wings, he looked exactly what Flash would call "a pretty boy" with his pale angelic face, straight blonde hair and baby blue suit and pants. Why Angel chose to dress like that in this era, Peter would never know, but he was looking forward to when he'd 'mature' for lack of a better word. If for nothing else than for the wardrobe change.

Standing next to him was Bobby. He looked a little distracted after giving Peter his greeting, what with him stuffing his face with a sundae. He was a little shorter than average, and had short brown hair that fit his boyish face. He, like Scott, was dressed in flannel, a dark blue. Either to be the opposite of Scott or in a nod to his powers.

Moving on, seated directly across from Peter was Tessa. Her jet black hair was in a high styled bun with enough left out to be curled into bangs. Her ocean blue eyes were lidded and held mirth, her exotic black markings amplifying the subtle smile she wore. Combined with her pose of leaning back in her chair and clothing, a black shirt and simple brown pants, she pulled off the reserved beauty look quite well.

Sitting next to Tessa in a more regal pose, helped by her drinking tea, was Emma. Her straight brown hair and sapphire eyes enforcing her unintentional look of a societal elite. She was, of course, dressed in a white sleeveless shirt and jeans.

And lastly, there was Jean, who with her fiery red hair and beaming smile looked the most energetic of the bunch. She was wearing a brown denim jacket over a green t-shirt with what looked like designer jeans.

"You all look well dressed." Peter stated easily.

He received a lot of smiles for the compliment and a couple of preening looks from Jean and Emma, while Tessa's smile widened, and leaned further back in her chair.

'Why's sh–' He quickly averted his eyes as her large bust strained against her shirt.

Scott grunted taking a seat next to him while Hank set the food down and started handing out cans of soda. David, hurriedly sat next to Peter.

"Thanks." Scott said off-handedly, accepting his soda with a nod.

Just then, Charles and his wife entered carrying plates and cups with an ice container. The couple wearing matching outfits of black dress shirts and pants. "Sorry about that Peter. Before you arrived we had just gotten back ourselves from delivering the Morlock's food boxes."

'Did they make Scott and who else carry all the boxes?'

Peter waved im off. "Eh it's fine. Now that you're here though, lets eat!"

Gabrielle nodded at Charles and began passing out plates and cups of ice. "Well, lets not dilly dally. Everyone, you know your manners so please dig in. And if you haven't already, thank Peter."

A series of thank yous was given as everyone started grabbing their own slices and pouring their sodas into the cups.

"So Peter. Anything new we can expect out of Parker Industries? You've been busy this past month. Even missed your last weekly visit." Gabrielle asked.

Hank perked up and stared at Peter intently.

Snorting softly Peter nodded his head.

Permission granted Hank exclaimed. "Peter told me he's working on a couple of things like perfect noise canceling headphones and a hyper-kinetic-based power source."

Tessa's head snapped to stare at Peter wide-eyed.

Raising an eyebrow he made to ask her what was wrong. Before he could though, everyone else started questioning him and Hank about what those projects entailed.

'Meet me in my office later before you leave Peter.' Charles said during a lull in questioning.

Curious, but shrugging Peter nodded at the man.

---

1 Hour Later

After catching up with everyone as a group Peter followed Charles into his office. Taking note of the small changes he made.

Charles' office was set up in a simple yet homely manner. Hugging the walls on all sides were book shelves filled with knowledge encompassing both a wide-array of non-fiction, anywhere from genetics to the annals of history, and even one shelf dedicated to fiction. His desk was placed in front of the rear-facing window overlooking the olympic sized pool and open field. Placed on top were two photos, one of which was a portrait of his wife and son, the other a recent photo of every student so far at the mansion. Next to them was a computer and monitor that Peter helped supply, and a couple of random magazines for science. The one on top caught Peter's eye, a genetics based magazine which had the title 'Moira Kinross New Leading Woman of Genetics?' in bold lettering.

The woman looked tired, or perhaps a better word would be to say apathetic, as though someone was pressuring her to be there and she eventually relented. Her hair looked bright and vibrant for a brunette and her pale skin shone with luster, but her eyes beheld a tiredness that made Peter remember the short time he believed all was lost. He felt uncomfortable staring further.

'Well Moira, I hope someone's able to get you out of whatever rut you're in.'

Charles cleared his throat, he was now sitting behind his desk, hands clasped in front of him. Seeing him get comfortable Peter sat himself in the brown padded chair in front of the desk.

"Thank you for meeting with me Peter. I know you planned for this to be a social visit and until hearing of your exploits as Peter Parker I planned to do so."

Peter shrugged and shook his head. "Eh, don't worry about it Charles. What did you need though?"

Charles nodded his head in thanks. "I'll make this quick. I had some concerns over hearing your rediscovering of Parker Particles. And if it will affect our plans in any capacity."

Peter nodded to show he was listening and drew a sharp breath gathering his thoughts. Their plans for each other weren't anything big in Peter's opinion. They mainly centered around the PR of mutants. Something Peter did not think he was qualified for, but Charles was insistent on Peter's help in planning.

At Charles' nod to continue Peter did so. "Honestly? I think it might speed them up."

Charles raised an eyebrow. "Continue."

"My parents were ecstatic at the discovery and plans. Enough so that-" Peter shifted uncomfortably. "-they told me that if the city approves our implementation for the power grid that they'll be cracking the lid on me earlier than expected."

Charles nodded patiently. "Meaning you were thinking of announcing your status this early? I'm not chastising you, but how do you think this will affect the X-Men? I was planning on training them this school year in combat so that they will be ready for a debut in a year."

Peter rubbed the back of his head and stared at the ceiling. "To tell you the truth? I'm hoping this will be beneficial. You know I've been busy and haven't been able to try hacking too much into the Hellfire Club, Trask Industries, or Shaw's. I'm hoping if Tessa has, she is being safe, but the point is that we both know Sentinels might already be in production, and the very early stages at that or, and this is the best case scenario, that they aren't even a thought yet. The way I see it, this will help how the X-Men are viewed, maybe even extend the goodwill your team had at the start."

Charles nodded, pursing his lips before gazing deeply into his desk, thinking. After a moment he nodded again at Peter. "I trust you Peter. Never forget that. This was simply an old man wanting to be reassured. I consider you a partner."

'Partner?'

"Of course Charles. And don't feel bad about just needing reassurance. God knows I need it almost all the time." Peter said with a self-deprecating smile.

Laughing Charles nodded. "I'll keep that in mind. Now, I think I've kept you long enough. I'll see you hopefully next week."

Exiting Charles' study and descending the stairs Peter made his way back to the dining room to give everyone a proper goodbye.

Popping in, he noticed that the boys moved to the living area except for Scott who was chatting up Jean. Emma and Tessa were off to the side having their own conversation. Gabrielle could be heard coming from the kitchen as she hummed.

Noticing Peter, Jean quickly said something to Scott and brushed past him. In her haste she didn't notice that Scott's face scrunched up in anger before he calmed himself and made his way to the living area.

Peter though was able to see it clearly.

'Ouch.' He thought with a wince.

Jean stopped midway to Peter and gasped in surprise calling the attention of Scott, Emma, and Tessa. Seeing Scott scoff again Peter winced, this time Jean threw a scowl over her shoulder at Scott and he saw her hair start to rise up before she calmed herself with a breath. She muttered the word "jealous bastard" but tried smiling toward Peter choosing to ignore Scott.

"Sorry about that. I was just surprised to hear your 'voice'. I know any telepath but Xavier can still speak to you, but hearing you is another matter. Your voice always was just something we had to do without. What changed?"

'Good question, what did change? Is it the fact that Death or Yao's repeated entrances into my mind subconsciously trained me to speak like a telepath? Or does it have to do with how being a Spider-Totem is?'

Jean grabbed her head as though hurt. "Um, what was that? It felt like hearing static."

"Ah, Charles noticed earlier when he was in my mind that I subconsciously speak like a telepath does if there's someone in my head space even if I'm not aware of them consciously since my mind is. Not sure if it's just my mind learning or what? But he said he had to put a mesh over the shield so that whatever I normally don't want known isn't. I'm guessing it comes out like static to you." Peter said, just as lost as she was.

Jean frowned before smiling. "Maybe it did just learn then from all the times the Professor's spoken to you." She shifted excitedly, a red hue coming across her face. "Maybe you could practice with me so that you can learn like an actual telepath and learn to keep your thoughts behind your shield at all times unless you want?"

Without hesitation, and feeling a sense of thankfulness Peter laughed. "Sure Jean, that sounds awesome. Would hate for a random telepath to sneak into my head and for me to give them something still a little embarrassing or secret"

Jean nodded, face still growing more red.

"You uh, you good Jean?"

The redhead nodded rapidly. "Um, I'll let you go now. Come back soon!" With that Jean waved goodbye and left to join the others in the living room.

Feeling a little awkward, Peter shrugged. "I'll let you know when I'm free Jean!" He called after her.

Turning to the other two Peter waved before Emma stood up to power walk toward him.

'Oh?'

Emma smiled. "Huh, that is nice to hear for once."

"Something you need as well Emma?"

The teen smiled. "No, just wanted to say goodbye properly." Emma then gave Peter a hug. "If Jean's ever not available, I can help as well by the way." She left after with another wave.

Turning to Tessa who was now waiting he raised an eyebrow. "You wanna properly say goodbye as well?"

The woman giggled and tapped her chin in thought. "Maybe later. I was going to walk you out and ask you something before you left actually."

'Oh?' Peter stared into her eyes searching, Tessa stared back. 'Maybe it has to do with the projects? She did snap her head toward me when Hank announced it.'

'Not necessarily.' Tessa said playfully.

"Gahhh." Peter said, snapping back. "I thought you were trained better than to do something like that?"

Tessa smirked shrugging. "I can joke too you know. Come on, you don't want to be here too long or David and Bobby will rope you into something." She motioned for him to follow her.

Shaking his head Peter followed, calling out to Gabrielle. "I'm leaving Gabrielle, thanks for having me!"

"Anytime Peter!" She called back.

Exiting the dining room Peter saw Tessa waiting before he raised a finger and moved to pop his head into the living room area.

"Bye everyone!"

Hearing a chorus of farewells Peter nodded at Tessa and followed her out the front door and to the gate leading to Grimalkine lane, the sun still in the sky, though noticeably closer to setting.

Reaching the gate Tessa paused and turned to look at Peter. "Can I ask you for a favor?" She said, softly.

Curious, and a tad concerned knowing Tessa was a private person by nature and tended to keep to herself. 'Not for a lack of trying on my part.' Peter nodded his head. "Sure. What do you need?"

Giving him another soft smile she asked. "Can you please hire me as your personal secretary?"

Peter's brain froze. 'The fuck?' Noticing her guarded expression he winced knowing she probably heard that. "May I ask why?"

The woman nodded. "To be honest, I am feeling directionless now that I've essentially graduated from Xavier's school."

Peter shifted, looking around just in case and keeping his ears peeled for one of the other students. "Are you saying you don't like what Charles asked you to do?" If that was the case Peter was prepared to try and calm her down or tell her to wait patiently. He knew she was one of if not the support for the X-Men when she joined them later down the line. While he only heard of her exploits from Logan and Storm he knew that her skills in espionage were second to none. 'She could probably give Natasha a run for her money given time.' It's possible she simply feels like she needs to do more.

Tessa shook her head. "No. I have no problems with my currently underutilized abilities. I simply would like to use them more. And I think your company and specifically working under you, would be the best way to go about that. If you're concerned about me being unable to do what Charles has asked of me, don't. I still plan to complete the task he's set out for me."

'Underutilized?'

Peter sighed. He wasn't sure exactly what Tessa was hoping to gain. And to be honest…"You know I don't think you'll really be too busy as my secretary. My days are actually pretty short in the office if I'm not building something."

Tessa smirked again. "I know."

Peter scrunched up his face and said teasingly. "This isn't just a way for me to give you some spending money is it? You don't need to work for me if you want some."

Narrowing her eyes Tessa crossed her arms across her chest. "You know me better than that."

Peter sighed. "I know Tessa. I know." He stared at her then. Thinking it over. Did he really have a reason to say no? It'd probably be harder to leave the building as Spider-Man but he can always just walk out and change later. Which solved that issue, the other was that it was exactly like Peter said. He wasn't that busy, what with his father and mother handling more of the administration side of the company. So Peter felt like he'd be taking advantage of Tessa.

She smiled then and he gave her a pointed look. Tessa shrugged.

Peter sighed. 'It's not as if her help wouldn't be appreciated when it's needed, and if she feels like working for me would help her...' "Fine. I'll hire you as my personal secretary. But I swear, you're not going to find yourself doing much."

Tessa smirked. "I'll find ways to occupy myself. Now, I've already called you a cab. It should be here any minute."

Peter looked at her confused as to when she could have done so.

"I knew you'd eventually say yes Peter. You're a good man." She said easily, as though that was reason enough for him to hire her.

Confused, he let her push him to the other side of the gate and hug him, which he reciprocated.

Seeing the cab pull up, which even knowing it was coming still lightly freaked him out and he turned to wave goodbye.

Not letting him, Tessa gave him another hug and a kiss on the cheek.

He froze again. 'What the?'

"Thank you again Peter. You won't regret this." She said easily before waving at him.

Deciding to take it as a thank you Peter nodded and entered the cab, waving goodbye himself.

"Where to?" The driver asked.

"Forest Hills." Peter said absent-mindedly.

"Sure kid."

---

Ben and May's House - May Parker

The crackle of Ben's grill as it burned the charcoal was an alluring backdrop to May's ears. It reminded her of when she and Ben were younger. Hosting barbecues, dancing to music. Something they just stopped doing as much when they got older. She felt her eyes grow wet. 'Oh silly me. I seemed to have gone down memory lane.' She wiped her eyes.

"May, where're the hotlinks and hotdogs?" Ben asked from behind her. "I think the grill is ready for me to start cooking before Peter gets here." He noticed her wiping her eyes. "May?"

The elderly woman turned to her husband trying to clean her eyes. "I'm sorry Ben. The hotdogs should be behind the patties." Instead of moving to grab the hotdogs she felt as Ben moved to wrap his arms around her, sniffling she hugged her husband back.

"Something wrong May?" Ben asked again.

May shook her head. "No darling, just my mind took a trip down memory lane. We used to do this all the time it felt like. Cook, dance, have guests over, help people. And now…now we can only do a few of those things. I just miss being able to do what I used to when I was younger. But, more than that I also just remembered how much I love you for being there with me through all of it."

Ben smiled and May felt her heart flutter as it always did when she was faced with his smile. "Of course I was going to be with you all the way. I chased you didn't I?"

May frowned. "I know. I'm sorry too for making you." And she really meant it. All of it. She let her greed of money affect their relationship too much, at least before they got married.

"While I won't lie and say I didn't wish it wasn't easier courting you May. I also won't lie and say I wouldn't have changed my actions one bit." He paused and joked. "Actually maybe I could have been less of a hard-ass" He chortled.

May snorted and kissed him. "It's your responsibility which became so much more attractive to me Ben."

Before Ben could reply though Mary-Jane and Teresa stepped in.

"Oh God. I'm sorry May, and Ben I hope we aren't interrupting." Mary-Jane said with a blush.

May and Ben turned to look at her. "What do you mean dear?"

Mary-Jane just motioned to them as though that answered their question.

May took the time to try and look at herself and Ben from an outside perspective and then laughed once she got what Mary-Jane was asking. Unable to help herself she started laughing into Ben's chest while he held her. A look of confusion still on his face.

"You're too precious Mary-Jane. Ben was just holding me. We aren't about to do anything in our kitchen when we have guests over." May teased.

In the blink of an eye, instead of getting further embarrassed Mary-Jane raised an eyebrow with a smirk. "I was meaning that you two seemed to be having a moment. Not that you were about to get down with Ben here."

May felt a rumble erupt from her chest and barked a laugh. "I love that spirit of yours Mary-Jane. Did you and Teresa need something?"

Mary-Jane smiled. "Just want to know where Ben is with the hotdogs. Teresa just came with me though since she likes to follow me around."

Teresa nodded sagely. "I'm compiling a list of quirks about my potential big sisters."

Mary-Jane smiled sheepishly and laughed awkwardly. "Hehe. Sometimes you confuse and scare me little lady." She pat Teresa on her shoulder before gently nudging her back. "Anyways, Richard is keeping the grill going but I'll let you two get back to it. It's not like cooking hotdogs takes too long. Come on Teresa."

May smiled. "I'll send Ben right out soon."

"You got it May!"

Alone again, Ben made to leave before May pulled him back. Seeing him look confused she only smiled and kissed him again. "Thank you again Ben."

Looking pleased with himself Ben just hummed in reply. "You're welcome. Thank you as well May."

May sighed in contentment after Ben left hearing him turn on the radio for some background music as well to the delight of what sounds like Mary-Jane. 'That girl.'

Smiling to herself, May finished what she should have been doing, which was making some kool-aid in an ice cold pitcher. While soda was all well and good, there wasn't a problem with making sure her guests had options.

Finished with her part in the kitchen, May moved her way outside to the backyard patio. "Now I know not everyo- PETER!" May said in joy.

May's nephew was talking with his parents before she called out to him. Looking sheepish about something. He was still carrying what looked to be a work backpack, or at least that was what May guessed since it looked heavy duty. 'That boy is too work oriented. Though he is the one who asked for this, so at least he's aware…'

"Hey May! I just got here. Ben just started cooking and all. Sorry for not stopping in, but I had to speak with my parents about a new hire." Peter said, still sheepish.

Before responding May took the time to look over her nephew. He was growing up to look more and more like Richard along with some things that she associated with Ben as he grew older. 'From his grandfather then.' He also clearly had parts of his mother to him. She could see that he had fuller eyebrows and lashes, something May was sure would ensnare any girl who gazed into her nephew's eyes long enough. 'Like Mary-Jane.' Speaking of the girl was staring at her nephew like a deer caught in headlights while her Aunt face-palmed. 'Poor girl, she's so headstrong in life except when dealing with Peter.'

"That's fine Peter. Who's your new hire?" May asked setting down the pitcher of cool-aid, her small intro speech for it forgotten. Everyone here had eyes and new their policy about food and drink, she had a nephew to talk to.

Back to looking sheepish Peter rubbed the back of his head. "A fellow student from Xavier's. Tessa to be specific. She asked if she could be my personal secretary and after some deliberation I said yes."

"That's the Balkan woman yes?" May asked moving to stand next to him.

"Yeah, I told her she'd barely be working, but she was adamant and to be honest clearing up my schedule even more would help so that I can work on my own–"Peter paused at seeing her pout. "–projects. You know what, the point is there's a new hire. How've you been, May? Did you join that community club yet?" Peter finished, trying to deflect.

Sighing at her nephew's blatant topic change —He's not going to always be dealing with someone as kind as his aunt— May shook her head and gave him a quick hug, noting he was just as strong as ever. "I've been good. Since someone is helping with our bills Ben is home a lot more so I can't really complain. To be honest this get-together would be something we might be able to do weekly, but not everyone here is as free as we are now. And no I didn't join, a lot of the people in it seemed to like posturing more than actually doing anything for the community"

May could tell she just upset her nephew who of all things was looking guilty —seriously? That boy needed to learn he wasn't the cause of every one of his family's issues!–- "Oh don't worry about it Peter. It tends to happen for us old folks. Too much time, yet too little energy."

The woman had to hold in a snort at seeing her nephew's face go to stone. He stated seriously. "You're not that old Aunt May."

Beneath her amusement May also felt an adoration of love for her nephew. When he said it she could almost really believe it. "Flatterer. But I think that's enough speaking with me if you just arrived you probably only announced it instead of speaking with everyone. Shoo shoo." She nudged her nephew away who quite clearly allowed her to move him if his muscles were any indication.

---

Ben and May Parkers Home - Peter Parker

Peter sighed internally as his aunt moved him away from her before he continued moving on his own. Stopping by his uncle, he noticed that he had some hotlinks and hotdogs already ready. To which the growl of his stomach announced his arrival to his uncle.

"Haha. Come to fill that hole in your stomach?" Ben teased.

Peter side hugged his uncle, cognizant of him still cooking. "I ate an hour ago, not sure how I'm so hungry that I'm growling."

Ben shrugged. "You're a growing boy. If I and your father are anything to go by, you still got a couple of inches to grow, which you should know is actually a lot of extra weight." He pat Peter's back. "So get yourself a plate and then go mingle a bit more ya hear? I'll be done soon."

Peter laughed but did as recommended. 'Now, who to speak to next…'

His decision was taken away from him as Teresa stomped forward, "PETER! When did you get here!?"

"I've been here the entire time." Peter joked.

His sister though was not having it and narrowed her eyes with a huff. "Liar. I was waiting with MJ for you to arrive, then I go to the restroom and you're here." Showing she wasn't really that upset with him though Teresa tackled him for a hug.

Feeling his spider-sense alert him like David, Peter caught her just before she could hurt herself and hugged her back.

"Hm. You feel like a wall. A warm wall." Teresa said hugging him harder.

Peter laughed, before a swell of emotion surged through him, he hugged as tight as he felt was safe. "If I'm a wall it's just for you and everyone else I care about Teresa."

Teresa stiffened and moved to look at him in the eyes. "Is it everything okay Peter?"

Letting go of the hug Peter pat her on the head, knowing he wouldn't be able to as easily when she hit her growth spurt and he grew to his tallest. "Don't worry about it. I'm going to go talk to MJ and Anna now okay?"

Solemn now Teresa nodded, before giving him one last hug and moving to pester uncle Ben.

Moving to sit by Anna and MJ, Peter smiled and waved. "Yo."

"Evening Peter."

"Hi Tiger."

"How're you two doing?" Peter asked, starting on his food.

"Oh I'm doing well Peter. How're you doing?" Anna replied, sipping her drink.

"Can't complain. Just got done with some projects that I hope to unveil. Some noise canceling headphones and a new energy source."

"That sounds amazing Peter!" MJ said excitedly.

"I'm sure someone else could do the same if they put their mind to it." Peter said, taking a bite out of his hotlink. 'Reed sure would have.'

Anna and MJ both pouted, Anna made to speak before her cellphone rang. "Oh I'm sorry, I got to take this. It's your mother MJ. You two don't have too much fun now." She got up and walked off. "Hello? Madeline, how're you? Book deal? Wait hold up."

"Sooo…" MJ trailed off.

"Phooo…." Peter said, trailing off as well but with food stuck in his mouth.

MJ giggled. "You sound absolutely unintelligible right now."

Peter swallowed and couldn't help the pout that appeared on his face. "Maybe you just need to learn the language."

"Oh yeah? What language would that be?" MJ said, eyebrow raised in disbelief

"The uh," Peter scrambled to think of a word "it's called mouthful-ish." He finished his sentence with a sagely nod.

MJ for her part, simply stared at him before stating. "You're full of shit Tiger."

Peter took another bite. "Moh I'mph not."

"Uh huh, sure you aren't."

"Then how come you understood me that time?" Peter said with a smirk.

That earned him a playful glare. "I think you're getting too big for your britches there mister." She raised her drink threateningly. "Don't think I won't embarrass you."

Peter felt himself relaxing, and snorted back. "Oh please I can do that all by myself."

"Oh this will be far worse than anything you can come up with by yourself." The redhead said haughtily.

Peter raised his hands up in challenge, making sure to take another bite of his hotlink. "Prove it."

"Nah," MJ shrugged. "I'm not that cruel Tiger. Maybe next time." She sighed, leaning back into her chair.

Seeing that MJ was done messing around Peter leaned back in his seat as well. "You tired?" He asked.

MJ gave a wane smile. "A little, but not in an overworked way. My days have been feeling a little monotonous is all. Most days I finish my homework and have too much time on my hands"

Peter frowned. "You mean you haven't found an acting club or modeling club?"

She shrugged. "The school's acting club is a bunch of posers. And most clubs outside of the school are pretentious, as though a fifteen year old isn't capable of pulling off the same emotions, if I went to them I'd be stuck helping setup scenes without doing any acting. And modeling?" MJ sighed. "I just don't have the connections. I've also sent my portfolio out to a few agency's but haven't really snagged one."

The young man's frown deepened. "I'm sorry MJ. I wish I could help." 'I mean, I knew MJ pursuing her chosen career early would involve some hiccups, but after all this time she still hasn't had anyone give her a chance?'

"Don't worry about it Tiger. You've done more than enough for me already, not to mention my family." MJ smiled.

Before Peter could try and argue he could always do more, a familiar oriental riff sounded out from the radio. Both Peter and MJ froze.

Everybody was kung-fu fighting!

Peter clammed up. His mind unintentionally going back to the time an older MJ ecstatically told him this was their song. He never understood why, but he always made sure to listen to it with her if it came on, and also… 'Dance.'

Peter glanced over at MJ, he didn't know why she froze as well, but he was willing to bet it was just his mind playing tricks on him. MJ now was swaying to the beat and faced the other way.

He felt a wave of sadness hit him staring at the back of MJ. 'I shouldn't…But at the same time…' He stood up. "H-hey MJ." Goddamit why'd his voice have to crack now.

The teen turned around, smiling wanly, her eyes sad. "Yes Tiger?"

Peter licked his lips, his throat felt dry. "Y-y-you wanna come embarrass yourself with me on the imaginary dance floor."

With his adrenaline running he saw in slow motion as MJ's face changed from melancholic to joyful. She laughed and started standing up herself. "Anytime Tiger."

As the two teens walked to stand near the radio they inevitably drew the eye of the rest of the Parker family and MJ's Aunt.

Suffice to say, even though Peter was with family he felt his face blushing in embarrassment. MJ by contrast looked as comfortable as ever and showcasing her skill, matched Peter's painstakingly practiced moves with an older MJ for this song.

Kung-fu fighting wasn't really a song Peter thought you could do anything but sway with the beat to, but that was obviously wrong when his then girlfriend showed him differently. Going through the motions again, even with an MJ that didn't remember, was doing wonders for his embarrassment though, midway through all Peter felt was joy and peace.

All too quickly the song ended. And with it, a heavy feeling of guilt even if he felt at peace.

Smiling, MJ leaned in to hug Peter and landed a kiss on his cheek.

He froze. 'Goddamit Peter look at what you've done.'

"Thank you Tiger." She whispered, her eyes shining with warmth.

Peter grinned, knowing what he was feeling was personal and shouldn't affect MJ at all for simply being there with him. "Anytime."

"Hey you two, don't think I won't drag my husband here to show you up!" Mary joked, pulling Richard by the hand while he half-heartedly shook his head.

"Oh you are on Mary." MJ said in challenge. She looked to Peter. "You still got some energy Peter?"

Smiling, Peter nodded. "Always."

In the end, Peter could gladly say that the party helped him relax.

---

1 Month Later - Peter Parker

The month passed by quickly for Peter after that. It was a repeat of going to the office for an hour or two most days and then patrolling as Spider-Man. His nights as well grew to be normal for him, what with Death, Umar, and Clea being constant staples of it now. Thankfully the second night onward they deigned to wear thin bras and panties, in their chosen colors of course. Whether the first night was just to tease him or it didn't cross their minds he didn't know.

Also throughout the month Peter was the requisitioning and handling the delivery of the parts for the Parker Particle Generator. Peter had asked for the basement area of the Baxter building to be extended another level below to his specifications and now at the end of the month they were slated to finish tomorrow or if not then, the day after. Unfortunately, with the expansion Silver never had an entire day free. Peter can't say that he won any points with her for being so strict on that stipulation, but he liked to think that his secret was worth being so nitpicky.

'Honestly, I'm not even sure a day will be enough. Regardless all in all I think this was a great first mo–'

Peter paused his line of thinking as he and his pet spider both stared at his ringing phone, where the name 'Fury' clearly stood out.

'This is absurd, why am I nervous about a phone call.' Peter answered the phone. "Yellow?"

"Spider-Man, What do you know about the Hulk?" Fury asked, tone conveying he wanted no bullshit.

'Oh God dammit.'

Peter palmed his face. Wondering when the universe would stop trying to throw curveballs at him.

---

AAAAAAAAND DONE! :D So again, I hope that was worth the wait and that most of you are satisfied. I hope you enjoyed the teasing done in the beginning, not only for slight lewdness at hinting at things to come but also because I wanted to showcase Umar's VERY different actions/feelings here. To be clear, she still doesn't love Peter, but she's not a psychopath. Moving on, I spent my time being sick researching the X-Men (or pretty much the cast you saw me present here) and their backstories and formulate how I think they'd react when knowing Peter for a decent amount of time before they go through their adventures. And of course, we got to see a bit of Jean and Emma's changed backstories here. Then we got a sneak peek into May's thoughts (who's a little restless). And finally, I also hope that I'm doing the Peter/MJ relationship justice here even if it's just fluff.

Now instead of ranting about the main Spider-Man comics (MJ and responsibility combined with how Peter apparently saved a woman he loved where no one liked his tactics except Norman?...I swear to God if MJ had kids due to this Imma flip xD).

I wanna instead talk/gush about Amazing Fantasy #1000. It's an amazing series of short stories. Honestly the weakest ones in my opinion were "Slaves of the Witch Queen" and "Spider-Man vs Conspiration" And that's only because they didn't have a message like the other stories tried to tell. They were still decent, though, and gave me flashbacks of reading the early Spider-Man comics. My favorite's are a toss up between *Shudders* Dan Slott's "Sinister 60th", "You Get It", and "With Great Power..." 60th because of Slott actually writing a decent MJ and Peter short story plus a nod to how Peter would be looked at by the populace of New York, You Get It because I think it sums up Peter's stints as Spider-Man well, though I still want for it to change, just because the guy is willing to go through a storm for others doesn't mean he can't have an easier time of it. And finally, Great Power because I think Neil Gaman has a solid feel for how Spidey doesn't forget about the people who follow him/care. In short it was wholesome. Hopefully we get more of these type of stories relatively soon.

With my piece said, again I hope you enjoyed the chapter and depending on my schedule the next one should be out sooner than this one was.

Thanks for reading!