SPIDER-MAN: ALL ALONE (CHAPTER 1)
Note: Takes 2 months after the events of 'The Other Spider'
LABORATORY ROOM…
Starting off his internship today, Peter stood in awe as he looked around the room. The laboratory that he will be working in is a bit plain as expected when he walked into the building beforehand but the equipment ranging from centrifuges; computers and other things were state-of-the art.
"Geez…Look at this place." Peter said to himself as he found himself mesmerised by the stuff around him.
In awe, Peter felt immersed and was ready to start work. Eventually, his attention was drawn to a mechanical prosthetic arm on a bench with a remote-control panel next to it. The equipment looked marvellous in front of Peter as he went over to inspect the item.
"I wouldn't be looking or touching around the place without supervision, young man." A brown-haired man with glasses in a lab coat said out loud.
"Oh, sorry. Forgive me, my name is Peter Parker. I'm looking for a Dr. Curtis Connors here." Peter said turning around and rubbing the back of his head.
"And you're standing right in front of him. People like to call me 'Curt' however…" The man said, "Honestly, how did you gain access to this room?"
"I got my card from the ESU dorm the other day." Peter replied holding his ID card up.
"Well, they should have gave it to me first. Tell me, Parker. What do you know of my work from all the reference materials and literature I sent you by email?" Curt asked with his arms crossed.
"Uh… I read your research in biomechanics and all the revolutionary progress you've made to make it success. Big surprise is that you're actually trying to achieve authentic biological regeneration instead rather than prosthetics." Peter explained.
"Hmph. Yes to the last part. You see, this arm that I'm wearing right here doesn't quite achieve full functionality. It's just not the same when part of your nervous system can't reach…" Curt said looking at his arm.
Peter observed the arm attached on Curt; the design is similar to one on the bench and looked sturdy. However, he also understood Curt's sentiment on how out of place it looked on him.
"I can tell." Peter said before looking at Curt with a sheepish smile.
"A friend of mine who studies neurophysiology designed this and gave it to me as a present." Curt explained as the arm's fingertips moved mechanically, "Very kind of him."
"Am I starting work now?" Peter asked.
"Now, now. Let's go sit in my office." Curt suggested, "Don't want your legs aching from this standing."
Curt then led Peter to his office, the area was surprisingly well-organised with the papers and documents all set. Family photos were decorated nicely on the desk and the computer working. There were also posters for past seminars and symposiums related to science which are befitting for someone named Dr. Curtis Connors.
"Since you already know something about me or more. I want to know you, Peter." Curt said sitting down, "I'm going to say what I heard about you."
Curt took a deep breath before starting.
"Mr. Cobbwell, your chemistry teacher tells me that even though you're brilliant in class; you're not an attentive one. He told me that sometimes you go making 'formulas' when he isn't looking.
Curt said, "Tells me one time you didn't bother with the periodic table before reciting it perfectly."
"Guess I'm something of a scientist myself?" Peter replied whilst keeping his smile.
"Your general science/biology teacher, Mr. Warren shares that same sentiment. As goes your English teacher; geography and physics teachers as well. So let me ask how would I know if you're willing to listen to me if the past tells a different story?" Curt asked.
"Doctor… I know that I want to make the most of it in changing the world one way or another. If I see someone who needs help; I want to help them. I chose to work with you because I've seen the clear journey of things being changed… For the better. You're not just doing this work for yourself but you've actually helped others…" Peter explained, "I mean I know that story where you helped that man run again. It's inspiring what you do and I want to know how."
"Hmph, good use of words there. You've passed my first test on letting me have an impression on you. The real one will have to begin tomorrow though when you assist in some test runs." Curt said getting up, "Hope your legs feel better because I want to show something before, I give you some work to think over."
Curt then led Peter out of the office and then showed off a glass tank that was displayed on the one side of the laboratory room on a separate bench. Inside were a pair of lizards with olive-forest green with shades of brown sunbathing underneath the light on their rock. Their silted vertical-pupiled eyes twitched upon seeing Curt and Peter.
"What's with the reptiles?" Peter asked looking inside the glass tank.
"Oh, didn't you know? They're part of my work." Curt replied, "These fellas here have the gift to regrow broken limbs. I'm sure you understand it. While I take good care for them, I need some of their genetic material to create an appropriate DNA vector that can help regrow missing parts of the body. Takes a lot of precision."
The lizards continuously stood still while the two discussed.
"Sounds ambitious, doctor. Can this actually be done in favour of the…Arm you have?" Peter asked whilst looking at the said object on Curt.
"From what I've gathered, we used defective lab mice and actually got some promising results. Trust me, this isn't impossible to say the least." Curt said in his most optimistic tone yet, "I will show you when I have time."
Peter nodded before asking Curt what comes next.
"Well, what's my work?" Peter asked.
"Read, young man. Absorb as much knowledge as you can." Curt said tapping his head with a mechanical finger of his.
Curt then extended his normal hand to shake Peter's right hand to which Peter accepted.
"I'm looking forward to working with you, doctor. I promise to help you as best as I can." Peter said.
"We shall see…" Curt answered, "Well, congratulations on being the first student I've taken in a while."
With that exchange, Peter secured a new working relation in his life.
BEDFORD APARTMENTS…
Moving out from his and May's home at Forest Hills, Queens; Peter had moved into an affordable apartment. He was excited undoubtedly that he was starting his internship; happy that the new place is a major step and that his relationships with the people that matter to him are stable.
The place may be small and there is sure to be rent but for Peter, it was nice and cosy for him.
"Woof, exciting times so far." Peter said laying on his bed.
Picking up his phone, he decided to share some news with May.
"How's my favourite aunt doing?" Peter greeted.
"Peter, I take it that everything's going well for you." May said in return.
"Yeah, it's huge. I spoke with Dr. Connors and quite frankly, I think I made a good choice studying with him." Peter explained, "He has his work laid out for years to come."
"I am so happy for you. And how are things with Gwen?" May asked.
"Oh, she's still doing great. I mean… She's not doing science but I think she's getting the hang of things." Peter replied, "Real interest in music."
With that said, Peter kept tight-lipped about what Gwen is doing more in her spare time.
"Well, that is always the news I want to hear." May said, "I'm still working and healthy; if you're wondering. I have to go back to work soon but you have anything; just call me up and I'll be there. I love you."
"I love you too, May." Peter said before clicking his phone off and lying on the bed.
Afterwards, Peter quickly got back onto his feet and decided to make himself lunch. Before he went to the pantry, he was distracted by the window. Staring at the window has made his conscious unable to escape the other person that he really is.
"That window always makes me feel like jumping out." Peter said whilst looking at his hands, "But I have to keep telling myself that I have a normal life."
After grabbing a jar of pickles from the pantry; a Daily Bugle newspaper slid through the door catching his attention. The latest headline being Wilson Fisk's trial and the power vacuum it has left.
"Man, how is this thing being dragged?" Peter asked after picking the paper up.
FISK TRAIL DELAYED BY POWER VACCUM CONCERNS
By Caitlin Ortez
The trial against Wilson Fisk has now reached further question on the effects of the criminal underworld and how a lack of order from one individual could increase unrest amongst other influencing criminals in the street. This was a point stated by Fisk's own defending lawyer, Harvey Killerbard today in court.
"Fisk had control over supply chains across NYC so the question is how can we keep these people at bay if they don't have a proper ruling authority." The lawyer argued. The trial is also being made difficult by the ongoing anti-corruption scheme set out by mayor Wendell Randall who says that much of Wilson's previous influences affecting the law make it hard to drag out the root of the problem.
"It's a question on everyone's mind that we find out how many other people are there who have done Fisk's dirty work. We must uphold integrity in this city to bring all those accountable and lock up lawbreakers." The mayor said in response. As the continued hearing continues, the court promised to reach a verdict within one week.
"They better get past all this nonsense otherwise, why did we ever risk our lives putting that man behind bars?" Peter said chucking the newspaper in the bin after only reading a part of it.
As Peter went ahead to complete his lunch, he suddenly remembered that he had renegotiate his work with the Bugle.
"Speaking of the Bugle…" Peter said after realising.
DAILY BUGLE…
"Sorry, Robbie. I have to make a sacrifice." Peter explained as he met up with his boss in his office.
"It's alright, but you do understand that I will reduce your pay rate and it could mean that your contract with us will also have to be finished due to inactivity." Robbie said.
"Ah, man. I would really miss you guys." Peter said in disappointment.
"Look on the bright side, at least you got us as referees for any job in the future." Robbie said, "I want the best for you, Peter. Honestly, I do. It will limit the stress on your life and give you the time to go out there and make a difference."
"I'm surprised you care this much for me, Robbie. I-I never felt this humbled." Peter replied.
"Hehe. We always have your back here. Even Jonah would root for you." Robbie said with a wink.
"Oh. But I will really miss you guys when the time comes." Peter said shrugging.
"Alright, shall I get back to work?" Robbie asked, "Crazy stories so far…"
As Peter left Robbie's office, he was greeted by Betty Brant who had heard the news about Peter beforehand.
"I heard you're actually leaving and I couldn't help but…Say goodbye to you in case." Betty said shyly.
"It's okay, Betty. I'm not far from here." Peter said giving her reassurance, "Besides…Um. You have my number, right?"
"I have your number…" Betty repeated.
"So, if you ever want to say anything, I'm right here." Peter said.
Betty could only smile as Peter took his leave and waved back at her as he left. As Peter reached the bottom floor and exited the Bugle building; he heard the sound of what seems to be a loud crash nearby triggering his Spider-sense for a brief moment.
2nd Avenue/MANHATTAN FINANCIAL DISTRICT…
Gwen's time as Spider-Woman had already enveloped her as she spent a large amount of time chasing down criminals with the powers that she has. There was her casual job in post-delivery and her hobby in music but neither of which define her life as much as the costume she was wearing.
Today was a big day for her as well on her own with the Shocker being released and causing havoc as she chased the yellow armour-suited criminal down. Someone had somehow given him back his gear to pull off a bank heist.
"Quit running." Gwen said as she swung after Shocker.
"I don't know who you are." Shocker said in response as he kept airlifting himself using the vibro-air from his gauntlets, "You're not Spider-Man!"
"I'm a friend of his, so quit while you still can." Gwen answered as more pedestrians scrambled and vehicles were tossed aside.
However, Shocker refused to listen and continued to flee all whilst Gwen was trying to keep up.
"How does Peter wear him down?" Gwen wondered as Shocker began to change direction into a department mall.
The chase got a lot messier with civilians ducking and diving to avoid the two clashing. At one point, Gwen even had to keep a baby in a pram away from Shocker's vibrations.
Shocker then decided to bust through a random sneaker store colliding with everything in his path as he panicked with Gwen chasing him. As he grew tired from the chasing, Gwen grabbed the chance to apprehend him through one web.
"Gotcha!" Gwen shouted as the web latched on.
Shocker then turned around to shoot a wave of vibration at Gwen pushing her back and knocking her down.
"Damn it, almost had it." Gwen groaned before getting up to chase Shocker.
Onlookers looked on as Gwen continued the pursuit. There was enough sweat dripping inside the suit as this went on. With a quick thought, Gwen made sure to use her web to instead prevent Shocker from shooting his gauntlets again.
Trying out this new tactic certainly made a difference with Shocker continuously getting sluggish from all the running and wall crashing. Finding themselves back on the street, Gwen used this opportunity to give the idea a shot. Firing one webslinger, she latched onto one of Shocker's gauntlets.
Shocker tried using his other gauntlet to blast away Gwen; but Gwen dodged the blast before throwing her other web onto the other gauntlet. This then stopped Shocker from running further as he tried to break free.
Bringing herself closer, Gwen got hold of the gauntlets before crushing them to make them inoperable. She then punched Shocker down after the chase was down and pinned him with a spray of web.
"What a mess that was back there." Gwen said giving her overall thoughts on the situation.
"Good job, Spider-Woman!" One onlooker shouted.
"Get off the streets, you home-wrecking knock-off!" One cynic added.
"We don't want you here!" Another added; who was possibly a fan of J. Jonah Jameson.
J. JONASH JAMESON'S APARTMENT…
John's own podcast show was a growing trend amongst New Yorkers and people into vigilantism alike. Attracting a close million viewers, the former Daily Bugle chief editor was drawing people thanks to his own insights into the state of New York and what he deems is definitive outtake from the rest of the mainstream media.
"Good morning ladies and gentlemen, I'm here with the honourable Commissioner Philip DeWolff." John stated, "Sir, it's so great to have you here for this podcast."
"Thank you, Mr. Jameson. I sure hope it wasn't too much trouble to get me to time off." Phillip, the old commissioner greeted.
"So I want to talk to you about the city's crime rate; it's dropped. Great news." John said, "But we need to let people know that it was you guys who did the heavy-lifting not those Spider-freaks…"
"I have to say…If it wasn't for those Spider people; we would have less of a chance in apprehending some of the zanier criminals out there. Let alone, the crime lords that have long gripped the city." Phillip replied.
"Oh, come on. Didn't I state that Spider-Man may have inspired these criminals nobody knew of until then?" John argued with irritation.
"Take a look back… First, he stood out when he took down Hammerhead and topped it with the arrests of Tombstone. Then recently, we got the major expose on Fisk." Phillip said, "He somehow uncovered evidence on that man and how he poisoned every single precinct."
"Have you figured out who he is? Was he one of your officers? A forensic guy? A detective? Or was he part of Fisk's corrupt operation in the end?" John asked with keen enthusiasm.
"We expelled and arrested around hundred officers from the force. It was unbelievable but no one found anything Spider-related about them nor was this the case for anyone that is still working for the NYPD." Phillip revealed.
"Hmph. Maybe he's more than a man snooping around. I still stand with the sentiment that he's some monster freak but for him to have a bit of 'detective' in him?" John said, "Adds some depth."
"Jameson, I think you've been hurting his feelings for too long. We haven't seen him for two months… All his work is done by his lady counterpart." Phillip replied, "You think he may be depressed?"
"Depressed? Oh, I hope I didn't do that. I just want the man to stay put. If he wants to do good then show yourself and get a real job!" John shouted.
John then decided to put on some break time and switched off the recording.
"Let's uh… Get a glass of water or something." John said helping Phillip up.
As John helped the police commissioner up, the sound of sirens could be heard in the distance in response to the chase between Gwen and Shocker.
TO BE CONTINUED IN AN ALL NEW ADVENTURE…