Warning: Chapter contains depiction of self-mutilation and suicide idealization

Author's notes: I wanted this fanfic to be three chapters in total. But the final piece was stacking like Jenga. I felt like I needed to split the final chapter into two before it collapsed. Enjoy!

Chapter 3: Slave to The Goblin

"Let me go!" Harry shouted. Two pairs of hands locked themselves around his beaten shoulders and arms. His trounced body was being forcefully escorted through the Tower. He enacted his best as they marched through the twists and turns of the treacherous maze. Despite his low energy, he was determined to free himself. He refused to submit himself to his monstrous father. Maintaining his resistance, he yelled, "I'm not going down just because of Norman's damn orders!"

"For fuck's sake," Vin began, grunting. His epic muscles allowed him to keep his stout hold against his squirming prisoner no problem. "If you weren't The Goblin King's son, I'd knock you upside your empty head! Now keep quiet already, Osborn!"

Harry felt the oppressive connection from his last name. Regardless of all the pain Norman bore to his own son, the teen still had his protection. His surname was sheathed around him like an old symbiote. And it was a certain hero who saved him from that nasty creature. His conscience became heavy. Spider-man had granted him the opportunity to vacate the premises. No (web) string attached. He didn't know if the masked champion was part of the growing list The Goblin had slayed.

"How can you guys still follow Norman?" Harry questioned. He carried on to pull himself away. "After what he did to those other Goblin cult members? What he's doing now to Spider-man? You gotta see how fucked up that shit is."

A part of him figured the answer. The Goblin could execute anyone not complying his directions. But the young Osborn was hoping some humanity was left in them.

"Geez," Lily bemoaned. Accustomed to her enhanced vitality, she dragged her date with little delay. "It's only Spider-man. Nobody really important. Both our dads despise him. Him and that bothersome team of his are responsible for so many traffic jams. Do you know how often I've been late to my hair appointments and sales because of him? What's the big deal?"

Harry dialed back on his struggling. He had pondered that himself. He had always despised the web-slinger ever since he believed the teen hero to be responsible for turning his father into The Goblin. But he didn't think the wall-crawler deserved to be thrashed like a rag doll at the hands of the beast. And that same beast had his schemes against the city sorted out.

"So, then," Harry began. "After Norman beats Spider-man, you both are fine and dandy with him trying to take over New York? That doesn't sound the least bit fucked up?"

Vin rolled his eyes. "Use that brain of yours and think, Osborn. If Norman can run Oscorp, then expanding his business will be a cinch."

"Then it's like you said," Harry continued. "You think Norman will be OK with having just anyone be in the higher ups? What skills could you have that make you so perfect for his imagined roles?"

He hypothesized none of the members were properly trained, for combat or office work. As much as he held his hatred against Spider-man and his aggravating team, he had witnessed how well they worked together. The cult so far had only displayed group thinking and blindly following orders. Such a dedication had cost some of the horde their lives. Quickly, he brushed aside that dismal notion. He knew he couldn't think clearly if his mind was stuck in sorrow.

"You already know my skills," Lily mentioned to him. She winked in a flirtatious manner.

Harry turned to the alluring blonde. Even though he eyed her brown horns, he could feel himself blushing. He turned away. Ever since he arrived against his will to the Tower, she had shown a disturbing interest in living a Goblin-filled life. She utilized her charm wherever she could. She downplayed his best friend because of his meek attitude. He didn't know he could trust someone who freely celebrated his father, The Goblin.

Vin watched the libidinous girl as she toyed with her capture. He grew annoyed. The sting of envy came over him once more. He complained, "Hold off on your kissy face. You both can have your one-on-one interview after I take off."

Lily scoffed, "You're only sour about love because you've been rejected twice."

Harry formed questions about that statement. He was aware of the battle for love of a shared acquaintance between Vin and Peter. But he had no time for further examination. He couldn't risk being locked back up in the cell. He would have no way of escaping. He had to act. Shifting his focus to his lower half of his body, he formed an idea. He stuck out one leg. With the unexpected bump in the path, the trio came crashing to the ground. The Goblin teens released their grip on their prisoner.

The young Osborn withstood all his wounds re-activating. His body felt far more sore than any Gym class he endured at Midtown High. But he had to use their disorientation to his advantage. He lifted himself up. Once he came to his feet, he bolted from their sight.

"Harry!?" Lily gasped. She grew thunderstruck by his trick. She was hoping his coronation would continue after the web-head was taken care of.

"Osborn!" Vin yelled. He was fuming. He had already accidentally allowed Peter to escape. His own pride was damaged once more. He banged his fist against the floor. "Shit. We better go after him. Or the King will have our heads."


Spider-man could feel the great weight crushing him. The debris of old girders and oil drums covered him like snow. And like snow from an avalanche, they were prepared to bury him, leaving no trace of him behind. He grunted. He strained himself to lift off everything atop of him. He couldn't surrender now. His ears listened to his enemy's arrogant laughter. He refused to lose to The Goblin. He had a city to save. He had a brother to protect. As he moved himself millimeter by millimeter, he felt a hand snatching his backside. At once he was pulled out from the wreckage.

"Looks like I finally got my grimy Goblin hands on you." The green monster grinned. He held his victim high with pride. "I couldn't permit the piling garbage to be the one to get the glory. What kind of ending would that be for a falling hero and a rising king? There's one last thing I need to do before I kill you."

He heard the crowd around him cheer for his victory. He joyfully continued, "You've always been a thorn in my ass ever since we had our first throw down. Don't think I hadn't noticed how differently you act from the rest of S.H.I.E.L.D. Even if you see those damn teammates of yours as family, you're not a clone like them. You foolishly came to The Tower by yourself. Your unyielding spirit is your own. So, who is behind the infamous mask?"

Spider-man tried to orient himself. The wreckage ripped parts of his costume and, in turn, his skin underneath. He heard the arrogant words his adversary was spewing. He needed a moment to gain back his strength. He had to stall. Even with a weaken voice, he gallantly asked, "Why would you wanna know, Gobbie? You really think it'll be one of those ironic situations where your greatest foe is someone you've known all along? Come on, Norman, use that scientific brain of yours—if it hasn't already fried from that Goblin serum. Does that really seem believable? What are the odds?"

The Goblin pondered the prose. "Hmm, perhaps you're right. But after I unmask you, I can have your fingerprints from your dead hand analyzed and have that searched throughout the city's data bank. I can only imagine how your loved ones will react to receiving your death certificate in the mail."

He brought the boy closer. He enjoyed holding the thrashed body of his nemesis. He smirked, "Unless, of course, you truly are a nobody, and no one will miss you at all."

The teen hero could smell his enemy's breath. He thought about all his loved ones. Although their relationship was initially rocky, he grew to appreciate his teammates. They had his back in tough times. His aunt May continued to be his guardian after the death of his parents and even Uncle Ben. And Harry would stood less of a chance against his abusive father should Norman decided to grant him any attention. That monster was prepared to unleash his wrath and greed against the city. The web-spinner had to regain his grit. He had to free himself from the man's wicked clutches.

"You wanna see my mask?" he challenged. "Fine. Let me bring myself closer!"

His forehead at once collided with a broad, green one.

The Goblin yelled. The pain was unexpected and excruciating. He at once dropped his prisoner to tend to his wound. "You fucking little—!"

Spider-man seized his freedom. He shot his web. The white vine stuck to a metal railing. Quickly, he pulled himself away from his adversary. "Make sure to use some mouthwash next time we meet! Keep an eye out for the industrial size! Later, Gobbie!"

He found himself breathing easier. His lungs were free to expand without the dominating weight pressing him like a crusher. He flew high above the cowering Goblins. He looked down to the ocean of green. No one threw anything in his direction. No one dared to stop him escaping. He rubbed his injured area. He couldn't believe how close he was to his own death.

"Whew! My own butt saved by my worst enemy. I've read it many times in my comic book and watched it in my movie collections. What are the odds of that?"

He was grateful to have the load off of him. Now he could continue his mission. He had to act before he was captured again. He ventured in the same direction Vin and Lily took Harry earlier. It was his best lead.

"Hang on a little longer, Harr. Don't go turning green on me just yet."


The young Osborn dashed. He huffed as his heart raced. His entire being was aching. He couldn't stop. Looking back, he spotted no Goblin behind him. He was glad his impromptu idea succeeded. Yet he understood he wasn't safe. He was no better at creating battle strategies than his novice wardens. He knew he couldn't outrun a Goblin. He had to take shelter to lose them. The confusing paths of the Tower were tricky to manage. He heard footsteps. They were quick in stride and sounded like they were approaching him.

"So many doors," he quietly noted. "Gotta see which ones I can hide in until I can shake them off."

He took his chance with the closest one to him. Quickly, he opened it. The first one greeted him with an explosion of human waste. He brought his hand to cover his nose. Since the building was untended, so were the piping and indoor plumbing. He immediately shut the door and gasped for air.

"Whoa! And my dad wanted a banquet in my honor? How'd anyone cook the food? Did they even wash their hands?!"

Once he caught his breath, he continued on. His second choice was a smaller one with office supplies. The space was large enough to camouflage his body, but there was nothing he could hide behind. There were only exposed shelves for pens, filers, binders, and papers. Because the chemical plant was focused on running an operation, having supplies for desk jockies wasn't needed as much compared to Oscorp's headquarters. Not even a full fledged copier was present. Third time's the charm.

"Bingo!" Harry cheered. This last option was for the janitors. There were the usual brooms, dusters, mops, and mop buckets. Also present were large boxes of toilet paper, drainage, rags, various soaps, and large boxes of paper towels. Messes could be made anywhere by anyone. He was grateful the custodians were allotted more arsenal to complete their tasks. He soon heard voices. He slipped inside. He settled himself behind the large cardboard boxes next to the back wall. He knew he was nervous. He could feel himself shaking. But this was his last hope. To not become a Goblin.

"He's gotta be behind one of these rooms!" a voice guessed.

Harry heard doors opening. He could hear them approaching his selected space. When his door opened, he froze. A stream of light shown over him. He held his breath.

"I can't believe what shit Osborn pulled!" Vin grumbled. "Jackass!"

"I can believe that for you," Lily replied. "But against me?!"

She sounded angry. She also sounded hurt.

"Never mind your love story," Vin spat. "We'll hafta split up. Nab him before the king realizes we lost him and rips our asses off."

The duo left the thought-to-be vacant janitor's closet. They departed. One continued forward while the other turned a corner. They resumed their mission. Each one contemplated about blaming the other for the massive failure. Neither one was planning on splitting the credit for capturing the upcoming Prince.

They young Osborn heard them leave. He sighed in relief. Under distress, he took a moment to relax and placed himself against the wall. His head spun. The wall cooled his heated body. He debated if he should stay in the supply room. No one would find him. He may need something to defend himself. A part of him felt guilt. He didn't mind evading Vin. They were never friends. Only friend-in-law. However, evading his ex-girlfriend was something else. He didn't know if he wanted to save her because of something they once shared. In the past he had admitted to himself and to Peter that he was a bit of a romantic.

"What now?" he dismally asked himself. He checked his back pocket. He didn't have his phone on him. He had no sense of time. He had no way of communicating to the outside world. He realized, however, he had no one to really contact. His index had grown thin. With his father's unholy transformation, he spent less time on school grounds. He would send out texts and phone calls but rarely received any replies. It seemed outside his permitted absences from school that no one noticed him gone.

"How do I get outta this place?" he questioned. "Would anyone care if I made it out or not?"

Crestfallen, he closed his eyes. All he could think of was his best friend. Peter was brought to the Tower by Goblins thinking he was a spy (fitting, when you consider who his parents were). Norman kept the brainy brunet in hopes of crowning him the new Goblin Prince. Despite the loathsome reasons, Peter aimed to free the two of them. The timid Midtown High student showed backbone and wanted his best friend to vacate the malignant premise. Peter fought for him. And he was gone. Now Spider-man was fighting for him. Against The Goblin King. Against his dad.

The wall-crawler was someone he once despised. Yet the web-slinger was only interested in Norman, The Goblin King, not the other Osborn. He felt an urge to help. He wondered if he could assist in at least giving Spider-man more time to go against his father. He knew the web-spinner was Peter's hero. It was the least he could for his best friend that he turned away.


Spider-man raced through the Tower. He shot his webs and thrust himself forward. He thought about his strategy. At times he admitted to sporadic ideas. Other times, he had something planned out. He gazed at his invisible wrist communicator for only a moment. He felt pressed for time.

"Most likely Vin and Lily have taken Harry back to his cell. There's no way for me to tell if they've already reached that accursed stop. I had only been there once myself. And I have no clue how to find that particular room. I only remembered that it was towards the top. Probably to shake anyone's hope of escaping. Unless it was his last resort."

He had observed the Tower from the outside. It was like any tourist destination. He had seen it from an outterview. Seeing it from the inside was new and unexpecting. If he wanted to conquer the obscure structure, he needed to do what Peter Parker did best: Observe like a scientist. He had to take note of any marking on the walls, any cracks in certain directions, any positioning of lights, any sign of decay or neglect. All those hints could help him.

"Norman kept his pride as a businessman with his up-keeping. But The Goblin doesn't seem to care about decay." An idea popped in his brain. "He probably wouldn't notice some cobwebs, either."

He began using his webbing in a new manner. Splatting them high on the walls, he left them with different designs. Some were more oval. Some were more straight. He aimed to use his knowledge of geometry and webbing to create interweaving patterns. He also focused on position. Old fashioned lamps hung on the wall. He made sure to set his webbing below, above, or either side of the lights. He passed along many rooms.

As he carried on, he thought he heard something. He stopped. It sounded like voices. Feminine voices. Since he was traveling in a maze, he expected to come across monsters. He knew the creature of choice was Goblins. He couldn't tell if Harry was with them. He could only hope the baneful wardens didn't carry an extra vial on them. The ceremony could be canceled since his arrival. He put up his defenses.

From around the corner a yellow light cast a large silhouette. The form split in two. Spider-man spotted two people. He could almost see something that resembled horns sprouting from a human head. Without question he concluded who was on the other side. He had reason to guess who the other person was.

"Alright, you ugly Goblins," Spider-man shouted. "Where's Harry Osborn—"

He ceased his inquiry. He did, indeed, see Lily Hollister. But next to her wasn't Vin or Harry. There was another teen girl. And the web-spinner at once recognized her.

"Carlie?" Spider-man quietly gasped. He felt his heart fluttering.

Lily searched for who made the insult. As someone who took pride in her appearance, she turned angry. No one in the cult had dared to degrade her. She spotted the unwanted visitor dressed in cobwebs. She scowled. "Just who are you calling 'ugly'? There's no hope in saving your suit. You should take and trash it."

The two girls standing together seemed like sisters. But the one under the mask knew they weren't blood related. This other one was also a Goblin. She wore a green jacket. Her once soft complexion was now rough and spotty with green scales. Her silky auburn hair turned rigid. It was clear of what power the Goblin formula brought, for she no longer wore her frameless, oval glasses. The white slits remained on her.

Lily observed Spider-man's fascination with her own best friend. She smirked, "This here is Monster. And she holds the record for the most deaths in one day. It didn't matter if those people were Goblin members or those in the city who rubbed their noses in the wrong places. She got the job done."

The wall-crawler became shocked by the statement. As Peter, he first met the brainy girl in science class. She had plans to work as a forensic officer for the New York City Police Department. Her future outline was what caused Vin, a boy interested in police work, to notice her. But an interest in science was what lead for Peter and her to become a couple. Their relationship only lasted so long with his service as a superhero to protect New York taking center stage. Upon his entrance to the Tower, he recalled asking about her with Harry mentioning his ex-girlfriend. Now here she was a high-ranking member under Norman Osborn's deadly grip.

Lily was proud of what her best friend had become. They had shared interest in pedicures and other hobbies. But one had preferred the limelight while the other was content with studying. She was pleased in seeing the girl unlock her full potential. Smugly, she declared, "If there's anyone who can take down Spider-man, it'll be my sister."

She turned to her teammate. "Don't rough him up too much. Remember, The Goblin King gets the last word for this pest."

Spider-man silently watched the interaction between the two girls.

((Background story time. Lily was dating Harry, and I soon followed with Carlie. I learned about the glamorous duo as we had our dates. Lily was pushed by her dad to be like Carlie—to hold good grades and focus less on their social circle. That's something I was definitely able to relate to, between Harry and Norman wanting me to be his son. The two girls continued their friendship even with them attending different schools. They were close as Lily's father treated Carlie like she was his own daughter. Despite that bitterness, the two kept their friendship and became sisters. Too bad they joined the sisterhood of Goblins))

Seeing someone else he truly cared about now enacting as a green beast, he felt his heart aching.

"So if you'll excuse me," the blonde gleefully added. "I'm off to find Harry. And, who knows? Maybe when Peter comes back, we can have our double dates. Just like before!"

Spider-man shuddered.

((I think I'm beginning to understand Lily more. She's like Harry—rich, popular, equated to her respected best friend, but also lonely. Maybe that's why she wanted all of us to be a Goblin and her friends to be part of this awful horde. I may feel bad, but this can't go on. Not if all of our lives can be snuffed out by Norman at any given time.))

He looked at Monster. He could still see the one he once dated. He felt his heart pounding in trepidation.

((I don't know if I can fight my ex-girlfriend. We did enjoy each other's company. She was my first relationship after another one of mine ended. The one with Mary Jane. M.J. did encourage me to hook up with Carlie. Kinda like giving me her blessing even though she was not under any obligation to do so.))

He didn't have time to go through his emotional responses. He saw Lily taking off. He forbade her from pursuing his best friend. He bolted after her. Without hesitation, he webbed her down. She fell to the ground in an instant.

"You can forget about getting back together with Harry," Spider-man pronounced. "You made your choice as a Goblin. He doesn't need your negativity in his life."

The girl struggled in her ties. She may had Goblin strength, but utilizing them in a tough situation was something she wasn't accustomed to. She scowled once more at the web-head.

Spider-man didn't want to face his past. He wanted to turn on his red boots and speed away. Since Harry wasn't with the sisters, he could be with Vin. All Spider-man knew was that he had to locate him before The Goblin King did. He only managed to get a few feet away from Lily when someone blocked his path. That someone was his ex-girlfriend.

He stared at her. Despite her changes, he could still see her. He silently wondered what the formula did to her. It was understandable that Lily persuaded Carlie to join the side of the Goblins. He was lost as to why she agreed. She usually had a good head on her shoulder, a party pooper. Another reason the two were thought of to be a good couple.

Monster gazed back. She smiled, exposing her sharp teeth. In a sweet voice she greeted, "Long time no see, Peter."

Hearing his true name stunned the web-slinger. The white slits in the mask widened. "What?! I'm not… You can't prove that I'm… How did you…"

"How did I find out? It was obvious. You disappearing and Spider-man suddenly showing up? You'd have to be a dolt to not put two and two together."

The web-head noted neither Harry, Vin, nor even Lily mentioned who was under the mask. He discerned that his ex didn't say a word to anyone. He felt himself landing in danger. He squeezed a fist. "So now what? You gonna let me go through? Since you know it's me, you know I can't leave Harry behind."

She laughed. Her shriek echoed against the walls. "Yes, I know about Harry and his problematic relationship with his dad. Don't forget Lily and I share that same problem."

"Yes, I'm sorry all three of you had to go through that. Don't you forget Norman wanted me to be his son. He'd go even more berserk if he found out me and my webs."

"And of course now he wants you to be the next prince." She laughed at his amazement for her knowledge about the Goblin hierarchy. "But why the long face when it comes to Goblins? Look at our strength, our speed, our intelligence. You should be begging me to be a hero alongside you. Yet you've said nothing. What's wrong, Peter? No invitation for your true love to join S.H.I.E.L.D.?"

"It's not exactly an exclusive club. But I'm sure there's a strict No Goblins Allow policy. I don't make the rules. I just follow them. When I can." He turned serious. "I don't want to fight you, Carlie. Please, let me through so I can get to Harry."

"Not going to happen, Peter. You have no chance against Monster." She lunged for him. She brought up her claws, ready to slash through the red and blue costume.

Spider-man vaulted from his spot. As he swooped over her, he shot his webs. The girl in a bind fell to the ground. The web-spinner landed on the opposite side. His opponent was defeated.

He inhaled and exhaled deeply. He could feel his body shaking. Not even almost meeting his demise at the hands of The Goblin compared to his tremor. He felt a pain in his heart. He had to calm himself. He had to continue his mission.

He took one last look at his ex-girlfriend.

"Sorry, Carlie. But I can't stick around. I've got my brother to save."


Harry opened the door a smidge. He glanced down the dimly lit hallway in both directions. He saw no one. He listened for anyone coming his way. He heard nothing.

"Can't stay in this stupid Tower forever," he muttered. "Peter—if he hasn't been brought back already—he's probably worried sick. It's now or never."

He kept near him a yellow mop bucket with a mop in hand. These were what he had for his own protection. Having played on a community baseball team, he figured he could adapt the handle. The bucket could serve as a blockade. He noticed someone coming in his direction. He held himself up in the office supply closet, waiting to attack.

Spider-man was the one entering the hallway. He struggled putting that last fight behind him. He recalled how he started dating Carlie after he broke up with Mary Jane. The duo had a preference for reading books than going clubbing, much like how Harry and Lily preferred the opposite. Peter didn't officially ask Carlie to be his girlfriend until Mary Jane reminded him that he deserved happiness, too. They were dubbed the perfect couple. His happiness had soon vanished.

Before he had time to mope, his spider-sense alerted him. He moved to the side as a something fast and yellow sped past him. "A mop bucket? What—"

"You won't be taking me in again!" a voice yelled.

"Whoa!" Spider-man barely had time to block a mop's handle. "What's the big idea—"

He saw who was holding the other end. He was another teen wearing a soiled, goldenrod sweater and had auburn hair. "Harry?"

"Spider-man?" The boy lowered his improve weapon.

The white slits in the mask stared at the set of blue eyes.

"Harry! You're not a Goblin!" Spider-man rejoiced, He might have sounded more jubilant than he intended. He feared the two minions had another vial prepared for the upcoming Prince. But the young Osborn remained human.

Harry heard the hero's joy. He assumed the web-head was only relieved he didn't have to battle against another Goblin. He replied, "And you haven't been squashed by Norman. A great day for superheroes everywhere."

The wall-crawler dismissed the sarcasm. "I saw you getting hauled away by, uh, those two Goblins. They seemed nasty as heck. How'd you escape?"

"They're high school students. Not Five Star generals. I tripped them and then broke free. I bolted outta that scene as fast as I could." Harry looked behind him. "They must be tailing my ass. Even if Norman changed his mind about who's becoming the prince, I'm still a wanted man."

He thought about his ex-girlfriend. They were brought together because of their similarities: Both having tough fathers who preferred their respected best friends. They ended their relationship because of their differences; Harry wanted to go to college and continue his work at Oscorp while Lily had no clear path other than social obligations. Perhaps she made her allegiance to The Goblin and his cult to gain more power, a reason to belong after high school. There might have been a chance for a union. A boy and a girl fighting evil and finding their way out of a dank prison. But it seemed their distinctions were made bigger with a Goblin in tow.

Spider-man followed the other boy's gaze. He already knew about Lily. He had no clue for the whereabouts of Vin. "Then we should be heading out."

He tried to shoot his webbing. Only a couple of mushy strands pushed from his web-shooter. "Uh oh. Looks like my trip to this Tower, fighting your dad, uh, taking on a few other Goblins, and marking my territory has really drained my supply."

He noted the other boy giving him a grossed out look from his last line. He hurriedly explained, "Because I was using my webs to mark the walls in the Tower! So I could navigate my way around! Anyway, I better take this chance to re-load."

Harry watched as the teen slightly lifted his shirt and revealed his belt. He pulled out one of his cartridges from a concealed snap case. He then removed one glove. Harry grew surprised seeing a contraption attached to the other boy's hand. He never gave much thought to what tricks or supplies the masked champion utilized. The wall-crawler slipped the cartridge in the slot. He then re-positioned his glove. His entire costume resumed appearing like one piece of fabric.

"Your webs aren't real?" Harry asked, truly amazed.

"Nah. This is what I've been using since Day One. It's my own creation after researching adhesives and their chemical compounds at the public library. I had borosilicate test tubes, kept a study log for test drives, and everything. I made them to dissolve after a couple of hours, so no one could use my stuff for crime and blame me." Placing his hand near his chin, he pondered, "Although, now that I think about it, I never really tried out to see if I could organically produce my own webbing and where it could come out—"

"Never mind! Forget I asked!" Harry never perceived how much work the web-slinger committed for his responsibilities. Clearly it was more than running through traffic and smashing bad guys. Plenty of brains was needed for these operations. He wondered if that was why Peter admired Spider-man. He wondered if Peter observed the science behind the heroism. Norman, on the other hand, was a man of brain, brawn, and money. A part of Harry wished his father could have used his scientific brain and technology for good. Outside of Oscorp, he wondered if there was more for him to inherit.

"We'll need to get to an exit," the wall-crawler directed. "Norman won't be too keen on seeing you hanging out with the likes of me. Too bad we can't hit the save button before taking on the big boss."

He felt his anxiety once more. He could've met his own demise earlier while facing the green brute. He was saved thanks the villain's arrogance. He was aware of how much training he still needed from S.H.I.E.L.D. before he could become worthy of the title Ultimate Spider-man.

Harry listened to the masked ruffian. He couldn't see anything underneath the costume. But he assumed the web-head took a beating. Good guys and bad guys set war against each other. Sometimes to the death. He always thought the heroes performed their job in stopping the villains. He never gave much thought to them protecting civilians. One hero now was risking his life for him, an Osborn. His guilt weighed down on him like a stone thrown in water.

Dismally, he suggested, "Then maybe you should leave… Without me."

"Huh?"

Harry placed his back against the grimy wall. Dropping the mop, he slid down. He was already exhausted with everything that he had encountered. The enormity of it all was pulling down on him like gravity. He didn't want the blood of a hero on his hands. Somberly, he explained, "You already fought against Norman. You'd be no match for him. He'd lose his shit thinking you were taking me hostage. You already got outta his grip. You should leave without me and get to S.H.I.E.L.D. Your superhero buddies should help out. You can't do this on your own."

Spider-man listened. He spotted the haunting tattoo. Peter saw the defeat in his closest companion. It was an uncommon trait for the young Osborn. He withheld any responses. Instead he, too, placed his back against the wall and slid down next to the auburn. They sat in silence.

((I've grown accustomed to people doubting me. The city was against me when I first started my heroic journey. Overtime as New York citizens witnessed my gallantry, they've slowly warmed up to me. Some now cheer for me and want selfies with me. S.H.I.E.L.D. saw something in me from my takeoff. That was why I was scouted and joined a hero's training program.))

He glanced at the invisible communicator he wore on his wrist. He then switched his view to his pal.

((I'm still worried about Harry. With all this sulking, it seems he has forgone his anger towards my other self. The spider side. The Goblin was the reason for this hatred. Even though Harry has dropped the parental title for Norman, he's still Harry's dad. And right now he's on the hunt. If I don't take this chance now, I could lose Harry. Forever.))

"I know this job is too big for one hero," he began to his buddy. "But you don't need to worry about that. With all that you're going through, you seem to assume that your life doesn't matter. Just because you're an Osborn. We both know that's not true. Think about your friends. I know you got some based on that wild house party you threw awhile back. That rawboned Parker kid seemed to be one."

At the mention of his best friend, Harry grew quiet. He looked to the ground. He wasn't sure if he could retain their bond. With his firm belief of becoming a Goblin, he had repudiated Peter to protect him. But it seemed liked Peter did care. He was certain somehow Midtown High's professional Wall-flower grabbed the attention of the city's notorious wall-crawler. Harry always appreciated his and Peter's unique connection. Even when his father favored the brainy brunet.

Spider-man noted the boy's sullen attitude. His pal had endured an exhausting several hours, including Norman abolishing Harry of his upcoming crown. He sought to give some comfort. "Look, I'm doing this as my job. And I'm not even getting paid for it. It definitely is important to stop The Goblin and his groupies. But there's also the people that me and other heroes go out of the way to save. Um, if you were my best friend, then I'd try and get you outta here."

Harry did worry about his father seeking Peter and those close to him. Perhaps if he escaped, he could warn his friend. Since his pocket was empty, he assumed someone removed his phone. He turned his gaze back to the teen in tights. "How do you propose we get out? I was dragged to this damn Tower by my ex-girlfriend. She was riding one of Norman's old gliders. And I have no clue how any of those other cult members got here. There's a good several yards of ocean between here and the city. It's like Alcatraz. There's no way I'd make it to shore without freezing my nuts off."

Spider-man could see his companion regaining his hope. "You can catch a ride with me. Getting you to the shore is no problem, and we can go from there. My homemade webbing is pretty reliable. It's been known to go toe-to-toe with the big guys out there. Plus handling large distances is a cinch. It could give a professional football player his home run to win his match."

The auburn raised an eyebrow. The web-spinner was like Peter in their ignorance of competitive activities. He retorted, "Stick to crime fighting. Becoming a sport's announcer won't suit you. Ever."

"Noted. Now let's see if we can find an exit without going through the warehouse."

"What about a window?" Harry suggested as he stood up. With his whole form screaming, he propped himself against the wall. "Even if it's on the ground level? There's gotta be something we can use. You said yourself your webbing could support the both of us."

"That should work," Spider-man nodded. He also came to his feet. "As long as we don't treat my webbing like a slingshot. Our goal isn't to capture that elusive roadrunner."

Filled with a new hope, the two searched for an escape passage. Harry walked while Spider-man bounced between walls. The Tower had been quiet. And that made Spider-man uneasy.

((From my past experience, Goblins have been loud and proud. I didn't see The Goblin pursuing me after our head-butt. To have the original Goblin lay low is giving me anxiety. Maybe that's why it feels like I got a rash under my suit. It's like being aware of a cockroach inside a house but not knowing where it roams. My concern is that Norman could pounce on Harry at any given moment.))

Quickly, the web-head opened doors for possibilities. Most rooms were coated in darkness. Furniture was overturned or completely busted. Any light bulbs had been shattered. It was as if rock stars had rented the area for the night. Irked, Spider-man questioned, "What's it take to get some natural lighting? Even mindless corporate drones could use a little fresh air and sunshine."

"Either the break room, Norman's office, or the loading docks should have something," Harry answered. "The head hancho always gets the best rooms. He's bound to have the biggest windows."

"Our best bet is the break room. The loading docks must be crawling with Goblins looking to stock up on illegal weapons and other fun party favors. Also, I don't wanna risk searching for your dad's pad. The entire place must reek of his signature cologne: Goblin trash." As he climbed along, Spider-man noticed some of his webbing he placed earlier. "Wait, I've been here already. I think I saw a room with double doors."

"It might be what we're looking for. The break room. There had to be a way to get big ticket items like tables, fridges, and vending machines inside."

"And you were weirded out by my marking method earlier."

Spider-man led the way. He was certain he could find a safe route to their terminal. The journey was difficult. The web-head effortlessly toted himself through the air. He made sure to slow down and visually check on his pal as Harry stayed to the uneven ground. The irregular flooring would dip and rise. Spider-man watched as Harry placed a hand on the coarse wall for balance. He knew he could withstand the pressure. He worried, though, about the other boy and his human physique. He had already spotted his weariness. Looking ahead, they found a set of double doors.

"Let's see if that's it!" Spider-man directed. He reached the goal post first. Landing on the ground, he heard Harry panting behind him. He needed to act fast. Placing his hands on the bar, he pushed. The doors refused to budge. He leaned his body against the door and shoved. The doors creaked and eventually opened.

The room was dark. All round tables and chairs were knocked over. The vending machine and refrigerator were on their sides. The former had its glass shattered, and the latter had its door removed. Both were completely empty. Save for a few rotting fruit and health bars. The two watched their step as they entered. Spider-man examined the room. Harry realized he hadn't eaten anything since his kidnapping. He took an oat bar for a snack. To one wall of the break room a crease of light was shining. A window had been boarded up.

"I can remove that no problem," Spider-man proudly announced. "Just gotta watch out for splinters. You go ahead and take a breather. That's what break rooms are for."

He positioned his hands over the wood. He tugged, and the board was removed. Full light invaded the room. A large enough window that could fit a human body was found. They were greeted with a gust. The duo could smell the rotting fish and the salty ocean air.

"Eureka!" Spider-man cheered. There were no more blockades. He peeked out. He searched for where he could attach his webs. He could see the smoke stacks opposite of the Tower. He moved himself back in and looked at his buddy. "You ready?"

Finishing his last bite, Harry grew quiet. He felt fortunate he managed to slip out of his father's grip. He had to elude his ex-girlfriend and his old lab partner. He even sent away his best friend. After seeing what power Norman had accumulated, he was nervous for Norman tracking him. The man had uncountable weapons and enormous strength. He could execute anyone he wanted at will. But Harry had to find Peter. Even if the brunet no longer wished to talk to him, Harry believed he had to at least warn his buddy about Norman's nefarious intention. Facing the masked ruffian, he was grateful for all the teen had done for him. He nodded.

"Awesome," Spider-man remarked. He invited the auburn to the window.

The two gazed out. One felt nervous about the massive drop while the other was prepared. The wall-crawler needed to guide the restless teen. He shot his web across to the smoke stack. The web was set. He stood on the ledge. "Hold on to me. On the count of three, we're gonna leap."

Harry turned hesitant. He understood he needed to take this opportunity—before they could get caught by Goblins and thrown back to Norman. He walked to the windowsill. Taking a seat, he swung his legs over the ledge. Each boy placed his arm around the other's shoulder.

"Hang on tight," Spider-man instructed. "One. Two. Buckle my shoe. Three!"

He pushed himself and Harry forward. Their feet and every other part of their body were no longer contacted to any part of the building. Harry had endured flying through the air before. But such exposure he never adapted to. He kept his arms over the web-head as they fell. The whipping brushed his hair and stung his eyes.

Spider-man grew jubilant he managed to at last vacate the Tower. If there was one lesson he learned under S.H.I.E.L.D., it was that plans changed. His original strategy had adjusted. He couldn't stop The Goblin. Not on his own. The monstrous villain had amassed far too many underlings. That duty could be assigned to another group. He only needed to rescue his best friend. The duo could see the hot sun across the sky heading west. They were passing the roof of the warehouse. Harry maintained his hold as Spider-man was prepared to shoot another web.

His spider-sense went off.

A Razor Bat sliced the webbing.

The two boys lost their flow. A Pumpkin Bomb exploded, clearing a hole in the warehouse's rickety roof. They were falling to the ground.

A green hand snatched the young Osborn.

Spider-man barely spotted something green riding a silver machine. He saw himself plummeting towards the newly developed hole. He shot his webs. Those landed against the remaining ceiling. As his body tumbled through, he prevented himself from sideswiping into the ground. He released his hold and safely dropped. After gaining his balance, he realized his location. Full of irritation, he shouted, "Back in the warehouse? I knew I shoulda hit save!"

He half expected to be ambushed by Goblins. Putting up his defenses, he could see nearly no one left. From the first level, he scarcely eyed The Goblin riding his glider. He at once noticed the wicked father holding his vulnerable son. He grew alarmed. "Harry!"

The masked ruffian watched in terror. His ride to freedom was cut short. He couldn't go after his nemesis and his hostage. They were far too high in the air. Searching for a way to bring himself upwards, he felt his spider-sense go off again. He turned and spotted Vin. The boy stood on a tall crate. He held giant chains, ones designed for boats. Using his muscles, the corrupted teen pounced over the web-head. He was like lightning.

"Get off!" Spider-man demanded. He tried to knock off his hard-bitten adversary. Like before, the other boy put up a good fight. The heavy chains rattled against his head.

"No way!" Vin roared. "You already got me from behind once. Consider this vengeance."

He first aimed for the web-spinner's red boots. He successfully knocked Spider-man to the ground. He then slug the other boy across his masked face. He couldn't risk letting The Goblin know about his failed mission in throwing Harry back in his cell. He had to get back in the maniac's good graces. He dropped the chains over the web-slinger. The abrupt weight prevented the web-head from slipping away. They covered him like heavy vines. Spider-man was trapped.

The Goblin drove his glider into the warehouse. Once he had recovered from Spider-man's unexpected attack, he searched for both the nettlesome wall-crawler and his son. He didn't see Harry locked in his cell, so he assumed the spineless teen somehow managed to outwit his ineffectual wardens. Lowering himself down, he was pleased to see the hero in a bind. Offhand he tossed his boy at the broken banquet table. "I'll deal with you later."

When Harry was released, he stayed down. His mind was rushing as dizziness overcame him. He mourned the failed proposal. He wondered what plans his father had in store for him. The man had yet to berate him. For now, he understood Norman's main focus was his foe.

The Goblin turned from the table. He hovered towards his enemy. His yellow eyes gazed at the red and blue colors. "Thought you were escaping so easily, did you? After that pathetic attack?"

Spider-man struggled with his restraints. He saw the green beast looming over him. Fearing his death drawing near, he replied, "Well, you know, thought Harry and I could get a move on before rush hour."

"It would appear your disposition has failed," The Goblin began. He was obviously set to give his long awaited farewell speech to the wall-crawler. "After all my time plotting, it will be nice to finish what I've started. Our battles will not be forgotten, Spider-man. I shall cherish them as my associates and I take over the city. At least your mask will only be a distant memory. So you know what? Perhaps I shall keep it. As a momento of one of my greatest achievements."

He began reaching over the teen.

Spider-man couldn't allow himself to be unmasked. Even if the suborned leader wanted Peter Parker to be the new heir, he was sure the green monster would loath finding out his identity. He struggled with his chains. He couldn't free his web-shooters. If he couldn't save himself, then he definitely couldn't save New York, his redheaded neighbor, his beloved aunt, nor his best friend.

Harry lifted himself enough to see what was taking place. He spotted green reaching for red. He saw what his father was prepared to do. He had already witnessed him committing murder. Spider-man was trapped. The wall-crawler didn't deserve to die. Not over him. He needed to stall the event before the wicked beast could do anymore. Utensils from the unserved banquet covered the ground. The lights above sparkled against the dispersed cutlery. That caught the attention from a set of blue eyes. Harry nabbed a steak knife.

"Dad! Leave Spider-man alone!" he bellowed. Keeping his focus, he carefully lifted himself. He managed to bring himself to his feet. He stood tall. The shouting caught the hero and the villain's attention. Despite his weary form, he boldly added, "You wanted a prince to take on the Goblin throne? Well here I am! But that might be cut short."

He held the weapon against his throat.

Spider-man watched the action. He noted the fierce conviction. Recalling the other boy's breakdown, he realized the impending solution. No doubt if the auburn boy eliminated himself then The Goblin couldn't find a new heir no matter how hard he searched. He gasped in horror. "No! Harry!"

He needed to get his hand free. He had to web away the weapon.

The Goblin saw the preparation. He cackled. "You really believe you have the backbone to pull that off?"

The auburn boy pressed the sharp end against his skin, allowing small streams of blood to flow. A sting emerged. But he refused to express any pain. His determination controlled him.

"Amusing," The Goblin chuckled. "Nothing The Goblin's healing factor won't fix."

"You're right," Harry agreed. Staring straight at the green monster, he stated, "Too bad you never gave me the serum."

The entertained grin fell from The Goblin. Such a statement wasn't a bluff. His yellow eyes widened when he realized that truth.

Following his own judgment call, Harry added, "You had a whole ceremony planned for the one item on your list. And you didn't do it. You were so busy planning your army and fighting Spider-man that you forgot about your own son. Just like always."

The Goblin, usually filled with pride, became speechless.

Spider-man continued to pull an arm free. He gladly added to the derision. "Looks like all that negligence has finally caught up, eh, Gobbie?"

The green brute grumbled. He noted his error. He refused to be seen as incompetent in front of his remaining horde and his enemy. "Fine! Let's correct that little mistake!"

The threat made Harry uneasy. All he heard from Norman was that he was one of the few abberations the businessman made in his life. A part of him expected his father to reprimand that. He watched as his only parent withdrew from the tied up hero and zoomed towards him.

"How can The Goblin treat his own son like that?" Spider-man asked himself as watched. He never imagined his best friend would come to such a tragic solution. Over his failure. With all eyes on the leader and no eyes on him, he struggled to break an arm free. "Argh! I hate how my superhero lifestyle is always endangering everyone I care about. It's all my stupid Parker Luck."

The Goblin approached his son. He easily knocked the knife out of his hand. He then snatched his dingy sweater and lifted him high. He rode towards the stage that was set up earlier. The lectern was untouched. The syringe remained on the pillow.

Harry could see what was coming his way. He was unable to free himself from the man's monstrous grip. He achieved his goal in distracting the villain. He now, however, endangered himself. Unwilling to accept the formula, he challenged, "Why the sudden interest in making me a Goblin again?! Didn't you want Peter an hour ago? It doesn't even look like there's anyone to rule over left."

"I can always amass a new army," the brute replied. Even if he changed his mind about who ruled the thrown, Harry was still his son. He grabbed the needle. "You'll be a Goblin because you're an Osborn. And as an Osborn, you'll be subjected to The Osborn Curse. This is the only way to defy it!"

The Osborn Curse. The belief that all Osborns are born into tragedies—every loved one would be taken away, and all dreams would be smashed. It was proof with Oscorp having fallen down before Norman restored it. It was proof of loved ones dying and abandoning the living members. It was proof when a father chose great power over his son.

Harry fearfully stared at the green liquid sloshing in the clear tube. He was aware of what his father had mentioned. He tried to avoid that curse. He met his best friend on a rainy day. He had learned that not all richness in life revolved around money. Helplessly, his blue eyes looked back at the white eyeholes. He pondered if this was the life set before him.

The syringe swung. The needle penetrated fair flesh. A set of blue eyes popped open in pain. A wicked grin overcrowded with yellow teeth flashed.

"No!" Spider-man cried. He battled against Goblins. He tackled former acquaintances. He fought for his best friend. He aimed to save him. Yet he failed. He could only watched once more in terror of someone he knew becoming a green monster.

The young Osborn was dropped to the stage. He tightly shut his eyes. He felt something barging in his bloodstream. Something unnatural. He fell on one knee. His entire body shivered and burned at the same time. His head swarmed while his stomach cartwheeled inside. He wrapped his arms around his torso, attempting to keep himself together. He panted. Barely he heard a familiar voice shouting his name.

A wicked man was pleased with his unholy deed. He watched without any hesitation or second thought. Having gone through the transformation himself, he knew what was taking place. He also believed the metamorphosis would toughen up his son.

"You see, Spider-man?" The Goblin taunted. "Once my son finishes his conversion, The Goblin Prince will arrive! My son will be by my side! And then nothing will be able to stop this father and son duo! Not S.H.I.E.L.D.! Not any member of The Avengers! And certainly not you!"

White slits returned to the auburn. He could see him suffering. He expected the other boy to grow in height, just like his parent. He waited for his ears to grow jagged. The hero didn't see any green blotches. Grimly, he stated, "Something's wrong."

The web-slinger was correct in his observations. Something halted the Goblin transformation. Something was triggered deep from within the young Osborn's being. White goop began to emerge from underneath the auburn's clothing. It weaved out like snakes. It wrapped around Harry, covering him like plastic wrap. On his chest was a black spider insignia.

"No!" Spider-man gasped. "Not that!"

The Goblin also witnessed the event. He dropped his arrogance. An unknown, unexpected variable interrupted his scheme. He grew shocked at the sight. He demanded an explanation. "What is that?!"

"It's a symbiote!" Spider-man frantically shouted. "It's like Venom but a two-point-O version! It musta been from when Harry was abducted by Ock!"

The Goblin became shocked by the claim. "What?! Otto Octavious abducted my son?!"

He growled. While Harry may have thought Spider-man was responsible for turning the older Osborn into a Goblin, the true culprit was Doc Ock. Norman did revel in the extra power he found from the foul formula. But he was bitter the mutation was a plot against him, to make an Osborn a slave to the mad scientist. He hated the idea that his other arch enemy had experimented on his only child, a member of the Osborn family. He balled up a fist. "He will pay for this."

"Then you two can have a catching up party in prison!" During a previous fight, Spider-man had managed to defeat his other adversary. He had faced Doc Ock after the mad scientist kidnapped Harry for his symbiote experiment. Spider-man hadn't heard anything else from the man sprouting the mechanical limbs. Regardless of a past battle, the wall-crawler had a current problem to handle.

Anti-Venom stood proud and tall. It had been some time since it had control over a host. It was already familiar with its current manager. This one felt loneliness and rage. He also displayed determination, a need to purge. Anti-Venom was prepared to be in charge again. Its orange eyes took in its surroundings. It saw the hordes of Goblins. It even saw the familiar red and blue costume decorated with cobwebs. However, it didn't see one thing in particular that it was searching for.

Still in his trap, Spider-man questioned, "How did it get back? Harry was cleared of it after I brought him back to Oscorp. I thought it was taken care of back at Ock's lab?"

He observed his recurring foe. Like battling against the cult members, he had to be careful. The last time Harry had contact with Venom he ended up in the hospital. He feared the inevitable barrage may end in a worse situation.

The Goblin turned miffed. His son hadn't become a Goblin like he planned. He needed the boy to be free of that wretched creature so he could continue his program. After the last incident with Peter becoming Carnage and Harry enacting as Venom, the green beast no longer wished to have his title and earnings be associated with symbiotes.

"Harry! Enough!" The Goblin commanded. "You are no longer to be controlled by a symbiote! You are an Osborn! A Goblin!"

When he saw his child taking no notice of his ruling, he knew as a parent and as a leader he needed to take charge. He was fully aware the strength a symbiote could withstand. He had to weaken the association. He thrust a Pumpkin Bomb towards the white being.

"No!" Spider-man gasped. He couldn't believe Norman, a Goblin, was tossing a weapon towards Harry, controlled by the symbiote.

Anti-Venom spotted the threat. Unflinching like a block of wood, the creature stood its ground. A tendril caught the flying arsenal. It could feel others becoming impressed with its defense. Unperturbed, Anti-Venom chucked the Pumpkin Bomb right back at The Goblin.

The green beast avoided the attack. He growled. Though he once had wanted Peter to be a Goblin, the formula ended up changing him to Carnage. The red symbiote was fine following his master, so long as it could cause destruction. This new one wasn't taking orders from anyone. And that annoyed the morphed industrialist to no end. The symbiote was either very brave or very foolish. How often one gets mistaken for the other. Whether or not Harry was in control of the being, the new arrival needed to be taught a lesson.

"Don't just stand around, you idiots!" The Goblin roared. "After him! Take him down!"

There was only a moment of hesitation. The members recalled what was ordered to them earlier. The Goblin wanted the glory of defeating Spider-man. This new creature, however, didn't capture the beast's attention in the same way the wall-crawler did.

They bellowed a battle cry. The swarm of Goblins darted towards the giant symbiote. They pounced over him. White was being covered by green. Their weight pushed him down. But just as the cluster shrunk, they were shoved aside. Anti-Venom stretched himself up and roared. Many Goblins slid against the ground. Some jumped to their feet. They were angry with the attack. Their growing pride refused to accept defeat. They raced towards the enemy once more.

Anti-Venom showed no fear for the oncoming horde. It stood in place like a statue as multiple tendrils sprouted from its back. Those easily knocked down the miniature Goblins as they came for it. It chuckled a little bit from the effective results.

Spider-man was concerned for the returned symbiote. Yearning to liberate his best friend, he tugged one arm. He slipped through the spiraling chain. "Yes! There we go!"

He shot his web to a column. Lifting himself through the air, the chains fell down. "Whew! Feels great to lose all that weight!"

He dropped and turned his attention to his best friend. "If only I had access to a lab to create a cure. Interesting how swiftly and confidently Anti-Venom's acting. He's taking down his opponents no problem. Maybe that means my best friend is still in control. Harry!"

The white symbiote took down the horde no problem. Free of the concern for battle, it looked to see who addressed its host. Orange eyes stared at the wall-crawler racing towards it. Using one of its tendrils, it smacked him away with no delay. Spider-man yelled as he flew.

Anti-Venom controlled what was sprouting from its back and shoved aside the last of the minions. It had no time for these little Goblins. It had a job to perform. It needed to hunt down what it was created to purify. It searched for an exit. The doors had their large latches in place. They were locked. No windows were available for the ground floor.

Vin, hiding in the shadows, realized he hadn't seen the other two cohorts. He assumed Spider-man managed to ensnare Lily and Carlie. He spotted the web-head had freed himself. And he saw The Goblin's displeasure for Anti-Venom's arrival. Having given up everything for The Goblin King, he launched himself towards his current foe. Anti-Venom spotted someone coming for it. White tendrils easily caught the approaching teen. It tossed the expendable warden towards a wall.

Spider-man saw his old lab partner flying. Vin was in trouble. He couldn't allow the other boy to splatter like a rotten tomato. "Drat!"

Quickly, he shot his webs. They opened up between support beams. They caught Vin before his back could smack against the building. To keep the teen in place, Spider-man shot a couple more webs. Vin was now wrapped up like a fly.

"I'm sorry you had chosen a malicious path, Vin," he mumbled to himself. "But I gotta accept that you, Lily… and Carlie… made your decisions. Now I gotta stop Harry before he makes a big one."

Spider-man turned back to the symbiote. He had another problem on his hands. Even with Anti-Venom, the wall-crawler wasn't about to let his best friend continue to be a slave to The Goblin.

To be continued…

Carlie Cooper, see The Amazing Spider-Man volume 1 #545, 2007. As Monster, see The Superior Spider-Man volume 1 #25, 2014.

Author's notes: When I first read about Carlie, I thought fans were exaggerating her Mary Sue qualities. Namely because she and Peter got together so quickly after he and Mary Jane broke up in the four-part arc One More Day (see The Amazing Spider-Man volume 1 #544-547,2007). How wrong I was. I thought I'd poke fun of that characteristic here with her build up and immediate take down. See you for the finale!