Mary Jane Goes To Hell

by Lord Hoth

Peter Parker's battered psyche is reeling from the harrowing events of Kraven's Last Hunt. Desperate to help her husband, Mary Jane Watson-Parker seeks the help of the superhero community to undertake a seemingly impossible quest: to retrieve the soul of Harry Osborn from beyond the grave.

16. Epilogue

"The love between a good man and a good woman is stronger than science or magic. It is indeed a power that can tear down the walls between dimensions. From that day forth, Mephisto set his sights on possessing that prize. In the controversial One More Day arc, Peter traded away his marriage to his beloved wife in exchange for the life of his Aunt May. Comic fans still don't know what Mephisto whispered in Mary Jane Parker's ear in the hours before their fateful bargain.

What we do know is that after the Parkers' marriage was sacrificed, Harry Osborn showed back up in their lives, revealing that his death had been faked and he had been living in Europe secretly for years while recovering his sanity."

"That's a fascinating story, Hank," Pepper Potts said, sitting across from the scientist in a conference room high in Avenger's Tower. "But you understand how difficult it is to categorize a trip to hell on an expense report."

Pym puzzled for a moment. "I can't imagine it's impossible. The expedition produced significant scientific results, as well. Why, my paper on the Pym Bat has received critical acclaim from the entire academic community."

"Hank, don't play with me."

"Well, maybe not the entire community, but—"

"Hank, was this about Jan?"

"No. It was about Harry Osborn."

"You mean Larry Osborn?"

"Was that his name?"

Pepper raised her hands in frustration. "You see now why no one believes you?"

A holographic image sprouted in Pym's face and he began to focus his attention on something else. "I'm a scientist, Ms. Potts. The results speak for themselves."

"By results, do you mean the results where the Parker family is targeted by Mephisto because of your carelessness?"

"Is this the part where you lecture me on informed consent?"

"This is the part where I tell you to be more responsible with civilian lives, and then remind you that we all love you."

"Of all the pencil-pushers I've met in my career, Ms. Potts, you are-by far-my favorite."

Pepper stood, closed her book, and flashed the doctor a charming smile. "Oh, Hank. Stop buttering me up."