Pam, Pete, and Harley

by Wiggles-n-stuff

Good ol' Parker Luck. Peter Parker is living with two very attractive ladies. Both are strong, intelligent... and villains. Oh boy. Spidey is sucked into the DC verse by accident, and immediately stumbles upon the two women. How will the web-head deal with this new world, and what's the goal of the Sirens in keeping him under thumb? Cover Art by Comfort Love and Adam Withers

8. Catching Up

Stories Of A Whole New Spidey Arc

Chapter 8: Catching Up

Key: 'Words' = Peter 4th walling it

'Words' = Peter's thoughts (not 4th walling it)

'PP-Words', 'W-'Words', 'PI- 'Words' , etc. = Peter, Wanda, Pam, etc. 4th walling it during flashbacks

- December 25th / Evening / Present -

Watchtower Infirmary

"You're married!?" / "You're MARRIED!?" / "You're what!?" Wanda, Pam, and Dinah blurted out in unison.

'Hey Mouth, this is Foot, just wanted to see if I could come over again. Wording Parker, c'mon!' Peter, who was laying against his raised bed, winced at the triple dose of shocked lady outburst. The only other occupant in the room had a very different reaction. Flash, who was leaning against the wall just about did a spit take, almost choking on his energy drink. That quickly changed to staring incredulously at his bed ridden buddy.

"Seriously?" He asked skeptically, with a half smirk. 'Ugh...why did I have to start there? Smart move idiot.' Peter, like a deer in the headlights, just looked from Wanda to Pamela, slightly curious about their reactions. Sure he was starting to think Ivy was becoming interested in him, but still...this was Poison Ivy he was talking about. Wanda's was much more...unexpected. 'I know now that I've been living a second life, and this used to be public knowledge, at least after the whole Civil War thing...um first Civil War thing to be correct. So it would definitely come as a surprise to Wanda, considering she doesn't remember my first life. Still...that's kinda odd.'

"Uh...Seriously. Yeah I am..." Peter began before catching the restless expressions of his female company, minus one, and decided to quickly recheck his wording. "...err was married. WAS married, to be clear." He paused seeing a suddenly reserved Wanda, an attempting indifference but irritated Pam, a sly smile from Black Canary, and a sarcastically grinning Flash. "Is it really that hard to believe I could be married? Err...could of."

"This is you we're talking about Spidey." Dinah chided, pointing an upturned index finger at him.

"And what's that supposed to mean?!" Parker replies annoyed, and turning his miffed glare at a chuckling Flash.

"How is it possible to be married and at the same time not then?" Wanda asked, as she adopted a thoughtful but concerned look.

"Really? I mean we've dealt with how many reality changes in our own universe? And my own life has never been dull, but still, being married was a literally a whole other lifetime ago now." Peter tries to explain. Wanda just furrow her brows but nods in a begrudging acceptance, and Wally scratches his masked head. Pamela, who has been oddly quite through this, even gives him an odd look of puzzlement. Peter was surrounded by the group, Ivy being in a chair on his right, Dinah was sitting at the desk near the door, Wanda in the bed next to his, and Flash leaning against the far wall, sighed in growing exasperation.

"You are not making sense." Ivy speaks up, neutrality back her voice. 'Obviously the shock of my statement wore off. Or she's back to fronting for the others in the room.' His shoulders sag and he shakes his head.

"Well I was trying to, but I was interrupted by a sudden interrogation about my love... former love life." He corrected himself again. "Geeze you make it sound like I'm undateable, much less marriage material. What am I Batman?" Peter grumbled, crossing his arms over his chest, the tube to the IV Bag moving with his right arm. Flash and Canary choke out laughs, and Ivy's mouth actually twitched upward.

It had been nearly a day since Klarion's little coup against superheroes, and Peter was feeling much better. Thanks to his recently re-enhanced Healing Factor, his injuries were recovering rapidly. His pierced heart had already sealed itself, and the sword stab would soon be just two small scars. The broken shin, cracked rib, and bullet wounds were already fixed. It was only thanks to whatever the team did to keep him ticking, that he made it to the Watchtower alive. 'Still wonder how they did that? I mean last thing I knew I was a Spidey shish-kabob with a broken heart...literally. I'll ask eventually, but right now I'm just glad to have Wanda back...oh and be alive. Can't forget that little chestnut.'

In that time Wanda recovered from her exhaustion, taking a good sixteen hour rest. Though she was still very fatigued mentally and emotionally. Pamela had rarely left his side, but there had been an escort with her at all times, mostly Dinah to be safe. Flash had recently come back from running errands, and was checking up on Spider-Man. During Peter's recuperation the rest of the JL worked near constantly on contacting and assessing the extent of the damage from the Witch Boy's spell. While it was a brief window of no powers, plenty of havoc had been wrought, in no small part to the teen's global announcement of no hero superpowers. Needless to say Christmas Day had become a very busy day for good guys around the world.

"I'm pretty sure you are not in that bad of shape, Peter. I mean you've managed to live a whole year with Ivy and Quinn. There's gotta be something to be said about that." Dinah said sarcastically. Peter noticed Pam didn't take that as funny, if the hard stare was anything to go by.

"Is there something you wish to say to me?" Ivy's voice dripped with venom, and her hands began to clench. There was a moment where the tension in the room grew heavy, as Canary's eyes shrank and stared hard back at the green woman.

"Plenty." The blond challenged, her muscles tensing as well. 'Just what Blossom needs right now, assault charges.' Peter clears his throat, gaining the rooms attention once again.

"As much as I like ladies fighting over me, mud wrestling isn't until Thursday. And it's Christmas, so can we please at least try to be civil in the spirit of the holidays?" He said in a semi-serious tone, which completely broke the building tensity. Wally chuckled once again, then shook his head with a grin. Wanda let out a soft held breath, placing a hand over her chest, a small smile adorning her face too. Ivy turned her glare on him, but collected herself back to calm. Dinah just rapt her fingers on the desk, and huffed out a breath.

"You are insufferable sometimes. Just get back to the topic, will you?" Isley, annoyed, asked.

"Alright, alright. Where were we..." Peter looked up trying to remember how they had gotten here.

"I believe it was you are married, and that somehow explaining how you got your sudden power boost." Flash chimed in. The two women on opposites sides of him, returned their attention to Parker, looking for an explanation.

"Right. Thanks. Like I was saying... at one point in my previous life, I was married. I'd been married a while before the whole Superhuman Registration Act happened." He started, turning to the ebony haired woman on his left. She nodded remembering the war that the piece of legislation caused. 'It was a pretty big deal, even if most the mutant population were against taking sides. Which weren't many, since the SRA was enacted after the depower of the X-Gene, thanks to Wanda's "No More Mutants" reversal of the whole M-Day reality change she did. Needless to say the Act still required mutants to be registered, but they made sure to avoid the big fights...mostly.' The others in the room had little knowledge of this event, mainly just in passing statements from their other dimension comrade. "For those not in the know, it was an Act designed to make the identity of those with super powers publicly known, mutant or otherwise. That way our government could quote unquote monitor and regulate the superhuman population, for the better naturally." He emphasized 'naturally' with some spite.

"Naturally..." Flash added sarcastically, folding his arms over his chest.

"And they actually passed this Act on your world?" Ivy asked, genuinely curious about how something so detrimental would have played out. 'I'm going to chalk that up to professional curiosity.'

"Yes. While their intentions were good..." Wanda trailed off hanging her head a bit.

"...the road to hell is paved with good intentions." Dinah finished. Peter knew she could understand and guess the implications and problems such a thing could cause.

"Basically. The following events became known as the Superhero Civil War. I'm ashamed to say that I took the registered side of the war originally." Peter's deflated words piqued the interest of those who weren't from his world in the room.

"Wait...you revealed your secret identity to the public?! You must have realized what the implications of doing so would come about?" Pam asked, actually dumbfounded by that choice.

"I did, but my mentor convinced me it was the right choice. Actually Harley already knows this, you would have too if you ever gave me the time of day." Spidey lightly jabbed Ivy. Her eyes narrowed, but she pursed her lips and returned to a reserved silence. 'Boy I hope she didn't take that seriously... but just to be sure.' "I'm just kidding Pam. I know you had your reasons, and if you want to know I'll be happy to play storyteller again." Ivy's features softened a bit, and her eyes flickered to her hands in her lap. She steeled herself again and readied herself for the rest of the story. Peter grinned and after a moment continued. "So I went on national TV and revealed it was Peter Parker behind the mask..."

"I don't remember that. I remember you taking Stark's side, but you didn't reveal your identity to us till after the New Avengers were formed some time later. How is it I don't remember something so important?" Wanda questioned interrupting Peter. Turning to her, he caught both Wally's and Dinah's expressions. Both were had inquiring looks of sorts. 'Not surprising, as my identity would still be secret if not for a few weeks ago. I was very particular for several reasons about keeping this mug under wraps. Bed head runs rampant in my family.'

"Weeeellllll... I kinda had a global mind wipe done." He replied sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck and looking down. 'I swear I just heard jaws hitting the floor.' Looking up after a dead silence, he saw everyone gawking opening at his statement. 'Yeah...better explain this one.' "Okay, I see I have some splainin' to do. After the whole Civil War Doc Strange used a world wide spell to erase the reveal. My identity was wiped from anybody who knew of it. Aside those who knew me personally or I took my mask off in front of. More or less my identity became a psychic blind spot to the general public." The jaws hadn't left the floor just yet, and the stares started to unnerve Spidey. "What?"

"Wow...just wow." Dinah said trying to process the information, by way of pressing her right hand index and middle fingers against the spot between her eyes. Peter just nodded in agreement.

"Don't have an aneurism yet, that's just life number two." He said, which made the blond go wide eyed, and return to staring up at him.

"Geeze, and here I thought you were a chill dude. Then I come to find out you're a what... clone, retcon? Help me here." Wally, a known comic book reader, asked starting to look like he was fighting down a headache.

"Trust me, you don't want me going down the clone road. That building headache of yours will go full on mind crush." Parker sent a pointed look toward his friend. "But I guess retconned is a pretty apt description." Pete said after thinking on the term.

"Retconned? What does that mean?" Wanda 'Not a comic book reader.' asked looking between the two men in the room. Her eyebrow was notched up curiously.

"Retcon is the shortened version of Retroactive Continuity. In media it means a retelling of the character's life or story." Peter explained to the room, considering he was sure the women wouldn't get it. 'I'm not sexist honestly, but it's kinda hard to believe such attractive women read comics.'

"So that's what happened in Savage Dragon. That's what I get for missing a few comics." Dinah said under her breath, but by way of the quite in the room, everyone heard. She looked up from her musings to see most eyes on her. "What?" 'Huh... well there goes my worldview.'

"Umm...anyways, let's get back on track. That's the story pretty much everyone back in our home dimension knows. It wasn't until much later that I let my secret identity be known to the New Avengers. That's where you know Peter Parker, Wanda. But that wasn't my first life, or my life before the retcon." Peter stopped there and closed his eyes, before taking a calming breath. 'This isn't gonna be easy...' When he opened his eyes, he was much more collected and serious. "This is what happened. I was married once upon a time. I was married to my long time on again off again girlfriend Mary Jane Watson. She and my Aunt were my everything then. They both knew I was Spider-Man, and they were the reason I was so hesitant to take off my mask. They loved me dearly, and promised to always, no matter what. I can't tell you how many times that thought brought me through my tough times." Parker sighed, obviously getting lost in the memories new and old. "After the Civil War a crime boss called the Kingpin put out a hit on me. A sniper caught my Aunt, Mary Jane, and I at home one night, and... I managed to dodge the bullet and protect MJ from the shot...May...May wasn't so lucky." His voice dropped into a quite soft tone as he visibly deflated.

Scarlet Witch covered her mouth with her hands, horror filling her eyes. Poison Ivy, who was used to death, kept her professional expression. Still her eyes fell and her hands clenched hard in her lap. Dinah and Wally both hung their heads a bit. Everyone in the room had dealt with that pain in some way shape or form in the past, and knew what the Wall Crawler had gone through.

"Sorry to get you all down, but my Aunt didn't die, or at least wouldn't right away. She was put into a coma, with little hope of survival. I...I pretty much lost it after that. Knowing the most stable part of my life, the woman who was more of a mother to me than my real mother, the woman who raised me, cared fror me, accepted me, was dying. I just lost it. I went after the Kingpin when I found out it was him. There I almost crossed the line, but it was then that I realized that with my identity out in the open, my family and friends were in grave danger. I've made incredibly dangerous enemies of supers and men. That and my Aunt slowly fading made MJ and I look for a way to save her, and somehow change my reveal to the world." Peter paused, searching his memories, making sure his dual set were in sequence.

"Peter...I'm so sorry." Wanda whispered her sympathetic eyes meeting his. The brown haired man gave her a small thanking smile, before taking another breath.

"This is where things get complicated and my life restarted. In the world as we know it..." He nodded to Wanda, whom returned the gesture. "... Peter Parker being Spider-Man was erased from the public's mind by Dr. Steven Strange, the Sorcerer Supreme. He's basically Dr. Fate here, only without the help of the helmet. In my current history thanks to my identity being secret again the Kingpin never called the hit, and Aunt May was never shot. However in this reality I never married Mary Jane. That is the fundamental difference in the two lives, my life with MJ." Spider-Man stopped to let that sink in, and figured his company had questions.

"Why would your marriage be the only change? What was so defining about it that it had to be the thing that was altered?" Pam asked, with a slight falter in her words. To Pete it seemed like a loaded question of sorts, certainly holding some double meaning behind it. Yet the question was valid and held the key to the whole topic.

"Mary Jane...is an amazing woman. Not only does it turn out she found out I was Spider-Man the night I officially took up the mantle. 'The same night I let my Uncle Ben down, but they don't need more depressing news right now.' In my first life, despite everything that happened she stayed my friend, my confidant, eventually my girlfriend, and then my wife. She took everything I was and loved it all equally. She was the only one besides my aunt who knew everything I did, my every fault, and stayed with me and cared for me through it all. She was there to lift me up through my guilt, to cheer me up at my worst, to hold me at my lowest, and comfort me when I made mistakes... And lord did I make mistakes." Peter shook his head with a mirthless smile, realizing what was gone now. He couldn't even go back home and reveal the fact he knew. He swallowed a lump down and looked back around the room.

"Sorry, with my reawakened memories comes the feels." He chuckled, attempting to lighten the dull mood in the room. Only very barley succeeding. "Anyway, it wasn't so much the marriage, as much as our love that was taken as part of the deal."

"What deal?" The Flash cautiously asked.

"My deal...with the devil." Peter's gaze went to his feet under the sheets. Wanda suddenly realized something, and went wide eyed at the man in front of her.

"You can't mean Mephisto..." She said softly, getting a half hearted smile from Peter. The two JL members in the room shared look, seeing if the other knew who this Mephisto was. Poison Ivy's expression turned into surprise. While only knowing very little of Peter's exploits in his own world, she had a year to get to know the man himself. The idea of him do something this out of character probably rocked her to the core. She knew he'd do anything for those he calls friends, the aftermath of her choice evidence. But this seemed to be beyond anything she thought he was capable.

"Yup. The one and only Prince of Lies himself."

"Oh no, Peter you didn't..." Wanda could barley believe what she was hearing. Peter Parker, Spider-Man, one of the most responsible, heroic, caring, and forgiving heroes she knew, submitted to their world's version of the Devil himself. She started to reach out to him, but pulled her hand back.

"I know this must be hard, but you are gonna have to catch some of us up here. Who's Mephisto?" Canary asked, careful to make sure her words didn't seem rude for the situation. It was the Scarlet Witch who answered.

"Mephisto is more or less the actual Devil in our universe. He holds supernatural powers befitting his title, and a realm of the dead. He is constantly attempting to sway both good and evil to make deals with him. More or less to expand his own already substantial powers. For Peter to make such a deal...your aunt must have meant everything to you." Wanda explained, watching her fellow dimension hopper close his eyes.

"I knew better. Mephisto even revealed himself to MJ and I, and gave us time to think it over. I just wasn't ready to let her go, and MJ... MJ went along with it. She loved me so much that she was willing to sacrifice our life together for my happiness. I...I was an idiot for letting it happen." Running his hand through his brown hair, Peter sighed heavily, then raised his head. He housed a fronting smile, attempting to push past this sad atmosphere. "But that's all in the past now, literally a lifetime ago. I doubt I'll ever be able to tell her how sorry I am now, all things considered."

"Peter..." Wanda coaxed, knowing just what he must have been feeling now.

"Anyway, because of that I lost several power boosts I gained after my first death and the Spider Queen thing." He said nonchalantly. 'Wait...I remember having internal webbing. I wonder if that still works?' Curious Peter raises his right hand, upturns it, and forms his devil horns. Pressing his palm, muscle memory suddenly connects and a small hole rips open on his wrist. "Yeow!" He yelps, as a stream of web flies out of the hole and sticks to the far wall. Reflex makes him grab and pull the line taut. Parker's eyes shoot open and he grows a huge grin. 'Ohhhh that is sooo cool.'

"Wai, wai, wai, wai, wait a minute, backup there. You died?" Wally asks stupefied, waving his hands which were brought up in front of his chest.

"Huh...oh yeah I died and my body was hijacked by pirate spiders." Brushing off the serious question Peter ogles his new web shooters excitedly. "Guys look at this! I have internal webbing. This'll be such a big help." Looking around the room, he was met by staggered looks from everyone. "What?"

"You died?" Dinah questioned incredulously.

"Ummm...heh heh...yeah, funny story that." Peter responds timidly. 'Forgot my keys Mouth. Well come on back in Foot. Oh boy.'

-A Few Hours Later-

After another, less disheartening, Spidey history lesson the room started to empty. Pam excused herself part way into it, not giving any reason beyond a withdrawn expression and a sidelong glance. Of course Dinah left with her. That was an hour ago, and Peter was really beginning to worry about her sudden need to leave, considering she had barely been out of his presence while conscious. The rest of the time was passed with Peter and Wally filling Wanda in on the new world and current events. Peter relaxed greatly since the "reboot" conversation. In fact with it just being Wanda, Wally and he there, he talked with the her like it was the most natural thing in the world. She knew him, knew of most of his past, their world, and had plenty of history together. It actually got to the point that Wally had to excuse himself saying he felt like a third wheel, that and he was called off to do some more JL errands.

With the two alone they just played catch up. It was like old friends meeting after years. The mood changed a bit once Wanda asked whom Pam was. Peter revealed to her he was living with the green skinned beauty and her roommate, a woman named Harleen. This brought on a rather curious set of questions from Wanda. Like, How did it happen? For how long? And the one that caught him off guard the most...

"I hate to be further intrusive Peter, but...um, what is your relationship with them?" Ms. Maximoff queried, notably unsure if she crossed a line or not. Diverting her gaze down and to her left. '*Tire screeching noise* I may not be the brightest bulb in the crayon box, but that look and question certainly seem to be testing the waters of relationship status. Still I guess there's no harm in...wait, what is my relationship status with my roomies anyway? Hmmm...' She had moved to the side of her bed, letting her legs fall over the edge, and sitting up. Peter's body had healed greatly already, his natural healing factor taking the reigns from the medical work done on him upon his arrival at the Watchtower. He still felt like dead weight, and definitely not ready to challenge Flash to a foot race, so he just sat up against the headboard. Though he was already sick of sitting in the bed.

"Uhh...well..." Peter slipped his right hand behind his neck, rubbing it awkwardly. 'I'm not entirely sure what to say here. Yeah I like both of them, and Pam has been really nice lately...but what can I say?' "We are roommates, and friends. We get along well enough that Blossom doesn't want to drop me like week old cheese anymore." A blush creeps on his face as he remembers the last two days, and Pam's softer side. Especially the kisses. "Bubbles has always been rather huggy affectionate with me. But she's like that with anyone she likes. I guesssss...we're friends. We get along well enough. Which is saying something since they are both on the villainous side of the tracks. Or were... I think." Peter stumbled through what he thought was their relationship.

"Oh okay. I'm sorry if it was an uncomfortable question Peter. It wasn't my place to ask." Wanda apologizes looking back up at him with a repentant fluster to her face. 'Oh wow, that is so cute. I just wanna hug her...restraint Parker.'

"No worries SW. It's okay, I've been asked more awkward things in way more awkward situations before. Actually how the girls got to know me was... much more intrusive." Peter chuckled nervously, bringing his right hand back around to scratch the side of his jaw.

"Oh okay." Wanda seemed to pause in thought. "You said Pamela and, Harleen was it, are villainous? What do you mean?"

"Huh, oh yeah they are bad guys in this world. Though I'm not entirely sure about that right now." He sees her expression change into concern, and gives her a big consoling smile while waving his hands in front of him. "They aren't that bad, really. And they've been getting better since I've been their lackey." '*Face palm* Wording Parker, you moron! Sometimes being a quip machine backfires. UGH!'

"Lackey?! What happened Peter?" Wanda asks worried, making him mentally berate himself for his slip up.

"Well a lot of stuff happened actually, but enough about me. Where have you been all this time? Seriously I had the whole Justice League keeping an eye out for you. I was so worried you ended up somewhere else and I wouldn't be able to help you. You can't imagine how happy I was to hear you were here and safe... well situation not withstanding." Peter diverted, not wanting to get into the specifics of his gooning for the Sirens at the moment. Wanda cheeks grew pink at his worry. 'This is one of the longest times I've ever actually spent with Wanda, now that I think about it. We've had so few occasions to just talk, and I don't think I've ever seen her act like this. It's like I'm seeing a totally different side of her. And I like it...a lot. Much better than her kicking my butt, or the world ending hanging over our heads. This is nice.'

"I'm not letting you get off that easy. We're coming back to the lackey thing, but I guess you have been doing most of the talking. So I don't mind." Wanda gave him a mock glare, but her smile softened. "Truth be told it all seems quite cliched now." 'Oh this outta be good, says the King of Bad Cliches.'

November 19th / Evening / Flashback

Unknown Location

A Year Earlier

Wanda woke up to a splitting headache and numbing cold. "Ahhhh...why do these things always end with headaches?" 'PP- Hah! I knew I wasn't the only one that that happens too.' 'W- You couldn't give me three sentences, could you?' 'PP- Sorry, my bad.' 'W- It is okay. But yes, it is very annoying.' 'PP-*Snorts slightly* No kidding.' The auburn haired woman sits up slowly, holding her throbbing head in her right hand. She feels snow fall off of her parka covered body. The night was considerably darker wherever she ended up, no city lights greeted her upon opening her eyes. She was also worried about the distinct lack of New York City sounds of life. It was moderately snowing and quiet all around her. The worst was the biting cold. Even her heavy coat couldn't block out the sheer chill that surrounded her. 'Where on Earth am I? I hope this is Earth...Peter!'

Immediately Wanda's eyes shoot open, and she begins to scan the darkness around her. "Peter! Peter are you there?!" As her eyes continue to adjust, she sees no one near her. Listening carefully she hears nothing reply back to her either. The situation was already painfully terrifying, but the silence and night quickly invaded her conscious thoughts. 'Please, Peter. Please be out here. If I hurt you...I...NO! No I mustn't think like this. I need to calm myself. Blind panic right now is the worst thing to have.' Taking a few deep cold breaths, Wanda blinks away the rest of the blur in her vision. As before it is still too dark to see, but she could rectify that. Calling up her magic, she brings her right hand out in front of her, and a beautiful pink light saturates the white and black around her. Cutting deep into the night around her, she looks around again. Alas the illumination provided only the comfort of sight, not company.

"Peter...Spider-Man, are you out there?" Pulling herself from the deep snow, she shakily stands to her full height. Doing this revealed several aches and pains she didn't realize she had. Still they were a minor inconvenience to the feeling of fear rising up. Had her powers hurt one of her few remaining friends, or worse even still? Chaos when formed without any conscious control was random at best after all. 'W- I could only hope you had followed me to wherever I had ended up. I thank the stars above you are here Peter. I was so scared that I may have cause your death. If it wasn't for your web line I would have given up hope.' 'PP- My web line?' 'W- Yes, the webbing that you caught me with before being sucked into the portal.' 'PP- I don't get it, what do you mean?' 'W- I shall explain.'

"Spider-Man! Spider-Man are you out there?" She calls out louder, only hearing the snow fall around her. Suddenly she feels her magic fluctuate. The light surrounding her hand dims drastically, then flickers back to full for a few moments. Blinking she looks to that hand. Scarlet Witch can feel her power dying away, and tries to force more into the simplest of magic spells. Something was destabilizing her magic, she could feel it. Her guess is it was the area she was, or the darker idea of being on a whole other plane, reality, or even world. After more effort than she had to use since she was a child, Wanda's magic stops flickering, and solid light returns.

It was then that she saw something out of place dangling from her outstretched arm. A silver gossamer strand was draped over the arm. Wanda's held breath was released, as he carefully plucked the hardening web from her arm. "Peter..." She says softly, before the worry returned. She followed the strand to her waist where it was latched onto. Tugging at the web it shattered, and fell away from her waist. A panic built up in her and she delicately held onto the remaining strand, which wasn't much. Before it could get any more brittle it was moved into a inside pocket on her parka. Its presence gave her drive, and the super heroine began her search for her friend and shelter. 'PP- You know my webbing dissolves after about an hour, right?' 'W- I do, but in that dark silence, I wanted any sort of comfort I could have. I felt your presence in the webbing, it helped me push forward.' 'PP- I know it's moot now, but I wish I coulda actually been there to help instead.' 'W- Do not berate yourself Peter. What happened happened, we cannot go back and change that now. We are here now, and that is what matters.' 'PP- Yeah...you're right.' 'W- Besides *turns and reaches out to dig in her cape on the side of her bed for a moment* You never left my side. *Extending her hand she shows a web bracelet to Peter*' 'PP- Wah? How?' 'W- *A large smile on her face* I'm getting to it.'

Nearly an hour passed as Wanda trekked through increasingly treacherous terrain. By now she figured she must be on some mountain side, considering the rocky inclination and thin air. She would have teleported or flew, but her magic was both weak and unstable for unknown reasons. Attempting would have put her in greater danger. It was a last resort, one she hoped to not need till her powers balanced back out. Scarlet Witch was falling further and further into hopelessness in finding Spider-Man or a place to rest. The last resort was becoming more and more likely as her body started to numb and sleep crept up on her.

"Spider-Man!" Wanda's voice echoes. Her Hex Bolt only allowed a few feet of light at this point. Something broke the silence out of nowhere. Rocks tumbled down over larger stones, and Wanda immediately turned in their direction. "Spider-ma..." She froze in place seeing a huge furry form just inside of her light, hunched atop a boulder above her position. It had yellow glowing eyes, red under her Hex Bolt's shine. The creature, whatever it was, had white fur and it's it let out a growl along with a heavy misted breath. 'PP- No. Freaking. Way. You're telling me you met a Bigfoot!?' 'W- They are called Yeti in the frozen tundras.' 'PP- Seriously though, a Sasquatch?' 'W- *Rolls her eyes* We have Yeti on our world.' 'PP- WE WHAT?!' 'W- May I continue?' 'PP- First Wendingo's, now this.'

Panic started to consume Wanda again, but she had learned many years ago to control the emotion. Taking a step back she found her voice, and called out to the frightening creature. "Can you understand me? I mean no harm to you or mean to invade your home. Please I'm lost and need assistance." The Maximoff woman attempted to reason with whatever was staring back at her. Her dulled senses came back to life fully as she kept a keen eye on the creature's movements. She could see it's muscles tense under the dull light. "Please, I..." The huge creature leaned forward and let out terrifying bellow, just before it jumps off the rock toward her. Reflex kicks in and Scarlet Witch dove to the left. The Yeti flew past where she just was, and she quickly fought to scramble to her near frozen feet. Snow kicks up everywhere where the beast lands and thrashes about.

"Okay...not a friendly snowman." Wanda's mind ran over her options. The beast simply outmatched her at this point. Strength, speed, agility, it had the advantage nearly four fold. Scarlet Witch was chilled to the bone, tired, sluggish, and her powers were on the fritz. No amount of practiced discipline could help her here. Green eyes open wide as a roar of frustration washes over her. She heard loud thumps along the ground coming at her, outside of her feeble lantern. 'I have no choice.' She growled in her head. She siphons her power from her light and redirects it into her feet, the snow around her floats off the ground.

She hardly indulges in the feeling of relief she had, as her body defied gravity itself. There was no time, she needed to make as much distance as she could before her powers fall apart again. The crunching snow was close now, but she ignores it and immediately picks the direction to her right. Her magic propels her over the dark tundra, not as fast as she wanted, but she isn't able to see where she is going either. She was flying either way, and safe for the mom... She jars slightly, losing balance. Wanda couldn't have gotten more than a football field's length away before her magic fluctuated.

"No, no, not right now. Please." Scarlet Witch says fearfully. Over the wind snarls are heard getting close. "Oh gods no." Reorienting herself, Wanda pushes more magic into the flight spell, trying to stabilize her chaotic power.

"RRAWWWRRR!" The creature is even closer now, its speed in the snow almost superhuman.

"HELP! SOMEBODY PLEASE HELP ME!" Wanda yells as loudly as she can. It was just as much of a crap shoot as using her magic, but miracles could and have happened. Snow stung her face, bringing icing tears to her face. Then she heard the creature's howl rise above her, it must have jumped. With no time to think, Scarlet Witch spins her body around, and forces every ounce of power she had left into her hands. The area lights up, and the plummeting beast comes into view a second from falling on her. Wanda throws both hands forward. Pink energy explodes from her in a blast, slamming into the creature's chest. The Yeti hurtled upward into the air, and as the magic dissipated she saw it hit with a powerful gale force wind, and tossed out of sight.

Her back hit the snow hard and she tumbled into a backwards roll. She only stopped when white hot pain pulsed through her head. Her uncontrolled roll ended with Wanda smacking her head off a rock. With consciousness fading she reached into her coat, and clasped the webbing in her pocket. "Peter...help..." Her weakened voice faded as her eyes closed.

'PP- Whoa, whoa, whoa, pull it back a moment. You blacked out. How in the ever loving heck did you survive?' 'W- I'm not entirely sure on that myself. I was saved by a ghost named Boston.' 'PP- Umm...how? Never mind *Raises his hands up in surrender*, you don't need to answer that. I forget what fun times we live in. Continue.' 'W- Thank you.'

Wanda felt incredibly warm and comfortable when she started to regain consciousness. The restful sleep was shattered by the violently sudden image of a black spider-like symbol with large terrifying white eyes on it's abdomen, launching lines of web at her. The comfort vanished instantly and she jarred awake, sitting up quickly. Her breathing was ragged, and she was nearly soaked in sweat. Shrunken green pupils darted around the softly lit room she found herself in. A dozen candles around the chamber-like room allowed her to see well. She was sitting under various animal skin covers, which now bunched at her waste. Seeing the room empty, she closed her eyes and steadied her breathing. Her right hand covered her upper left chest, an attempt to slow her heartbeat.

"Where am I?" Wanda asked herself, as she slowly scanned the spartan room. The walls were bare aside several hand painted, beautifully colored, depictions of Buddhas, and mountains with animals. Candles littered the room, several on a very simple nightstand next to the hand made bed. She was in a white long one piece robe she noticed.

As if to answer her self quandary a few gentle knocks came at the heavy wood door. The mutant started, and stared at the door for a few moments before it opened inward. In walked a tall beautiful woman dressed in a body length orange robe, trimmed with gold along the edges, with wide sleeves. She had lightly tanned skin, resembling the complexion of one of Asian decent. The woman's eyes were slanted slightly, and colored almost as if the darkest opal Wanda had every seen. The eyes themselves sparkled ethereally like the jewel that closely described them. Long flowing silk-like black hair framed her pointed but feminine facial features. A recognizable red dot was painted just above the center of her eyes. Finally a large very ornately decorated headdress adorned her head. The tall woman carried a crude basin of water in her hand, with a cloth hanging off its edge. Taking in the whole of the person stepping gracefully into the room, Wanda could only think this woman of the Indian culture.

"I am glad to see you are awake. It has been nearly a day since you were rescued from the mountains." The woman said airily in an Indian accent. Her voice sounded much like the sweet chirp of birds. It gave her an even more empyreal quality. Wanda almost felt in the presence of a goddess.

"I was lost in the mountains?" Wanda asked slowly, not remembering but not for lack of trying. Her mind buzzed, attempting to recall yesterday's events, but nothing came to her.

"Yes. You were lucky a frequenter of this place happened to hear your cry for help. He brought you here, barely a breath left to you. What could you have been doing out there, my child?" The woman set the basin down on the nightstand, and gingerly dipped the rag in the water. Wanda looked up to the mysterious person a lost expression on her features.

"I... don't remember." Maximoff brought the hand covering her heart up to her forehead, and closed her eyes, attempting to break the haze her head was in again.

"I see. What do you remember then?" The woman asked, as she rung out the cloth.

"Nothing. I can't seem to recall anything." Wanda opened her eyes when the spider image flashed in her mind. The Indian woman was leaning in front of her, her otherworldly dark opal eyes seemingly staring into the younger woman's soul.

"How far does this memory loss go, I wonder. May I ask your name?" The goddess-like woman asked as she gently removed Wanda's hand from her head, and replaced it with the cool watered cloth. The roil inside Scarlet Witch's head settled some, as if the hand resting against it soothed the tide.

Wanda relaxed at the touch and let out a soft sigh. Her eyes slowly fell shut, and she felt herself replying almost automatically. "My name is Wanda...Maximoff." Then the turbulence returned, blocking out any more information from coming forth. As the smaller woman's eyes opened she saw her host's were opening up just after hers.

"There is much turmoil inside you, my child. However at least we know your name. A wondrous start to regaining your lost memories." She smiled kindly to Wanda. "It is my pleasure to meet you Wanda Maximoff. I am Rama Kushna, guardian and patron of Nanda Parbat. I welcome you to stay in this place of enlightenment and healing as long as you need."

'PP- …. *Wide eyed stare*' 'W- Yes, I had amnesia for nearly my entire time in this world.' 'PP- You weren't kidding. That is like the first cliche in the big book of cliches.' 'W- *giggles lightly* Indeed. That is also partially why I wasn't searching you out.' 'PP- Only partially? Boy do I feel loved. *Pouts*' 'W- Well my location didn't help either. You see, Nanda Parbat is in Tibet, hidden among the Himalayans. Rama is an actual goddess, and Nanda Parbat is similar to K'un-Lun in it cannot be found without a guide. Mine was Boston, the ghost I mentioned. I'm not entirely sure I'd be able to find it again, now that I have left the mountains.' 'PP- You are seriously like a hide and seek grand master. You have me beat my a mile.'

'W- I'm sorry Peter. I must have caused you so much distress. *A saddened expression rests on her face*' 'PP- Don't be Wanda. You are safe now, and I don't plan on letting you out of my sight for a good long while.' 'W- *Cheeks tint red, and looks away slightly* Bold words Mr. Parker. *She says teasingly*' 'PP- *Blushes slightly, and rubs the back of his neck* Yeah...heh heh...I'm not known for my way with words, am I? *Chuckles* Ehem...Um so let me see if I'm following you fully real quick.' 'W- *Nods*' 'PP- Your powers go all wonky on you when you get here, you are chased by Harry Henderson, then bonk your noggin, and now you have amnesia. So I guess I gotta ask: How'd you get your memories back, and get tangled up with Gargle-Smurf?' 'W- *Looks puzzled for a moment* To make a long story short I spent my days in Nanda Parbat rather happily. Being blissfully unaware of who I really was. It was a very peaceful experience. After a few months I joined several other residents in pilgrimages to a nearby village. Mainly for a change in scenery and also to help in return for the hospitality given. It was there that I met and quickly became attached to an elderly couple. They said I reminded them of their late daughter. Months passed by and I got to know them well. However I was never allowed to stay over night in the village.'

'PP- Why? Afraid of tall white and fluffy showing back up?' 'W- The Yeti never appeared again. No it was a requirement of Rama Kushna. I was to return to the monastery before I fell asleep. I didn't know why at the time, but I guessed it had to do something with the reoccurring nightmares I had.' 'PP- I'm going to hazard a guess, something to do with your memories?' 'W- Astute as always. Yes they were my locked memories attempting to surface. *She lets out a remorseful sigh* But...there was so much more behind it I didn't realize. It was a little over a month ago that I learned why.' 'PP- *His face changes to reserved understanding, as his brows knit together* I get the feeling something bad happens.' 'W- ...Astute as always...*She says sadly*'

November 20th / Evening / Flashback

Khra Lam Village

One Month Ago

Wanda sat cross legged on a small bed that had been set up for her. She was staring out at the blinding snowstorm through a window nearby. The storm came out of nowhere, trapping her and the other pilgrims in the village. She had reservations about being in the home of Ahi and Do. Not because they were bad company, far from it. The two had welcomed and treated her like their long lost daughter, and Wanda found herself wanting to spend time with and help them as much as she could. No it wasn't them, it was the warning Rama Kushna gave her. She was to always return to Nanda Parbat before she slept. She was just told it was to keep the nightmares she constantly had from going out of control, whatever that meant. Lately though the images and fragmented memories had calmed, and over the months she found a strange comfort in the white eyed abdomen-ed spider that visited her thoughts almost daily.

Looking down at her wrist the same gossamer strand she was found clinging on to for dear life, was neatly tied around her left wrist. Rama had told her it was very important to her, and had somehow kept enough from dissolving to create the wrap. Wanda's right hand rested over the makeshift bracelet, and she looked over to the sleeping couple. There was a smile on the wife's, Ahi, face reflected in the fire light. She was huddled close to Do, who protectively had her wrapped in his arms. Wanda felt a warm smile grace her red lips. 'I'm sure one night away will be fine.' Wanda thought before tucking herself under the bedding and drifted off to sleep.

The nightmares attacked her almost instantly. The spider held fast in the distance, it's web spinning outward from it. Wanda found her dream self watching the intricate design being woven. It was almost beautiful until a line fell to her shoulder. Hurried images shocked her astral body to the core. Her younger self stood before the creature from whom her chaos magics derived Chthon, an elder god. The demon god smiled and reached a huge clawed hand out toward her, completely smothering her in his grip. Wanda's body jarred, the ethereal web strand intangibly slipping out of her shoulder. She looked up drenched in fear, only to fall completely into panic. The web the giant spider was weaving created a massive dome around the two of them, and from the spider's web lines fired toward her from all directions. Her dream self screamed and tried to float away from the lines.

A line shot through her left calf like a ghostly bullet, freezing her in place. Twin children, two small boys, one with silver hair and one with black, fell away from her reaching hands. A large red figure threw open his cloak welcoming the children into his body. The two boys absorbed slowly into Mephisto's body. Wanda screamed for them, then suddenly her body was struck with another web strand. A glowing violet and black man in a blue costume with an ornate red W on his chest was struck by an alien laser, completely dispersing his body.

Another line pierced Wanda's chest. Her father stood as the ruler of a new world. A world she and her powers created. It was an ideal world, until everything went wrong. She stood before Magneto, her recently revived brother by her side. "You ruined us Father. You chose Mutants over your own children." She shouted.

Another strand pierced her heart. "No more Mutants." Her most dire mistake, three simple words, left her lips. M-Day, the darkest day in Mutant history, was created by her hands.

Still another strand pierces her neck. Eyes, everywhere eyes, look at her, through her. Masks that hid the truth, but their eyes didn't. She was a monster who couldn't be trusted. She didn't belong anymore, no one would help her. She created this for herself.

"It's been a while. How are you, Wanda?"

Her dream self looks up, broken from the vision, a man's voice called to her. It was so familiar, so kind. But why did she feel so horrible about his simple greeting? A web line cuts into her right leg, more terrible memories.

"With great power comes great responsibility."

She'd heard these words from this unknown man time and again, but now... Another strand, painful memories.

"You can live everyday of your life trying to think of something more profound or more on the nose... But for people like us, who suddenly find themselves looking out at the crazy world and not knowing what the hell we're supposed to be doing in it..."

"... I can tell you that just remembering with great powers comes great responsibility... Can completely define you."

He was speaking with a young red headed woman, and Wanda simply overheard this. The man's words struck a cord deep inside of her. Even not directed at her, the weight of the words fell upon her. Another strand.

"Of course I'm ticked... well was. I got a taste of what life could have been, if everything went right. But... we all make mistakes. You gave me memories I'll cherish forever, and I thank you for that. But I don't blame you for taking it away."

"I don't blame you..."

Tears come to Wanda's face. She chokes down sobs, trying to force a smile.

"WANDA!" The voice echoes loudly, breaking her from the memories. She looks up from her ghost web strand riddled body. The giant black spider's abdomen pushed outward, and a red gloved hand tears through the darkness. It's reaching out to her, bursting through the symbol.

"WANDA!"

"PETER!" Wanda throws her hand out toward the hand. More comes after the hand, the white markings become the eyes on a red mask. Their hands almost touch, but darkness cuts between them, and Wanda screams as she's pulled away from Spider-Man.

Wanda Maximoff's eye tore open, finding herself back to consciousness in a vortex of her own energy. Floating in the center of it she realized what was happening, her memories unlocked. Her unleashed powers were running rampant. 'No... I need to stop this.' Her mind hardened and she balled her hands into fists.

Quickly she went through several hand gestures, ending in loose devil horns which crisscrossed over her chest. The wild power around her quickly started to die away, the tornado dissipating and dusting away into the void. She lowered to the ground, her feet gently resting against the solid floor beneath her. She threw her arms out to the sides, dispersing the rest of the energy. The warmth around her suddenly clashed with biting cold. Wind broke over her lightly robed form, chilling her quickly.

Hugging herself, Wanda finally looks around her. Fire was the first thing she saw. Flames burned away at almost everything she looked at. Wanda's heart sunk, her body shaking, yet not from the cold...

Watchtower / Present

Wanda finds herself unable to continue. Tears slid down her cheeks, her voice braking against her sobs.

"Wanda...I'm so sorry." Peter words were sympathetic, his expression reserved but understanding. Forcing himself from his bed, Parker manages to stand and closes the short distance. He wraps his arms around the crying woman. Wanda started at the sudden hug, but accepted the gesture a moment after. She pushed herself against him, taking in his comforting embrace.

No words passed between the two in the room for minutes, just crying from the Scarlet Witch. Her arms ended up around Peter too. Peter Parker was the only person in this crazy new world who knew her. He knew what a toll her powers caused her and those she cared for. But he understood her, accepted her for the person she was and what she tries to do. 'She needs this. Hell I need this. She's really here. I'm still trying to make sure this isn't a hallucination, but holding her, I know she's here. I have a lot to make up for for letting her down...at least this is a start.'

"They were innocent, and my powers took their lives." Wanda finally managed, her voice muffed as it was buried in his hospital gown covered chest. Peter knew that line. He'd said it many times in the past.

"It wasn't your fault Wanda." His voice was reassuring, but she shook her head against him.

"Yes it was. If I just left...braved the storm..." Wanda's voice started to break again. Then she was pulled from his tear stained chest by his hands on her shoulders. Her red eyes looked up to meet his. Peter was sternly looking back at her. She couldn't keep her gaze on him and began to look down.

"No, it's not. Wanda look at me." He was serious with his conviction, and it made her hesitate. Slowly she looked back up into his chocolate eyes. His scolding look softened, and his lips spread into a gentle smile. "You were caught in a series of unfortunate events beyond your control. You weren't given a reason to leave, just a vague warning. You couldn't have known the consequences. You can't keep blaming yourself."

"But..."

"Please, just listen. I know I'm the last person to give advice about dealing with guilt. Still I'm a teacher, and they say 'those who can't do, teach'. So you can trust me on this when I say, you shouldn't blame yourself. It was beyond your control." Parker stated confidently. Wanda's teary eyes just blinked back at him. 'Wow, that sounded much more convincing in my head.' "Do you think Ahi and Do would blame you? Because I'm sure they'd understand, and would want you to move on."

"Peter..." Wanda was staring wide-eyed at the Webhead. Before she could continue, Peter moved a hand, and held up that index finger in front of her.

"It hurts. The pain never really goes away, and we'll always doubt ourselves because of it. I do honestly know what you are going through Wanda. But, let me tell you the advice a wonderfully crazy psychologist gave me. "Horrible things are gonna happen ta the best of people an the worst of people. Things we can't control or stop. Giving yer all is the only thing ya can do, and ya have to axcept yer limitations. Ya are strong, more powerful than most, but you aren't god. It's about what ya choose ta do with the guilt that makes ya who ya are, not the failures."" Peter recited, remembering getting this advice none to long ago himself. Wanda seemed to soak up his words, and look back on something. Peter silently waited for her to respond to him.

It took a bit, but Wanda eventually wiped the tears from her face. She gave him a weak smile, which he returned with gusto.

"I still believe it was my fault, but...you are right. I don't think Ahi and Do would want me blaming myself either." Scarlet Witch answered softly. She still looked a bit lost, but it was progress.

"It took me most of my adult life, getting trapped in another dimension, which I don't blame you for either, and many sit downs with my other roomie to come to terms with the same problem. It doesn't mean I should stop being who I am, or forgetting what I've done. I know I can do good out there. So I'll continue doing my very best to make sure I save and help as many as I can. Because with great power..."

"Comes great responsibility." Wanda finished for him. 'I must really say that a lot. Though I think she says it better.' Her smile widened a bit more, and she cleared her face of the rest of her tears.

"On the nose." He said tapping his nose and grinning at her. "As long as you keep them in your heart and never forget what we are fighting for, I'm sure Ahi and Do will forgive you."

"Peter... Thank you...for everything. Not just last night, for being forgiving of my mistakes, and staying a friend when the world looked down on me." Wanda's smile returned fully, bringing a tinge to Peter's face. 'Damn she's beautiful when she is smiling genuinely. Its almost unfair how a woman's smile can light up a room. I try so hard to be the optimist and I get told to shut up, well most of the time.'

"Life has thrown lemons at us more than we care to admit. We all make mistakes, I sure as web shooting have made them. So I know just how much second chances and a having friends matter. I'm just glad it's me who gets to be there to turn those lemons into lemonade. After all..." Peter brings his pinky up to the side of his mouth. "...we're not so different, you and I." He recites in a Dr. Evil inflection. At that Wanda's cheeks bulge and she breaks into a fit of laughter. Peter joins in, laughing at his own joke.

"I love the Austin Powers movies." Wanda says after catching her breath. 'Seriously!? Oh that's just not fair. Why didn't I know this? Darn it.'

"Then where were you when I proposed Movie Night to the Avengers? Dangit." He fell into chuckles along with the Scarlet Witch.

"You certainly are a goofball Peter. But thank you. It is good smile and laugh again." She rested back on her bed, as Peter did the same on his. 'Well I can stand and move, that's nice to know. Thanks healing factor.'

"Well that's my usual MO." He paused, as he thought of where they left off on her story of the past year. "I know I'm being a buzz kill here, but how did you end up in Boy Blue's skinny fingered grip? Not to be a downer, but I'm pretty sure this counts as an unofficial debrief too."

"It is okay. I'm feeling much better thanks to you, so it is not a problem. I'm not sure how he found me so quickly in all honesty, but as I was lost in my sorrow he suddenly appeared. He told me he was an Agent of Chaos, and that he felt a kindred spirit in me. He promised me he could teach me how to harness and control my powers, saying that this world's magics were messing with my own. Fearful of what I could do with my untamed powers and in the state of mind I was in, I readily accepted his proposal. He took us to his realm and that's where I have been for the past month." Wanda explained, and Peter made sure he listened carefully, nodding at appropriate times.

"I take it he neglected to mention that Agents of Chaos in this world were the bad guys?" Spidey asked.

"Indeed. Yet he did stay true to his word somewhat. Under his tutelage I was able to re-harness my magic. I did not however guess his intentions to use me. It wasn't more than the day before yesterday that he chained me, and began his machinations for the reality bending spell." Wanda took a long breath, letting it out slowly.

"I'm sorry I wasn't able to find you before then. I tried, I really did. But my life in Gotham kept me there for the mostly." Peter hung his head in shame. At this gesture Wanda just shook her head with a grin.

"Tis okay. What matters now is we are reunited once again. It truly is a Christmas miracle." Her reassuring voice made Peter feel better, and reminded him it actually was still Christmas Day.

"Yeah, you're right. Oh I have a Christmas gift for you. I left it back home, but once I'm okay to leave I'll get it to you." Scarlet Witch blushed at this.

"Oh Peter... thank you, but why did you get me one? You couldn't have known I was on this world." Her hands that were resting in her lap fidgeted together slightly out of embarrassment.

"True, but I had hoped you were. And, I wanted to get you one for when I found you. I just hope you like it." Peter was genuinely unsure if what he made her would be appropriate. He felt it was, but then again he wasn't always the best judge of women. Suddenly the door swished open, and the Martian Manhunter stepped into the room. Both occupants looked over to the alien, who gave them a nod. The green skinned bald man has a flowing blue cape, crisscrossed red bands over his bare chest, and blue spats.

"Spider-Man you have a call." J'onn said as he walked in and presented Spidey with a medium sized tablet device. Taking it he looked up to the alien and quirked an eyebrow up. "It is from your residence in Gotham." Those words made Peter pale slightly. He gulped audibly, before nodding to the his JL ally. J'onn stopped and quirked his head to the side, as he noticed Wanda staring at him in bewilderment. Peter looked between the two of them, and then it hit him like a mental brick.

"My apologies, we have not been properly introduced. I am J'onn J'onzz, or the Martian Manhunter if you prefer." The green skinned man held out his hand, but the offer wasn't taken immediately.

'My Favorite Martian, Batman, she's got double Vision. Heh heh. Now this is an understandable mistake on her part. Heck I had the same reaction when I first met J'onny. The Martian Manhunter here, or J'onn J'onzz as he's really known, looks incredibly similar to our dimensions AI android Avenger, Vision. Believe it or not Wanda and Vision were an item back in the day. They were married and the whole shebang. So her staring is probably the least of what's going on with her.'

'J'onn here is a legitimate Martian from Mars, not that that surprises me. I mean we got our own green men from space, Skrulls. Actually now that I think about it are this dimensions Martians Skrulls? Green skin, shape changers, aliens, wow. Aside from telepathy, general attitude toward others, and numbers, yeah they aren't much different. Huh...anyway, mind blowing revelation aside, J'onn is a founding member of the Justice Society of America, and has been in almost every JL incarnation since. He's old and heroic is what I'm getting at. Pretty dang spry considering his age. J'onn is supposedly the last surviving Martian, which isn't true. There is another surviving Mars refugee, M'gann M'orzz or Miss Martian; a Teen Titan member and J'onn's niece, apparently. Not really surprising as it seems like every dying alien race has another refugee or two who show up from time to time. And I'm getting off track.'

"It's rude to stare you know." Peter slyly throws out, giving Wanda a smirk. She shakes her head a bit, and quickly grows ashamed.

"I'm sorry for staring Mr. Jones. It's just...you have a striking resemblance to someone I know." Scarlet Witch says trying to push past her embarrassing moment. She takes his hand and shakes it. 'Everybody tends to mispronounce J'onny's name upon first meeting him. FYI.'

"It is J'onzz, and I understand. Spider-Man had the same reaction upon our first encounter as well. I believe Vision is the man I resembled, if I remember correctly." J'onn shrugged off the unintended stare, and gave her a slight smile as he spoke to her.

"Thank you, and yes that is right. Vision and I have... extended history together, so again I apologize for staring. It is nice to make your acquaintance, Mr. J'onzz." She returned his smile, and their hands left each others.

"J'onn please. It is a pleasure to meet you too, Ms. Maximoff. Now I need to return to my station. If you'll excuse me." With a nod to her and I, the Martian Manhunter excused himself from the room.

"See ya later J'onn." Peter waves bye the League member, as does Wanda.

"I cannot believe just how much he looks like Vision. It's almost uncanny." Wanda said turning back to Peter after the door slid closed.

"Trust me, there is a loooot of that going around here. Wait till you meet Buttercup. Speaking of which..." Spidey brings the tablet back around, a little phone symbol flashing in the corner. "...time to get my ear chewed off."

"I can leave if..."

"Nah, it's fine. Just try not to laugh at my sad puppy routine." Taking a deep breath Peter taps the icon, and the mostly blank screen comes to life. "This is your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, who may I ask is..."

"Freakin' A Itsy Bitsy! Took you long enough to answer the god damned call! Do you know how much whining I had..." Peter had all of two seconds to catch a pale blue skinned woman with a head of spiky blue hair, before the feed on the other end was violently tugged away.

"GIMMIE GIMMIE GIMMIE GIMMIE!" Harleen shouted as she wrestled the device on her end away from the other woman. The picture swished about his day lit living room, before Harley's face took up most of the screen.

"Geeze Harley you about took my arm with you, calm down." The other woman's voice scolded off screen. Apparently Harls didn't care because she just squeed in joy at seeing Peter's face. Both in the room on Peter's end flinched at the incredibly loud noise.

"Petey,areyaokay? Iheardyagothurt! Whodidittoya?! I'llkickthereassforhurtin'myPetey!" Harleen's cherubic face was fraught with worry as she ran through her words almost to fast for Peter to understand.

"Whoooa, slow down there buckaroo. I can barely understand a word you're saying. Take a breath and start again." The Webhead advised, much to the Scarlet Witch's amusement. He shot her a pointed look before returning to the screen. Harley had her head tilted back and was sucking in air, followed by her tilting back forward and letting out said breath.

"Are ya okay? I heard ya got hurt! Who did it to ya?! I'll kick there asses for hurtin my Petey!" She repeated with much less screaming and much more clearly. 'I love this girl's sense of humor.'

"Yeah, I got hurt, but I'm doing loads better now. Don't you worry about this little spider." Peter calmly explained, relaxing visibly as he talked with Harleen.

"I'm sooo gonna kick Bat's in the belfry fer that. He let ya get hurt." Quinn said malevolently. Peter had to cautiously chuckle at that. 'She's totally serious.'

"Harls you know it comes with the territory. In a situation like that it was pretty much unavoidable. You can't really blame him for me being me." Parker consoled.

"I so totally can!" She shot back indignantly, with her lower lip sticking out. Then her eyes focused directly on his. Peter felt himself gulp. "An why didn't ya take care of yourself better? Ya said you'd be back today. Then I sees some blue shrimp on the tv saying he took away every capes powers, because of the gal you've been lookin for. The next thing I hear about it is from thunder thighs..." "HEY!" The other woman's voice shouted from off screen. "...showin up saying that ya took on all the big bads yourself. And now ya was in critical condition! She said ya nearly died!" Harleen started her rant accusing others which quickly flew into anger directed at him.

"It couldn't be helped. I was the only one who still had their powers. I even got a power boost. I was the last man standing. What else could I have done but fight?" Peter had similar discussions of this nature with Harley many times in the past. 'How come it always comes down to this argument? Why can't she understand that being a hero means you have to fight against the odds when the chips are down like that?'

"You coulda run..." Suddenly hurt and fear masked her face. The obvious pain in her voice sucked away any retort Peter had ready. This was a side he rarely got to see, and one he never wanted to make her feel. Guilt washed over him, and he hung his head a bit, his face hiding behind his bangs.

"Harls... you know I could never do that."

"I know... I know. Yer a hero, but..." She let out shakily. "... what about those of us ya would leave behind?"

Peter froze. His eyes grew wide, as he stared at the screen. For one of the very few times in his life, he was at a loss for words.

'Having powers, being something greater than humanly possible, it's easy to forget how mortal you still are. When you've survived against all odds time and time again, you tend to think you are invincible. That you will always come out okay no matter the situation. So you rush headlong into the fray, expecting to survive... But, you tend forget that there are people you leave behind while being super.'

'Harley Quinn may be the last person you would think would have misgivings about the things we supers do. She's invincible, unstoppable, and crazy enough to take on odds even some of us would find ridiculous. What's more she'll take them on with a smile. She's seen many of the heroes and villains"die" and come back, and probably feels she will do the same. But Harleen Quinzel, the woman you get to know when she finally lets under the mask, she's just human, no powers, no special abilities... mortal. She's the one left to wonder. I'm proud to say I am one whom she took the mask off for. One of the very few. I feel the Joker never once got this side after he broke her. She was always Harley Quinn to him, never Harleen Quinzel except when it was convenient. Pam and I, we are two she chose to put her faith and trust in. But we are actually the supers she pretends to be. We forget and take for granted her accepting of this.'

'She knows I want to and will save people whenever I can. It's moot at this point to argue that, and she knows this, she's accepted it. But I rarely come home with anything beyond bruises and bumps. This is only the second time she's realized I have my limits. The incident being the first. Add to that the fact that Klarion managed to take away our powers, and globally announcing it. It makes you realize just how fearful she was of my life. I'm so sorry Harleen... I'm such an idiot. It really puts into perspective just what MJ and Aunt May had gone through. I've known this for a long time, that's why it's so hard for our types to keep a long lasting relationship.'

"Harls... I'm so sorry." Peter whispers remorsefully. A small smile grow on Harleen's face, and she looks give him a nod.

"Dude, thanks for helping get me my powers back, but I swear if you make Harley cry I'm gonna light you up. She's still one of my gal pals after all." Came the disembodied voice of the blue woman off camera. Harley's smile grew larger and she even let out a little laugh, turning to the other person there with her to nod to her.

"Awww, I love you too Sparkles." Harleen cooed to the blue woman.

"Don't call me that, you'll give him cannon fodder." The other woman said in a shushed voice, which was clearly heard. Peter couldn't help but crack a smile. 'Too late.' Harley laughing warmly on the other end had seemingly forgiving him already, was back to her normal self. In his haze his bed shifted as Wanda sat down in relatively close proximity to him.

"Wanda what the...?" Peter looked at her in surprise.

"I'll only be a minute." Wanda reached over grabbing one side of the tablet and pulling it, so she was in view of the camera. She got her first look at Harleen, and cleared her throat to get the blond's attention.

"Excuse me." Wanda politely started. Peter looked from Wanda to the image of Harley registering it was an unfamiliar woman on the screen now.

"Who are ya?" Quinzel suspiciously asked, her eyes looking to the edges of the screen trying to find her suddenly missing roommate.

"Please excuse the interruption, but I am Wanda Maximoff. I'm the other traveler from Peter's dimension." That piqued Harley's interest, as she stared directly back at Wanda. Parker watches the exchange carefully. 'What is Wanda doing? And why am I getting a bad feeling about it?'

"Oh I know ya. You're the reason he's in the shape he is. Well I hope saving ya was worth it." 'Oh crap.' Harleen's demeanor suddenly took a one eighty as she was glaring at the dark haired woman.

"Harls..." Peter was cut off when Wanda raised her free hand up in front of his face.

"Yes, I am the reason he is hurt and I want to apologize to for making you worry." Wanda said.

"Wanda I don't th..." Again Peter was interrupted, but this time her palm curled into the one moment finger.

"Ya have no idea how much I want ta punch ya in the face right now." 'Oh boy...not good, definitely not good.' Harley stated no nonsensically continuing to stare dangerously at Wanda for a few tense moments. Wanda didn't back down either, she made sure to not lose this staring contest. Harleen deflated quickly, her eyes rolling up and blowing a few blond bangs up pointlessly. "But I guess I can't blame ya. Petey's just that kinda guy." Wanda smiled in agreement and nodded her head to the other woman. Peter felt his tension leave, bringing back some dull pains in his body.

"He is truly a hero. I wouldn't be alive if not for him, as could be said of the others whom were there with him." Wanda said contentedly, stealing a glance toward Peter. Harleen's small line of a mouth widened pleasantly.

"Yeah, Petey is a game changer fer sure." The blond said, and Peter couldn't help but notice the distant dreamy gleam in her eyes. She refocused a second later and continued. "So yer the one who dropped 'im in Gotham, eh? Thanks fer that. He's been a real punim. Harleen Quinzel, pleasure's yours. Now, girl to girl, just a heads up, Petey's my bff so hands off. Capiche?" Harleen's words sharpened to a knifes edge, her sweet smile barely belying the threat. Wanda blinked a few times, and looked nervously over to Peter sitting next to her. He looked just as confused as she, and shrugged to emphasize it. 'Wow...overprotective much. Jeeze I knew she was the jealous type, but this is downright scary.'

Scarlet Witch turned back to the screen, and her eyes hardened almost challengingly. "I'll keep that in mind, Harleen. I look forward to meeting you in person." The challenge was met by Harls who's smile now bared her teeth.

"It'll be tons of fun toots. Can ya put Petey back on?" Harley replied sweetly. 'The fairer sex's verbal cat fights are a thing of barely restrained subtlety and sugar coated threats. It's a terrifying thing that most of us males know to stay out of or just stay quiet about. It's safer for everyone that way.'

"Of course." Wanda said just as sweetly back, before handing the device back to Peter. When Harley saw him back on screen, she noticeably lightened up.

"Pete how long ya gonna be stuck up there in that stuffy chrome toybox? Ya said you'd be back today, and it's almost three." Quinn asked with her bottom lip pushed outward cutely. 'Not fair Bubbles!' Peter took a breath and gave her an apologetic look.

"I'm sorry Bubbles. I don't think I'll be released at least for another day. We want to make sure I heal up properly, and there aren't any side-effects of the return of some... uh dormant powers." He explained, hoping she would understand. 'She's been so excited this last week. She was almost walking on air the whole time, looking forward to our first real Christmas together. All the planning, decorating, and even convincing Pam to get in the spirit. I hate being the one to ruin it for her, for them.' Harley raised a brow at his statement, as this was probably the first time this was told to her.

"What do ya mean dormant powers?"

"Oh...um, well it's kinda a long story. How about I tell you when I get back? Trust me, it'll be better to hear it in person." Mentally Peter was suddenly reminded of the outburst earlier from Ivy, Witch, and Canary. He could only imagine how Harleen would react to that news, and he was sure he wanted to be there to help settle that onslaught of questions.

"Sure, I can wait. But what about Christmas? It'll be over by then?" She conceded, but took on a sadder pout. 'GAH! So darn cute. THE FEELS!'

"Please don't be sad. Hey, how about we just postpone it? We'll make whatever day I come back Christmas Day. After all I really want to be there when you open my present to you." Peter quickly took on a cheery attitude, and the option turned her pout into a copy of his expression. She practically beamed her pearly whites at him.

"I love yer way of thinkin' Petey. Deal. It's officially moved to whenever we feel like it!" She whooped, making him feel much less guilty.

"Geeze I wish I could be so footloose and fancy free. I mean it's not like I'm sacrificing my Christmas day. You know I could be sitting at home, some schmaltzy Christmas movie on the tube, and a microwave dinner warming up." The blue woman's heavily sarcastic voice, came from off screen. His bed shifted slightly as Wanda stood from it, and moved back to her own. He caught the withheld look she had, even if she quickly covered it.

"Hey, would you mind if we had a guest for Christmas? Pwetty pweese wit a cherry on top. It would mean so much to her." Peter asked while smiling, looking over the tablet to Wanda across from him. She perked up, a timid hope in her eyes. Harley's chat with the other woman halted at the invitation, skeptically looking at her roomie for few seconds.

"Why not. It's Christmas after all. But ya gotta let Sparkles join us too. After all ya are deprivin' her of a tv dinner." Harley's cheek splitting smile returned after she heard a thankful "Awww" from her blue friend.

"The more the merrier. After all when am I gonna be able to spend the holiday's with so many lovely ladies ever again?" Peter jested. Wanda couldn't help but shake her head at him, even if there was a smile on her face. The unseen lady on the other end "Tch'ed", and he could practically feel her rolling her eyes.

"Depends on when ya we get married." Harleen said nonchalantly. Immediately following was a collective sputtering from everyone else, with a gawking Peter almost dropping the tablet.

X X X X

- Dec. 26th / Morning / Present -

Watchtower Main Observation Deck

"I'm half tempted to call you Weeping Willow when you're look like this." Peter hobbles up to a melancholic Pamela, a crutch under his right arm. The rubber thumps dully against the metal paneled floor. Poison Ivy was leaning against some railing looking out over the garden area, and watching Earth slowly turn through the windows. She moves her head in his direction when addressed, and gives Parker a slight scowl.

"Cute. What are you doing out of bed? Shouldn't you be recuperating?" Her demeanor shifts ever so slightly for the brighter, but its stifled quickly.'Something is really bothering her. I haven't seen her more than a few times since yesterday, and that was just for updates. It's quite the one eighty from before the talk about my first past life. Heh, my first past life... I'm still finding it hard to believe I have one of those. But then again I've met alternate reality versions of myself, so it's just par for the course.' Ivy averts her gaze from him after looking him once over, then leans against the railing again. Her golden/black eyes look up to the planet once more, avoiding him. 'Normally I have no qualms with her leaning against anything... Mmmhmm...*mentally shakes head* No not right now Parker. Roomie is distant, admire the view later, figure out what's wrong now.'

Peter steps up next to the green woman, and spins around to lean against the railing with his back. Setting the crutch against the guard rail, he uses his arms as a balance. "Yeah, I probably should, but lying in bed all day is sooooo boring. I'm pretty sure Wanda woulda kicked me out herself if I complained anymore. I promised to be careful as long as I could get some air." Her response was a slightly audible hum, and a tilt up of her head. "Haven't seen you much since last night. You know you missed a call from Harls." Deciding to tread water first Peter opened with small talk. Pam looked down from the world view to the trees and shrubbery in the garden below.

"I didn't miss her call. She got a hold of me too. I was a bit surprised at who our observer was." She said continuing the small talk.

"Yeah, I was shocked to know you three had history together. Didn't realize Leslie used to play for the other team... umm...that came out wrong." Peter admitted awkwardly. At least he got a huff of a laugh from Ivy. It was a start at least.

"I know what you meant." She pointed out bluntly, immediately stopping what progress Peter made. He sighed and looked down at her, only seeing red hair masking her face. Looking up to the control room situated in the center and a ways above the observation deck, he could see a recognizable figure in through the windows. Wonder Woman was observing the two of them, more than likely she was currently on Ivy watch. Even from this distance Peter could see the amazonian princess was serious about her task, if her intent stare and crossed arms spoke the body language Peter knew. Spidey smiled up and waved to her. If he got anything back he couldn't really tell from this angle.

"Right...um well I'll get some scans done here in about an hour, and if I get the okay we can head home today. I'm sure you want to get off this flying metal top and back to Eden yesterday." Parker continued in hopes of getting her to open up more.

"While I cannot say my time here was pleasant, I will miss the view." Pam admitted, and Pete turned his head around looking at the Earth from over his right shoulder.

"It isn't something you get to see very often. Well unless you work here that is." He added the joke in looking to get a smile, even a little one.

"Mmm." Was her only response. 'Man she is being difficult. Grant it she normally is, but this just seems like a huge step back all of a sudden. Alright one more attempt to get her to cheer up, and if that doesn't work... *gulp* Ask her directly.'

"So I never did find out who the big green chia pet guy was. A friend of yours, I presume? All I know is that you two saved our collective butts back there." Peter asked, genuinely curious about the answer to this question too. 'There are still a few things I'm fuzzy about concerning the events of last night. Might as well see if I can connect the dots while trying to fish for information.'

"Alec...is a..." Ivy seems to wrestle for a proper term, as it takes her moment to continue. "...comrade in arms you could say. We both are a part of nature, and through The Green we've connected several times. Our view points differ greatly, but our goals are the same. He too was a human transformed through science into something greater, nobler." Her words, while starting reserved, seemed to ease near the end.

"So he's a...Plant Guy, then?" Spidey attempts to summarize, and expectantly Ivy turns her head to give him a dull glare.

"Swamp Thing is a warrior of The Green. And while we choose different paths to protect nature, I am as well." She corrected. 'Doesn't really help me understand, but who am I to judge. Apparently I'm some sort of center of a spiritual web, or at least that's what Madame Web keeps telling me.'

"Sorry. I didn't mean any insult, honest." Ivy's glare softened back to neutrality, and she returned her gaze down to the garden below. "So how'd you end up at Stonehenge? You told me you planted a tracking seed on me, but how did you get from Gotham to England so fast?"

"Alec transported me there." Ivy said as if it were just that simple. Peter smiled slightly, and shook his head.

"That really doesn't help me understand why Blossom. I feel there is more to the story here you aren't telling me." Pam took a steadying breath before pushing off the railing, and crossing her arms over her chest before facing him. She was still in her black and green suit from the day prior, and Peter guessed it was because she couldn't change it due to the inhibitor collar around her neck.

"Why is this such a concern for you?" Pam's practiced patience seemed to disappear faster than usual. It was like his presence there was like it used to be, annoying and unwanted. Only this time she couldn't threaten his life to leave her alone. Peter's brows knitted together in concern, and he pushed off the railing to stand up and face her too.

"Because I would have died if you didn't show up there. Because I don't know why you would jeopardize your safety like that? And because you are suddenly being cold to me like the old days. What is wrong Pam? Why are you being like this?" Peter asked just as impatiently back. It wasn't close to yelling but his raised voice certainly caught her off guard. Ivy's eyes widened, and her arms separated slightly. "One minute you hardly leave my side, and the next you are staying as far away as you can. I just don't get it."

Poison Ivy's deer in the headlights expression fell along with her gaze. She closed her eyes as her hands fell down in front of her. Her fists balled and she took in a long breath. "I'm was worried."

"Worried? Worried about what?" Peter asked deflating.

"About a great many things, but..." She looked back up into his brown eyes, hers reflecting anguish. "... the idea of losing you again worried me the most. When you became that thing, I realized what a huge mistake I made. Despite every attempt to keep Harleen and I from growing attached to you, you just kept worming your way in. I... we wanted to make sure you would come back from this. Not even two weeks ago you were nearly gone... and..." Pamela trailed off, leaving Peter to wonder if she was actually going to finish.

It took a good half minute of silence, but Peter finally had to ask. "And?"

"I wasn't going to let it happen again. If Harley could she would have been there too. Despite astronomically crazy odds you are a part of our lives now, and I would even go so far as to say a friend. That is why I showed up, why I asked Alec's help, and risked everything you gave us." By this point Ivy had gained more confidence back in her words. Peter was taken aback. 'Sure I count Blossom and Bubbles as friends, I have for some time. A very dysfunctional extended pseudo family yeah, and hopefully, maybe, way down the line in the distant distant fever dreamed future, more. But to actually hear Poison Ivy say it... it's something else entirely. Though she is playing the good politician and skirting the other question I had. Still I'll take what I can get right now.'

With a warm smile spreading over his face, Peter looks down at the slightly blushing woman. "Thanks Pam. You don't know how much it means to hear that from you." She reciprocated the smile but a bit smaller, only to have it slide into a skeptical look.

"You're about to ruin the moment aren..."

"Awwww, come here. This is totally a hug moment. Get in here you." Peter spread his arms wide, gesturing with his this hands to come into his embrace. An annoyed sigh escapes her, and she covers her face with her right hand, the other holding her right elbow. Her eyes peek up through her spread fingers at him, obviously embarrassed with underlying anger. Peter's smile only grows before he steps forward and wraps her in a hug. Ivy doesn't fight, but her cheeks go dark emerald. She still has her arms as a buffer between them, but he feels her relax a bit. The one sided hug lasts a few seconds, and Peter is the first to step away. 'She may not have fought it, but dammit if I know better than to wear out my welcome... well with Blossom at least. Besides this is gold for the other Leaguers. Between Diana and the probable surveillance evidence, this is gonna be the talk of the town for a bit. Suck it Bats.'

"You are an embarrassment Parker." Pam says as the separate. Peter manages to catch a brief glimpse of a change in her expression. She looked like she was distant once again before she looked at him again.

"Yeah I know. Soooo...feel like talking about what happened last night now?"

"If it will put this god awful moment behind us." She conceded, as she turned around and started walking along the railing.

"You liked it. Hey where you going?" Peter asked watching her start to leave. He took a step forward before she stopped him.

"I feel like taking a stroll while we talk. Don't forget your crutch. You are still an invalid remember." Ivy's jab irked him, but he shook it off and grabbed the crutch before hobbling after her. 'Well played you Blossom, well played.'

Dec. 24th / Evening / Flashback

Gotham City

"WHY TONIGHT!?" Harley shouted as she frustratedly threw herself onto the couch, burying her face into the pillow there. A muffled scream came a moment later. "It's so unfair!" She whined after breaking free from the pillow. "This was supposed ta be a perfect night. We were gonna have a fun Christmas fer a change. Food, movies, cuddlin with Petey, more mistletoe. GAH!" Harley chucked the pillow she'd been holding up toward the window he'd left minutes ago. It never made it to the window, and she threw herself down on the couch again, kicking her legs up and down like a child. "Friggin Bats!"

"Harley calm down. There is nothing we can do about it. He's finally found out that his friend is here and alive. Of course he's going to go and try to save her." Pam sat on a stool at the kitchen island, her right leg crossed over her left, and her head resting in her left palm which was on the table. She had her eyes closed, and was attempting to concentrate, but Quinn's tantrum was making it difficult.

Ivy was reaching out with her chlorokinesis, using the small seedling held in her closed right fist to find it's twin. A moments earlier she felt the seed completely vanish, well out of her normal radar. Much like minutes ago when it vanished from their roof to another location. She used her connection to plant to find a nearby plant and use it to form a set of 'eyes' for her. She found out that Spider-Man and Batman were accompanied by Black Canary and Zatanna, and had transported to the GCPD roof. Wherever the troop of heroes disappeared to they had gone a great distance from where they just were. She was having trouble finding where they had gone. It didn't make it any easier since Batman or his allies didn't let loose where they were headed.

Through her seed she was able to 'hear' most of what Peter said. So she was able to find out that Klarion the Witch Boy was behind whatever was happening, and that the situation was much more dangerous than previously thought. 'PP- Ah hah! So that's how you knew where I was and what I said. Geeze that's been bugging me for a while.' 'PI- In my defense I embellished most of the time when you checked in with me.' 'PP-What?' 'PI- My child was embedded under your skin and muscle. How could I have possibly understood what you said? I cannot read vibrations.' 'PP- Wha...you...you played me.' 'PI- I've had plenty of practice Parker. Do not feel bad about it. As you know well, lying is a skill those like us learn fast and master artfully.' 'PP- You got me there. Please continue.'

"I can't help but worry bout Petey. He's off doin' god knows what, god knows where, with a bunch of capes. On the one night a year we should all be together an happy. At least ya know where he's at, right Red?" Harley asked, looking over the couch to her best friend. She saw Pam slip the seed in Peters costume during the hug. Ivy lowered the hand holding the seed, and shook her head.

"I lost him a minute ago. They were moving by magic, and I have no idea where they went. It could take me hours to find him." Ivy let out a embittered sigh. She slipped off the stool and began pacing in between the living area and kitchen, her chin held in her right hand fingers.

"GOD I HATE THE BAT!" Harleen shouted suddenly, before throwing herself back into the remaining pillow on the furniture. A stream of colorful and very Harley Quinn insults were muffled by the pillow, and Pam found herself holding her tongue on agreeing with several. Her right hand moved up and she ended up biting the tip of her thumb. Her mind was running on high, trying to both locate Spider-Man and come up with some way to make sure he was safe. The tantrum on the couch stopped, and a calm barely noticeable voice spoke up. "Red... what if he doesn't come back from this one? I mean... I know Petey can handle himself, he's come back from much worse, but... will he come back?"

Pam froze hearing this. Harleen's words sunk in, deeper than Isley would have ever wanted any to cut into her. 'Will he come back?' That question repeated over in her mind. Each time resounding in her heart. 'PP- Pam?' 'If this really is the same person who brought him to us, couldn't she just send them back? Would he abandon us for his chance to return home? No... he isn't like that, but... It's not like he really has a reason to stay. Would he...' 'PP- Pam?' 'No... I don't want to lose him again...' 'PP- Yoohoo, Blossom, anybody home?' 'PI- Hmm? Wha?' 'PP- Thought I lost ya there Pam. You just kinda stopped walking and went silent all of a sudden. You okay?' 'PI- Yes, sorry yes. I was just...thinking, and got carried away. Where was I?' 'PP- Alright, well if you are sure. You left off at Harls having a tissy on the couch and not liking Batman.' 'PI- Oh right.'

Suddenly Pam felt a welling of determination bubble up in her. 'I'm not going to sit by and let that happen.' She thought before wiping away all doubts and ferociously spinning her cogs on a way to find Peter. "No. He is coming home to spend Christmas with us, whether he wants to or not. We put to much into this for him to ruin it by dying." Pamela's resolve steeled and her voice grew confident as she spoke. Quinn popped up from the couch and smile happily at her bestie.

"Damn right! So what's the pla..." Harley was cut off when a bright pink light spilled through the windows. It easily drowned out the lights in the loft, and bathed the two women as they watched it cover the night sky. Ivy felt an odd prickling sensation in her body, but it passed just as quickly as the pink horizon vanished. "What the preteen nightmare was that?!" Harley looked around the room, and up at the returned black sky bewildered beyond belief. The was a minute of silence as the two of them looked around the room and checked themselves for anything different.

Suddenly the television channel went completely static. It made the jester woman jump in place, as she spun around to see what happened. Ivy too was startled by it, but when her eyes locked to the screen the static vanished and a young blue faced teenager appeared on the screen.

"Festive holidays to you of this world. I am Klarion Bleak..." 'PI- It was the Witch Boy's message that allowed us to figure out where you were so quickly.' 'PP- Yeah, I guess it is pretty easy to pinpoint one of the Wonders of the World. Stonehenge is kinda iconic.' 'PI- Indeed.' 'PP- I shoulda took some pictures while I was there. I mean when's the next time I'm gonna be in England?' 'PI- *Rolls her eyes*'

"Red?" Harleen turned frightened eyes to her friend, voice wavering her question. Pam stared hard at the screen, fear building up inside of her.

"Dear lord..." Panic set in before she could even finish, and Ivy sprinted up the stairs and into the Garden. Harleen was right on her heels, and stopped once she saw Ivy drop to her hands and knees on the grassy patch inside the indoor jungle. Roots of all sorts, and even vines and branches reached out toward Poison Ivy. Roots wrapped themselves around Ivy's arms and legs, almost to the point of melding with her very skin. Vines fell on her body and blanches grew out to touch her.

"Red what're ya doing?!" The blond took to kneeling next to the red head, who's eyes were closed in concentration. "Red!"

"Harley settle down! I need to concentrate." She raised her voice without breaking her concentration to the plants around her. "Please work. Please work." She chanted, and then through her telepathic connection to mother nature, she managed to tap into the primal force she was a part of The Green.

Ivy's mind reached out for the one other being she felt might be able to help her get to Parker. Hopefully Swamp Thing hadn't been effected by the reality change. It was a long shot, but she couldn't think of another way to get to their roommate in time to help. Through the Green she caught his signature and instantly went to it.

'Alec!' Her astral self called out to the turned back of a large plant amalgam humanoid. It's astral body rounded on her, staring back at her with something akin to confusion.

'Poison Ivy? Why are you contacting me? No, nevermind, now is not the time. The world is in cris...' It's murky voice said before starting to turn away.

'Alec, that is why I'm here. I know where the source of this chaos is. I need you to take me there.' Ivy interrupted desperately. Swamp Thing looked back over his shoulder, even more confused than her sudden appearance.

'Why do you need to be there?' Alec asked carefully. It was obvious from his tone, that something didn't add up, and even if the two were warriors for The Green, Ivy's methods and history left little trust there.

'There is someone there I need to save. Please I need your help.' She pleaded. If she could help it Pam wouldn't give Alec any more information beyond that, but she knew...she knew that her past wouldn't give her the benefit of the doubt with a hero.

'You'll excuse my suspicions, Ivy, but why should I believe you? How do I know this isn't some trick to eliminate your enemies?' He asked, his giant form staring down at her, easily dwarfing her.

'Because... because...' No matter the determination she held coming here, she felt it harder to admit it to someone other than Harley, hero or not. Her pride was something she held onto dearly, something that defined her. Swamp Thing waited patiently as Ivy sorted her self out. Could she admit she cared for a man, none the less a hero, to someone other than Harley. A memory of Spider-Man's beaten, broken, and barely alive body lying face down on the cement floor, freshly pulled out from under a near ton of steel and debris flashed before her. Batman and several other capes surrounded Parker, and others restraining her and a hysterical Harley. That was more than enough reason to set aside her pride. Never to see that happen again.

'Because I need to save Spider-Man. He's important to me, and he's out there right now dead center of this. Please Alec, I'm begging you. I couldn't live with myself if I lost him now.' She spoke softly, her words coming out with a sorrowful emotion the hero would probably never have expected her to be capable of. Silence hung between them, Ivy staring up into his eyes, as Alec decided.

'Poison Ivy, I would have thought the Rot would take me long before seeing you like this. Whats more I sense no falsehood in your words. This Spider-Man must mean a great deal to you. Fine." Swamp Thing placed his large hand on her shoulder. 'Show me the way and you can save this man.' Ivy actually felt tears brim on the side of her eyes. She had a chance now.

'Thank you.'

'You are welcome. Keep your connection open, and I shall be there shortly.' Alec said. Pam nodded once and closed her astral eyes. Back in the Garden, her body quivered, coming out of the deep trance she was in. She opened her eyes and immediately felt arms around her neck.

"RED! Are you alright?" Harleen hugged her friend tight, as she asked.

"Yes, and I found a way to get to Peter." Harley pulled away without her hand leaving Pam's shoulder. Her eyes were alight with both hope and the start of tears.

Watchtower / Present

"Alec formed in the Garden shortly after. We had to put my body in a cocoon of sorts, and transported my consciousness through the earth inside of him. When we arrived we formed a construct body using a part of him and implanted my min..."

"Whoa whoa whoa whoa whoa, hold on a second. You're telling me that this you isn't really you, and that the real you is actually back home?" Peter tried to summarize gesturing with both hands to her, but the shock of learning this through him for a loop.

"Correct. This body is almost an exact duplicate of my real one." She said looking down at her hands. Peter saw the her expression shift to interest, as obviously she didn't really think much on it until she actually said it herself. "It is actually a novel experience, and feels totally natural. I guess I just didn't have the time to actually think about it till now. It is a bit disconcerting."

"Ya think. Geeze, talk about the subtlety of an earthquake. Wait...does that mean you would have been fine if old One Eye actually stabbed you?" Peter couldn't help but ask. 'There is barely any difference between this body and her real one, at least from what I can see. I would have saved her either way, but it does make you wonder.'

"No I wouldn't have. With my consciousness in this body I am just as susceptible to death as in my real body. More so as this body isn't a complete copy. That is part of the reason I stayed hidden. You really did save my life." Ivy explained growing a smile as Peter brought his hand to the back of his head, showing his slight embarrassment at the compliment. "Thank you again, by the way."

"Anytime." He beamed happily at her. 'Why is it so hard for me to take compliments? I've often wondered this. Sure I don't do what I do for the accolades. Jameson is more than enough proof of that. I guess I'm just not used to it, especially from a very attractive lady. One who tended to paralyze me if I so much as looked at her wrong. It's just, nice I guess.' Ivy nodded, her crimson hair swaying forward as she did.

"As much as this body feels... normal, I long to be back in my own. There is just something missing from this one." She commented, making Parker quirk an eyebrow.

"What's that?"

"My... humanity. I... don't think I'm ready to give it up, just yet." A small green blush graced her cheeks, as she flashed another smile up to him.

"Glad to hear it. Well hopefully we'll be home tonight or tomorrow at the latest."

"The sooner the better. Being around this many goodie goodies is starting to make me sick to my stomach. One is already more than I care to handle." 'And Poison Ivy's back.' She stood tall and crossed her arms, taking a quick glance up to the control room.

"You know, they aren't as bad as you think they are. Everybody like us has had their fair share of problems. Me especially because I'm the Universal Joke Butt." Peter laughed awkwardly, and Pam turned back to him questioning him with her gaze at the odd statement. "Right, you weren't there for that little internal monologue. I'll fill you in later." She let out a sigh and shook her head.

"Please don't." Ivy said exasperated. Chuckling he turned round to look up at the large digital clock on the giant middle tower that was the control room.

"I got one more question before I go to get my clean bill of health. Where's Slade? No one here would tell me when I asked." Peter asked turned very serious very fast. Ivy's expression darkened as well, but she met his eyes none the less.

"Whatever you injected into Wilson with those... stingers of yours, put him into a coma. I'm guessing it was only his enhanced physiology that prevented his death." She knew just how much the death of another would affect the man before her. Peter let out a held breath, and she continued. "Last I saw of him was when we all were teleported to this place. He was taken away, I presume to some holding area for treatment. Why do you care?"

"Well knowing he's alive is a weight off my shoulders, but more so I need to speak with him." Peter said cryptically. Ivy looked him over in concern.

"Why?" She asked knowing he was hiding something serious. Parker only acted this secretive when it was serious.

"Something he said to me before I passed out. I need to know what he meant." Peter nearly whispered, like he only wanted Pam to know. He let out a long calming sigh after saying this and his shoulders sagged. "What about Klarion?"

"Are you going to tell me what he said?" Isley routed his second question.

"Maybe later, but not here." The Wallcrawler said secretively. 'You know my cautious nature and suspicion have certainly been amped up since I started running as Tenebrea. Normally I'm a mostly opened book, personal and professional and secret professional life separated for obvious reasons, but yeah I've noticed I'm becoming more like Bats... *shudders* Eww just gave myself the willies.'

"Alright. Klarion was taken from the heroes before Zatanna got us out of there. Faust used magic to transport the two of them away from the battlefield." Ivy explained.

"Of course he got away. Can't be a good bad guy without an escape plan, right?" He grumbled good natured, and gave Pam a slight nudge with his right elbow. She gave him a cocky grin in return. "Thanks Blossom. Welp, I'm off to get us out of here. Hang in there just a bit longer Body Snatcher." With that Peter turned and crutched his way off to the infirmary, waving back to her as he did.

"Will you stop with the bad puns and just get us out of here already." Pamela called as he left, moving her hands to her hips, and watching him go.

"Someone's anxious to take over the planet, I see. Oh, and before I forget, we'll be having guests for Christmas. See you soon." He added as if it wasn't a big deal.

"What?!" Pam's raised voice only quickened his hobble.

CHAPTER 8 END

A/N: Yup. Yup I'm way late on getting this out. After the last chapter I went through a few month attempt to move. Failed needless to say and then I ended up working on several smaller story ideas till I felt up to writing seriously again. I had to get a chapter out for my other story first because I was just as late with churning one out for it. Anyway, sob story over and we have a new chapter. Sorry it took so long.

I've noticed I have some trouble with filler chapters, which is what I felt like this one was. However there was plenty of development character wise, and relationship wise. At least from my perspective. It may take a bit longer till it make sense for you. I also tried something new, with the flashbacks from others point of views. How'd I do?

So Wanda is back in the picture, and Ivy is being distant again. Are the two connected somehow? You can bet your ass they are, but maybe not how you think. Or you may be thinking correct, don't know I'm not a mind reader. So the next chapter we'll finally have the reveal of what Peter got the girls for Christmas. That and Harley will get to meet Wanda. That outta be fun. Hopefully you wont have to wait as long for the next chapter. Happy Halloween everybody. Till next time.

~Wiggles

XJustified: Well thank you very much.

MEleeSmasher: Maybe

Kiwifan7: Happy to oblige.

Harbringer of Kaos: Hopefully this chapter made you smile then.

lostsoldierS636: Mostly right on them all, I hope this chapter explained the rest. Time traveling chapter/s... hmm.

argentorum: You are very welcome. I really want my readers to know that their input is really appreciated. After reading your response it got me thinking on the logistics of a world without super powered heroes. I may just do a What If story about that. Ideas have been popping in my head at random involving the implications of a world change like that. So it's not outside the realm of reality. Thanks for reading. Hopefully this chapter was fun as well.

im ur misconception: Wow affectionate much. Glad you enjoyed it, and hopefully this chapter too. *Goes to change my address now out of fear of bodily harm*

Dragonskyt: Why thank you, I was going for that.

guestspider: If it does happen, you'll just have to wait and see.

TheWickedTruth89: ARGH! Wicked talk to me. It's driving me crazy. *Sobs*

Psudocode Samurai: I do try to make sure my fans enjoy the chapters. That would be a fun thing to see, I'll keep it in mind.

darkaschaos: Thanks for the compliment, and I totally understand the desire to see Marvel invade DC. That being said only the future will tell.

Jonza: Thank you.

GumGumOnigiri: Glad to pleasantly surprise you, and I'll do my best.

Arrankor: On the nose.

unknown1124: Now there's a thought.

Anonymous: I totally agree with you. Well guess what they aren't the only ones who can retcon. *Smiles evilly*

tylerbamafan34: The best part of waking up is Pam Pete and Harley in your cup.

Mayhem286: Can do.

DhanaRagnarok: Now there's a mental image I enjoy. Glad to cause it.

Hikari no Suzaku: And thank you for the praise Hikari. Hopefully you'll like this chapter too.

kindleflame5: Umm...wow. No no he hasn't.

EroSlackerMicha: It certainly will.

Nerfhearder69: Wanda will be... *Static*

FateBurn: Sorry for the wait.

Ant Crown: I like to be surprising. It keeps things interesting. Thanks for reading.

montanodavid94: I know what you mean. Most stories I've read tend to just drop him in with no real explanation why. I know that isn't how it works, and I did my best to make it realistic.

Bael92: It quite a bit late, but here's the update. And I would like to see that too.

Wonderbee31: Well this chapter was definitely exploration of relationship status. Hope it was to your liking.

Arrow783: I'm not planning the harem route, but well the story evolves over time. So you never know, but I am glad I could surprise you. Thanks.

qdon: Wrong guess, but I hope it didn't disappoint. Well no spoilers but yes and no. Mwah hah ambiguity.

Angel of Atonement: Well hopefully you'll enjoy my character building as much, as this chapter doesn't have nearly as much of the stuff. Thank you for rating my story so high. It means a lot.

ZonCon: Read and you shall see.

The New Creed: No worries, everyone has their preferences. And glad you liked the chapter.

The Third Biker Scholar: Don't bow, you'll make me blush. Thank you though.

Chaos-Guard: He hasn't broken reality yet, but we're getting there.

Naosj: Wow thank you for the compliment. It would be amazing if it happened. And I'm pretty sure I'd die of happiness.

Mr .unknow: Don't know just yet, but I'm working on it.

Rakjo: And history loves you too

Psionjay108: Without spoiling anything...maybe. Glad my review could lead you to my work, and thanks for reading.

Book-AddictFF: Wait no longer.

Asurau: Unfortunately the answer was much more simple, but I hope it was just as pleasant. Glad you enjoyed it.

regfurby: A rather interesting idea, but incorrect. Trust me I've wrestled with the idea of heroes stopping a truly evil for good, but backing out because of who they try to be. But think about this, what if the other heroes weren't there to stop him? Thanks for reading.

Singasongthatnooneesleknows: I will, I promise.

sdp77: Cool I got it right. Thanks.

FrivolousThoughts: Don't you worry about anything Friv. It was a great review of both chapters. I'm really happy you liked how I wrote it. Something I've noticed in difference between DC and Marvel is the seriousness level. DC is gritty and serious, with the good guys there to stop the bad guys, and nothing more. Marvel has the heroes and villains actually banter, bicker, and even have history together that isn't always violent. Peter's a chatterbox, and I could see him actually talking to the baddies, if they'd give him to time of day to. Hence the Killer Frost conversation. She struck me as a talker, and she would just love the conflict with Pete. I really hope you get what happened with Ivy in this chapter. Cause it is a big plot moment. Thanks as always for reading.

Anonymous #2: Yup. And boy is it confusing.

MF 22: I totally understand, as I am a grammar nazi too. And I do my best to catch them in my final edit, but sometimes they just slip through the cracks. He got all his old powers back from The Other arc on till One More Day. He's back to 200%. And yes Marvel seems to have many more super powers than DC. It will be interesting to see how he takes on foes that troubled him in the past now. Nope it wasn't the venom symbiote, it was his time as Tenebrea. I'll go more into depth into that later though. Thanks for reading.

Unbodied: Nice to know my writing is a drug now lol. Thank you kindly for the praise.

Silber D. Wolf: Thanks

Jebest4781: Well prison is up to debate. As for Wanda she will not become a Lord of Chaos, cause they are evil. Glad you enjoy my work, and thanks for the review.

The Hero named Villan: I have yet to tap into the whole Tantric/Chaos thing. It'll be interesting to see how it plays out. And Spidey may have a version of his Black Suit, but the symbiote is no longer a part of him.

w: It's way late, but here you go.

marco2o: Glad you like it. And here's more.

ialmostwon51: I wont give up on this story, promise.

Blue Soki: Huh...

Ryuus2: Pretty astute observations Ryuus. I hope to not disappoint with the new arc. Thanks for reading.

W: Is this the same person as lowercase w?

RedFistCannon: Lots and lots of run scenarios in my head, and plenty of research. Surprisingly the ladies' dynamic with him just fell into place incredibly well. Thanks for reading. Here's more.

dalulzing: Ouch man. That's harsh.

Paperman0: Well you get to see the start of the relationship square in this chapter. No action really, but development was needed. Thanks for reading.

Lord of Daemons: I promise I wont. Hopefully the time jumps will be easier in this arc.

johnny three tears: I demand Pepsi!

Z: Embarrassing moment HOOOO!

confused: Well that's part of the story we've yet to learn. Give it time and I'll do my best to change your mind.

Guest #1: Sorry for the wait.

Guest #2: No plans to stop this train anytime soon.

Guest #3: Hmm, well you'll just have to wait and see

Guest #4: Aww it's so cute. Thanks

Wanderer No.96: Sorry to make you wait so long. Here's more.

Guest #5: For now, aye.

Anon: It took a while sorry.

Bookeater-otaku: Plenty of Wanda in this one and much more to come.