Marvel: From the Void and Back Again
Chapter 27: The Plotting on Olympus and The Misunderstanding…
…
Peter-Knull who was sitting beside Madelyn Pryor, Logan, She-Hulk, Cable, Pixie, Laura, and Spider-Gwen were on the jet, flying towards Mount Olympus. The atmosphere was tense yet filled with anticipation. Each member of the team was going over the details of the upcoming contest, their thoughts heavy with the significance of this event.
…
At Avengers Tower, Hermes had appeared unexpectedly, holding a scroll sealed with the mark of Olympus. "An invitation for Peter-Knull," he announced, handing the scroll to Thor. With curiosity, Thor unrolled the scroll and read its contents aloud.
"Peter-Knull is hereby invited to Olympus to partake in a contest of strength, skill, and wit. You are welcome to bring allies to witness and support you during the event. This invitation serves as a gesture of goodwill and an opportunity to demonstrate your prowess before the gods."
Hermes added, "Bring whomever you trust to ensure your security and support. The contest will be held in the grand arena, and we eagerly anticipate your participation." With that, he vanished back to Olympus.
…
Back on the jet, the team reviewed the lineup for the contest. Thor had developed a strategy for each match. The first two matches were straightforward contests of sport, requiring one side to submit defeat. Peter-Knull would face Ares in an initial round of tact and combat prowess, testing his combat skills against the god of war. Then, he would go up against Athena, a test of strategy and intellect.
"The third match will be different," Thor explained. "It's a test of memory, involving long and complex riddles. Speed and accuracy will be key, as each riddle is five paragraphs long, and you're timed on all three."
Peter-Knull nodded, absorbing the information. "What about the fourth match?"
"The fourth match is a forging contest against Hephaestus," Thor continued. "You'll need to forge Olympian alloys into a construct. It's a test of craftsmanship and creativity."
Peter-Knull smirked. "Sounds challenging."
"And finally, the last match," Thor said, his tone serious. "You'll face Hercules in a contest of physical prowess. This will be the ultimate test of strength."
Peter-Knull's expression grew determined. "I'm ready."
"Remember," Thor added, "there will be a break between the fourth and fifth matches. Use that time to rest and recover."
Everyone took their seats in the arena, with Madelyn giving Peter-Knull a kiss for luck. The atmosphere was electric with excitement. As Ares entered the arena, he chose a battleaxe, one of his favorite weapons. Peter-Knull decided to forgo his symbiotic weapons and armor, opting to compete with a basic Olympian battleaxe. This earned him a look of respect from Ares, who recognized Peter-Knull's gesture of honor.
They circled each other, Ares looking for any sign of an opening, any slip-up, while Peter-Knull kept his focus sharp. Suddenly, they lunged at each other.
…
Four, long, hours, later…
For four hours, they clashed intensely. Ares, despite his skill, began to tire. Peter-Knull, however, remained composed, using deft parries and redirections to keep Ares off balance.
At one point, Peter-Knull lightly tossed his battleaxe over Ares' head as Ares attempted a strike. When Ares brought his axe down, Peter-Knull slid under him and straightening up behind Ares, catching the axe he had just tossed. By the time Ares realized Peter-Knull's strategy, he felt the axe blade tapping him lightly on the back of his neck in a non-threatening manner. It was a perfect opening, an ingenious maneuver that left Ares acknowledging Peter-Knull's skill and tact.
After a moment of thought Ares realized that Peter-Knull could continue indefinitely while he was tiring, Ares decided it was time to set his axe blade down and submit, ending the match acknowledging that he'd reached his limit.
…
Peter-Knull's allies could only stare at what just happened in growing astonishment and incredulity as the hours ticked by especially at the end.
Logan, always impressed by raw combat prowess, let out a low whistle. "That was some damn fine fighting. He's got more tricks up his sleeve than I thought."
She-Hulk crossed her arms, nodding appreciatively. "The way he maneuvered was insane. I've seen some impressive fighters, but that was on another level."
Cable, known for his tactical mind, analyzed every move. "He's not just strong; he's smart. Every move was calculated. Ares never stood a chance."
Pixie's eyes were wide with amazement. "Four hours and he's not even sweating! It's like he's incapable of getting tired in a fight."
Laura, who valued skill and precision, couldn't help but smirk. "He's got finesse. That maneuver was genius. Ares didn't see it coming."
Spider-Gwen, always supportive of Peter-Knull, felt a swell of pride. "He's something else, isn't he? Watching him in action, you can't help but feel inspired."
Madelyn, standing beside them, had a big smile on her face as she rubbed her stomach, "He's incredible, isn't he?"
With Hera however, her thoughts were a tangled web of strategy and vengeance. She reflected on the secret deal she had struck with Mephisto, sealing their alliance with a sinister promise.
As she observed the gods of Olympus and that bastard zeus himself, the memory of their agreement played vividly in her mind.
Mephisto, with his devilish grin, had laid out the terms: he would help her spread the rumor that Peter-Knull had insulted Zeus, calling him a "royal bastard." In return, Hera would ensure that Mephisto's future enemies were dealt with once she seized power, if she could overthrow Olympus that is...
The plan was simple yet effective. Hera had waited patiently, watching Zeus from the shadows, cataloging every infidelity and betrayal. She knew exactly which buttons to push, and Mephisto's assistance was the final piece she needed to set her plan in motion.
The scene in her mind shifted to their final meeting.
…
Mephisto's voice was a sibilant whisper, filled with malice and anticipation. "Once Zeus turns against Peter-Knull, the chaos will be unstoppable. And when the dust settles, you will have the throne of Olympus, free from his tainted rule."
Hera had agreed, her own voice filled with determination and a thirst for revenge. "I want Zeus to suffer, to feel the weight of his actions. And once I have the throne, I will purge Olympus of his loyal followers. They will all pay for their loyalty to a faithless god."
…
Now, as she observed the preparations for the contests, Hera felt grim satisfaction. The seeds of doubt and anger had been planted, and soon, Zeus's wrath would be directed at Peter-Knull. She smiled to herself, knowing that her moment of triumph was close at hand.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Zeus, his expression stormy and intense. Hera hid her satisfaction behind a mask of concern. "Is everything alright, my lord?" she asked, feigning innocence.
Zeus grunted, his eyes flashing with anger. "I have heard troubling rumors, Hera. Rumors that Peter-Knull has been spreading lies about me."
Hera placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "Surely they are just that—rumors. But if it were true, wouldn't it be wise to confront him directly?"
Zeus's expression darkened further. "I will not let such insolence go unpunished. He will answer for his words. If they are proven to be true, since they are just rumors for now."
Hera nodded, her mind already racing ahead. Soon, Zeus would confront Peter-Knull, and the ensuing chaos would be the perfect cover for her to seize power. She would finally have her revenge on Zeus for his countless betrayals, and with Mephisto's help, she would secure her rule over Olympus.
As she watched Zeus storm away, Hera allowed herself a moment of satisfaction. The plan was in motion, and soon, she would be the undisputed ruler of Olympus.
Zeus took his seat, signaling the commencement of the second match. He was observing closely, still uncertain about the rumors. Only Hera knew the full extent of the plot, and no one dared to speak the rumors aloud.
Athena entered the arena with Peter-Knull for the next match. She allowed him to choose his weapon, and after a moment of thought, Peter-Knull selected a shield and a spear, mirroring Athena's own weapons of choice. This match promised to be more challenging than the previous one with Ares, as Athena was known for her tactical prowess and strategic mind.
…
For two whole hours, they clashed. Athena nearly bested Peter-Knull several times, and vice versa. Neither fighter was willing to give the other an edge. Peter-Knull maintained a measured distance, circling whenever Athena struck, ensuring he couldn't be backed out of the circle. It was a smart move, demonstrating his long-term thinking.
Athena began to tire, her strikes growing slower and less precise. No matter how hard she tried, Peter-Knull blocked with his shield and counterstruck with precision. The fatigue was evident, but Peter-Knull remained steady, his stamina seemingly unyielding.
At one critical moment, Athena managed to disarm Peter-Knull, leaving him with only his shield. Seizing the opportunity, Peter-Knull turned the tables by using the shield as a weapon. He knocked her spear away and then rammed her shield with the edge of his, sending Athena flying backwards and out of bounds.
As she caught herself on the ground, Athena realized the genius of Peter-Knull's strategy. She had been so focused on keeping up with him that she hadn't noticed they were gradually moving closer to the edge with each rotation. He had outsmarted her, and despite her defeat, she admired his tactical brilliance.
…
The crowd at Olympus buzzed with anticipation as the next match was announced. This challenge was different—a test of memory and intellect, consisting of three riddles, each comprised of long and convoluted paragraphs. Peter-Knull had only ten seconds to solve each one. The crowd fell silent, and even Thor looked apprehensive, knowing how difficult these riddles could be.
Riddle One…
"In the beginning, there was chaos, an endless sea of potential. From this formless state emerged the primordial gods, shaping the cosmos with their will. Among them was a force of unmatched power, able to split the sky and strike fear into the hearts of all who witnessed its fury. This force, often seen in the heavens, is both a giver of life and a harbinger of destruction. It travels faster than the eye can see, its presence marked by a brilliant flash and a resounding roar. What am I?"
Riddle Two…
"Life flows through the veins of the earth, nourishing all that it touches. This element, essential to survival, carves paths through mountains and valleys, shaping the landscape over eons. It is both gentle and fierce, capable of eroding the hardest stone and quenching the fiercest thirst. In the depths of this element, countless creatures thrive, and civilizations have risen and fallen upon its shores. It can be as calm as a mirror or as turbulent as a storm. What am I?"
Riddle Three…
"From the dawn of civilization, this element has been a source of fascination and fear. It brings warmth and light to the darkest nights and fuels the engines of progress. However, it also possesses a destructive power that can consume forests and cities alike. This element is a symbol of passion, anger, and transformation, often depicted in the myths of creation and destruction. It dances with a life of its own, requiring careful control to harness its full potential. What am I?"
You have fifteen seconds to answer all three riddles…
…
Peter-Knull stood still, listening intently to each riddle. Without hesitation, he answered each within five seconds saying one immediately after the other.
"Lightning," he declared for the first riddle, causing murmurs of approval and amazement in the crowd.
"Water," he said for the second, drawing nods of agreement from the audience.
"Fire," he concluded for the third, sealing his victory in the test of memory and intellect.
Those who initially doubted his abilities were left dumbstruck by his intellectual prowess. Peter-Knull's allies exchanged looks of astonishment, each realizing the depth of his knowledge and the speed of his mind.
While Logan, Madelyn and Jeneffer could think of one or two answers to those riddles, the fact that they only had less than half a minute to answer them and think them over, left them with virtually no time to think on the answer to the convoluted riddles.
Logan could only let out a low whistle, impressed by how fast Peter-Knull's mind words.
…
The contest arena transformed into a vast forge, the air thick with the smell of molten metal and the sound of hammering. Peter-Knull and Hephaestus stood at their respective anvils, ready to craft automatons from Olympian metals. The gods and spectators watched in anticipation, aware that this match would showcase not only strength but also creativity and craftsmanship.
Peter-Knull worked with a quiet intensity, his symbiotic abilities aiding him in shaping the metal with precision and speed. Hephaestus, the god of blacksmiths, was equally focused, his skill and experience evident in every strike of his hammer. Both competitors moved with practiced ease, transforming raw materials into intricate works of art.
Peter-Knull's automaton began to take shape, its design inspired by classic Greek statues with the bonus of cogs and pistons with little interchangeable parts. He incorporated motifs depicting blacksmiths forging tools, warriors preparing for battle, and scenes of combat. The detailing was exquisite, each panel an art in on itself, speaking to his skill and artistic vision. The automaton was not only functional but also a masterpiece of storytelling through metalwork.
Hephaestus, on the other hand, focused on creating a robust and powerful automaton, designed for strength and durability. His creation was impressive, showcasing his mastery of forging and his ability to imbue metal with life-like qualities that was slightly larger than Peter-Knulls. However, it lacked the artistic flair that Peter-Knull's automaton possessed, and it lacked any shield and spear.
As the sun began to set, signaling the end of the forging period, both competitors stepped back to admire their work. The automatons stood side by side, each a reflection of their creator's strengths. The three judges, appointed for their expertise in craftsmanship, moved in to examine the creations.
They observed the fluidity of the automatons' movements, the precision of their joints, and the complexity of their mechanisms. Peter-Knull's automaton, with its artistic motifs and matching spear and shield crafted from leftover materials and what little leather was available, drew significant attention. The judges were particularly impressed by the narrative quality of the artwork, which added a layer of depth and meaning to the creation.
Hephaestus's automaton, while strong and well-crafted, obviously lacked the artistic aspect, and weapons which it more than made up for in terms of bulk and size, this would be a close one…
The judges conferred, weighing the technical, and tactical prowess, strengths and weaknesses and artistic merit of each entry. After careful deliberation, they announced their decision.
Peter-Knull's automaton was declared the winner, its combination of advanced mechanics and artistic beauty giving it a slight edge over Hephaestus's creation. The crowd erupted in congratulations, recognizing the skill and creativity that had gone into both works.
Hephaestus nodded in acknowledgment, a rare expression of respect from the god of blacksmiths. In his mind, he admitted that Peter-Knull had matched his skill, a feat few had ever achieved.
Peter-Knull, though relieved and satisfied with the victory, remained composed. Merely giving a nod to Hephaestus acknowledging his work and giving him congratulations on his craftsmanship.
…
As the celebration began when the night approached, Peter-Knull and Madelyn Pryor retreated to the guest quarters to enjoy some time together. Meanwhile, the gods mingled with Peter-Knull's allies. Logan, She-Hulk, and Spider-Gwen overheard whispered conversations among different groups of Olympians.
Logan caught a snippet of a conversation where one god mentioned that Zeus had heard Peter-Knull had cursed his name. "I don't know if it's true, but I don't think he would be that stupid," the god said.
She-Hulk overheard a god whispering to Aphrodite, "If he did, he's in for a world of hurt."
Spider-Gwen listened to a similar discussion among another group of gods. They hadn't seen or heard Peter-Knull curse Zeus themselves, but the rumor had them worried.
Logan, She-Hulk, and Spider-Gwen exchanged concerned glances. They knew Peter-Knull wouldn't do something so reckless for no reason. The rumor didn't make sense, and they felt an unease settle over them as they pondered its implications.
The trio found a secluded corner to discuss their concerns. Logan voiced what they were all thinking. "This doesn't sound like Peter-Knull. Especially since he agreed to the tournament. It's giving me one of those feelings that someone is pulling the strings."
She-Hulk nodded, her eyes scanning the room. "We need to find out where this rumor started. Let's ask Hermes if he knows anything."
They approached Hermes, who was mingling nearby. Logan asked him directly, "Hermes, have you heard anything about these rumors of Peter-Knull cursing Zeus? And if you have, who told you?"
Hermes looked a bit nervous but decided to be honest. "I heard it from Ares, who heard it from Poseidon, who in turn heard it from Hera. Hera didn't say where she heard it from, but it's riled up Zeus pretty badly, and we're all getting worried."
As Hermes spoke, She-Hulk noticed Hera watching them from across the room, frowning. When Hera saw She-Hulk's gaze, she quickly broke eye contact, turning away. This only deepened She-Hulk's suspicion.
Logan clenched his fists. "So, it started with Hera. That's suspicious. We need to keep an eye on her. Something's not right here."
They nodded in agreement, their concern growing. If Hera was behind this rumor, they needed to uncover her motives and ensure Peter-Knull's safety during the tournament.
Peter-Knull rejoined the festivities, his presence commanding attention. Logan, She-Hulk, and Spider-Gwen felt obligated to inform him about the rumors.
"Peter-Knull," She-Hulk began, "there are rumors going around that you cursed Zeus in an insulting way. Did you say anything like that?"
Peter-Knull stared at them, genuinely surprised. "I didn't do that. Whoever said I cursed Zeus in such a manner for no reason is lying. I may be a bit rough around the edges, but I'm not that stupid."
The look on his face was one of genuine confusion and indignation. Logan, She-Hulk, and Spider-Gwen could instantly tell that this was the first time he had heard of this information.
"I'm guessing that someone has been spreading rumors or something…?"
Logan nodded. "We've got our suspicions. Hera seems to be at the center of it, but we need more proof."
Peter-Knull sighed, "Alright. We need to stay focused on the tournament and keep our eyes open. If Hera is behind this, we'll find a way to expose her."
It was then that they heard Madelyn…
Down the hallway, they heard Madelyn's shout echoing loudly. "I SAID GET OUT! NOW! YOU'VE DONE ENOUGH, ZEUS, AND I KNOW IT'S YOU! NOT MY PETER! SO, PLEASE, JUST LEAVE!"
Everyone quickly rushed to the guest quarters and saw Zeus changing back from his disguise as Peter-Knull. Madelyn locked eyes with Peter-Knull and rushed to his side, embracing him, weeping slightly.
"It's what she said next that made the heroes' jaws drop and caused Peter-Knull to visibly growl at Zeus. "He tried to go to bed with me! But something in me told me that it wasn't you! My blood curdled when he tried to embrace me!"
The shock and anger in the room was at a boiling point.
Logan's claws extended reflexively, She-Hulk's fists clenched, and Spider-Gwen's eyes widened in disbelief. The gravity of Zeus's actions in this manner were quite shocking even for someone who was notorious for such offenses in the past.
Peter-Knull's growl grew louder, his anger barely contained. "You dare try to deceive and violate my Madelyn?!"
Zeus, now fully revealed, stood tall, though there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes as some other gods came to see what that noise was.
Zeus growled back at Peter-Knull, trying to redirect the blame. "It was proper payment for calling the ruler of Olympus a royal bastard after I invited you into my home under the agreement of piece!"
As they argued, Hera subtly riled up Zeus further and revealed that someone planted poisonous herbs in the kitchen, right next to where the wine was being kept—Zeus's wine. Logan especially caught on to what Hera was doing, his eyes widening in shock. She's planning this! he realized. She's using Zeus's pride to cause turmoil between him and Peter-Knull.
Peter-Knull looked like he was about to strike, as did Zeus, but Peter-Knull collected himself and growled, "Zeus, whatever you've heard, I didn't—"
Zeus, believing his favorite wine was poisoned on top of the supposed insult, got a dangerous edge to his voice. "I INVITE YOU INTO MY HALLS! GIVE YOU THE HONOR OF BEING IN MY HOME! AND YOU CURSE ME AND THEN POISON MY DRINKS! EVEN BEFORE I TRIED TO RETALIATE?!"
He then dropped his voice to a whisper. "Change of plans, a new deal if you will...! Tomorrow, instead of Hercules, you'll be facing me in the arena... to the death! So, we can finish this, once and for all!"
With that, he stormed out, leaving Peter-Knull and his allies to process the sudden and dangerous turn of events. Madelyn clung to Peter-Knull, still shaken, while Logan and She-Hulk exchanged worried looks. They knew this confrontation was now inevitable, and they had to prepare for the worst.
…
Later…
Logan, She-Hulk, Cable, Pixie, Laura, Spider-Gwen, and Thor convened in the guest quarters, their expressions grim and determined. They knew they had to address the turmoil Hera was causing quickly, with only a short time before morning when Zeus would expect a match with Peter-Knull.
Logan took a deep breath, looking at his comrades. "We need to expose Hera's manipulation and stop this madness. I'll call Nick Fury and update him on this disaster."
Logan pulled out his phone and dialed Nick Fury, pacing as he waited for the call to connect. After a moment, Fury's voice came through the line. "Logan, what's going on?"
Logan didn't waste any time. "Nick, we've got a serious situation here. Hera has been playing us all, and she's manipulating Zeus into a deadly confrontation with Peter-Knull. She spread a rumor that Peter-Knull called Zeus a royal bastard, then said that Peter-Knull tried poisoning his favorite wine, and now Zeus is out of blood."
There was a pause on the other end before Fury responded, his tone grave. "That sounds bad. How sure are you that Hera's behind this?"
Logan glanced at his comrades, who nodded in agreement. "We're sure. We've got multiple sources confirming it. Hera's been planting poisonous herbs in the kitchen, and she's using Zeus's pride to create chaos, in his blind rage Zeus tried disguising himself as Peter-Knull and tried advancing on Madelyn which Madelyn caught onto him, in turn it's pissed off Peter-Knull even if he's keeping a level head for now, Zeus may push him over the edge if he continues. This is one dangerous situation, and we need backup."
Fury sighed heavily after absorbing that information. "Understood. I'll mobilize a team and get there as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep an eye on Hera and try to de-escalate the situation. We can't afford to let this spiral out of control."
"Got it, Nick. We'll do what we can." Logan ended the call and turned to his teammates. "Fury is on his way with backup. We've got to stay on alert and keep an eye on Hera. This isn't over yet."
She-Hulk nodded; her expression determined. "Let's get to work. We need to gather evidence and expose Hera's manipulation to Zeus before it's too late."
…
A few hours later with Thor, Laura, and Logan…
Laura, Thor, and Logan walked through the grand halls of Olympus trying not to draw any attention to themselves, heading towards the kitchen. The news of poisonous herbs planted in Zeus's wine had set their minds racing. As they entered the busy kitchen area, Laura's heightened senses immediately homed in on a group of five servants who appeared anxious. One servant caught her eye—she was nervously rubbing her wrist, which bore a faint red mark.
Laura approached the group. "Did any of you see someone plant the herbs? Notice anything out of the ordinary?" Her voice was calm but carried an undertone of urgency.
The servant with the red mark on her wrist looked away, clearly distressed. "Nothing like that," she said shakily. "We were just preparing more food for the festivities when Hera decided to inspect our progress. That's when she found the highly poisonous herbs."
Laura noticed the servant's discomfort and glanced at Thor, silently communicating that something was off.
Thor stepped forward, his towering presence softened by his empathetic expression. "I understand this must be difficult for you," he began, his voice gentle and reassuring. "But we are only here to seek the truth. Whoever did this won't stop until they're caught. On my honor, you have my word that we mean you no harm."
The servant hesitated, looking into Thor's eyes. The sincerity and kindness she saw there seemed to give her strength. Encouraged by her fellow servants, she finally spoke up, her voice trembling.
"When Hera found the herbs, I saw her... plant them on the food's ingredients we were preparing," she confessed. "Afterward, she confronted me in my quarters, grabbed my wrist, and demanded I keep this secret. She said if I told anyone, she would see to it personally that I would be sent to Tartarus."
Logan felt a surge of rage at Hera's manipulation and intimidation. He knew they had to handle this carefully, but the thought of the servant being threatened infuriated him. He stepped closer, his tone softening to offer comfort. "Thank you for telling us. You're safe now. We won't let anything happen to you. We'll make sure Hera's schemes are exposed."
The servant's shoulders shook as she broke into sobs, the terror she had been holding finally releasing. Laura let her sob into her shoulder, comforting her in her own way, trying to calm her down. Meanwhile, Thor and Logan exchanged a determined look. They had the information they needed to confront Hera and clear Peter-Knull's name.
…
Group Two's POV
Group two, consisting of Cable, Pixie, She-Hulk, and Spider-Gwen, was tasked with tracing the origins of the rumors about Peter-Knull. They approached various gods of Olympus who had heard the rumors.
Poseidon confirmed he had heard the rumor from Hera herself. His expression was one of discomfort as he mentioned how Hera seemed unusually insistent on spreading the word.
Hecate was more reserved, admitting she had heard the same from Hera but hadn't thought much of it at the time. However, she did note Hera's unusual agitation when discussing the matter.
Artemis provided the most detailed account. When she questioned Hera about evidence, Hera had become visibly angry, warning Artemis that she was not her daughter and should not question her. Artemis described feeling a profound sense of danger, a primal fear that set off alarm bells in her mind.
"We thank you for your clarity, Artemis," She-Hulk said, exchanging a glance with the others.
Artemis nodded, a hint of relief in her eyes. "Be careful. There's more at play here than meets the eye."
Back in the guest quarters, the two groups compared notes.
"They all heard it from Hera," Cable said, summarizing their findings.
"And she got visibly angry when Artemis asked for evidence," Pixie added.
Logan, Laura, and Thor shared their findings about the servant who had witnessed Hera planting the poisonous herbs.
"This confirms it," Logan said grimly. "Hera's behind all of this and with this evidence, we may have enough to convince zeus of Hera's deception."
"Agreed," Laura said. "But we need to be strategic about this. Hera's dangerous and unpredictable."
…
A few hours later… something unexpected happened…
As the match approached, the team was frantic. Their key witness, the servant who could expose Hera, was missing. She had been their trump card to tie Hera directly to the poisonous herbs. Panic set in when they realized they had only four minutes left until Peter-Knull's match with Zeus.
"Has anyone seen her?" Logan growled, barely keeping his frustration in check.
"No, servants said she was here just a little while ago," Spider-Gwen replied, anxiety evident in her voice.
Thor's brows knitted together in concern. "This isn't good. Without her testimony, we have no proof."
Logan's claws itched to extend as he paced. "Damn it! She has to be somewhere. We can't lose her now."
As the tension mounted, Hermes and Artemis approached. Hermes' usually jovial expression was serious. "It's almost time for the match to begin" he said, his tone somber.
Reluctantly, the team followed. As they passed Hermes and Artemis, the two gods leaned in close. "She's in the dungeon," Hermes whispered, pressing a key into Logan's hand. "Play along and get her free, we don't know if Hera is watching us."
Logan's eyes widened in realization and gratitude. "Thanks," he muttered, pocketing the key.
Artemis added, "We'll cover for you as long as we can, but hurry."
The gods shut the doors to the arena behind them, closing off Logan and the others from Zeus and Hera. But now, they had a lead—and a chance to save their friend and clear Peter-Knull's name.
…
Logan, She-Hulk, Cable, Pixie, Laura, and Spider-Gwen raced down to the dungeons, their hearts pounding with urgency. The stone walls echoed their hurried footsteps as they neared the cell where their key witness was held.
As they approached, they saw Ares standing guard. The god of war's usually stern face held a conflicted expression.
"Ares," Logan called out, his voice a low growl.
Ares glanced at them, his grip tightening on his spear though he did not try drawing it on them, he looked like he was thinking about something. "I was assigned to guard the servant by Hera. She claimed it was for her protection in light of recent events, and not to question it saying that it was none of my business... but something doesn't sit right with me."
She-Hulk stepped forward, her tone clear and respectful. "We need to get her out. She's the only one who can prove Peter-Knull's innocence."
Ares hesitated, his eyes reflecting his inner turmoil. He has come to respect Peter-Knull since their match, sensing his honorable nature. Hera's demeanor had unsettled him, a rare feeling for the god of war and the rumors don't match up with Peter-Knull's character, he's not one to be that stupid.
After a tense moment, Ares sighed and stepped aside. "I believe you. Hera's orders felt... off, especially since she refused to give me clear instructions. Go ahead."
Logan nodded, quickly unlocking the cell with the key Hermes had given him. Inside, the terrified servant looked up, her eyes wide with fear.
"You're safe now," Spider-Gwen reassured her, helping her to her feet. "We need to stop this madness…!"
Suddenly, they felt the ground and the ceiling vibrate, and the sound of lightning bolts echoed from above. Ares looked up, his expression grave. "It's starting... the match between Zeus and Peter-Knull. You need to hurry."
Logan clenched his fists. "Let's move. We don't have a second to waste."
With the servant in tow, the group rushed back towards the arena, the urgency of their mission driving them forward. The fate of Peter-Knull—and potentially the balance of power on Olympus—depended on their success.
…
As they arrived at the arena, Zeus was engaged in a fierce battle with Peter-Knull. The ground shook with each of Zeus's strikes, shockwaves rippling through the air. Peter-Knull, despite taking several lightning bolts to the face that sent him crashing into walls, stood his ground, blocking Zeus's blows with his own arms.
"ZEUS, DAMN-IT! LISTEN TO ME! I DIDN'T DO I-" Peter-Knull shouted, only to be cut off by another furious lightning bolt from Zeus.
Logan, She-Hulk, Cable, Pixie, Laura, and Spider-Gwen didn't waste any time. They rushed forward, their presence catching Zeus's attention. He paused mid-strike, glaring at them with suspicion and anger.
"WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?!" Zeus demanded, his voice booming.
Logan stepped forward, his expression serious. "Peter-Knull is telling the truth! He didn't plant the herbs, and he didn't curse your name!"
The servant, trembling but determined, stepped forward. "It was Hera," she said, her voice shaking. "I saw her plant the herbs and start the rumor about Peter-Knull cursing you. She threatened to throw me into Tartarus if I told anyone, and she had me locked up in the dungeon."
Zeus paused, skepticism still evident in his eyes. "And how do I know this isn't a ruse?"
Artemis, Hermes, and Ares stepped forward. Artemis spoke first. "Hera threatened me too. She was furious when I questioned her."
Hermes nodded. "She warned us to keep quiet about it."
Ares, with a conflicted look, added, "Hera commanded me to guard the servant. I was in the dungeon with her moments ago under Hera's orders."
Zeus's face contorted with confusion and anger as he absorbed the revelations. The assembled gods and heroes awaited his judgment
Zeus took several deep breaths, visibly trying to calm himself. For a rare moment, he seemed to be using his intellect over his rage. He looked towards the stands and quietly requested, "Hera, approach."
Hera descended from the stands, her expression defiant. Zeus asked in a calm tone, though desperation tinged his voice, "Are these accusations true?"
Hera sneered, startling everyone with her intensity. "True? Of course, they're true!" she spat, her eyes blazing with a long-repressed fury. "All these years of infidelity, of backstabbing and betrayal from you! After so many millennia, it's all come crashing down. I set out to prove a point, Zeus, and I've proven it!"
The gods and heroes watched in stunned silence as Hera continued, her voice rising. "You let your whims control you, sleeping with woman after woman, lording your power like the animal you are! I've grown sick of it! I've been planning this for centuries, to show everyone what you truly are—a tainted creature, just like your forebears. MAYBE NEXT TIME YOU'LL THINK OF THAT BEFORE YOUR NEXT FLING!"
The arena was deathly silent, the weight of Hera's words hanging heavily in the air. Zeus's face twisted with a mix of rage, betrayal, and a hint of sorrow. The other gods and heroes were stunned, realizing the depth of Hera's madness and the gravity of her confession.
Zeus clenched his fists, taking another deep breath as he struggled to maintain control. "Hera," he began, his voice dangerously calm, "you have dishonored me and our family with your actions. You have endangered Olympus and sullied the name of the gods."
He turned to Peter-Knull and the others, his expression softening slightly. "Peter-Knull, you have been wronged by this deceit, and wronged by me. The match is over. Hera will be dealt with accordingly, and I… apologize for my actions… I hope someday you can forgive me for my crime of being blind."
Hera's madness seemed to peak as she laughed maniacally, but the guards quickly moved in to restrain her. The heroes and gods looked on, knowing that this was just the beginning of a tumultuous aftermath but at least they cleared Peter-Knull's name.
That's all they could ask for at this point…
…
Some time later…
Nick Fury leaned back in his chair, absorbing the gravity of the report being relayed to him. His face was stoic, but his eyes reflected the weight of the situation. Olympus had nearly descended into chaos due to Hera's machinations, a scenario that could have had catastrophic consequences not just for the gods, but potentially for the mortal world as well. Zeus, now visibly shaken by the revelations, had surprisingly allowed Fury and his team to take statements without resistance. The king of the gods, normally so proud and unyielding, seemed a shadow of his former self, haunted by his role in the fiasco.
Zeus had granted Peter-Knull and the others space, giving them the opportunity to recount the events without his imposing presence. Fury knew the importance of this gesture; it was an acknowledgment of wrongdoing, a rare admission from the ruler of Olympus.
"Peter-Knull and Madelyn Pryor have been through the wringer," Fury thought, tapping his fingers on the table. "We need to get them home, debriefed, and back to some semblance of normalcy after this."
Meanwhile at Avengers tower the SHIELD transport landed smoothly at Avengers Tower, a stark contrast to the turbulence of the past two days. Peter-Knull and Madelyn Pryor stepped out, visibly relieved to be on familiar ground again. The towering structure of Avengers Tower stood as a beacon of safety and order amidst the chaos they had endured.
"Feels good to be back," Peter-Knull murmured to Madelyn, who nodded in agreement, her grip on his arm tightening as they made their way inside.
In the SHIELD apartment complex, Logan sat at a table with Kitty Pryde, Pixie, Nightcrawler, Daken, Laura, Gabriella, and Wild-Claw. The events in Olympus weighed heavily on them, each lost in their thoughts about the near-catastrophic aftermath of Hera's treachery.
Logan broke the silence, his gruff voice carrying a mixture of admiration and frustration. "Hera really caused a mess this time. Gotta admit, though, I'm impressed. Peter-Knull kept a level head when Zeus tried that stunt with Madelyn. Anyone else would've lost it and made things worse."
Kitty nodded thoughtfully. "From what you've told me, he could've retaliated, and no one would've blamed him. But he saw the bigger picture, kept his cool."
Nightcrawler, his blue features shadowed with concern, added, "It's a reminder how fragile peace can be. Hera's actions nearly tore everything apart. It's frightening to think how close we came to an all-out war between the Olympians."
Daken could only grunt in agreement taking a drink of his refreshment.
Laura, her eyes reflecting a mix of anger and relief, interjected, "We were lucky. Finding that servant was the turning point. Without her, we wouldn't have been able to clear Peter-Knull's name."
Gabriella, always the optimist, tried to lighten the mood. "At least you managed to prevent a complete breakdown. That's something, right?"
Logan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, it is. But this whole thing is a mess that nearly spiraled out of control. We need to be ready for whatever comes next."
Logan looked around at his team, taking a moment. "Besides… after everything that Peter-Knull went through, he deserves a bit of peace."
Wild-Claw, Peter-Knull's symbiotic creation, sensing the heavy atmosphere, decided to lighten the mood. Wrapping an arm around Gabriella, he grinned. "In other news, Tigra and Peter-Knull's symbiote, Beast-Shade, got together... you know, the cat-like one?"
Daken finally let out a chuckle. "Wonder who else will get a symbiotic partner at this rate?"
The group shared a collective laugh, the tension easing as they enjoyed the moment of levity.
One thing was sure though, nothing was boring with Peter-Knull's symbiotes around.
…
Elsewhere, in a dimly lit room filled with the scent of incense and the flicker of candlelight, Destiny was viewing the future like she usually did every night these days. Her visions turned to Madelyn's and Peter-Knull's children. Lucian Pryor-Knull, with his red eyes and unmistakable biker look reminiscent of his father, and his sister, Selena Pryor-Knull, with her distinctive biker style and raven hair, complete with a hoodie accompanying her symbiotic jacket. They were driving through the countryside on their sleek, black motorcycles, the engines purring like contented beasts beneath them.
The night air was cool, and the sky was a blanket of stars. Lucian and Selena rode side by side, their bond evident in the synchronized way they moved. After a while, they pulled over to the side of the road, the countryside around them quiet and serene.
Lucian dismounted his bike and stretched, his leather jacket creaking softly. He glanced around, his red eyes scanning the darkness. "Hey, sis? Do you feel like someone's watching us? I can't explain it, but it feels like we've got eyes on us."
Selena, leaning against her bike, her hoodie casting shadows over her face, looked thoughtful for a moment. Destiny, watching this scene unfold through her mystical sight, felt her heart skip a beat. What would they say? How much did they sense?
Selena shrugged casually. "It's most likely Aunt Irene doing her mystical, pre-cognitive powers in the past again... you know how she is?"
Lucian chuckled softly, the sound carrying through the night. "Yeah, that sounds about right."
Destiny felt herself staring in shock. The casual way Selena acknowledged her presence in their lives, even across time, was both comforting and
It was the next thing that caught her attention the most: Selena and Lucian continued their conversation as if talking about their time-traveling aunt was the most normal thing in the world.
Lucian glanced back at his bike. "Well, let's get going. We've got a lot to do at SHIELD."
Selena nodded, "Yeah, let's move, we've got a lot of work to do."
They both mounted their motorcycles, the engines roaring to life once more. They rode off into the night, heading towards the distant lights of SHIELD headquarters. Destiny watched them go, a mixture of pride in her heart.
"Aunt Irene… huh? Aunt Irene…" She thought to herself as she rolled that around in her head a little bit.