Chapter 3

Disclaimer: I don't own How I Met Your Mother or Spider-Man and anything Marvel related. They belong to their respective owners.

The group decided to take a break from their intense planning session and find a place to eat, hoping that some food and fresh air would help clear their minds. They settled on a small diner just down the street from the church, its neon sign flickering in the night.

As they entered, the warm glow of the lights and the scent of freshly cooked food filled the air, providing a momentary respite from their worries. They took a booth near the back, allowing them to speak freely without fear of being overheard.

Tracy sat beside Ted, her hand resting on his as she looked over the menu. The symbiote on her skin was calm, almost serene, as if it too appreciated the brief moment of peace.

"I think I'll have the cheeseburger," Barney announced, snapping everyone out of their thoughts. "And a large milkshake."

"Are you sure you should be eating all that?" Lily teased, arching an eyebrow at him.

Barney smirked. "Hey, I need my strength for the battles ahead."

Robin chuckled, shaking her head. "Fine, but don't blame us if you can't fit into your suit later."

The conversation lightened as they placed their orders, each person trying to distract themselves from the looming challenge. However, beneath the surface, their concerns remained.

When the food arrived, they dug in, the clinking of silverware and the soft murmur of voices filling the space between them. Tracy picked at her salad, her mind still preoccupied with the symbiote.

"You okay?" Ted asked softly, noticing her distant expression.

Tracy nodded, forcing a smile. "Just thinking about everything. It's a lot to process."

Ted squeezed her hand. "We'll figure it out together. That's what we do, right?"

Their eyes met, a silent promise passing between them. Just then, the door to the diner swung open, and a man walked in. He was tall, with broad shoulders and a confident stride. His gaze swept over the room before settling on their table.

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice deep and resonant.

They exchanged puzzled looks, but before anyone could respond, the man pulled out a chair and sat down. He smiled, revealing a set of perfectly white teeth.

"Name's Eddie Brock," he introduced himself. "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. Sounds like you folks could use some help."

Marshall leaned forward, his interest piqued. "You know something about symbiotes?"

Eddie nodded, his expression serious. "I've had firsthand experience. I was... bonded with one once."

Tracy's eyes widened. "You were Venom?"

Eddie grimaced, nodding again. "That's right. And let me tell you, it wasn't easy. But I learned a few things along the way."

The group listened intently as Eddie recounted his experiences, detailing the struggles he faced and the lessons he learned. He spoke of the symbiote's hunger for violence and chaos, but also of its potential for good when guided properly.

"It's not just about separating Tracy from the symbiote," Eddie explained. "It's about finding a balance. Teaching it to coexist peacefully."

Tracy felt a surge of hope. "Do you think that's possible?"

Eddie shrugged. "Nothing's guaranteed, but it's worth a shot. I'm willing to help however I can."

Encouraged by Eddie's offer, they began to discuss their next steps in more detail. Eddie suggested training sessions to help Tracy learn to control the symbiote's impulses, while also teaching the others how to defend themselves in case things went awry.

As the conversation continued, the symbiote within Tracy stirred, responding to the energy in the room. It was curious, eager to explore this newfound alliance.

"Maybe we should start tomorrow," Robin suggested, glancing at her watch. "It's getting late, and we could all use some rest."

Agreeing with her assessment, they paid the bill and stepped back out into the cool night air. The streets were quiet, the world seemingly unaware of the battle being waged within their midst.

As they walked towards their cars, Eddie pulled Tracy aside. "Listen, I know this is tough, but you're not alone. We'll get through this together."

Tracy nodded, gratitude welling up inside her. "Thank you, Eddie. For everything."

He gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder before rejoining the group. Together, they headed off into the night, their resolve stronger than ever.

Back at the Mosby residence, Tracy lay awake in bed, her thoughts racing. The symbiote twitched on top of her skin, restless yet content. She reached out, touching the creature's consciousness gently.

"Tomorrow, we begin," she whispered, a mix of fear and excitement coursing through her veins.

The symbiote pulsed in response, a silent agreement forming between them. As sleep finally claimed her, Tracy knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.

To be continue...

Eddie Brock has been introduced to the gang and reveal his past. Will he be able help Tracy McConnell control her new symbiote? Find in the next chapter!

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