Chapter 12: The Fountain
Hey everyone, I'm back with a new chapter. Glad to see many of you enjoyed my last chapter. I have a few surprises in store for this one. I hope you like what I have planned. Please Review and Enjoy.
We find ourselves in Prof. Badcock's class as the students try to turn animals into other animals. Little did they know that Jaden was watching this from his secret study room, practicing the same spell.
"Metamorphie Fociesse." Lotte casts turning a rat into a capybara.
"Metamorphie Fociesse." Sucy casts turning her rat into a bat.
Next up was Diana.
"Metamorphie Fociesse." Diana casts turning her rat into a beautiful white horse to the amazement of everyone.
"Ugh I hate to admit it but that's pretty good," Jaden said before noticing a rat nearby. "Hold still little guy Metamorphie Fociesse." Jaden casts using his hands and the rat transforms into a German Shepard. "Heh, nice." Jaden smiles impressed before undoing the spell.
"Well, it seems everyone has mastered metamorphosis magic." Prof. Badcock said writing in her notes.
"But Professor Badcock Akko didn't cast yet," Cindy said snitching on Akko.
"Man snitching on other people like that so not cool" Jaden said with a hint of anger.
Preparing herself it was Akko's turn.
"Metamorphie Fociesse," Akko cast the spell at the rat but nothing happened"
"Akko. Akko," Lotte pointed at her head while some of the witches laughed. Sucy held her laugh, and the green light spell spun around, giving the witch apprentice donkey ears.
"No way," Akko said shocked and embarrassed.
"Poor Akko she doesn't get a break, does she? " Jaden said knowing her pain.
"You can't even cast a proper basic metamorphic spell. You will learn today and won't leave your room until you master it"
"Today? But isn't the school going to have a party tonight? "Akko asked
"Yes, tonight we're honoring the Famous Earl of Hanbridge and a special guest from the other side of the portal. A wealthy businessman." Prof. Badcock explains.
"Businessman?" Jaden pauses wondering who it could be.
"Oof if the Earl is coming that means his son will be here too." Hannah grins.
"The Viscount of Appleton, Andrew. I've heard he's brilliant and handsome." Cindy teases which Akko catches with her large ears.
"How handsome?" Akko asks curious.
"Miss Kagari. You will not be going. You are to remain in your room until you have mastered the spell." Prof. Badcock said much to Akko's disappointment.
"How the hell is she supposed to master it if you don't help figure out what she's doing wrong?" Jaden groans pinching his nose. "These people call themselves teachers?"
That night all the students and staff were gathered in the main hall.
"As you all know our special guests will be arriving shortly. Please be on your best behavior," Holbrooke insists.
"They're almost here." Cindy smiles.
"I can't wait to meet him," Hannah said.
"You two need to learn some self-control," Diana said unfazed.
"Principal Holbrooke, the guests are arriving!" Prof. Babcock calls out.
Entering the room first, we see an elderly man with white hair, glasses, and a brown suit. Alongside him was a colleague in a suit, and behind them was a teenage boy with blonde hair and a green suit, but what grabbed the attention of the female students was a handsome teenage boy with dark brown hair and a dark purple suit. These were Paul Hanbridge, Frank, and Andrew Hanbridge.
"Ooh, he is handsome," Ariana said checking him out along with Hannah and Cindy.
'Hmm not as handsome as Spider-Man.' Felicia thought.
Nearby, Stephen was standing with Luke, Jaime, Ava, and Nathaniel.
"What the heck? Pretty boy strolls and instantly all the girls are fawning over him." Luke gestures.
"What are we? Chopped liver?" Jaimie asks.
"Don't lower yourselves to this, it's pathetic how excited these girls are getting," Ava said eating some food.
"Why aren't you fawning over him?" Stephen asks.
"Because unlike these girls I have a little something called self-respect," Ava said pointing to herself.
At the buffet, Sucy, Lotte, and Iris were eating.
"This food's pretty good," Sucy said.
"Yeah, Nathaniel went all out helping prepare this," Iris said.
"It's a shame Akko isn't here to enjoy this," Lotte said as Ursula walked over.
"What happened to Akko? Why isn't she here?" She asks.
"Oh, Prof. Ursula. Prof. Babcock ordered her to stay in her room," Lotte said.
"She can't leave until she masters the metamorphosis spell," Sucy adds.
"She's practicing all by herself? That's worrisome." Ursula said as Jaden walked over.
Taking out two Tupperware, Jaden filled them up with food before putting them in his back while no one was looking.
Trying to play it casual, Jaden notices Otto nearby.
"Boy, these girls really know how to roll out the red carpet huh?" Jaden asks.
"Ugh, I swear it's like one of those fundraisers I used to go to. Only this time it's the old ladies who are asking the young men for money," Otto said making Jaden chuckle.
"You're not helping?" Jaden asks.
"Hardly, I just came here for the free food," Otto said loading up his plate.
"Great minds think alike." Jaden chuckles.
Arriving next, we see a man with red hair and wearing a sharp business suit. On the collar gleamed a green stone with a goblin design around it. This was Norman Osborn, CEO of OSCORP and Harry's father.
"So this is the famous Luna Nova," Norman said looking out at the party.
"Hello, Mr. Osborn," Holbrooke said.
"It's Dr. Osborn." Norman corrects.
"Sorry Dr. Osborn," She corrects herself. "We have some of the brightest students in all subjects. I'd like to introduce you to one of our smartest." Holbrooke starts leading to Diana but Norman notices Jaden near the table with Otto and smiles widely.
"Jaden Cooper!" He calls out surprising everyone as he walks down to him. "How the hell are you?!"
"Oh god." Otto rolls his eyes.
"Mr. Osborn?" Jaden said in surprise and disbelief.
"Jaden, how long have we known each other? It's Dr. Osborn." Norman corrects before chuckling. "I'm kidding. Norman. You can always call me Norman. Listen I apologize for me and Harry not being around for your father's funeral. We were too far away."
"It's fine, thanks for the flowers and for helping pay for the funeral plot," Jaden said.
"It was the least I could do. So, what are you doing here? How did you find out about this place?" Norman said.
"My dad wanted me to come here, he thought it would be good for me.," Jaden said.
"A son should honor his father's wishes. I respect that," Norman smiles.
"So, you two know each other?" Ursula asks.
"Do we? Jaden and my son Harry have been best friends for years." Norman said clapping Jaden on the back. "It's because of him, Harry aced all his Science classes."
"Harry aced them, I just helped." Jaden smiles.
"Always the humble one," Norman said.
"Hey by the way how's Harry doing? I've been trying to call him for a while but it goes straight to voicemail." Jaden asks.
"Harry's been a little preoccupied with things lately. It might take him a while to get back to you, but don't worry he's doing well." Norman assures before turning his attention to Octavius. "So, this is where you ended up?"
"Norman what are you doing here?" Otto asks getting straight to the point.
"I acquired a way through the gate years ago when I was in pursuit of a little passion project," Norman said. "How did you two get acquainted?"
"Jaden is learning under me as my assistant. We're working on quite the project together." Otto said clapping Jaden on the back and pulling him towards him.
"Yeah, Dr. Octavius is a great teacher. This project could help so many people." Jaden agrees.
"A teacher? Oh, Otto. How low have you fallen?" Norman asks shaking his head in disappointment. "You should be working in a big laboratory, not a school science lab. A place where you can continue your work without distractions."
"You mean at OSCORP." Otto assumes.
"You always were the smartest guy in the room," Norman smirks.
"You haven't changed a bit." Otto glares.
"Neither have you," Norman said as Holbrooke approached them.
"Uh sir, if we could continue, we have a lot planned for—" Holbrooke starts.
"No need." Norman interrupts holding out his hand. "I just need to ask one question and if I like what I hear I'll write a check."
"Sure, ask away." She said.
"Not from you. From the only person in this school whose opinion I care about." Norman said turning to Jaden. "Jaden, I trust your judgment. Tell me right now, do you believe this school is worthy of my help? Do you find yourself challenged? Accepted? What does it offer a guy like you?"
Pausing Jaden noticed all the students and staff watching him. Wondering what he would say.
As Finnelan glared daggers from the back, Holbrooke cupped her hands together in prayer.
"Luna Nova is not like any other school I've been to. It's definitely unique. But this school gives me a chance to learn and understand things I never could back home. While I don't have it as well as some students here, I find this school provides certain challenges to help me grow and improve myself." Jaden declares choosing the right words.
"I see," Norman said reaching to the table and grabbing a napkin. Unsure what was happening, Norman scribbled something on it and handed it to Holbrooke. "Will this do?"
Curious Holbrooke opens it and her eyes widen. "Uh, are you sure? This is very large…"
"I'll have my people be here in a few days. We can discuss the donation then." Norman nods confirming Jaden has won him over. "It was good catching up with you Jaden oh…and you as well Otto," Norman said walking out.
Smiling Jaden was feeling pretty good. In the first 5 minutes, he helped get a massive donation.
"That was a unique approach," Frank said.
"He clearly just wanted to leave," The Earl of Hanbridge said downplaying it while Andrew looked at Jaden curiously.
"When did this school allow boys to enroll?" Andrew asks.
"I hear it's a special program or something," Frank said.
While his father wasn't interested, Andrew paused hearing that.
In Akko's room, we see the poor girl still in her room trying to master the spell.
Sitting in bed, she looked at her book as her test rat sat across from her in a cage.
"Okay, let's see. First, visualize what you want the subject to be." Pausing Akko decided on an animal. "A rabbit. You'll be a rabbit. Metamorphie Fociesse!" Akko waves her wand but instead of the rat, she ends up giving herself bunny ears. "Aw, man! This wasn't supposed to happen!"
Back at the party, we see three witches in long robes and masks doing a ceremonial dance as the guests watch from a table.
"What do you think of the ceremonial dance?" Holbrooke asks.
"It's quite marvelous." He nods.
"All the witches in this school are awesome," Frank said leaning against Andrew. "Not to mention pretty cute, I'm especially interested in that one." He said hinting towards Diana. "That's Diana from the distinguished Cavendish family. You can tell just by looking at her she's a sight for sore eyes."
"Is she really that famous?" Andrew asks uninterested.
"Come on dude, I know you're not a fan of magic but you can't tell me you haven't heard of her," Frank said in disbelief.
"After the performance, we have a lovely gourmet dinner prepared for you." Holbrooke points out.
"Ms. Holbrooke, I'm afraid my son isn't that interested in the performance. Would you mind showing him around campus?" Paul asks.
"Of course. Ms. Cavendish." Holbrooke calls out.
"Yes, ma'am?" She asks walking over.
"Please give Andrew a tour of our campus." Holbrooke requests.
"Of course." Diana nods in understanding.
"Hi there, my name's Frank. I'm a friend of Andrew." Frank introduces.
"It's nice to meet you," Diana said before glancing at Andrew.
"Long time no see." Andrew simply states surprising his friend.
"You think anyone would miss me if I stepped out?" Jaden whispers.
"Are you kidding? Get out while you can." Otto urged.
"Thanks, Doc." Jaden smiles quietly sneaking out the door but Diana notices.
"Uh, Miss Ava?" Ursula said tapping her shoulder.
"Yes, Professor?" Ava asks.
"It's been a while since Miss Akko was left alone. Would you mind going to check on her?" Ursula asks.
"Absolutely," Ava said eager to leave.
In Akko's room, the poor girl was still struggling to master the spell but nothing was happening.
"Ugh. Nothing's working." Akko said lying in her bed. "Can I really do this? Maybe I am a washout after all." Frowning she remembers when she first found Shiny Rod. "When Shiny Rod revealed itself to me, I thought maybe I had some hidden potential. I just wish someone could tell me if I have magical talent or not."
Putting her face in her pillow, Akko groans softly before gasping.
Remembering something, she gets out of bed and grabs a book. Opening it, there's a card inside.
"The Fountain of Polaris. It gives the magic power of the stars to a witch who has hidden potential. Maybe…my potential hasn't been realized yet." Akko ponders.
Opening a large book, she read the contents of the fountain.
"The Fountain is located on Luna Nova. Those looking to seek it should journey to the North campus and through the Big Dipper Arch." Akko read. "The North Campus. That's usually off limits, but maybe security is down due to the party."
Seeing this might be her best opportunity, Akko hurriedly left her room.
Outside, the school Jaden was sitting on a bench looking at his chunk of the Sorcerer's Stone.
'As long as a witch is near even a small bit they can use magic.' Jaden thought getting an idea when he heard footsteps.
"So you and Diana are childhood friends?" Frank calls out as Jaden quickly turns invisible to avoid being spotted.
"We were formally acquainted while I was living at my family's summer home when I was little. I can't say we were ever friends." Diana answers.
"That's no surprise seeing as how you spent your entire summer obsessing over a cult. All the other kids in town were creeped out by you." Andrew replies when they hear a snickering noise.
Pausing both turned to Frank suspiciously.
"That wasn't me. I didn't laugh at that." Frank said.
"If you say so." Diana narrowed her eyes as they kept walking.
Hiding behind a column Jaden was covering his mouth.
"Anyway, that's not how I remember it. Magic had become quite popular but maybe you were too distracted by the attention of girls to notice." Diana responds.
"Indeed, I didn't notice, but that's because I didn't find that old, outdated magic interesting," Andrew admits.
"Unfortunately, I remember us having conversations like these all too well." Diana sighs.
"I think it's cool to be interested in old things," Frank said interested.
"Why's that exactly? There's no value in things that are useless or outdated. It's no surprise Luna Nova is having financial problems. Natural selection always weeds out the useless things." Andrew said annoying Jaden who was secretly following from behind.
'This guy could learn a thing or two about manners from Harry. He never talked that way about people's passions.' Jaden thought.
"Maybe lighten up a bit Andrew. You're being a little extreme." Frank said as Diana came to a stop.
"We're prohibited past this point. This way please." Diana said gesturing to an opposite hallway.
As she walked away, Frank glanced at his friend.
"What were you doing? That was totally uncalled for." Frank said.
"I only pointed out the truth," Andrew said.
"You're something else," Frank said walking ahead.
Andrew was about to follow when he noticed Akko sneaking ahead.
'Akko? What's she doing here?' Jaden thought noticing her.
Hiding near a door, Akko did her best to avoid being spotted but Andrew saw her ears poking out.
Curiosity getting the better of him, Andrew grabbed Akko by the rabbit ears making her yelp in pain.
"Who gave you permission to do that?" Akko groans coming out of hiding.
"My apologies." Andrew apologizes.
"Yeah, you better be sorry." Turning around Akko looks him in the eyes but is surprised to see a new face. "Oh uh well.."
Looking at her ears again, Andrew grabs it again causing Akko to scream in pain.
"What the heck is going on here?" A voice calls out startling Akko.
Turning around she saw Ava with crossed arms.
"Oh, Ava? Uh, what are you doing here?" Akko asks.
"Prof. Ursula sent me to check on you. Imagine my surprise when I heard your screaming and with giant rabbit ears." Ava gestures.
"Blame him. He's the one who kept grabbing my ears." Akko said pointing to Andrew.
"My apologies but are those real?" Andrew asks looking at her ears.
"I'm not a real rabbit, but they are mine," Akko said.
"You don't say." Andrew paused.
"It's the truth. I only have them because I was practicing magic is all." Akko assures.
"I see." Andrew narrows his eyes. "I suppose I should get going Miss…" Pausing Andrew waits for them to respond.
Realizing what he meant Ava cleared her throat. "Ava Ayala."
"My name is Akko. Miss Akko if you like. Or Atsuko Kagari but everyone calls me Akko." Akko said trying to figure out the best name.
"Farewell Miss Ayala, Miss Kagari." Andrew bows his head.
"And you..." Pausing Akko didn't know his name.
"His name is Andrew Hanbridge." Ava answers.
"Oh thank you. Good evening Mr. Hanbridge." Akko said before realizing something. "Wait, Andrew? As in handsome Andrew?"
"For the record, that's what all the other girls said not us." Ava points out much to Andrew's amusement.
"Are you two students?" Andrew asks.
"We are." Akko nods.
"I have to say, I've heard witches are different but you two are the most unique witches I've ever seen," Andrew said.
"Does that mean you like magic too? I bet that's why you came here huh?" Akko asks excitedly.
"Hardly. What I want to know is why you all waste your time learning such an outdated and useless craft. Eventually magic will disappear." Andrew said as Ava narrowed her eyes.
"That's not true! Magic will never disappear because it's still useful to people! I think Magic is the most wonderful thing in the entire world!" Akko snaps.
'Tell him Akko.' Jaden thought from nearby.
"Really?" Andrew smirks. "Then why don't you prove how useful it is?"
"Huh?" Gulping Akko didn't expect him to call her out on it.
Looking around she noticed a squirrel in the courtyard.
"Metamorphie Fociesse!" Akko casts and two puffs of smoke appeared around Ava and Andrew.
Eyes widening in horror, Akko sees Ava has white cat ears while Andrew has donkey ears.
Struggling Jaden covers his mouth fighting the urge to burst into laughter.
Banging his fist against his leg, Jaden struggled to keep it together and not blow his cover.
"Mind telling me how this is useful?" Andrew glares.
"I'm sorry! Let me fix that! Metamorphie Fociesse!" Akko casts the spell again but this time Andrew ends up with a donkey tail.
Putting his arm in his mouth, Jaden was cringing in agony not to burst into laughter but Ava beat him to it.
"Oh my god, you look stupid right now!" Ava laughs.
"You're one to talk." Andrew points.
Pausing Ava didn't realize she had tiger whiskers on her cheeks making her freak out.
"Akko!" Ava growls startling her.
"I have the feeling you don't know how to fix this." Andrew glares.
"Andrew!" Frank calls out startling the three of them. "Where are you?"
"Someone's here!" Akko gasped as the three of them hid behind columns to avoid Frank and Diana.
"He really shouldn't wander off," Diana said as they walked away.
"Oh man, I'm gonna be in so much trouble if they find us," Akko said.
"And I'd rather they didn't see me like this," Andrew admits before turning to Ava. "Can you do magic?"
"Oh I'm not a witch, I'm a student worker," Ava admits.
"Student Worker? Oh you mean you're a servant." Andrew said only for Ava to glare at him.
"I'm no one's servant. Got it?" Ava growls.
"Then what do you do?" Andrew asks.
"I'm in charge of security and make sure no witches do anything dumb," Ava said.
"Then, you clearly aren't good at your job," Andrew said touching her cat ears and instantly Ava purred surprising both of them.
"Don't ever do that again!" Ava said swatting his hand away.
"Ava calm down." Akko said.
"How? How are we supposed to get back to normal?" Ava asks.
"I know how. Follow me." Akko said walking away. "The only thing to do is to find the Fountain of Polaris. I need the power of the stars to unlock my full potential. Then I can make us normal."
Seeing it was their best option, Ava and Andrew decided to follow after her.
Little did they know Jaden snuck away deciding to follow after.
In Akko's room, there's a knock at the door.
"Miss Akko, are you in here? Ava was supposed to check on you." Ursula said opening the door. "If you'd like I can help."
But to her surprise, no one was in there.
Looking around for any clues, Ursula notices the Fountain of Polaris card on Akko's book.
"It can't be." She realizes.
At the edge of the North Building, Akko, Ava, and Andrew were walking down an old, ruined hallway.
"Wow, clearly they never bothered fixing this place up," Ava said when Akko noticed a large wooden door with a sign on it.
"This could be it," Akko said getting their attention.
"You think so?" Andrew asks.
Gazing at the sign, Akko couldn't read the language.
"Is this French? I can't read it at all." Akko said as Andrew glanced at it.
"This isn't French. It's Latin." He said as Akko stepped away. "Visitors should take heed and not disturb the slumber of Arcas. Those who approach upon the fountain beware its wraith." Andrew read.
"What's an Arcas?" Ava pauses.
"I don't know but I think the wisest choice would be to keep our distance." Andrew ponders when Akko charges in and rams against the door breaking it open.
"Akko!" Ava cringed.
"Oh man that hurt." Akko groans.
Suddenly a soft growling echoed.
As the dust cleared, Akko saw Arcas was a giant polar bear-like creature with a golden badge in the middle of its face.
Roaring Arcas was not a fan of being disturbed.
"Come on!" Andrew yells grabbing Akko's hand as they run away.
Roaring Arcas chased after them.
"The warning sign said do not disturb Akko! You woke it up!" Ava yells.
"Why would they have such a thing hidden in here?!" Akko asks.
"Wow, what a great school you have here!" Andrew said sarcastically.
Running ahead they noticed a ladder leading to an upper area.
"Hurry up!" Andrew yells pushing Akko up.
"Come on! Move!" Ava said before noticing Arcas charging at her. Acting quickly she does a backflip narrowly dodging its claws as it slashes part of her jacket.
"Hey! Watch it!" Ava snaps as Arcas attacks her again but this time she jumps off its head and onto the upper level with Akko.
"Impressive," Andrew said.
"Wow Ava, when I gave you cat ears and whiskers did I also give you cat reflexes too?" Akko asks amazed.
"Uh...sure, let's go with that," Ava said nervously.
"Come on Andrew! Hurry!" Akko said as Ava held out her hand for him.
Andrew was about to grab it when Arcas charged in.
Cringing in fear, Andrew thought he was about to be attacked when a figure leaped in front of them and punched Arcas in the face.
"You know I heard there was a party going on, but I didn't think it was this wild." A familiar voice calls out making Akko smile widely while Andrew is speechless.
Eyes widening Arcas saw Spider-Man had come to their rescue.
"Spider-Man!" Akko smiles happy to see him.
"Spider-What?" Andrew pauses never hearing of him before.
Firing a web, Spider-Man grabs Andrew and lifts him to Akko and Ava.
"What are you doing here?" Ava asks.
"Heard there was a party with a special surprise guest. Thought I was finally getting an invitation." Spider-Man said.
"But then why are you here?" Akko asks.
"Because the party was boring," Spider-Man said in an obvious tone.
"I'm sorry but who are you and why are you dressed like that?" Andrew asks.
"Because I'm your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man." Spider-Man declares proudly.
"And he uses magic all the time Andrew. Spider-Man's a hero." Akko states. "How's that for useless?"
"Wait what?" Andrew said not expecting this.
Spider-Man was about to respond when Arcus let out a roar.
"Uh oh guess our furry friend wasn't a fan of that punch. We better move." Spider-Man urged.
Not needing to be told twice, they ran as fast as they could approaching a long stone bridge that ran outside.
As Ava struggled to catch up she noticed a tear in her uniform jacket and it revealed a white tiger-shaped amulet near her hip.
Eyes widening she quickly put it in her pocket before anyone noticed.
Behind them, Arcas roared trying to catch up.
"Why so angry Mr. Bear? Did someone eat your porridge?" Spider-Man asks firing a web at its front paws.
Keeping it up, Spider-Man didn't stop until Arcas was trapped.
Roaring, Arcas pulled against the webs with all its might causing the bridge under them to crack.
"Keep running!" Spider-Man said as the three students ran ahead. "Alright you overstuffed teddy bear I think you need a time out for that tantrum."
Charging in, Spider-Man created a ball of light and threw it.
As it explodes in Arcas' face the bear is briefly blinded allowing Spider-Man to deliver a fierce uppercut.
Shaking it off, Arcas leaps at him, but Spider-Man dodges causing Arcas to smash into the bridge making it break.
Panicking the ground under the others broke causing Akko and Ava to hold onto Andrew who was clinging to the edge for dear life.
"Andrew pull us up!" Akko panics.
"Easier said than done," Andrew growls.
"Say we're heavy and see what happens. I dare you." Ava said but Andrew lost his grip.
Swinging in, Spider-Man grabs Andrew's hand as the bridge collapses.
"Paleis Capma!" A familiar voice calls out.
Suddenly green bubbles appeared around the teens and Arcas calming the beast down.
"It's been a while, Arcas." Looking up the beast saw Ursula flying above them on a broom but for a brief moment, her blue hair had shades of red that quickly vanished.
On the ground, Akko was the first to recover.
"What happened?" Akko asks before gasping. "Oh no! My Shiny Rod!" She panics realizing she dropped it.
"Don't worry Akko, I'm sure it landed nearby," Ava said sitting up.
"Sorry to bother you both but could you please get off me?" Looking down both girls saw they were sitting on Andrew. "I can't breathe."
As both girls got off him, we saw Spider-Man climbing out from some rubble.
"Man, what a fall," Spider-Man said shaking it off before noticing something. "Whoa, what's that?"
Turning their heads, they saw a giant archway with stars in the shape of the Big Dipper atop it.
"It's the Big Dipper Arch." Akko declares.
Realizing the Fountain was on the other side, Akko pressed on with Andrew, Ava, and Spider-Man behind her.
Making their way up a long staircase, they reached the top where a small fountain with a blue sphere of water was floating above it.
"This is the Fountain of Polaris?" Spider-Man said surprised.
He had never seen anything like it. It was so small and simple but he could feel the power radiating from it as the stars shined around them.
Cupping her hands together, Akko pleaded. "Oh great stars, please lend me your power so I can become a great witch."
As the water in the fountain began to glow, Akko looked up and saw a young Chariot in the water's reflection.
"Chariot?" Akko gasps.
Watching the water, we see Chariot walking away with a crushed look. In the memories we see Chariot struggling with her magic, but as time went on she studied hard, and grew mastering her skills before finally returning to the Fountain.
As the memories floated around them, one sphere floated close to Ava.
Curious, the girl realized her tiger amulet was glowing in response to it before the sphere floated away.
As we see the last memory of Chariot receiving the power of the fountain. From above bright green lights rained down on Chariot however one flew down and right towards Spider-Man's arms surprising all of them.
When the memory was finished all 4 of them found themselves in front of the archway.
"It's gone," Akko said confused.
"What happened?" Ava asks.
"The Fountain of Polaris grants the magic of the great stars to a witch who has hidden potential." Turning around they saw Prof. Ursula had arrived. "But if a witch is not ready to receive the magic it will disappear immediately. Guess you came a little too soon." Ursula said.
"Yeah but…" Pausing Akko glanced at Spider-Man.
"Why did it unlock his?" Ava asks.
"I guess the fountain believed he was ready to learn his full potential," Ursula said approaching him. "So, you're the famous Spider-Man I've heard about."
"You're not gonna try and arrest me like the others?" Spider-Man asks rolling up his sleeves.
"Why would I arrest someone who ensured the safety of my students and our guests?" Ursula asks making Spider-Man chuckle.
"Nice to know there's at least one teacher who stops to think," Spider-Man said.
"You're a curious one. I don't think I've ever met anything like you before." Ursula said.
"That's because I'm one of a kind." Spider-Man gestures.
"Guess Spider-Man was ready for it," Ava said turning to Akko who was still frowning.
"I hoped if I found the Fountain of Polaris, it could acknowledge my hidden potential as a witch. But that's not something someone can acknowledge you for. It's something that should be earned with hard work." Akko realizes.
"That's right, but I think deep down you knew that from the beginning," Ursula said.
Sniffling Akko tears up. "I really want to be like Chariot. One day I'll be like her."
"Here," Ursula said handing her back Shiny Rod. "Come back here again someday, after you've learned more, of course."
"Right." Akko nods wiping away her tears.
"You know, I'm rooting for her." Ava smiles.
"If you say so," Andrew said not as moved.
"You know it wouldn't kill you to say one nice thing," Ava said.
"I'll say it when there's a reason to say it." Andrew simply states.
"You are impossible." Ava shakes her head.
"I'll remove the spell on you both, but is there any chance you can keep this our little secret?" Ursula asks bowing her head.
"Sounds fair." Ava nods.
"Understood. This place will be our little secret." Andrew nods.
"I won't tell a soul," Spider-Man assures,
"You better get going," Ursula said.
"Hey Akko. I saw the water, Chariot was a lot like you. She wasn't immediately great. She had to work hard to earn the Fountain's power. You're not ready yet, but someday you will be and I'll be waiting." Spider-Man said about to leave.
"Wait," Akko calls out. "When will I know I'm ready?"
"You won't. It's a leap of faith. That's all it ever is Akko. A leap of faith." Spider-Man declares as Akko, Ava, Ursula, and even Andrew take a minute to process it all.
Firing a web, Spider-Man swung away.
'Maybe he's not as bad as Finnelan thinks he is.' Ursula smiles wondering when she'll see him in action.
After fixing Akko, Ava, and Andrew's animal features, Andrew and his father are in their car being driven away.
"Well, that was a waste of time. All it confirmed was witches are meaningless in the modern age." The Earl said.
"Then why act like you cared so much?" Andrew asks.
"It's important for us to have political allies. You'll understand one day." Paul urged.
"Father, what are your thoughts on Spider-Man?" Andrew asks curious.
"Spider-Man? That weirdo in a spandex suit who runs around causing trouble?" Paul raises an eyebrow.
"He uses magic, but to help people. Some call him a hero. Do you think that's meaningless?" Andrew asks.
"I wouldn't concern yourself with people like that, Andrew. Recklessly charging into danger with no regard for one's safety. Look at it this way, you don't see any other heroes joining him, do you?" His father points out.
"No," Andrew answers.
"And maybe there's a reason," Paul said as Andrew looked out the window.
'Maybe, not enough people are ready to take that leap of faith,' Andrew thought wondering if he would ever cross paths with the masked man again.
Up at the top of the gateway, we see Jaden roll up his sleeves revealing the glyphs around his arms had become more intricate.
A few days later, we see Otto and Jaden sitting with a man wearing a prototype of their prosthesis.
"How does it work?" The man asks.
"Just like a natural arm. You think what you want it to do and…" Otto instructs gesturing to a cup.
Slowly the fingers on the arm began to open as the man picked up the cup.
"Yes." Jaden grins seeing they made a breakthrough.
However, that moment was short-lived as the door opened and various staff members came in and took equipment.
"Hey, what do think you're doing?!" Jaden asks.
"This gear is no longer your property." A witch said.
"Stop that! This is highly sensitive equipment." Otto said stopping her from grabbing a case. "That's it, I'm calling Holbrooke directly."
"That won't be necessary," Finnelan said walking in with Ursula right behind her.
"Finnelan what do you think you're doing?" Otto asks demanding an explanation.
"Simple really, Osborn offered 5 times his donation in exchange for your equipment. More than you've brought in." Finnelan states horrifying him.
"But…you can't do this. I've had a breakthrough." Otto gestures.
"We thank you for your help but you can leave," Finnelan said as the witches escorted the man out.
"How could you do this? And without my permission?" Otto asks.
"You've broken many safety infractions, Otto. Even with your student worker present." Finnelan said.
"I'm sorry Otto, I really am." Ursula apologizes feeling bad this was happening.
"Don't apologize for this Ursula. This man hasn't had a breakthrough since we hired him. Who would ever believe he made one now?" Finnelan mocks glaring at Otto. "It's no wonder Osborn kicked you out. Maybe you should use this opportunity to pursue a new project."
As they left, Otto sat down in his chair defeated.
"They didn't take everything. We can start over." Jaden said trying to help.
"We? Jaden there's no we. Without my grant money, I'm severely depleted on supplies, and if I can't keep the project going what do you need to stick around for? I need some time to think. If I were you…I'd ask Ursula to have you reassigned to something else." Otto declares hanging his head in shame.
Looking down at his broken mentor, Jaden was in disbelief. They were making so much progress and they took it all away without a second thought.
Tightening his fist, Jaden was gonna hate himself for this but it needed to be done.
Storming out of the room, he went to Finnelan's office.
'Oh god, this might be by far the stupidest thing I've ever done.' Jaden thought opening the door to see Finnelan at her desk.
"Oh, it's you." Finnelan glares before turning her gaze back to her papers. "Just do whatever you need to do and get out. I'm very busy."
Approaching her, Jaden runs his hands along her desk and throws everything onto the floor.
"What the hell?!" She snaps turning to him in outrage.
"You're lucky I didn't try my luck with a bucket of water like Dorothy did to deal with her witch problem," Jaden mocks.
"Young man! What is wrong with you?!" Finnelan said standing up.
"No what's wrong with you?! How could do something so horrible to Otto? That project was his passion and you sold it away to the highest bidder?!" Jaden asks.
"We've given Otto more than enough time to work on his so-called passion and he's never given us anything to add to our school's legacy," Finnelan said.
"Is that all you people care about? Money? This school's legacy? Making yourselves look good?" Jaden asks.'
"I wouldn't expect a Student Worker to know anything about what's important to this school," Finnelan said.
"You call this dump a school? Because let me tell you something I've seen you wave that stupid wand every day, but I've never once seen you do anything magical with it… but I wouldn't expect us as much from a school filled with old hags whose love of teaching died out years ago." Jaden declares making her gasp in disbelief.
"How dare you!" Finnelan said.
"You old hags wave your wands once and expect everyone to be like Diana and get right on the first try but when someone is struggling all you do is scold them and call them failures." Jaden counters.
"It's not our problem if some students don't grasp what we're teaching," Finnelan said.
"No, the problem is when students need help you choose to sit around and do nothing instead of helping them understand it. Instead, you play favorites and ignore everyone else. Honestly, it's no wonder magic is dying if people like you are in charge of its future." Jaden said.
"If you believe that then why did you choose to give Osborn such a positive review?" Finnelan asks.
"Because unlike you, I wasn't thinking of just myself. I was trying to do something helpful and meaningful for everyone here. It wasn't a choice. Someone once told me that if you can do good for others, it's your responsibility to help them. Not a choice a respons—" Jaden recites.
"What fool told you that ridiculous saying?" Finnelan interrupts unamused.
Tightening his fist, it was taking all of Jaden's willpower not to web her mouth shut. He was trying to help her see what his father taught him and she ignored him and called his belief garbage. He needed to get away before he did something even worse.
"Forget this," Jaden said turning around to leave.
"Where do you think you're going?" Finnelan asks.
"Anywhere but here," Jaden said.
"I hope this was worth it because you're going to be in detention for a long time young man!" Finnelan threatens.
"Don't care," Jaden said before grabbing the door but at the last second turned to look her in the eyes. "You know the problem with the classes here? Too hypothetical. No teacher seems to take real-world scenarios into account. And that's the great thing about being a Student Worker. I know what it takes to make it in the real world. With your lessons, these girls won't last 5 minutes." Jaden declares before slamming the door shut.
As he walked down the hall, Jaden turned a corner and leaned against the wall catching his breath as his actions quickly sunk in. 'I can't believe I said all that stuff to a teacher's face. And without a mask on? No, it had to be done.'
Jaden was gonna be put through hell for this but he didn't care. Someone needed to say it.