Greetings, True Believers!
Thank you for returning to the Midwestverse (Earth-9920) as our reimagined heroes continue their journey in the Heartland. This story is a love letter to the Marvel Multiverse, blending fresh perspectives with timeless legacies.
Updates may be sporadic, but they'll come soon—stay tuned! If you're enjoying the story, please don't forget to rate and review (R+R). Your support helps keep this universe alive and thriving.
Excelsior!
PIECES OF THE PUZZLE
The sun hung high in the afternoon sky over Pioneer State University, casting warm, golden light across the sprawling campus. Students moved in excited clusters toward the largest auditorium on campus—The Christian A. Fleetwood Amphitheatre. Excitement buzzed in the air as they prepared to hear from none other than Shuri, Queen of Latveria and Princess of Wakanda. Her keynote address, titled "Bridging Technology and Humanity: The Future of Ethical Innovation," had drawn a packed house.
Outside the amphitheater, two distinct groups from Essex Biomedical Innovations (EBI) worked the crowd. One group, sharply dressed recruiters, lingered like sharks circling a tank, their polished smiles and smooth tones belied a predatory edge as they scanned the arriving students for promising interns. A tall man with sharp features leaned toward a young engineering student. "You seem ambitious," he said, handing over a sleek business card embossed with the EBI logo. "We're looking for fresh thinkers who want to change the world. Why not join us?"
Nearby, a woman with a warm but calculating demeanor addressed a small group of students. "EBI offers prestigious internships that can jumpstart your career," she said smoothly, her tone making the offer sound irresistible. "Imagine working alongside world-class scientists to develop real solutions for global challenges." The students nodded, visibly intrigued.
A separate group, comprised of EBI scientists in lab coats, took a different approach. They focused on advertising paid clinical trials, enticing students with quick cash. One scientist, a wiry man with glasses that caught the sunlight, handed out flyers to passersby. "We're conducting groundbreaking research," he explained to a curious freshman. "Participants receive generous compensation and help advance critical medical treatments. You'd be contributing to something extraordinary."
Inside the amphitheater, rows of seats filled rapidly. The venue—an architectural masterpiece blending sleek modern design with Midwestern charm—echoed with chatter and the hum of anticipation. Ben, a senior majoring in Genetics, leaned against the back wall, arms crossed as he scanned the crowd. He'd come for pragmatic reasons, hoping to glean insights from one of the world's greatest minds. Shuri's reputation preceded her, and while Ben wasn't easily impressed, he couldn't pass up the chance to hear her speak.
Meanwhile, Jubilation sat near the front, practically bouncing in her seat. A sophomore majoring in Education, she'd come for a different reason. To Jubilation, Shuri was more than a brilliant leader; she was an icon of inspiration. The stories of her intelligence, compassion, and courage resonated deeply, and Jubilation couldn't wait to hear them in person.
As the last of the crowd settled, the lights dimmed. A hush fell over the room as the heavy oak doors at the back of the amphitheater swung open. Shuri entered with quiet grace, her every movement purposeful. She wore a sleek ensemble that merged Wakandan and Latverian aesthetics, the intricate patterns on her attire a subtle nod to her heritage. Flanking her were two Doombots, their polished metal forms gleaming under the lights. The robots moved with unnerving precision, their glowing eyes sweeping the crowd as they took their positions at either side of the stage.
Shuri approached the podium, placing a small, sleek device on its surface. Her gaze swept the audience, calm and confident. The Doombots stood silently behind her, their presence a stark reminder of her role as both a queen and a scientist.
"Good afternoon," Shuri began, her voice steady and clear. It carried effortlessly through the amphitheater, resonating with warmth and authority. "Thank you for inviting me to your esteemed university. It is a privilege to speak with so many bright minds about a topic that is close to my heart: bridging the gap between technology and humanity."
The audience leaned forward, captivated. Even Ben, who had remained skeptical, found himself drawn in by her sincerity and poise.
Shuri gestured to the device on the podium, and with a subtle motion, holographic projections sprang to life. Images of advanced technology—sustainable energy grids, revolutionary medical devices, and infrastructure for global accessibility—hovered in the air above her. "These innovations," she explained, "are not just products of science. They are tools of empowerment, designed to address the most pressing challenges of our world: food shortages, health disparities, and environmental sustainability."
The holograms shifted, revealing a holographic map of Wakanda and Latveria. Shuri's expression softened as she continued. "When I was a princess of Wakanda, my role was clear: to serve my people and protect the legacy of my ancestors. When I became the wife of Victor von Doom—may he rest in peace—I was given the unique opportunity to bridge two nations. Victor's brilliance and vision were unmatched, and his belief in the potential of collaboration allowed Latveria and Wakanda to forge bonds that were once thought impossible."
Her voice took on a contemplative tone. "It wasn't always easy. There were disagreements, misunderstandings, and moments of doubt. Yet through it all, we held to a shared belief: that progress should never come at the cost of people's dignity or the planet's future. This is what drives me even today."
Shuri paused, letting the weight of her words settle over the audience. "Consider this: a technology that can save lives but is controlled by those who seek profit above all else. Or a tool that could lift entire communities out of poverty but is weaponized instead. These are the ethical challenges we face. And it is up to each of us—scientists, leaders, and innovators—to ensure that we make choices rooted in compassion and justice."
She gestured to a new hologram, displaying a prototype of an urban farming system. "This is one such solution. Imagine cities where vertical gardens provide fresh produce to every family, regardless of income. Imagine energy grids that adapt to natural disasters, ensuring no one is left in darkness. These are not dreams; they are within our reach."
Jubilation wiped a tear from the corner of her eye, moved by Shuri's candor. Ben, still leaning against the wall, furrowed his brow, struck by the depth of her conviction.
As Shuri continued her talk, she shared anecdotes from her experiences, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs she had faced. Her words resonated deeply, inspiring thoughts of responsibility and possibility in every listener.
Back outside, the EBI recruiters and scientists continued their separate missions. The sharply dressed recruiters engaged students leaving the amphitheater, offering internships and promising career opportunities. "Imagine being part of a team that's shaping the future," one recruiter said, handing out business cards to a trio of juniors. A few of these students nodded eagerly, walking away with the recruiters toward another building to discuss details of the internship program.
Meanwhile, the lab-coated scientists targeted a different audience, waving flyers and pitching their paid clinical trials. "Earn while making a difference," one called out, his tone equal parts enthusiastic and urgent. "Compensation starts immediately, and you'll be contributing to cutting-edge advancements in medicine." Several students, some looking hesitant but curious, followed the scientists to nearby tents set up with glossy posters and more information about the trials.
Inside, Shuri brought her speech to a close. "As you leave here today," she said, "I urge you to remember that innovation is not an end in itself. It is a means to uplift, to connect, and to ensure a future where technology and humanity thrive together. That is the legacy I strive to build, and I hope you will join me in creating it."
The amphitheater erupted in applause as Shuri stepped back from the podium, nodding graciously. The Doombots moved to flank her once more, their silent presence a reminder of the complexities she carried with her.
As the crowd began to disperse, Ben and Jubilation both lingered, each lost in their own thoughts. The day had begun as just another afternoon, but Shuri's words had planted seeds that neither of them could ignore. Outside, the EBI recruiters and scientists prowled the thinning crowd like hunters, ensuring no opportunity slipped away as the golden afternoon light bathed the campus.
As the crowd began to thin, Shuri remained behind on the stage, her presence magnetic as students and faculty members formed a loose line to shake her hand and ask questions. Her Doombots hovered nearby, their silent vigilance akin to a living shield. Shuri was used to the constant presence of her mechanical protectors, their proximity often stifling, but necessary. Each subtle movement of their glowing eyes scanned the room for potential threats, though Shuri's calm demeanor suggested she was unaffected by their hyper-awareness.
The questions she fielded varied from technical curiosities to heartfelt inquiries about her work. A faculty member from the university approached her, his enthusiasm palpable. "Queen Shuri, your address was absolutely inspiring. Are there any opportunities for collaboration between Wakanda's outreach programs and our university's engineering department? We've been working on sustainability initiatives that might align with your vision."
Shuri smiled warmly, clasping his hand in both of hers. "Collaboration is the key to progress," she replied. "I would be delighted to explore ways our initiatives can support one another. Please, share your proposals with my team. The Doombots can facilitate an introduction to our program liaisons."
As she spoke, her sharp intellect remained focused on the activity around her. While maintaining her polite facade, she discreetly scanned the amphitheater. Her ulterior motive for remaining behind lingered at the forefront of her thoughts: Essex Biomedical Innovations. Their recruiters' presence outside the amphitheater had not gone unnoticed, and she intended to glean more about their intentions.
Before she could press further into her inquiry, a deep, gravelly voice echoed through the nearly empty venue. "Yeah, all this tech is great. But what about people like me?"
The voice drew the attention of the remaining crowd as heads turned to locate the speaker. Near the top of the amphitheater stood Rick Jones, his towering blue form unmistakable. How someone of his size and appearance had managed to sneak into the presentation unnoticed was a question even Shuri couldn't immediately answer. Yet there he was, arms crossed, his expression skeptical but engaged.
"I'm talking about people who've been... changed," Rick continued, his voice carrying effortlessly. "Accident, radiation, or whatever. You've got any plans to help people like us lead normal lives again?"
Shuri's gaze met his, her expression thoughtful, embodying her responsibility as a leader of Wakanda-Latveria, a union of innovation and pragmatic vision. The murmurs of the remaining audience quieted as she addressed him directly. "That is a valid and important question," she began, her voice clear and composed. "The intersection of technology and medicine must include restorative and regenerative solutions for all, including those whose lives have been profoundly altered by circumstances beyond their control."
Rick's posture remained firm, his skepticism evident. "That's a nice speech, but I'm asking about results. Hope's one thing. Reality's another."
A faint smile played on Shuri's lips. With a subtle command, her sleek suit activated, emitting a soft hum. The crowd gasped as she gracefully ascended into the air, the faint glow of her flight systems illuminating her path. Even though Rick's towering form still stood taller, Shuri met him at eye level, landing lightly on the steps nearby.
"The work we are doing with regenerative nanotechnology," Shuri explained, her tone earnest, "is showing promising results in repairing and even reversing many forms of cellular damage. We have seen progress in trials where individuals regained not just physical functionality, but a renewed sense of autonomy. These are not just hopes. They are tangible outcomes."
Rick narrowed his eyes, his arms still crossed. "And the catch?"
"Time," Shuri replied simply. "Innovations of this magnitude require patience, collaboration, and trust. The road to progress is not without its challenges, but I can assure you that my teams are dedicated to this mission."
Rick's stance softened slightly, though skepticism lingered in his gaze. "And what happens if the wrong people get hold of this tech? What guarantees do we have it'll stay in the right hands?"
Shuri's expression grew serious. "That is why ethical oversight is critical. As a leader of Wakanda-Latveria, I ensure innovation uplifts humanity while safeguarding integrity and justice. My hope is to inspire collaboration rooted in integrity, to prevent misuse and ensure that these advancements uplift humanity rather than exploit it."
The two held each other's gaze for a moment longer before Rick exhaled deeply. "You're a smooth talker, but maybe you've got something real. I'll think about it.
Shuri inclined her head respectfully. "That is all I ask. Should you wish to learn more, my team would be honored to show you the work we're doing. Wakanda-Latveria stands ready to embrace anyone willing to join in building solutions for a better future."
Rick gave a faint nod before turning to leave, his massive frame disappearing up the amphitheater stairs. Shuri watched him go, her mind turning over his words as her Doombots descended the steps to flank her once again. The questions he raised were ones she often wrestled with herself, and the encounter left a lingering impression.
As she returned to the group below, Shuri's sharp eyes caught sight of an EBI recruiter lingering near the edge of the venue, their polished demeanor hiding something predatory. Her expression remained neutral, but her resolve hardened. There was much more to uncover, and she intended to get answers.
Her two Doombots followed her silently, their imposing forms cloaked in shimmering technology that blurred their edges, rendering them almost invisible to passersby. She exchanged brief smiles and nods with students as she moved toward a quieter section of campus, her thoughts already drifting to her next steps.
As they reached a secluded courtyard near the university's maintenance wing, one of the Doombots halted abruptly. Its glowing green optics flickered momentarily before stabilizing.
"Your Majesty," it said in a deep, resonant voice. "Unit Seven reports activity of note at Essex Biomedical Innovations."
Shuri turned sharply, her expression neutral but her curiosity piqued. She cast a quick glance around the courtyard, ensuring no one was paying attention, then gestured for the Doombots to follow her into a nearby utility building. The door clicked shut behind them, the noise swallowed by the quiet hum of fluorescent lights.
"What activity?" she asked, her tone clipped but measured.
The Doombot raised a metallic hand, projecting a small hologram from its palm. The live feed showed the entrance to Essex Biomedical Innovations (EBI), where a steady stream of people was entering the building. Shuri's eyes narrowed as she recognized some of them—students from the lecture she had just given.
"PSU students," she muttered, leaning closer to the projection. "Why would so many of them be heading to EBI?"
The footage revealed young men and women in casual attire, some carrying backpacks or notebooks, their faces a mix of curiosity and determination. They entered EBI's sleek, imposing structure without hesitation, disappearing beyond the main entrance.
"They aren't EBI employees," she said, her voice laced with suspicion. "Nor do they appear to be contractors. What could they want there?"
"Unit Seven has observed fifteen individuals entering the facility within the past thirty minutes," the Doombot reported. "Analysis indicates a significant portion are Pioneer State University students. Additional units have detected electromagnetic interference consistent with localized signal disruption."
Shuri frowned, her mind racing. "Signal disruption? Are these recruits part of something larger, or are they being manipulated?"
"Unknown," the second Doombot replied. "Shall we deploy additional surveillance units to intercept communications in the area?"
Shuri shook her head. "No. If these students are involved, they're unlikely to know the full extent of what's happening. Drawing attention to them now might compromise any leads. Instead, increase monitoring of EBI's perimeter and entrances. I want a clear picture of everyone entering or leaving."
The first Doombot nodded. "As you command, Your Majesty."
Shuri dismissed the projection with a wave, pacing the cramped room as her mind worked through the possibilities. Students and civilians flocking to EBI wasn't a coincidence—something or someone was pulling them in. Whether it was a calculated recruitment or something more insidious, she didn't yet know.
"Notify all cloaked units near the university and EBI to maintain their positions," she said finally. "If any anomalies arise—changes in behavior, new arrivals—I want to know immediately."
The Doombots bowed slightly, their glowing optics pulsing as they transmitted her orders. Shuri straightened, her expression hardening as she prepared to leave.
"There's more to this than meets the eye," she murmured, her voice almost lost in the quiet hum of the room. "And I intend to find out what."
Shuri stepped out of the utility room, her mind preoccupied with the footage she had just reviewed. Her Doombots flanked her, their presence subtle yet commanding as their cloaking technology shimmered faintly in the sunlight. She adjusted the cuffs of her sleeve, her face betraying nothing of the suspicions brewing beneath the surface.
As she turned toward the campus pathway, a figure suddenly rounded the corner at a brisk pace and collided with one of her Doombots. The sound of metal scraping lightly against fabric filled the air as the young man stumbled back, raising his hands apologetically.
"Whoa, sorry! My bad," he said, his voice casual but tinged with just enough embarrassment to sell the act. "Guess I wasn't watching where I was going."
Shuri's sharp eyes quickly assessed the newcomer. He was tall and lean, his blond hair slightly disheveled, wearing a Pioneer State University hoodie over faded jeans. He had the air of someone trying to blend in but carrying an undeniable spark of curiosity in his eyes.
The Doombot, unmoved by the collision, straightened imperiously. "Mind your step, civilian," it said, its deep voice resonating with the unmistakable tone of authority.
"Hey, no harm, no foul," the young man replied, backing up a step with his hands still raised. He turned to Shuri, his expression softening into a mix of admiration and nervousness. "Uh, Dr. Shuri? I mean, Queen Shuri—sorry if that's, like, the wrong title."
Shuri tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "It's simply Shuri, for the moment," she said, her tone gracious yet measured. "And you are?"
"Oh, uh, Ben," he replied quickly. "Ben Reilly. I was just at your lecture. Amazing stuff, by the way. The way you tied advanced technology to ethical progress? Brilliant."
She offered a faint smile. "Thank you, Ben. I'm glad you found it insightful. However, this area isn't part of the usual campus paths. What brings you here?"
Ben scratched the back of his head, glancing toward the Doombots before meeting her gaze again. "Honestly? I was trying to find a quiet spot. After your talk, I wanted to gather my thoughts... maybe work up the nerve to say hi without, you know, a whole crowd around."
Shuri's expression remained neutral, though she noted the slight edge to his voice—a carefully calibrated blend of sincerity and curiosity. He was hiding something, though he wore the mask of an overzealous student well.
"Well, you've succeeded," she said evenly. "I hope it was worth the detour."
"Totally," Ben said, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "I mean, how often do you get to chat with someone like you? Queen of Wakanda, ruler of Latveria, tech genius... You're kind of a big deal."
"Flattery will get you nowhere," Shuri said, though her tone held a hint of amusement. "If there's something specific you wish to discuss, now would be the time."
Ben hesitated for a moment, his eyes flicking toward the Doombots before quickly returning to her. "I guess I just wanted to say thanks. Not just for the lecture but for... well, everything you've done. It's inspiring, seeing someone who doesn't just talk about change but actually makes it happen."
Shuri studied him closely. His words were genuine, yet the way he shifted his weight and avoided lingering too long on the Doombots suggested he had overheard more than he let on. She decided to press gently.
"Kind words," she said, her tone softening slightly. "But I sense there's more to you than idle compliments, Ben. A sharp mind can be a double-edged sword."
Ben's grin faltered for a split second before he recovered, his expression brightening again. "Hey, I'm just a curious guy. Always have been. But I know my limits, promise."
"Do you?" Shuri asked, arching an eyebrow. "Curiosity without discipline can lead to unexpected consequences. Remember that."
Ben nodded quickly, his demeanor shifting to something more earnest. "Totally. Thanks, Shuri. I'll, uh, let you get back to... whatever it is you're up to."
She inclined her head slightly, watching as Ben backed away before disappearing around the corner. Once he was out of sight, Shuri glanced at her Doombots.
"Record his biometrics and keep track of his movements," she said quietly. "If he was eavesdropping, I want to know why."
"As you command," one of the Doombots replied, its optics glowing faintly as it processed her request.
/ / /
The dorm room was alive with its usual contrast—Elena's side a vision of order, with potted plants lining the windowsill and a perfectly organized planner on her desk, while Jubilee's half was a riot of personality. Movie posters from every era crowded her wall, fairy lights zigzagged across her bed frame, and a tiny disco ball spun lazily from the ceiling. Jubilee herself was sprawled on her bed, her yellow hoodie slightly bunched up, blowing a pink bubble from her gum as she scrolled through her phone.
"Ugh, I'm already over this semester," she groaned, popping the bubble with an audible snap. "And it's only week three."
Elena, sitting cross-legged on the floor with a fortress of notes and flashcards, didn't even look up. "Week four," she corrected, smirking. "But don't let facts get in the way of your dramatics."
Jubilee groaned louder, tossing her phone onto the bed. "Even worse! Stats is already kicking my butt, and now Dr. Gorrin wants us to form groups for some massive project. Who does group projects in college?"
"Pretty much every professor ever," Elena replied, flipping through her biology textbook. "And maybe if you actually went to stats…"
"I do!" Jubilee protested, propping herself up on her elbows. "Sometimes. Besides, it's not like I'll ever need stats. What am I supposed to do—calculate the median number of explosions during an alien invasion?"
Elena finally looked up, raising an eyebrow. "Okay, but what if you did? Imagine saving the world with a well-placed bar graph."
"Then we're doomed," Jubilee said with a laugh. "But hey, at least we'll go down with school spirit. 'Swift, smart, unstoppable!' Right?"
Elena chuckled, shaking her head. "Is that seriously the only thing you remember from orientation?"
"It's catchy!" Jubilee shot back, sitting up and grabbing a pack of gum from her nightstand. "And better than Rip the Raptor's costume. I mean, Rip's cool and all, but those feathers? Tragic."
"You should volunteer to be Rip," Elena teased. "I bet you'd rock it."
"Yeah, right. Too much running around," Jubilee said, grinning. "Besides, I'd get way too distracted. Can you imagine me trying to stay in character? I'd be dancing to the marching band halfway through the game."
"That would actually be hilarious," Elena admitted. "You'd be way more entertaining than whoever was Rip last year."
"I am entertaining," Jubilee said, tossing a pillow across the room. "But I don't need a mascot costume to prove it."
Elena caught the pillow and threw it back, laughing. "You're impossible."
Their playful rhythm was interrupted by a faint roar outside. Jubilee hopped up and peered out the window, spotting a crowd near the football field. A chant rippled through the air, accompanied by banners waving in the breeze.
"What now?" Jubilee muttered. "Is this for that Mizzou game?"
"Yeah," Elena said, not looking up. "It's the rally. Raptors versus Tigers. Kind of a big deal."
Jubilee groaned dramatically. "Raptors versus Tigers? Sounds like a nature documentary."
"Wow, so much school pride," Elena teased. "Are you going to the game?"
"Eh, maybe. If there's free food," Jubilee said, flopping back onto her bed. "What about you?"
"Of course I'm going," Elena said, flipping a flashcard. "It's the biggest game of the season."
"Cool, cool," Jubilee said absently, scrolling through her phone again. "I'll catch the highlights."
Elena shook her head, smiling to herself. "You're such a slacker."
"Hey, I have priorities," Jubilee said, blowing another bubble. Her phone buzzed, and she grabbed it without a second thought. As she read the message, her casual demeanor shifted—her eyes widened slightly, and she jumped off the bed in a flurry of motion.
"Crap!" she exclaimed, scrambling for her sneakers. "I totally forgot—I'm late."
Elena blinked, startled by the sudden change. "Late for what? You don't even have class today."
"It's a study session," Jubilee said quickly, tying her laces. "Over at Moonrise Café."
"Since when do you study across town?" Elena asked, her curiosity piqued. "And don't tell me it's stats."
"Nope. Creative writing," Jubilee replied, grabbing her backpack and stuffing it haphazardly with notebooks. "Professor Armitage's idea. Super boring. Definitely not my thing."
Elena squinted at her. "Wait… isn't that the same café where—"
"Gotta go!" Jubilee cut her off, her cheeks tinged pink as she slung her bag over her shoulder. "Don't wait up!"
The door slammed behind her, leaving Elena alone in the quiet room. She shook her head, smirking as she picked up a stray gummy bear Jubilee had left behind.
"'Not her thing,'" Elena muttered, popping the gummy bear into her mouth. "Yeah, right."
/ / /
The fluorescent lights of the Pioneer State University science building flickered softly, casting long shadows across the empty hallways. Ben Reilly swiped his student ID card at the lab door, the reader beeping as the lock clicked open. He slipped inside, shutting the door quietly behind him.
The lab was empty at this hour, most students opting for the campus rally or the comfort of their dorms. Ben liked it this way—quiet, focused. He tugged his hoodie off and tossed it over a chair, revealing a worn PSU t-shirt and the sharp, restless energy of someone who thrived in the pursuit of answers.
Sliding onto a stool, Ben pulled out his laptop and placed it on the workbench. A few moments later, he retrieved a small notebook from his backpack, flipping it open to a page scrawled with notes, diagrams, and hastily written keywords.
"Essex Biomedical Innovations," he murmured, the name feeling heavier now that he'd heard Shuri say it. He tapped the edge of the notebook with a pencil, his mind racing. "Why's a queen poking around in their business?"
He typed the name into the university's database, navigating through academic research archives, local news, and any public records he could access. His search pulled up the usual PR fluff: articles on groundbreaking medical research, partnerships with local hospitals, and glossy photos of executives shaking hands.
"Too clean," Ben muttered, narrowing his search parameters. "Nobody's this perfect."
He leaned back, his fingers laced behind his head as he stared at the screen. Shuri's words replayed in his mind—the tension in her voice, the way she'd mentioned the recruits heading into EBI. Civilians. Students. Why were so many of them being drawn there? And why the sudden electromagnetic interference?
Ben reached into his backpack again, this time pulling out a flash drive. He hesitated for a moment, his jaw tightening, before plugging it into the laptop. The drive contained encrypted files he'd "acquired" during a late-night dig into EBI's network—a reckless move that had taken weeks to pull off. He still wasn't sure why he'd done it, but something about the company had felt... off. And now, after hearing Shuri's conversation, he was certain he was onto something.
As the files loaded, Ben leaned forward, scrolling through folders labeled with cryptic project names: Aegis, Calliope, Proteus. His eyes caught on one: Chimera. He clicked it, revealing a series of documents with fragmented data, schematics, and personnel lists.
"Chimera…" he said softly, the word sticking in his throat. He skimmed one of the documents, his frown deepening as he read about genetic experiments and unapproved clinical trials. The data was vague—clearly, someone had scrubbed the files—but it was enough to raise red flags.
He opened another document, cross-referencing the personnel names with what he'd overheard earlier. One name jumped out: Dr. Elias Moran. A senior researcher at EBI, his name appeared on several academic papers in the university's archives—papers about cutting-edge genetic engineering. And one of them was co-authored by…
"Professor Armitage?" Ben blinked, his heart skipping a beat. Armitage wasn't just a well-liked creative writing professor—he was listed as an adjunct researcher for Pioneer State University's biosciences department. "What are you doing on a paper about genetics, old man?"
He stared at the screen, a sinking feeling settling in his gut. If Armitage was connected to EBI, that meant their reach extended deeper into the university than he'd thought. And if Shuri was investigating them, she was likely already aware of some of this. Still, the question gnawed at him: Why recruit students? What was the connection between EBI and PSU?
Ben's phone buzzed, breaking his concentration. He glanced at the notification—a group text about the café study session Jubilee had just rushed off to. He ignored it, his focus snapping back to the screen.
Pulling up a blank document, Ben began compiling everything he knew so far. Shuri. EBI. The Chimera Project. Students heading into EBI's facility. It didn't all add up yet, but he wasn't going to stop until he had answers.
"Okay, Shuri," he murmured, a small grin tugging at his lips. "Let's see what you're digging for."
The lab was quiet, save for the rhythmic tapping of Ben's fingers on the keyboard. His notebook lay open beside him, scrawled with hastily written notes about Essex Biomedical Innovations. The flash drive he'd plugged into his laptop hummed faintly, transferring encrypted files he'd spent weeks acquiring. Every new document added to the puzzle—Project Chimera, unapproved trials, Shuri's clear interest in EBI—but the bigger picture still eluded him.
Then his spider-sense flared, sharp and urgent.
Ben froze, his breath catching. His eyes darted toward the door, just as the faint whirring of servos broke the stillness. He grabbed his backpack instinctively, sliding it closer.
The door hissed open. A cloaked figure stepped inside, its metallic face illuminated by the green glow of its optics. A Doombot.
"Benjamin Reilly," it said, its voice deep and resonant. "Your unauthorized access of secured data has been detected. Cease your activities immediately and surrender."
Ben's pulse quickened. His eyes flicked to the security cameras mounted in the corners of the room—no doubt, the Doombot had already alerted Shuri.
"Yeah, that's gonna be a hard no," Ben muttered, his hand slipping into his bag. In one fluid motion, he grabbed his web-shooters and slipped them onto his wrists.
The Doombot took a step forward, its voice firm. "Do not resist. This is your only warning."
Ben fired a web at the nearest security camera, coating its lens in sticky strands. Another quick shot blinded the second camera. The Doombot shifted its focus, its optics narrowing as it advanced.
"You're persistent, I'll give you that," Ben said, leaping onto the ceiling as the Doombot lunged. He fired another web, this time directly at the bot's glowing green optics, temporarily blinding it.
The Doombot staggered, clawing at the webbing. "Cease your resistance. Continued defiance will result in escalation."
"Yeah, not sticking around for that," Ben quipped, snagging his backpack and laptop with a quick shot of webbing. He swung toward the window, his sneakers planting against the glass as he glanced back at the bot.
The Doombot recalibrated quickly, its optics flickering back to life. It raised an arm, a compartment opening to reveal a small energy blaster.
"Nope, nope, nope!" Ben muttered, firing another web at the window. The glass shattered outward, and he vaulted through the opening just as a burst of green energy scorched the wall behind him.
He hit the ground outside in a crouch, his backpack slung over one shoulder and his laptop clutched tightly in his webbing. The lab's alarm blared, the sound echoing across the campus as students from the nearby rally turned to look.
"Great," Ben muttered, scrambling to his feet. He fired another web, swinging up to the roof of the adjacent building before anyone could get a good look at him. His heart pounded in his chest as he landed lightly on the rooftop, crouching behind an HVAC unit to catch his breath.
From his vantage point, he could see the Doombot leaning out of the shattered window, scanning the area below. Its optics glowed faintly as it transmitted data—no doubt reporting the incident to Shuri.
Ben exhaled sharply, pulling his hood up to shield his face. "Okay, Shuri," he murmured to himself. "Now you've got my attention."
Clutching his backpack, he fired another web and swung into the shadows, disappearing into the night.
Ben slowed his swing as he approached the edge of campus, transitioning to the ground where students wandered between the quad and the library. Pulling his hoodie up, he tugged the strings tight around his face, keeping his head low as he merged with the crowd. He kept a steady pace, blending in as best as he could despite the nerves gnawing at him.
His mind raced. Shuri clearly wasn't here just for a lecture. Her Doombots were crawling all over campus, and if they'd caught onto him, there was no telling what her next move might be. Yet, for all the danger, he couldn't shake the feeling that he was close to something big.
"Focus, Reilly," he muttered, clutching the straps of his backpack. "Get to the café, lay low, figure this out later."
The warm glow of Moonrise Café spilled onto the sidewalk as Ben Reilly slipped inside, scanning the tables for a familiar face. The place was alive with the soft hum of conversation and the clinking of coffee cups, the scent of roasted beans thick in the air. His eyes landed on Taylor, seated at a large table near the back with a handful of other students. She spotted him instantly and waved him over.
"Reilly! Over here!" she called, her voice cutting through the chatter.
Ben weaved through the crowded café, adjusting his bag on his shoulder as he approached the table. Taylor grinned at him, her enthusiasm as infectious as ever. She was wearing her usual PSU Raptors hoodie, her notebook already open and covered in neat, color-coded notes.
"Finally!" she said as he dropped into a chair. "I was starting to think you bailed."
"Yeah, sorry," Ben said, rubbing the back of his neck. "Got caught up in some stuff."
Taylor raised an eyebrow but didn't press. She gestured to the others at the table. "Okay, introductions! You know me, obviously. This is Jubilee and Chris. Guys, this is Ben."
Ben's gaze shifted to the girl in the yellow hoodie, her bright energy immediately apparent. Jubilee was leaning back in her chair, a latte in one hand and her phone in the other, her legs casually draped over the chair beside her. She looked up at Ben, her expression curious but friendly.
"Nice to meet you, Ben," she said, her grin easy. "You, uh, get dragged into this, too?"
"Seems that way," Ben replied, setting his bag down. "Taylor's very persuasive."
"I prefer 'motivational,'" Taylor said with a smirk, then gestured to Chris, who gave a small wave from behind his laptop. "And that's Chris, our resident tech guy."
"Hey," Chris said, glancing up briefly. "Welcome to the chaos."
Ben nodded, his attention lingering on Jubilee as she sat forward, propping her elbows on the table.
"So," she said, "you're here to suffer through this creative writing thing with us, huh?"
"Looks like it," Ben said, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Not really my thing, though."
"Join the club," Jubilee said, sipping her latte. "I'm just here for the snacks."
"Same," Chris said, earning a laugh from Jubilee. "And the Wi-Fi."
Taylor clapped her hands together, her excitement pulling everyone's focus. "Okay, team! Let's get this rolling. Professor Armitage wants us to brainstorm story concepts. Something fun, something meaningful."
"Dragons," Jubilee said immediately, grinning. "Dragons make everything better."
Chris raised an eyebrow. "Dragons? Really?"
"Space dragons," Jubilee clarified, her grin widening. "They breathe stars."
Taylor blinked, then slowly nodded. "You know… that's actually kind of cool."
"Not bad," Ben admitted, leaning back in his chair. "What's the story, though?"
Jubilee looked at him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Oh, that's the easy part. They're exploring the galaxy, fighting space pirates, maybe overthrowing some evil overlord. Classic stuff."
"Space pirates and overlords," Taylor said, scribbling in her notebook. "I like it. Ben, you got anything?"
Ben hesitated, his mind still half on the encrypted files in his backpack. "Uh, no. Not yet."
Jubilee tilted her head, studying him. "You okay, dude? You look like you've seen a ghost."
"Yeah, just tired," Ben said quickly. "It's been a long day."
"Must've been some day," Jubilee said, her tone teasing but laced with curiosity. "You sure you're not running from space pirates?"
Ben smirked faintly. "Not yet."
Taylor snapped her fingers, drawing their attention back to her. "Focus, people! Space pirates later. Right now, we're brainstorming."
As the group tossed around ideas, Ben found his thoughts wandering. His spider-sense hadn't tingled since he entered the café, but he couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. Shuri's Doombots were thorough, and if one had tracked him to the lab, it might not be long before another found him here.
He glanced at Jubilee, who was animatedly discussing character arcs with Taylor, and Chris, who was half-listening while typing something on his laptop. Ben's fingers brushed against his backpack under the table, his mind racing.
Focus, Reilly, he thought to himself. Act normal.
/ / /