Chapter 3: Responsibility
Pier…
New York City…
Tuesday, May 3, 10:30 pm…
"You're sure it's not going to blow up, right?" Jay asked as he and Jett hid behind a fallen pillar.
"Pretty sure worst case the surrounding area is covered in webs," Jett answered as the two looked at Jett's newest prototype for a web shooter now far smaller.
Though still relatively big, it was more like a large bracelet allowing for better movement. They were about to take the first test of the device as Jett didn't want to raise any suspicion from his sister from making a mess of the basement.
"Okay, whenever you're ready." Jay sighed.
"Right. 3." Jett began.
"2." Jett continued.
"1. Trigger." Jett finished as he clicked the switch. Unlike the first prototype, this one fired straightforward, sticking to the nearby pillar.
"Holy shit, it worked!" Jay gasped as he approached the web.
"Wait, don't touch it yet," Jett warned as he stepped in front of Jay and inspected the device.
"Doesn't look like it's got any leaks." Jett began as he poked the web shooter, then the white web that was shot out.
"I am a genius!" Jett exclaimed, throwing his hands into the air.
"We just need to test the strength of the webbing now. Hopefully, it converted the fluid correctly." Jay pointed out as he took hold of the webbing.
Detaching from the web shooter, Jay pulled on it, lightly at first, then harder before pulling on it as hard as he could. This caused him to rip a chunk of the pillar off, and to avoid any disaster, Jay threw it away.
"Well, it works pretty damn well," Jay murmured as he and Jett stared at the rubble.
"So you just need a mask and more practice until you go after Hobgoblin," Jett replied as he removed the remote trigger from the web shooter.
"Speaking of how do you plan on finding Hobgoblin?" Jett inquired.
"You kinda got lucky last time because he was hunting you, but now you'll have no idea where to find him." Jett reminded.
"Yeah, I had the same thought, but I came up with an idea," Jay replied.
"If my theory is correct, then it was Oscorp that hired Hobgoblin to kill me. So I'm going to give them a quick visit, and hopefully, that will bring him out." Jay explained.
"That makes sense. When they realize you're still alive, they would want to stop you from exposing them." Jett agreed.
Jett then went quiet as he prepared himself to finally ask something that he needed to ask. He had not asked yet because he was scared of Jay's answer. But he was this far into this whole situation, and he needed to know.
"I have to ask something, Jay," Jett stated, getting Jay's attention.
"I know I said I would help you here, but…you're not going to kill Hobgoblin, right?" Jett questioned.
"I know that you're angry and grieving, but…just promise me to not do anything you'll end up regretting." Jett expressed as Jay stared at him.
"Right," Jay replied as he remained silent.
That was the thing he just couldn't understand himself. First, it was Uncle Curt. Now it was Jett telling him not to get revenge. But Jay didn't know what he wanted. He wanted to stop Hobgoblin, yes, but did he really want to kill him?
Ever since that awful day, Jay had thought about it. To make Hobgoblin suffer for what he did for depriving Jay of the only parent he had left. He both wanted to do it and didn't but couldn't stop himself from thinking about it.
"I don't know what I'll do when I get my hands on him." Jay thought.
"So you should probably practice with these now," Jett suggested as he handed Jay the prototype web-shooters.
"I've made several different web functions. Two most notable are web bullets and nets, which will help you fight against Hobgoblin." Jett explained.
"You activate the separate functions by pressing down on the trigger here several times. Twice for a web bullet and three times for a net." Jet added.
"Got it," Jay replied as he put them on.
"Once you've got those functions down, we're going to have you practice with swinging around a little," Jett stated.
"But isn't that what the chains are for?" Jay questioned.
"Yeah, but compared to the real thing, that's kinda…training wheels," Jett answered.
"Training wheels?" Jay asked.
"Well yeah, the real thing is you swinging with a small web. The swinging on the chains was just to get you used to the motions." Jett answered.
"Plus, in the real thing, you'll be several stories up, which we can't practice since it'll give you away too early," Jett added.
"So get practicing with maneuvering and your aim." Jett insisted.
"Alright then," Jay replied as he jumped to the second floor.
He looked across the way to the opening he had made days prior when he cleaned up, then at the web-shooters. Jay shot two web lines and jumped off the ledge pulling onto the webs to zip himself over to where he wanted.
However, he messed up the landed as he rolled onto the ground before picking himself back up. He proceeded to enter the large room with shipping containers as Jett made his way up via a ladder they had installed.
When Jett joined Jay, the spider-powered boy had set up several targets by hanging them from lines of webs. Jett set up a camera to document the rights and wrongs of Jay's training the two can go over later.
"Okay, I'm thinking of using the nets to hit the bigger targets and the bullets on the others," Jay suggested.
"Sounds good. You should do that until you get it perfectly or at least as perfect as you can." Jett replied.
"Alright," Jay smirked as he hopped from container and container and shot at the targets.
He was easily able to hit the larger ones, but he rarely was able to hit the smaller ones. What made it harder was his constant maneuvering between containers which is something he had been practicing. But Jay wanted to be able to get some more practice of shooting while moving.
Thankfully it seemed that he had gained a natural acrobatic ability from the spider though it took him a little bit to get used to it, and even then, he was still not very good. After he was done moving, Jay practiced shooting while standing still, which increased his accuracy a lot.
But even then, he was missing a lot of the shots he made, which made him thankful that Hobgoblin was big. After a while, Jay decided to take a little break so as to not waste the little amounts of web fluid he had made.
Jay practiced maneuvering with the web-shooters, which was hard at first with several times Jay found himself falling on his butt or hitting a wall. Though he managed to get used to it, Jay knew that the real thing on tall buildings high in the air would be very different.
Which is why practice makes perfect, and Jay wanted to be as prepared as he can for this fight so that it didn't end the same as the first. He eventually returned to practicing his shooting and got the activations down and his aim decent.
"This is as good as it's going to get with what time we have." Jay sighed as he sat on the ground, tired.
"True, school gets back in session on Friday, so we need to make this count," Jett replied as he handed Jay the SD card with the footage he took.
"That means I'm going to need to take him on tomorrow or the day after," Jay murmured as he placed the SD card in his pocket.
"Are you nervous?" Jett inquired.
"Yeah. But I have to do it." Jay answered.
"Alright. I'll prepare the mask tonight." Jett smiled.
"It's weird that they're making us go back to school on a Friday, right?" Jay asked, having realized the odd choice of day.
"I mean, yeah, but there wasn't much choice in the matter. They have to start at some point, so even if we have the weekend, I think it's fine." Jett responded.
"But then again, it is kinda dumb," Jett murmured.
"Let's go. I need to be home before Sara sees I'm gone," Jett said as he helped Jay up and the two left the warehouse.
Oscorp…
Norman stood in his lab, tired and exhausted, as he meticulously tampered with Type Three Oz Formula. After the spiders died of an unknown cause, Norman wanted to do everything he can do to improve the formula.
But if their deaths were caused by the Oz Formula, then he had to do something about it. If it killed people as well, then his buyer wouldn't be happy. However, the real problem was finding someone or something to test it on.
The pressure was on him as if he didn't get it done, his buyer would ruin him, and if he was caught testing on people without government approval, then he'd still be ruined. This left only one option for him.
"I have to do it. I will test it myself." Norman decided as he poured his new formula into a vial.
"With my Oz Formula Type Four. I'll secure my own success." Norman declared.
That Night…
The light from New York city blocked the stars from being seen from the sky, but that never bothered many. Especially those who were up high and looking down at the city streets. Such as a certain red-suited caped crusader.
"Still no sight of Hobgoblin in sector three," Robin reported over comms.
"No sight of him in sector two either." Blue Beatle stated as he flew over the city just in sight of Robin.
"I don't see him anywhere in sector four." Kid Flash said as he ran through the streets.
"You know we've been here for hours, and he hasn't shown up? Shouldn't we do something else?" Thirteen asked.
"Hobgoblin has caused too much trouble and death. We can't just let him get away with that." Miss Martian responded.
"Local Police can't stop him, and the Justice League can't act against him, so it's up to us to stop him." Miss Martian added.
"Still though we've been doing this for a few days, you'd think he'd come out." Thirteen sighted.
"It could be that Hobgoblin is some kind of mercenary. Maybe he only comes out when he's hired." Kid Flash suggested.
"Sounds plausible. He has been attacking businesses and banks. It could be that competitors are hiring him for corporate sabotage." Robin agreed.
"Can you see which business has gained the most from his attacks?" Miss Martian inquired.
"Yes, but it will take time," Robin answered.
"Are we still not going to question how he keeps disappearing?" Blue Beatle asked.
"It seems that he is reported disappearing around Turtle Bay," Robin reported.
"Beatle, can you see if you can trace anything left by the Hobgoblin?" Miss Martian asked.
"I can…what? Are you sure?...Okay." Blue Beatle sighed.
"The Scarab says that due to the wind and other pollutants in the air from Oscorp, we can't track any trails." Blue Beatle explained.
"How are they still in operation with such pollutants?" Thirteen questioned.
"Pay off the right people, and the rules always bend to you," Robin stated.
"I see." Miss Martian murmured before she got a message.
"I just received a message from Nightwing. We have a large metahuman facility in Virginia that is about to ship the kidnapees out." Miss Martian stated.
"Change of mission, we need to stop it before those kids are lost. We'll come back to this after." Miss Martian ordered.
"Rendevue on me." Miss Martian said as everyone left their posts.
The Next Day…
After finishing helping Curt with several things around the house, Jay left and made his way to Jett's house. On his way, several police cars drove past him in a hurry, no doubt going to an active crime in progress.
He paid it no mind as he continued on his way. Jay didn't want it to distract him from the task at hand. But it did make him question himself sometimes. Sure it was good that he was getting rid of Hobgoblin, but…what about everything else.
There was plenty of other crime in New York, but Jay didn't want to get involved as he felt it was not his place. He was still just a teen, and his life was ahead of him. Trying to play hero would just endanger himself and most likely get himself in more trouble than it's worth.
Jay needed to stop Hobgoblin for his own reasons, but he felt like he was maybe selfish. He found himself questioning if he would have ever gone after him if Hobgoblin never hurt him personally. The answer was always no, and it made him feel guilty.
"The world has enough heroes." Jay thought to himself as he knocked on Jett's door.
"Right on time. I just finished the mask." Jett smirked as he let Jay in.
"I didn't make anything too fancy, though, so I hope you don't mind," Jett explained as he pulled out a pure red mask with two white lenses for him to see through.
Jay gave it a quick try, and while it wasn't a perfect fit as it was a little big, it worked perfectly as it needed to. After making sure it would stay on after tucking it into his shirt, Jay took it off. Today was the day.
"Thanks, Jett. You've been a great help." Jay smiled.
"No problem, man. Oh, by the way, I know you don't want to be a hero, but I thought of some cool names." Jett replied, eager to share them.
"What are they?" Jay asked, knowing Jett would really want to share them.
"Okay, I got a few like The Arachnid, Spider-Slayer, and The Human Spider!" Jett exclaimed.
"The Human Spider?" Jay questioned.
"What? Not good?" Jett asked.
"Not really. The others are pretty decent, but still. Personally, I'd go for something a little more simple." Jay answered.
"So. When do you plan on making your move?" Jett inquired.
"Tonight. I'll do it tonight." Jay responded.
"I can't wait on this, so the sooner I get it done, the better," Jay added as the front door opened up. Jay quickly hid the mask in his hoodie as Jett's sister entered the house.
"Hey Jay, good to see you." Sara greeted as she entered the house, looking tired.
"You okay sis, you look tired?" Jett asked, seeing his sister looking like she lacked a lot of sleep.
"Yeah, I'm just on a long project. By the way, I'll be gone for about a week starting tomorrow so take care of the place while I'm gone." Sara requested.
"Sure," Jett replied as Sara went upstairs.
"Wow, her startup must be doing well," Jay commented.
"Yeah, though she's very secretive of it," Jett stated.
"But non-disclosures are like that." Jett sighed.
"Well, I should go. I text you later when I go out." Jay said as he went to leave.
"Hey, Jay," Jett called, getting his friend's attention.
"Be careful, okay. I don't want to lose my best friend. And good luck." Jett insisted.
"Yeah. I will." Jay replied as he left.
Oscorp Later That Night…
Norman stayed in the office late as most of his other employees left for the day. He had waited so that he could do what needed to be done. In his lab, Norman loaded a syringe with his new Oz Formula and prepared himself to inject himself with it.
He took a stabilizer to make sure that his heart won't give out before downing a shot of whiskey for his own comfort. Norman then shut off his lab so no one could see him or interrupt what he was about to do.
When he knew that he was alone, he took off his jacket and pulled up his shirt before inserting the needle. After a few seconds of hesitation, Norman slowly pushed down, injecting the serum within himself.
Once it was all in, he took the needle out and put it on the table next to him. Before he could do anything else, Norman collapsed on the ground feeling immediate effects. He began to sweat profusely as he picked himself up.
After he pulled himself up and put his jacket back on before falling onto a chair. His entire body felt like it was on fire as he began to feel nauseous and dizzy. Acting quickly, Norman grabbed an EpiPen and injected himself in order to prevent himself from passing out.
With the boost of adrenaline, his body began to normalize, but Norman felt it coming back down as his DNA began to change. Before anything else could happen, he got a notification from his buyer, who was calling him.
"Damn. Why now!?" Norman cursed.
He needed to get back to his office as it was only there that he can make a secure call. Norman dragged himself out of his office and made his way to the elevator. He turned off the cameras so that there was no evidence of what he was doing.
If it got out that he did this to himself and was dealing with someone like his buyer, then he was going to be ruined. Eventually, he made it to the elevator and opened it. Once inside, he pressed the button to his level and fell to the floor.
"S-Shit." Norman stammered as his entire body was screaming in pain.
As the elevator began moving up, Norman questioned what he did to the formula that did this. None of the animal subjects that were given Type Three had shown any painful effects. But then again, now all of them were dead.
However, none of them were human, so Norman had no idea what the process would be like as he had not seen what Jay Shepard had gone through. He knew the boy went to the hospital, but it may have just been because he was given the formula via a spider bite.
"It must work! It has to work!" Norman hissed as the elevator opened up, and he made his way towards his desk.
Downtown…
Jay nervously stood on top of a large building he had scaled wearing his mask, a black hoodie, and jeans. He was having a hard time taking the leap. A leap he needed to take so he could swing to his location faster and easier than running across buildings.
But he was scared. Jett was right. The chains were just training wheels. The real thing was far more terrifying. He didn't want to do it, but he had to. So taking a deep breath, he stepped towards the edge.
After closing his eyes, Jay jumped off, feeling the wind blowing against him as he opened his eyes and shot out a web. The web stuck to a nearby building, and Jay swung across as people looked up and watched the swinging teen.
"Holy Shiiiittttt!" Jay shouted as he swung and let go of the web.
"YEAH!" Jay exclaimed as he fired another and swung further.
Jay screamed as he swung, and when he reached as far as he could go, he let go of the web. He shot a new web and began to swing from that one. After a while, Jay began to get used to it and even started to have a little fun.
Soon though, he made it to his destination as he landed on the side of the building that was across from Oscorp. Taking a quick moment to breathe, he scaled to the top where he had a direct line of sight of the office at the top of the building.
Jay sat at the ready on the building adjacent to Oscorp, waiting for when the time was right. He was very nervous. Everything was hitting him at that time. It was quite literally do or die for him. If he didn't find and beat Hobgoblin, then he could never go back to his old life.
He just slowly breathed in and out as he checked his watch, noting it was nine pm. Currently, he was waiting for Norman Osborn himself to come back to his office so as to get his attention. That would be the most effective way to get Hobgoblin out, or at least he hoped.
The teen didn't even know if the CEO was even in the office, but if he wasn't, he'd still swing around. It was his only option to get Hobgoblin's attention as just swinging around would not tip the orange menace that it was him.
"It's not like he's seen me swing before." Jay thought.
Just in case, he would swing around the block a few times before leaving. Jay pulled up his hood as he saw Norman enter his office. Before he started his plan, he pulled out a picture of him and his father to psych him up.
Once he was ready, he put the photo away as he looked at Norman, who seemed to have trouble getting to his desk. It caused Jay to hesitate as Norman fell back onto his chair, but Jay stopped hesitating as he reminded himself it was probably him that hired Hobgoblin.
"Let's do it," Jay murmured as he stood up and walked to the edge.
He jumped, allowing himself to build momentum before shooting off a web and swinging upwards before letting go. This launched Jay upwards towards the top of Oscorp, where he aimed for the window of Norman Osborn's office.
When he landed, it was with a large thud causing Norman to fall out of his chair in shock. Jay gave the man a little wave before seeing Norman's bloodshot eyes and sweat-covered face. He crawled around a little, allowing Norman to get a good look at him before jumping down.
With Norman…
Norman grabbed onto his desk as he pulled himself up. He had fallen out when something or specifically someone, landed on his office window. They had crawled along it before jumping off, and he noted them swinging around.
"Hobgoblin, you damned fool, you left the job unfinished!" Norman thought as he realized the sticking to surfaces met the bill to Jay Shepard, the boy who was bitten by the spider.
"Norman? Is something wrong?" A Voice questioned. It was Norman's buyer, and he had just been interrupted from their call.
"N-No, I'm…just fine. But I'm going to have to call you back." Norman stated as he hung up on him and dialed Hobgoblin.
"Norman. What do I owe the pleasure? I thought my next dose wasn't until next week." Hobgoblin inquired.
"You left the job I hired you to….do undone!" Norman seethed as he struggled to stay up.
"The boy is still alive!" Norman stated.
"Impossible he should be blown to bits!" Hobgoblin denied.
"Next time, you should find the damn body! Now get over here and fix it! AAARRGGGHHH!" Norman screamed as he collapsed in pain.
"Sounds like you're in pain. Well, I never leave a job undone. I'll make sure to kill him for good this time." Hobgoblin stated.
"So don't die on me, Norman. I still need you around." Hobgoblin laughed as he hung up.
"Shit! No…I can't…!" Norman hissed as his eyes turned beat red and his hand began to glow.
He crawled back to the elevator leaving burnt tracks in his sted. He attempted to go back down to his lab but accidentally hit the button to take him to the garage. Norman was unable to fix his mistake as his entire body was hit with excruciating pain.
"What have I done?!" Norman questioned as his body began to change and smoke filled the elevator.
Elsewhere…
Hobgoblin hopped onto his glider before opening the hatch on the side of the Chrysler Building before flying off towards Oscorp. If there was one thing he will never let happen, it was letting a target escape and live.
"This time, I'll drive a blade through your heart." Hobgoblin spat as he hatched closed behind him.
With Jay…
After doing three laps of Oscorp, Jay swung off to a nearby building that was taller to see if his plan worked. This made him feel better as the swinging made him nervous. Jay made it to the top just under the spire as he looked around the city.
Eventually, he saw what he had wanted as Hobgoblin flew towards Oscorp. Clenching his fist, Jay readied himself for a fight as Hobgoblin reached Oscorp. Jay slowly climbed the spire above him and shot two webs at the two corners of the building, creating a slingshot.
He took a deep breath and launched himself at Hobgoblin, knocking him off his glider and onto Oscorp's roof. Jay pinned him down as he punched Hobgoblin in the face repeatably until his spider-sense went off, warning him of the glider that flew towards him.
Jumping over it, avoiding the blades, Jay landed near the edge of the building as Hobgoblin got to his feet and spat out blood. Snickering, he hopped back onto his glider before pulling out several of his bombs.
"Well, well, kid, you've got new tricks. And a half decent disguise." Hobgoblin smirked.
"But it was stupid of you to come out of hiding. Because I'm going to make sure the deed is done this time!" Hobgoblin declared as he hurled several bombs at Jay.
Jay dodged them all before firing web bullets to intercept the bombs, but he missed it as it hit the floor behind him. This sent him flying towards Hobgoblin, who flew towards him. Before he could attack, Jay webbed him in the eyes causing Hobgoblin to fly under him.
He then shot a web towards his glider, managing to snag onto it hanging onto it as it dragged him along with Hobgoblin. The blind crazed maniac flew around the city. Jay slowly climbed his web to get closer to Hobgoblin.
When he got close, he got on the glider and grabbed onto Hobgoblin himself, who finally got the webbing out of his eyes. The two struggled for control as the glider spun out of control. Jay grabbed onto Hobgoblin's arms and kept them apart as Jay attempted to throw him.
But Hobgoblin was glued to the glider as he headbutted Jay. If it wasn't for the fact that he could stick to surfaces, he would have fallen off. Jay attempted to web up Hobgoblin, but before he could, the orange menace grabbed onto his right arm and punched him in the face.
"Still aren't a good fighter, kid!" Hobgoblin snickered.
"True, I haven't improved much there. But I have made other improvements!" Jay replied as he fired a web behind Hobgoblin attaching to a building.
This immediately halted the glider as Jay pulled them towards the building. They slammed into the side as Jay freed himself from Hobgoblin's grip and punched him repeatedly. But Hobgoblin stopped him by grabbing his fist and kicking him off his glider.
Jay webbed the wall above Hobgoblin and launched himself back up, kneeing Hobgoblin in the chin before landing above him. In retaliation, Hobgoblin freed his glider and flew at Jay with the blades extended out.
Bending back, Jay narrowly dodged as Hobgoblin flew past him, with Jay getting another web on the glider to follow. But Hobgoblin wasn't going to allow that as he took out a knife and cut the web, causing Jay to free fall.
Unfortunately for him, Jay was falling towards a busy street, meaning he couldn't land on a roof. Below many people looked up, noticing the falling teen as he shot out a web net that attached itself across the long gap. This allowed him to land safely on it as people took pictures below.
Grabbing onto the edge of his web, Jay spun it around until it was twisted then used it as a sling to launch himself up. He then zipped to a nearby rooftop as his spider-sense warned him of Hobgoblin's next attack.
"Just sit still and die, boy!" Hobgoblin demanded as he hurled several bombs at Jay.
"Not today!" Jay shouted as he jumped out of the way.
He shot a web at a nearby pole and swung around it, getting behind Hobgoblin and kicking him off his glider. Hobgoblin rolled on the ground as his glider flew off without him. The orange menace got back to his feet as Jay ran towards him.
"Persistent little shit." Hobgoblin spat as he took out his knife.
Hobgoblin stabbed at Jay, but the teen managed to dodge it, only suffering a small scrape that didn't break his tough skin. When Jay got close, he webbed up the hand that Hobgoblin had held the knife covering both the hand and knife.
Jay tripped Hobgoblin and pinned him to the ground by webbing him up. As he towered above him, Jay glared at the man as his rage and hatred built up. His spider-sense went off, warning him of the glider that came back from behind.
Turning around, Jay ducked under and grabbed onto the glider smashing it onto the ground breaking it. But as he did, Hobgoblin broke free from his bonds with his super strength. He tore off the webbing on his hand and knife and attacked Jay.
The teen quickly turned around, knowing that Hobgoblin was attacking, and kicked the man away. He then shot a web at Hobgoblin and swung him into the wall of an adjacent building. Hobgoblin fell but caught the edge of a window.
He jumped back onto the roof and attacked Jay slicing at him with the knife. Hobgoblin put far more force into his motion, this time enough to when it hit Jay's skin, it broke it if just a little. Jay grabbed Hobgoblin's arm and threw him over his shoulder.
Jett had shown him several YouTube videos of martial arts, and Jay practiced them a little bit. It didn't really teach him a lot, but it was better than having nothing. Jay attempted to web up Hobgoblin again, but when he shot the webs, Hobgoblin threw his knife.
Hobgoblin quickly got up and pulled out more bombs from his satchel before throwing them at Jay. The teen managed to dodge them and even kicked one away, but this inadvertently caused them to fly away from the building, exploding on adjacent buildings.
"NO!" Jay shouted as several chunks of the buildings began to fall down towards the people below.
In a panic and not wanting to be partially responsible for any death or injury of innocent people, Jay fired a web net that caught the falling debris. While he was distracted, Hobgoblin grabbed onto his broken glider, whose blades were still out, and picked it up.
He ran over and brought them down on Jay, whose back was turned to the man, but thanks to his spider-sense, he rolled out of the way. As the blades dug into the building's edge, Jay planted his fist across Hobgoblin's face before tackling him.
Hobgoblin kneed Jay in the gut before pushing him off. He then went for his glider once more but was stopped when Jay webbed his hand. Jay pulled Hobgoblin away and brought him into a punch.
"Damned, brat! You've become more trouble than I wanted! You refuse to die and broke my last glider! I'm going to have to have Osborn make me more!" Hobgoblin seethed.
"It seems you and Norman Osborn are a lot closer than I thought! But you're never going to get the chance!" Jay declared.
"I'm going to stop you today!" Jay stated as he jumped at Hobgoblin.
"You're going to have to kill me!" Hobgoblin replied as he dodged Jay and grabbed onto his hoodie.
He threw Jay off the roof before taking out several bombs. Jay managed to shoot a web on the building, pulling himself to the building's wall. Before he could crawl back up, Hobgoblin tossed several bombs down at him.
"Oh shit." Jay gasped as he watched the bombs descend on him.
"Please pay of practice." Jay prayed as he shot webs at the bombs. Thankfully he was not moving as he nailed them and slung them back at Hobgoblin.
They exploded, shattering that part of the roof sending debris down towards Jay, who dodged and webbed them up, preventing them from hitting pedestrians. With a sinister smile, Hobgoblin thought of a devious idea as he emptied his satchel over the edge.
"How will you stop these from hurting anyone?" Hobgoblin cackled as dozens of bombs fell.
Knowing he couldn't web each one individually, Jay thought quickly as he fired a web net to catch them all. He managed to get most as he swung them into the sky, but several fell down towards the ground.
Jay jumped off the wall and dove after the four bombs that continued to fall. He managed to web two of them up, but he couldn't get the others. Thinking on his feet, Jay threw the two bombs he caught at the bundle that was falling back down earlier, setting them all off safely above.
Knowing he couldn't stop the remaining two bombs, Jay shot two webs to zip himself towards the ground faster and past the bombs. Several pedestrians had already fled the scene, but few stayed to video the fight.
When he got close to the ground, Jay shot a web and landed safely, grabbing onto several people and moving them out of the way. As he placed them down, the first bomb hit safely, exploding where no one was.
"Who…who are you?" A blonde man asked.
"No one important," Jay replied as the man took his picture.
Looking up, the final bomb was closing in, and Jay wasn't going to let this one hit. He shot a web upward and zipped up as he fired another one at the bomb. Unfortunately, he missed the first shot and forced him to shoot another, just managing to get it before it hit the ground.
Jay scaled the building quickly as he pulled the bomb up and fashioned the web into a makeshift sling. Hobgoblin had been occupied trying to fix his glider, but he was stopped when he saw Jay come back up, launching himself into the air.
"You just won't die!" Hobgoblin shouted as Jay swung his sling.
"I made a promise not to do so freak, so eat this!" Jay replied as he hurled the bomb at Hobgoblin.
Hobgoblin jumped back, but the resulting explosion was close enough to knock Hobgoblin out and burn some of his skin. When Jay landed, he approached Hobgoblin slowly and made certain that Hobgoblin was knocked out.
"I did it…I beat him…." Jay murmured as he pulled up his mask to catch his breath.
As he looked down on Hobgoblin, his anger and hatred for the man resurfaced. This was the man who killed his father, and he had him right in the palm of his hands. He could get revenge and justice for those Hobgoblin had killed.
Jay walked over to Hobgoblin's glider and picked it up as its blades still stuck out. He stood over Hobgoblin's body and held the glider over his head, ready to bring it down on him and end him. But he hesitated. Did he want to do this?
Could he do this? Take this man's life. It was the man who killed his father, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. He remembered when Jett asked him if he would kill him, and at the time, he couldn't make his own decision, and now was no different.
"It was my fault! It was my fault those people died! That Dad died!" Jay thought.
"…don't allow yourself to fall into a pit that you can't come back from." Curt had said. The words his uncle had said rang through his mind as his grip tightened on the glider.
"…promise me to not do anything you'll end up regretting." Jett had requested of him.
"Maybe you'll even help people with this power," His father had told him.
As the memories of those words came to him, Jay began to tear up as he heard sirens and helicopters coming close. He didn't know what to do. Jay wanted to kill him but at the same time couldn't bring himself to do it.
This was the man that killed his father, but at the same time, Jay himself did nothing to save his father. He had a great power that he could have used to save him but was too scared to do anything. Now, look at him. He was seeking revenge and was contemplating murder.
He, too, was at fault. All he was doing now was just selfish. Jay was only thinking about himself even now and excused it by calling it revenge. Hobgoblin was a monster, and Jay wasn't going to let himself become a monster himself.
The teen slammed the glider onto the ground shattering it before turning back to Hobgoblin. This man had been going around New York for months, hurting many people, and no one was going to stop him. But Jay just did. He had stopped him.
But what will happen after? With Hobgoblin gone, someone else may take his place. Meta's were everywhere nowadays, and with the chaos around the world, the Justice League wouldn't have time for the small things.
Jay did, though. He could do it. He had great power, and he had the responsibility to use it for the betterment of others. Before, he had thought that there were enough heroes in the world, but he was wrong.
"The world needs more heroes," Jay murmured as he looked up into the night sky.
Looking back down at Hobgoblin, Jay picked him up and bound him in web before throwing him off the building onto a large web net, hanging him in between the large street for everyone to see. But there was one problem.
"Jett was right people may think I'm the Black Spider." Jay thought before he got an idea.
He swung down the building and borrowed a pen and paper from a nearby stand as the police rounded the corner. After writing a quick note, Jay stuck it on Hobgoblin before returning the notebook and swinging away as helicopters shone light on him.
"I'll make it up to you, Dad. I'll make sure no one has to go through what I had to and make you proud." Jay thought as he dropped into an alley and ducked into the sewer.
Oscorp…
While most Oscorp employees were gone for the night, several still remained. Most were scientists who were staying after hours to complete their projects. Other's were janitors who were cleaning up around the building.
One of which just entered the garage to begin sweeping up. The elevator seemed to be broken, so he had to take the stairs and when he entered he was shocked. There were several scorching burns on the ground that seemed to be footsteps coming from the elevator.
He followed them until he saw them leave the building via the vehicle access. Whatever had made the footprints, it was long gone. The janitor looked back at the burnt floor and hoped he wouldn't be blamed for it.
The Next Day…
Jay had managed to get home fairly quickly after leaving the sewer. Thankfully most of the police were focused on Hobgoblin, who they took into custody. He had sent a quick test to Jett before he went to bed, saying that he had won, and when he woke up, he saw that his friend blew him up.
"Should have told him I was going to sleep." Jay sighed as he called Jett.
"JAY!" Jett exclaimed as Jay pulled the phone away from his ear, for his friend was so loud.
"You're okay right?" Jett inquired.
"Yeah, I'm fine, thanks. I somehow managed to pull it off. You were a big help with that." Jay answered.
"Oh, come on, you're the one that actually beat him," Jett replied.
"True, but without these web-shooters you made, I would have been screwed," Jay stated.
"Well, I'm glad to have helped," Jett smirked.
"Hey, at least now things can go back to normal like you wanted, right?" Jett asked.
"No, it can't," Jay stated.
"…What?" Jett questioned.
"Jett, do you remember when I said I didn't want to become a hero. Well, I changed my mind." Jay explained.
"Wait…are…are you serious?!" Jett asked.
"Yes. I came to a realization last night. This was far bigger than Hobgoblin, and the rabbit hole is far deeper." Jay began.
"The world is a scary place, and it's only going to get worse. Hobgoblin was just the beginning. My Dad believed I could help people with my power, so I'm going to do just that." Jay continued.
"I want to protect people with my power, and if you're willing, I'd like you to help me out." Jay finished.
"Well, I helped you out with the insanity that was fighting Hobgoblin. So let's do it, bro! This is going to be awesome!" Jett answered.
"My best friend is going to be a superhero!" Jett smirked.
"So about the name, I still have the ones I came up with before, and I can think of some new ones." Jett began.
"Actually, I already chose a name." Jay interrupted.
"Wait. You did? When?" Jett asked.
"Last night after I beat Hobgoblin. Remember when you pointed out that people would mistake me for the Black Spider? Well, I left a note to prevent that." Jay explained.
"A note?" Jett questioned.
"Yeah, they're talking about it on the news right now." Jay pointed out as he tuned into the Daily Bugle, where the man he had saved last night was there.
"Wow, Eddie Brock is reporting about you. He's pretty famous." Jett said as he turned on the tv.
"Jay. Is that really the note you left?" Jett questioned.
"Yeah, why?" Jay answered.
"Because the name you choose seems a bit plain, don't you think?" Jett inquired.
"I felt it best to keep it simple," Jay responded.
"Couldn't you at least be a little more creative, though?" Jett asked.
"I think it's a good name," Jay replied.
"Whatever floats your boat man." Jett sighed.
Oscorp…
Security and police filled the building as they investigated the burn marks on the garage. It was believed that a meta had broken in, and at first, Oscorp wanted to keep it to themselves until it was realized that Ceo Norman Osborn was missing.
Police collected CCT footage, but for whatever reason, the cameras inside the building were shut off. The only footage they had was from the outside when a large green man walked out the garage, leaving the burning footprints before disappearing from sight.
As for Norman, the last place he was seen was his office before the elevator was broken and the camera destroyed, leaving no clues as to where he went. Eventually, it was decided that Norman was indeed missing. The leading theory was that he had been kidnapped by the green man, who was presumed a meta.
The police put an APB for the green meta as they left the facility. While they did so, Otto Octavious was busy in his own lab working. He paid no mind to Norman's disappearance as it meant that he was no longer in threat of losing his funding and his job.
"I'll get it right, and when I do, Norman, I hope you're watching," Otto muttered.
Nearby…
As the police left Oscorp to search for Norman and to take away Hobgoblin for transport to Belle Reve, a single squad car and duo remained. They were assigned to patrol the area in case they spot Norman Osborn anywhere.
The streets were fairly empty as the surrounding area was closed off due to Hobgoblin and the disappearance of Norman Osborn. While they drove around, one of the patrolmen spotted a large figure in an alleyway. They quickly stopped and got out of the car to investigate.
"Excuse me, sir, but this street is closed. I'm going to have to ask that you return home." The Officer requested.
His request fell on deaf ears as the easily six-foot-tall green man sat curled into a ball in a corner. Once the two officers realized that he fit the bill for the meta, they drew their weapons as they slowly approached him.
"Sir, I'm going to have to ask that you place your hands in the air." The Officer ordered, but the green man did not listen.
"S..e…ard…." The Green Man murmured.
"What did he say?" The Other Officer questioned as they got closer.
"She…ard…Shepard…" The Green Man muttered.
"Kill…" The Green Man added.
"Kill? You're not killing anyone. Now put your hands in the air and turn slowly!" The Officer demanded.
"Hehehehehe…." The Green Man laughed.
"HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The Green Man cackled as he turned around, revealing his blood-red eyes and burning and attacked the officers who fired upon him.
It didn't faze the Green Man as he hurled a ball of fire at the two officers that exploded on impact. This sent the two officers to the ground as the Green Man dragged them to the back of the alley. Their screams were soon silenced along with their lives.
Earth's Orbit…
The Watchtower…
In the orbiting base of the Justice League, their secret team just arrived back to the satellite via Zeta Tube. They had just finished their mission in stopping the metahuman trafficking Nightwing had found in Virginia.
"Alright! It's good to be back!" Kid Flash exclaimed as he ran around the large meeting room.
"Come on, Bart, we can't relax just yet. We have to return to New York soon." Blue Beatle reminded.
"Yeah, but we're not going now, right? Because I can use a bite to eat?" Kid Flash inquired.
"We can take a few hours to rest before we go, so rest up." Miss Martian answered as Batman and Green Arrow approached them.
"I assume the mission Nightwing brought was successful?" Batman asked.
"Yes. All the kidnapped teens have been rescued, and they are being returned home, and others are being admitted to rehabilitation." Miss Martian reported.
"We're going to rest for a few hours before returning to New York and find Hobgoblin." Miss Martian added.
"Don't bother." Green Arrow stated.
"I'm sorry, is something wrong?" Thirteen asked.
"Depends on how you take the news." Green Arrow responded as he pulled up a newscast.
"This is J. Jonah Jameson with the Daily Bugle, and tonight shock has spread throughout New York as Hobgoblin has returned! But he has not escaped this time, folks!" Jonah exclaimed.
"With more about this situation is our on-site reporter here is Eddie Brock," Jonah added.
"Thanks, Jonah. I'm reporting on the fight over the rooftops of New York that occurred last night." Eddie began.
"Last night, Hobgoblin returned and once again fought an unknown assailant through the skies of New York. Several buildings have been left damaged, but thankfully, no one has been injured." Eddie continued.
"This reporter was lucky enough to witness the fight himself and managed to get a picture of the man who engaged Hobgoblin in a fight." Eddie went on as a picture of Jay came up.
"Whoever this is had used powers akin to a spider to capture the Hobgoblin and tie him up in a large web high above the street here," Eddie explained as the camera panned to the remnants of the web.
"While I can't condone vigilantes, I can't ignore this good deed as he even saved my life just last night," Eddie revealed.
"And here seen first on the Daily Bugle, it is revealed who this man is as a note has been left on Hobgoblin!" Eddie declared as he held up a note.
"This note reads, and I quote. One webbed-up goblin. Courtesy of your friendly neighborhood, Spider-Man!" Eddie read.
"Well, New York, it seems like we have a brand new hero in town," Eddie smirked.
"Spider-Man?" Robin questioned.
"Uh, is he some new recruit, or did we just get beaten to the punch by some rookie?" Blue Beatle inquired.
"We have no idea who this Spider-Man is and where he came from, but he's currently all over the news this morning," Batman explained as he displayed several news channels.
"We don't know how he got his powers or what his motives are if he really is a hero," Batman stated.
"Bart, have you ever heard of this guy?" Blue Beatle asked.
"Sorry, bud, but I've got no clue. With the Reach gone, the future has changed. I have no idea what the future has to come." Kid Flash answered.
"We figured as much." Green Arrow said.
"Which is why we want you to find out who Spider-Man is and if he is really a hero," Batman revealed.
"Why wouldn't he be a hero?" Thirteen inquired.
"Because he may have some connections to this man," Batman stated as he displayed an image of Black Spider.
"This is the Black Spider, a known assassin for the League of Shadows. We want to know if he has any connections to him or the League." Batman explained.
"You think they're using Spider-Man to get an inside man on the League?" Miss Martian asked.
"More likely your team. By the look of it, this Spider-Man may be a kid or a metahuman under the control of The Light." Green Arrow responded.
"What about Hobgoblin? We were supposed to find out where he came from?" Kid Flash inquired.
"Split up into two groups. One shall investigate Spider-Man, and the other will investigate Hobgoblin who is being taken to Belle Reve," Batman ordered.
"Understood." Miss Martian replied.
Outer Limits of the Solar System…
War World…
Vandal Savage stood before the images of his colleagues as they all watched the current news in front of them. They were watching Gorden Godfrey talk about the recent events that occurred in New York the night prior. More specifically, about the Spider-Man.
"So, ladies and gentlemen, what do you make of this Spider-Man?" Savage inquired.
"He is certainly interesting, but I can't say he's anything special. I doubt he'll be any trouble to us in the future." Lex Luthor voiced.
"What concerns me is that he has a striking similarity to a known member of the League of Shadows." Queen Bee stated.
"Are you insinuating something?" Deathstroke questioned.
"Not necessarily, but it can't be overlooked." Queen Bee responded.
"Neither the league nor I have anything to do with this!" Deathstroke shouted.
"Calm down, Deathstroke. I don't think any of us believe that. Though it is rather odd." Savage commented.
"Does Black Spider have anything to say on the matter?" Savage asked.
"He's currently on a mission, but as soon as he returns, I will question him about it," Deathstroke answered.
"Be sure to do so," Savage replied.
"Now then, Luthor, what did you want to say?" Savage inquired.
"Yes, it seems that Norman Osborn has disappeared the same night the Spider-Man appeared. If things go my way, I'll be able to buy out Oscorp." Lex Luthor explained.
"With their resources, I'll be able to hold more sway on military contracts." Lex Luthor elaborated.
"That is good news, but that will only work if Norman Osborn remains missing." Savage pointed out.
"Well, apparently, people think a meta has taken him." Lex Luthor replied as the image of the Green Man was displayed.
"I have the feeling luck is on my side here." Lex Luthor stated.
"If it's not, then we can always arrange for him to die and blame it on this meta." Lex Luthor added.
"I see. Well, if that is all, this meeting is adjourned." Savage replied as he ended the video call.
"Did the meeting go well, father?" Cassandra inquired as she and her older sister Olympia approached Savage.
"Yes, it was," Savage replied as he inspected the images of Spider-Man and the Green Man.
"Who are they?" Cassandra asked.
"Nobody important," Savage answered as he heard movement above him.
"You make too much noise Maya," Savage stated as Cassandra and Olympia looked up.
"Sister, get down from there!" Olympia insisted as a girl younger than Cassandra jumped down from the rafters of Warworld.
"Was I really that bad?" Maya questioned. She looked fairly similar to Cassandra, save her hair was shorter, and her complexion was softer. Maya also wore a pitch-black Gi with a red belt.
"You still need practice," Cassandra responded.
"I'd rather not go back to those assassins for that." Maya pouted.
"You don't have to if you don't want. But you'll never go on missions for The Light unless you do so and start following orders." Savage stated.
"Whatever," Maya murmured as she crossed her arms and looked at the image of Spider-Man.
"If you excuse me, I have business to attend to. Cassandra, I wish to speak to you alone in an hour. I have an assignment for you." Savage announced as he left the three sisters.
"Ugh, I'm never going to help around here, am I?" Maya complained as she sat on a nearby pipe as Cassandra walked up to her younger sister and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"One day, father will allow you to go. But you are going to need to start listening to father. And sneaking out less wouldn't hurt either." Cassandra advised.
"But it gets boring doing nothing around here!" Maya complained.
"Don't be like that. In three more years, once you turn eighteen, you'll be able to fight by father's side and learn of his history!" Olympia exclaimed.
"God, you are so obsessed with Dad's past." Maya groaned.
"And you are obsessed with sneaking out and stealing," Cassandra replied.
"So? I return everything after a few days! It's about the hunt!" Maya smirked.
"Well, one day, you're going to have to grow up and take on many responsibilities. I, for one, can't wait to see that day." Cassandra smiled as she left.
"Yeah. Responsibility." Maya sighed as Olympia checked if Cassandra was gone.
"So, how did your last expedition go?" Olympia inquired, causing Maya to smile.
"It went well. The dumb guards at the museum didn't even know what hit them." Maya boasted.
"Sounds like fun!" Olympia exclaimed.
"I see so much of what father in you, especially in his younger years!" Olympia added.
"Really like what?" Maya asked.
"Sadly, you'll have to wait until you are eighteen to hear the story. But know that he always was strong, and no one could stop him!" Olympia responded.
"You have that very same energy, Maya." Olympia smiled.
"Thanks." Maya thanked.
"I just wish Father and Cassandra were a bit more open-minded," Maya murmured.
"Oh, just give them time. I'm sure someday they'll understand." Olympia assured as she left.
"Yeah, sure." Maya sighed as she looked back at the picture of Spider-Man.
"Wonder who he is?" Maya wondered with a smirk.
Curtis Conners Home…
Curt Conners sulked in his home as he worked in his makeshift lab in the basement. He was hoping to get some work done as he needed to get used to working with only one arm. But it wasn't easy or successful as his remaining arm was his non-dominant and was very shacky.
He couldn't make as many small and precise movements as he used to anymore, which made him worry about the future. If he was unable to even perform his profession, then what will he do for an income? Curt now had Jay to support, and if he couldn't perform, then he couldn't do so.
"I made a promise to take care of him." Curt thought as he looked at his file cabinet.
Specifically, he eyed a single drawer that he had locked up ever since the Man-Bat. He knew it was wrong and illegal, but if he managed to do it. Then many people besides him would benefit from it.
Curt couldn't resist the temptation as he unlocked the drawer and took out its contents. Within were several formulas and serums for his research on cross-species genetics. He had studied a way to give humans the ability to regenerate lost limbs just like a lizard.
He should have destroyed it when it was outlawed, but he couldn't as he was too proud of his progress. Curt just couldn't bring himself to throw all his hard work away that he spent years on working.
This would not only benefit him but many others if he can prove its success and safety. It was risky, but Curt was willing to risk it. He set his papers out and began to remind himself with his old work.
Elsewhere…
Jay sat in front of the grave of his father as tears raining down his face. He stared at the grave as the feelings of everything that had happened recently rolled over him. After wiping away the tears, he got up.
"I'm going to make you proud, Dad. I'm going to use my powers to help lots of people." Jay assured as he placed a hand onto his father's grave.
"As Spider-Man, I'm going to make New York a safer place. I promise." Jay promise as he turned as left the graveyard.
He had gone to allow the rest of the feelings he had pent up come out. Jay needed to move on, and after finally beating Hobgoblin, this was what he needed. This was going to be the start of his new life.
"Ever since I got my powers, I always thought about returning to my old life. I never considered moving forward with it." Jay thought.
"It's going to be hard, but I can't back down from this." Jay thought as he looked up to the sky.
That was stopped when his attention was turned to several police cars that drove off towards a crime in progress. Jay opened his backpack and took out his mask and the web-shooters, and watched as the cars drove off.
"The world needs heroes," Jay smirked as he put the mask on and followed the cars.
Chrysler Building…
"Sorry boss, but we were unable to intercept Hobgoblin's transport. He was taken to Belle Reve." A Goon reported to a large man.
"I see that is unfortunate. Though with Norman missing, Hobgoblin has outlived his usefulness." The Man stated.
"But even so, I want you to interrogate him about who Spider-Man is. Norman had hired him to kill someone, and it may just be that Arachnid." The Man ordered.
"You think it's him?" The Goon asked.
"It very well could be." The Man responded.
"Now leave. I have a meeting with a new business partner." The Man ordered.
"Yes, boss." The Goon replied as he left.
"With Norman gone and his Oz Formula out of reach, I must now resort to you to power my criminal empire." The Man began.
"So, Ms. Reilly, what do you have for me?" The Man inquired as Sara walked up to him.
"I've made all the weapons you've requested, sir. I hope that will be enough to repay the debt." Sara answered as she presented several guns, gauntlets, and other weapons.
"It's a start. But your father garnered a large amount of debt, little girl. This will only be the beginning Ms. Reilly." The Man replied.
"I see. But I must request you don't call me by my name. I don't want it stained with this." Sara requested.
"Call me Tinkerer," Sara stated.
"Very well, Tinkerer. I hope for a long a fruitful relationship. Just don't make the same mistake your father did." The Man replied.
"Until you pay off your debt, you belong to the Kingpin." Kingpin declared.
Author's Note:
And that's that Jay's journey as Spider-Man has officially begun! I hope I gave the whole journey of Jay changing his mind on being a hero and learning Great Power Comes Great Responsibility a good arc.
I had wanted him to learn it himself and not be told to him just as it was originally had been in the comics. Plus, since so many recent Spider-Man media comics, tv, etc., have someone give the Great Power speech, I wanted to change it up.
Also, I want to explain why I chose Jay to leave a friendly neighborhood Spider-Man note just like Peter did. I didn't do it just for a nod but to as stated that it was to prevent people from mistaking Jay for the assassin Black Spider.
But now he shall be Spider-Man, and more and more villains shall arise, of which I've already set up several and will continue to do so in the upcoming chapters. Though, of course, some will be different versions of Spider-Man villains.
A great example is Sara here, who will be my version of the Tinkerer, and she will play a very important role in Jay and Jett's journey going forward. Also, Hobgoblin is a new person, too, as he is not any former version.
Either way, I have also introduced a new OC this chapter being Maya, a new daughter to Vandal Savage, who will play a pivotal role here on out. Her relationship with her two sisters and her father will develop over time, and both will affect Jay.
Finally, Norman Osborn has begun his transformation into the Green Goblin of which I will not go too much into as I don't want to spoil things. Anyway, that's all I have for today so let's get to the reviews:
Kevin06x – Glad to hear you like the story so far, and yeah, I felt it most appropriate to place Jay in this timeframe because I feel it just works best. While I could have placed him at the start of the series, I just think the concept has been done before with other fics.
Oh, and Jay is 15 years old at the moment. Yeah, it would have been really dumb if Jay just won initially against Hobgoblin because it would make zero sense. I felt like he needed more development before he actually won.
I'm glad to hear that you like my decision to have Jett be the tech smarts of the two since I feel it sets Jay apart from basically every other mainstream Spider-Man. Jay only has the smarts for Biology and Chemistry, while Jett has the tech know-how making them a good duo.
I don't really plan on giving Jay claws of any time because I want him to be different from most Spider-Man while keeping the base powers. Since claws has been done before, such as with Spider-Man 2099 (It was how he crawled on walls) and Superior Spider-Man (Doc Ock had it built in one of his suits), I probably won't do that.
With Jay's suit, I'm going to make an original suit for him, and the cover art for this story is a little look at that. Though I did use the Future Foundation spider logo as it was closest to the one I have been imagining (I can't draw, lol).
As for love, I will definitely try not to make it a cliché which is why he won't be paired with characters seen so far in the show.
Kival737101 – Yes, Jay will have romantic relationships, just not with any of the female leads currently in the show.
Well, that's all I have for today. See you guys next chapter!