Spectacular Spider-Men Chapter 9: Big Night, a spectacular spider-man fanfic

Chapter 9: Big Night

Hey everyone! I'm back with a new chapter, the first chapter of 2025! I was planning on posting chapter 16 of Stitch and Jake: Adventures of the Boiling Isles, but I had to fix some mistakes. Then, I decided to rewrite the whole entire chapter. But anyway, I hope you guys like this instead! Also, I want to thank Cloud4012 and Kival737101 for letting me use their OC characters. I don't own anything except my own OC. Anyway, sit back, relax, review, and enjoy!

At Jake's apartment, Jake was pacing back and forth in his room, his nerves obvious. Jaden and Harry watched him with amused expressions.

"Wow, even during finals or when we're fighting bad guys, Jake's never been this stressed," Jaden murmured, smirking.

"Honestly, it's kinda funny seeing him like this," Harry added with a chuckle.

Jake stopped pacing and shot them a glare. "Glad you guys are enjoying this so much."

"Calm down, bro," Jaden said, trying to hide his smile.

"I'm sorry! It's just... ever since the dance, Mia and I have gotten closer, and I asked her out on a date. Now I don't know what to do! I don't even know where to take her," Jake admitted, his voice laced with nervous excitement.

Harry put a hand on his shoulder. "Relax, man. It's just a date. Mia likes you, right? So she'll be happy as long as you're yourself."

Jaden nodded. "Exactly. Take her somewhere you'll both have fun. Doesn't have to be fancy."

Jake took a deep breath, his friends' reassurance sinking in. "Yeah... you're probably right. Thanks, guys."

As Jake took a deep breath, letting his friends' words sink in, the door to his room swung open, and his mom, Sam, stepped in with a gentle smile.

"Hey, boys! What's all the commotion in here?" Sam asked, raising an eyebrow as she noticed Jake's tense expression.

Jaden grinned. "Jake here is stressing out over a date with Mia. We're just trying to help him figure out where to take her."

Sam's face softened as she looked at her son. "Oh, Jake, you know Mia already likes you. You don't have to try so hard to impress her."

Jake sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I know, Mom. But it's our first real date, and I just don't want to mess it up. I want it to be… perfect."

Sam walked over, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Jake, sometimes the best dates are the simple ones. Why not take her somewhere that's meaningful to you both?"

Harry chimed in. "Your mom's right. Think about somewhere that makes you feel comfortable—maybe a place that means something to you."

Jake thought for a moment, a slow smile spreading across his face. "There is this park we used to go to … It's quiet, and there's this spot by the lake where you can see the city lights. Mia loves that view."

Sam nodded approvingly. "That sounds perfect. Maybe bring a picnic, keep it simple. Just be yourself, and you'll be fine."

Jaden grinned. "See, dude? You've got this."

Jake's shoulders finally relaxed. "Thanks, everyone. I'm gonna make this the best first date I can."

Sam ruffled his hair affectionately. "I'm sure you will. Now, you'd better get some rest so you're not all tired and stressed tomorrow!"

Jake chuckled, feeling a new sense of confidence. "Yeah, you're right, Mom. Thanks again, guys."

As Sam and the boys left the room, Jake took a deep breath, his nerves calming as he imagined the perfect evening with Mia.

Meanwhile, at Mia's apartment, she was in her room, carefully picking out her outfit and checking her reflection in the mirror when there was a knock at the door. She turned to see her dad, Michael Jones, standing there with a gentle smile. He was a tall man with brown hair and glasses, wearing a black shirt, blue pants, black shoes, and a loose tie around his neck.

"Hey, sweetheart," he said, leaning against the doorframe. "Getting ready for your big date?"

Mia looked over, a little embarrassed. "Yeah, Dad. I just… want to make sure everything's perfect."

Michael chuckled, walking into the room and sitting down on the edge of her bed. "You know, I remember when you were five and wouldn't let me brush your hair because you 'wanted to do it yourself' for picture day. Looks like you're still pretty particular, huh?"

Mia laughed, rolling her eyes. "Maybe. I just want tonight to go well. Jake and I have known each other for four Months now , but this feels… different, you know?"

Michael nodded. "I get it. It's a big step going from friends to something more. But Mia, if Jake is anything like the young man You told me about , you have nothing to worry about."

Mia smiled softly. "Thanks, Dad. I just feel like I don't want to mess it up. What if things get… awkward?"

"Sweetheart," Michael said, "the best dates aren't about everything going perfectly. They're about being yourself and enjoying each other's company. You don't have to put on a show or be someone else. Just be you. That's what Jake cares about, right?"

Mia's face lit up as she thought about it. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Dad. I needed to hear that."

He gave her a warm smile, then gestured toward the mirror. "So, you all set? Need any advice from the old man?"

She laughed. "No, I think I've got it from here. But… maybe just wish me luck?"

Michael stood up, giving her a quick hug. "Good luck, sweetheart. You're going to have an amazing time."

As Mia returned to the mirror, she felt her nerves melting away, replaced with excitement. Tonight wasn't about being perfect. It was about sharing a moment with someone who mattered.

As she picked up her favorite bracelet, she thought about Jake, feeling a renewed sense of confidence. Tonight was going to be special—because she was going to be herself.

Intro Music: Spectacular Spider-Men* Theme Song

Living on the edge

Fighting crime, spinning webs

Swinging from the highest ledge

He can leap above our heads*

Spider-Man swings gracefully through the cityscape at sunset, dodging obstacles and performing daring flips.*

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Villains on the rise

And the city's victimized

Looking up with no surprise

Arriving in the speed of time*

Shadow Spider (Jake) swings in from the shadows, landing next to Spider-Man. They exchange a quick nod before jumping into action against a group of armed thugs.*

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Spectacular, Spectacular Spider-Men*

Spectacular*

The two Spider-Men work in perfect harmony: Spider-Man uses his web-shooters to immobilize criminals while Shadow Spider performs high-speed acrobatics, taking down enemies with precision.*

Crawling through the night

Facing evil in his might

He's a hero in our eyes

See the headlights every time*

Spider-Man and Shadow Spider patrol the city at night, moving stealthily across rooftops. They spot a car chase below and spring into action, webbing up the fleeing criminals.

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Making villains fall

Webbing rivals to a halt

Racing up and down the walls

Bringing justice to us all*

Spider-Man and Shadow Spider face off against a formidable villain on top of a skyscraper. They use their combined skills to defeat the villain and restore peace.*

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah*

Spectacular, Spectacular Spider-Men*

Spectacular*

Spectacular, Spectacular Spider-Men*

Spider-Man and Shadow Spider stand side by side on a rooftop, overlooking the city as the sun sets. They watch as the city lights flicker to life.*

Outside Mia's apartment, Jake stood nervously, texting Jaden on his phone.

Jake: Are you sure you don't need my help tonight? I mean, I can call off the date if you need backup.*

Jaden: Dude, I've been Spider-Man for a while now. It's fine.*

Jake: But what if something goes wrong? I can be there in no time.*

Jaden: Jake, I've got it under control. Besides, we've got other heroes around—Sparrow, Wild Force…*

Jake: Yeah, and Ms. Marvel, too. So… no worries then?*

Jaden: *Exactly. Just go and enjoy your night. I've got everything covered.*

Jake: All right, wish me luck, dude. Later!*

Jaden: Good luck, man!*

Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Jake finally put his phone away. He walked up to Mia's apartment door and, after a moment's hesitation, knocked confidently.

After a few seconds, the door opened, and there stood Mia, a warm smile lighting up her face.

"Wow, you look amazing," Jake said, smiling.

"Thanks," Mia replied, taking his hand. "So, any plans for us tonight?"

"Well, I was thinking maybe we could go to the park," Jake suggested.

"That sounds nice," Mia said, "but I actually have another place in mind."

"Oh? What do you have in mind?" Jake asked, curious.

Later that night, they found themselves at a mini golf course, laughing as they played. Mia, of course, was beating Jake every time, and he couldn't help but grin at her competitive spirit.

"Guess I underestimated you!" Jake chuckled, lining up his shot for yet another attempt.

"Didn't I tell you I'm secretly a mini golf pro?" Mia teased, giving him a playful nudge.

Jake lined up his shot, took a deep breath, and hit the ball—only for it to veer wildly off course, completely missing the hole.

"You know what?" he muttered, a mischievous glint in his eye, as he quickly turned invisible.

"Jake!" Mia laughed, pretending to search around. "Where did you go?"

He reappeared right behind her, grinning. "Right here."

Mia rolled her eyes, trying not to laugh. "Cheater! Are you really using superpowers just to avoid losing at mini golf?"

Jake shrugged, still smiling. "Hey, I'm just leveling the playing field."

"Or maybe you're just embarrassed," Mia teased, nudging him gently.

"Maybe a little," Jake admitted, scratching the back of his neck. "But only because I wanted to impress you tonight."

Mia smiled, touched by his honesty. "You don't need to impress me, Jake. I'm already having a great time."

"Good," he said, relieved, "because I am too."

As they walked to the next hole, Jake looked at her and asked, "So, is mini golf just a warm-up, or do you have more tricks up your sleeve tonight?"

Mia raised an eyebrow playfully. "Maybe... but you'll have to keep up to find out!"

Later that night, Jake and Mia found themselves wandering through the vibrant streets of New York City, taking in the lights and energy around them. They walked side by side, soaking up the nighttime buzz, laughter, and music drifting out from nearby cafes.

"So," Mia began, glancing over at him with a warm smile, "how often do you get to explore the city just... normally?"

Jake chuckled, scratching his head. "Not as often as I'd like. Usually, when I'm out here, it's, you know, in costume. Chasing down a bad guy or dealing with some kind of emergency. It's nice to just... walk around, without any pressure."

Mia smiled knowingly. "So, I guess that means I get to see a side of you that not many people do."

"Pretty much," he replied, grinning. "And you? Do you come out here often?"

"Sometimes," Mia said, gazing up at the skyscrapers. "But usually, it's with family or friends, and we're just passing through. This feels different, though… special."

Jake's eyes softened. "Yeah, it does."

They strolled quietly for a moment, letting the atmosphere settle between them. Then Mia pointed to a nearby street vendor selling roasted chestnuts and warm pretzels.

"Want to grab a snack?" she asked, her eyes lighting up.

Jake's stomach growled in response, and they both laughed. "I'll take that as a yes," Mia said, tugging him toward the stand.

As they munched on their snacks, Jake noticed Mia's gaze fixated on the glittering skyline. He nudged her gently. "What's on your mind?"

Mia turned to him, her expression thoughtful. "I was just thinking... how we get so busy with life that we sometimes forget to enjoy the little moments. Tonight's a reminder that it's important to slow down and just... be."

Jake nodded, feeling a connection to her words. "I feel the same way. Even when things get crazy, it's moments like this that make everything else worth it."

They shared a quiet smile, both feeling the closeness building between them. Finally, Mia looked at him with a playful glint in her eye. "So, think you can handle a few more dates like this? Because I kind of like this whole 'relaxed Jake' thing."

Jake chuckled. "I think I can handle that. But only if you promise to keep beating me at mini golf."

"Deal," Mia laughed, holding out her pinky. They locked pinkies in a lighthearted promise, both feeling that tonight was just the beginning of something special.

After their walk through the city, Jake and Mia found themselves wandering through a quiet art museum. The warm lights glowed softly against the elegant paintings and sculptures lining the halls, casting shadows that danced across the polished floors. They moved from piece to piece, admiring the vibrant colors and intricate details, their footsteps echoing softly in the vast, still space.

Mia stopped in front of a large abstract painting, tilting her head as she studied it. "What do you think this one means?" she asked, glancing at Jake.

Jake squinted at the splashes of color. "Uh… it's, uh, colorful?" He laughed, feeling a little lost. "I mean, I'm better at analyzing villains than paintings. You'd think all that spider-sense stuff would help me make sense of this."

Mia giggled. "Maybe it's a hidden skill you'll unlock one day."

Jake leaned in a little closer, as if it would help him understand the piece. "Or maybe I just need a better teacher."

Mia rolled her eyes, grinning. "Alright, I'll give it a shot. See how the colors swirl together? It's like they're capturing some kind of energy, something untamed but beautiful. Like… a storm or a feeling that can't be put into words."

Jake nodded thoughtfully, trying to see it the way she did. "I think I get it. So, it's like… life. Messy and confusing but kind of amazing at the same time."

"Exactly." Mia gave him an approving smile. "You know, you're not as hopeless as you think."

"Hey, give me a little credit! Just because I wear a mask doesn't mean I can't appreciate art," Jake joked, nudging her lightly.

They walked along in silence for a few moments, passing displays of sculptures and historic artifacts. As they reached the next gallery, Mia paused in front of a statue of two figures, their hands entwined, looking at each other with expressions of pure joy.

She glanced over at Jake, her eyes warm. "You know, I never really pictured myself doing this—going on a real date with you."

Jake's face softened. "Honestly, me neither. I used to think this kind of thing would just… complicate everything. But tonight feels so… right."

Mia reached over and took his hand, intertwining her fingers with his. "Then I guess we both needed tonight to realize that life's too short to worry about the 'what-ifs.'"

Jake's heart raced as he looked down at their joined hands, feeling a new sense of confidence. "So, does that mean I get to take you on another date after this?"

Mia laughed, her cheeks flushing. "Well, considering how good you're getting at art interpretation, I'd say you're well on your way."

They continued through the museum hand in hand, stealing glances and sharing quiet laughs, both of them realizing they'd found something truly special—an unexpected connection they hadn't even known they were looking for.

At the new exhibit, a blue fog drifted through the various artworks until it stopped in front of a painting of sunflowers.

From within the fog emerged a figure wearing a top hat, a butler's uniform, and holding a cane. This was Nazonazo, though he preferred to be called "Naz."

Ah Art is such a wondrous thing, some express it with brush while I prefer a more "practical" way of expressing it." Naz said as his kane glowed disabling the security system. "So simple.

Nearby, Jake and Mia were admiring a piece of artwork when Jake's senses suddenly tingled. His posture stiffened, and he quickly glanced around the exhibit hall, scanning for any signs of trouble.

"Everything okay?" Mia asked, noticing his sudden change.

Jake forced a small smile. "Yeah, just…felt like someone was watching us."

Mia raised an eyebrow, half-smiling. "In an art museum? Maybe they're just appreciating the artwork, like us."

Jake chuckled softly, trying to brush it off, but his senses continued to buzz. He couldn't shake the feeling that something—or someone—was watching from the shadows.

A whispery voice echoed from across the hall, carrying a playful, almost musical tone. "Ah, young love in an art museum. How charming."

Jake whipped around, eyes landing on the mysterious figure in the top hat and suit. The man tipped his hat, giving a courteous bow.

"Who…who are you?" Jake asked, instinctively stepping a little in front of Mia.

The figure straightened up and smiled. "Oh, I'm just a humble admirer of beauty…in all its forms," he said, his voice carrying an odd, eerie calm. "But you can call me Naz."

Mia glanced at Jake, a little confused but intrigued. "Do you…know him?" she whispered.

Jake shook his head slowly, never taking his eyes off Naz. "No…but something tells me he didn't just come here to admire the art."

Naz lifted his cane, which began to glow, and shot a blast of magic toward them. Jake reacted quickly, grabbing Mia and pushing her out of the way just as the blast hit him, sending him flying into a wall.

"Jake!" Mia cried, rushing toward him.

Naz chuckled, adjusting his hat. "Ah, how refreshing to see chivalry isn't dead."

But before he could raise his cane again, a web shot through the air, yanking it out of his hand.

"If you wanted to see this painting so badly," came a voice from the shadows, "you could've just come in the morning and bought a ticket like everyone else."

Shadow Spider stepped forward, his mask half-covered in shadow, eyeing Naz with a confident grin.

"Jake— I mean, Shadow Spider, you're alive!" Mia said, relief and surprise mixed in her voice.

"Yeah, sorry about that, Mia," Shadow Spider replied, shooting her a quick reassuring smile. "Guess I should've gotten here earlier to catch the magic-show-in-progress."

Naz tilted his head, studying him with a smirk. "Ah, so you're the infamous Shadow Spider. Quite a bold one, aren't you? But you're hardly a match for my magic, I assure you."

Shadow Spider shrugged, spinning another web between his fingers. "Yeah, I get that a lot. But you know, magic or not, you're still just a guy in a fancy suit trying to break the law. And I can handle that."

Naz sneered, then lifted his hands, conjuring swirling blue orbs of energy around him. "Well, then… let's see if you can handle this."

Shadow Spider quickly glanced at Mia. "Get back, Mia. I'll handle top-hat over here."

Mia took a few steps back, giving him a firm nod. "Be careful, Shadow Spider!"

Shadow Spider shot her a thumbs-up before leaping into action. He fired a web to the ceiling, swinging toward Naz to try and disarm him again. Naz, however, anticipated the move and sent a blast of energy straight at him, forcing him to twist midair to avoid it.

"Not bad," Shadow Spider called out, landing on a nearby statue and shooting webs to trap Naz's feet. "But you're still not getting out of here."

Naz merely smirked, his cane glowing as he dissolved the webs around his feet. "I wouldn't be so sure. Art is meant to be appreciated… but tonight, I think it'll be you on display, Spider."

With a wave of his cane, Naz summoned another wave of blue energy, sending it racing toward Shadow Spider, who braced himself for the next round.

Quickly flipping in the air, he charged up a venom blast and struck it with his electricity, creating a shockwave that sent him flying back. He flipped mid-air and landed on his feet.

"Okay, okay, that was kind of cool," Shadow Spider said.

"Oh, you think that's cool? Wait till you see my next trick," Naz said, taking off his top hat and reaching down to pull out a giant rabbit.

" Sick him, boy Naz said, as the rabbit charged toward Shadow Spider.

Shadow Spider blinked, momentarily stunned. "A… giant rabbit? Seriously? What is this, some kind of twisted magic show?"

Naz grinned wickedly, waving his cane as the rabbit's eyes glowed a sinister red. "Oh, it's much more than just a show. My dear friend here is… well, let's just say he's not much of a carrot-muncher."

With a growl, the oversized rabbit lunged forward, its powerful hind legs launching it at Shadow Spider. He barely dodged, flipping to the side as the rabbit slammed into the floor, leaving a dent in the marble.

"Yikes!" Shadow Spider muttered, glancing at Mia, who was watching from behind a nearby pillar with wide eyes. "Alright, pal. You want to play magic tricks? I've got a few of my own."

Charging up his venom blast again, Shadow Spider aimed for the rabbit's feet. The electricity crackled as he launched the blast, sending a shockwave across the floor that tripped up the rabbit and caused it to stumble back.

Naz chuckled, adjusting his hat. "Impressive. But my friend here has a bit of a shock tolerance. Now… let's turn up the heat."

With a flick of his wrist, Naz transformed the rabbit's fur into an armor of crackling blue flames. The rabbit's eyes glowed brighter, and it let out a low growl as it prepared to charge again, now surrounded by intense, magical fire.

Shadow Spider's eyes widened. "Oh, you've got to be kidding me."

From behind the pillar, Mia shouted, "Come on, Shadow Spider! You've got this!"

"Right! No pressure or anything," he muttered to himself, mentally preparing as the fiery rabbit charged once again.

Shadow Spider leaped into action, flipping over the rabbit as it barreled toward him. He aimed another venom blast at Naz, hoping to distract him. But Naz was ready, twirling his cane and deflecting the blast with a smug grin.

"Is that all you've got, Shadow Spider?" Naz taunted.

Shadow Spider landed and clenched his fists. "You're right, Mr. Magic Hat. I think it's time I get serious." He turned to Mia with a grin. "And I'll need a little luck from you!"

Mia gave him an encouraging nod, shouting, "Show him what you've got!"

With newfound energy, Shadow Spider launched himself into the air, his next move poised to counter Naz's fiery tricks.

Naz swung his cane at Shadow Spider, who quickly ducked and delivered a punch to Naz's stomach, sending him flying back. Recovering quickly, Naz fired a magic blast in retaliation. Shadow Spider leaped out of the way, rolling behind a display as the blast left a scorch mark on the wall.

Naz smirked, calling out mockingly, "Running already, Shadow Spider? I expected more from a so-called hero!"

Shadow Spider grinned under his mask as he vanished from sight. "Not running—just giving you a little chase," he replied, his voice echoing around the exhibit.

Naz scowled, his eyes scanning the room as he waved his cane around, trying to catch a glimpse of his invisible opponent. "Come out, come out, wherever you are! You can't hide forever!"

Just then, Shadow Spider whispered from right behind him, "Who says I'm hiding?"

Naz whipped around, but Shadow Spider reappeared mid-air and delivered a swift kick to Naz's chest, knocking him back.

Naz stumbled, frustration growing. "Enough games!" he shouted, summoning his giant rabbit again. "Get him!"

The rabbit charged, but this time, Shadow Spider was ready. He dodged to the side, rolled under the rabbit's massive paws, and aimed a venom blast straight at it, creating a stunning shockwave that threw the rabbit back.

"Looks like your tricks are running out, Naz," Shadow Spider said confidently.

Naz growled, straightening his top hat with a determined glint in his eye. "I still have plenty up my sleeve, spider boy. The night's just beginning."

Determined to end the fight quickly, Naz pulled a handkerchief from his sleeve, twirling it like a lasso before snapping it forward to wrap around Shadow Spider. The fabric tightened around Shadow Spider's arms, yanking him in.

"Not so fast!" Shadow Spider grinned, ducking just in time to avoid a close blow. He twisted himself, slipping one arm free, then grabbed the handkerchief and spun it around Naz. Using Naz's momentum against him, he sent the villain careening into several marble pillars.

Naz stumbled, dazed and struggling to stay upright as Shadow Spider shot multiple webs, binding his arms and legs to keep him in place. Striding over, Shadow Spider lifted Naz's top hat off his head with a flourish and placed it on his own.

With a playful bow, he said, "Ta-da! Guess that's the last trick for tonight."

Naz, bound and fuming, glared up at him. "You may have won tonight, Spider, but the show is far from over," he snarled, struggling against the webs.

Shadow Spider tilted the hat and grinned. "Sure, buddy. You can tell the cops all about your big plans from a jail cell."

At that moment, Mia, who had been watching from a safe distance, stepped forward, visibly impressed. "Wow, Jake—I mean, Shadow Spider—that was... kind of incredible!"

Shadow Spider chuckled, taking the hat off and tossing it back onto Naz. "Just another day in the life." He offered Mia a hand, glancing back at Naz with a smirk. "Come on, let's get out of here before he finds another rabbit in that hat."

As they headed toward the exit, Naz continued to thrash against the webs, but his eyes narrowed. "Enjoy your victory while you can, Shadow Spider. Next time, the curtain won't close so easily."

Shadow Spider and Mia shared a smile as they left the museum, the excitement of the night settling into a sense of triumph.

An hour later, police cars lined the museum entrance, their lights flashing as officers led Naz, still bound in webs, into a police van. They struggled to deal with the oversized bunny, which was now sitting peacefully but refusing to budge, causing quite the commotion.

On a nearby rooftop, Jake—Shadow Spider, with his mask now pulled off—stood beside Mia, watching the scene unfold below. The two shared a laugh as they watched an officer tentatively try to coax the bunny into another van.

"That... might be the strangest thing I've ever seen," Mia chuckled, shaking her head. "How exactly do they plan on dealing with a giant magic bunny?"

Jake shrugged, grinning. "Not my problem now! I'll leave that one to animal control... if they even know how to handle something like that."

They stood there for a moment, watching as the officers struggled with the reluctant bunny. Jake leaned back, letting out a deep breath, the adrenaline finally settling. He glanced over at Mia, a soft smile spreading on his face. "Hey, thanks for sticking with me tonight. Didn't really plan for the date to turn into a supervillain showdown."

Mia laughed, nudging him gently. "Are you kidding? That was the most exciting night I've had in ages. Besides, how many people can say they've been on a date with a superhero?"

Jake blushed, scratching the back of his neck. "Glad I could make it memorable. Maybe next time we can, I don't know, actually get through a whole night without someone trying to take over the world?"

"Sounds like a plan." Mia smiled, looking up at the stars. After a moment, she turned back to Jake. "So... what's next for Shadow Spider?"

He looked out over the city, his expression softening. "Well, I've got a few things I need to take care of, but for tonight? I think I've earned a break."

Mia tilted her head thoughtfully. "Good, because I think *Jake* deserves a little time off too."

They shared a quiet, warm smile. With a shared nod, Jake wrapped an arm around her, and they stood together, looking over the city lights in comfortable silence, knowing this night was one they'd both remember for a long time.

Later that night, back at his apartment, Jake slipped out of his Shadow Spider suit and carefully stashed it in his closet. He picked up his phone to check the news, hoping for some downtime after the eventful evening.

A headline popped up: Breaking News: Spider-Man Stops Runaway Train."

The newscaster's voice filled the room, *"In a daring move tonight, Spider-Man managed to bring a runaway train to a halt just moments before it could cause serious damage. Once again, Spider-Man proves he's one of New York's greatest heroes."*

Jake chuckled to himself, shaking his head. "Always one-upping me, aren't you, Jay?" He smirked, a sense of pride mixed with friendly rivalry shining in his eyes. Setting the phone aside, he sank into his bed, stretching out with a sigh.

Just as he started to doze off, his phone buzzed with a message. He glanced at it—Jaden.

Jaden Saw you made the news too! Guess we both had our hands full tonight.*

Jake grinned, typing back.

Jake : *Yeah, some guy thought it'd be a great idea to bring a giant rabbit to the museum.*

Jaden A rabbit? Seriously?*

Jake I know, right? And he had this whole "magician" act going on. Looked like he was straight out of a circus.*

Jaden *Wish I could've seen that. You good though?*

Jake *Yeah, I'm good. Managed to impress Mia too.*

Jaden *See? Told you it'd be fine!*

Jake smirked, shaking his head, and replied, *Thanks for the backup. Even if you're showing off with runaway trains.*

Jaden *Anytime. Goodnight, web warrior.*

Jake *Night, wall crawler.*

He put his phone down, a small smile still on his face as he drifted off to sleep, feeling pretty good about how the night had turned out.

Meanwhile, a few scientists were hard at work at an Andrew Tech Industries building. Little did they know that a shadowy figure was sneaking in through the vents.

"Remember, barbecue at my place Saturday night. You're all invited. Venus is rising early, and you know what that means," one of them said as he walked out.

"I'm there."

"Sounds good."

As the scientist left, the remaining three looked around to see if the coast was clear. They immediately stood up and began speaking in a different language. One of them effortlessly lifted a heavy piece of machinery, while another tore a hole in the wall, revealing a strange black object.

Hidden in the shadows, Blackbird watched with interest as the three scientists left the room. Outside, at the top of a large satellite, the scientists placed the black object over the system, allowing it to integrate with the satellite.

"I doubt that modification's legal," Blackbird remarked, tying up two of the scientists with ease before approaching the third. "Should've stuck to your desk jobs."

The third scientist charged at him, landing a series of powerful punches that knocked Blackbird back into the wall. Regaining his stance, Blackbird noticed the other two scientists twisting and contorting their bodies to escape his trap.

Raising an eyebrow, Blackbird realized these were not ordinary scientists. He threw a birdrang, hitting one of them in the head, but it merely bounced off. Seizing the opportunity, another scientist lunged at him, knocking him off the railing.

Quickly pulling out his grapple gun, Blackbird swung back up to safety. As the three scientists glared at him, a new figure descended from the sky.

"Need a hand?" Blackbird turned to see a man in a blue suit, red cape, and a large star on his chest—this was Star Nova.

"Thanks, but I can handle this," Blackbird assured him.

"They don't look so tough," Star Nova replied confidently.

As the two heroes prepared to take on the scientists, the villains suddenly turned and ran. Star Nova started to follow, but suddenly he doubled over in pain, seeing flashes of intense images in his mind before collapsing onto the railing.

Blackbird turned back to help him, but one of the scientists pulled out a device, causing a loud beeping. Realizing what was about to happen, Blackbird and Star Nova scrambled to get off the satellite just as it exploded.

The shockwave hurled them both onto the grassy hillside below. Looking back, Blackbird saw the scientists' bodies contorted in strange, painful positions. However, they quickly twisted themselves back into place and made their escape.

Groaning, Star Nova started to wake up. "What happened?"

"You tell me," Blackbird replied, helping him up.

"I don't know… I saw images… so intense. And then… that's all I remember," Star Nova admitted.

"Clearly, they didn't want to leave any evidence behind," Blackbird said, gesturing to the destroyed lab.

"What's this all about?" Star Nova asked.

"For months now, I've detected several security breaches in our Global Deep Space Monitoring Network," Blackbird explained.

"And no one's claimed responsibility?" Star Nova asked.

"No. There's more to this than meets the eye," Blackbird replied.

"I'd like to stay and help investigate, but I'm needed back in Emporium," Star Nova said, reaching for his belt.

"Another key to the city?" Blackbird smirked.

Star Nova handed him a signal watch. "Here, if you need any more help, just call."

"Right," Blackbird said as Star Nova took off. "For now, I'll stick with the backup I have available."

Turning back to the burning lab, Blackbird made a call. "Shadowhawk, it's me. Are you, Sparrow, or Wild Force available?"

"Sorry, Birdie , but we're swamped in a crime wave over here. How urgent is it?" a male voice replied.

"Very, but lucky for you, I've found two new recruits who can fill in," Blackbird said.

"Another set of lost souls? You really need to stop recruiting like this," Shadowhawk joked.

"Actually, these two come highly recommended," Blackbird replied.

"You don't say? Well, hope the rookies can handle it," Shadowhawk said before hanging up.

"Agreed," Blackbird muttered, heading to New York to pick up his backup.