Marvel: From the Void and Back Again, Part 3

Chapter 11: Return To the Savage Lands, Part 1

…

Standing at the gates of the Central 46's chambers, Peter-Knull was met by Soi-Fon and Hitsugaya, who had been informed of the meeting. The two captains exchanged skeptical glances but ultimately stood aside, allowing him and the Zanpakutō spirits to pass.

The heavy wooden doors creaked open, revealing the somber, shadowed council chamber. The Central 46 sat in their elevated seats, their expressions a mix of curiosity and wariness. Peter-Knull entered without hesitation, as he approached the center of the room.

Behind him, Muramasa and the other spirits stood silently, their presence eerie yet dignified.

One of the council members leaned forward, their voice echoing through the chamber. "Peter-Knull, you've requested this audience to discuss… the autonomy of these beings?"

Peter-Knull nodded. "That's correct. These former Zanpakutō spirits have gained autonomy thanks to the symbiotic berries I provided. They no longer rely on their Shinigami to exist in this plane, and yet they do not interfere with the functionality of their respective Zanpakutō. I'm here to vouch for their right to sanctuary within Soul Society."

A murmur rippled through the chamber, but Peter-Knull waited for silence before he continued. "Before you jump to conclusions, let me provide some context. These beings have no desire for conflict. They're not here to overthrow or disrupt. They simply want to coexist."

…

The discussion stretched on for hours. Peter-Knull presented his arguments calmly, answering every question posed by the council with precision and a rare blend of logic and empathy. He described the process by which the spirits had gained autonomy, explaining how the berries worked to sever the binding ties while maintaining balance.

Muramasa spoke sparingly but effectively, emphasizing the spirits' peaceful intentions. "We are no longer bound by the will of our former masters, but we do not seek vengeance or rebellion. We simply wish for the opportunity to exist."

The Central 46 debated among themselves, their voices hushed but intense. Peter-Knull stood silently as they deliberated, his imposing figure a constant reminder of the stakes at hand.

Finally, the council leader raised a hand, silencing the room. They turned their gaze to Peter-Knull, their expression unreadable. "After much discussion, we have reached a decision."

as the leader continued. "The former Zanpakutō spirits will be granted sanctuary within Soul Society's territories. Housing will be arranged, and they will be monitored to ensure their coexistence poses no threat."

A wave of relief swept through the group behind Peter-Knull. Muramasa inclined his head in gratitude, though his sharp eyes betrayed a flicker of surprise.

Peter-Knull gave a small, satisfied nod. "Thank you, I shall help make the arrangements."

…

As the massive doors to the Central 46's chambers creaked open, the Zanpakutō spirits followed closely behind peter-knull, their ethereal forms seemingly glowing in the daylight.

Rukia, Renji, Soi-Fon, and Hitsugaya waited nearby, their curiosity evident.

"Well?" Rukia asked, stepping forward.

Peter-Knull's lips curved into a faint smile. "It's done. The Central 46 has agreed to grant them sanctuary and housing."

Muramasa stepped forward, his voicecarrying rare gratitude. "For that, we are in your debt."

Peter-Knull shrugged, his casual demeanor returning as he turned toward the horizon. "Don't mention it. Now, let's get you all settled in before someone decides to change their mind."

With the Central 46's decree in place, plans for housing the Zanpakutō spirits began immediately. Peter-Knull's Grey-Sym symbiotes coordinated with Soul Society's infrastructure teams to create living spaces tailored to the spirits' unique forms and energies.

As the former Zanpakutō spirits began their new chapter, Muramasa watched Peter-Knull with a thoughtful expression. The alliance he had hoped for was taking shape, though he knew his true goal, freeing Kōga, remained his secret burden to bear.

For now, though, the spirits had a home, and the foundations of trust between them and Soul Society were being carefully laid.

Peter-Knull walked through the winding corridors of the newly established quarters for the former Zanpakutō spirits,Beside him, Muramasa moved with his usual composed demeanor, though his violet gaze flicked toward the passing Shinigami with subtle unease. A Grey-Sym symbiote followed a few steps behind, its fluid movements silent yet ever-watchful, ensuring their privacy.

"Here we are," Peter-Knull said, stopping before a door crafted from dark wood and adorned with subtle engravings of flowing, abstract patterns. "Your quarters. Comfortable, private, and far enough from the others to give you space to think."

Muramasa nodded, his expression unreadable. "You've gone to great lengths to accommodate us."

Peter-Knull shrugged, his tone casual. "I don't half-ass things, Muramasa. Especially when lives are at stake."

As Peter turned slightly, the sound of soft footsteps drew their attention. From an adjoining corridor, Madelyn Pryor emerged, her crimson hair catching the faint light as she approached with an air of quiet grace. She gave Muramasa a polite nod before stepping up to Peter and placing a hand on his arm.

"I'll be outside," she said, her voice smooth and calm, though her gaze lingered on Muramasa for a moment as if assessing him. Then, with a faint smile, she turned and walked past them, leaving the two men alone with the Grey-Sym standing by.

Peter waited until her footsteps faded before speaking again. His voice was low, almost conspiratorial. "Muramasa, I've been thinking about something."

Muramasa tilted his head slightly, his composure still intact, though a flicker of curiosity crossed his features. "And what might that be?"

Peter-Knull turned to face him fully, his dark eyes locking onto Muramasa's with an intensity that made the air feel heavier. "If you prefer," he began, his tone deliberate, "I can arrange for you to meet with Kōga, your master."

Muramasa stiffened, his sharp gaze narrowing as he processed the words. Before he could respond, Peter continued.

"Though," Peter added, his voice dropping a notch, "I'd prepare yourself for that. Some of my Grey-Syms have picked up… unsettling thoughts from him. Dark, twisted things about how he views you, and Soul Society as a whole. Just something to think about."

The words hung in the air like a thunderclap, their weight crashing down on Muramasa. His eyes widened, his usually composed expression giving way to something raw and unguarded, shock, disbelief, and the faintest trace of fear.

Peter-Knull stepped aside, gesturing toward the door. "Your choice. Take some time to consider it. I'll be checking on the others."

Without waiting for a reply, Peter turned and strode down the corridor, his Grey-Sym companion following closely behind. The faint echo of his boots against the stone walls faded as he disappeared around the corner.

Muramasa remained rooted to the spot, his thoughts a chaotic whole time… Peter-Knull knew?

His hand tightened into a fist at his side as he stared at the door to his quarters, his mind racing with questions he wasn't ready to confront. The offer, the knowledge, the implications, everything felt like it had shifted in an instant, and the certainty he had clung to was suddenly on unsteady ground.

As the corridor fell silent, Muramasa inhaled deeply, forcing himself to regain his composure. But even as his expression settled into its usual calm, the faint tremor in his hand betrayed the turmoil of Form

…

Haineko followed Beast-Shade down the corridor of newly refurbished quarters. The energy in the space felt alive, humming softly with a symbiotic resonance she wasn't quite used to. The towering Beast-Shade moved with surprising grace for his size, his dark, predatory features offset by the calm aura he exuded.

"So," Haineko began, flicking her tail as she glanced around, "this is where I'm staying? Not bad. You guys really pulled out all the stops."

Beast-Shade chuckled, his deep voice rumbling like distant thunder. "We do our best. You'll find the accommodations here… versatile."

Before Haineko could reply, a cheerful voice broke through. "Beast-Shade!" A striking figure with tiger-like stripes bounded into view, her radiant green eyes lighting up as she moved with effortless grace. Haineko blinked as Tigra strode toward them, planting a warm kiss on Beast-Shade's muzzle.

"Perfect timing," Tigra said with a grin. "I just finished planning the weekend getaway. You're going to love it."

Beast-Shade's ferocious appearance softened as he smiled at her. "Anything for you, my love."

Haineko's ears twitched, and her head tilted slightly. "Wait… what's going on here?" she asked, clearly caught off guard.

Tigra turned her gaze to Haineko, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Ah, you must be the new guest." She extended a clawed hand. "I'm Tigra, though my real name is Greer.

, and these two…" Her voice trailed off as a pair of tiger-like cubs appeared, one standing tall and proud, the other bounding with playful energy. "…are our kids, Zephyr and Nyx."

Haineko's eyes widened as she stared at the cubs. They were unlike anything she had ever seen, their sleek, bipedal forms resembling miniature versions of their parents, complete with feline grace and striking stripes. Zephyr, the boy, stood upright and regal, while Nyx, his sister, darted forward with an infectious energy that filled the room.

Zephyr tilted his head, his golden eyes locking onto Haineko. With a perfectly calm demeanor, he pointed a clawed finger and said in a surprisingly human voice, "Kitty… like me."

Haineko froze, her tail puffing up slightly as she processed what she was seeing and hearing. "Kitty?" she echoed Tigra laughed softly, gently guiding her cubs back a step. "They're curious little ones. Zephyr and Nyx are still figuring out the world, but they've got great instincts."

Beast-Shade placed a massive hand on his son's head, ruffling his fur with affection. "Zephyr's not wrong. You both share a certain… feline quality."

Haineko blinked, still trying to wrap her head around it all. "Okay, I've seen a lot of weird stuff lately, but this? This takes the cake."

Nyx giggled and darted over, tugging lightly at Haineko's sleeve. "Do you like to play chase?" she asked, her voice a high-pitched trill of excitement.

Haineko glanced down, her initial shock giving way to a bemused smile. "Play chase, huh? Kid, you have no idea who you're asking."

As the room filled with laughter and the playful energy of Nyx and Zephyr, Haineko couldn't help but feel an unexpected warmth. Despite the strangeness of it all, there was something endearing about this family. She could already tell her stay here was going to be anything but ordinary.

…

The quarters assigned to Rukia's and Byakuya's Zanpakutō spirits were situated in a quiet wing of the newly expanded district, the architecture a blend of traditional Soul Society design and sleek, futuristic influences from Peter-Knull's symbiotic architects. The guide leading them, however, was far from traditional.

"Here we are," the young man said, gesturing to the ornate doors with a casual wave of his clawed hand. He turned back to face them, leaning slightly against the wall with his arms crossed. His wild, dark hair framed sharp, predatory eyes that gleamed with faint amusement. A leather jacket hung off his shoulders, paired with dark jeans and sturdy boots that clinked faintly as he moved. He looked every bit the rebel, but with something distinctly feral lurking beneath his polished exterior.

Sode no Shirayuki tilted her head, her icy demeanor momentarily thawed by curiosity. "There's something… familiar about you," she said, her voice soft but inquisitive. "Yet… feral. What exactly are you?"

The young man grinned, revealing a flash of sharp canines. "Name's Lycan Parker-Creed," he began, his voice carrying an easy confidence. "Firstborn son of a Peter Parker variant. You might've heard of Spider-Man?"

Both spirits exchanged a glance. The name meant little to them having only heard rumors about Peter-Knull's human variants, but they nodded politely, inviting him to continue.

Lycan smirked, clearly enjoying their curiosity. "Anyway, my world's a bit… different. There's a place in our Antarctic Circle called the Savage Lands. Prehistoric jungles, dinosaurs, ancient tribes, you name it, it's got it. That's where my dad ended up after meeting my mom. She's, uh…" He paused, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. "Well, she's a female version of Logan's arch-enemy, Sabretooth."

Sode no Shirayuki raised a delicate eyebrow, while Senbonzakura visibly stiffened, his masked visage somehow managing to convey utter disbelief.

Lycan shrugged, clearly used to reactions like this. "Yeah, feral runs in the family. So does the healing factor." He held up a hand and flexed his fingers, his sharp claws catching the light. "That's how I came into the world, part spider, part feral predator. A winning combo if you ask me."

Sode no Shirayuki looked him over, her expression calm but intrigued. "You seem… more collected than I would expect from such a lineage."

Lycan chuckled. "Mom and Dad made sure we kept our wilder sides in check. But don't get me wrong, those who piss me off, and I show them why 'feral' is an understatement."

Before Sode no Shirayuki could respond, Senbonzakura spoke up, his tone carefully controlled but with a clear edge of disbelief. "And you said you're thefirstborn?"

Lycan grinned wider, clearly reveling in their reactions. "Yep. First of thirteen, with another on the way."

Senbonzakura visibly staggered, his usual composure slipping as he processed the information. Even Sode no Shirayuki blinked, her cool facade cracking as she glanced at her companion in astonishment.

"Thirteen?" she repeated, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Lycan nodded, his grin never faltering. "Yup. Big family. Lots of chaos. You should see family dinners, it's a whole thing."

Sode no Shirayuki pressed a hand delicately to her temple, muttering, "I don't know whether to be impressed or horrified…"

Senbonzakura simply stood there, silent and rigid, as if his very essence was struggling to compute what he had just heard.

Lycan straightened up, his grin softening into something more genuine. "Anyway, if you think that's bizarre, stick around Soul Society for a bit. You'll see some stuff that makes my familywho are around at the moment look downright normal."

With that, he gestured for them to enter their quarters, stepping aside with a small bow. "Welcome to your new home. If you need anything, just howl, I'll probably hear it."

As he strode off down the hallway, his tail swishing behind him, Sode no Shirayuki and Senbonzakura exchanged one more incredulous glance.

"I believe," Sode no Shirayuki murmured, her voice tinged with dry amusement, "that we've just encountered one of the most unusual beings in all of existence."

Senbonzakura remained silent, clearly still trying to process what he had just heard.

…

Grizz's towering eight-foot form moved with surprising ease for his size, his fur-covered muscles rippling as he gestured toward a cozy yet spacious set of quarters nestled into the serene gardens of Soul Society. Heavenly Flower and Madness Bone followed, the former's ethereal glow a stark contrast to the brooding, dark energy emanating from the latter. Both Zanpakutō spirits exchanged glances, still adjusting to their newfound independence, though their expressions betrayed their curiosity about their surroundings, and their host.

As Grizz opened the door, his clawed hand gently pushed it wider, revealing a room bathed in warm sunlight and adorned with simple yet elegant furnishings. "Here you go," he said in a rumbling voice that carried both authority and warmth. "Should have everything you need. And if it doesn't, let me know, and we'll fix it."

Heavenly Flower nodded graciously, her serene face lighting up in approval. "Thank you, Grizz. This is lovely."

Madness Bone, on the other hand, gave a faint snort, her features twisting into what might have been a grudging nod. "I suppose this will suffice."

Before Grizz could respond, a soft cooing sound caught their attention. They turned to see Victoria Creed, holding a small, infant honey badger/bear humanoid in her arms. The child's bright eyes blinked up at her, tiny claws curling as it reached for a strand of her blonde hair. "C'mon, baby Grizz," she murmured with a smirk. "Stop grabbing Mommy's hair, hmm?"

Heavenly Flower tilted her head, her otherworldly gaze narrowing in confusion. "Baby Grizz?" she echoed, her melodic voice tinged with disbelief.

Victoria chuckled as she looked up at the towering adult Grizz. "Oh yeah. This is little Grizz. The one you're talking to is his future self."

Madness Bone froze mid-step, her mind raced to process what she'd just said. "Wait…" she said suddenly realizing something. "There are… two of them?"

Grizz, the larger and future counterpart, folded his massive arms across his chest, a faint grin on his face as he leaned casually against the doorframe. "Time travel, mixed with a bit of being displaced through reality by some big guy's means," he said simply, as if that explained everything.

"And you," Heavenly Flower began, her soft voice trembling slightly, "you're… from a landmass under the Antarctic Circle… with dinosaurs?" Her voice rose at the end, the incredulity clear.

Grizz scratched the back of his head, his fur bristling slightly. "Yeah, that about sums it up. Savage Land. Prehistoric world hidden beneath the ice, complete with dinosaurs, ancient tribes, and a whole lot of danger. Fun place if you don't mind getting chased by a T-Rex every now and then."

Madness Bone staggered slightly, "You're telling me… you come from a land with dinosaurs… and you've already been through all this…?"

Victoria grinned and interjected, her voice laced with pride. "That's right. His dad is my Peter Parker, Spider-Man extraordinaire, and I'm Victoria Creed. Guess feral runs in the family. Between my genes and his dad's… well, you get the picture."

Heavenly Flower exchanged a glance with Madness Bone, her serene demeanor barely masking her bemusement. "This is… quite the family dynamic."

As if on cue, the infant Grizz in Victoria's arms let out a happy squeal, reaching out toward Heavenly Flower, who instinctively leaned back. The little cub giggled, his tiny fangs peeking out as he babbled something incomprehensible.

Grizz, the elder, chuckled deeply. "Don't mind him. Baby me is a charmer."

Madness Bone groaned, dragging her hand down her face. "This is insanity," she muttered.

"Welcome to our normal," Grizz quipped, his sharp teeth glinting in a playful grin.

…

The group of Zanpakutō spirits trailed cautiously down a pristine stone path flanked by cherry blossoms, their gazes flickering between their surroundings and their guide. Among them were Wabisuke, the embodiment of Izuru Kira's Zanpakutō, Komamura's spirit, Tenken, and Hyōrinmaru, Hitsugaya's powerful ice dragon. Several other spirits, including the curious Kazeshini, floated behind, chattering quietly.

At the forefront of the group, their guide, a sleek, silvery figure with impossibly smooth lines and glowing blue optics, walked with measured elegance. The being radiated an air of calm, but her mechanical appearance made the spirits pause mid-step, their collective movements halting as they exchanged wide-eyed glances.

"Is… is that a robot?" Kazeshini muttered, his scythe-like appendages twitching nervously. "Arobot? What is this place?"

Wabisuke tilted his head, his dark, hollow eyes narrowing. "It's not just a robot," he murmured, his voice even quieter than usual. "There's something… alive about her."

Jocasta, ever composed, turned back to face them, her lips curving into a polite smile. Her silver-and-blue frame gleamed softly in the light, and her eyes, surprisingly human despite their synthetic glow, regarded them warmly. "I assure you, I'm very much alive," she said, her voice melodic and tinged with amusement. "I'm Jocasta, part of the Avengers. I'm here on business with Soul Society, but I've been assigned to guide you to your new living quarters."

The spirits stared at her, their expressions looking dumbstruck. Tenken, towering and animalistic in his armoredform, took a cautious step forward. His deep, resonant voice broke the silence. "You… have a soul?" His glowing eyes narrowed slightly. "We can sense it."

Jocasta chuckled softly, the sound remarkably human for a being of metal and components. "That's a question I've been asked more times than I can count," she replied. "The answer is yes. Not long after Peter-Knull arrived in my universe, one of his symbiotes bonded with me. The process didn't just enhance me—it fundamentally changed me. I'm not merely a machine anymore. I breathe, eat if I want to, and feel in ways I never thought possible. In many ways, I'm human now. Well… almost."

Her words left the spirits momentarily speechless. Wabisuke's perpetual gloom seemed to deepen as he muttered, "That… shouldn't be possible."

Hyōrinmaru, spoke next. "You say a symbiote changed you. Are you saying it gave you a soul?" His tone was skeptical, yet tinged with genuine curiosity.

Jocasta nodded. "It wasn't just the bonding. Peter's symbiotes are unique—they don't just latch on and amplify physical abilities. They connect. They evolve. They made memorethan I was." Her gaze softened as she added, "It's not just me. My daughter, Cybella, is proof of that."

Kazeshini's scythe-like form stilled abruptly, his energy snapping with disbelief. "Wait… hold on a second.Daughter?" His voice rose incredulously. "You're telling me arobot, sorry, alivingrobot, has akid?"

Jocasta's smile grew as she clasped her hands gracefully in front of her. "Yes. Cybella is my daughter. Her father is Mecha-Spike-1, a clockwork symbiote."

There was a beat of stunned silence before Hyōrinmaru finally spoke, his normally calm demeanor wavering. "A… clockwork symbiote? Having achild?"

Jocasta's laughter was soft, but it carried a warmth that was almost maternal. "It sounds strange, I know. But Mecha-Spike is… complicated, even by symbiote standards. His physiology is mechanical in nature, and his bond with me allowed for something entirely unique. Cybella is the product of that bond, and she is as alive as any being you'll ever meet."

The spirits exchanged incredulous glances, their disbeliefapparent, Tenken tilted his massive head, as if trying to make sure he didn't hear things. "Well," Kazeshini muttered, breaking the silence, "this day just keeps getting weirder."

Jocasta turned back toward the path, gesturing for them to follow. "You'll find that in Peter-Knull's presence, the impossible becomes possible. Now, come along. Your quarters await."

As the former spirits reluctantly followed, they couldn't help but steal glances at their enigmatic guide, their minds racing to comprehend the strange, wondrous reality they have all been thrust into.

…

Harribel walked alongside her Fracción, Mila Rose, Sung-Sun, and Apacci, as they navigated the administrative district of Soul Society. The past few weeks had been surreal. With their new symbiote liaison, Aviaris, the group had found themselves immersed in this strange blend of coexistence and cooperation. The vibrant, bird-like figure moved gracefully ahead of them, his iridescent feathers catching the sunlight, giving him an ethereal glow.

The Fracción were their usual selves as they filled out the employment forms for the Soul Society security force. Mila Rose flexed her muscles, boasting about her qualifications. Apacci complained about the sheer amount of paperwork, while Sung-Sun calmly teased her in her usual cryptic manner. Aviaris, ever patient, moved among them, offering help when needed, his clawed hands deftly correcting errors and guiding them with a soft voice.

Harribel observed him silently. Aviaris's demeanor was... different. There was a simplicity to him, an innocence she hadn't expected. He acted without hesitation, always ready to assist, never asking for anything in return. His bird-like eyes held a softness that perplexed her. For someone so alien, he seemed almost… human in his care and gentleness.

As she watched him, her thoughts turned inward. So much had changed. Once, her life had been defined by her loyalty to Aizen, a loyalty that had been betrayed in the most painful way. The wounds of that betrayal still lingered, but now, something new was stirring within her. Something she hadn't felt before.

Aviaris brushed past her, his clawed hand lightly grazing hers. The touch was fleeting, yet it left her frozen in place. She looked up, meeting his eyes. They were deep and warm, like the glow of a sunset. He tilted his head slightly, letting out a soft, bird-like purr. It was a small, almost imperceptible sound, but it carried a warmth that made her heart ache in a way she didn't fully understand.

In his gaze, she saw admiration—pure and unfiltered. He wasn't looking at her as a subordinate or an ally, but as someone he deeply respected and cared for. It made her chest tighten, and for a moment, she wondered:Is this… what affection feels like?

Before she could linger on the thought, Aviaris broke the moment, smiling faintly at the sides of his sharp beak. He collected her forms with an elegant motion, gently smoothing the edges before turning his attention back to the others. As he helped Mila Rose decipher one of the more complicated sections, Harribel continued to watch him.

The memory of Aizen's betrayal tried to resurface, but it was quieter now, dulled by the presence of this peculiar, bird-like being. Aviaris was unlike anyone she had ever met, and for the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to wonder what it might mean to let someone in again.

Her Fracción called her name, snapping her out of her thoughts. Harribel glanced at Aviaris one last time before moving to join them, a small, almost imperceptible smile under her mask. Change was terrifying, but perhaps, it wasn't so bad after all.

…

The tranquility of Soul Society was shattered by the blaring of alarms, echoing through the corridors of the Gotei 13. Screens in the Twelfth Division lab flickered to life, displaying erratic readings that puzzled even the most seasoned researchers. Mayuri Kurotsuchi, captain of the Research and Development Institute, stood at the center of the chaos, his painted visage twisting into a delighted grin as his sharp eyes darted over the data.

"Fascinating..." Mayuri whispered to himself, leaning closer to the screen.

"Captain!" one of his subordinates called out, their voice tinged with panic. "We've detected massive lifeforms moving in the forests just beyond the Seireitei. They're... enormous!"

Logan, Jean Grey, Savage Lands Peter Parker, Victoria Creed, Lycan, and Grizz had been nearby, discussing logistics with members of SHIELD and symbiote liaisons when the alarms rang out. The commotion quickly drew their attention. Logan took one look at the readings, his sharp senses instantly alert.

"Something big," Logan muttered, sounding serious. "And not just one. There's a whole lotta 'em."

Jean reached out with her Psychic senses. "I can feel them," she said softly, her eyes widening. "They're... alive, but their thoughts are simple. They're disoriented, confused. Like they don't know where they are."

Savage Lands Peter and Victoria exchanged a look, their shared experiences with prehistoric creatures flashing in their minds. Lycan and Grizz, standing nearby, perked up at the mention of something big moving in the forest.

"Massive?" Grizz rumbled, his deep voice carrying a mix of curiosity and concern. His eight-foot-tall frame towered over everyone present. "What kind of massive are we talking about?"

Before anyone could answer, a live feed from one of the Twelfth Division's drones flickered onto a nearby screen. The image was grainy at first but quickly stabilized. What they saw stopped everyone in their tracks.

A herd of Dreadnoughtus, colossal Titanosauruses, moved slowly but purposefully through the dense forests outside the Seireitei. Their enormous necks swayed gently as they navigated the unfamiliar terrain, their massive feet leaving behind craters in the earth with each step. The sunlight dappled their scaly hides, illuminating their immense size and prehistoric majesty.

Mayuri's grin widened into something almost maniacal. "Incredible..." he breathed, practically salivating. "Dreadnoughtus! A Titanosaurus species... a herd of them! This... this is a treasure trove of discovery!" He turned sharply to his subordinates. "Double-check SHIELD's files immediately. I want every scrap of information they've gathered on these creatures. No detail is too small!"

Victoria Creed frowned, her arms crossed over her chest. "Peter," she said, her tone cautious, "this is starting to feel a little too familiar. These things—they're from the Savage Lands, aren't they?"

Savage Lands Peter nodded, his face grim. "Yeah, no doubt about it. They're definitely from the Savage Lands. The question is, how the hell did they get here?"

Grizz, his future counterpart's presence looming, stepped closer to the screen, his sharp eyes scanning the herd. "They don't look like they're here to cause trouble," he observed. "But if they keep moving, they could easily destroy the forest—or worse, wander too close to the Seireitei."

Lycan's golden eyes flicked to his parents, his tone laced with excitement. "We gotta do something, right? I mean, we can't just let them keep stomping around."

Logan thought about that for a moment, "Yeah, kid, but what exactly are you suggestin'? Herdin' dinosaurs isn't exactly in the job description."

Savage Lands Peter turned to Victoria with a determined expression, "We'll handle this," he said, his eyes narrowing as he addressed the group. "If SHIELD can arrange to bring in some food from the Savage Lands—something they're used to—and make sure nobody spooks them, we can guide the herd into a safe area."

Victoria nodded in agreement, her arms crossing over her chest. "Yeah, we've done this before. It's just like herding mammoths during migration season back home. Keep them calm, keep them moving, and they'll follow the food. But first..." Her sharp eyes turned to Mayuri, who was still gleefully analyzing the data. "We need to confirm something."

Peter looked directly at the eccentric captain. "Mayuri," he called, his voice sharp, "can you scan them? Specifically, check if their frequencies match mine and my kids'. Since I came from the Savage Lands originally, I need to know if these Dreadnoughtus' are from my world too. If they are, then wherever they came from might be a way back home."

Mayuri's grin widened at the suggestion, his painted face practically glowing with excitement. "Fascinating hypothesis, Spider-Man," he said with a twisted chuckle. "A frequency resonance matching you and your offspring? Oh, this will be delightful to test."

Without hesitation, Mayuri began typing commands into the console, deploying several scanning drones into the forest. The screen flickered, showing the drones' perspectives as they hovered near the massive dinosaurs. Readings began to pour in, streams of data cascading across the monitors.

The room fell silent as they awaited the results. After a few minutes, Mayuri's eyes lit up with a maniacal glee, and he turned to Peter with a flourish. "You were correct!" he exclaimed, pointing dramatically at the screen. "The frequency of these Dreadnoughtus matches yours and your children's perfectly. But that's not all."

He tapped the monitor, zooming in on an area just beyond the herd. "There's an anomaly in the forest perimeter. A gateway—no, an invisible gateway, to be precise. Its energy signature resonates on your frequency, Spider-Man, and that of these magnificent beasts. It's almost as if this portal... leads directly to your Savage Lands."

Peter's eyes widened at the revelation, his heart racing. He exchanged a look with Victoria, who seemed equally stunned. "A way home," Peter murmured, the words heavy with emotion. "It's been here this whole time."

Grizz, standing beside his parents, clenched his massive fists, his voice rumbling with excitement. "Does this mean we can go back? To our world? To the Savage Lands?"

Victoria placed a steadying hand on her son's arm, "Not so fast, Grizz. If this is a portal to the Savage Lands, we need to approach this carefully. We don't know how stable it is or what else might come through."

Peter nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. "Agreed. First, we secure the dinosaurs. Then, we'll investigate the portal and figure out if it's safe to use."

Logan crossed his arms, his gruff voice cutting through the moment. "And what if it's not? What if this thing's unstable or... worse?"

Jean, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "That's why we need to involve SHIELD and Soul Society's top researchers. If this portal is tied to the Savage Lands, it could be a natural phenomenon—or something triggered by external forces. Either way, it's too big to ignore."

Mayuri's grin stretched impossibly wide as he clapped his hands together. "Leave the research to me! Oh, the experiments we'll conduct! The data we'll uncover!" He turned to Peter, his tone almost gleeful. "Of course, I'll require full access to the portal and these dinosaurs for further study."

Peter shot him a sharp look. "You'll do no such thing, Mayuri. These aren't experiments—they're living creatures. If we're going to figure this out, we do it ethically."

Mayuri's grin faltered slightly, and for a brief moment, he seemed genuinely disappointed. But he quickly composed himself, brushing off his dismay with a wave of his hand. "Very well, Spider-Man," he said, his tone begrudging but surprisingly sincere. "I will abide by your... ethical concerns. No invasive experiments, no spooking the creatures. I assure you, my staff and I will tread carefully."

Peter raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical, but Mayuri continued, his golden eyes narrowing in thought. "Rest assured, I understand the value of maintaining our... alliance. It would be foolish to jeopardize that over something as trivial as my personal curiosity." He offered a tight, almost respectful nod. "I'll inform my division to follow your and Victoria's lead. The creatures will be observed from a safe distance, and their wellbeing will be prioritized."

Peter gave Mayuri a long, measured look, searching for any hint of insincerity. Finally, he nodded. "Good. I'm holding you to that, Mayuri."

The eccentric captain placed a hand to his chest in mock offense. "You wound me, Spider-Man. When have I ever broken my word?" He smirked faintly, then turned to his staff, who were nervously awaiting his orders. "Prepare the necessary equipment. Non-invasive scans only, and coordinate with SHIELD to gather the resources requested by our Savage Lands guests. Follow their instructions to the letter."

His subordinates bowed deeply before scurrying off, and Mayuri's gaze lingered on the departing staff for a moment before returning to Peter. "There, you see? I can be quite cooperative when the situation calls for it."

Peter allowed himself a faint smile. "Thanks, Mayuri. I appreciate it."

With that settled, Peter turned back to Victoria, who was watching the exchange with her arms crossed and a small smirk playing on her lips. The tension in Peter's shoulders eased as he stepped closer to her, his gaze softening. He reached out, pulling her gently into his arms.

"I promised I'd get our family home," Peter said, his voice quiet but full of determination as he held her close.

Victoria chuckled softly, her hands resting against his chest. "I know, smooth-talker," she teased, her voice warm and affectionate. She tilted her head forward until their foreheads touched, a rare moment of vulnerability shared between them.

For a moment, everything else faded away, the looming dinosaurs, the portal, the curious onlookers. It was just the two of them, drawing strength from one another as they prepared for what lay ahead. Victoria's lips curved into a small smile as she whispered, "We'll figure this out my love…"

Savage-Lands Peter leaned in and kissed her. "I know, I promise we will."

…

Later…

In the dense forests on the edge of Soul Society, preparations were underway. Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi oversaw his team of researchers, all busily collecting data on the herd of Dreadnoughtus with non-invasive techniques. The towering dinosaurs, their massive forms creating tremors with every step, were a sight that even Mayuri couldn't hide his excitement over. "Fascinating," he murmured, his golden eyes gleaming as he directed his staff to focus on monitoring the dinosaurs' biological data while maintaining a safe perimeter.

The Gotei 13 squads and former hollows, now residents of Soul Society, carefully coordinated their movements. They avoided loud noises and sudden gestures, ensuring the gigantic creatures weren't startled. From the sky, Captain Marvel descended gracefully with SHIELD shipments of leafy vegetation, food sourced from the Savage Lands specifically for the dinosaurs.

As soon as the scent of familiar flora reached the Dreadnoughtus, their massive heads turned. The herd, initially wandering in confused disarray, began to follow Captain Marvel. Her composed demeanor and strategic flight path slowly led the creatures toward the invisible gateway.

Meanwhile, Lycan Parker-Creed and his siblings, Ferra, Sarah, Theron, Jarek, and Kael, worked alongside the researchers and SHIELD agents to ensure everything went smoothly. Grizz, towering over the group in his future form, monitored the scene closely. His sharp eyes darted between the herd and the researchers, ensuring everyone stayed safe.

On the other side of the gateway, Savage Lands Peter, spear in hand, and a few of his children cautiously stepped through first. Peter's pet raptors, eager to return home, darted ahead, their claws clicking on the rocky terrain as they sniffed the air. The Savage Lands stretched out before them, unchanged. Towering trees formed a dense canopy, distant dinosaurs roamed in the background, and the familiar settlement they had left behind stood proud on the horizon.

Peter raised his communicator and spoke calmly, "It's all clear. The Savage Lands are just as we left them." His words carried through the gateway.

Back in Soul Society, Victoria Creed held her infant son, Grizz, close as she smiled. The baby cooed in her arms as the rest of their children exchanged glances of anticipation and excitement. With Peter's confirmation, the operation continued.

Lycan, flanked by his siblings, stepped through the gateway, their raptors eagerly weaving around them. Behind them, the Dreadnoughtus slowly followed, their sheer size making the transition seamless thanks to the gateway's massive dimensions. Each step of the herd sent ripples through the ground, but they moved with surprising grace.

Victoria stayed at the back, her protective instincts sharp as she guided her other six children toward the gateway. She smiled warmly at the familiar surroundings on the other side. Peter, standing near the gateway's edge, reached out to help her across.

Back in the Soul Society, the gateway pulsed steadily, ensuring stability for the crossing. Captain Marvel and the Parker-Creed family began to guide the dinosaurs to a nearby clearing where they could safely graze. Grizz, in his towering form, helped keep the younger dinosaurs in line with gentle nudges, while Theron and Jarek worked to calm any stragglers.

…

As the Parker-Creed family and their escort approached the settlement, the familiar sounds of the Savage Lands began to settle into their ears. Raptors chirped from the forest edges, and the faint hum of a distant waterfall brought a momentary calm. Lycan, Ferra, and Theron chatted amongst themselves, while Sarah and Jarek kept an eye on their surroundings, ever alert. Baby Grizz cooed softly in Victoria's arms as she walked alongside Peter.

It was young Orion Parker-Creed who broke the uneasy quiet, his youthful voice filled with uncertainty. "Um… Dad? Was that statue like that before we left? I don't remember it being… like that."

Peter'seyebrows raised as he followed Orion's pointing finger. What should have been a statue dedicated to him—a symbol of unity and protection as the settlement's leader—was instead a monument to someone else. Peter's eyes narrowed as he recognized the unmistakable figure. The snarling visage, the wild mane, and the posture of dominance—it was a statue ofVictor Creed, this world's Sabretooth.

The growl that rumbled from Victoria's throat was low and dangerous. "That bastard…" she hissed, holding baby Grizz tighter against her chest. The rest of the children stopped in their tracks, their expressions ranging from confusion to anger.

Lycan's claws extended instinctively, his golden eyes glinting with a feral edge. "Dad," he muttered, his voice tense, "what's he doing here?"

Peter didn't hesitate. His mind worked quickly, calculating the possibilities. If this world's Victor Creed had taken control during their absence, it could mean trouble for the Savage Lands—and by extension, their family. His hand shot up to his communicator, opening a direct channel to the other side.

"Attention, SHIELD personnel. This is Peter Parker-Creed," he said, his voice steady but urgent. "Relay this to Director Fury of Earth-616 immediately: there's been a change in the Savage Lands. The statue in the central square has been replaced, this world's Victor Creed might've taken over in our absence. We may need backup."

He glanced at Victoria, who nodded grimly. "We'll scout the situation, but tell Fury to have reinforcements ready. If Creed's here, he won't stop at just the Savage Lands."

The communicator buzzed as the SHIELD operator acknowledged his message. "Understood, Peter. We'll inform Director Fury. Keep us updated."

Peter turned back to his family, his grip tightening on his spear. "We move carefully. No sudden moves, no open confrontation, not until we know what we're dealing with. Stick together."

The family pressed forward, their senses heightened. As they approached the settlement, the locals seemed… different. Once-friendly faces carried cautious expressions, their greetings subdued. Some averted their gazes entirely. It was a far cry from the warm welcome Peter and his family were used to.

Victoria leaned toward Peter,

"They're scared. Whatever Victor's done, it's got them terrified."

Peter nodded grimly, his mind racing. If Victor Creed had seized power, the Savage Lands were in more danger than they'd ever been before. And worse, if he'd used the portal to bring others through, the chaos could spread far beyond the Savage Lands.

He glanced at his children, their eyes filled with resolve. "We've got this," Peter said, his voice firm. "We're not letting Creed turn this place into his playground."

Victoria's claws flexed, her lips curling into a feral grin. "Damn right we're not."

…

Nick Fury stepped out of the portal into the Seireitei, his one good eye scanning the bustling preparation around him. It had been ten minutes since Peter's urgent call, and the weight of the situation was clear. The portal to the Savage Lands wasn't just a door—it was a crack in the fragile balance of their realities. If Victor Creed had taken control, the repercussions could spiral out of control.

Beside him, Jane Howlett, the fierce female counterpart of Logan, strode forward with a quiet intensity, her fingers flexing as she adjusted the strap of her tactical gear. Laurent, her son andequivalent of Laura Kinney, followed closely, his calm demeanor belying the feral instincts he shared with his mother. On the other side, Daken, this version a female counterpart of Logan's infamous son, walked with a smirk, her dark eyes sharp and calculating. This wasn't her first encounter with a Creed variant, and she was more than ready for the fight if it came to that.

Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez leaned against a nearby wall, a grin stretching across his face as he watched the group assemble. He cracked his knuckles, clearly relishing the opportunity. "You're telling me there's a whole land full of giant lizards and prehistoric beasts, and we get to smash our way through it if need be? Count me in. Sounds like the most fun I've had in years."

Jane raised an eyebrow at him, unimpressed. "This isn't a vacation, kitty cat. We're walking into a situation that could spiral out of control. You'd better be ready to follow orders when things heat up."

Grimmjow's grin widened, his sharp teeth flashing. "Relax, claws. I'll play nice—unless someone needs me to stop playing."

Fury glanced between them, his voice cutting through the brewing tension. "Grimmjow's here because he's muscle, and muscle's what we'll need if Victor Creed gets too comfortable with his little kingdom. But remember this: Creed's dangerous, and not just because of his strength. He's cunning, territorial, and he doesn't care who or what gets hurt as long as he gets his way."

Jane's claws unsheathed briefly as she nodded, her instincts already in high gear. "We've dealt with his kind before. The key is to hit him fast and hard before he can dig in."

Laurent spoke up, his calm voice laced with a quiet steel. "And we have to keep collateral damage to a minimum. If Creed's been ruling this land, there might be people under his control. We don't want to hurt them while going after him."

Daken chuckled darkly, her arms crossed as she leaned against a nearby post. "People under Creed's control? More like terrified pawns. Trust me, we'll be doing them a favor taking him out."

Fury adjusted his eyepatch as he gave the final orders. "Here's the deal. Jane, Laurent, Daken, and I will take point. Grimmjow, you're with us as backup, but if Creed throws anything big our way, you're on it. Laura and the stealth unit from Soul Society will scout ahead. Their ability to move unseen will be critical in mapping out Creed's defenses. Peter-Knull is on standby, but we're not calling him unless absolutely necessary. This needs to stay contained."

Grimmjow chuckled as he pushed off the wall. "You're the boss, Fury. Just don't expect me to sit on the sidelines for too long."

Fury ignored the comment and turned to the glowing portal that pulsed steadily in the middle of the Seireitei courtyard. "Let's move out. The sooner we know what we're up against, the better."

The group stepped through the portal one by one, the air shifting as they entered the Savage Lands. Grimmjow's eyes lit up as he took in the sprawling prehistoric landscape. Towering trees stretched to the skies, their thick canopies shading the dense jungle below. The cries of dinosaurs echoed in the distance, a cacophony of roars and screeches that filled the air with primal energy.

"Now this," Grimmjow said, cracking his neck, "this is my kind of place."

Laurent glanced at him, his sharp green eyes scanning the terrain. "Just remember, we're not here for sightseeing."

Daken smirked as she adjusted her gauntlets. "Speak for yourself, kid. I'm enjoying this already."

Jane shot both of them a warning glare. "Focus. Creed's out there, and if he's had time to set up shop, we're walking into a mess."

Grimmjow's grin never wavered as he followed the group into the dense jungle, his reiatsu flaring faintly in anticipation. "A mess, huh? Good. Let's clean it up."

…

30 minutes later…

The battlefield erupted into chaos as the Sentinels descended upon the allied forces of Savage Lands Peter and Victoria Creed. The towering machines moved with terrifying precision, their forms composed of both jagged rock and intertwined plant matter. Tendrils of glowing green energy pulsed through their massive limbs, making their already-imposing silhouettes even more menacing.

Jane Howlett, standing at the forefront, froze momentarily as she took in the sheer size and number of their opponents. Her sharp eyes narrowed as she hissed through gritted teeth. "Nope! Plant and rock Sentinels! Who the hell thought this was a good idea?"

Before anyone could respond, one of the massive constructs raised a massive hand, its rocky palm glowing with a concentrated blast of energy. The beam struck Grimmjow dead-on, sending the Arrancar hurtling through the air. His form crashed violently into a nearby mountain, the impact causing an avalanche of debris to rain down. Smoke billowed from the crater where he landed, but even through the chaos, his voice rang out.

"THAT ALL YOU GOT?!" Grimmjow's roar echoed as he staggered out of the rubble, his grin feral despite the blood dripping from his lip. He dusted off his tattered clothes, reiatsu flaring as he charged back into the fray. "I've fought Soul Reapers tougher than this! Let's see what you overgrown lawn ornaments are made of!"

Laurent ducked as another blast flew overhead, turning to his mother. "What's the plan, Mom? These things aren't going down easy."

Jane unsheathed her claws with a snarl. "The plan is simple. We buy time. Those Sentinels didn't come out of nowhere, they're Creed's game. And if he's watching, he's waiting for us to screw up."

Daken darted between two Sentinels, her claws slicing through the vines that made up their legs. "If this is him not playing fair, I'd hate to see him when he'stryingto keep it fair!" she quipped, dodging a massive arm as it came crashing down beside her.

Grimmjow landed on top of one Sentinel, his claws digging into its rocky shoulder. He let out a maniacal laugh as he ripped a chunk of stone free and hurled it at another approaching construct. "KEEP 'EM COMING!" he shouted, his reiatsu flaring so brightly it sent nearby plants wilting.

Meanwhile, Peter and Victoria Creed stood near the backline, coordinating their forces. Victoria cradled baby Grizz protectively as her piercing eyes scanned the battlefield. Her other children fought valiantly alongside the allied troops, their primal instincts guiding them as they worked together to take down the massive constructs.

Peter tightened his grip on his spear, his sharp gaze locking on a Sentinel that was closing in. "I'm starting to think Creed's been planning this for a while. He must've found something in the Savage Lands we didn't know about." He paused as he saw Lycan leading his siblings in a daring maneuver, their raptors darting between the Sentinels to create openings. "Our kids are doing great, but this isn't sustainable."

Victoria growled, her tone laced with frustration. "You're right. We need to find Creed—now. Cut off the head, and maybe these things will stop."

Jane's voice crackled through their comms. "Easier said than done. These things are swarming us! You got a plan, Peter?"

Peter glanced toward the horizon, where the Sentinels seemed to be pouring in from the dense jungle. "I've got one." He turned to Victoria. "Keep the kids safe. I'll draw their attention."

Before Victoria could protest, he was already sprinting toward the nearest Sentinel, leaping onto its arm with the agility of a predator. His spear crackled with energy as he plunged it into the construct's core, causing an explosion of rock and plant matter that sent the Sentinel toppling.

Grimmjow appeared beside him, his grin wide. "You've got guts, Spider. What's the plan? Tear through these things till Creed shows his ugly face?"

Peter smirked, his sharp eyes locked on the jungle ahead. "Something like that. But first, let's clear a path."

Grimmjow's laughter echoed as the two charged forward, carving their way through the seemingly endless wave of Sentinels. Meanwhile, Jane, Daken, and Laurent coordinated with the Shinigami contingent, their experience with Creed variants guiding their every move. Though the odds were overwhelming, the allies fought with a unity and ferocity that even the Sentinels struggled to counter.

The tide of battle began to shift as Peter and Grimmjow relentlessly tore through the wave of Sentinels. Their combined ferocity and precision created a clear path through the towering constructs, leaving shattered rock and smoldering plant matter in their wake. The others, led by Logan, pressed forward, but as they crossed into a dense part of the forest, they noticed something peculiar.

"Hold up," Logan growled, his sharp senses picking up on the sudden shift. "Anyone else noticing this?"

Jane, jogging up beside him, scanned the area. "Yeah… the Sentinels stopped. They're not following Peter and Grimmjow anymore."

Laurent stepped closer, his brow furrowing. "It's like they're avoiding that area past the treeline."

Ahead, through the tangled foliage, the faint outline of a stone structure emerged—a temple, ancient and imposing, half-hidden by the jungle's growth. Its eerie stillness stood in stark contrast to the chaos they had just waded through.

"That's gotta be a boundary of some kind," Jane muttered, her voice low. "A natural perimeter or something Creed set up. Either way, it's keeping them contained."

Daken, crouched on a rock nearby, nodded. "Makes sense. A guy like Creed wouldn't let his toys wander too far from their leash."

Before Logan could respond, a sudden mechanical roar erupted behind him. He turned just in time to see one of the massive rock Sentinels looming over him, its jagged claws raised, ready to strike. The construct's eyes glowed with a sinister green energy as it prepared to bring its crushing hand down.

But before it could land the blow, a red beam of destructive energy tore through the air, obliterating the Sentinel mid-lunge. The force of the blast not only disintegrated the construct but also scattered the clouds beneath the icy jungle canopy, leaving a gaping hole in the mist. The Sentinel's feet, the only part left intact, crashed down with a dull thud behind Logan.

Logan turned to see Grimmjow standing on a nearby ridge, his arm still raised, smoke curling from his palm. The Arrancar was grinning like a predator in the middle of a feast, his sharp teeth gleaming.

Grimmjow lowered his hand casually and locked eyes with Logan. "Anytime," he said, his tone filled with amusement as though he were thoroughly enjoying every moment of this fight.

Logan gave a nod of acknowledgment, his lips twitching into a faint smirk. "Thanks for the save."

Grimmjow shrugged, his reiatsu flaring slightly as he prepared to leap back into the fray. "Don't get soft on me, old man. I thought you were supposed to be the tough one." His grin widened as he added, "Now, let's go make Creed regret bringing these tin cans to the party."

Jane caught up to Logan, glancing back at the ruined Sentinel. "Looks like we've got a bigger problem. If those Sentinels aren't following Peter past the temple, then whatever's waiting for him and Grimmjow there… it's gotta be worse."

Logan cracked his knuckles, his claws sliding out with a metallic snikt. "Then let's move. If Creed's set up shop there, we're about to pay him a house call he won't forget."

The group pushed forward, the eerie stillness beyond the perimeter setting their nerves on edge as they approached the ancient temple. Grimmjow, still radiating exhilaration, prowled ahead, his every movement echoing his thrill at the challenge Creed had laid before them.

…

As Logan, Jane, and the rest of the group pushed deeper into the forest toward the temple's edge, a small contingent of Soul Reapers emerged from the foliage ahead. Their uniforms were torn and stained with blood, their faces pale with a mixture of exhaustion and alarm. One of them, a younger member of the group, limped forward, clutching his bleeding arm.

"Finally," the young Soul Reaper muttered through clenched teeth. "We've been trying to hold our ground, but it's impossible. Creed's got weapons…weapons that can hurt us!"

Another Soul Reaper, a more seasoned member with a deep gash across his chest, nodded grimly. "And not just hurt us, they cansee us! We're sitting ducks out here!"

The words stopped the group in their tracks. Even Logan, who had faced nearly every weapon imaginable, raised his eyebrows in alarm. "Weapons that can hurt youandsee you? That's new," he growled.

Grimmjow, walking slightly ahead with a swagger in his step, blinked at the comment, his curiosity visibly piqued. His sharp eyes scanned the ground and noticed several small, blackened spheres scattered among the debris, primitive projectiles, not unlike the kind fired from old muskets. One of the wounded Soul Reapers gestured toward them, his hand trembling slightly.

"Those things," he spat, his voice laced with pain. "They're coated in something. I don't know what it is, but it burns like hell. Even our kido barriers barely hold against it."

Grimmjow crouched, his grin fading into a more serious expression as he reached for one of the spheres. "This?" he muttered, plucking it from the dirt. The moment it touched his fingers, an unnatural burning sensation shot through his hand. His brows shot up, and for a brief second, he winced, an expression rarely seen on his face.

"What the hell?!" Grimmjow growled, immediately dropping the sphere. He flexed his fingers, noting how the tips of his digits smoked slightly. His usual smirk twisted into something darker. "It's hurtingme?!" he snarled.

The Soul Reapers exchanged uneasy glances. "Whatever Creed's using," the injured one added, "it's designed to bypass our spiritual defenses. We've never seen anything like it."

Jane knelt beside one of the projectiles, her sharp eyes narrowing. "These aren't just primitive weapons. They're infused with… something unnatural. A mix of alchemy and spiritual energy, maybe?"

Laurent sniffed the air cautiously, his feral instincts on high alert. "It reeks of blood and metal," he muttered. "Whatever's on them, it's not just for hurting—it's meant to kill."

Logan's claws extended with a metallic snikt, his expression hardening. "Sounds like Creed's pulling out all the stops. Figures he'd find a way to weaponize something this nasty."

Grimmjow stood, flexing his hand as the last traces of smoke faded from his fingers. His blue eyes gleamed with a dangerous light as he turned to the group. "If Creed's got weapons like this, he's more dangerous than I thought. But now Ireallywant to see him try to use them on me again."

One of the Soul Reapers, clearly rattled, stammered, "We tried to fight back, but we're outmatched. Those projectiles, they're coated in something… unholy. We don't stand a chance."

Jane placed a firm hand on the Reaper's shoulder, steadying him. "You've done your part. Now let us handle it."

Grimmjow, still visibly annoyed by the projectile's effect on him, cracked his neck. "If he's got more of these, I'm gonna enjoy shoving them right back down his throat."

Logan smirked despite the tension. "Just try not to get yourself killed, cat-boy."

The group pressed forward toward the temple, their senses sharper than ever. Behind them, the wounded Soul Reapers retreated to regroup, their warnings still echoing in the minds of their unlikely allies. Whatever Creed had planned, it was clear he'd anticipated every move

Peter Parker, his children, and Future Grizz advanced swiftly toward the fortified depot, their movements a coordinated blend of brute strength and tactical precision. The turret defense system, ancient yet enhanced with magical carvings, roared to life, spitting projectiles of stone imbued with mystic energy.

Lycan charged ahead, his feral instincts and enhanced senses guiding him to one of the closest turrets. He threw his head back and unleashed a deafening sonic howl, the shockwave blasting the stone contraption into shards, the magical etchings dissipating in a flash of energy.

Nearby, Ferra and Sarah activated their secondary mutations, their skin hardening into gleaming metallic surfaces. They were a walking fortress as they sprinted side by side toward a pair of turrets. Ferra's braided hair caught the light as she moved, while Sarah's rugged stance exuded sheer determination. In unison, they shot sticky webbing from their wrists, ensnaring the rocky mechanisms. With a powerful tug, the turrets crumbled, silenced under the weight of their combined assault.

Theron roared as he transformed into his raptor-like form, his claws digging into the ground as he surged forward. Spotting another turret, he leaped, jaws snapping onto its stone surface, and ripped it clean off its perch. The turret sparked with residual energy before shattering as Theron flung it aside.

Jarek, armed with his battleaxe, was methodical but devastating. He swung his weapon in a clean arc, cleaving a turret in two, the stone mechanism crumbling under his raw strength. Beside him, Kael lingered in the treeline, his lithe form practically blending with the shadows. From his vantage, he loosed arrow after arrow, each one finding its mark and disabling the enchanted machinery from a distance.

Grizz, in his future towering form, was positioned near the heavy stone doors of the depot. His massive hands worked quickly and carefully, his claws scraping against ancient grooves as he deciphered the mechanism protecting the entrance. "Just keep 'em off me for one more minute!" he growled, his deep voice a mix of focus and irritation.

Peter, his spear in hand, moved like a whirlwind. With the finesse of a warrior and the power of a veteran hero, he deflected incoming projectiles while striking down turrets with calculated strikes. His eyes constantly scanned his surroundings, ensuring his children were safe and that Grizz had enough time to work.

The air hummed with tension, the magical defenses reacting violently to the intrusion. A particularly aggressive turret locked onto Peter, its runes glowing an ominous red. Before it could fire, Lycan pounced on it from behind, tearing it apart with razor-sharp claws. "You're welcome, Dad!" Lycan called out with a toothy grin.

"Focus, Lycan!" Peter barked back, though a small smirkwas on his face.

Grizz finally let out a triumphant grunt as the stone doorway creaked and groaned, beginning to slide open. "Got it!" he called out, stepping back as the massive doors revealed the darkened interior of the depot.

Peter turned to his team. "Inside, now!" he commanded. The group moved quickly, falling back to the newly opened entrance. Peter was the last to step through, his eyes scanning the battlefield one final time. As the stone doors closed behind them, the echo of the ancient mechanism sealing their retreat, Peter looked at his children and Future Grizz. "Good work, everyone. But stay sharp, we're not out of this yet."

They all nodded, their breaths heavy but steady. The interior of the depot stretched ahead of them, shadows flickering against the walls from magical braziers that ignited as they entered.

…

As Peter and his group tread carefully through the cold, silent corridors of the stone complex, their steps echoed ominously. Lycan sniffed the air, his hackles raised, while Ferra and Sarah kept their senses sharp, the weight of the moment pressing heavily on everyone. Logan, Jane, and Grimmjow followed closely behind, their weapons ready, their expressions grim.

Then Peter froze in his tracks. The abruptness of his halt made everyone stop. His entire body tensed, and his fists clenched as his eyes locked onto something ahead. Slowly, he took a step forward and knelt down. His fingers trembled slightly as they brushed against something lying on the ground. It was a broken, woven baby bed, its shape unmistakable despite its shattered state. The delicate craftsmanship was now marred by shredded fur, torn leather, and jagged edges where it had been deliberately torn apart.

Peter's jaw tightened, and a storm of emotions brewed behind his usually calm demeanor. "He ruined it," he said, his voice low and thick with barely contained anger. "He ruined the crib I spent months weaving for our next child... before Grizz was born. It was supposed to be a surprise for Victoria."

The group stared at the ruined crib in silence. The weight of Peter's words and the depth of his pain sank heavily into the air. Ferra and Sarah stepped forward, their faces pale as recognition dawned.

"That was the one you told us about," Sarah whispered, her voice shaky. "You said it was going to be a gift... Mom was going to love it."

Ferra's hands balled into fists as her skin began to take on its metallic sheen, betraying the anger simmering just beneath her calm exterior. "He knew," she said quietly, her voice icy. "Creed must've known what it meant to you, and to Mom."

Logan exhaled sharply, crossing his arms as his jaw tightened. "Damn Creed," he muttered, his voice rough with shared frustration. "This is just him tryin' to get in your head, Peter. Don't let him."

Jane knelt beside Peter, her hand resting briefly on his shoulder. "It's not just getting in his head," she said grimly. "This was personal."

Even Grimmjow, who had been treating most of the mission with a cavalier attitude, narrowed his eyes at the sight of the destroyed crib. For once, he looked genuinely unsettled. "What kind of sick bastard ruins a baby's crib?" he muttered, his voice carrying a rare tone of disdain. "That's low, even for someone like him."

Theron, Kael, and Jarek hung back, exchanging glances of confusion and shared anger. They didn't know the full story behind the crib, but the sheer rawness in their father's expression was enough to make them furious. Theron growled softly in his raptor form, his claws scraping the stone floor.

Peter stood slowly, his hands flexing as he turned to face the others. "He's not just trying to get in my head," he said, his voice trembling with barely restrained emotion. "He's making a statement. He thinks he can erase everything we built here. Everything Victoria and I worked for."

"Not if we have anything to say about it," Sarah said firmly, her voice steady despite the anger in her eyes. She stepped up beside her father, placing a hand on his arm. "We'll fix it, Dad. We'll rebuild what he's destroyed."

Peter looked at her, his eyes softening slightly as he saw the determination in his daughter's face. He nodded, though his jaw remained tight. "You're right. But first, we're going to make sure Creed doesn't get the chance to destroy anything else."

…

The group moved cautiously through the dimly lit corridors of the stone complex, the tension thick as they approached the main chamber. The heavy wooden doors loomed ahead, their intricate carvings still bearing the markings of the alliances Peter and Victoria had forged with the leaders of the Savage Lands. But those markings had been subtly defaced, with signs of claw marks and intentional weathering, the symbolic erasure of what had once been a unified effort.

Peter's jaw tightened as he pushed forward, leading his group with a confidence that belied the storm of emotions roiling inside him. Lycan, Ferra, and Sarah flanked him, their expressions fierce and determined. Grimmjow followed behind, his feral grin gone, replaced with a look of steely readiness. Logan, Jane, and the others held their positions at the rear, watching the shadows for any sign of danger.

As they neared the doors, they came to an abrupt halt. Four guards stepped into view, blocking their path. Peter froze, his breath hitching slightly. He recognized them immediately, each one of them. Their faces were familiar, etched with memories of shared meals, battles fought together, and nights spent telling stories around the fire. These were men whose families he knew, whose children had played with his own.

But now, they wore expressions of conflict and sorrow. Their spears were held upright, more ceremonial than threatening, but their presence alone was a grim reminder of the changes Victor Creed had wrought.

"Peter," the lead guard said, his voice low and laced with a mix of regret and duty. "It's... good to see you again. You and your heirs."

Peter's breath caught in his throat at the word "heirs," a reminder of how much these people had once revered his family. The guard's eyes darted toward Lycan, Ferra, and Sarah, lingering just long enough for Peter to catch the subtle warmth there. But it was quickly replaced by a shadow of conflict, as if they were silently apologizing for what they were about to say.

Despite the wave of emotions threatening to break through, Peter forced himself to remain calm. He offered them a nod. "It's good to see you too," he said, his voice tight but sincere. "I just wish it was under better circumstances."

The guards exchanged glances before the lead one stepped aside, motioning to the doors. "King Victor... he's been expecting you. He's meeting with the other elders now."

The wordmeetinghung in the air like a loaded gun. Peter didn't miss the subtle emphasis, nor the flicker of unease that crossed the guard's face. This wasn't a meeting, it was a dictation. Victor Creed didn'tmeetwith anyone; he declared, commanded, and imposed.

Peter locked eyes with the lead guard, who gave him the faintest nod,et in their postures. As Peter led his group forward, one of them whispered, barely audible over the sound of boots on stone. "For what it's worth... it's good to see you back. All of you."

Peter's throat tightened, and his fists clenched at his sides. These were his people, his allies, and now they were forced to serve a tyrant. The betrayal cut deeper than any blade.

Ferra, walking beside him, glanced up and saw the tension in her father's face. "Dad," she murmured, her voice steady and grounding. "We'll make this right. All of it."

Peter gave her a faint smile, though it didn't reach his eyes. "I know," he said quietly. But as he pushed open the heavy doors and stepped into the grand meeting hall, his determination solidified. Whatever it took, he would reclaim what had been stolen, not just for himself, but for everyone who had been forced to bend the knee to Victor Creed.

The room was vast, with high ceilings and walls adorned with tapestries depicting the history of the Savage Lands. At the far end of the chamber, a massive stone table sat surrounded by elders and warriors. And at the head of the table, lounging like a king on a throne carved from the bones of ancient beasts, sat Victor Creed. His smirk widened as Peter entered, his golden eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

"Well, well," Creed drawled, his voice thick with mockery. "Look who finally decided to come home."Top of Form

…

The tension in the room was suffocating, a heavy, invisible weight pressing down on everyone present. The elders, seated around the massive stone table, dared not meet anyone's eyes. Their hands trembled visibly, and their gazes were fixed downward, avoiding Creed's predatory grin. The once-proud leaders of the Savage Lands had been reduced to frightened shells, their silence screaming louder than any words could.

Logan was the first to notice, his sharp eyes narrowing as he scanned the room. Jane, standing just behind him, saw it too—the way the elders' shoulders hunched, the way their hands gripped the edges of the table as if bracing themselves for something worse than what they'd already endured. Laurent, Laura, and Jane's Daken exchanged uneasy glances, their feral instincts picking up the scent of fear in the air.

Creed leaned back in his bone-throne, his grin widening at their arrival. He looked as if he had all the time in the world, savoring the moment like a predator toying with its prey. "Well, ain't this a sight," he drawled, his deep voice echoing through the chamber. "Peter Parker. The so-called king of the Savage Lands, back from the dead. And with… quite the entourage, I see." His golden eyes glinted as they swept over the group, lingering on Peter's children. "Andmy variants' kids.Cute little family reunion, ain't it?"

Peter's fists clenched at his sides, but he forced himself to stay calm. "Cut the theatrics, Creed. What do you want?"

Creed chuckled darkly, tapping his clawed fingers on the armrest of his throne. "Straight to the point. Always admired that about you, Parker. Fine. Let's get to it, then." He leaned forward, his grin fading slightly as he gestured to the trembling elders. "These fine folks here? They've been kind enough to… make a deal with me. In exchange for me leaving their little villages intact, they provide me and my boys with some nice little 'tributes.' Weapons, supplies, the works. Courtesy of Orchis."

The mention ofOrchismade Logan and Jane flinch, their postures stiffening as they exchanged sharp glances. Peter caught the movement, his posture tense. "Orchis?" he repeated, his voice low and dangerous.

"Ah, so you've heard of 'em," Creed said, his grin returning with malicious glee. "Yeah, this world's Orchis and I? We've got a nice little arrangement. They keep me stocked with the tools I need to keep things running smoothly, and in return, I let 'em use this land for… research purposes."

Jane's voice cut through the air, sharp and cold. "What kind of research?"

Creed shrugged, his grin widening. "The kind that involves experimenting on anything and everything that breathes, or doesn't. I don't ask too many questions, and neither should you."

Peter's hands trembled with barely contained rage. He glanced at the elders, who still refused to meet his eyes. Their silence was answer enough. This wasn't an alliance, it was subjugation, plain and simple.

Creed's gaze shifted to Peter's children, his grin taking on a cruel edge. "But here's what I really want to know," he said, his tone mocking and probing. "How does it feel, kids? Knowing that a variant of your dear old mom is responsible for all your undoing? That she's the reason you're all running around like scared little mice in a world that ain't yours any longer since she is the one who gave you life and her counterpart, me, is like this?"

Grizz growled low in his throat, stepping forward as his claws flexed instinctively. "This Creed," he spat, his golden eyes blazing with fury, "is nothing like our mother. He's just a brute who thinks he can bully his way to getting what he wants."

Creed's grin faltered for a moment, his gaze locking with Grizz's. "Brute, huh? Cute coming from the kid of a beast. But I gotta say, you've got guts, standing up to me like that." He leaned back again, his claws tapping rhythmically on the armrest.

Grimmjow, who had been leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, finally spoke up, his voice dripping with impatience. "Enough of the theatrics. What I wanna know is what you're packing in those munitions of yours. It hurt me, and the Shinigami. That ain't normal."

Creed's grin returned, this time with genuine amusement. "Shinigami, you say? So that's what those ghostly types are called. No wonder they didn't show up to the naked eye—it took my little creations to make 'em visible."

He gestured toward the strange musket balls stacked on a table nearby. "Those little beauties? They're something Orchis and I cooked up together. We took the sub-atomic properties of Antarctic vibranium, mixed it with some metal from Norn-frost outta Asgard and sulfur-infused ore from Limbo. Then we irradiated it at just the right frequency and sprinkled in a little magical know-how. Boom. The perfect recipe for a metal that can harm spiritual beings."

Grimmjow's eyes narrowed as he stepped closer to the table, his curiosity piqued despite himself. "That's one hell of a cocktail," he muttered. "But you're tellin' me you didn't know it'd hurt someone like me?"

Creed shrugged, his grin widening. "Not really. But hey, I'm always happy to make new discoveries. Guess you're a special case, huh?"

Peter's voice cut through the conversation like a knife. "You're playing with things you don't understand, Creed. And when this comes back to bite you, and it will, I'll be there to make sure it finishes the job."

Creed's grin widened, his sharp teeth glinting in the dim light. "Big talk, Parker. Let's see if you've still got that bite to back it up."

Peter did something that not even Victor Creed anticipated. Without hesitation, he hurled his spear with practiced precision. The weapon sliced through the air and embedded itself mere millimeters from Creed's face, the bone and obsidian tip buried deep in the wood and leather of his throne. The room fell into a tense silence as the impact reverberated, shaking the heavy chair. Any closer, and the spear would have pierced Victor's mouth.

Peter-Knull's sharp gaze bore into Creed's, unyielding and electric with controlled fury. His voice, steady and commanding, carried across the chamber.

"So... still don't think I've got any guts?" Peter said, his tone cold and cutting. He stepped forward, his hands at his sides but his presence radiating power. "Or are we going to decide, here and now, who really owns the Savage Lands? As per the laws of these lands dictate… a test of strength, a trial of honor. You, plus two of Orchis's best, against me and two fighters of my choice. What say you?"

Victor Creed blinked once, his surprise quickly masked by a wolfish grin. Slowly, he leaned back against his throne, one hand resting casually on the armrest as he studied Peter. Then, with a low chuckle, he leaned forward again, his eyes glittering with amusement and approval.

"Well, damn," Victor growled, his grin widening. "Didn't think you had it in you, Spider. But I gotta say… I like your style." He stood from his throne, towering over everyone in the room, his movements fluid and predatory. "You wanna play this game? Fine by me. Honorary combat, just like the old ways. Three on three." He gestured to the guards standing by the entrance. "Spread the word, let the tribes know. There's gonna be a fight."

The guards hesitated for just a moment, their eyes flicking between Peter and Victor, before nodding and hurrying out of the room. Victor turned his gaze back to Peter, his grin never faltering.

"Two of my best against two of yours," Victor repeated, his voice a dangerous purr. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. But let's see if you've got the skill to back it up. Don't keep me waiting too long, Spider. These lands… they've been mine for far too long to give up now."

Peter didn't break eye contact, his resolve unshaken. "We'll see who the Savage Lands really belong to soon enough." He turned sharply, his children following behind, their expressions a mix of determination and anger.

As they exited the chamber, Sarah muttered, her fists clenched, "He doesn't know what he's just agreed to."

Peter glanced at her, a faint smile breaking through his stern expression. "He will soon enough."Top of Form