November 2015

Xavier Institute For Gifted Youngsters, Westchester

Danger Room

Y/N found himself once again in the Danger Room, but this time, he wasn't fighting. Instead, he was focused on something much more subtle, yet crucial...his Spider-Sense. The day he was tossed into the Hudson, he had noticed something strange. He could hear the man's conversation on the phone from far away, a realization that made him understand just how much his senses had sharpened after the spider bite. Not only did he have a sixth sense that warned him of impending danger, but his smell, hearing, and sight were also heightened to extraordinary levels

Today, Professor Xavier was guiding him through exercises designed to help him control these enhanced senses. The Danger Room, normally a place of intense combat simulations, was now a space of quiet concentration

Xavier: Close your eyes, Y/N. Focus on your breathing first. Let it anchor you.

Y/N nodded, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. The world around him began to fade as he concentrated, his senses becoming more attuned to the subtle nuances of the environment.

Xavier: Now...extend your awareness. Feel the air moving in the room, the hum of the electronics, the subtle shift in temperature.

He could feel the gentle draft from the ventilation system, hear the distant hum of the Danger Room's machinery, and even detect the faint scent of metal and oil from the training equipment

Y/N: I hear footsteps... someone's coming this way. Light steps...maybe Kitty? No...too heavy... probably Logan.

Xavier's voice responded with encouragement.

Xavier: Excellent. Now, try to focus on your sense of smell. Tell me what you can pick up

One scent in particular was far stronger than the others, and it made him wrinkle his nose in distaste.

Y/N: Jesus Christ...the downside of having this sort of super smell...is that you can pick up Logan's scent from a mile away...ugh.

There was a brief pause before Xavier responded, a hint of amusement in his tone

Xavier: Yes, Logan's...distinctive scent can be a bit overpowering. But focus, Y/N. There's more than just that. What else can you detect?

Y/N: Okay okay...uhh...oil...mixed with metal...and you're wearing...Jean Paul Gaultier Pour Homme

There was a brief pause, followed by a soft chuckle through the speakers.

Xavier: Impressive, Y/N. Your sense of smell is indeed sharp. But let's not forget, it's not just about identifying the obvious. It's about being able to discern the subtleties in your environment, something that will be crucial when you're out there in the field.

Y/N smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment mixed with a bit of amusement at the idea of picking up on Xavier's cologne

After finishing his training session in the Danger Room, Y/N left the facility feeling more attuned to his enhanced senses. He walked through the corridors of the Xavier Institute, his mind still processing the lesson. The crisp autumn air greeted him as he stepped outside, a welcome change from the enclosed training area. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden hue over the grounds

As Y/N made his way towards the basketball court, he spotted Kitty Pryde already there, casually dribbling a basketball. She was wearing a relaxed outfit: jeans and a T-shirt. And her long brown hair was pulled back into a ponytail. She noticed Y/N approaching and smiled, giving the ball a playful bounce.

Kitty: Heard you've been playing superhero in the Danger Room again. Working on those spidey senses?

Y/N: You know it. Xavier's got me working on everything. Smell, hearing, the works. It's like I'm a walking, talking sensory overload.

Kitty chuckled, passing the ball to Y/N, who caught it effortlessly.

Kitty: Sounds intense. But hey, I'm sure it's nothing you can't handle. You've already got that whole "friendly neighborhood Spider-Man" thing down.

Y/N shrugged, feeling a mix of pride and humility. He wasn't one to boast, but hearing Kitty's words gave him a boost of confidence.

Y/N: Well, I try. But enough about me. How's your day been? Need some stress relief on the court?

Kitty: Maybe just a little. But don't think I'm going easy on you just because you're still in training.

Y/N laughed, bouncing the ball a few times before taking a shot at the hoop. The ball swished through the net, and he grinned at Kitty.

Y/N: Oh, I wouldn't expect anything less, Shadowcat

Kitty rolled her eyes playfully and moved to retrieve the ball. As the two of them started playing a casual game of one-on-one, the atmosphere between them was light and comfortable. It was a nice change of pace from the intensity of training and superhero duties, and Y/N appreciated these moments where he could just be himself, enjoying the company of a good friend.

As they played, the conversation flowed easily, touching on everything from classes to recent missions. Kitty was one of the few people at the institute who really got him...someone who understood the balance between being a teenager and a hero

Kitty: You know... it's nice seeing you unwind a bit. You've been pretty focused lately.

Y/N: Yeah, well, with everything going on, it's easy to get caught up in the serious stuff. But I'm trying to find that balance.

Kitty nodded in understanding, giving Y/N an encouraging smile.

Kitty: You're doing great, Y/N. Just remember, you're not alone in this. We're all here to help, whether it's with superhero stuff or just hanging out.

Y/N felt a warmth spread through him at her words, grateful for the support of his friends.

Y/N: Thanks, Kitty. That means a lot...

As their casual game of basketball wound down, Y/N and Kitty found themselves sitting on the edge of the court, catching their breath. The conversation shifted from light banter to something more personal, the kind of deep talk that only happened when two people truly trusted each other.

Kitty was the first to break the comfortable silence, her gaze distant as she twirled the basketball in her hands.

Kitty: You know, when I first discovered I was a mutant, I was terrified. I thought my parents would freak out, maybe even be scared of me. But they surprised me. They were... accepting, even though they didn't really understand what was happening to me.

Y/N listened intently, sensing the vulnerability in her voice. He knew how difficult it could be to open up about such personal experiences.

Kitty: My dad... he's always been kind of overprotective. But when I told them what I could do, they were more concerned about how the world would treat me than anything else. They wanted me to be safe, to be able to live a normal life. But we both know that's not really possible when you can walk through walls, right?

She let out a small, bittersweet laugh, and Y/N couldn't help but smile, though he understood the underlying sadness in her words.

Y/N: Yeah, I get it. It's hard when you realize you're different in a way that's... not exactly easy to explain to people.

Kitty turned to him, curiosity in her eyes.

Kitty: What about you? What pushed you to start... you know... doing what you do?

Y/N hesitated for a moment, his mind flashing back to the night that had changed everything for him. He glanced at the photo of Uncle Ben he kept in his backpack, feeling the familiar mix of regret and resolve wash over him.

Y/N: It was my uncle. Well... "uncle". He was good friends with my dad for decades...but I made a mistake...one that cost him his life. After that, I realized that with everything I can do, I have a responsibility to use my abilities to help people. To make sure no one else has to go through what I did.

Kitty listened closely, her expression softening with understanding.

Kitty: I'm so sorry, Y/N. That must have been really hard.

Y/N shrugged, trying to keep his emotions in check.

Y/N: It was. But it's also what drives me. I'm not just doing this for me...I'm doing it for him. To honor his memory.

Kitty reached out, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Kitty: You're a good person, Y/N. And what you're doing... it matters. We're all trying to make the world a better place in our own way. But having people like you around makes it a little easier.

Y/N looked at her, feeling a sense of connection and camaraderie that went beyond words. It was moments like this that reminded him why he fought, not just for justice, but for the people he cared about...the friends who had become like family to him

Y/N: Thanks, Kitty. That means a lot coming from you

Y/N found himself at a crossroads, caught between two worlds and two very different feelings. On one hand, there was Liz, someone who understood him as Y/N L/N, the regular guy, the student, the friend. She was part of his normal life, the one he was desperately trying to hold onto despite everything else that came with being Spider-Man. With Liz, he felt a connection that was grounded in who he was before the spider bite, before the weight of responsibility had settled on his shoulders

But then there was Kitty. She wasn't just a friend... she was someone who understood the part of him that lived in the shadows, the part that wore the mask. Kitty knew what it was like to be different, to be burdened with powers that set her apart from everyone else. She understood the struggles, the sacrifices, and the isolation that came with being a hero. With her, he didn't have to pretend or hide who he was. She accepted both sides of him: The boy and the hero

Kitty looked at him, a slight tilt of her head, noticing the conflicted expression on his face.

Kitty: Something on your mind?

Y/N hesitated, not sure if he should say anything, but the look in her eyes told him she genuinely cared. He sighed, running a hand through his hair.

Y/N: It's just... I've been thinking a lot lately. About how different my life has become since I started... you know, the whole hero thing. And it's like, I'm living two lives. There's the part of me that wants to just be Y/N, the guy who goes to school, hangs out with friends, plays football and maybe has a shot at something normal. But then there's the part that can't ignore what's out there, the part that knows I can't just stand by and do nothing.

Kitty listened quietly, her expression thoughtful. She knew where this was coming from...after all, she had her own duality to deal with.

Kitty: You don't have to choose one over the other, Y/N. But I get it...it's hard. Trying to balance everything, trying to be two people at once. But you're not alone. You've got people who care about both sides of you, even if they don't know the full story

Y/N nodded, feeling a bit better after hearing her words, but the weight of his feelings remained. He didn't know how to navigate this. Liking Liz and being drawn to Kitty. It felt like he was being pulled in two different directions, and he wasn't sure how to handle it

Y/N: It's just... complicated.

Kitty smiled softly, understanding his struggle more than he realized

In that quiet moment, she reached out and gently took his hand, the simple gesture filled with warmth and reassurance. She leaned in closer, their faces only inches apart, and for a moment, it felt like the world had stopped around them. There was an unspoken connection, a sense of understanding that went beyond words

Their eyes locked, and Y/N could feel his heart pounding in his chest. It would have been so easy to close the distance, to lean in just a little more...

...But neither of them moved. There was something unspoken in the air, an acknowledgment that maybe, just maybe, it wasn't the right time

Instead, Kitty leaned in and gently kissed him on the cheek, a soft, tender gesture that spoke volumes without saying a word. The warmth of her lips against his skin sent a wave of calm and comfort through Y/N, grounding him in that moment.

Kitty pulled back slightly, her eyes still locked with his, a small, understanding smile playing on her lips.

Kitty: We'll figure it out, Y/N...

https://youtu.be/dNHtpx8t7A0

Meanwhile...

Downtown Manhattan

In a sleek, modern office high above the bustling streets of Manhattan, Adrian Toomes sat at the head of a long conference table, his fingers drumming lightly on the polished wood. Across the room, Wilson Fisk, the imposing and enigmatic crime lord known as the Kingpin, stood with his back to Toomes, staring out the large window that offered a sweeping view of the city below. The tension in the room was palpable, a heavy silence hanging between the two men

Adrian Toomes, once a city contractor now turned black-market weapons dealer, had built a formidable enterprise by scavenging alien technology left over from the Battle of New York. His operation, though highly profitable, had caught the attention of several unwelcome parties... particularly Spider-Man, the young vigilante who had been systematically dismantling his operations

Now, Toomes found himself allied with Fisk, a man whose reputation for ruthlessness was as vast as his criminal empire. The partnership had been mutually beneficial, with Fisk providing the resources and connections to help Toomes expand his enterprise, while Toomes gave a share of the business to Fisk. But despite their successes, there was an air of frustration between them

Fisk remained silent as he looked out over the city he controlled with an iron fist. He didn't turn as he finally spoke, his voice low and measured.

Fisk: Your operation was supposed to be discreet, Adrian. Yet this...Spider-Man has been pulling your merchandise off the streets, disrupting our plans.

Toomes shifted in his seat, his irritation barely contained. He had always prided himself on being in control, but the young hero had proven to be a persistent thorn in his side.

Adrian: We've been careful. But this kid...he's more resourceful than we gave him credit for. He's not just some amateur...he's got skills

Fisk turned slowly and moves to the table before placing both hands on it, leaning in toward Toomes. His presence was suffocating, his displeasure evident in every movement.

Fisk: Skills or not, I don't tolerate failure, Toomes. The longer this Spider-Man runs free, the more he becomes a symbol...a symbol that threatens everything I've built.

Toomes clenched his jaw, knowing that pushing back too hard against Fisk would be a mistake, but also unwilling to appear weak.

Adrian: I'm handling it. We've got new shipments coming in, and my crew is working on more advanced tech...things this kid won't be able to counter. He'll be taken care of.

Fisk straightened, his expression unreadable. He studied Toomes for a long moment before speaking again, his tone icy.

Fisk: See that he is. Or I'll find someone else who can. This partnership is profitable, Toomes... but I won't let sentiment or incompetence get in the way of progress. Do you understand?

Toomes nodded, his eyes hardening with determination.

Adrian: Crystal...

Toomes rose from his seat, his mind already racing with plans to deal with the Spider-Man problem once and for all. As he left the room, he couldn't shake the feeling that his next move would be crucial. One wrong step, and he might find himself facing more than just a teenage hero

One day later...

Midtown High

Y/N sat in class, his mind drifting as the teacher's voice faded into the background. His thoughts were tangled, caught between two different worlds. On one hand, there was Liz Allan, popular, charismatic, and someone who understood the part of his life he lived at Midtown High. On the other, there was Kitty Pryde, his best friend at the Xavier Institute, a fellow superhero who knew him both in and out of the mask. The internal tug-of-war between the two girls had him in a chokehold, leaving him unsure of where his heart truly lay

As he stared blankly at the textbook in front of him, Liz's voice suddenly cut through his thoughts, bringing him back to the present.

Liz: Hey, Earth to Y/N! You free tonight?

Y/N blinked, snapping out of his daydream. He looked over at Liz, who was smiling at him with that easygoing charm that always seemed to put him at ease, even when he was caught off guard.

Y/N: Uh, yeah, I think so. What's up?

Liz leaned in a little closer, her eyes sparkling with excitement

Liz: You wanna...have dinner over at my place?

Y/N blinked, momentarily taken aback as he processed Liz's invitation. Her smile was warm, and there was a hint of something more in her eyes, something that made his heart skip a beat.

Y/N: Dinner at your place? Uh...yeah... that sounds great.

Liz's smile widened, her excitement palpable. She leaned in just a little closer, making Y/N's pulse quicken.

Liz: Awesome. My mom's making her famous lasagna. I think you'll love it.

Y/N could feel his mind racing, trying to juggle the different thoughts and emotions swirling around. This wasn't just any invitation...it felt more personal, more intimate.

Y/N: I've always been a fan of lasagna.

Liz laughed softly, her eyes lingering on Y/N's for a moment longer before she turned back to her work. As she did, Y/N couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Dinner at Liz's place felt like a big deal, and he wondered what it might mean for their relationship

Later That Day...

Liz's Family Penthouse, Chelsea

The sun was setting over the city, casting a warm, golden hue across the skyline. Y/N landed lightly on the fire escape outside Liz's bedroom window. He had just finished his afternoon patrol, taking down a few petty criminals along the way, but Liz couldn't know that. As far as she knew, he was just an ordinary high schooler, and he intended to keep it that way

He knocked gently on the window, and after a moment, Liz looked up from her phone. When she saw him, her face lit up with a bright smile. She quickly crossed the room and opened the window, letting in the cool evening breeze.

Liz: Hi... How did you get up here?

Y/N hesitated for a split second, searching for a plausible excuse. He didn't want to raise any suspicions.

Y/N: Uh... fire escape.

Liz raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical.

Liz: It's fifteen stories.

Y/N quickly tried to think of a response that wouldn't sound too unbelievable.

Y/N: I like doing cardio...

Liz laughed, her skepticism melting into amusement. She stepped aside to let him climb into the room, and Y/N couldn't help but feel a little relieved that she hadn't pressed the issue further.

Liz: Well...whatever works for you. Come on in.

As Y/N stepped into Liz's bedroom, he took a moment to glance around. It was a spacious, tastefully decorated room, with a large bed, a cozy seating area, and a window that offered a stunning view of the city. Everything about the place screamed luxury, a stark contrast to Y/N's own modest home in Queens.

Liz watched him for a moment, noticing the slight hesitance in his movements.

Liz: You okay?

Y/N snapped out of his thoughts and nodded quickly.

Y/N: Yeah, I'm good. Just... taking it all in.

Liz smiled warmly, moving to sit on the edge of her bed.

Liz: Well, I hope you're ready for some of the best lasagna you've ever had. My mom's been working on it all day.

Y/N: I'm definitely ready for that.

Liz's smile softened, and for a moment, the two of them just looked at each other, a comfortable silence settling between them. Despite the nerves he felt earlier, Y/N couldn't help but feel at ease in her presence

As Y/N and Liz made their way to the kitchen, the rich aroma of freshly baked lasagna filled the air. The kitchen itself was just as impressive as the rest of the penthouse, with sleek, modern appliances and a spacious island at its center. Standing by the oven, carefully checking the lasagna, was a woman who could only be Liz's mother.

Y/N felt a twinge of nervousness but put on his best smile as he approached her.

Y/N: Hi, Mrs. Allan... I'm Y/N. Nice to meet you.

The woman turned to him with a kind smile, but there was a slight correction in her tone.

Doris: Oh, hello dear. It's Mrs. Toomes, actually. Liz carries Allan as her last name because of her grandmother.

Y/N blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the revelation. He quickly recovered, though, offering a polite nod.

Y/N: Oh, I see. My apologies, Mrs. Toomes. It's nice to meet you.

Doris waved off the mistake with a smile, clearly not bothered.

Doris: No harm done, Y/N. I'm glad you could join us for dinner. Liz has mentioned you a few times.

Y/N glanced at Liz, who looked slightly embarrassed but smiled nonetheless.

Y/N: All good things, I hope.

Liz rolled her eyes playfully.

Liz: Don't let it go to your head, Y/N.

Doris chuckled at their exchange, clearly enjoying the lighthearted banter between the two.

Doris: Well, dinner's almost ready. Why don't you two set the table?

Y/N nodded and began helping Liz set the table. As they worked together, Y/N couldn't help but feel a little more at ease, grateful for the warmth and hospitality of the Toomes family

After setting the table, Y/N couldn't help but notice the absence of Liz's father. The penthouse was elegant, and everything about the evening felt warm and welcoming, but there was a noticeable absence that piqued his curiosity. As they finished placing the silverware, Y/N decided to ask, trying to keep his tone casual.

Y/N: So... where's your dad?

Liz paused for a moment, her expression shifting slightly. She seemed to be weighing how to answer, her usual bright demeanor dimming just a bit.

Liz: He's... out of town. Work keeps him pretty busy.

Just as she finished speaking, the door to the penthouse opened, and a middle-aged man walked in. He had a commanding presence, his posture straight and confident, with an air of authority that was hard to miss.

Adrian: Hey sweetheart. Sorry I'm late

Liz: Dad! I thought you were out of town.

Adrian: Managed to wrap things up early. Thought I'd surprise you.

As the man turned his attention to Y/N, extending a hand in greeting, Y/N felt a strange sense of familiarity wash over him. The man's sharp eyes seemed to study him, taking in every detail.

Adrian: And you must be Y/N. Heard a lot about you. I'm Adrian

Y/N shook his hand, trying to hide the unease creeping up his spine

Y/N: Nice to meet you, sir.

There was something about the man's presence, something Y/N couldn't quite put his finger on, but it bugged him as they all moved to sit at the table. The feeling that this man was somehow familiar, yet he couldn't place where from, lingered in the back of his mind

Y/N sat at the table with Liz's family, trying to shake off the unsettling feeling that had crept over him since her father walked in. The aroma of the lasagna filled the room, a comforting scent that contrasted sharply with the tension he felt inside. He forced a smile, trying to focus on the conversation around the table

Liz: So, Y/N, how's school been treating you?

Y/N: It's been good. Busy, but nothing I can't handle.

Adrian watched Y/N closely as he took a bite of the lasagna. Y/N couldn't help but notice how his presence dominated the room, even when he wasn't speaking.

Adrian: You seem like a sharp kid. Got any plans for the future?

Y/N paused, feeling the weight of Adrian's gaze on him.

Y/N: I'm still figuring things out, but I want to make a difference, you know? Maybe just... helping people.

Adrian's expression didn't change, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes. Interest, maybe, or something else that Y/N couldn't quite read.

Adrian: That's a good mindset to have. The world needs more people who want to help.

Y/N felt a knot form in his stomach as the conversation continued. Liz's mother, Doris, chimed in with light-hearted comments, and Liz seemed genuinely happy to have her father home. But Y/N couldn't shake the feeling that something was off

As they ate, Y/N couldn't help but steal glances at Adrian, trying to piece together why he felt so familiar. The way he spoke, the way he carried himself...even his scent. It all felt like a puzzle Y/N couldn't quite solve

After dinner, Y/N and Liz made their way to the balcony, the cool evening air offering a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the dining room. The city lights twinkled below them, casting a soft glow over the skyline.

Liz: I'm really glad you came tonight. It's nice to have a break from everything, you know?

Y/N: Yeah, it's been a good evening. Your family seems really nice.

Liz: They are. My dad's just... very focused on work. But he means well.

Y/N: I can imagine. He seems like a busy guy.

There was a moment of silence as they both looked out over the city. Y/N could feel the tension from earlier in the evening slowly melting away.

Liz: What about you? What's your family like?

Y/N takes a deep breath

Y/N: My dad is a cop and my mom's a nurse. They get kinda nusy with long shifts...sometimes I get home and there's no one there so...yeah. It gets kinda lonely. Pete is my neighbor, so we hang out sometimes

Liz's eyes softened with sympathy as she listened to Y/N. She took a step closer to him, closing the distance between them.

Liz: That sounds really tough. I can't imagine how hard that must be.

Y/N: Yeah, it is. But they're both doing what they love, and I'm proud of them for it. It just means I've learned to take care of myself a lot.

Liz: You've done an amazing job, Y/N. I can see how strong you are, and it's clear you care a lot about your family.

Y/N: Thanks, Liz. I try my best.

Liz: You know, it's moments like these that remind me how important it is to have people you care about, and who care about you.

Y/N looked down at Liz's hand on his arm, feeling a comforting warmth from her touch. The connection between them felt real and genuine

Y/N: Yeah, it really does. I'm glad I've got people like you around.

Liz's eyes met his, and she smiled softly, her expression filled with a mix of affection and understanding.

Liz: Me too. It's nice to have someone who gets it.

They stood there for a while, their conversation flowing easily as they shared stories and laughter. The city lights continued to sparkle below, casting a serene glow over the evening, and for a moment, everything felt perfectly right

Y/N looked at Liz, his heart caught between the desire to be completely open with her and the responsibility that weighed heavily on his shoulders. She was right there, so understanding, so kind, and he could see the genuine interest in her eyes. He wanted to tell her everything...to reveal the truth about who he was, what he had become, and the double life he was leading.

But as much as he longed to let her in, the words of his Uncle Ben echoed in his mind: "With great power comes great responsibility." He knew that telling her would mean putting her in danger, making her a potential target for the very enemies he fought against. It was a risk he couldn't take, not when it came to someone he cared about so deeply.

So instead, he smiled at her, pushing down the urge to confess. He would protect her in the only way he knew how. By keeping her safe from his secret

Y/N: Yeah... it's good to have people who understand.

Liz tilted her head slightly, sensing that there was something more he wasn't saying, but she didn't push. Instead, she simply smiled and nodded, content with the moment they were sharing.

Liz: Whenever you're ready to talk, about anything... I'm here.

Y/N: Thanks, Liz. That means a lot.

They stood there in silence for a while longer, just enjoying the peace of the night and each other's company

After leaving Liz's penthouse, Y/N swung through the city, the cool night air brushing against his face as he made his way home. The events of the evening played on a loop in his mind—the dinner with Liz and her family, the conversation on the balcony, and the weight of the secret he still carried.

As he approached his neighborhood, Y/N landed softly on the rooftop of his apartment building, taking a moment to look out over the familiar streets of Queens. The lights in the windows below signaled the end of another day, and Y/N felt a mix of exhaustion and relief wash over him.

He quietly slipped into his room through the window, careful not to make any noise that might wake his parents. Once inside, he changed out of his Spider-Man suit, folding it neatly and placing it in its hiding spot before collapsing onto his bed. The events of the day weighed heavily on his mind.

Staring up at the ceiling, Y/N's thoughts wandered back to Liz. Her smile, her laugh, the way she looked at him with such warmth, it all made him feel something he hadn't felt in a long time... normal. But he knew that as much as he wanted to share his life with her, there was a part of him that he could never reveal, a part that was destined to remain hidden.

The memory of Liz's father also lingered in his thoughts. Adrian Toomes. Something about the man felt off. The way he looked at Y/N, the subtle tension in the air...there was something more there, something Y/N couldn't quite put his finger on. It nagged at him, a puzzle piece that didn't quite fit.

Y/N sighed, running a hand through his hair. He was caught between two worlds: the life of a high school student with normal problems and the life of a superhero with responsibilities that no one else could understand. It was a delicate balance, one that he was still learning to navigate.

As he closed his eyes, Y/N made a silent promise to himself. He would protect Liz and everyone he cared about, no matter what. And one day, when the time was right, he would find a way to bridge the gap between the two sides of his life. But for now, he needed to rest, to recharge for whatever challenges tomorrow might bring

The Next Day...

The Daily Bugle, Manhattan

J. Jonah Jameson stood in the middle of the newsroom, a thick cloud of cigar smoke swirling around him as he gestured wildly at the board behind him. It was covered in blurry, amateur photos of Spider-Man, taken from various angles by random people around the city. The pictures were grainy, poorly lit, and none of them showed the hero in a positive light

Jameson: "Who is the Spider-Man?" I'll tell you who he is... he's a menace! A criminal! A vandal! Swinging around this city like he owns the place! Just look at this!

He jabbed a finger at one of the photos, his voice rising in frustration. The rest of his staff watched with a mix of amusement and exasperation. City editor Robbie Robertson, ad manager Ted Hoffman, reporters Whitney Chang and Ben Urich. They'd all seen this routine before, but today Jameson seemed particularly fired up

Robbie, ever the voice of reason, leaned back in his chair and gave Jameson a calm look.

Robbie: Jonah, Spider-Man's helped a lot of people. He's not the villain you're making him out to be.

Jameson scowled, dismissing Robbie's words with a wave of his hand.

Jameson: Helped? Sure, he helps himself to property damage! That's what he does! We need more proof. And until we have it, we're not stopping until we find out what he's hiding.

Whitney spoke up, a slight smirk on her face.

Whitney: So, what's the next step, chief? More blurry photos?

Jameson: No! I want a front-page story. "Spider-Man: Hero or Menace?" And I want it now!

Ben Urich, more curious than antagonistic, nodded thoughtfully, making a note. He'd been following stories about Spider-Man, but his interest wasn't in smearing the hero. He wanted to uncover the truth.

Urich: Maybe there's more to him than we think, Jonah. He might be out there for a reason.

Jameson's eyes narrowed, and he pointed his cigar at Ben.

Jameson: The reason is trouble, Ben! Now get out there and find me something!

Midtown High

At Midtown High, the hallways buzzed with chatter as students shuffled between classes. Y/N was by his locker, grabbing his books for the next period when Peter Parker approached, holding a newspaper in his hand. His expression was a mix of excitement and disbelief.

Peter: Hey, check this out!

Y/N looked up as Peter thrust the Daily Bugle newspaper in front of him. The bold headline screamed, "Who is Spider-Man?" Below it, in slightly smaller text, was an offer that made Y/N's stomach twist: "The Bugle pays good money for any photos of Spider-Man!"

Y/N: Seriously?

Peter: Yeah, can you believe it? Jameson's really going all out on this Spider-Man thing.

Y/N tried to keep his expression neutral, but he couldn't help the slight tension in his shoulders. He glanced over at Harry, who had just joined them, curious about what they were looking at.

Harry: What's going on?

Peter handed him the newspaper, and Harry's eyebrows shot up as he read the headline.

Harry: Wow, JJJ really has it out for Spider-Man, huh?

Y/N: Yeah, looks like he's not letting this go anytime soon.

Peter: I mean...he's offering cash for photos! Who knows what people will do for that kind of money.

Y/N nodded, trying to play it cool even as his mind raced. The last thing he needed was for anyone to get too close to finding out who Spider-Man really was. The offer from the Bugle was dangerous. It could turn anyone with a camera into a potential threat

Y/N: Yeah, well, people will do anything for a quick buck. Hopefully, they just get more of the usual blurry shots.

Peter: Yeah, right? It's not like anyone can get close enough to get a good picture of him anyway. I could try, though. Help May with the bills

As the bell rang, signaling the start of the next class, the three of them headed off to class. But Y/N couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that settled in his gut. The Bugle's headline wasn't just sensationalism...it was a warning

Y/N made his way to chemistry class, his mind still worried with the Daily Bugle headline. As he walked into the room, he took a seat near the middle, pulling out his notebook and trying to refocus on the day's lessons. The classroom buzzed with the usual chatter of students, but it quieted down as Mr. Ruthers, the chemistry teacher, began to speak.

Mr. Ruthers: Alright, everyone, settle down. Today, we're going to dive into something a bit more interesting than your usual elements and compounds. We're talking about metals. Specifically, two of the rarest and most durable metals known to man: Adamantium and Vibranium

Y/N perked up at the mention of those names. This wasn't your average high school chemistry lesson. Mr. Ruthers turned to the board, where he'd written out the names of the metals in bold letters

Mr. Ruthers: Now, these metals are famous not just because of their unique properties, but also because of their applications. Particularly in advanced technology and, yes, even in some of the superheroes and mutants you've all heard about.

He glanced around the room, clearly enjoying the fact that he had the students' full attention for once.

Mr. Ruthers: Let's start with Adamantium. This metal is virtually indestructible once it's been set. It's famously known for being bonded to the skeleton of a certain Canadian mutant... The Wolverine. Adamantium is an alloy, meaning it's a mixture of multiple metals, but the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret.

He paused, letting the information sink in before moving on.

Mr. Ruthers: And then we have Vibranium. Found almost exclusively in the African nation of Wakanda, this metal is known for its ability to absorb vibrations, including sound waves and kinetic energy. It's a key component of Captain America's shield and the protector of Wakanda, Black Panther's armor. Vibranium's ability to absorb energy makes it incredibly versatile and valuable

As Mr. Ruthers continued his lecture on Vibranium, Y/N diligently took notes, trying to absorb every detail. But then, a familiar tingling sensation crept up the back of his neck... his spider-sense. It was a feeling he had come to trust, a warning that something was wrong. He paused, pen hovering above his notebook, listening intently.

A loud noise suddenly echoed through the school, followed by the unmistakable sound of screams. Y/N's head snapped up, his eyes widening as the reality of the situation set in. Without a moment's hesitation, he pushed his notebook aside and stood up, his heart pounding in his chest

Mr. Ruthers: What the...what's going on? Everyone stay calm...I'll-

But before Mr. Ruthers could finish, the classroom door burst open, and students began rushing out, fear etched on their faces. Y/N quickly joined the flow of people heading towards the hallway, trying to stay unnoticed. As he pushed through the crowd, he finally caught sight of the source of the chaos.

Standing in the middle of the hallway was a massive figure, easily over eight feet tall, with muscles that seemed to strain against the red suit he wore. His head was encased in a large, dome-like helmet, and his presence alone was enough to strike terror into anyone who saw him.

???: Nothing can stop the Juggernaut!

The man's voice boomed through the school, a deep, gravelly sound that sent shivers down Y/N's spine. It didn't take a genius to realize that this was no ordinary intruder, this was the Juggernaut, a force of nature known for his unstoppable momentum

Students and teachers scrambled to get out of the way, but the Juggernaut seemed unfazed, his massive frame breaking through anything in his path. Lockers were torn from the walls, and the floor shook with each of his heavy steps

Y/N knew he had to act quickly. He slipped away from the panicking crowd, ducking into a nearby empty classroom. Once inside, he frantically began changing into his Spider-Man suit, his mind racing. This was bad...really bad. The Juggernaut wasn't someone he could take on without a plan, and with so many people around, the stakes were higher than ever

As he finished suiting up, Y/N took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. He knew he had to do something to stop the Juggernaut before anyone got hurt, but he also knew he was in for one of the toughest fights of his life

Y/N: Alright...just...deep breaths...you're just about to fight THE Juggernaut in your rookie year...

He took a few more steadying breaths, trying to focus his mind. He reminded himself why he did this...why he put on the mask every day. It wasn't just about stopping bad guys or swinging through the city. It was about protecting the people he cared about, the innocent lives that would be in danger if he didn't act.

Y/N: Come on, you've got this. Just think... what would the X-Men do?

With that thought, he steeled himself and slipped out of the classroom, moving swiftly through the halls as he followed the sounds of destruction. The noise grew louder with each step, the ground shaking beneath his feet as the Juggernaut continued his rampage.

Finally, Y/N spotted him. Tearing through the school's main hallway, debris and chaos in his wake. Spider-Man perched himself on a wall just out of sight, taking a moment to assess the situation. The Juggernaut was heading straight for the exit, but there was still time to intervene, to slow him down and give the students and teachers more time to evacuate.

Y/N: Okay, big guy... let's see if what you got

With a flick of his wrist, Y/N shot a web at the Juggernaut's feet, trying to trip him up. The webbing stuck, but the Juggernaut barely stumbled, his momentum too powerful to be halted by such a simple tactic. Instead, he turned his massive head toward Spider-Man, his eyes narrowing behind the helmet

Juggernaut: Huh...you must be the newest member of my brother's boy band

Y/N tried to keep his tone light, even though his mind was racing with the information Juggernaut just gave him, he tries to come up with a plan.

Y/N: Well, I guess you could say I'm the cool new addition. Gotta keep things fresh, y'know?

Juggernaut let out a deep, rumbling laugh, the sound echoing through the hallway like thunder. He took a step forward, the ground shaking beneath his feet, as he sized up Y/N.

Juggernaut: You think you're funny, kid? Let's see if you're still cracking jokes after I turn you into a smear on the pavement!

Without warning, the Juggernaut charged forward, his massive frame barreling toward Y/N like an unstoppable freight train. Y/N's Spider-Sense screamed in his head, giving him just enough time to leap out of the way, narrowly avoiding the Juggernaut's devastating charge.

Y/N: Whoa! Okay...note to self: Don't get hit by that!

As the Juggernaut crashed through another section of the school, Y/N swung around to land behind him, quickly firing web after web in an attempt to slow him down. But the Juggernaut tore through the webbing with ease, barely slowing his pace.

Y/N knew he had to think of something fast. He couldn't beat the Juggernaut with brute force alone...he had to outsmart him. As he dodged another charge, an idea began to form in his mind

Determination filled him as he swung to a broken column, perching momentarily to catch the Juggernaut's attention.

Y/N: Hey, big guy! Is all this massive destruction a reflex of your own traumatic childhood? Maybe you just need a better hobby!

The Juggernaut snarled, his eyes locking onto Spider-Man with burning fury.

Juggernaut: You got a smart mouth for such a small bug! Once I get my hands on you, you'll be nothing but a stain!

Y/N: Promises, promises. Catch me if you can!

With that, Y/N shot a web at the far end of the hallway and swung swiftly through the hole Juggernaut had previously created. He moved with calculated agility, ensuring he stayed just within sight to bait the huge Titan of a man into following him.

Y/N: Hey Juggy are you compensationg for something with that huge helmet?

Juggernaut, enraged and unwilling to let this taunt go unanswered, charged after him, each step shaking the ground and leaving cracks in the tiled floors

As they exited the school building, Y/N led the chase through the relatively empty school grounds. Students and faculty had evacuated to a safe distance, watching in awe and terror as Spider-Man led the unstoppable force away from them.

Swinging between lamp posts and trees, Y/N kept up his taunts.

Y/N: You're pretty slow for someone who's supposed to be unstoppable! Maybe lay off the dome you got on your head!

Juggernaut: Keep talking while you can! Once I catch you...

They approached the busy streets, and Y/N knew he had to redirect the chase to avoid civilian casualties. Spotting a narrow alleyway that led directly toward the construction site, he made a sharp turn, slipping between the buildings with practiced ease.

Juggernaut followed without hesitation, his massive frame smashing through trash cans and shattering brick walls as he forced his way through the confined space. Dust and debris exploded into the air, but nothing slowed him down

Emerging from the alley, Y/N landed gracefully at a construction site. The site was deserted at this hour, scaffolding and cranes casting long shadows in the late afternoon sun.

Y/N: Welcome to your new playground, Juggy! Plenty of space to stretch those legs.

Juggernaut stomped into the construction site, eyes blazing beneath his helmet as he scanned the area.

Juggernaut: Bad move, bug. No more running, nowhere to hide!

Y/N: Who said anything about hiding? I just thought we'd have more fun away from prying eyes. Plus, you were redecorating the school a bit too aggressively

With a roar, Juggernaut lunged at Y/N, his enormous fist swinging with deadly force. Y/N's reflexes kicked in, and he flipped backward just in time, narrowly avoiding the punch that smashed into the steel beam where he'd just been standing. The impact bent the metal like it was nothing, sending shockwaves through the structure.

Y/N quickly fired a web, using it to propel himself onto the Juggernaut's back. The massive man tried to shake him off, but Y/N clung on, moving with agility that made it impossible for the Juggernaut to get a solid grip on him. With a swift motion, Y/N yanked hard on the edge of the Juggernaut's helmet.

Juggernaut: Hands off the helmet!

Y/N ignored the warning, landing a solid punch to the side of the Juggernaut's head, momentarily dazing him. He took advantage of the momentary distraction to rip the helmet off, tossing it aside with a triumphant grin.

Y/N: YOINK! And out goes the helmet

Juggernaut: NO!

Y/N: Don't be so bashful... you're beautiful on the inside... 

Y/N quickly fired a web at the helmet, yanking it further away, out of Juggernaut's reach. The giant let out another enraged roar, his hands clenching into fists as he turned to face Y/N

Y/N: Now...if you let me deliver the coup the grace...

Before Y/N could react, Juggernaut moved with surprising speed. With a growl, he lunged forward and grabbed Y/N by the torso, his massive hands wrapping around Y/N's body. The air was forced from Y/N's lungs as the Juggernaut squeezed, the pressure on his ribs becoming almost unbearable.

Juggernaut: I hate French food!

Y/N: That's... not... what... coup de grace means...

Juggernaut: IT MEANS YOU'RE OUTTA HERE!

With a furious roar, Juggernaut lifted Y/N above his head and hurled him across the construction site with all his might. Y/N's world became a blur of spinning metal and concrete as he flew through the air, his body slamming into a stack of steel girders on the other side of the site

The impact was brutal, sending a shockwave of pain through Y/N's body as he crumpled to the ground. He struggled to breathe, the wind knocked out of him, and his vision got blurry as he tried to get up to his feet. The sheer force of Juggernaut's throw had left him dazed, and for a moment, all he could hear was the ringing in his ears

He could see the massive form of Juggernaut approaching. The mutant had put his helmet back on, and the look in his eyes was one of pure menace.

Juggernaut: I'll send you back to Chuck... in a body bag...

Y/N braced himself, knowing he was in no shape to dodge another attack like the last one. The Juggernaut raised his massive fist, ready to deliver the final, crushing blow. Y/N's heart pounded in his chest as he prepared for the worst.

But just as the Juggernaut was about to strike, a voice cut through the chaos, strong and confident, with a thick Russian accent

???: Hey! Pick on someone your own size!

Y/N's eyes widened as he looked past the Juggernaut, spotting the source of the voice. Stepping out from behind a pile of rubble was a towering figure, his broad frame casting a long shadow over the construction site. It was Piotr Rasputin, also known as Colossus

Colossus calmly walked towards the Juggernaut, his every step reverberating through the ground. The Juggernaut paused, turning to face this new challenger, his fist still raised.

Colossus: Leave the boy alone. You and I have unfinished business.

Juggernaut sneered, lowering his fist as he regarded Colossus with a mixture of annoyance and recognition.

Juggernaut: Ah, the tin man. Been a while since I smashed you into scrap

The Juggernaut cracked his knuckles, preparing for a brawl, while Colossus stood his ground, ready to defend Y/N with everything he had. The battle between these two titans was about to begin, and Y/N knew he had to stay sharp and find a way to assist, even if it was just a distraction

Colossus didn't waste any time. With a swift, decisive motion, he threw a powerful punch aimed directly at the Juggernaut's helmet. The force of the impact echoed through the construction site, sending a shockwave through the air. Juggernaut staggered back, momentarily caught off guard by the sheer power behind Colossus' strike

Juggernaut shook his head, trying to shake off the ringing in his ears from the blow. He glared at Colossus, his rage boiling over. With a roar, he charged forward, his massive frame charging towards the Russian mutant.

Juggernaut: You think you can stop me, tin man? I'm unstoppable!

Colossus braced himself, every muscle in his steel-coated body tensing as the Juggernaut charged at him like a runaway freight train. The collision was catastrophic, the sheer force of Juggernaut's momentum shaking the very foundations of the construction site. The ground beneath them cracked and splintered, sending shockwaves through the earth, but Colossus held firm, his metallic frame absorbing the impact

With a surge of strength, Colossus reached out and grabbed Juggernaut's massive hands, specifically targeting his pinky fingers. He applied all the force he could muster, bending them backward until, with a sickening crunch, the bones snapped. The Juggernaut let out a guttural grunt of pain, momentarily losing his focus.

Juggernaut: You commie motherf-

Before he could finish his insult, the Juggernaut swung his free fist with all his might, connecting squarely with Colossus' face. The blow was devastating, sending Colossus flying through the air like a ragdoll

As Juggernaut charged at Colossus like an unstoppable freight train, the temperature around the construction site suddenly plummeted. The ground beneath Juggernaut's feet began to glisten as a layer of ice rapidly formed, turning the dirt and debris into a slick, treacherous surface. Juggernaut's furious momentum was no match for the unexpected ice, and his massive boots lost traction, making him slip

Before he could comprehend what was happening, the Juggernaut's colossal form crashed to the ground with a thunderous impact, shaking the very foundations of the construction site. The ground quaked as he landed flat on his back, momentarily stunned by the fall.

Standing at the edge of the site, Bobby Drake, the Iceman, appeared with a confident smirk, his hands glowing with cold energy.

Bobby: Hope you like ice skating, Juggs!

Seizing the opportunity created by Iceman, Colossus quickly sprang into action. He sprinted toward the downed Juggernaut, every step echoing with purpose. As the Juggernaut struggled to regain his footing, Colossus leaped into the air and delivered a devastating elbow strike to the Juggernaut's helmet. The force of the blow was so powerful that it cracked the reinforced metal, sending a resonating shockwave through the air.

Juggernaut: ARGHHH!

Juggernaut let out a furious roar, but before he could retaliate, Colossus reached down and yanked the damaged helmet off. 

Juggernaut's eyes widened in alarm, realizing too late what was about to happen.

Colossus: Now, Professor!

In that split second, the Juggernaut's fierce determination melted away as he was bombarded with a powerful telepathic command. His eyelids grew heavy and the rage that had fueled his rampage began to dissipate. He fought against the pull of sleep with every ounce of his remaining strength, but it was a losing battle.

Finally, with a low groan, Juggernaut's eyes fluttered shut, and his massive body went limp. The ground beneath him seemed to sigh in relief as the unstoppable force was finally stopped

Y/N: That...was way too close.

Colossus, still breathing heavily from the exertion, nodded in agreement as he tossed the Juggernaut's helmet aside.

Colossus: But we did it, comrade. Together.

Iceman grinned, giving a thumbs-up as he walked over to join them.

Bobby: Not bad for a day's work, huh? Looks like teamwork really does make the dream work

Colossus: We'll take him to The Raft. 

U.S. Capitol, Washington D.C.

The large conference room was filled with the hum of low conversation, a sense of unease palpable in the air. The walls were adorned with portraits of past leaders, the weight of history pressing down on those gathered within. At the head of the room stood Senator Robert Kelly, a man known for his radical views on the growing mutant "threat." His presence commanded attention, and as the lights dimmed, all eyes turned to the large screen at the front.

The screen flickered to life, displaying footage from the recent chaos in New York. The video captured the raw power and devastation of Juggernaut as he tore through buildings, sending civilians fleeing in terror. The room fell silent as the congressmen and women watched in shock, their faces a mix of fear and concern. The destruction was unlike anything they had seen before, a stark reminder of the potential danger lurking just beneath the surface of society.

Senator Kelly paused the video, the image of Juggernaut's rampage frozen on the screen behind him. He turned to face the room, his expression grave, his voice carrying the weight of authority and determination.

Senator Kelly: Ladies and gentlemen, what you've just witnessed is not the work of the Fantastic Four, nor the Avengers...heroes who have pledged to protect our nation. No, this destruction was caused by a mutant, one of many who walk among us, hiding in plain sight. They possess powers beyond our comprehension, abilities that can level cities, disrupt our way of life, and endanger the lives of innocent Americans.

He allowed the words to hang in the air for a moment, letting the gravity of the situation sink in. The room remained silent, the tension thickening with each passing second.

Senator Kelly: We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this growing threat. The events in Paris 1973 showed us that there are going to be threats like them...

He stepped away from the screen, moving to the center of the room leaning forward slightly as he spoke with conviction.

Senator Kelly: That is why I am here today to propose a solution...a contingency plan that will ensure the safety of our citizens and the security of our nation. We cannot rely solely on the goodwill of a few to protect us from the many. We need a program that can identify, monitor, and, if necessary, neutralize these threats before they spiral out of control.

He paused, his eyes scanning the room, meeting the gaze of each congressperson, ensuring they understood the importance of what he was about to say.

Senator Kelly: I am referring to the Sentinel Program...