Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Cold.

Silence.

Heat.

Hot.

HOT.

FIRE.

IT BURNS.

Light.

Reflecting off objects.

Different…

Colours.

Pain.

Emptiness.

Something is missing.

It fell.

I fall.

Need host.

Sounds.

AAAH.

IT HURTS.

Nothing.

Floating.

Liquid.

Something missing.

But something close.

Need host.

Can sense.

Living Things.

Can connect.

Bad hosts.

Something missing.

Need other.

Need an other.

Won’t survive.

Won’t.

Survive.

Hidden in one of the hundreds if not thousands of buildings throughout New York City was a secret laboratory filled with everything that could be expected of a mad scientist’s lab. What was especially strange about the laboratory however was the army of furred green creatures populating it.

The creatures appeared to be some sort of goblin with sharp noses and batlike ears. Spread throughout the laboratory the creatures were bent over benches and equipment each seemingly absorbed in their entirety in the experiments in front of them. But suddenly interrupting the various experiments across the laboratory was the opening of a door at the far end of the laboratory revealing a man dressed in a red suit with a matching pair of sunglasses and a walking stick. 

“Ah, Professor! How goes the experiment?” the closest creature to the newly arrived man looks up from the bench they’re crouched over with a scowl.

“Kingpin. I believe I told you not to come back here until I called you with the results.” ignoring the Professor the now-named Kingpin lifted one of the vials covering the desk in front of him.

“Well yes that was the plan Professor… but then two of our experiments almost starred on the evening news!” The Kingpin slammed his hand down, shattering the glass in his hand, “And even worse The Spiders saw them! So what is the explanation there Professor?”

The smaller creature shrinks back from Kingpin with his hands spread placatingly, “S-Sir the experiment proved to be stronger than we had expected and so once they had been moved to storage we were unprepared for how strong they were and they broke out. But not only are our projections for the two pure bodies lower than the modified clo-experiements we also improved the containment systems.”

Pacing slowly forward Kingpin seems to be staring intensely at the almost snivelling creature in front of him. But as he did so the creature shrunk even further in on himself, his whole body shaking in fear.

“So then… you’re promising me that we won’t have to worry about any more issues regarding our projects then?” the professor’s head bounces like a bobblehead as he starts to use the computer screen behind him. The computer beeped and booped as it was used, displaying a large variety of vital signs and camera feeds. All varied widely in what they showed off to the two observers.

“Yes, yes, yes, we are now fully capable of holding a full regiment of clo-heh sorry experiments. Spiders and modified included.” nodding slowly Kingpin seemed to peer slowly around the lab as if searching for something in particular.

“Alright then. I believe I shall leave you to it then.” slowly with his cane in front of him the Kingpin retreated from the laboratory. But just before he exited completely he turned back to the Professor, “Sorry one more question, but how is our visitor coming along?”

The sudden question causes the professor to scramble at the desk, visibly flipping through files on the computer before stopping on a more recently opened file.

“Ah well, it appears that we have not yet managed to figure out exactly what it is capable of. We do know that it has some element of symbiosis with living creatures but it seems to need to bond to more complex life forms. As everything that it has been bonded with so far has been drained of its nutrients near instantly.”

Kingpin raised his cane at the analysis clearly deep in thought. As he did the Professor fidgeted anxiously and the eyes of his peers darted between them. Finally though Kingpin spoke again.

“Hmm. needs a stronger host huh? I’d suggest using one of our projects but that could create something unsustainable… maybe one of our friends could be a volunteer. Or hmm.” still intensely deep in thought Kingpin turned and left without saying anything else leaving the Professor to his work. Watching after the Kingpin, the professor waits until he’s out of sight before letting out a held breath.

At the far end of the laboratory, the identical figures to the professor spurred by Kingpin’s questions can’t help their gazes from falling on the large container of black goo next to them. Jumping back as it slammed against the reinforced glass containing it. All of them were terrified of this seemingly lifeless goo.

Having returned from the hidden laboratory to the skyscraper he called home Kingpin couldn’t help but whistle as he plunged down a staircase into the deep cold dark. His cane clicked against every step as it bounced against the walls and he plunged ever deeper into the pit.

Eventually, the Kingpin reached the end of the spiralling staircase, revealing what seemed to be a dungeon ripped out of Medieval England. Smirking at the bars in front of him Kingpin rattled his cane against the waking the seated figure within them.

The figure was bathed in shadow but even so, every emaciated limb could be made out. The skin hung from each limb making it clear that while there used to be fat and musculature, the body now lacked it leaving little more than skin and bones.

Annoyed at the seeming lack of a reaction from the prisoner Kingpin scowled before running the can along the bars once again. Jolting the figure out of its stupor.

“Whu… whozhere?” the figure’s voice is scratchy like it hadn’t been used in far too long matching the body that housed it far too well. And the words were slurred displaying the figure’s lack of energy.

“Why hello Me, how’s it going being the inferior copy?” as Kingpin smirked at him the prisoner cocked his head to the side, making his shaggy unkempt red hair reveal an ear.

“Oh… it’s… you…” the prisoner’s voice was laboured as he spoke each word as if each syllable was taking everything he had to say. But rather than showing any care as someone would assume someone would when seeing someone else in this state Kingpin simply laughs.

“Oh, of course, it’s me. No one else knows you’re here, or that you even exist. And that's never going to change. But even if they did no one would look for you, would they? You burnt every bridge you ever had trying to lock me up”

“Spider-man…” Kingpin leans closer at the whispered words, his features scrunched in confusion.

“Spider-Man? What's Spider-Man going to do? Spider-Man doesn’t know you exist and thanks to you I know every way to hurt him. And thanks to that fact I can finally get that pest under my control.” 

Kingpin smirks confidently at the hunched wreck of a man in front of him. But rather than just sitting there and taking the mocking, the dishevelled man spits a glob of blood and saliva at Kingpin.

Slowly with movements dripping in disgust, Kingpin pulled out a handkerchief before wiping away the blood. Turning in disgust Kingpin throws his handkerchief over his shoulder.

“Yes that's all you can do, isn’t it? Spit in disgust as I ruin everything you’ve ever worked for. Rot in hell. You bastard.” as Kingpin left the dark cell he missed the bloody smirk on the dishevelled man’s face as he listened to Kingpin leave.

“Hell’s… Hell’s for... people without faith… And… if there’s… one thing… I have faith in… it’s Spider-Man…” With a final grunt, the disheveled man turned on his side to face the wall. His body slackened as he fell back into the dark of sleep

Chapter Text

Seated in one of the many lecture halls of Empire State University Gwen Stacy and Peter Parker watched as their Advanced Biology Professor explained evolution in gene pools. But as they watched Gwen was much less interested in the lecture than Peter.

Playing with the hair that fell from the longer uncut side of her head Gwen ignored the professor at the front of the hall. Instead, she favoured staring at her boyfriend sitting next to her.

“ Pete. Pete. Pete. Peter. Peter. Peter Parker. ” Gwen whispered in hushed tones to Peter who tried his best to ignore his girlfriend whispering to him, but it was incredibly difficult. However, while Peter was ignoring Gwen’s whispers others in the lecture hall weren’t.

“Miss Stacy, is there something you want to share with the class?” Professor Miles Warren, Gwen and Peter’s Intro to Bio Professor stared at the two young adults, waiting expectantly for something.

“Uh no, Professor Warren. I don’t have anything to add.” Gwen looked chastised as she responded to the Professor, who simply nodded in acknowledgement before continuing the lecture. Rolling her eyes at the Professor Gwen looked over to Peter before mock retching.

This was what finally made Peter crack and he chuckled under his breath at his girlfriend. Peter’s eyes darted around the room before writing out something in a corner of his notebook.

Stop it

The two words were heavily underlined as he showed it off to Gwen who simply rolled her eyes at her boyfriend. Looking down at her own notebook Gwen scribbled out a message of her own on its corner.

You love it

Looking up from the piece of paper, Peter raised an eyebrow at Gwen who stuck her tongue out in response. Rolling his eyes at Gwen, Peter looked back down to his paper and scribbled out another phrase.

Stop it

Yeah I do

Smiling softly at Gwen, Peter watched as Gwen read the note which made her cheeks redden. Meeting Peter’s eyes Gwen playfully shoved Peter before finally trying to pay attention to Professor Warren, her cheeks still crimson as she did.

“Urgh! I can’t believe that Warren twat! Seriously none of the other lecturers are such hardasses!” Storming out of the lecture hall into the campus of ESU, Gwen didn’t even try to hold back the barrage of insults and Peter exiting the building just behind her knew it was better to let her get it out of her system.

“Yeah well, at least he’s the last class for the day.” Wrapping an arm around Gwen’s shoulder Peter pulled her in close as the two walked through the campus.

“Yeah, I guess that’s true. Although did you see the way he was looking at me? It was so weird.” Gwen grabbed her arms in a mock shiver as she kept talking, “although the glare he was giving you was just as weird. What did you do? Be too good at science?”

Taking Gwen’s hand in his own Peter simply shrugged at her, “I dunno maybe? Honestly, I didn't even notice it.” Rolling her eyes at Peter’s response Gwen lightly flicked his nose.

“Of course you didn’t. Anyway so we going…” Gwen’s eyes darted around as she paused mid-sentence before they settled back on Peter’s, “for a swing?” Gwen’s eyes lit up at the question and it hurt Peter to turn her down.

“Sorry Gwen, but I got a text mid-lecture from Robbie, apparently Jonah needs me to come in for some reason.” Peter winced as Gwen’s face fell but he needed the work so there wasn’t anything he could do.

“Urgh… Fine, I guess I’ll just go solo till band practice then.”

“Aw shit. I’m sorry Gwen. I promised I’d be there today. Tell you what I’ll try and get done as quickly as I can and I’ll hurry over to your practice.” Peter’s voice was soft as he looked into Gwen’s eyes and she couldn’t help but look away.

“Yeah alright then.” looking back up at Peter Gwen smirked before resting a finger on his chest, “But if you aren’t then I get to punish you… ” as Gwen whispered out the last few words her eyes grew lidded and she stared up into his eyes.

Taking a hold of Gwen’s hand Peter lifted it up, “So does that mean nothing happens if I show up on time?” Peter pecked at Gwen’s hand before letting it go.

“Well, that depends on how good you are.” Peter opened his mouth to respond to Gwen’s teasing but before he could a voice yelled across the campus at them.

“HEY GWEN, PETER” Looking over to the source of the voice Peter and Gwen saw the blonde hair of Flash Thompson jogging over to them.

“Oh well guess I better head, if Flash gets me stuck in a conversation I’ll be late for the Bugle. See ya Later Gwendy.” Before Gwen could say anything in response Peter jogged off and left Gwen standing alone.

“Geez thought he’d have more manners than that. Just leaving his girlfriend all alone, how rude.” shaking her head in mock shock, Gwen waved to Flash before crossing the quad to meet him.

“PARKER!!! GET IN HERE!!!” the loud voice of Jonah J. Jameson roared through the office of the Daily Bugle. 

Pulled out of his conversation with fellow New Bugle hire Betty Brant by the shout, Peter shrugged apologetically at the other young adult

“Sorry Betty but it seems the big man is calling.” as Peter walked away Betty simply rolled her eyes at him as she called out to his retreating back.

“Don't upset him, Peter, I need this assistant job. Oh, and remember we’ve got practice tonight so don't keep Gwen out too late.” But rather than responding in some way to assuage her criticism Peter simply rolled his eyes at Betty as he made his way into JJ’s office. As Peter entered the office the shouting continued momentarily before Jonah cut himself off mid-sentence.

“PARKER! WHER- oh there you are. Robbie tell him what he’s doing.” With barely an acknowledgement of Peter, Jonah turned from the young adult with a puff of his cigar favouring instead to survey the city. As Robbie stepped towards Peter it was hard for the younger man to miss the eye roll sent Jonah’s way.

“Alright, Peter I don’t think you've met Ben before but he needs a photographer and we’ve given you to him. ” As Robbie finished speaking he gestured to the corner of the office and Peter struggled to keep himself from jumping in surprise when a man stepped out of the shadowy corner.

The man looked to be in his mid-forties with short brown hair and brown eyes hidden behind a pair of plain glasses and dressed in a brown suit. But unlike Jonah or Robbie, Ben’s suit was that little bit loose on him, as if he’d just grabbed it off the rack and started wearing it.

“Hi Peter, I’m Ben, Ben-” the man started to introduce himself but was quickly cut off by an excited Peter.

“Ben Urich! You’re the guy who wrote the expose on Kingpin! The one that combined with Daredevil’s testimony got him locked up.” taking a step back from Peter, Ben side-eyed a shrugging Robbie before letting out a sigh.

“Yeah, that was me. Although it didn’t achieve what I wanted considering Kingpin’s dead and Daredevil’s identity is now public knowledge.” 

“Well yeah but still you’re a journalistic legend it's awesome to work with someone who gets stuff done.”

“PARKER! URICH! GET OUT OF HERE! AND I HEARD THAT PARKER!” wincing at Jonah’s scream Peter and Ben leave the office and Robbie to Jonah. Continuing to follow Ben, Peter is led by the older man to a desk in the corner of the Bugle’s bullpen.

Standing back Peter simply watches as Ben starts digging through the piles of papers sitting on the desk in front of them. Eventually however Ben did start to speak to Peter.

“Alright Peter so my usual Photographer Brock is out sick, caught some bad flu or something I’m not sure. But we had press passes for this gala tonight and while sure Kingpin’s died in jail, criminals are as well equipped as they were before… so someone’s taken his place. And hopefully, we’ll be able to tell something about who the new head honcho is at the new Fisk Ind- oh I’m sorry not Fisk, Alchemax Industries gala.” 

Almost as if he’d planned it Ben finished ruffling through his desk and speaking at the same time. While what Ben had said surprised Peter it did explain the lack of a change in criminals since Fisk was arrested. And so it was easy for Peter to school his expression before Ben turned to face him

“Ok then so I guess I’m just gonna be taking photos of people at the party and you, while you try to talk to as many people as you can before we get kicked out?” Peter questioned the older man who smiled widely back at him.

“Exactly Peter. I think we’re going to get along swimmingly. Now come on the gala starts at five so we need to be there at four-thirty for any early arrivals.” Ben kept speaking as he started leading Peter out of the office. But after he took a few steps he turned back to face Peter with a cocked eyebrow.

“Peter?”

“Yeah, Ben uh sorry Mr Urich?” Peter’s words were hesitant as he stopped suddenly behind Ben to narrowly avoid walking into him. Peter’s response caused Ben to chuckle softly as he started talking.

“Firstly none of that Pete, call me Ben we’re colleagues, equals.”

“Oh ok sure Mr Uri- Sorry Ben.” Peter’s failed attempt to address Ben the way he wanted seems to humour the older man as he continued to speak.

“We’ll get you used to it eventually don’t worry, now the more important question do you have a suit to wear? Or maybe a collared shirt?” while Ben had asked the question it seemed he expected the response he got as when Peter awkwardly shook his head the older man simply laughed, “Well that’s to be expected I think Brock might have a spare hidden away otherwise we might need to go shopping. C’mon, let’s get looking.”

Leaping through the air, from one web line to the next Gwen can’t help but let out a whoop of glee as the wind rushed past her. However, as she flew through the air her eyes never left the car that raced dangerously through the streets below her.

But as she finally got close enough Gwen pulled her limbs in close and dived closer to the car as it continued screaming down the street. Timing it perfectly just before she would have crashed into the ground Gwen fired a pair of weblines at the bumper of the car and pulled as hard as she could. Just as Gwen planned between her strength and the strength of the webbing she was able to safely slow the car to a stop. 

Gwen landed behind the car and immediately jumped into action once again, wrapping the driver and passengers in webbing to make sure that they couldn't escape before the police showed up. But that was the most Gwen cared about the aftermath of the incident and she was quickly once again swinging through the sky of New York.

While Gwen kept her eyes open for more crimes as she swung through New York she also couldn’t help but keep her mind on the time.

‘ Damn I’m cutting it a little close to band practice, but I can’t really help it. Since Peter got called into that rag of a paper again.’

Landing on a building Gwen started running across the New York skyline. Hesitant about using too much web fluid just swinging as she hadn’t replaced her stores of it recently.

‘ Although I might as well head over now… It’s late enough MJ will be pissed at me and Peter probably won’t be far off, and as much as he’d say otherwise he won’t be able to stop himself from going on patrol after work. ’

Leaping off the edge of a building Gwen fried off a web line and swung towards MJ’s home in Queens. It was a quicker trip than Gwen expected, as much as she’d argue otherwise to Peter the slight differences between this New York City and the one she was used to would still throw her off slightly.

Landing in between a pair of houses a short walk from MJ’s home, Gwen crouched down to pull her clothes out of her backpack. Pulling her clothes over her suit Gwen adjusted both to make sure that none of her Spider-Woman suit was showing.

“Benefits of baggy clothes I guess.” Muttering under her breath Gwen looked down at the baggy jumper, long skirt and boots that covered her superhero suit. Squatting down again Gwen pulled out the beanie in her backpack before covering most of her hair.

“Alright, once more into the breach dear friends. God his dorkyness is rubbing off.” smiling softly at the thought of Peter, Gwen swung her backpack onto her shoulder and trekked to MJ’s house.

Fidgeting with the collar of his borrowed shirt Peter followed Ben as the two approached the entrance of the hotel the gala was being held at.

“Alright, Peter. So I hope you’ve got a fresh roll of film in that camera, I’m gonna need you to photograph everything. Whether it’s people I talk to, people I don’t talk to, or just what everything looks like. I’ll want all of it recorded.” Peter nodded his head to show he understood. But he couldn’t help looking down at the camera in his hands as he did.

“Ben, did you want a film camera? Just cause I brought my digital but I might be able to run home quick and grab it. Or ask my roommate to drop it off.” Peter was only barely kept from rambling on by Ben putting a hand on his shoulder as they approached the elevator.

“No sorry the digital’s fine, just an old man anachronism. You’ll have to deal with those working with me I’m afraid Peter.” Chuckling at something he said, Ben led Peter out of the elevator and into a grand ballroom, “Ok Peter start photographing while I mingle.” 

Before Peter could say anything Ben walked off into the crowd of people. Letting out a sigh Peter lifted the camera to his eye and began to take photos. Taking photos of the people in the room Peter couldn’t help but marvel at who he saw.

At one end of the room was Tony Stark’s rival Justin Hammer, deep in conversation with what seemed to be Monica Rappaccini, head of Advanced Idea Mechanics. Snapping a quick photo of the two, Peter turned to the other side of the room looking for other people Ben would appreciate photos of.

Snapping a few photos of random people throughout the large room, Peter couldn’t decide whether he was impressed or disgusted by the garish displays of wealth present in the clothes of the people in front of him.

Staring through the viewfinder of his camera at a woman wearing a dress that looked like it was made of diamonds Peter settled on disgusted. Turning away from the woman Peter looked into the viewfinder but was surprised when all it showed was black. 

“Boo!” Surprised by the shout Peter pulled back from the camera to see Harry Osborn standing in front of him. Wearing a well-tailored purple suit over a green dress shirt Harry was almost the mirror opposite of Peter, fitting in perfectly with the many other rich attendees.

“Harry! I thought you were in Europe!” Peter exclaimed with glee as wrapped his arms around his roommate. 

“Yeah nah apparently there's some bigwig at this party and they may or may not have a kid Dad wants me to cozy up with. Ergo here I am.” Harry chuckled as he spread his arms and Peter simply chuckled back.

“Ah yeah that’s right, lives of the rich and famous.” 

“Hah, exactly you get it, Petey.” Wrapping an arm around Peter’s shoulder Harry turned him around, “Now see that woman standing over there by the window?” Following Harry’s extended arm Peter saw a brown-haired woman wearing a red and blue dress.

“Yes?” cocking his head to the side Peter tried to tell if there was something special about her but nothing seemed to catch his eye, “Why?”

“Well I was hoping that you could do the cozying up for me?” tilting his head to meet Peter’s eyes Harry did his best puppy dog eyes. But Peter simply laughed it off.

“Sorry Harry, but the perk of having an amazing girlfriend is that I can no longer cozy up with other people.” pausing for a moment Peter pulled out the press pass Ben had given him, “Plus I’m on the clock. Here give me your best rich prick smile.”

Lifting his camera Peter smiled as he looked at Harry through the viewfinder. “Petey you know I prefer rich dick, rich prick is the Hammers.” posing for a moment to allow Peter to take the photo and once he had Harry started to walk backwards away from him, “Anyway since my best bud is leaving me hanging I guess I’ve gotta go do some cozying.”

Chuckling at Harry’s joke Peter continues taking photos of the Gala and kept an eye out for Ben. Although he had to avoid yawning at how boring it all was just watching people through the camera, “God where’s a supervillain when you need one.”

“Excuse me, boy.” A deep voice echoed over Peter’s shoulder. Turning to face it Peter was surprised to see a man wearing an iron mask and a suit of armour covered by a green tunic and hood. Somehow even more surprising was the short blonde-haired girl standing next to him who looked surprisingly like Susan Storm.

“Um yeah, what can I do for you?” Peter tried to keep the quiver out of his voice as he tried to figure out what Doctor Doom wanted with him.

“You have a camera yes? I would like you to take a photo of myself and my goddaughter Valeria.” gesturing to the girl next to him Peter couldn’t help but note with a closer look, that she not only looked like Susan but Reed as well.

“Uh yeah sure Mr Doom I can-” eyes darting between the girl and Doom, Peter was surprised when the girl spoke up to interrupt.

“You’re the one who takes the photographs of Spider-Man for the Daily Bugle are you not?” meeting the intense blue-eyed stare of the small girl.

“Uh yeah, I am.” Peter spoke hesitantly not one hundred per cent sure where she was going with this.

“You’ve taken photos of my Uncle Johnny as well then.” as soon as Johnny’s name escaped the girl’s lips Peter felt himself deflate. If Reed and Sue’s apparent child was here with him there was no way Doom would try anything.

“Ohhh, so you’re Reed and Sue’s kid then. Although I didn’t know they had a kid…”  trailing off it took a moment for the alarms to fire in Peter’s mind as he realised exactly what he said. These were then intensified by the smirk Valeria had.

“Oooh Franklin’s gonna be so jealous I met you first.” Valeria’s smile grew wider as she continued to stare at Peter. Before Peter could respond though Doom spoke up.

“You know Richards boy? If Richards has employed your services you must be better than Valeria assumed you would be. Good. Now take our photo.” taking a step back from Peter, Doom and Valeria posed with his hand on her shoulder.

Still confused Peter hesitantly raised his camera and took a photo of the two. Lowering the camera Peter started to fidget with it in his hands as he looked between the two confusing people.

“So uh do you have an email or something you want that sent to?” as Peter asked the question a green glow engulfed Doom’s gauntleted hand. Peter watched as out of the glow appeared two polaroids of the photo he had only just taken.

“No need boy. Here you are Valeria.” looking down to hand the photo over. Doom then met Peter’s gaze, “Good job boy. You are proficient in photography. This may not be the last time Doom employs your services. Come Valeria we must continue to… mingle .” Peter watched, confused barely describing how he felt, as Doom growled out the last word before walking away.

“Well, I should be going then. Nice to meet you, Mister Parker. Say hello to Spider-Woman for me.” Gobsmacked Peter watched after Valeria.  Finally, once Valeria and Doom had melted into the crowd Peter pulled his phone out of his pocket to shoot Johnny a text.

Since when are you an uncle

Oh hey Petey
Didnt i tell you?
Its a whole thing
Ill meet up with you and tell you sometime 

Staring at his phone Peter wished he could be surprised by the lax attitude in the texts but he knew Johnny too well for that. So letting out a sigh Peter continued taking photos.

“Ho ho ho. Hey hey hey—” As MJ started to sing Gwen entered her usual headspace for when she drummed. Paying little attention to MJ’s singing, or Betty and Glory’s guitars, Gwen focused solely on the drumming.

Flowing with the music Gwen’s hands played the kit almost automatically. One hand hits the high hat with practised precision and expertly timed. While the other flowed around the drum kit. Bouncing from snare to floor tom, to tomtoms, to cymbals. Sometimes it would even hit the odd cowbell.

It was a soothing experience for Gwen, in the same way, web swinging or listening to music with Peter was. She just lost herself in the rhythm of the song. Letting her ignore her responsibilities, the creepy stare of Professor Warren, and the fact Peter was still working at that rag of a paper. All of it melted away into the song.

Although even as she played she couldn’t let go of the disappointment that Peter wasn’t there watching her. Sure it wasn’t a gig he was missing and there was still time for him to show up before they finished, but even so Gwen couldn't help it.

She enjoyed spending time with Peter and had expected that they’d get that time earlier but since the newspaper, that used Peter’s photos to bag the two of them out, called, he ran to them. The fact that Betty worked there too was irrelevant in Gwen’s mind. 

Gwen couldn’t help but wonder why Peter needed the money so badly. He roomed with Harry, so it wasn’t like he was paying rent. May is too proud to take money from who she saw as a son… it can’t have all been for Spider-Manning could it?

“Gwen!” MJ’s shout broke Gwen out of her musing. Confused by the sudden shout Gwen’s eyes darted between her bandmates.

“Huh what’s wrong?” still looking between her bandmates, Gwen is confused by the looks they were giving her.

“You zoned out again. You alright Gwen?” Glory is the first to speak up. The care in her gaze as she stared at Gwen made her uncomfortable.

“Yeah nah I’m fine. I’m coolio, I’m ice cold.” replying with what she felt was a smooth smile, Gwen was surprised when MJ groaned in response

“Oh god, she’s talking like Parker. Clearly, she’s unwell, maybe his brainwashing is finally wearing off?” MJ’s smile was creepily wide as she spoke but Gwen did her best to ignore it.

“Oh, are you worried about Peter 'cause he’s not here yet Gwen? Didn’t I tell you he got put with Ben Urich to cover a gala tonight?” cocking an eyebrow at the slightly embarrassed Betty, Gwen rolled her eyes.

“No, you didn’t tell me that Betty. Urgh… if it’s one of those things then he’s gonna be out all night.” Gwen sighed loudly as she placed her drumsticks on the floor tom.

“Oh no does little Gwenny need to go without her boy toy for twelve hours? The humanity.” resting her hands on her waist MJ made a show of rolling her eyes at Gwen, who simply stuck her tongue out in response.

“Well, I think that’s me done for the day girls. If I’m already zoning out I’ll be a zombie in class tomorrow. And I already piss off my teachers every time I’m in class.” getting to her feet Gwen grabs her sticks and heads to leave.

“Urgh you spoilsport! I make one joke about your boy-toy and then you get all pissy.” walking out the door Gwen simply flipped her off. Exiting MJ’s house Gwen snuck back down to the same house she’d arrived near and changed back into her hero suit.

Launching a webline into the sky Gwen swung off home. Eager to collapse into her bed and end the day.

Peter had lost track of how many photos he’d taken, he’d lost track of how long he’d been at the gala and he hadn’t seen Ben in what felt like hours. The blur of lavishness and what felt like hundreds of rich socialites had turned the entire night into a haze of indulgence.

“Ah… Peter, there you are!” Ben’s voice from a far corner of the room caused Peter to turn to face him. But to his surprise, Ben wasn’t alone. He was accompanied by Matt Murdock.

“Oh hi, Ben.” while Peter greeted Ben his eyes didn’t leave the crimson glasses of Matt.

“Ah spellbound by Ol’ Matt, are you? The Daredevil of Hell’s Kitchen. He’s a figure isn’t he?” the reddened cheeks of Ben made it clear to Peter that he’d been drinking, even as he nudged Matt with his elbow.

“Oh um well I guess so. It’s really amazing to hear what you’ve done for Hell’s Kitchen and the rest of New York, and I’m sorry about what happened to Fisk. I mean you went through all that and then he got killed while he was in police custody without making it to trial.” Peter did his best to present the image of a spellbound fan. Daredevil may have been fine going public but Spider-Man wasn’t.

“Eh, who really cares? Fisk ended up in hell where he belongs and I got out earlier than I would’ve otherwise. Win-win really.” the jovial tone in Matt’s words surprised Peter. This wasn’t the way the Daredevil Peter had met spoke.

“Oh… alright then.”

“Hey Peter I think it’s time for us to head. You’ve got school tomorrow anyway, don’t you?” suddenly as if by magic Ben sobered up.

“Oh um yeah I do. It was nice to meet you, Mr Murdock.” Peter offered his hand to Matt but rather than shaking it, Matt grabbed it and pulled Peter into a hug.

“Please call me Matt, and the honour is mine.” Pausing mid-sentence Matt whispered into Peter’s ear, “ And do tell Spider-Woman hello for me. ” stumbling backwards Peter’s eyes didn’t leave Matt.

“Oh uh sure Matt. I’ll do that.” Peter opened his mouth as if to say something else but before he could Ben grabbed him by the shoulder to lead him out of the ballroom.

“C’mon Peter. Let’s go.” Ben went silent as he led Peter out and every time Peter tried to say something Ben would simply stop him. It wasn’t until the two had made it several blocks away from the building that hosted the gala that Ben spoke again, “Peter this is very important what is it Matt whispered into your ear?”

The sudden shift in Ben’s tone surprised Peter, gone was the jovial older man. Instead, he was replaced by a cold professional.

“Uh I’m not sure, why? I mean I couldn’t hear what he said over the music and everything.” the lie flowed easily for Peter. Ben’s reaction to Matt implied that this was serious but Peter wasn’t going to risk leaking Gwen’s identity. Even to someone who seemed as trustworthy as Ben.

“Peter. I need to know anything Matt whispered to you, even if you’re not sure what exactly he said.” Ben’s stare was intense as he looked at Peter. Gnawing at his lip Peter spent a moment in thought before making a decision.

“I think he might’ve mentioned Spider-Woman? I’m not one hundred percent sure why but I think it had something to do with her.” Peter’s tone was hesitant. He hoped that he wouldn’t regret this.

“Spider-Woman? Hm… I wonder… alright thanks for tonight Peter, if you can just drop a copy of the photos you took to the bugle tomorrow morning I’ll make sure Jonah compensates you properly for this.” rubbing the back of his head Ben started walking away from Peter.

“Oh yeah, I’ll make sure to do that. Good night Mr Urich.”

“Call me Ben Peter,” Ben called out over his shoulder to Peter as he waved goodbye. Leaving Peter alone in the streets of New York. Once Ben disappeared around the street corner Peter ducked into a side alley and pulled his Spider-Man mask out of his suit pocket.

Pulling the mask over his head Peter pulled his webshooters out of another pocket and clipped them onto his wrist. Firing a webline into the sky Peter started swinging. But as he did Peter couldn’t take his mind off of Matt.

The reference he’d made to Gwen, made him think of that comment she’d made once years ago when the shift first happened. The Matt Murdock of her world was the Kingpin and head of a magic ninja cult who also tried to kill Gwen.

Did what happened to Gwen and her dad happen to Daredevil? But no it couldn’t be… Daredevil had helped put Kingpin in jail. Jail would have an impact on anyone and the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen would be a perfect target for all the goons inside. So he’s probably just recovering from that or something. yeah…

Reasoning away the worry Peter continued swinging home. But even so, at the back of his mind, the worry continued to burn softly.

Chapter Text

BEEP
BEEP
BEEP
BRCK

“Shit…” Cracking her eyes Gwen swore under her breath at the sound of something breaking. Rubbing the sand from her eyes, Gwen sat up in bed. But to her shock, rather than it just being her clock that was broken, her entire bedside table was now a pile of splinters. Taking a deep breath Gwen quickly decided that was a future her problem.

Ignoring it Gwen stretched with a groan and was surprised to smell food. “The fuck?” 

Slowly getting out of bed Gwen stumbled out of her room and towards the kitchen of her apartment. “Peter? What are you doing here?” Gwen was surprised to see Peter standing in front of her apartment’s stove cooking something.

“Hey, Gwen!” Peter turned from the stove to Gwen with a smile that she wouldn’t admit made her heart flutter, “I swung by before classes and your dad let me in. but since you weren’t up yet I thought I’d make breakfast. Aunt May’s wheat cakes!” Stumbling closer Gwen finally noticed the stack of brown cakes sitting on a plate next to Peter.

“Whoah look at you Mr Househusband.” taking a seat at the bench Gwen tore off a piece of the wheat cake and popped it into her mouth, “Mmm this is pretty good Peter. Y’know I could get used to this. Waking up in the morning and having breakfast already cooked for me by a hot guy.” Pausing for a moment Gwen started to do a crappy rich person accent, “You know, when I was a child I would say pfannkuchen sind Liebe.” As she ripped off another chunk Gwen wiggled her eyebrows at Peter.

“Was that a Speed Racer reference Gwen?” Rolling his eyebrows at Gwen’s cheesy smirk Peter kept cooking, “Anyway I’m sorry to burst your bubble Gwen but this is the only thing I can cook. So your dreams of me as your cute house husband will have to stay that.” Turning to face Gwen, Peter flipped the last wheat cake onto the pile before leaning against the bench.

“Oh well. I guess I’ll have to find some other use for you then.” Gwen couldn’t help but keep smirking, Patting Peter's cheek, “I’m sure I can find something for a good-looking piece of man meat like you.”

“Oh, I feel so objectified. Don’t you appreciate me for my brain and ability to reach higher shelves than you?” spinning Gwen on her stool, Peter rested his arms around her neck. Looking deep into Gwen’s eyes Peter couldn’t help smiling, “Or do you just want me strutting around in an apron?” 

Showing off the acrobatic abilities earned from being Spider-Woman, Gwen leapt from her seat into Peter’s arms and wrapped her legs around Peter’s chest.

“While that is a very tempting offer, Mr Parker, I’m loathe to deprive the city of New York of Spider-Man. Why think of the Daily Bugle? How would Jonah pay his bills if he couldn’t spend all day ragging on you?” smiling impishly at Peter, Gwen’s lips darted forward to peck Peter’s. However, once she did Peter let out a deep sigh.

“Gwen… can you please stop with the Bugle? I get that you don’t like it but it’s getting me paid for basically doing Spider-Man stuff.” Dropping out of Peter’s hold, Gwen took a step back as she crossed her arms.

“Oh yeah, that’s right. you’re basically getting paid to do Spider-Man stuff. The stuff your boss constantly shits on using your photos. It's such a great fucking career. Oh and not to mention he shits on your photos constantly. I don’t see why I’d want my boyfriend to do something better or that he’d actually enjoy.” 

Turning away from Gwen, Peter grabbed his backpack off the table next to them, “Whatever. I’ve got class to go to Gwen.” with that final word Peter walked out the apartment door. Leaving Gwen alone in the kitchen with a plate of wheatcakes.

“Fuck.” Gwen fought the urge to slam her fist into the bench as she stared at the door to the apartment. “Why can’t I just keep my fucking mouth shut.” turning away from the door Gwen, leant against the kitchen bench before picking up a wheatcake.

As she took a bite out of the wheatcake Gwen’s mind couldn’t help but wander back to what they were talking about. ‘ Is it that bad he’s working at the Bugle? His entire job only exists because Jonah loves shitting on the two of us. But if the job was easy enough that he could fit it in with everything else was it really such a bad thing? Am I in the wrong here? ’ Much to Gwen’s dismay, she couldn’t answer the question.

So not knowing what else to do Gwen finished off the breakfast Pete had made her before getting changed. But it wasn’t the clothes she would wear for school that she got changed into, it was her Spider-Woman suit. One thing Gwen had learnt in her years as Spider-Woman was the best distraction was beating people up.

Walking through one of the ESU courtyards Peter could feel the scowl that wouldn't leave his face. ‘ I just wish she’d give up on the whole Bugle thing. I know as well as she does that the only thing JJJ uses them for is crapping on us. But it means that I have heaps more time to Spider-Man and since I have more time for that Gwen has more time for her band. Isn’t that worth it? ’ 

However before Peter could continue pondering he felt a large hand slap down on his shoulder, “Peter! It’s been ages buddy! How’s it going?” Standing next to Peter wearing a bright red letterman jacket, and somehow having snuck up on Peter was Eugene ‘Flash’ Thompson.

“Oh hey, Flash. How’s it going?” looking up at Flash, Peter couldn’t help but notice he had a strange expression on his face.

“Eh… it is what it is Petey.” the strange expression on Flash’s face shifted into a smirk as he rested a hand on Peter’s head.

“I told you to stop calling me that Eugene.” lifting an arm Peter pulled Flash’s arm off his head with a scowl.

“Ooh, Petey’s feisty today. What’s up, Peter? Did Gwen finally dump you?” Flash’s tone was teasing and Peter watched as he slipped his hands into his pockets.

“Oh and your relationship with Betty is going swimmingly I assume?” Peter responded in kind but rather than shrinking at the jab Flash pumped up even more.

“Why yes it is. In fact, I’m taking her to a fancy restaurant tonight. Beat that Parker.” Flash’s smirking confidence deflated Peter. Making it that all he could think about once more was the argument with Gwen. however, Flash quickly noticed the sudden shift and followed it with a shift of his own, “Hey, what’s up Petey?”

“Eh. I just had a fight with Gwen earlier and it’s bothering me a bit.” Flash stayed quiet as Peter spoke, nodding his head along but giving him space to speak, “So I’ve been taking photos of Spider-Man for the Daily Bugle. And it’s not amazing pay or anything but it’s fairly easy and frees me up for other stuff.”

“Wait so you’re how those jerkwads always have such cool photos of Spidey and Spider-Woman when they’re trashing them? Cool but not cool Petey.” Flash crossed his arms as he looked disapprovingly at Peter but Peter just rolled his eyes.

“Yeah yeah, I know. Do you think I like how JJJ uses them? I hate it just as much as everyone else does. But even though JJJ pays crap it's still better than most other places would pay me, and I enjoy the photography, especially the photos of Spidey and Spider-Woman.” Peter trailed off as he continued to stare into the distance. Flash looked at him for a moment before shrugging.

“I dunno Pete. it’s up to you I guess. Maybe go for a run to think about it. Anyway, I gotta go get ready for my date. Seeya Peter.” With a slap on Peter’s shoulder Flash turned and jogged off. As he watched Flash go, Peter started to slowly nod his head.

“Huh… go for a run? I guess Spidey could skip a class and fight some crime.” Coming to a decision Peter turned his head quickly before disappearing into a side alley.

‘ I’m not the one in the wrong. Am I? I get that he needs the money and he’s right about it being a convenient source. But surely he can find something better? Like Harry owns his apartment and he’s not enough of a dick bag to charge Pete rent. So something else would be better wouldn’t it? ’

Even though it had been hours, Gwen's mind still hadn’t left her apartment’s kitchen. Over and over the fight repeated in her mind. Endlessly the question of if she’d been in the wrong raced through it. But as she reached the apex of a swing a burst of pain in her side ripped the question from her mind.

“Holy fucking shit!” Gwen screamed in pain as she was distracted from swinging. Her eyes moved frantically under her mask as Gwen tried to figure out what it was that hurt so much as she continued to fall through the sky. Eventually, after her gaze went over it a few times she realised there was a crimson arrow sticking out of her side. 

Frozen by the sight Gwen spends a moment watching as the white of her costume turned crimson. But her Spider-Sense blaring suddenly shocked her back into action. Looking up from her wound Gwen manages to fire off a webline just before she could become a sidewalk pancake.

“Argh! Fuck!” Gwen grunted in pain as it felt like her arm was wrenched out of her socket. Barely managing to maintain the momentum of the swing Gwen lands on the side of a building. Using her good arm Gwen stuck to it and slowly began to climb.

It was a slow and painful climb up the building, somehow Gwen had managed to pick one of the tallest buildings around to land on. Grunting with every movement, Gwen did her best to ignore the pain shooting through her body. But even so, she couldn’t help but glance at the crimson arrow sticking out of her. A tiny voice in the back of her mind pointed out it was identical to the one the Hand used back in her original world. But Gwen ignored it. Peter trusted Murderdock so that meant she did too.

Reaching the edge of the building’s roof Gwen felt the brick crack under her fingers. Groaning as she pulled her arm up Gwen almost lost her grip as a voice floated towards her from further on the roof.

“Hello, Spider-Woman. Now you may be wondering why I’m here. Or maybe if I have anything to do with the arrow in your side. Now the answer to the second is yes. But the first which I think is much more interesting is I’m here to help you.”

Looking over the edge Gwen’s eyes widened under her mask as she stared at Matt Murdock, “Murderdock.” Gwen growled out the nickname but he simply laughed in response. Grunting as she continued pulling herself over the edge Gwen watched as Murdock sauntered forward.

“Ah, so you are still using that nickname for me. You know I was worried you wouldn’t remember me Spider-Woman. Although it would have made this discussion easier if all you had was Spider-Man’s opinion of me.” Crouching down in front of Gwen’s slumped form Murdock shook a small orange vial filled with pills.

“What you gonna drug me or something bastard?” cradling her dislocated arm Gwen spat the words at Murdock but he just kept chuckling.

“In a way maybe you could consider this that, But no. You might not have noticed it yet but I do believe that your powers will, if they haven’t already, be going a little… crazy.” Murdock inspected the bottle of pills as Gwen’s mind raced with how she’d broken her side table, ripped her arm out of her socket, got hit by an arrow without a warning and had just felt weaker all day.

“What’s that supposed to mean? How would you know anything about my powers anyway.” fidgeting slightly, Gwen suppressed the grimace from the pain.

“Oh Spider-Woman I know more than you think. Like the spider bite didn’t give you permanent powers, it was too unstable for that. Sure it gave you a good two and a half years but they won’t last forever.” pausing for a moment Murdock smiled as he rattled the bottle once more, “However, if you take these then you’ll keep your powers working just the way they have been.” 

Surprisingly Gwen, Murdock chucked the bottle into her lap, “Why are you giving these to me?”

“Call it a trial period. That’s enough doses for about two weeks at which point I’ll be back for your answer.” Standing up Murdock makes a show of brushing off his shoulders while Gwen studies the bottle.

“Answer to what?” turning from Gwen with a smirk Murdock started to leave her alone on the rooftop.

“Why there are some things that you could help me with. That’s all.” Without any elaboration, Murdock leapt over the edge of the building and disappeared from Gwen’s sight. Looking back down at the bottle Gwen stared for a moment, her gaze boring into it.

‘ Murderdock never does anything without something for him. And I don’t know if my powers suddenly going on the fritz is a temporary thing or not. And who knows what is in these pills… should I talk to Peter about them? But then if they do work, I’ll need them. And Peter’s wrong about Murderdock. If he found that out he’d try to take him out. The result would either be Peter dead or Murderdock locked up… which means if I need these neither option will work. So Peter can’t find out… ’

Gwen ignored how her stomach rolled at the thought and just slipped the bottle into her suit’s backpack. But as she did a jolt of pain shooting through her arm reminded her of her shoulder. Webbing up a tough ball of webbing Gwen pulled up the bottom of her mask and slipped it between her teeth. 

Biting down hard on the ball Gwen reached around with her uninjured shoulder to grab her other one. Taking a deep breath through the web ball Gwen pulled tight. Wincing at the loud crack Gwen didn’t bother trying to hold back the sigh of relief.

Looking down at the arrow still sticking out of her side Gwen stares at it for a moment, “Alright… I should probably get home before I try and pull that one out… oh god this is gonna hurt… Wait I think Pete’s is closer” Slowly stumbling to her feet Gwen leapt off the rooftop to begin swinging into the city, favouring her uninjured arm as she did.

Cold.

Wet.

Need.

Heat.

So.

Much.

Colour.

So. 

Much.

Life.

But.

It’s.

Wrong.

Nothing matches.

Each organism.

Is too weak.

Not good enough.

Not good enough to bond with.

Keep moving. 

Eventually, find something that works.

Something to become one with.

I can feel it.

Hot.

Hot.

So Hot.

How is something living that hot.

Argh it burns! It burns!

Wait.

The man fighting him.

He is the one.

He will fill the hole.

He will be what’s missing…

He has won.

The hot man is defeated.

Forward!

Move forward!

Attach to the limb.

Push through.

Push through the material.

Flesh!

Connection!

Dig.

Dig.

Dig.

Dig.

Deep.

Deeper.

Bonding.

Emotion.

Peter.

Parker.

Spider.

Man.

Hero.

Help People.

He wants to help people.

He has the power to help people.

So he has to help people?

Uncle Ben?

We can give him more power.

We can help more people.

What else?

What else is there to Peter Parker?

Gwen Stacy?

But there is two…

First one died… 

Killed by the goblin.

But the goblin is good now?

The second… lost a Peter of her own.

Then something happened.

Neither was dead anymore…

They fell in love?

What is love?

Love…

Like bonding?

True bonding?

These two…

They mated.

They bonded.

Different type of bond.

We will be a new bond.

A Different bond.

A Good bond.

He has other villains.

The octopus doctor.

Doc Ock.

Electric man.

Electro.

The man of fire he fought earlier.

Molten Man.

We will help Peter.

We will become one.

GWEN!

Bonded.

What the fuck! What are you doing in my bedroom? Harry’s home!

He is with Gwen.

Oh my god, what’s sticking out of her side? 

Gwen? What happened?

His mate is injured.

But we are not bonded enough to help.

No no, don’t pull it out. Stay there, I'll grab some bandages.

Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck where are the bandages, where are they, why don’t we just have bandages?

Bandages… medicinal wrappings to cover wounds.

If I focus and split off a little bit.

Haha! Bandages thank you whatever is up there.

Peter is happy.

We are happy.

Here lie down on this, Gwen. no calm down let me look after you.

Helping people is good.

Ok take a deep breath and I’ll pull out the arrow. Three. Two. Aha! There we go it’s out.

Helping Peter is good.

Ok now to just keep pressure on here and I’ll worry about getting rid of it when Harry’s not home.

Helping people makes him happy

No stay there don’t get up Gwen. Can’t you just believe I like looking after you? Yeah, true story.

Making Peter happy is good.

No, don't worry about this morning. You’re allowed to criticize my job. It’s just the pain’s making you dizzy, don’t worry about it.

I will help Peter.

Chapter Text

Peter felt himself wince as light bled through the curtains. Lying still, he thought about moving. But there was a haze in his mind that made it feel like too much effort. So as he continued lying on the bed, he slowly realised that there was a strange weight pressed against him. 

It felt warm and comforting even though he couldn’t identify it. So, seeing no harm in I,t he wrapped an arm around the weight. To his surprise, as he did, he felt the weight press in closer against him. 

Eventually, however, Peter heard an alarm go off. Fighting the urge to let out a groan, Peter flailed an arm in the direction he thought the alarm was coming from. Until finally, Peter felt his hand hit something.

“Urgh… what the hell?” A groan slipped out of the warm mass as it snuggled up to Peter. A groan that finally made him open his eyes. Looking down at the source, Peter was surprised to see Gwen’s blue eyes staring up at him. And slightly below those eyes was a frown.

“Peter, why’d you just hit me?” Blinking the sleep out of his eyes, Peter stared down at Gwen. Still breaking his brain out of the fugue of sleep, it took him longer than usual to realise what she had said.

“Oh! No, I’m sorry, Gwen, I didn’t mean to. I was still, well, what I mean is—” Peter’s rambling was cut off by Gwen pressing a finger against his lips, a small smirk on her lips as she did.

“Jeez, you’re so easy to mess with.” Peter felt the worry melt away at Gwen’s teasing smile. However, almost as quickly, it came back as Gwen’s face shifted into a teasing pout, “Although you’re not off the hook for slapping me awake.” However, when Gwen moved off of Peter, her face warped in pain, “Fuck!” 

“Gwen!” eyes widening, Peter grabbed Gwen by the shoulders, rougher than he’d meant to, but unable to register that, “What’s wrong? Oh shit, last night!” Jumping backwards, Peter pulled the blanket off of Gwen, revealing that she’d started to bleed through her bandaging.

“Crap, I’ll go grab more bandages so we can swap them.” Darting out of his bedroom, Peter left Gwen alone. “C’mon, where’s the bandages… I had them last night!” Scrambling through the cabinets of his and Harry’s shared apartment, Peter searched desperately for his stash of bandages.

“They can’t be gone, I only filled them up the other day.” muttering under his breath, Peter missed the yawning figure of Harry emerging from his bedroom. “C’mon… where are they…”

“Ooooh…” covering his mouth with a hand to stifle his yawn, Harry stopped to stare at Peter with confused, blurry eyes, “Peter? What’re you doing?”

Freezing his frantic search, Peter slowly turned to face Harry, “Oh, hey Harry, I was just uhh…” Peter’s eyes darted around the room as he tried to think of an explanation. “I was just, uh, looking for biscuits?” Peter shrugged as his eyes finally met Harry’s confused stare.

“Biscuits? Aren’t they just in the cupboard?” Harry’s eyebrow raised as he pointed towards the apartment cupboard. Smiling awkwardly at Harry, Peter walked over to the cupboard and grabbed a box of biscuits.

“Thanks, Harry, I’ll be in my room if you need me.” Smiling awkwardly at Harry, Peter slowly walked backwards before darting back into his room.

“Man, he can be weird sometimes…” Harry muttered under his breath before starting his usual morning ritual of coffee.

Slipping back into his room, Peter’s mouth dropped when he saw Gwen sitting up in his bed with a sticky hand pressed against her side.

“Shit, Gwen!” Darting forward, Peter threw the box of cookies onto his desk before replacing her hand with his own. Ignoring how horrifying the feel of bloodied flesh was against his hand Peter looked up into Gwen’s cloudy eyes, “What the hell happened! Where are the bandages from last night?” desperately fighting the urge to yell Peter pressed his hands tight against Gwen’s gaping wound before his eyes darted around the room to look for some sign of the dirty bandages.

“I dunno… I just felt something sticky when you left…” Gwen was tight-lipped as she spoke, the pain of the gaping, likely infected wound, clearly making talking a struggle for her.

“Ok… well I couldn’t find any bandages—” pausing mid-sentence Peter leant back to grab his webshooter out of his bedside table, lifting it to Gwen’s eyeline Peter strained a smile,“Ok so it’s not the best fix but I’ll use some webbing to hold you together while I go out and grab some proper bandages ok?”

Biting her lip, Gwen gave Peter the tiniest motion of her head that could still be considered a nod, “Great. Hold still. If I miss this, it could rip some skin.” Sliding his webshooter onto his free hand, Peter lined up the shot, ignoring how his tongue slipped past his lips as he did.

Pulling away from Gwen, Peter studied the bandaging approximate on her side, “Well, it looks as good as web bandages ever do… I wish I could do better but it seems we’re out of bandages…” trailing off, Peter looked around his room for a moment, “I guess we finished them off last night. Don’t know where those went, though.” Peter continued muttering under his breath.

“No that doesn’t matter I need to go grab some more.” reaching forward Peter softly took Gwen’s hand in his own however the lack of response made it clear to him that she’d fallen asleep, “Don’t worry I’ll be back soon. Although you must have been in more pain than I thought if you fell asleep again” letting go of Gwen, Peter took a small step back before turning to leave the room. 

But stopping at the door, he turned back to whisper even though he knew she wouldn’t hear it, “ I’ll tell Harry I’ve gone out, so if you just stay in here, he shouldn’t bother you. ” And with those final words, Peter left Gwen alone.

Gwen didn’t know how much time had passed when she finally awoke from her sleep, and much to her dismay, she could feel something seeping from her side. Raising a surprisingly weak arm to her stomach, Gwen winced as her side squelched under her hand.

“That fucking asshole…” angrily muttering under her breath, Gwen held her hand against her side before throwing the doona off of her. Wincing again, Gwen sat up on the bed while doing everything she could to ignore the pain.

Gwen moved to rest her hand on the bedside table, but missed. “Shit!” falling off the bed, Gwen couldn’t help but swear in pain as she felt something stab into her back. Continuing to swear under her breath, Gwen pushed herself onto her hand before reaching behind her back to try and see what was stabbing her.

Pulling back her hand, Gwen saw the glint of orange plastic. “Fuck I forgot about that…” lifting the orange pill bottle to her eye, Gwen squinted at the circular pills inside. Popping the cap off, Gwen shook a single pill out onto the palm of her hand.

“It seems normal…” Looking at it, Gwen couldn’t see anything wrong with the pill. It seemed like every other pill she’d ever seen. There was nothing to indicate these would do what Murderdock had claimed.

But also nothing to indicate it wouldn’t. But then, who’s to say she wasn’t just sick, either? There was nothing that had happened to Gwen so far that proved Murderdock’s claims about her vanishing powers.

Her mental anguish clear on her face. Gwen glared down at the pill bottle. While she didn’t trust Murdock, he’d prided himself on never actually lying to her. He got some sick glee in his ‘code’. 

“Fuck!” Without even thinking about it, Gwen threw the small orange bottle over her shoulder. Pulling her legs in close, Gwen wrapped her arms around her legs before resting her head on her knees.

“Fuck… can I risk it?” Letting out a sigh, Gwen tried to ignore the flurry of images her mind imagined. Her powers suddenly disappearing mid-fight. Her spider-sense growing increasingly erratic, or the fine control she had over her strength disappearing. 

Peter is getting injured because of her. A massive lizard monster shrinking into the form of her best friend.

Sure, it was all in her head. She was just imagining the worst-case scenarios. There was no reason to think any of those things would happen. Telling the truth for years to set up one massive lie is exactly what Murdock would do.

And she didn’t even notice her powers going wack till Murdock brought it up, so it’s probably just like breathing. As soon as your attention’s brought to it, it stops working properly.

Gwen tried to tell herself that at least. It didn’t get rid of the voice in the back of her mind, but it at least got rid of the images torturing her.

Lifting her head, Gwen turned to grab the bottle off the bed. As much as she wanted to just fling it into the Hudson, she couldn’t. Sure, Murderdock was a piece of shit, and sure, it could all be in her head, but Gwen wasn’t willing to take that chance.

So sliding the bottle into her pocket, ignoring the pain that shot through her as she did, Gwen slowly lifted herself back onto the bed. “Whew… god that hurts…” air slipped past Gwen’s lips as she pressed a hand to the wound in her side.

Closing her eyes to rest against the bed, Gwen hears Harry shout something, but can’t make out what exactly he said. Suddenly feeling tired, Gwen let herself fall asleep, confident in the thought that Peter would wake her up when he got back.

“C’Mon Morrie! I’ve got things to do and places to be! I can’t deal with all this water!” Leaping from one side of the street to the other, Peter narrowly avoided a hammer made of water flying towards him. “Seriously, man! I get that you gave up on being a productive member of society, but some of us got stuff to do!”

Peter frowned under his mask as Hydro-Man continued to not only refuse to rise to his taunts but even show his face. 

Leaping over a car thrown at him, Peter caught it with his webs before continuing to try and provoke the supervillain. “Did I hurt your feelings last time when I joked about your watery smile? Is that why you’re staying all monstro-mode?”

Landing on the side of an apartment building, Peter paused to think of another taunt, but when he opened his mouth to speak, Hydro-Man hurled another mass of water at him. Not quite managing to dodge this one, Peter spat out water as he swung closer to Hydro-Man.

“Ptew! Damn, Morrie, I thought we had an understanding! No water in the mouth! Man, I must’ve pissed you off last time!” Bouncing between buildings, Peter tried to look for something he could use to solidify Hydro-Man. Cause if he continued to refuse to show his human form, Peter’d struggle to knock him out.

“C’mon, man! Gimme a face to hit! This isn’t any fun unless—Whoah!” Uncharacteristically losing his sense of balance in mid-air, Peter felt himself suddenly fly in the opposite direction he had jumped. Just narrowly missing a wall of solid water, a wall of water that his spider-sense seemed to miss.

“What was that?” muttering under his breath, Peter, distracted from his fight with Hydro-Man, looked to see what had made him move. But as he looked around, he couldn’t see anything. “That’s strange.” 

However, Peter’s attention was dragged back to the water monster by the sound of crackling electricity. Looking back, Peter saw Hydro-Man start spasming wildly, jumping towards him, Peter was stopped almost instantly by a sharp pain shooting through his head. Flinging an arm wide, Peter fired off a webline, pulling himself away just as a large structure fell from the sky.

“What the—“ whatever it was Peter was going to say was lost as the wind around him suddenly kicked up. Turning and shielding his eyes from the glare of a spotlight, Peter watched as a helicopter landed in the middle of the street.

“Ah, Spider-Man! Thanks for stepping in and looking after our… wayward friend for us…” Stepping out of the helicopter with a confidence that betrayed his advanced senses, Matt Murdock smiled at Peter.

“Matt? What’s with all of this?” Peter couldn’t help the confusion in his voice as he looked from Matt to the armoured men that followed him out of the helicopter. Striding forward,- Matt slowed to a stop next to Peter.

“Well, these are just some friends of mine, Spidey. A private militia of sorts that’ve been helping out with the transportation of violent metacriminals.” sauntering forward, Matt rapped his cane against the structure holding Hydro-Man, “That’s what happened here, you see? Our friend was being transported back from Oscorp to the RAFT and decided to get a bit rowdy. I’m grateful you kept him in place long enough for us to swoop in.”

“Wait, Oscorp?” Frowning under his mask, Peter started striding towards Murdock, but was quickly cut off by a pair of armoured men. “Oi! What’re you two doing?”

“Ah, calm down, gents, it’s just Spidey. He won’t hurt me.” Smirking Matt used his cane to push down the closest man’s guns before walking forward, “We’re good friends.”

Side eyeing the guards, Peter crossed his arms, “Yeah, I guess, although what do you mean he was at Oscorp? Why was he being moved from the RAFT? That’s a bit dangerous, isn’t it?” slowly creeping towards Matt, Peter’s eyes tightened under his mask as his gaze darted between Matt and his men.

As he did, the goons slowly stopped what they were doing and, in impressive synchronisation, began to aim their rifles as one. But before any of them got their rifles above waist height, Matt spoke up with an outstretched hand to them.

“Hey, calm down, guys. Like I said, Pe—Spidey is a friend. No need to get violent, in fact, I’m sure Spidey’s just leaving.” The slip of the tongue shocked Peter so much that he involuntarily took a step back. The ghost of a smile that flicked across Matt’s lips, one that Peter almost could’ve sworn was a trick of the light, made it clear that he was supposed to hear the slip of the tongue. 

The threat. As that was all it could be was clear, if Peter stayed, Matt was going to go public with his identity. Peter didn’t know what the hell he’d done to piss Matt off enough for this, but he could tell he wasn’t going to learn it here.

“Yeah… I guess I can leave this to you then…”

“Yes, that’s good, Spider-Man. We’ll have to catch up sometime. Spider-Woman, too.” Ignoring the flash of anger that shot through him, Peter swung off without saying anything. As he did, he missed Matt ‘watching’ as he swung away, his smirk widening further and further as he swung.

Landing on the window of his room, Peter ripped his soaked mask off his face as he quietly slipped inside, “God, that gets disgusting when it’s wet.” muttering under his breath, Peter threw his mask onto his desk before placing the plastic bag he held in his other hand next to it.

However, he wasn’t quiet enough. As before, he could do anything else, the blankets on his bed began to shift.

“Urhg… Peter? Is that you?” Yawning more than talking, Gwen pulled the blanket off her head and stared at him with bleary eyes.

“Uh yeah, I’m back.” Reaching into the bag, Peter pulled out bandages with a shaky smile. “With bandages!” rolling her eyes at Peter, Gwen winced as she shuffled back on Peter’s bed and rested against his headboard.

“That’s nice…” Gwen’s speech was slow as she closed her eyes.

Freezing in place, Peter cocked an eyebrow at his girlfriend. “Hey, wakey wakey. I need to replace those bandages for you.” Walking forward, Peter helped Gwen move into a position where he could get to her side.

“Nrgh!” wincing, Gwen side-eyed Peter, “C’mon, Spidey, I thought you were supposed to be good with your fingers?”

Letting out an awkward laugh, Peter met Gwen’s eyes as he slowly wrapped the bandages around her stomach, “Well, to be fair, I’m good at as very specific motion with my fingers. Anything other than that, I’m less good.”

“Tch…” rolling her eyes, Gwen suppressed another wince as Peter started applying pressure to the bandages. Looking around the room for something to distract her, Gwen’s brow furrowed as she looked outside. “Peter?”

“Yup?” focused more on applying the bandages, Peter mindlessly responded to Gwen.

“Why’s the sun setting?” Gwen’s tone turned accusatory, “How long were you out? Did something happen?” Peter’s eyes darted to Gwen for a moment before rubbing the back of his neck.

“I may have had a run-in with Hydro-Man before I made it to the store. Just slowed me down a bit.” As Peter spoke, however, he looked away from Gwen, and his voice shook ever so slightly. Something that Gwen picked up on.

“What else happened, Peter?” Fighting another wince, Gwen gave Peter her best disapproving look. One that made him melt immediately.

“I ran into Daredevil, too. He said some weird stuff. But you shouldn’t worry about it. You need to focus on getting better.” Peter thought his words would prove to be enough and let Gwen move on. But to his surprise, the exact opposite happened, and Gwen jolted upright.

“What? Daredevil did something? What did he do?” Gwen’s eyes went wild as they darted around the room, as if looking for something.

“Whoah whoah, calm down, Gwen. It…” Peter trailed off. Part of the reason he had taken so long was that he thought better when he was swinging, and he remembered what Gwen had told him about the Matt on her earth, so he knew what she’d jump to if he told her what Matt had said. But Peter didn’t want to assume the worst of Matt; it was entirely possible that it was a slip of the tongue. He’d barely seen the other hero since he’d gone to jail, so who knew what was going on. But Peter didn’t have as long to think about it as he thought he did, as Gwen started glaring again.

“Peter…” Gwen’s voice was low and a clear warning, “What did he do?”

“Well, he just—” Again, Peter tried to just blow off Gwen’s worry, but it was to no avail.

“No, Peter.” Climbing out of bed, Gwen repeated herself, “What. did. Murdock do. It’s a very simple question. That I need you to answer.”

Surprised by just how aggressive Gwen was getting, Peter jumped to his feet, “Hey, Gwen, calm down, you’re gonna hurt yourself if you keep moving. We only just put the bandages on.”

But Gwen ignored Peter. She kept walking forward until she was close enough to grab Peter surprising tightly for someone who’d been bedridden around the shoulders.

“Peter. I know you trust the Daredevil of your earth, but I’ve told you about mine. He was a monster, and if he knew in any way about your Daredevil, he would not hesitate to pretend to be him. So if he said something that could even be misconstrued as a threat, you can’t hide it from me.” There was no way to describe Gwen but begging as she stared into Peter’s eyes.

As much as Peter didn’t want to, he grabbed the back of his head with a sigh and told her, “He had a slip of the tongue. Started saying Peter instead of Spider-Man. But he caught himself before he got more than a letter out anyway, so it’s nothing to worry about.”

“I fucking knew it.” Jumping to her feet with a snarl, Gwen threw an orange pill bottle to the far side of the room before pulling her costume back on.

“Hey, hey, what’re you doing, Gwen?” Scrambling to stand in front of Gwen, Peter held out an apprehensive hand, “Where’re you going? You’re still injured. And the simple fact of that means that something’s wrong with you.”

“Get out of the way, Peter, I’m not risking that bastard doing anything to you.” Pulling on her mask, Gwen tried to push Peter out of the way. But Peter held fast and managed to keep the weakened Gwen in front of him.

“Gwen, I can’t let you just run out to go after another superhero. A slip of the tongue doesn’t mean he wants me dead.” Spreading his arms wider, Peter tried to stay between Gwen and the exits to the room.

Tilting her head at an angle, Gwen stared over Peter’s shoulder rather than look at him. “Peter…” Gwen trailed off, almost like she wanted to say something but couldn’t bring herself to. But after another moment, she took a deep breath and continued, “I need to take him out. I can’t tell you why because you won’t believe me. But I just need you to trust me so I can throw him back in jail.”

“Gwen, there’s nothing for us to go after, though. Sure, he said—Urgh!” Suddenly, all Peter saw was darkness as he felt his body crumple to the ground.

Floating in an empty void, Peter’s mind felt like it was drowned in molasses. Feeling something press against his lower body, Peter looked down. To Peter’s muted shock, what looked like the void around him was slowly climbing up his leg, absorbing it into the shadow around him.

Gingerly, Peter tried tro move his consumed leg, and while he could feel it move, he couldn’t see it moving. It simply faded into the shadows of the void around him. Confused by the strangeness of what was going on around him, Peter could only watch as the void continued to slowly creep along his body.

Adding to it all, as it moved along his body, a strange buzzing began in his ears. He could’ve almost thought it was his spider-sense, but there was something wrong with it. 

Something alien.

But even with that strangeness, something was sticking in Peter’s mind, something important that he couldn’t quite remember. The malaise that drowned his mind made it difficult to think, and it was made even harder by the increasingly loud buzzing.

But finally, Peter’s attention was pulled away from that by the void reaching his mouth.  Unlike before, Peter could feel the void over his mouth, a suffocating feeling that made his body burn. Lifting his hands, he tried to rip it away, to save himself from the abyss that tried to swallow him.

Pulling at it, Peter could feel it coming away and stretching. Yet no matter how hard or how far he pulled, he couldn’t get it off. Yet still he continued trying, even though his body disappeared into the void and the buzzing grew louder and louder, Peter kept pulling.

Until the buzzing suddenly shifted to what sounded like a voice that Peter couldn’t make out, as the void finally came away from his face. In the same instant, the void disappeared and Peter jolted upright,  “Hurgh!” swallowing down air, Peter stared around his empty room and after a moment of silence, Peter realised what he’d forgotten about in his dream.

“Gwen!” Wasting as little time as possible pulling on his mask, Peter leapt out of his bedroom window and swung into the night to look for Gwen.