Chapter 230: Chapter 179: Across the Spider-Verse (4)
It had been a months since Gwen Stacy had joined the multiversal Spider-Society, tasked with maintaining the delicate balance of timelines across the vast web of realities. Today, she found herself standing before the door leading to Miguel O'Hara's command center, where the future Spider-Man was deeply engrossed in monitoring digital screens displaying timelines and variables.
As the door slid open automatically, Gwen stepped in, her expression serious but determined. Miguel glanced up briefly, his brow furrowed with concern over the latest disturbance.
"Tsk, another disrupted timeline." Miguel muttered, his gaze flickering between the screens and Gwen.
Gwen approached him cautiously. "Um, Miguel."
Miguel turned fully to face her, his sharp eyes focusing on Gwen. "What is it, Gwen?" he asked, anticipation lacing his voice.
Gwen relayed the report. "The spot." she began.
Miguel's expression tightened. "The Spot?" he echoed, recognizing the gravity of the situation. "Which universe did he target this time?"
"He's in Earth 1610," Gwen responded solemnly.
Miguel exhaled sharply. "Don't tell me that..." he trailed off, disappointment and frustration evident in his tone. "That's Miles' universe."
"Tsk! To think he chose that universe," Miguel muttered under his breath, contemplating the potential ramifications.
Looking back at Gwen with a decisive gaze, Miguel issued his instructions. "Go there. Ensure he doesn't notice our operations. Just make it seem like you're visiting an old friend or something mundane."
Gwen hesitated, her concern palpable. "What if he finds out?"
Miguel's voice hardened slightly. "Then bring him here. I'll show him firsthand what reality is like." he stated firmly, leaving no room for argument.
Gwen nodded solemnly, acknowledging the seriousness of their mission. "Okay, roger." she replied, a sense of duty guiding her despite her apprehension.
As she turned to leave, Miguel watched her go, his expression unreadable. When he was sure she was out of earshot, Miguel muttered to himself, a hint of worry in his voice. "I hope you won't make a foolish decision, Gwen."
Miguel O'Hara stood in the command center, surrounded by the glow of digital screens displaying intricate timelines and cosmic disturbances. Among them, he noticed a particular timeline that invoked a mix of curiosity and apprehension—Michael Wilson's timeline, known as the Legendary Spider-Man.
As he scrutinized the screen, contemplating the implications of Michael's presence across various dimensions, Lyla, Miguel's AI assistant, chimed in with her characteristic concern.
"Miguel, if you keep staring at his face on the screen, why not consider inviting him to join us here?" Lyla suggested.
Miguel's response was immediate and resolute. "No, he's the last person I want to bring into our fold." he replied with a sigh, his gaze still fixed on the screen.
"Why not?" Lyla pressed, ever inquisitive.
Miguel explained with a hint of unease, "If Miles is an anomaly, then Michael is a maverick. They're cut from the same cloth, but Michael is different—special. He's unaffected by the constraints of fate or timelines. While the rest of us are tethered to the quantum threads of existence, he remains unpredictable. He can change events without causing irreparable damage to the canon. That's his nature."
Jessica Drew, also known as Spider-Woman, entered the room at that moment, her pregnancy evident as she placed a hand on her abdomen. She joined the conversation, intrigued by Miguel and Lyla's discussion.
"I overheard you two. Explain it to me." Jessica requested, her curiosity piqued.
Miguel nodded, recognizing her interest. "Alright, let me break it down. When a canon event is disrupted in any universe, it creates a quantum hole, destabilizing the timeline. The Spider-Person tied to that event usually ceases to exist, and the universe can collapse." he explained.
Jessica acknowledged his point. "Yes, that's basic quantum theory."
Miguel continued, emphasizing the crux of Michael's uniqueness. "But Michael doesn't follow those rules. He can alter outcomes without triggering those quantum holes. He doesn't erase events; he reshapes them. That's what makes him special—and unnerving. He's a true anomaly, more so than Miles."
Jessica marveled at the concept. "That's incredible. So, he can change things without upsetting the universe's delicate balance."
Miguel nodded gravely. "Exactly. And that's why he's both fascinating and dangerous. If he were to alter Peter's fate without creating a quantum hole, what would happen? Would another canon event emerge, or would Peter's destiny remain unchanged?"
Suddenly Miguel O'Hara's thoughts drifted back to the days when he, Michael Wilson, and Peter Parker fought side by side against villains that threatened their realities. Those were different times, filled with camaraderie and a sense of purpose that seemed clearer then than it did now.
As he stood among the blinking screens and holographic displays, Miguel couldn't help but acknowledge how much he had changed since those days. The weight of responsibility and the constant battle to maintain the stability of the multiverse had taken their toll on him. He wasn't the same Miguel O'Hara that Michael once knew—an idealistic hero fueled by determination and hope.
Now, Miguel faced the harsh realities of their work at the Spider-Society. He had seen timelines crumble, witnessed the consequences of tampering with cosmic order, and experienced loss that had tempered his spirit. It wasn't just about fighting villains anymore; it was about preserving the very fabric of existence, even if it meant making difficult decisions and sacrifices.
Miguel muttered to himself, his voice barely audible over the hum of the technology around him, "That's why I can't let him join here." He knew deep down that if Michael were to see him now, he wouldn't recognize the Miguel who had become hardened and practical, focused solely on the mission at hand.
Gazing at Michael's image on the screen once more, Miguel felt a pang of nostalgia for the simpler times they had shared. Yet, he knew that inviting Michael into their operations now could disrupt everything they had worked so hard to maintain. Michael's unpredictable nature and his ability to rewrite outcomes without consequence posed a threat that Miguel wasn't willing to gamble on.
With a heavy sigh, Miguel turned away from the screens, his expression stoic and resolved. He had a duty to uphold, and part of that duty meant keeping Michael Wilson at arm's length, despite their shared history and the bond they once had as Spider-Men.
As he continued his duties in the command center, Miguel couldn't shake the feeling that their paths might cross again, whether by fate or circumstance. For now, though, he focused on the present, navigating the complexities of the multiverse with vigilance and caution, determined to protect it from the likes of Michael Wilson's unpredictable influence.
...
Brooklyn 1610
The sun rises over Brooklyn, casting long shadows and bathing the city in a golden hue. The familiar hum of the morning bustle fills the air. Miles Morales stands on a rooftop, looking out over his city. His silhouette is framed against the brightening sky, the wind ruffling his suit.
Miles (VO): Okay, let's do this one last time. My name is Miles Morales. I was bitten by a radioactive spider. And for the last year and four months, I've been Brooklyn's one and only Spider-Man. And things are going great.
Miles swings through the city, the vibrant buildings whizzing past in a blur of color. He performs acrobatic flips and twirls, his new suit catching the light—a sleek, black design with striking red accents and a stylish pattern down the sides. He deftly maneuvers through the urban landscape, webbing up criminals and helping civilians with a confident smile.
Miles (VO): Catching all sorts of bad guys. Also, I designed my new suit with some fly ambience down the side.
...
Miles (VO): Aunt May moved to Florida.
Cut to Aunt May's quaint house, now with a "For Sale" sign in the yard. A letter from her sits on Miles' desk, a reminder of their close bond.
....
Miles takes a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. The Jeopardy theme song plays softly in the background as the camera focuses on his uncertain expression.
Director (off-screen): Alright, Spider-Man. You're on in three, two, one...
The red light above the camera blinks to life, signaling the start of the show. Miles flashes a nervous smile at the audience, his heart racing with excitement and a touch of apprehension.
Miles: Welcome, everyone, to Jeopardy! I'm your guest host, Spider-Man.
The audience cheers enthusiastically, encouraging Miles as he continues.
Miles: Today, we've got some amazing contestants ready to test their knowledge and wit. Let's get started!
The camera pans to the contestants, who smile nervously back at Miles. He flips through the cue cards with practiced ease, the questions and categories neatly printed.
.....
The camera cuts to Miles Morales on television, holding up a baby powder product with an awkward grin. He stands in front of a banner that reads "New Spider-Man."
Miles (VO): Endorsed baby powder. Apologized for endorsing baby powder.
The TV clip switches to another segment where Miles is now in a different setting, looking remorseful and serious.
Miles: I made a mistake.
The camera zooms in on Miles' face, capturing his sincerity as he addresses the audience. His Spider-Man costume.
...
[Another Scene]
The lab is a chaotic yet organized space, a testament to Miles' creativity and ingenuity. Workbenches cluttered with tools, electronic components, and sketches of new gadget designs fill the room. The walls are adorned with posters of various Spider-Man iterations and inspirational quotes.
Miles stands at his workbench, his face lit by the soft glow of various monitors and gadgets. He carefully adjusts a device designed to channel and enhance his venom blast, wires and circuits snaking across the table.
Miles (focused): Alright, let's see if this works.
He activates the device, sending a surge of bio-electric energy into the circuit. The device hums, then starts to spark wildly.
Miles (panicking): Whoa, whoa, whoa!
The energy spirals out of control, causing a power surge that travels through the grid. Miles' eyes widen as he looks out the window, just in time to see the entire Brooklyn skyline flicker and go dark. The hum of the city dies down to an eerie silence.
Miles (sheepish): Sorry!
...
(Back to Miles bedroom)
Miles retreats to his bedroom, a sanctuary filled with personal touches that reflect his dual life. Posters of Spider-Man, including his mentor Peter B. Parker and the legendary Spider-Man, Michael Wilson, cover the walls. Memorabilia from past adventures and sketches of new suit designs are scattered around.
Miles sits on his bed, legs crossed, staring at the ceiling. The room is dimly lit, casting soft shadows that dance around as he shifts uncomfortably.
Miles (VO): How much longer can I keep lying about who I really am?
...
[Flash back: Dinner Scene]
At the dinner table, Miles' mom, Rio, and his dad, Jefferson, chat about the new Spider-Man they've heard about.
The Morales household is cozy and inviting, filled with the smells of a home-cooked meal. The dining room table is set, with plates of steaming food and glasses of water. The walls are adorned with family photos, capturing moments of joy and togetherness. A warm light casts a gentle glow over the room, making it a perfect setting for a family dinner.
Rio Morales, with her warm smile and nurturing demeanor, sits across from Jefferson Davis, who exudes a calm and reassuring presence. They are engaged in a light-hearted conversation about the city's happenings as they eat. Miles Morales sits between them, trying to focus on his food but clearly preoccupied with his thoughts.
Rio said "I hear that new Spider-Man is Puerto Rican."
She says this with a hint of pride, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Jefferson nods in agreement, a slight smile on his face as he chews his food thoughtfully.
Jefferson said "Yeah, I've heard that too."
Miles, who has been trying to keep a low profile, suddenly feels the weight of their words. His heart races, and he tries to play it cool, chuckling nervously. He stands up abruptly, the chair scraping against the floor, and he clears his throat.
Miles said "Nah, he seems more Dominican to me."
His voice wavers slightly, and he gives an awkward smile, hoping to deflect the conversation. Rio and Jefferson exchange a puzzled glance but don't press further, sensing their son's unease. Miles sits back down, his hands slightly trembling as he picks up his fork again.
Miles (VO): I mean, would they get it if I told them?
Cut to a fantasy scene in Miles' mind where he tells his parents his secret, imagining their warm, supportive reaction. The scene fades back to reality, where Miles looks sad.
....
Miles (VO): Sometimes I just wish I wasn't the only one. But I don't dwell on it.
Miles' bedroom is a reflection of his personality—colorful, creative, and a bit chaotic. Posters of his favorite superheroes adorn the walls, alongside sketches of his own Spider-Man adventures. His desk is cluttered with art supplies, textbooks, and a few gadgets he's been tinkering with. The soft glow of a desk lamp casts shadows on the walls, creating an intimate and contemplative atmosphere.
Miles sits at his desk, sketching furiously in his notebook. His focus is intense, his hand moving swiftly across the paper. The pages are filled with drawings of Gwen Stacy, aka Spider-Woman, in various poses—swinging through the city, standing heroically, and laughing with him. Each drawing captures his admiration and longing for connection.
Miles then starts drawing Michael Wilson, the legendary Spider-Man and his mentor, who has been a source of inspiration and strength for him. Michael's portrayal is dynamic and powerful, exuding confidence and wisdom. Miles' lines are bolder and more defined, reflecting the impact Michael has had on his growth as a hero.
As he flips to a new page, his sketches shift to other Spider-People he's met across the multiverse. He draws Peter B. Parker, his other mentor with the heart of gold and a penchant for giving unconventional advice. Peter's laid-back demeanor and caring nature are evident in the way Miles depicts him, always with a warm smile or a goofy expression.
Next, Miles sketches Peter Porker, aka Spider-Ham, the cartoonish, anthropomorphic pig. His drawings of Peter Porker are whimsical and fun, capturing the humor and light-heartedness that Spider-Ham brings to their team. The exaggerated features and playful poses add a splash of humor to his sketchbook.
He then moves on to Peni Parker and her robotic companion SP//dr. The intricate details of Peni's suit and the mechanical complexity of SP//dr are rendered with care, showing the unique bond between the girl and her mech. Miles depicts Peni's youthful determination and the futuristic, high-tech world she comes from.
Finally, Miles draws Spider-Man Noir, the dark and gritty hero from a monochromatic universe. His portrayal of Spider-Man Noir is filled with shadowy tones and stark contrasts, emphasizing the mysterious and brooding nature of this particular Spider-Man. The trench coat, fedora, and old-fashioned web-shooters are meticulously detailed, reflecting Noir's 1930s aesthetic.
...
[Another Scene]
Miles stands in front of a framed photo of his Uncle Aaron, the man who had been like a father to him. The photo shows a smiling Aaron with his arm around a younger Miles. The memories of their time together are bittersweet, tinged with the revelation that Aaron was the Prowler.
Miles (VO): I miss my uncle sometimes. Even though he turned out to be the Prowler.
Miles gently touches the frame, his eyes reflecting a mixture of sadness and determination. He closes his eyes for a moment, hearing his uncle's voice in his head.
Miles (VO): I try to do what he told me: "Just keep going."
The scene transitions to the rooftop of a tall building. The city of Brooklyn sprawls out below, alive with lights and movement. The night air is cool, and Miles takes a deep breath, feeling the energy of the city. He stands tall, his new Spider-Man suit gleaming in the moonlight, embodying his growth and confidence over the past year.
Miles (VO): Keep going.
With a final, resolute look at the city, Miles leaps off the edge of the building. He shoots a web and swings into action. His movements are fluid and effortless, seamlessly blending into the urban landscape. The cityscape rushes by in a blur of lights and colors, reflecting his speed and agility.
To be continue
Thank you guys for reading my novel. I'm feeling a little better now after getting some rest over the past few days. I'm currently editing and revising the other chapters of my other novels peace.
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