Chapter 501: Innocent Spiderman
"Tsk, is this the true form of Venom? Truly an evil monster... but at first glance, it does resemble Spider-Man a bit," Gordon curiously observes the screen, where Eddie has been parasitized by Venom, turning entirely black with a large head, bloody gaping mouth, and eerie white eyes.
Peter shrugs, "No, I think Venom's true form is that black goo. It's a symbiote, and its appearance after parasitism likely depends on the host."
Bruce speculates, "So, Venom being on Spider-Man might be influenced by the host?"
"There's a possibility," Peter speculates, lacking specific experimental evidence to confirm his viewpoint.
Gordon can't help but sigh, "It seems my previous worries were unnecessary..."
When the new footage reveals the potential for Spider-Man to turn bad, Gordon, naturally concerned about the potential corruption of such a virtuous superhero, not now he finds relief along with other viewers. Spider-Man, even contaminated by the extraterrestrial entity, remains a beacon of justice, highlighting Peter's inherent goodness rather than Venom's insufficient corrupting influence on him.
After Venom parasitizes Eddie, he becomes completely absorbed, gaining abilities similar to Spider-Man, including swinging from buildings with black silk threads and extraordinary strength and agility.
However, Eddie is not entirely irrational. Worried that he might not match Spider-Man in combat, he seeks out Sandman and persuades him to join him to take down the bothersome Spiderman.
Sandman, previously involved in a bank robbery to fund his daughter's medical expenses, had clashed with Spider-Man before. Despite being washed into the sewer during their confrontation, Sandman surprisingly survived. Now, influenced by Venom Eddie, he agrees to collaborate in eliminating Spider-Man.
Viewers now understand that it's not a matter of Venom's inadequacy but rather Spider-Man's inherent goodness. Even under the influence of Venom, Spider-Man remains benevolent, while Eddie, already morally compromised, readily succumbs to the corrupting influence of Venom.
Meanwhile, Peter Parker is unaware of the impending crisis. Having overcome Venom's influence, he still feels down, dealing with emotional setbacks and lingering effects from Venom's parasitism.
Fortunately, Aunt May consoles him, helping Peter overcome his low spirits. However, simultaneously, Sandman and Venom Eddie set their plan in motion.
Their scheme is classic – kidnapping Spider-Man's girlfriend. Despite its predictability, it proves effective. Eddie, disguised as a taxi driver, delivers Mary Jane to a high-rise building, suspended by black 'spider webs,' with Sandman's sandy terrain below.
Collaborating, they overpower ordinary law enforcement. The situation becomes tense, with regular weapons ineffective against the super-criminals, especially given the presence of hostages. At this critical moment, everyone is likely thinking of one hero...
Peter Parker saw the news of Mary Jane's kidnapping on the news, and in haste, Peter retrieves his long-neglected red Spider-Man suit. Confronted with the challenge of super-criminals and his 'former' girlfriend's peril, he must rally. Mary Jane needs Spider-Man, and the city does too.
Yet, after changing into the Spider-Man costume, Peter doesn't immediately rush to the scene. Instead, he seeks the help of Harry...
Peter is concerned about facing the two super-criminals alone. Having crossed paths with Sandman and being aware of Venom's capabilities, coupled with the hostage situation, Peter lacks full confidence. Forced by circumstances, he turns to Harry for assistance.
The reason? Despite their strained friendly relationship, they still share a bond, and Peter finds himself with no other choice but to seek help from Harry.
The two, having once been close friends, despite the complexities of their past. Peter hopes that Harry, despite their differences, will understand the gravity of the situation and lend his support in this crucial moment.
Off-screen, Gordon shakes his head, "Peter, you're too naive. Don't forget, Harry has taken the path of his father... he's blinded by revenge. How could he possibly help you?"
Bruce observes coldly, also thinking Peter is a bit too naive. If it were him, the first thing he'd consider is whether Harry might also involved in the conflict between Venom Eddie, and Sandman, forming an anti-"Spider-Man" alliance.
He speaks up to remind, "Even if he promises to help you but is secretly allied with Eddie and Sandman, planning to ambush you, what will you do then?"
Peter looks conflicted and helpless at the words but eventually says, "No, based on my understanding of Harry, I choose to believe in him."
Gordon sighs, "You'll definitely end up in trouble this way."
Arthur smirks, mocking, "Don't assume everyone is as cunning as you. Peter's sincerity towards his friends can also yield genuine loyalty."
Interestingly, whether it's Gordon or Bruce, both upright characters, they tend to be pessimistic in understanding human nature. Perhaps, this is the society of adults.
However, for Arthur, a clear case of mental illness, he appreciates Peter's innocence. The genuine heart of Peter is indeed commendable.
In the video, Harry undeniably rejects Peter's plea, turning coldly to reveal his disfigured face to his former friend.
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