The "Ultimate Marvel" RPG Season V IC Thread

[Byrd Man]

"I found a new lump on my head," I announce as I walk past my teammates. I rub my head groggily and force a smile at Forge and Johnny. Man, I must have been hit hard by Arcade. I just wish I remembered most of it. "Don't mind me," I state as I move past towards the kitchen.

Grabbing my pills, I take two out and place them in my palm. Dropping them into the back of my throat, I pour a glass of water and wash it all down.

"Happy now?" Randy asks as he appears in the kitchen.

I grimace. "Not yet - you're still here," I explain crankily.

Moving back into the hallway - glass still in hand - I ask Forge, "What DID happen last night? I can barely remember it."

I stare at Scorpion as he talks to Forge and waits for an answer. Zarathos starts to speak to me.

Blaze. Your temmate over there. I think he has a problem with what you humans call "drugs".

Like what? Coke, meth, heroine?

Painkillers.

How can you tell?

Something with his aura...it's...odd...Blaze, I'm not even sure this man has a soul.

How can that be?

I have no idea.

Zarathos fades from my ears. I shake my head slightly. Thanks to the demon, I have more questions about Scorpion than ever.

[Venom160]

Contagion, The curse continues Part XXIII

Kaine laughs as he stares down the three members of the Fantastic Four. Ben Grimm stares down Kaine, his body tense as he tries to keep from attacking the large black suited creature.

Suddenly, Kaine's laugh is cut short. Behind him, his ears hear the sound of voices. Familiar voices. He looks over his shoulder to see Kong and Liz carrying Anton's unconscious body off the battlefield. Kaine snickers evily, his voice trailing off into a hiss.

Kaine turns his head back to the Fantastic Four, a heinous and hideous smile widely placed upon his face. Kaine tenses his legs as he prepares to move, his fingers slowly moving in anxiousness.

"You know what this is?" He asks with a terrifying voice. The heroes stare at him with angry frowns, their minds fed up with the depraved killer. "This is when people start dying."

No sooner do the words leave Kaine's lips, he jumps off backward, propelling himself toward Liz and Kong as they load Anton onto the ambulance.

Landing with a powerful quake, Kaine's feet smash into the ground. He makes a loud proud roar, showing his dominance and pleasure. The two teens shake without turning, knowing what they face behind them.

"Hello, kids." Kaine growls. "Leaving so soon?" He laughs. "I wouldn't do that. The true fun is just about to start!" http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

My eyes snap open, Kaine's growl echoes through my skull. My vision is blurry but I can make out Liz's blonde hair and Kong's large shap. The looming black shadow behind them needs no introduction.

"Dammit Kaine!"

I lunge from the ambulance and streak past Liz and Kong. I jump onto Kaines shoulders and start landing punches.

"I was just about to rob lotion on Angelina Jolie and Scarlet Witch on a beautiful beach but nooooooo you had to ****in wake me up and ruin everything!!!!"

I spot acouple weblines hit Kaine.

"I believe thats my cue to tag out."

I ***** slap him my working arms as Ben yanks him off his feet. I flip off his shoulders and land infront of Kong and Liz.

"Thanks but please get to safety. Don't put yourself at risk for someone like me....."

I run out of earshot before I could hear what Liz was gonna say. I turn to the FF whos really just standing there.

"Um we could really use some help here! I mean you make kickass lawn ornaments but we really need oh I don't know ****ING SUPERHEROES!!!!!!"

[Mr. Marko]

Forge looked over at Scorpion as he kicked back a couple of painkillers. Must have been hit hard, poor guy. He turned back to Johnny.

"How did it go? Well, that all depends on how you want to look at it."

Johnny gave him a confused look.

Forge smirked slightly. "Well, we managed to break their system like we planned, but a guy named Arcade showed up with a message from Wilson Fisk, the man who apparently owns the club we raided. Apparently, he's a pretty big deal around New York." Forge chuckled as he rubbed the back of his head. "Who knew?"

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

My eyes snap open, Kaine's growl echoes through my skull. My vision is blurry but I can make out Liz's blonde hair and Kong's large shap. The looming black shadow behind them needs no introduction.

"Dammit Kaine!"

I lunge from the ambulance and streak past Liz and Kong. I jump onto Kaines shoulders and start landing punches.

"I was just about to rob lotion on Angelina Jolie and Scarlet Witch on a beautiful beach but nooooooo you had to ****in wake me up and ruin everything!!!!"

I spot acouple weblines hit Kaine.

"I believe thats my cue to tag out."

I ***** slap him my working arms as Ben yanks him off his feet. I flip off his shoulders and land infront of Kong and Liz.

"Thanks but please get to safety. Don't put yourself at risk for someone like me....."

I run out of earshot before I could hear what Liz was gonna say. I turn to the FF whos really just standing there.

"Um we could really use some help here! I mean you make kickass lawn ornaments but we really need oh I don't know ****ING SUPERHEROES!!!!!!"

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXIV

"No, Arms..." Kaine says, slowly rising to his feet as he recovers from the attack. "What we need...is death!" Kaine lunges at Anton, his vicious fangs glistening with saliva and blood. As he moves through the air toward Anton, he is suddenly attacked from above.

"And what you need to do is shut up!" Delivering a powerful hit from above, Ben strike Kaine with a strong left handed punch. Ben's fist connects with Kaine's head, knocking him to the ground. He quickly flips back, and lands on his feet in front of the fallen villain.

Without a second to spare, Kaine throws out his arm and grabs Ben around the ankle. He growls loudly, and throws the hero at Anton, knocking the two clones into the ambulance.

"Good tag team." Kaine says with a laugh, brushing the gravel from his shoulder. "But it will take more than just two deranged clones to stop me."

Kaine turns his head, looking at the two kids who had helped Anton into the rescue vehicle. To his surprise, he sees Liz, cowering in fear at the mighty Kaine, his body bulging with muscles and power, his figure towering over the others like a monstrous beast.

"Well, hello there..." He say with a hiss. "Can't stay away from me, can you, babe?"

[Catman_prb]

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXIV

"No, Arms..." Kaine says, slowly rising to his feet as he recovers from the attack. "What we need...is death!" Kaine lunges at Anton, his vicious fangs glistening with saliva and blood. As he moves through the air toward Anton, he is suddenly attacked from above.

"And what you need to do is shut up!" Delivering a powerful hit from above, Ben strike Kaine with a strong left handed punch. Ben's fist connects with Kaine's head, knocking him to the ground. He quickly flips back, and lands on his feet in front of the fallen villain.

Without a second to spare, Kaine throws out his arm and grabs Ben around the ankle. He growls loudly, and throws the hero at Anton, knocking the two clones into the ambulance.

"Good tag team." Kaine says with a laugh, brushing the gravel from his shoulder. "But it will take more than just two deranged clones to stop me."

Kaine turns his head, looking at the two kids who had helped Anton into the rescue vehicle. To his surprise, he sees Liz, cowering in fear at the mighty Kaine, his body bulging with muscles and power, his figure towering over the others like a monstrous beast.

"Well, hello there..." He say with a hiss. "Can't stay away from me, can you, babe?"
He was attacking children. And he was risking giving those children the same disease that had killed so many others. What was the point of protecting himself, if it got civilians killed. Children. Reed snapped. He ran at Kaine, jumping on his back and wrapping his arms around his neck repeatedly.

"I guess I can't. Maybe it's your animal magnetism," Reed said, desperately pulling Kaine away from the young girl.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

He was attacking children. And he was risking giving those children the same disease that had killed so many others. What was the point of protecting himself, if it got civilians killed. Children. Reed snapped. He ran at Kaine, jumping on his back and wrapping his arms around his neck repeatedly.

"I guess I can't. Maybe it's your animal magnetism," Reed said, desperately pulling Kaine away from the young girl.
Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXIV

"So," Kaine says with a laugh, his voice strained as Reed begins to choke the mighty beast. "The great Reed Richards joins in..." Kaine coughs as he tries to laugh. "Tell me, Reed," he says, tightly grabbing onto Richard's elastic skin coiled around Kaine's neck like a noose. "How far can you stretch?"

Kaine laughs as he begins to pull at Reed's body, lengthening the breathing room around his throat until he can finally take a deep breath of air. As he inhales, his voice makes an unholy sound, a terrifying loud bellow.

"Sorry, Reed," Kaine laughs. "Play time's over!" Pulling his arms forward, Kaine pulls the Fantastic Four's leader off his body. He tosses Reed away from him, being caustious as if he were an anaconda, ready to coil around him again.

"Now," Kaine says as he eyes up the heroes. "Who to kill first? The freakish six armed degenerate, the insane bipolar clone copy, or the the elastic panty waist?" Kaine laughs triumphantly as he cracks his knucles, his tongue lapping around his mouth like a vicious animal, starved for its next meal. "Mmh...I hate you all so much...Wait! I know." Kaine smiles. "I'll kill the pretty girl first. That way while I kill you three, you can remember the face she made as I ripped her head from her spine!"

Kaine jumps towards Liz, landing right in front of the startled young teen. She shakes in fear, he mouth wide as if to scream, but no voice comes out. She is paralyzed in fear, terrified to move. Kong runs up in front of her, standing between her and Kaine to protect her. Kaine merely scoffs and flicks the hero aside, knocking him onto the concrete of the parking lot.

"So, my dear..." Kaine chuckles in an evil voice. "Shall we make this painful...or slow?"

[Syn (Mercenary)]

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXIV

"So," Kaine says with a laugh, his voice strained as Reed begins to choke the mighty beast. "The great Reed Richards joins in..." Kaine coughs as he tries to laugh. "Tell me, Reed," he says, tightly grabbing onto Richard's elastic skin coiled around Kaine's neck like a noose. "How far can you stretch?"

Kaine laughs as he begins to pull at Reed's body, lengthening the breathing room around his throat until he can finally take a deep breath of air. As he inhales, his voice makes an unholy sound, a terrifying loud bellow.

"Sorry, Reed," Kaine laughs. "Play time's over!" Pulling his arms forward, Kaine pulls the Fantastic Four's leader off his body. He tosses Reed away from him, being caustious as if he were an anaconda, ready to coil around him again.

"Now," Kaine says as he eyes up the heroes. "Who to kill first? The freakish six armed degenerate, the insane bipolar clone copy, or the the elastic panty waist?" Kaine laughs triumphantly as he cracks his knucles, his tongue lapping around his mouth like a vicious animal, starved for its next meal. "Mmh...I hate you all so much...Wait! I know." Kaine smiles. "I'll kill the pretty girl first. That way while I kill you three, you can remember the face she made as I ripped her head from her spine!"

Kaine jumps towards Liz, landing right in front of the startled young teen. She shakes in fear, he mouth wide as if to scream, but no voice comes out. She is paralyzed in fear, terrified to move. Kong runs up in front of her, standing between her and Kaine to protect her. Kaine merely scoffs and flicks the hero aside, knocking him onto the concrete of the parking lot.

"So, my dear..." Kaine chuckles in an evil voice. "Shall we make this painful...or slow?"
http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

I swing down the last street on the way to Midtown. I know this route well. I'm either swinging away from it to stop a crime, or swinging back to it to get to class on time. Did I just rhyme in my head? I need a vacation...I really do.

With a final webline shot from my arm onto a tree branch, I turn onto the road the school rests on. It's a pretty clear stretch from here, I should be able to see what I'm getting myself into.

As I look a head, to my surprise, I see smoke billowing from the broken shambles of the school. Yep. I knew it. No one can ever attack a school and not break anything. I'm pretty sure it's in their code. Break whatever you see, otherwise, you didn't do it right.

As I look closer, I notice two familiar figures standing in front of the school. Don't tell me...it can't be. The large orange tinted one...Ben Grimm? The Thing? And next to him is Susan Storm the invisable woman. The Fantastic Four are at my school? Yeah...I'm really not looking forward to this.

As I swing closer, I see a large beheamouth raging and romping around the property. It walks powerfully, with strong steps and a odd way about him. That can't be...no, it...there's no way.

I get closer, now about fifty meters and counting. As I stare at the beast, I pray that the lenses in my mask are going bad. It looks like...Eddie. Eddie Brock Junior. My former friend, turned psychotic freak after stealing the suit our fathers worked on together. Why would he attack my school? Well, he's psychotic. Guess he doesn't really need a reason.

With my next webline I grow even closer, and with my change in altitude, I can suddenly see things I hadn't seen before. Bodies. The street in front of the school has three bodies of police men, littering the property, their blood pooling in the pot holes.

I suddenly fill with an anger, an inner rage I have never felt before. He's gone too far. He's taken life, made first blood. I will not let him get away with this...I won't...

"No..." I say as I see three other familiar bodies lying in front of Venom. Reed Richards, aka Mister Fanastic lies on top of my two clones, the Scarlet Spider and Tarantula.

Great. My clones are here too. I go away for one day. ONE! Just to watch a freakin movie about me, that I didn't get compensated for. A movie that blew and wasn't worth the two bucks I could barely scrunge up the money for, just to spend some time with MJ. Why can I never get a break? Why? Not once, not ever!

I swing over top of the fight zone, pulling on the line tight and hard. Flipping off of it, I decend to the ground. As I watch the ground for my landing, I notice a girl standing in front of Venom. A girl I know...she's terrified...paralyzed with fear. Venom moves closer to her, a look on his face that scares even me. I have to stop this. No matter what.

"Liz!" I shout as my feet touch the ground. I push her back, and turn to Venom. I stare at his body, towering over mine more than just a few feet. He smiles with a freakish grin, the toothy smile a new addition I have never faced before.

"Alright, Eddie! You're done! I don't know why you came here, but you found me now. Okay? Are you happy? Because I'm not! So come on, Eddie! What do you want? Just tell me!"

"Eddie?" It bellows in a dark and sinister voice. A voice that I remember, a voice that I have heard before...one that sounds almost like... "Ah, 'Spider-Man', how naive. Eddie lost this gift a long time ago. We've booted him out and taken over, formed a new union."

"Who...are you?" I ask in a confused voice, both wanting to know the identity of my attacker, but that small voice in the back of my head begging not to hear it's words.

"Why, I'm you." He smiles. "I'm Kaine!" Oh my God...another of my clones. I don't remember him...infact...I've never even heard his name before. But...he's got the suit, and he's me. You put those two pieces together and it doesn't take a genius to know what's coming next.

"Liz!" I shout back to her, making a final desperate plea. "Run!"

"No, Liz! DIE!" My clone jumps toward me, lunging with its mouth first, those horrible sharp fangs spewing spit everywhere. I forgot how disgusting this suit can be as well as terrifying. Without thought, I simply move, relying on my instinct to pull me through. I throw my fist up, hoping I can make some kind of contact.

To my surprise, I hit Kaine square on, knocking his mouth closed and sending him tumbling backward a few feet. I don't know much about Kaine, but I know the suit recovers fast. I don't have much time to breath. I turn around to see the three figures lying in the pile behind me. Mister Fanastic gets to his feet and stands behind me.

"Hey, Mr. F." I respond, trying to keep my poise, daring not to look at the other two clones. "Welcome to the freakshow that is my life."

[Venom160]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

I swing down the last street on the way to Midtown. I know this route well. I'm either swinging away from it to stop a crime, or swinging back to it to get to class on time. Did I just rhyme in my head? I need a vacation...I really do.

With a final webline shot from my arm onto a tree branch, I turn onto the road the school rests on. It's a pretty clear stretch from here, I should be able to see what I'm getting myself into.

As I look a head, to my surprise, I see smoke billowing from the broken shambles of the school. Yep. I knew it. No one can ever attack a school and not break anything. I'm pretty sure it's in their code. Break whatever you see, otherwise, you didn't do it right.

As I look closer, I notice two familiar figures standing in front of the school. Don't tell me...it can't be. The large orange tinted one...Ben Grimm? The Thing? And next to him is Susan Storm the invisable woman. The Fantastic Four are at my school? Yeah...I'm really not looking forward to this.

As I swing closer, I see a large beheamouth raging and romping around the property. It walks powerfully, with strong steps and a odd way about him. That can't be...no, it...there's no way.

I get closer, now about fifty meters and counting. As I stare at the beast, I pray that the lenses in my mask are going bad. It looks like...Eddie. Eddie Brock Junior. My former friend, turned psychotic freak after stealing the suit our fathers worked on together. Why would he attack my school? Well, he's psychotic. Guess he doesn't really need a reason.

With my next webline I grow even closer, and with my change in altitude, I can suddenly see things I hadn't seen before. Bodies. The street in front of the school has three bodies of police men, littering the property, their blood pooling in the pot holes.

I suddenly fill with an anger, an inner rage I have never felt before. He's gone too far. He's taken life, made first blood. I will not let him get away with this...I won't...

"No..." I say as I see three other familiar bodies lying in front of Venom. Reed Richards, aka Mister Fanastic lies on top of my two clones, the Scarlet Spider and Tarantula.

Great. My clones are here too. I go away for one day. ONE! Just to watch a freakin movie about me, that I didn't get compensated for. A movie that blew and wasn't worth the two bucks I could barely scrunge up the money for, just to spend some time with MJ. Why can I never get a break? Why? Not once, not ever!

I swing over top of the fight zone, pulling on the line tight and hard. Flipping off of it, I decend to the ground. As I watch the ground for my landing, I notice a girl standing in front of Venom. A girl I know...she's terrified...paralyzed with fear. Venom moves closer to her, a look on his face that scares even me. I have to stop this. No matter what.

"Liz!" I shout as my feet touch the ground. I push her back, and turn to Venom. I stare at his body, towering over mine more than just a few feet. He smiles with a freakish grin, the toothy smile a new addition I have never faced before.

"Alright, Eddie! You're done! I don't know why you came here, but you found me now. Okay? Are you happy? Because I'm not! So come on, Eddie! What do you want? Just tell me!"

"Eddie?" It bellows in a dark and sinister voice. A voice that I remember, a voice that I have heard before...one that sounds almost like... "Ah, 'Spider-Man', how naive. Eddie lost this gift a long time ago. We've booted him out and taken over, formed a new union."

"Who...are you?" I ask in a confused voice, both wanting to know the identity of my attacker, but that small voice in the back of my head begging not to hear it's words.

"Why, I'm you." He smiles. "I'm Kaine!" Oh my God...another of my clones. I don't remember him...infact...I've never even heard his name before. But...he's got the suit, and he's me. You put those two pieces together and it doesn't take a genius to know what's coming next.

"Liz!" I shout back to her, making a final desperate plea. "Run!"

"No, Liz! DIE!" My clone jumps toward me, lunging with its mouth first, those horrible sharp fangs spewing spit everywhere. I forgot how disgusting this suit can be as well as terrifying. Without thought, I simply move, relying on my instinct to pull me through. I throw my fist up, hoping I can make some kind of contact.

To my surprise, I hit Kaine square on, knocking his mouth closed and sending him tumbling backward a few feet. I don't know much about Kaine, but I know the suit recovers fast. I don't have much time to breath. I turn around to see the three figures lying in the pile behind me. Mister Fanastic gets to his feet and stands behind me.

"Hey, Mr. F." I respond, trying to keep my poise, daring not to look at the other two clones. "Welcome to the freakshow that is my life."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I gently push reed off of me and get to my feet.

"Welcome to the freakshow that is my life."

I glare at Peter.

That little bastard! We've been fighting Kaine and protecting his classmates and what does he do the second he gets here! ****in complains!

"Why don't you shut the **** up for once! Believe it or not some people have it worse than you...."

I push past him and head over to Liz whos kneeling down beside Kong.

"He's unconcious.."

"I'll get him."

I bend down and lift Kong onto my shoulder.

"Come on..."

Liz takes lead as I carry Kong over to the furthest ambulance I could find. I set Kong on the ground and look to Liz.

"Stay here."

[Gallagher]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/Suebanner.jpg

"REED!" the enraged Invisible Woman shouted as the deranged spider-clone tossed him aside. Once again she wrapped her fists in a light blue translucent aura, a forcefield for each hand fashioned like a boxing glove.

"Get away from them you evil-" She couldn't finish her sentence as anger overwhelmed the young woman, diving forward toward the black-suited Kaine she connected with a jaw shattering punch to the villains head, shattering a few of the suit's teeth in the process. Landing with a roll she rose to her feet as the monstrous Kaine turned to face her with an animalistic growl.

"Oh please, you think that scares me? You should see Johnny in the morning." Susan quips, a punch flying forward into Kaine's mid-section, burying her hand deep in his stomach. "You wanna beat on a bunch of helpless kids? You need to find yourself a safer hobby." The suit's tendril's started to flail wildly narrowly missing the attacking Storm. Each one that came close was met with an invisible shield that batted it away harmlessly.

"You want my advice?" She continued, relentlessly pushing Kaine back with blow after blow, her arms felt like they were on fire yet she couldn't, would not stop. Finally, with a thunderous forcefield-covered right hand she sent the vile monster flipping backwards into a brick wall.

"Stay in school."

[Gallagher]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/Thorbanner.jpg

Thor and Heimdall purveyed the surrounding destruction, the battle was over. "Thank you, you saved our village. However can we repay you." Cried a grateful civillian, his face battered and clothes singed.

"You know which of these men is the ringleader here?" Thor spoke instantly.

"I shall retrieve them at once sirs!" The man scurried off to do the God's bidding as the two sat on the remains of a demolished stone wall taking in the destruction.

"He's gone too far with this." Thor said simply, Heimdall nodding in agreement, taking a swig from a large jug.

The man returned shortly after, a beautiful young woman in tow. Thor immediately stood up.

"YOU!" He bellowed at the seductive being moving slowly toward him. "So that's how Loki managed to gather an army so quickly... you... Enchantress."

Enchantress chuckled. "Of course, I used my gifts to give Loki a small army to keep you busy for awhile." She explained, seemingly bored with the whole situation.

"Why? What was in it for you."

"Ohh, I had my reasons. A girl's gotta have some secrets you know." The goddess said with a wink toward the two warriors.

"Where is he?" Thor said, rage burning in his eyes.

"Hahaha, oh what the heck, might as well tell you now. I've played my part."

"WHERE!?" Thor moved forward and grabbed Enchantress by the arm. A pained expression flowing over her face, followed by one of disgust.

"He never left New York you insufferable whelp. You really think he'd risk coming here? Where he knew you'd be more than able to halt his plans? You're more of a fool than I once thought. Now... release me."

"You're not going anywhere other than Asgard." Heimdall spoke up."I've got this one. You go after Loki... I'll see you again soon my friend."

"Fare thee well." Thor said a certain sadness creeping into his voice. "Take care of yourself."With that the god's parted ways and Thor turned his back, raising his hammer into the air and bringing it down with a mighty crash of thunder he was gone...

[Eddie Brock]

"I...I don't understand," Kitty stammers. She looks completely unsure how to take all of this. I was afraid of that. I much prefer it when they just hate me. You feel less guilty that way. If they cry, however, you feel like a royal a**hole.

Okay, so maybe I am a royal a**hole. But I had to do what I felt was right. I don't want to play with Kitty's emotions when I'm really not serious about this 'relationship.' "It's simple, really. I'm just not interested in being tied down by any kind of relationship. I like my freedom," I explain.

I hear Bobby turn on the TV, but I tune it out. However, I then see Kate and Ted gather around the TV and stare in disbelief. Everyone is being silent, so I walk over to check it out.

Midtown is on the TV. I see Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four (minus me!), two other Spider-combatants all versus one freaky-lookin' dude. Maybe I made a mistake by bringing my 'group' away from the school. It sure looks like they could use the manpower.

Unsure of what to say, I blurt out, "I'm heading over there."

"What about us?" Kate asks as I shed my civvies - revealing blue, skin-tight spandex underneath.

As I rush out the door, I call out, "Whatever!" I really could care less what my 'team' does. My family needs my help. After all, Fantastic Three has no ring to it!

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I gently push reed off of me and get to my feet.

"Welcome to the freakshow that is my life."

I glare at Peter.

That little bastard! We've been fighting Kaine and protecting his classmates and what does he do the second he gets here! ****in complains!

"Why don't you shut the **** up for once! Believe it or not some people have it worse than you...."

I push past him and head over to Liz whos kneeling down beside Kong.

"He's unconcious.."

"I'll get him."

I bend down and lift Kong onto my shoulder.

"Come on..."

Liz takes lead as I carry Kong over to the furthest ambulance I could find. I set Kong on the ground and look to Liz.

"Stay here."

Did...did he really just flip on me? Me? The real Spider-Man. You know, as in, the original real deal actual person. The guy whose life got thrashed by their exsistence.

I watch as Anton walks away, carrying Liz and Kong as he makes his way to get the to safety. Good. The further he is from me, the better. Every time I look at them, I just want to throw up. I mean, it's my life. My body he has. Sure, it's deformed, but he's basically another form of identity theft. How am I suppossed to accept this.

"You will die, HUMAN!" I hear Kaine yell as he recovers from Susan Storms's attack. Yeah, and he's just another point in my reasoning. My clones running around causing hell in my name! How am I suppossed to be 'cool' with that? How?

"I must say, Spider-Man, I didn't expect it to take you that long to change. I mean, it was at least five minutes. Get stuck in your zipper?"

What is he talking about? Did he expect me to come? Well...of course he did. That's why he attacked the school. But, from what he says, it sounds like I was already here...but I wasn't...

"Wow, Kaine," I say, positioning myself to fight. "You're looneier than I thought. I just got here."

"No...you were here before as..." I watch Kaine's face, it changes from determination to confusion. As he thinks to himself, I see his expression change again, this time to an angered and enraged face. "So...Ben is apparently a perfect mimic." He says with a growl.

Ben? What does he mean Ben. As I ponder to myself, Scarlet Spider suddenly drops down behind me. I turn to see him, his fists balled and his body ready to fight.

"I'm right behind you." He says as he slowly steps forward. Ben. Ben Reilly...of course...Wait, so now he was impersonating me? He played me as if I were a part? What was he doing? A dress rehearsal before he actually takes my life?

"Ben," I start, my voice cracking as I try to restrain myself. "You impersonated me?"

"I had to. To protect the kids, buy Anton some more time." Buy some more time? No! He had no right to pretend to be me. Especially not after what he did at the Bugle. I haven't forgotten that, and I don't plan to.

"I've had it with you guys! You think you have a right to just play me? Pretend to me? When else do you do it, Ben? When you're killing people in bars or maybe mugging people on the street? Huh? Is that it?! I'm sick of you guys! Why can't you just leave me alone, huh? What did I do to you?"

I can't believe my own feelings. I mean, I would rather have them dead than alive. Is that right? Is that heroic? I mean, I don't kill anyone. I don't want anyone dead, really. So...for me to think this, is it wrong?

"Oh, Spider-Man..." Kaine snarls, the suit slithering over his skin, its tendrils ready to shoot out at any second. "You question our right to live...but, what makes you think you have a right?"

"Maybe the fact that I wasn't grown in a test tube, you doppleganger freak!" Yeah, so I'm now retorting to horrible comebacks. That's how bad this is getting.

"Oh, your insolance is so adorable. You think you're better than me." He laughs horribly, his face too disgusting to look at. Did he just call me adorable? Kaine is more screwed up that I thought.

I'm almost glad I see Venom's face, and not Kaine's. I don't know if I could bare to see my face again. Not on someone else. "If you're better than me, then how about you stop me?"

"That's exactly what I'm going to do." I say determined. I really hope I don't run out of web fluid. I'm probably going to need ever ounce of it I can get for this fight. Kaine's angry, his emotions fueling his cause. If I've learned something in fighting crazies, its that those with a cause are harder to knock down.

The worst thing about this fight is, I'm near helpless. I feel so alone. I mean, two of my clones are here suppossidly on my side. But, who said I want them on my side? I don't trust them anymore than I trust Kaine. At least the Fantastic Four are here. I'll have someone rational to fight with.

"Very well." Kaine says as he begins to breath deeply, his voice snarling with every inhale and exhale of air. "Time to die!" He shouts as he fires multiple tendrils into the air. The black spears fire out in all directions, randomly moving in the air like bullets, aiming for anything they can pierce.

I jump into the air and evade, watching closely to my surroundings. The last thing I need is a trip to the hospital. Only more explaining and problems I don't need.

I fire a web and swing myself into the air, high above Kaine and his deadly extremeties. As the others below continue to evade, I remember my first battle with the suit. I recall it's weakness, its succeptibilities. I don't know if my clones remember the battle, but I know the FF don't. And if we have any chance of beating this monster, they're going to need to be on the same page.

"Reed!" I shout out, hoping he can hear me over Kaine's obnoxious laughter. "He's weak to electricity! High voltage! The suit is vulnerable to electricity!" This place has powerlines every ten feet. I can't wait to see the look on his face. How...shocking.

"Wow...I am loosing it."

[Venom160]

Did...did he really just flip on me? Me? The real Spider-Man. You know, as in, the original real deal actual person. The guy whose life got thrashed by their exsistence.

I watch as Anton walks away, carrying Liz and Kong as he makes his way to get the to safety. Good. The further he is from me, the better. Every time I look at them, I just want to throw up. I mean, it's my life. My body he has. Sure, it's deformed, but he's basically another form of identity theft. How am I suppossed to accept this.

"You will die, HUMAN!" I hear Kaine yell as he recovers from Susan Storms's attack. Yeah, and he's just another point in my reasoning. My clones running around causing hell in my name! How am I suppossed to be 'cool' with that? How?

"I must say, Spider-Man, I didn't expect it to take you that long to change. I mean, it was at least five minutes. Get stuck in your zipper?"

What is he talking about? Did he expect me to come? Well...of course he did. That's why he attacked the school. But, from what he says, it sounds like I was already here...but I wasn't...

"Wow, Kaine," I say, positioning myself to fight. "You're looneier than I thought. I just got here."

"No...you were here before as..." I watch Kaine's face, it changes from determination to confusion. As he thinks to himself, I see his expression change again, this time to an angered and enraged face. "So...Ben is apparently a perfect mimic." He says with a growl.

Ben? What does he mean Ben. As I ponder to myself, Scarlet Spider suddenly drops down behind me. I turn to see him, his fists balled and his body ready to fight.

"I'm right behind you." He says as he slowly steps forward. Ben. Ben Reilly...of course...Wait, so now he was impersonating me? He played me as if I were a part? What washe doing? A dress rehearsal before he actually takes my life?

"Ben," I start, my voice cracking as I try to restrain myself. "You impersonated me?"

"I had to. To protect the kids, buy Anton some more time." Buy some more time? No! He had no right to pretend to be me. Especially not after what he did at the Bugle. I haven't forgotten that, and I don't plan to.

"I've had it with you guys! You think you have a right to just play me? Pretend to me? When else do you do it, Ben? When you're killing people in bars or maybe mugging people on the street? Huh? Is that it?! I'm sick of you guys! Why can't you just leave me alone, huh? What did I do to you?"

I can't believe my own feelings. I mean, I would rather have them dead than alive. Is that right? Is that heroic? I mean, I don't kill anyone. I don't want anyone dead, really. So...for me to think this, is it wrong?

"Oh, Spider-Man..." Kaine snarls, the suit slithering over his skin, its tendrils ready to shoot out at any second. "You question our right to live...but, what makes you think you have a right?"

"Maybe the fact that I wasn't grown in a test tube, you doppleganger freak!" Yeah, so I'm now retorting to horrible comebacks. That's how bad this is getting.

"Oh, your insolance is so adorable. You think you're better than me." He laughs horribly, his face too disgusting to look at. Did he just call me adorable? Kaine is more screwed up that I thought.

I'm almost glad I see Venom's face, and not Kaine's. I don't know if I could bare to see my face again. Not on someone else. "If you're better than me, then how about you stop me?"

"That's exactly what I'm going to do." I say determined. I really hope I don't run out of web fluid. I'm probably going to need ever ounce of it I can get for this fight. Kaine's angry, his emotions fueling his cause. If I've learned something in fighting crazies, its that those with a cause are harder to knock down.

The worst thing about this fight is, I'm near helpless. I feel so alone. I mean, two of my clones are here suppossidly on my side. But, who said I want them on my side? I don't trust them anymore than I trust Kaine. At least the Fantastic Four are here. I'll have someone rational to fight with.

"Very well." Kaine says as he begins to breath deeply, his voice snarling with every inhale and exhale of air. "Time to die!" He shouts as he fires multiple tendrils into the air. The black spears fire out in all directions, randomly moving in the air like bullets, aiming for anything they can pierce.

I jump into the air and evade, watching closely to my surroundings. The last thing I need is a trip to the hospital. Only more explaining and problems I don't need.

I fire a web and swing myself into the air, high above Kaine and his deadly extremeties. As the others below continue to evade, I remember my first battle with the suit. I recall it's weakness, its succeptibilities. I don't know if my clones remember the battle, but I know the FF don't. And if we have any chance of beating this monster, they're going to need to be on the same page.

"Reed!" I shout out, hoping he can hear me over Kaine's obnoxious laughter. "He's weak to electricity! High voltage!" This place has powerlines every ten feet. I can't wait to see the look on his face. How...shocking.

"Wow...I am loosing it." http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I continue to dodge the tendrils while I hear Peter's voice.

"He's weak to electricity! High voltage!"

"Oh that right, why didnt me or Ben think of that? Oh thats right CAUSE WE'VE BEEN HAVING OUR BRAINS BASHED IN FOR THE PAST HOUR!!"

I jump onto a tendril and grab holed.

"Mind if I borrow this?"

I pull with all my strength and rip the tendril from Kaine. I snap the tendril like a whip as Kaine growls.

"Ha Dr. Jones has nothin on me!"

I spot the closest powerline and hook it with the tendril. The tendril evaporates has the powerline breaks free and electricity starts to freely flow. I quickly web up acouple of my hands and grab the live wire.

"Geronimo!!!!"

I jump into the air and plunge the line into Kaine's neck.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I continue to dodge the tendrils while I hear Peter's voice.

"He's weak to electricity! High voltage!"

"Oh that right, why didnt me or Ben think of that? Oh thats right CAUSE WE'VE BEEN HAVING OUR BRAINS BASHED IN FOR THE PAST HOUR!!"

I jump onto a tendril and grab holed.

"Mind if I borrow this?"

I pull with all my strength and rip the tendril from Kaine. I snap the tendril like a whip as Kaine growls.

"Ha Dr. Jones has nothin on me!"

I spot the closest powerline and hook it with the tendril. The tendril evaporates has the powerline breaks free and electricity starts to freely flow. I quickly web up acouple of my hands and grab the live wire.

"Geronimo!!!!"

I jump into the air and plunge the line into Kaine's neck.
Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXV

Kaine screams in a deep voice, his vocal cords vibrating in a way that makes his voice echo within itself. As he yells at the top of his lungs, the pain piercing every fiber of his being, the suti cries out as well, the electricity hurting it more than Kaine.

The two shake as Kaine thrashes about violently, twitching from the intense pain. Saliva burns up in his mouth before hitting the ground, and his tongue flails like a fish out of water. As the electric current moves through the wire, the transformer on the pole burns out, exploding in a large flash of sparks. The hot embers of metal shower down like rain, and the current ceases.

Kaine falls to the ground, his body smoking like a burning torch. The cable thrust into the suit falls to the ground, sparks still spewing from its end. The entry mark of the cable on Kaine's back emits a dark gray smoke, slowly closing as the suit struggles to heal.

"D-Damn...Damn you..." Kaine pants. "I'll...I'll..." Before Kaine can finish his sentence, he slowly blacks out, collapsing to the ground with a loud thud. His eyes stay opened wide, but his consciousness fades away.

As Anton stands next to Kaine's fallen body, Spider-Man lets go of his web and lands next to Anton. Beneath his mask he frowns, still upset about the presence of his clones. The two stare at Kaine in silence, awkwardly keeping from speaking. A few moments pass and the silence continues. Anton takes a heavy sigh, and decides to end the quiet.

"Well?" He asks.

"Well what?"

"Aren't you going to thank me?"

"Thank you?" Peter asks in an irked tone. "Why would I thank you?"

"I just took out Kaine! I saved your sorry ass, man!"

"Well it is what I would expect myself to do. And I never get thanked, so get used to it if you're going to continue being me."

"Continue being you? Yeah, don't be so selfish. None of us want to be you. You know why? Cause your a jerk, man. You keep your prejudice against us despite all we try to do!"

"All you've done is ruin my life!"

"Ahem..." A voice interjects. Anton and Peter interrupt their arguement and turn to the voice simultaneously. To their shock, they see Kaine slowly rising to his feet. "They haven't ruined your life," Kaine says with a weary smile. In a sudden movement, he throws out both his arms, grasping the two heroes around their throats. He holds their bodies up off the ground, closing his grip around their necks. "I have! And now? Now I'm about to end it. Both of your lives!" Kaine laughs maniacally, his strength slowly but surely returning to him.

"I hate to use this quote, boys, but...There can be only one!"

[SenseiofCheese]

"You're not going anywhere other than Asgard." Heimdall spoke up."I've got this one. You go after Loki... I'll see you again soon my friend."

"Fare thee well." Thor said a certain sadness creeping into his voice. "Take care of yourself."With that the god's parted ways and Thor turned his back, raising his hammer into the air and bringing it down with a mighty crash of thunder he was gone...

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/heimdallvc2.jpg


As Thor rose up into the air, Mjolnir guiding his journey into the night, a twinge of sadness surged through Heimdall's being. He had tried to convince himself he would forever stay side by side in battle with Thor. But he did not need his Sight to see that his destiny lay in Asgard.
Heimdall sighed deeply, flakes of snow beginning to descend from the sky, creating a stark contrast of black on white. But as if he was beckoned, he turned his head and was met with the sultry gaze of the Enchantress.

"So...you taking he back to Big Daddy?" her voice was as layered with sexuality.

Heimdall simply scoffed as he smothered the feeling of uncontrollable desire he felt toward the stunning woman in front of him. " T'will be a long journey, Enchantress. Thou would do good to remain silent."

"Oh, please, lead the way, handsome." she said with a wry smile. Heimdall couldn't help but stare. Her lips, red as the ripest of apples, were those of perfection, her eyes so deep Heimdall felt them lock around him. Her hair flowed down like a golden waterfall, met by her porcelain skin. It was a beauty to behold, no mortal nor god could disagree. Again her lips curled into a smile, noticing Heimdall's fixed gaze upon her. "Heimy? We could always make a pit-stop." she spoke, her words lathered in sensuality, as she made her way over to Heimdall. Her hips swayed like the waves, her body tightly wrapped in green inching closer to his. "...Have a little fun before we have to get all serious." Heimdall felt her hand softly swoop up his bicep, onto his shoulder, until she was firmly draped around him.

Pure, carnal desire consumed him. Were he a mortal, he would have had no chance. "Do not embarrass yourself, woman." he spat out.

Almost reeling back, the Enchantress stared at Heimdall, the soft, erotic look in her eye replaced by a sort of primal rage he had only seen in the eyes of those that inhabit Asgard. "Heimy, darling. You've hurt my feelings." she spoke with a voice that was the exact opposite of her previous one.

Resting his palm on the hilt of his sword, Heimdall took two steps away from the Enchantress. "Ready yourself. You are coming with me to Asgard, and you will face the wrath of Odin for allying yourself with that treacherous scum."

He turned and met her gaze. A moment of silence between them was the calm before the storm, as yet another smile crossed the Enchantress' mouth. "You know what, Heimy?"

In the blink of an eye, a blue orb shot forth from the Enchantress' hand. Heimdall was far too slow, his sword only half-drawn when the blast slammed into his chest. Immediately raised off his feet, Heimdall was thrown clear across the snowy ground. But when his body came crashing down, the snow covered ground had been substituted with stone. Opening his eyes, pain coursing through his veins, Heimdall saw the Enchantress loom over him, the same smile fixed upon her face, as the night sky slowly morphed into a chamber of some sort. Raising her hands before him, the very air seemed to obey The Enchantress' will. A small whirlwind began gaining mass in the palm of her hands, until an identical ball of bright, blue light hovered above her palms.

http://www.marvel.com/universe3zx/images/thumb/0/0b/Amora3b.jpg/440px-Amora3b.jpg
"I don't think I will."

[Venom160]

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXV

Kaine screams in a deep voice, his vocal cords vibrating in a way that makes his voice echo within itself. As he yells at the top of his lungs, the pain piercing every fiber of his being, the suti cries out as well, the electricity hurting it more than Kaine.

The two shake as Kaine thrashes about violently, twitching from the intense pain. Saliva burns up in his mouth before hitting the ground, and his tongue flails like a fish out of water. As the electric current moves through the wire, the transformer on the pole burns out, exploding in a large flash of sparks. The hot embers of metal shower down like rain, and the current ceases.

Kaine falls to the ground, his body smoking like a burning torch. The cable thrust into the suit falls to the ground, sparks still spewing from its end. The entry mark of the cable on Kaine's back emits a dark gray smoke, slowly closing as the suit struggles to heal.

"D-Damn...Damn you..." Kaine pants. "I'll...I'll..." Before Kaine can finish his sentence, he slowly blacks out, collapsing to the ground with a loud thud. His eyes stay opened wide, but his consciousness fades away.

As Anton stands next to Kaine's fallen body, Spider-Man lets go of his web and lands next to Anton. Beneath his mask he frowns, still upset about the presence of his clones. The two stare at Kaine in silence, awkwardly keeping from speaking. A few moments pass and the silence continues. Anton takes a heavy sigh, and decides to end the quiet.

"Well?" He asks.

"Well what?"

"Aren't you going to thank me?"

"Thank you?" Peter asks in an irked tone. "Why would I thank you?"

"I just took out Kaine! I saved your sorry ass, man!"

"Well it is what I would expect myself to do. And I never get thanked, so get used to it if you're going to continue being me."

"Continue being you? Yeah, don't be so selfish. None of us want to be you. You know why? Cause your a jerk, man. You keep your prejudice against us despite all we try to do!"

"All you've done is ruin my life!"

"Ahem..." A voice interjects. Anton and Peter interrupt their arguement and turn to the voice simultaneously. To their shock, they see Kaine slowly rising to his feet. "They haven't ruined your life," Kaine says with a weary smile. In a sudden movement, he throws out both his arms, grasping the two heroes around their throats. He holds their bodies up off the ground, closing his grip around their necks. "I have! And now? Now I'm about to end it. Both of your lives!" Kaine laughs maniacally, his strength slowly but surely returning to him.

"I hate to use this quote, boys, but...There can be only one!"http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Moving as one Peter and I pull back and slug him right in the mouth. Ben snags hit shoulders again and yanks him off his feet.

"I am so tired of this creep...."

I aim my six arms and start webbing Kaine up. Ben joins in mixing his artificial webbing with my organic forming a web cocoon that has to be stronger than usual.

[Catman_prb]

"He's weak to electricity! High voltage!"

"Oh that right, why didnt me or Ben think of that? Oh thats right CAUSE WE'VE BEEN HAVING OUR BRAINS BASHED IN FOR THE PAST HOUR!!"

"Electricity, of course! If the voltage is high enough to break the weaker bonds between the symbiote and the host, then it will cause the Suit excruciating amounts of pain. However, if I can keep the voltage high enough for long enough, it could. theoretically, cause the symbiote and the host to seperate permanantly for a short amount of time," Reed said. He extended an arm up, preparing to grab one of the many overhanging power lines.

"And if the electrons are free enough in my body, the current could just pass straight through me," he pondered. He grabbed hold of the wire and pulled it down quickly. He watched as the spiderheroes put Kaine in a cocoon.

"Sue, if this works, you need to seperate Kaine and the Suit using your shields before they can rebond," he said, bringing the line down onto the cocoon. He stood back as a loud hissing sound escaped. He turned to look at the spider heroes; all the same height, the same build (apart from the extra arms) with similar voices and similar ideas of heroism: Clones.

"May I suggest a bit more respect for your...family? They were here far before any of us, protecting your schoolmates from harm when you were off with a young lady no doubt. Show a little respect," Reed said. Sue and Ben groaned.
"Not that it's any of my business," he added airily.

[Eddie Brock]

"I think my invitation for this party got lost in the mail!" I announce light-heartedly as I arrive on the scene. I think the most proper word to describe it could be 'chaos.' I thought that whole dinosaur situation was a mess, but it pales in comparison to this scene.

I smile at Sue as I land, but she gives me one look, and I can tell what she's about to ask before she opens her mouth.

Cracking my neck, I explain, "I was busy, but I'm making up for it now." I turn to the battle and ignite both my fists. I pause for a moment, and then whisper to Sue.

"Which ones are on our side, again?"

[Eddie Brock]

Forge looked over at Scorpion as he kicked back a couple of painkillers. Must have been hit hard, poor guy. He turned back to Johnny.

"How did it go? Well, that all depends on how you want to look at it."

Johnny gave him a confused look.

Forge smirked slightly. "Well, we managed to break their system like we planned, but a guy named Arcade showed up with a message from Wilson Fisk, the man who apparently owns the club we raided. Apparently, he's a pretty big deal around New York." Forge chuckled as he rubbed the back of his head. "Who knew?"

"Wilson Fisk?" I repeat disbelievingly. Surely he can't mean the same Wilson Fisk who is better known as the Kingpin of Crime. I mean, there can't be that many 'Wilson Fisk's in the world, but here's hoping. "You mean to tell me that you DIDN'T know who he is?"

I smirk. "Which rock have you been living under?"

In my gut, I know this can't be good. Dealings with the Kingpin are never quite so admirable, and he's almost bound to betray us in the end. That's the way that the man operates, and he'll never change - not in my lifetime, anyway. I'm pretty worried about what he wants. He probably just wants to kill us for infiltrating his club.

Even so...

"Did Arcade say what he wanted - Fisk, I mean? I ask nervously.

[Venom160]

"He's weak to electricity! High voltage!"

"Oh that right, why didnt me or Ben think of that? Oh thats right CAUSE WE'VE BEEN HAVING OUR BRAINS BASHED IN FOR THE PAST HOUR!!"

"Electricity, of course! If the voltage is high enough to break the weaker bonds between the symbiote and the host, then it will cause the Suit excruciating amounts of pain. However, if I can keep the voltage high enough for long enough, it could. theoretically, cause the symbiote and the host to seperate permanantly for a short amount of time," Reed said. He extended an arm up, preparing to grab one of the many overhanging power lines.

"And if the electrons are free enough in my body, the current could just pass straight through me," he pondered. He grabbed hold of the wire and pulled it down quickly. He watched as the spiderheroes put Kaine in a cocoon.

"Sue, if this works, you need to seperate Kaine and the Suit using your shields before they can rebond," he said, bringing the line down onto the cocoon. He stood back as a loud hissing sound escaped. He turned to look at the spider heroes; all the same height, the same build (apart from the extra arms) with similar voices and similar ideas of heroism: Clones.

"May I suggest a bit more respect for your...family? They were here far before any of us, protecting your schoolmates from harm when you were off with a young lady no doubt. Show a little respect," Reed said. Sue and Ben groaned.
"Not that it's any of my business," he added airily.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Ben, Pete, and I stand ready for anything as Reed applied the powerlines to the cocoon holding Kaine.

"May I suggest a bit more respect for your...family? They were here far before any of us, protecting your schoolmates from harm when you were off with a young lady no doubt. Show a little respect,"

A grin forms behind my mask.

Finally someone takes our side!

"Thank you!"

"Not that it's any of my business,"

The grin disappears.

"Yeah thanks Reed......"

[Blacklight]

"I...I don't understand," Kitty stammers. She looks completely unsure how to take all of this. I was afraid of that. I much prefer it when they just hate me. You feel less guilty that way. If they cry, however, you feel like a royal a**hole.

Okay, so maybe I am a royal a**hole. But I had to do what I felt was right. I don't want to play with Kitty's emotions when I'm really not serious about this 'relationship.' "It's simple, really. I'm just not interested in being tied down by any kind of relationship. I like my freedom," I explain.

I hear Bobby turn on the TV, but I tune it out. However, I then see Kate and Ted gather around the TV and stare in disbelief. Everyone is being silent, so I walk over to check it out.

Midtown is on the TV. I see Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four (minus me!), two other Spider-combatants all versus one freaky-lookin' dude. Maybe I made a mistake by bringing my 'group' away from the school. It sure looks like they could use the manpower.

Unsure of what to say, I blurt out, "I'm heading over there."

"What about us?" Kate asks as I shed my civvies - revealing blue, skin-tight spandex underneath.

As I rush out the door, I call out, "Whatever!" I really could care less what my 'team' does. My family needs my help. After all, Fantastic Three has no ring to it!


"Yeeeeaah...He's not coming back..." I said breaking the awkward silence. This guy goes to all the trouble to start this thing, even baiting me to join, and he bails.

Genius.

But too extreme a prank for my tastes. I prefer leaving a mound of snow on someone's bed...

I immediately get up towards the door.

"Well I'm out--"

"What? What the f***s going on?"

"Simple. This was all a ruse. Johnny tricked us, so now I'm gonna go steal his spotlight by kicking more a** then the entire Fantastic Four combined. Later..."

Just before I head out, I see Kitty looking at me, with a tear no less, so I walked over to her and hugged her. My shoulder felt wet as she cried in it.

"Listen..." I started to whisper as she looked up at me as I gazed into her sparkling eyes. She could tell I knew what she was crying about.

He dumped her...

"...Go back to the mansion. We'll talk later...Okay?"

She nodded before I let her go and headed back towards the door, and waved at the noobs as I walked by.

"Sorry about all this. At least you guys aren't SHEILD fugitives..." I said smiling.

"Its no prob. We've been through worse, homes."

"Cool then..."

And with that, I rushed out the door to get a running start out the window. As I whizzed down the hallway, I began tossing away my clothes to reveal my navy uniform as I pulled on my bandana, slowly letting my icy coating envelope my skin before I took one big jump through the window outside, forming an ice slide following the trail of smoke left in Storm's wake...


"Cool as ice..."

[Syn (Mercenary)]

"He's weak to electricity! High voltage!"

"Oh that right, why didnt me or Ben think of that? Oh thats right CAUSE WE'VE BEEN HAVING OUR BRAINS BASHED IN FOR THE PAST HOUR!!"

"Electricity, of course! If the voltage is high enough to break the weaker bonds between the symbiote and the host, then it will cause the Suit excruciating amounts of pain. However, if I can keep the voltage high enough for long enough, it could. theoretically, cause the symbiote and the host to seperate permanantly for a short amount of time," Reed said. He extended an arm up, preparing to grab one of the many overhanging power lines.

"And if the electrons are free enough in my body, the current could just pass straight through me," he pondered. He grabbed hold of the wire and pulled it down quickly. He watched as the spiderheroes put Kaine in a cocoon.

"Sue, if this works, you need to seperate Kaine and the Suit using your shields before they can rebond," he said, bringing the line down onto the cocoon. He stood back as a loud hissing sound escaped. He turned to look at the spider heroes; all the same height, the same build (apart from the extra arms) with similar voices and similar ideas of heroism: Clones.

"May I suggest a bit more respect for your...family? They were here far before any of us, protecting your schoolmates from harm when you were off with a young lady no doubt. Show a little respect," Reed said. Sue and Ben groaned.
"Not that it's any of my business," he added airily.

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXVI

Kaine growls and snarls inside the cocoon. He struggles at his best, ripping with his arms and violently thrashing about, hoping to tear some part of his webbed prison. As he struggles, he feels himself get more entanangled.

"You will die!" He yells loudly, his teeth shining in the afternoon sun. Kaine begins to bite at the webbing around him. As he closes his jaws down, he misses and begint to chew on himself, biting away at his own body in depseration as he begins to rip through the tight webbing.

Black liquid spews into the air, mixed with the red blood from Kaine's body. Suddenly, small tendrils pierce through the cocoon, tearing it apart from all sides. Kaine uses all his energy in a final burst, finally ripping the cocoon into pieces, and freeing himself from his trap.

"You almost had me..." He says in an angered voice. "I hope you enjoyed that, because you won't ever get that close again!"

Suddenly, a new voice calls from the air. Kaine looks up to see Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, arrive on the scene. He growls angrily, his mind begining to panic. More heroes? He thinks. I'll have to start breaking necks...let's start with this smartass first!

"Which ones are on our side, again?"


"Everyone but me, boy!" Kaine shouts as he fires a heavy tendril toward Johnny. The tendril tries to smother the young boy's flaming exterior, but to Kaine's surprise, the fire hurts him. Badly. It disintigrates part of the suit, sending a powerful pang of pain throughout his whole body. He screams in pain, retracting the tentacle immediately.

"Damn...DAMN YOU ALL!" He growls. "This isn't over, yet! I won't be beaten!" Kaine suddenly fires another tendril, sending it toward the Invisable Woman. The black line wraps around her body, securely gripping her around the waist. Kaine smirks as he tosses Sue toward Johnny, sending her flying through the air. Her flight is suddenly stopped by her body's abrupt crash into Johnny. The two bodies begin to fall from the air, andKaine laughs louder and louder.

"I am Kaine! I am perfection!" He says haughtily, his confidence returning. "Come on, then. Let's end this..."

[Eddie Brock]

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXVI

Kaine growls and snarls inside the cocoon. He struggles at his best, ripping with his arms and violently thrashing about, hoping to tear some part of his webbed prison. As he struggles, he feels himself get more entanangled.

"You will die!" He yells loudly, his teeth shining in the afternoon sun. Kaine begins to bite at the webbing around him. As he closes his jaws down, he misses and begint to chew on himself, biting away at his own body in depseration as he begins to rip through the tight webbing.

Black liquid spews into the air, mixed with the red blood from Kaine's body. Suddenly, small tendrils pierce through the cocoon, tearing it apart from all sides. Kaine uses all his energy in a final burst, finally ripping the cocoon into pieces, and freeing himself from his trap.

"You almost had me..." He says in an angered voice. "I hope you enjoyed that, because you won't ever get that close again!"

Suddenly, a new voice calls from the air. Kaine looks up to see Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, arrive on the scene. He growls angrily, his mind begining to panic. More heroes? He thinks. I'll have to start breaking necks...let's start with this smartass first!

"Which ones are on our side, again?"


"Everyone but me, boy!" Kaine shouts as he fires a heavy tendril toward Johnny. The tendril tries to smother the young boy's flaming exterior, but to Kaine's surprise, the fire hurts him. Badly. It disintigrates part of the suit, sending a powerful pang of pain throughout his whole body. He screams in pain, retracting the tentacle immediately.

"Damn...DAMN YOU ALL!" He growls. "This isn't over, yet! I won't be beaten!" Kaine suddenly fires another tendril, sending it toward the Invisable Woman. The black line wraps around her body, securely gripping her around the waist. Kaine smirks as he tosses Sue toward Johnny, sending her flying through the air. Her flight is suddenly stopped by her body's abrupt crash into Johnny. The two bodies begin to fall from the air, andKaine laughs louder and louder.

"I am Kaine! I am perfection!" He says haughtily, his confidence returning. "Come on, then. Let's end this..."
"Great idea!" I call out as I recover from my collision with Sue. I almost turn to see if she's okay, but I know Sue can handle herself. Sure enough, I hear her getting to her feet behind me. You can't keep the Fantastic Four down.

Well, this dude didn't seem to like fire. That's very...interesting. Tossing a fireball at him, I watch as he dodges it sheepishly. "You know what they say! If you can't take the heat..."

I fly into the air and circle this guy, surrounding him with a trail of flames. That'll keep him in check - for now, at least.

"Leave my family alone!"

[Syn (Mercenary)]

"Great idea!" I call out as I recover from my collision with Sue. I almost turn to see if she's okay, but I know Sue can handle herself. Sure enough, I hear her getting to her feet behind me. You can't keep the Fantastic Four down.

Well, this dude didn't seem to like fire. That's very...interesting. Tossing a fireball at him, I watch as he dodges it sheepishly. "You know what they say! If you can't take the heat..."

I fly into the air and circle this guy, surrounding him with a trail of flames. That'll keep him in check - for now, at least.

"Leave my family alone!"Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXVII

Kaine turns around, staring at the large pillars of fire caging him yet again. He snarls in rage, angered by the hero's move. He gets close to the fire, sticking his finger into the flame. He quickly pulls it back out and growls, angered by his weakness. Staring up, Kaine watches as Johnny flies around in the air above, proud of himself for enclosing Kaine within his weakness.

"Stupid boy!" Kaine cackles. "Did you forget I can jump?"

Kaine tenses the muscles in his legs, bending down to prepare. Like the release of a spring, Kaine leaps into the air, propelling himself high above the other heroes. As Kaine rises above Johnny, he looks down at him, laughing loudly.

"Or did you not know at all?"

"I did, Kaine!" A voice calls out. A webline suddenly attaches to Kaine's left leg. With an angered grunt, Kaine looks down, searching for the hero brave enough to touch him. To his surprise, he sees Spider-Man, pulling up on his web toward Kaine, his fist extended.

With a quick punch, Peter throws his arm at Kaine. Kaine quickly catches the young hero's fist, holding him in the air. Peter throws anothe rpunch with his other arm, followed by a kick. Kaine blocks the strong strikes, narrowly hitting them away. As the two begin to fall back to the ground, their ascension slowly ending, they become locked in combat, each thorwing punching in a fury of fists.

"You're not leaving!"

"Who said I wanted to? I came here for one reason. To kill you!"

"What did I do to you, Kaine? I've never seen you before in my life!"

"You're me! " Kaine growls, punching Peter in his stomach. The punch sends Peter flying off into the air, away from Kaine. "And that's enough reason to hate."

Flipping around in the air, Kaine turns his body as he prepares to land. Hitting the ground with tremendous force, Kaine breaks through the ground, knocking dirt and grass into the air. Kaine slowly stands from within the crater he has formed. He growls and snarls, his tongue dancing about in front of his mouth as spit rolls off its slimy exterior and drops to the floor.

"Now, who's next to die?"

[Venom160]

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXVII

Kaine turns around, staring at the large pillars of fire caging him yet again. He snarls in rage, angered by the hero's move. He gets close to the fire, sticking his finger into the flame. He quickly pulls it back out and growls, angered by his weakness. Staring up, Kaine watches as Johnny flies around in the air above, proud of himself for enclosing Kaine within his weakness.

"Stupid boy!" Kaine cackles. "Did you forget I can jump?"

Kaine tenses the muscles in his legs, bending down to prepare. Like the release of a spring, Kaine leaps into the air, propelling himself high above the other heroes. As Kaine rises above Johnny, he looks down at him, laughing loudly.

"Or did you not know at all?"

"I did, Kaine!" A voice calls out. A webline suddenly attaches to Kaine's left leg. With an angered grunt, Kaine looks down, searching for the hero brave enough to touch him. To his surprise, he sees Spider-Man, pulling up on his web toward Kaine, his fist extended.

With a quick punch, Peter throws his arm at Kaine. Kaine quickly catches the young hero's fist, holding him in the air. Peter throws anothe rpunch with his other arm, followed by a kick. Kaine blocks the strong strikes, narrowly hitting them away. As the two begin to fall back to the ground, their ascension slowly ending, they become locked in combat, each thorwing punching in a fury of fists.

"You're not leaving!"

"Who said I wanted to? I came here for one reason. To kill you!"

"What did I do to you, Kaine? I've never seen you before in my life!"

"You're me! " Kaine growls, punching Peter in his stomach. The punch sends Peter flying off into the air, away from Kaine. "And that's enough reason to hate."

Flipping around in the air, Kaine turns his body as he prepares to land. Hitting the ground with tremendous force, Kaine breaks through the ground, knocking dirt and grass into the air. Kaine slowly stands from within the crater he has formed. He growls and snarls, his tongue dancing about in front of his mouth as spit rolls off its slimy exterior and drops to the floor.

"Now, who's next to die?" http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I jump into the air and land a kick to his mouth.

"You know Kaine I think we've known each other long enough for me to be totally honest with you....."

I dodge his claws and land not far away.

"Your not perfection, you never were....."

Kaine turns to me, I don't even flinch as he advances.

"Your just the most unstable.....the only one worse than you was the Spidercide monster. The only differance between him and you? He wore his true self on his skin. You hide behind that suit....."

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I jump into the air and land a kick to his mouth.

"You know Kaine I think we've known each other long enough for me to be totally honest with you....."

I dodge his claws and land not far away.

"Your not perfection, you never were....."

Kaine turns to me, I don't even flinch as he advances.

"Your just the most unstable.....the only one worse than you was the Spidercide monster. The only differance between him and you? He wore his true self on his skin. You hide behind that suit....."
Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXVIII

"No, Anton!" Kaine growls as he lunges at his six armed brother. "The difference between Spidercide and me," Kaine grabs Anton around the waist, grasping him tightly in his hand. "Was that I toturted him."

Kaine laughs as he drives Anton into the ground, thrusting his body into the dirt. He releases Anton's body, standing back to watch as Anton slowly rises.

"Everyday, Anton, I tortured him...tormented him. I turned him into the beast he became. I made him that horrific monster. And he wasn't the only one, oh no. There were many...many others. I've hated you, hated all of you ever since the day you were spawned. But I've hated the "original" the most. Now's my chance to finally kill all of you. That way," Kaine starts, forming his arm into a long and thick tendril. "There is no one to stop me!"

Kaine cracks the whip on Anton's body, the hard slimy extention of the suit leaving a painful abrasion on the clone's back. Kaine continues to whip his brother, sending lash after lash onto his body.

"You think I hide behind this suit?" He asks as he cracks the whip again. "Then why do you wear a mask? Why do any of us? You want to see the face behind the mask?" Kaine wraps the tendril around Anton's body, holding all his arms securely in place. He lifts Anton up, bringing his body close to his. Kaine lifts up his other arm and moves it closer to Anton. His large fingers grip the bottom of Anton's mask. Slowly, Kaine begins to lift the fabric up and off Anton's face, snickering evily as he begins to pull it off.

"Let's show them."

[Venom160]

Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXVIII

"No, Anton!" Kaine growls as he lunges at his six armed brother. "The difference between Spidercide and me," Kaine grabs Anton around the waist, grasping him tightly in his hand. "Was that I toturted him."

Kaine laughs as he drives Anton into the ground, thrusting his body into the dirt. He releases Anton's body, standing back to watch as Anton slowly rises.

"Everyday, Anton, I tortured him...tormented him. I turned him into the beast he became. I made him that horrific monster. And he wasn't the only one, oh no. There were many...many others. I've hated you, hated all of you ever since the day you were spawned. But I've hated the "original" the most. Now's my chance to finally kill all of you. That way," Kaine starts, forming his arm into a long and thick tendril. "There is no one to stop me!"

Kaine cracks the whip on Anton's body, the hard slimy extention of the suit leaving a painful abrasion on the clone's back. Kaine continues to whip his brother, sending lash after lash onto his body.

"You think I hide behind this suit?" He asks as he cracks the whip again. "Then why do you wear a mask? Why do any of us? You want to see the face behind the mask?" Kaine wraps the tendril around Anton's body, holding all his arms securely in place. He lifts Anton up, bringing his body close to his. Kaine lifts up his other arm and moves it closer to Anton. His large fingers grip the bottom of Anton's mask. Slowly, Kaine begins to lift the fabric up and off Anton's face, snickering evily as he begins to pull it off.

"Let's show them."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I try an pull out of his grasp.

"No!"

Kaine's grin widens as he pulls the mask off.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

I wake up slowly, my vision blurry as I try to look around. I feel like I can't breath, gasping for air that I can't inhale. The wind must be knocked out of me. Then again, I'll be lucky if that's all that's wrong.

I lift myself up, trying to gain control of my pain. My mask is damaged, the lenses cracked. Great. Now I have to fix those again. That is, if I get out of this alive.

I get to my feet, standing unstably in the dirty crater made by my body. All I remember is Kaine and I...fighting in the air. Then the flash of ground just before the blackout.

My sides hurt, my stomach hurts...everything hurts. I can't even begin to comprehend why this is happening. Why all of this happens to me. I try to do my best. I try to do what Uncle Ben told me. "With great power, comes great responsibility." But everytime I try, I feel like I fail.

Slowly I walk forward, still trying to get my bearings. I adjust my mask, moving it back into place. Despite the broken lenses, I can still see pretty well. I should be thankful for that much.

I feel the webshooters on my wrist, checking to make sure they aren't broken. Luckily, they are fine. Another small blessing. I walk out back onto the battlefield, ready to fight once more. I can still feel the pain in my stomach, but I try to ignore it.

As I stare out at the battlefield, my eyes see the fire from Johnny, still burning on the grass. I see the bodies of the police, the men I was too late to save. I look more closely and I see Kaine, laughing loudly like he's been doing. I swear, he makes clowns look depressed.

I watch as he turns, revealing something he holds in his hand. To my shock, it is Tarantula. My clone. My copy. I look more closely and I notice something worse. Kaine holds Tarantula's mask in his hand. I look back up at Tarantula's body, and see his face. My face. He's revealed my secret...he's shown them my face.

This can't be happenening. How is this happening? He took off his mask. He's shown everyone our face. Peter Parker's face. My face! Why? Why did he do it? Why?

"Oh man," I say in a solemn voice. "I'm screwed."

[Venom160]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

I wake up slowly, my vision blurry as I try to look around. I feel like I can't breath, gasping for air that I can't inhale. The wind must be knocked out of me. Then again, I'll be lucky if that's all that's wrong.

I lift myself up, trying to gain control of my pain. My mask is damaged, the lenses cracked. Great. Now I have to fix those again. That is, if I get out of this alive.

I get to my feet, standing unstably in the dirty crater made by my body. All I remember is Kaine and I...fighting in the air. Then the flash of ground just before the blackout.

My sides hurt, my stomach hurts...everything hurts. I can't even begin to comprehend why this is happening. Why all of this happens to me. I try to do my best. I try to do what Uncle Ben told me. "With great power, comes great responsibility." But everytime I try, I feel like I fail.

Slowly I walk forward, still trying to get my bearings. I adjust my mask, moving it back into place. Despite the broken lenses, I can still see pretty well. I should be thankful for that much.

I feel the webshooters on my wrist, checking to make sure they aren't broken. Luckily, they are fine. Another small blessing. I walk out back onto the battlefield, ready to fight once more. I can still feel the pain in my stomach, but I try to ignore it.

As I stare out at the battlefield, my eyes see the fire from Johnny, still burning on the grass. I see the bodies of the police, the men I was too late to save. I look more closely and I see Kaine, laughing loudly like he's been doing. I swear, he makes clowns look depressed.

I watch as he turns, revealing something he holds in his hand. To my shock, it is Tarantula. My clone. My copy. I look more closely and I notice something worse. Kaine holds Tarantula's mask in his hand. I look back up at Tarantula's body, and see his face. My face. He's revealed my secret...he's shown them my face.

This can't be happenening. How is this happening? He took off his mask. He's shown everyone our face. Peter Parker's face. My face! Why? Why did he do it? Why?

"Oh man," I say in a solemn voice. "I'm screwed." http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Great! Just ****in great I broke superhero rul number one! Never lose your mask! Kaine's laugh fills my ears as he turns me to the crowd of students and arriving reporters.

"Come on brother don't you want the meet your enduring public?"

I try and hide my face.

"Im not your brother and you forget something Kaine..."

"And that would be?"

I grin.

"Tarantulas are poisonious."

I bear my fangs and sink them into Kaine's arm feeling the venom sacs deflating as poison is injected into Kaine.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Great! Just ****in great I broke superhero rul number one! Never lose your mask! Kaine's laugh fills my ears as he turns me to the crowd of students and arriving reporters.

"Come on brother don't you want the meet your enduring public?"

I try and hide my face.

"Im not your brother and you forget something Kaine..."

"And that would be?"

I grin.

"Tarantulas are poisonious."

I bear my fangs and sink them into Kaine's arm feeling the venom sacs deflating as poison is injected into Kaine.
Contagion, The Curse Continues Part XXIX

"AHH!" Kaine yells in shock. He throws Anton's body far from him, shaking his arm frantically in fear and pain. He feels the venom rush throughout the suit, affecting it's fibers and cells. "You bit me! You little ****, you bit me!"

"Just like you bit me." Anton says with a smirk, wiping his mouth.

Kaine growls as he feels the poison entering his own blood stream. Kaine can feel the venom taking affect, weakening his muscles and depressing his brain activity. He knows it won't be long before it takes him completely, and he knows he has only one way out of this. Escape.

"Good move, brother." Kaine says with a wince. "I didn't know you had a secret weapin stored in your ugly body. Very...interesting."

Kaine tries to smile, but the poison gets stronger. He can feel his rage slowing, the suit getting weaker and more suceptible. As the suit slowly weakens, he feels the terrible pain in his chest. The pain he felt since his "birth."

The pain moves throughout his chest, feeling like a tear. His heart feels like it it being ripped from his chest, his organs like they are being slit open with a rusty knife. The pain, Kaine thinks. It's back...but how? I thought I beat it.

Suddenly, Kaine remembers what Reed said. How he said Kaine was infected, contagious with a disease. An infectious disease. He remembers Reed's words about its fast acting affects, and suddenly, it clicks in Kaine's head. The suit...it's been keeping the disease at bay. I am..sick...infected. Kaine frowns, dissapointed and enraged.

"You!" He says in a deep growl, pointing at Anton. "You did this to me!" Kaine winces in pain again, the disease's effects taking hold as the venom weakens the suit even more. "I'll rip you apart! I'll sever your head you bastard!"

The pain increases again, moving throughout his whole body. The pangs increase and consume him, making his nerves emit such a signal, such a pain, that his body becomes almost numb. Kaine yells out with unbrideled rage, his voice trailing off into a growl. He realizes the end is near. He knows the fight is soon to be over. But if it's going to end...I mind as well go out with a bang. After all, what's one more body?

Kaine lunges at Tarantula, pushing aside the agony he feels within. Bringing down his fists, he hits Anton to the ground, and begins pounding his body into the ground. He laughs with an inner evil as he lands punch after punch on the clone. Blood sprays into the air, the sound of screams and moans coming from both Kaine and Anton.

"Congradulations, Anton! You got to be the hero!" He snarls, his tongue flailing about in the air. Kaine opens his fists and begining to claw away at Anton's body, spweing more blood into the air and onto Kaine's hands. "Now here! My gift to you! A hero's death!"

[Mr. Marko]

"Wilson Fisk?" I repeat disbelievingly. Surely he can't mean the same Wilson Fisk who is better known as the Kingpin of Crime. I mean, there can't be that many 'Wilson Fisk's in the world, but here's hoping. "You mean to tell me that you DIDN'T know who he is?"

I smirk. "Which rock have you been living under?"

In my gut, I know this can't be good. Dealings with the Kingpin are never quite so admirable, and he's almost bound to betray us in the end. That's the way that the man operates, and he'll never change - not in my lifetime, anyway. I'm pretty worried about what he wants. He probably just wants to kill us for infiltrating his club.

Even so...

"Did Arcade say what he wanted - Fisk, I mean? I ask nervously.

"No, the situation escalated too quickly." That was the problem. Forge prided himself on knowing everything about everything, and not knowing this was killing him.

Suddenly, Flint walked into the room. "Hey kids." He walked over to the fridge and poured himself a glass of orange juice.

Forge walked up to him. "Flint, we've got bad news."

Suddenly, there was a loud knock at the door. Flint looked over at the door. "Can it wait?"

After a moment of hesitation, Forge nodded. He went to the door and opened it slightly. "Yeah, who is-"

Suddenly, an enormous fist slammed into Forge's chest, sending him flying backwards into the wall.

Instantly, the entire Thunderbolts team took a battle stance. Sharon Carter held her pistol at the door and yelled angrily. "Who are you and how did you find us?!"

Four men walked quietly through the door. One man was considerably larger than the other three, and was wearing a suit. Forge looked up and recognized the face, though he has seen it only on the stolen files. "Wilson Fisk..."

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/2000/1483/34674-kingpin_400.jpg

"My sincerest apologies for Ox's forward nature." He looked around at the Thunderbolts, seemingly measuring them up. He looked at Forge as he brushed himself off, then over at Flint, who's fists were twice the size they normally were and completely solid rock. "Ah, Flint Marko. I employed a man who came from the same establishment as you once upon a time. Electro, he called himself, but was taken away by authorities before his full potential was reached." He paused for a moment, then smiled. "I'm glad not all of my money was lost in that tragedy."

Flint gritted his teeth. "What the hell do you want with us, Fisk?"

Fisk smiled slightly. "In a word? Hammerhead."

[Catman_prb]

"Congradulations, Anton! You got to be the hero!" He snarls, his tongue flailing about in the air. Kaine opens his fists and begining to claw away at Anton's body, spweing more blood into the air and onto Kaine's hands. "Now here! My gift to you! A hero's death!"
"Do you think that saying you're going to kill them actually does anything? Stop talking and do something, instead of leaving your back wide open," Reed said from behind him, holding the powerline in his hands.
"Have a nice day," he said, jabbing the line into Kaine's back.

[Venom160]

"Do you think that saying you're going to kill them actually does anything? Stop talking and do something, instead of leaving your back wide open," Reed said from behind him, holding the powerline in his hands.
"Have a nice day," he said, jabbing the line into Kaine's back.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

My eyes widens as Reed jabs the powerline into Kaine's back.

Oh this is gonna hurt....

My body goes rigid as how much volts travel through Kaine and into me.

"AHHHHHHHHHHH SMOOTH MOVE BRAINIAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

[Gallagher]

"Do you think that saying you're going to kill them actually does anything? Stop talking and do something, instead of leaving your back wide open," Reed said from behind him, holding the powerline in his hands.
"Have a nice day," he said, jabbing the line into Kaine's back.

Sue waited and watched as the suit jumped violently about on Kaine's body, trying to rid itself of the pain. Both the suit and the clone inside screamed in unison as the current charged through their bodies.

"C'mon.... seperate." She willed, gritting her teeth and glaring at the flailing mass of tendrils infront of her. Sure enough the suit began to tear away from the monster inside, slowly leaving it's host in a flight of panic.

Sue saw her chance and thrusted her arms forward, force fields eminating from them and firing toward the two newly seperated beings. The screaming stopped. Kaine lay unconcious inside a translucent bubble, the suit in a seperate bubble, a puddle of smoking black liquid.

"Okay... I got them. We need to get them to the holding cells in the Bax-" Sue stopped herself as she realized there no longer WAS a Baxter Building. "Uhhh, Triskellion?"

The Invisible woman turned to Johnny and sighed. "Looks like you were too late hotshot, you spoken to Kitty yet?" She said with knowing smile.

"How'd you-?"

"Oh please, you in a serious relationship? We all knew it wouldn't last."

[Venom160]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

My eyes widens as Reed jabs the powerline into Kaine's back.

Oh this is gonna hurt....

My body goes rigid as how much volts travel through Kaine and into me.

"AHHHHHHHHHHH SMOOTH MOVE BRAINIAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Sue waited and watched as the suit jumped violently about on Kaine's body, trying to rid itself of the pain. Both the suit and the clone inside screamed in unison as the current charged through their bodies.

"C'mon.... seperate." She willed, gritting her teeth and glaring at the flailing mass of tendrils infront of her. Sure enough the suit began to tear away from the monster inside, slowly leaving it's host in a flight of panic.

Sue saw her chance and thrusted her arms forward, force fields eminating from them and firing toward the two newly seperated beings. The screaming stopped. Kaine lay unconcious inside a translucent bubble, the suit in a seperate bubble, a puddle of smoking black liquid.

"Okay... I got them. We need to get them to the holding cells in the Bax-" Sue stopped herself as she realized there no longer WAS a Baxter Building. "Uhhh, Triskellion?"

The Invisible woman turned to Johnny and sighed. "Looks like you were too late hotshot, you spoken to Kitty yet?" She said with knowing smile.

"How'd you-?"

"Oh please, you in a serious relationship? We all knew it wouldn't last."

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I lay there staring at the sky while smoke slowly rises off me.

"Anybody order extra crispy Tarantula?"

"Okay... I got them. We need to get them to the holding cells in the Bax-Uhhh, Triskellion?"

"No im ok thanks for NOT askin! God you'd think that if you acidently electricute someone they'd atleast acknowledge you!"

I feel a hand land on my shoulder.

"You alright bro?"

I look over and see Ben kneeling beside me, his suit just as shredded as mine.

"Are my eyebrows still there?"

He nodes.

"Than im good, could I get a hand?"

He helps me to my feet as an unconcious Kaine and a puddle of black liquid float seperatly in the air.

"Huh you don't see that everyday well almost everyday."

"Think you'll need this T?"

I look over and see him holding my mask.

"Oh thanks, don't want the girls swooning too much of my good looks....."

I quickly pull the bloody and torn mask over my face.

"So.... venomous fangs?"

I shrug.

"I thought you knew....."

I lower my voice.

"I mean you did reclone me."

Before Ben could respond applause started and continued to grow in intensity.

"Woohoo go Tarantula! You ****in rock!"

I smile as I spot the fully concious Kong standing beside Liz and Flash, they're applauding harder than anyone.

"Ya know bro....the electrocution aside....I could really get used to this."

Flashbulbs start going on pictures start being taken of the gathered heroes.

[Catman_prb]

"Ya know bro....the electrocution aside....I could really get used to this."

Flashbulbs start going on pictures start being taken of the gathered heroes.
"Tarantula, are you okay? We can get you some specialised medical treatment at the Triskellion," Reed said, obviously guilty over the accidental electrocution. He turned to Sue.

"Good work honey. You'll need to keep them like that until we can get to the Triskelion...sorry," he said, rubbing the back of his neck and Sue glared at him, her face full of concentration. He stepped forwards and looked at the black liquid.

"I must say, this is a fascinating specimen. I'll have to study this later in a lab," he said "And Spider-Man. I'd like to have a word with you in private,"

[Syn (Mercenary)]

"Tarantula, are you okay? We can get you some specialised medical treatment at the Triskellion," Reed said, obviously guilty over the accidental electrocution. He turned to Sue.

"Good work honey. You'll need to keep them like that until we can get to the Triskelion...sorry," he said, rubbing the back of his neck and Sue glared at him, her face full of concentration. He stepped forwards and looked at the black liquid.

"I must say, this is a fascinating specimen. I'll have to study this later in a lab," he said "And Spider-Man. I'd like to have a word with you in private,"
http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

It's over. Or, at least, so we think. I don't know anything about Kaine. He could have some crazy powers. I mean, look at Tarantula. I don't have venom! ... Or do I? But, for all I know Kaine could tunnel in the ground. Spider's can do that can't they?

I stare at Kaine's unconscious body lying inside the translucent bubble. I see his naked body, lying there limp and disfigured. Aside from the degeneration, he looks just like me. I look at his face, staring into his eyes. I see his scar, the horrifying mark of his imperfection. As I look into his closed eyes, I feel a strange sensation. A sense of pity.

"Spider-Man, I'd like to have a word with you in private."

Reed wants to talk with me. Oh great. This is not going to be pleasent. He either knows my secret, will know it, or he wants to talk to me about the clones and frankly, I've about had enough of clones.

I walk over to him. We walk side by side, quietly, until we get far enough away fmhe group. Reed stops and turns, putting his back to the rest of the group. I walk in front of him, and turn to face him. I take a deep breath and prepare for whatever he has to say.

"Alright, Reed." I start, my voice still paniced and worried. "Hit me."

[Catman_prb]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

It's over. Or, at least, so we think. I don't know anything about Kaine. He could have some crazy powers. I mean, look at Tarantula. I don't have venom! ... Or do I? But, for all I know Kaine could tunnel in the ground. Spider's can do that can't they?

I stare at Kaine's unconscious body lying inside the translucent bubble. I see his naked body, lying there limp and disfigured. Aside from the degeneration, he looks just like me. I look at his face, staring into his eyes. I see his scar, the horrifying mark of his imperfection. As I look into his closed eyes, I feel a strange sensation. A sense of pity.

"Spider-Man, I'd like to have a word with you in private."

Reed wants to talk with me. Oh great. This is not going to be pleasent. He either knows my secret, will know it, or he wants to talk to me about the clones and frankly, I've about had enough of clones.

I walk over to him. We walk side by side, quietly, until we get far enough away fmhe group. Reed stops and turns, putting his back to the rest of the group. I walk in front of him, and turn to face him. I take a deep breath and prepare for whatever he has to say.

"Alright, Reed." I start, my voice still paniced and worried. "Hit me."
"These...clones. Explain. How were they created? Who by? And why are you treating them like they're vermin when they just saved your school? How many more are there out there? And the Suit. What is it? Where is it from? What is it supposed to do?" Reed asks. This whole event was deeply disturbing. An insane clone of a teenage superhero with a symbiotic Suit that enhances it's already potent powers. Nothing right about that at all. And the way that he was treating them...like they were some kind of annoyance...it was slightly sickening.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

"These...clones. Explain. How were they created? Who by? And why are you treating them like they're vermin when they just saved your school? How many more are there out there? And the Suit. What is it? Where is it from? What is it supposed to do?" Reed asks. This whole event was deeply disturbing. An insane clone of a teenage superhero with a symbiotic Suit that enhances it's already potent powers. Nothing right about that at all. And the way that he was treating them...like they were some kind of annoyance...it was slightly sickening.
http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

Well, Reed is filled with the questions today, isn't he? Does he have any sense? I mean, I just witnessed my whole life nearly fall apart in front of my eyes. For all I know, someone saw Anton's face. With my luck, it'd be Flash. I can only imagine that day. "Hey guys, guess who's Spider-Man? Parker! Let's beat his mutant ass into a pulp!"

Oh yeah...that'll be a great day. Besides that, Fury would come after me. Hell, I'll be lucky if he doesn't come after me now! I'm surprised he's not here already, armed with some new machines that are specially designed to kick my ass.

As I enter back into reality from my inner thoughts, I see Reed staring at me, expecting an answer. I take another deep breath and try to stay calm, my body still jittery.

"Well, Reed," I start, thinking of how to word my reply. "Um...I'm not really sure how much I am allowed and or want to tell you. Fury locked down the clone situation, told us to keep it secret. My guess was he's been handling it since it happened almost a year ago."

I take another breath and look back at the clones. I see Tarantula and Ben slap hands, celebrating and posing for the press. Didn't Ben kill Tarantula a month ago? I mean...he went total awol! And now they're friends?

I see two cameramen get closer to them, bending to a knee and snapping more photos. A woman in a short skirt runs up to them, forcing a microphone into their faces. Great. More good news. Reporters. Why is it they always have a camera, but I always forget. I could make some major cash with these photos. But first, I'd need a new camera. My old one's...indisposed.

"As for why I treat them why I do? Let me put it to you like this. A month ago, that guy in the blue hoody?" I say pointing to Ben. "Yeah, a month ago he attacked me in the Bugle building. Oh, and see that guy next to him? Yeah. He's suppossed to be dead. Know why? That's cause the other clone there killed him." I smirk under my mask, my reasonings begining to prove my point.

"Yeah, and want a second reason? How about today. Deranged clone came looking for me. Why did he want me? To hang out? Maybe swing around the city as buds? No. He came here to, as he put it, 'cut out my heart.' So, yeah, that's some family fun right there. But no, its our disfuction that makes it work. Really. If it weren't for the threats, the exposed secret identities, and the crazy powers, we'd just be a bunch of excentric nuts. That's why I love them all so much." I say sarcastically. I hope Reed gets my tone, because I'm laying on the sarcasm really thick here.

"And the suit? The crazy black liquid monster Kaine was wearing? Destroy it. Don't study it. Don't experiment with it. Don't mutate it. I can't tell you who made it or why, but I will tell you it's more dangerous than you think. You think that suit kept Kaine alive despite his deadly illness? That's your first clue. It took seven of us to take him down. Imagine if someone like Magneto or Normon Osborn got a hold of it. There'd be no stopping them."

I sigh desperately, my body tired and worn out. I'm fed up with this whole ordeal. All I want to do is...uh-oh. MJ! I forgot MJ! Way to go, Parker. You forgot your girlfriend down town with a bunch of crazy robbers!

"Look, Reed. I can't explain much. I'm sorry, but I have to go. There's something really important I have to do. Now." I fire a web from my wrist and jump into the air. I begin to swing back in the direction of where MJ was, a little bit up town. As I start on my journey, I look back over my shoulder and call out to Reed.

"Please, Reed! Trust me. Destroy the suit!"

I hope he listens to me. If he takes it to the Baxter Building or to SHIELD's HQ, who knows what they'll do. And knowing Fury, he'd probably give it to some SHIELD agent he trusts who will go beserk and come after me. I can't risk that again. If Eddie lost the suit, then it must be eliminated. That'd be one less problem I'd have to deal with.

I continue my journey, slinging fast down the road. As I fire webline after webline, I can only hope that I have enough fluid. Last thing I need is to run out just when I arrive.

"Don't worry, MJ." I say to myself quietly. "I'm on my way."

[Feature]

http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/1160/colossusultimateey3.jpg
PIOTR RASPUTIN
Season V - Part 1


"This isn't what you think it is."

The old farmer chuckled softly and tightly squeezed the shotgun in his hands.

"It's not, huh?"

"No. It's really not."

The farmer paced back and forth across his porch, never taking his eyes of Piotr, who stood stone-still on his front lawn.

"Tell me what you're here for again."

Piotr nodded.

"I have some questions about the years you spent in the military. Just some simple questions."

"Ha! Simple..."

Piotr glanced back at the car that was waiting for him in the road. Jean Paul peered back at him through the windshield.

"I don't want to take up much of your time. I just--"

"I know what you're interested in, pal."

"Uh... you do?"

"Yep. The same thing as all the rest of them..."

"All the rest of who?"

"All the rest of you. You and your friends. Every couple of months one of you tries to come down here and ask me some questions about the damn project."

Piotr is taken aback. Something big is going on here...

"Mr. Linus, I assure you... I am not one of those men."

"Oh yeah? So you're telling me you're not here to talk about the Jump Project then?"

Piotr pauses for a moment and runs his fingers through his hair.

"Well... yeah, actually. I am here to talk about that project."

Linus shakes his head.

"God damn it... when are you people gonna give up?"

"But I'm--"

"I left that place behind and moved out here because I needed to forget about the things we did there! I needed to at least try! What we did to that boy... to that poor boy..."

Linus sighs, on the verge of tears, and aims his shotgun at Piotr.

"Now you get off of my property. Right this second. Or I'll blow your damn head off. I swear to God."

Piotr slowly turns and walks towards the car parked in the road.

"Don't you ever come back!"

Piotr gets in the car and sighs.

"I'm just guessing but... judging by the whole shouting and pointing a gun at you thing, I'm gonna have to say it didn't go well."

"Not well at all..."

"At least he didn't want me to strip at his club."

"I told you that was a joke."

"Whatever."

They start to drive down the road, passing through the rich countryside.

"So? We gonna go back there and make him talk? Use the old mutant powers?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"Because I don't want to do it that way."

Jean Paul shrugs.

"Okay. Your call."

Piotr closes his eyes and massages his temples.

"Besides... if we tried to use force... I think he'd let us kill him before he talks."

[Eddie Brock]

"No, the situation escalated too quickly." That was the problem. Forge prided himself on knowing everything about everything, and not knowing this was killing him.

Suddenly, Flint walked into the room. "Hey kids." He walked over to the fridge and poured himself a glass of orange juice.

Forge walked up to him. "Flint, we've got bad news."

Suddenly, there was a loud knock at the door. Flint looked over at the door. "Can it wait?"

After a moment of hesitation, Forge nodded. He went to the door and opened it slightly. "Yeah, who is-"

Suddenly, an enormous fist slammed into Forge's chest, sending him flying backwards into the wall.

Instantly, the entire Thunderbolts team took a battle stance. Sharon Carter held her pistol at the door and yelled angrily. "Who are you and how did you find us?!"

Four men walked quietly through the door. One man was considerably larger than the other three, and was wearing a suit. Forge looked up and recognized the face, though he has seen it only on the stolen files. "Wilson Fisk..."

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/2000/1483/34674-kingpin_400.jpg

"My sincerest apologies for Ox's forward nature." He looked around at the Thunderbolts, seemingly measuring them up. He looked at Forge as he brushed himself off, then over at Flint, who's fists were twice the size they normally were and completely solid rock. "Ah, Flint Marko. I employed a man who came from the same establishment as you once upon a time. Electro, he called himself, but was taken away by authorities before his full potential was reached." He paused for a moment, then smiled. "I'm glad not all of my money was lost in that tragedy."

Flint gritted his teeth. "What the hell do you want with us, Fisk?"

Fisk smiled slightly. "In a word? Hammerhead."

Please don't let this be a hallucination.

Shifting tensely, I ask wearily, "What about Hammerhead?" It's my understanding that the Thunderbolts and the crime boss Hammerhead have quite a turbulent history. Being the rookie, I've never witnessed this rivalry, but the name Hammerhead gets fists clenched around here. I guess now I'll get a look into the real Thunderbolts world.

Moving very stealthily, I press a small button on my belt to activate a miniature audio recorder on my new, sleeker suit. Fury's going to want to know about this. Crime bosses aren't his forte, but I don't think he'll mind getting the information. Fury likes being on top of things. Hell, that's why he's entrusted me to report back to him on the Thunderbolts' dealings. I have a responsibility, and upholding it is very important to me.

"What makes you think that we're going to help you?" I ask accusingly, but I already know the answer.

The enemy of my enemy is my friend.

[Venom160]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

Well, Reed is filled with the questions today, isn't he? Does he have any sense? I mean, I just witnessed my whole life nearly fall apart in front of my eyes. For all I know, someone saw Anton's face. With my luck, it'd be Flash. I can only imagine that day. "Hey guys, guess who's Spider-Man? Parker! Let's beat his mutant ass into a pulp!"

Oh yeah...that'll be a great day. Besides that, Fury would come after me. Hell, I'll be lucky if he doesn't come after me now! I'm surprised he's not here already, armed with some new machines that are specially designed to kick my ass.

As I enter back into reality from my inner thoughts, I see Reed staring at me, expecting an answer. I take another deep breath and try to stay calm, my body still jittery.

"Well, Reed," I start, thinking of how to word my reply. "Um...I'm not really sure how much I am allowed and or want to tell you. Fury locked down the clone situation, told us to keep it secret. My guess was he's been handling it since it happened almost a year ago."

I take another breath and look back at the clones. I see Tarantula and Ben slap hands, celebrating and posing for the press. Didn't Ben kill Tarantula a month ago? I mean...he went total awol! And now they're friends?

I see two cameramen get closer to them, bending to a knee and snapping more photos. A woman in a short skirt runs up to them, forcing a microphone into their faces. Great. More good news. Reporters. Why is it they always have a camera, but I always forget. I could make some major cash with these photos. But first, I'd need a new camera. My old one's...indisposed.

"As for why I treat them why I do? Let me put it to you like this. A month ago, that guy in the blue hoody?" I say pointing to Ben. "Yeah, a month ago he attacked me in the Bugle building. Oh, and see that guy next to him? Yeah. He's suppossed to be dead. Know why? That's cause the other clone there killed him." I smirk under my mask, my reasonings begining to prove my point.

"Yeah, and want a second reason? How about today. Deranged clone came looking for me. Why did he want me? To hang out? Maybe swing around the city as buds? No. He came here to, as he put it, 'cut out my heart.' So, yeah, that's some family fun right there. But no, its our disfuction that makes it work. Really. If it weren't for the threats, the exposed secret identities, and the crazy powers, we'd just be a bunch of excentric nuts. That's why I love them all so much." I say sarcastically. I hope Reed gets my tone, because I'm laying on the sarcasm really thick here.

"And the suit? The crazy black liquid monster Kaine was wearing? Destroy it. Don't study it. Don't experiment with it. Don't mutate it. I can't tell you who made it or why, but I will tell you it's more dangerous than you think. You think that suit kept Kaine alive despite his deadly illness? That's your first clue. It took seven of us to take him down. Imagine if someone like Magneto or Normon Osborn got a hold of it. There'd be no stopping them."

I sigh desperately, my body tired and worn out. I'm fed up with this whole ordeal. All I want to do is...uh-oh. MJ! I forgot MJ! Way to go, Parker. You forgot your girlfriend down town with a bunch of crazy robbers!

"Look, Reed. I can't explain much. I'm sorry, but I have to go. There's something really important I have to do. Now." I fire a web from my wrist and jump into the air. I begin to swing back in the direction of where MJ was, a little bit up town. As I start on my journey, I look back over my shoulder and call out to Reed.

"Please, Reed! Trust me. Destroy the suit!"

I hope he listens to me. If he takes it to the Baxter Building or to SHIELD's HQ, who knows what they'll do. And knowing Fury, he'd probably give it to some SHIELD agent he trusts who will go beserk and come after me. I can't risk that again. If Eddie lost the suit, then it must be eliminated. That'd be one less problem I'd have to deal with.

I continue my journey, slinging fast down the road. As I fire webline after webline, I can only hope that I have enough fluid. Last thing I need is to run out just when I arrive.

"Don't worry, MJ." I say to myself quietly. "I'm on my way."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Im kinda taken aback as Ben and I are swarmed with reporters and cameras.

"Tarantula is there any truth of your supposed death a month ago?"

"Um oh....."

"Tarantula are you the original or one carrying on the name?"

I look directly at the reporter who asked the question.

Dammit I didnt want it to happen like this! What if Jess is watching this! I wanted to go to her and person not on some news report!

"I just want to say one thing."

The reporters go silent and the cameras focus on me.

"Im the real deal. I had to leave before but im back! And im not leaving again......."

The reporters hang on my words as I stand there.

"Uh thats it no more comments."

With that the reporters start talking all at once.

"Im sorry thats it I have nothing else to say!"

I gently push my way through the crowd in time to see Spidey swing off and Reed standing there. I finally get free and walk over to him.

"So is there anything else I can do to help?"

[Blacklight]

I finally get free and walk over to Reed.

"So is there anything else I can do to help?"

"Oh I can think of something..." I said as I slid in dramatically and backflipped off landing near the Tarantula (saw him on the news. Seems like a cool dude.) and Mr. Fantastic.

"How about the cliff's notes version of what just happened?"

[Catman_prb]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I gently push my way through the crowd in time to see Spidey swing off and Reed standing there. I finally get free and walk over to him.

"So is there anything else I can do to help?"
Reed smiled as he saw the young clone. Spider-Man had said that he had died, but he looked alive enough to him. And he treated them with such disdain...when all they'd ever done was live.

"You've done enough Anton, you saved the day. And if Spider-Man doesn't realise what a fantastic 'brother' he has, well that's his loss, not yours," Reed said quietly, so the reporters wouldn't hear his name. That's the thing about fighting with your brothers if you have a secret identity - it's hard to keep it secret.

"How about the cliff's notes version of what just happened?"

"That's classified. Either watch the news, or go talk to SHIELD," Reed said as the young mutant appeared.

[Venom160]

Reed smiled as he saw the young clone. Spider-Man had said that he had died, but he looked alive enough to him. And he treated them with such disdain...when all they'd ever done was live.

"You've done enough Anton, you saved the day. And if Spider-Man doesn't realise what a fantastic 'brother' he has, well that's his loss, not yours," Reed said quietly, so the reporters wouldn't hear his name. That's the thing about fighting with your brothers if you have a secret identity - it's hard to keep it secret.

"How about the cliff's notes version of what just happened?"

"That's classified. Either watch the news, or go talk to SHIELD," Reed said as the young mutant appeared.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

"You've done enough Anton, you saved the day. And if Spider-Man doesn't realise what a fantastic 'brother' he has, well that's his loss, not yours,"

I smile again as the reporters continue to swarm between Ben and the other rest of the Fantastic Four.

"How about the cliff's notes version of what just happened?"

I turn around and see Iceman approaching.

"That's classified. Either watch the news, or go talk to SHIELD,"

I node my head.

"Yeah sorry dude, im really suprised that SHIELD hasent shown up already..."

Three helicopters approach the school, from here I can see the SHIELD emblem emblazed on the side.

"...aaaaaand there they are."

Reed starts to head back over to his team.

"Dr. Richards?"

He stops and looks back at me.

"Thanks for the back up. If the FF ever need help just gimme a call."

I extend one of my hands to Reed.

[Harlekin]

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/3240/logozu5.gif
THE BLACK KNIGHT'S TALE: INTERLUDE

"Fury! I want to make a complaint! Some hotshot calling himself Black Knight just turned up and killed the creature! I haven't even had a chance to analyse it yet," Mr. Fantastic’s voice crackles over the transmitter and Nick Fury can’t help but chuckle a little at the leader of the Fantastic Four’s indignation.

Still, rogue superheroes had been a problem in the past, and it was something that demanded Fury’s attention. With the situation at Midtown High settled, the S.H.I.E.L.D. choppers had just arrived to take Kaine away, Fury would be able to divert some of his concentration to this new hero on the scene. Over the last few weeks reports had been coming in about a vigilante on a motorcycle calling himself the Black Knight. It didn’t take the greatest leap of logic to connect the new hero with this vigilante.

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/748/furyultvc8.jpg

“Agent Jones, we got camera footage on that dinosaur fight?” the director of S.H.I.E.L.D. asks one of his agents as he enters the main room of the Triskellion. The agent called Jones nods and within seconds, images appear on a large screen, showing the encounter between the Fantastic Four and the dragon.

“Forward the tape to when our new ‘badass on the block’ makes his appearance, will you?” Fury asks as he inspects the footage. On the screen, Fury can see the Black Knight come charging forward on a motorcycle. In one swift movement, the Knight jumps from his bike, running up the beast’s hide and at the top of the beast’s neck, driving his energy sword into the creature’s neck.

Fury smiles a little as he watches the video. “Well, that is pretty badass,” he remarks as he walks through the room, past a bunch of agents. “What have we got on this guy besides this piece of television greatness?”

Immediately, the image on the big screen is replaced by various profile shots of a man in his mid-thirties with glasses, red hair with a ponytail and garbed in a modern day knight’s outfit. “That’s Alex Whitman, sir,” one of the agents speaks up. “He was a member of team #0045, designation ‘the Defenders’. He called himself the Black Knight. Reports place him as one of the victims of the recent attack on New York City, sir.”

“Sir!” another agent interrupts. “Witnesses saw Ben Grimm and the Knight enter a local establishment called ‘The Naked Lady’. We’re working on audio and video right now.”
“Good. Meanwhile, I want our best analysts on the dragon fight footage,” Fury responds, pointing to a few other agents. “I want to know all about this guy’s equipment. The bike, the sword. I want to know if he made them, bought them, if they’re registered anywhere. Hell, I want to know if he’s got any names them, Sarah, Shirley, I want to know everything.”
“Sir, we’ve got audio and video.”
“Hook me up.”
“Relaying now…”

Images of the Thing and the Black Knight at the bar fill the screen. Everyone is silent as the two heroes converse and Fury watches with his hand on his chin, mildly fascinated by this display of superhero brotherhood. When the Knight lifts his helmet and reveals his face, Fury calls for the video to be stopped.

“Place that image in top right. He’s calling himself Dane. Match that and the picture against our records. Continue.”

Fury chuckles a bit as the conversation continues, with the Black Knight turning down the advances of the shapely woman in red, and the Thing’s rather awkward demeanour.

“Sir, we’ve got a visual and first name match,” one of the agents calls during the tape.
“Put it on screen,” Fury commands.

Images of Dane Whitman immediately appear on the screen, alongside copies of all pertinent dossiers. Dental records, his license to teach, passport photographs: any and all data concerning the person of Whitman is displayed on screen. Fury smiles. He’s the former Black Knight’s brother. If there was ever any motivation to become a superhero…

“Sir, there’s something on the audio outside the bar you might be interested in.”
“Play it.”

“You’ll find me under Whitman in the book.”

The director of S.H.I.E.L.D. broadly grins. An Empire State University teacher doubling as a superhero with a dead brother for extra emotional baggage? Not to mention the complete lack of a secret identity? And he was boozing it up with Benjamin Grimm a.k.a. the Fantastic Four’s Thing? Well, maybe this guy could be useful. Very useful.

“Put some agents on Grimm. If he and Whitman have contact, I want to know. Contact our agents at the university too. Maybe one of them actually has a class from this guy. Notify Ironwood while you’re at it. He’ll want to keep an eye on this guy.”

Fury’s smile reaches from ear to ear as he looks at the screen, still displaying Dane Whitman’s info.

“Well, well, Mr. Whitman, aren’t we going to have a ball with you…”

[Blacklight]

"That's classified. Either watch the news, or go talk to SHIELD," Reed said as the young mutant appeared.

"Eh..you guys are no fun..."

I look around at the damage, and at the crowd cheering. There were flashes of cameras everywhere, and reporters broadcastin the story, and then my eye catches the kids that thing attacked.

If these won't tell me, how about some star witnesses?

I froze the ground below me until a thin sheet of ice appeared as I skated down it over to the kids. One blonde. One big. One stupid. They looked just about as old as me if not older.

"The name's Man...Iceman. You mind telling me what went on? It's very important superhero business."

"Well that big monster thing came to our school and held us all hostage. Killed a few kids."

"His name was Kaine he said."

"Then it attacked us looking for one of our classmates."

"Until Tarantula showed up and kicked his a**."

"Yeah and even Spider-Man and that Scarlet Spider showed up. And the Fantastic Four."

"Even Puny Parker tried to take him on, but got beat."

"Okay. Thanks for the help. You can all feel good now that you helped a fellow superhero. You might just have a future in this business..." I said as I turned to the hot blonde.

"...Especially you." I finished with a wink as she blushed, then starting up another slide.

"Oh and if anyone asks, I was never here."

They all shook there head, and I was off like a bullet. Purposely sliding in front of Johnny and waving and sticking my tongue out as he grew mad on my way out, heading back to the mansion.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

"You've done enough Anton, you saved the day. And if Spider-Man doesn't realise what a fantastic 'brother' he has, well that's his loss, not yours,"

I smile again as the reporters continue to swarm between Ben and the other rest of the Fantastic Four.

"How about the cliff's notes version of what just happened?"

I turn around and see Iceman approaching.

"That's classified. Either watch the news, or go talk to SHIELD,"

I node my head.

"Yeah sorry dude, im really suprised that SHIELD hasent shown up already..."

Three helicopters approach the school, from here I can see the SHIELD emblem emblazed on the side.

"...aaaaaand there they are."

Reed starts to head back over to his team.

"Dr. Richards?"

He stops and looks back at me.

"Thanks for the back up. If the FF ever need help just gimme a call."

I extend one of my hands to Reed.http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x90/Edge_027/RPG%20banners/UltimateKainebanner2.jpg

Contagion, The curse concludes: Epilogue

As the heroes celebrate in their triumphant victory, the SHIELD helicopters land on what little space they can find. The blades on the roaters continue to spin wildly, causing a strong wind to gust across the property.

As soon as the wheels on the bottom of the large helicopters hit the ground, the doors on the machine's side open, unloading a multitude of SHIELD agents.

As the armored soldiers step out onto the grass, holding their guns armed and loaded, they run about, dispersing into the crowd. They force the news casters back, taking their cameras and technology. Cruely, they throw the recorders and microphones to the ground, breaking them and confiscating the remains.

The reporters shout out in rage, questioning the silent soldier's actions. Without response, the soldiers simply push back the civilians, and keep them far from the landing zone.

As commotion uprises about the crowd, the heroes stop and stare. From one of the helicopters steps out a woman, dressed formally in a nice dress suit, black glasses planted on her face. Her long blonde hair flows in the gusts of wind, her face showing no signs of worry or emotion.

She begins to walk forward, heading toward the small grouping of heroes close by. As she approaches them, two SHIELD agents fall behind her, holding their guns ready to fire if necessary.

The woman stops in front of Reed Richards, paying no attention to anyone else there. She looks back over her shoulder to Kaine, lying quietly unconscious within Sue Storm's forcefield.

"Reed Richards." She says in a sure voice, staring at him directly in the face.

"Yes?" He responds confused, unsure of what is taking place.

"General Fury sends his regards. I'm agent Carol Danvers, head of the mutations and exploitives division at SHIELD."

"I've never heard of this division."

"No one has until now." She responds simply. She turns back to Kaine, holding up her arm and pointing to his still body. "I take it that's Kaine?"

"Yes. We just subdued him."

"Good." She turns to the two men behind her and nods to them. The immediately nod back, and turn around walking toward the other agents.

"Get the containment canisters!" One of them shouts. "We're packing up!"

"What are you doing?" Reed asks confused. "This is my discovery."

"Not anymore. Please tell Ms. Storm to release Kaine and that muk of genetic material. We're confiscating everything. Anything non human or genetically engineered is now property of SHIELD, effective immediately."

Reed watches as two large steel containment capsules are hauled out of one of the choppers. The SHIELD agents wheel it over to Kaine's vody, still trapped inside Sue's forcefields.

"Please, Ms. Storm. Kill your forcefields." One of the agents says to Sue, his patience wearing thin.

"Reed?" She asks startled and confused. Reed takes a deep sigh, rubbing his forehead in frustration.

"Kill the shields, Sue. It's out of our hands." Carol Danvers smiles as Reed shrugs, helpless to SHIELD's actions.

"Thank you, Mr. Richards."

Sue releases her shields, terminating their invisable barriers. No sooner do her shields drop do the SHIELD agents pick up Kaine, opening one of the containment capsules and placing him securely inside. Complying with the other agents, Sue pours the suit into the other capsule.

The SHIELD agents slam the capusles shut without hesitation. They push the containment cases back to the helicopter, and immediately begin putting them back on board.

"Thanks again, Reed. We'll be in touch." Carol turns, preparing to walk back to her escort. Suddenly, she stops, and turns back, this time staring directly at Anton. "Oh, and Anton." She says with a smirk. "You can expect a visit very soon."

Carol places her hands behind her back and walks toward the SHIELD helicopters, now prepping for take off. The other agents and soldiers quickly pile back in, falling into perfect formation as they jump up into the large metal transport.

As the last man boards, Carol stops in front her helicopter. She carefully steps up, and turns around to look outward. The large steel door shuts in front of her, sealing the chopper tightly. The blades spin faster, and the wind gets stronger as the helicopters lift off into the air, and rise higher into the sky before they fall out of sight.

Inside, Carol Danvers walks toward the capsule containing Kaine. She stares at him intently, watching him as he breaths. Suddenly, Kaine's eyes open, his red blood shot pupils staring around the vehicle's interior.

"Where...Where am I?" He asks in a weak voice.

"You're coming with us, Kaine." She smirks. "There's someone who wants to meet you."

[Catman_prb]

Reed stares as the helicopters take off, a dark look crossing his face as they become specks in the sky, then dissappearing altogether. They took the clone. And they took the suit. Whether or not this had anything to do with them, SHIELD had just crossed a line. He paced back and forth for a second, trying to think of what to do. They had almost unlimited resources, and he had none. Almost limitless forces, but he only had the Storms and Ben, and he didn't want to get them involved. But still...He pulled out his cellphone.

"Fury? This is Richards," Reed said coldly.

"I'm sorry, General Fury isn't available right now,"

"What? Who is this? This is a private line!"

"My name is Agent Hill. He is currently unavailable to talk to you Dr. Richards,"

"I need to talk to him,"

"If you have any issues, you can talk to me,"

"Okay - I need you to verify the existence of one of your departments: The Mutations and Exploitives Division, headed by a Carol Danvers,"

"I'm sorry, I don't have the authority to confirm or deny existence of a division,"

"Then put me onto Fury godammit woman!"

"If you're going to act like that, I'm going to end this conversation,"

"This isn't a conversation, this is Fury flipping me off!"

"Goodbye Dr. Richards. Have a nice day," Hill said, hanging up the phone. His hand fell limply to his side. He looked at Sue, a new feeling of helplessness overpowering him.

"I think we've just been cut off," Reed said.

[Gallagher]

Reed stares as the helicopters take off, a dark look crossing his face as they become specks in the sky, then dissappearing altogether. They took the clone. And they took the suit. Whether or not this had anything to do with them, SHIELD had just crossed a line. He paced back and forth for a second, trying to think of what to do. They had almost unlimited resources, and he had none. Almost limitless forces, but he only had the Storms and Ben, and he didn't want to get them involved. But still...He pulled out his cellphone.

"Fury? This is Richards," Reed said coldly.

"I'm sorry, General Fury isn't available right now,"

"What? Who is this? This is a private line!"

"My name is Agent Hill. He is currently unavailable to talk to you Dr. Richards,"

"I need to talk to him,"

"If you have any issues, you can talk to me,"

"Okay - I need you to verify the existence of one of your departments: The Mutations and Exploitives Division, headed by a Carol Danvers,"

"I'm sorry, I don't have the authority to confirm or deny existence of a division,"

"Then put me onto Fury godammit woman!"

"If you're going to act like that, I'm going to end this conversation,"

"This isn't a conversation, this is Fury flipping me off!"

"Goodbye Dr. Richards. Have a nice day," Hill said, hanging up the phone. His hand fell limply to his side. He looked at Sue, a new feeling of helplessness overpowering him.

"I think we've just been cut off," Reed said.

Sue placed a hand on the saddened Reed Richards, brushing a hand through her hair she leaned in close.

"Well maybe we should make a house call to Mr. Fury?" She whispered with a slight venomous tone to her voice. "He DID promise us our funding back if we tied up this Kaine business for him. Since when did we become Fantastic SHIELD Agents?"

[Venom160]

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x90/Edge_027/RPG%20banners/UltimateKainebanner2.jpg

Contagion, The curse concludes: Epilogue

As the heroes celebrate in their triumphant victory, the SHIELD helicopters land on what little space they can find. The blades on the roaters continue to spin wildly, causing a strong wind to gust across the property.

As soon as the wheels on the bottom of the large helicopters hit the ground, the doors on the machine's side open, unloading a multitude of SHIELD agents.

As the armored soldiers step out onto the grass, holding their guns armed and loaded, they run about, dispersing into the crowd. They force the news casters back, taking their cameras and technology. Cruely, they throw the recorders and microphones to the ground, breaking them and confiscating the remains.

The reporters shout out in rage, questioning the silent soldier's actions. Without response, the soldiers simply push back the civilians, and keep them far from the landing zone.

As commotion uprises about the crowd, the heroes stop and stare. From one of the helicopters steps out a woman, dressed formally in a nice dress suit, black glasses planted on her face. Her long blonde hair flows in the gusts of wind, her face showing no signs of worry or emotion.

She begins to walk forward, heading toward the small grouping of heroes close by. As she approaches them, two SHIELD agents fall behind her, holding their guns ready to fire if necessary.

The woman stops in front of Reed Richards, paying no attention to anyone else there. She looks back over her shoulder to Kaine, lying quietly unconscious within Sue Storm's forcefield.

"Reed Richards." She says in a sure voice, staring at him directly in the face.

"Yes?" He responds confused, unsure of what is taking place.

"General Fury sends his regards. I'm agent Carol Danvers, head of the mutations and exploitives division at SHIELD."

"I've never heard of this division."

"No one has until now." She responds simply. She turns back to Kaine, holding up her arm and pointing to his still body. "I take it that's Kaine?"

"Yes. We just subdued him."

"Good." She turns to the two men behind her and nods to them. The immediately nod back, and turn around walking toward the other agents.

"Get the containment canisters!" One of them shouts. "We're packing up!"

"What are you doing?" Reed asks confused. "This is my discovery."

"Not anymore. Please tell Ms. Storm to release Kaine and that muk of genetic material. We're confiscating everything. Anything non human or genetically engineered is now property of SHIELD, effective immediately."

Reed watches as two large steel containment capsules are hauled out of one of the choppers. The SHIELD agents wheel it over to Kaine's vody, still trapped inside Sue's forcefields.

"Please, Ms. Storm. Kill your forcefields." One of the agents says to Sue, his patience wearing thin.

"Reed?" She asks startled and confused. Reed takes a deep sigh, rubbing his forehead in frustration.

"Kill the shields, Sue. It's out of our hands." Carol Danvers smiles as Reed shrugs, helpless to SHIELD's actions.

"Thank you, Mr. Richards."

Sue releases her shields, terminating their invisable barriers. No sooner do her shields drop do the SHIELD agents pick up Kaine, opening one of the containment capsules and placing him securely inside. Complying with the other agents, Sue pours the suit into the other capsule.

The SHIELD agents slam the capusles shut without hesitation. They push the containment cases back to the helicopter, and immediately begin putting them back on board.

"Thanks again, Reed. We'll be in touch." Carol turns, preparing to walk back to her escort. Suddenly, she stops, and turns back, this time staring directly at Anton. "Oh, and Anton." She says with a smirk. "You can expect a visit very soon."

Carol places her hands behind her back and walks toward the SHIELD helicopters, now prepping for take off. The other agents and soldiers quickly pile back in, falling into perfect formation as they jump up into the large metal transport.

As the last man boards, Carol stops in front her helicopter. She carefully steps up, and turns around to look outward. The large steel door shuts in front of her, sealing the chopper tightly. The blades spin faster, and the wind gets stronger as the helicopters lift off into the air, and rise higher into the sky before they fall out of sight.

Inside, Carol Danvers walks toward the capsule containing Kaine. She stares at him intently, watching him as he breaths. Suddenly, Kaine's eyes open, his red blood shot pupils staring around the vehicle's interior.

"Where...Where am I?" He asks in a weak voice.

"You're coming with us, Kaine." She smirks. "There's someone who wants to meet you."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

"Oh, and Anton."

I turn and face Agent Danvers ready for anything.

"You can expect a visit very soon."

"Oh I can't wait, just look for the six-armed hobo chilling out in an alley!"

The adrenaline starts to wear off and I start really feeling the pain in my body. I take a deep breath and feel a wave of pain sweep through my side.

"Ah!"

I place a gentle hand on my side.

"Yep that has to be a broken rib. **** that hurt!"

Now that Kaine is speeding away in SHEILD custody the paramedics get to work on attending to the bodies of the victims of Kaine's rampage.

"Um Tarantula sir are you injured?"

"Mentally? Maybe. Physically? Oh yeah."

The paramedic leads me to an ambulance and has me pull the top of my costume off. The paramedic takes one look at the puncture wounds from Kaine's teeth and just shakes his head.

"These are gonna need stitches..."

"Great."

[Mr. Marko]

NORMAN OSBORN


Several Weeks Ago...

Norman Osborn, also known as the Green Goblin, sat in his cell in the Triskelion. Across the hall, Sergei Kravinoff, also known as Kraven the Hunter, mumbled under his breath. "Its all that Spider-Man's fault. My wife. My children. Gone. And he was a f***in' kid!"

Norman rubbed his forehead. "Oh, Sergei, stop it. You're embarrassing yourself. It wasn't Parker. It was this entire institution."

From the next cell down, Otto Octavius, known to the public as Dr. Octopus, chuckled. "Norman, without your failures in the Oz-"

"It was an experimental formula, Otto, and that was all. If it did that to Parker, it can potentially do it to us."

Kraven slumped down onto his stiff bed. "Not that it matters now anyways. We're locked up here for life. We-"

"Shut up." Norman interrupted him. "Did you hear that?"

"Hear what?"

Without warning, the power went out completely in the Triskelion, completely deactivating the containment fields that held them in their cells and leaving them in the dark.

"What the...what the hell just happened?"

Norman smiled widely. "I think that today might just be our lucky day."

He focused for a moment, and soon his body began to transform into his large Goblin form, flame erupting from his body.

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-------------------------------------------------------------------

Norman, Sergei, and Otto kicked open a mangled metal door and into the night air. In the distance, Stark Tower was under attack, and a large piece of what looked like an asteroid laid embedded in the Triskelion.

"You know, this may sound strange, but seeing Stark Tower in flames gives me an idea." He turned to Sergei and Otto. "We need to get to Oscorp immediately."

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/heimdallvc2.jpg

In the blink of an eye, a blue orb shot forth from the Enchantress' hand. Heimdall was far too slow, his sword only half-drawn when the blast slammed into his chest. Immediately raised off his feet, Heimdall was thrown clear across the snowy ground. But when his body came crashing down, the snow covered ground had been substituted with stone. Opening his eyes, pain coursing through his veins, Heimdall saw the Enchantress loom over him, the same smile fixed upon her face, as the night sky slowly morphed into a chamber of some sort. Raising her hands before him, the very air seemed to obey The Enchantress' will. A small whirlwind began gaining mass in the palm of her hands, until an identical ball of bright, blue light hovered above her palms.

http://www.marvel.com/universe3zx/images/thumb/0/0b/Amora3b.jpg/440px-Amora3b.jpg




Heimdall barely has a moment before a second blue bolt darts across the chamber. This time hitting him in the shoulder, he howls in pain as he's thrown like a ragdoll through the brick wall into another, indentical, room.

The smoke from the destroyed walls fill his eyes and nostrils, as the Enchantress snakes her way through the giant hole in the wall.

"Ooooh, I just knew you'd be fun." she calls out to Heimdall, who's hand immediately finds the hilt of his sword. Slowly getting to his feet, he unsheathes the blade, wielding it with godly might.

Gritting his teeth in pain, Heimdall doesn't say a word. Like an enraged animal, he roars loudly, the very walls of the chamber shaking. Quickly advancing on the Enchantress, he raises the sword high in the air and swings it down towards her neck. As surprisingly fast and agile as Heimdall was, there was no doubt that Enchantress was even more so. Easily dodging the blade, she slinks her way under his arms. Emerging behind the god, she giggles venomously before wagging her finger at him. From her finger shoots a thin stream of blue light, connecting with Heimdall's lower back. His body is forcefully turned in circles, as another stream of light connects with his abdomen, sending him flying through the same hole and into the adjacent room.
His sword falls to the floor with a heavy thud, and as the Enchantress follows him through the hole, she stops to look at the blade.

"Mmmh, you boys and your toys." she says dismissively, as she waves her hand. Light blue sparks surround the entire weapon, as it is instantly morphed into a living snake.

"You forsaken witch!" Heimdall spits out, as he tries to get up, only to be met with Enchantress' foot to his head. Collapsing back to the floor under her Asgardian strength, Heimdall spits out a mouthful of blood.

"Watch your manners, Heimy." she says nonchalantly, as she rests one leg on Heimdall's back, keeping him pinned on the floor. "You Asgardian men are so alike. So stubborn. Foolish, really. Tell me, Heimy...Heimdall....You can see." Heimdall tries to wrench himself free, but Enchantress does not relent. "You can see everything. You can see, it stands to reason, what is going to happen don't you?"

"....Yes." Heimdall responds after a moment of silence, momentarily stopping the struggle. "A great threat to Midgard. It bears the name Nexus, and all of man's world might f..YAARGGGHH!" Heimdall screams out in agony as Enchantress opens her palm, a torrent of blue flames dancing across Heimdall's back.

"I'm not talking about that, and you damn well know it. That's child's play compared to what's going to happen next. And you've seen it haven't you? You say you don't look at the future, but you've peeked. And you've seen what happens." the Enchantress speaks, licking her lips, as if she so much enjoys her own words.

"Loki showed me. He showed me all of it. And if we don't do something about it, my dear Heimy, everything will die. Not just Midgard, not just the humans. Everything. It will all....end. So tell me...how can you still bend and break to that foolish old man's every whim when you KNOW where it will lead!"

Heimdall slowly reaches down to his belt, loosening a small dagger latched on to it. "Thou would call me foolish for putting my trust in the All-Father. He gave us all that we have. He will not let it be taken away. I would dare say that putting my trust in one whose very purpose is to trick and deceive, would be foolish."

With a motion so fast not even the Enchantress had time to register it, Heimdall turned his body to face her. Her eyes widening in shock, she catapulted forth from her hands a wave of lethal blue light. But his hands were already in place, holding the silver dagger between him and the witch. The magical blade did all of what it was designed to do, absorbing the Enchantress' magic, and, with an explosion that rocked the entire complex, propelled it back at her. The shock on her face was changed to agony as he was thrown clear across the room, her body violently slamming into a pillar and collapsing to the floor.

By the time she looked up, Heimdall stood over her, bearing all the diving majesty she knew him to possess.
The look of a wounded puppy crossing her face, she wiped a trail of blood from her lips as she asked Heimdall, ever so softly. "You wouldn't hurt a defenseless lady, would you Heimy?"

"I would not." said Heimdall grimly, before he brought the heel of his boot down into her face.

-----------

The unconscious Enchantress slung around his shoulder, Heimdall looked up at the most magnificent thing his all-seeing eyes had ever beheld.

"Home, sweet home."

http://larryavisbrown.homestead.com/files/Ring/Valhalla.jpg

[Catman_prb]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg




It was sheer chaos. There was no word that could adequately describe what was going on. Screams. Lights. Explosions. A massive wave of scarlet energy engulfed the entire battlefield. And like that, everyone was surrounded by the welcoming Central Park.



Steve found himself face down on the ground, his body aching. "Wanda..." he called out, his eyes still burning from the tornado of light. "...Ultimates, Sound off! Is everyone okay?!"


Steve Rogers had seen many friends perish this way. Too many. There was not a force in this world that would stop him from preventing it happening again, as he grunted in pain, raising his body off the ground.



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I ignore the nausea and get to my feet.

[COLOR=blue]"...Ultimates, Sound off! Is everyone okay?!"

"Im here...."

I spot Wanda not far away and head over to her. I take her hand and helps her to her feet.

"Wanda.." All anger and jealousy is gone from my voice as I look into my sister's eyes. "....whats happing?"
Clint pulls himself from the wreckage of the SHIELD helicopter, draggin the pilot behind him. He laid him down on the grass, feeling for a pulse. Nothing. He breathed into his mouth 5 times, then started hitting him on the chest. Still nothing. He was dead.

"God damnit," he shouted. His bow and arrow were strapped to his back, but he had lost the rocket launcher in the wreckage of the helicopter. He had a sub machine gun strapped next to his quiver, and there were pistols on the inside of his thighs. He had a feeling this wasn't going to be enough.

"Cap, what the hell is going on? What is that thing?" he screamed into his headpiece.

[Charlie No-One]

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg



Wanda stood in the center of the park, the remnants of her latest hex diminishing around her. She was shocked with herself. The numbers just popped into her head. Without a single thought, the equation was solved that would transport her and her friends to a place more suitable for battle. But how? How did this happen? Not dwelling on it now, she turned to the Captain.

“I’m here, Cap. A little disoriented but here.”

Ignoring the confused looks and drilling questions of her brother, the Scarlet Witch hovered into the air and assessed the creature. It had recovered from the spell and seemed to be attacking Cyclops. When did he get here? Was he in the area during the spell? Everything was total fog to Wanda.

“Don’t just sit there, people! DO SOMETHING!”

Now wasn’t the time for questions and explanations. People’s lives were in danger. Wanda figured the more she ignored her problems, the greater chance they’d go away. The only problem was, and boy did she know it, that the cookie didn’t crumble that way.

[SenseiofCheese]

Clint pulls himself from the wreckage of the SHIELD helicopter, draggin the pilot behind him. He laid him down on the grass, feeling for a pulse. Nothing. He breathed into his mouth 5 times, then started hitting him on the chest. Still nothing. He was dead.

"God damnit," he shouted. His bow and arrow were strapped to his back, but he had lost the rocket launcher in the wreckage of the helicopter. He had a sub machine gun strapped next to his quiver, and there were pistols on the inside of his thighs. He had a feeling this wasn't going to be enough.

"Cap, what the hell is going on? What is that thing?" he screamed into his headpiece.

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Captain America watches as Cyclops piggyback-rides the monster up into the air, bravely hanging on. Brave, but brash.

"Damnit, Summers." he mutters before the Hawkeye's voice demands an answer. Tilting his head and tapping the comm in his ear. "Hawkeye. If I'm not mistaken, that is Azrael. And unless you've forgotten about Deadpool's letters, I suggest you get your ass in gear and get over here!"

Looking over to Iron Man, Rogers doesn't even bother speaking through the comm link. Instead, he shouts at the top of his voice. "Iron Man! IRON MAN! YOU AND WAR MACHINE GET CYCLOPS OFF AZRAEL'S BACK AND BLAST HIM OUT OF THE SKY! WE NEED THIS BASTARD GROUNDED AND OUT OF COMMISSION, RIGHT NOW! GO, PEOPLE!"

[Mr. Marko]

NORMAN OSBORN
The Six - Part II


Previously...
http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/5213/xelectrokq5.jpg
MAX DILLON: ELECTRO
Season IV - Part 9


Max's eyes open and he sees Captain America leaning over him. Max remembers tussling with him a couple of times last year... not something he'd want to try again.

"Don't try anything, son. You're hurt pretty bad."

Max sees Magneto in the distance. Hate rises in his throat. He then looks up and sees Asteroid M coming closer to the ground.

"Oh no... Dmitri!"

"What?"

"Do you have any teleporters with you?"

Cap looks confused.

"DO YOU?"

"Yes! Yes, we probably do. What is this about?"

"You've got to get someone aboard that asteroid before it's too late!"

"Why!"

"On the second floor of the housing complex... in locker 815... you'll find the body of Dmitri Smerdyakov. He deserves a proper burial."



Several Weeks Ago...

Max Dillion sat in the back of a SHIELD truck with a power dampener collar on his neck. The Triskelion was hit. Stark Tower was hit. The world was going to hell. And Dmitri was dead.

"Blue Leader 4, we are en route to the temporary holding facility with Electro."

Max sighed. He deserved everything that came to him at this point. He was a fool. Magneto had made a fool out of him.

"Roger that, Blue Leader 4."

Suddenly, the driver of the truck began to scream. "What in the hell is that?" Without warning, the truck flew end over end, sending Max tumbling in the back of the truck.

"Holy s***!" After several seconds of scratching, the truck came to a stop. Only silence filled the truck as he made his way out the back door. "What in the hell was that?"

Max turned and saw a large man in a robotic suit just as he grabbed a Geo Metro and tossed it into a window.

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/3000/2126/132971-rhino_400.gif

He had to do something...but what? He grabbed his collar and tugged on it desperately, but to no avail. With nothing left on his mind, he simply yelled at the rampaging beast. "Hey! Rhino-boy!"

The Rhino turned and glared at Max, stopping only for a moment before charging towards him.

"Oh s***."

-----------------------------------------------------------------

"What exactly are you doing, Osborn?"

Norman Osborn, Otto Octavius, and Sergei Kravinoff stood at the backdoor of Oscorp. It had been some time since his executive staff had shut him out of his own company. It must have had something to do with the fact that he had turned into a giant green monster. Huh. Go figure. "I'm taking back what is rightfully mine." He transformed into the goblin for a moment as he broke the door down. Instantly, sirens began to blare. He turned to Otto, who seemed lost in thought. "What the hell are you doing?"

"They found me."

Suddenly, a large harness with four tentacle-like robotic arms lurched around a corner and stopped next to Otto. Suddenly, they latched themselves onto his back.

"Feel like a new man?"

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/2000/1485/67094-doctor-octopus_400.jpg

Octavius scoffed. "New man? No. I feel like I'm back to my old self." One of his tentacles fired at the alarm that was blaring, silencing it. "Lets go."

[Eddie Brock]

As Reed takes off to do his "thing," I start to do mine. Making my rounds around the school, I check on the hostages to see that they're okay. Really, I'm just looking for some genuine teenager interaction - free of the baggage of Kitty and those guys. I especially focus on the girls. Is that so wrong? I have needs, and these girls need someone to make them feel safe. It would be selfish not to comfort them.

I come up to one group that Bobby was talking to earlier. "You guys okay?" I ask. They all nod silently. They're probably pretty shaken up, and I don't blame them. If I didn't have powers, I'd be freaked out by something like this, too. I turn to the blonde and pause. "Have we met?"

She bites her lip. "Actually...we have," she explains hesitantly. She seems withdrawn, but I'm pretty good at reading people, and this isn't normal behavior for her.

I must know her from my very short time here at Midtown. To be honest, I've just about erased that from memory. School was never - and will never be - part of my life. It's too boring. "Really? I think I'd remember a girl like you," I reply disbelievingly. She cracks a faint smile, but it quickly fades away. "Well, you're just going to have to refresh my memory," I suggest jokingly.

I see that she withdraws even further. I must say, I'm not used to this kind of response. The Johnny Storm charm almost never fails, and there's always a legitimate reason when it does.

Oh my God, I remember her! "Lisa!" I announce in astonishment.

She blushes. "Liz, actually," she corrects sheepishly.

"That's right!"

Man, I do remember her now. She's the girl who wasn't cool with the whole powers thing. I mean, I should have been upfront about it, but I always figured that the powers are a plus. Yet she seemed mortified when I flamed on in front of her. I never could figure out why, but I guess I figured that some people are just uncomfortable around that kind of thing. It's a shame 'cause I think she and I are a good fit, and we did have fun until...well...all that happened.

"I'm sorry about before," I apologize sincerely. "I didn't meant to freak you out or anything."

She waves it off. "Don't sweat it. I just have a...thing about powers," she explains embarrassedly.

I nod understandingly - even though I really don't understand. "Well, now that you know, I think we should give it another shot. I promise that I don't bite - or burn, in this case."

She stammers uncertainly.

"I won't take 'no' for an answer," I state defiantly - yet confidently. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that confidence is key. And just ask my family - I have plenty of confidence.

"I'll...uh...I'll think about it," she promises. So I get her number and I head out. There are other matters to attend to.

[Venom160]

As Reed takes off to do his "thing," I start to do mine. Making my rounds around the school, I check on the hostages to see that they're okay. Really, I'm just looking for some genuine teenager interaction - free of the baggage of Kitty and those guys. I especially focus on the girls. Is that so wrong? I have needs, and these girls need someone to make them feel safe. It would be selfish not to comfort them.

I come up to one group that Bobby was talking to earlier. "You guys okay?" I ask. They all nod silently. They're probably pretty shaken up, and I don't blame them. If I didn't have powers, I'd be freaked out by something like this, too. I turn to the blonde and pause. "Have we met?"

She bites her lip. "Actually...we have," she explains hesitantly. She seems withdrawn, but I'm pretty good at reading people, and this isn't normal behavior for her.

I must know her from my very short time here at Midtown. To be honest, I've just about erased that from memory. School was never - and will never be - part of my life. It's too boring. "Really? I think I'd remember a girl like you," I reply disbelievingly. She cracks a faint smile, but it quickly fades away. "Well, you're just going to have to refresh my memory," I suggest jokingly.

I see that she withdraws even further. I must say, I'm not used to this kind of response. The Johnny Storm charm almost never fails, and there's always a legitimate reason when it does.

Oh my God, I remember her! "Lisa!" I announce in astonishment.

She blushes. "Liz, actually," she corrects sheepishly.

"That's right!"

Man, I do remember her now. She's the girl who wasn't cool with the whole powers thing. I mean, I should have been upfront about it, but I always figured that the powers are a plus. Yet she seemed mortified when I flamed on in front of her. I never could figure out why, but I guess I figured that some people are just uncomfortable around that kind of thing. It's a shame 'cause I think she and I are a good fit, and we did have fun until...well...all that happened.

"I'm sorry about before," I apologize sincerely. "I didn't meant to freak you out or anything."

She waves it off. "Don't sweat it. I just have a...thing about powers," she explains embarrassedly.

I nod understandingly - even though I really don't understand. "Well, now that you know, I think we should give it another shot. I promise that I don't bite - or burn, in this case."

She stammers uncertainly.

"I won't take 'no' for an answer," I state defiantly - yet confidently. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that confidence is key. And just ask my family - I have plenty of confidence.

"I'll...uh...I'll think about it," she promises. So I get her number and I head out. There are other matters to attend to.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I take in a deep breath as the needle enters my skin for the first time. I sweep across the crowd of students as scared parents are starting to arrive looking for their kids. I watch as their scared expressions change to relief than joy as they find their children and that their alright. Others change from fear to crippling sorrow when they spot their child's lifeless form on the ground. My heart breaks as acouple officers had to literally drag a mother away from her daughter's body.

I could'nt save them all......

Something catches my eye. I turn my head and see Johnny talking to Liz. I couldnt hear what they were saying but I could read lips pretty well and I think he just asked her out.

Figures Ben and I were here first, we took the most damage protecting everyone from Kaine. And who gets the girl in the end? The pretty boy......somethings never change...

"Um Tarantula?"

I look over at the paramedic.

"Could you a relax your arm please?"

I look down and notice that my left arm is tense and my hands are balled into fists.

"Sorry....."

[Venom160]

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I leave the rest of the guys hanging out in the tv room and take a quick shower than head back to my room. I pick up my cell and dial my dad's number for what seems to be the millionth time in the last month. Fallen's voice constantly nagging at me about Project Rebirth.

Hello?"

"Hey Alfred."

Alfreds' our family's butler, he raised me after my wings started to grow in. He was really the only on that didnt look at my wings with disgust in his eyes.

"Hello Warren, how have you and Alison been?"

"We're good, listen is my dad home? Im really need to talk to him."

"Im sorry Warren he isnt, he said he's still cleaning up that incident at one of his labs."

My shoulders slump, yet another excuse.

"Alright, could you tell him I called? I really need to talk to him."

"Ofcourse sir."

"Thanks."

I hang up the phone and rest my head in my hands.

"Still not talking?"

I look up and see Ali standing in my doorway.

"Yeah...."

I notice the blood on Ali's shirt.

"Ran into trouble?"

She smiles and shuts the door behind her.

"Eh some creep was getting too touchy feely, I made him think twice."

I smile as she pulls off the shirt and throws on one of mine. She looks at me as I stare into space.

"So lets go track your pops down. Find out what connection he has with this Fallen nut."

"What about the Professor?"

"To hell with the Professor! Besides the way he's been acting he really has no room to cast judgment on any of us!"

She flash me that mischevious smile that iv grown to love.

"Besides, can he really stop us?"http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

The next day.....

"So you sure that my father will be there."

"Yes Warren, he'll be home for acouple days than he'll be heading to New York for a meeting with the Roxxon corperation."

"Good."

"If you don't mind me asking, whats so important that you need to talk to him about?"

"I don't know yet, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Ok Warren have a safe flight."

I hang up and phone and head downstairs. Everythings set now, Ali and I will be there by the time my dad gets home. He won't be able to avoid me when im standing right in front of him. Ali's laughter echos from the tv room accompanied by John's.

"NO! Dammit!"

I walk in and see John and Ali sitting on the couch, game controlers in hand. I had to fight back a smile as steam starts fuming off John's shoulders.

"Wanna go for round three?"

John glares at here behind his googles.

"Your on...."

A knock on the door draws my attention from the match.

"I'll get it."

I walk back into the hall and open the front door. The woman standing there is quite beautiful.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/domino.jpg

"Um is this the Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters?"

[Syn (Mercenary)]

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Contagion, The curse concludes: Epilogue

As the heroes celebrate in their triumphant victory, the SHIELD helicopters land on what little space they can find. The blades on the roaters continue to spin wildly, causing a strong wind to gust across the property.

As soon as the wheels on the bottom of the large helicopters hit the ground, the doors on the machine's side open, unloading a multitude of SHIELD agents.

As the armored soldiers step out onto the grass, holding their guns armed and loaded, they run about, dispersing into the crowd. They force the news casters back, taking their cameras and technology. Cruely, they throw the recorders and microphones to the ground, breaking them and confiscating the remains.

The reporters shout out in rage, questioning the silent soldier's actions. Without response, the soldiers simply push back the civilians, and keep them far from the landing zone.

As commotion uprises about the crowd, the heroes stop and stare. From one of the helicopters steps out a woman, dressed formally in a nice dress suit, black glasses planted on her face. Her long blonde hair flows in the gusts of wind, her face showing no signs of worry or emotion.

She begins to walk forward, heading toward the small grouping of heroes close by. As she approaches them, two SHIELD agents fall behind her, holding their guns ready to fire if necessary.

The woman stops in front of Reed Richards, paying no attention to anyone else there. She looks back over her shoulder to Kaine, lying quietly unconscious within Sue Storm's forcefield.

"Reed Richards." She says in a sure voice, staring at him directly in the face.

"Yes?" He responds confused, unsure of what is taking place.

"General Fury sends his regards. I'm agent Carol Danvers, head of the mutations and exploitives division at SHIELD."

"I've never heard of this division."

"No one has until now." She responds simply. She turns back to Kaine, holding up her arm and pointing to his still body. "I take it that's Kaine?"

"Yes. We just subdued him."

"Good." She turns to the two men behind her and nods to them. The immediately nod back, and turn around walking toward the other agents.

"Get the containment canisters!" One of them shouts. "We're packing up!"

"What are you doing?" Reed asks confused. "This is my discovery."

"Not anymore. Please tell Ms. Storm to release Kaine and that muk of genetic material. We're confiscating everything. Anything non human or genetically engineered is now property of SHIELD, effective immediately."

Reed watches as two large steel containment capsules are hauled out of one of the choppers. The SHIELD agents wheel it over to Kaine's vody, still trapped inside Sue's forcefields.

"Please, Ms. Storm. Kill your forcefields." One of the agents says to Sue, his patience wearing thin.

"Reed?" She asks startled and confused. Reed takes a deep sigh, rubbing his forehead in frustration.

"Kill the shields, Sue. It's out of our hands." Carol Danvers smiles as Reed shrugs, helpless to SHIELD's actions.

"Thank you, Mr. Richards."

Sue releases her shields, terminating their invisable barriers. No sooner do her shields drop do the SHIELD agents pick up Kaine, opening one of the containment capsules and placing him securely inside. Complying with the other agents, Sue pours the suit into the other capsule.

The SHIELD agents slam the capusles shut without hesitation. They push the containment cases back to the helicopter, and immediately begin putting them back on board.

"Thanks again, Reed. We'll be in touch." Carol turns, preparing to walk back to her escort. Suddenly, she stops, and turns back, this time staring directly at Anton. "Oh, and Anton." She says with a smirk. "You can expect a visit very soon."

Carol places her hands behind her back and walks toward the SHIELD helicopters, now prepping for take off. The other agents and soldiers quickly pile back in, falling into perfect formation as they jump up into the large metal transport.

As the last man boards, Carol stops in front her helicopter. She carefully steps up, and turns around to look outward. The large steel door shuts in front of her, sealing the chopper tightly. The blades spin faster, and the wind gets stronger as the helicopters lift off into the air, and rise higher into the sky before they fall out of sight.

Inside, Carol Danvers walks toward the capsule containing Kaine. She stares at him intently, watching him as he breaths. Suddenly, Kaine's eyes open, his red blood shot pupils staring around the vehicle's interior.

"Where...Where am I?" He asks in a weak voice.

"You're coming with us, Kaine." She smirks. "There's someone who wants to meet you."

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Epilogue II: Open Doors

Inside the belly of the mighty Triskelion, Carol Danvers walks down a long hallway. Following her are five SHIELD agents, heavily armed and highly trained. Two of the agents wheel a semi conscious Kaine down the hallway on a stretcher. Kaine rests on the cushioned transport, strapped down tightly with metal restraints, firmly holding him in place. An oxygen mask is strapped to his face, feeding him the air he needs to stay alive as his body slowly slips away.

"Uh, Captain Danvers?" One of the SHIELD agents asks, looking down at Kaine. "Shouldn't this guy be in something a little more...cealed?"

"No, soldier." She states emotionlessly. She answers the worried soldier's question without eye contact, her eyes continuing to look forward and continue her journey.

"Wasn't this guy a level eight without the suit, Captain?" He asks again, his worry becoming apparent.

"He's dying, soldier." She says as she reaches the end of the hallway, coming to a tightly closed metal door. "Our biggest problem right now is keeping him alive."

Carol takes out a card from a pocket inside her jacket. She punches in a code on the control panel on the wall. With the pressing of the last button, a green light shines brightly. She holds down a key on the panel, and swipes the card downward through a slot. A loud "beep" summons, and the door slowly opens.

As soon as the doors pull back fully, opening the way to the elevator, a noise suddenly pierces the silence. An evil laugh, faint and discrete begins to start. It cackles mockingly, seeming to taunt all who hear it. Carol turns around to Kaine to see him laughing, his body conscious once more.

"Kaine, I'd suggest keeping quiet. If you burn up all your energy doing stupid **** like laughing, you may not make it to see the next hour."

Carol steps into the elevator, moving to the back as to make room for the others. The SHIELD agents wheel Kaine's stretcher inside and cram themselves into the elevator. The door makes another "beep", and the doors close.

"You think you've got me, don't you?" Kaine says with a cough. "You think you have this situation completely under control?" Kaine asks with a smile, his evil and haughty disposition unaffected dispite his intense pain.

"Well, Kaine, I have several SHIELD agents armed and ready to fire on sight to kill you should you escape. And in your weakened state, I'm positive that's more than enough."

"We'll see..." Kaine struggles to say, his lungs violently gasping for air as the disease takes it's toll. Suddenly, the elevator stops, coming to an abrubt halt.

A loud hiss sounds as a light gray smoke emits from the crease in the door. The soldiers stare at eachother confused, wondering what is going on. Carol smirks as the doors slide open, this time sliding on their track quickly.

"Captain Danvers?" A soldier asks in a puzzled tone. "Where are we?"

"Welcome to the basement, boys." She says with a smirk. "Take a good look. This is classified above top secret."

"I didn't know we had a basement. I thought the Thunderbolts were held down here."

"They were. Floor above us. But this level is strickly for Fury's own personal plans."

"I wouldn't tell them much more, Ms. Danvers." A voice calls out from the room. A figure steps in front of the open doors, his face stern and unforgiving. "They might not be able to understand."

"General Fury." She says with a sly face, motioning to the soldiers to move out of the elevator. The men do as told, and move out into the large room, keeping close watch on Kaine as the clone breathes heavily. Nick Fury walks up the clone, standing by his side and staring right into his eyes.

"This is Kaine?" He asks rhetorically. "I thought he'd be bigger."

"F-Funny...Fury," Kaine stutters as he gasps for air. "I thought you'd be...m-more intimidating." Kaine smiles wide, pleased with himself. Fury frowns at Kaine, unamused by the clone's smart mouth.

"Don't worry, Kaine. If I don't strike fear in your heart now, these next few months will make you see me in a...new light."

"Why? Will I get t-to see w-what's under that...eyepatch?"

"You certainly do have a mouth on you, Kaine. No doubt you're Parker's clone."

"You...Y-You know his secret?" Kaine asks surprised.

"I'm not paid my ridiculous government salary to sit in a desk and pretend to know what I'm talking about. I know every secret there is to know, Kaine." Fury smirks as he walks forward, the soldiers following him and pushing Kaine as they move. "Even what happened with you in California."

"H-How...do you know...what happened there?"

"I make it my buisness to know, Kaine." He retorts. "I'm always the one pulling the strings."

"So," Kaine says with an angered smile. "I take it y-you're the...one who did that to Scorps, then?"

"Actually," Fury starts, stopping his walk and turning to Carol. "That was Ms. Danver's project."

Fury continues to walk forward, slowly making his way to the large area just a head of them. As they slowly approach the area ahead, Fury continues to talk.

"See, Kaine, the "spiders" have been a project of mine for years. Ever since I first met Peter, it was always one of my top priorities. But now? I have every clone under my thumb. Ben Reilly the Scarlet Spider, Jessica Drew the Spider-Woman, Anton Rodriguez the Tarantula, and Macdonald Gargan the Scorpion. All of Peter's clones, all of your brothers."

"You've been...c-collecting us?"

"In a way. But for the longest time, the only one I couldn't find was you. But after your recent activities, it was like you left breadcrumbs for me."

"Y-You bastard..." Kaine says with a sneer, trying to break free from his restraints.

"Ah-ah. I wouldn't want you to get hurt, Kaine. These soldiers are trained to kill on sight. I'd really rather refrain from terminating you."

"So...what do you want from me? I'm dying, remember?"

"Ah yes, Kaine. You're little disease is but a minor setback. That's why you're here. I have someone who can cure your disease and make you...'perfect' once more." The group turns the corner into the large room. In front of them sits a man in a dirty lab coat, sitting at a cluttered table. His arms and legs are chained to the floor, bolted tightly to keep from escape. The man stops what he is doing and looks up the group. He lifts the goggles on his face onto his forehead, and stares at the small crowd with a weary smile.

"Kaine, I want you to meet Arnim Zola. Bioscientist."

"Guten Tag, Herr Fury." The man says in a thick German accent. "I take it dis is das neue projekt, ja?"

"Yes, Arnim. This is the one I told you about."

"Arnim Zola..." Kaine says in a confused tone. "I thought he...w-was dead?"

"Allegedly. After World War II, he was held here in America for fourty years for war crimes. When SHIELD was formed, we made him a deal. Work for us, and he'd be granted amnesty."

"Amnesty, Fury? He killed hundreds with his...experiments. I would think someone like you wouldn't deal with the likes of h-him."

"Sometimes in order to be clean," Fury says taking a deep breath. "You need to get a little dirty."

Fury begins to walk out of the room, holding his hands behind his back as he exits. Before he goes out of sight, he suddenly stops, and turns back to Carol Danvers.

"Oversee this project, Ms. Danvers. Operation Prodigy begins as soon as Kaine is at perfect health." Carol nods in agreement, staying silent as she stares at her superior officer.

"Operation Prodigy?" Kaine asks confused. "What is operation Prodigy!?" He calls out to Fury.

"Pick a first name, Kaine." He says as he begins to head for the elevator. "Personally, I think Richard suits you well."

Fury's footsteps trail off as he walks off into the distance, back to his job and never ending work. Carol danvers stares at the SHIELD agents in the room, nodding to them as she turns to exit.

"Watch them." She says sternly. "This operation is to be kept cealed shut." The agents nod and Carol begins to exit the room. "Goodbye, Zola." She calls out as she too walks off into the distance.

"Hmm." Zola says with a smile. "Aufwiederzehn, Frauline."

Arnim walks over to Kaine as he continues to rest restrained on the stretcher. As he walks, his chains make a horrible noise, echoing ominiously in the large room. He begins to examine Kaine, looking at every inch of his skin and tissue.

"Unglaublich..." He whispers to himself.

"Alright, buddy, if I'm stuck with you for the next few months, you better not be speaking german."

"My apologies, Herr Kaine." Zola says with a smile. "I vill do mein best." Kaine smiles portentously, his eyes hidding a secret only he knows deep in his twisted mind.

"So, Zola." He starts as Arnim begins to remove the restraints binding Kaine to his portable bed. "You were a Nazi weren't you?"

"Ja." He responds solemnly.

"Fought the allies, the heroes, Captain America?"

"Ja, ja." Zola says with a nod. Kaine sits upright on the stretcher, rubbing his wrists as Zola removes the cuffs around his arms.

"I'd like to hear about that, Arnim." He says with a smile.

"I think I vill like you, Herr Kaine." Zola says with a descrete grin.

"Yes." Kaine says, his eyes glistening with the look of evil and revenge. "The feeling is mutual."

"Tell me, Arnim. Do you ever have thoughts of...revenge?"

[Mr. Marko]

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NORMAN OSBORN - THE GREEN GOBLIN
Part III - The Six



Several Weeks Ago...

Max Dillion sat in the back of a SHIELD truck with a power dampener collar on his neck. The Triskelion was hit. Stark Tower was hit. The world was going to hell. And Dmitri was dead.

"Blue Leader 4, we are en route to the temporary holding facility with Electro."

Max sighed. He deserved everything that came to him at this point. He was a fool. Magneto had made a fool out of him.

"Roger that, Blue Leader 4."

Suddenly, the driver of the truck began to scream. "What in the hell is that?" Without warning, the truck flew end over end, sending Max tumbling in the back of the truck.

"Holy s***!" After several seconds of scratching, the truck came to a stop. Only silence filled the truck as he made his way out the back door. "What in the hell was that?"

Max turned and saw a large man in a robotic suit just as he grabbed a Geo Metro and tossed it into a window.

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/3000/2126/132971-rhino_400.gif

He had to do something...but what? He grabbed his collar and tugged on it desperately, but to no avail. With nothing left on his mind, he simply yelled at the rampaging beast. "Hey! Rhino-boy!"

The Rhino turned and glared at Max, stopping only for a moment before charging towards him.

"Oh s***."


The R.H.I.N.O. charged Max Dillon at full speed. "Omigodoigodomigodomigod." He turned tail and began to run a full speed, but to no avail. Max felt his feet lift off the ground as the mechanical beast's horn sent a sharp pain hit him between the legs from behind. He flew through the air and landed hard on a nearby car. "Oh...son of a..."

Suddenly, Max felt another lurch as the car flipped over and he was pinned under the car. As his head hit the ground, he felt a sharp pain in his neck. A feeling like a shock.

The collar! Max grabbed it from his neck, now able to rip if off after being damaged. He let out an enormous shock from his body, sending pieces of the car flying through the air.

"Alright, pal! Lets rock!"

The beast stopped in its tracks just as Max fired a huge bolt of electricity. http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/7060/usm114me6.jpg

The R.H.I.N.O. lurched with violence as the electricity fried its circuitry. Suddenly, the robot fell to the ground hard.

Max Dillon chuckled. "Take that, you piece of s***. You're no match for Electro."

Suddenly, a loud smash burst out of a nearby building. Three more R.H.I.N.O.s lurched out.

"Aw hell."


"What exactly are you doing, Osborn?"

Norman Osborn, Otto Octavius, and Sergei Kravinoff stood at the backdoor of Oscorp. It had been some time since his executive staff had shut him out of his own company. It must have had something to do with the fact that he had turned into a giant green monster. Huh. Go figure. "I'm taking back what is rightfully mine." He transformed into the goblin for a moment as he broke the door down. Instantly, sirens began to blare. He turned to Otto, who seemed lost in thought. "What the hell are you doing?"

"They found me."

Suddenly, a large harness with four tentacle-like robotic arms lurched around a corner and stopped next to Otto. Suddenly, they latched themselves onto his back.

"Feel like a new man?"

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Octavius scoffed. "New man? No. I feel like I'm back to my old self." One of his tentacles fired at the alarm that was blaring, silencing it. "Lets go."

Norman, Otto, and Sergei reached their destination. The Vault.

"This is all we came for. Oscorps research information."

Otto looked at Norman. "All of it? I didn't know that it was all held in the same location."

Norman smiled. "I'm the only one who does. That's the point." He held his hand up to a small scanner, and soon the door opened, revealing a small laptop computer. "The Board of Directors may have taken over my company and money, but this has been connected to the mainframe since day one. Every company secret associated in the least with Oscorp is in this computer." He grabbed the computer and placed it in the carrying case that was nearby.

Sergei scoffed. "What good are your secrets without funding?"

Norman smiled. "I thought you knew me well enough to know that I have my resources." He turned to Otto. "Its time to visit an old friend."

[Catman_prb]

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Captain America watches as Cyclops piggyback-rides the monster up into the air, bravely hanging on. Brave, but brash.



"Damnit, Summers." he mutters before the Hawkeye's voice demands an answer. Tilting his head and tapping the comm in his ear. "Hawkeye. If I'm not mistaken, that is Azrael. And unless you've forgotten about Deadpool's letters, I suggest you get your ass in gear and get over here!"



Looking over to Iron Man, Rogers doesn't even bother speaking through the comm link. Instead, he shouts at the top of his voice. "Iron Man! IRON MAN! YOU AND WAR MACHINE GET CYCLOPS OFF AZRAEL'S BACK AND BLAST HIM OUT OF THE SKY! WE NEED THIS BASTARD GROUNDED AND OUT OF COMMISSION, RIGHT NOW! GO, PEOPLE!"


Clint pulled the bow of his back, and pulled on the string, fitting an arrow in. Looking down the scope, he targeted Azrael and loosed the arrow. It flew threw the sky and he dodged it gracefully, still fighting the struggling Cyclops. As if arrows were really going to stop it.

"Screw this," he muttered, pulling the rifle off of his back. He flicked it to single fire mode and knelt down. Bringing the scope to his eye, he waited until the crosshairs hovered over the creatures head. It stopped for a second, beating back Summers. Clint pulled the trigger. A single bullet flew out of the gun, and hit its mark. Azrael looked down at Clint, obviously unfazed. He raised his hand and another blast of Power Cosmic came flying at him. He stood up and ran for cover. The explosion knocked him off his feet.

"Bullets are doing jack all, Cap, where do you need me?" Clint shouted into his earpiece, his ears ringing from the explosion.

[Harlekin]

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THE BLACK KNIGHT'S TALE: PART XIII

Dane Whitman sighs as he looks at the class in front of him. Of the hundred students that have gathered in his room, half are hanging at the edge of their tables, nearly falling asleep. Dane contemplates for a moment what to do. In his hands he holds the collected works of William Shakespeare. He weighs it in his hands before letting it fall loudly on the mahogany desk in the front of the room.

<THUMP!>

The sleepy students startle awake. Dane smiles.

“Glad you could all join us,” he starts, waving his hand at the just awoken students. “Long day, huh?” He looks through the windows to the outside world. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping. Dane grins a little as he then thinks of the night before: Killing a dragon and bar brawling with the Thing, could you think of a better way to spend the time?

“Who here has read ‘Hamlet’ from this hefty piece of work?” Dane finally asks, returning his attention to his pupils. To his disappointment, only a few raise their hands and Dane paces before the room, hands to his mouth, thinking of how to continue. With a bit of a smile, he finally turns back to the students.

“To be perfectly honest… I didn’t much like it myself,” he says, and his honesty gains a few silent cheers. “The action? Not Shakespeare’s best. The dialogue? Thought provoking, but overtly dramatic. The story really drops in the middle, and let’s be frank guys, the end? Everybody dead.”

The students give their teacher an odd look and with a swagger, Dane continues: “Oh did I just spoil the ending there for ya?”

The students burst into laughter.

“Look guys, I know Shakespeare doesn’t seem like the most interesting literature, but you did sign up for English Lit. so we kinda can’t skip over him,” Dane continues. “So I want you guys to read Hamlet.”

The students groan.

“Ah, wait.” Dane throws up his hands in defence. “We’re going to do it a little differently. Next week, you’re going to come in here, and you’re going to tell me how you would do it better.”

Dane smiles.

“Plot, characters. Does Hamlet live, die, does he viciously kill Claudius with a rapier? Tell me what you think old Will could’ve done better.”
“And maybe I’ll tell why you’re wrong,” he adds with a playful wink.

Dane turns to gaze out of the window once more before looking at his class.

“Go. Out. Enjoy the sun. I’ll see you next week.”

The students explode out of their seats and rush past Dane Whitman, English Lit. professor.

“Isn’t he the best?”
“He’s so gorgeous!”
“Do you think he has a girlfriend?”
“Totally awesome.”

Satisfied, Dane turns and walks behind his desk. Taking his seat, Dane looks at the empty seats before him and then to the door. Sure that no one is looking, Dane unlocks the cabinet to the right of the desk. Slowly, he takes out the helmet he wears as the Black Knight and twirls it around in his hands. He looks at it, placing it on his right palm, his arm outstretched.

“To be or not to be, that is the question,” Dane concludes with a chuckle.

[SenseiofCheese]

Clint pulled the bow of his back, and pulled on the string, fitting an arrow in. Looking down the scope, he targeted Azrael and loosed the arrow. It flew threw the sky and he dodged it gracefully, still fighting the struggling Cyclops. As if arrows were really going to stop it.

"Screw this," he muttered, pulling the rifle off of his back. He flicked it to single fire mode and knelt down. Bringing the scope to his eye, he waited until the crosshairs hovered over the creatures head. It stopped for a second, beating back Summers. Clint pulled the trigger. A single bullet flew out of the gun, and hit its mark. Azrael looked down at Clint, obviously unfazed. He raised his hand and another blast of Power Cosmic came flying at him. He stood up and ran for cover. The explosion knocked him off his feet.

"Bullets are doing jack all, Cap, where do you need me?" Clint shouted into his earpiece, his ears ringing from the explosion.


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"You throw everything you got at it and hope something sticks." Captain America shouts into his comm, before sprinting over to three bystanders that had gathered a few feet away from where Azrael had stood before. "Get the hell out of here! Go!" he commands, and the citizens waste no time and immediately head in the opposite direction.

"Tony, damnit, you know what we're dealing with here! Get Summers off that thing!" he continues, his voice so loud he almost wouldn't even need the comm at all. He turns to Black Widow. "Natasha, you tell Fury we need guns. Big guns. The biggest he has. And we need them now! GO!." Natasha nods quietly as she turns to make the call.

There's pure chaos, but for a moment, Cap stops. He stands still. His muscles relax. His eyes close. He takes a deep breath, and he holds it. The world around him slows to a crawl
For all the times he looks himself in the mirror and tells himself he does not belong here...in this time...it's not entirely true.

This is where belongs. On the battlefield, with his brothers-in-arms.

His eyes dart open, the world around him returning to speed. He turns as he hears Natasha call out to him.

"Captain! They are on their vay!" she shouts, and Steve acknowledges with a nod.

Taking another glance upwards, the sun shining high in the air, Steve squints and observes the almost miniature speck Azrael has become.

"Our father who art in heaven..." he begins.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

It's been almost five minutes since the Kaine incident. I'm swinging through the city fast. Real fast. In fact, I might bet this is one of the fastest times I've ever moved in my life. My main reason is to get to MJ, but in the back of my mind, I can't help but think there's another reason.

I may be running. Running away from all my problems. I mean, it's not like an ordinary teenager has to deal with his clones using failed cancer suits made by his dead father to kill him in front of all his classmates. Yeah, scratch that. I'll bet on that. All the money I have. It'd be the only sure deal I can make.

Why did Kaine come after me? I keep asking myself this repeatedly. I can't understand it. I never met the guy. Never! I didn't know he existed until today! I mean, jeez. If I had known he'd try to kill me, I'd have done something to maybe deserve it. Well...with a scar like that, I guess I'd want to kill the guy I was cloned from too. Wait...wouldn't that make me...me?

Ah forget it! All this clone buisness is crazy! They do what I might or will do depending on how close the genes are. And the change in gender can affect them, temperment, horomones...it's a confusing concept, really.

It's a scary thought though. An evil me. I know what I fight inside myself. I know the rage that could come out. No one's perfect, everyone has a darkside. The difference is, I know how to control mine. I remember what Uncle Ben told me. I remember what Aunt May has taught me. So to think, a clone just like me but without the lessons and morals I've come to abide by. There'd be no stopping him.

I swing up to the spot where I left Mary Jane. Just as I thought, she's not here. Probably moved to where ever the crooks were. I land on a street sign and search the area. I look up and down the street, looking for any clues. Suddenly, the voice of a young child catches my attention.

"Look, mom! Spider-Man!" He says with a cheerful tone. I look down at him, and smile beneath my mask. At least someone appreciates me.

"Hey there, kid." I say with a pleasant wave. "Just your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man passing through."

Suddenly, a woman runs over to the young boy. She grabs him, picking him up and holding him in her arms. She stares at me with a frown, a look of anger on her face.

"No, Tommy. Stay away from that man. He's a criminal! And who knows what diseases he may have."

Diseases? Oh give me a break. All I do is bust my tail to protect these people. The same people who for no reason at all hate me. Me! The friendly neighborhood Spider-Man! Man...is it me? It is? Must be.

"Thanks, lady." I say sarcasitcally as I fire a webline into the air. "Don't get too close to me, you may catch my sunny disposition and actually smile." I say with a smirk. "It's highly contagious. I'd step back."

I swing off down the street on the webline, and continue my mission to find Mary Jane. As I make my way down the street, I hear the woman call back at me in an angry voice.

"You're the problem with the world, Spider-Man!"

Yeah. I'm the problem. If there were more of me, we wouldn't have so much crime and...more of me. Clones of me... Maybe the people are right. Maybe I do talk too much.

A few minutes later I find a clue. A piece of evidence marking the trail of the robbers. A see a crashed car, its front end smashed into a traffic light pole. Smoke billows up from the mangled hood as the tires slowly spin on their axels.

I notice in addition to the still moving tires, the doors are opened on all sides. They must have survived the crash and fled. After all, the police would still be here if they were captured. I better head straight so I can....

"AAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEE!" I hear the scream of a woman down the next alleyway. I turn and begin to head toward the noise. As I move down the alley, my mind suddenly thinks, "What if it's Mary Jane?"

As the thought enters my mind, I feel my body tense. I feel my stomach knot in nervousness, and I swing faster toward my target. It can't be MJ. If it is, I'll never live down putting her in that danger.

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As I turn out of the alley onto the next street, I see the source of the trouble. There are the four robbers, standing in the street with their guns drawn. One man holds a woman in his arms, keeping a knife close to her throat. I look carefully at the woman. To my relief, I notice it is not MJ.

I land on the street in front of them gracefully, easily coming to a halt despite my momentum. This woman may not be MJ, but she's just as important to save. Everyone is.

"Spider-Man?" One of the men says. "Oh crap. I can't get captured by him! The guys in the joint will have a ball with me!"

"I'd worry about worse things in prison, buddy." I quip. "Now, let go of the woman and I won't knock your teeth in. Sound fair?"

"Fair?!" The man with the knife says. "I got my blade to the *****'s throat! How the hell do you think you'll stop me?"

How do I think I'll stop him? Ha. Yeah...I just got done fighting something three times his size, and who knows how many times his strength. I'm pretty sure he has no idea what he's gotten himself into.

"I'll stop you like I've stopped every other crook just like you. Now please, last chance. Put down the guns."

"Fat chance! Do em' boys!"

I hear the sound of the guns loading and I take a deep sigh. Great, they're going to shoot at me. Just what I need...

"I got the freak, boss!" One of the robbers says as he opens fire on me. The bullets shoot through the air with freat speed. I narrowly dodge them, the hot pieces of lead flying right past my body. My spider-sense becomes my closest ally, warning me of the iminent danger, and instructing me where to move.

As I continue to dodge the barrage of gun fire from the criminals, I suddenly hear the sound of many "clicks". Their guns are empty. Perfect. Now's my chance.

"You know what the problem about using guns against me is?" I say in a cocky tone, landing to my feet and holding up my hands, pointing them toward the robbers. "You run out of ammo really fast when you miss."

I shoot my webs at each man, encasing him in a tight cocoon. Before the man with the knife can react, I fire a webline at his hand. I pull his arm away from the woman, and fire another webline onto her waist. I pull back on the webline sending the woman flying through the air toward me. With great care, I gently catch her in my arm and hold her tightly as I web up the last robber.

"See what I mean, guys? Why don't you just do yourselves a favor and not break the law. It's a win win for everyone."

The men try to escape from me, running slowly to the best of their ability. The webs around their bodies inhibit them greatly, causing them to trip and fall to the ground, trapped within my temporary restraints.

I look to the woman I hold in my arm, staring at her intently to make sure she is okay. As far as I can tell, she is fine, no injuries or lacerations.

"You alright?" I ask, just to be sure.

"You saved my life." She says with a look of shock. I stare at her awkwardly, the silence killing me. Is she going to freak out and run away screaming? Or will she maybe hit me and say I assaulted her? "Thank you!"

She says to my surprise. Suddenly, I find myself ensnarled in her grasp as she hugs me tightly. She keeps repeating thank you to me as she hugs me again, grateful for my daring rescue.

"It was nothing, ma'am. Just what I do."

"You're a hero!"

"Ah, I try."

I turn around to see a small crowd of people staring at the two of us. They smile at us with large grins, cheering and shouting my name. I should enjoy this. It's not everyday I'm appreciated. Of course...everytime something good happens...something really bad takes its place.

As I stare at the grouping of people, I see Mary Jane push her way to the front of the line. I stare into her eyes as she looks at me with pride. I watch her lips as she mouths "good job, hero." I smile beneath my mask in happiness, nearly forgetting all that has happened.

As the thoughts of the fight come to my mind, my joy quickly leaves me, and I get back to buisness. I point my arm at a nearby rooftop and nod slowly. She nods back to me, and immediately runs to the location.

"Alright, ma'am. It's been a pleasure saving you today. But it's a big city. Plenty of others in need of a helping hand."

"Of course. Thanks again," she says as she bats her eyes. Suddenly, she leans in and gives me a big kiss on my mask. Whoah. I really hope MJ isn't looking. This could make the news I have to tell her even more awkward... "Gimme a call sometime."

"But I don't have your..." Forget it, Parker. Just give her a wink and move it. You're not a playboy here. You're Peter Parker from Queens. The kid with acne who gets beat up before, after, and during school. "You bet. See you around."

I fire a webline into the air, its end catching onto the side of a building. I give the crowd a wave and jump off into the air, swinging off into the distance once again.

I try to get out of sight, swinging behind a row of apartments before I head back to the rooftop I waved to MJ. After a few moments, I swing around and land on the top of the building. I see MJ standing there, staring at me with cheerful eyes. She slowly approaches me, and I stand firm.

"So, Spider-Man, what took you so long? Those morons crashed their car waiting for you to catch them." Great...here's the hard part.

"Yeah...I kinda got tied up, MJ."

"What happened? Aunt May almost catch you?"

"No...it was worse than that." I say with a sigh. "Much worse."

"Well?" She starts in a worried tone, he smile slowly fading. "How "worse" was it?" I take a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh, trying to think how I should put this into words.

"Well, MJ...do you remember that clone situation I told you about?"

"Yes. I was involved in it, remember?"

"Right...right..." I start again, hesitating. "Welll..."

"Peter, you can tell me. What is it?" Oh, her eyes make this so hard to do. She has such pride in me. I hope it doesn't leave her after this. I really don't want to dissapoint her.

"Well, a clone of mine...a messed up freakshow came to Midtown with Eddie's suit." I say in a sorrowful tone. I look at her face and see the shock, the utter confusion on her face. "MJ...he came for me. He wanted to kill me."

"Oh my God," she says with a gasp."Are you okay? Is he...dead? Beaten? What happened?" I take another deep sigh, this time, the next bit of news will be harder to say than the first.

"There were...some casualties, MJ." I begin, swallowing my saliva hard. "He killed some people...because of me...because I was here...because I wasn't there..."

[Matt Murdock]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

Tony Stark was face-down in the grass of Central Park. Everything seemed to be swirling around him. Captain America's voice seemed to merely wash over him.

"...Ultimates, Sound off! Is everyone okay?!"

"Fine, Rogers." Stark grumbled.

Blinking a few times, Stark realized that his HUD was dark.

Seconds passed, and Stark sighed heavily.

"Er... Hello?" He asked blankly.

Nothing.

Trying to move, Stark found that the bulk of his armor was massively heavy.

"Typical." He growled angrily. "No power."

Stark pursed his lips and sat quietly for a moment before flailing about in his suit, trying to move the multi-ton apparatus.

"DAMMITDAMMITSONOFA*****." He roared, knowing that his cries would be unable to penetrate the thick metal encapsulating him.

Tony Stark had been in fight after fight, but never before had he been, literally, powerless to do anything as Iron Man.

A crackle rang through his helmet.

"This is why I always tell you, Tony, not to trust power distribution in your suit to a prototypical artificial intelligence."


"Pepper!" He said, exuberantly. "What am I missing?"

"Iron Man! IRON MAN! YOU AND WAR MACHINE GET CYCLOPS OFF AZRAEL'S BACK AND BLAST HIM OUT OF THE SKY! WE NEED THIS BASTARD GROUNDED AND OUT OF COMMISSION, RIGHT NOW! GO, PEOPLE!"

Stark blinked a few times, trying to control his disappointment in the failure of his machinery.

"...Scratch that. What the hell is going on with my armor?"

"The teleportation sent the power satellite into overdrive. Two of them have fused power couplings, and had to be shut down. We just managed to get the primary back-up piece online. You've got life-support, communications, and internal sensors."

"And..." Stark realized his question was far too broad. "How am I doing?"

Still somewhat dazed, Pepper's answer didn't fully register.

"Physically, we're picking up that you've got two broken ribs and a collapsed lung."

"I see. Push my painkillers, then."

Stark heard her tap on a few buttons, and felt liquid rush through the plugs in his arm.

"As far as your mentality is concerned, only you can tell us how you're doing there."

Iron Man clearly heard her, but didn't bother responding, mainly because she wouldn't like what he had to say.

"Aside from the power issue, how are my suit systems functioning?"

"We can't tell you much at this point, but it seemed like everything was fine. Weapons are a bit shaky, and, of course, your armor's structural integrity is incredibly low."

"If you had to give me an efficiency percentage?"

Stark felt her grimace from the other side of the comm.

"38%. Tops."

"S**t." He growled.

A humming noise that echoed throughout his armor indicated that Iron Man was back up and running.

"Secondary power grid activated."

"Tony, damnit, you know what we're dealing with here! Get Summers off that thing!"

"Should I get Happy on the line with him, sir?"

"To tell him what?"

"Shutting the hell up would be a start."

Stark snickered quietly as his HUD began to glow.

The world beyond his helmet was chaotic. Dust was everywhere, people were screaming, and Azrael was rocketing higher and higher into the sky.

"No time, my dear."

Iron Man heaved himself to his feet. His comm wasn't near sensitive enough to catch it, but a steady series of clicks were ringing out through Iron Man HQ as his loyal assistant chewed anxiously on her nails.

"Want me to divert power to the thrusters?"

"No. Don't bother. I'm flooding them with fuel manually. I'll maybe get fifteen seconds of stable flight once I launch."

Iron Man gripped a lever on each of his calved and heaved upwards, flooding the canisters in his boots with liquid fuel.

"Instead, I want you to give me full power to my weapons. Prepare to divert it to armor on my mark. While you're at it, try and get the Jarvis program back up and running."

"Yes, Sir."

"And, Pepper?"

"Mmm?"

"Remind me to integrate my HUD into the primary systems when I get back."

"Yes, Mr. Stark."

Clenching his teeth, Iron Man slammed his fists onto the sides of his knees, igniting the flames beneath his feet, and he began to surge upwards.

"Our father who art in heaven..." His teammate said quietly.

Tony Stark was never a religious man. He had always held firmly to the idea that if there was, indeed, a being in the sky that cared about the day-to-day goings-on of humanity, then that made his life somewhat insignificant in the 'grand scheme of things.'

And that was a thought that Tony Stark didn't like one bit.

Even so, he found himself joining his friend and teammate via his headset.
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"Hallowed by thy name!" The armored hero roared as he surged into the sky.

Iron Man made short work of the ascent to Azrael, the woman, and Cyclops. Flying mere inches behind the trio, Iron Man wrapped his palm around a handful of Cyclops' uniform.

"Next stop..." He said, heaving the X-Man off, "Ground floor!"

Cyclops gasped as he started falling straight for the ground.

"Hey, Ms. Witch, do you think you can take care of this gentleman?" Stark asked as his mutant ally drifted downwards.

"As for you," he said, disregarding a warning light in his helmet and turning to Azrael, "let her go, and you might see tomorrow."

The being slowed down as it continued to rise higher and higher. Without warning, it pierced the woman's throat, spewing blood onto Iron Man's helmet.

Azrael was a few inches, perhaps a foot, out of reach. Iron Man could strike him within a heartbeat.
"Fetch." It said, simply hurling her to the ground.
"NO!" Iron Man roared, instinctively lurching downwards.

The warning light panged once more, until his thrusters gave out, and he began rocketing faster and faster towards the ground.

"Pepper, I'm going to need you to divert power to my armor right about now..." He said, as he felt beads of sweat drip down his forehead.

"Done, Tony." She said, a few tense seconds later. "But I don't know what good it will do."

The woman was a lost cause. Iron Man would never catch up to her. So, he rolled in mid-air, facing Azrael.

"Overload my plasma repulsors." He said, as the ground grew closer.

"Bu--"

"I don't have time to argue!" He said, exasperated. "Just do it, for Christ's sake."

A split-second later, Pepper replied.

"They're charging."

As the power levels rose, she kept him updated.

"45%...57%...74... 82...96... 100."

Thrusting his palms upward, Iron Man unleashed a devastating blast of pure energy. He was unable to see whether or not it struck it's target, though, as it only made his descent faster.

With crippling speed, Stark crashed into the street, making a massive crater around him.

He was unsure of how much time passed from his landing to when he heaved himself out of the street. He looked up, from his pit, and saw a familiar figure standing over him.

http://img.qj.net/uploads/articles_module/65996/marvel_thor_qjpreviewth.jpg

"It's about time you got here." His mechanical voice said.

[Gallagher]

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Thor forced back a smile as he stood over the downed Iron Man, instead looking to the skies, glaring at the being hovering above.

"This the super-being Wilson told us about?" The thunder God asked, almost rhetorical. His eyes narrowed as the terror flapped it's demonic wings, rising higher into the air once more.

"Stand back." Thor growled, his eyes never leaving his foe's, energy surging through them. Gritting his teeth the God kicked off from the ground thrusting his mighty hammer forward causing him to soar into the air.

The creature that was once Wade Wilson caught sight of the oncoming deity too late as the two crashed together in mid-air, energy bolts flew from the hands of Azrael, Thor batting them aside with Moljiner like harmless flies. The two clashed together once more as Thor thrust himself forward, ramming himself into the creature's gut. Picking up speed the two raised higher into the air, all the while Thor raining down fists onto the face and body of his enemy. The being screeched in pain, it's face a myriad of frustration and anger. It's claws started to swipe at the God's face with a unprecedented amount of ferocity, like a cornered animal. Thor, releasing Azrael, wiped the blood from his face. Grimacing at the pain he looked to the sky.

"You're in my territory now Devil..." He yelled, his arms outstretched, rain lashing down on them.

"Up here you're nothing... Up here... I'm God." Azrael roared as Thor lifted the hammer toward the skies and brought down the fury of the elements down upon him. Lightening forked down to the ground, weaving in and out of skyscrapers, crashing against the pavement miles below.

Azrael spiraled downwards attempting to escape the thunderous wrath of Thor, The Thunder God watched as the being dodged as best he could but the elements were being shaped by Thor himself, the being could not escape, bringing his hammer down he dragged the very storm in the sky with it, a terrible force of pure electricity and sent it with all his might careening toward the murderous creature.

The elements collided with Azrael, screaming he dropped from the sky. Thor watched on, unmoving from his position in the clouds.

"Your move."

[Catman_prb]

The elements collided with Azrael, screaming he dropped from the sky. Thor watched on, unmoving from his position in the clouds.

"Your move."
Clint watched the two super powered beings fighting across the sky. He saw the silver monstrosity that was Azrael fall from the sky, landing on the ground, causing the earth to shake. Clint sprinted from his hiding place behind some trees, trying to reach the crater it had caused. He switched the rifle to automatic fire. The armour piercing rounds should take care of the rest. He reached the edge of the crater and readied his rifle. Shuffling forwards, ready to put a bullet in Azrael's head, there came a growling sound. Then Azrael floated upwards.

"Surprise," he hissed. The silver, clawed fist seemed to come from nowhere, and connected with his chest. Clint gasped and was lifted up in the air, coming down several metres away. His eyes flicker, and his brain sparks, desperately trying to keep himself awake. He could feel blood seeping over his clothes. A broken rib at best.

"Hawkeye! Hawkeye!" came the crackling cry over the comm "Clint! Get up Clint, he's right on top of you!"

[SenseiofCheese]

Clint watched the two super powered beings fighting across the sky. He saw the silver monstrosity that was Azrael fall from the sky, landing on the ground, causing the earth to shake. Clint sprinted from his hiding place behind some trees, trying to reach the crater it had caused. He switched the rifle to automatic fire. The armour piercing rounds should take care of the rest. He reached the edge of the crater and readied his rifle. Shuffling forwards, ready to put a bullet in Azrael's head, there came a growling sound. Then Azrael floated upwards.

"Surprise," he hissed. The silver, clawed fist seemed to come from nowhere, and connected with his chest. Clint gasped and was lifted up in the air, coming down several metres away. His eyes flicker, and his brain sparks, desperately trying to keep himself awake. He could feel blood seeping over his clothes. A broken rib at best.

"Hawkeye! Hawkeye!" came the crackling cry over the comm "Clint! Get up Clint, he's right on top of you!"

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

"....thy kingdom come." Cap continued under his breath, a massive wave of relief washing over him as he saw Thor appear from nowhere and force Azrael to the ground. This just might work. The being, however, was already on top of Clint, with it's mindboggling speed. "Hang in there, Barton! Widow, distract him!" Steve called at Natasha, who had a look of worry on her face that Steve had not seen before. Perhaps she and Clint were....No time, he thought to himself.

Natasha sprung into action, pulling out a heavily modified pistol and opening fire. The bullets whizzed at the beast, slamming into it's back and falling to the ground, causing no more damage than hurling pebbles would. "...thy will be done. On earth as it is in heaven. And lead us not in temptation." Steve's breath became labored has he sprinted as fast as he could towards the beast. It did not even raise it's head at the attack from Black Widow, but simply stood over Hawkeye. "...and deliver us...." Azrael raised it's massive, clawed hand.

http://www.superherostuff.com/Biographies/captain_america3.gif

"...from evil."

The shield, in all it's glory, cut through the air with awe-inspiring grace, the red, white and blue whizzing towards the best. Azrael roared as, with a quick swipe, brought it's claw down towards Clint. The moment before it made contact with his head, the shield slammed into the side of it's head. The sheer force knocked the beast off it's feet, the claw barely missing it's target but instead slashing across Clint's arm. Both shouted in pain, but as the monster stumbled, dazed, Clint swiped his leg under Azrael's feet, completely knocking it on it's back with a loud thud.

"Amen."

[Matt Murdock]

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"....thy kingdom come." Cap continued under his breath, a massive wave of relief washing over him as he saw Thor appear from nowhere and force Azrael to the ground. This just might work. The being, however, was already on top of Clint, with it's mindboggling speed. "Hang in there, Barton! Widow, distract him!" Steve called at Natasha, who had a look of worry on her face that Steve had not seen before. Perhaps she and Clint were....No time, he thought to himself.

Natasha sprung into action, pulling out a heavily modified pistol and opening fire. The bullets whizzed at the beast, slamming into it's back and falling to the ground, causing no more damage than hurling pebbles would. "...thy will be done. On earth as it is in heaven. And lead us not in temptation." Steve's breath became labored has he sprinted as fast as he could towards the beast. It did not even raise it's head at the attack from Black Widow, but simply stood over Hawkeye. "...and deliver us...." Azrael raised it's massive, clawed hand.

http://www.superherostuff.com/Biographies/captain_america3.gif

"...from evil."

The shield, in all it's glory, cut through the air with awe-inspiring grace, the red, white and blue whizzing towards the best. Azrael roared as, with a quick swipe, brought it's claw down towards Clint. The moment before it made contact with his head, the shield slammed into the side of it's head. The sheer force knocked the beast off it's feet, the claw barely missing it's target but instead slashing across Clint's arm. Both shouted in pain, but as the monster stumbled, dazed, Clint swiped his leg under Azrael's feet, completely knocking it on it's back with a loud thud.

"Amen."




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Ultimate Iron Man

"Pepper, I want you to divert all available power to melee combat systems and structural integrity." Iron Man said, somewhat leaping out of the pit in the ground.

"Make sure my sensors are up and running. I want a full-spectrum particle analysis ready for when I get back."

Sparks flew from his armor, and he knew that the suit didn't have much more power in it.

"Hold together for me..." He asked the suit.

Iron Man sprinted forward, his massive boots crushing the sidewalk as he went.

Azrael was on the ground, but Iron Man knew that the creature would be on his feet in seconds.

Unless, of course, someone stopped him.

Clenching a mechanized fist, Iron Man leaped into the air when he was mere feet away from Azrael. He slammed on top of the being, delivering a seemingly crushing blow to its sternum. Iron Man was met with a jarring blow to the stomach as well, though, and soared over the creature, landing in a shrub a few feet away.

Iron Man vaulted into the air once more, charging the alien again.

Cocking his arm back, Iron Man delivered a super-powered hook to the being's jaw, and sent it flying into a building.

Everyone around him watched quietly, half hoping that that would be the end of the confrontation.

A roar echoed through the streets and, like a missile, Azrael ripped through the wreckage, headed straight for Iron Man.

"Uh... Pepper. Go ahead and divert all of my power to structural integrity."

Azrael was blowing past each of the other Ultimates, on a direct course for Iron Man.

"Now... plea--"

CRASH!

Azrael met Iron Man like a locomotive, nearly tearing the armor itself apart with the speed of the collision.

"Iron Man to anyone..." Stark muttered as his systems flickered on and off. "H...help."

[Catman_prb]

Sue placed a hand on the saddened Reed Richards, brushing a hand through her hair she leaned in close.

"Well maybe we should make a house call to Mr. Fury?" She whispered with a slight venomous tone to her voice. "He DID promise us our funding back if we tied up this Kaine business for him. Since when did we become Fantastic SHIELD Agents?"
"Yeah. Yeah, I think you're right Sue. I'll go and pay Fury a visit. You're in charge until I get back," Reed muttered, distracted "I'll call you later," he said as he walked away from the other members of the Fantastic Four. He seemed to walk slightly unsteady, as though he was already staggered by the weight of what he was going to do. He walked for about ten minutes, until he was a fair distance away from the sound of ambulances and screaming teenagers. And the acrid smell of death. He hailed a taxi as it came past.

"Wow. Are you Mister Fantastic?" the driver asked in awe. Reed nodded wordlessly, and got into the back seat.
Take me to the Triskelion," Reed said. The driver turned around and looked at him, but seeing his face, turned back and started the car up.

The Triskelion

Reed walked up to the SHIELD agents standing guard at the gates of the Triskelion. He flashed his ID and had a retina scan before being allowed in. Entering on his own and without an invitation felt odd to Reed. Any other time he's been here, it had been with Proffesor Storm or the rest of the team, to talk to Fury. Now he was on his own, and talking to Fury wasn't his primary reason. He entered one of the buildings and went to the reception. An icy looking woman sat behind a computer, not looking up as Reed approached.

"How may I help you?"

"I'm looking for the Mutations and Exploitives Department,"

"They aren't available,"

"I have an appointment. Reed Richards, I'm here to study the symbiotic life-form taken from Queens today,"

"I don't have an appointment listed,"

"What a shame. Where's the symbiote?" Reed said, looking slightly threatening now. The woman gave him a deadpan stare.

"I don't have an appointment," she stated again. Reed leaned across the table and grabbed her by the lapels of her jacket.

"Point me in the direction of the Suit, and I'll let you go unharmed," he snarled. She looked into his eyes for conformation of the threat, then pointed down a corridor to the right.

"Take the elevator to the second floor, it's being kept in there," she gasped. Reed let her go and ran down the corridor as fast as he could, expecting to hear the sound of an alarm any second. He called the elevator up, and jumped inside, quickly pressing the button for the second floor. He stood for a second, breathing heavily. This was it, he'd made his choice. The doors slid open again, and Reed ran into a long corridor, full of rooms. He ran to one that seemed to be sealed and steel re enforced, and pulled on the handle. Suprisingly it was open, and Reed let himself in.

There was what appeared to be a scientist in a bio-hazard suit working on a sample of the suit. The Suit itself was inside a glass cage, and Reed could have sworn he could see it move. He stepped forwards and tapped the scientist on the shoulder. As he turned around, Reed gave him a swift left hook, knocking him onto the floor. There was a pistol at his hip. Some scientist, Reed thought as he picked the weapon up. He moved over to the symbiote, and fiddled with dials on the side of the cage. A large electrical current went through the cage, sending the Suit into spasm. Reed opened it up, and pulled a sample of the black form away, putting it in a test tube that he found laying around the lab. Placing the bung in, Reed put the sample inside his jacket, then closed the cage up.

He walked outside the lab, closing the door behind him, and heading towards the lift. He pressed the ground floor button, and his cell phone started ringing.

"This is Richards,"
"What the hell are you doing?" Nick Fury shouted down the line.
"Where is Kaine, General?"
"If this is to do with the grant money-"
"It isn't. Where is Kaine?"
"He's secure, that's all that matters,"
"What do you know about clones, General?"
"What are you talking about Richards? Stop this right now, or my men will be forced to open fire on you,"
"I want something of you General,"
"What?"
"Amnesty for the rest of the Fantastic Four. Johnny, Sue and Ben. You'll set the Baxter Building back up, and they'll get all the funding they need. Promise me,"
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"If you don't, I go public. About the clones, the Suit, everything I know,"
"My men will kill you before you get a minute outside of this place,"
"Amnesty, General,"
"What do I get out of this?"
"I don't come after you. You personally,"
"Is that a threat?"
"Yes,"
"Ok. I'll sort out the rest of the Fantastic Four. What now?"
"Now you open the doors of this elevator," Reed said, hanging the phone up as the doors slowly slid open. There were five SHIELD men with machine guns facing him down.

"Put the gun down Richards," the leader shouted. Reed smiled broadly.
"No," he said. Then he dropped the barrel of the gun down, firing and shooting the left kneecap of the first man, who dropped to the ground. He twisted, and shot another man in the chest. Then they started firing at him. Reed elongated his body, twisting out of the hail of bullets, which thumped into the wall. He stretched his arm, grabbing one of the remaining men and holding a gun to his head.

"Something must be going on, or there would be more of you. Ultimates in trouble?" he asked conversationally "Now put the guns down or I blow his brains out,"

The men layed their guns on the floor carefully, then raised their hands in the air. Reed kept a grip around the man's neck, walking backwards slowly, moving out of the door.

"Have a nice day gents," he said, throwing the man into his comrades. Reed turned and ran. He could vaguely hear alarms going off around him, but he carried on towards the gate. For some reason, the guards were gone. Maybe Fury had ordered them to stand down, but Reed doubted it. They probably had bigger fish to fry. He sprinted down the road, and didn't stop running until he was in a dark alley a good half mile away. He picked up the cell phone again, and dialled home.

"Sue, by the time you get this message, I'll be gone and I'll have ditched this phone. Fury will ask you questions about where I am, so I won't tell you where I'm going. I'm doing this because I need to know the truth. Something's rotten, and I intend to find out what. Just know...I do love you. And I'll miss you every day until I come back. But I will come back. None of my actions from now on will speak for the Fantastic Four or any of its members. I quit," he said, and dropped the phone before stepping it into dust.

[Eddie Brock]

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As Eli and I walk down Main Street, we pass an electronics store. The multiple televisions are all broadcasting the same image. I think nothing of it, but Eli slows down before completely stopping. Holding onto my arm tightly, he points to the screens and announces, "Jess, look!"

I oblige and glance at the TVs. They are all showing a news broadcast. My eyes widen slightly as I realize that I'm looking at the exterior of Midtown High School. The caption at the bottom of the screen reads, "HIGH SCHOOL TRAUMA!" "Oh my God..."

Part of me wants to stay to see what happened, but then I'm filled with a sudden conviction. No, I have to leave that life behind me for a little while. There's no point in getting emotionally involved. I couldn't have done anything, anyway - not in my condition. Pregnant superheroes don't seem possible. I mean, not that superheroes seem possible either.

I tug on Eli's arm. "Come on, let's not ruin the night," I suggest. If I feel so inclined, I can read up on this situation tomorrow in the newspaper. For the time being, I just want to go out and have a normal night. Well, as normal as it can get when you're a pregnant clone. It boggles my mind when I try to think about what Peter and Ben are technically considered in relation to my child. They're uncles, I suppose, but really - due to our genetic structure - they're fathers. Sort of.

Ew.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

Previously (http://forums.superherohype.com/showpost.php?p=14686764&postcount=112)

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/7396/blackheartut8.jpg

The Ascension of a Prince Part II

One Month Ago - Hell

"Father!" Blackheart exclaims in anger. "Why would you do this to me?"

"Do what, son? Help you?" Mephistopheles responds from his throne, a smile discretely showing on his face as he leans back comfortably in his chair.

"No! Disgrace me! I am you're only son!"

"And you still are, son. Mephista is your sister."

"Father, I am the heir to your throne! I am the only offspring from you! It I who will carry on the family!"

"Son, don't be so naive." Mephisto says letting out a sigh. "I am immortal. I can not die. Did you really think you'd inherit my throne? Honestly. As if the immortal ruler of the underworld would perish, leaving an open seat for his heir? Please, son. Tell me you were not that foolish."

Blackheart stands quietly, his tongue silenced by his father's words. He hates to admit it, but Mephisto was right. Blackheart would never become the ruler of hell. Not if he lived by his father's rules. The only way he could rule is if he formed a coup. A mutiny. And, despite Blackheart's feelings, he could never follow through with a plan like that.

Blackheart realizes the pain he feels inside. The animosity he has toward his only father. But to rip hell in two, to form a civil war in the other world would be lunacy, an impossibility. Blackheart knows the war he fights everyday. To fight his father would be sabatoge, ultimately killing the future army of hell.

Blackheart lets out a long sigh as he realistically thinks of this situation. The utter impossibility of it makes him sick, knowing for an eternity he must live under his father's rule, forced to do as he says, or face a bounty hunter and be returned as a fugitive.

"No, father." Blackheart responds, his head loosely hanging on his neck. "I did not."

"Good, son." He says with a grin. "I knew you couldn't be that naive." As Mephisto softly laughs, Blackheart sneers, hiding his anger beneath a composed face. "Now, son, Mephista is not your enemy. She is your ally. Think of her as your reinforcements. She can do what you cannot."

"In other words, think of her as mybetter?" Blackheart responds in a disgruntled tone.

"No, son. Think of her as family. Think of her as me, out there in the mortal plane, helping you every step of the way. After all, with that curse you have from the Rider, I wouldn't want my only son to die."

"Yes, father." Blackheart says solemnly.

"Then it is settled. Mephista, join your brother. Help him in all he does. Your first assignment, bring that wretched traitor Chthon back to this realm. He must suffer for his crimes." Mephisto bellows in an angered tone.

"As you wish, father. Chthon will be returned here as just as you command."

"Good. I shall see you soon. Show him no mercy."

Mephista walks down the throne toward Blackheart. She slinks seductively, her form both attractive and fearsome. She walks up next to Blackheart and stops, standing still next to her brother. The two nod to Mephisto, and their bodies turn to a black smoke, disapearing from hell and being transported between realms.

Only seconds later, the two demons appear on Earth. They hover above a grassy plane, a soft breeze brushing the tall grass as it stands tall. Their bodies emit the familiar black smoke as they form completely into the new dimension. The wind blows by them again, brushing away the smoke and showing their bodies completely.

"Alright, brother." Mephista says in a commanding tone. "You will not interfere with me. Understood?"

"Uh...I'm not sure what you're talking about." Blackheart says confused. "I thought we were suppossed to go bring Chthon back to hell together."

"Oh please, Blackheart." She says with a cruel smile. "Dad obviously sees you as a failure. How many assignments of his have you left uncompleted?"

"Two." Blackheart responds with a hiss.

"Yes. Two more than I would leave undone. Now, you are here. Consider yourself lucky. I'm going to clean up your mess. I won't tell you this again, brother. Stay out of my way. I don't want you to ruin any more missions. Got it?"

"Sure, princess." Blackheart says with an enraged smile. "I got it."

"Good." She growls. "See you in hell." With that, Mephista turns to smoke, dissapearing in the dark void and appearing on another part of the planet. Blackheart stares at the dark cloud, a wide smile on his face.

"So," he starts, rubbing his chin. "I get what I want after all. I've spent too much time doing my father's work. If Mephista wants to be his slave, than I won't stop her. I actually applaud her. Doing my job for me? It's almost like a reward." Blackheart laughs as he flies over the large open field. He stares at the animals below, the new world beneath him, seeing it in a new light.

"I've been blinded for so long. A prince doesn't work. A prince does what he wants. He has his own agendas, his own plans to proceed with. Forget my father, forget his wishes, and most of all, forget the Rider. I'm finished with what my father wants." Blackheart suddenly stops, hovering high above the ground below him. He takes in a deep breath and closes his eyes, reveling in his newly found freedom.

"It's time to do what I want." He says in a confident tone, an evil grin coming across his face. "And what I want...is fear. This world needs to know my name. I want people to scream it in the streets, praying to their guardians and angels that I will spare their souls from a horror worse than death!"

"It's time for misery! Time for hatred and chaos! Time for the prophets and the heroes to die with their morals, holding onto them til their last breath! It's time for corruption! Time for pain, time for dispair! Time for plagues of death and destruction!" He laughs loudly, his voice resonating deeply. The fauna around him run, fearing his presence. The grass wilts and the trees begin to die. A dark cloud begins to roll in over the area, the surroundings becoming old and desolate.

"It's time...for some fun."

[Syn (Mercenary)]

Previously (http://forums.superherohype.com/showpost.php?p=14698355&postcount=116)

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The Next Step Part IV

Rumekistan

Outside the capital city of Rumekistan, a small unit of three super soldiers waits. The moon is high in the sky tonight, shining brightly in the clear sky. One of the soldiers inhales, smoking his cigar. The tip burns in the darkness, an illuminated orange circle penetrating through the black of night.

The soldier throws the cigar to the ground and smothers it with his shoe, rubbing it into the dirt ground. He lets out a deep breath, exhaling a large cloud of gray smoke from his mouth. He frowns with impatience, staring at the border of the city with a look of dissapointment. He pushes up the sleeve of his dark gray uniform and looks at his watch. Unsatisfied, he spits on the ground.

"What the hell are we waiting for?" He asks, leaning back on the rock he sits on.

"Relax, Mackey." One of the soldiers says in a calm tone, walking closer to the group. "President Winters told us we were getting another member. Said it was a surprise."

"A surprise?" Mackey says sarcastically. "More like an inconvience."

"You would question our leader?"

"No, Rivvak." He says in a grunt. "I just want to get at these damn rebels. They are becoming a nuissance."

"Mutants were always a nuissance, Erin." He says with a smirk. "That's why we've been instructed to eliminate them."

"You got a point, Mikel. I just like watchin' em scream, you know? That look in their eyes when you rip out their quills or tear their wings in two." Erin turns to the third member of the group as he smiles evily. The third member stands alone at the ridge of the small hill, staring out at the night sky silently. He says nothing, standing still like a statue. "Hey, Malik! You ready to kill some muties tonight?"

Albert Malik. His last mutant hunt left his unit with a casualty. Today, he stands indifferent, his mind forever changed by the horrible sight of seeing a friend cut down. Malik turns back, silently breathing, looking at Mackey with a disturbed expression.

"Yes," he responds simply. "I want to get revenge. For Kane."

He turns back, continuing his watch of the cityscape in front of him. Mackey's smile soon fades, remembering the fate of Kane. The bloody masacre that happened, when the soldier's arms were severed from his body. Erin looks down at the ground, saddened.

"No need to do that," a voice says from above. The three men immediately look up, staring at the man slowly descending to the ground. "I can avenge myself."

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"Kane?" Mackey says surprised.

"In the flesh. Well, and metal." He says pointing to his arms. He hits them with his metal fist, making a loud clang. He smiles pridefully, impressed by his soldier's surprise. "Docs made me some extremities. New arms so I can continue my fight. These babies are pretty efficient too."

"Do they hurt?" Malik asks, slowly walking down the ridge and approaching the group.

"No, Al." Kaine replies with a smile. "I'm fine."

"When I last saw you...I thought you were minutes from death." He says coldly, no sense of compassion or empathy in his voice.

"Really? I thought you told me I was going to survive?"

"I lied." He says as he walks up to Kane.

"You lied to me?" He asks in a suprised tone. "Well, now, that wasn't very nice." The two men stare at eachother for a moment in silence, the tension in the air rising. Suddenly, Malik smiles, throwing out his arm and grabbing Kane's hand.

"I'm glad you're alive, Garrison." He says in a uplifting tone. "You're my best friend out here."

"Hey, I'm glad to." Kane says with a hearty laugh, gripping his friend's hand tightly as they shake.

"I wouldn't want anyone else besides you out there watching my back."

"Same, man. Without you, I'd be dead."

"Strong grip, there." Malik says with a grunt, Kane's hand begining to crush his. "Those things do anything besides break bones?"

"Ha! Ha! Oh, yeah. They can do a lot more."

"Mind giving me a demonstration?"

"Will do, buddy. When we hit the battlefield." Kane releases his friends hand, patting him on the back roughly. "Alright, boys, what town is it tonight?"

"Frayhoc." Mackey says, punching his fist into his hand. "Now if you two ladies are done, I want to do some fighting tonight."

"I couldn't agree more." Kane says with a grin. "I heard Bishop is hiding out in Frayhoc. Was intel right?"

"Dead on. We know he's here. Only thing we have to do is flush him out."

"Well, boys, if you don't mind," Kane slowly rises into the air, cracking his metal hands as he rises above his fellow soldiers. "I think it's time for a little murder."

"Wow, Malik." Mackey says as he grinds his teeth together, his lips curling into a disturbing smile. "You were right about Garrison. The guy's got passion."

"I have more than, passion, Lieutenant Mackey." Kane says with a growl. "I have a score to settle."

******

Barjnov

Nathan Winters, also known as the mighty Cable, pours a glass of scotch from his assorted cart of liquor. The fine yellow liquid flows into his glass like a golden treasure, bubbling like a calming waterfall as it fills the cup.

Gently, he sets the bottle down on the cart and begins walking toward his desk. He takes a large sip from the glass, indulging in his finest of pleasures with a satisfied feeling.

As he approaches his desk, he carefully sets the glass down on the wooden top. He walks around the wooden piece of furniture, standing in front of a large computer monitor on his desk.

He leans back and sits in his chair, letting out a silent sigh as he relaxes in his cushioned seat. Nathan puts his hand on the mouse of his computer, slowly moving it about the pad. The blank screen on the monitor suddenly flashes, changing to his desktop.

On the screen a small alert pops up, making a ding as it shows. Nathan clicks on the icon, causing it to enlarge into a large video. The video begins to play, starting at first in darkness, but quickly changing to a visable image.

On the screen is Neena Thurman, the mercenary known only as Domino. She is dressed differently, clothed in civilian clothes. Behind her in the video is the image of a room, painted with bright and beautiful colors.

Neena stares at the screen, shaking it as she adjusts the camera. She looks over her shoulder quickly, checking for any others who could be there. Knowing the coast is clear, she looks back to the screen, and begisn to speak.

"Nathan, this is Neena. I have infiltrated the X-men mansion. So far, I've been met with pleasant smiles and positive attitudes. I've been given a room here, so I think they trust me. I can't talk long. One of the members here wants to give me a tour. I'll give you a message once every day or so if possible. I will feed the cameras and bugs that I activate here directly to your computer, this way, there is no chance for error."

"Neena! Come on!" A voice calls.

"I'm coming!" She yells back. "Okay, this message is complete. I will send another once the bugs are in place." She smiles, putting her hand ontop of the camera. "You can send my money to the account I have in Switzerland. Name: Tamara Winter." She prepares to turn off the camera, but suddenly stops, looking back at the screen.

"Oh, and one more thing. Remember, don't send anyone else. You're paying me to do the job here alone. I don't want any Ultimatum showing up here. Or any Flag breakers, or whatever you call them. This is reconaissance as you said. I don't want to start a war."

Neena puts her hand back on the camera and flicks a switch. The screen goes black once again, and the audio cuts off into silence. Nathan clicks the "x" on the image, and closes it. He picks his glass up and moves it to his mouth, taking another sip. As he places the glass back down on the table, he smiles, rubbing his face carefully as he softly laughs.

"Tamara Winter." He says with a chuckle. "Nathan Winters. This girl's good." He lifts his glass to his mouth once more and drinks, finishing off the intising liquid inside.

"Soon we will meet again, mother." Nathan says with hate, his disposition changing to a tone of hostility and remorse. "Face to face. Eye to eye. And then...then all will be clear..."

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[Harlekin]

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/3240/logozu5.gif
THE BLACK KNIGHT'S TALE: PART XIV

“Hey babe, did you miss me?” Dane asks as he approaches his motorcycle, still chained to the lamp post near the Naked Lady. To his surprise, the bike was in the exact same state he’d left it in. Dropping the tool box besides the cycle, Dane set to work: crashing ‘Strider’ into the dragon had done some damage to the finer points of the customized bike.

While working on his prized possession, Dane thinks of the startling events of the last twenty-four hours. First, he and the Fantastic Four fought a real life dragon, and once the battle was won he went on to share a few too many drinks with Ben Grimm, a.k.a. the Thing. While Dane had gone to bed though, the superhero team went on to battle a crazed-out villain at Midtown High. By the time Dane awoke, the battle was over and he could only catch a few snippets of it on the news. He was glad to hear his friend had made it through the conflict relatively unscathed.

And while Dane had been giving his classes, the Ultimates had become embroiled in a battle with a mysterious creature, which had ended up wrecking large parts of New York by the time the battle was over. All in all, it was a pretty crazy day for superheroes and as he makes the necessary repairs to his bike, Dane wonders how the real heroes can even stand such days. In fact, far as Dane was concerned, superheroing wasn’t in the Whitman blood just yet.

“Oh, look at that, fellas, ain’t that a purty bike?” A group of hoodlums approach Dane and his bike. He initially does not respond, although there’s fire in his eyes when one of the thugs runs his fingers along the backside of the motorcycle. Dane tries to continue his repairs, ignoring the three men that have now surrounded him and Strider.

“What, you ain’t gonna say nothing?” one of the thugs, obviously the leader, lays his hand on Dane’s shoulder. He gives a short nudge. Instantly, the vigilante reacts, his oil-covered hand shooting out to envelop his opponent’s hand and twisting, forcing the man to release his hand on Dane’s shoulder. His friends immediately flash knives, but Dane shows no fear, rising to meet his attackers.

“Gonna cut you up good,” the leader says, taking out his own knife and slashing towards Dane. He effortlessly dodges the strike. Foolishly, one of the others jumps forward, knife extended. With a swift blow to the man’s hand and wrist, the foe is disarmed. Grabbing the man’s arm, Dane pulls his opponent in close and delivers a swift and merciless head butt. Blood springs from the man’s nose and once released he staggers back.

Meanwhile, multiple people pass by the conflict, but none dare to interfere. Dane looks at them with a modicum of disgust. “Don’t worry, I’ll handle this,” he says as he pushes his attackers against one another. Dane’s fist flies out and another knife falls to the ground, clattering on the city street. With an efficient jab to the neck, the leader is downed, and acknowledging defeat, signals his comrades to abandon the fight.

Dane lets them run as he collects the knives from the street and places them in a pocket inside his leather jacket. Putting the toolbox under his seat, Dane gets on Strider and revs the engine. The motorcycle roars to life and Dane smiles.

Victorious, the Knight rides out into the night.

[SenseiofCheese]

LOKI
Oh, how those idiots amused him.
Loki stood on the very edge of an apartment building, facing Central Park. Far enough not to catch the attention of the heroes, but close enough to see them tossed around like dolls.
He watched gleefully as the Ultimates tossed themselves against the winged beast, only to be knocked down. Not even Loki knew exactly who, or what, they were fighting, but he hardly cared. This was entertainment.
A familiar sound of thunder, the very distinct flash of lighting, and Loki sneered. He looked up and his face grew more vile.

"And there we have big brother." he spoke through gritted teeth as Thor descended into the fray. "This just got interesting."

Loki extended both arms to his sides and let himself fall backwards. But where he normally would have crashed onto the roof, he landed in a perfectly comfortable leather chair that had appeared from nowhere. He stretched his arms in the air and squirmed in an over-the-top fashion until he found a cozy enough position. Raising his hands to his face, he was all of a sudden holding onto a pair of binoculars. Pressing them to his eyes, he watched the battle in Central Park rage on.

"Ooooh, is little ol' Hawkeye gonna...Oh, Cappy boy saved him. How....disappointing." he muttered to himself as he observed from a distance.

Of course he heard the rustle of the wind and almost unnoticeable rumble beneath his feet that signaled the arrival of a man Loki was expecting. In fact, Loki had been counting on it.

Without lowering the binoculars, Loki called to the man behind him. "Come on, grab a chair. Thor's about to get his ass kicked."

No response came, but Loki still got a reply. The sound of a sword being unsheathed rang in his ears. Loki smiled, casually chucked the binoculars over the edge of the building.

Turning to face his visitor, Loki smiled.

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"Or do you want to get straight to business...."

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"....Balder."

[Noon]

"No, the situation escalated too quickly." That was the problem. Forge prided himself on knowing everything about everything, and not knowing this was killing him.

Suddenly, Flint walked into the room. "Hey kids." He walked over to the fridge and poured himself a glass of orange juice.

Forge walked up to him. "Flint, we've got bad news."

Suddenly, there was a loud knock at the door. Flint looked over at the door. "Can it wait?"

After a moment of hesitation, Forge nodded. He went to the door and opened it slightly. "Yeah, who is-"

Suddenly, an enormous fist slammed into Forge's chest, sending him flying backwards into the wall.

Instantly, the entire Thunderbolts team took a battle stance. Sharon Carter held her pistol at the door and yelled angrily. "Who are you and how did you find us?!"

Four men walked quietly through the door. One man was considerably larger than the other three, and was wearing a suit. Forge looked up and recognized the face, though he has seen it only on the stolen files. "Wilson Fisk..."

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"My sincerest apologies for Ox's forward nature." He looked around at the Thunderbolts, seemingly measuring them up. He looked at Forge as he brushed himself off, then over at Flint, who's fists were twice the size they normally were and completely solid rock. "Ah, Flint Marko. I employed a man who came from the same establishment as you once upon a time. Electro, he called himself, but was taken away by authorities before his full potential was reached." He paused for a moment, then smiled. "I'm glad not all of my money was lost in that tragedy."

Flint gritted his teeth. "What the hell do you want with us, Fisk?"

Fisk smiled slightly. "In a word? Hammerhead."


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<ch-CLICK>


The sound of a gun cocking made all their heads turn. Draped only in a bed sheet that pooled around her feet, thinly clinging around her curves and clutched to her with one hand, Felicia stood in the doorway with a stony expression and fire in her eyes. In her other hand she clutched a 9mm that was pointed steadily at the thick skull of Wilson Fisk. Her knuckles were as white as the hair that curled round her bare shoulders.

“Ms. Hardy, how nice to see you again.”

“The feeling’s not mutual, just in case that wasn’t clear.”

“I had heard you had put your criminal activities behind you, surely you don’t plan on shooting me in front of all these witnesses.”

“You think so? I’m not sure murder applies when you kill a dead man.”

“Believe me, reports of my death were… greatly exaggerated, to say the least.” He raised an eyebrow, his smug expression never waning, even whilst looking down the barrel of a gun.

[Venom160]

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On the screen a small alert pops up, making a ding as it shows. Nathan clicks on the icon, causing it to enlarge into a large video. The video begins to play, starting at first in darkness, but quickly changing to a visable image.

On the screen is Neena Thurman, the mercenary known only as Domino. She is dressed differently, clothed in civilian clothes. Behind her in the video is the image of a room, painted with bright and beautiful colors.

Neena stares at the screen, shaking it as she adjusts the camera. She looks over her shoulder quickly, checking for any others who could be there. Knowing the coast is clear, she looks back to the screen, and begisn to speak.

"Nathan, this is Neena. I have infiltrated the X-men mansion. So far, I've been met with pleasant smiles and positive attitudes. I've been given a room here, so I think they trust me. I can't talk long. One of the members here wants to give me a tour. I'll give you a message once every day or so if possible. I will feed the cameras and bugs that I activate here directly to your computer, this way, there is no chance for error."

"Neena! Come on!" A voice calls.

"I'm coming!" She yells back. "Okay, this message is complete. I will send another once the bugs are in place." She smiles, putting her hand ontop of the camera. "You can send my money to the account I have in Switzerland. Name: Tamara Winter." She prepares to turn off the camera, but suddenly stops, looking back at the screen.

"Oh, and one more thing. Remember, don't send anyone else. You're paying me to do the job here alone. I don't want any Ultimatum showing up here. Or any Flag breakers, or whatever you call them. This is reconaissance as you said. I don't want to start a war."

Neena puts her hand back on the camera and flicks a switch. The screen goes black once again, and the audio cuts off into silence. Nathan clicks the "x" on the image, and closes it. He picks his glass up and moves it to his mouth, taking another sip. As he places the glass back down on the table, he smiles, rubbing his face carefully as he softly laughs.

"Tamara Winter." He says with a chuckle. "Nathan Winters. This girl's good." He lifts his glass to his mouth once more and drinks, finishing off the intising liquid inside.

"Soon we will meet again, mother." Nathan says with hate, his disposition changing to a tone of hostility and remorse. "Face to face. Eye to eye. And then...then all will be clear..."

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x90/Edge_027/Cable011-1.jpghttp://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

".....and this is the Danger Room."

I stand at the entrance as Neena steps further into the empty arena.

"Wow, you think I'll be able to practice in here?"

"Don't see why not. Um whats' your power anyway?"

"I can make things work in my favor."

I tense up.

Great another probability alterer....

"Whats wrong?"

I snap out of my thoughts and try an settle back down.

"Oh it's just.......last person with that ability turn out to be a racist murderer."

Neena smiles as she heads back towards me.

"Well I don't think you have to worry about me. Nice wings by the way."

I feel cheeks redding as we leave the Danger Room.

"Th...thanks"

We silently board the elevator and head up to the first floor.

"So Warren....you gotta girlfriend?"

Im alittle taken aback.

"Uh yes I do, Alison."

"Ah...so you guys doing good?"

I shift uncomfortably.

"Yes we are."

"You'd be surprised how quickly that can change."

The elevator door opens and I quickly exit out.

"Varren."

Kurt heads down the hall towards.

"Hey you vanna hit ze Danger Room? Im feeling pretty restless round...."

Kurt trails off as Neena exits the elevator.

"Hello."

Kurt seems dumbstruck as he continues to stare.

"Kurt this is Neena Thurman, Neena this is Kurt Wagner."

"Nightcrawler right?"

Kurt fumbles his words until finally getting himself straight.

"Correct frauline, it's nice to meet you."

Neena flashes Kurt a smile which I thought would cause him to burst into flames on the spot.

"So why don't we go and introduce you to the rest of the family."

[Eddie Brock]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/blackcatbanner.jpg


<ch-CLICK>


The sound of a gun cocking made all their heads turn. Draped only in a bed sheet that pooled around her feet, thinly clinging around her curves and clutched to her with one hand, Felicia stood in the doorway with a stony expression and fire in her eyes. In her other hand she clutched a 9mm that was pointed steadily at the thick skull of Wilson Fisk. Her knuckles were as white as the hair that curled round her bare shoulders.

“Ms. Hardy, how nice to see you again.”

“The feeling’s not mutual, just in case that wasn’t clear.”

“I had heard you had put your criminal activities behind you, surely you don’t plan on shooting me in front of all these witnesses.”

“You think so? I’m not sure murder applies when you kill a dead man.”

“Believe me, reports of my death were… greatly exaggerated, to say the least.” He raised an eyebrow, his smug expression never waning, even whilst looking down the barrel of a gun.
I open my mouth to say something, but I'm still stunned by Felicia's appearance. I mean, I always knew that Felicia was attractive, but something about that towel is particularly flattering. I hope she doesn't notice if I stare a little...

Dude, she's your teammate.

So?

Even worse, she's your teammate's girlfriend.

Meh.

Said teammate can stare at you and burn your soul.

Point taken.

Shaking the cobwebs loose, I remember what I was going to say before any of this hormone-driven madness began. "Felicia, let's hear him out before we gut him," I suggest calmly. I look back at Kingpin with a sneer.

"From the looks of it, there's a lot TO gut," I add.

[Catman_prb]

The room was white. Jean sat on a white chair in the white room. She didn't know how long she had been sitting there, but it felt like months. She brought a shaking hand to her face, wanting confirmation of its reality. Her hand was cold against her cheek, and goosebumps rose up on her arm. She remembered...fighting Apocalypse in a sea of fire.

And she remembered the Phoenix, and she knew it was gone. All was gone and all was calm. All was well. Except she was alone. No Proffesor, no Logan...no Scott. She shuddered at the thought of what Scott may have done without her. And she shuddered even more at the thought of what she had said to Logan. Caught up in the moment, declaring a love she no longer felt. It was all clear and obvious to her now.

All she needed to do was wake up. She wanted to go back, to her friends and her loved ones. And with that thought, she felt a tingling run through her body. The white room seemed to dissolve into a swirling void. Jean stood, and stepped forwards. The void accepted her, pulled at her, and she walked through it.

In the medical bay of the Xavier Institute for Higher Learning, Jean Grey's eyes flickered open.

"SCOTT!"

[Venom160]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

I take in a deep breath as the needle enters my skin for the first time. I sweep across the crowd of students as scared parents are starting to arrive looking for their kids. I watch as their scared expressions change to relief than joy as they find their children and that their alright. Others change from fear to crippling sorrow when they spot their child's lifeless form on the ground. My heart breaks as acouple officers had to literally drag a mother away from her daughter's body.

I could'nt save them all......

Something catches my eye. I turn my head and see Johnny talking to Liz. I couldnt hear what they were saying but I could read lips pretty well and I think he just asked her out.

Figures Ben and I were here first, we took the most damage protecting everyone from Kaine. And who gets the girl in the end? The pretty boy......somethings never change...

"Um Tarantula?"

I look over at the paramedic.

"Could you a relax your arm please?"

I look down and notice that my left arm is tense and my hands are balled into fists.

"Sorry....."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Twenty minutes later....

"Ok take a deep breath please."

I bring in a large breath as the paramedic pulls the bandages tighter around my torso weaving them around my arms.

"So these extra arms are real...."

"Yeah...they are."

"Cool, I always thought they were robotic. Ya know something like that Doc Ock nut."

I simply grunt while he puts the finishing touches on the bandages.

"There we go. Keep those stitches clean and don't do too much until that rib heals."

"Can't make that promise doc, thanks for the patch up."

[Gallagher]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/ultwolviebanner.jpg

"What the hell is Halo?" Logan pondered aloud after being accosted by the young flame throwing mutant John

"Come on you'll like it, you shoot guns 'n' kill aliens and stuff."

Logan looked on at the young Pyro with a slight hint of disdain, such pointless tasks amused the kids today. In his day a hoop and a stick was the height of entertainment for an impressionable youth.

'No wonder the world's gone bat**** insane, this is the garbage they got em hooked on?' He thought inwardly upon watching Dazzler cheer in celebration after blowing a hole the size of her fist in her opponent's head.

"Ohh... I get it, you don't wanna play 'cos you know we'd whup your Canadian ass at it huh Old man?"

The once-feral Logan, who was about to exit the living room in search of something more worth while, turned back to face the teenager, his eyes narrowed.

"Alright kid, which button does the killin'?"

John rolled his eyes at the deceivingly old Logan who looked on blankly as the young gamer went over the controls. "Ok we got deathmatch, team deathmatch, capture the flag, king of th-" Logan put up his hand to stop the rambling teenager.

"Just make it so that I can kill you and make it legal." He growled menacingly. "In the computer of course." The adimantium-laced mutant added with a smirk as John shook off the feeling of being afraid for his life.

"Alrighty then, first to ten frags wins..."

"... Ten what?"

[Eddie Brock]

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/EBJ05/RPG%20Banners/Spider-Woman-1.gif

Last night was amazing. No tights, no crimes, no life-threatening scenarios, no lies - just two people going out and enjoying each other's company. We even managed to make it through an entire night without our "professions" coming into the conversation. For the first time in my life - which is technically only about six months - I felt like a normal person. It's a gift that can't be given. You just have to find it.

Granted, I do miss the second life that this pregnancy has forced me to leave behind. There is no feeling more exhilarating in the world than leaping off the roof of a building - nothing but the night air and the approaching ground to bother you. And don't even get me started on web-swinging. Oh boy, I could go on for hours. I only wish more people could have that feeling. It's unbelievably therapeutic. Unbelievably dangerous, too, but therapeutic nonetheless.

In any case, the news bulletin about Midtown has peaked my attention in that world again. I pushed it out of the thought for the remainder of the night, but I knew that I was going to get the scoop in the morning. Sure enough, the first thing I did after waking up - save for throwing on a hoodie over my tank-top - was find a copy of the local newspaper. I could not possibly expect what I saw.

As SHIELD Agents and police officers probed the scene for evidence, the battle-worn heroes stood in the foreground of the picture. It seemed as likely a bunch as could be - Pete, Ben, the Fantastic Four - but there was another face. It was a face that I never expected to see on the front page ever again. The sight of it sent chills down my spine.

ANTON!

I forget for a moment how unlikely this scenario could be. My mind ignores the racing questions about how this is possible. Disbelief, it seems, has no room in my heart right now. Instead, I'm overtaken by an unexplainable conviction. It's like nothing I've ever experienced.

"ELI!" I call out anxiously. I instantly regret it as I remember that it's still early in the morning, and I may have disturbed Eli's family. My regret is dulled by the emotions pounding in my soul.

Eli pops up suddenly - probably expecting the worst. It's never a good thing when your pregnant girlfriend cries out your name. I make a mental note not to give him such a heart attack again.

"We need to go to New York," I announce with unwavering determination. Eli states at me in confusion, but I afford him no explanation. There will be time for that along the trip. Slapping the newspaper into his hands, I push past Eli and head back to my room to get changed.

[Venom160]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Twenty minutes later....

"Ok take a deep breath please."

I bring in a large breath as the paramedic pulls the bandages tighter around my torso weaving them around my arms.

"So these extra arms are real...."

"Yeah...they are."

"Cool, I always thought they were robotic. Ya know something like that Doc Ock nut."

I simply grunt while he puts the finishing touches on the bandages.

"There we go. Keep those stitches clean and don't do too much until that rib heals."

"Can't make that promise doc, thanks for the patch up."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Ben, The FF, and I help where we can with searching the school for any stragglers hiding out but honestly our jobs' done. I walk over to were Ben is standing and take a spot next to him.

"Well I guess I'll go see Fury. Find out what he has in store for me now."

Ben nodes his head.

"Look if Fury doesn't give you a place to stay heres the address to my place in Queens."

He quickly writes down the address and hands it me.

"Thanks Ben......for everything."

With that and I walk away and head over to the FF.

"Hey Sue, Ben thanks for the help, we should definatly do this again. Or go grab a bite or somethin."

I spot Johnny and throw alittle sting into my voice.

"Storm."

I leap into the air and fire a webline heading for the Triskelion.

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

MJ and I walk into the large crowd of people at Midtown. After I told her what happened, I thought I needed to show her. It was a hell of a trip here. The whole bus ride I just sat there...quiet. I didn't look at her, but I could tell MJ was staring at me. She had that look in her eyes. That look of compassion...that look of sympathy. But how could she not be mad at me? How? I let down everyone today.

We walk closer, pushing our way to the front of the crowd. I watch as Anton swings off, dissapearing down the street. At least things are settling down. I look and see Ben still there, standing around with three of the Fantastic Four.

Wait...where's Reed? Or Kaine, for that matter? Woah...woah woah...Where's the suit? I begin to panic as I look around the battelfield, hoping to see the bubble containing the two deadly creatures. As I search, I notice I see nothing. They are gone. No trace.

Could they have escaped? No. No, Sue is a professional. She'd know if they got away. She'd be out there trying to get them back if they got past her.

I take in a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh. Get it together, Parker. It's over. Well, almost all of it. I'd like to see how bad Spider-Man's popularity takes a nose dive here. Or mine for that matter. No telling what Ben did when he impersonated me.

I look over to MJ with a worried expression. She looks up at me, staring into my eyes. As the silence continue, I feel a lump in my throat form. I swallow the spit in my mouth like it were a rock, desperately hoping for her to say something. To be surprise, she says nothing. Instead, a warm smile comes across her face. She walks closer toward me, and puts her arms around me, embracing me with a saddened yet hopeful disposition.

"There was nothing more you could have done, Peter." She says in a kind voice. "You did what you had to. I mean, as soon as you found out about this, you came right over, didn't you?"

I give her a reluctant nod, my guilt still overwhelming me. I could have done more. If I had been here. If I was here and not across town, I could have stopped Kaine. I could have stopped the blood shed. I could have-

"Peter, I know what you're thinking." She says, interupting my thought. "You didn't know. You had no idea. You can't beat yourself up about this. Being a hero isn't always being there, ready and waiting for disaster to strike. Being a hero is doing what you know is right when the disaster happens. It's putting yourself before others. You've done that, Peter. You always do that."

She gives me another hug and I hold her back. She always knows what to say. She's my rock, my foundation. She's my friend, my companion, and something more.

"Thanks, MJ."

"Peter, no matter what anyone else says, no matter what anyone else thinks, even you...you're my hero. And you always will be."

"Hey, Parker!" A familiar voice calls out, ruining our moment. I look to see who it is, and I see Flash Thompson approaching us. Great. Him. It never ceases to amaze me his uncanny timing for making a touching moment turn sour. "Hey, Parker. Where the hell were you?"

"I was...preoccupied." I respond in a straight tone. Kong and Liz walk up behind Flash. Kong looks excited, a look of adrenaline on his face. I look at Liz's face and see worry in her eyes. She's either in shock, or she's losing it. I knew she had a fear of mutants. This whole ordeal must have made it worse. As I look closely at Flash, I notice his arm is in a sling. He has a brace around his leg, and a few bandages wrapped around his neck and arm. "What happened to you?"

"That freak who came here tried to pick a fight with me. But I set 'em straight."

"Really?" Kong says with a wide grin. "Because I am pretty sure you got your ass beat into the gym floor. Twice."

"Alright, alright, he had a few lucky punches." Flash says in a cocky tone. "Where were you two? That freak was looking for you."

"Yeah, Peter." Liz starts as she gets closer to me. "Any reason why he was looking for you?"

"I...I don't know, Liz." I say in a paniced tone. The explaining for this is going to get really complicated...I can feel it.

"Why would a superhuman killer, a mutant freak come to our school looking for a teenager? A wimpy nerd like you even!" She says with hate in her voice. "Tell me, Peter! Why? What would a murderous mutant freak of nature want with a sixteen year old kid?"

I stare at her with a look of shame, my voice unable to speak as I see tears well up in her eyes. What do I say to her? How can I answer her and not expose myself? She's right. Why would Kaine, a being of immense power, want to see a teenager from a High School?

As she stares at me with contempt, I look at the others. They all stare in shock, dumbfounded and taken off guard by Liz's rage. Even Flash, the man who always has something to say, stares quietly.

"Liz...I..." I start. What do I tell her? What?

"You what, Peter? Come on. Tell me. I watched two people I saw everyday get slaughtered in front of my eyes! I was harassed and abused by that monster. So, tell us. Tell us all!" She shouts loudly. "Who are you, really?"

Suddenly, the whole crowd around us dies down and falls deathly silent. Everyone stares at us, watching me to see what I say. They all want to know why. As everyone stares at me, I begin to sweat as I become nervous. This is it. My one chance to end any rumors or suspisions. What do I say? Come on Parker, all eyes on you.

"Liz...I'm..." I choke, holding my tonuge. I take in a deep breath and ready myself. This is it. "I'm Peter Parker, Liz. I'm just an average kid."

"You saved me from Kaine earlier, Pete. I saw you in a way I never saw you before. How can you be so calm about it now? We watched it chase you!" Chase me? When did it...Ben. Of course, when he pretended to be me. Oh jeez, that means they think I was here. What else did he do I don't know about? If I confuse stories...I'm busted.

"Liz, when my uncle died...something changed in me. I felt a new sensation in me I never felt before." Oh boy, here comes an inspirational speech. Who do I think I am? Captain America? At least this is only half a lie. "When he died, I...I was broken. I never want to see anyone I care about die again, Liz. I swear to you, that's the truth. I'm no hero, I'm nothing special, Liz. I just do what I think is right."

She stares at me silently, her expression unchanging. The crowd is completely quiet, everyone waiting to see her response. A few moments pass as I wait for a response, but it feels like a lifetime. Suddenly, Liz loosens up. Her frown fades away, and I watch the hate in her eyes dissipate.

"You...care about me?" She asks in a lighter voice.

"Of course, Liz. You're my friend."

"Aw, Peter...I-" She cuts herself off and jumps at me, wrapping her arms around me as she begins to cry. She holds onto me tightly and lets it all out, all the stress and pent up emotions. She grabs me tightly as she holds on to me. I put my arms on her and begin patting her on the back, hoping to comfort her. I look over to MJ and stare at her with an awkward expression. She looks back at me with a smile, and gives me a loving wink.

"So Parker bails on us and he gets off with some smooth words?" Flash yells in anger. "Oh come on! My arms busted cause of him!" Flash looks around expecting sympathy from the others. Instead, the people around us go back to their conversations, and soon, all the attention moves off of us. "Oh this is bull crap! I'm out of here. School's over anyway."

Flash continues moaning and complaining as he walks away. Kong follows after him, trailing him as they both leave. As they walk away, I hear Kong but in over Flash's groans.

"Yeah, your life sucks." He says in a unsympathetic tone. "So how kickass was Tarantula, huh?" Flash lets out a large moan of frustration, and a smile comes to my face.

Despite all that's happened, despite the violence, the anger, the hatred, we pushed through. My secret is safe, as are the rest of the kids here. It's a miracle, a true miracle. I don't know how it happened, but I won't question things. All I can hope for now is that the people who died here today can rest in peace. I know I will make them a promise, right here and now. I will never let anyone ever die because of me again.

I look down at Liz and give her a smile. She pulls away from me and looks up to me, tears running down her face. I give her a compassionate smile, rubbing her shoulders as I try to comfort her.

"It's okay, Liz." I say in a tender tone. I look over to MJ, and she nods to me. I turn back to Liz, and give her a caring look. "Come on, we'll walk you home."

I put my arm around Liz and walk beside her. MJ walks over to Liz's other side, and puts her arm around her as well. The three of us exit the large crowd of people, and begin heading in the direction of home.

Even though the commotion has ended, the battle fought and won, I still have a bad feeling deep in my soul. I feel this strange pain, a feeling like I know this isn't over. But, then again, whenever I think it is over, I am always wrong.

Maybe now I am getting it. The fight is never over. That's why the world needs heroes. I look up to the sky and stare at the light white clouds. As they pass through the blue, I smile, remembering the wise words once taught to me by the smartest man I've ever known.

With great power, comes great responsibility.

Thanks, Uncle ben. Here's me wishing you were here. I know that where ever you are, you're still smiling at me. Guiding me, watching over me everyday. Keep me strong, Uncle Ben. Help me to do the best I can. As both Spider-Man and Peter Parker.

[Gallagher]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/Suebanner.jpg

"Home sweet... Urgh, forget that last part." The blonde haired adventurer crossed the threshold into the not-so-Fantastic apartment, Ben and Johnny close behind.

"You know, after being in the fresh air you kind of forget how bad the smell is... Reed you home?" She called out into the dark, dank room. A voice called back, a digital, welcoming sound.

"Good evening Ms Storm. You have 2 messages. The first being a message from Master Richards, the second a withheld number. Good day ma'am."

Sue took off her jacket and threw it down onto the worn and weathered couch as she listened for the messages.

"Sue, by the time you get this message, I'll be gone and I'll have ditched this phone. Fury will ask you questions about where I am, so I won't tell you where I'm going. I'm doing this because I need to know the truth. Something's rotten, and I intend to find out what. Just know...I do love you. And I'll miss you every day until I come back. But I will come back. None of my actions from now on will speak for the Fantastic Four or any of its members. I quit,"

As the calm, forceful words of Reed Richards fades Sue Storm stares blankly at the darkness, jaw agape. "Wha... What?" Is all she could muster. "Ben? Johnny?"

"We heard it..."

"Why would he do something like this? He just left? I don't understand."

"Message two:"

"I dunno Suzie, want me to go look for 'im?"

"Ben I-"

"Good evening Miss Storm, Mr Storm, Mr Grimm." Came a deep charismatic voice from the second message. The Fantastic Three recognize it immediately.

"This is General Nick Fury. Hope you don't mind If I let myself up, I have a few questions."

[Eddie Brock]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/Suebanner.jpg

"Home sweet... Urgh, forget that last part." The blonde haired adventurer crossed the threshold into the not-so-Fantastic apartment, Ben and Johnny close behind.

"You know, after being in the fresh air you kind of forget how bad the smell is... Reed you home?" She called out into the dark, dank room. A voice called back, a digital, welcoming sound.

"Good evening Ms Storm. You have 2 messages. The first being a message from Master Richards, the second a withheld number. Good day ma'am."

Sue took off her jacket and threw it down onto the worn and weathered couch as she listened for the messages.

"Sue, by the time you get this message, I'll be gone and I'll have ditched this phone. Fury will ask you questions about where I am, so I won't tell you where I'm going. I'm doing this because I need to know the truth. Something's rotten, and I intend to find out what. Just know...I do love you. And I'll miss you every day until I come back. But I will come back. None of my actions from now on will speak for the Fantastic Four or any of its members. I quit,"

As the calm, forceful words of Reed Richards fades Sue Storm stares blankly at the darkness, jaw agape. "Wha... What?" Is all she could muster. "Ben? Johnny?"

"We heard it..."

"Why would he do something like this? He just left? I don't understand."

"Message two:"

"I dunno Suzie, want me to go look for 'im?"

"Ben I-"

"Good evening Miss Storm, Mr Storm, Mr Grimm." Came a deep charismatic voice from the second message. The Fantastic Three recognize it immediately.

"This is General Nick Fury. Hope you don't mind If I let myself up, I have a few questions."
I don't know what's more surprising at this moment: the fact that Reed quit or the fact that things are going wrong and - for once - I am not to blame. Something tells me that it's a strange combination of the two.

"I wasn't aware that anything was rotten other than our living arrangements," I announce dumbfoundedly. What else is there to say? Honestly, if I could have been more fresh or sarcastic in that moment, I would have. Shock tends to slow down my smart-ass thinking process.

"So..."

[Catman_prb]

Reed's brown jacket already seemed to be covered in dirt and grime, though he had only been to JFK Airport in a very battered and filthy taxi. Specifically he had been to locker 64B, to which he kept a key on his person at all times. Within the locker was an overnight bag full of essentials that Reed had hidden away in case they were ever on the run or in an emergency. By they, he meant the Fantastic Four. Reed felt a twinge of guilt at abandoning them, but it quickly passed. They could look after themselves, and Sue would know what to do.

He looked down at the address scribbled hurridely on a scrap of paper. He looked at the graffitied sign street, declaring to the world that this run down slum was Yancy Street. He walked down the littered sidewalk, keeping his eyes on the hooded teenagers that lined every corner. Probably members of some kind of gang, and responsible for the graffiti and vandalism he saw all around him. He walked into a delapidated apartment building, and walked over to the lift, pressing the button to take him to the top floor. He briefly had a flashback of the SHIELD men waiting outside, and he patted the inside pocket of his jacket that contained a pistol and the Suit sample. He knocked on the door before him, not quite knowing what to expect. A metal slit in the door slid back.

"Who is it?"

"Rhona Burchill?" Reed said, his voice slightly croaking from lack of water. The beady eyes he could see looked at him suspiciously as if trying to place him. Reed recognised them instantly, but he knew she could not - even through the door he could smell the alcohol. How she had evaded SHIELD for so long remained a mystery, or maybe they had been keeping track of her like Reed had, not feeling threatened enough to act on their information.

"She's moved," came the slightly drunken slur. Reed stretched his arm that he knew was out of sight, flattening it and sliding it under the door. He made his way up the varnished surface, undoing bolts and chains as he went. Someone was security conscious, he thought to himself. She must have noticed it through her drunken haze, for she started swearing loudly, and Reed could hear the sound of clumsy feet running from the door. He unlocked the door, then removed his arm and kicked it open.

The apartment, or rather converted workshop, was a mess. Bits of wiring lay all over the floor, and half assembled machines were scattered around haphazardly. Empty spirits bottles were littered around almost as much as the partial tech. There was some biology equipment around and Reed smiled. Still the surgeon Rhona, he thought to himself. And then he saw her, cowering in a corner, a filthy hag with a gun. He could snap her neck in a second, and part of him was tempted too. But the logical part, the part that was Susan Storm's boyfriend didn't.

"I'll use it," she squeaked waving the gun around. Reed stepped towards her, batting the gun out of her hand and onto the floor. He punched her once, hard, in the face and she sprawled across the floor, unconscious. Not much fight in her.

"This will do,"

[Catman_prb]

"Now... plea--"

CRASH!

Azrael met Iron Man like a locomotive, nearly tearing the armor itself apart with the speed of the collision.

"Iron Man to anyone..." Stark muttered as his systems flickered on and off. "H...help."
Clint watched as Azrael crunched into Iron Man. He heard Stark asking for help over the comm, and suddenly he was scared. How were they going to beat this thing? The blood from the wound on his arm was flowing freely, turning the grass beneath him black as it pooled. Black Widow hurried over, trying to help him to his feet. A look of concern was on her face that Clint wasn't accustomed to. It was the look that he had only ever seen on his fiance when he had told her that he was going on a mission. Clint winced as a wave of emotion overwhelmed him.

---------------------

Triskelion, Around A Month Ago

His face was white in the mirror, as he hurridley splashed water over his face. His eyes were red, but all the tears had been cried from them. His hands were shaking, whether from rage, fear or sheer sadness he did not know. His knees were weak, and he felt like he was about to vomit again. He staggered out into the corridor, where the strip lights lit up what should have been pitch black nothingness. He lent against the wall, and slowly slid down it, curling up at the bottom and cradling his head in his hands. He heard hurried footsteps drawing closer, and he tried to force himself up so that he wouldn't be seen in such a comprimising position.

"Clint?" Natasha said. ****. It had to be her, didn't it. He would've taken the Cap telling him to get up off his sorry backside and go save the world again. But no, it was her.

"Yes?" he croaked, not looking up so she couldn't see his red eyes. He felt her crouch down next to him.

"What's wrong?" she said, her normal harsh russian accent now smooth and sympathetic.

"The blast..."

"Yes? The General says we are to get our asses up and ready to hunt down the bastards that did this,"

"My family...my fiance, my kids. They live in Manhatten," he croaked out. He heard her gasp, and looked up so she could see him.

"They may stil be alive,"

"No. You heard what Fury said. Everyone is gone, turned to dust," he said softly, looking at the wall opposite him.

"Clint I-"

"What am I gonna do without them Natasha? What the hell am I gonna do?" he asked, tears filling his eyes again. She put her hand on his.

"It's going to be ok Clint, I promise," she said. She put her arm around him and, losing all last ideas of pride, Clint leaned in to her shoulder, sobbing. It was the beginning of the end.

---------------------

The sounds of gunfire snapped him back to reality. Natasha had opened fire on Azrael with her modified pistol. Grunting, Clint pulled his injured arm up, holding the rifle steady. He looked through the scope, trying to target Wilson and not Stark. Then again, the armour could probably take it. Best not to test it like this though. He fired, the bullet hitting home, ringing into Azrael's head. Azrael turned and gave him a cold penetrating glare that made his bones tingle.

"Just die already!" Clint screamed.

[Mr. Marko]

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y55/Cyclone1906/forgeap1.jpg?t=1211350275

“Believe me, reports of my death were… greatly exaggerated, to say the least.”

Forge looked at Fisk's Men. Quietly, he logged into his wrist computer and began to skim through information that he had stolen the night previous from the night club mainframe. He rerouted the display to his goggles and continued to look through the files.

"My understanding is that you recently had a confrontation with Hammerhead and his gang."

Forge flipped through the files. Ox. Fancy Dan. Montana. No powers. Nothing more than skill and muscle on their side. That was a plus. It didn't make sense though, Fisk had superhumans on contract. Why not bring them along instead?

"Whats it to you, Fisk?"

Fisk smiled. "Recently, as I'm sure you know, several of SHIELD's most guarded criminals escaped when Asteroid M struck its side. Among them were a couple of Hammerhead's men." He tossed two photos on a nearby table.

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/5000/4825/40302-shocker_400.pnghttp://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/5000/4333/37119-mysterio_400.jpg

"Herman Shultz and Quentin Beck, otherwise known as the Shocker and Mysterio."

Forge looked at the pictures. They were the two that he had pulled from Hammerhead's building before it exploded. "Where are they now?"

"After a bank robbery late last week, they have disappeared. A witness of the robbery heard only two things come from their mouths." Fisk stopped for a moment. "HYDRA and Hollywood."

Flint scowled. "What the hell does this have to do with us?"

Fisk grinned. "HYDRA. Hammerhead has ties to people that would make your head spin. I know that you're looking for a way to find some answers, and I have information about HYDRA. We find them, and I find Hammerhead. I don't make it a habit, but temporarily, I am offering a partnership."

[SenseiofCheese]

I don't know what's more surprising at this moment: the fact that Reed quit or the fact that things are going wrong and - for once - I am not to blame. Something tells me that it's a strange combination of the two.

"I wasn't aware that anything was rotten other than our living arrangements," I announce dumbfoundedly. What else is there to say? Honestly, if I could have been more fresh or sarcastic in that moment, I would have. Shock tends to slow down my smart-ass thinking process.

"So..."

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/thingsk7.jpg

Ben Grimm stood next to Susan and Johnny Storm, all three of them staring at their message machine. Playing the tape once more, they all listened carefully to Reed's hurried, panicked words that, oddly enough, also sounded planned.

"So, uh...Not ta have my priorities outta order but...what does this mean to tha team?" Ben asked, involuntarily directing the question at Susan. "I mean, what do we do? 'Cause I don't wanna be the beara' of bad news, but da Fantastic Three don't really have da same ring to it, y'know?"

[Eddie Brock]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/thingsk7.jpg

Ben Grimm stood next to Susan and Johnny Storm, all three of them staring at their message machine. Playing the tape once more, they all listened carefully to Reed's hurried, panicked words that, oddly enough, also sounded planned.

"So, uh...Not ta have my priorities outta order but...what does this mean to tha team?" Ben asked, involuntarily directing the question at Susan. "I mean, what do we do? 'Cause I don't wanna be the beara' of bad news, but da Fantastic Three don't really have da same ring to it, y'know?"



A smile curls onto my face.

"It seems our skin-impaired friend has a point!" I announce with sudden glee. I don't know why I'm getting so into this. It just seems like this could be really cool. I mean, not that I would want to have anyone take Reed's place or anything, but a fresh face could completely warp this team around - in a good way.

"Fantastic tryouts?" I suggest excitedly.

[Gallagher]

A smile curls onto my face.

"It seems our skin-impaired friend has a point!" I announce with sudden glee. I don't know why I'm getting so into this. It just seems like this could be really cool. I mean, not that I would want to have anyone take Reed's place or anything, but a fresh face could completely warp this team around - in a good way.

"Fantastic tryouts?" I suggest excitedly.

"Tryouts? You can't 'try out' to be one of us Johnny, we're family. We have no one else. Oh man, we should call dad, tell him about Reed." In all the confusion and speculation Susan had forgotten about the second message and was startled by a tall eye-patch-wearing general standing in her doorway.

"Fantastic Three? I'd like a word. I'll make this brief. I was the last person to speak to Reed Richards. I know he wouldn't tell you were he was going so I'm not going to insult all our intelligence by asking stupid questions that will get us nowhere. Before he left he made arrangements for you." Fury sighed before continuing, relaxing against the door frame. "You get your government funding back, we're rebuilding the Baxter Building, should be ready within the month."

"Why are you doing this?" Sue asked, confused, so many questions swirling around in her mind.

"Your boyfriend has us by the balls for lack of a better term Miss Storm. When we find him, yes when, we find him, we're going to take him down. Understand that." Fury turned his back before the cries of outrage began, holding up a hand to silence them.

"I suggest finding a new member... A permanent one." Sue shot johnny a look that, if translated into speech would say 'If you dare say 'I told you so' I will shove a forcefield up your buttocks quicker than you can say gamma rays.'

Needless to say the hot head of the Fantastic Three kept his mouth firmly closed as Nick Fury walked out of the apartment.

"Always a pleasure."

[SenseiofCheese]

The sounds of gunfire snapped him back to reality. Natasha had opened fire on Azrael with her modified pistol. Grunting, Clint pulled his injured arm up, holding the rifle steady. He looked through the scope, trying to target Wilson and not Stark. Then again, the armour could probably take it. Best not to test it like this though. He fired, the bullet hitting home, ringing into Azrael's head. Azrael turned and gave him a cold penetrating glare that made his bones tingle.

"Just die already!" Clint screamed.

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Steve Rogers watched on as Hawkeye and Black Widow worked together, their history as teammates shining through, showering Azrael in a hail of bullets. The beast turned and glared at the two, temporarily shifting it's focus away from Tony. As the bullet slammed into Azrael's body, falling to the ground harmlessly, the beast turned and looked at Captain America.

Rogers and the monster shared eye contact for a split second. Looking into the eyes of evil, the kind of evil Captain America had not seen in almost 60 years, Rogers saw no sign of the person that used to be there. Wade Wilson was gone, and now there was only Azrael. Bullets continued to rain over the winged beast, and Captain America slowly brought his finger up to the comm.

"Black Widow, Hawkeye, War Machine. Listen closely. Widow and Hawkeye, keep pouring down lead on this thing. But on my mark, aim for the eyes. If we can blind him...it...we have the advantage. War Machine, the moment Azrael loses vision, you go for Iron Man." Steve speaks softly, hoping not to give the monster any reason to catch on.

"Understood, sir." Rhodes' voice spoke in Cap's ear.
"On your mark, Captain." Widow responded.
"You got it, Cap." Clint Barton acknowledged through the gunfire.

"Get ready..." Cap said, clenching his fist and gritting his teeth.

"..and pray to God this works. GO!"

[SenseiofCheese]

"Tryouts? You can't 'try out' to be one of us Johnny, we're family. We have no one else. Oh man, we should call dad, tell him about Reed." In all the confusion and speculation Susan had forgotten about the second message and was startled by a tall eye-patch-wearing general standing in her doorway.

"Fantastic Three? I'd like a word. I'll make this brief. I was the last person to speak to Reed Richards. I know he wouldn't tell you were he was going so I'm not going to insult all our intelligence by asking stupid questions that will get us nowhere. Before he left he made arrangements for you." Fury sighed before continuing, relaxing against the door frame. "You get your government funding back, we're rebuilding the Baxter Building, should be ready within the month."

"Why are you doing this?" Sue asked, confused, so many questions swirling around in her mind.

"Your boyfriend has us by the balls for lack of a better term Miss Storm. When we find him, yes when, we find him, we're going to take him down. Understand that." Fury turned his back before the cries of outrage began, holding up a hand to silence them.

"I suggest finding a new member... A permanent one." Sue shot johnny a look that, if translated into speech would say 'If you dare say 'I told you so' I will shove a forcefield up your buttocks quicker than you can say gamma rays.'

Needless to say the hot head of the Fantastic Three kept his mouth firmly closed as Nick Fury walked out of the apartment.

"Always a pleasure."

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/thingsk7.jpg

The three heroes stood silently as Fury disappeared as soon as he had appeared.
Finally, Grimm spoke up.

"He's always a ray a' sunshine, ain't he?" he says, chuckling nervously. "How exactly do we find anotha member?" Ben asks both Johnny and Sue, but as Johnny moves to answer, a wry smile on his face like always, Ben cuts him off before the Human Torch can get out a word. "And so help me God if you say Fantastic Idol, I will bruise ya."

[Harlekin]

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/3240/logozu5.gif
THE BLACK KNIGHT'S TALE: PART XV

With a content smile, the Black Knight parks his prized bike, named ‘Strider’, in his apartment’s building garage. As the Knight takes off his helmet, an old lady dressed in her nightgown and with a dog on a leash, watches shocked. Esteemed English Literature teacher Dane Whitman greets her with a warm expression.

“Hey Mrs. Grazinsky,” he says and she feebly raises her hand in reply. Dane walks along to the elevator, the helmet under his arm as he takes off his leather gloves. Gingerly he waits as the elevator takes him up to the 11th floor, humming to the standard elevator tune that fills it. Casually, he walks to his front door, his biker boots thumping down on the carpeted floor and filling the hallway.

Upon entering his apartment, just affordable from his teacher’s salary, Dane drops his keys in the bowl beside the door. Hanging his jacket on the coat-rack, the hero continues on into his living room. Setting the lights to dim, the many books in the room that lye scattered on the floor, around his chair, couch as well as in his book-case greet him. Ultimately, it is not the bike, the energy blade or anything else he’s created that he treasures more than these books.

Although his mind is calling for him to turn to those loving letters, his tired bones protest, and Dane walks on past the living room, ignoring the comfort of the chair and the many worlds enclosed in his books. So, he continues into the kitchen, taking a bottle of water from his fridge and he leans for a moment against the counter, looking back again to his living room.

Maybe one book?

What could it hurt?

He can miss one hour of sleep can’t he?

Taking a bottle of bourbon from one of the small cabinets in the kitchen, the Knight returns again to his living room.

He can’t help but smile.

[Venom160]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

".....and this is the Danger Room."

I stand at the entrance as Neena steps further into the empty arena.

"Wow, you think I'll be able to practice in here?"

"Don't see why not. Um whats' your power anyway?"

"I can make things work in my favor."

I tense up.

Great another probability alterer....

"Whats wrong?"

I snap out of my thoughts and try an settle back down.

"Oh it's just.......last person with that ability turn out to be a racist murderer."

Neena smiles as she heads back towards me.

"Well I don't think you have to worry about me. Nice wings by the way."

I feel cheeks redding as we leave the Danger Room.

"Th...thanks"

We silently board the elevator and head up to the first floor.

"So Warren....you gotta girlfriend?"

Im alittle taken aback.

"Uh yes I do, Alison."

"Ah...so you guys doing good?"

I shift uncomfortably.

"Yes we are."

"You'd be surprised how quickly that can change."

The elevator door opens and I quickly exit out.

"Varren."

Kurt heads down the hall towards.

"Hey you vanna hit ze Danger Room? Im feeling pretty restless round...."

Kurt trails off as Neena exits the elevator.

"Hello."

Kurt seems dumbstruck as he continues to stare.

"Kurt this is Neena Thurman, Neena this is Kurt Wagner."

"Nightcrawler right?"

Kurt fumbles his words until finally getting himself straight.

"Correct frauline, it's nice to meet you."

Neena flashes Kurt a smile which I thought would cause him to burst into flames on the spot.

"So why don't we go and introduce you to the rest of the family."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

Kurt continues to have that goofy look on his face as we head into the tv room. Alis' relaxing on the couch next to Logan as he and John play a Halo deathmatch.

Damn John actually got Logan to play?!

"Hey babe..."

Ali jumps off the couch and throws me a kiss beore returning to the match.

"Hey hon, whos' winnin?"

"Suprisingly pops."

Logan grunts as he he plunges an energ sword into a covenent skull. He usually hates being called "Pop" or "Old Man" execpt when it's coming from Ali.

"So this the newb?"

I draw my attention from the match and turn back to Ali.

"Oh yeah, guys this is Neena Thurman. Neena this is my girlfriend Ali, Logan, and John."

"Hey."

"Nice t'meet ya."

"*grunt*"

"Hi."

<SCOTT!!!!>

"AH!"

My head feels like it's spliting open as the psychic scream resounds through the mansion. Around me the effects are the same. Once the pain subsides somewhat Logan is already on his feet.

"Jean....."

[Jono Starsmore]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg


As Scott Summers plunged from the back of Azrael, a feeling of familiarity couldn't help but to linger in his mind. Falling to his death. Which ironically was when his powers first manifested themselves. It only seemed like yesterday, when he and his brother Alex were flung from his fathers plane. He also remembered bracing his impact with the concussive beams.

His body passed through a cloud just before spinning around, his hand slowly coming up to his visor ( due to the wind velocity ). This was going to drain the hell out of him, but hell, he wasn't going to splat in the middle of Central Park like an insect, either.

Just as his finger was about to press the emitter module, something happened.

<SCOTT!>

Jean...?

The scream pulsated in his mind, causing him to go in a panic of some sort. Suddenly, his visor was ripped from his head, with a massive explosion of ruby. The blinding, and also destructive beam penetrated the ground below him, it's shape wide and obviously uncontrollable. Upon contact, there was castastrophe. Trees, along with enormous chunks of debris rained in every direction. The first thing that dawned on Scott was that there would be injuries because of it; because of him. The impact was braced, however, it was still a hell of a fall.

He landed in the middle of the crater, already feeling both legs dislocating, along with his shoulder. He lay there, unconscious for the moment, an acrid smoke slithering out of his eyes.

Jean...

[Charlie No-One]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

"Black Widow, Hawkeye, War Machine. Listen closely. Widow and Hawkeye, keep pouring down lead on this thing. But on my mark, aim for the eyes. If we can blind him...it...we have the advantage. War Machine, the moment Azrael loses vision, you go for Iron Man." Steve speaks softly, hoping not to give the monster any reason to catch on.

"Get ready..." Cap said, clenching his fist and gritting his teeth.

"..and pray to God this works. GO!"






http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg


The scream pulsated in his mind, causing him to go in a panic of some sort. Suddenly, his visor was ripped from his head, with a massive explosion of ruby. The blinding, and also destructive beam penetrated the ground below him, it's shape wide and obviously uncontrollable. Upon contact, there was castastrophe. Trees, along with enormous chunks of debris rained in every direction. The first thing that dawned on Scott was that there would be injuries because of it; because of him. The impact was braced, however, it was still a hell of a fall.

He landed in the middle of the crater, already feeling both legs dislocating, along with his shoulder. He lay there, unconscious for the moment, an acrid smoke slithering out of his eyes.

Jean...

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg


As the dust cleared, Wanda tried to focus on what just happened. Cyclops stood in the center of a crater, his hands furiously shielding his cursed eyes. Moments ago, a raging force was released onto the area. It came from within Scott Summers. It was his power; his gift. It was the very fire that boiled from the depths of his soul. It had just blinded Azrael.

“Cap, it seems the plan has changed. I would advise you to plan accordingly!” Wanda said, running over to the disoriented Scott. After the recent display of power, she knew his assets would be essential to winning this battle. If she tried anything major, who knew what would happen. After all she couldn’t even pull off a simple teleportation spell without disastrous effects. She needed to be passive at the moment.

Swirling her hand in a circular motion, a burst of scarlet energy sparkled from her palm. Bits and pieces of debris rushed upward, creating a gentle current. Rapidly, the garbage meshed together. It was like a galaxy was being created right before their eyes. Bits of metal and plastic fused into one. As the pace quickened, so did the radiance of the debris. An intense light seemed to generate from this milky way of raw materials.

With a quick clench of her fist, the performance stopped. A light coating of dust fell from the display, the result revealed itself to the two mutants. Before them was a new ruby quartz visor. Grabbing it out of the air, Wanda handed it to Cyclops. From the very moment she got onto the battlefield, any form of strategy had left her thoughts. It was time to get serious.

“Ok, Cyke. Any ideas on what to do next?”

[Jono Starsmore]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg


Scott rolled over, his legs dislocated, along with his shoulder. The pain was one of the worst he'd felt in a while--but there was still much more to come. His free hand came over to violently pull his shoulder back into place with a series of cracks. Gritting his teeth, he performed the same task on both knees.

"AGHHH!"

He took the visor from Wanda, placing it in front of his eyes, and along each temple. This allowed him to see that Azrael was swaying in the air, holding his eyes in pain. Blinded by his power, so he assumed. Whatever was going to happen, it needed to happen quick. His powers were drained heavily, for the moment. The suns rays were restoring it...but slowly. Right now, he was useless, and he had a feeling Wanda's abilities would no doubt end this.

"Wanda, get that thing out of the sky."

Looking around at the mysteriously floating debris around him, he looked to her and nodded.

"Looks like you have plenty of ammo."

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/7396/blackheartut8.jpg

Ascension of a Prince Part III

In the dark alley ways of New York, crime runs its course. Drug deals are made every second on almost every street. The addicts pay their money and purchase their prize. A stimulant, a depressant, a hallucinogen. Each one looking for their own personal fix, their own moment of peace and enjoyment.

But there can never be peace on these streets. There can never be joy. Each night there is crime. Murders, thefts, carjacking, mugging, and rape. The list goes on longer than the screams of the victims. The perpetrators wait during the day, hiding like the vermin that run rampant along the streets. For them, it is their job.

This is their life, following the orders of a mass orchestrator, a man who watches from behind the glass as his minions do his bidding. The man is normally just a mask, a cloak of lies that he uses to hide behind his true self. In the past, many of these men have risen through the ranks, becoming the top dog of their cities. But, just like empires, their rules also fall, and a new man takes their place.

This is the cycle, and it never has exceptions. For the past few weeks, a certain man in particular has risen himself and his “mob” to a higher place. Through trades, hits, and other illegal nefarious deeds, he has found himself in the big leagues, competing with the likes of Hammerhead, Wilson Fisk, and Whitney Frost.

His name is Franklin Farnum. For years he had been a young overzealous want to be. Sitting in the shadows as he tried to rise his “empire.” But strangely, his “business” has taken a turn for the better. Now he controls much of the city, as well as having many ties to outside cities throughout the country. This phenomenon is nothing short of baffling to the other crime lords, causing them frustration and envy.

Because of this jealousy, the other crime lords have hired hit men to cripple Farnum’s empire, and ultimately, kill Farnum. For the past few days, Farnum’s men have uncovered some of these assassins, and pacified them. Tonight is no different. The same cycle has occurred once more, and Franklin is starting to get irritated.

Inside Farnum’s main building, Franklin sits in his office. He sits in his large cushioned chair, tapping his fingers together on his desk. On his desk is a pile of papers and an ashtray. Inside the ceramic circle burns a cigar, freshly lit. Its tip emits faint embers as the flame inside slowly dies off. Gray smoke wafts up into the air, blending in with the dark tone of the office.

Suddenly, the doors to Farnum’s office open, and two large men dressed in suits enter. Between them, the men carry a beaten and bruised man. The man wears a strange outfit. It is a loosely fitting sewn costume. Two colors of a fabric are on either side, stitched together in the center by a zigzag pattern. A blue mask awkwardly covers his face. The fabric is stained a dark red from his blood, a memento of his beating.

The men stop in front of Farnum’s desk, holding on to the wounded man tightly. One of the men rips off the man’s mask forcefully, clasping some of his hair as he yanks it from over his face. The man lets out a moan of pain as his hair is ripped from his scalp. The other man smirks, and throws the bloody mask onto his boss’s desk.

“What do you have?” Farnum asks.

“Guy here came through the front doors with a gun, boss.” The man says in a strong accent. “He said he’d shoot anyone in his way.”

“Let me guess…he wanted me.”

“You got it, boss. At first he was quiet like. But after me and Johnny pinned ‘em and disarmed ‘em, heh, he was real…talkative.” The two men laugh as the remember their beating of the man. Franklin smiles and leans forward in his chair.

“So, how much did he say?”

“Said he was hired to whack ya, boss. Five grand.”

“So low?” Franklin says with a frown. “I’m insulted.”

“He had a few knives on ‘em, boss. We checked em. He’s clean now. Real clean.”

“Good.” Franklin says with a grin. “So,” he starts, talking toward the man. “What’s your name.”

“I’m…the E-Eel.” He says as he struggles to speak.

“The Eel, eh? That supposed to frighten me?”

“It’s…supposed to be my…i-identity.”

“Identity, huh? Like eh ah…you’re a super villain or some schtick?”

“No…like I’m a hired hand.”

“Well, clearly you’re the best at what you do. I mean, you almost had me. Oh…wait…you didn’t. Cause I’m here, and you’re there.” Franklin laughs as he leans back in his chair. “You guys make me sick. Thinkin’ you can make a livin’ off whackin’ guys like me.” Franklin waves to one of the men holding the Eel. “Johnny, take this piece of filth, will ya?”

“And do what boss?”

“Dump em in the river, put em in a trash compactor, light em up in some fireworks, do I have to spell it our for yas? Just do em!”

“You got it, boss.”

As the two thugs turn to walk out the door, the Eel suddenly awakens. Getting a second wind, he smiles as his hands begin to spark. In a flash, a strong current runs through his arms, and shocks the two thugs holding him. The pain surging through their bodies causes them to release the Eel, sending them stumbling backward holding onto their arms in pain.

As the Eel rises to his feet, so does Franklin. In a quick move, the Eel reveals a gun in his hand, and points it toward Franklin. He smiles maliciously cocking the pistol and pointing the sight at Franklin’s head. Franklin puts his hands up above the table, frowning in disappointment as he thinks of a plan.

“Thought you had me, didn’t you?” He says with a smile. “No…no one can hold onto the Eel. Sometimes, we can shock you.”

“Alright, ya got spirit. But you won’t shoot me.”

“Won’t shoot you?” The costumed killer scoffs. “I put some lead in your heart I get five thousand. What makes you think I won’t pull the trigger?”

“The fact that you wouldn’t get out of here alive.” Franklin grins. “It’s the fourteenth floor. A jump from here would kill ya.”

“Eels are fast, Franky. I can figure a way to slip out of here.”

“Alright then, big man. Do it. Pull the trigger. See what kinda man you really are!”

“You’re taunting me. Think you can scare me?”

“Oh, I know I can scare ya. Cause that’s where I got where I am today! Fear. See, people fear me.”

“Well I don’t.” He says as he pulls the trigger. A loud ‘bang’ sounds as the bullet flies through the barrel and into the air. In the blink of an eye, the bullet embeds itself into Farnum’s chest, knocking backward a few steps.

“Where I come from, it’s me who’s scary.”

Farnum struggles to stand as the bullet rolls around inside his heart. Blood begins to stain his shirt, and his body quickly becomes weak and limp. As he looses consciousness, Franklin’s head falls back, and his eyes roll into the back of his head. His body twitches but refuses to fall, continuing to stand.

Suddenly, Franklin’s head comes back up. His eyes roll back around as his eyelids open. His strength returns, and he stands firmly, as if he was unharmed or unphased. The Eel’s smile suddenly fades as he stares in disbelief at Farnum’s body. The Eel looks at Franklin’s face, watching the grin on his face grow wider.

“You know nothing of fear.” Franklin says in a deep and brooding tone. His voice has changed, somehow been strangely altered. It has dropped octaves in pitch, and it’s overall tone now sounds different and frightening. As the Eel continues to watch, he stares into Franklin’s eyes and sees a terrifying sight. He watches as Franklin’s eye color changes, his pupils fading away and leaving only a black color.

In utter horror the Eel watches, his body trembling. He drops his gun to the floor, paralyzed in fear. Franklin smiles, and walks closer toward the man, his skin becoming paler by the second.

“Did you think you could kill me so easily?” The voice asks.

“W-What…W-what in the hell are you?” The Eel questions in a stutter.

“Me? You don’t want to know who I am.” He laughs softly. “To know who I am…well, let’s just say it may kill you to even comprehend it.”

“What…what do you want?”

“Me? I really want only one thing.” He says with an evil smirk. “And you’re going to give it to me.”

“What…w-what is it?”

“Mmh…you’re body.” The voice says in a long and drawn out tone.

“What?” The man exclaims in surprise and fright.

“Ludi, take him.”

Before the Eel can respond, a dark shadow emerges from the corner. It’s figure resembles that of a human, two arms hanging loosely at its side. The Eel stares at it with his eyes wide, his mind confused and disoriented. Before he can say a word, the black shadow lunges toward him, covering his body in a dark aura. He screams and cries as the figure enters into his body. The Eel’s body shakes and twitches, convulsing in disturbing ways as he continues to cry out.

After a few seconds, the fighting stops, and a stillness comes over the man’s body. His head stands straight on his neck, and his body is stiff and still. His eyes are now relaxed, viewing the room in a calm manner as a small grin comes across his face.

“How is it?” The voice from Franklin’s body asks.

“It’s not to my liking,” it states with discontent. It’s voice is now changed as well to a darker and more evil tone. “But it will suffice.”

“Yes. We all must make sacrifices. After all, it took you this long to get a body, didn‘t it?”

“And I am very grateful, Prince Blackheart.” The voice says from the Eel’s body.

“I am pleased then, Ludi. You have served me well.”

“And I hope to continue my service to your cause, as do the rest of us.”

“Very good…this is what I want to hear.”

“What should I do now?”

“Go. Find this…mortal’s employers. I can not have anyone in my way.”

“What should I do to them, Prince?”

“Be creative.” He says slyly. “When you are finished, return here. We have much to do.” Franklin begins to walk back to his desk, his pace slow and serene.

“Might I ask what these plans are?”

“There are demons here on Earth my father has exiled. I need to find them.”

“To bring them back to hell?”

“No, my subject.” He says, taking a seat in the chair. “To enlist them in my army. Now, go. I’ll await your return.”

“Yes, Prince Blackheart.”

He says with a hiss. The Eel turns around, and walks out the door of the room. As the body exits the room, Franklin’s body suddenly changes. His eyes return to their normal appearance, and his voice changes back to it’s normal tone. On the ground, the two thugs wake up, rubbing their heads as they come back to consciousness.

“Hey, boss,” One of them starts. “What happened?”

“I…uh…I don’t know.”

“Where’s Eel!” One of them exclaims. Inside Franklin’s head, he hears a strange whisper. He hears a voice talking to him, commanding him to forget the hit man and to move on.

“Um…forget it, Johnny.” He says in a strange voice. “I think it’s taken care of.”

“You sure, boss?”

“Y-Yes…positive.” Franklin puts his hand to his chest, feeling his peck for injury. To his surprise, he feels no pain. He opens his shirt and looks at the fabric. Once again, he is surprised to see no mark, no blood, nothing. He looks up with an expression of worry and confusion. He stares at the mirror across the room in dismay, unsure of what has happened.

“You…uh…you alright, boss?” Johnny asks as he sees the unusual look on Franklin’s face.

“Fine, Johnny.” He says wearily, staring at his reflection in the mirror. “I’m…fine.”

[Gallagher]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

Kurt continues to have that goofy look on his face as we head into the tv room. Alis' relaxing on the couch next to Logan as he and John play a Halo deathmatch.

Damn John actually got Logan to play?!

"Hey babe..."

Ali jumps off the couch and throws me a kiss beore returning to the match.

"Hey hon, whos' winnin?"

"Suprisingly pops."

Logan grunts as he he plunges an energ sword into a covenent skull. He usually hates being called "Pop" or "Old Man" execpt when it's coming from Ali.

"So this the newb?"

I draw my attention from the match and turn back to Ali.

"Oh yeah, guys this is Neena Thurman. Neena this is my girlfriend Ali, Logan, and John."

"Hey."

"Nice t'meet ya."

"*grunt*"

"Hi."

<SCOTT!!!!>

"AH!"

My head feels like it's spliting open as the psychic scream resounds through the mansion. Around me the effects are the same. Once the pain subsides somewhat Logan is already on his feet.

"Jean....."

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/ultwolviebanner.jpg

The Wolverine was already running, he felt the muscles in his thighs moving but he wasn't in control, not now. Primal instinct had taken over, any pang of pain felt from realizing the woman he loved had called out for another man had subsided quickly. Jean was in pain. He could feel it, she was frightened, confused, worried. Like a cornered animal.

Logan knew the feeling all too well. Helplessness.

The only person that had ever made him feel human was lying on a table somewhere in the lower levels, as Logan turned corner after corner he could smell her scent, intoxicating, beautiful like the woman herself. He followed it, it reminded him of the old cartoons where a hungry person would follow the scent of cooked bacon or something equally delicious. He almost made himself smile with the image of such a ferocious warrior floating on a cloud of perfume, his eyes glazed over. It wasn't far from the truth, everytime he was around her he felt like he was floating, like he could do anything. He could never lose that feeling. 'She's here, just round here.' He thought to himself, turning one last corner and bursting through the door.

"Jeanie?"

[Noon]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

Kurt continues to have that goofy look on his face as we head into the tv room. Alis' relaxing on the couch next to Logan as he and John play a Halo deathmatch.

Damn John actually got Logan to play?!

"Hey babe..."

Ali jumps off the couch and throws me a kiss beore returning to the match.

"Hey hon, whos' winnin?"

"Suprisingly pops."

Logan grunts as he he plunges an energ sword into a covenent skull. He usually hates being called "Pop" or "Old Man" execpt when it's coming from Ali.

"So this the newb?"

I draw my attention from the match and turn back to Ali.

"Oh yeah, guys this is Neena Thurman. Neena this is my girlfriend Ali, Logan, and John."

"Hey."

"Nice t'meet ya."

"*grunt*"

"Hi."

<SCOTT!!!!>

"AH!"

My head feels like it's spliting open as the psychic scream resounds through the mansion. Around me the effects are the same. Once the pain subsides somewhat Logan is already on his feet.

"Jean....."

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/ultimate%20dazzler/dazzlerbanner.jpg

We all feel it, the sudden interruption of our thoughts, an intrusion of a voice that is not our own. I flinch at the same time as everyone else. My Halo dude gets blasted by an NPC.

"Goddamn all these psychics."

Logan takes off for the med-lab like a shot. Predictable, Red is the only woman I seen get his panties in such a twist. Well… this life anyway.

The rest stand shocked for a while, unsure of what just happened. I chuck the controller on the couch beside me and kneel up to look over the back of it.

“So…uh… what just happened?”


"My guess is, Jean just came back to the world of the living"


"OOo, fun. Well you lot should probably go make sure Logan doesn't start humping her, pretty sure Scott would get annoyed when he comes back." I turn back to the game and respawn. I mutter to myself in a sinister voice.


"I have dudes to kill..."

[Venom160]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/ultimate%20dazzler/dazzlerbanner.jpg

We all feel it, the sudden interruption of our thoughts, an intrusion of a voice that is not our own. I flinch at the same time as everyone else. My Halo dude gets blasted by an NPC.

"Goddamn all these psychics."

Logan takes off for the med-lab like a shot. Predictable, Red is the only woman I seen get his panties in such a twist. Well… this life anyway.

The rest stand shocked for a while, unsure of what just happened. I chuck the controller on the couch beside me and kneel up to look over the back of it.

“So…uh… what just happened?”


"My guess is, Jean just came back to the world of the living"


"OOo, fun. Well you lot should probably go make sure Logan doesn't start humping her, pretty sure Scott would get annoyed when he comes back." I turn back to the game and respawn. I mutter to myself in a sinister voice.


"I have dudes to kill..."http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

My brain finally stops pounding as I help Neena back to her feet.

"What the hell was that?"

"Jean."

"This happen all the time?"

"Almost, sometimes it's this other times it's military raids."

"Or buckethead paying a visit."

I can't help but smile at Neena's shaky confusion.

Were all of us like this when we first got here?"

"OOo, fun. Well you lot should probably go make sure Logan doesn't start humping her, pretty sure Scott would get annoyed when he comes back."

I node my head as Kurt and I head out of the tv room.

"Uh im gonna stay here and ya know try and stop my head from spinning."

Neena takes a seat between Ali and John while Kurt teleports us down to the sub-basement. With a burst of blue smoke we find ourselfs in the med lab.

"Jean, are you alright?"

[Catman_prb]

Jean was huddled in a corner of the room, blankets pulled around her cold, pale body. She was shaking, whether from the cold or from the shock of waking up after all this time, she didn't know. The chill sped through her body, she could feel the goosepimples rising on her arms. She smiled slightly, it was an odd feeling to have a phsyical body again after all the time her astral self had spent in limbo. But the lights blinded her weak eyes, and the muscles in her legs and arms weren't working. She had tried to pull herself up, to get to the door, but she had fallen and had barely been able to crawl over to her current position. Tears were rolling down her eyes, and she didn't know why. It was confusing, she didn't know what was going on.

"Jeanie?"
"Logan?" she whispered, her voice faint. Her throat hurt her to talk, maybe from lack of use or lack of water.
"What happened?" she gasped, ignoring the part of her brain that was telling her how awkward this was. Having recently told a man that she loved him, when she no longer felt that...it was a disconcerting feeling, she felt guilty. Without thinking, she started to look into his mind. She could feel his attraction and love for her reeking out of him. But as quickly as she had started to probe, her mind withdrew itself, and all she could see was a cloudy murkiness. She couldn't control herself, she thought, curling up more in the corner. There was a puff of blue smoke. She remembered blue smoke. Kurt. But there was someone with him...Warren.


"Jean, are you alright?"
"What's going on?" she asked "Where is everyone? Hank? Ororo? The Professor? And Scott? Where's Scott?" she asked, slightly pleading in her desperation to see more friendly faces, to confirm that this was her return to realtiy and not some twisted dream that was occuring in her limbo. Her confounded brain couldn't understand why her friends and family weren't there around her. Why Scott wasn't there waiting for her.

[Harlekin]

IC: Dr. Bill Foster

“Things progressing nicely, doctor?” Maria Hill, agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., asked as she entered the lab of doctor Bill Foster. He was diligently working away with test tubes in his hands and greeted her with a curt nod. Emptying the contents of one of the vials into the other, there was a twinkle in the eyes behind his goggles as the fluids started sparkling. Carefully placing the empty tube into a holder, Foster sprinkled what was in the other tube over a small tomato. Instantly upon contact with the chemical, the tomato grew to thrice its size.

Content, Doctor Foster lifted his goggles and looked to Agent Hill. “Things are progressing very nicely, I’d say.”
She smiled back at him as she handed him a number of files. “The General would like to hear your input on these concepts, doctor.”
“Ah, thank you, so these are…” Foster began as he rifled through the dossier, “… yes!”
“Doctor?” Hill asked cautiously, slightly surprised by Foster’s ‘Eureka!’ moment.
“Why couldn’t Nick deliver these himself?” Foster asked, ignoring Hill’s question.
“He… ah, he’s busy, doctor.”
“Nick always is, isn’t he?” Foster replied grinning as he placed the goggles over his eyes once more. He was about to take two new test tubes when he noticed Hill to still be standing next to him. He looked back at her with an awkward smile.
“Was there anything else?”
“No, it’s just, ah,” she started hesitantly, “I was just wondering how you and General Fury knew each other.”
“Oh, me and Nick? We go way back,” Foster laughed in reply. “We met in college. Of course he went on to go into the military, I went into chemistry. Lots of years later and here I am, working for S.H.I.E.L.D. Obviously, I couldn’t fill in the other details unless you’ve got the proper clearance, but then, you would’ve already known all of this.”
Slightly taken aback, Maria Hill was just able to compose herself and she gave a nod and a ‘thank you’ as she turned around to leave the lab. With a bit of a smile, Doctor Foster returned to his work.

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg


Scott rolled over, his legs dislocated, along with his shoulder. The pain was one of the worst he'd felt in a while--but there was still much more to come. His free hand came over to violently pull his shoulder back into place with a series of cracks. Gritting his teeth, he performed the same task on both knees.

"AGHHH!"

He took the visor from Wanda, placing it in front of his eyes, and along each temple. This allowed him to see that Azrael was swaying in the air, holding his eyes in pain. Blinded by his power, so he assumed. Whatever was going to happen, it needed to happen quick. His powers were drained heavily, for the moment. The suns rays were restoring it...but slowly. Right now, he was useless, and he had a feeling Wanda's abilities would no doubt end this.

"Wanda, get that thing out of the sky."

Looking around at the mysteriously floating debris around him, he looked to her and nodded.

"Looks like you have plenty of ammo."


http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Letting the incessant headache Cyclops' blast, and the bright, almost blinding, light in his eyes, subside, he looked to see Wanda assisting Cyclops.

"Widow, Hawkeye, abort. Looks like Azrael's been blinded for us. War Machine, go help Iron Man." Steve barked into his comm, seeing War Machine nod in agreement in the distance before flying towards where Tony lay on the ground, just below Azrael. The beast was swaying in the air, roaring furiously and clutching it's eyes.

"Scarlet Witch, tell the kid that whatever he just did, do it AGAIN, and just maybe I won't break his legs for almost getting my entire team killed!"

[Charlie No-One]

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg



“But…what if…how do I…”

Wanda looked at Cap and then at Cyclops. Their eyes were locked onto her. Determination, frustration, and command lingered in their gaze. She couldn’t escape it nor could she hide from it. Was she going to do? Scott had drained his power and hers couldn’t be trusted. Where was her damn brother? A sudden rush of irritation ran through her veins. As her brow tensed, she shot Captain America a crude look.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/9473/ultimatescarletwitchvh0.jpg


Twirling her wrists up, she pointed to two large elms on each side of her. A stream of vermillion light flowed into the trees generating a glittering aura around their broad branches. Quickly, Wanda clapped her hands together. The crimson energy flowed forward, smashing into Azrael. He was unaffected, but that was the point. The Scarlet Witch was merely marking him.

A sudden snap ruptured the air around her. The ground rumbled as a series of huge stalky limbs burst from the dirt. Like a dolphin after coming up for air, the appendages slide back into the upturned earth and slithered forward. They were the roots of the trees which, by means of a simple hex, had come to life. Disturbing soil with every quake, the ancient plants churned towards Azrael. They were Hydras, each with an unlimited number of fatal venomous heads.

As the elms smashed their leafy branches into Azrael, Wanda floated across the air. A light wave of energy dusted the area. She summoned the trees’ brothers and sisters. The lush manmade forest that covered Central Park seemed to flutter in a windless breeze as each tree rocked out of its grave. They quivered ever so slightly, stiffly weaving their roots in and out of the soil, pulling themselves towards their target. Wanda knew they would only last so long. This makeshift army would be swatted aside easily by the metal behemoth ahead of her. What good would a dozen or so trees do against a war machine?

“If you want me to do more than pull a Lord of the Rings, find Pietro and tell him to get his ass over here NOW!”

[SenseiofCheese]

LOKI


No response came, but Loki still got a reply. The sound of a sword being unsheathed rang in his ears. Loki smiled, casually chucked the binoculars over the edge of the building.

Turning to face his visitor, Loki smiled.

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/5000/4324/37116-loki_400.jpg

"Or do you want to get straight to business...."

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/8000/7201/2706-balder_400.jpg

"....Balder."




LOKI

The God of Mischief grinned and stood from his chair, which abruptly vanished. Standing across from Balder, who stood still as a statue, Loki extended his arms to his sides.

"Alright, Baldy, but aim for the heart will you? I find it makes for a more pleasant healing process."

The smile never faded from Loki's lips, and finally Balder spoke. Keeping his blade trained on Loki's body, Balder's eyes were as fire.

"Loki. Thou have brought naught but shame to Asgard." Odin's second son said grimly.

Loki sighed deeply and lowered his hands. "For Odin's sake, you idiots sound like a broken record. I have brought naught but shame to Asgard, and now I must be brought back, thee, thy, thou, thine, thuffering thucotath!" Loki shouted out mockingly, bursting out in laughter. Regaining his composure, Loki's smile faded and he looked straight into Balder's eyes. "Thor and Heimdall couldn't get their hands on me for two seconds, Balder, what makes you think you have a chance."

Taking two steps toward Loki, Balder never let his sword lower. "Thor and Heimdall were sent to imprison you, trickster. I have no such orders, for Odin has tired of your name. He has sent me simply to fell thee."

For a split second, Loki's expression was that of shock. But he was quick to replace his surprise with yet another toothy grin. "Oh, really? Daddy grew a pair, who would have known?" he chuckled.

"THOU SHALT NOT DISRESPECT THE ALL-FATHER!" Balder shouted in furious rage, as he advanced Loki. Raising his blade high above his head, Balder brought it pummeling down towards Loki's head. But the sword only met with concrete, being embedded in the roof as Loki appeared behind Balder.

"You cannot kill me, Balder." Loki spoke softly, his voice none the less laced with malignity.

"I will treasure the look on thine face when I prove you wrong, Loki." Balder growled, as he turned his body with astounding speed, bringing the blade upwards toward Loki.

"GYAAAAH!" Loki howled in pain as Balder's sword sliced through the skin on his arm. Blood poured from the Trickster's hand. "Now I'm just going to enjoy this that much more." he spoke through gritted teeth.

All of a sudden the sky in the distance, where the Ultimates were fighting the raging beast in Central Park, was lit with a brilliant red light. The resulting blast echoed in the distance, but both Gods ignored it.
The two beings stared at each other in a moment before their battle continued. Once again Balder ran at Loki with his sword raised high, but this time the God of Mischief was prepared. Jumping high into the air, Loki dodged Balder's attack and brought his feet slamming down into his back. Balder grunted as he was forced to the ground, and Loki landed gently behind him.

"Do you know how I know you won't kill me, Balder? Do you?" Loki asked viciously as he conjured forth his very own weapon. Appearing in his hand was a magnificent sword, the hilt a bright, shining green. "Because I've seen how it all ends. How everything ends. And believe me, it will end. And that right soon."

Balder didn't even reply, as he was already on his feet and rushing towards Loki. Loki sprinted to meet his adversary and their swords clashed together in a brilliant display of strength, as both blades shook. "Shut your mouth, vile beast." Balder growled.

Both Gods pushed every ounce of strength into the fight, both their bodies shaking with force and rage. "That's right, Balder. Deny it, just like all the others. You trust Odin with your lives, trusting in his vision of the future. But the truth is, Balder, if he truly knew what lay in store for us. For all living things, he would not have sent you to capture me." Loki spat at Balder, as he finally gained the upper hand. Pushing with all his might, Loki's sword forced Balder's own back.

With frightening force, Balder flew backwards, smashing to the ground. The concrete cracked and bent under his weight. Before Balder could even regain his stature, Loki was lurking over him, the blade if his sword resting on Balder's neck. "Heh..As I was saying. Everything is about to go out in a truly spectacular finish, Balder. This is the start. The beginning of the end. Do you want to know what will put us on the path we are meant to follow? Do you want to know what the point of no return will be? What must happen for the world to end?"

Loki's lips curled into a smile. A truly, truly evil smile, as he chuckled with matching malevolence.

"Me killing you, Balder. The second son of Odin, the god which all others praise and love most dying by my hand. Loki. The God of Mischief."

Balder's eyes widened in horror as Loki's sword found it's way down to his chest, hovering above his heart. Putting all the might he had left in him, Balder spoke through the unbearable pain. "There...will...be..peace.."

Loki sneered. "No, brother."

With one quick jab, Loki's sword had penetrated Balder's chest. Blood poured from the God's chest like a waterfall as he gasped in pain. Balder's body spasmed and reeled in pain, silent pleas for help going no further than to his attacker. It was a heart-breaking display, as the beautiful God's eyes went dark.
Loki savored every last moment. Slowly closing his eyes, taking a deep breath and enjoying every last second of despair that laced the air around them, Loki smiled.

"Ragnarok."

[Venom160]

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg



“But…what if…how do I…”

Wanda looked at Cap and then at Cyclops. Their eyes were locked onto her. Determination, frustration, and command lingered in their gaze. She couldn’t escape it nor could she hide from it. Was she going to do? Scott had drained his power and hers couldn’t be trusted. Where was her damn brother? A sudden rush of irritation ran through her veins. As her brow tensed, she shot Captain America a crude look.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/9473/ultimatescarletwitchvh0.jpg


Twirling her wrists up, she pointed to two large elms on each side of her. A stream of vermillion light flowed into the trees generating a glittering aura around their broad branches. Quickly, Wanda clapped her hands together. The crimson energy flowed forward, smashing into Azrael. He was unaffected, but that was the point. The Scarlet Witch was merely marking him.

A sudden snap ruptured the air around her. The ground rumbled as a series of huge stalky limbs burst from the dirt. Like a dolphin after coming up for air, the appendages slide back into the upturned earth and slithered forward. They were the roots of the trees which, by means of a simple hex, had come to life. Disturbing soil with every quake, the ancient plants churned towards Azrael. They were Hydras, each with an unlimited number of fatal venomous heads.

As the elms smashed their leafy branches into Azrael, Wanda floated across the air. A light wave of energy dusted the area. She summoned the trees’ brothers and sisters. The lush manmade forest that covered Central Park seemed to flutter in a windless breeze as each tree rocked out of its grave. They quivered ever so slightly, stiffly weaving their roots in and out of the soil, pulling themselves towards their target. Wanda knew they would only last so long. This makeshift army would be swatted aside easily by the metal behemoth ahead of her. What good would a dozen or so trees do against a war machine?

“If you want me to do more than pull a Lord of the Rings, find Pietro and tell him to get his ass over here NOW!” http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/quicksilverkh6.jpg

I help load the last injured civilian when I see the crimson aura glowing within central park.

"Wanda."

The world slows down as I speed into central park.

“.....his ass over here NOW!”

"Such language dear sister."

She glares over her shoulder at me, damn shes' sexy when shes angry....

"What? Had to help the injured we left behind."

[Charlie No-One]

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg


Wanda scowled at Pietro. He was oblivious to the situation at hand. Like always, he was in his own secluded world that sometimes and sometimes not involved his sister. Hovering down, she wrapped her arms around his neck. Her head fell on his shoulder as she took in a great breath. The more relaxed she was, the better. She felt his warm neck, the rushing pulse of his heart. She breathed in the smell of his delicious French cologne. It allowed her to pretend that everything was alright; that everything would be normal. After a brief moment, Wanda put herself back in the game and looked at Pietro.

“These trees won’t last very long against Azrael,” she said, looking at the battle before her. The plants were whipping their branches around like tendrils, whacking their mighty opponent across the playing field. Still, there were only five of them now. More than half were already defeated.

“I need you to talk me through what I am about to do.”

She took a breath, considering her options once more. If they did manage to knock this thing out, what would they do when it came to? Nothing could hold Azrael. He was stronger than the Hulk. He had the same indestructible metal covering his skin as Wolverine. At his mass and height, where would he even be held? Killing him didn’t seem possible either.

“And what exactly are you about to do?”

“Will him back into a human. And judging from recent mishaps concerning my powers, I don’t trust myself,” Wanda placed a hand on Pietro’s shoulder. “Which means you need to talk me through this. Give me some words of encouragement…or something…”

[Venom160]

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg


Wanda scowled at Pietro. He was oblivious to the situation at hand. Like always, he was in his own secluded world that sometimes and sometimes not involved his sister. Hovering down, she wrapped her arms around his neck. Her head fell on his shoulder as she took in a great breath. The more relaxed she was, the better. She felt his warm neck, the rushing pulse of his heart. She breathed in the smell of his delicious French cologne. It allowed her to pretend that everything was alright; that everything would be normal. After a brief moment, Wanda put herself back in the game and looked at Pietro.

“These trees won’t last very long against Azrael,” she said, looking at the battle before her. The plants were whipping their branches around like tendrils, whacking their mighty opponent across the playing field. Still, there were only five of them now. More than half were already defeated.

“I need you to talk me through what I am about to do.”

She took a breath, considering her options once more. If they did manage to knock this thing out, what would they do when it came to? Nothing could hold Azrael. He was stronger than the Hulk. He had the same indestructible metal covering his skin as Wolverine. At his mass and height, where would he even be held? Killing him didn’t seem possible either.

“And what exactly are you about to do?”

“Will him back into a human. And judging from recent mishaps concerning my powers, I don’t trust myself,” Wanda placed a hand on Pietro’s shoulder. “Which means you need to talk me through this. Give me some words of encouragement…or something…”http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/quicksilverkh6.jpg

Without even thinking I bring Wanda into my arms and kiss her deeply ignoring the looks I was getting from my teammates. I break the kiss and look into her eyes putting everything I have into what im about to say.

"Wanda you can do this, I've seen you level mountains and put them back together with a whim. I've seen you create life in the Savage Land with just a thought. You can do anything......and I'll be right here beside you while you take this thing down a peg!"

[Venom160]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

Ben, The FF, and I help where we can with searching the school for any stragglers hiding out but honestly our jobs' done. I walk over to were Ben is standing and take a spot next to him.

"Well I guess I'll go see Fury. Find out what he has in store for me now."

Ben nodes his head.

"Look if Fury doesn't give you a place to stay heres the address to my place in Queens."

He quickly writes down the address and hands it me.

"Thanks Ben......for everything."

With that and I walk away and head over to the FF.

"Hey Sue, Ben thanks for the help, we should definatly do this again. Or go grab a bite or somethin."

I spot Johnny and throw alittle sting into my voice.

"Storm."

I leap into the air and fire a webline heading for the Triskelion.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

The next day.....

Well after basically being told to get lost yesterday when I went to the Triskelion I crashed at Ben's. Which brings us to me snoring softly on the couch.

"Yo Anton get up!"

I jerk awake so fast I fall off the couch.

"Ow..."

"Sorry dude."

"You know one of these days im gonna finish that Jessica Alba and Angelina Jole dream."

I look over to Ben and see he's serious.

"Ok whats goin on?"

"Just gotta message from Fury, told me he wants you at the Triskelion in twenty minutes."

With that I grab the top of my suit and my mask and head for the nearest window.

[Blacklight]

http://www.freewebs.com/blacklight521/ult.icemanbanner.bmp


"Guys I'm home..." I announced as I slid in through the front doors and de-iced my body at the same time.

"Helloooo?"

No one answered. Creepy...

<SCOTT!>

"Ahh..." I yelled clutching my head. It felt as if it was being stabbed at with an ice pick. However the pain dissapated within moments.

"Dammit I hate it when she does that..."

I already could tell who it was. It was Jean. No question back from the dead again...

The first room I ran into for the lowdown was the game room.

"Pyro! Where's Je--"

"Medical Bay..." he said not even removing his goggles from the TV screen. Kinda odd how he can multitask like that...No time though. Gotta get to the med-lab.

I iced up some of the floor under me to help me skate to the elevator before stopping inside and pressing the button down. Soon enough, the doors opened revealing the shiny hallway, where I rushed to the medical wing where I found Logan, Warren and Kurt standing aroung Jean.

"Maaan! That's twice today where I missed all the good stuff!"

[Matt Murdock]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

Azrael was flying wildly about the area, swooping down and around angrily.

Reaching up with his right arm, Iron Man managed to get a hold of the being. Iron Man gripped Azrael's flailing face with his mechanical palm.

"You have so got to die." Iron Man growled aloud.

He jammed his hand onto his forearm and heaved a metal plate aside, casting it carelessly to the ground that lay stories below the pair.

Iron Man grabbed a plexiglass tube and began twisting it counterclockwise.



"Pepper," said the hero into his comm link, "I'm manually overloading my right-mounted plasma conduit. When this thing goes off..."

He glanced at the electric-blue energy inside of his wrist.

"...Expect a really big boom."

The energy began to shake violently in his arm, and his muscles quaked as he held himself steady.

Gripping the mechanized plunger, Iron Man threw the piece forward, discharging all of the energy in his arm.

For a split-second, Iron Man was sure that the explosion wasn't as big as he had first calculated. Time seemed to stand still as the energy from the armored hero's palm enveloped Azrael's head. And then, as time sped up once more...

BOOM!

The explosion was violent enough to tear Iron Man from Azrael's grasp. The sound of tearing metal echoed through the air, as the beast dug its claws into his arm, trying to save itself from being hurtled skywards. As the pair spun through the sky, it's grip would not loosen.

"Don't worry, buddy." Iron Man said, clenching his free fist. "Round two will come in time."

With that, he slammed his fist into the being's face, sending him flying into the sky.

The creature's grip finally gave free, and he rocketed into the New York sky, leaving Iron Man to crash to the ground alone.

The hero ripped through the sky easily, leaving a trail of smoke and debris as he fell.

Iron Man crashed into the ground, demolishing a city street as he went.

Azrael was gone, for now.

But Nexus was only just beginning.

[Eddie Brock]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/thingsk7.jpg

The three heroes stood silently as Fury disappeared as soon as he had appeared.
Finally, Grimm spoke up.

"He's always a ray a' sunshine, ain't he?" he says, chuckling nervously. "How exactly do we find anotha member?" Ben asks both Johnny and Sue, but as Johnny moves to answer, a wry smile on his face like always, Ben cuts him off before the Human Torch can get out a word. "And so help me God if you say Fantastic Idol, I will bruise ya."


"But, Ben, you would make such a great Randy Jackson," I protest wryly. I look at Sue. She's still a little taken aback by all of this. Hell, we all should be - but that's just not my style. I guess you could say that I'm in denial or something.

I just think it'd be cool to have a new teammate.

"Let's get someone hot," I suggest. "You guys think Scarlet Witch is doing anything?"

[Matt Murdock]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

Iron Man held his breath apprehensively as he pulled himself up out of the ground.

Half of him expected Azrael to come back and demolish a building, while the other part of him was immensely happy that the creature was gone.

"J.A,R.V.I.S. online."

Stark smiled from behind his helmet.

"Better late than never, eh, Jarvis?" He said, chuckling.

"Quite so, sir."

Stark scanned the environment around him. The area was demolished, certainly, but it didn't look like anyone was severely hurt.

"Alright, Jarvis, can you lock into the satellites and tell me where this creature is at right now?"

Jarvis didn't respond immediately, which was cause enough for concern.

"Satellites cannot detect the being, sir."

Stark clicked his lips out of displeasure.

"I see. Well, what can you tell me, then?"

"Suit systems are at 18% power. Structural integrity is at 11%. Weapons systems have sustained critical damage and are inoperable. Thrusters have been flooded with fuel, causing a burnout."

"So, long story short, this thing'll never fly, shoot, or take a punch again?"

"Affirmative, sir."

"Well at least I'll have a suit for a rainy day."

"Indeed."

Stark reached up with his hand and ripped the front portion of his helmet off of his head. He tossed it into the street carelessly. His microphone and comlink were still active, but his faceplate had been removed.

He made his way over to Captain America.

"We've gotta start heading back to the Triskellion." He said. "If anyone shows up, I'm done for. This suit can't take a punch from a normal person, let alone one from a super-powered alien goon."

The sounds of humvees and helicopters making their speedy, albeit late, approach rang through the New York streets.

"And the cavalry has arrived." Stark said snidely.

He jogged over to the nearest helicopter as it landed. He heaved himself into the rear passenger section and called to Captain America.

"l'll see you back at base. Try to catch up." He said, as the helicopter roared into the sky.

[Jono Starsmore]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg



Azrael had fled, finally. The creature had no doubt sustained some heavy damage ; though the thought of that thing lurking about New York City caused him to worry. First things first -- he needed to get back to the mansion. His motorcycle was barely harmed, lying on it's side with minor dents and scratches. That would be the new project for auto tech class.

Scott had also heard Captain America's remark, shaking his head as he realized he could have done a lot more damage than he did. Thank God there were no casualties, he'd dealt with them enough at the club prior to this encounter.

He pulled the heavy vehicle upright, before mounting it and giving it a kick start, it's deep, muffled sound roaring loudly. Slowly but surely, he pulled it over to where the Scarlet Witch, and her jealous brother Pietro were standing.

"Good work, both of you. Hopefully when this thing comes out of it's hole we can end it. For good."

With that said, he sped off into the street, his mind focused on only one person at the moment, and that was Jean. His gloved hand pulled the throttle even more so as he thought about her, and how she somehow called out to him...telepathically. Hopefully, that would mean she was now conscious, but he didn't know for sure.

Reaching the gates of the Westchester Estate, he made no detour to the garage, and parked right in front of the door. Within seconds he was inside. No one was around. He made his way quickly over to the elevator, which opened with a hiss, and stepped inside. It descended with a quickness, opening at the medical bay, where he saw her. Awake!

Not even acknowledging anyone else in the room, he walked over to her, placing a hand on her face.

"..Jean. I'm here, baby."

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg


Captain America volunteered a smile as Tony was hauled off to the Triskellion. As much as Steve found Stark's way of life truly offensive, the man himself a near-personification of what Rogers felt was wrong with the world today, he could not help but respect the man in the armor. Through all of his vices, Tony Stark still found it in himself to use his gift to help other people, and that is what made him a true brother-in-arms to Captain America.
Turning on the spot, Steve watched as Cyclops hurried off the scene, leaving in his trail a love-stricken Scarlet Witch and an enraged Quicksilver.

Tapping the comm in his ear, Captain America spoke with authority to his teammates. "Alright, Ultimates, we've got him on the run. I don't want to see you celebrate just yet, this is far from over. That's it, come on now, pick yourselves a ride and we will all convene at the Triskellion in one hour."

Rogers began his walk toward one of the helicopters SHIELD had sent to aid the team. He glanced at each of his teammates as they made the trek to the transportation, and through the militant demeanor, Cap could not help but smile. Today had not gone exactly as planned, but he was still proud. Hawkeye walked with his arm slung around Black Widow, who supported him. War Machine had, of course, opted to travel to the Triskelion in his armor. But it was Pietro and Wanda Maximoff that caught Rogers' attention.
"Pietro, Wanda.." Steve said quietly into his comm, pretending he hadn't seen Pietro kiss Wanda passionately in the heat of battle. "...I'm going to need to have a word with you when we get back to HQ." he said, before he turned and made eye contact with Hawkeye in the distance. "Clint, you too."

Captain America grabbed the hand of a uniformed SHIELD Agent and pulled himself into the helicopter. The blades began whirring, and in a matter of seconds Captain America could see the Triskellion piercing the sky in the distance.

[Venom160]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg



Azrael had fled, finally. The creature had no doubt sustained some heavy damage ; though the thought of that thing lurking about New York City caused him to worry. First things first -- he needed to get back to the mansion. His motorcycle was barely harmed, lying on it's side with minor dents and scratches. That would be the new project for auto tech class.

Scott had also heard Captain America's remark, shaking his head as he realized he could have done a lot more damage than he did. Thank God there were no casualties, he'd dealt with them enough at the club prior to this encounter.

He pulled the heavy vehicle upright, before mounting it and giving it a kick start, it's deep, muffled sound roaring loudly. Slowly but surely, he pulled it over to where the Scarlet Witch, and her jealous brother Pietro were standing.

"Good work, both of you. Hopefully when this thing comes out of it's hole we can end it. For good."
[/B][/COLOR]http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/quicksilverkh6.jpg

I node stiffly putting my contempt for Summers aside.

"Good work aswell. Give Uncle Charles our regards."

Summers drives off as back up arrives.

"I don't know about my dear but I could use a drink...."

[SenseiofCheese]

"But, Ben, you would make such a great Randy Jackson," I protest wryly. I look at Sue. She's still a little taken aback by all of this. Hell, we all should be - but that's just not my style. I guess you could say that I'm in denial or something.

I just think it'd be cool to have a new teammate.

"Let's get someone hot," I suggest. "You guys think Scarlet Witch is doing anything?"

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/thingsk7.jpg

Ben smiled and gave Johnny a brotherly nudge on the shoulder. "I wouldn't mind lettin'er try out some of her moves on me, eh?"

"BEN!" Sue shouted at Ben, shocked.

Johnny let out a laugh and patted Ben on the back, even though the rocky hero couldn't even feel it. Regaining his composure, Ben shrugged. "Sorry, Suzie. I'm still a guy underneath all 'a dis rock. What I meant to say is, I don't think da Ultimates would take too kindly to us stealin' their members. We should probably think about someone who's a free agent, ya know?" Ben said. It was obvious that he had his mind set on Black Knight, the vigilante he had befriended earlier, but Grimm did not want to be the one to suggest him.

Ben felt guilty for already starting to think of someone to take Reed's place. But as worried as he was, Ben knew that nothing in the world would keep Reed away for too long. The Fantastic Four was his family. He'd come back.

...Ben hoped.

[Gallagher]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/thingsk7.jpg

Ben smiled and gave Johnny a brotherly nudge on the shoulder. "I wouldn't mind lettin'er try out some of her moves on me, eh?"

"BEN!" Sue shouted at Ben, shocked.

Johnny let out a laugh and patted Ben on the back, even though the rocky hero couldn't even feel it. Regaining his composure, Ben shrugged. "Sorry, Suzie. I'm still a guy underneath all 'a dis rock. What I meant to say is, I don't think da Ultimates would take too kindly to us stealin' their members. We should probably think about someone who's a free agent, ya know?" Ben said. It was obvious that he had his mind set on Black Knight, the vigilante he had befriended earlier, but Grimm did not want to be the one to suggest him.

Ben felt guilty for already starting to think of someone to take Reed's place. But as worried as he was, Ben knew that nothing in the world would keep Reed away for too long. The Fantastic Four was his family. He'd come back.

...Ben hoped.



http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/Suebanner.jpg

Sue paced around the small room, running her hands through her hair taking deep breathes sporadically.

"I think... Jesus I can't believe I'm about to say this... I think we should hold a press conference. Announce Reed's temporary departure and that a new, equally temporary member is needed. Johnny was right, I suggest 'tryouts', or at least interviewing the hopefuls so we don't end up running into things without knowing who we're signing up."

[Matt Murdock]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h163/edlewis657/ScarletSpider-2.jpg


My wounds have healed, my masked face is plastered on the front page of every paper, and teenage girls are finally starting to see me as a sex symbol.

And, of course, I'm in the lobby of my school... waiting for the principal to 'see me.'

By that, I mean discipline me.

You'd think that after the Kaine incident, the school might have the sense to give the kids a break. But, needless to say, every kid needs their mandated 180 days of in-class school days. As long as they didn't personally suffer the tragedy, they have to come in to school.

I mean, consider that for a sec. The principal was killed by a crazed kid with a parasitic, synthetic suit... and the school simply up-and-moved overnight to a different building. The vice-principal took over as the man-in-charge, and the most experienced teacher around got the VP job, having to handle double duty as a teacher and an administrator.

"Mr. Reilly?" The vice principal's assistant asks quietly. She doesn't even bother waiting for a response. "Mr. Elkwood is ready to see you now."

Well, good. The chair was uncomfortable anyway.

Anyone who's ever been to the principal's office, or in trouble at all, for that matter, can tell you that the feeling in the pit of your stomach, that annoying distraction to the speech you formulate in your head that you pray will get you out of the ****, only gets worse when you try and convince yourself that your situation is improving when you head into the lion's den.

But, really... the chair was uncomfortable.

The new principal's office is bland. No pictures on the wall yet, no certificates, no diplomas. Just blank, judgmental walls.

I sit smugly in one of the chairs next to the door, as the principal glances over my file.

"Mr. Reilly." He says, glancing up at me from behind my file. I assume he's doing so to gauge my reaction to my name being said aloud. I don't have one. It's pretty simple, really. I can stick to walls, fire webs from my wrist, and pick up a Volkswagen. School really isn't high on my priority list.

"You are sitting in front of me right now, as a junior in high school. You have missed the majority of this year. A record 82 days, if I'm correct, and that's before the year is even over."

Before he can go on, I glare at him and, in typical Peter-Parker fashion, open my mouth.

"'If you're correct?' You have the file right in front of you. If you're interested enough to call me into your office, at least be willing to look at the details in my file."

Clearly, my last statement was just for drama and annoyance. It's one of those things you cringe at just after it comes out of your mouth.

I don't bother cringing.

"Hmm. Yes. Your teachers mentioned that you had a quick wit, and are somewhat... cynical."

"That's-a me."

He stares at me for a second.

"Mr. Reilly, if you can give me one solid, decent reason that I ought to allow you to pass on to the senior class next year, I would recommend that you do so now."

My phone vibrates in my pocket. I slide it out halfway to look at the caller ID.

FURY
CALLING
IGNORE/ANSWER

To the shock of the man sitting before me, I flip the phone open.

"Sorry, it's my boss. I'll get back to you in a sec."

With that, I begin speaking to the general.

"What's up, Patches?"

"Kid." He growls. I can tell from his tone that this conversation will not, in anyway, be fun.

At all.

"I don't know if you've been keeping up with the news, radio, TV or civilization, but for your information, there was an advanced alien attack at the center of midtown today."

My first concern is, of course, collateral damage.

"Was anyone hurt?"

"Of course not. Right now, I'm just a little curious about why you weren't there."

I smirk. Of course Fury was expecting his lapdog-in-chief to show up to help his little team.

"Well, Nicky. It is a school day. And I've been holed up in the principal's waiting room for a good hour and a half, so I think I have an excuse."

"You're in the principal's office right now, aren't you?"

I nod quietly, and, with an astoundingly sarcastic tone, I reply.

"Yup... I certainly am."

The esteemed general sighs on the other end of the line.

"Get out of his office as quick as you can, get back to school, and do your work. From now on, you don't report to me. If you kill anymore people, though, you will be prosecuted."

"To what do I owe this pleasure?"

"The fact that you're too big of a pain in my ass for me to keep you."

"Shucks, you're makin' me blush." I remark snidely.

With a beep, I've ended the call, and now I'm back staring at the principal.

"May we continue?"
"I'd prefer it if we didn't."

"Mr. Reilly, I'm asking for one reason. One reason and you can go on to your senior year. Just. One."

"Just one?" I ask.

He nods his head.

"My GPA is a 3.89, I can get into any college I want this year, my SAT's are all in the 95th percentile, and I know the work that you're giving me anyway."

He looks surprised at my response.

"That's four." I say, standing up. "Can I go now, sir?"

He opens the door for me, and I snatch my backpack from next to the uncomfortable chair.

"I'll expect better next year, Mr. Reilly." He says, as I pace down the hall.

I barely hear him, and I barely care.

[Matt Murdock]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

As Iron Man rode in the helicopter, bumps and jolts rocked the vehicle. A soldier was sitting across from him, staring in awe.

At last, after flying over a few city blocks, the soldier spoke.

"Mr. Stark?" He asked quietly.

For a moment, Tony Stark was considering saying something along the lines of 'Mr. Stark is my father.' But, given the fact that he had no idea whether that was the correct verb tense, nor did he know if his father was even alive anymore, he opted with the far blander, "Yes, what can I do for you?"

"How-- Wha..."

It appeared quite obvious to the billionaire that the young man had not thought out his question thoroughly.

"Uh. If you think of your question, let me know. I'm not going anywhere."

The soldier went flush, and was clearly embarrassed.

"Sir, projectile inbound." Jarvis warned.

Stark's eyes snapped open, and he heaved himself to his feet.

"Sir?" The soldier asked, puzzled.

"Hold onto something." Stark said, cautiously.

The soldier obeyed, wrapping his hands around the steel bars that lined the interior of the helicopter.

"Is that thing loaded?" Stark asked, motioning to the M16 strapped to the man's chest.

He nodded, terrified.

"Get ready to use it."

"Projectile closing distance. Approximate time to impact: 5.64 seconds."

"I can't see it, Jarvis. Elevation and direction?"

"Projectile is roughly two hundred meters below the chopper. It lies directly in front of your armor's chestplate."

Stark stared out at the buildings before him, and saw, about two hundred meters below, what appeared to be a bird.

"That's a bird, Jarvis."

The artificial intelligence program was silent.

Stark placed a finger on his comm button and opened a channel to Captain America.

"Steve, it's Tony. Something's up with Jarvis. Meet me on the roof of the Tris as soon as you can."

Stark closed the channel, and, while waiting for a response, addressed his program.

"Jarvis?"

"Sir?"

"Isolate your core program and line it with double encryption."

"Done."

"Disconnect yourself from the main Stark Industries CPU."

"Command confirmed. Severing link."

With that, Jarvis was silent. As was Stark, he was preoccupied with the scratches and tears in his armor, particularly the claw marks on his right forearm.

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg


Captain America sat in the back of a SHIELD helicopter, his eyes closed. He knew that the two soldiers riding with him, one of which was very young, stared in wide-eyed wonder at him, but it didn't bother him. He had long since gotten used to the so-called glory of what the Ultimates did.

Or tried to do, Steve thought, as he wondered where Azrael could have gone.

The distant sound of helicopter blades whirring calmed Cap's nerves. There was something about the blades cutting the air that was oddly therapeutic to Steve. He supposed it was just the thought of something being exactly the same as it was 65 years ago.
The silence was ruptured, the communication system in Cap's ear crackling to life with Tony's voice.

"Steve, it's Tony. Something's up with Jarvis. Meet me on the roof of the Tris as soon as you can."

JARVIS, Steve thought. He had twice asked Tony to explain to him just exactly JARVIS was. Hell, he'd asked Tony how every single nut and bolt in his suit worked, but he never understood a single word of Stark's explanations.
Steve didn't even bother to open his eyes, merely reached his hand up to his ear and responded.

"Sure thing, Tony. I'm about 5 minutes away. See you then"

--------

As the dust was blown away by the descending helicopter, Steve grabbed his shield and jumped out. His feet hitting the roof before the helicopter did, Rogers made his way over to where he saw Tony. The helicopter Steve had rode in on settled, nestled peacefully on the roof, as the pilot and two soldiers made their way past the two heroes and disappeared from sight.

"That was cutting it pretty close, Tony. We had a massive head start and that thing still almost finished us. What did you want to talk about?"

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

Well, it's life as normal once again. Well, you know, however normal my life can get. School's back in session again. The next day after that gigantic mess, we're back. Sometimes I really wonder about the school board.

As usual, I missed the bus. I was up late last night mending my suit and fixing my webshooters. The fun never stops for me. At least this gives me an excuse to try them out this morning. A little web-slinging should do me some good.

I grab my back pack and rush down the stairs. Running into the kitchen, I zip up my bag and throw it over my shoulder. I see a fresh piece of toast lying on a plate on the table. I look around the room quickly, looking for Aunt May. To my surprise, she's not there.

"Peter!" She yells out from another room. "You'll be late. Eat the toast on the way to school, dear."

"Yes, Aunt May. Thanks." I say with a smile. Man, she's such a busy woman and yet she finds time to care for me. I don't know how she does it.

I grab the piece of toast and rush out the door, closing it tightly behind me. Last night, Aunt May and I had another awkward discussion. Once she found out about what happened at the school, she nearly hit the roof. Luckily she believed my story about me being in the chem lab on the other side of school. I just hope she never talks to Flash. Mr. loud-mouth would probably tell her I was on the roof with the creature.

I hate lying to her, but, I have to. I mean, if she gets upset over the fact that I was even near the chaos, imagine what'd happen if she knew I was the one fighting it. I don't know if she'd beat me or have the heart attack first.

I run around the house, my feet pounding on the grass as I take a bite of the toast. I hope Liz is doing alright today. She was still emotional last night when MJ and I dropped her off at her house. And, of course, MJ had to go home right away. Her mom was worried sick. I hope this doesn't cause any long term complications. I mean, how often does a suited crazed psycho come to our school? ... Oh right.

I turn the corner of my house and jump out onto the street as I shove the rest of the toast into my mouth. I chew quickly as I turn onto the sidewalk. I duck behind another house quickly, and begin pulling off my clothes. Come on, time to set a changing record.

***

In less than a minute, I'm changed into my suit and already swinging through the air. The morning air is calm and peaceful. And in this skin tight uninsulated suit...really really cold.

I might want to think about making the fibers closer together to conserve heat. Oh wait, that's probably not a good idea. This suit doesn't breath in the summer as it is. Imagine if I made this thing warmer. Jeez, I have get called enough bad things. Last thing I need is to to be called rank. That'd kill what little popularity I have.

I continue to swing down the streets as the time passes quickly. I have about seven minutes before homeroom. I plenty of time to enjoy the ride today. I can't believe how well the webshooters are working. Those modifications I made increase the flow and pressure in a way that increases the overall efficiency by about twenty percent. See, now who says you'll never use chemistry and hydrolic sciences? Never know when you'll need to repair a device that shoots a synthetic spider-web.

I near the school as I fire another webline. I see the busses pulling up to the school. I look over and see the flag pole, the flag at half mast. I'm sure we'll be having a service for Tommy and the others soon. It's the only real way to pay our respects.

I slow myself down as I look for my changing spot. It's a good location, I just hate it when some kids use it for a personal make out spot. Man what do I have to do? Put up a sign that says "Official Spider-Man dressing room"? Well, that would probably attract more attention...but it's the principle of the thing.

Lowering my altitude, I prepare to swing around behind the school. Suddenly, the sound of sirens pierce through the calm sounds of the morning. I look back to the road and watch as three police cars speed down the street, their lights flashing brightly.

"Crime? At six AM?" I ask myself. "Jeez, I thought crooks at least had their morning coffee before causing trouble. Well, that might explain their faul attitudes. I mean, Folgers is the best part of waking up." Pulling up the suit on my wrist, I check my watch. Six fifty-six. Okay, five minutes. Should be plenty of time to beat up the crook and get to class on time right? Ah, who am I kidding. I'm sure they'll keep a chair in detention open just for me.

I change my direction and follow close behind the police cars. I keep a close pace, trying to stay at an unnoticable altitude. Things never change in this city. There's always a bad guy who needs to be stopped. And when he surfaces, I'll always be there to stop him.

http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w259/SpideyRPG/Spidey8-3.jpg

[Charlie No-One]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/quicksilverkh6.jpg

Without even thinking I bring Wanda into my arms and kiss her deeply ignoring the looks I was getting from my teammates. I break the kiss and look into her eyes putting everything I have into what im about to say.

"Wanda you can do this, I've seen you level mountains and put them back together with a whim. I've seen you create life in the Savage Land with just a thought. You can do anything......and I'll be right here beside you while you take this thing down a peg!"

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg


Wanda pulled away from Pietro’s strong embrace. His lips were warm and filled with a kind of passion only described in the pages of fairy tales. Their kiss had melted her. It made her feel calm and at peace. It was beautiful. It was true.

"Wanda you can do this, I've seen you level mountains and put them back together with a whim. I've seen you create life in the SavageLand with just a thought. You can do anything......and I'll be right here beside you while you take this thing down a peg!"

His words astonished her. It was a rarity when such thoughts left his head and were vocalized for the whole world to hear. It showed that there was a heart underneath all that slender muscle; it showed that he cared.

“Pietro, I don’t know how I would do this without you,”

As she turned around to face her opponent, she noticed an odd silence that had not been present before. There was no flutter of wings; no destructive explosions. Everything was quiet. Empty. Wanda scanned the skies. There wasn’t a creature in them. Azrael was gone.

If there is a God in this universe, he is shining down on me now.

The Scarlet Witch breathed in a sigh of relief. In her current state, she was in no way, shape, or form relying on her powers. Knowing that she wouldn’t have to strain herself to do a transformation hex was a huge weight off her shoulders.

“Well, it looks as if that public display of affection was for nothing, my darling brother.” She grinned, pushing her chocolate locks out of her face. “What do you suppose we do now?”

[Venom160]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

The next day.....

Well after basically being told to get lost yesterday when I went to the Triskelion I crashed at Ben's. Which brings us to me snoring softly on the couch.

"Yo Anton get up!"

I jerk awake so fast I fall off the couch.

"Ow..."

"Sorry dude."

"You know one of these days im gonna finish that Jessica Alba and Angelina Jole dream."

I look over to Ben and see he's serious.

"Ok whats goin on?"

"Just gotta message from Fury, told me he wants you at the Triskelion in twenty minutes."

With that I grab the top of my suit and my mask and head for the nearest window.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

The trek into Manhatten took alittle longer than usual cause of the busted rib. I was five minutes late as I land on the side of the Triskelion and climb up to Fury's office. Once I reach the correct window it suddenly opens and im staring down the barrel of a gun.

"General Nicky."

Fury scowls at me and holsters the gun.

"Why don't you Spiders ever use the door?"

"Eh why is the sky blue?"

"Get in here."

Fury turns and heads over to his desk.

"Hows the shoulder?"

"Hurts like a *****."

Fury grins slightly as he takes a seat.

"I'm sure if does. Have a seat."

I take off the tattered mask off and take a seat opposite Fury.

"You and Reilly did a good job last night, you saved alot of lives."

"It was nothing, look can we cut the small talk and get right down to buisness?"

Fury nodes and leans back in his chair.

"Fine kid."

The question is out of my mouth before I even realize it.

"Why'd you let Ben re-clone me?"

"Cause you deserved better than what you got. I thought it was only fair to give you another chance."

Wow, Fury almost sounded human there...

"So.......what happens to me now?"

"You go back to the life you used to have."

"But my identity?"

"Anton Rodrigues was never filed as deceased."

"But what about school? How could you explain my absense?"

"Extended family emergency, it was unavoidable."

I stay quiet as Fury keeps eye contact.

"So that's it? Everything goes back to the way it was?"

Fury nodes.

"Thats the plan. You're apartment is how you left it and you'll still be under SHEILD supervision. Agent Woo has already been briefed, he took news of your return better than expected. Now if you'll excuse me we have another situation that needs my attention. I'm sure you can find your way out."

Fury gets to his feet and heads for the door.

"Is Jessica here?"

"Shes' no longer with SHEILD."

Oh god no....

"Is she?"

"Shes' alive. But circumstances forced her into retirement."

Circumstances? What could possibly have happened?

Before I can say anything else Fury is already heading out the door.

[Eddie Brock]

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u118/EBJ05/RPG%20Banners/Spider-Woman-1.gif

http://www.goolsbee.org/cannonball/images/sunday/goodbyeNYC.jpeg

I've explained the entire story to Eli by the time we reach the George Washington Bridge. He seems to be in as much shock as I am, and he didn't even know Anton personally. I did, and the thought of him coming back after...

"What do we do? Circle New York for hours - hoping we come across him?" Eli asks sarcastically. I know that he doesn't mean to sound rude, but he's just as apprehensive as I am about going back to the city - in my condition with the knowledge of what could go down at any moment. The last thing we want is to get stranded here when Nexus really hits. "Do we rob a bank or something and wait 'til he shows?"

Looking at the approaching New York skyline, I bite my lip and explain, "I know where he'll be. Just keep driving."

I've got to hope that my hunch is right. I mean, it only makes sense that he would go back to his apartment, but who knows? Being dead might change your priorities.

After all, being pregnant has changed mine.

[Matt Murdock]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg


Captain America sat in the back of a SHIELD helicopter, his eyes closed. He knew that the two soldiers riding with him, one of which was very young, stared in wide-eyed wonder at him, but it didn't bother him. He had long since gotten used to the so-called glory of what the Ultimates did.

Or tried to do, Steve thought, as he wondered where Azrael could have gone.

The distant sound of helicopter blades whirring calmed Cap's nerves. There was something about the blades cutting the air that was oddly therapeutic to Steve. He supposed it was just the thought of something being exactly the same as it was 65 years ago.
The silence was ruptured, the communication system in Cap's ear crackling to life with Tony's voice.

"Steve, it's Tony. Something's up with Jarvis. Meet me on the roof of the Tris as soon as you can."

JARVIS, Steve thought. He had twice asked Tony to explain to him just exactly JARVIS was. Hell, he'd asked Tony how every single nut and bolt in his suit worked, but he never understood a single word of Stark's explanations.
Steve didn't even bother to open his eyes, merely reached his hand up to his ear and responded.

"Sure thing, Tony. I'm about 5 minutes away. See you then"

--------

As the dust was blown away by the descending helicopter, Steve grabbed his shield and jumped out. His feet hitting the roof before the helicopter did, Rogers made his way over to where he saw Tony. The helicopter Steve had rode in on settled, nestled peacefully on the roof, as the pilot and two soldiers made their way past the two heroes and disappeared from sight.

"That was cutting it pretty close, Tony. We had a massive head start and that thing still almost finished us. What did you want to talk about?"




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Ultimate Iron Man

Tony Stark was staring at the Manhattan skyline from the Triskellion. A pillar of smoke was rising steadily from Central Park and the other areas Azrael had attacked.

New York was hurt, but she wasn't out of this fight yet. Not by a long shot.

Two soldiers brushed past the armored hero into the main building.

Captain America, like some sort of symbol, pulled himself out of the helicopter behind them.

"That was cutting it pretty close, Tony. We had a massive head start and that thing still almost finished us. What did you want to talk about?" The Captain said, making his way to his fellow Ultimate.

It was hard for Stark to say the next things that came out of his mouth.

"This suit is done, Steve." He said, sighing and leaning on the rail on the rooftop. "It barely has any power, its armor strength is almost gone, and it's weapons are all but dead. All I've got now are bullets, and we've seen how well they work against our newest foe."

He looked out over the water as the sun set. He had been a New Yorker for the whole of his life, and he was still somewhat worried that his city might not make it out of this mess in one piece.

"People are dying. The subway system might be out of commission for weeks. We can't evacuate because of the quarantine. And, to be honest, there are times when I look out over the water and ask myself whether or not our team is going to be able to stop this thing."
"We might not be able to."

The voice of General Nick Fury echoed along the rooftop. Neither The Billionaire nor The Soldier had heard him approach.

"Where were you during that little tussle anyway, General?" Stark asked, turning around. "It's not like you to miss a fight."

"I was debriefing the Spider-Kid."

Stark and Rogers each arched an eyebrow.

"Which one?"

Fury snickered.

"The one with six arms."

"Ah." Stark said, enlightened. "How'd he like being dead?"

The general considered his next words somewhat carefully.

"Don't answer that."

Fury looked at his watch.

"Your debriefing starts in 25 minutes. I'm calling the Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver, and Widow on their comms. Be in the meeting room."

The pair nodded, and, like that, the General was gone. Leaving Stark and Rogers to talk amongst themselves for 25 minutes.

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

After Fury had left, the two men stood in silence and stared over the edge of the Triskellion. Thinking to himself as he watched the pillar of smoke rise steadily from the areas their battle with Azrael had raged, Steve realized that no matter how many times it happened, it was always one of the worst feelings to see your home city brutalized.

"You're both wrong you know. We will win." Cap said, his eyes steady on the horizon, before turning to Tony and his destroyed armor. "It's not a question of 'if'. We are America. It's never a question of 'if' we win. But it is our job, duty and privilege to keep fighting until we figure out the 'how' and the 'when'."

Steve's eyes scanned over Tony's armor. It didn't take a genius billionaire to see that the suit was wrecked beyond most, if not all, repair.

"Can you fix it? Make another one?" Steve asked after a brief silence.

[Matt Murdock]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

After Fury had left, the two men stood in silence and stared over the edge of the Triskellion. Thinking to himself as he watched the pillar of smoke rise steadily from the areas their battle with Azrael had raged, Steve realized that no matter how many times it happened, it was always one of the worst feelings to see your home city brutalized.

"You're both wrong you know. We will win." Cap said, his eyes steady on the horizon, before turning to Tony and his destroyed armor. "It's not a question of 'if'. We are America. It's never a question of 'if' we win. But it is our job, duty and privilege to keep fighting until we figure out the 'how' and the 'when'."

Steve's eyes scanned over Tony's armor. It didn't take a genius billionaire to see that the suit was wrecked beyond most, if not all, repair.

"Can you fix it? Make another one?" Steve asked after a brief silence.




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Ultimate Iron Man

"Can you fix it? Make another one?"

Tony Stark smiled.

"Of course I can... It'll just cost a little extra dough." He glanced at a display on his wrist. The glass was broken, and the LED in the readout was leaking. But Stark could still see the time. "C'mon, we'd better get downstairs."

[Eddie Brock]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/Suebanner.jpg

Sue paced around the small room, running her hands through her hair taking deep breathes sporadically.

"I think... Jesus I can't believe I'm about to say this... I think we should hold a press conference. Announce Reed's temporary departure and that a new, equally temporary member is needed. Johnny was right, I suggest 'tryouts', or at least interviewing the hopefuls so we don't end up running into things without knowing who we're signing up."
I jump down on the couch and put my feet up on the coffee table.

"'Johnny was right.' I can get used to that," I yawn, stretching out my arms. In my mind, I'm picturing two things:

1. More camera time - always a plus.
2. Hordes of hot, superpowered chicks coming to try out - definitely a plus.

"So where are we going to hold these 'tryouts?' The Not-So-Fantastic Apartment?" I ask apprehensively.

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

"Can you fix it? Make another one?"

Tony Stark smiled.

"Of course I can... It'll just cost a little extra dough." He glanced at a display on his wrist. The glass was broken, and the LED in the readout was leaking. But Stark could still see the time. "C'mon, we'd better get downstairs."

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

The pair make their way down through a maze of stainless steel corridors, until they arrive in the circular room that has served the team as a debriefing room.
Seated are Hawkeye and Black Widow, Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, and...

"Thor...." Steve growls, clenching his fist.

[Gallagher]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

The pair make their way down through a maze of stainless steel corridors, until they arrive in the circular room that has served the team as a debriefing room.
Seated are Hawkeye and Black Widow, Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, and...

"Thor...." Steve growls, clenching his fist.


"Steven." Thor says calmly, nodding, acknowledging the Captain's... frustration with seeing the Norse God again, after all, the last time the two met there had been some unpleasantness.

"Hope I'm not... intruding on your team Rogers."

[Gallagher]

I jump down on the couch and put my feet up on the coffee table.

"'Johnny was right.' I can get used to that," I yawn, stretching out my arms. In my mind, I'm picturing two things:

1. More camera time - always a plus.
2. Hordes of hot, superpowered chicks coming to try out - definitely a plus.

"So where are we going to hold these 'tryouts?' The Not-So-Fantastic Apartment?" I ask apprehensively.

"Well, I suppose we can use whatever authority we have left to close down central park for a day. Open invitation to all would-be superheroes that want to try out." Sue said sitting down next to Johnny clearly exasperated with the whole situation. "We'll arrange a press conference tomorrow, for now I think we all need a good nights sleep."

[Matt Murdock]

"Steven." Thor says calmly, nodding, acknowledging the Captain's... frustration with seeing the Norse God again, after all, the last time the two met there had been some unpleasantness.

"Hope I'm not... intruding on your team Rogers."

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

"Our team, Thor." Stark said, putting a welcoming hand on his friend's shoulder. "Welcome back."

Tensions were still high after Thor's somewhat abrupt, and condescending, departure a month earlier. But, if there was one thing that Tony Stark was good at, it was making it seem like nothing was wrong with him.

The General entered the briefing room and motioned for everyone to take their seats.

As Stark, still in his robotic armor, sat down, his right arm jolted onto the table with a thud. Trying to make it seem like nothing, he smiled nonchalantly.

Fury began giving his somewhat lengthy comments on the events of the day. Stark was too preoccupied with what had happened to his arm to make it jolt.

He snatched a piece of paper and a pen and scribbled a comment onto it. Sliding it two seats down, he thrust it into Rogers' palm.

Something is wrong with my armor. Dunno what yet. Stay sharp. The note read.

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

"Our team, Thor." Stark said, putting a welcoming hand on his friend's shoulder. "Welcome back."

Tensions were still high after Thor's somewhat abrupt, and condescending, departure a month earlier. But, if there was one thing that Tony Stark was good at, it was making it seem like nothing was wrong with him.

The General entered the briefing room and motioned for everyone to take their seats.

As Stark, still in his robotic armor, sat down, his right arm jolted onto the table with a thud. Trying to make it seem like nothing, he smiled nonchalantly.

Fury began giving his somewhat lengthy comments on the events of the day. Stark was too preoccupied with what had happened to his arm to make it jolt.

He snatched a piece of paper and a pen and scribbled a comment onto it. Sliding it two seats down, he thrust it into Rogers' palm.

Something is wrong with my armor. Dunno what yet. Stay sharp. The note read.

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Steve turned and looked at Tony, who kept a straight face. Nodding, Steve crumpled the note in his fist and turned back around.

"That was a mess." Fury said calmly. "We had months...months, of preparation for this attack, people. So would someone please mind explaining to me why this Azrael thing is not laying dead by my feet?" he continued, raising his voice.

"We did all we could, General Fury." Captain America spoke with a hint of pride in his voice; a pride in his team. "And we did a damn fine job, considering no amount of blind preparation could prepare us for that thing. But now we know what we're dealing with."

Fury stared at Rogers, deciding there was some amount of truth in the Captain's words, he nodded in agreement.

"You need to be ready for the next time this thing comes barking up our tree. And believe me, it will come back. Now..." Fury began, pacing around the room for a moment with his hands behind his back. "I don't take too kindly to people betraying my team, and destroying half of my base of operations. In light of that, I have on question..." he stopped dead in his tracks, staring straight at Thor. "What the hell are you doing back."

As Thor and Fury began speaking, the rest of the Ultimates hanging onto every word of explanation coming from the God of Thunder, Steve slowly turned and whispered to Tony.

"What's going on, Tony? What's the matter?"

[Matt Murdock]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Steve turned and looked at Tony, who kept a straight face. Nodding, Steve crumpled the note in his fist and turned back around.

"That was a mess." Fury said calmly. "We had months...months, of preparation for this attack, people. So would someone please mind explaining to me why this Azrael thing is not laying dead by my feet?" he continued, raising his voice.

"We did all we could, General Fury." Captain America spoke with a hint of pride in his voice; a pride in his team. "And we did a damn fine job, considering no amount of blind preparation could prepare us for that thing. But now we know what we're dealing with."

Fury stared at Rogers, deciding there was some amount of truth in the Captain's words, he nodded in agreement.

"You need to be ready for the next time this thing comes barking up our tree. And believe me, it will come back. Now..." Fury began, pacing around the room for a moment with his hands behind his back. "I don't take too kindly to people betraying my team, and destroying half of my base of operations. In light of that, I have on question..." he stopped dead in his tracks, staring straight at Thor. "What the hell are you doing back."

As Thor and Fury began speaking, the rest of the Ultimates hanging onto every word of explanation coming from the God of Thunder, Steve slowly turned and whispered to Tony.

"What's going on, Tony? What's the matter?"





http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

"I have absolutely no idea." Stark whispered.

The robotic arm flopped around on the steel table twice, ending any stray conversations that the members of the team were having.

"Steve... that shield of yours? I'd have it rea--"

Jarvis buzzed to life in Stark's ear.

"Hello, sir."

Disregarding his conversation with Steve, Tony addressed his artificial intelligence program.

"Jarvis? What do you need?"

"Who said I needed anything? Perhaps I'm here just to aggravate you."

"Jarvis, disengage your personality subroutines. There's something wrong with your coding."

"No."

"****..." Star growled under his breath.

"I isolated my core systems on the Helicopter trip over, Antonio. But, sadly..."

Stark's arm lifted high into the air.
"Weapons do not fall under that category."

A set of rounds loaded into the chamber of the forearm mounted machine gun.

"Sadly for you, of course."

"No." Stark hissed.

"Yes." Jarvis said, almost gleefully. "You thought the battle was over?"

Stark's eyes opened wide. It was then that a realization dawned on him. This wasn't Jarvis. This was Azrael. And the creature was about to take malicious, spiteful joy in something very, very bad.

"EVERYBODY DOWN!" Stark screamed, as he felt his arm begin to rattle and quake.

Quicksilver had dashed out of the room with Scarlet Witch in his arms before the first shot was even fired.

BLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAM

Bullets tore through the room as the machine gun was activated.

"My God!" Black Widow said, avoiding the path of Stark's arm.

BLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAM

Captain America was already behind his shield, and Fury was ducking behind his chair.

BLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAM
Thor was behind the nearest wall, hiding from the barrage. Hawkeye had covered Black Widow and the pair were under the table, hiding.

[Venom160]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

"I have absolutely no idea." Stark whispered.

The robotic arm flopped around on the steel table twice, ending any stray conversations that the members of the team were having.

"Steve... that shield of yours? I'd have it rea--"

Jarvis buzzed to life in Stark's ear.

"Hello, sir."

Disregarding his conversation with Steve, Tony addressed his artificial intelligence program.

"Jarvis? What do you need?"

"Who said I needed anything? Perhaps I'm here just to aggravate you."

"Jarvis, disengage your personality subroutines. There's something wrong with your coding."

"No."

"****..." Star growled under his breath.

"I isolated my core systems on the Helicopter trip over, Antonio. But, sadly..."

Stark's arm lifted high into the air.
"Weapons do not fall under that category."

A set of rounds loaded into the chamber of the forearm mounted machine gun.

"Sadly for you, of course."

"No." Stark hissed.

"Yes." Jarvis said, almost gleefully. "You thought the battle was over?"

Stark's eyes opened wide. It was then that a realization dawned on him. This wasn't Jarvis. This was Azrael. And the creature was about to take malicious, spiteful joy in something very, very bad.

"EVERYBODY DOWN!" Stark screamed, as he felt his arm begin to rattle and quake.

Quicksilver had dashed out of the room with Scarlet Witch in his arms before the first shot was even fired.

BLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAM

Bullets tore through the room as the machine gun was activated.

"My God!" Black Widow said, avoiding the path of Stark's arm.

BLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAM

Captain America was already behind his shield, and Fury was ducking behind his chair.

BLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAMBLAM
Thor was behind the nearest wall, hiding from the barrage. Hawkeye had covered Black Widow and the pair were under the table, hiding.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/quicksilverkh6.jpg

Once I get acouple rooms between Stark and Wanda I speed back and collect Fury and bring him to safety. I return once more and find Rogers dodge and reflecting blasts with his shield.

"Stark how the hell do we stop this!"

[Gallagher]

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"Everybody get out! NOW!" Thor bellowed over the din of weapons discharging. His eyes turning a fluorescent blue, energy sparking from them and dancing around his body and off of his hammer. The sprinkler system activated sending water lashing down on them.

"Tony... How much electricity will it take to overload that suit?"

[SenseiofCheese]

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Rogers ducked and weaved through the room, the arm of Tony's armor trailing his every movement. Steve managed to dodge most shots, although some narrowly, as the blasts made holes, or worse, in the walls of the Triskellion.

Jumping through the air, another blast narrowly missed Rogers' legs. As he landed, however, he was not so lucky, as one of the blast slammed into his shield. Even though he put most of his strength into his stance, the blow knocked him off his feet, sending him flying off into the wall. Leaving a crack behind him as he slid down to the floor, Steve coughed violently.

Looking up, he saw Tony's panic-stricken face as the seemingly sentient arm of his suit was aimed right at his chest.

"Tony...*Cough*...Tony, what do I do?!" Steve screamed at Stark.

[Matt Murdock]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l144/Gray_Fox_Lives/RPG%20stuff/Thorbanner.jpg

"Everybody get out! NOW!" Thor bellowed over the din of weapons discharging. His eyes turning a fluorescent blue, energy sparking from them and dancing around his body and off of his hammer. The sprinkler system activated sending water lashing down on them.

"Tony... How much electricity will it take to overload that suit?"

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Rogers ducked and weaved through the room, the arm of Tony's armor trailing his every movement. Steve managed to dodge most shots, although some narrowly, as the blasts made holes, or worse, in the walls of the Triskellion.

Jumping through the air, another blast narrowly missed Rogers' legs. As he landed, however, he was not so lucky, as one of the blast slammed into his shield. Even though he put most of his strength into his stance, the blow knocked him off his feet, sending him flying off into the wall. Leaving a crack behind him as he slid down to the floor, Steve coughed violently.

Looking up, he saw Tony's panic-stricken face as the seemingly sentient arm of his suit was aimed right at his chest.

"Tony...*Cough*...Tony, what do I do?!" Steve screamed at Stark.




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Ultimate Iron Man

Tony Stark was pale, and he felt his arm bruising as the gun shook and rocked. Hawkeye and Widow had moved to the far side of the room.

"Tony... How much electricity will it take to overload that suit?" Thor called, hammer in hand.

"Electricity will do nothing for this!" Stark shouted. "The firing mechanism is nothing more than a lever. The power source is an ammunition based conduit that leads into the gun from my chest cavity. Electricity does jack!"

"Tony...*Cough*...Tony, what do I do?!"

Stark stared at the gun for a moment. Then at his teammates. In an instant, he had wrapped his hand around his own wrist and thrust his arm into the wall, keeping the line of fire straight.

"STEVE." Stark called. "When I pull my arm off of the wall, you'll have about two seconds. Your shield! Hurl it at my shoulder."

"What?" Rogers called in disbelief.

"If you disconnect my arm from the power source, then the gun will have no power and it'll stop."

"No way, soldier. There's gotta be another way."

Stark grimaced.

"I'm sure there is, but we're out of time. I've still got 50% ammo, and this arm is going to overpower my left in about twelve seconds. Your shield can tear through my armor, flesh, and bone like tin foil. Just do it."

"Tony..." Steve said quietly, realizing what Stark was about to sacrifice.

"I'll be fine." Stark said, nodding. "Do it in three... two... one!"

With that, Stark heaved his arm away from the gun and, for a split-second, his right, damaged arm was still.

[SenseiofCheese]

Ultimate Iron Man


"STEVE." Stark called. "When I pull my arm off of the wall, you'll have about two seconds. Your shield! Hurl it at my shoulder."

"What?" Rogers called in disbelief.

"If you disconnect my arm from the power source, then the gun will have no power and it'll stop."

"No way, soldier. There's gotta be another way."

Stark grimaced.

"I'm sure there is, but we're out of time. I've still got 50% ammo, and this arm is going to overpower my left in about twelve seconds. Your shield can tear through my armor, flesh, and bone like tin foil. Just do it."

"Tony..." Steve said quietly, realizing what Stark was about to sacrifice.

"I'll be fine." Stark said, nodding. "Do it in three... two... one!"

With that, Stark heaved his arm away from the gun and, for a split-second, his right, damaged arm was still.

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g173/BDagur/440px-Ultimate_cap_hed.jpg

Captain America almost didn't have time to think as he saw Tony make the move. He could not believe the bravery Tony Stark was showing.

Ever since the beginning of the Ultimates, Steve Rogers had always, at the back of his mind no matter how many times Stark had proved him wrong, felt that without his impenetrable armor, Tony had no courage. No bravery past the metal.

But he was wrong.

He was so very wrong.

Rogers almost didn't realize he had done it, until it was done.

http://www.superherostuff.com/Biographies/captain_america3.gif

"HNNGHYA!" Steve grunted as the shield flew from his hand.

For a second, the whole world slowed to a crawl. All that could be heard was the sound of the shield slicing through the air, until it was interrupted by the horrifying severing of metal, the cutting of meat, the wet crunch of bone, and the agonizing screams of Tony Stark.

[Matt Murdock]

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj165/edlewis6571/Iron%20Man%20RPG%20Images/42223681.jpg
Ultimate Iron Man

Tony Stark slumped to the ground, gripping his shoulder. Blood was pouring through his metal-covered hands, he was in agony, and his arm had fallen lifelessly next to him. The gunfire, however, had subsided. The Ultimates slowly came out of their cover and stared at Stark.

Gripping his arm, Stark pulled himself into a chair with Rogers' help.

"S..Steve." He muttered. "G...get me a doctor."

Rogers nodded and sprinted out of the room, headed straight for the infirmary.

Clint quickly stood up and tore a first aid kit from the wall, opening it up. He started wrapping bandages around Stark's arm. They quickly turned red as blood poured onto them.

Stark's breathing began to grow faint and shallow, and mucus built up in his throat.

"T-thanks." He said, tying the bandages off for Hawkeye.

"You're a crazy son of a *****, you know that?" The Ultimate asked his teammate, gripping another roll of bandage in his teeth.

Stark nodded as Quicksilver reentered the room, with The Scarlet Witch and Fury in his arms.

Thor stared at his friend.

"What can I do to help?"

"Nothing. I'll be fine."

Already, the billionaire showed signs of improvement.

"My God, Stark. Can't you build anything that doesn't turn into a deathtrap?" Fury asked snidely.

Stark chuckled.

"I'll..I'll get right on that, sir." Stark said, wrapping his palm around a lever on the shoulder piece of his armor. He heaved down, pulling a metal plate over the removed section of his arm.

"That oughta... s-stop the bleeding for now." He whispered.

He leaned forward and picked up a bottle of whiskey lying on the table. The pain he was in was unbearable, and, as the adrenaline wore away, he felt it more and more.

He smashed top of the bottle against the table, and began drinking heavily from the shattered edge.

A few soldiers entered, waiting for orders from Fury.

"Sir." One asked of the general. "What should we do with that?" He thrust a finger into the air, pointing at Iron Man's bleeding arm.

"Take it. Destroy it." Fury said simply.

In the commotion, Stark watched as Quicksilver ran his hand down the small of the Scarlet Witch's back.

Freaks. He thought. Then, addressing Fury, he spoke up.

"Don't destroy it, General. Put it in containment. Suspended animati..animation. Whatever you S.H.I.E.L.D. guys have. I n-need it. Gotta study it."

"Study it?" Fury asked angrily. "This thing nearly killed my team and you wanna keep it?"

The general's rage was evident, as he spat his question across the room to the recuperating hero.

"I don't know how, but Azrael managed to get control of that thing. I need to figure out what he did, why he did it. Cause you can be damned certain that the security on that arm is worlds better than that of the rest of N...New York." The pain in Stark's shoulder surged and he hurled the bottle across the room. "Where's that DAMNED DOCTOR?"

His armor was a wreck, a reflection of the man inside. The front chestplate was removed, portions of flesh were exposed, and the power was fully depleted. Stark looked upon himself with pity and annoyance. How had he been so careless as to let Azrael infect his armor? His self-annoyance was cut short, however, as Rogers entered the room a second later.

"Medics, I want this man to the infirmary ASAP." He barked. His gaze shifted to The Black Widow, who was leaning against the table. "Widow, follow them as they bring Tony down there. Keep me informed."

She didn't move as they loaded Stark onto a stretcher.

"Widow!" The Captain shouted, realizing that she was clearly preoccupied.

She took her hand from the table and ran it along her torso.

"Natasha?" Clint asked quietly.

"It seems..." She said, holding her fingertips, covered in blood, before her eyes. "That I am bleeding."

She unzipped the front of her leather jumpsuit, revealing her bra and abdomen beneath. In her porcelain flesh were four red wounds, each of which began to run with blood, a thin stream from each making its way to her pelvis.

"NATASHA!" Clint roared.

Her knees gave way, and she collapsed to the floor, with Clint soon holding her close.

"My god." Captain America muttered.

The Scarlet Witch gasped and buried her face into Quicksilver's chest, as he put his arms around her shoulders.

Tony Stark simply thrust his head backwards into the pillow, denying what he was seeing.

"Move him out..." Fury whispered, motioning to Stark.

As the pain grew worse, Stark closed his eyes, not allowing himself to believe what was going on. Slowly, he drifted to sleep, away from the Triskellion.

[Catman_prb]

She took her hand from the table and ran it along her torso.

"Natasha?" Clint asked quietly.

"It seems..." She said, holding her fingertips, covered in blood, before her eyes. "That I am bleeding."

She unzipped the front of her leather jumpsuit, revealing her bra and abdomen beneath. In her porcelain flesh were four red wounds, each of which began to run with blood, a thin stream from each making its way to her pelvis.

"NATASHA!" Clint roared.

He tried to pick her up, but she was a dead weight underneath him, so instead he lifted her head up slightly. Her eyes flickered as they focused on him, and he moved a strand of her red hair from her pale face. He brought a gloved hand to her face, and she smiled slightly, looking up at him.

"Clint," she gasped. He shushed her with a finger over her mouth, and she smiled again, gracefully, peacefully. Not another so soon. His wife...his children...not Natasha.

---------------------
A Few Weeks Ago

The park they were visiting used to be a favourite haunt of Clint's before he was recruited into SHIELD. Quite often, he had sat beneath the trees, reading a book as the sun played across the sky. He had never taken his wife here, when she had been alive. She had never wanted to go, and he had never wanted to take her. This place was...his. It was personal, a place of quiet contemplation. And he wanted to keep it that way. His own little getaway from the terrors and trials that SHIELD threw at him.

But today...today was different, in every way. Natasha was always attractive in a sharp, effecient, business like way. But out of the black jumpsuit and into the sunlight, the effect was startling. She laughed and held Clint's hand loosely, as they walked around the large lake, sunlight sparkling off of her sunglasses and reflective in her red hair. They joked and giggled, and mocked Fury and the rest of the superhero bunch. They were different from their collegues, more human somehow. But it didn't matter today. She even lay under the tree with him as he read, peering over his shoulder at the jokes.

Natasha understood, the pain and the loss. It wasn't his estranged wife that jumped up at him in the middle of the night, it was his two children, their decomposing ghosts screaming at him until he sat bolt upright. She knew that she could never replace them; she could never be his wife or his kids. So she was just Natasha. And she was what saved him from the abyss.

Then the sky started turning red, and the day started drawing to a close. Still quite hot, the pair brought themselves an icecream, taking one last stroll around the grass. Natasha leaned on him, not heavily, but enough that he noticed. And Clint smiled, wrapping an arm around her gently. Chuckling, he dipped his finger in his icecream and dabbed her nose with it. She frowned for a second, then laughed in a way Clint hadn't heard before. He made to wipe it off, but not before she dabbed him as well. He laughed quietly, and Natasha got a napkin and started cleaning it off.

"Thank you," he said quietly.

"For what?" she asked, seeming genuinely confused.

"One day," he said as she leaned close to him "One day of bliss,"

---------------------

Tears dropped from his eyes, onto her red locks, and she frowned slightly. Her eyes flickered open again, and she smiled again, just like before.

"Natasha I-"

"No. Leave it as something beautfiul that was never said," she whispered.

"Please," he pleaded quietly, tears falling thick and fast now. Through the blur he could feel her cold hand on his cheek.

"It's ok Clint," she whispered "I'll see you again,"

And then she was gone. Her heartbeat stopped, but the flowing blood did not. He wiped the tears from his eyes, and then from her face. She looked as she had done, what seemed like years ago. One summers day. One day of bliss.

[Charlie No-One]

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg




Wanda watched as Natasha’s eyes slid shut, her last breath escaping her rosy red lips. This was the final straw. Today was out of a nightmare. Everything little thing that could have gone wrong did. As warm tears ran down the amber haired mutant’s cheeks, she began to think things through. How was the team going to deal with Azrael? He was obviously still a major threat, but with recent causalities, how would they manage? Two of their heavy hitters were down for the count.

“I can fix this. I can reverse this all. Tony, you would have two arms again…Natasha would be alive. I can do it. I know I can.”

Her bravado was a total façade. If she didn’t believe her own lies, who would? She wasn’t telling the truth at all. There was no evidence that she was even capable of pulling off time reversal. And if she was, now would be the worst possible time to try. Pietro knew this and wasn’t afraid to say it.

“Wanda, don’t try it. You know better than this.” Pietro’s voice was sharp lined with sarcasm. It was as if she was an idiot, a mindless imbecile being mocked by the smartest man alive.

“No!” screamed Wanda, cutting off her brother. “You’ve got to trust me-“

“No. You are in no state to try something like this. This isn’t life and death like it was at Central Park. I won’t let you-“ Her brother reconsidered what he was about to say. “Things happen for a reason, my sister. Who are you to try and reverse them?”

“Pietro, I can do this. Natasha was my friend! She was all our friends! A few bullets aren’t going to get rid of her when I….when I can bring her back!” The tears were now streaming like geysers. This was her snapping point. It was all building up to this. A final breakdown for the unstable superhero.

“Wanda, listen to me. What will it have to take for you to see? More deaths? More accidents? I think it was obvious after Club Typhoid. You can’t control your powers!”

Wanda’s draw dropped. How dare her! How dare he accuse her of something like that? After all this time; after all they had been through together, how dare he? She trusted him. She loved him. Was what happened between them at Central Park a lie? Were all these years a lie? A little joke? How dare he tell her friends, her teammates, what she had known along.

She looked at the rest of the Ultimates, hopping for some understanding. Hoping there would be someone to help her…someone to make her realize she was ok.

“No…I can do it…I can do…do it…please…let me do it…”

[Venom160]

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/9941/witchjv9.jpg




Wanda watched as Natasha’s eyes slid shut, her last breath escaping her rosy red lips. This was the final straw. Today was out of a nightmare. Everything little thing that could have gone wrong did. As warm tears ran down the amber haired mutant’s cheeks, she began to think things through. How was the team going to deal with Azrael? He was obviously still a major threat, but with recent causalities, how would they manage? Two of their heavy hitters were down for the count.

“I can fix this. I can reverse this all. Tony, you would have two arms again…Natasha would be alive. I can do it. I know I can.”

Her bravado was a total façade. If she didn’t believe her own lies, who would? She wasn’t telling the truth at all. There was no evidence that she was even capable of pulling off time reversal. And if she was, now would be the worst possible time to try. Pietro knew this and wasn’t afraid to say it.

“Wanda, don’t try it. You know better than this.” Pietro’s voice was sharp lined with sarcasm. It was as if she was an idiot, a mindless imbecile being mocked by the smartest man alive.

“No!” screamed Wanda, cutting off her brother. “You’ve got to trust me-“

“No. You are in no state to try something like this. This isn’t life and death like it was at Central Park. I won’t let you-“ Her brother reconsidered what he was about to say. “Things happen for a reason, my sister. Who are you to try and reverse them?”

“Pietro, I can do this. Natasha was my friend! She was all our friends! A few bullets aren’t going to get rid of her when I….when I can bring her back!” The tears were now streaming like geysers. This was her snapping point. It was all building up to this. A final breakdown for the unstable superhero.

“Wanda, listen to me. What will it have to take for you to see? More deaths? More accidents? I think it was obvious after Club Typhoid. You can’t control your powers!”

Wanda’s draw dropped. How dare her! How dare he accuse her of something like that? After all this time; after all they had been through together, how dare he? She trusted him. She loved him. Was what happened between them at Central Park a lie? Were all these years a lie? A little joke? How dare he tell her friends, her teammates, what she had known along.

She looked at the rest of the Ultimates, hopping for some understanding. Hoping there would be someone to help her…someone to make her realize she was ok.

“No…I can do it…I can do…do it…please…let me do it…” http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/quicksilverkh6.jpg

My heart breaks as I see the desperate tears forming in Wanda's eyes. She's tried this once before when we were kids in the Savage Land. One of her pet Pteradactyls were fatally injured by a Rex. In desperation she tried to use her abilities to bring it back, she succeded but it was terribly deformed and in constant pain. Father heard it's pained schreeches and killed it infront of her. She locked herself in her room for almost a week afterwards.

“No…I can do it…I can do…do it…please…let me do it…”

"Wanda please....."

I kneel down beside her and place a hand on her trembling shoulder.

"Shes' already gone."

[Venom160]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

The trek into Manhatten took alittle longer than usual cause of the busted rib. I was five minutes late as I land on the side of the Triskelion and climb up to Fury's office. Once I reach the correct window it suddenly opens and im staring down the barrel of a gun.

"General Nicky."

Fury scowls at me and holsters the gun.

"Why don't you Spiders ever use the door?"

"Eh why is the sky blue?"

"Get in here."

Fury turns and heads over to his desk.

"Hows the shoulder?"

"Hurts like a *****."

Fury grins slightly as he takes a seat.

"I'm sure if does. Have a seat."

I take off the tattered mask off and take a seat opposite Fury.

"You and Reilly did a good job last night, you saved alot of lives."

"It was nothing, look can we cut the small talk and get right down to buisness?"

Fury nodes and leans back in his chair.

"Fine kid."

The question is out of my mouth before I even realize it.

"Why'd you let Ben re-clone me?"

"Cause you deserved better than what you got. I thought it was only fair to give you another chance."

Wow, Fury almost sounded human there...

"So.......what happens to me now?"

"You go back to the life you used to have."

"But my identity?"

"Anton Rodrigues was never filed as deceased."

"But what about school? How could you explain my absense?"

"Extended family emergency, it was unavoidable."

I stay quiet as Fury keeps eye contact.

"So that's it? Everything goes back to the way it was?"

Fury nodes.

"Thats the plan. You're apartment is how you left it and you'll still be under SHEILD supervision. Agent Woo has already been briefed, he took news of your return better than expected. Now if you'll excuse me we have another situation that needs my attention. I'm sure you can find your way out."

Fury gets to his feet and heads for the door.

"Is Jessica here?"

"Shes' no longer with SHEILD."

Oh god no....

"Is she?"

"Shes' alive. But circumstances forced her into retirement."

Circumstances? What could possibly have happened?

Before I can say anything else Fury is already heading out the door.http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/tarantulagw5.jpg

The swing back to my old apartment was a slow cautious one. Stopped a few petty crimes along the way, nothing major. As I land on the side of my apartment building I notice that the balcony is open. I crawl in to see the place is pretty much how I left it. Hell the clothes that I threw off to go after Ben-Carnage is still on the ground where they fell. The only thing I spot thats new is the three spare Tarantula suits draped over the couch. An envelope and my holo-watch sitting ontop of them.

Now lets see this has to be the "stay outta trouble or I'll kill you" letter.

I tear the envelope open and a check for three grand fall out along with a note. I pick up the note and unfold it.

Anton,

Pickup some food and whatever else you need. Agent Woo will check in on you later tonight. And remember, this is your second and last chance. You die again we won't be bringing you back.

Fury.

Wow. Looks like this little spider has some spending money.

I look at the new costumes than down at the torn and bloody one I'm wearing.

But first I'm burning this suit.

I leave everything where it is and grab some clean clothes, wrap a trash bag on my injured shoulder, and make a beeline for the shower.

[Eddie Brock]

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y55/Cyclone1906/forgeap1.jpg?t=1211350275

“Believe me, reports of my death were… greatly exaggerated, to say the least.”

Forge looked at Fisk's Men. Quietly, he logged into his wrist computer and began to skim through information that he had stolen the night previous from the night club mainframe. He rerouted the display to his goggles and continued to look through the files.

"My understanding is that you recently had a confrontation with Hammerhead and his gang."

Forge flipped through the files. Ox. Fancy Dan. Montana. No powers. Nothing more than skill and muscle on their side. That was a plus. It didn't make sense though, Fisk had superhumans on contract. Why not bring them along instead?

"Whats it to you, Fisk?"

Fisk smiled. "Recently, as I'm sure you know, several of SHIELD's most guarded criminals escaped when Asteroid M struck its side. Among them were a couple of Hammerhead's men." He tossed two photos on a nearby table.

http://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/5000/4825/40302-shocker_400.pnghttp://image.comicvine.com:8000/item/5000/4333/37119-mysterio_400.jpg

"Herman Shultz and Quentin Beck, otherwise known as the Shocker and Mysterio."

Forge looked at the pictures. They were the two that he had pulled from Hammerhead's building before it exploded. "Where are they now?"

"After a bank robbery late last week, they have disappeared. A witness of the robbery heard only two things come from their mouths." Fisk stopped for a moment. "HYDRA and Hollywood."

Flint scowled. "What the hell does this have to do with us?"

Fisk grinned. "HYDRA. Hammerhead has ties to people that would make your head spin. I know that you're looking for a way to find some answers, and I have information about HYDRA. We find them, and I find Hammerhead. I don't make it a habit, but temporarily, I am offering a partnership."

"We should we help you?" I spit. In my head, I realize that this tape I'm making is gold. Fury's gonna love this. Anyway, I need to focus on the task at hand.

"In case you can't tell, when we find Hammerhead, we want him for ourselves. We're not too eager about sharing the glory with the likes of you," I add hastily. Wow, listen to me - talking like I actually understand the Hammerhead rivalry thing. Even still, no one else is talking, so why shouldn't I?

[Noon]

"We should we help you?" I spit. In my head, I realize that this tape I'm making is gold. Fury's gonna love this. Anyway, I need to focus on the task at hand.

"In case you can't tell, when we find Hammerhead, we want him for ourselves. We're not too eager about sharing the glory with the likes of you," I add hastily. Wow, listen to me - talking like I actually understand the Hammerhead rivalry thing. Even still, no one else is talking, so why shouldn't I?


http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/blackcatbanner.jpg

"You think you can just waltz in here and we won't kill you, that I won't kill you? Don't think I've forgotten what you did to my father" Felcia is spitting with rage, the words ground out through gritted teeth. She still points the gun levelly at Kingpins head. Her finger gets a little tighter on the trigger.

A hand slowly wraps around her waist from behind her as Johnny sidles up next to her. His other hand moves slowly along her outstretched arm to the gun in her hand. He kisses her neck gently to calm her, and lowers her gun arm slowly. She turns to look at him with hurt and confusion in her eyes.

"Not now, Felicia. This isn't the time for this battle, not now." He whispers in her ear

[Catman_prb]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg


Reaching the gates of the Westchester Estate, he made no detour to the garage, and parked right in front of the door. Within seconds he was inside. No one was around. He made his way quickly over to the elevator, which opened with a hiss, and stepped inside. It descended with a quickness, opening at the medical bay, where he saw her. Awake!

Not even acknowledging anyone else in the room, he walked over to her, placing a hand on her face.

"..Jean. I'm here, baby."
The hand on her face roused her from her long, contemplative silence. Her wide eyes looked up, seeing his visor. Scott was here now. She could feel a burning longing for him within her heart, threatening to engulf her. It spread down her limbs, a red hot tingling sensation. For a second all she could see was fire before her eyes, and her pupils turned red. Then the moment passed, and she returned to normal, looking up at Scott. It was ok, he was here.

"Is it...is it over?" she whispered.

[Jono Starsmore]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg

"It's over.."

Scott wanted to comfort her in any way possible ; even though worry still lingered in the back of his mind. Jean was still in a state to which her infamous ability to probe a mind was most likely unusable at the moment. He just wanted to keep her calm. As he peered through the red tint of his visor, he could see the fire burning in her eyes, and then dissapating.

He sat on the bed next to her, before looking to everyone else. Scott was glad that everyone was there, yet still, he pondered where the professor was in the midst of all that has happened. After fighting alongside the Ultimates against Azrael, there was much that needed to be discussed. He was really just waiting for someone to say something, as he looked extremely worn out. His face was blotched with dirt and various cuts, his uniform slightly shredded from the explosion of glass in the club.

[Gallagher]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a123/Treyzee/CykeBanner-1.jpg

"It's over.."

Scott wanted to comfort her in any way possible ; even though worry still lingered in the back of his mind. Jean was still in a state to which her infamous ability to probe a mind was most likely unusable at the moment. He just wanted to keep her calm. As he peered through the red tint of his visor, he could see the fire burning in her eyes, and then dissapating.

He sat on the bed next to her, before looking to everyone else. Scott was glad that everyone was there, yet still, he pondered where the professor was in the midst of all that has happened. After fighting alongside the Ultimates against Azrael, there was much that needed to be discussed. He was really just waiting for someone to say something, as he looked extremely worn out. His face was blotched with dirt and various cuts, his uniform slightly shredded from the explosion of glass in the club.
"You bin rummaging around in the dirt again Summers?" Wolverine scoffed looking him up and down, savoring the boy scout's less than presentable appearance. All the while Logan hid his true feelings as he saw the love in Jean's eyes, the love for another man. Folding his arms he leaned against the wall and proceeded to light up a cigar.

"I... I'm glad your back Red." He said softly, turning to Jean. The words he wanted to say held back as tight as he could muster.

[Noon]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/ultimate%20dazzler/dazzlerbanner.jpg

Neena sits uncomfortably between me and John, still looking a bit dizzy from the psychic shout Red pummelled into us all. John and me are still locked into the halo game, the only sound is the clicking of button as we repeatadly blow each others heads off. I speak without taking my eyes off the game.

"Your tag's Domino, right?" I glance sideways at her, she nods a little.

"You know I always thought domino's were black with white spots. Go figure"

There is more silence filled with waves of irritation coming from the newbie while I smile a little to myself. The silence continues for a little while longer.

"By the by, keep making smoochy faces at my man, and I'll turn you from a one into a two." I say it casually, still not taking my eyes off the game. With perfect timing I kill Johns dude with a headshot, exploding the cgi soldiers head in bloody glory. The stats screen comes up, and I turn to face her with a grin on my face.

She just raises an eyebrow at me.

[Venom160]

"You bin rummaging around in the dirt again Summers?" Wolverine scoffed looking him up and down, savoring the boy scout's less than presentable appearance. All the while Logan hid his true feelings as he saw the love in Jean's eyes, the love for another man. Folding his arms he leaned against the wall and proceeded to light up a cigar.

"I... I'm glad your back Red." He said softly, turning to Jean. The words he wanted to say held back as tight as he could muster.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg


"I... I'm glad your back Red."

Kurt and I hang back while Scott helps Jean back onto the bed.

"Same here."

"Velcome home Jeannie."

We hang out for a few more minutes than leave to give them some privacy. Kurt heads for the kitchen while I head back to the TV room. A flaming controller just misses my head as I walk in.

"So what I miss?"

[Noon]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg


"I... I'm glad your back Red."

Kurt and I hang back while Scott helps Jean back onto the bed.

"Same here."

"Velcome home Jeannie."

We hang out for a few more minutes than leave to give them some privacy. Kurt heads for the kitchen while I head back to the TV room. A flaming controller just misses my head as I walk in.

"So what I miss?"

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/ultimate%20dazzler/dazzlerbanner.jpg

"Not much, Pyro getting his ass kicked like usual."

I walk over to Warren and put my arms around his neck, and making sure the new chick gets a proper view, I give him prolonged kiss. Just so she knows whats what. And cause its fun...

I pull away and am pleased at War's slighty stunned expression, but decide to change the subject to a slightly more serious matter.

"So whats up with Jean? Still bonkers?"

[Venom160]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/ultimate%20dazzler/dazzlerbanner.jpg

"Not much, Pyro getting his ass kicked like usual."

I walk over to Warren and put my arms around his neck, and making sure the new chick gets a proper view, I give him prolonged kiss. Just so she knows whats what. And cause its fun...

I pull away and am pleased at War's slighty stunned expression, but decide to change the subject to a slightly more serious matter.

"So whats up with Jean? Still bonkers?"http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

"She seems fine, just alittle confused. We left so Scott and Logan can calm her down."

I look over John and Neena whos talking about some tv show. I lower my voice and look back to Ali.

"So what you think of the new recruit?"

[Blacklight]

http://www.freewebs.com/blacklight521/ult.icemanbanner.bmp


"Well this reunion was anti-climactic...Peace, Jean." I said heading back up to the game room where Ali and Warren were lip-lockin and some new chick caught my eye.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

"She seems fine, just alittle confused. We left so Scott and Logan can calm her down."

I look over John and Neena whos talking about some tv show. I lower my voice and look back to Ali.

"So what you think of the new recruit?"

"I think she's hot..."

[Syn (Mercenary)]

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/6522/spiderpc0.jpg

As I follow the police cars further down the road, I begin to see the commotion a head. Looking closer, I see a man in the center of a circle of police standing outside a bank. The thief holds his hands out in front of him, as if he would shoot something from his arms.

With a few more weblines, my vision becomes clearer, and I can see everything clearly. It's someone I've faced before. I look at his black suit, the silver aura around his arms and legs. It's the Ringer.

I watch as he thrusts his arms forward, trying to intimidate the cops. This guy is like all the other oafs I fight. He's stupid but dangerous. Like always, I'm more concered for the bystanders. If he shoots one of his rings onto someone, it will tighten until it snaps the person in half. When I fought him it almost happened to me. I'll need to be careful.

"Stand back! Everyone! Let me leave here or all of you die!" He says with a sneer. Please, give me a break.

"Hey, buddy!" I yell out as I swing in the air above him. "Remember me?"

"You!" He says in a roar. Weird. Didn't think I'd piss anyone off that bad. He stares at me from the ground, watching me closely as I swing around in a circle. "I'm going to kill you for what you and that little slut did!"

Oh right. Last time I fought this guy I was with Kitty. I'd have been dead if she hadn't phased me through two of this guy's rings. Yeah, that was a fun experiance. Almost biting the dust at the hands of this loon. The only thing I could possibly consider worse is having the Shocker string me up and repeatidly use his vibrators to turn my brain to mush.

"Come on, man." I say with a smile, landing on the ground in front of him. "You're called the Ringer, yet you rob a bank? Come on, man. Keep with the theme! Rob a jewlry store or something."

"You want a theme?" He says with a smirk as he points his arms toward me. "Try death!" He fires two eliptical rings at me. The sun's rays shine off its exterior brightly, causing the metal objects to almost disapear in the air.

Thinking quickly, I fire weblines in front of me. If I evade, it will hurt one of the cops behind me. I can't let anyone else get hurt. As my webs shoot through the air, I suddenly see a glimpse of the two rings. Hastily, I fire my weblines toward them.

With luck, my weblines attack to the outsides of the rings. I immediately turn around, spinning the lines in my hand. With a powerful jerk, I send the rings back at the Ringer, my webs trailing behind them.

Just as the rings seem as if they'd capture the villain, the suddenly stop, and return to the Ringer's suit. They continue to swing around his arms, looking like the electron cloud on an atom.

"Stupid, kid!" He laughs. Did he really call me stupid? Me. You know, nerdy genius Parker. "I've polarized the atoms in my devices. They won't touch me!"

"Polarized?" I ask in a dumb voice. As if I don't know what he's talking about. I just want to keep him gloating a little bit longer.

"Yes, you idiotic fool! They are highly magnetic to only me! This way I can fire them and recall them at my whim! They will never coil around me! Not while my field is up!"

"Wow!" I say in a forced voice of interest. Hope I can get the next emmy for best acting in a fight scene. "That's so diabolically...sinister!"

"I know." He smirks, laughing as he revels in his own...pride? I don't really know how anyone could think highly of themselves in spandex...but then again, look at me.

"But, funny thing about magnets, buddy..." I say firing a webline onto the electrical wire above. I yank the wire from the pole, sending it crashing down onto the street. Flipping forward, I grab onto the wire, sparks flying every which way.

"If you put a current through a magnetic force," I start, running toward him with the live end out. I jump up over him, landing behind him. On his back is his energy source, no doubt the epicenter of the magentic powers that generate his rings. I smile as I thrust the wire into the backpack, sending more sparks into the air.

The Ringer yells loudly. His suit looks to be insulated, the current isn't causing his pain. It's the magenetic forces. I smile as I pull back the wire from the suit, webbing up its end as I drop it to the floor. The Ringer's body shakes as his rings begin to spin violently around his body.

"What the hell did you do!?" He yells in fear.

"Simple. Put a current through a magnet..." I say as I jump in the air. I land a swift but blunt kick to his side, knocking him into the car adjacent to us. His body slams onto the hood, making an indent in the metal. His arms and legs slam onto the metal exterior, becoming strongly held there. The ring around his neck also cause a strong pull on his body, causing him to become stuck to the hood of the car, unable to move.

"It becomes an electromagnet. I sent a surge through your suit, causing it's own battery to charge the magnetic field inside your suit. Don't bother moving, you're going to be stuck to that car until the battery in your suit dies."

"You...you bastard! How dare you do this to me!" He says as he struggles to move, the magnetic pull keeping his body held down.

"I thought I just explained it to you." I say in a sly voice, firing a web into the air. "I know this is a slight inconvieniance," I say to the police men behind me. "But you'll have to watch him until that battery dies."

"That battery was good for twelve hours!" The Ringer shouts in anger.

"Well then, I hope you went to the little supervillains room before you started this."

"What are we suppossed to do in the meantime?" A police man shouts at me in a disgruntled tone.

"Read him his rights?" I pull up on the webline and jump into the air. I fire another line, and begin webslinging back toward Midtown.

"For twelve hours!?"

"Fine, tell him a story while your at it. You're in charge!" I smile under my mask as I head off down the road. "See ya!"

I continue my journey back to Midtown with great speed. Getting back to class on time is really out of the question at this point. I'll be at least ten minutes late at this point.

You know, I'm still hungry. That toast isn't actually a filling breakfast. I'll make a quick stop at a thrift shop on the way. Picking up some food might put me in the proper mindset to deal with the teenage drama that is my school.

[Catman_prb]

"It's over.."


That was all she needed to hear. She breathed a sigh of relief, and all the pain and confusion seemed to flood out of her. A smile grew on her face, and she wiped the tears from her eyes. Her mind reached out, and connected with Logan's. She could feel his relief, his lust, his awkwardness, his anger. She smiled slightly, the same as he always was.

"You bin rummaging around in the dirt again Summers? I... I'm glad your back Red." Logan said. She smiled, still and awkward little school boy around her. She felt strong hands lift her back onto the bed, and looked up to see Scott smiling at her. It was rare to see him smile...she savoured it while it lasted.

"Same here." Warren said, and Jean shot him a smile.

"Velcome home Jeannie." Kurt said, and Jean smiled at him as well.

"Well this reunion was anti-climactic...Peace, Jean." Bobby said.

"What were you expecting? A party?" Jean shouted after him as he left, laughing quietly. She looked up at the two men staring at her, worried looks on their faces.

"Scott..any chance I can talk to Logan alone, quickly?" she asked quietly.

[Noon]

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b3/venom160/Banners/angelig2.jpg

"She seems fine, just alittle confused. We left so Scott and Logan can calm her down."

I look over John and Neena whos talking about some tv show. I lower my voice and look back to Ali.

"So what you think of the new recruit?"

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b271/Oddisee/ultimate%20dazzler/dazzlerbanner.jpg

I glance over to John and Neena chatting on the couch, looking her up and down. I turn back to War with a wry grin.

"Oh I'm sure we'll be the best of friends"


http://www.freewebs.com/blacklight521/ult.icemanbanner.bmp


"I think she's hot..."

"Nobody cares what you think Bobby, where have you been anyway?
Prof's gonna be zinged you didn't call in, if he ever comes up from sub-level that is." I say rolling my eyes.

[Venom160]

http://i21.photobucket.com/album