(Marvel, DC, images, manhuas, and every anime that will be mentioned and used in this story are not mine. They all belong to their respective owners. The main character "Karito Josue Valdez" and the story are mine)
Time skip a few days later
Karito pov
I swung over to Stark Tower to pay Tony a visit. He was in the process of giving the Avengers Tower a makeover, so I figured I'd drop by and see how things were shaping up. Landing on the balcony, I waited for Jarvis to give me the green light before stepping inside. As I entered the living room, there was Tony, tinkering away and making his signature modifications to the place.
(Tony Stark) "Oh, hey Karito. Looking for more jobs to do?"
(Karito) "Well, yes but also asking you to check on something, and hopefully you being able to upgrade it."
(Tony Stark) "Oh ho? You have gotten my curiosity. What is it?"
(Karito) "You know my web shooters?" Tony nods "I was hoping you could find a way to make them better? Is its possible?"
(Tony Stark) "You asked for the correct person for the job. I have always been curious about those things, did you make them?"
(Karito) "Oh, yes" Lie "I have the blueprints in my bag I'll give them to you." He mentally buys a web shooter blueprint from the store for 500 gold and pretends he just pulled it out from his bag "Here you go."
(Tony Stark) "W-wow Karito, this is amazing. This was just in scraps?"
(Karito) "Well yeah, just went to a place that sold parts and got some stuff.
(Tony Stark) "You are pretty smart huh?"
(Karito) "Nah, I just got lucky with that. I wasn't even sure it was gonna work."
(Tony Stark) "How long did it take you?"
(Karito) "A few weeks at most."
(Tony Stark) " Well, I'll be done with this in fewer thanks to the blueprints."
(Karito) "So you're gonna do it?"
(Tony Stark) "Sure but you owe me."
(Karito) Doesn't mind "Okay, bet." Smiles
(Tony Stark) "Pleasure doing business with you." Shakes Karito's hand
(Karito) "Don't worry, the pleasure is all mine." Shakes Tony's hand
(Tony Stark) "Anyways, I'll let you know when I'm done upgrading these alright?"
(Karito) "I'll help you around the Tower for a bit, what do you need?"
(Tony Stark) "I have a load of builders here, you don't have to worry."
(Karito) "Come on, man I'm bored at home. I already helped you with some of the programs in this place. Let me help out again."
(Tony Stark) Sigh "Fine...fine, you can start making the holographic programs for the lab then."
(Karito) "Alrighty then."
I headed up the stairs and made my way to the under-maintenance lab. Looking around, I casually pulled up my stats to double-check them.
Player: Karito Josue Valdez
Level: 3
EXP: 0/300
HP: 76,000/76,000
Prestige: 2
Hero: Spider-Man (Miles Morales)
STR: 80
END: 68
INT: 65
DEX: 104
VIT: 76
(Stat Points) SP: 9
Man, it's frustrating how my cleaning, cooking, and hacking skills are the only ones that seem to level up easily. I've been stuck at the same level for ages in everything else. Should've gone on more dungeon adventures, I guess. Oh well, I'll just dump these 9 stat points into intellect 'cause why not? That should boost it to around 74... there we go. Now I gotta keep up with my programming game and hopefully impress Tony enough to get paid.
After tidying up the lab, I plopped myself down at a computer in the middle of the room. Time to mess around with some settings and get the system running smoothly. Gotta tweak the HUD too, to make it look sleek. Okay, that's enough work for today.
Now, onto the good stuff. I treated myself to a tripleta, this bomb Puerto Rican sandwich. It's got marinated cube steak and pre-cooked pernil, all stuffed between the bread. It's like a meal in itself, man. I'm low-key addicted to this sandwich. It hits the spot every time. Oh, hold on, let me grab a soda real quick from the store. Sprite sounds good. One gold and boom got it. Now it's time to chow down and enjoy this deliciousness.
(Tony Stark) "Hey, Karito! Quick! You have to hear this...are you eating in my laboratory?"
(Karito) "Bitch, I programmed this place."
(Tony Stark) "Fair enough. But whatever, remember the kid that you visited a few days ago in the hospital?"
(Karito) "Yeah? What's up?"
(Tony Stark) "He suddenly disappeared from the hospital and many other children from around New York."
(Karito) "Wait what?! What the hell going on?!"
(Tony Stark) "I'm not sure but suit up, we are the only ones near right now."
(Karito) "Alright."
I quickly dashed out of the lab, sneakily stashing my food in my inventory. Slipping into my trusty Spider-Man suit, I stuck to the side of the wall, waiting for Tony to gear up. But out of nowhere, I started hearing this annoying screechy sound in my head, and bam! The mother of all headaches hit me like a freight train. Seriously, it was the worst headache I've ever had. Ugh, talk about bad timing.
"WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING"
I let out a freaking scream of pain as my spider senses went haywire, like my head was about to explode into a million pieces. And guess what? My whole body decided to join the party and start hurting like hell too. Seriously, what the actual f... I mean, how is it even possible for my entire body to ache like this? It's like a total pain fest going on. Ugh, talk about a major bummer.
Ugh, dammit! Just like that, the pain vanished into thin air and my spider sense kicked into high gear. It was like a switch flipped, leading me somewhere. Time to follow my spidey senses and see where they take me. Let's roll!
(Ironman) "WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?! KARITO ANSWER ME!"
"Player, a Dark has appeared in this dimension. I suggest extreme caution while facing him. Do not involve anyone in this fight, they won't be of any help. The only thing Ironman can do is find out where the missing children are. This probably has to be the Darks doing in hopes to draw you out. Be careful, Player. The invasion has begun."
(Spider-Man) "Shit, are you fucking kidding me?! DAMN, why couldn't it be lighter?! FUCK!"
(Ironman) "The hell are you talking about?"
(Spider-Man) "I know exactly what's going on. I'm sure it's one of my enemies, and the kidnapping has to be his doing too..."
(Ironman) "Wait, you know who's doing this?"
(Spider-Man) "I know what's causing it but I'm not sure who's causing it! But Tony, you can't help me fight him!"
(Ironman) "The hell you mean I can't help you?!"
(Spider-Man) "Because I am the only one who can hurt them!"
(Ironman) "Who the hell is them?!"
(Spider-Man) "There's no time for this! I have to find him! Look for the children! I'll take care of the main cause!" Jumps from the balcony and starts web-swinging in the direction his spider-sense is leading him
(Ironman) "KARITO! SHIT, WHAT IS GOING ON?!"
No pov
As the skies darkened and the city transformed into a desolate wasteland, a sense of foreboding engulfed the surroundings. The once vibrant metropolis now lay in ruins, swallowed by an unforgiving desert. The scorching sun beat down mercilessly, intensifying the eerie atmosphere that permeated the air.
Amidst the barren landscape, shadows danced and circled overhead, taking the form of grotesque, humanoid vultures. Their wings cast haunting silhouettes against the fiery sun, their presence multiplying like harbingers of doom. A sinister chorus of cawing echoed through the stillness, heightening the tension and sending a chill down my spine.
Just as the weight of this surreal scene began to settle, a figure emerged from the shifting sands. The Vulture, his sinister visage adorned with a twisted grin, held in his possession a symbolic token—the very mask that defined the existence of Spider-Man. A surge of apprehension coursed through the hero, knowing that this encounter was no mere coincidence. It was a calculated move, orchestrated by a cunning and formidable adversary.
The revelation sent a shiver down his spine, a reminder that darkness lurked in the shadows, waiting to strike. In this desolate realm, where reality seemed to twist and turn, he braced himself for a battle unlike any he had faced before.
(Dark Vulture) "I can guess what you are thinking...Guardian..."
(Spider-Man) "O-oh yeah? What am I thinking?"
(Dark Vulture) "You wonder how someone like me can make all of New York look like a desert right? The Vulture isn't supposed to be someone who can make such feats. And yes, after killing Guardians for years, one is bound to become more powerful. So for you...gamers you can say that I have an unfair amount of buffs. Oh, and I also can do this."
Dark Vulture extended his hand, unleashing a formidable shockwave that surged toward Spider-Man with malicious intent. The force of the impact rippled through the air, but to his surprise, it failed to inflict any harm... Strange.
(Spider-Man) "What the hell was that su-"
Player, 70% of your Stats have been nerfed.
In an instant, a profound sense of disbelief washed over him, leaving him frozen in place. The words reverberated in his mind, defying comprehension. His heart sank as he hurriedly assessed his own capabilities, only to be confronted with a stark reality—each of his carefully cultivated stats had been drastically diminished.
A surge of frustration coursed through him, fueled by the revelation that such a nefarious ability existed to undermine his hard-earned progress. It felt like an unjust twist of fate, a blatant affront to the principles of fair play. Anguish threatened to overwhelm him as he grappled with the implications of this devastating setback.
His mind began to spin, anxiety tightening its grip as panic threatened to engulf him entirely. The foundation of his confidence was abruptly shattered, leaving him adrift in a sea of doubt and uncertainty. How could he confront this formidable adversary when the very essence of his strength had been undermined?
Yet, just as despair threatened to consume him, a familiar voice pierced through the fog of his distress. Kara, a steadfast ally, called out to him, her presence a beacon of hope in the midst of his turmoil.
Player, do you wish to use Hacker skill against Dark Vulture?
A moment of clarity washed over him as a forgotten realization resurfaced in his mind. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, a glimmer of hope emerged—a dormant power he possessed, waiting to be harnessed.
A faint smile played upon his lips as he recalled his own ability, a skill that mirrored the very essence of his adversary's sinister maneuver. However, uncertainty loomed, for he could not gauge the full extent of its influence over the formidable Vulture.
With unwavering resolve, he embraced the only course of action that held any promise—confronting the unknown head-on. In this crucible of confrontation, he would discover the true magnitude of his own skill, and the boundaries of his power. There could be no retreat, no hesitation.
(Spider-Man) "Don't get cocky old man. It's right back at ya!"
Spider-Man raises his hand in the vulture's direction, the villain was surprised by the action.
(Dark Vulture) "What the hell?! You aren't supposed to do that! Only the Darks can!"
(Spider-Man) "Fuck you!"
Dark Vulture's stats were nerfed by 20%
Utter disbelief reverberated within Spider-Man's voice as he mustered the strength to utter a single phrase, his words laced with a blend of incredulity and apprehension. "Are you truly serious?" he questioned, his voice tinged with a hint of skepticism.
A stark realization settled upon him, the vast disparity between their achievements laid bare. He recognized the tremendous gap that separated his own accomplishments from the formidable feats of the Vulture. Doubt flickered in his eyes, for his own accomplishments appeared pale and insubstantial in comparison.
(Dark Vulture) "You surprised me, boy. But it isn't as strong as I feared."
(Spider-Man) "I'll take anything..." Battle stance "Enough chit-chat...COME ON!"
In a thrilling display of agility and skill, both combatants propelled themselves toward each other with unwavering determination. Spider-Man, relying on his lightning-fast reflexes, anticipated Vulture's menacing left wing, attempting to evade its trajectory. Yet, a stark realization dawned upon Spider-Man as he perceived the stark contrast in their swiftness, leading to his ultimate downfall.
Vulture, capitalizing on the situation, unleashed a thunderous strike that crashed into Spider-Man with unyielding force, propelling him through the air in a disorienting whirlwind. As the wind howled around them, Vulture's feral cry reverberated through the tumultuous atmosphere, compelling him to exert even more power. His indomitable might was unleashed upon Spider-Man, subjecting him to an unrelenting barrage.
In a heart-wrenching series of events, Vulture, fueled by his aerial prowess, seized Spider-Man by the leg, effortlessly hoisting him into the air. The web-slinger's cries of anguish filled the air as Vulture repeatedly crashed him against the unyielding façade of the towering building. Each impact resonated with bone-jarring intensity, amplifying Spider-Man's torment.
With a final surge of malicious energy, Vulture propelled Spider-Man through two unforgiving panes of reinforced glass, shattering them into a shower of sparkling shards. The resounding crash echoed through the urban landscape.
In a stunning display of acrobatics, Spider-Man fought against the disorienting effects of his recent assault, swiftly deploying a web line to anchor himself to a nearby structure. However, his dazed state betrayed him, leading to an unfortunate descent that resulted in an abrupt collision with the unforgiving ground. Rolling instinctively, his trajectory shifted, causing him to collide forcefully with the side of a nearby vehicle. Grimacing with pain, he fought against the throbbing ache, refusing to succumb to momentary respite, for his keen spider-sense pulsated with a foreboding sense of impending danger.
Reacting with superhuman agility, Spider-Man's reflexes ignited, enabling him to evade the imminent threat with lightning speed. The Vulture, driven by his sinister intent, honed his wings into razor-sharp blades, intending to cleave through his nimble adversary. A sense of bitter frustration marred his expression as his blades met only empty air, missing their intended mark.
Seizing the opportunity, Spider-Man harnessed his lateral repulsion, propelling himself towards his aged opponent with relentless force. The wall became his ally as he unleashed a relentless barrage of precise strikes upon Vulture's vulnerable chest and face, each blow punctuating his determination to prevail. Charging his venom punch, a surge of raw power coursed through his veins, but before it could find its mark, Vulture defied gravity, soaring upward with astonishing speed. Spider-Man's fist met the unforgiving barrier of the wall, shattering its structural integrity, and leaving behind a modest aperture capable of accommodating his clenched hand.
Seizing the moment, Spider-Man's web-slinging expertise allowed him to ensnare Vulture's foot, elevating both adversaries into the lofty heights of the sky. Thinking on his feet, Spider-Man infused his web with an electric charge, momentarily stunning the Vulture, rendering him vulnerable. Suspended in mid-air, a tense standoff materialized as they locked eyes, two formidable forces poised for combat. Without hesitation, a fierce exchange of blows ensued, their fists colliding with unyielding force, disregarding the notion of evasion. In an audacious display of sheer will, they traded blow after blow, each hoping to overwhelm the other with their unrelenting assault.
Fatigue permeated their weary bodies as their mutual descent approached perilously close to the ground. A primal scream erupted from both combatants as they simultaneously struck one another's faces with unrestrained fury. Vulture, harnessing the dark energy that fueled his strength, collided with Spider-Man's bio-electricity in a cataclysmic clash of powers. Their cataclysmic collision launched them in opposite directions, their bodies smashing into nearby buildings, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
Karito pov
With unyielding momentum, I plowed through the first cement wall, its sturdy structure giving way to my sheer force. Unable to stop, I was forced forward, my body propelling through the second wall. Yet, my destructive path met an unexpected obstacle as the third wall loomed ahead. Though my collision was formidable, it proved insufficient to breach its unyielding barrier, halting my momentum with a bone-rattling impact.
(Spider-Man) Unmeasurable pain "NGHH HAAAA! FUCK! NGHHHH AH!" Coughs "I call bullshit that I'm facing the Vulture right now!"
"Player, it is the Vulture."
(Spider-Man) "Then how the fuck is he so strong?! It's like I'm fighting Morlun or fucking Rhino that can fly!"
"It's due to the Dark's influence. Once possessing it, the person can the things they couldn't before, like how Vulture is now abnormally strong and can change the city into a desert."
(Spider-Man) "What the hell?! That's not fair!"
"But that doesn't mean you can't beat him, player. You aren't a normal Spider-Man, you will be stronger than any other that exists. The things you are doing now are not normal for a Spider-Man to do. For example, you are fighting like an anime character with Spider-Man powers on steroids while still being nerfed."
(Spider-Man) "Tch...alright then...let's just finish this goddamn bird."
In an instant, my spider sense went haywire, warning me of imminent danger. I glanced toward the opening I had created, only to find a swarm of small Vultures hurtling toward me, ready to tear me apart.
(Spider-Man) "OH SH-"
No pov
As he was abruptly tackled by a horde of mini Vultures, his body crashed through the sturdy wall, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Despite the initial shock, his reflexes kicked in, and he swiftly regained control, propelling himself into a graceful web-swinging motion. With unwavering determination, he deftly maneuvered through the onslaught, evading their relentless attacks with acrobatic finesse.
Strike after strike, he fought back against the relentless swarm of Vultures, channeling every ounce of strength and agility he possessed. His blows landed with precision, each strike a testament to his unwavering resolve. Yet, for every Vulture he dispatched, more seemed to emerge from the shadows, their numbers growing like a relentless tide.
As the swarm closed in, their synchronized assault lifted him into the air, ensnaring him within their chaotic vortex. The onslaught intensified, their frenzied barrage testing his endurance and skill. His once-pristine suit bore the scars of countless scratches, cuts, and bruises.
In the face of mounting adversity, his composure wavered a rare panic setting in. The weight of his diminishing health points became evident, a warning from his digital companion, Kara. Fueled by a surge of unbridled electricity, his entire being transformed into a spectacle of raw energy, crackling with power. A resounding shout escaped his lips, a mixture of determination and frustration echoing through the chaos.
(Spider-Man) "I SAID STOP!!!!"
In an act of desperate resolve, Spider-Man harnessed the full might of his Mega Venom Blast, unleashing a cataclysmic surge of power that illuminated the expanse of the sky. The ensuing explosion rent the heavens asunder, obliterating the clouds and bathing the battlefield in an incandescent inferno. The magnitude of the blast evoked images of a nuclear detonation, consuming everything within its reach, including the swarming hordes of airborne assailants sent forth by Vulture.
As the searing flames engulfed the sky, reducing the once menacing Vultures to naught but smoldering remnants, a profound stillness descended upon the battleground. The air, once thick with chaos and fury, now hung heavy with an eerie silence. The charred earth bore witness to the ashes of the fallen, their remnants scattered in solemn resignation. Spider-Man, descended from the heavens, his descent rudely interrupted by the unyielding roof of a nearby vehicle. With a resounding impact, he crumpled upon the unforgiving sands, his body, like the battlefield around him, displaying the scars of a hard-fought confrontation.
(Spider-Man) "....ngh...fuck..." Coughs "I...don't know...if...I can...do this...it burns...it hurts...everything...hurts..."
Player, I bought a small health potion. The debuff that Dark Vulture hit us with also affected most of the shop's supplies. Your health would be around 30% with the small potion.
(Spider-Man) "Kara...give...me...the potion..." Slowly starts to stand up "NGH!"
"Player, I already gave you the potion."
(Spider-Man) "Then...WHY! NGH! Why do I feel the same?!" Grunts from his injuries
It's a small potion, it's not going to do much.
(Spider-Man) "Fuck!"
With his body aching and adrenaline still coursing through his veins, Spider-Man slowly rose to his feet, surveying the aftermath of the intense battle. The once formidable army of mini Vulture monsters now lay defeated, scattered across the ground. Intrigued by their origin and driven by a relentless curiosity, he cautiously approached the fallen creatures, ensuring that the immediate threat of the Vulture was nowhere in sight.
"KARITO, DON'T LOOK!"
(Warning: The content ahead might disturb readers. You have been advised)
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(Spider-Man) "Nathan?"
As Spider-Man cautiously approached one of the fallen mini monsters, a chilling realization swept over him like a tidal wave. In a moment frozen in time, he peered closer, his eyes widening with disbelief and grief. It was not a faceless adversary that lay before him, but the visage of a familiar child he had encountered during his hospital visit.
His heart sank as the memories flooded back—the innocent laughter, the playful banter, the radiant joy that had once emanated from this child. Known affectionately as Spider-Bite, the child had harbored dreams of becoming Spider-Man's loyal sidekick, his unwavering admiration for the web-slinger was evident in every word and gesture.
Now, faced with the devastating truth, Spider-Man was confronted with the weight of the child's tragic fate. The explosion, a consequence of the battle he had waged to protect innocents, had unwittingly taken the life of the very fan who had found solace and inspiration in his heroic persona.
In that heart-wrenching moment, remorse and sorrow washed over Spider-Man, consuming him with an indescribable sense of guilt. The realization of his unintentional involvement in this young life's tragic end pierced through his soul, threatening to shatter the unwavering resolve that had carried him thus far.
Bearing the weight of this tragic revelation, Spider-Man stood frozen, grappling with a maelstrom of emotions. The magnitude of his actions, however unintentional, now loomed heavy upon him, challenging his belief in the inherent goodness of his mission.
(Spider-Man, his voice trembling) "This... this can't be real. Nathan, you can't be gone. Wake up, please! Wake up! You were supposed to be my sidekick, my partner... I promised to protect you!" His voice cracks, tears streaming down his face. "I'm begging you, Nathan, please don't leave me. I can't bear the thought of a world without your laughter, your innocence... Please, don't go!" His voice wavers, his cries echoing in the emptiness. He clutches at his suit, his body trembling with grief. "Nathan, we had dreams, we had plans... We were going to fight crime together, make a difference in this world. How can everything fall apart like this? It's not fair!" Desperation consumes him as he swings back and forth, seeking solace in the motion, a futile attempt to escape the unbearable pain. "Oh God, Nathan... I can't... I can't handle this. I failed you. I failed to protect you, to keep you safe. I'm sorry, I'm so sorry..."
In the aftermath of his emotional breakdown, the illusory facade shattered, revealing the horrifying truth. Spider-Man's eyes fell upon the lifeless bodies of the children, their once vibrant forms now reduced to gruesome scenes of carnage. The sheer devastation struck him to the core.
One child, reduced to ashes, his existence erased in an instant. Another, unrecognizable and mangled, bearing the brutal marks of Spider-Man's own powers. And yet another, torn apart with exposed organs, a grotesque display of the destruction that had unfolded.
The streets were drenched in a sea of crimson, an overwhelming symphony of gore and tragedy. The sight before Spider-Man was a nightmare made tangible, an indelible image that would haunt his every waking moment.
In the midst of this harrowing tableau, a profound emptiness settled within him. The weight of the loss was unbearable, crushing his spirit and leaving him numb. His mind struggled to process the magnitude of the horrors he had unwittingly unleashed.
His body, overwhelmed by the anguish, began to falter. Each beat of his heart mirrored the pain within, akin to a relentless assault. Waves of debilitating agony coursed through him, threatening to engulf his very being. His senses were overwhelmed, the shrill screeches and deafening silence merging into a dissonant symphony that assaulted his ears. A splitting headache, as if his skull was being pried open, compounded the torment.
In the depths of despair, Spider-Man crumbled. Tears streamed down his face as he clutched the lifeless body of the child who once idolized him, his sobs echoing through the desolate streets. The weight of guilt and anguish bore down upon him, the realization of his unwitting role in this tragedy consuming his shattered soul.
Spider-Man's tears flowed uncontrollably as he held the lifeless body of the boy in his trembling arms. Overwhelmed by sorrow, his heart shattered into countless pieces, each fragment a reminder of the innocent life that had been extinguished. Despair gripped his soul, a suffocating weight that threatened to consume him entirely.
Amidst his grief, a twisted laughter pierced the air, cutting through the anguished silence. The Vulture, reveling in the devastation he had wrought, appeared before Spider-Man, his eyes gleaming with malevolence. His maniacal laughter echoed like a haunting melody, a chilling symphony of sadism and triumph.
(Dark Vulture) "AHAHAHAHAHA! Holy shit! I think I beat the Joker with this one! OH MY GOD LOOK AT YOU! So pathetic! You should've prayed to never become a hero, boy! This is the type of battle that is awaiting you! HELL! I'm not even on the strongest list! HAHAHAHA! If you can't handle a little gore here and there you aren't going no were buddy! HAHAHAHAHA!"
(Spider-Man) "...."
(Dark Vulture) "Holy shit, I really did break him. Anyways, I'll put you out of your misery. NOW DIE!" Makes one of his feathers extremely sharp and went to cut off Spider-Man's head
(Spider-Man) Electricity envelops his hand
A surge of righteous fury ignited within the depths of Spider-Man's being, transforming his resolve into an all-consuming blaze. With lightning-quick reflexes, he intercepted Vulture's vicious attempt to sever his foe's head, effortlessly halting the attack with a nonchalant extension of his arm. The audacity of Spider-Man's casual block left Vulture in a state of frenzied panic, his trajectory abruptly disrupted as he found himself forcefully propelled to the opposite side of the road. The expression etched upon Vulture's countenance betrayed a mixture of shock and disbelief, bearing witness to the sheer mastery displayed by his adversary.
(Dark Vulture) Panics "WHAT?!" Quickly flies behind Spider-Man and gains some distance
(Spider-Man) Mumbles "You...used...children..."
(Dark Vulture) "The Hell is thist?!"
(Spider-Man) Angry "YOU USED CHILDREN!"
(Dark Vulture) Startled "Wha?!"
"All debuffs have been destroyed, all stats have returned to normal."
(Dark Vulture) "HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE?!"
(Spider-Man) ENRAGED SCREAM
Time seemed to slow to a fraction of its usual speed, granting an ethereal quality to the unfolding scene. As Spider-Man's clenched fist surged forward with immense velocity, every minute detail of the Vulture's face became magnified, accentuated by the intensity of the moment.
In a mesmerizing display, the force behind Spider-Man's venom-infused punch collided with the Vulture's countenance, distorting the features that had once exuded arrogance and menace. The impact reverberated through the Vulture's visage, setting off a cascade of contortions and shifts that were captured by the observer's keen gaze.
The lines etched upon the Vulture's face wavered and undulated, subject to the raw power unleashed upon them. His brow furrowed deeply, betraying the shock and anguish that coursed through him. His eyes widened from the unexpected force of the blow, while the muscles around his mouth contorted into a pained grimace.
With each passing moment, the intricate dance of facial muscles played out in agonizingly slow motion. The camera of perception, attuned to even the subtlest nuances, traversed the Vulture's distorted expression, capturing the profound impact of Spider-Man's punch. It was a moment frozen in time.
And as time resumed its swift pace, the Vulture was propelled backward, propelled by the sheer force of Spider-Man's strike.
With a formidable force, Spider-Man's powerful blow launched the Vulture into a state of weightlessness, propelling him through the air like a ragdoll. The villain's body became a mere puppet, controlled by the laws of momentum and gravity until it collided with an unsuspecting house.
The impact reverberated through the structure, unleashing a cacophony of splintering wood and shattering glass. The Vulture's agonized cry pierced the air, a testament to the pain that coursed through his body upon impact. Undeterred by the sudden jolt, his survival instincts kicked into overdrive.
In an instant, the Vulture's strategic mind went to work, activating an array of enhancements and enhancements that had lain dormant until this pivotal moment. The air around him crackled with energy as the villain tapped into his arsenal of buffs, each one designed to heighten his strength, speed, or resilience.
(Dark Vulture) "SHIT! ACTIVATE ALL BUFFS! NO MORE HOLDING BACK!" He gets enveloped by darkness and now his costume changed from a green color to black and red "COME ON SPIDER-MAN!"
(Spider-Man) Screams in anger and blasts himself toward the Vulture with his lateral repulsion skill
Spider-Man's relentless assault was a symphony of unyielding force and unwavering determination. As the Vulture deftly evaded Spider-Man's initial attack, a destructive path was carved through the small house, reducing it to mere debris. Yet, in a display of agility and quick thinking, Spider-Man swiftly shot a web line, yanking the Vulture down from his aerial perch and causing him to crash into a nearby car.
With seamless fluidity, Spider-Man propelled himself toward the Vulture, swinging through the air with remarkable precision. Another web line shot forth, firmly attaching itself to the Vulture's back. Utilizing his superhuman strength, Spider-Man exerted a tremendous force, yanking the Vulture towards him in a stunning display of power. In mid-air, their trajectories intertwined, Spider-Man executed a seamless descent, sending both combatants hurtling toward the ground below.
The impact was thunderous, the earth trembling beneath the weight of their collision. Even the shifting sands provided no respite as the Vulture was driven down, vanishing into the depths of the subway station. As dust and debris settled around him, the Vulture found himself immersed in a disorienting haze of pain and suffocating darkness.
Before the Vulture could even clear the sand from his eyes, Spider-Man seized the opportunity. Swiftly and with unwavering resolve, he pounced upon his adversary, raining down a flurry of blows that reverberated through the air. Each strike carried with it the full force of Spider-Man's superhuman strength, as he relentlessly targeted the Vulture's defenseless face.
Time seemed to stretch as the relentless onslaught continued, blow after blow connecting with unyielding precision. The sound of impact echoed through the air, punctuated by the Vulture's anguished cries.
In this climactic clash, the intensity of their struggle reached its zenith. Spider-Man's determination, coupled with his superior abilities, propelled him forward in a relentless pursuit of victory. The Vulture, battered and overwhelmed, could do little but endure the onslaught, his strength waning with each successive strike.
Spider-Man's assault came to an abrupt halt as his gaze fixated upon the visage of the crumpled figure before him. The old man lay motionless, his face a macabre mosaic of blood and devastation. A hushed stillness hung heavy in the air, broken only by the solitary presence of Spider-Man, standing as the sole witness to the aftermath of their brutal encounter.
Silent contemplation settled upon Spider-Man's countenance, his hands slowly lowering as the weight of the situation bore down upon him. A profound sense of melancholy washed over him, enveloping his features in a mask of somber reflection.
His eyes lingered upon the fallen figure, his expression void of emotion, as he absorbed the gravity of the scene. The carnage and devastation surrounding him painted a vivid tableau of the cost of their conflict. A heavy silence filled the air, amplifying the weight of their actions and the toll it had exacted.
With measured steps, Spider-Man turned away from the lifeless form, his movements weighted with a sense of resignation. Slowly, deliberately, he began to retreat.
Yet, as he took a final stride, a jolt of electric urgency coursed through his being. His spider-sense erupted in a cacophony of warning, an instinctual alarm urging him to action. With practiced reflexes, Spider-Man spun around, poised to confront the unexpected.
In a lightning-fast surge, the supposedly lifeless Vulture reemerged, driven by a renewed burst of vigor. Like a predator striking from the shadows, he pounced upon Spider-Man, their bodies colliding with a thunderous impact that reverberated through the streets above. The momentum of the attack sent them crashing down.
(D̶̝̜̱̎̀͆̃̃̓à̷̩̯̹̃r̷̤͗ǩ̶̭̖̉̃̿͜ ̷̡̘̗͙̈́̓̒̽V̷̪̣̗͂̈͝͝ǔ̴̜̖̗̑̂l̷̦̭̪̳̪̫͋͘t̵̨͈̠̿͑͛̿̌ů̴̜͓̞̫̫͚r̶̘̘̘̥͖͑̃̀͒e) "Ŷ̸͖̻̘̥̦͌͒͝o̶̺̺͌̌͂͐ữ̵̠̮̳̍ ̶̙̟̬̃͒͐͜ǹ̸̡̡̥̳͎̓̈́e̷͎̬͛͛̚v̷̝̼͎͓̑̐͋͆̚ͅe̴̞͎̳͙͚̅̆̀̆͐̈́ṙ̵̦͉̕ ̷̪͌̈́t̵͕̺̳́͐̒̀̾̈́ͅȗ̶̬̲̳̺̼͖r̸̛͔͈̘̅́̂͑n̴̹̤͇̾͛ ̴̪̦̣̥̟͆͂y̶̮̟̗̟͖͓̓̄̏o̷̦̦͗̌ư̷̧̢̞̙̫̞͛̊̆̇̚ř̷̝̪̹̾̌̊͂͝ ̸̰̇b̶̯̀ă̸̼̻̳̗̙̅̈́c̴̛̟͍̺̰̮̓̿̉k̶͈̓̀͘ ̸͈̊͜ơ̵̞̥͍̘̂̃͆̏͜n̷̜̗̏̐ ̴͇̂̏d̴̼̜͇̙̑̔̓̌̈́̾e̷̳̤̩̺̟͒̄͋͒͠ā̴̲̱̠̭̒͌̽̐̕ẗ̸̥̯̣̓̀͂̔h̸̡̼̗͈̄̉̋͘!̵͓̜̖̩̓͊̍͋̋"
With a swift and calculated strike, Spider-Man unleashed a venom-infused punch that propelled the Vulture backwards, successfully creating some much-needed distance. As he perched atop a towering building, his senses heightened, scanning the surroundings with an urgency borne of impending danger.
In the midst of his vigilance, the Vulture seemed to vanish from sight, eluding Spider-Man's gaze. Yet, the unmistakable tingling of his spider-sense sent a chilling warning down his spine, alerting him to an imminent threat lurking just behind him. Before he could react, the Vulture swooped down, tackling Spider-Man with newfound speed and ferocity.
The Vulture's relentless assault left Spider-Man immobilized, his movements stifled by the relentless onslaught. Each attempt to counter or escape was swiftly thwarted, as the Vulture's enhanced agility and cunning surpassed all previous encounters. The web-slinger found himself trapped within the grasp of an adversary who allowed no respite.
As Spider-Man prepared to unleash his venom blast, a desperate bid to gain the upper hand, the Vulture seized the opportunity and released him into the air with a calculated maneuver. Helplessly hurtling through the sky, Spider-Man's attempts to slow his descent with makeshift parachutes proved futile, as he crashed upon the unforgiving surface of a glass structure.
Agonizing pain erupted throughout his body as shards of glass embedded themselves deeply into his flesh. Each movement sent sharp waves of torment coursing through him, yet the Vulture showed no mercy. Swiftly returning to the fray, he launched himself at Spider-Man once more, their bodies colliding with such force that the glass beneath them trembled, threatening to shatter under the strain.
With unyielding determination, the Vulture shifted his tactics as the glass surface threatened to yield beneath their clash. Seizing a momentary advantage, he positioned himself atop Spider-Man, his wickedly sharp feathers poised for a lethal strike. Each movement was a calculated thrust, aimed at piercing the web-slinger's defenses and leaving him vulnerable.
Spider-Man's instincts kicked into overdrive, his agile form contorting in a desperate dance to evade the Vulture's deadly assault. With every fiber of his being, he fought to keep the menacing adversary at bay, his strength strained to its limits. Yet, the Vulture remained unyielding, his assault relentless and his determination unwavering.
Blow after blow, the Vulture pressed forward, driving Spider-Man to the edge of his endurance. The hero's every dodge and parry held the weight of survival, the stakes escalating with each passing moment. The air crackled with tension as the Vulture's feathered weapon whistled through the air, narrowly missing its intended mark.
Spider-Man's movements became a dance of evasion, a symphony of agility and precision, as he sought to turn the tide in his favor. His every strike and web-slinging maneuver was met with unwavering resistance, the Vulture defying all attempts to repel him.
Yet, amidst the chaos and the relentless assault, a moment of vulnerability emerged. The Vulture found the opportunity he had long sought, his sharpened feather finding its mark. Time seemed to slow as Spider-Man's body tensed, a realization dawning upon him that he could not escape unscathed.
The sharp and penetrating pain erupted within Spider-Man's body as the Vulture's attack found its mark. The hero's resolve wavered as the weight of his injuries threatened to overcome him. Darkness beckoned at the edges of his vision, his strength faltering in the face of this formidable foe.
Spider-Man's agonized cries echoed through the air as the blade pierced his arm, sending waves of pain coursing through his body. The Vulture reveled in his torment, sadistically twisting the blade and prolonging his suffering. In a surge of unbridled rage, Spider-Man seized the Vulture's face, his fingertips crackling with raw electricity. The intensity of his power grew exponentially, each scream from the Vulture fueling the surge. The villain's features contorted and convulsed until they could no longer bear the strain, exploding in a grotesque display. Fragments of brain matter rained down upon Spider-Man, his face etched with a mixture of horror and determination.
Shaking off the remnants of his assailant, Spider-Man swiftly activated his Mark of Kaine skill, igniting the lifeless body in flames. The fiery blaze consumed the Vulture, reducing him to mere ashes. Spider-Man stood there, staring at the remains, his eyes locked on the remnants of his vanquished foe. A mixture of disgust and exhaustion overwhelmed him, and he couldn't help but retch, the bile landing on the shattered glass roof.
Gathering himself, Spider-Man slowly rose to his feet and made his way to the edge of the building. His gaze swept over the cityscape below, witnessing the unsettling transformation. Reality twisted and contorted, the sands dissipating and the sky transitioning from night to a rapid afternoon. The changes wrought by the Vulture were undone, returning everything to its original state. Yet, amidst the reversal, the scars of destruction and carnage remained as haunting reminders of the battle.
As seconds ticked by, the unsuspecting pedestrians beheld the harrowing aftermath of devastation and gore that littered the streets. Confusion etched across their faces as their serene stroll abruptly transformed into a nightmarish scene. Their startled voices merged into a chorus of screams, a symphony of anguish and despair echoing through the air. Tears flowed freely, mingling with cries of disbelief, as they bore witness to the grim tableau of lifeless children strewn across the pavement.
Amidst the cacophony of horrified onlookers, Spider-Man knelt down upon the blood-soaked roof. The weight of the tragedy bore down upon him, his heart heavy with a sense of dread. In a solemn gesture, he activated his camouflage skill, rendering himself invisible to the frightened eyes that searched desperately for a glimmer of hope. Cloaked in shadows, he became a silent guardian, blending into the backdrop of chaos and despair.
With a heavy heart, Spider-Man rose from his knees, his gaze lingering on the devastated scene before him. Though invisible to the world, his presence was palpable. The weight of the lives lost and the suffering endured pressed upon him, fueling his resolve to ensure such horrors never repeated themselves. In the depths of his soul, a flicker of determination ignited, driving him to stand as a symbol of hope in a world shrouded in darkness.
Small time skip...
With a graceful landing, Spider-Man touched down upon the towering framework of the under-construction Avengers Tower. The vigilant AI, Jarvis, keenly observed the arrival of the heroic figure and wasted no time in alerting Ironman to the dire state of Spider-Man. Like a flash of light, Ironman swiftly responded, his metallic armor gleaming in the sunlight as he closed the distance between them.
As Ironman's eyes locked onto his fallen comrade, a mix of concern and urgency washed over him, manifesting in the furrowed lines upon his brow. Time seemed to momentarily stand still as he took in the sight before him, Spider-Man's worn and battered form. A surge of panic coursed through Ironman's veins, his heart pounding in his chest as he approached with a determined stride.
(Ironman) "JARVIS CALL THE DOCTORS UP HERE!"
(Jarvis) "I already did, Sir."
(Ironman) "Oh my god, Karito what happened to you?!"
(Spider-Man) "I...stopped the...villain..."
(Ironman) "How is that possible?! You were barely gone for a minute!"
(Spider-Man) "It's...better if...I showed...you..." Mentally ask Kara to make a videotape of his memory and opens his palm "...This...has everything...from...my point of view..."
(Ironman) "A-alright..."
Just then the private Doctors and Nurses of Tony Stark arrived in the room and quickly looked over Spider-Man.
(Nurse) "Dear god! What happened to him?!"
(Doctor) "Save your questions we need to help him now! Sir, we will take him to the emergency room on the middle floor!
(Ironman) "I want him good as new when I see him again!"
(Doctor and Nurses) "Yes Sir!"
With utmost urgency, Spider-Man was gently placed upon a mobile bed, his vulnerable form cradled with the utmost care by the concerned nurses. A sense of purpose and determination filled the air as they swiftly navigated through the complex, their footsteps echoing with a resolute resolve.
Inside the elevator, the atmosphere was thick with a sense of urgency. Time seemed to hang in the balance as the doors closed, sealing them within its metallic embrace. The hum of the ascending elevator served as a backdrop to their focused efforts, their collective thoughts centered on the well-being of their fallen comrade.
As the elevator doors slid open, revealing the pristine med bay, a team of skilled medical professionals stood at the ready, their expertise honed by countless battles fought and lives saved. With precise movements and synchronized coordination, they swiftly surrounded the bed, each member fulfilling their specialized role with unwavering dedication.
"Player, you know I could've bought you a full potion to heal yourself quickly."
(Spider-Man) Mentally "Don't bother... It's...alright..."
"...Okay..."
Tony Stark Pov
What the hell happened to Karito? One moment he's leaving the building, and the next, there's destruction and gore everywhere. It's like the city exploded in chaos. He handed me a videotape and the way he sounded while giving it to me...I have a sinking feeling that whatever is on that tape is going to be trouble. I should find a more secluded spot to review it, away from prying eyes. The last thing we need is more surprises. I don't do regrets, but something tells me this could be a whole new level of trouble.
Before playing the video...
I settle into my private lab, ready to view the tape Karito gave me. With a quick setup, I turn on the widescreen display and prepare myself for what I'm about to see.
Start of the video...
I'm utterly flabbergasted and dumbfounded by what I'm witnessing. New York City, once a bustling metropolis, is now reduced to a desolate desert landscape? It's inconceivable, unfathomable. I can't wrap my mind around this shocking transformation.
Middle of the video...
As I surveyed the scene before me, tears welled up in my eyes, blurring my vision. The sheer devastation and destruction unleashed by Karito's actions overwhelmed me. My stomach churned, a nauseating feeling that rose with each passing moment. The weight of what I was witnessing pressed upon my chest, making it harder to breathe. The horrors etched in my mind, I couldn't contain the overwhelming emotions any longer. I reached for the bucket I had brought, and with a mix of grief and revulsion, I emptied the contents of my stomach. The sight before me was too much to bear.
Rage mode Karito...
In witnessing this catastrophic scene, I couldn't help but draw a parallel between the formidable power of the Hulk and the sheer ferocity displayed by Karito. The anger that surged within me was understandable, for such heinous acts should never be tolerated. The audacity of the Vulture, using innocent children as mere pawns in his twisted game, was utterly despicable. His actions crossed a line that should never be crossed. The notion of justice and retribution swirled within my mind, and while I found myself harboring thoughts of his demise, I knew that justice would be served in due course.
End of the video...
I found myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions as I processed the distressing images before me. The weight of what Karito had endured, the burden he now carried, settled upon my shoulders with profound gravity. It was a truth I wished I could shield the others from, at least for the time being. Revealing the extent of Karito's suffering would only breed fear and uncertainty among our ranks, and I couldn't bear to subject him to that.
As I clasped the videotape, my mind oscillated between grappling with the enormity of the situation and contemplating the best course of action. Should I confront Karito about what I had witnessed? Or should I give him the space and time he needed to process his own turmoil? Perhaps what he needed most right now was not a hero, but a friend.
I resolved to respect his need for solitude and grant him the respite he sought. After all, even Iron Man knew the value of human connection, of extending a helping hand beyond the confines of the armored suit. I would be there for Karito, not as Tony Stark, the billionaire or Iron Man, but simply as Tony Stark, the friend. It may sound trite, even corny, but in times like these, it was the genuine support and understanding that truly mattered.
With a heavy sigh, I settled in for the night, deciding to sleep at the lab. Tomorrow, I would reach out to Pepper and fill her in on the situation. We would find a way to help Karito navigate this treacherous path, to offer solace and guidance when he was ready. For now, the night would be a bridge between despair and hope, a moment of respite before the next chapter of our shared journey unfolded.
Karito Pov
As the hours passed during the operation, I drifted in and out of consciousness. I could vaguely sense strange sensations in different parts of my body. Amidst the haze, Kara's voice reached me in my dreams. It felt both comforting and confusing, like a lifeline in this foggy state.
"Umm...Player...the rewards for-"
(Karito) Dream "Not right now..."
"Okay...sorry...I'll notify you later when you're healed..."
(Karito) Dream "ok..."
I glanced at my holographic screen and saw that Kara was currently unavailable. Honestly, I wasn't in the mood to chat with anyone right now. I just wanted to be left alone with my thoughts. The weight of guilt and regret was crushing me, and I didn't know how to shake it off. Maybe diving into some solo superhero movies would distract me for a while. Captain America and the Winter Soldier sounds like a good choice.
But, all I really want is to be back home, surrounded by my family. This whole situation sucks, and I feel stuck. It's like I'm trapped in a never-ending cycle of confusion and frustration. Why does this crap always happen to me?
I don't know, maybe I'm just tired. I think I'll try to get some sleep, although I'm not sure if I'll be able to actually doze off. This whole thing has messed with my head, and I can't seem to shut off my thoughts. Ugh, I just hope I can find some peace, even if it's just for a few hours.
Small time skip...
No pov
In the dark and desolate realm, amidst the glimmering stars, an eerie silence enveloped the man. The void swallowed all, leaving only flickering sparks to pierce through the abyss. With each step, he took on the illuminated white road, an ominous ticking clock echoed, growing louder and closer. As he ventured forth, stains appeared on the path, gradually transforming into a deep crimson hue. Sinister laughter echoed in the distance, morphing into distorted gurgles, while tendrils of black smoke slithered around him.
Fear gripped the man's soul, crawling from the depths of his being. He glanced down and caught a chilling sight—a reflection of himself, bleeding profusely from his eyes, as red liquid dripped from his sides. He was consumed by regret, haunted by the weight of his actions. Why must he endure such torment? Why must innocent blood stain his hands so soon after being chosen?
The gurgles intensified, an unsettling noise that gnawed at his sanity. Immersed in a sea of crimson, he found himself drowning in his own remorse. Silent whimpers escaped his lips as he walked the path, each step adding to his inner turmoil.
Then, without warning, the clock ceased its ticking, and an explosion engulfed everything. Flames devoured the surroundings, their scorching tongues licking at the shadows that danced amidst the chaos. The lightning crackled with unsettling energy, and the shadows multiplied, growing into a sinister multitude. A crowd of twisted forms approached the man, their mournful cries joining the cacophony of his crimson suffering. Decayed arms reached out, searing his flesh with seething pain. His screams merged with the chorus of despair, lost in a vortex of agony.
The shadows whispered a haunting lullaby, their unholy voices distorting the familiar tune. "The itsy bitsy spider crawled up the mountain. Down came the gore, and washed the spider out. Out came the sun, and burned all the flesh, and the itsy bitsy spider crawled a mountain of corpses that just seemed to pile up." The chilling chant reverberated through the air, tormenting the man's senses.
Helpless, he tried to cover his ears, desperate to shield himself from the nightmarish symphony. But his captors forced him to witness their macabre performance. They pinned him down, limbs outstretched, presenting him like a sacrificial offering. As he looked up, the sound of circling birds filled his ears, their ominous presence casting an eerie shadow over the scene.
In the midst of his torment, with a tremor in his voice, he could only wonder, "Why do buzzards circle in the sky?" The answer remained elusive, lost amidst the nightmarish landscape that consumed him.
To Be Continued...