(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)
Karito and David were walking back into the warehouse when they noticed something was off. They could see the rainfall from the sky in slow motion, every droplet coming down leisurely as if time had stopped for just them. The sounds of Maine's crew shouting and panicking were just muffled whispers in Karito's ear. He looked over to David and saw that his younger brother was in the same state, his face frozen in shock.
Maine was screaming at them, pointing frantically in a direction that was still unknown to Karito. He tried to listen but the words were just gibberish, the sound not matching up with the movements of Maine's lips. The world was just a blurry mess of slow motion. Suddenly, Karito noticed something strange. Everyone in the crew was in full panic or ready for a fight, their faces twisted with fear or determination. But for Karito and David, time had stopped completely. They were the only ones moving in slow motion.
Karito tried to move, to do something, but it felt like he was swimming through molasses. His every movement was sluggish, and the surroundings seemed to swirl around him like a whirlpool. He looked back at David and saw the same look of confusion and fear etched on his younger brother's face.
As Karito struggled to comprehend what was happening, he noticed something even stranger. In the distance, he saw the figure of a man walking towards them. But this man was moving at a normal pace, unaffected by the strange phenomenon that had taken over the world around them. The man was shrouded in darkness and Karito couldn't make out any of his features, but he could feel the unease that radiated from the figure.
The man approached them, his footsteps echoing through the quiet air. He seemed to be searching for something, his head turning left and right as he got closer. Just as he reached the two brothers, time suddenly snapped back to normal. Everything happened at once. The rain became a downpour, the crew's shouting became deafening, and the man disappeared as if he had never been there.
And then, in an instant, a huge explosion engulfed everything. The heat was intense, the sound was deafening, and the flash of light was blinding. Karito felt himself being thrown backward, his body hitting the ground hard. The last thing he remembered before everything went black was the look of fear on David's face.
When Karito came to, he was lying on the ground, his body aching. He looked around and saw the aftermath of the explosion. Maine and the crew were lying scattered on the ground, some of them badly hurt. David was nowhere to be seen. Karito struggled to his feet and stumbled towards the wreckage, calling out his brother's name. But there was no answer.
As Karito searched for David, he couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. The rain had stopped, but the air still felt thick and heavy. The shadows seemed to be moving, and he could hear whispers in the wind. He felt like he was being watched, but every time he turned around, there was no one there.
(Spider-Man) "COME ON FIGHT ME, YOU COWARD!"
(Dark ???) "Wow, Osborn wasn't kidding. You're just as hotheaded as I am."
As Spider-Man and Dark ??? collided their fists in the air, and both of their powers erupted in a fierce explosion. The force was so intense that it felt like the entire room shook. A bright yellow light surrounded both fighters as the power of their combined skills mixed with the electricity and intense heat. The heat was so intense that it felt like they were standing in the middle of a volcano, with lava and fire engulfing everything around them.
Spider-Man and Dark ??? were at the center of the explosion, their bodies surrounded by the intense heat and power of their combined abilities. It was like watching two elemental forces collide in a fiery embrace. The intense energy of their powers mixed and surged, creating an even greater explosion that sent shockwaves through the room.
The two warriors didn't flinch, as they stood firm in their positions, their powers swirling around them. They were completely focused on each other, each trying to overpower the other and come out on top. The room was filled with the sounds of their grunts, the crackling of electricity, and the roar of the fire.
Finally, the explosion began to dissipate, and the room slowly returned to normal. But the two warriors remained, their powers still crackling around them. They both stood, looking at each other, trying to gauge the other's strength and resolve. It was clear that this was just the beginning of a long and intense battle, as they prepared to face off once again.
(Dark ???) "Careful Spider, you know I can "melt" you alive." Smirks
(Spider-Man) Holds his burned hand in pain "Shut up and fight."
(Dark ???) "With pleasure."
(Spider-Man) "NGHAAAA!!!"
(Dark ???) "HAAAA!!!"
...
...
...
Hidden in the underground, two individuals were observing the results of their last mission. They were in a popular bar called "The Afterlife". The Afterlife is a bar in the world of Cyberpunk 2077 that serves as a hub for the city's most notable mercs and fixers. It's where the biggest deals are made and the biggest rewards are given, attracting the city's elite. The bar is known for its reputation, with its ghostly tales of Morgan Blackhand still roaming the premises, adding to its mysterious allure. However, it's not easy to get into the Afterlife as one must have a certain level of street credibility to gain entry. The bar serves as a symbol of power and success in Night City and is only accessible to those who have earned their place among the city's elite.
(Maine) "Any movement?"
(Dorio) "Dead. Nothing in, nothing out."
(Maine) "Mother fucker..."
(Dorio) "Faraday had it right. He swapped venues."
(Maine) "Ah! Dropped the ball on this. Sorry-ass lost cause by now."
(Dorio) "'Saka cleanin' house over a stolen stretch? Can't be it."
(Spider-Man) Appears out of nowhere "Hmm. I think you are right. This whole thing just seems very high-risk to me. Faraday is being a pain in the ass of not telling us what we're supposed to go after."
(Maine) "WHAT THE?!" Relaxes "Goddamn, man don't scare us like that!"
(Dorio) "I almost had a heart attack. How did you even get here?"
(Spider-Man) "...I just said I was Spider-Man and proved it. They were pretty convinced and I got in."
(Dorio) "Well, it is you were talking about..."
(Spider-Man) "Anyways?"
(Dorio) "Anyways. What's that saying, "Biggest fish is the one that got away"? You think I should dig deeper on Tanaka?"
(Spider-Man) "Don't think you should be looking around Arasaka. That's a fixer's job."
(Maine) "Exactly what Ka-" Pauses "...Spider-Man said. It's him to give us a lead. What would that ass munch say, "I pay you to check the boxes off my list."
(Dorio) "Sure, but... curiosity is killin' me. Let me sic Kiwi on him, see what she can find."
(Spider-Man) "Well if you think it's a good idea then go ahead. Seems fine to me."
(Maine) "Meantime, you and me, let's go to town." Motions Spider-Man to give them privacy
Spider-Man understood the message and left them alone immediately and good thing he did because both Maine and Dorio started making out. The hero just dropped by because he sensed them nearby and because this world is quite chaotic he decided to check how they were doing while he was on patrol. Now that he made sure that they were fine he decided to chill in the bar a little while longer, seeing the women dance in the pools. Suddenly Spider-Man sensed that David was calling Maine but decided to keep patrolling around Night City.
(Maine) On call "Bad, bad time kid. Now's bad."
(David) On call "Uh the word. What's the word? Hand't heard anything."
(Maine) "I said I'd c-...call if any giggy popped up."
(David) "Nothing? Still nada? Take whatever you got."
(Maine) "Desperate looks ugly, rookie. Eds all gone? Blow your last cut already?"
(David) "Not Eddies. Not what I mean."
(Maine) "Huh?"
(David) "Learning, learning the ropes, me. You can't be my crutch. Said yourself, right?"
(Maine) "Why don't you ask your brother?"
(David) "...He's Spider-Man."
(Maine) "...Right, fine."
...
...
....
As Karito and David approached the warehouse, the excitement was palpable. David was eager to start work and had been asking to join Karito on his patrols as Spider-Man, but Karito had to put his foot down. He explained to David that his body was not yet strong enough to handle the physical demands of being a superhero, but promised that once he finished building David's cybernetic enhancements, he could join him on patrols. Despite his disappointment, David was determined to assist in any way he could and was eager to help find Aldo.
(David) "Hey! I'm looking for Aldo."
(Aldo) "Yeah? Who's looking now?"
(David) "Maine. He sent us."
(Aldo) "Ah? You Karito and Davis then?"
(Karito) Snorts
(David) "...Uh..."
(Aldo) "Huhhhh?"
(David) "I'm David..."
(Aldo) "Davis?"
(David) "It's David! Not Davis! David!"
(Karito) Wheezing
(Aldo) "What are you screaming for, rude motherfucker."
(Karito) Was almost crying of laughter
(Aldo) "Got it. David. Heard you. Pilar's carrier pigeon, yeah?"
(Karito) "He said he wanted... me to build something for him, so I did... I gotta deliver it to him too? Lazy fuck better give me extra."
(Aldo) "He said he was. Don't worry about it." Looks at David "The punk kid who klepped and junked a 'Saka limo? Hell of an entrance." Looks back at Karito "And you're called a literal superhuman. I wonder why's that."
(Karito) "...Damn that's crazy..."
(David) "Oh... that. My first real gig. It was pretty crazy, right bro?"
(Karito) "What was crazy was your face when I carried the entire car." Snickers
(Aldo) "You carried an entire car? No wonder why you are called a "Superhuman". You could have collected five fat stacks for it at least, the car. If you hadn't gone and turned it to scrap."
(David) "Well..." Looks at Karito
(Karito) "...Next time."
(Aldo) "Ah?"
(Karito) "I won't toss the car like a frisbee the next time."
(Aldo) "Wait, you actually threw it that hard?"
(Karito) "...No..."
(Aldo) Laughs "Next time, eh? Well, guess we'll see you if last time wasn't just beginner's luck."
(Karito) "I'll be fine. I've done worse. And I'm not showing off."
(Aldo) "It sound's like you are."
(Karito) "But it's true though..."
(Aldo) "Let's see if you guys are the shit or just another shit stain."
...
...
...
Karito and David traversed beneath the bridge in a companionable silence, engaged in a lighthearted conversation as they made their way to Pilar's abode. Despite the young David's apprehension, the elder Karito projected a sense of calm and confidence, tapping his younger sibling with a reassuring smile. The two of them soon encountered two police officers along the way, causing David to shift uneasily. Karito's gesture was enough to calm the younger brother, who relaxed at the elder's demonstration of reassurance.
As they walked by the two officers, the latter continued with their own conversation, entirely ignoring the siblings. David let out a sigh of relief, grateful for Karito's foresight that they were in no danger. Boarding a train, the duo arrived shortly at an apartment complex. Confirming the location using his holographic GPS, Karito led the way up the stairs and stopped in front of Pilar's apartment door.
Karito approached the door, his hand raised to give it two firm raps. In an instant, he found himself face-to-face with a gun, but he remained calm and composed even as the weapon was aimed at him. His composure was soon rewarded as Rebecca, appearing partially undressed, quickly realized her mistake and lowered the weapon with an apologetic smile. Despite the sudden and potentially dangerous situation, Karito remained unfazed, his demeanor unaffected by the proximity of the firearm. Meanwhile, Rebecca greeted the two siblings with a relaxed and casual air, seemingly unconcerned about her state of undress.
(Rebecca) "Hey, David, my man! Hey, handsome~."
(Karito) "Sup."
(David) Shocked at what happened
(Rebecca) "What's going on? Everything good?"
(Karito) "Yeah, everthings sweel and all. I see you are a free spirit?"
(Rebecca) Smirks mischievously "Well~. I can be completely nude for you, y'know~?"
(Karito) "I'll think about it later."
(David) "Karito!"
(Karito) "Oh yeah, I'm here to deliver Pilar his cybernetics. Is he here?"
(Rebecca) "Ugh." Turns around "YO BRO, IT'S FOR YOU!"
(David) "He's your brother?"
(Pilar) Reveals himself on a chair, rolling towards the entrance "Ha?"
(Rebecca) "Karito is done with something of yours. Come get it."
(Pilar) "HO!" Giggles "Holy shit that was fast!" Snatches it from Karito's hand "
Pilar swiftly transitioned his hand, revealing elongated golden fingers that gleamed in the intense light. The intricate machinery and precise details were awe-inspiring.
(Pilar) "Wowza! You really outdid yourself Karito! These cyberhands are amazing!" Throws the bag "SO PREEM!" Laughs maniacally
(Karito) "Wow, I wasn't even trying to build something impressive."
(Rebecca) "Need me to excuse you, or...?" Looks down "Wanna have some fun~?"
(Karito) "Well, I need the cash for the hands. He still hasn't paid me."
(Rebecca) "BRO! GO AND PAY KARITO!"
(Pilar) Gives the middle finger "Rebecca, tip him on his way out."
(Rebecca) Shots Pilar's hand "HE'S YOUR ENGINEER MAN! FORK IT OVER YOURSELF, CHEAPASS!"
(Pilar) Totally amused "HOLY FUCK IT'S BULLETPROOF! KARITO YOU'RE AWESOME!"
(Karito) "I would've beaten the shit out of David if he was like that with me."
(David) "OI!"
(Rebecca) "Trust me, I already have multiple times. So I guess you clock out now, pity."
(Karito) "Yeah, sorry to disappoint you." Smirk "Send the tip to David."
(Rebecca) "Okay." Does so
(David) Sees the tip and is in shock "WOAH! THAT'S THE TIP?!"
(Karito) "That's what she said."
(David) "...Okay, I dug a hole on that one myself..."
(Karito) "Saw a chance and I took it." Snicker
(David) "You're so annoying..."
(Rebecca) Giggles "You brothers are fucking adorable."
(David) "Huh?" Complement just flew past his brain
(Karito) "Thanks."
(Rebecca) "See you soon, dimples."
Karito and David stepped out of the building, their faces lit up with satisfied grins. David was elated about the money they had received, while Karito simply relished the experience of the moment. As they walked down the bustling street, Karito's attention was caught by the sound of his ringing communicator. He looked at the side of his view, eyebrows furrowed in confusion as he recognized Lucy's name on the caller ID. With a shrug, he answered the call, his mind already eager to hear what news awaited him on the other end of the line.
(Lucy) "Hey, heyo."
(Karito) Thoughts "She did not just, heyo me..."
(Lucy) "You free tonight?"
(Karito) "Yeah? Me and David got nothing to do."
(Lucy) "Good, I'm going to train David in his cardio aspect while you train him in combat and physical."
(Karito) "You sure you don't want me to teach you as well?"
(Lucy) "I'm good."
(Karito) "Alright, if you say so." Call ends "Yo, David. Get you're gym clothes ready we start training tonight."
(David) Smirks "About time."
...
...
...
Karito and David, both dressed in athletic wear, made their way to the docks. As they approached, they spotted Lucy standing at the water's edge, deep in thought. The siblings approached her, the sound of their footsteps drawing her attention to their arrival.
(Lucy) "About time you showed up."
(Karito) "Sorry, David had to put on his makeup."
(David) "The fuck are you talking about?!"
(Karito) Giggled "Just messing with you."
(Lucy) "Honestly I don't know why Maine told me to help Karito with training but he bullied me to do so."
Flashback
Lucy was lounging on her couch, minding her own business and trying to relax. However, all that changed when she received a call from Maine. He asked her to accompany Karito during David's training, and Lucy was less than thrilled about the prospect. She had a few reservations about being asked to help out. After all, Karito was more than capable of training David on his own, so why did she need to get involved?
But then Maine pointed out something that Lucy had never considered before: she had a strange fascination with Karito, especially when he was in his Spider-Man guise. Lucy remembered the day she was rescued by Spider-Man when she was just 12 years old. For years, she had tried to find him, but he seemed to have vanished into thin air. Then, as she grew older, Spider-Man became more active, and she saw him take down the Maelstrom gang and get involved in the Painkillers incident. Despite her best efforts, she never managed to meet him in person.
However, Lucy got another chance when she found herself face to face with Karito who was accompanied by his sibling, and she seized the opportunity to try and trick him. Of course, that plan ended in disaster, with Lucy and her accomplices getting thoroughly beaten by the wall-crawler. But even after that experience, Lucy couldn't help but feel drawn to Karito. She wanted to talk to him, to get to know him better, but she just couldn't muster up the courage to do so.
So when Maine offered her the chance to talk to Karito during David's training, Lucy had to pause and think. It was a good opportunity to get to know Karito better and hopefully, overcome her shyness. She decided to accept Maine's offer and agreed to help out with David's training.
Flashback end
(Karito) "Some company is nice, y'know? Having David for 17 years get's kinda boring.
(David) "You love me, admit it."
(Karito) "Lucky for you, I do."
(Lucy) Sighs "Man it just had to be on my day off."
(Karito) "I know how that feels."
(Lucy) Looks at David "It's hard to believe you're both related, Karito is built like a unit while you look like a chopstick, with a narrow torso. Not exactly built like a punk. With that frame, look primed to tweak out after one, maybe two more implants."
(David) Exhales "I ain't weak if that's what you're getting at."
(Karito) "I can bench press you and eat pizza at the same time."
(David) "No, you're just unfair and a hack!"
(Lucy) "Keep up then." Starts jogging
Lucy and Karito jogged along the route, maintaining a steady pace. David, however, lagged behind a few feet. As they ran, Lucy saw an opportunity to strike up a conversation with Karito, hoping to engage in a casual, non-business-related exchange. She tried to make small talk, eager to get to know Karito on a more personal level.
(Lucy) "So, how have things been going?"
(Karito) "As expected."
(Lucy) "Nothing out of the ordinary?"
(Karito) "Nope, just keeping the peace."
(Lucy) "Hey, I've been meaning to ask..."
(Karito) "Shoot."
(Lucy) "How did you get your powers?"
(Karito) "The usual, spider bite."
(Lucy) "Really?"
(Karito) "Yup."
(Lucy) "..."
(Karito) "Anything else?"
(Lucy) "...Uh...no."
(Karito) "Cool." Keeps jogging
Lucy felt her frustrations grow as she ran beside Karito. Despite her attempts to engage in small talk, he was responding with terse one-liners, making her feel as if he was completely disinterested in her. She couldn't help but wonder if he held a grudge against her from their past encounter. Despite clearing the air and resolving their misunderstanding, she expected at least a cordial relationship between them. Yet, here he was, treating her with indifference. The thought that he may hate her weighed heavy on her mind.
As the three jogged, Karito eventually called a halt to their exercise, leading them to a nearby park. With a wave of his hand, he pulled out three bottles of water, silently offering one each to Lucy and David. The three took a break, sipping on the refreshing liquid in comfortable silence. After a few moments of rest, Karito beckoned David over, signaling it was time for him to start teaching the younger brother about personal defense.
As Karito and David made their way to an open area of the park, Karito explained to David the importance of being able to defend oneself.
(Karito) "Self-defense is not just about physically fighting off an attacker," Karito began. "It's about being aware of your surroundings, knowing when to avoid dangerous situations, and having the confidence to stand up for yourself."
Karito then went on to demonstrate some basic moves, such as how to block punches and kicks, and how to strike effectively. David practiced each move, with Karito offering guidance and correction along the way.
(Karito) "Remember, self-defense is not about winning a fight," He continued. "It's about protecting yourself and getting away from harm. So, don't get too caught up in defeating your opponent. Instead, focus on doing what you need to do to escape."
As the lesson continued, Karito emphasized the importance of technique over brute force. He showed David how to use his body weight and leverage to maximize the impact of his strikes while minimizing the effort he needed to put in.
(Karito) "A well-placed punch or kick can be much more effective than a wild, uncontrolled one," He explained. "So, always make sure you have good form, and stay relaxed and focused."
Finally, Karito wrapped up the lesson by reviewing the key points.
(Karito) "In conclusion," he said, "personal defense is about being prepared, confident, and controlled in any situation. And with the right training and mindset, you can master these skills and keep yourself safe."
As Karito and David were practicing their self-defense techniques in the park, David suddenly stopped and asked:
(David) "When am I gonna learn all the cool martial arts you do, big bro?"
Karito looked at his younger brother with a proud smile and placed a hand on his shoulder.
(Karito) "You will learn them eventually, David. But until you get better cyberware, you need to be careful not to hurt yourself while fighting against those who are severely enhanced. In Night City, it's important to understand the dangers of engaging in combat with individuals who have advanced cybernetic enhancements."
(David) His eyes lit up with understanding "Right, I don't want to get hurt. But when can I start learning those cool moves?"
(Karito) "Once you have better cyberware that can handle the strain of advanced martial arts, I will teach you everything I know," He replied. "In the meantime, we need to focus on building your foundation in self-defense. It's important to learn the basics first before moving on to more advanced techniques. Trust me, it will pay off in the long run."
(David) He nodded, eager to learn and improve his skills. "Okay, I understand. Let's get back to training then."
(Karito) He smiled and gave his little brother a nod. "That's the spirit, David. Keep pushing yourself, and you will get there in no time."
...
...
...
The sun was shining bright as the two brothers made their way to the warehouse. They had received a call from Maine earlier that day, asking them to come and meet him. David was excited, as he had always been curious about guns and how to use them. When they arrived at the warehouse, they found Maine sitting on a chair next to a table, taking refuge from the sun under an umbrella. The older man greeted them with a nod and gestured for them to come closer.
Maine approached the table with a no-nonsense attitude, grabbing the handgun and slamming it onto the surface with a resounding thud. The sudden motion caused David to jump in surprise, but Karito remained unfazed and unperturbed, showing his experience with firearms.
(Maine) "Ever used one?" taps the gun on the table
(David) "Nope." nervously looks at the gun
(Maine) "You never let your brother carry a gun before?" glances at Karito
(Karito) "Didn't need to at the time, that was before everyone started targeting us more aggressively." shrugs
(Maine) "It's time we change that. What do you say? Could teach you some tricks if you want." grins
(Karito) "I know how to handle guns if I ever need to resort to one." smirks
(David) "Think... Sandevistan. I'll stick with that." firmly holds his stance
(Karito) "Nope, you're learning." firm tone
(David) "But-" tries to argue
(Karito) "No butts, no ass. If I'm not there, I need to be sure you can at least incapacitate someone with a Sandy." serious look
(David) "Alright..." defeated sigh
(Karito) "Go ahead, Maine. Do your magic." gestures to Maine
(Maine) "Alright. Follow me, newbie." smirks and stands up from his seat
Maine led David and Karito over to a shooting range that was set up in the corner of the warehouse. The targets were a few cans that were set up about 20 yards away.
(Maine) "Alright, David. Let's start with the basics," He said as he picked up the handgun from the table and handed it to David. "First, make sure it's unloaded. Check the chamber."
He did as he was told and checked the chamber to make sure there were no rounds inside. He then handed the gun back to Maine.
(Maine) "Good. Now, grip the gun like this." He demonstrated, gripping the gun firmly with both hands. "Your strong hand should grip the handle while your support hand should grip the other side. Keep your arms straight, and use your support hand to help steady your aim."
David took the gun back and mirrored Maine's grip, keeping his arms straight and using his support hand to steady the gun.
(Maine) "Good. Now, align your sights." He pointed to the front and rear sights on the gun. "Make sure the front sight is lined up with the rear sight and that both sights are lined up with the target."
David aimed the gun at one of the cans and followed Maine's instructions, lining up the sights with the target.
(Maine) "Now, take a deep breath and hold it." He instructed. "Squeeze the trigger, don't pull it. Keep your aim steady and keep the gun level."
David did as he was told, taking a deep breath and holding it. He squeezed the trigger, and the gun kicked back with a loud bang. The bullet struck the can dead center, causing a small spark.
(Maine) "Good job!" He said, patting David on the back. "Let's try that again."
David shot several more rounds, each one hitting closer and closer to the center of the target. By the end of the session, he was hitting the center of the target with ease.
(Maine) "See, you're a natural," He said with a smile. "Just remember, safety first. Always keep the gun unloaded when you're not using it. And never point it at anything you don't intend to shoot."
(David) "Thanks, Maine," said David, feeling proud of himself. "I'll make sure to keep practicing."
(Maine) "Good, because practice makes perfect." He replied. "And always be prepared, because you never know when you might need to use that gun to protect yourself or someone else."
...
...
...
During the mission, David, Rebecca, and Karito were keeping a watchful eye for enemies as Kiwi hacked into the system of organ traffickers who were in the middle of performing a gruesome operation. Suddenly, Kiwi noticed that they were spotted. David saw Kiwi's distress and quickly reacted when one of the traffickers grabbed a bat and swung it at his face. Thanks to Karito's training, David was able to duck the attack and shoot the man in the leg, causing him to fall to his knees in pain. As Rebecca saw the rest of the traffickers coming to attack them, she immediately opened fire and shot them down in quick succession. Meanwhile, two more of the traffickers tried to sneak up on her from behind, but Karito, with his Spider-Man suit, quickly shot his webs at their faces and used his immense strength to kick them so hard that their heads were ripped off, leaving the hero to let out a brief exclamation of surprise. The building was now fully aware of their presence, so Karito ordered everyone to exit through the window. He quickly shot multiple web ropes so they could descend safely. Once everyone was safely outside, Karito prepared for the beatdown that the residents of the building were about to receive. The first victim to kick open the door was quickly disintegrated by a venom blast. The hero then rocketed himself toward the mob of traffickers in the hallway, landing a devastating knee strike to the next man's face, caving in his skull. One by one, the traffickers tried to fight back, but they were no match for the hero's martial arts mastery. Spider-Man effortlessly dodged and countered, with a single strike landing true on each of the men. The hero's skill shone in brilliance as he employed every art he had mastered. Finally, he dealt a devastating back kick that sent the last trafficker crashing through a wall and to his doom. Looking back at his kill spree, Spider-Man saw more than 50 men lying on the hallway's floor, piling up. He knew that they were just normal bad guys and that he had put no effort into defeating them. With that, he jumped out of the hole he made with one of the men's bodies and web-swinged back to base with the others.
...
Once again, it was nighttime. Karito decided to go ahead and wait for them in the park while Lucy ran with David, training their cardio. She continued to jog with no difficulty as David was keeping up but was showing signs of tiredness but was still eager to continue. During their jog, David decided to small talk.
(David) "Hey, Lucy."
(Lucy) "What's up, David?"
(David) "I was curious, are you a real netrunner?"
(Lucy) "Yes, I am. Why do you ask?"
(David) "I was just wondering why netrunners need to run. It seems kind of ironic."
(Lucy) "Whether you're a netrunner or an edge runner, good stamina can take you far. Your brother is a prime example of that."
(David) "Well, I don't think he counts."
(Lucy) "I see your point. By the way, can I ask you something?"
(David) "Sure, what's on your mind?"
(Lucy) "Why did your brother become Spider-Man?"
(David) "I think he does it to protect people. He doesn't care about credit, only that they're safe. But if you're a bad guy, you can expect trouble. Since his girlfriend died, he's been more active and protective. He gets overly violent whenever I'm hurt."
(Lucy) "I can see why. You're his only family left."
(David) "Yeah, and I think that's why he does it. He doesn't want others to experience what he did. He has a habit of taking all the burden upon himself, though. I really want to help him, he's been through enough already. Both of us do..."
(Lucy) "I understand. Losing someone you love can be unbearable. But he shouldn't have to go through it alone. You're a great brother for wanting to help him."
(David) Smiling "Thanks, Lucy."
...
The gang made their way to the Afterlife club for some downtime. Kiwi, Rebecca, Pilar, Dorio, and Karito approached the entrance, but Rebecca was stopped by the bouncer due to her short stature. The others entered the club, leaving Rebecca to argue with the bouncer. The situation escalated quickly as Rebecca pulled out a gun and five more bouncers arrived to assist. With an angry expression, Rebecca looked around for a way in. David noticed her distress and activated his Sandevistan, allowing him to run past the bouncers and quickly grab Rebecca, sneakily taking her into the club. After deactivating the Sandevistan, the bouncers were left confused, while Rebecca thanked David for his assistance. David's big brother gave him a thumbs up, causing David to smirk. The two siblings sat on the couch and watched the others have fun with their drinks, content to remain antisocial. Suddenly, Rebecca appeared out of nowhere and sat on Karito's lap, chugging a glass of beer. Although the older sibling was surprised by her sudden clinginess, they let it slide as she wasn't doing anything strange yet.
And he wishes for it to remain that way.
...
(Maine) "You don't fly your crib without cover from now on. You feel me, dawg? Every single day you check: wallet, cock sock, and your damn iron."
(Karito) Making cybernetic lungs "Huuhhh?"
(Maine) "Sure, some punks strictly hack or go straight chrome. But it will be a while before you can keep your ass alive just using cyberware. Until that time comes, this piece will be your backup plan." Points at the gun
(David) "Understood."
...
Karito had converted a corner of their apartment into a makeshift gym, complete with a bench press, a set of dumbbells, and a pull-up bar. He was determined to help David improve his physique, and so he put his younger brother through a series of rigorous exercises, carefully monitoring his form to prevent any injuries. As David pushed himself to lift heavier weights and perform more challenging routines, Karito remained by his side, acting as his spotter and offering words of encouragement to keep him motivated. Together, they established a regular training routine, committing to four sessions a week and allowing David's body ample time to recover between each workout.
Under the night sky, the siblings returned to the docks to continue David's cardio workout with Lucy. As Karito vanished from sight, his incredible speed propelling him forward, David struck up a conversation with Lucy, the silence between them broken.
(David) "So, hey."
(Lucy) "What now?"
(David) "How old are you anyway?"
(Lucy) "..."
(Karito) On the park "...Real smooth, David..."
...
Karito and Maine decided to teach David how to drive, and they were confident that they could handle the task with ease. After all, how hard could it be to teach someone how to drive a car? They headed out to a quiet area of the city to begin the lesson.
Maine let David get behind the wheel of his car, and the trio set off. At first, things were going pretty well. David seemed to be a quick learner, and he was getting the hang of the basic controls. But as they approached a busy intersection, things started to go south.
David became overwhelmed by the traffic, and his hands began to shake on the wheel. He took his foot off the brake pedal, and the car lurched forward, almost colliding with another vehicle. Maine and Karito screamed in unison, causing David to panic and lose control of the car.
The car spun wildly out of control, knocking over street signs and crashing into a gas station. The trio sat there, dazed and confused, as the police arrived on the scene. Maine and Karito quickly hatched a plan to escape, and they urged David to follow their lead.
As the police approached, Maine floored the gas pedal, and the car screeched out of the gas station, barely avoiding a collision with a squad car. They drove off into the night, laughing uncontrollably as they narrowly escaped the law.
After the adrenaline rush wore off, they finally calmed down and realized the severity of what just happened. They looked at each other, relieved that they were safe but also embarrassed at the disaster they caused.
(Maine) He couldn't help but joke about the situation. "Well, that was one hell of a driving lesson, wasn't it?" he said, chuckling.
(Karito) Couldn't resist adding, "I think we need a new plan for teaching David how to drive. Maybe we should start with a tricycle."
David joined in on the laughter, grateful that his brothers were there to make light of the situation. It may have been a disaster, but it was a memorable experience that they would never forget.
...
Maine, Karito, and David sat under an umbrella. Covering them from the rays of the sun. David looked down seemingly thinking about something. That is until Karito brought up a fun topic to talk about.
(Karito) "So, how's everything going with Lucy?"
(David) "What do you mean?"
(Maine) "Are you treating her well? Making moves?"
(Karito) "I mean, come on man. I've been giving you space so you can get with her."
(David) "Is that why you were ignoring her? I thought she was just getting on your nerves."
(Karito) "Nah, I was just playing it cool. I want my little bro to have a smoking hot girlfriend and it wouldn't be fair for me to swoop in and steal her away. Plus, I know you're into her. So go ahead, I'll keep giving you two more alone time."
(David) "Thanks, Karito. I appreciate it." Smiles and mumbles to himself "Though, I'm not sure if I'm into her..."
(Karito) "No problem, bro. I just want you to live your best life."
...
Continuation of last time's cardio exercise.
(David) "Sorry, Didn't mean... That came out wrong."
(Karito) Watching from afar "Yeah, no shit."
(David) "Just meant, your age, your skills, they don't add up."
(Karito) Facepalms
(Lucy) "Applying math where it ain't applicable. It's aptitude and hard work. So get that straight. Only gonks talk down to others based on age."
(David) "Gonks like?"
(Lucy) "Long-limb techies."
(Karito) Drinking a bevarage "Damn, Pilar just got attacked." Snickers
...
The group had prepared an ice-filled bathtub for Lucy to use, as she tended to overheat during netrunning and needed to cool down to avoid heat strokes. Kiwi was busy hacking on a computer to assist Lucy, with Maine watching over her progress. Karito and David were responsible for keeping an eye on Lucy's naked body, in case she needed help due to overheating. However, David found himself staring at Lucy's curves as she breathed heavily, prompting Karito to take note of his little brother's fascination and plan to tease him later. After a few more minutes, the hack was successful, and Lucy rose from the tub, revealing her stunning figure. David continued to ogle her, while Karito, who had more self-control, quickly wrapped a towel around her to cover her body. Pilar attempted to sneak a feel, but Karito promptly smacked him on the back of his head and dragged him out of the room.
...
(Maine) "How is he doing?"
(Karito) "Dude needs to learn how to flirt."
(David) "Huh?!
(Maine) "Mean to say they haven't done nothing?"
(Karito) "Indeed. The dude even asked for her age. You can imagine my hysteria of laughter when I heard that."
(David) "WHA- HOW DID YOU?!"
(Maine) Wheezing
(Karito) "I just have really good hearing." Hacking "But seriously don't make my sacrifice be in vain. LAY SOME PIPE MAN!"
(David) "What are we talking about, exactly?"
Karito and Maine stare at each other in disappointment and shake their heads in unison.
(Maine) "David, my clueless choom. You need to grow a pair. And I think you know, I ain't just talking 'bout in the edgerunning sense."
...
David was midway through his bench press set, grunting and sweating as he lifted the bar with all his might. Karito stood next to him, counting the reps and making annoying comments.
(Karito) "Come on, bro, you call that a bench press? My little sister could do better than that!" Taunted, smirking at David's struggle.
(David) "Ngh! We...Don't have...a sister!"
David ignored him and focused on the task at hand, lifting the weight up and down with all his strength. But Karito wasn't done yet.
(Karito) "You know, I heard that Kiwi's been hitting the gym lately," He said, "You don't want her to out-bench you, do you?"
David's face contorted in frustration, but he kept going. Karito continued to make jokes and comments, getting more and more ridiculous as the workout went on.
(Karito) "Are you sure that weight isn't too heavy for you? Maybe we should get you some pink dumbbells instead," He said, grinning.
David finally finished his set, gasping for breath and covered in sweat. Karito patted him on the back, still laughing.
(Karito) "Good job, bro, you're getting there. Just remember, if you can't lift the weight, just yell for help and I'll come to save you," He said, winking.
David rolled his eyes, but couldn't help but chuckle at Karito's antics. He knew that no matter how annoying his brother could be, he had his best interests at heart.
...
(David) "Really?" Breathing heavily "Thought I saw you two hitting it off the other day. Back at the block party, post limo heist."
(Lucy) "He acts the mentor sometimes, then turns around, gets grabby. Had enough that night, so I fried him slightly. Fucked-off real quick after that."
(David) Laughs a little
(Karito) From afar "There you go, keep it going lil bro."
(Lucy) "And you?"
(David) "Me?"
(Lucy) "You serious about edgerunnin'?"
...
Karito suggested to Lucy and David that they embark on another small robbery of shards from Arasaka employees. The duo quickly agreed and set out on their mission. This time, things went more smoothly than before. David was like a well-oiled machine, deftly grabbing all the shards while simultaneously cleaning out the entire cart in one fluid motion using his Sandevistan. When he finally came to a stop in front of Lucy, he was grinning from ear to ear, holding two handfuls of glittering shards.
...
(David) "I'm not even sure how I feel about her."
(Maine) He rolls his eyes and shakes his head "Come on, kid, we all know what you're thinking."
(Karito) Nods thoughtfully "Just take it slow and get to know her. Don't be like those fools who rush into things after just a few days. It's important to really understand someone before making any big moves."
(David) Let's out a deep sigh "I don't know, man. I don't think she's into me like that."
(Maine) Chuckles "Yeah, you're probably right, choom."
(Karito) Puts a reassuring hand on David's shoulder "Lucy is a tough nut to crack. She's not the most open person, but give it time and see where it goes, bro."
(David) Nods slowly "Okay, I'll see what I can do."
...
Karito stood at the center of the dojo, his white gi rustling as he took a deep breath and focused his gaze on David.
(Karito) "We're going to start with the basics," he said, motioning for David to step forward. "First, we'll work on proper stance and footwork."
Karito walked David through the proper stance, ensuring that his feet were shoulder-width apart and his weight was evenly distributed. He then demonstrated a few basic punches, showing David the proper technique for each one and emphasizing the importance of using his entire body to generate power.
As they moved on to kicks, Karito explained the mechanics of each kick and demonstrated how to pivot on the standing foot to generate maximum power. He then had David practice each move, offering feedback and correction as needed.
As the lesson progressed, Karito introduced more complex techniques, including blocks, strikes, and joint locks. He emphasized the importance of fluid movement and proper breathing, and urged David to remain focused and centered throughout the lesson.
After an hour of rigorous training, David was sweating and breathing heavily, but he felt a sense of accomplishment that he had never experienced before. Karito clapped him on the back and gave him a nod of approval.
(Karito) "You're a natural," he said. "With a little more practice, you'll be a Karate master in no time."
...
At the docks, Cardio Training. Continuation.
(David) "Why you ask?"
(Lucy) "To be honest, just don't strike me as the type, is all. Your brother on the other hand just seems to be a natural at everything."
(David) "What does that mean?"
(Lucy) "..."
(David) "Tell me!"
...
David, Karito, Pilar, and Falco were looking for a night of excitement, but their idea of fun was more chaotic than most. Pilar led the group to a strip club, where they indulged in a braindance that transported them to an imaginary world of pleasure.
As the group lost themselves in the fantasy, time seemed to slip away. David, in particular, was caught up in the experience, his body writhing and contorting in response to the virtual sensations.
When they eventually emerged from the club, David was practically vibrating with energy, his eyes wide and his movements erratic. Pilar was grinning from ear to ear, clearly enjoying David's wild antics, while Falco and Karito watched from the sidelines, their expressions a mix of amusement and concern.
As they continued to explore the night city, the group sought out other thrilling activities, their adventures taking them to the edge of danger and beyond. Despite the risks, they were bound together by their shared love of excitement and the thrill of the unknown.
...
(David) "Look, I'm sick of trying to figure her out, you know."
(Maine) "Meaning what, man?"
(Karito) "Honestly, I'm thinking the same thing. When I said she was hard to get, that was an understatement."
(David) "All I know is that she wants to go to the moon."
(Maine) "The damn moon?"
(Karito) "Hmmm..." Thoughts "What's up with her and the moon? Could it be related to the time I saved her from the facility?"
(David) "Yeah, I guess it's her dream or whatever. What do you think, Karito?"
(Karito) "Well... as I assumed last time, I just think she hates this city. She probably feels suffocated. Why? Well, I just spout some bullshit, but I'm not completely sure why."
(David) "She did react to that comment from before, right?"
(Karito) "...Nah, I think I just hit a nerve with her when I said that. I don't know, girls are hard to figure out sometimes."
(Maine) "In this case, I can agree." Shakes his head. "Damn, you got some mystery to unravel here, David."
...
Karito and Rebecca had been planning to take David to the shooting range for a while. They knew that he was a novice when it came to handling guns, but they thought it was time for him to improve.
At the shooting range, Karito and Rebecca took turns showing David the ropes, teaching him how to handle a firearm and how to aim. David was a fast learner, and after a few tries, he was able to hit the target with some accuracy.
When it was his turn to shoot, David began to feel a wave of anxiety wash over him. He suddenly remembered his mother, the car crash, and the sound of guns echoing through his head like an eerie chant.
Karito immediately noticed David's distress and walked over to him, putting a hand on his shoulder.
(Karito) "Hey, what's going on?" he asked, his voice gentle and soothing.
(David) Took a deep breath and told Karito about their mother. "I'm just really scared," he said, his voice shaking. "The guns... it reminds me of that day. The last time I successfully shot a gun was because of my impulsiveness but... now I..."
(Karito) Understood immediately. "I know, bro," he said. "But you're your own person. And you have to learn to defend yourself. I won't allow what happened before... to happen again and I want you to be strong. Let's be strong together, alright?" He put his hand on David's back and guided him through the motions of aiming and firing. "You're doing great," he said. "Just take it slow. Breathe. Focus on the target. You got this."
Slowly but surely, David's anxiety began to ebb away. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and fired. The sound of the gunshot echoed through the range, and David opened his eyes to see that he had hit the target dead center.
(David) He grinned, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "I did it!" he exclaimed, looking up at Karito with a mixture of relief and pride.
(Karito) He grinned back at him. "Of course you did," he said. "You're a natural. And now you know that you can do this without the fear of the past holding you back."
As Karito comforted David and encouraged him to overcome his fear, Rebecca couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration and respect for her friend. She had always known that Karito was tough and capable, but seeing him show such compassion and understanding towards his little brother was truly touching.
Rebecca had seen firsthand how David struggled with the trauma of losing their mother, and she knew how difficult it was for him to even be near a gun. But Karito's words seemed to have a calming effect on David, and she could see the younger boy's shoulders relax as he listened to his brother's voice.
As they continued with the shooting practice, Rebecca watched Karito closely, studying the way he interacted with David and the gentle but firm way he corrected his technique. She felt a warmth spread through her chest, grateful for the chance to witness such a beautiful moment of brotherly love and support.
...
After running for several kilometers, Lucy finally came to a stop. Despite the long distance, she didn't seem the least bit tired as she made her way over to Karito who had arrived at the park much earlier. Taking out a cigarette, she leaned closer to him. Karito observed her actions and activated his Kaine's touch skill, lighting the cigarette for her as she began to smoke. They stood there waiting for a few minutes until David showed up, completely exhausted from the marathon. Despite his lack of cybernetic enhancements, he had managed to keep up with Lucy to some extent.
(Lucy) "Turned out to be a lot faster than you look."
(Karito) "He better be, I've been training him."
(David) Chuckles "Yeah, yeah."
(Lucy) "No, seriously. Doubted you could keep up with me."
(David) "If that's supposed to be a pep talk, no need. I don't go down easy." Panting
(Karito) "That's my brother! Now get over here, I'm about to choke slam you!"
(David) "WAIT! WE SPARING ALREADY?! NOOOO!" Get's bodied
...
Karito Pov
As we arrived at the secluded area, tensions were high. It was clear that the competing crew had kidnapped Rebecca, and we were all here to save her. The fools thought they had a chance against Maine and his crew, but they were sorely mistaken. They revealed Rebecca's small figure, tied up with ropes in a safe. As soon as David spotted her, he activated his Sandevistan and dashed forward to free her from the ropes. The enemies were in shock at the display of speed and had no choice but to fight back.
I knew I had to act fast, so I used my abilities to take them down one by one. My web shooters and stingers worked in perfect harmony, immobilizing and cutting down the enemies with ease. Maine and his team gave us a thumbs-up for a job well done.
As the adrenaline started to fade, I noticed that Lucy was watching us, specifically David. I couldn't help but smirk at my bro, this was all part of the plan. I turned to David and gave him a nod of approval, proud of him for being able to save Rebecca and hold his own in the fight.
...
No Pov
(Maine) "Never mentioned nothing about that to me."
(David) "Thinking she lied?"
(Karito) "I don't think that's the case. She's not the type to share her past, so I just think it's because she didn't want to say it."
(Maine) "I think so as well. Who knows? Just ask her."
(David) "I mean, by the time she was probably just stalling me and my brother, but..."
(Karito) "She took us to the moon, even though it was a special BD she had."
(Maine) "Damn, that would've been a perfect date if Karito didn't third party."
(Karito) "Look, I know. My bad, but could you blame me? By the time I knew she was up to something and I wasn't gonna let my brother be alone. But now that things are all good, he can have another date with her... I don't know. Whenever?"
(Maine) "Shit dawg. It don't get much more romantic than that in Night City."
...
After a long night, the group had once again found themselves at the Afterlife, the popular nightclub of Night City. Kiwi, Dorio, Pilar, Rebecca, and David were chatting and drinking, the younger sibling struggling with the taste of beer. His companions laughed at his inexperience, while Karito watched from the back of the club with Maine and Lucy.
As they sat on the comfortable chairs, Lucy's gaze was fixed on David, and Karito couldn't help but feel uneasy. He was relieved that Lucy was no longer interested in him, but he didn't like the idea of her "stalking" his little brother. Maine noticed the interaction between the two and tapped Karito on the shoulder, smirking in agreement.
The two men exchanged a nod before leaning back on the soft sofas, continuing to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the nightclub. Despite the uneasy feeling in his stomach, Karito was glad that David was enjoying himself and bonding with their new friends.
...
Karito and David were in the basement gym of their apartment building. Karito had cleared out some space and laid down a few mats, ready for a Muay Thai lesson. He had been practicing the sport for years and was excited to pass on some of his knowledge to his little brother.
(Karito)"Alright, let's get started," He said, pulling on a pair of boxing gloves. "First, we're going to work on your stance."
He demonstrated the proper stance, with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight evenly distributed between both feet. David copied him, trying to mimic his brother's form.
(Karito) "Good," He said, nodding approvingly. "Now, let's work on some basic punches. We'll start with a jab. Watch me first."
Karito threw a quick punch, snapping it back just as fast. David watched closely, then tried it himself. It was a bit awkward at first, but Karito corrected his form and they continued to practice.
Next, they moved on to more advanced techniques like hooks and uppercuts. David was picking up the moves quickly, but he was getting winded from the effort.
(Karito) "Take a breather," He said, gesturing for David to sit down. "Muay Thai is tough, especially when you're just starting out. But keep at it, and you'll get better and stronger."
David took a few deep breaths, wiping sweat from his forehead. He was already feeling sore, but he was determined to keep going.
(David) "Okay, I'm ready," he said, getting back up on his feet.
They continued to practice for another hour, with Karito giving David tips and corrections as they went. By the end of the session, David was exhausted but exhilarated. He couldn't wait to practice more and get better at Muay Thai. And Karito was proud of his little brother for working hard and showing dedication to the art.
...
Karito had been working on a pair of cybernetic lungs for David for the past few weeks. He had spent countless hours fine-tuning them, ensuring that they were perfectly tailored to his brother's physiology. And now, they were finally ready.
(Karito) "Hey, David," He said, entering his brother's room. "I finished the lungs. Are you ready to go get them installed?"
(David) His eyes widened with excitement. "Yes! Let's go right now!"
The two brothers quickly got ready and headed out to Ripperdoc's clinic. When they arrived, Karito explained the situation to the Ripperdoc, who nodded in understanding. He led David into the operating room and began prepping him for surgery.
The procedure was intricate and complex, but the Ripperdoc was a professional. He carefully removed David's damaged lungs and replaced them with the cybernetic ones that Karito had designed. The surgery took several hours, but when it was finished, David was breathing easier than he ever had before.
Karito paid the Ripperdoc for the procedure and helped David back to their apartment. They both collapsed onto the couch, exhausted but relieved that everything had gone smoothly.
(David) "Thank you, Karito," He said, gasping for air. "I feel so much better already."
(Karito) Smiled, relieved that his hard work had paid off. "I'm just glad everything went well. You're going to be unstoppable now."
...
(David) "How long she been running for your crew?"
(Maine) "Uh, maybe a year. Kiwi brought her in. Said she'd found a natural, real code friend."
(David) "And before that?"
(Karito) "I don't think Maine knows much about her, bro. Ask her yourself, as I said earlier."
(Maine) "I could give two shits about people's pasts. As long as they pull their weight on the job, we're good."
(Karito) "Honestly that sounds fine to me."
(David) "That suits me just fine."
As their discussion drew to a close, the trio sealed their agreement with a firm fist bump. Maine and David swiftly injected themselves with the necessary medications to facilitate the integration of their cybernetic enhancements, letting out contented sighs as they felt the drugs' effects wash over them. Meanwhile, Karito sat motionless, his eyes transfixed on the barren expanse of the Badlands, his mind lost in thought as he pondered the complexities of their situation. His stoic demeanor betrayed none of the excitement or relief felt by his companions, and he remained lost in his own contemplations, unmoved by the fleeting euphoria of the moment.
...
As Karito worked on preparing their dinner, he noticed David busying himself in the living room, unloading a sizeable collection of spray cans. With focused intent, David carefully laid them out, selecting a few and shaking them vigorously. Karito watched with interest as David donned his signature yellow jacket, emblazoned with a unique symbol - an inverted 'B' connected to an 'R' at the bottom. Karito couldn't help but smile knowingly, recognizing the symbol as David's trademark emblem as a netrunner. He returned his attention to the meal, confident that his little brother was in his element.
As the day progressed, the group gathered together in a comforting reunion. Each member wore a look of contentment on their faces as they discussed a variety of topics. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, the brothers' lips curled into a genuine smile, a welcomed departure from the trials and tribulations that had burdened them. Despite being subjected to an ungodly amount of unfortunate events, they now found solace in this newly-formed community, where the bonds of kinship were strengthened through shared struggles and experiences. In this group, they had found a new sense of belonging and purpose, and it was evident in the warm, genuine smiles shared amongst them.
As the group conversed, the tranquility was shattered by a sudden, piercing clatter. A man atop a pile of wagons had begun to urinate loudly on a nearby barrel, causing an uproar among the crew. Pilar, visibly disturbed by the commotion, began to yell at the stranger to cease his vulgar act. The man's face and body were completely covered, leaving everyone feeling uneasy and disgusted by his actions. As the group gawked at the stranger in disbelief, Karito couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. His senses were on high alert, detecting an underlying danger that he couldn't quite put his finger on. A feeling of chaos began to take hold, making Karito feel increasingly uneasy and unsettled.
(Pilar) "HEY! TURN IT DOWN! GODDAMN!"
(Dorio) "He pissing up there?" Disgusted
(Kiwi) "Ugh, beaut."
(Rebecca) "Gross!"
(Pilar) "Fuck! What's your problem, Choom? Why you gotta go pissing in the street?" Starts slamming the wagon the strange man was on top of "HEY, HOMIE! Playing golf on that barrel?"
(Lucy) Everyone starts to leave "Leave him alone, Pilar."
(Rebecca) "Buh-bye, bro." Follows the others
(Karito) "Hey, Pilar. Let's go man."
(Pilar) "Gonna show us your stroke?!" Continues arguing
In a swift and fluid motion, Pilar expertly executed a parkour move, vaulting himself up onto the top of the wagon where the mysterious man stood.
(Pilar) Grunts "You heard of hearin', chooma? I'm talking to ya!" Taps the man's face "Listen up. This here alley you're watering in is our turf, asshole! And guess what, we don't like steppin' in piss! ARE WE CLEAR ON THAT?!"
(Dark ???) Zips his pants "Crystal."
With lightning-fast reflexes, the mysterious man deftly positioned his fist beneath Pilar's chin, his knuckles glowing with an otherworldly heat that turned them a fiery yellow. In a terrifying display of power, he unleashed a blast of searing energy in the form of a pillar of flame that erupted from his face, catching Pilar square in the head with explosive force. The sickening sound of impact echoed through the alley as Pilar was sent hurtling through the air, his body crumpling to the ground in a smoking heap.
The brothers could see the rainfall from the sky in slow motion, every droplet coming down leisurely as if time had stopped for just them. The sounds of Maine's crew shouting and panicking were just muffled whispers in Karito's ear. He looked over to David and saw that his younger brother was in the same state, his face frozen in shock.
Maine was screaming at them, pointing frantically in a direction that was still unknown to Karito. He tried to listen but the words were just gibberish, the sound not matching up with the movements of Maine's lips. The world was just a blurry mess of slow motion. Suddenly, Karito noticed something strange. Everyone in the crew was in full panic or ready for a fight, their faces twisted with fear or determination. But for Karito and David, time had stopped completely. They were the only ones moving in slow motion.
The raindrops seemed to descend in a decelerated state, each one making its journey down with a pronounced elegance. For a moment, it was as if the world around them had paused just for Karito and David. The cries and yells of Maine's crew were reduced to an indistinct murmur as if heard from a far-off place. David's expression mirrored Karito's own shock, both of them frozen in place. Maine was frantically gesturing towards a direction that Karito struggled to make sense of. He attempted to focus, but the words that spilled out of Maine's mouth were incomprehensible. The world had turned into a hazy, slow-motion blur. As he tried to piece together what was happening, a peculiar realization hit him. The rest of the crew was in a frenzy, either bracing themselves for combat or fleeing from danger, their faces etched with panic or determination. But for Karito and David, time had stopped entirely. They were the only ones moving in this sluggish reality.
Karito's perception slowed down to a near halt, his eyes fixated on the man who had callously murdered his friend. He watched in horror as the man's arm ignited in flames, the inferno quickly engulfing the rest of his body. The sight of his friend's flesh and blood splattering in the sky was enough to make Karito's emotions boil over. His heart raced as the raw, intense fury surged through his veins, his teeth clenched tight as he struggled to contain the primal scream that threatened to escape. But even as he fought to keep his emotions in check, Karito's eyes began to change, turning into those of a predator, of a killer. He felt a deep, primal urge to take revenge, to make the man pay for what he had done, no matter the cost. His mind raced as he tried to calculate the best way to take down the killer, but deep down, he knew that the only thing that mattered now was ending this man's life.
The man's hands formed a symbol resembling an X, crackling with ominous energy, and the air around him hummed with dark power. The crew members' weapons spat fire, but it was too late. The man's body detonated in a cataclysmic explosion, throwing the hapless crew back with a deafening roar. Agonized screams rent the air, and the very ground beneath their feet melted into searing lava. Karito acted on instinct, his hyper senses and hacking abilities kicking in to protect his companions. He erected a web of protective shields that covered everyone, absorbing most of the shockwave. His body absorbed the rest, launching him like a rag doll through the air. He tumbled and smashed into a nearby wagon, his mind reeling from the impact. Despite the pain, his senses remained acute, and he struggled to his feet, scanning the aftermath of the explosion for any signs of the enemy.
(Karito) "DAVID! ARE YOU OKAY?!" Searches
(Dark ???) "Unfortunately, he's fine. He was just blasted away."
(Karito) "COME ON FIGHT ME, YOU COWARD!"
(Dark ???) "Wow, Osborn wasn't kidding. You're just as hotheaded as I am."
(Spider-Man) Suit forms "Tch... Molten-Man..."
(Dark Molten-Man) "Now, shall we continue?"
As Spider-Man and Dark Molten-Man clashed, their fists met in a brilliant display of power. A blinding yellow light erupted from the point of contact, creating a seismic wave that rattled the entire room. The temperature soared, as the air around them turned into a maelstrom of electricity and heat. It was as if they were standing in the center of a volcanic eruption, engulfed by molten lava and raging fire. Spider-Man and Dark Molten-Man were locked in a fierce struggle, each summoning their elemental abilities in a battle for dominance. The intensity of their powers merged into a single force, exploding into a blinding maelstrom that shook the very foundation of the room. They stood firm, their eyes locked in a fierce gaze, determined to gain the upper hand. Their battle cries echoed throughout the room, drowned out only by the crackling of the electricity and the roar of the fire. As the explosion gradually subsided, they remained locked in a deadlock, their powers still surging around them. Their eyes never left each other as they assessed the other's strength, each determined to outmatch their adversary. It was clear that this was only the beginning of a long and grueling battle, as they steeled themselves for the next round of their epic struggle.
(Dark Molten-Man) "Careful Spider, you know I can "melt" you alive." Smirks
(Spider-Man) Holds his burned hand in pain "Shut up and fight."
(Dark Molten-Man) "With pleasure."
(Spider-Man) "NGHAAAA!!!"
(Dark Molten-Man) "HAAAA!!!"
Spider-Man moved with lightning-fast reflexes, dodging Molten-Man's flaming fist with a graceful slide. Electricity crackled around his feet as he swept the villain off his feet with a powerful leg sweep, sending him tumbling to the ground. Knowing that attacking Molten-Man head-on would be futile, Spider-Man used his symbiote to shape a hammer and drove it down with all his might, causing the floor to shatter on impact. He readied himself for a second strike, but was caught off guard by a sudden blast of flames that sent him hurtling through a nearby wall. The pain was excruciating, and he felt his symbiote screaming in agony along with him. But Spider-Man didn't give up. With quick thinking, he deployed his accelerated decoy to escape the fiery onslaught, as flames melted the wall to rubble. His spider senses tingled as he deftly avoided the fireballs hurled his way. Using his web-slinging and acrobatic skills, he darted around the debris, flinging it at Molten-Man, who blocked the ranged attacks with his molten shield. Seizing the opportunity, Spider-Man used his lateral repulsion to fly at Molten-Man like a missile, delivering a devastating dropkick to his chest and sending him flying into a nearby junkyard.
Molten-Man tumbled across the pile of debris, his body melting everything in his path as he crashed into an abandoned car, engulfing it in flames. With a scowl on his face, he scanned the area for Spider-Man, who was already soaring through the air, shooting a barrage of venom blasts towards him. Molten-Man reacted quickly, using his palms to propel himself out of harm's way and charging at the hero with incredible speed. As he collided with Spider-Man, his touch set the hero ablaze, leaving a searing third-degree burn mark in the shape of his hand.
Furious, Spider-Man broke free from Molten-Man's grasp and delivered a punishing strike that sent the villain hurtling back into the junkyard. Without a moment's hesitation, he followed up with a lightning-fast lateral repulsion and an axe kick that triggered a massive explosion of electricity, illuminating the entire area in a blinding light. Molten-Man was sent flying once again, his body writhing in agony as he struggled to regain his footing.
As Spider-Man's stingers extended from his forearms, he aimed to strike Molten-Man, but the villain was quick to embrace him, inflicting severe burns to the hero's upper body. Despite being stabbed multiple times by Spider-Man's stingers, Molten-Man refused to let go, and the two continued their brutal battle. With each passing moment, the intense heat and flames of Molten-Man's powers left more and more severe marks across the hero's body. Spider-Man's muscles tore under the strain, and his bones were slowly being exposed. As desperation set in, Spider-Man unleashed his most potent weapon: the Mega Venom Blast. The explosion that followed was so intense that it shook the entire city, and the Badlands were engulfed in flames. The blast left a trail of destruction in its wake, and the aftermath was a devastating sight to behold. The desert now was a sea of flames, the abandoned buildings reduced to rubble, and the mountains torn apart. As the dust settled, it was unclear who had emerged victorious from this fierce battle. The air was still thick with the acrid smell of smoke, and the only sound was the crackling of flames. The future of the city now hung in the balance, and the fate of its inhabitants rested on the outcome of this epic showdown.
As the fight raged on, the landscape of the Badlands trembled under the weight of the two combatants' blows. With each collision of fists, a deafening boom echoed across the wasteland. The intensity of the battle was palpable, and even the crew watching from a distance could feel the heat and tension radiating from the epicenter. Spider-Man had managed to draw the fight away from the city, but it was clear that this was no ordinary brawl. As the dust swirled around them, the crackling of electricity and the roar of fire seemed to be locked in a battle of their own. It was as though two opposing forces of nature had been unleashed, each vying for dominance. The crew could only watch in horror as the battle intensified. Spider-Man's battle cries pierced the air, while Molten-Man's anguished screams indicated that the hero was gaining the upper hand. The dust cloud grew thicker, the battle reaching a fever pitch, until finally, with one last thunderous shockwave, the air cleared and the crew could see the aftermath of the fight. Molten-Man lay crumpled amidst a pile of melted metal, defeated at last. The silence that followed was eerie, broken only by the sound of Spider-Man's labored breathing as he slowly emerged from the dissipating dust. The crew watched in awe, knowing that they had just witnessed an epic battle of superhero proportions.
(Spider-Man) Holding back an unmeasurable amount of pain "NGH! Y-You fu-fuck!"
(Dark Molten-Man) "Hehe... If you really think..." Cough "I'm going to die like this... you're sorely mistaken."
(Spider-Man) "No... Ack..." Charges a venom blast "You...ack... Die.... now..."
(Dark Molten-Man) "IF I'M GONNA DIE, I'M TAKING YOU WITH ME!"
With one final last stand, Molten-Man seized his opportunity and clutched Spider-Man's throat with a fierce grip, slamming him against a twisted heap of melted metal. Flames erupted around the two combatants, igniting the air with a scorching heat that blazed like the mouth of a volcano. In a flash, the hero found himself enveloped by Molten-Man's inferno, his suit and skin searing with intense heat. The agonizing screams of both hero and villain reverberated through the air, each bellowing in pain as their fight intensified.
Molten-Man's burning rage had reached its peak, and his sole desire was for the hero to meet his end. With a sudden eruption of ferocious power, the Badlands were engulfed in a devastating explosion that shattered the air and shook the very ground beneath their feet.
The volcanic-like explosion caused by Molten-Man was a terrifying sight to behold. The ground beneath them shook with the force of the blast, and the sky turned red as if the very atmosphere had caught fire. The explosion was like a miniature volcano, with flames and molten lava shooting out from the epicenter of the blast in all directions.
The blast was so powerful that it created a shockwave that could be felt miles away. It caused a chain reaction of explosions as anything combustible nearby ignited, sending debris and shrapnel flying everywhere. The intense heat of the explosion melted anything in its path, turning the sand into glass and metal into molten pools.
The air was filled with a deafening roar, as the shockwave and the explosion shattered the silence of the Badlands. The heat was so intense that it caused a mirage-like effect, as if the air was bending and warping in the heat.
As the explosion started to subside, a dense cloud of smoke and ash began to rise, blocking out the sun and plunging the area into darkness. The aftermath of the explosion left a wasteland in its wake, with the ground charred and blackened, and the air filled with the acrid smell of smoke and ash.
As the crew watched from a distance, the aftermath of the explosion could be felt in the air. The heat was so intense that it seemed to singe their very skin, making it hard for them to approach the scene. Even the webbing that surrounded them had melted away, unable to withstand the fiery blast. But despite the danger, David's desperation for his brother drove him to run towards the devastation without any regard for his own well-being. The heat was unbearable, but he pressed on, scanning the wreckage frantically for any sign of his brother. Panic gripped him as each passing second seemed to stretch on endlessly, his anxiety mounting as he failed to locate his sibling. He felt a torrent of emotions flooding through him - fear, anger, confusion - all of them swirling together in a chaotic mix that made it hard to focus. Then, a clacking noise caught his attention, and he whipped his head around to see a melted pile of metal. And there, crawling out of a hole in the wreckage, was his brother. The sight that greeted him was one of horror - his brother's entire body was covered in deep, searing burns that made him almost unrecognizable. His skin was falling off in places, leaving behind raw, charred flesh.
As Karito fell to the ground, David rushed towards him in a flurry of emotion, tears streaming down his face. His heart pounded in his chest as he witnessed the state of his brother, completely ravaged by the intense heat and flames of the explosion. In a moment of intense grief, David let out a soul-wrenching scream, unable to bear the sight of his brother's mangled body. With a deep sense of urgency, David activated his Sandevistan, a device that granted him temporary superhuman speed and reflexes. As the world around them slowed to a crawl, David scooped up his brother's battered body and disappeared from the scene in a blur of motion, desperate to get Karito to safety and medical attention.
To be continued...