Chapter 163 - 3

Of course, whether it's the Green Goblin or the new Honorary Police Officer Spider-Woman, all the attention has shifted since Tony Stark's high-profile return. Tony has a knack for making headlines, that's for sure.

"I think we should buy some Stark Industries stock," Peter Parker suddenly said.

Gwen Stacy looked at him, bewildered. "Didn't you hear what was said on TV? Stark's future is uncertain, and everyone's pretty pessimistic about it."

"That's exactly why we might have a chance to get in," Peter replied.

"Pfft, Peter, when did you start caring about stock investments?"

"I just have faith in Stark," he said confidently.

"Are you serious?"

"Of course."

Peter's idea of buying Stark stock was a spur-of-the-moment decision. It wasn't that he was short on money. In fact, even if Stark Industries' stock crashed, Peter's family had enough funds to buy only a limited amount. If he wanted money, he could easily get it as Black Superman.

Wealth, ultimately, reflects one's power, strength, and influence. And Peter is among the most powerful people on Earth. To him, money is merely a number. It can buy many things, but there are plenty of things that money alone cannot purchase.

Peter, already a superhero, didn't want to be a slave to capital. More than anything, he simply wanted to make Uncle Ben and Aunt May's lives better in a modest way. He didn't need to change their established routine; he just wanted them to be more comfortable and worry less.

That's why he wears a mask. What's a hero? Black Superman? Peter felt that no one, other than himself, could force him to do something against his will.

"Hmmm…" Seeing Peter's serious demeanor, Gwen thought for a moment, then moved closer and said, "I can sponsor you privately."

Peter glanced at her with a grin. "Looks like Miss Gwen has quite the little fortune. Rich."

"Hey…"

"Rich lady, are you hungry?" Peter asked playfully.

"Let's go," Gwen responded with a smile, not refusing.

Nighttime.

Gwen, wearing her hooded suit, opened the window and returned to New York as Spider-Woman.

In fact, crime in New York had decreased significantly under the vigilance of Black Superman. Supervillains like the Lizard and the Green Goblin were becoming rare. Gwen's current job was more about addressing minor issues and helping people. Sometimes, she even assists children with balloons stuck in trees or helps an elderly person cross the street.

She didn't mind this at all. Fighting super criminals was exhausting and dangerous. She preferred a quieter life without the likes of the Green Goblin and the Lizard.

Gwen was smart enough not to get lost in the overwhelming power her abilities gave her. She remembered her initial goal was simply to help people and not let Peter down. This mindset was better than many, including some heroes who had been famous for years.

Suddenly, a message from her spider-sense alerted her, and Gwen's webbing shifted direction.

In an alley, a blond man was cornered, trembling with fear as he looked at the black figure in front of him.

"Let me go! I haven't done anything! I just came out to buy some things tonight…"

Gwen arrived and landed in front of the man. "Hey! I didn't expect someone would dare commit such a blatant crime in New York. Aren't you afraid of Black Superman… Black Superman!?"

The shadowy figure's chest was all that was visible. The iconic golden ring and bat-like hood clearly marked Black Superman's presence.

Gwen was shocked to find that the figure tormenting the man was indeed Black Superman himself! How could this be?

"Black Superman… Is what he said true?" Gwen asked, turning from the man to Black Superman. "Is there some misunderstanding?"

Black Superman had previously disarmed all the bombs and saved the world. The scene in New York was still fresh in her mind, and she couldn't believe he'd commit crimes at will. But Black Superman's past reputation made it seem possible.

Gwen hoped this was just a misunderstanding, otherwise, it would be the greatest disaster in history.

Unexpectedly, Black Superman confirmed, "There is no misunderstanding. Everything he said is true."

Gwen was stunned, as if struck by lightning.

Black Superman, Peter Parker, played with her reaction, "So, Miss Honorary Police Officer, what do you intend to do?"

Gwen took a deep breath. "I know I'm no match for you, but I can't allow an innocent person to be harmed. So, no matter what…"

"He's a murderer. A few years ago, he broke into a house, killed a family of four, and fled. His information is still in the police file," Peter interrupted.

Gwen, who was mentally preparing herself for a confrontation, couldn't be intimidated even if the opponent was Black Superman. "Eh!?"

Five minutes later, the New York Police Department arrived at the scene and took away the blond man with a pale face.

"Thank you, Spider-Woman! I didn't expect you to catch a murderer who's been hiding for years. You're amazing!" said the policeman with admiration.

"Ah…well, it's nothing," Gwen replied, slightly embarrassed.

Fortunately, her mask hid her blush, otherwise, she would have been too embarrassed to face anyone.

After the police left, she climbed to the top of a building where Black Superman was standing, looking out from a distance.

"Why don't you take credit for it yourself?" Gwen asked.

"I'd rather not waste time with this. It's better left to you, Miss Honorary Police Officer," Peter said.

Gwen's face grew even hotter, and she wanted to disappear into the ground.

"Stop talking. I didn't recognize him at all and almost made a huge mistake."

Curious, she asked, "How did you know?"

Peter simply shrugged. "It's all in my head."

The conversation ended abruptly, and the mood grew chilly. Gwen wasn't sure what to say next.

Ultimately, Gwen mustered the courage to say, "Thank you for earlier, Black Superman."

Peter didn't turn around, but Gwen knew he was listening.

Gwen continued, "I'll take responsibility for the mistakes I made. I may not be perfect, but I'll keep trying to do better and avoid hurting others."

"So, it might be foolish or selfish, but if I encounter that situation again, I wouldn't change my choice!"

Gwen said earnestly, "I don't believe everyone is like the Green Goblin."

"This will be difficult, Miss Spider," Black Superman replied.

"I know, but I have my reasons," Gwen said, recalling a time when she and Peter helped Gordon, who later blamed them. Despite the frustration, Peter's patience paid off when Gordon later helped them during the lizard attack.

Peter stayed silent.

He took off, leaving Gwen behind. She wasn't discouraged but was instead energized by expressing her feelings.

In a burst of excitement, she shouted, "Also, Black Superman, I don't like your behavior! It's too dark!"

Peter was better off. She added in her mind. It didn't matter whether Black Superman heard her or not… he probably didn't, right?

Gwen left the scene feeling a mix of guilt and determination, then remembered she had yet to check in with Dr. Connors.

Peter Parker did not leave immediately but stood amidst the clouds, watching Gwen as she disappeared from view. Naturally, he also heard the final words Gwen shouted into the air. He didn't have much to say, but he couldn't help but think, "My Gwen is so adorable."

Moreover, he murmured to himself, "Have you truly made this choice? Is this what Spider-Man is destined for?" Peter glanced back at the uninvited guest behind him. Clad in red and gold armor, a suit Peter had seen countless times on the big screen, it could only be Tony Stark, who had just returned from his time tinkering with the Mk3 and causing a commotion at the Air Force base.

"You had a lot of fun today," Peter commented.

"..."

Tony immediately understood that Superman—Black Superman, as he called him—had seen his actions today. Unable to hide his surprise, Tony asked, "Is there anything you don't know?"

"There's always something. I don't know everything," Peter replied with a hint of a smile.

Tony rolled his eyes. Of course, he was pleased. Thanks to the vibranium suit, the Mk3 he wore at that moment was significantly enhanced compared to the original, allowing him to handle even two fighter jets without much trouble during the day.

But before Tony could enjoy his brief moment of triumph, Superman's question interrupted his satisfaction. "Can you tell me why you shut down the weapons division?"

Tony's smile vanished instantly, leaving him somewhat somber. "To be honest, I doubt your mind-reading abilities," he said.

Peter chuckled softly, his voice carrying a hint of temptation. "I'm merely curious about your current thoughts."

"It's nothing special," Tony admitted. "Just a man who survived and found a bit of meaning in life." Under the steel mask, Tony's expression grew complex. "Without you, I would have died in that cave. But since I survived, I have to do something right—something for those who died because of me, because of Stark. People who were harmed."

At this moment, Tony discovered the secret dealings between Stark Industries and various terrorists. He even learned that his most trusted uncle, Obadiah Stane, a senior figure at Stark Industries, was the one who had betrayed him. This revelation hit Tony hard.

Having lost his parents at a young age, Tony had grown up feeling somewhat deprived of affection. Obadiah had held a special place as a friend and business partner of the Howards. After their deaths, Obadiah took on a mentor-like role for Tony, almost like a second father. Now, facing betrayal from Obadiah was a crushing blow.

"If it hadn't been for me, if I hadn't invented those weapons, if Stark Industries hadn't sold these deadly things, people might not have suffered so much," Tony said, the burden of his guilt evident in his words. Speaking his worries to Black Superman somehow made him feel a bit more at ease.

But Tony did not anticipate that Black Superman's next words would add to his heartache.

"Maybe you're just too self-aware," Peter said.

"…"

"Without you and Stark, there would still be chaos and suffering. The world doesn't revolve around you, and their pain is inevitable."

"Hey, buddy, isn't that a bit too grim?" Tony couldn't help but complain.

Even out of his armor, Tony remained a billionaire and genius scientist, not as disoriented as Gwen. He responded seriously, "But I should do something. I can do better and protect more people. So why not try?"

Peter shifted the topic abruptly. "By the way, the person you threw at me last time—Connors, was it? What are you planning to do with him? Do you want to keep tossing him at me?"

"Isn't that inappropriate?" Tony asked.

"Of course it is! Just look at him now. Half of his body is genetically mutated, and he's unrecognizable," Peter replied.

"You can do better and help more people. Isn't that what being human is about, Tony Stark?"

"Ah ha? Is this why you're using me as a backup?" Tony retorted.

"Don't phrase it that way, Tony."

A few weeks earlier, Peter had dealt with the aftermath of the Green Goblin's chaos. After the mess, Gwen soon discovered that the Lizardman was missing. He had taken advantage of the confusion to flee.

Gwen couldn't just sit idly by while the Lizardman disappeared again. Whether the Lizardmen posed a threat to the city or had merely interrupted the Green Goblin's plans, Gwen felt she owed it to both herself and George to take action.

At that moment, Peter said, "Leave the Lizardman to me."

"What do you plan to do? The Lizardman isn't like the Green Goblin; he just saved me!" Gwen said anxiously.

"He will face justice," Peter assured.

When Peter found Connors, he was holed up in his lair in the sewers. Connors had broken a vial of glass reagent and was holding the sharp shard to his neck, trembling.

"Just a reminder, this won't kill you immediately. For the next three long minutes, you'll experience the agony of suffocation, excruciating pain, and slow blood loss," Peter said calmly.

Upon hearing Peter's voice, Connors' arms fell limply. He slumped into a state of despondency and self-derision. "I'm such a failure; I can't even manage to end my own life."

He looked up, half of his face and body transformed into a lizard. His genes had mutated further. Though many would have perished by now, Connors remained alive.

His yellow lizard-like eyes fixed on the dark figure before him. "It's fortuitous you're here, Black Superman. Can you help me end this? If I survive, I'll only bring disaster to others."

"You have other options," Peter's voice was soft.

"No, I don't," Connors inhaled deeply. "I once aimed to create a world free of flaws, for those excluded and suffering due to their disabilities, including myself. But I failed. I became a monster and harmed those who trusted and loved me."

Connors struck his head in distress. "I can feel my mind deteriorating. The pain is relentless, and a cold, cruel instinct is overtaking me."

"Black Superman, you're a hero. Kill me, please, and spare people from harm, or I'll lose control eventually."

This problem stemmed from Connors' genetic alteration. He had been injected with so much lizard serum that it was inseparable from him. The biological instincts of another species continued to erode Connors' humanity, pushing him towards complete transformation.

Peter observed Connors, curled up on the ground and writhing in agony, and responded calmly, "It's very... unfortunate. I am not a hero."

He picked up the last vial of serum, approached Connors, and grabbed him. "You... what are you doing!?" Connors' eyes widened in terror as Black Superman injected the serum into him again. "No, Black Superman! You can't do this... ah, you monster!"

"I'm going to make sure you're taken care of," Peter said resolutely.

Connors had transformed back into the Lizard, his rationality replaced once more by primal ferocity. The pain and anger from the moment Peter injected him with the Lizard serum fueled his rage. With red eyes and a mind consumed by fury, he lunged at Peter like a wild beast.

Boom!

Peter's punch sent the Lizard crashing into the wall. This blow was severe enough to inflict significant damage, but for a creature capable of rapid healing and regeneration, severe injury was only a temporary setback. After recovering, the Lizard charged again.

Boom!

Another punch landed, leaving him severely wounded once more. He healed and attacked again.

Boom!

The cycle continued: injured, healed, and pounced. Each punch from Peter battered the Lizard into a mangled mess of flesh, yet the creature persisted, only to be smashed again and again. Peter's relentless assault was a brutal testament to his resolve.

In an attempt to control the Lizard's feral instincts, Peter sought to invoke the most primal and powerful instinct of all creatures: fear. He intended to trap the Lizard's wild nature within a cage of terror.

Peter's strategy was inspired by his experiences dealing with the Hulk, and he was grateful for the lesson. As the ground shook with each punch, the Lizard's recovery slowed, and the intervals between attacks lengthened. It wasn't exhaustion but rather resistance that caused the delay. Even the most intelligent beings remember the pain inflicted upon them, and the Lizard, with its high IQ, was no exception.

Eventually, the Lizard stopped attacking and, like a tamed animal, retreated to a corner, looking distressed. It had given up.

Peter moved in and continued to beat the Lizard, causing him to retreat further in fear, begging, "No, no, Black Superman, that's enough, that's enough. I can feel it. I'm scared."

Peter considered, "Maybe one more beating is necessary."

"No! He and I are one. I can feel the pain and fear!" Connors protested.

"Alright," Peter said with a hint of regret. "There aren't many sandbags as durable as this."

Connors sighed bitterly. "What's the point? I've become this… How can I ever return to society?"

"Why do you want to return to society?" Peter asked.

"What?"

"You've become stronger, faster, smarter—more powerful. Why cling to the past?"

Peter continued, "It's a rare formula you've obtained. You've managed to tame the wild Lizard. Shouldn't you seize the opportunity to pursue your dream and apply the serum where it's needed?"

"Perhaps… but with my current appearance, who will accept me and let me continue my research?" Connors lamented.

Suddenly, Connors froze, looking at Peter with surprise. "Who are you, and how do you know so much?"

"It's me, Dr. Connors," Peter replied in his true voice.

"Peter?" Connors was stunned. "It's really you?"

Everything fell into place. No wonder Black Superman had gone to such lengths to help him… Connors's face darkened as he realized it was Peter who had beaten him. Despite his advanced knowledge, Connors had always hoped for a bit of decency, but now, his last shred of researcher's pride was shattered.

"Black Superman is Peter, and Peter is Black Superman. This is truly unexpected…" Connors sighed and suddenly recalled something. "Wait, if I remember correctly, Spider-Woman is Gwen? You two…"

Even in his Lizard form, Connors's expression was one of incredulity. "Damn it!" he cursed, feeling deceived and betrayed.

He felt trapped, unable to escape or regain control. "Gwen doesn't know," Peter explained, dismissing Connors's complex emotions.

"I think I know a place that might accept you…"

Back to the present:

Tony Stark had voiced his protests and complaints to Peter, but after being rejected, he continued to support Connors. When Connors successfully developed the complete Lizard serum, it promised to bring substantial wealth, provided he could resolve the patent issues with Osborne. Tony still saw potential gains.

The brief interlude passed, and everyone resumed their lives. Iron Man was preoccupied with his own battles, while Gwen, busy with her duties, frequently communicated with Peter through the Spider-Trumpet. She was profoundly grateful for Peter's support, which relieved her from fighting alone. Though she remained on the front lines, Peter's assistance in intelligence, logistics, and planning made her tasks much more manageable.

Most importantly, Peter provided a confidant for Gwen. While George now knew her secret, there were some things she felt uncomfortable sharing with her parents. Peter offered a space where she could speak freely, something she found both exciting and challenging.

"Spider-Woman" and Peter were progressing rapidly. Gwen was uncertain about how things would develop, but Peter remained straightforward in his approach. He used Gwen's resources to make profitable moves in the stock market, purchasing Stark stock at a significant discount.

Meanwhile, Black Superman, too, was not idle. His quest to earn points was becoming increasingly complex, requiring international travels that often sparked diplomatic tensions. Yet, Peter Parker remained unfazed by these issues.

As Peter's points approached 500,000, he had recently invested in upgrading his [Self-Healing] and [Super-Speed Regeneration] abilities from Connors to Level 2, each costing 5,000 points for Level 1 and 10,000 for Level 2. The upgrades were proving difficult to test due to the rarity of injuries.

The situation took a turn when Peter saw the news on television:

"I am Iron Man."

Tony Stark had announced his identity at a press conference.

Tony Stark's announcement that he is Iron Man sent shockwaves through the world. The revelation became a media sensation, capturing headlines and fueling public curiosity. For many, this marked the dawn of a new era in which masked heroes and their technologies could reshape the future.

For Peter Parker, the immediate effect was clear: Stark Industries' stock prices soared. The public's fascination with Iron Man and his cutting-edge technology drove the stock to unprecedented heights.

"Ahhh! Peter, we're rich!" Gwen squealed, her eyes glued to the screen as she excitedly grabbed Peter's arm.

"What's the occasion?" Peter teased, amused by Gwen's enthusiasm. "Is a windfall making our Miss Gwen so giddy?"

"It's different this time. This is the first money we've earned personally," Gwen declared.

"We?" Peter raised an eyebrow.

"Of course!" Gwen said, her smile wide. "I invested in you, Peter!"

"Alright, alright," Peter conceded with a grin.

"Hehe…" Gwen patted Peter's shoulder affectionately. "You're still amazing. Keep making money for us!"

Peter rolled his eyes playfully. Gwen's hand lingered on his shoulder, and he could sense an underlying tension. Their relationship had become somewhat awkward since their last encounter on the rooftop.

Gwen was perceptive and noticed the growing closeness between them, yet something felt off. It wasn't until she interacted with Peter as Spider-Woman that she realized their familiarity might be hindering any romantic developments. Putting on the Spider-Woman mask made Gwen feel more at ease, allowing her to see Peter in a new light.

Despite her excitement, Gwen was anxious. The positive feedback Peter gave to Spider-Woman was encouraging, but she worried about Peter's feelings. Could he be more interested in Spider-Woman and only see Gwen as a friend?

Gwen pondered testing the waters to avoid potential awkwardness. "So…" she began, her voice uncertain, "should we celebrate?"

"Celebrate?" Peter asked, puzzled. "You mean with snacks and a party?"

"No, not exactly. Since we've made a lot of money, why not go out?" Gwen suggested.

"Just the two of us?" Peter asked, noting her nervousness.

"Yes, just us," Gwen confirmed.

Peter thought for a moment. "Alright, Miss Gwen. It's rare for you to suggest this. How about you cover the expenses as a reward?"

"Hey! Who said I wanted to—" Gwen started, but Peter's smirk made her relent.

"Okay, okay, since you've made us so much money!" Gwen conceded, laughing despite her irritation.

…

With the Green Goblin incident behind them, Midtown High School had reopened. The damage caused by the Lizard's rampage had been repaired, restoring the school to its former state. However, some things could never return to normal.

Harry Osborn, once admired and set for a bright future, had lost everything. His father was gone, and with it, the legacy he could have inherited from Osborne.

"I haven't lost you, have I, Peter?" Harry asked, his voice filled with sincere desperation.

"Of course not," Peter assured him.

Harry's previous high spirits had vanished, replaced by a gloomy demeanor. Ostracized by society and labeled a terrorist due to his father's legacy, he found himself isolated. Despite his wealth and shares in Osborne, Harry felt emptier than ever.

"Peter, I need your help with something crucial. Only you can assist me," Harry said, a note of urgency in his voice.

Peter raised an eyebrow. "What's the matter?"

"I heard that you know Spider-Woman," Harry said hesitantly.

"Who told you that?" Peter inquired.

"There were rumors at school that you and Spider-Woman fought the Lizard together on that fateful day."

Peter nodded. "Yes, I had some contact with her after that day."

"That's great!" Harry exclaimed, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Can you help me get in touch with her? I need to meet her."

"What's your reason? I can offer you a lot of money, anything you want!" Harry added earnestly.

Peter's expression turned serious. "Harry, some things can't be bought with money."

Harry's face fell. "But… I only have money. Are you leaving me too?"

"Harry, stop overthinking. You're too sensitive right now; you need to rest," Peter said, placing a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder. "You don't need to buy my friendship with money. I don't value it."

"So what should I pay?" Harry asked.

"Nothing is needed. The key is your choice," Peter replied.

"Choice?" Harry asked, confused.

"Never mind," Peter said, shaking his head. "Why do you want to meet Spider-Woman?"

Harry hesitated, struggling to find the right words. "Peter, can I trust you?"

"Of course," Peter affirmed.

Harry sighed deeply. "My family has a hereditary disease… only Spider-Woman's blood can save me. I don't want anything else, just to live," he explained, his voice filled with desperation.

Peter's words felt like a crushing blow. "No, Spider-Woman can't save you."

"Why? How can you be so sure?" Harry asked, his voice tinged with panic.

"Do you know Dr. Connors?" Peter asked.

Harry nodded. "Of course. Osborn's former lead on cross-species gene transfer made a significant breakthrough but then disappeared."

"The formula for that breakthrough came from me," Peter revealed calmly.

Harry's eyes widened in disbelief. "Stop joking, Peter. Are you serious?"

"Absolutely," Peter said. "When it comes to cross-species gene transfer, I'm the best in the field."

"No, no. Peter, it's not that I don't want to believe you, but…" Harry's voice trailed off. "Is it too unbelievable?"

"Yes, it's unbelievable. We're the same age!" Harry felt disheartened.

"Do you believe it now?" Peter asked.

Harry struggled with disbelief but couldn't ignore Peter's unchanging, calm demeanor. It was like looking into a deep, unyielding pool.

"Okay, but… why can't Spider-Woman save me?" Harry asked, trembling.

"Literally speaking, Spider-Woman's appearance is an accident or destiny. There's nothing to learn from her," Peter explained.

"No… it can't be…" Harry murmured, unable to accept the truth.

After a demanding day handling official duties, George Parker drove home, feeling both physically and mentally drained. As he reached middle age and faced life's challenges, he increasingly appreciated the things he had—his career and his family. Naturally, like many middle-aged men, George took a moment in the car to savor the quiet and reflect on life.

George sighed deeply, a frown creasing his forehead. Over the past month, he had discovered that his brilliant, well-behaved, and thoughtful daughter, Gwen, was actually the masked vigilante Spider-Woman, whom he had publicly criticized and distanced himself from. The New York Police Chief's state of mind had shattered. His negative perceptions of Spider-Woman were swiftly erased, replaced by a father's worry: "How could she get involved in such chaos?"

Seeing his daughter in distress had nearly broken him. Lately, George had been working tirelessly to adjust the police department's stance on Spider-Woman. He had issued commendations and provided substantial support, trying to reconcile his professional responsibilities with his role as a father. Yet, his concerns remained. He had fought alongside his daughter against superhuman criminals and knew all too well the dangers of this line of work. The threats posed by these criminals and the risks to family and friends were profound. Not to mention the impact on her future—her career, love life, and marriage!

George worried about Gwen's future, even contemplating the possibility that she might never marry. He found himself perplexed; Gwen was such an exceptional and lovely person. He had heard that even Stark's fortune had recently pledged support to superheroes. George rubbed his temples, bewildered. Was he growing old, or was the world changing too rapidly? He remembered when he was young, rushing to confront gangsters, but now it seemed everyone was fascinated by superheroes and villains.

Feeling the weight of these thoughts, George finally got out of the car and went inside his home. His supportive wife, Helen, greeted him at the door, and his two sons played in the living room. Everything seemed normal.

"Where's Gwen?" George inquired.

"She's still in her room," Helen replied, her expression slightly off.

George's anxiety spiked. "What's wrong? Is she hurt?"

Helen looked at him, puzzled. "Hurt? Why would she be hurt?"

"Then what's going on?" George pressed.

Helen pursed her lips. "Come here."

George followed Helen to Gwen's room. Inside, Gwen was indecisively choosing clothes from her closet. Helen mentioned, "She's been like this for an hour."

George's tension eased somewhat when he saw his daughter was fine, though there seemed to be something more significant at play. He felt a renewed sense of concern.

"Dad, which one do you think looks good?" Gwen asked as George entered.

"Ahem," George cleared his throat. "You look great in whatever you wear, sweetheart."

Gwen frowned. "Okay, let me think a bit more…"

George felt uneasy. The more Gwen deliberated, the more he felt an uncomfortable pang, as if something precious was about to be spoiled. He asked, "So, who's the lucky guy, Gwen?"

"Oh, Dad, is it that obvious?" Gwen replied, slightly embarrassed.

George and Helen exchanged glances, realizing that Gwen was indeed interested in someone. George, who had been worried about Gwen's future, now found himself anxious about the new development. "Damn it, who is he?"

Gwen smiled shyly. "Peter and I are planning to go out this weekend. It's just a casual outing."

Peter Parker. George felt a large stone lift from his chest, and he relaxed. He and Helen both disregarded the implication that Peter and Gwen had been out of touch for some time. At least it wasn't the worst scenario.

George's eyes narrowed. From now on, Peter wasn't just half a son-in-law; he was also half a rival. George found a chance to pull Gwen aside into his study.

"So, does Peter know?" George asked.

Gwen understood her father was inquiring if Peter knew she was Spider-Woman. She shook her head. "I haven't told him yet."

George sighed. "Peter is a smart kid with a bright future. We know him well. He's a suitable choice."

"I know, Dad."

"So, don't involve him in this world," George advised.

Gwen was taken aback, but George continued, "Gwen, I'm not against you being with Peter. It's just, you're special. I can't stop you, and I don't want to. As your father, all I can do is support and protect you."

"But Peter is just an ordinary person. Involving him could only bring disaster. I've seen it firsthand…"

Gwen reflected on the night her father had fallen from a building. Without the intervention of the Black Superman, the situation could have been far worse. She was reluctant to put Peter in harm's way but felt helpless.

With a heavy heart, Gwen left the study.

At Osborne Tower, things were not looking good for the Osborne Group. They were grappling with the aftermath of the Green Goblin incident and a recent lizard attack. Superhero battles on their rooftop had led to a significant drop in their market value, leaving their shareholders distressed.

With Stark Industries' market value soaring, Osborne's misfortunes felt even worse. Norman Osborn had become the target of their ire, and after his death, the resentment was directed at Harry. Although Harry had inherited Norman's shares, he was excluded from the core operations, with plans already underway to strip him of his equity.

"So, they claim they've dismantled all the projects left by my father?" Harry asked, sitting at his father's desk.

"Yes, Mr. Osborn. That's the official stance. The statement is meant to restore investor confidence and address the lawsuits," Felicia answered. She had been Norman Osborn's secretary and was now Harry's trusted ally.

"What about the behind-the-scenes activity?"

"I overheard that the new chairman, Menken, and the security director have transferred them to a secret department, but I don't have the clearance to know more," Felicia said.

"Alright, Felicia. You may leave," Harry said, his expression dark.

Once alone, Harry recalled Peter's words at school: "Research on cross-species gene transfer is still ongoing. It might not solve your issue immediately, but it could in the future."

Harry was now torn. "I can't wait any longer. I won't let those thieves take everything my father left behind."

He took a deep breath, accessed the Osborne Group's internal network, and searched for [Secret Project].

[Sorry, the item cannot be detected…]

"Log in, Harry Osborn."

[The account has been logged in.]

"Search [Secret Project]"

[A total of… files have been searched for you.]

Harry closed his eyes, knowing this was his father's final gift. As he opened each file, he was both prepared and shocked by the revelations:

[Cross-species gene transfer project] Spiders, lizards, electric eels, black cats…

[Biological armor technology] Vultures, green monsters, octopuses, scorpions…

[Codename 713: Max Dylan]

"What is this?" Harry murmured, astonished.

Max Dillon is an electrical engineer.

Growing up in a single-parent family made him sensitive, irritable, extremely introverted, and plagued with low self-esteem. He was intelligent—otherwise, he wouldn't have become an engineer and joined Oscorp. Yet, his personality made it difficult for him to integrate into the group. He was often excluded and isolated, and office bullying was a common occurrence. Despite playing a key role in designing the power grid for another major Oscorp project, the most important design and core architecture were ultimately credited to someone else, who is now his immediate boss.

Such a life left him feeling depressed and miserable. He believed his talents were stifled and his enthusiasm suppressed by the world. "I'm sorry, Mom," he would mutter, his thoughts darkening towards suicide as a means to reunite with his deceased mother.

At this time, Spider-Woman appeared.

Superheroes and villains had always seemed a world apart from Max. How could such dazzling beings from above care about the insignificant bugs on the ground? But Spider-Woman would. "Hey! Man, what's wrong with you?" she asked. "Thinking of jumping? Don't! No matter how bad it gets, don't lose hope."

"Even if you jump, I'll catch you with my web," she promised. "I won't give up on you."

Spider-Woman's voice was soothing and angelic, giving Max the courage to keep living. It was a revelation that someone cared and wouldn't give up on him. In that moment, he was captivated by Spider-Woman and vowed to dedicate everything to her.

But life continued to be just as difficult and painful. He never had the chance to see Spider-Woman again and could only follow her activities through news and media. He searched obsessively, covering his home with her posters, seeking solace in every detail of her life.

That is until the day the Lizardmen attacked Oscorp Tower.

Max, blamed by his colleagues and working overtime to inspect the circuit, was caught in the chaos caused by the Lizardmen. He fell into the electric eel pool of the cross-species gene transfer project. Suffocating, drowning, and enduring countless electric shocks, he experienced intense physical pain. Yet, in the last moment before he lost consciousness, he thought he heard Spider-Woman's voice.

Is she here to save me? She said she wouldn't give up on me! I can't die! I want to live!

Max lost consciousness but, instead of dying, his body transformed. He gained the ability to sense, store, and control electricity. Before he could escape, security personnel discovered him, and he was imprisoned. Oscorp quickly developed facilities to suppress him, cutting off his power and confining him at the bottom of the building.

Harry Osborn finished watching the video record of [Codename 713: Max Dillon]. Angrily, he slammed his fist on the table. "Damn it, what else have these guys done!?" It was clear that these old men were as corrupt as his father.

Before he could act, two messages appeared: [Warning, your access rights have been banned.] [You do not have permission to access this project.]

At the same time, the office door opened, and the new chairman, Menken, stormed in with security. "You can't go in, he's busy!" Felicia tried to stop them but was overpowered by the security team.

"What have you done, Menken?" Harry demanded.

"It's what you and your criminal father did," Menken replied coldly. "You've severely affected the company's interests. After careful consideration, we'll hold a shareholders' meeting tomorrow to decide if you're still fit to exercise your rights."

"No. Don't even think about it! This is Oscorp!" Harry protested.

"This is no longer your Oscorp, freak," Menken retorted before leaving with his security team, leaving Harry stunned.

"Mr. Osborn?" Felicia asked.

"I…I'm fine," Harry said weakly. "I won't let them succeed… You go ahead. I need to give you something. A friend needs help today…"

"Yes…" Felicia responded, leaving Harry alone.

Harry shattered a wine glass, gripping the table with one hand. Through gritted teeth, he vowed, "They will not succeed… Absolutely not…"

An alarm blared with flashing red lights, signaling a safety error. Harry quickly left the prison facility, his mind racing. "Max? I hope you won't disappoint me…"

…

"Peter, it's time for us to head out."

"Okay. By the way, where are we going today?" Peter Parker asked as he and Gwen left the apartment.

Gwen looked annoyed. "So, you really don't ask any questions and let me make the itinerary?"

"Isn't that good?" Peter smiled. "Gives you more space to reward me."

Gwen was tempted to bite Peter in frustration. "Hmph! If not…"

"If not what?"

"No, let's go." Gwen shook off Peter and walked ahead, Peter trailing behind with his hands in his pockets. "Gwen, your clothes look great today."

Gwen paused, casually replying, "Really? I just picked something at random."

"Of course, you look good in anything."

"Hmph…"

Peter caught up and asked, "So, where's our first stop?"

Gwen rolled her eyes. "Let's start with a movie."

"Okay."

Even Gwen, the honorary Spider-Woman, couldn't escape the classic date routine: shopping, eating, and watching a movie. Old-fashioned, but effective every time.

After a 120-minute romance film, Peter asked, "Where to next?"

"I want to have afternoon tea," Gwen said with an indifferent expression.

"Okay."

They spent half an hour enjoying afternoon tea at a couple's restaurant. Eventually, Gwen couldn't hold it any longer and was the first to suggest leaving. "Don't you have any ideas?"

"The movie was good, and the snacks were tasty, but I'm still a bit hungry."

"…"

Gwen was both irritated and disheartened. "Alright, next we'll hang out a bit, then we'll go home."

"Huh? What about dinner?" Peter asked.

"No more!" Gwen snapped. She was clear enough, so why couldn't Peter see it? Did he really want her to make the relationship awkward? Sometimes, the better the relationship, the harder it is to take the next step.

Maybe confessing was the only option left. Peter seemed to prefer Spider-Woman over her, even though they were the same person. It was strange, but it didn't matter!

Gwen recalled her father's advice: "Don't involve Peter…"

"What should I do?" she wondered.

Suddenly, she felt a tug. She turned to see Peter.

"What's wrong?" she asked listlessly.

Peter said, "I just made a dinner reservation. I need you to come with me tonight, Gwen."

"What do you mean by asking me? How could I really let you handle the itinerary alone, Gwen?"

"Okay, okay, I was wrong. I'll handle it next time. Let's discuss this in advance," Gwen replied.

This time, Peter finally managed to calm the little wildcat's fur.

Gwen's mood was suddenly a mix of frustration and confusion. Was he laughing at her all along? But at the same time, she felt anxious. What was Peter really implying?

Her unpredictable feelings made her anxious. It seemed like things were progressing, but she couldn't be sure.

"Where are we going now?" Gwen asked, her turn to inquire.

"Waiting for someone."

"Huh? There are others tonight?" Gwen frowned.

"She'll be here soon."

Her? Gwen immediately became alert. When did Peter start knowing other women?

If she remembered correctly, there were only two girls Peter frequently interacted with: herself and Spider-Woman. Now, who else could it be?

After a short wait, Gwen saw a sleek black car pull up to the curb, and a woman in a sharp black suit stepped out. She approached them and said, "Excuse me, is this Mr. Parker?"

"Yes," Peter nodded.

The woman extended her hand to Peter, "Hello, my name is Felicia. I'm Mr. Osborne's secretary, and I'll be handling your schedule for tonight."

Gwen blinked in surprise. The "Mr. Osborne" Felicia mentioned was Harry. She realized she had misunderstood the situation and felt a wave of embarrassment.

She scolded herself internally for jumping to conclusions and felt hopelessly foolish. Though she had many questions, Gwen chose to act graciously in front of Felicia and kept her thoughts to herself.

At Felicia's invitation, the two got into the car and arrived at an upscale boutique.

"Due to time constraints, we didn't have a chance to place an order, so we can only try on what's available, Mr. Parker," Felicia apologized.

"It's fine. Just follow your arrangements," Peter said.

Felicia went to speak with the store clerk, leaving Gwen and Peter alone. The once graceful Gwen abruptly pulled Peter aside to a corner, her eyes wide with a barrage of questions.

"Peter, what's going on? Why is Harry involved? When did you get so close to him? I didn't know..."

She practically cornered Peter, "I feel like you've been hiding a lot from me… and Ms. Felicia—she's so beautiful. Do you like someone older than you?"

"Whoa, whoa, let's take it one at a time, okay Gwen? Why are you bringing up Felicia? And what makes you think I like someone older?"

"Oh… I'm sorry. I let it slip. I was just a bit flustered. Everything that happened was really…"

"I understand. Look, Harry has been having a tough time recently due to his father, and I'm helping him out."

"Helping him out!?"

"Hey! Just kidding. Remember when we helped him out in the aisle? He's been grateful ever since."

"Oh Peter, the way you put it was so…evil."

"And Harry asked me to introduce you to Spider-Woman for some personal reasons, so I agreed to help him with a little favor."

"Wait, why is Spider-Woman involved? What started as a date between us has suddenly included so many people!"

"It's not a big deal, Gwen."

"It is a big deal!" Gwen puffed up her cheeks and glared at Peter. He smiled and said, "What I'm really interested in right now is our date."

"A date…date!" Gwen's momentum deflated instantly, "Um, that's not what I meant. You must have misunderstood."

"Gwen," Peter said, pinching her cheek gently, "We're watching romantic movies and having afternoon tea together. You planned this, so I thought you were giving me a hint."

"I didn't…wait, damn! Peter, you really know everything!"

"Of course, I'm not oblivious. You've been pretty straightforward."

"Ahhhhhh Ah!"

Gwen's brain seemed to short-circuit. If this were a comic book, steam would be coming out of her ears. She covered her blushing face with her hands, her cool eyes peeking out, and muttered, "You jerk!"

"Um… you two," Felicia, returning from the clerk, interrupted, slightly embarrassed. "Well, we can try on the dress now."

Peter gently removed Gwen's hands from her face. She was so flustered that she couldn't bring herself to look up.

Peter patted her head and said, "Okay, let's focus on the dress first. I'm looking forward to it."

Gwen, her brain completely scrambled, followed the clerk to the fitting room like a doll, clutching the prepared dress.

"Your girlfriend is so cute," Felicia complimented.

Peter just gave a calm nod, "Thank you."

In the fitting room, Gwen stared at her reflection for a while before she finally snapped back to reality. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart… but she couldn't.

So, what did Peter mean earlier?

He knew everything and didn't stop her. Instead, he kept teasing her. It was infuriating!

She thought he was a good guy… wait, now isn't the time for that.

So, Peter… has no objections?

Gwen's heart raced. After a period of indecision, the realization hit her like a wave of relief, leaving her feeling giddy, as if she'd been knocked out by happiness.

No… he didn't explicitly agree. Gwen exhaled deeply, trying to regain her composure. She looked at the elegant dress in her hands and smiled.

"Wait, I'm going to wow you!"

"It's truly surprising, Mr. Parker," Felicia said, observing Peter emerge from the changing room in his suit. "I didn't realize you had such a great physique." She commented with admiration.

She had initially thought the girls were impressive, but the boys, in well-tailored suits, were even more striking. It was clear that if Peter wore less, he'd be irresistible.

"Nothing much. How is Harry doing?" Peter asked.

Felicia frowned, only aware that Peter and Harry were classmates but not the full extent of their relationship. She said, "Mr. Osborne is facing some difficulties right now, but I believe he will sort them out soon."

It didn't sound too promising.

"Um, Mr. Parker…" Felicia started.

"Don't worry, I'm just making a casual inquiry. I hope he manages without too much trouble."

Felicia, uncertain of Peter's intentions, said, "I'll inform Mr. Osborne about your concern."

As the two conversed, Gwen finally emerged from the fitting room in her dress.

"Mr. Parker, Miss Stacey, you two make such a perfect couple," Felicia remarked as she glanced back at Peter Parker and Gwen Stacey from the front seat of the car. Both were elegantly dressed, Peter in a suit and Gwen in a beautiful gown.

"Thank you. Please let Harry know that we're very pleased with your arrangements," Peter replied.

"Of course. Are we almost there?" Peter asked, with a hint of curiosity in his tone.

"Yes, we're just arriving," Felicia said as she exited the car and opened the door for them. "I should let you know, Mr. Osborn might not be attending tonight's charity gala."

"That's alright. If he were here, it might just make Gwen uncomfortable," Peter commented as he stepped out of the car and, with a touch of old-fashioned chivalry, helped Gwen out.

"How could I not be?" Gwen naturally took Peter's hand, her voice soft as she leaned in. Felicia covered her mouth with a gentle laugh and added, "I hope you both have a wonderful time tonight. If you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out."

With that, Felicia left them. Of course, she wasn't really leaving; she was just giving Peter and Gwen some space.

Peter turned to Gwen and asked, "How are you feeling, Gwen?"

"It's overwhelming," Gwen replied, looking at the grandeur of the event. "It feels like everyone from New York's high society is here."

Gwen remembered stepping out of the fitting room in her dress, full of excitement to find Peter. But when she saw him in his suit, she was struck by how incredibly handsome he looked. It was a pleasant surprise, but it also left her feeling a bit disoriented as Peter carried her to the car and brought her to this grand occasion. She still couldn't quite believe she was at such a high-profile event. There were so many notable figures here; even her father, the police chief, seemed less significant.

This left Gwen feeling somewhat uneasy. "It's all so strange. Why is it like this?" she said, her lips pressed together. "I just want to know what you think."

"All I'm thinking about is you, Gwen," Peter replied.

Gwen gripped Peter's hand more tightly. "You're so straightforward. It's almost unfair."

"Are you saying you want to watch a romantic movie instead?" Peter teased.

"Okay, okay, stop talking. I just want to escape to another planet."

"That's not an option," Peter said, patting her hand reassuringly. "Don't overthink it. We're just here to enjoy some food and drinks. Let the adults handle their social circles while we fill our bellies."

"Alright then!" Gwen agreed, feeling a bit more relaxed.

At the party, Peter and Gwen drew attention due to their striking appearances and demeanor. It was difficult not to notice them amidst the crowd of elite socialites. However, the two seemed more interested in enjoying the refreshments rather than mingling with the guests.

"Do you know who those two are?" someone asked the organizer.

"I checked; they're with Osborne."

"Osborne? Is that Harry Osborn's family?" another person inquired.

"Is Harry Osborn really such a foodie?" After watching Peter and Gwen devour a substantial amount of snacks, the organizer had to arrange for more supplies.

Realizing that Peter and Gwen were associated with Osborne, many attendees chose to ignore them. With Osborne's current troubles, many felt sympathy but also a bit of schadenfreude. Despite the sympathy, they were keen on making the most of the situation.

"Gwen, are you sure you don't want to keep up appearances?" Peter asked, noting how Gwen was thoroughly enjoying herself.

Gwen, lost in the moment and savoring the food, replied without any concern for decorum, "You're not the same. By the way, does working out really increase your appetite so much?"

"It depends on your talent," Peter said, flexing his biceps with a grin.

"Maybe I have extraordinary talent," Gwen teased, licking the crumbs from her lips.

Just then, a commotion arose from the crowd. Gwen turned to see that Tony Stark, now widely known as Iron Man, was the center of attention.

Tony, effortlessly handling the crowd, was basking in the glow of his success. His career was thriving post-Iron Man revelation, and despite the Ark Reactor's potential issues, his fame and fortune continued to grow. He was making a significant donation, and his philanthropic efforts were genuine, a rare trait among billionaires.

"Is that Tony Stark, Iron Man?" Gwen said, awestruck. "He's so impressive. Not only does he reveal his identity openly, but he also uses his wealth to help others. Compared to him, we seem like amateurs."

"Gwen, you'll achieve greatness too," Peter encouraged.

"Stop flattering me," Gwen said, smiling and her eyes sparkling.

Gwen admired Tony Stark's confidence and generosity, wishing she could also reveal her true self and share her life with Peter openly.

"Let's head back, Peter," Gwen said, her mood shifting as George's earlier warnings echoed in her mind, making her less enthusiastic about the evening.

Felicia, who had been waiting outside the party, approached them. "Can I arrange a car to take you back?"

"No, we can manage on our own," Gwen responded.

With Peter's agreement, Felicia didn't insist. The two changed back into their regular clothes and walked down the street, passing through the bustling Times Square.

Peter noticed Gwen's somber mood and had a good idea of what might be troubling her, but he chose not to interfere too much. He believed in letting Gwen make her own choices and grow independently, even if it meant watching from the sidelines.

Peter gently embraced Gwen's slender waist as they walked. "What's wrong, Gwen?"

"It's nothing," Gwen said, feeling unsure of how to explain her feelings. She decided to change the subject and teased, "It's rare to see you being so forward."

Their relationship, still new, had already developed a comfortable familiarity, resembling that of a long-established couple.

Peter's directness caught Gwen off guard. "I've wanted to do this for a long time," he admitted.

Gwen was momentarily speechless, then asked, "What else do you want to do?"

Peter's eyes lit up mischievously, and he replied, "A lot of things…Gwen."

"Hey! Don't be ridiculous!" Gwen protested weakly, their playful banter a sign of their deepening connection.

Meanwhile, Max, having just escaped from Osborne Tower, instinctively found his way to Times Square. Dressed in a tattered hooded coat, he looked out of place amidst the vibrant surroundings, muttering to himself, "Spider-Woman…Spider-Woman…"

As Peter Parker and Gwen Stacy enjoyed their time together, Gwen suddenly froze, her attention drawn to the other side of Times Square. The crowd was dense, people bustling in every direction, obscuring her view, but her Spider-Sense was alert.

"Peter, I suddenly have a stomachache and need to use the bathroom," Gwen said, trying to sound casual.

"Stomachache? Did you eat something bad?" Peter asked, concern in his voice.

"Maybe! I was having too much fun and ate too much… so!" Gwen looked up at Peter's face. "Wait here for me to come back!"

"Sure, but that's a bit of an odd excuse…" Peter started to reply, but Gwen had already turned and melted into the crowd.

Peter shrugged. "Alright, let's see how long she takes."

…

Meanwhile, Max had finally reached the location where the cables were buried. He removed the top iron grating and reached down to grab a thick cable.

"Uh…" As electricity surged through him, Max let out a cry of discomfort, sparks flying from his body.

The patrolling police officers quickly noticed the disturbance. They began evacuating the area and called for backup. "We need additional units at the south end of Times Square. We've got a situation!"

Soon, the crowd was cleared, and the police surrounded the area, shouting, "Sir! Let go of the cable! Raise your hands!"

Seeing Max's unusual blue-skinned appearance, the officers pulled out their weapons in alarm. Max, disoriented from his earlier discomfort and shocked by the situation, flailed his arms in a panic.

Boom!

Electric energy exploded, sending shockwaves that knocked over vehicles and scattered police officers. Fortunately, Spider-Woman arrived just in time. Gwen swung in and caught the flying car and Max before they could hit the crowd.

Gwen landed on a police car and looked at the source of the disturbance with frustration. "Alright, let's see who's causing trouble during my date."

Max, recognizing Gwen, waved excitedly. "Hey! Spider-Woman! It's me! Do you remember me?"

Gwen was momentarily taken aback. "You're…?"

"I'm Max! Don't you remember me!?" Max shouted, his enthusiasm faltering as he saw Gwen's confused expression.

Realizing his idol didn't remember him, Max lost control momentarily. Electricity crackled around him, intensifying. "I'm a fan of yours! You promised you wouldn't give up on me!"

"Uh… my fan?" Gwen blinked, trying to recall. When had she gained such fans?

Gwen had matured a lot since her debut, and she responded diplomatically. "Okay, Max, I remember now! I saved you once, right?"

Max was overwhelmed with emotion, nearly in tears. "She remembers me! I'm so lucky!"

Gwen assessed Max's condition, ensuring he had calmed down and wouldn't become violent again. The electrical energy around him was dangerous, spreading along the iron grating. She also observed the crowd, reporters, police positions, and snipers. This was one of the busiest times in New York; handling the situation properly was crucial to avoid catastrophe.

Gwen took a deep breath and said, "My fan… you don't look well. Can you tell me what's wrong?"

"I… I don't know," Max said, glancing at his sparking hands. "The lizard men attacked, and I fell into an electric eel pool. I've been tortured and imprisoned…"

"I'm so angry!" Max added, his voice trembling with rage.

"Okay, okay… Max! I understand!" Gwen said, her patience wearing thin as she thought of Osborne. She quickly reassured him, "You're also a victim here. Osborne hurt you and caused this, right? Let's get you out of here. Stay calm and try not to shock anyone."

Max, eager to escape the crowd, agreed readily. "Okay… I'll follow you. Just tell them not to scare me."

At that moment, a loud crash interrupted them as a flashy red and gold suit of armor descended from the sky. Tony Stark, arriving late, spoke through the suit's speaker. "I heard there was an accident here and someone was attacking the crowd?"

Before Gwen could respond, Tony's arrival caused Max to react with a burst of electricity, knocking Tony to the ground. The armor clattered and rolled, with Tony emerging, visibly disoriented. "What's going on?"

Gwen was frustrated to see Iron Man arrive and make things worse. As Max's electricity surged uncontrollably, Gwen tried to intervene, using her webbing to stabilize the situation. However, the electrical current surged through the webs, causing her to crash into Tony and break her web-shooter.

Enduring the pain, Gwen shouted, "Mr. Stark, I was almost finished calming him down."

Tony, realizing his mistake, was irritated by the situation. "Alright, my bad."

"Forget it, Mr. Stark. Let's just focus on protecting the people around us," Gwen sighed, trying to refocus.

Tony was taken aback by Gwen's authoritative tone, as if he was the inexperienced one. But he swallowed his pride and responded, "That's what I was about to suggest."

The two heroes worked together to rescue the surrounding people. Onlookers cheered for Spider-Woman and Iron Man, and reporters broadcast their faces on nearby screens.

Amid the chaos, Max, surrounded by the heroes, felt forgotten once more. Desperate, he shouted, "No! You can't do this!"

Electric energy surged from him again.

Max's electrical energy surged toward Tony Stark once again. To him, everything that had transpired was Iron Man's fault. Tony's presence had seemingly triggered this chaos. His ally, Spider-Woman, couldn't be at fault—she was his beacon of hope!

Tony, having already fallen victim to Max's tricks once, was determined not to be deceived again. The 200% charged laser cannon that had been primed fired from his palm, propelling Max into the side of a building's advertising screen with a powerful blast.

"This is a lesson, you fool," Tony quipped.

Max, deeply pained, struggled as he couldn't absorb the energy converted into laser. If not for his enhanced physique and regenerative abilities post-mutation, he would have perished. His rage intensified. Iron Man not only stole Spider-Woman's attention but also inflicted upon him the torment of being submerged in a pool of electric eels. These people, this world—always taking what was rightfully his...

Grabbing the power cable from the advertising screen, Max connected it to himself and declared, "I want you and the world to experience the pain too!"

As he roared, he absorbed all the electricity from Times Square, plunging the bustling New York area into darkness and silencing the noise.

Tony realized something was wrong as the sudden darkness fell. Sure enough, a powerful surge of electrical energy emanated from Max, radiating outward and destroying numerous electrical devices in its path. Tony's armor was affected, causing Jarvis to short-circuit. This left the suit semi-paralyzed, and Tony scrambled to reboot Jarvis.

Meanwhile, Max floated above, electricity crackling around him. He felt a profound satisfaction as he surveyed the chaos. He looked down at the malfunctioning armor and taunted, "Do you enjoy charging? Then I'll make sure you're thoroughly charged."

With that, Max unleashed an overwhelming current towards the armor, pushing the power levels to 100%, 200%, 300%... Tony watched in alarm as the power readings on his control panel skyrocketed. This was catastrophic; the armor's capacity was limited, and exceeding it would result in a spectacular explosion.

Trapped in his semi-paralyzed state, Tony was helpless. The process of Jarvis's reboot and the armor's overload were like two paths of life and death, determining his fate.

"Spider-Woman! Where is Spider-Woman?" he shouted. "Someone stop that freak!"

The onlookers and police officers urged the other superhero present to act. This drove Max to madness. "How could you be so cruel? You've let Spider-Woman handle me!"

"She will never abandon me!" he continued, his anger escalating. The electric shocks intensified with his fervor.

At that moment, Spider-Woman, Gwen, was with her partner. "Peter! What a coincidence! It's so dangerous here…"

"Leave quickly, right?" Peter interrupted. "Sorry, but I promised someone I'd wait here for her."

Gwen felt a pang of happiness. Peter was waiting for her return? But then she heard, "I'm really worried. She said she had a stomach ache and went to the bathroom, but she hasn't come back for a while…"

Gwen felt a sense of embarrassment. "Peter, that's just an excuse! She couldn't have been in the bathroom that long!"

Their exchange was brief, and the conversation shifted back to the task at hand.

"How are you planning to deal with Electro?" Peter asked.

"Electro?" Gwen responded quickly. "Is that the name you gave Max? It's quite fitting."

Gwen added, "I'm still figuring it out. His ability to absorb and release electricity makes him a tough opponent."

"Sounds a bit like a battery, doesn't it?" Peter suggested.

"What?" Gwen asked, puzzled.

"His power isn't to generate electricity but to channel it, like a battery," Peter clarified.

"Yes! Peter, you're a genius!" Gwen exclaimed. "I know how to handle him!"

She dashed off, using her remaining web-shooters to swing away. Peter watched her leave, contemplating, "It's time to upgrade her gear…"

Back at the center of the square, Tony's armor was overloaded with energy, teeming with electric sparks and smoke. Fortunately, Jarvis rebooted just in time.

"Sir, I apologize for the delay," Jarvis said.

"Stop the chatter, Jarvis. Activate the armor and maximize the firepower!" Tony ordered.

"Sir, that's dangerous. I must remind you—" Jarvis began.

"Do it!" Tony cut him off.

Tony converted all stored energy into light cannons. His armor, unable to withstand such a load, was on the brink of destruction. Tony, now at great risk, knew he couldn't allow Max to continue his rampage. If Max remained unchallenged, his ability to absorb and control electricity could cause unimaginable damage to the city, which depended on electricity for everything.

Just as Tony prepared for a desperate confrontation, a fire truck appeared, and Spider-Woman emerged with a team of firefighters. They doused Max with water, neutralizing his electric powers and causing him to collapse.

Tony was momentarily stunned as the crisis resolved abruptly. The crowd, still present, cheered. Tony felt a mix of relief and frustration. He had been poised for victory, but now, not only had he missed the final blow, he also had to find a way to manage his anger and the immense energy still pulsing within him. His debut battle as Iron Man seemed less than triumphant.

Despite his best efforts, Tony felt overshadowed by Spider-Woman's success. He observed Gwen approaching and extending her hand with sincere gratitude.

"Mr. Stark, are you alright? It's all thanks to you. If you hadn't held Electro back, I might not have made it in time," Gwen said.

Tony's expression was conflicted. He admired Spider-Woman's pure and unwavering dedication, feeling envious of her faith. He questioned whether he could ever possess such conviction. In comparison, his own heroism seemed somewhat inadequate.

Tony Stark, ever the Iron Man, kept his true feelings hidden deep within. Exposing any weakness was out of the question for someone with his persona.

"It's nothing. I'm perfectly fine. As for that guy they call Electro? I'd call him Charger," Tony quipped, slipping back into his usual charming playboy demeanor.

"He's actually named Max, Mr. Stark," Gwen corrected. "He's also a victim of Osborn's genetic experiments."

"Cross-species gene transfer, huh? Fascinating," Tony remarked, aware that mutants and genetic enhancements were closely related to the work of Osborn. "It's really something. He managed to hold his own against all the heroes in New York."

Gwen sensed that Tony might have let slip something of real significance, but she shrugged it off. There were more pressing concerns. She needed to return quickly; if she didn't, Peter might think she was avoiding him. She regretted using the bathroom as an excuse now.

Before heading back, she still had a matter to attend to. "Shall we check on Max? He said he was a fan of mine, and I think it's important to speak with him."

"Fans? I'd prefer not to have such extreme admirers," Tony said, showing no objection. After addressing this issue, he was keen to take out his frustration on his armor.

Just then, a shout erupted from the police officers surrounding Max. Gwen rushed over, relieved to see that no one was hurt. A police officer pointed to the ground where Max had fallen, now only a set of clothes remained.

Tony's brow furrowed. "Where did he go? Don't tell me he ran off naked."

Gwen found the idea amusing but quickly realized it wasn't the case. "That's not possible. He transformed into electricity and escaped," the officer explained.

"Wait, transformed into electricity? You mean he literally turned into electricity?" Tony's eyes widened in disbelief. This defied his understanding of the natural world and was almost surreal.

"Yes, Iron Man," the officer confirmed.

"Well, now I'm even more intrigued. What kind of genetic modification can achieve that?" Tony asked, his curiosity piqued. Gwen was equally puzzled. She couldn't fathom what kind of genes could produce such a transformation.

Both Tony and Gwen recognized the gravity of the situation. Max had escaped, and his ability to absorb and manipulate electrical energy, combined with his new power to turn into electricity, made him nearly impossible to capture.

"Instead of dwelling on this, we should head back," Tony suggested pragmatically. "At least, let's be prepared for when he comes back."

Gwen agreed. Peter had finally returned Gwen to him.

"Uh… Peter, I'm back," Gwen said, bracing herself for an awkward conversation. "What happened earlier? There was a power outage!"

"Spider-Woman showed up, and she and Iron Man fought against Electro," Peter explained smoothly.

"Is that so?" Gwen took a deep breath and looked at Peter, trying to argue her way out. "Well, that explains why I was stuck and wasted so much time. Now I'm back, and that's that."

Peter, seeing through her excuse, replied, "As long as you're okay."

Gwen sighed in relief. It was surprisingly nice to see Peter's innocence at times.

"Let's go home," Peter suggested.

"Yeah," Gwen agreed, feeling a bit tired after the night's events. Max's escape had only added to her worries. She wondered how to prepare for his next attack. Despite her efforts, she felt inadequate against such a powerful adversary.

She thought of Black Superman as a potential solution, but he hadn't shown up all night. What if he didn't appear next time?

Gwen's anxiety grew. This enemy was too formidable, surpassing her current capabilities.

"We're home, Gwen," Peter said, bringing her back to the present as they arrived at her doorstep.

A sudden idea struck Gwen. Why not discuss the situation with Peter as Spider-Woman? Surely, he would have a solution.

Gwen was about to open the door when Peter stopped her. "Wait, Gwen."

"Huh? What's wrong?" Gwen asked, turning to him.

"Did you forget something?" Peter inquired.

Gwen frowned, puzzled. "Forget something? I don't think so. I handled everything as Spider-Woman."

She then noticed Peter's amused expression. Her cheeks flushed as she realized what he was implying.

"Gwen…"

Mua!

Gwen, feeling bold, stood on tiptoe and gave Peter a quick kiss on the cheek. She then darted inside her house with impressive speed.

"Let's leave it at that for tonight!" she said, sticking her head out from behind the door.

"Good night, Gwen," Peter replied.

"Good night!" she said before slamming the door shut.

Leaning against the door, Gwen's heart raced as she touched her lips with her hand and smiled. But then she noticed her parents, George and Helen, sitting on the couch, watching her with keen eyes.

"Dad, Mom! How long have you been here?" Gwen asked, startled.

George's expression was stern and silent, while Helen looked away, blushing slightly. "Gwen, it seems you had quite an eventful night."

Gwen's face fell. She quickly ran back to Peter, burying her head in his chest.

On Peter's side, things were no less complicated. Uncle Ben and Aunt May had been waiting for him.

Aunt May beamed with her usual warmth, and even Uncle Ben seemed unusually cheerful. "Back from spending time with Gwen?" Uncle Ben asked.

Peter didn't hide anything. "Yes. Don't worry, she's definitely going to be a part of the family."

"Did Peter really say that?" George asked through clenched teeth.

Late into the night, George and Uncle Ben were on the rooftop, enjoying the breeze. Despite their close friendship and the bond between their families, their moods were quite different.

"I'm a bit surprised. Peter has a lot of potential," Uncle Ben said.

"Oh, it's definitely ambition!" George responded angrily.

"That's why you invited trouble into your home, right?" Uncle Ben chuckled.

"Damn it!" George's frustration was evident.

New York, Night

After parting ways with Spider-Woman, Tony Stark soared through the night sky, using his armor to release some pent-up energy. It wasn't until the early hours of the morning that he returned to his mansion, the suit showing signs of wear and tear.

The mansion's ground transformed into a high-tech platform, where robotic arms methodically detached the armor from his body.

"Jarvis, note this down. I think we need to design a suit that can separate directly," Tony said, reflecting on the battle with Electro earlier that day. If he could have detached from the armor at a crucial moment, it might have made things easier.

He pondered further, "And why not have a suit that can be remotely controlled after separation? A battle armor that could be summoned from afar and would automatically return to him. This way, Iron Man could be on the scene faster in emergencies."

"Sir, I must inform you that you have a special visitor," Jarvis's voice interjected.

Tony was taken aback. He remembered only one "special visitor" was expected. He turned to see a figure floating in the corner of the room.

"Black Superman! When did you get here?" Tony asked, surprised.

"Just now," Peter Parker responded with a serious tone.

"How long are you going to keep up the Batman act?" Tony finally voiced his frustration.

"This is me!" Peter replied.

Tony, still in his armor, rubbed his temples, trying to shake off his headache. "Alright, alright. Where were you today? Did you hear about the strange blue guy who appeared in Times Square? Seems like Osborne's at it again; his powers are quite troublesome…"

"I was on a date," Peter said.

"A date? Oh, that blue guy can absorb and control electricity. We need to figure out how to handle him. Maybe Connors, whom you brought along, can offer some good advice…wait, a date!?"

Tony's expression turned from confusion to shock. "Are you serious!? Which girl could possibly have captivated Black Superman?" He couldn't believe Peter would be dating while New York's safety was at stake.

"I've been keeping an eye on things. You and Spider-Woman handled it well, didn't you?" Peter said, referencing the team's efforts.

"Yeah, thanks to Spider-Woman," Tony said, redirecting his focus. "So, what's the reason for your sudden visit tonight?"

"The suit I gave you earlier will be useful," Peter stated.

"Okay, I've already done some research on it…well, I mean, I've done some, but I still need to install a few features," Tony replied.

"Regardless, you won't be able to finish it in such a short time," Peter said bluntly.

Tony bristled at the criticism, "Hey! Did you see the requirements you set? How can I fit everything into one suit?"

"Admit it, Tony, you can't complete it," Peter said matter-of-factly.

"Alright, tell me how you would integrate so many functions into a slim suit. Unless you have nanotechnology!" Tony said, a bit excitedly.

"Don't you know?" Peter asked.

"The problem is, that technology is still in the theoretical stage," Tony said, realizing what Peter meant and smiling ruefully. "Do you think too highly of me?"

"You will succeed," Peter assured him.

"Of course. If anyone can make nanotechnology a reality, it's me," Tony said with confidence.

Inspired by Peter, Tony began brainstorming ways to combine nanotechnology with his armor. He looked at Peter floating silently in front of him, wondering if one day he might actually be able to rival gods.

Tony pulled out the vibranium suit and began explaining, "Now, I've added an intelligent assistant to the original functions of this suit. It may not be as advanced as Jarvis, but it's clean."

He clarified that he had not left a backdoor in the suit. "I wouldn't leave a backdoor for Black Superman's suit; I value my life too much."

Peter might check the suit himself anyway. "The smart assistant doesn't have a name yet, so you can choose one. It can handle detection systems, networking, and some hacking tools…all up to you."

Tony continued, "The suit's energy system has no extra space, so I've enhanced its kinetic energy absorption. Now it can store more energy and initiate overload mode when necessary!"

He activated the overload mode, and the suit's blue accents and patterns glowed intensely, looking impressive but also more dangerous.

"In this mode, the suit can enhance strength and speed, and it can also discharge electric shocks for offensive or defensive purposes," Tony explained. "There are also minor functions like infrared vision and gliders."

As Tony demonstrated, a spider-silk pattern emerged on the vibranium suit.

"It's not bad," Peter commented. Despite the suit's less impressive appearance compared to Peter's ideals, it was adequate for now.

"Hey, be impressed! I'm the only one who could achieve this in such a short time," Tony boasted.

He didn't delve too much into the spider-silk launcher. He understood it better than anyone else, but he felt it was more appropriate for Spider-Woman to design that aspect herself, as she knew her needs best.

"Next, you should find a way to get the suit to Spider-Woman," Peter said.

Tony looked at Peter incredulously, "Wait, you want me to give it to her?"

Peter's silent look implied that he was serious. "Why not you instead of me? Why should I hand over such a valuable suit?"

"You and she are comrades against Electro. I'm leaving it to you, Tony," Peter insisted.

Tony: …

He wanted to say, "Damn it." He finished his coffee, stretched, and said, "Alright, I'll figure out how to deal with the next attack from the blue guy…"

Unexpectedly, he was suddenly hit with dizziness and nearly toppled over. He placed a hand on the table and shook his head.

"Damn it, what's going on?" he muttered, feeling weak.

"It looks like you need Jarvis to give you a physical exam," Peter said.

Jarvis's X-ray scan revealed Tony's physical condition clearly.

"What do you mean?" Tony asked, puzzled.

"How can you put something as large as a reactor into your body without consequences?" Peter said.

"Sir, your health is not optimal. I suggest avoiding using the armor for now," Jarvis advised.

Tony reviewed the report in silence. The palladium in the first Ark reactor had caused poisoning, which had been masked by his youth. His overclocking and overloading of the armor tonight had exacerbated the problem, leading to rapid symptom onset.

"So, what's the plan? The more Iron Man suits you use, the faster you'll deteriorate," Peter remarked.

"Can you stop being so dramatic right now?" Tony complained.

He exhaled. "It's just a minor issue. I need to find a replacement element… And I still need to come up with a strategy for dealing with Electro…"

He didn't seem too concerned. "Sir, it's best to rest now," Jarvis suggested.

"Don't worry, Jarvis. I know my body. The priority is handling Electro," Tony insisted.

Once he felt slightly better, he returned to his work. "He could strike again at any moment. I need to ensure he doesn't cause too much damage next time."

"Sir, Black Superman is here," Jarvis reminded him.

"I know… But I can do better, can't I?" Tony said, determined.

"We can't rely solely on Black Superman," Peter said.

"Oh, and keep the palladium poisoning a secret from Pepper," Tony added.

Peter shrugged, "I'm heading to see Connors."

At this point, Tony might not have been receptive to news about new elements. Reconciling with his father was crucial and not something he could easily set aside. Peter wondered if his involvement would make things better. Well… it would depend on his mood at the time.

The next day, after the party, Felicia arrived at work and briefed Harry on the latest developments. While Harry was generally pleased with her report, he was troubled by a few things Peter had mentioned.

"Is he alright?" Harry asked, concern evident in his voice.

"I hope he's not causing trouble," Felicia replied.

After a moment of contemplation, Harry decided to invite Peter to Osborne Tower.

"Welcome, Peter!" Harry greeted as Felicia ushered Peter into his office.

Peter, with a teasing smirk, quipped, "I'm curious why the eldest Osborne suddenly called me in."

Harry chuckled, a hint of self-deprecation in his smile. "Maybe it's not as urgent as it seems."

Peter encouraged him with a nod. "I don't think it's anything to worry about."

Felicia wisely retreated to the corner of the office, allowing Harry to give Peter a tour of the space he had inherited from his father. They stood together before the grand floor-to-ceiling windows, taking in the breathtaking view of New York's most affluent district.

"If Electro hadn't escaped last night and the media weren't in a frenzy, I'd probably be facing a grilling at the shareholders' meeting right now," Harry mused.

"That's a sign that you're not destined for doom," Peter commented.

Harry forced a laugh, though internally he felt a pang of doubt. He had been the one to release Electro, and he was unsure whether it had been the right decision. The damage Electro had caused was far beyond his expectations. Who could have guessed that a single vial of genetic serum could turn a person into a being of pure electricity? But Harry couldn't afford to regret his actions. He had no other options but to buy time and hope for survival. Until now, he had kept these thoughts to himself, not even sharing them with Felicia. Only Peter seemed to be a confidant.

"I'm uncertain if what I'm doing is right," Harry admitted.

"Most things in the world aren't entirely right or wrong," Peter replied thoughtfully. "What matters is finding clarity within yourself."

"Are you clear about your own path?" Harry questioned quietly. "I don't know... but I have to hold onto Osborn."

Peter didn't offer further commentary. Instead, Harry shifted the conversation, smiling as he asked, "So, why didn't Black Superman show up last night? Was Lightning Man dealt with?"

Harry's casual tone betrayed an underlying resentment towards Black Superman.

"You still seem quite affected by your father's legacy," Peter observed.

"What else can I say?" Harry said, pressing his hand against the window. "The man who killed my father, someone I once idolized, now feels like a stranger to me."

"But your father deserved it, Harry," Peter said bluntly.

Harry was taken aback by Peter's harsh words. He should have been angry, yet something about Peter's directness made him feel deflated, as if a balloon had been punctured.

"I know, Peter. My father was a wicked man, and he got what he deserved... But it's still the most painful thing," Harry said, lifting his gaze to meet Peter's eyes. "He was my father, after all. He created me and raised me. A father connected by blood."

"I'm conflicted and tormented," Harry continued. "Black Superman killed my father. I should hate him, but I understand that my father made his own choices. My conscience doesn't allow me to fully side with my father against Black Superman, nor can I entirely dismiss my feelings for him. Can you understand that struggle?"

Peter thought of Tony Stark and realized that Harry's plight mirrored the internal conflicts of many individuals. Some things were simply beyond understanding or resolution. Changing the world was one thing; reconciling with oneself was often far more challenging. If given the chance, Peter would still choose to confront villains like the Green Goblin.

He empathized with those who sought redemption, like Connors, who despite his transformation, yearned for salvation. Even Kingpin, despite his criminal empire, played a role in maintaining some semblance of order. The Green Goblin, however, was beyond redemption, his existence solely defined by chaos and destruction. Peter believed in eliminating such threats, regardless of the season.

"So, Harry, whether you choose to hold onto hatred or find peace, just give it a try," Peter advised.

Harry looked at Peter, confused.

Peter gazed at the clear sky and suggested, "If you can't let go, then seek revenge against Black Superman. Keep pursuing it until you find closure."

"Haha, clear conscience, you say," Harry responded with a smile, though it was tinged with resignation. "Forget it, Peter. Are you trying to provoke Black Superman? I'd prefer not to meet my end just yet."

Peter chuckled. "You're quite self-aware."

Harry sighed. "I shouldn't have come here just to find you. You came here to trouble me, didn't you?"

He took a deep breath, speaking with genuine gratitude. "Thank you, Peter. I truly appreciate it."

"No problem. You helped me too. I was quite pleased with the dance," Peter said.

Harry shook his head with a smile and walked to the wine cabinet, filled with an array of fine wines.

"Care for a drink?" Harry asked.

"If possible, I'd like a Coke with ice," Peter requested.

"Don't be ridiculous. There's nothing here that compares to a good wine," Harry teased.

Peter grinned. "I'm serious. Apologies, Felicia!"

Felicia, standing in the corner, rolled her eyes but complied. "Okay, one Coke with ice coming right up."

"And Pepsi," Peter added.

As Harry poured himself a glass of whiskey and took a moment to savor it, he turned to Peter with a more serious expression. "Peter, there's one more thing I need to discuss. About the last time I asked you to invite Spider-Woman..."

"You haven't given up on that?" Peter asked.

"This is a matter of life and death, Peter. It's not that I don't trust you..." Harry trailed off.

"I understand," Peter said.

"So..." Harry looked at Peter with hope.

"I can't make any promises, Harry," Peter replied.

Harry was taken aback. "Why? I thought…"

"I mentioned that the research is ongoing, and we might find a solution in the future," Peter said. "Yes, I believe in you. But I don't want to just wait idly for a solution... Do you still think Spider-Woman is more important than me?"

Harry's gaze was intense, but Peter remained unaffected.

"Harry, I need to be honest with you," Peter began. "I'm not a fan of Black Superman. I'm actually a fan of Spider-Woman."

Harry was stunned. "What?"

He looked at Peter in disbelief. "Peter, stop joking with me."

"I'm not joking. This is crucial," Peter emphasized. "Sometimes, a single choice can change everything."

Harry was left in silence, disappointed that Peter had not chosen him. After Peter left, Harry sat alone in his spacious office, reflecting on their conversation.

As he sat there, a blue current emerged from an outlet and coalesced into a human form in the air.

"Oh, poor Harry Osborn, you're alone once more," Max said, appearing with a smirk.

"Harry Osborn, I know you were the one who let me go that night. I've always been grateful to you," Max said.

"Coming here uninvited isn't exactly how you thank someone, Mr. Max."

Harry was taken aback by the appearance of Electro, the wanted fugitive. He couldn't help but feel a surge of panic, though he quickly composed himself.

"When did you get here?" Harry asked.

"From the beginning," Max replied as he approached. "You don't need to be so wary of me. You freed me, and I'm not your enemy. I'm here to help. We're in this together."

Harry turned his head slightly, lost in thought.

"What's wrong?" Max inquired.

"I thought you might want to find something to wear first?" Harry said, trying to keep his composure.

Max looked down, realizing his predicament. "Damn it! It's impossible to electrify clothes with this ability!" he said, frustrated and embarrassed.

"I still have a couple of spare outfits in my wardrobe," Harry offered.

When Max emerged in new clothes, Harry let out a sigh of relief. The sight of a large figure glowing with electric sparks was unsettling.

"Max… maybe I should start calling you Electro now. We don't have much of a relationship. I used you, and now you're free again. We don't owe each other anything," Harry said, trying to distance himself.

"Now, your enemies include Iron Man, Spider-Woman, Black Superman, and the heroes of New York. I don't think I can be of much help," Harry added.

To his surprise, Max's face lit up. "No! Spider-Woman is on my side! She was just misled by those villains!"

Max was adamant despite being defeated by Spider-Woman. He held her in high regard and believed she was perfect, an angel. The fault lay with the villains around him, like Iron Man, Tony Stark. Max blamed him for everything going wrong.

He looked at Harry, who was clearly startled, and said, "We're in the same boat. You let me go. You don't want anyone else to know about it, right, Harry Osborn?"

Harry's heart sank. The last thing he wanted was for Electro to use this as leverage.

Max continued, "Don't be so gloomy, Harry Osborn. I mean no harm. Our cooperation will be beneficial for both of us!"

"I can help you deal with those Osborn insiders who are trying to usurp power and help you regain control of Osborn, which is what you've always wanted," Max said, stepping closer and holding out his hand, electric sparks crackling.

"I can even help you deal with Black Superman!" Max added.

"Deal with… Black Superman?" Harry's eyes widened with interest.

He recalled what Peter had said: if he couldn't move past it, he might as well seek revenge. It was the only way to feel at ease and face his father.

"Yes! Exactly! We can deal with Black Superman!" Max exclaimed.

"What do you want?" Harry asked.

"The power grid! The Osborn power grid project!" Max said, "That's what should belong to me."

Harry smirked inwardly. Electro's eagerness to reveal his true intentions was obvious. But he realized that from the moment Electro appeared, there was little choice. This wasn't a negotiation.

As Harry hesitated, searching for a way out, the office door opened, and Felicia walked in.

"Mr. Osborn, there seems to be something going on inside..." she started.

"Wait!" Harry shouted.

At that moment, a bolt of electricity zipped past Felicia's hair.

"What's wrong, Harry Osborn?" Max asked, pointing at Felicia.

Harry took a deep breath and said, "Let her go, and I promise you."

"The search for Electro continues, but there have been no new developments," a news anchor reported.

"The Osborn Group denies any connection between their cross-species gene transfer project and the transformation of people into electric beings. The claims are unfounded! The Osborn Group accuses Spider-Woman and Iron Man of false accusations..."

"The New York Police and Spider-Woman must be colluding!"

"The New York police have once again praised Spider-Woman, acknowledging her role in protecting the city and her heroism."

During a critical moment in New York, Spider-Woman and Iron Man joined forces to save the city, while Black Superman went missing. Spider-Woman and Iron Man emerged as the true heroes, overshadowing Black Superman.

Of course, Black Superman still had a loyal fan base that defended him passionately, but the focus had shifted significantly.

Gwen scrolled through her phone, observing the heated online debate.

"Spider-Woman is my favorite!" Gwen exclaimed, smiling.

"Iron Man? Black Superman is invincible!" another user argued.

"Some of these comments about Black Superman and Spider-Woman are ridiculous," Gwen muttered.

"What's wrong?" Peter asked, glancing at Gwen's phone. "Honestly, I'm quite interested in this debate."

Gwen looked at Peter with wide eyes. "Peter, something's off with you."

"Don't you like Spider-Woman the most?" Gwen asked, her tone tense.

Peter shook his head. "No, she's not my favorite anymore."

Gwen's heart raced. Was Peter no longer a fan of Spider-Woman? This was unsettling. Peter's support had been the reason Gwen chose to become Spider-Woman. If he stopped backing her, it would be a major blow.

"Have you forgotten, Gwen? You're my favorite now," Peter said with a reassuring smile.