Hmm...
This time, Vex didn't quite understand the reward.
A computer?
What use could that be?
*Buzzzzz*...
Vex's vision blurred, and he found himself in a pitch-black space. A mechanical voice echoed.
"Dark Dimension Computer initializing for the first time. No dark energy detected. Switching to solar energy operation!"
"Scanning genetic system..."
"Scan successful!"
"Loading genetic system—'Superman Bloodline'!"
"Loading ability plugin—'Super Brain'!"
"Loading ability plugin—'Super Strength'!"
...
"Detected external ability plugins, reloading..."
"Loading ability plugin—'Word Magic'!"
"Loading ability plugin—'Time Stop'!"
"Loading ability plugin—'Twelve Charms'!"
"Loading ability plugin—'Vector Control'!"
"Loading complete. Genetic system fully operational!"
"Dark Dimension Computer at your service!"
After a series of prompts, light finally filled the dark dimension, revealing a massive figure. To Vex's surprise, it was a reflection of... himself?
"Dark Dimension Computer, huh?" Vex said confidently. "That name's a bit long. Let's change it to... 'Alpha'!"
"Name successfully changed to 'Alpha'!"
"Good. Now, tell me what you can do."
"I can execute pre-programmed abilities with a single command and assist with complex calculations."
Hmm?
Assist with calculations?
Let's give it a try!
"Create a new program. Use 'Vector Control' to reflect everything, and call it 'Absolute Defense.'"
"New program created!"
"Activate 'Absolute Defense!'"
In an instant, Vex's body took on a glassy appearance, the result of light being reflected. Not only that—electromagnetic waves, dust, air... all vectors were reflected away from him without requiring any calculations on his part.
All of it was managed by "Alpha."
This is great!
The "Dark Dimension Computer" was practically made for lazy people!
"Create another program. Use 'Vector Control' to reflect light and electromagnetic waves, and call it 'Absolute Stealth.'"
"Create another program. Use 'Vector Control' to form 'Absolute Defense' in the direction of my palm, and call it 'No Entry!'"
...
Vex continued programming several functions, integrating all his uses of "Vector Control" and "Words Magic."
From now on, Vex wouldn't even need to speak the abilities aloud—just a thought, and "Alpha" would activate the corresponding technique.
It was like an online gamer's "one-click casting," fast and efficient.
Even though this didn't significantly boost his power, Vex was satisfied.
Having multiple abilities can be a hassle to manage. But with "Alpha," it was like having a personal butler.
It made things much easier.
With that, the business with Oscorp was nearly complete.
Vex left the underground lab, realizing Natasha hadn't returned yet.
She was probably still handling the formalities.
Vex had just promised Norman to wait here until he brought his son for treatment.
So, he decided to take a little walk, wondering if he'd run into any cliché "dramatic moments."
Something like...
A security guard looking down on him, only to later discover he's the new boss, shocking onlookers for a whole year!
The joys of "traveling incognito"!
Unfortunately...
Reality wasn't as exciting.
Natasha's efficiency was top-notch.
Vex had barely stepped into the elevator when he noticed the upper floors broadcasting the news of the "new chairman."
His picture was prominently displayed.
Well, there goes the dramatic reveal.
"Whatever, Alpha, change the way I look by altering the light."
With a quick shift in the light, Vex's appearance transformed from head to toe into that of a handsome stranger.
This way, he wouldn't have to worry about being recognized and mobbed by onlookers.
Just as the elevator door opened, a woman's scream caught Vex's attention.
Following the sound, he spotted a blonde, blue-eyed girl clutching her wrist in fright.
Above her head, a colorful spider was slowly retreating on its web.
Bitten by a spider?
And in Oscorp?
Could this be... Spider-Gwen?!
A one-armed middle-aged man rushed out, his gaze focused on the blonde girl.
"What's wrong, Gwen?"
"I think something bit me. I couldn't help but scream," Gwen said, unsure. "Sorry for disturbing you, Dr. Connors."
Dr. Connors waved it off. "If you're okay, then you should hurry back to your band practice. Isn't your performance at the graduation ceremony coming up?"
Gwen gasped!
She quickly ran toward the elevator, passing by Vex, and her eyes lit up when she saw him.
What a handsome guy.
"Gwen Stacy, right?" Vex asked with a peculiar tone. "What just bit you?"
"Uh... yeah," Gwen stammered, snapping out of her daze. "I think it was a mosquito. I shouldn't have screamed so loud, right?"
"That's not a big deal," Vex replied, changing the subject. "But in our lab, a few radioactive spiders escaped recently. Just to be safe, would you like to get checked?"
"Uh... that's unlikely, right?" Gwen hesitated. "My band is waiting for me to practice, and this performance is super important."
Vex didn't press the issue.
With a flick of his wrist, an empty space in his hand suddenly held a business card—one Natasha had prepared.
"Here's my number. If you feel unwell, be sure to contact me immediately," Vex advised.
Gwen eyed him curiously.
"Wow! Nice magic trick!"
She took the card, her eyes twinkling with a playful smile as she looked at Vex.
"Okay, I'll definitely contact you," Gwen said with a wink. "Even if I feel perfectly fine."
*Ding!*
The elevator arrived just in time. Gwen stepped in, waving the card at Vex.
"Expect to hear from me~"
As the elevator doors closed, Vex chuckled.
Gwen probably thought he was just hitting on her.
Which, to be fair, he kind of was, but Vex wasn't after just a date.
He wanted to be there when Gwen's powers started awakening, during the vulnerable, confusing time, and win her over completely.
"Spider-Gwen, huh? Should be interesting."
Humming a tune, Vex strolled off in another direction.
°°°
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