A sly smile crept across Simon's face. "I might, sir. Tell me—have you ever heard of someone named *Black Cat*?"
---
"Alright, what do we have here?" I mutter, gazing down at the massive campus below.
At the center was a towering fountain, with a stunning stone statue of Stan Lee standing proudly at its heart. The craftsmanship was exquisite, as though the figure might spring to life at any moment. Water cascaded gracefully from his feet into the shimmering white basin, which was filled with crystal-clear, perfectly blue water. Intricate, ancient patterns encircled the fountain's base, carved with masterful precision.
Surrounding the fountain was a wide, circular park filled with people—each clad in unique suits, their abilities and personalities on full display. Some strolled casually, while others showcased their powers in bursts of brilliance.
Encircling the park were colossal pillars, each supporting the outer boundary and leading up to an enormous gate. The gate was a masterpiece in itself, depicting heroes locked in battle with villains, chiseled into its metallic surface like a living, gray tapestry.
The campus buildings were a harmonious blend of ancient architectural grandeur and cutting-edge technology. Every stone, wall, and corner gleamed with integrated tech, giving the entire structure a futuristic sheen. The main building rose 16 floors high, crowned with a rooftop entry.
"Wow... this place is incredible," I whisper in awe. Reaching into my pocket, I pull out my phone. "I've gotta take a pic of this."
Adjusting the camera, I take a selfie with the majestic campus behind me. With my suit on and holding up a peace sign, I grin at the lens.
*Click.*
"Alright, now that's a great picture," I say, admiring the shot. "Guess I should head down and see what this place is about."
With a quick scan of my surroundings, I shoot two webs to either side of the building I'm perched on, pulling myself back like a slingshot.
"Here we go!"
---
"WOOOOOO!!!" I shout as I soar through the air, the wind whipping past me.
People below start looking up, startled by the noise.
"Who shouted?"
"Guys, look! Something's coming!"
"Is it a bird?"
As I descend, my silhouette becomes clearer. Someone gasps, "No, it's a person!"
"Fwip!" I shoot a web at the ground, adjusting my trajectory for a smoother landing.
I roll forward as I hit the ground, using the momentum to tumble gracefully before popping up and brushing myself off.
As I straighten, I notice a small group of girls staring at me, wide-eyed. Around us, people continue walking, some stopping to glance curiously.
"Uh, sorry, ladies. Didn't mean to disturb you," I say, raising a hand and scratching the back of my head awkwardly.
Their stares remain fixed on me, making me feel a little self-conscious. *Why are they still staring? Well, whatever. What can I do?*
Clearing my throat, I add, "Uh, excuse me, passing through!"
I step around them but stop abruptly as I remember something.
"Oh, wait! Here's a pizza," I say, plopping the pizza boxes I'd been carrying into one of the girl's outstretched hands.
Before anyone can respond, I dash toward the main building.
"See ya!" I call over my shoulder, grinning as I disappear inside.
…
As I step through the towering gates, I find myself in a grand hall that screams luxury and prestige. Flags featuring the logos of various heroes line the walls, each one a proud testament to their legacy.
Behind the receptionist's desk ahead is a set of double doors, above which hangs a massive red logo that reads *Marvel* in bold white letters. In the corner of the logo, a small Avengers "A" gleams, signifying their collaboration.
*Damn, they're definitely loaded,* I think, walking forward with a mix of awe and excitement.
As I approach the reception area, I spot a new window opening up and hurry over.
"Nice, first in line," I mutter, satisfied as a crowd quickly begins to form behind me. *Looks like my lucky day.*
I wait patiently while the receptionist finishes her work.
"Hello! How can I help you?" she asks with a polite smile.
"Uh, I'm here to sign up for training access," I reply.
"Alright," she says, handing me a form. "Please fill this out quickly. It's just a few questions and some basic information for your registration."
"Got it, thanks." I take the form and glance over it. Most of it seems straightforward—contact info, emergency medical instructions, and a few other details.
Then I get to the name section.
*You may use your real name or a stage name,* it reads.
I grin, grabbing the pen. *[SPIDER-MAN].* Not bad at all. Yeah, that's still the perfect name for me.
"Here you go," I say, handing the completed form back to her.
"Thank you!" she says, scanning it quickly. "You can take the elevators down the hall to floors 4 and 5. Floor 4 is for ability training, while floor 5 offers intensive exercise areas and a relaxation station. This badge will grant you access. Please don't lose it—it's active 24/7 but only works for those two floors."
"Thanks for everything, miss," I say with a wave, grabbing the badge and heading toward the elevators.
I slip the badge around my neck and scan it at the elevator panel. The doors slide open, and I step in just as two others enter behind me.
The two passengers are headed to the 3rd floor and start chatting about some rally involving the mayor as the elevator begins its smooth ascent.
"Beep. Floor 3."
They step out, still deep in conversation, leaving me alone as the doors close again.
*I should check out that rally after I'm done here,* I think idly, watching the floor numbers climb.
The elevator chimes softly. *Time to see what this place is all about.*