Chapter 3: Dream of Enlightenment*
---
"My apologies for interrupting your rest, kid. But we have a lot serious thing to talk about." A deep, authoritative voice echoed. Stephen Strange appeared, looking the same as when he was in the Sanctum Infinitum.
His entire body was almost transparent like a ghost. From his waist down to his legs, it faded until it seemed to disappear.
We were both in The Forge. Standing on the platform in the middle of the giant pit. Strange floated down into my view. When he touched the ground, even though Strange didn't really touch it, he stood tall, looking at me.
"Strange, I thought you were..."
"No, kid, I'm not entirely gone. My essence is woven into the fabric of this universe, present in every atom. Even though I don't have a physical form anymore, you can still think of me that way."
"Well, is that so... what do you want from me Strange?"
Strange looked into my eyes, with his cold, assessing gaze. Being looked at by those eyes again was not a pleasant feeling.
"I anticipated that placing you into The Forge would lead to unforeseen outcomes. But who could have predicted that it would turn out like this?"
"Hey, I didn't go in there at my will! Though I have to admit, the final result was quite, no, actually I do, very happy with it."
I was truly, and genuinely happy. Though the road to reclaim my identity and life was full of twists and turns, the feeling that I could be myself again brought indescribable happiness.
"Are you going to kill me for that?"
Strange moved slowly, floating around me. This guy is very good at being mysterious and scary, isn't he!?
"Honestly, Peter, I'm a bit envious. Unlike me, who is trapped in this state, you somehow altered the cause of history and reclaim your identity back.. something I could only ever hope for."
He stopped briefly behind me, Strange pondered for a moment before floating again.
"But... the past is set. There's no changing what was already occured."
Strange continued to speak as he circled me. Truly uncomfortable!
"But, after observing countless universes, I've realized that, Earth is remains in peril. So, Peter, I need you to protect it with the knowledge you possess."
Strange spoke as he continued to circle me and when he was in front of me again, he stopped.
"Yes, you are right. I've delved into your memories. The ones from your other identity that exist beyond the multiverse. Even though, when I want to dig it deeply. Your mysteriously energy keeping me away from it."
Looks like I didn't have to worry about mind reading, thanks to you my mysterious energy. Looking Strange, I was silent for a moment, seeing his very angry eyes. As if saying 'follow all my wishes because I know your secret'. He does realize he's dead, right? Or, something like that.
"If you already know, you should know how useless they are compared to the multiverse, Strange. And you've heard it from The Watcher it self, this is no longer the same universe as your old one."
I stared at Strange, seeing his eyes that remained calm and shone dangerously in my view. Don't get me wrong, I will definitely use that information as a reference. I will utilize them to at least try to prevent danger from coming to my doorstep. Even though my last memories of life as a Canon Event still affected me quite a bit. However, thanks to The Watcher, I learned that any future, whether predetermined or not, I must keep trying and moving forward so I'm not regretting the guilt for doing nothing.
"You are correct. There's so much altered thing to have a guess what will and wouldn't happening in the future. But, you have to know this, kid. Because of your interruption, although I designed The Forge to activate at a specific time, your actions have delayed it slightly from the intended date."
Again! with that blaming look! Strange have a point. Again is not like I wouldn't use that knowledge. But, relying on it too much will be dangerous as well.
"What date did you set?"
"February 2, 2018."
"And, what date is it now?"
"February 2, 2016."
I was silent, thinking about what had and would happen in 2016 and the future. Then I asked Strange.
"Was that before or after Dormammu's attack?"
"Before, it was the day when Christine died."
"Ooh, okay. Woah, wait a minute! That is means Dormammu attack is after you became a sorcerer, right? But, if you're not there to stop Dormammu, who will!?"
Okay! I'm panicking! No matter how I see it, my knowledge of the future will be useless against that creature!
"Dormammu isn't the threat you should be concerned about, kid. And no, Dormammu won't be attacking again."
"What!? But, why?"
Strange sighed wearily. Holding his head with his hand, massaging his phantom head as if he had a headache.
"This is why I didn't want children. Listen, a lot of history has been altered, both from your memories and my universe. And we don't have much time. So, pay attention, okay?"
I'm the one who said that to you first!
"Can you list them out.."
"Yes! yes I can! Just, hear me out first! Okay!?"
"Okay okay! Chill!"
It's my fault because interrupting him by talking so fast. But, that is because I'm still shocked about Dormammu.
"First, Dormammu has been defeated by The Ancient One and left Earth for good. However, the fate of The Ancient One remains unchanged; she still sacrificed herself while fighting Dormammu. The difference is, in this new history, her death occurred in a direct battle with Dormammu.
Secondly, since I was never there, Wong took over as the Sorcerer Supreme after The Ancient One. And Mordo is still out there, wandering around after discovering The Ancient One's secret.
And lastly, the history of Peter Parker has changed. We don't know if it will still be Peter who becomes Spider-Man as in my world, or if Gwen will take his place like in your world."
Strange's ghostly body began to flicker, as if the energy binding him to this world was weakening. The soft light emanating from him started to dim, creating strange shadows around him. He sighed, then looked at me and said.
"My time is running out, so you need to know this. You're not the only variable that has changed from my universe, kid. I don't know exactly what it is, but I'm certain it has something to do with the monsters I've consumed."
Strange's body slowly disappeared, turning into glowing dust.
"Hey hey, that's not enough! Talk to me more, Strange!
You can't disappear now, buddy! Strange didn't answer me and kept talking.
"Become Spider-Man and protect the world if that's your path, Peter. If not, study the mystic arts. Even if your talent in them isn't as great as Wong's, with your intellect, that knowledge will prove invaluable one day."
Strange continued to turn into glowing dust and kept talking. Talking about threats he didn't fully know about and then disappearing just like that!?
"Alright, alright! I can't promising you something. But I'll do what I can do."
Strange chuckled, smile for the first time in our conversation.
"Goodbye, Peter. Give my regards to Wong."
And, Strange completely disappeared, turning into glowing dust carried by the wind. He left me with a bunch of unanswered questions, new heavy responsibilities, and the shadow of a headache that would surely come in the future.
---
Peter woke up suddenly, taking a deep breath. Lying in his bed, he stared at the ceiling of his room, which felt both familiar and strange. Not to mention his weird dream, that keeping him have a headache.
But, he rest his head and looking his room around. The walls were adorned with posters of famous scientists and his favorite superhero, Iron Man.
In the corner of the room was a study desk filled with textbooks, experiment equipment, and a well-used computer.
Next to the desk was a small dresser with a mirror reflecting the image of a teenager with tousled brown hair, with some strands of white in his bangs.
Something he had since birth due to a pigment disorder in his hair. Or at least, that's what he remembered. Peter then observed his reflection and saw his hazel eyes still reflecting a sense of confusion.
"I really need to get used to all of this," Peter thought, feeling strange in his new, taller, and more muscular body. He felt like a visitor in his own life.
Suddenly, the bedroom door opened, and a familiar cheerful voice greeted him, "Peter! Are you home?"
Peter turned and saw Gwen, his childhood friend, standing in the doorway. Her flowing blonde hair, wide smile, and enthusiastic gaze made Peter feel a bit calmer.
"Gwen," Peter said with a weak smile, "Come in."
Gwen stepped in and sat at the edge of Peter's bed, observing her friend closely. "You look like you just woke up from a nightmare."
Peter nodded, trying to smile. "Yeah, you could say that. A lot has happened lately."
"What are you talking about?" Gwen asked, tilting her head.
"I came by to return the book I borrowed." She took a book out of his jacket and handed it to Peter.
"But, are you really okay? You seem... different?"
Peter chuckled wryly, while taking the book "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit of a nightmare, that's all."
In his heart, Peter reflected on the differences between his old world and the current one. As Strange said in his dream earlier, there's so much things altered from everything he know.
This Peter, The Peter from Queens didn't have Uncle Ben in his life. He had died in an accident while working in his workshop.
His aunt however, was the same elderly woman as the one he left in his past life. She supported Peter with Ben's savings and her income from working at the nonprofit organization FEAST, a charity group initially run by Martin Li.
Left alone with his aunt when he wasn't even Spider-Man. Peter didn't know how to react. He felt a responsibility to take care of his aunt. The only family he had left. Of course, besides his friends.
'Speaking of friends, Ned Leeds, who used to be my bully, was now my closest friend. His appearance was a mix between Tom Holland's Ned Leeds and Bully Ned Leeds. And that's really weird.
And it's get more weird now because I remember him is always being my friend. Besides Gwen, of course.
And it's a bit weird too now that I have a romantic interest with Liz Allen!? Don't get me wrong. She is a pretty girl and a cool fella.
But, Peter-65 and 'other me' is already loved someone else. And after meeting her in person, to be honest, I can't resist her charm. Not to mention she is besides me right now.'
Gwen watched Peter closely. "You know, you can talk to me. Anything that's bothering you."
Peter snapped out of his thoughts and smiled, feeling a bit more guilty towards his friend. "Thanks, Gwen. I really appreciate it."
Gwen nodded slowly. "How's school? Is everything good?"
Peter nodded quickly. "Yeah, yeah, school is fine. I guess."
"That's good," Gwen said with a playful smile, then laughed lightly. "You know, maybe we could go out later? I think some fresh air might make you feel better."
Peter was slightly mesmerized, his face blushing a bit. That's smile is unfair. But he calmed himself and considered Gwen's suggestion. "That might be a good idea. I do feel like I need some fresh air."
Gwen smiled broadly. "Great! How about the park? We could walk around, talk, or just sit and enjoying the fresh air."
Peter giggle, feeling his spirits lift. "Alright, that sounds good. What time?"
Gwen then stood up from her position. "I'll meet you at 6 PM later. See you, Peter!"
Peter nodded, "6 PM, at the park! Noted! Bye, Gwen!"
Peter felt better after talking to Gwen, feeling ready to face the new challenges in his life.
He looked at the door that Gwen had just closed and smiled. Despite many changes, he knew one thing for sure: with his friends by his side, he could face anything.
And, he had a date coming up.
---
I walked out of my room, heading to the bathroom to freshen up. After all that's been on my mind, I had to admit, I needed it.
"Hey Peter, are you okay, sweetheart?"
"Aunt May..." I don't know what came over me, but I hugged her, hugging her tightly. Thanks to whoever gave me this chance, I could hug Aunt May again.
"Hey, hey, what's going on?"
"Nothing, May. Just a nightmare. But, let me stay like this for a moment, okay?"
May didn't reply and hugged me back. Truly, I needed to learn to let go of my old Peter. Otherwise, the people around me would worry more.
I let go of the hug, looking at her face. Her face showed signs of aging with fine wrinkles, but her eyes still shone with kindness and intelligence. She wore small, framed glasses that added an intellectual touch to her appearance. Her gray hair was tied back in a simple yet elegant style.
"Feeling better?" May asked with that motherly warmth and love in her eyes, a look that never changed in any universe.
"Feeling better, thank you, May."
"You're welcome, kid. Do you want to talk about that nightmare? You worried me there with that sudden hug."
"Hehe, sorry, May. But no, it's nothing. Just a usual nightmare. I'm fine now. Thanks to you."
"Is that so? Alright... oh! Gwen just left. She seemed really happy, did something happen?" May teased, a bit playful.
"Hehe, yeah... something did happen. We're going to the park later this afternoon." I replied with a smile, glad to see her smile and hear her tease again.
"Ooh... What's up, Peter? Are you starting to look at your best friend differently now?"
Alright, she won't stop now, will she?
"I need to go to the bathroom."
"Hey, don't run away from me, mister!" May tried to reach for me, but I was faster and made it to the bathroom.
It felt so good to talk to May again. I think I worried her a bit, though. But, honestly, after everything in my past life, how could I'm not hug her?
As I stood in front of the bathroom mirror, I took a deep breath and splashed some cold water on my face. The refreshing sensation helped clear my mind, even if only a little.
My thoughts drifted back to Gwen and the park date we had planned. Despite the chaos and uncertainty of the future, moments like these reminded me of the simple joys that still existed. The laughter, the shared experiences, the connection—these were the things worth fighting for.
After freshening up, I decided to check my phone for any messages. As expected, there was a text from Gwen:
*Gwen*: "Hey, just wanted to make sure everything's still on for later. Can't wait to see you!"
I couldn't help but smile as I read her message. I quickly typed a reply:
*Peter*: "Absolutely! Looking forward to it. See you soon!"
Putting my phone away, I felt a renewed sense of determination. I had a responsibility to use my knowledge for the good, but moments of happiness with the people I cared about made it all worthwhile.
With a final glance in the mirror, I stepped out of the bathroom, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Weather is uncertain things about the future or just my ordinary teenager life, I knew I had the strength to handle it. And with Aunt May's unwavering support and Gwen's friendship, I felt more determined than ever to make the most of every opportunity and protect those I loved.
---
Peter and Gwen walked side by side through the park, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Times Square. Gwen's bright smile lit up her face, her blonde hair flowing and shining under the sun. She wore a beanie on her head, adding a casual yet chic touch to her look. Gwen had on a cream-colored parka over a light lavender plaid shirt and a simple white tee. Her baggy pants gave her a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Every move she made was graceful, and her soft laughter echoed like a pleasant melody.
Peter wore his signature glasses that gave him a smart, slightly retro look. He had on a black t-shirt that fit snugly, showing off his now taller and more muscular physique. Over his t-shirt, he wore a black bomber jacket, adding to his casual but stylish appearance. Comfortable yet well-fitting blue jeans completed his outfit. He finished the look with white sneakers, giving a simple yet elegant touch.
They walked along the winding paths of Times Square Park. The neon lights from the surrounding buildings blended with the starry sky, creating a magical atmosphere. The fresh evening air was filled with the scent of flowers and the gentle sound of water trickling from fountains.
Each of Gwen's steps seemed to sync with the rhythm of the park. Occasionally, she tucked her wind-blown hair behind her ear, a simple gesture that Peter found very charming. Her light steps on the park path felt like a dance, in harmony with the surrounding natural beauty.
Peter couldn't help but feel his heart race every time he heard Gwen's laughter and saw her smile. Her presence brought a calming happiness to Peter.
They sat on a park bench, relaxing and resting, watching the city's hustle and bustle from a distance. The tall buildings reflected colorful lights, adding to the captivating serene atmosphere.
In those moments, amid the tranquility of the park and Gwen's soothing presence, Peter found inner peace. It was a reminder that, despite many changes in his life, the beauty of simple moments with a close friend could make everything feel right.
Peter's turmoil made him feel ready for whatever the future held. He was determined to protect moments like these with all his might. However, that was a task for future Peter. Now, he would enjoy this moment a little longer.
"So, feeling better?" Gwen brought her face closer, looking at Peter closely.
"Yeah, feeling better. Thanks to someone for that," Peter closed his eyes, enjoying the calm and returning Gwen's smile with his most sincere one.
Gwen's eyes widened; she didn't know Peter could make such an expression. Nine years together, Gwen had never seen him look so... peaceful. And somehow, Gwen felt her heart beat faster than usual.
Peter remained silent, enjoying the peace and tranquility. Meanwhile, Gwen also stayed silent, gazing deeply at Peter, unconsciously examining and observing his face closely. They both remained quiet like that, accompanied by the cold night of Times Square Park.
Gwen moved her hand, lifting it and touching the white part of Peter's hair. She stroked it gently. "I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Your white hair is very beautiful, Peter. I like it."
Peter was surprised by Gwen's hand, his heart racing. But he calmed himself and replied, "I like them too. Even though it makes me the target of people's mockery."
Gwen chuckled while still stroking Peter's head. "'Hey, weird white hair! Give me your money if you don't want your hair to turn white forever! Grandpa!'" Gwen improvised, mimicking a boy's voice from their elementary school with an exaggerated tone.
Peter laughed at Gwen's joke. "Haha... You still remember that? I must admit your impression is pretty good. You sound very much like him."
Gwen laughed as well, quite hard this time. She removed her hand and used it to lightly punch Peter's shoulder. "Haha... You should have given them your money, Peter. Or, you'll forever be an old man."
"Well, no, thank you. I quite like them, though I am a bit annoyed by that grandpa nickname."
They both laughed and joked, sitting alone on the park bench in a serene atmosphere. Talking about the past and reminiscing about their childhood together. Spending time together as if time had stopped just to be enjoyed by these two souls, accompanied by twinkling stars in the New York night sky.
---
They walked home in comfortable silence, enjoying the calm evening atmosphere. The slightly deserted streets and twinkling neon lights gave a peaceful ambiance. When they finally arrived in front of Gwen's house, Peter felt a bit reluctant to say goodbye.
Gwen stopped at her front door, turning to face Peter with a warm smile. "Thank you for tonight, Peter. I really enjoyed our time together."
Peter returned her smile. "Me too, Gwen. Thanks for taking me out. It really helped."
Gwen nodded, then reached for Peter's hand and held it tightly for a moment before letting go. "Don't overthink things, Peter. Everything will be alright."
Peter nodded, smiling softly, feeling more at ease with Gwen's words. "I'll remember that. Goodnight, Gwen."
Gwen stepped inside her house, waving at Peter before closing the door. Peter stood there for a moment, feeling the warmth of their farewell, then turned to walk home with a smile still lingering on his face.
---
She's amazing. In any universe, she's amazing. I've said it before, and I'll say it again.
"My other self really has a really big influence on me, especially when it comes to how I see things with my new eye's filter."
It's hard not to act fool around her; Gwen's charm filtered through my other self is just too strong. I have to keep redirecting my focus to stay calm when I'm beside her.
I couldn't help but smile all the way home. The cold streets of New York didn't effect me at all. And I hope I can hold on to this fortune as long as possible.
As I walked, the city lights twinkled around me. Reflecting off the fresh layer of snow that covered the sidewalks. It's was one of those rare moments when New York felt serene, almost magical.
I opened the apartment door and saw May sitting on the sofa with a warm cup of coffee in her hand. She grinned, giving me a playful look.
"What?" I have no choice to ask her.
"Nothing, What's up with you, Peter? Why have you suddenly changed and started looking at your best friend like that?" May teased, her smile widening at the end of her sentence.
"I don't know what you're talking about." May wouldn't let up, so I just needed to hurry and get to my room.
I took off my bomber jacket, hung it up, and kicked off my shoes. Then I quickly walked to my room, trying to ignore May's amused gaze.
"You know she likes you too, right?"
"May!? Can you stop?"
"I'm just saying! So, how was your night?"
"I'm going to bed now. Night, May. Sleep well!"
"Hey, Peter!"
I get in my room and then locked my door. If I entertained her more, she'd only tease me further. It was REALLY nice to hear her playful teasing for the second time today.
I took off my shirt and looked in the mirror. The reflection still felt unfamiliar—white bangs, a slim but muscular body, and most importantly, my height.
I'm glad I'm now taller than Gwen. She used to tease me about that all the time.
"No, I can't. I'm a different Peter now."
Gwen's Peter from universe-65 has fulfilled his destiny. She will, no, she has to be happy for me to be happy too. The road ahead will definitely be challenging. But I hope she can learn from those hardships and continue to grow stronger.
I rested my head again. Sinking into the embrace of my pillow and bed. Resting well to prepare for the future that awaits me.
---
A new day arrived, and I yawned while stretching my arms. Luckily, Strange didn't haunt my dreams again. Out of all the Stranges I know, he's the scariest. Not to mention, he once imprisoned me and used me as a research subject.
Getting up from my cozy bed, I quickly refreshed myself and got dressed. From what I remember, I still have class today. Great! High school! Who doesn't love that?
After getting dressed, I headed to the kitchen where May was already up, busy making breakfast.
"Morning, Peter. How did you sleep?" May asked while flipping pancakes on the griddle.
"Morning, May. I slept well," I replied, smiling at her. "What's for breakfast?"
"Pancakes! Eat them before they get cold," she said cheerfully.
I sat down at the table, and May placed a stack of fluffy pancakes in front of me. The enticing aroma made me eager to dig in. During breakfast, we chatted about various things. Thankfully, she didn't bring up Gwen again.
After finishing breakfast, I grabbed my backpack and headed for the door.
"I'm off! Goodbye, May!"
"Take care, Peter! Have a great day!"
Riding my old, outdated bicycle, I pedaled my way to school. As I rode, I couldn't help but think about Gwen and our time at the park yesterday. Her laughter and smile kept replaying in my mind.