Chapter 1: The Domino Effect
Chapter Text
Spiders.
You've always hated spiders ever since you were young.
It was an irrational fear, one that could never be rationalized and 'cured', but while they may have been one of your least favorite animals, there was one that you adored above all else. The sloth. They were cute and friendly in appearance, so much so you had a small collection of plush toys of them growing since you were a teen, now an adult and still seeking out any sloth plush you could find and afford.
Alas, you hardly had the money to spend like that. Using the pay you received from your work to feed and clothe you, on top of paying your rent. The plush toys were unfortunately not a necessity, but still, they did make for a nice treat after saving up enough to get one.
With money being an issue you took advantage of any sales and discounts, and especially anything that was free. So when you saw that word on a flier for the Connors Animal Research and Rehabilitation Center, well.. You made sure you showed up on time. Animals were always a great motivator, and you needed the excuse to get out of your apartment again anyway. Staying cooped up.. You weren’t exactly one to willingly place yourself in social situations, but the thought of sitting indoors for too long was unpleasant. You could feel your sanity deteriorating at times.
Much to your dismay, although not a surprise, they handled spiders as well. You stuck toward the back of the tour for your comfort, avoiding the arachnid presentation like the plague. The heads of the facility, Doctors Curt and Martha Connors lead the tour, enthusiastically speaking about the animals they work with. Martha, however, from what you could see from the back wall, had to step away after looking at the cases that held the spiders in question. Curious.. You continued the tour with no further oddities and headed home.
That’s when it all really began.
You took to putting your things away, then emptying out your bag.. but something hurt as you reached in and within an instant you recoiled, grabbed the bag, and chucked it across the room.. It was perhaps best to keep that there for later. There was a small whitish mark on the back of your hand when you checked. You assumed it was nothing more than a scratch or poke from a book or pencil in your bag and went to wash your hands and head to bed.
The next day, however, is when things got a little weird. Never would you have expected a childhood fantasy to walk on walls would come true, but there you were, fully stuck to your apartment wall after noticing things were sticking to your hands. Safe to say, you wasted no time in calling up a close and trusted friend of yours after figuring out how to unstick and told them everything with excitement.
Despite the gift of wall crawling, you never really used your abilities, wall-crawling and all those you discovered after. You had the spirit of a fighter, but not the nature nor body and mind of one. No skills in self-defense or fighting, you had always been rather physically weak in that regard.
It took a few small instances for you to sort of set yourself in motion. From a late night grab and go at the corner store that turned into an attempted robber getting humiliated and you fleeing, to you seeing this as an opportunity to try to get out a little more. Scouring the city i n little areas, picking off the select few small fights you felt more comfortable and confident you could win with no harm.
It had only really been a month since you got your powers now. Since then, you had scoured your room for something to wear to hide yourself and chose a onesie of a sloth you had gotten a few years back for your birthday. It was cute, friendly, and easy enough to slip on quickly over your usual clothes. A pair of matching slippers, a simple jacket vest, and a bag to carry it all in. to top it all off, you invested in a cheap party mask to conceal your face. It was a ridiculous getup, and although you had done cosplay before-- albeit temporarily-- you felt so dumb for wearing it. Hence why you felt more comfortable to stay out of sight if possible.
Your time was a little busy between juggling your work with occasionally getting out to climb and jump around the buildings. Some nights were more hectic than others. Hardly you had any time to take a break. It was a rare treat for yourself when things were slow.
Such as tonight.
Crawling and jumping from building to building you paused on a rooftop to have a look around. A scenic break from all the running about you did. It was nice, though you wished you could see the stars in the sky as you looked up. That was something you missed from back home down south. Closing your eyes you took in a relaxing breath and listened to the ambient city sounds.
For once.. everything was quiet.
A lone scientist worked late into the night, well past his designated time to clock out. He paced around the lab rooms as he checked the devices a few more times, wrote down reports on the new tech in development, and jotted down notes on the few animals brought in for studies.
He had an affinity for one such animal. An octopus. A veined octopus to be exact, though also known as a coconut octopus. Oh how he had grown so fond of the little creature despite his boss's orders. He couldn't help himself, it was much too cute to resist. It was one of very few things about this job that kept him from spiraling mentally. Giving it a secret name and using it as his muse for creating a remarkable device to aid him in his overbearing work. Truly a marvel of his ingenuity and technological skills.
A long, sleek, black mechanical limb stretched across the empty lab, tentacle-like 'fingers' twisted and opened up like a flower before carefully wrapping around a bottle of frozen shrimp that had been left out to thaw near a heating element. The limb retracted back to the scientist then relaxed down behind him when the bottle was taken. He popped the bottle open and shook some bits out into the tank his favorite octopus was living in. The creature lit up with color as it reached its arms out to wrap around the shrimp, bringing the pieces down under its webbing to feast. The scientist smiled, watching the octopus feed for a bit, humming to himself and jotting down some more notes. He was none the-wiser to the elevator down the hall being activated. Unaware of his soon to be company.
Music played in the lab, softly in the background from a lone laptop left open, the scientist hummed along. It was cozy, peaceful within that lab. Everything was going smoothly, the workload was still immense, but it was more tolerable. He felt he had little to fear, he was beginning to get comfortable.
The sound of a door near the entrance of the lab jostled the scientist from his thoughts.
The janitor? No.. it is too early in the night for them to have gotten this far up the building. Curious.. It couldn’t be his boss, he should be at home with his family at this hour--
A chill ran down his spine as a familiar voice suddenly spoke up, following footsteps that were now audible. Coming closer and closer to his location within the lab--
"Doctor Octavius."
Ah. His boss, Norman Osborn.. What was he doing here? He hardly ever came down into the labs himself.. He sounded eerily calm compared to his usual bitter tone. That was.. not a good sign, to say the least. This put Otto on edge in an instant. Especially so as he was still wearing the arms, he began to panic, trying to find a place to hide to remove them, but there was no place in sight to run as Norman came into view. Otto jumped as soon as he saw his boss behind him.
"Oh no.. M-Mr.Osborn..? H-Hello, ah.. What, uhm, Wh-What brings you here? I-I thought.."
"As smart as you are, you hardly do think at all," Norman spoke, tired, stern eyes drop from the scientist's face to his twiddling hands, "A smart mind, you have, Otto. Although clever you are not if you think me stupid to not notice."
"..N-Not notice what?"
"Don't play dumb with me, doctor." the man turned his attention back to Otto, stepping closer and causing the other to shuffle back, “You must know why I’m here, surely.” He watched him, eying the way he trembled, eyes darting around behind thick, square frames as his mind raced to register what the man was referring. It was clear what it was even before he said it aloud, reaching a hand down and around to grip and raise one of the objects in question.
“Those funny little arms, Otto.”
Otto was sweating now, heart racing, although not nearly as fast as his mind. Didn't plan for this. He didn't think Norman would ever come down like this.. and find the actuators he did so well to hide every time he was done working. He was caught off guard, trapped in a checkmate.
“Th... S-Sir-- I--” Otto sputtered, bringing his hands up defensively as he backed up, heart racing as he rounded the table, all the while his boss had followed with that unchanging tense expression, the actuator limb in his hand. Otto's eyes darting from Norman to the actuator and back a few times, a clear desperate panic in his voice and face, “O-Oh dear.. L-Listen I-- I-I couldn’t have done all this work without them! You-- Y-You must understand! Th-There was too much for one person-- I-I needed those to--!”
“You need them?” Otto was cut off, bumping into a sizable computing device. Parts that hung from it rattled in response, one falling off as Norman continued, Otto being forced to press into the console of the machine, “Need? Really? I beg to differ, Doctor.” stepping closer now, "I don't believe you ever needed them--”
Norman swiped another actuator, on the opposite side this time, yanking as hard as he could on them to get Otto up off the machine. He caught the scientist with his foot slamming harsh into the harness around his gut. Otto groaned and Norman leered down above him, hissing out his final words before releasing the arms and kicking Otto back into the machine with all the force he could muster.
“--and I don’t believe you’ll ever need them again."
Otto fell back, crashing into the machine, damaging the screens and more. The collision caused the console to explode in a terrifying display of light and smoke. Overpowering the servers of nearby appliances, activating the actuators, and electrifying anything within reach.. or within contact.
A static shift in the air shaking you from your moment of peace.
You had nearly dozed off on the roof you rested on, lifting up from where you lay you looked around. A spark in the breeze alerting your senses of the direction to head. That was all you needed as you wasted no time lifting up and darting from one building to the next. Making your way as fast as you could, occasionally hopping from vehicle to vehicle to get there quicker.
A sense of anxiety creeping in anticipation of your destination.
Oscorp.
There was always something about this corporation that gave you a sense of unease. Standing at the entrance now only made that feeling worse, but there was no time to dwell on that. Taking in a breath to calm down and adjusting your worn out sloth slippers, you darted to the side of the building and took to the wall. Climbing up and up and up, clinging tightly and humming to distract from the thought of looking down.
You climbed until your senses were going haywire, spotting a shattered window with a strong scent of smoke and static wafting from it in the breeze. Fear washed over you, but you shook your head and clenched your jaw, crawling over and peering inside. It was dark, too dark, par from the stray sparks from some broken machinery tossed about. Scuttling inside you removed your party mask to try and see better, letting your eyes adjust a moment. Dread began to settle as you got a better look around.
Odd machinery and devices were littered about both neatly and scattered and shattered as though something had been thrashing around.. Almost poetically the sparks lit up again at that moment, drawing your eyes over to the source.. and the source of what had done the thrashing that destroyed part of the lab.
A breath hitched in your throat as you prayed the man on the floor was still alive, shuffling ever so cautiously over for a better look. Your eyes trained on the body, focusing hard and hoping to see a breath.
Nothing.
Nothing..
Nothing...
Noth-- Oh my gosh.
The sound of relief that left you as you saw the man's body shift ever so lightly had left you teary eyed and trembling. So thankful he was still alive. You hurried closer, falling to your knees to check him, being careful of the static still present as you rolled him over. His back was bleeding and soaking slowly through his undershirt, staining the white a deep red. The sight causing your heart to tighten and fall.
You struggled a bit with the initial lifting of him off the ground and onto your back, but you managed well enough. Slipping your mask back on after balancing the man on your shoulders. You turned your focus now to figuring your way out, you decided to walk further inside, carrying the injured man firmly.
An elevator was soon found and quickly called, taking it down to the first level. It seemed the far safer option than recklessly scrambling out the window again. The ride down was nerve-wracking, not knowing how much time you had. Shifting the man's weight on your shoulders a time or two before finally the elevator dinged. As you rushed out into the lobby and towards the exit to seek help, you hadn't noticed the metal arms quiver behind you.
The feeling of tiny hands holding firm and protectively upon his arm and leg had stirred Otto awake for but a mere moment. Cracking his weary eyes open and only catching a glimpse of what was holding his arm before he passed out once more from the pain and exhaustion.
Barely able to make out what he had seen.. Had he seen that right..? The hands that held him.. they were..
..Claws..?
Chapter 2
Summary:
Otto has a nightmare.. and a visitor?
Notes:
Happy New Year, this is my treat for anyone who found the first chapter interesting and stuck around. I hope this one is even better! I'm still learning as I write this, so apologies if something doesn't make sense. I'm my own reader so if something is off.. that's entirely my fault.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Home..
That's where you wanted to be most right now. Scaling the wall and slipping through the window to your apartment. You locked the window and checked the door before moving to your room. You set the a/c on cool and began to remove your gear, leaving your onesie on.
Although you slid your bag off and your masks, too, you still felt heavy, unable to breathe clearly. Weighted down by your thoughts. You.. hadn’t seen anything, experienced anything like that before. You let out a shuddering breath to stead yourself, shaking your head and moving on.
As exhausted as you were you dragged yourself to the bathroom to prep for bed, despite everything your anxiety prevented you from neglecting this. Your thoughts about that evening setting in like a high tide in your mind, encouraging you to hurry to bed.
..You don't think you'll be getting a good sleep tonight. You almost cried.
A memory.
A moment from his past playing softly. It was bright, happy.
Otto stood before a group of students on a field trip, he was younger, healthier, he’d only recently begun working at Oscorp. The kids were gathered in a neat group inside his research lab. Oh, the joy in the room, the looks on their faces, the excitement he felt. So eager to please and impress his visitors.
He gave a greeting as he stepped behind a desk and pulled a sheet of white cloth off a long tank, revealing 3 separate compartments which housed the 3 different stages of butterflies and moths. The students expressed awe, some jumping where they stood, grinning ear to ear as they knew what it was.
“Unlike most animals who are born relatively fully formed and change minimally from birth to adulthood, some animals-- such as these insects here-- change quite drastically. One would think they were entirely unrelated species, yet they are one and the same.” Otto opened the lid, section by section to pull out and show off the 3 stages as he spoke, ”And much like ourselves, they have transition periods, times in their lives where they begin to grow and change. Melting away their old selves, transforming into something new and grand. Each one is unique in what it becomes, but the choice to change at all is all its own.”
Otto looked toward the kids, his smile faltering, fading as he noted their lack of expression. He clenched a twig which held 3 chrysalis tightly, his brows knitting slightly. His prior enthusiasm diminishing as one student yawned and another complained about this trip being a waste, how this was boring. His cheery demeanor shifting to worry and fear, even despite his failing attempt to keep his composure and continue on.
“I-It’s not just-- Just bugs that can do that. Th-There are.. Creatures. In the sea.. That also have this. Tr-Transformation. L-Like, uhm.. Oh.. Oh dear..” Otto ducked down behind the desk to observe a few extra tanked specimens, his vision swirling making it impossible to see what was in the tanks.
“Ah.. D-Despite.. The diff-differences.. Ah.. W-We here at uhm.. Oscorp Industries.. We’ve been... We’ve..” Muttering and fumbling with his words, his thoughts were muddled and confused as he continued to peer at the tanks of unknown specimens, everything was melding together as his panic rose.
“Doctor Octavius.”
The sudden voice of his boss gave Otto a jolt, shooting back up and shuffling away from the table, dropping the twig he held. The twig did not make a clatter as the room morphed and contorted, his scenery changing. No longer was the room bright and lively.. and Otto, as well, was no longer as young as before. It was only a few weeks ago. He was very tired.
“..M-Mr.Osborn.. Sir--”
“Silence, Octavius. I am not going to repeat myself. You came here to work, your skills were promising, yet all you have done is goof off and fail to keep up with your work. I am afraid, Otto.. That I will have to lay you off if this continues. This is your only warning, do it again and you will have all I have given you and all you have made repossessed back to me.”
“Wh-WHAT?! Y-You can’t!! You can’t do that! N-Norman-!”
Otto stiffened as Norman continued to speak, cutting him off. Clenching his jaw and fists until the knuckles turned white, eyes welling up with tears.. and a burning feeling beginning to boil inside him. Seething as Norman continued, the world around him fading and growing dark.
“Quit your whining. I can and I will. Weak, worthless, and pathetic, that is what you are, Otto, and all you ever will be. Is that how you want to be remembered? Because at the rate you are going, you will be doing far more than merely disappointing these kids who’ve come here today to learn and bear witness to Oscorp’s latest tech inspired by your study. Funny, is it not? How you are no better than the wretched creatures you’ve been made to work with. In fact, I would say.. you even look and act alike with them. Small and insignificant--”
“THAT. IS ENOUGH. OUT OF YOU!” Otto stomped his foot down on the carpeted flooring of Norman’s office, the room fell silent. His eyes clenched shut like his fists as he shouted. The anger reached its tipping point. The room vanished as he opened his eyes, Norman stood behind the gathering of kids from before, they all stared at Otto as he spoke, expressions surprised.. Horrified.. and not looking directly at him.
Otto stood straighter and turned around, confused what they were looking at, if not himself and his outburst. That was a mistake, however, as he grew pale as soon as he saw what it was. His prior anger dissolved into terror as his eyes fell upon a writhing mass of his own creation. The pulsing lights along their undulating slender forms. Metal clacking, clicking, a rhythmic sound, the tapered ends of a few were opened and staring at him with a malicious glow. The limbs rising from the void around him, and only him.
He had no time to react.
The mechanical arms whipped at him, curling and pulling along his body. He tried to fight it, struggling in fear. A scream begging and pleading to be free as it is forced back in, a tendril wrapping around his face and gagging him. Another coiled around his neck only heightening the fear.
He doesn't want this.
He doesn't want this.
Being swallowed by the arms as they pull him down into the abyssal mass where they came. His fighting and flailing restrained with force and weight from the arms as he sank further and further. The light from before snuffed out like a candle as the limbs quickly encased him.. like a cocoon.
And everything went black.
Screaming and crying, Otto shot out of bed, the horror of what he dreamed overriding his sense of pain. Sweat cold against his flared skin. It was only a few moments before the shock wore off, however. The pain of his waist and back rang out, as did the machinery around him. The pain setting his body once more into shock, convulsing and heaving, leaning forward and clutching the metal harness now fused to him.
Nurses rushed in mere moments later, hearing the cries and beeping. They held him back and helped him back down onto the bed as one turned on a light and another issued another anesthetic.
Otto soon hushed down to a whimper and whine, being hushed and talked to like a child. Calming and relaxing him, what the nurses were saying was hardly coherent, barely audible as his head began to drift. The medicine kicking in and helping to lull him back to sleep..
It would be awhile before Otto woke up again.
It had been a week now and you couldn't help but worry about that man back there. The thought and feeling gnawing at you for days. He was a stranger, and yet you felt empathy, concerned to his well-being. You always did feel strongly for the well-being of others. To a fault..
You decided to pay him a visit, in costume, of course. As ridiculous as you may feel, it would be best if someone happened to see you crawling along the outside of the hospital that they couldn't identify you.
You just.. wish you had something not so silly to wear. At least it was cozy.
It didn't take you too long to arrive at the hospital by foot, you climbed up buildings and looked around the lower skylines to find your way. As the weeks passed on, certain areas of the city slowly ingrained themselves within your recognition.
That made things easier.
Sizing up the architecture before you, you decided on a side to begin your ascent and search. Peering through any clear windows you could, doing your best to stay out of sight from those inside. There were a lot of rooms, though. You pondered being brave and asking the receptionist.. but still kept on peering through windows.
At last, you spotted him!
He seemed well enough. You were glad, you thought, glancing from a corner of the window. The curtain was drawn, but there was a gap just big enough for you to look through. Watching nervously.
He sat up on the bed, supported by some extra pillows as he read from a book. You were just relieved that he was alive and well, despite the clear bandaging you could see beneath his gown. He certainly looked better, too, from what you could tell as a nurse walked in to talk to him.
You decided you were satisfied enough just checking in on him. However.. you wanted to do one last thing..
Otto waved goodbye to the nurse just as quick as they had arrived, informing him of how long he is expected to stay for recovery. Turning his attention back to his book, his expression souring all too quick.
Estimated 6 weeks.
He didn't have that long.. Surely his boss would have done away with his home and belongings by then. The imperious sociopath..
He sighed and closed the book, setting it on the table beside him and reached for his cup, almost wishing it were whisk--
The connection ports upon the back of his harness activated, a phantom sensation jostling him from his thoughts. Thoughts that were cruel and getting worse as the days droned on. The strange phantom sensation at the back of his harness growing more incessant, too. Ah, there wasn't much he could do though, nothing to occupy his mind away from thinking of that night. What he was reading was hardly stimulating enough to stay focused on for very long.
Thump, thump, thump..!
A small tapping at the window jolted Otto from his thoughts, nearly dropping the cup in his lap. He looked around a moment then toward the window.
"Wh-What on earth..?"
A bird? ..No.. It was a bit too loud and firm to be a bird. There weren't any notices about a window cleaner today, either, from the nurses. It was the 4th floor, yet the tapping was almost distinctly.. like a human knocking..
Curiosity was strong as he slowly and carefully pulled himself from the bed and shuffled over. A bit nervous to what he may find as he stepped closer and closer, taking hold of the curtain. He took a breath and yanked the curtain open-- only.. to see nothing. How odd..
He brought his face up to the glass and looked around, nothing in sight, left, right, up, or-- down? On the sill just outside sat a note and a piece of wrapped candy. He quickly got to work opening the window to take the candy and note.
'Hello, I'm really glad you're alright! This is for you!
(A circle was drawn where the candy had been placed with an arrow pointing to it, and a little smiling doodle of himself ended the note with a name)
Otto looked over the simple note, surprised by the doodle that, despite appearing rushed, was still quite well done. He then looked to the candy in hand, a small strawberry and cream flavored striped hard candy.
To be honest, he didn't quite know what to do with this little gift left on his window. Folding the note and placing it on the table as he made his way back to the bed. He may have to save the candy for later, for now..
He figured the name on the note.. was the one who had carried him out that night. He had a name for her now.
Acedia.
Notes:
..I want to give Otto a hug so bad. My gosh.
Chapter 3
Summary:
Things seem to be going well.. but it always gets worse before it gets better.
Notes:
This has been sitting mostly finished for a few months. I only had like 2 and a half paragraphs left to write sdkjffds but I hope this is alright?? Chapter 4 is already in the works and is gonna be a fun challenge to write. I keep thinking about this fic. it's haunting me (positive)
Chapter Text
A small chime sounded, signifying your rushed arrival. Awkwardly shuffling your way around the counter and into the back, you hung up your bag and took a small apron and your name-tag. Clocking in for work with a sign of your name before picking up a clipboard and pen and heading back out to the storefront. Luckily you had arrived just on time for once.
The place you worked was rather small, hidden away through some alleys and backstreets. Not much traffic ever really made its way here. You liked that. The less traffic and less chances for interaction were always welcome in your eyes.. especially so as you already had plenty recently with your little adventures in stopping small crimes. Between the two you didn’t quite mind your job of taking and shelving the stock. Various boxes, cans, and gear of all kinds were shelved and hung. From electronics to a small selection of clothes and even convenient snacks and drinks. Some items were unique and hard to find, so all sorts of people came by to browse the weekly wares.
As you wrote your last observations down on the clipboard you placed it on the checkout counter and took some boxes from the back to begin filling out any empty spots where products were missing. Giving a curt nod and hum when your coworker at the register noted you, watching for a moment as you walked back around some aisles before going back to their phone. A pleasant melody playing on the overhead speakers kept you mentally occupied, only occasionally interrupted by the door chiming again to announce a customer or two. There were a few regulars who would come and pick up an order, others would come and walk around. Sometimes they would bring a kid along, chatting with the clerk while the kid wandered. You’d give them a smile and a wave when you would notice each other. Rarely, the kids would strike up a small conversation with you, you doing your best to answer their questions while rearranging the items. It wasn’t so bad talking with the kids.
There was one customer who never gave a name, but would always come to pick up a few items and some special orders very rarely. An older gentleman you hardly got a peek at, it wasn’t very polite to stare, but you noted a small low set ponytail on the back of his salt and pepper head. Oddly, you noticed he wore red lenses, they weren’t sunglasses either. He was a bit odd, but he never gave you any bad vibes.
A buzz of your phone brought you out of your thoughts, pausing your work to pull it out and check it-- It was your friend, they worked under Oscorp in a way, having their work paid for by the company. They were updating you on their research, telling you of future ventures their team has planned in the next months. They would send you pictures of the aquatic life they encounter occasionally, seahorses, turtles, sharks, and lots of beautiful reefs and scenery. You had been telling them about the man you had found at Oscorp and rescued. How you helped him to the hospital and the worry you’ve been experiencing since then. It’s been almost 3 weeks since you last visited to check on him from outside.. Perhaps you should give him another visit today? The last time you had tried to make plans you were distracted with other things and couldn’t go when you wanted. You didn’t want to do that again..
It was reassuring to know he was recovering well.
With a few more texts sent back and forth with your friend, you tucked your phone back in your pocket and made your decision. Going about the rest of your morning as usual. Stocking the shelves and putting things back in their places. The time passed as it usually had, the radio music playing softly in the air until your shift was done. Heading into the back to clock out and get your things.
The cooling summer air, as autumn was soon approaching, was welcoming as you stepped out into the city. With a final double check of your belongings, you headed off to the nearest bus stop. Destination: Hospital.
As the bus began to approach the medical district, a sense of unease had started to arise. You didn't think much of it, assuming it to merely be your nerves. You were always a bit high strung. It was just in your nature, though you did your best to fight it. Still, the feeling was nagging as you got off at your stop, trying to focus more on how the man must be doing now.
It didn't take long, however, for you to receive your answer.
Turning the corner for the hospital, you stopped and stared in confusion at the mess that had been taped off. Rubble and debris of brick, concrete, and glass were scattered across the lot. The side of the building was cracked, and the doors to the registration lobby were dented and barely hanging on. There was no way a regular person nor mutant in the city that could or would willingly do something like this.
Just what on earth caused this?
That sense of unease turned to panic and dread. Rushing back around to another entrance, you headed inside to find a worker to ask what happened. Various staff off the hospital and visiting members of a clean-up crew were shuffling around, some were frantic, others were relatively calm. You scurried over to the nearest calm worker you saw that wasn’t busy, hesitating from nerves of interaction.
“..Uhm, Excuse me?”
The worker turned to your direction, “Yes? Can I help you? We’re a little busy here at the moment, if you’re here for someone on the upper level of the left wing, you’ll have to come back later--”
“Sorry, I-I don’t need anything I just.. What happened here? I.. I saw from outside and like.. the whole place is..” the worker sighed a bit of relief at you not needing up there.
“A patient that had been staying in a room up there, he.. escaped. Snuck out of his room, stole the things we had to remove from him when he was brought in. Somehow he had managed to get them back in place and began to tear through the halls back to his room and.. Well.. He fled the scene to who knows where. We’ll have to deny visitors to that floor for awhile until the repairs are made.”
“Ah, okay.. Thank you for lettin’ me know. Sorry to take your time!”
You gave a nervous smile and went back outside. Something was definitely not right. You needed to go, but you did not know where. Not knowing what else to do, you pulled out your phone and began to check for any recent news reports. This wasn’t something you would normally do, but you were worried.. worried for any people getting hurt.. worried for that man and his well-being.
After a little scrolling you finally got what you were looking for. A report was made just a few minutes ago of a disturbance at Oscorp. ..Oscorp. Always that place gave you a bad feeling, but now? That feeling was far worse. You didn’t know how much time you had, but you had to hurry. Checking for bus stops nearby and their routes you shoved your phone back into your bag and took off to your first stop. Boarding the bus as you arrived and awaited anxiously, restlessly, as it drove off. Clenching and fiddling with the strap of your bag, your gaze switching between your lap and the window. Thoughts flying by in your mind as you tried to work out what to do when you got there.
Praying your senses will lead the way as the bus reached the destination.
You only hoped you weren’t too late.
Chapter 4
Summary:
Tension rising as anxiety grows. Things are building, but where will it all go?
Notes:
I finally return with an update! The tension is rising and so is our anxiety within this brand new little chapter.
Sorry for the cliffhanger ending tho, eventually I'll get out the big climactic fight scene. Until then, though, I hope this chapter is well worth the wait despite it mostly just being build up.
A happy early birthday gift from me to all of you if you've stuck around this long.
Chapter Text
Oscorp. Once again, you are here. And once again, your senses are ringing. A buzz thrumming at the back of your mind, the unease you usually felt now overpowering, making you feel a little ill, but you persisted. Now, standing near the building’s doors, you watched as people went in and out casually, not a worry at all. The lack of any sign of danger was eerily unsettling as the buzz continued.
Pushing your way into the lobby, you took a look around. You had never been inside Oscorp before, well, not properly. To be in a place like this was not something you ever thought you’d find yourself. Gazing around at the people walking to and fro, scientists and office workers passing through glass doors, small groups littered around chatting around the impressive fountain at the center and greenery which hung by the walls and from the ceiling. Your heart picked up its pace, frantically looking around the lobby for where to go, yet forced to speak with the receptionist. A young woman around your age gave you a smile as you strode over to her desk, the area of which had snail stickers, a snail paper weight, and complimentary candy.
“Excuse me, uhm.. Do you..” you racked your brain quickly for an excuse that could get you past the barriers you figured were in place, “Do you know where the bathroom is?” Nice.
The woman appeared surprised for a moment, but merely smiled with a slight chuckle and stood up, a snail pin catching your eye for a moment as the googly eyes on it rattled. You turned your gaze back to the receptionist and looked to where she pointed. In the back corner to the left. You thanked her and headed over briskly.
Spotting the elevators down a nearby little hall, you wasted no time in taking a lift. Ducking away from the restroom as soon as a large group of businessmen walked by and seeing the receptionist looked away to speak with someone else. You slip inside the extravagant doors and press the button for the highest floor.
Anxiety building as each floor passes, awkwardness and a need to cry, but you focused on breathing, an attempt to keep you calm. You didn’t need to panic, you didn’t want to panic. The buzz in your head only got stronger as you continue your ride up and up and up. You were definitely close.
Weeks.. Otto had been cooped up in that hospital for weeks. The incessant sensation upon his spine from the harness has been eating away at his patience, as was his own mind. He could not stop thinking, stewing on his life. The bullies growing up, the mean kids in school, and now his ever brutal ex-boss. It all came to a boiling point. He'd had enough. He was going to do something to put an end to this mistreatment. The cruelty he endured his whole life.
He was sick of it.
These thoughts played in his mind, fueling his seething hatred for Norman Osborn as he made his way through the lobby. The actuators tucked under the coat he grabbed somewhere along the way, hidden from sight, not wanting to attract much attention as he went to get on the elevator.
Halfway up, his actuators grew restless, clicking, ticking, rising up from under his coat. The itch and buzz at his lower back growing steadily as he neared his stop. He wrung his hands together for a moment, looking around the metallic walls of the lift. Bringing his gaze back down to one of the actuators he lifted a hand, the end of the actuator resting in his palm as he watched in thought.
“ Osborn felt jealous of these.. a lack of profit he could have made from my own genius.. If he wants these things so bad.. Fine.” the elevator dinged.
“ I’ll give them to him. ”
Norman stood by his desk, listlessly looking over a few papers sprawled out on it, documents, reports, swirling a small glass of coffee in hand. Like a well oiled machine everything was running smoothly and according to plan for his company. Products made, money made. It almost put a smile to his perpetually bitter face. His mood turned to annoyance, however, when an unscheduled knock came to his office door.
He specifically stated not to be disturbed for the next 3 hours. . there shouldn’t be anyone here.
Swirling his drink in hand and taking a sip, he waited. After a moment of silence Norman walked over to the door, muttering in annoyance. A s he arrived he heard one more knock and he answered through it.
"Who's there? I'm extremely busy and asked to be left alone!"
Silence again.. but then--
"Really? I recall this being your usual break time, Norman."
That familiar voice which called back from behind the door.. It couldn't be.
Norman quickly sat his drink down on a nearby decorative desk and gripped at the door's handle. In one violent motion he cranked and yanked the gold trimmed mahogany wood open to face what he never thought he'd see again.
"Otto?" He couldn't believe his eyes, he should have been dead! F ear and dread are not what arose in him, but anger. Boiling and brimming. The audacity to survive and still be alive..!
"Oh? So you do know my name. For what reason do you have to be saying it now? No petty little insults or cruel nicknames? I'm sure you have plenty locked away in that ugly little head of yours, Osborn. I’ve heard plenty working here.. towards me, towards others.. towards your own son-- "
"Shut it." Norman spoke up, venom dripping from his words, " Get out of my office or I will call the authorities on you. We can all pretend that none of this happened, that you didn’t steal from me and cause expensive damages from that altercation you caused-- "
Otto fumed, hands clenching as Norman spoke. Every word was like nails on a chalkboard, grating and droning. The lack of remorse so clear and evident on his face and in his tone. He gritted his teeth and hissed.
"Me? I'm afraid you are gravely mistaken, Osborn. It's not me who is in the wrong here ." He stepped closer as he spoke, his tone threatening, as he stepped closer his actuators made themselves known. The glowing, pulsing lighted limbs snaked out from under the coat Otto wore, the ends flaring out and writhing.
He stops.
"It's you."
Before Norman could full y react an actuator lunged toward him, purposefully missing him by mere inches as it slammed into the desk behind him. Norman flinched, h is own anger building at the levels of audacity Otto had to be doing this. He stood up straight and marched over toward the shorter man, standing his own ground in his own domain.
"What? Was that supposed to scare me? Even now you can't do one simple job right. Tell me, Otto, why is it that I fired you? Surely you've got a brain in there somewhere to figure that out."
Otto didn't respond, another actuator, instead, shot out, aiming for Norman's legs, trapping him. "What are you doing?!" Norman's words were ignored as the limb curled tighter and tighter uncomfortably to his waist. Lifting him from the ground slowly, Norman’s shouting increasing, demands to be put down among insults thrown at him.. Otto’s head fell towards the floor with a harsh stomp of his boot .. and all in a moment, Norman was slammed into the farthest wall. Norman felt the wind nearly get knocked out of him by the impact, his head rebounding from the force. Otto’s voice now booming, a drastic change from his usual anxious stutter that was nowhere to be heard. A ll his anger and rage that had built up over the years now finally being released in one violent outburst.
“YOU TRIED TO KILL ME!”
“Fired, killed, what difference does it make--” Norman tried to speak, always trying to have the last word, yet was unable to get much out as he watched Otto approach. A step, two, three-- a few was all he took before he lifted himself by two actuators, hovering just a little above his old boss. The third and final actuator raised itself, the end of it twisting and opening up as it drew close to Norman’s head, revealing a welding device inside the glowing pit at its center. As it began to glow ever brighter, Norman could feel the heat emitting from it, tensing at the anticipation of what is soon to come.
“That’s enough out of you! For too long I have hobbled around doing as you’ve told, being berated and belittled. I have worked harder than anyone else in this forsaken company and all I get out of this is an attempt on my life! For what?! And it’s not just me, either! Oh, no, everyone else is miserable here! And yet, I was singled out among all the rest to be the sick and abused pet of yours! Well, I’m DONE dealing with all of this! I can’t take it any longer! I CAN’T STAND YOU, NORMAN OSBORN!”
Otto accentuated his belted anger with the slamming of the welding actuator into the wall near Norman’s head, the core sending singed papers flying, frames shattering and clattering to the floor. Norman flinched and jerked away in surprise, looking at the destruction, bits of wall falling away as the actuator removed itself and turned to face him, and although it was a foot away, the heat it let off felt as though it were only inches from him. He turned his head, brows furrowed tightly, glaring at his insubordinate ex-employee as though he wasn’t the one seconds from death. He opened his mouth to shout, but Otto spoke up before he could.
“I will not allow someone like you to continue to ruin my life, or anyone else for that matter. I will succeed where you failed, Norman.” The actuator reeled back, the ends curling into a threatening display, the core glowing hot white, the atmosphere around it warping from the intense heat.
“ CONSIDER THIS A MERCY-- !”
“What the--?!”
Otto paused, noticing Norman’s attention was jolted mid-speech towards something behind him. He turned around to see what it was that had taken Norman’s attention away, actuator following in sync. There, he saw a peculiar sight. A young person in a tan sloth onesie, a puffy green vest , and a bag was standing awkward, having just been spotted in the middle of sneaking around for who knows what reason . Their face was covered awkwardly by two masks, obscuring their identity. What on earth were they doing here? No one should have been up here!
You were frozen, like a deer in headlights as all eyes in the room were drawn to you despite your attempt to remain silent and out of view. You tried to assess the situation, figure out what to do, but from the sounds of it, it looked like far too big of a problem for you to deal with. You could only stand stiff with fear, watching as Otto lowered himself and sent a free actuator over toward you before walking closer just a couple of feet. The actuator bobbed around, floating around you.. almost as if it was examining you.. The finger-like tips were spread, allowing the camera at its core to see clearly, you followed it with your eyes as it twirled, making note of the small shutter shrinking as though squinting.
“Who are you? No one is supposed to be here, not now--” Otto spoke, his anger faltering into annoyance of being interrupted at such a critical moment. A small hint of possible familiarity in his mind as he tilted his head and squinted his eyes at you.
“Uh.. I-I’m..” Your voice was small and meek, trembling with uncertainty, a panic at having to speak. Luckily, you were spared your impromptu spotlight as Otto started to speak again. Unluckily, however--
“It doesn’t matter. Not now--” Otto growled and rubbed at his temples as though a headache had been forming. He looks back up at you, an anger in his eyes. The actuator that had been eying you reeled back, that familiar buzz in the back of your mind returned and you reacted before it lunged. Narrowly avoiding the tentacle-like device as it slammed into a cabinet behind you. You glanced back to see it change path and target you once more.
“Now where do you think you’re going?!” Otto shouted, sending another actuator your way.
“I-I’m not here to fight you! I didn’t come here to cause trouble!” You called back, jumping and dodging the swift limbs trying to swipe at you as you ran around the room.
"If you didn't come here for any of that, then why DID you come here?! I can't have anyone interrupting this!" Otto replied with a growing frustration, his actuators still chasing you as his eyes followed, locking onto your agile form.
You took a few moments to respond, focusing hard on not getting grabbed. Your mind buzzing relentlessly as the limbs kept swiping far too close for comfort. You ran around Norman's desk, ducking down behind the large mahogany colored leather chair before finally speaking up again. Your nerves alight with adrenaline and moderate fear.
"I'm here 'cause I saw the destruction at the hospital-- I-I wanted to know if you were okay-- I don't want anyone to get hurt!" You panted, still not used to exerting yourself so much even despite the boosted stamina that came from your still freshly gifted powers.
Otto was confused, and more so, he was growing more annoyed by the minute. You wanted to know he was okay?
"Don't patronize me. I don't know who you are or why you would even care. You are being a nuisance interfering right now!" He spat.
"But I'm no--" You tried to speak but were cut off by another close swipe of an actuator that snaked its way to your hiding spot. You managed to dodge and slide your way towards the large window that sat just behind Norman's desk. Standing still, your heels tapping the wall just below the window as you eyed the actuator as it rose back up again. You didn't really have any means of escape.. except for the window.. but it was closed.
"I will not say this again." He stepped closer to the desk, the actuator curling itself around the chair behind it, raising it up.
"JUST LEAVE ME BE!"
And just like that, the window was shattered. The chair having been thrown right through it with you narrowly dropping down and out of its trajectory. Shrieking as you fell back to the floor.
"I-- I-I can't-- I-I can't let you just kill someone! P-Please--" Your pleas were frantic, spilling from you like cubes of ice clattering to the floor.
"..You. You don't want me to kill Norman Osborn?" He was almost taken aback, seeing red at this point. Gripping at his head with a boiling rage, his actuators lifting him up as he continued.
"If you 'can't let me kill' him, then you will be the FIRST to go!" And with that, he lunged forward. The actuators smashing into the desk without a care.
You scrambled to your feet and assessed the window as he spoke, your senses picking up on an impending doom. Spotting an open window a few floors down and a window cleaning platform just below. You inhaled sharply to try and calm your nerves in vain over the height you saw. The smashing of the table startled you, whipping your head around just to see and feel the sleek and slender tentacle ram into you.
You couldn't react fast enough to even make a sound.
Chapter 5
Summary:
Run.
Notes:
FINALLY FINISHED THIS CHAPTER. BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR.
I hope this is worth the wait and that you all enjoy it.
I had a lot of help with writing this.
Chapter Text
The wind rushed past your ears as you came crashing down onto the suspended scaffolding a few floors down. The platform rattled violently, snapping one of the cords holding it up. Your head thumping against the floor of it, groaning loudly at the pain. The actuator that had pushed you had reeled itself back, preparing for yet another attack as Otto flew out the window after you. The other three actuators had smashed themselves firmly and securely into the side of the skyscraper. Peeling chunks of concrete from its surface as the limbs removed themselves before slamming back in with each step that drew him nearer.
You started to panic again, scrambling quickly to your feet. You looked around quickly to try and find some way to escape, trying your best not to look down and to keep your balance. You spotted the controls and scurried over. Fiddling with the box and taking a look inside, this was your first time really seeing how these things worked. There was no time to sit and examine it. You locked your eyes on a circular device with a lever. Figuring it to be the way to get it to move, you took a hold and pulled with a silent prayer.
The stage rattled with added weight and with life as it began to descend. You turned just enough to look behind you, spotting the actuator latched onto the railing of the other end. Following it up, you saw Otto trying to chase you down the building, his actuator extending itself with the same speed of the platform. You thought you were safe, that you could walk back over and try to pry it off-- but, alas, the actuator acted faster. The tentacle gripped harder and began to retract, the platform jerking and grinding against the cables in defiance, but it was no match for the mechanical limb.
"GET BACK HERE AT ONCE!" Otto shouted from above, "I AM NOT THROUGH WITH YOU YET!"
You needed to find another means of escape, but you didn’t want to jump. You were already too high up for your own comfort, feeling your legs going heavy like lead. Your heart pounding loud in your chest and ears as all you could do was stare up at the terrifying man above you. His silhouette was nearly spider-like.. which did nothing to help your rising fear as his limb heaved you and the platform back up to him. He took a step or two down to try and meet you half way, one of the actuators smashed a window open just below him with a misstep, his attention solely focused on getting to you. Despite the initial terror of the glass shattering, ducking and covering yourself, you looked back up and saw that as an escape. You’ve never done this before-- you’ve never done any of this before, really-- but you eyed the now wide opened window, readying yourself the jump.
As soon as the window came within a range you felt yourself capable of achieving, you slammed your foot into the metal railing, breaking it to allow you better access to leap. You never did have great timing, all those video games you would play to pass the time never did prepare you for something like this. Still, you took the risk, self-preservation winning out in the end, and you took the dive. Your foot hitting the sill as you collided with the floor unceremoniously. You yelped at the pain of your foot and groaned as you hobbled to your feet. You had no time to waste, however, as you could hear Otto shouting, the platform falling, and his actuators tearing into the glass and wall to get inside and continue the hunt.
"WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON YOU--!" he continued to spout, shouting and growling as he tore through the hallway after you. Hardly a care at all for the environment around him, the arms crashing and smashing into furniture and decorations. The occasional yelp and shriek from his old coworkers hardly a noise in the background to him.
All that you could hear now was the sound of your breathing, the pounding of your feet against the linoleum flooring, and the rapidly approaching Doctor Octavius behind you down the corridors. Your mind buzzing before you could round a corner, quickly leaping out of the way of the actuators that lunched themselves at you from nearly every angle from behind. Up, down, from wall to wall, on tables and more, you played cat and mouse with the man trying to hunt you down and kill you. He was fast, but your favorite game from back in school over a decade ago was dodge ball. Your only skill was dodging, and it was only enhanced by these powers of yours. Reacting just in time, leaping and bounding further and higher than before. Even weaving through groups of people down somewhat narrow hallways was easier like this.
Much like the days of youth, however, when you would run from your older siblings, it was inevitable that you would be caught. Turning down a corner, your slipper losing traction trying to avoid some employees, sending you sliding towards the floor, unable to turn as fast as you’d have liked. This gave Otto ample time to latch an actuator around your leg, pulling back with force. The employees that littered the building stopping to see what the commotion was, some screaming at the sight of the doctor and his terrifying limbs, others rushing into rooms to get out of the way.
An odd, sharp shriek ripped from your throat, the actuator reeling you in towards the doctor at an incredible pace jolted and faltered, letting you fall back to the floor just as soon as he had lifted you up. Glass from a window shattering nearby from the sound, you hadn’t time to think how weird that was, instead focusing on getting back to your feet and continuing your escape.
Otto allowed you the momentary head start, taking notice of the glass and way in which his actuator reacted to that small outburst of yours. What a peculiar reaction.. If he were still a working scientist, he would have loved to study that, alas, this wasn't the time nor anymore the place. People continued to stare and watch, making him hesitate as he took notice, but that didn’t stop Otto from resuming the hunt. The actuators kicked back into gear, speeding off around the corner and catching up fairly quickly.
It didn't take long for him to be lashing out his mechanical arms at your legs once again. You tried to leap over a table in your path, but you were knocked out of the air by an actuator. Colliding onto the floor, your legs smacking against the table as you tried to jump. Luckily, it provided enough coverage from another lunge by the doctor's limbs for you to recover. Bouncing back to your feet and running again just as the table was lifted and tossed away with an increasingly displeased grunt from behind.
Your shin throbbed as you ran, each pounding step you took, sending a jolt of pain up your leg. Although difficult, you had to ignore it. Sprinting full speed through the halls, avoiding the various scientists and personnel, and Otto hot on your trail clamoring down flights of stairs, not once had he considered this a waste of his time, too intent on taking you out. Your bad rib began to act up and cause you further pain as your lungs burned from the rush. Adrenaline and fear the only things keeping you moving.
'I need to stop, I'm so tired,' you told yourself. It was the only thought you held.
Darting around another corner, narrowly avoiding some more workers, closer toward the first floor, you veered off into a large meeting room. It was lit up with open windows and filled with a large pill shaped table dead center. Many people were already seated around it having an interrupted discussion. There wasn't much time to observe as you heard Otto's voice bellow just outside. You slammed the door and shoved an empty chair in front of it before rushing toward the windows in the back.
"I'm so sorry! You gotta get outta the way-- Get to the walls!" You cried out quickly, apologizing for the intrusion as you made your way around the room. The sound of the people murmuring and rustling in confusion and compliance behind you only grew louder as the door rattled and banged violently.
You were on the second floor, peering down from the sill as you climbed through it. The blockade barely lasted as the door was ripped from its hinges. People began to shout and scream, and you slipped from the window. Clutching the side of the building, you carefully crawled down until you reached a point that jutted out just enough for you to hop down and jump to the building next door.
It was just as you did that Otto pounced out the window and latched himself onto the side of the same building. The actuators ripping bricks from their set location upon impact. You scurried up the building as quickly as you could. Pulling yourself up over the top just as you had reached it. Unfortunately, Otto was quicker to climb and caught up.
An actuator finally snagged you, whipping around your middle and quickly lifting you from where you stood. You could hardly scream as it happened so fast.
"I have had enough of this little game of cat and mouse!" He shouted, accentuating the point by slamming and pinning you to a nearby hvac on the roof.
You gasped and cried in shock at the pain. Sucking in sharply to regain the air in your lungs, it stung, much like the tears in your eyes. Your limbs were seized as was your torso by the metallic limbs. They wrapped themselves firmly around you, holding you in place as they pried away your arms and legs for him to see your now exposed face.
"Please.. P-Please don't hurt me.." You cried feebly. Tears and sweat staining your reddened cheeks. Your body shook and trembled weakly in his grasp, both from fear and exhaustion. Silent sobs fell from your lips in shaky breaths.
Otto stood silent. Images flashing in his mind as he stared down at you. Memories playing on loop. The image of himself as a child cowering with broken glasses and blood in his nose flickered over the sight of you. The image of himself as a teen cowering from bullies who often mocked and took advantage of him flickering into view. A final imagine flashing before him was a recent one, cowering from his own employer, Norman Osborn. The realization of his current situation and the guilt of his actions washed over him, hitting him harder than the volts of electricity that coursed through him a month prior.
"What.... Wh-What have I done..?" He stuttered, taking a step back, "Wh-What am I doing..?" The actuators dropped you to the ground as he recoiled into himself. He held his face in disbelief, the glasses riding up with his hands sliding up his cheeks. His mind racing, processing everything that's happened. Everything that he's done.
"I'm.. I'm so sorry-- I-- I-I don't-- ..What on earth came over me..?"
As he spoke, all you could do was catch your breath and stare back at him. Confused and surprised, but thankful to be freed from his hold. Rubbing your sore limbs where you had been grabbed, you simply watched, unsure of what to do next as the man before you started to enter a panic.
"..Uhm.. S-Sir..?" Your voice was quiet, a little strained and shaky from the fear and tears just prior. Your lungs burned with the fresh air. With rattled breath you tried to steady yourself, hands trembling as you lifted yourself to your feet. "Are.. A-Are you okay..?" Your eyes darting from his face to the limbs that held and attacked you just moments ago.
“‘Okay’? Am I ‘Okay’?” That made Otto's brows knit tight as he glanced your way. His frown deep on his face as he looked between you and the metallic limbs etched into his back. His own breathing was becoming a struggle as he peered down at his hands, grasping at nothing as his mind spiraled and flashed. Memory after memory. He couldn't even look at you as you continued to speak to him.
“..Ah.. Um.. I-I didn’t want anythin’ bad to happen.. to you or anyone.” You were shaking, darting your eyes to everything but the man in front of you, “I.. don’t know if you know, but.. I-I was the one who took you to the hospital..” Otto looked up at you, his arms dropping a little as he eyed you with a suspicious curiosity. “..I’m really sorry for whatever happened to you, but this isn’t right..”
You gave him a look of sympathy, a mix of pain twisting it just a bit. "I-I know you’re upset and all, but--"
"OF COURSE IM UPSET! I’M MORE THAN JUST UPSET, I’M FURIOUS!" Otto roared out, his mutterings sliced through to yell once more. His expression fell as his stomach churned, nausea twisting inside him. Drawing back as he raised a shaky hand to his mouth and looked away, going silent once more. Slipping into his own thoughts.
You merely stood there in surprise, jerked back from the outcry.
You felt helpless, lost and confused in such a situation. Not sure at all what to do next. You stood there, fidgeting with her hands, coiling into yourself a little for comfort. Your pain dulling into the background as you tried to think of something, anything, to try and help the situation further, but all you had was an empty mind as usual. The silence was uncomfortable, almost enough to make your ears ring until it was finally broken, though not by you.
"I listened. I obeyed. I did exactly as I was told.." Otto began to speak. He was quiet at first, but his voice quickly jumped to a booming, indignant cry.
"For everything that I had ever done for that company, for that man, THIS is the thanks I get for all that time wasted and all that pain I have suffered!?" Otto raised his arms, two of the four actuators following suit in perfect sync as they towered high above him, "It is beyond unfair! It's cruel and inhumane!" He threw a fist into the air, sending an actuator flying and slamming into the nearby roof access door. A final act of his rage which frightened you, making you jump with a small cry. Some rubble and dust fell from where it cracked on impact, the metal limb remaining perfectly unscathed and intact as it reeled itself slowly back to him.
"Norman Osborn deserves everything that he has coming to him! And the day that happens.." His head was turned down, and all you could see was his furrowed brow. His voice was low and tone impossible to judge what he was feeling as he spoke, "That day can never come soon enough. Karma acts fast.. but it can also wait and grow." He carefully lifted his head, staring up at the sky beyond the reach of the skyscrapers around the both of you.
"It seems that I, too, will have to wait. As for now, today is not that day."
He turned to face you with a final word. His face softened after a moment, his expression more solemn and tired.
"I.. owe a lot to you. Thank you."
Chapter 6: part 1
Summary:
Second impressions, an awkward reintroduction.
Notes:
Happy New Year. This is very long so I broke it up into 2 parts. This is the shorter of the two.
small cameo of my treasured friend on tumblr who was mentioned before, but unnamed in chapter 3.
any feedback would be appreciated.
Chapter Text
It had been a few weeks since that incident at Oscorp, and over a month since the incident that started it in the same location.
You had gone back to your usual routine by this time. Working and occasionally following your senses to try and help people, even if you didn't have anything on you to make a bigger difference. It sure would be nice..
'..I don't know how, but I would like to make it up to you.' His words echo in your mind. 'It's the very least I could do, but would you allow me to repair your costume?'
That had been something you've been thinking about ever since. You were nervous and uncertain, even going so far as to speak with your friend about it. Such is the case of now as you turned to enter your favorite little restaurant, the Commodité Café. It was just a fancy name. Walking in and heading towards your favorite windowed booth, you spotted your friend already enjoying a little meal.
Sai was a very unique individual. A small, fat mutant covered in a rich green fur from head to toe. Digitigrade with a tail that ended in the shape of a fin. Sharp teeth stuck out like an overbite from their short rabbit-like muzzle. One vibrant green right eye and a scar over where their left one would have been. Finally, shoulder-length furry green ears fell down with a little outward flare at the ends on either side of their head. A few piercings on each ear to match their red beanie and pink heart jacket.
"Hey, Sai..!" You greeted comfortably as you got seated.
"Hey," they replied, swallowing a mouthful of seasoned fries, "You still worked up about the scientist guy?"
"Yeah.. I really just don't know whadda do.. He didn't give me any bad vibes. So, I know he was bein' genuine, but like.. I'm scared of something happening or even losing my outfit.. I know I'm probably better off goin' somewhere else and gettin' it repaired there, but that's so expensive.. But I'd feel worse that I'd be gettin' somethin' like that for free from someone and--"
You began to ramble on, and Sai's attention began to wander as they listened. The rush of cars and the hustle and bustle of people outside was a common sight through any window. The chime of the entrance rang quiet, nearly lost to the chatter of the other patrons. Watching as a tall, tan man with a black bowl cut and brown suit walked in and headed towards the back of the restaurant, papers clutched in hand. A family of three came in shortly after and found their seat. It was a moderately busy time of day. Their gaze dropping back to their food, then back to you once more as you finished.
"Listen," they began, "as much as I hate this guy 'cause he attacked you, a free patch job is a free patch job. 'Sides, if he gives you any trouble again, I'll personally hunt him down. You can always just text me if anything happens."
They had a funny way of reassuring you, but nevertheless, it worked. You made a note to head out as soon as you could to take the doctor’s offer.
--
'Here is my contact card if you ever consider accepting my offer. Again, I'm terribly sorry..'
You fiddled with the card in your hand, his words ringing softly in your ears. 'Doctor Otto Octavius' the pastel yellow card read in a pretty red ink. The subtle glitter of the red lettering was enough of a distraction to pass the time as you took the bus to the suburbs outside the main city. Traveling alone always made your anxiety churn, feeling a little ill as a result. Holding your bag close on your lap, the onesie tucked neatly inside, your mind begun to spin.
What were you to even expect upon arriving? You were heading to a complete stranger's house. To say you were nervous was an understatement. You only hoped and prayed this wasn't like any of the intrusive thoughts that flashed through your mind. Shaking your head, you stuffed the card inside it and pulled out your phone. Opening up the map app, you input the location on the card and watched as you got closer to your general destination. You figured it would be wise to have it at the ready, never knowing how confusing suburbs could be in their layout. You remember fondly the times your parents would get turned around and a little lost when trying to navigate such areas back home. How different could New York be from Texas?
As the bus reached its stop, you were about to find out.
Shutting the phone off and tucking it into your pocket for now, you got up and stepped foot outside onto the sidewalk. Pulling out the phone again, you turned it back onto the map and began to follow the trail.
The houses were quaint and varied. Colorful with at least one or two trees in the fronts of half the houses you passed by. A few had decor, the swings, and at least one hammock you saw along your way made you long for some rest and relaxation. Alas, you had to keep going and focus on the signs.
Map reading was a moderate talent of yours, making it quite easy to find your way in no time.
After a few lefts and a right or two, you shut your phone off and tucked it back into your pants. Observing the numbers of the houses you walked by, you finally took pause. The street you were on was on a curved uphill road, the houses having small fences and steps leading up to the front doors. Various trees provided a nice level of cover from the sun. Otto's house stood before you. It was lain with beautiful black and red bricks and topped with a black roof.
Making your way up to the door, your sense of feeling out of place grew stronger. You had come too far to back out now, your anxiety be darned. You took from your bag your masks you wore in your onesie and put them on. Swallowing down your nerves, you took a deep breath and gave the bell a ring.
It was silent as the cute jingle played. It felt painfully awkward. You waited a moment and allowed your eyes to wander some more. Spotting some hanging plants under the awning, eying some pots near your feet. You almost wandered your mind until you heard some shuffling inside and the door soon opening.
This was the first time you were getting a good look at the man. He was awfully small, just a couple inches shorter than yourself, though his size certainly made up for it. A round and pudgy form filling out a chartreuse sweater vest and a button-up dress shirt. It was topped off with a cute red bow tie. His face was rather soft, having a slight square shape that matched his large square glasses. Brown hair a lighter shade than yours stuck out in small locks and waves atop his head, though his thick sideburns and the backside of his head were buzzed and dark like his equally thick brows. What really caught your eye were his teeth. He had an overbite just like you.
"Oh..!" He said, surprised to see you, "You're.." His eyes hesitated around your face before darting away with a cough, "You came. I.. I didn't think you would, if I'm being honest. Ah, would you like to come in?" He held the door open a little wider, shuffling back to allow you some room.
All thoughts in your mind had come to a sudden halt as you merely watched the man stumble on his own words and give greeting. He was surprisingly different from how you had seen him before. You gave a nod and stepped inside. The way he eyed your masks made you feel all the more awkward..
“Please, have a seat, make yourself at home.” He led you down the entryway, past 2 sets of stairs and toward the living room. It was a very comfortable space with a sofa and two chairs sitting atop a large circular rug. A lovely brown wooden home entertainment center set up on the wall opposite to the sofa. There were a generous number of plants and framed photos and many, many books on the shelves of it.
Otto took his seat on the sofa and you in a chair across from him. There was an awkward silence creeping in, but it hadn't had time to settle before it was broken again. Otto cleared his throat before turning to you.
"Would you like a drink? I-I have water, and--" He was just as much of a nervous little mess as you. Somehow, that put you a little at ease.
"That'd be nice, thanks."
"Got it. I'll be right back."
And he left the room. The kitchen was nearby enough that you could hear him getting what you asked. You clutched at your bag again and looked around. Staring up at the ceiling with barely a thought. A small trickle of questions passing in your mind. What to say next. What to do. You really wished you were more capable of thinking things through more to the end, planning ahead..
Luckily, you weren’t alone for too long as Otto returned shortly, two glasses of iced water in hand. He placed one on the side of the coffee table between the both of you that was closest to you, sitting back down with his own. He took a sip and allowed you time to take your own, a silence settling heavy. There was a thick tension in the air, neither one of you sure of what to do. It made you antsy. It seems he noticed your discomfort with a glance and decided to break the silence.
“I.. I know this is probably very uncomfortable for you, but I’m a little relieved you actually decided to come here.” he began, “I respect your choice of anonymity.” Noting your masks, “That’s understandable..” he trailed off a little, but quickly piped up again, “but you don’t have anything to worry about, though.”
“What?”
“The actuators--” he stopped himself, figuring you wouldn’t know what he was referring to, correcting himself with something more or less to the point, “Err, my metal limbs. I don’t have them in, so--”
“..In?” you inquired.
“Oh. Yes, they can be removed. It’s just the harness. You don’t have to worry.”
Your eyes wandered a second towards his middle as he motioned with his arms as he spoke. He lifted his vest up to show the dark metal harness just below it, still bound around him. The shirt he wore was bunched up around the top of it from what you could tell before he pulled the vest back down.
“That’s.. good to know, thank you.” You averted your gaze back to your lap and the bag that lay there. It was a reminder of what you came for.
"Uhm..” You lifted your head again to speak, eyes dipping from Otto to the bag and back for just a moment, “I-I brought my outfit with me. It's in my bag. I.. don't know when you wanna take it to work on it.. and.." You trailed off.
"Oh! O-Oh, yes, that's right! W-Would you mind letting me see?" He jolted and looked toward your bag. You hummed with a little nod and began to pull out the costume. It had been washed and dried since the incident, taking your best care not to distress any of the tears further. It was still folded to the best of your abilities as you handed it over.
Otto leaned over and took it, resting back on the sofa as he unfurled the costume to see the damage he had done. Remorse danced uncomfortably on his features, making mental note of each rip and tear and hole that needed to be patched and sewn. He felt a little sick remembering and thinking of what he could have potentially done had you not been there.. if you hadn’t reached out.
“This shouldn’t take too long. You wait here, I’ll go and get my things.” he placed the clothing down beside him and stood up to leave, “You are welcome to help yourself to a snack in the kitchen in the meantime. It’s right over there.” he pointed in the direction he’d gone to retrieve the water. Seeing you look over and nod, he gave an awkward smile and headed off upstairs.
When Otto came back down a few minutes later with a box of sewing supplies in hand, he was surprised to see that you had not moved. Truth be told, you felt bad about taking from the home of someone else. He didn’t question it, however, and merely cleared his throat as he placed the supplies on the center table and sat himself back down. Shooting one last nervous glance your way, he began to retrieve the things he’d need; needle and thread and a thimble or two. It was as he was thumbing through the threads for the right colors that he spoke again.
“..Do you mind if I ask your name..? We.. Uh.. W-Well.. We haven’t been properly introduced.. My name is Otto, i-if it puts you at ease that I go first..?”
You turned your head from where you had drifted off into space, blinking at him with a start. You hesitated to speak your real name, opting instead to continue the false one you had used once before.
“I’m.. Acedia. Otto’s.. a cute name.”
“..Oh. Well, thank you.” That surprised him, making his first stitch, “Acedia is a rather unique name. Pretty, despite its history.”
You perked up a little at that comment, happy to have it acknowledged.
“Yeah, I thought it was clever.”
He chuckled and agreed, continuing on with his sewing. He was 2 finished tear patches in when another silence settled between you. You had pulled out your phone and hesitated to turn it on. Fiddling with your apps and texts with your friends. You weren’t on it for long, turning it off and looking at your reflection in silence.. You turned your phone around, feeling more embarrassed and awkward about your masks. It appears Otto had noticed as the next thing you knew, you were jolted by the sound of the TV suddenly turning on and the light clack of the remote being placed back onto the table.
“..I thought we could use some noise.”
“Ah, thanks.”
“Of course.”
You looked over at his work, seeing how well his stitching was. It had you wishing you could remember what you had learned all those years back in high school. That one year learning about sewing and making clothes..
“Halfway there. I’m usually better with knitting..” came Otto’s voice with a small, awkward chuckle. “Ehm.. What about you? If you don’t mind me asking..?”
“Oh, uh.. I don’t mind mind. Um, I can’t really sew.. I never had a machine.. forgotten everythin’ I learned back in high school pretty much instantly, even before I graduated. I’m.. more into art. Never was crafty..” You fiddled with your hands on your lap, your gaze wandering.
“Oh, an artist? I’ve always admired art. Beautiful work.”
You hummed in response, feeling a little more at ease.
“If you’d like,” Otto paused his work to look your way, “I could show you some of what I know? It’s not a lot, but it’s not hard to learn. Just some simple stitches.”
“..Really?”
"Yes. It'd be no trouble at all. I may not be a tailor, but working in my lab can cause some accidents to happen."
"..Your lab?" you felt a bit uneasy.
He seemed to perk up, however, "Would you like to see it?"
"..But wouldn't we have to leave..?"
The look of dawning realization and horror spread across the doctor's face, embarrassment settling quickly as he jumped and sputtered to correct the misunderstanding.
"Oh, heavens no!" He shook his head and hands frantically for a moment, "I don't mean Oscorp! I have a lab in my basement..!"
"Ah, I'm sorry! I-I didn't mean to--!"
"No, no! I-It's entirely on me for not being more specific."
"It's okay, I really shouldn't have assumed.."
"I suppose.. we're both at fault then."
"Mmh.." You hummed in agreement and looked away as yet another bout of silence started to creep in. Fortunately, it hadn't time to make itself uncomfortable as Otto reiterated his question.
"..Would you still like to see it..?"
You quickly looked back up at his words. Curiosity always made itself at home in your heart. You also had nothing better to do anyway.
"Sure. I don't see why not."
That seemed to make Otto perk up. Standing up from the sofa, he made a comment about leaving the final patchwork for later and beckoned you along. You promptly rose and followed suit as he led to toward one of the two sets of stairs in the hall. Taking the one on your left and flipping a small switch, the doctor led you down into his lab.
-----
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Chapter 7: part 2
Summary:
Art meets craft.. they get along quite well.
Notes:
This is very long so I broke it up into 2 parts. This is the longer of the two, but it's necessary I keep it in tact. Buckle up for some bonding with our new little friend, Doctor Otto.
any feedback would be appreciated.
Chapter Text
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There wasn't much to really see in it. It was rather sparse save for some boxes and shelves. A few tables had been set up with computers around the walls. Some larger furnishings were covered with tarp. The back wall was rounded off, and in the center of the room was a short platform. Strange grooves in the flooring of it noted potentially hidden extras. This was proven correct as Otto walked a little deeper and pressed a button on a nearby desk. The shapes marked into the floor by grooves rose up, revealing tables tables. Pressing a few more buttons, the lab really lit up, allowing you a better view.
"This is only the first half. The other half is through that door over there." Otto pointed toward the wall on the same side as the entrance. There was a sturdy door built into the far end of the wall.
"There's nothing to see in there besides some large machines.. and the.. a-arms." He was hesitant and quiet as he said those last three words, a bit afraid to cause you any discomfort as his guest.
"..Wow.. This is.. really cool..!" Your gaze wandering around the room with fascination did quell his mind, however. There may not have been much to see in the lab, but it nevertheless impressed you. It was the first time you’ve ever been in a real lab. Well.. aside from the Connors’ lab you toured in.
“My housing and the renovations for a lab to be installed into it were all funded by Oscorp, as are the machines.” Otto mused, "although, I suppose I own them myself now. I have all the time in the world to tinker with these machines however I see fit." It was an attempt to make a positive out of the situation. The implication that Oscorp would require him no longer hung in the air uncomfortably.
"I'm really sorry about your job."
"Hm? What for? You had nothing to do with it."
"I know.. I just feel bad." You began to fiddle with your hands, looking away.
"That's alright. The job was torment, anyway. Rarely got anything fun out of it despite it being a dream career. I can find better employment within my field elsewhere without Oscorp breathing down my neck now."
You didn't know what else to say, so you remained silent, save for a little hum in acknowledgment of his words. The two of you stood idle in the silence of his lab a moment before Otto cleared his throat.
"An.. Anyways. Now that you know a little about me.. May I know a little about you? Like.. If you don't mind me asking.. Why did you do all that? Saving me.. How did you manage that?"
"Uh.. um.." Suddenly you felt quite put on the spot, "I--" Your mind raced to think of a response, "..I just kinda.. sensed it. Somethin' was wrong, and I followed it to Oscorp.. I climbed up the side of the buildin' and into the busted window to your lab. That's when I found you. I-I didn't know if you were alive a-and it really scared me.. but when I did, I picked you up and carried you out. I just wanted to help."
"You..?" Otto blinked, unable to hide the fact he looked you up and down. His mind processing and calculating, dumbfounded by what you had told him, "You managed to do all of that? ..That's quite the superpower you have. Are you, perhaps, a new superhero? If so, then.. perhaps I could--"
You regretted how fast you responded, "Oh, no! I.. I-I mean.. I could never handle that kind of work.. What I did already was more than what I was able to handle.."
"Oh.." He sounded rather disappointed, which only served to make you feel even more regret.
"..I mean.. it'd be cool if I was. I don't even have a costume, though.. I'm not a fighter.. I can't even throw a punch.."
"..Well.. I could help with the costume.. I-If you're willing to allow? I was just about to suggest it." When he received no answer beyond a surprised yet puzzled reaction, he continued speaking, "It would be a better level of payment than simply just repairing your other clothing. After all, I owe you my life."
Otto remained on his side of the lab, allowing you the freedom and space to consider his offer. You only stood there in silence. Your hands held at your chest, fiddling with your fingers in anxious thought. A small part of him wished he could read your expression.
"..I.." You began, your quiet voice cracking through the tense air between you, "..I'd really appreciate that.. Thank you." It felt bad to keep receiving from someone who got nothing in return, but you had already come this far.
Otto seemed hesitant at first but quickly perked up. It wasn't every day that a small project idea of his was ever accepted.
"Oh, wonderful! Now, uhm. Where to begin--" He shuffled quickly around the room, rummaging through the drawers of a desk and cabinet, retrieving some pencils and paper, "I've never designed any clothing before, nor have I made any, b-but I think I can manage." Carrying the newly acquired items, he walked back to you and pulled out a chair from a nearby desk and motioned for you to sit, "Come, have a seat. We can brainstorm some ideas and go from there. Do you have anything in mind?"
You stared at the doctor and the papers on the desk, not having moved yet from your spot. Hands gripping the strap of your bag tightly a moment as your mind raced. It was at a sudden idea that you began to move. Taking your place across from the man, you pulled out your phone from your bag and opened up your drawing app.
"I'm better digitally." You mutter shyly, "Uhm.. let me get a base started."
Otto merely watched in curious awe as you moved your fingers to quickly and well-trained across the screen, sketching out the shape of a human figure. Copy, paste, flip, and edit.. in no time at all, you had completed your base.
"You're quite good at that." Was all Otto could say.
"Thanks."
"Now, do you have any ideas? I'm more accustomed to crafting machinery and tools than I am with costume design.."
"No.. sorry, I don't know where to begin.. uh.. I would like to look cute and friendly, though.."
"Hm.." his eyes wander in thought from you to the paper, to the door leading upstairs, then back to you before speaking up again with an idea, "Would you mind if I made a start? I think I have something in mind we could work with as a starting off point."
"Sure, go ahead." You were curious now.
As Otto began to sketch out the idea he had, you leaned in to watch. While he wasn't much of an artist, his skills weren't too bad. You could tell, however, that his way of using a pencil was more for drawing blueprints and making notes. The movements were more mathematical and rigid, a far cry from your more free-flowing style that most artists had. Aside from the quality, you observed the content of what he drew. After one sketch, Otto paused. He took a quick glance up at your masked face, searching your unreadable expression. Brows knitting and eyes squinting with another idea as he moved on to another sketch on the page.
The look of it still didn’t feel quite right. Nothing super heroic about it. He tapped the end of the pencil to his chin, his front teeth just barely digging into the soft eraser as he thought again. Finally, he had one last idea. Moving to a new empty space on the page, he started to sketch once more. He sat more upright with a little pride and turned the paper for you to view it better.
“What do you think?”
“Oh..!”
It was this final sketch that gave you quite a big idea. Perking up and fumbling with your phone, you went back to the app and started a new layer to draw your costume on. There wasn’t too much you changed or added. Puffed shorts that connect and sag around the knee create a unique silhouette. Markings on the thighs that could be pockets and a belt with a circular buckle. Upon the buckle is a peculiar little design, the abstract face of a sloth. The vest and sleeves and even the mask from Otto’s own sketches were present within your new design. There was a black zip-up vest with a green v-shape across the chest and 2 brown stripes around the waist on either side. The legs were black with a green gradient from the foot to the knee, and a yellow stripe separated the toes, which were given lines to resemble more claws.
Otto was quite fascinated by how quickly you managed to draw and color all of that on your phone so well. Adjusting his glasses as you finished and handed over your phone for him to see it.
"Well now.. This is some remarkable work!"
You couldn't help the little smile at his compliment. Even if he couldn't see it, he could hear a small giggle escape you.
"It will be a bit of work, but I think we can manage this. Although," he laid the phone back down and twisted it for you to see as he explained, "It appears we may need to make this into a 2-piece outfit if we're going to make it work." He pointed to where the knees of the shorts and legs met, "Perhaps not spandex itself, but some other material could work for an under layer. Do you think.. you could design that for me?"
You nodded your head curtly and took your phone back again. Another layer and another several minutes later, and you slid it back over for review once more. The design was a little fancy, but what really caught his eye was the hands. He even questioned if they were finger-less, but you corrected him.
"Oh, no, it's fully covered. I thought it'd be cute if it looked like the claws a bit."
He had to agree. It did look cute.
"Well, all we need now is an idea of what it looks like from behind, and then we can begin with measurements and go from there. I'll leave that to you while I go look for something to measure with."
As Otto left, you continued to draw. Drawing always helped to keep you calm and think. Distracts the mind, getting absorbed in the process of design. Within the time it took Otto to retrieve his things and return, you had finally finished your work. Each element had been separated into its own folder of layers as well as additional notes on the design to make it comfortable for you. You were most proud of the hole in the back of the full head mask for your hair.
"I did a li'l extra tweakin' on it. I think I'm actually kinda happy with it.. I hope it's not too complicated..?"
"Oh? Have you? Let me have a look-see."
As Otto sat his things down on the table and found his seat again, he took one final look at your work.
"To say I'm impressed would be quite the understatement. This is really good!" His face lit up with awe at the work you had done and even more as you explained the layers as he flipped through them to see all that you had done, "I'm sure we can find a way to make this all work out just fine. O-Or at least as much as possible."
Otto handed your phone back to you and reached into his supplies for the measuring tape. He hesitated when turning back to face you, giving you a quick, nervous look before nodding his head.
"I'll, uhm, need you to stand up for this. I'll need to take your measurements, after all."
The tension grew a bit awkward then, but you complied. Standing from the desk and walking around to stand a bit closer to the doctor as he unfurled the tape. From this close, his height was all the more obvious as your eyes were down-turned to see his face. It was only a moment that you looked at him, but as soon as he glanced up at you and your eyes met that, you jolted and looked away. He cleared his throat just as you did.
"This.. Th-This is only going to take a moment. If you don't mind." With a hand, he lifted your arms out like that of a scarecrow, "I’m just going to measure your limbs, if that’s alright?”
“Yeah, that’s fine.”
“I’ll give you the tape when I’m done, and we can get the rest of your measurements. For now.. hold still.” And with that, he stretched out the tape and began measuring your arms. You couldn’t help the memory of high school cropping up in your mind. Getting your measurements now feels no different from then.. aside from the lack of a potential audience. Luckily, Otto was quick with his hands and took a few steps away from you as he finished up. Offering you the tape with a smile. You took it with a small thanks.
“The final measurements will be your.. uhm.. y-your hips, waist.. and bust.”
He didn’t look at you as he struggled to speak that last bit. You couldn’t blame him, though.
Since you had done this once before, you knew what to do and got right to work wrapping the tape around your body. Calling out the final numbers the doctor needed, and he jotted them down with the rest. Dropping the tape off onto the desk, he turned back to you with a glance and a smile, holding up the paper.
“Well, now that that’s done, I think I can continue patching up your other costume, and we can decide upstairs what we’ll do for the next step.” he led you back out to the living room as he continued, “Firstly, we’ll need the materials-- I already have a few things in mind that could be good, but I’ll need to know what colors to use.”
“Browns and blacks would be good. More natural colors.. like a sloth. Bits of green, too, since they often have moss growing in their fur for camouflage, and ‘cause they’re so slow.” you responded. Your nerves from the start have dissolved away by this point, and you’ve become relatively comfortable. You’ve even nearly forgotten all about how awkward it was that you were still wearing your masks. Even Otto, himself, seemed more at ease, too, by this point.
This whole experience thus far has been surprisingly enjoyable, all things considered. Sitting back down where you had first sat when you arrived, you kept your attention on the doctor. He prattled on about various questions and topics as he picked up where he left off on patching up your clothes, and you responded whenever necessary to his inquiries. The time passed by comfortably enough, a little laughter shared between the two of you, and soon enough, your outfit was fully patched. He held it up to marvel at his work before handing it back to you to place back into your bag.
“Well, now,” he began, “I suppose it’s time you get to heading back. It’s been..” he trailed to check his watch, his expression went from a calm little smile to a flash of fear and surprise, “O-Oh dear! Has it really gotten this late? Have you really been here this long?”
“Oh, crap--! Yeah, I really need to get back!” his surprise was enough to make you also aware of how much time had passed since you had arrived, entering your own state of mild panic, making “The sun’s gonna start setting soon.. I really gotta hurry before--!”
“O-Oh, no! It’ll be much too late by the time you get back to the city limits, even by bus! That one has never been too reliable. Please, a-allow me to take you there myself? I’d feel horrible allowing you to go home alone like that. It’s unsafe.”
“..Well that’s true.. but how? Do you have a car or somethin’?”
“I do, yes. It’ll be better than having you walking around with, well..” he gestures slightly with his hand at his face as he looks at you, “that on your face. It’d be awkward, and I don’t want any more discomfort between us.”
“..Heh, you do have a point..” You felt a little self-conscious now, being reminded of your facial coverings. Your head turned down in embarrassment but lifted again at the reiteration of his question.
“So.. Would you allow me to drive you? I-I understand fully if you’d like me to drive you to someplace nearby and not directly to where you live. I’m still a stranger to you, after all.”
“I know you’re not a bad guy,” you said quickly, but realizing how that might be a little weird, you added, “I-I mean-- You’ve been really nice to me, so.. I don’t mind if you took me.” You didn’t know how to explain the senses you had.. you didn’t even know if you should.
He shot you a quizzical look at your initial comment but was relieved and a bit flattered by your acceptance of his offer. He beamed and stood up, offering his hand to help you up from your chair.
“Excellent. Come, I’ll show you the way.”
“Thanks, and okay..!”
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The ride back to the city was a relatively quiet one. Music was playing on the radio as you gave Otto directions from your phone to a destination not too far from your apartment. The two of you agreed to meet up there to make the trip to and from his home all the easier for you. Especially concerning the protection of your identity and your general comfort. Upon arrival, you both bid the other farewell and made plans on your next visit. Making note of it on your phone, you waved goodbye and removed your masks as soon as he drove off, taking in the cool evening air. Despite the buzzing nerves, you were oddly a bit excited to do this. Thoughts of what the finished product would be like flashed through your mind as you made your way back home.
The meeting came and went, laying down the foundations of what materials were needed as well as estimates of how long it would take. Further visits were planned subsequently throughout nearly the whole month. It was fun watching as scraps and cloths and metal were meticulously cut, sewn, and molded into shape. You offered and did all you could to aid in the process. Hand sewing some elements with his gentle instructions. Pockets of tan, yellow, and brown decorated the thighs, all done mostly by you. A brown patch, too, on the back of the small yellow-furred hooded green vest. Otto handled the bulk of the creation, however. He was quite diligent on following your request to make the costume look cute and friendly. Emotive eyes on the mask were a detail he was quite proud of.
The costume was nearing completion, and the two of you had become more comfortable and familiar with one another throughout the process. You even shared what you knew about your abilities, even going so far as to demonstrate them with the doctor taking notes with a deep fascination. It was all valuable information that added to the production.
Soon enough, the costume was complete, and you were waiting in the living room of Otto’s place until he was ready for you. You had begun to wander, gazing at the decorations and photos. He seemed to have an affinity for aquatic life, eying two small and cute ceramic octopuses on one shelf with a smile. You turned your head to another shelf, your eyes being drawn to a particular set of photos. One showed Otto and Norman Osborn at what you assumed was a science conference.. You weren’t sure. Another showed Otto at a graduation ceremony, a smile on his face, and a rolled up diploma held firmly in hand. You couldn’t help but smile back at it.
The last photo was more interesting. It showed Otto standing next to another taller man, both of them in lab coats. The other man was older with circular glasses perched on his hooked nose, a chain falling from the frames around his neck. One hand held a fancy cane that if you leaned and squinted looked like a bird, his other hand placed familiarly on Otto’s shoulder. Despite the rather plain coat, he had a rather striking look to him..
“Something catch your eye?”
You shuffled back with a gasp when the doctor suddenly spoke beside you. He apologized with a small jolt of his own, not expecting you to have reacted like you had. You noted in his hands was a rag, likely one from his lab he was just in. He spoke again, turning to look toward the photos you were gazing at.
“Hm.. I should text him as soon as I get a new phone..” Otto muttered quietly to himself as he looked at the redhead in the photo. You were hesitant, but your curiosity was piqued.
“..Is he someone important?”
“Hm? Oh, well, I’d say so. He’s a good friend of mine. Business partner, too. Despite how he may appear, he’s quite a considerate and friendly man. A brilliant mind, too, taught me a few things since hire. He's one of the best things to happen to me in Oscorp for the past nearly 10 years.”
You hummed in understanding, looking back at the photo. Eying the man’s face a moment before Otto spoke up again.
“Well, anyway-- I’ve got your costume all set in the lab and ready for fitting.” he fiddled with the rag as he spoke, holding out his hand in the direction of his lab with a smile, “I’m very excited about this.”
“Me, too.” You happily followed him downstairs.
Just as Otto had said, the costume was set up on a table. Laid out neatly was every part they created. Mask, under suit, over suit, belt, and hooded vest. There were two small boxes off to the side on the same table. It didn’t concern you, though, as your eyes were glued to the costume in awe.
“Ooohh!!” Eyes wide as you rushed over to the table to get a better look, leaning and looking it over with excitement, “It looks so cool all put together!”
“I’ve set up a little dressing area behind the curtains over there for you to try it on whenever you’re ready. I’d like to know if I need to make any minor adjustments.”
“Okay!” Wasting no time you gathered up the costume and rushed behind the curtains. It was a bit awkward to be changing your clothes in his lab like this, but you appreciated his consideration to build you a spot for some privacy. You made quick work at doing away with your face coverings and any other clothing that would get in the way. Slipping into the under suit, you marveled at how breathable and stretchy it was.
All the while, you were getting dressed. Otto had gone to a different corner of the lab. Examining some notes and blueprints he had been fussing over on his own time. It shouldn’t have been too hard to create, but some of the materials he would need were.. well.. difficult to come by. He called out to you after a few moments.
“You’ve probably already noticed, and its not like you’d be needing them, but I’m terrible sorry I couldn’t make those claws you designed. This little project would have taken a lot longer to complete otherwise, and I’d have been more than happy to do it. However..”
As he turned around, he paused as you stepped out in full costume. The lenses on the mask give quite a cute expression as you adjust your hair, pulling it out from the vest. He was very pleased to know the simple tracking worked perfectly.
“That’s okay. The rest of it fits really well! It’s really cute and comfortable. It’s so cool I’m actually wearin’ this! Sorry, what were you saying?”
“I-It is? Why, thank you..!” Otto beamed and fiddled shyly with his glasses a moment. He wasn’t all that used to having such enthusiasm in regard to his creations. It wasn’t a very common reaction he got back at Oscorp, “Y-Yes. I-- I was just saying,” Walking back toward the table, he picked up one of the two boxes you noted before and brought it to you, “I was able to create something else.”
With your gaze turned toward the box, he popped it open. Inside was a set of long wrist bands that shared the same colors as your costume. A small yellow device sat on the top with a little button attached by a short wire. He sat the box down on the table and pulled the bands out to present them.
“I am most proud of these.”
“What are they?”
“Well.. Let’s call them ‘vine shooters’.”
“Vine?”
“Yes. You see.. Over the past week while you were away, I got this wonderful idea. Now, I know they don’t actually climb or hang from vines, but I thought you might find it fun to use.” As he spoke, he motioned for your arm and helped to slide it on. He turned your hand palm up once it was attached, “There’s a little slit here on the grip pad where this little button fits.” He slipped it in, then stepped back to give you some room.
“I’ll let you see what happens when you press it. I’ve already tested it myself to make sure it actually worked. Go ahead and point your wrist at that pipe over there. Palm down, of course.”
Just as you were asked, you took as good an aim as you could at the pipe he pointed out. Using your ring and middle fingers, you pressed the button, feeling it click satisfyingly. All in a moment, a yellow metallic chain with green leaf-like décor sprung out from the wrist mounted device. The chain encircled the pipe in seconds, latching onto itself with a little clawed hook at the end. Words could not express how amazing that was to you, though you still let out a little‘Whoa..!’
“Vines! Just as strong as my actuators, they’d be nearly impossible to break. So, you won’t need to worry about your strength as you hold onto it! What, uhm.. What do you think of it?”
“This is so awesome! I REALLY love this! Thank you so much!” You chirped, beaming beneath the mask. Otto’s nerves were put at ease, knowing his hard work was so well received.
“I-I’m glad to hear that..! And thank you, too, for letting me make it all! It was nice to have something to do while looking for new work. Kept the hands and mind nice and occupied.” He lifted the remaining box as he spoke and showed you what was inside.
“By the way, those vines are very special and come in these little cartridges. They can be reused at any time, but I made a bunch just in case. You never know.”
“Ah, thanks..! And yeah, sometimes things can happen. Get lost or broke. I get it. I don’t know if I’ll be able to use any of this, but it’s cool to have it at least. I really appreciate everything.”
“No worries, that’s alright. You don’t need to use it, but,” checking the time on his watch, “Seeing as it’s almost getting late, I don’t think you’ll be using it to get home, either.”
“Ah.” You pulled your phone out from one of the costume’s pockets where you had stashed it earlier to see what time it was for yourself, “Wow, you’re right. Time really does fly when you’re having fun.”
Otto laughed at that.
“Indeed. Now, I’ll go grab my coat and keys while you get changed.”
“Alright! I’ll meet you upstairs.”
---
As you worked on stashing your costume into your bag downstairs, Otto couldn’t help but return back to that photo of him and his friend. It’s been a while since..
“..I’ll get a new phone while I’m out.. give the ole worrywart a text.”
Chapter 8: Deja Vu
Summary:
Old buzzards and misconstrued confrontations.
A sloth in the canopy is like a sitting duck to the birds above.. and a vulture isn't picky about what it eats.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"Of all times for you to leave on another one of your business ventures.."
"I won't be gone for too long, Otto. I assure you, if something ever happens, I will swoop back here in a heartbeat if you just give me a call."
"Thank you, Adrian, b-but I'm not a child! Really.. Must you joke now?"
The older man chuckled lightly at Otto's exasperation. The two had been standing outside of Oscorp for a while. Colleagues for nearly a decade now since Otto's employment into the company. Adrian had ventured off to seek work elsewhere on the regular for 3 years and counting. Offering up his technology to others and refusing to reveal anything to Oscorp. He knew well the sketchy nature of the man in charge, never pleased with his attitude towards his employees. He'd already been regretting his employment for some time, but stayed when Otto showed up and presented a lot of promise and skill. Always circling the new employee and watching over him like a hawk.
Today, he had some business to run out of town for a while. Poor Otto was nervous to be left nearly alone at Oscorp once more.
A taxi soon pulled up, and Adrian took to the door. He turned to look at Otto one last time. It was hard to leave knowing his friend was in potential trouble without him there as a pillar of support.
"I'm sorry, but I really must be going, Otto. You can call me at any time. You've a strong and brilliant mind, Doctor Octavius. Don't let that old coot snuff your spark."
"..Goodbye, Adrian."
"I'll be back within a month! I'll notify you as soon as I'm back. We can have lunch then!" and with that, he gave Otto a wave before ducking inside.
Otto waved goodbye and watched solemnly as the taxi drove off. It was the last thing Adrian had seen of Otto.
It wouldn't be the last he heard from him, however. The two kept up an occasional chat over the phone through a rare call, but mostly through text. Checking up on each other and informing each other of their progress. It wasn't until a few weeks into Adrian's venture that something changed.
Adrian figured Otto was merely too busy or tired to give him any calls. Putting his own phone away, Adrian continued on with his day as usual. A couple of days later, there was still no reply from his colleague. A little odd, but Otto had done this before, albeit rarely. He gave it another week, yet their was still no response to his texts. Something was nagging at him. Otto was a grown man, a strong man. He could easily handle himself on his own.. but he was so cowardly, too, as much as it felt wrong to think of his friend like that.
Leaving a meeting with a briefcase in hand, he pulled out his phone and called his friend for the first time in weeks.
There was no answer.
No voicemail, no automated voice message.. dead.
A feeling of anger and dread washed over the old man..
He needed to get back.
----
----
Plastic cups clatter to the floor as an inorganic vine lashes out, knocking them from the table they were stacked. You get up from your sofa and go to pick them up. Stacking them back up to repeat like you had done for the past 5 minutes. Playing with your newly acquired vine-shooters from a couple of days ago.
It was a shame not to use them at all, so you opted to at least play with them. Thinking of it like target practice. You really had no sense of aim, worse with your left, but it was fun regardless. Simply shooting a vine and reeling it back in after managing to knock a cup or more over. You didn't really have much else to do to pass your time in the evening besides draw or browse the internet. So this was a nice change of pace.
Another clatter of the tower of cups, and you're back to stacking them. Up from the couch and onto the floor once more. As you picked up the fifth cup, however, a familiar buzz started up in the back of your head. You sat frozen for a second, turning your gaze to the window next to the table. Hesitating, but you rose and glanced out through the curtains. Turning your gaze up toward the sky, you scanned as much as you could see..
And then you saw it.
You don't know what it was, but something large flew by overhead.. silently. It was impossible to make out anything, even despite the underglow of the city. Regardless of what it was, you knew it wasn't good. Turning your gaze to your apartment door a moment, then to the vine-shooters on your arms in thought.
Well.. You suppose this is your chance to actually put your costume and gadgets to real use. Although you would rather not, you couldn't help but be drawn to it.
Abandoning the cups still strewn about the floor, you rushed to your room to get ready to head out for the night.
-----
----
-----
A clock ticks, a pen writes, and a hand types.
The final signatures, the final emails, the final assessments to end the day, and a mug of coffee to top it off. Routine. That’s how Norman likes it. Like the smoothness of well oiled cogs in a machine. Stacking, pinning and filing the signed papers to set aside, he closed his laptop and stood from his chair. Taking his mug he made his way to his newly repaired windows, one last look over before he headed out. Staring out at the sprawling, glowing city like a king on high to his kingdom below. The thought was enough to crack a smile as he brought the mug up to his lips.
But then something went by.
The building is over 50 stories, what on earth was that?
He leaned in to the window to look around, but didn’t see anything. He placed his mug back on his desk and put a hand to his head. Stress. That must be what this is. Stress and exhaustion. Perhaps he should invest in a holiday for himself, let his company run in the background for a little while without--
Clunk! Crick!
Norman froze and looked toward the window again, catching glimpse of something passing by again. There was a chip in the glass.. A crack. Why was this happening? What was happening? He waited again, watching the window with almost bated breath to see if it happened again.
And it did.
Whatever it was, it circled the building once more and once again beat at his window. He could just make out a few details illuminated by his office light. A figure, almost human, yet not? And.. a cane? It came crashing into the glass, causing it to nearly shatter, cracks splintering all across its surface. Then the figure disappeared, all within a moment’s notice.
He knew he needed to leave. He didn’t want to be here when whatever it was broke through. Spinning around, Norman rummaged his desk for his things and tucked them away in his pockets before rounding the desk to make a run for the door. But he wouldn’t make it. Not before the window finally broke, shards flying out and clattering to the floor.
And in came the figure like a vulture to its prey.
Large black metallic wings shielded the figure, spreading just a little to shake off any fragments of glass. Then, the wings rose up and folded back, revealing the man they were attached to. A strange black headpiece with a red visor shielded his face, obscuring his features. Not obscured enough to hide the sharp scowl, however. Poised to attack at any moment, he stared the redhead down.
"Norman.. You've certainly been busy." The man's voice dripped with venom, the metallic claws he had for boots puncturing through the carpet and crunching the glass beneath. "But the question is.. with what?" He tilted his head and raised the cane to inspect it as he spoke, flicking his eyes up to leer at Norman, "Pushing forward the progress of technology? The progress of medicine? ..Or,” He trailed, walking closer to the CEO, almost circling him as he did, his piercing gaze never leaving him, “the process of removing bloodstains off the carpet?"
“I should have you arrested for breaking and entering. Do you have any idea how expensive those windows are? More than your life is worth.”
“More than Otto’s life? Don’t ignore me, Osborn.”
"You should be used to being ignored, you'd think it would give you thicker skin."
"Don't—" He stepped forward.
"’Don't’? You make an awful lot of demands, Adrian, like a petulant child.. what happened to Otto was his own fault, he’s already costed me enough damages and now you've added to the mess, perhaps I should add it to his check."
Adrian clenched his jaw and gripped his cane tighter, his scowl deepening.
“Ah, but he isn’t here anymore.” Norman continued, “Good riddance, though, I say. A shame, but not a loss to me nor this company.” and that was the last straw.
Adrian ran towards him, reeling his cane back before slamming it, metal handle first, into the floor. Norman dodged out of the way just in time, falling onto the floor in the process. It didn’t matter, Adrian turned on heel and raised his cane once again to try and beat the man.
Zwip!
Before he could even swing, a strange vine shot between him and the Oscorp CEO.
Both men turn their gaze in the direction it came from, resting their eyes uncomfortably upon you. Norman appeared more confused than Adrian, a mutual sense of deja vu for the both of you in this predicament. Adrian, on the other hand, glowered over his shoulder, reminiscent of a painting you’ve seen before. A fallen angel, crying. Yet, no tears were shed.
You reeled the vine back and quickly tried to shoot it again, cursing yourself for your lack of aim. You knew you were entirely out of your element. Your already pounding heart said as much. The vines, however, were your only means of being able to do anything, which was a step up from last time.
“Uh, Y-You shouldn’t do this..!” You stammered out, missing your shot again to vine up the vulture-like man. He merely dodged. Using his cane he wound the vine up and you panicked. Plucking the vine free from the wrist piece just in time as he yanked it, causing you to stumble a little.
Adrian looked down toward Norman and hissed, “When I’m through with her, I’ll be back to collect your corpse for what you’ve done.” And he took off for the window.. and jumped out.
Glancing between the window and Norman on the floor, you spoke, “I’m really sorry!” and bolted toward the door and out to the elevator.
Norman grumbled as he stood up and patted at his suit. Stepping over the shattered glass and torn carpet, he peered out the window to see Adrian disappear over the roof. Great. He turned back to look at his office.. he would need to make more phone calls yet again. And perhaps even up the overall security around the building, inside and out.
This was already getting old.
---
---
The air was warmer than the last time you were here, though it hardly mattered as you were hundreds of feet in the air. Adrian circled overhead, his wings large and looming. As soon as he has noticed you, he swooped down, shouting when he got close enough. He didn’t attack, not just yet.
“This has nothing to do with you, child! My troubles are not your concern!”
You ducked and covered your head, letting out a little shriek as he flew by. How were you supposed to deal with this? Sure you were gifted with superpowers.. but you really were so far out of your element.. You’ve never had a lesson in fighting in your life, can’t throw a punch.. All you’ve really got is your words.. and vines.
“I’m not a child!” You called back, “I-- I-I only want to help! You really shouldn’t be doin’ this!” Neither should you, you thought to yourself.
“I hope you realize that man is a murderer!” He snapped, circling around.
“And you killing him is no better!”
“And you think defending him makes you above us both?!” Adrian swooped down once more, this time directly overhead, causing you to fall back onto the ground as he hovered above you, choking out the words with such vitriol, tears finally breaching the surface, “HE KILLED MY FRIEND!”
Your own tears began to well up behind your mask from the genuine fear of this situation you found yourself in. Fear, and not knowing what to do. What could you do? What could you say?
“That’s not..! I’m sorry--!” But he took off back into the air, not hearing you at all.
You attempted to get up, to stand, but you were knocked back down. A pained cry was ripped from your lungs as his cane collided with your back as he swooped back around. Catching yourself as you fell to your hands and knees with a choked sob, gasping for breath with shock.
“You’ll never understand! He was a good man! A bright future for a brilliant mind like his, cut short!” He circled overhead again, preparing another attack, “And you’re going to defend the man who KILLED him?! I may as well kill you BOTH!”
Your sense flared to life in the back of your mind, albeit delayed, giving you no time to evade, but only enough to look up. You let out a primal cry of fear as you raised your arms up to cover your head. The talons of his boots grazing your skin through the cloth of your suit. The sting from the sharp metal burned and the tears welled up. You are out of your mind coming here.
“I've always known that man was corrupt,” He circles again, allowing you to finally get back to your feet with a hobble and a wheeze, “Never once had he ever uttered an apology in all my time of working at Oscorp. I knew he’d do something like this. I’ve seen a few employees suddenly disappear and be immediately replaced the next day with new recruits!” He slaps the cane in his hand, gripping it as he rolls his head in thought above you, “No explanation at all except an excuse to cover up my hypotheses that Osborn was behind it. They weren't fired nor did they quit,” his attention snaps back to you uncomfortably quick, “they were terminated!” And he swoops down again.
You quickly whip your arm up and try to aim and shoot a vine at him, but you miss. Crying out as he slams his hand into your chest, “Tossed out into the metaphorical shredder so that no one can have them if Norman Osborn can’t abuse them for his own gains!” he pushed you roughly into the ground. The sharp talons on his boots sparking against the concrete roof on either side of your body.
“It was already bad enough with that alone, but my friend?” his nails were like talons themselves, able to pierce both suit layers and scrape your skin as he gripped your clothes and pulled you up to his face, the red makeup highlighted his rage, the distress in his sharp eyes, the huffing of his breath fogging the beak of his birdlike visor a moment before he spoke again, his voice harsh and loud, you could almost swear the fur of his collar spiked up from the force of it.
“He crossed the line too far!”
With as much effort as he could muster, he threw you back to the ground. All you could do was shriek and cry as you made impact. You didn’t know what to do. You wanted to run. You scrambled to stand up, to get to your feet, but as you did, he started talking again.
“There’s nowhere for you to run!” he called out and stormed toward you. You begin to sprint, but he’s on you, kicking off into a quick flight and slamming you into an HVAC. The sound of which boomed and echoed, much like the peculiar shriek that was once again ripped from you. Adrian yanked you a moment, his mechanical wings seizing up at the sound of your shriek and he groaned from the sheer volume of it. Glancing at you through squinted eyes in confusion and curiosity of what that was.
“Please! Don’t kill me! Don’t hurt me! Please! Please! Please, don’t!” You gasped and sobbed, heaving. The lenses of your mask wincing with you from the pain and fear you felt. It seemed to work as he pulled away and you slump back to the ground, landing on your hands and knees, trying to catch your breath.
“Hah.. Neat trick.. But it won’t save you!” You lift your head, confused by his words, your mind throbbing, “I won’t ever forgive you forgetting in the way, and I won’t ever have to after this!” He kicked off, wings lifting him back into the air and all you could do was deeply inhale with a whine.
Clackle.
“I am going to kill Norman Osborn and you will not stop me!”
Shunk.
There was a sound. Getting louder. One you recognize.. not for the better. A mechanical sound.. and the crushing of glass and concrete. It makes your fear rise beyond what it already was. You curl tightly into yourself, hyperventilating then screaming as the sound reached its crescendo above you.
It all happened so fast. Adrian yelling as he swooped down to deliver the finishing blows. Reeling his cane up and over his head.
The slamming of metal to metal booming, followed by the crunching of the HVAC crumbling into itself as if it were made of aluminum. The sharp clash and flutter above you.. All of it made your heart jump and drop. You couldn’t stop the crying, the fear, the pain-- Gosh, you wish you were back home. You hardly even registered the familiar voice shouting at your assailant above your own harsh sobs.
“ADRIAN! STOP! WHAT ON EARTH ARE YOU DOING?!”
“O.. OTTO?!”
“What do you think you’re doing acting like a madman and trying to kill and innocent woman?!”
“I.. I.. I-I thought.. thought you were..” He could only stammer. Shaken to his core to see the man he thought dead was still very well and alive. Standing before him, hovering above the Oscorp roof, supported by his actuators. Two of which closed you in protectively as he stood between you and that vulture of a man.
“Thought I was what? What did you think of me that would cause you to attack her?!”
Adrian yanked his cane back and landed some feet away from Otto and you. Looking down at his hand, the cane, his other hand coming to hold at his head as he looked back toward Otto who was now lowering himself to his feet.
“I.. You can’t be here..! This can’t be happening-- You’re supposed to be DEAD--!”
The word caused the two free actuators to reel.
“Dead? Well, I have news for you-- SHE,” Otto steps aside and points, his actuators protecting you moving just enough to show your miserable form, “SHE is the reason I’m not! So instead of attacking her, you should be thanking her!” He hasn’t yelled like this since he, himself, had attacked you over a month ago. Never once had Adrian ever heard him yell like this before. The sight and sound alone made his wings flinch.
“..Otto.. I.. Oh gosh.. This is too much..” He stumbled back, gripping at his head, trying to process and understand everything. The weight of his actions, the relief of his friend being okay.. Tears started to well and fall from his eyes with the overwhelming stress.
A particularly guttural whine from you caused both men to look at you. Otto didn’t waste any time to rush over to your side, an actuator coming up to shine some light over you to better see your state. The tatters and tears in your costume, the blood and stains forming from your side and arm, the sight of it all made Otto’s heart sink.
“Adrian, we will discuss this later, but right now she needs help!” He turned back to you, “Acedia? A-Acedia, it’ll be alright. You’ll be alright, I promise. I’m going to take you home. Come-- Come here.” He was careful of your injuries as he helped you into a position better for him to lift and carry you. He turned back around to face Adrian who was still there.
“We can’t take her to a hospital, she’ll have to be tended at my place.”
“I’ll come, too.. See that she’s okay..”
With a firm nod from Otto, Adrian took off from the ledge. Otto followed, raising himself up with his actuators and began his rapid descent.
---
Notes:
Next chapter should come before the end of the year, hopefully, if all goes well for me. I've already got a decent portion of it already written.
After that.. the rest is a mystery even to me, but we'll see what happens on this little ride.
Chapter 9: Recuperate
Summary:
Recovery.. and reassessment.
A hint of something between them..?
Notes:
Note: Not every chapter will have a title.
Chapter Text
Your senses were screaming, ears ringing, and eyesight blurred from the tears that wouldn’t stop. Heaving and wheezing and coughing through your pained yet now mostly silent sobbing. Up until this point in your life, you had never experienced this level of pain, gripping your stomach and arms as you buried your face into the comforting form that held you.
Otto, using his real arms, held you firm yet gently against him. Using his mechanical limbs to lift you both and scale down the building, moving from one skyscraper to the next. Panic and concern fueling him as he rushed you to his place for some emergency care.
The man who had done this to you following along overhead, large mechanical wings gliding through the air, weaving around the buildings with ease. Though they were lightweight, they felt unbearably heavy, heavy with the guilt and remorse for what he’d done. Fighting someone who had only wanted to help.. blinded by his own senseless fury over who he had presumed dead just moments prior.
He hovered over the residence of his friend as they had quickly arrived, hesitating to land and follow. Only when one of Otto’s actuators stretched out toward him and waved, beckoning him inside did he do so. Folding the wings back as he touched ground, closing them tight before he walked inside. He would just sit back and wait, he decided, making himself half at home and taking a seat in the living room.
–
Otto scurried down to his lab, frantically whipping his actuators around the room to trigger the table and lights, and to find the first aid kit. As soon as the table rose from the floor he placed you atop it. You winced and groaned and he took a step back, anxious and trying to stay calm.
You kept your head down toward your lap, merely hunched in pain. As much as it was necessary, you didn’t want to move. You didn’t really have much of a choice in the matter, however, as soon came Otto’s voice, directing your attention toward him.
“Acedia.. I.. I-I’m going to need to remove your mask and suit so that I can help you.” An actuator placed the first aid kit on the table at your feet as you let out another silent shaky sob.
You hesitated, looking in his direction as though processing his words. He avoided eye contact and reached to open the bag as you thought about what he’d said. As soon as he heard your little ‘okay’ he turned back to you, passing on a cloth to an actuator which took off upstairs. Otto cautiously brought his hands up to your face, hesitating just at your neckline when he spoke again.
“..Do you mind if I..?”
Otto was nervous, to say the least, about seeing under the mask. Sure he helped you to craft this new costume.. but he still had not seen your face even then. It felt wrong, yet you gave him permission to do it, and he followed through.
Dipping his fingers carefully into the neck of your outer costume he delicately pulled it up and over your face. Unveiling before him your hidden features. With the mask now fully removed, he paused and finally got a good look at you.
Despite the tears, reddened eyes and face.. he felt his own face heat up just a bit. You looked away and sniffed into your shoulder opposite of him. It took only a moment before Otto cleared his throat and his hands were back at your neck. This time he took the zipper and pulled, going down as far as he could before needing to help move your arms out of the way and soon out the holes of the sleeves.
Now with your undersuit exposed he got to work brushing your hair out of the way to get at the zipper in the back of it. He did the same as he had done with the top suit and helped you to remove it. Had your arms not been injured, you could have easily undone it yourself, alas, this was not the case. As he was only working on your upper half at the moment he let everything sit at your waist before moving on.
You hissed while moving around so he could get to you better, to see you better. The actuator returned with the cloth now thoroughly damp, Otto taking it in hand as he turned back to you. With his hands raised once more he got to work helping to clean your face first before moving.. down.
A small whine caught in your throat made Otto pause for just a moment, assuming it was in response to the pain.
..In truth, it only partially was.
You closed your eyes to avoid looking at the doctor, feeling embarrassed. Gosh he was close, and his hands were so warm. You did your best to mentally focus on something else.. fighting off the creeping thought of how warm he felt, no matter how comforting that was at the moment. If it hadn’t been for Otto finding you and stepping in when he did, you couldn’t imagine what the outcome would have really been on that rooftop. What this very moment in time would have been if he hadn’t come to help stop the fight. Fiddling with your hands in your lap to give you something to do you gripped at the zipper and hem of your over-suit. At least now you had stopped your sobbing, it had grown tiring for your body.
Otto, on the other hand, had entered focus mode as he tended to your injuries, wiping away any blood he found with the wet cloth. An actuator was pulling necessary items from the first aid kit while another retrieved another cloth, one more was circling you, examining the further damage Otto needed to take care of.
The poor girl, he thought, covered in scratches and bruises, cuts and scrapes.. and a gash or two, and that was only on your upper half. Otto frowned at the thought, brows knitting together with a mix of concern for you and frustration with his friend upstairs for doing all of this.
–----
Adrian could only sit so long, feeling restless he stood up and paced around the room for a bit. His mind a slurry of thoughts, both relief and remorse. Fretting over everything that had perspired earlier that night.
The man merely removed his headpiece and placed a palm to his face. Running his hand down his weary features, not caring if he smudged the makeup around his eyes. That was the least of his worries.
After a moment and a deep sigh he placed the headpiece back on and headed toward the door once more, muttering an apology as he did.
“..I’m so sorry.”
–------
With your face now cleaned, you watched Otto as he went on to your arms, taking one in hand at a time. His touch was firm yet delicate, worried he may hurt you more than you already were. You did your best not to stare.. nor have your eyes wander to his face for too long, snapping your gaze away to instead examine the room you were in.
It was just as it was since the last time you were here. A few tables were set up in the almost circular room, some posters and diagrams and blueprints decorated the walls. A couple of boxes lining the walls, some boxes and machines, unfinished projects she assumed, were covered with a tarp or a cloth.
Your eyes scanning and focusing on the sci-fi looking gadgets and devices and more that filled the space, noting that it felt a little more full. Feels more lived in with some old mugs and scattered papers, a dry-erase board with equations scrawled all over it. And a single large aquarium tank at what you assumed was the back wall. Curious.. it didn’t appear as though there was anything in it from your view, though..
Ah.
Snapped back from your thoughts by a sharp surge of pain at your side, you yelped and jerked away. Otto scurried back, fumbling with the cloth and sputter apologies, his face growing red.
“I’m sorry! I–! I didn’t–! I didn’t mean to cause you harm, I–!! Oh dear, oh dear.. I-I should have warned.. Should’ve asked before I went and..!”
“It’s,” you hissed at the still stinging pain, “It’s alright, I just–” another wheeze, “I wasn’t.. Y'know, expectin’ that..!” you did your best to sound reassuring, though it hurt enough to make the tears return.
Otto merely waited while you sniffed and breathed to try and settle down again. Only when you were calm did he approach the table once more, cautious over what he needed to proceed with doing to help you. For now, he skipped over your torso, feeling quite sheepish now from previously trying to merely check your sides. He’d seen the cuts and tears in the suit, he’ll need to fix that later.
He was careful with the rest of the cleaning process, gentle when he had to hold your legs, turning and twisting them around. His grasp was firm yet kind, you couldn’t help your racing heart, fighting off some thoughts that weren’t meant for here and now. You weren’t the only one, however, having odd thoughts, Otto’s ears burning red as he focused on cleaning and patching whatever spots he could find, nothing too serious luckily.
It didn’t take too much longer before he had finished patching you up. Wrapping larger cuts with gauze and tape, and decorating your spindly form with a variety of colorful and patterned band-aids wherever they were needed. With one last check he held out his hands to help you down from the table.
“There, as good as new.. well, as good and new as I can do for not being a medical doctor.” he joked to lighten the mood.
“Thank you..” you let out a tired chuckle and sigh that transitioned quickly into a yawn. Everything that happened that night catching up, feeling more than exhausted. Otto took notice, an actuator sliding over and around you cautiously, giving you aid in staying balanced.
“..Do you think you’re able the get home safe?” he asked with concern.
“I don’t think I could even make it to the front door, to be honest.” you hardly had the energy to do really anything, much less think and worry at the moment.
“Acedia.. Uhm.. N-Now I know how this is going to sound, and I don’t want you to make a fuss, however–” he spoke quickly with nerves, trying to get this out without stuttering, “I could take you back myself, but.. Would you like to stay for the night? I’d feel better to know that you are really alright. I know I’ve already given you that new suit, but allow me to add to my debt paid?”
You jolted at his words at first before chirping back with a tired smile, “I just want to sleep, I don’t really care where right now, thank you.” Fretting over the mere concept of staying the night at someone else’s place, especially the home of a man you’d only met relatively recently, was far from your mind at the moment.
A wave of surprise and relief came over Otto, sighing to himself and offering his arm to help lead you upstairs and out of the lab. Thinking more to himself as he walked you to his spare bedroom. Feeling so relieved you weren’t put-off by his strange sudden offer. He really would have helped you back to wherever it was you lived, the night had been more than eventful, though, and for now he, too, just needed a good rest.
He’ll have to have a word with his friend Adrian later.. about all that transpired. He was intent on giving that old man an earful.
------
---
You don’t remember falling asleep, you were so drained from the night before that your body couldn’t take it as soon as you hit the sheets. They weren’t what you were used to, no weight to them at all, but it was comfortable nonetheless. Your pain had subsided considerably.. More so than you’d expected. Strange.. A scratch you swore you had on your hand was completely gone. Something you noted as you brought your hand out from the covers to wipe at your eyes.
Twisting your body you stretched and groaned, joints popping and cracking as usual, though a few pains from some still yet unhealed injuries made you stop. Your mind catching up with you, your memory of last night.. your eyes went wide and you sat up. He saw your face.. You didn’t linger on the thought for too long as you caught sight of your glasses case placed on the table beside the bed.. He must have found it in your costume pocket when you had taken it off and put it there for you. ‘..That’s.. really thoughtful of him..’ you thought as you took your glasses out and placed them on your face. A cute pair of thick black rims and a set of mainly red, but colorful earpieces. You had a very mild prescription, but preferred to wear your glasses. You had gotten used to them anyway and thought they made you look less dead tired.
With a once over, you pushed from the bed and headed out. A feeling of awkwardness coming over you as you found the stairs, one you hadn’t felt since you first visited Otto. The thoughts of him seeing you and knowing what you look like now started to fill your head again. Interrupted only by the sound of his voice coming from his kitchen. He didn’t sound too happy.
“I have told you time and time again, Adrian, I can take care of myself! Yes! He did try to kill me! I’ve already been through this! Agh, Please..!” Otto stands on the other side of the bar attachment to the kitchen island, “Just. I can’t keep doing this. I know you mean well and all, Adrian, but I assure you I don’t need to be coddled like this.” he takes a moment to stir his coffee and take a sip before he continues, “It’s about time I left Oscorp anyway. The incident and Acedia have both given me that kick and a push to try and find a better use of my work. Now, I can truly seize this opportunity to--” He turned and noticed you in the doorway, cutting his sentence short, “Listen, I’ll call you back later and we can finish this discussion then. Goodbye.”
You apologized for interrupting him, but he reassures you and offers you a stool across from him to sit down. Placing his phone on the counter he finished off his mug and set it aside in the sink, turning to look at you before walking slowly back over. It was the first real look he’s gotten of you since he cleaned you up last night. Your freckles were light, hardly noticed by the glasses you wore, though the mole just below the right corner of your lip wasn’t hard to miss. Long, wavy, dark brown hair that fell just past your hips with a right side parting. What caught his attention most was that you had an overbite just like him. He was so worried about you then that he hadn’t any time to process what he saw. A little warmth grew on his face as he realized we was almost staring, and cleared his throat.
“Good morning, Acedia.”
“G’mornin’.” You respond to his greeting with a quick glance from the marble counter.
“How’re you feeling? Did you sleep well?”
“Yeah. Uhm.. Was that the man from last night on the phone?” you inquire cautiously. You had heard his name, but wanted to be sure.
“Hm? Oh, yes, that’s correct. That was Adrian, my friend and coworker. Although, I suppose now we are both ex-coworkers seeing as we’re both no longer working under Oscorp. I still can’t believe he would go and do something so stupid like that, but you don’t have anything to worry about regarding him anymore. I’ve already chewed him out enough for now.”
“..Thanks for saving me,” You spoke softly, “but how did you even find me? How’d you know where I was?” It truly was like some gracious divine miracle that he conveniently showed up just in time.
“How? Well.. I was out running some errands and by chance I happened to be nearby when I heard your cry.. You’ve a remarkable voice, though there’s something strange about it. I could feel it interfere with my actuators. I saw Adrian flying above Oscorp and knew Something was definitely wrong. He wasn’t due back for another week..” He sounded a little exasperated at the end of it, but you could sense he wasn’t lying about what he said.
“Ahh.. Okay.” Your voice? What an odd thing to say.. but you couldn’t help the feeling in your chest at the compliment. Nibbling a little at your lip to try and fight the slight smile it gave you in vain. However, the next words from Otto help to kill the smile entirely.
“I’m sorry for my actuators. I only had them on yesterday as I was doing some work in my lab, but due to having to leave for those errands, I didn’t have time to take them off. I’ve since put them back down in the lab, though.”
You completely forgot about those. The pain from the cruelly one-sided fight had distracted you enough to pay them no mind. That, and your sense burned like fire in the back of your head nonstop since the roof, you couldn’t focus on anything else much at all. It’s died down back to normal after your rest, though, thankfully.
“Oh, thank you. It’s alright.” You respond. You did feel a bit sorry for having him keep them off when around you. Then again, you understand that he doesn’t need them constantly. You couldn’t imagine what it would be like to have to haul those things around constantly..
“Would you like something to eat? I have cereal, eggs, toast.. I could cook you some bacon or--” The mentions of food snap you out of your thought and makes your stomach grumble. You did just wake up, after all.
“Yeah, that sounds good. Bacon.. the eggs and toast, too.” He smiled at your answer and left the bar. “Do you have anything to drink? Besides water?”
“Well,” he calls back from the bread box, pulling out a loaf to set a few slices down on a plate before walking toward the fridge, “I have, as you said, water, but there’s some milk and apple juice in here, too.” you perk up at that.
“Ooh, apple juice sounds good.”
“Very well, then. How many eggs?”
“Just one. I like them scrambled or over easy. You can surprise me if you’d like.” You were always indecisive.
“I’ll get three then and join you. Would you like to eat at the bar or the table?”
“The bar is fine. Uhm,” you hesitate, eying the bread on the plate that has gone temporarily ignored in favor of the bacon, “Would you like some help?”
“Oh? That would be much appreciated. It’s always nice to have an extra set of hands.” He hums as the first egg begins to sizzle as it settles into the hot pan.
‘Or a double set of extra arms,’ you almost wanted to joke, but remained silent. Instead, you opened the fridge to fish out the butter and then turn to the cabinets and drawers with a pause.
“..Uhh.. Where do you keep your knives?”
“Oh, those would be over in the drawer second to your left from the sink.” He didn’t take his attention away from the egg, not until it was cooked and slid onto a plate with a paper towel to soak up any excess oil.
You walked over and opened it. Pulling out what you needed, you spun around and was surprised by how close Otto was for a moment as he reached for the other two eggs. He gave a small apology and continued on. You blinked and took a deep breath, then continued yourself.
By the time the food was ready you had already sat yourself back down on the stool at the bar. Otto finished up with prepping the food on the plates before he turned and walked around the counter to join you at the bar to eat. Bacon layered on the slices of toast, an over easy egg sandwiched between two slices on your plate while Otto had scrambled his. When he had his back turned you noted something.
“I hope this isn’t rude to ask, but.. uhm.”
“Hm?” He looks up from his food curiously.
“What’s that thing you got on the back of your head?”
“That? That would be my neural connector.”
“..Neural what?”
He smiles and sets his fork down, “It’s how I control the arms.” He begins, “It’s neurologically linked to the spinal cord and sends little electrical signals up to the brain that allows for received information to get transferred into movements. It requires a fair bit of mental effort--”
“Ooohh, I bet. They look really complex with how they move and all. I can’t imagine it being very easy.”
“Well, yes, but once I got use to it, it became like second nature. It’s no different from moving my own limbs. Or even using my own hands. I made sure of that as their main purpose is to aid me in handling heavy machinery or doing more dangerous and delicate work in my lab. They aren’t meant to be used for anything more than that..” He notes the serious tone and lightens up with a quick, “Ah, but well-- It’s good to have an extra set of hands around the home or lab that you don’t need to worry about, yes?” A light chuckle.
“Yeah, that is true. It’d make daily life a lot easier. Multiple hands to get more than one thing done at once.. I think everyone’s had that thought at least once in their lives. I know I have.” You didn’t think to bother him about the sudden shift, allowing him the peace of mind.
“Yes! A very common thought. If it weren’t for them being stuck to me now, I may have considered revising the design and making something more practical for an everyday purpose. Unfortunately, knowing there are people like Osborn in this world would make that endeavor impossible and unwise. You understand, yes?”
“Yeah, I get that. It sucks, but there’s not really too much that can be done about it. No matter how much or how hard you try.”
“Yes,” he sighs in dejected agreement, “You understand well.”
A silence filled the space between the two of you now. Almost uncomfortably so, as you both picked at what remained of your breakfast. The plates and utensils clinking as the meal was soon finished. Otto fiddled with his hands, staring down at them as he began to talk again. Taking your final bite, you pushed the plate forward and looked toward him.
“Sorry, forgive me. Um, but could you tell me a little about yourself? You’ve already told me about what abilities you knew you possessed, but.. How.. exactly.. did these come about? If that’s.. I-If that’s not too much to ask..?”
“Oh. Well, uh..” You jolted, sitting up straighter and looked away to think, tapping your fingers along the counter edge. It’s been a while, wracking your brain to remember. “Well.. All I can remember was I just, sorta, woke up one day and noticed the monthly rent reminder wouldn’t get off my hand when I went to pick it up. That was the first sign I saw. The rest just kinda.. popped up over the next few days. Sudden increase in strength.. stamina.. being able to cling to walls.. That’s all I can remember.”
“I see.. and you wouldn’t happen to remember what caused it? What happened before these abilities showed up?” Otto looked at you with a thoughtful curiosity.
“I mean.. The day before the rent notice, the only thing I can say was notable was going to the Connors’ research lab. They had a free tour. Ugh..” You were thinking as hard as you could, trying to fight back the blanks, “..I think I remember gettin’ home and trying to grab my stuff out of my bag.. but somethin’ hurt me, so I just left it and went to bed. I still don’t know what it was. I checked the bag later on and there wasn’t anythin’ in there that could’ve hurt me.”
“Hm.. You said it was the Connors’ Research Lab?” you nodded at his words, “I think.. it would be good to give them a visit. Might be able to learn something, get some answers for a few questions I have, too.”
“Oh.. Like.. right now? Or-?”
“Well, it was just a suggestion. Wouldn’t you like to go home and recover a little more from what you just went through? We can return back to this at a later date, no issues. It would do you some good after last night’s.. less than savory event.”
There was something sweet about his concern for you. You appreciated it.
"Yeah.. That's a good idea. I'd like to not wear this anymore." You vaguely gestured to your outfit. It was the shirt and pajama shorts you had the evening before. While you didn't mind it usually when you had the weekend off.. You really wanted some fresh clothes.. and a shower.
"Very understandable." he smiled with a light chuckle, "This would give us time to prepare and make plans. You have my number, so send you a date and you can verify whether that works for you as usual."
You smiled back with a nod. It all sounded good to you.
"In the meantime--" Otto stood up and took both your plates, carrying them around the counter to the sink, "I should get you back to your place. I'm sure you'd like that, too, yes?" There was a tone to his voice that you couldn't read.
"Yeah. Let me go get my things. Thanks for the food.. and for helping me, by the way. The saving and bandaging. Thank you." You flashed a little smile and got up to head back upstairs. Missing the flattered look on Otto's face.
"Of course."
Overlookedfile on Chapter 1 Mon 17 Oct 2022 08:08AM UTC
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Overlookedfile on Chapter 2 Mon 02 Jan 2023 02:43AM UTC
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