Chapter 26: A Visit from Father and Daughter

(The previous chapter was modified; Michael has now returned home.)

“I understand. Then why should one study magic?”

Keisha replied, “The reason is simple. Magic is an ability outside the realm of genetics. It can enhance your combat strength, your adaptability, and most importantly, your control over dark energy.”

“The divine power in this world, in essence, is still dark energy. Yet, that Thor relies on the hammer, a kind of genetic weapon, to channel his strength. This is the consequence of lacking mastery over dark energy.”

Indeed, Loki, though a Frost Giant, could still freely wield spells and illusions without his scepter. But Thor, the direct heir to Asgard’s throne, was rendered powerless without his hammer. The necessity of learning magic was clear.

“I see. I’ll work hard to study.”

The Ancient One.

What exactly does this person want from me?

Surely it’s not to make me the Sorcerer Supreme.

As Michael pondered this, Gwen’s head suddenly appeared from above.

“Hey.”

…

“Gwen, would you like some fruit?”

“Mom, I’m tired. I’ll get some sleep first.”

Gwen changed back into her Spider-Girl costume, went to the window, and shot out a web to leave.

Helen glanced at George. “What’s been going on lately?”

George looked at his wife, distracted. “Maybe she’s got a little secret of her own now.”

“A secret? She’s not dating, is she? Who? That Michael boy? He is handsome, but his legs seem to be bad.”

George thought there was indeed something between them. Perhaps Michael had long since realized Gwen was Spider-Girl.

“It’s very possible.”

Helen grew anxious. “Then what should we do?”

“What do you mean?” George couldn’t help but be confused.

“Should we support Gwen or oppose her? Michael is outstanding, but he’s ill. Who knows how long he’ll live, and what if it’s hereditary—”

Listening to Helen’s endless worries, George felt his head throb.

“Enough. We’ll discuss this later. I have something to do; don’t wait up for me.”

George grabbed his coat and left, leaving Helen alone and conflicted.

...

“Hey, Michael.”

Seeing the head pop up at his window, Michael said helplessly, “You startled me. Good thing I don’t have a heart condition.”

“Is something wrong?”

Gwen slipped in through the window. “Is there any way to convince my dad? I think he’s figured me out.”

She then explained what had happened.

After listening, Michael couldn’t help but marvel. It was just like Captain George Stacy to always uncover Spider-Girl’s identity—it seemed almost fated.

But at least this time, he survived, which was a relief.

“Sorry I didn’t make you a voice modulator.”

“That’s not your fault. You’ve already helped me a lot. I was just too careless.”

Gwen was resigned; the situation had been tense, and she hadn’t thought of that detail.

“By the way, thanks for your backup plan. But if you’d told me in advance, it would’ve been much easier to subdue Dr. Connors.”

“I was just being cautious. I didn’t think too much about it. After all, I’m not a superhero.”

Gwen pouted, thinking Michael would surely become a hero one day.

Though he never said so, Michael always took care of things methodically and looked after others.

Perhaps, in some people’s hearts, he was already a hero.

Michael considered for a moment. “To be honest, I don’t really know how to convince Captain Stacy. But you know him best.”

“That’s exactly why I have no confidence.”

Gwen sat on Michael’s desk, hugging her legs to her chest, chin resting on her knees, curling herself into a ball.

Seeing Gwen looking small, pitiful, and helpless, Michael felt his head ache. There was really no way to persuade George, especially since they’d argued before.

...

George stood before the woman he knew had adopted Michael, his nominal mother.

“Mrs. Martha, hello.”

“And you are?”

Martha eyed the policeman before her, uncertain who he was.

“I’m George, Captain of the NYPD.”

“Oh, Captain, I don’t believe anyone in our family has broken the law.”

“No need to be nervous, ma’am. This is a private matter. I’m here to see Michael. My daughter and he are... friends.”

George felt awkward.

Upon hearing this, Martha immediately made several associations.

“Oh? He’s never mentioned you.”

“Perhaps it’s just a secret between the kids.”

“That’s all the more reason not to let you in. Our Michael is a good boy—smart, wise, devoted to his family. You can’t say anything cruel just because of a small flaw.”

Facing the stubborn woman, George felt a headache coming on.

“Michael has been a guest at my house before. Did you know?”

Martha recalled, and realized that was indeed the case.

“Yes, and he even brought thoughtful gifts. And yet you want to break them up? He’s been so good to your family...”

Martha grew angry and grabbed a vacuum cleaner, aiming it at George.

“Get out, jerk. Out, now!”

George was speechless. Madam, what have you misunderstood?

“Please, let me explain. I’m not here to break them up. They’re not even together. I admire Michael a great deal. He’s the best classmate to appear in my daughter’s life in years. But that’s not why I’m here today.”

“It’s not?”

“It’s really not. I promise.”

George felt exasperated.

“All right, come in then.”

Martha finally relented, and George couldn’t help but sigh in relief.

“Where’s his room? I’ll find him myself.”

“Can’t I be present?”

Seeing Martha raise the vacuum cleaner again, George could only feel resigned.

“This is about... the Lizard. Michael devised an antidote that helped my colleague. I want to ask him about the case. It’s confidential.”

Martha eyed him suspiciously, then said, “Very well, but I’ll ask Michael first.”

She went upstairs to Michael’s room.

“Michael, are you asleep?”

“Not yet, Mother. What is it?”

Michael opened the door, looking at Martha.

“There’s a Captain George here to see you. He wants to speak privately in your room, but I think he’s up to no good. Should I send him away?”

Why was George here?

Michael glanced back at Gwen, who, anxious, gestured frantically before diving under Michael’s covers.

He wanted to remind her the closet would be safer.

But Martha, noticing Michael’s hesitation, asked, “Is there someone else in your room?”

“Oh, no. Let Captain George in. I’m sure it must be important.”

“All right.”

Martha remained puzzled. Everyone seemed odd today, and Captain George was especially hesitant.