[Spidey's phone rings.]
Spider-Man: Hm. It's Mr. Li. Hello?
"Was he....you know, bad, when this was happening?" Miles asked
"Probably."
Martin Li: Peter, it's Martin Li. I just wanted to let you know we need a little extra time to get set for May's party-- I guess the cake delivery is stuck in traffic.
Spider-Man: Oh, sure thing. Just let me know when you're ready and I'll swing by.
"Wow, thinking about the amount of times you said stuff like that to me, how did I not know you were Spider-Man sooner?" Mary Jane asked
Martin Li: Great. Talk to you soon.
[He hung up. He got next call in the middle of fighting.]
Spider-Man: Hi, Mr. Muggins. If this is about the rent --
Landlord: Mr. Parker. This call serves as your third and final warning. Eviction proceedings-
Spider-Man: Wait! I get paid end of the week, I can --
Thug: Was that a rat?
Thug: Come on!
Landlord: Eviction proceedings will start Friday unless full payment IS received by close of business. Good day.
"Asshole" Tony blurted out
Thug: He's hurt!
Thug: This was supposed to be an easy pull!
Woman: Let 'em have it, Spider-Man!
Spider-Man: (on the phone) Hi, Mister Li.
Martin Li: Hey Peter, we're all set for the party, whenever you're ready.
Spider-Man: Cool! I'm on my way.
[Spidey swings to F.E.A.S.T.]
Peter: Mr. Li is probably in the kitchen, getting ready for the party.
[He sees some homeless playing chess.]
Cam: Hey, Peter.
Peter: Hey guys, how's the game going?
Cam: How's it look like it's going? I'm winning.
Eileen: Get this guy checked for dementia, Pete. I'm crushing him.
Peter: Well, the important thing is having fun.
Eileen: I have a lot of fun whooping his ass.
Cam: In your dreams, crazy lady. Want a game, Pete? We play for peanuts.
Peter: Too rich for my blood, I'll leave you to it.
Ernie: Hey, Peter, what's up?
Peter: Just dropping in. Hey. Martin, so sorry I'm late.
Martin Li: You're right on time. Just keep her distracted while we get everything ready.
Peter: You got it. Hey, there's my favourite aunt... do you need help with anything?
Aunt May: Peter! What a nice surprise. Uh, yeah, sure. Oh, there are some heavy boxes in --
Peter: NO! No, no! I mean, I mean... not yet. I mean. I came to, uh, I just wanted to talk.
"Real smooth."
Aunt May: Okay... okay. Peter are you in trouble? Do you need money?
Peter: No! No. I mean I'm a little behind on my rent, but no, no... no, I'm fine.
Aunt May: Girl problems again?
Peter: What? No, that's crazy --
Aunt May: I still wish you and MJ could work things out. She's a great girl--
"She sure is." Peter said, having one arm around MJ.
Peter: She is, but...
Aunt May: The two of you would make some beautiful babies.
Everyone laughed at the two's very red faces.
Peter: Wow! Uh...
Aunt May: Peter. What is it? Come on. You can tell me.
Peter: These past few years -- you helping me through college and working here... sacrificing so much, and asking for nothing. I just wish there were more people like you in the world.
Martin Li: He's right. Five years ago, you walked in here and told me you were inspired by my mission to help others. Now it's you who inspires me. Thank you. May, for everything. Here's to many more years of service!
[Everyone applause to Aunt May. There's even a cake.]
Peter: Thanks again for setting all this up.
Martin Li: Oh, I just wish I could do more.
Peter: Well. May's always told me. "If you help *some*one--
Martin Li: --you help *every*one." Ah, maybe we should send May to City Hall to have a word with the mayor...
Peter: Oh, I gotta run. Um, thanks again for the party and everything. It really means a lot.
"Isn't that the quote on her...you know?" Miles asked
"Yeah." Peter said, holding back the tears
[Peter leaves the room.]
Peter: Voicemail from Yuri... should check it outside...
"How many times have you said that?" Tony asked
"A lot"
[He goes outside and put on the mask.]
Spider-Man: Voice-mail from Yuri...
Yuri Watanabe: Hey. Silent alarm at the auction house holding Fisk's estate sale just tripped. Could you check it out? Quietly? I don't want to make a scene if it's nothing...
Spider-Man: Fisk estate sale. Sounds fun. Wonder what the Kingpin had hidden in his closets...
Aunt May: (on the phone) Peter. I lost track of you at the party.
Spider-Man: Yeah, I... had to get to the lab. Sorry.
Aunt May: Don't apologize... I just wanted to tell you how much what you said meant to me. I always wonder if I'm doing right by you...
"That's a dumb question."
"TONY!" Natasha scolded
"What? It is."
Spider-Man: Stop wondering. After losing my parents, and Uncle Ben... there are so many times I would've fallen apart if not for you.
Aunt May: Well, that works both ways, Peter. I just wanted to make sure you knew that.
Spider-Man: May. I... I don't know what to--
Aunt May: Oh. I think Mr. Li needs my help. I should go. See you soon, dear. I love you.
Spider-Man: Love you too. (he hangs up) Yuri said "quietly."
[Spidey sneaks into the building.]
Demon: I am losing patience. Where is the file.
Rose Rosemann: There's someone else here - they must have taken it!
Peter looked at Mary Jane and raised his eyebrow. Mary Jane smirked in return.
Spider-Man: Those masks... who are these guys?
Demon: There's no one here but us. We will find the file. Or you will die.
Spider-Man: This is bad.
Spider-Man: They'll kill her if I alert them. Need to pick 'em off silently. (by the phone) Yuri - the silent alarm was legit. Masked gunmen and a single hostage. Looks like a heist-in-progress.
Yuri Watanabe: Copy that. Sending units your way. Keep the situation from getting worse in the meantime.
Spider-Man: Can do.
Demon: (We will not fail.)
Spider-Man: Gotta do this quietly. Don't wanna alert the others...
Demon: (I heard something.)
Spider-Man: They always look so cozy webbed up like that. Should web him from above... Whoa - careful.
Demon: (Open fire! It's Spider-Man!)
Demon: My patience wears thin.
Rose Rosemann: Someone else is here. I swear. She must have the file!
Demon: If they're here, WHERE ARE THEY?
"In the room behind you, dumbass." Mary Jane said
Rose Rosemann: I don't know. I don't know. I just don't know.
Demon: (Keep your eyes open.)
Demon: (They are open!)
Demon: (I didn't imagine that.)
Demon: (Got nothing.)
[Spidey quietly sneaks around and eliminating Demons. Soon he finds a camera....]
Spider-Man: Hey - what IS that? This totally belongs to --
Demon: Don't move.
Spider-Man: Buddy, if I had a nickel for every "Don't Move" I'd –
[Some girl hits the Demon in the head from behind...]
MJ: Hey Pete.
"Hi."
Spider-Man: MJ... what are you doing here?
MJ: Same as you, working. At least, I was.
Spider-Man: Robbie's got you covering a break-in for the Bugle?
MJ: Well. Robbie doesn't technically know I'm here. And it wasn't a break in until a few minutes ago.
Spider-Man: Huh?
MJ: Let me explain...
15 MINUTES EARLIER
[Mary Jane enters the building.]
Rose Rosemann: Uh - excuse me?
MJ: Hi! Mary Jane Watson. I'm covering the Fisk estate sale?
Rose Rosemann: Craig said we'd do this tomorrow.
MJ: I like to get a jump on things.
Rose Rosemann: Well I don't. You'll have to come back tomorrow -
MJ: I'm sorry. (faking a phone call) Hey Craig... no, sorry, just... It looks like we're gonna have to run something else on the cover... I don't know, uhh maybe the expressionist piece?
"Looks like something Nat would do." Tony said
"It is."
Rose Rosemann: You know what. I think I can make today work.
MJ: Are you sure?
Rose Rosemann: You're here. No moment like the present.
MJ: Thank you. Nevermind. We're good.
Rose Rosemann: Let's get started. Look around and familiarize yourself with the items. I'll be waiting by the Baku statue when you're ready to begin.
MJ: Can do.
Rose Rosemann: Let me know when you're ready to begin.
MJ: Sounds good.
[MJ begin investigating the museum.]
"Katana, 14th Century. A katana blade attributed to ; hilt re-wrapped in early 19th century."
MJ: Fisk cut Peter open like a pork sausage with this the first time they fought. Pete got away, collapsed in my yard half dead, and I had to steal my dad's car to drive him to the ER. The first of many "Nurse MJ" moments; too many.
"Awww, you care, stop pretending you don't." Peter teased
"Hand Rolled Cigars, 20th Century. Luxury product of ; manufactured exclusively for royalty."
MJ: Hmmm... ... weren't they just in the news?
", 15th Century. Rumoured to have been worn by a young ronin who challenged a tyrannical, illegitimate leader."
MJ: Sometimes I feel like the whole history of the world just boys playing dress up, getting into fights.
" Samurai, 16th Century. Most likely depicts , the blind swordsman, known for dispensing justice on his own terms."
MJ: I remember when Fisk started illegally importing artifacts like this. He bought the local harbour to cover his tracks, and laid off the old staff, including my dad. Wish dad was here now to see how the tables have turned.
"Tapestry, 17th Century. Depicts two , Misshaku Kongo and Naraen Kongo."
MJ: I can't get over this image. So much tension between these two figures.
"Reminds me of a couple of my relationships with some people." Peter said
"A couple? Miles and MJ said
"Ok, a lot."
"Oil Landscape on Silk, 19th Century. Depicts travellers outside Kyoto."
MJ: Kyoto. So beautiful. Part of me wishes I could drop everything and travel the world...
"Vase, 19th Century. baluster vase in the ."
MJ: May would love this... gotta admit, I miss May.
[She walks to tribune.]
MJ: And-how-much-am-I-bid-for-this-collection-of-villainy-and-deceit? Starting at 10.000 broken lives dreams, 10.000 going once...
"17th Century. Legends claim its toll could be heard from the underworld."
MJ:"Heard from the underworld", huh?
"Walking Cane, 20th Century. A very rare enamel jewelled and pearl-set walking cane with concealed features."
MJ: Always hated this cane. So tacky.
"I know, right?"
"Cello, 18th Century. Milan or Bologna, famously owned by prior to his death."
MJ: What did Fisk call this... "Vanessa"?
"Willie named it after his wife, I think."
"Theatre Masks, 18th Century. A group of and masks from the . Most notable is Buaku, the demon hiding sorrowful eyes."
MJ: Hmmmm.... I get why Peter does it, but I never totally loved the "heroes hiding behind masks." thing. Feels like part of being a hero is standing behind your actions; being willing to say "yeah, that was me." That's the sort of hero I'd want to be, at least.
"Wow, okay, MJ." Miles said
"Sorry."
"15th Century. Rumoured to have been worn by a powerful samurai who believed ends justified means."
MJ: Bet Fisk saw himself in this: a great man willing to do what others wouldn't. Dude had no self-awareness.
"Woodcut, 19th Century. Image of a young maiden who brought a corrupt dynasty's hidden crimes to light, causing it to collapse."
MJ: "Brought hidden crimes to light." We got an old school investigative journalist over here.
[MJ begins the interview.]
Rose Rosemann: Starting with the prize. A one-of-a-kind .
MJ: Beautiful. It's a Mifune?
Rose Rosemann: Correct. Mr. Fisk has exceptional taste.
MJ: Did you know him well, before his arrest?
Rose Rosemann: In a... professional context. I handled many of his sales. Let's move on, please. Now, this expense piece exemplifies the traditional tarashikomi puddled-ink effect.
"If she handled his sales, did she know that the stuff he was doing was illegal? Damn it, I should've put her in jail too."
MJ: The two Nio are so imposing. I can see why Fisk liked this piece, definitely his style.
Rose Rosemann: He loved the duality. "Destruction screams, but creation toils in silence."
"So that's why it's always so loud when I fought him."
MJ: Was there ever anything irregular. In any of the sales you handled for him?
Rose Rosemann: No... no of course not. Not that I was aware of. Notice the intricate gold inlay on this ceremonial tea set.
"She's avoiding the question."
MJ: It's just... a friend in the DA's office mentioned that Fisk used art sales to launder stolen goods.
Rose Rosemann: I'm... sure I wouldn't know anything about that.
"Sure, I believe you."
MJ: Oh I know. I was just wondering, now that he's arrested, If you had ever noticed anything... strange.
Rose Rosemann: You know what... I'm actually running short of time. Why don't we grab the cover photo while we can?
MJ: When I told my DA friend I was doing a piece on you, he mentioned your name was familiar.
Rose Rosemann: Just the photo please. Stand right there.
MJ: Are you sure there's nothing you'd like to say, maybe off the record, regarding Fisk's activities?
"MJ, if you ever do stuff like this again, can you refrain from making potential innocent people uncomfortable?"
"But she was absolutely a criminal."
"I guess."
Rose Rosemann: I don't think your readers would have any interest in- (her phone is ringing) Dammit. Wait here, please.
MJ: Wait... I recognise that statue... Gotta get a photo. That shouldn't be here.
Rose Rosemann: Craig. I'll call you back. (to MJ) My dear, I think it's time for you to go.
MJ: Oh... um... could I... I use the restroom real quick?
Rose Rosemann: ...fine. Follow me.
MJ: Thank you... this is a really lovely space.
Rose Rosemann: It is. And this will be the last time you see it. The ladies' us around the corner. Be quick.
MJ: Of course. Be right back.
Rose Rosemann: (through her phone) Hello, Craig. Funny you should call... Because the reporter you sent us clearly not working the puff piece we agreed upon... No, she's here now...
MJ: I've got to get into that back room. If that statue is what I think it is, this just turned into a huge story.
Rose Rosemann: What do you mean he had to reschedule? If she's not your reporter, who is she, Craig? Who is in my auction house? Oh my god... No I do not trust you will fix this. Well the first thing I'm going to do is have Miss Investigative Journalist arrested- And the second thing I'm going to do is collect your head, Craig.
"Nevermind, I think she's a cool gal." MJ said
MJ: Dang. She's pissed.
Rose Rosemann: It is most definitely a threat, Craig. Uh huh.
MJ: Pete told me about this. Fisk used it to hide evidence. Why didn't the cops take it? I know this statue opens... but how? I wonder if there are any clues in here...
An Articulated Nio Guardian Statue
15th Century, Japanese
45,000 -
Notable for its modular design and five distinct points of articulation, this Statue can adopt a multitude of poses. The most common is that of the Naraen Kongo: mouth closed, left arm down, right palm facing forward. This pose of latent power conveys the change and chaos that can arise from small events.
MJ: That's the Nio behind them but it looks different. She certainly is cosy with Fisk. The statue can move most common pose is "latent power."... "Mouth closed... left arm down... Maybe these pieces move. The catalogue mentioned two poses... "Mouth closed... left arm down... right palm facing forward. Maybe I should turn the head... So slow... but a piece is missing... I've seen these before... Hmmm he's holding something... That's it! "Norman Osborn"... what is this? "Devil's Breath"? What is Devil's-
[She hears some noise in the gallery.]
MJ: What the?
Rose Rosemann: Excuse me! Sir! You you can't be in here...
[Demon slaps her.]
MJ: Not good.
Demon: Where's the statue?
Rose Rosemann: In... in there-
Demon: (Find the file.)
[MJ's story ends. We're back to Spidey.]
"Damn."
MJ: I was on my way to the exit when I saw you...
Spider-Man: You're lucky to be alive.
MJ: Says the guy I saved five minutes ago. Listen, whoever these mask guys are, they're after this file. But I'll never get it out of here while the place is swarming with them.
Spider-Man: OK. Umm, you hide back there. I take out the bad guys, you make a break when it's clear.
MJ: Sounds like a plan. Good to see you, Pete.
Spider-Man: Yeah, you too. Not exactly how I pictured us meeting again, though.
MJ: Funny. It's exactly how I pictured it.
Spider-Man: Did she change her perfume...? Focus, Pete. Focus.
"Someone put this man in horny jail." Miles joked
"Shut it, Miles."
Demon: (Move!)
Rose Rosemann: Yes. Alright. Of course.
Spider-Man: Should clear these guys out before I push forward...
MJ: OK Pete. I'm hidden near the front. Give the word and I'll make a break for it.
Spider-Man: Will do. How about that file? What's in it that these guys want so bad?
MJ: Notes on something called "Devil's Breath." Fisk was hired to build a secret research lab for it. Not clear what Devil's Breath is, but it seemed to scare Fisk. He compares it to "Pandora's Box."
Spider-Man: Not much shook Fisk... we need to get you and that file out of here. Hang tight.
Demon: (Anyone see anything?)
Demon: (Got to check that out.)
Spider-Man: Okay, room is clear. Gotta stay silent. Keep it tight, Pete.
Demon: (I will not fail my mission.)
Demon: (Anyone else hear that?)
Spider-Man: Easy does it. That's all of them.
MJ: NO! LET ME GO!
"Shit."
Spider-Man: MJ! No. HIDE!
MJ: Get in the office!
Demon: (End him!)
"What the hell is going on with there hands?"
Spider-Man: Not cool with the hostage taking, guys. Whoa what is up with that glow-y stuff on your hands?
Spider-Man: Are you guys ghosts? Never fought a ghost before...
"That you know of!" Wanda joked
Demon: (There is no escape.)
Spider-Man: I mean. I've fought spectres, but, you know technically, spectres aren't ghosts. "All ghosts are spectres, but not all spectres are ghosts" you know? Seems like this is an energy thing, not a ghost thing. All good. "Fight a ghost" stays on the old bucket list.
"Jesus Christ, shut up about ghosts."
Demon: (Close in on him.)
Demon: (My skill will overcome yours.)
Spider-Man: Daily cardio: check. (He inspects the demon mask) Hm. Looks antique. I think I know someone who can help track down where this came from... (hears police sirens) ...a job for later.
[Next scene. Police cuffing the demons.]
Rose Rosemann: (to MJ) I just talked to Craig. You are not the reporter he was sending. You don't even work for Heritage Arts.
MJ: Never said I did. Hi. Mary Jane Watson. Daily Bugle.
Rose Rosemann: You... you will not write a word of what you saw here.
MJ: For the record, that do you know about the file those masked man stole?
Rose Rosemann: That... I don't...
MJ: What about the long history of stolen goods Fisk has laundered at this auction house?
Rose Rosemann: Your editor will be hearing from our attorney.
"HAHAHAHA!"
[She leaves. MJ pick up her phone.]
Pete: (texting) Hey you OK?
MJ: (texting) Fine. But they got away with the file.
Pete: (texting) Sorry. I'll make it up to you. Dinner at Micks?
Peter sunk in his seat, all eyes were on him.
MJ: Mick's? Like the last six months never happened?
MJ: (texting) Sure, see you in a few.
[Next scene. Mick's Dinner.]
Peter: No idea... but I'm still glad he makes these fries.
MJ: Totally, best in the city.
Peter: So, how's the grind at the Bugle?
MJ: Mm well... Yeah well, I just got an all-caps text from Robbie about my so-called 'antics' tonight. So, looks like I'll be meeting with the legal team. Again.
Peter: Nah, soon as he reads the article you're gonna write. Guaranteed promotion.
MJ: So. Creepy mask guys. What's your take?
Peter: Just another night in the city. What's your take?
MJ: Hm. I feel like there's a bigger story there... Let's not make this all about business. How's it going with you? Did you got that promotion?
Peter: No, but we're on the cusp of something really big.
MJ: You know Oscorp would hire you in a heartbeat, right? One phone call to Harry...
Peter: Sure. But Dr. Octavius' work will help millions. I'm right where I want to be-- right where I *should* be.
MJ: Almost sounds like it's more important than your other job. I've never heard you talk like that before.
Peter: A lot can change in six months.
MJ: Why did you ask me here, Pete?
Peter: You know. Just... dinner between friends.
"Pete, it's painful watching this."
"I never gave you permission to call me by my nickname...TONES!"
"But can I?"
"Yeah, I don't care."
MJ: Friends. Is that what we are?
Peter: I mean we could be. If that's what you wanted.
MJ: There's a lot of baggage here.
Peter: Yeah sure but, Is that so bad? I mean baggage can carry good things too. Like uh--like money and uh, keys, and raspberry lip balm.
"Overrated"
MJ: Do you remember why we broke up?
Peter: This is a trick question, isn't it?
[They hear police siren noise.]
MJ: Saved by the siren.
Peter: Talk to you later?
MJ: Go.
Short Order Cook (Stan Lee): Love seeing you two together again! You always were my favourites.
"That guy looks familiar."
"Mick? Yeah, he's a chef"
"No, it's just....nevermind."
[MJ leaves the dinner.]