Ant-Man & Spider-Man: Earth's Mightiest Scientists

Chapter 12: Clash of the Titans

Author's Note: Takes place during Tales to Astonish No. 46 (1963) and an original B-plot partially based on Journey Into Mystery No. 94 (1963).

SUNDAY...

Newton Cobbwell's Laboratory

On a relaxing Sunday afternoon, New York City has been the calmest that it has ever been in the last few days. Hank and Janet stopped by Professor Newton Cobbwell's lab to check up on the friendly elderly electrician and their intern, Peter, as the lovely couple got some good news to inform the two of them.

"You guys are going on vacation?" Peter blinked as he thought that this was a spur of the moment decision.

Hank nodded and shared a smile with the equally excited heiress. "Back at my lab, Janet and I were discussing that we both needed a break from the hustle and bustle of New York."

"We figured that a change in scenery would do us wonders," Janet added as she truly couldn't wait to enjoy spending quality time with Hank on their vacation.

"Well, that sounds delightful!" Doctor Cobbwell commented as they picked a perfect time to travel to other places again after the Fantastic Four had defeated their nemesis, Doctor Doom, up aboard his Flying Fortress a few weeks back. "Where are you two going to be traveling?"

"Athens, Greece. We'll be staying over at a five star resort there," Hank eagerly answered as he himself could use a break even though he would rather continue working on his lab experiments.

"We've already packed our bags and we're leaving for LaGuardia tonight!" Janet grinned in excitement while holding on to Hank's arm to which the scientist also shared her sentiment.

"I was wondering if you can look after the lab for the week while we're away?" Hank asked the electrician. "If that's all right with you?"

"Of course! I'm more than glad to keep your laboratory in order by the time you two return from your trip," Dr. Cobbwell gave both of them a kind smile and that's when they all heard the telephone ring. "If you'll excuse me, my friends, I have to take this."

Hank nodded in understanding. "Go right ahead, Newton. Just know that we'll be back by Saturday."

While Newton left the room to go and answer his important phone call, it leaves the titular Tiny Trio alone together as Peter couldn't help but wonder why the spur of the moment decision to go on vacation.

"So...What brought this on? It's not that I don't mind you guys going away or anything," Peter awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck as he didn't want to seem like the third wheel of the group.

Hank sighed and turned to Janet. "You want me to tell him or should I?"

"Tell me what?" Peter asked with a raised eyebrow wondering where they getting at.

"We're bored, Peter. There's nothing to do and there's hardly any crimes to stop in this city," Janet whined in which Peter could also relate as there were times where he too would experience absolute boredom while out on patrol.

Hank cleared his throat after her statement. "I would've worded it more eloquently but Jan does have a point. I've even checked the Ant-Alarm and there haven't been any signs of trouble brewing lately."

"That's awesome! Which means that we're finally making a difference. You both deserve a break and I'll handle the hero work on my end while you guys are gone," Peter suggested to the couple who suddenly had worried looks on their faces.

"Now are you sure you can handle this by yourself?" Janet asked in her usual nurturing tone of voice.

"C'mon, Jan. You should already know that this isn't my first rodeo and besides I've gone solo before plenty of times," Peter smirked while waving off her concerns even though he appreciated it.