Chapter 35: Chapter 34: Loss of the Empire State Building
"No, he doesn't bring work home, so that's unlikely," Gwen said, shaking her head. Despite being the Sheriff of Queens and often busy, George never mixed work with his family life.
"Alright, we'll focus on cracking down on gangsters and gathering evidence against them. We'll avoid criminal organizations with more covert operations," Big White nodded, not too disappointed by the news.
"Did you even listen to what I said?" Gwen sighed. Although Big White hadn't been with them long, he was already part of the family, and she was deeply concerned about his safety.
"I listened, but it's important to me too. Plus, I just follow Spider-Man's lead. I'm just helping out," Big White explained patiently.
"You're a panda, a national treasure, beloved by many. What more could you want?" Gwen asked, exasperated, still not understanding why Big White got involved.
"Pandas can have dreams too, you know. Otherwise, I wouldn't have left the panda pavilion," Big White replied, setting his bamboo hat and coat aside.
"I want to be a hero, not a lazy panda."
"I'll leave this to you for safekeeping. Make sure you hide it well. Thanks." Before Gwen could respond, Big White headed to the bathroom.
George was busy dealing with the aftermath of the Empire State Building incident on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. He was still processing the criminals caught in Spider-Man's web and handling interrogation transcripts, so he wouldn't be home for a while.
Little John had school the next day, and Mrs. Stacy needed to prepare breakfast, so they had gone to bed early.
As for Gwen, she also had class in the morning, but she stayed up, waiting for Big White to return.
In the bathroom, alongside the family's toiletries, there were also numerous animal care products. Initially purchased by Gwen, Mayor Adams had later added more. These products covered cleaning, deworming, deodorizing, sterilization, and nutrition. All Big White needed to do was soak in the tub for a while to take care of everything.
After bathing, there was a specialized blow-dryer with a suitable temperature.
Big White's current care was top-notch, lacking only a personal caretaker. It was likely even better than the treatment he would receive in a panda pavilion.
These arrangements were all thanks to Mayor Adams, who continued to monitor Big White's situation even after stepping down.
After his bath, Big White returned to the bedroom to find Gwen asleep. Exhausted from the night's events, he turned off the lights and settled into his cot.
He didn't concern himself with being human or animal, nor with others' opinions.
Honestly, being a panda was more comfortable than his previous human life. As long as the Dragon Kingdom remained strong, he'd gain more respect and safety. If things were different, his situation might be too.
Historically, pandas captured despite their cuteness didn't fare well.
Of course, his current status as an endangered species played a significant role in his favorable treatment.
As the bedroom darkened, a dim light from the desk lamp remained.
---
The next morning, Big White was up early, sporting a bright yellow cloak and linen shorts.
Gwen and the family gathered around, admiring his new look and showering him with compliments.
"I have a good eye; I found this after searching the Dragon Kingdom's website for ages," George said, nodding with satisfaction at Big White's little rich-man look.
"I think this yellow coat hides his fluffy, round figure. Maybe the blue-green trousers I found would be better," Gwen suggested, holding a pair of pants.
"No, no, the Haoran short shirt I bought is perfect. It shows off his round belly and the black and red dye highlights his fur. It's both sexy and mysterious," Mrs. Stacy argued, displaying the black and red shirt.
"No, these knight gloves are the best fit," Little John insisted, holding a pair of bear claw gloves.
The family debated early, each vying for their choice in Big White's wardrobe. The main reason was that no matter what he wore, his cute head made everything match.
Meanwhile, Big White sat like a doll, with a resigned expression.
If I'd known, I would've slept longer.
---
In the end, Big White opted for Gwen's green casual trousers, finding them more practical for changing clothes.
After breakfast, George left for the police station to manage last night's incident, and Mrs. Stacy took Little John to Central City Elementary.
Gwen hugged Big White tightly before heading out.
---
"...27 horsepower, turbocharged, now for a special news bulletin."
"At 11:50 last night, an incident occurred at the Empire State Building at 320 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, between West 33rd and West 34th Streets. A criminal, Caubert Sith, was found hanging from the Empire State Building. He has since been rescued and arrested by police."
"The crime method is believed to involve Spider-Man. Photos taken by bystanders show an additional figure next to Spider-Man. Though the scene was unclear, it suggests a partnership."
"Is there a new guardian in New York?..."
Big White lounged on the sofa, munching on potato chips and watching the news.
At Peter's house, Peter paused, having just heard the news on TV.
"...During this incident, much of the Empire State Building's glass shattered, causing numerous cracks. As a New York landmark, the extent of the damage is still being assessed."
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