Spectacular Spider-Man (Vol. 1) #228

Story 'Run For Your Life'

Peter's having a nightmare about himself dressed as Kaine killing MJ. He goes to the Bugle, which is being rebuilt, looking for work. Robbie tells him he doesn't have anything going. Peter leaves but keeps getting strange visions, seeing people morph into the Jackal. He worries if he's degenerating like the other clones or if it's some hypnotic suggestion planted by The Jackal.

MJ's modeling is going well and the clothing line says they might like to use her beyond the end of her pregnancy.

Spidey is out swinging trying to shake off the visions when the worst one yet hits him. He collapses and visualizes the Jackal. The Jackal tells him it is a hypnotic suggestion that if he has been slain, then Peter must kill the one he loves the most.

MJ gets home and finds Peter waiting for her. He is trying desperately to restrain himself and tells her to run, quickly blurting out about the Jackal's programming of him. MJ runs.

MJ calls the New Warriors looking for The Scarlet Spider. He's not there but she quickly explains what's going on and where she is. Spider-Man is swinging down towards MJ knowing what he's doing is wrong but unable to stop himself. He even says he hopes MJ gets away - which she does in the subway.

MJ reveals she called Ben and The New Warriors because she was afraid the Avengers or Fantastic Four would kill Spider-Man (nothing to do with the Marvel marketing dept, then?!). As MJ rushes off the train at the next stop, Peter pounces down upon her as the New Warriors arrive. Peter begs them to stop him.

General Comments

It's a shame that the New Warriors have to be involved, but that doesn't stop the story from having a solid impact. Sienkiewicz's art convey's Peter's madness frightningly well.

Overall Rating

MJ is in real trouble. It's no secret that Peter is supposed to move over and make way for Ben, so this really could be IT for our lovely red-head. Four webs for a great story. You gotta read part two!