Chapter 14 - Xu Mo, Gwen, and the Unexpected Intruder

New York's Central Park, the city's largest backyard, was alive with activity. The lush jungle, neatly arranged trees, and spacious theater were all part of the park's charm.

The carnival was in full swing.

The park was packed with people, vibrant festival decorations flying everywhere, and balloons floating in the sky. Cartoon characters, including Spider-Man, were parading the streets. Kids surrounded Spider-Man, and adults joined in the laughter. Singers performed energetically on stage, and the lively music echoed across the park, creating a wave of excitement.

"Jia Li, it's too noisy here."

Xu Mo frowned as he got out of the taxi. The chaotic atmosphere wasn't to his liking. He would have preferred to stay home and paint.

Jia Li, hearing this, immediately put on a pitiful expression and clung to Xu Mo's arm, saying sweetly, "No! No! Let's have fun."

"Alright, just for a little while."

Xu Mo reluctantly agreed.

As soon as he finished speaking, Jia Li darted into the crowd like a bird returning to its forest, likely heading straight for the food stalls.

Safety wasn't a concern for her. Xu Mo hoped she wouldn't cause any trouble.

Scanning the crowded park, Xu Mo spotted Peter Parker in the distance, taking pictures with a confident grin. Spider-Man's role seemed to bring Peter immense joy.

Xu Mo wondered how Peter defined a superhero these days. With Saitama's influence making society view heroes differently, Peter's excitement for "One Punch Man" contrasted sharply with Uncle Ben's principle of "with great power comes great responsibility."

Just as Xu Mo was about to approach Peter, he felt a tap on his shoulder and heard a pleasant voice behind him.

"Xu Mo, you're here too? Did Peter call you?"

Turning around, Xu Mo saw Gwen Stacy standing there, her blond hair and blue eyes radiant with confidence. Gwen had a soft, engaging demeanor and was now a classmate of Xu Mo's.

Seeing Gwen brought back a flood of memories, and Xu Mo thought, This is quite the coincidence.

He replied, "I didn't expect the carnival to be so noisy."

"Peter loves pulling people into these events," Gwen said with a smile. She then added curiously, "I heard Peter say you're the artist behind 'One Punch Man.' Is it true that Saitama can beat the Underworld King? And how does he train?"

It was clear Gwen was a devoted fan.

Xu Mo had altered the storyline of the Underworld King, shifting the ultimate showdown to the next story to keep fans eagerly awaiting the outcome. This tactic was meant to enhance the thrill of the story and keep readers engaged.

Faced with Gwen's enthusiasm, Xu Mo decided not to reveal too much. Instead, he kept it light. "You'll find out soon enough. The next issue comes out tomorrow, with two new comics."

"What did you create this time?" Gwen asked eagerly.

"I'd advise against reading them. They're quite violent and gory."

"Don't underestimate me!"

Gwen's reaction surprised Xu Mo. She playfully hit his shoulder, which felt oddly affectionate.

Xu Mo wondered, Did Gwen imply something more?

Gwen seemed to realize her actions were a bit too forward and lowered her gaze, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

Xu Mo, having lived two lives, understood the situation all too well. He felt a bit of a headache coming on, given the complex dynamics at play.

During this time, Harry had been pursuing Mary, leaving Peter to watch as the girl he admired ended up with his friend. Gwen had remained focused on her studies, but Xu Mo noticed she seemed interested in him.

Gwen was visibly flustered, her face red as she took a deep breath and tried to explain, "Uh, sorry, I got a little carried away."

"It's alright. It's just human nature."

Xu Mo responded with a charming smile and a teasing glint in his eyes.

Gwen, noticing the change in Xu Mo's demeanor, realized that he had transformed from a brooding figure to someone who was relaxed and engaging.

As the two exchanged smiles, a sharp, hoarse laughter suddenly pierced through the festive atmosphere.

"Jie, hahaha, happy carnival!"

The sound came from above, and Xu Mo's eyes widened.