SECRET WARS
Chapter II

This chapter is as much about loyalty as it is about battle. Felicia Hardy’s sudden arrival on the Beyonder’s world underscores her role in Spider‑Man’s life: not just as an ally in combat, but as a confidante who knows his heart and his struggles. Though torn from her fight alongside Blade and Morbius, she chooses to stand with Peter, proving that friendship and trust can bridge even the most impossible distances.

Thematically, the episode explores the bonds that hold heroes together. Spider‑Man, often isolated in his battles, now finds strength in companionship — Captain America’s steady leadership, Iron Man’s ingenuity, Storm’s resolve, and Felicia’s fierce loyalty. Together they confront the Red Skull, whose alliance with Octavius and Smythe represents the opposite: a union built on ambition, manipulation, and betrayal.

Felicia’s arc is especially poignant. Her anger, her vulnerability, and her eventual reconciliation with Spider‑Man highlight the complexity of their bond. She is more than a partner in battle; she is someone who challenges him, supports him, and reminds him that even heroes need someone to lean on.

This episode is not only a clash of powers but a testament to friendship, trust, and the strength found in unity. Against the Skull’s fortress and the chaos of the Beyonder’s experiment, Spider‑Man and his allies prove that loyalty is the true weapon that can turn the tide.

In Europe, a horde of vampires under Miriam’s command hold Blade and Morbius captive in their fortress. Before Miriam can execute them, the Black Cat intervenes, freeing her allies and battling the horde single‑handedly. But before anyone can react, she vanishes in a shimmer of light, leaving Morbius deeply concerned.

Felicia materialises on the Beyonder’s planet, stunned to see Spider‑Man has summoned her to aid his mission. Angry at first for abandoning her friends, she reluctantly agrees to help after Captain America welcomes her. With Storm recruiting allies elsewhere, Spider‑Man leads Black Cat, Cap, and Iron Man on a mission to stop the Red Skull.

Their approach is quickly discovered, and the Skull destroys their vehicle. Forced to cross treacherous terrain, the heroes endure earthquakes and lava flows, nearly losing Felicia and Iron Man in the struggle. Meanwhile, within his citadel, the Red Skull has allied with Doctor Octopus and Alistair Smythe, combining their resources. On the far side of the fortress, Storm and her alien allies prepare their own assault.

Inside, a pitched battle erupts. The Red Skull and Octavius flee, pursued by Felicia, who seeks revenge. She is captured, but Spider‑Man races after them and stops her, sparking her anger once more.

Later, Felicia apologises, admitting her temper got the better of her. She confesses her happiness at fighting alongside Spider‑Man and, in a moment of vulnerability, lifts his mask and kisses him for the first time — leaving Peter taken completely by surprise.

This episode is one of only five not written by head writer John Semper Jr.

This is the only episode that the Black Cat and Spider-Man share a kiss. She told him she loved him in The Return of Hydro-Man (Part 2).

Arrival | Doom