Archive of Our Own ^beta

Earth-TRN635

“It was our first night in Budapest and I was running late as usual. Maria had come for a tech symposium, which was sponsored by her employer. I was supposed to spend the day sightseeing. Truth is I never left the hotel room. I just buried myself in my own research. 

Our plan was to meet at the restaurant and celebrate our first month of wedded bliss. ”

BOOOOOM!!

“MARIA!!!” Hank cried out. The restaurant where the event was being held had gone up in flames. It had become a ball of fire and everyone inside was incinerated in a matter of seconds.

“That was six months ago and I still can’t sleep. Can’t eat. Can’t function.” Hank explained, sitting across from a therapist. Hank was a handsome man with a sharp jawline and dirty blond hair that swooped over his forehead. It had grown longer and messier. Besides working out, Hank hadn’t been looking after himself very well. Exercise was the only thing that seemed to help. He was wearing a sage green, unbuttoned shirt over a white tank top and a pair of navy sweatpants. The office was as you’d expect it. There were bookcases filled with various textbooks on psychology and his desk had some knickknacks, a framed picture of his kids, a landline and a notepad which the therapist wrote in. 

“Survivor’s guilt is very common in cases like yours, Hank.” Doctor Winslow told him. He had a balding head, with grey hair. He wore a green sweater vest over a white shirt and a black necktie. 

“You’ve suffered a devastating loss. But you will gain the strength to move on to a new chapter in your life.” Winslow explained.

“I wish I could believe you. I can’t concentrate on my work or anything else for that matter. All I can do is think about Maria and the life we should have had together. It’s like I’m stuck.” Hank told him. “Trapped in a giant web of what ifs and might have beens. I just want her murderers captured and punished.” 

“Have you heard anything from the Hungarian authorities?” Winslow asked.

“They’re clueless. They suspect some terrorist group with a name I can’t pronounce.” Hank shrugged. “Any leads are dead. That’s the problem with terrorists. They can hide in plain sight and strike anywhere at any time. No one is safe. No place is secure.” He continued. 

“You mustn’t get lost in paranoia, Hank. Like this office, for example. Nothing can harm you in here-”

“ GET OUT OF MY WAY! I DEMAND TO SEE MY SON! ” A man’s voice shouted from the other side of the office door. It swung open and an older man stormed inside. It was Brad Pym, Hank’s awful father. 

“Excuse me-!” Winslow said, angrily.

“Dad-?!” 

“Gather your things, Henry. This nonsense ends now. ” Brad barked. He had a receding, greyish-blond hairline, a bushy moustache and big, circular glasses. He was a bit chubby, yet strong all the same. He wore a dark grey suit.

“How dare you interrupt my patient’s therapy session?!” Winslow said, furiously.

“I’m the man who’s been paying all the bills for this bullshit treatment! The checks stop today. ” Brad stated. “Henry, we need you back at Egghead Innovations. We may have lost Maria, but you’re still salvageable.” He told Hank as he herded his son out of the office. Good old Dad. As compassionate and understanding as ever. Hank couldn’t help but remember the time his Father kicked his Mother out of the house because he no longer ‘needed her.’ 

“Can’t we discuss this like adults? Hank still has serious issues and trauma to resolve.” Winslow insisted.

“Your opinion is noted, Doctor. And his name is Henry. ”

Hank was shoved into the passenger seat of his Dad’s car and before he knew it, they were on the road. Hank watched the cars go past, wishing he could trade seats with any one of the passengers he saw.

“I’ve heard from you twice since I returned to America, Dad. Why the sudden urgency?” Hank sighed.

“The paper you completed before leaving for Hungary has finally been published and it’s created quite a stir in the scientific community. Elihas Starr himself is intrigued by your theory about subatomic particles that can reduce mass and has agreed to fund your research.” Brad explained.

“I guess it pays to have a Father who is the chief administration officer of Egghead Innovations.” Hank mumbled.

“Alright, I might have petitioned him on your behalf, but he immediately grasped the enormous potential. By the way, I took the liberty of calling your discovery ‘ Pym Particles. ’” Brad told him.

“What? But… But I intended to name them after Maria.” Hank said, hurt.

“A pity you weren’t around when the journal requested a name. This isn’t your first mental breakdown, Henry. But I trust it will be your last.” Brad said, sternly. “You have a promising career ahead of you. You just have to grow up and take responsibility for yourself.” Brad said, before parking the car outside Egghead Innovations.

“As usual, a wonderful pep talk Dad. Really. But I’m still not ready to go back to work. And I’m not Mom, so stop trying to bully me. ” Hank said, frustratedly as they both got out of the car.

“I’m trying to help you, son. Please, don’t make any decisions until you’ve talked with-”

“Mr. Starr! We were on our way to your office.” Brad exclaimed as he greeted the large, bald man in the lobby. Hank and his Father had just stepped through some metal detectors when they were approached by Elihas. 

“I had the desk inform me as soon as you arrived, Brad.” Elihas told him. He looked exactly like his company’s name - an Egghead. A bald, egg-shaped head on a large, plump and egg-shaped body. He wore a large, dark brown coat over a white, button-up shirt and a black necktie, with a pair of beige pants. He, too, had round glasses, but they were even bigger than Brad’s.

“I apologise for the intrusive security, Henry. Our government contracts require it.” Elihas smiled, before shaking the young man’s hand. “I was so sorry to hear about Maria. She was a valued and cherished member of our little family.” He said, somberly.

“Oh… Thank you, Mr. Starr. I thank you for all your assistance with the Embassy in transporting Maria’s remains.” Hank said, quietly.

“It was the least I could do.” Elihas said as he led Hank and his Father into a stairwell. “The poor girl wouldn’t have even been in Budapest if it hadn’t been for our symposium. Oh, and please, call me Elihas.” He rambled. Hank couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable. Even though his words felt sincere, Elihas’ tone felt fake.

“I’m so pleased by your decision to return to Egghead Innovations. I hear these Pym Particles of yours are quite revolutionary. We expect great things from it. And from you.” Elihas smiled, changing the subject. 

“Contrary to what my Father may have told you, Mr. Starr, I wouldn’t expect too much.” Hank sighed.

“What are you saying, Henry?” Elihas said, surprised.

“I have no idea when or if my research will yield practical results. And it won’t be rushed or held to an artificial timetable.” Hank said, matter-of-factly. 

“I understand.” Elihas nodded before they finally reached the correct floor.

Elihas brought Hank and his Father into a laboratory, where a young man was waiting inside.

“As a scientist myself, I know you need to work at your own pace. Believe me, when I say we’re in this for the long hall. This laboratory should suit your purpose. If you need anything else, just tell your Father.” Elihas told him. 

“Dr. Pym. This is a real pleasure and honour.” The young man said, coming over and shaking Hank’s hand.

“Oh… Thank you. I’m sorry, you are..?” 

“ Dr. William Foster , but everyone calls me Bill.” He smiled. He had dark brown skin and short, styled hair. He was buff, with muscles pressing against his light, blue t-shirt. Bill also wore a grey lab coat and a pair of dark blue pants.

“It’s nice to meet you.” Hank said.

“I forgot to mention that I took the liberty of hiring him to assist you.” Brad mentioned.

“Ah.”

“I-Is there a problem?” Bill asked, concerned.

“Not at all. You’re Bill Foster. I’ve seen your work on the Alpha-Amino Acids- if anything, I should be assisting you. ” Hank chuckled, although he suspected there was more to Foster than being just an assistant. He was pretty sure Brad had hired him to spy on his son. It was a shame, because Hank already enjoyed Bill’s company, but he had no intention of working for Egghead.

Hank and his Father left the building and stepped out onto the street where there were colourful pedestrians walking up and down the sidewalk. 

“Aside from being a brilliant scientist, Elihas Starr is also a shrewd businessman. You should feel honoured that he’s willing to provide so much support for your research.” Brad smiled. Honoured? It was clear to Hank that Starr intended to exploit him and the commercial possibilities of his work. 

“Now that we’ve gotten your career back on track, what about your social life?” Brad suggested, casually. “My good friend Doctor Vernon Van Dyne has a beautiful daughter who-”

“DAD!” Hank snapped, feeling his blood boil. “I’ve only been a widower for six months!” He said, angrily.

“All right, all right! No one can say Brad Pym doesn’t respect boundaries. We’ll table the discussion.” Brad said, throwing his hands up in defence. “At least for now… What do you say to an early dinner? You’re going to need a good night’s sleep so that you’ll be ready for work tomorrow.” 

‘That’s what you think. I don’t mind spending the night in my old apartment and picking up a few things, but I plan to check myself back into Dr. Winslow’s sanitarium in the morning. Returning to Egghead has stirred up some rather powerful emotions. And painful memories.’ 

“What do you think, Henry?” Maria smiled, showing Hank her schematics. A metal helmet which resembled an ant, with notes and arrows scribbled all around it.

“Not my taste, but I’ve always been an old Navy man.” Hank admitted.

“Oh, c’mon, Hank! I’ve come to believe that ants communicate through their antennae. This helmet will allow me to tune into their wavelength and actually converse with them.” Maria beamed. She was even more beautiful when she was excited. Maria had short, black hair and a face like a Disney princess. Big blue eyes and full lips. She had a slender yet curvy body, and on this day, she was wearing a white lab coat over a pink blouse. 

“Maria, if our only chance of making friends is through ants, then maybe we should re-evaluate our social lives…” Hank joked, making her giggle.

“Oh, such a comedian. Hank, you know very well that insects outnumber humans by at least two hundred million to one. There is an average of forty million insects in every acre of land. A technology capable of communicating with them would be worth billions. ” Maria insisted.

Billions. Maria planned to announce her discovery at the symposium but never got the chance. The authorities and I always assumed she was a victim of random chance. But what if she was the real target? No… This is crazy. Not even Elihas Starr could be that ruthless… Although… No. No! I’ve got to control my imagination.

And yet… Looks like I’ll be returning to Egghead Innovations after all.

“I do apologise, Dr. Pym. I didn’t realise I was being sprung on you, without your knowledge.” Bill said as they both stood in the lab, and Hank was checking things off a clipboard.

“It’s fine. How about we lose the titles, Bill? I’m Hank, to those I respect.” Hank suggested.

“I like the sound of that.” Bill smiled, sweetly. 

“Our eventual goal is to harness a rare group of subatomic particles.” Hank said, bringing Bill to his computer. 

“The Pym Particles? ” 

“Eurgh. I’ll never forgive my Father for that name… And that grievance doesn’t even make my top hundred. ” Hank cringed.

“He does sound like a hard-ass.” Bill admitted.

“You have no idea.” Hank scoffed. “I’m convinced we can use the application of select magnetic fields to entrap these particles for synthesis. A serum that can change the size of any object would be an incredible gift to mankind.” Hank explained. “It would revolutionise the shipping and transportation industries. The savings in fuel and the corresponding reduction in Greenhouse Gases would be incalculable. ” He told Bill.

“Yes. I have to say, Hank, your ideas fascinate me. You could change the world for the better - in ways we haven’t even imagined yet. It’s magnificent.” Bill gushed, making Hank blush slightly.

Over the next week, the two scientists worked on their lab and equipment, to realise their goals. Bill Foster lived up to his reputation, contributing far more than his share to the research… Which made it a pity that Hank couldn’t trust him. The days morph into weeks and the so-called Pym Particles still elude us. Once Hank was alone, his real work began. Hank hated to be deceitful, but the serum’s much closer than Bill or anyone else realises. He was on the verge of a major breakthrough. Not only did Hank’s serious experiments begin after regular work hours, but he’s also hacked into Elihas Starr’s personal computer - searching for any connection between him and Maria’s killers.

Okay, maybe I am acting a little paranoid…

“Are you sure these modifications to the testing chamber are necessary? Just seems like busy work to me.” Bill said one noon. It pained Hank to make Bill feel so redundant, but he had to be careful.

“Trust me, Bill, I know what I’m doing.” Hank told him.

“You’re the boss.” Bill shrugged, before getting to work on the chamber. It was a large, glass and metal tube in the corner of the lab, with various tubes and piping coming out of it. 

The breakthrough finally came, three nights later. Hank stood alone behind the computer at a desk, with their eyes glued to the chamber. Inside it, there was a desk chair. Hank held his breath, silently praying to Maria before he released the gas into the chamber. Red smoke filled the large tube and when it dissipated, the desk chair was small enough for a Barbie doll to sit on. 

“Don’t celebrate yet.” Hank told himself, before releasing the alternative gas. Blue smoke filled the chamber next and the chair grew into its original size again.

“Yes… YES! ” Hank cheered, throwing his fists into the air. “It works!! I’ve DONE it!!” He laughed, dancing around in his lab with a big grin. He hadn’t smiled like this since his wedding day. But just like his marriage, his celebration didn’t last long.

“Congratulations, doc.” A man’s voice said, making Hank pause. 

“What-?! What do you want?” Hank said as two security officers came into the laboratory. One was chubby with blond hair styled like curtains named Bowski. The other had rusty-brown, messy hair and a moustache with a semi-muscular body called Stern. They were both at least ten years older than Hank.

“Mr. Starr sends his regards.” Bowski said. “Ya think we didn’t know you were sneaking around at night? Sounds like industrial sabotage to me.” He sniggered, pushing Hank backwards into Stern.

“Mr. Starr values loyalty. Betrayal, not so much.” Stern scoffed. “We hope you’ll behave and voluntarily surrender all your notes, samples, computer passwords and anything else connected to your research.” 

“What if I don’t?” Hank growled. WHAM! Bowski’s fist collided with Hank’s stomach, knocking the wind out of him. He fell backwards into his desk and a picture frame of Maria was knocked over and smashed into the tiled floors.

“Any more stupid questions?” Bowski asked, cockily.

“N-No…” Hank croaked, handing over his ID badge.

“That’s a good lad.” Stern said, condescendingly. “Such a pity that your generation just doesn’t grasp the concept of confidentiality. It’s only a matter of time before you call a lawyer or complain about your treatment on Facebook, huh? A private man like Mr. Starr can’t have that.” 

“W-What are you going to do to me?” Hank said, stomach twisting in fear.

“We’re gonna make ya famous. You’re gonna test your own shrinking gas.” Bowski said, holding the blond’s arms behind his back as he shoved him towards the chamber.

“No… NO! It isn’t safe. We don’t know how it will affect the human tissue!” Hank shouted, desperately trying to break free. Unfortunately, even with all his exercising, Hank wasn’t strong enough to break free from Bowski’s grip.

“Then let’s find out.” Stern laughed before Hank was swapped with the desk chair inside the chamber.

“ NO! Please! For the love of-” But the red mist had already been released. It engulfed Hank’s body.

When the red smoke dissipated, Hank had completely shrunk. He was no bigger than an inch, but he was alive. But how would he ever get back to normal?

Hmmmm… Maybe I should worry about that later.

The chamber opened and a foot was already on its way to step on him. Quickly, Hank ran away from the looming boot and jumped out of the chamber.

Starr planned to kill me. Was I right about him? Did he murder Maria, too? Or am I just suffering from a mental collapse?

Hank was surprisingly quick when he was this small, able to quickly dodge stomping feet and swatting books. 

Maybe this is only a nightmare. The result of paranoia gone wild. I’d rather be crazy than ant size. 

Hank escaped his laboratory, but now what? He came into a hallway, where another security guard was doing a patrol, somewhat absent-mindedly. Luckily, Hank was small enough to go by without being noticed. 

“Yo! Anybody pass this way? We’re talking someone short. Real short.” Bowski said, coming into the corridor with Stern.

“Eh? You mean a kid?” The tired security officer said, confused.

“Idiot.” Stern rolled his eyes before pushing past him.

“Do yourself a favour, genius, and keep both eyes open when you’re on the job.” Bowski added, also pushing past the guard.

“Eh, you crummy bastards…” The guard mumbled as Bowski and Stern stormed away. All of them were completely unaware of the tiny Hank who was using the guard’s shoe as a free ride.

It wasn’t long before Hank escaped Egghead Innovations. But where could Hank go from here? He was tiny, in the back alley of his workplace, terrified. He couldn’t go back, because those goons would be standing between him and the growing gas. Not only that, but he’d need someone to turn the growing gas on while he was in the chamber. Hank needed help. He needed somebody he could trust. But first, he needed to get to safety. Hank was squinting through the darkness of the outside world. Of the grimy, damp world of an alleyway. Hank could barely see where he was going. There was a hole in the ground, a narrow and hidden drop that Hank didn’t see coming.
“WhoaARGH?!” Hank blurted out before he slipped and fell into the drop. He slid down, uncontrollably, until he finally landed in the dark cavern underneath. His legs should’ve snapped from the speed he hit the floor… but they didn’t

“That’s… That’s impossible…” Hank muttered, confused. CLICK CLICK! Hank’s eyes squinted into the darkness, seeing large and dark shapes moving in the cavern. What little light spilt into the space from the outside was just enough for Hank to realise they were ants. 

“Oh fuck.”

“ Excellent! ” Elihas Starr exclaimed in his office. All over the walls were monitors showing live feeds of various floors and laboratories in Egghead Innovations. Stern and Bowski had just brought all of Hank’s research and notes in boxes and delivered them to their boss.

“Mr. Stern, Mr. Bowski, I observed your work on the monitors. Your paychecks will reflect my satisfaction. Although, I am still curious about Pym. I lost sight of him after his startling reduction.” Elihas mentioned.

“You can forget about ‘im, Mr. Starr.” Bowski assured him.

“Yeah. And we believe we secured all his work product.” Stern added.

“ Believe, Mr. Stern?” 

“Yeah. Talk about backups. The guy had backups of his backups.” Stern nodded, before showing Elihas a couple of vials of red gas.

“And there’s always a chance he passed copies to Foster.” Bowski added.

“I don’t believe Pym trusted anyone, including his assistant. In any event, Dr. Foster won’t be a problem.” Elihas told them.

I’m not crazy. Elihas sent those goons to kill me. Meaning he probably arranged my wife’s murder. A lot of good that does me now, though, what with the angry ants that want to kill me.

Hank had been desperately trying to run away from the ants, going down different tunnels in hopes of finding an exit. It seemed hopeless and he was running out of breath. Until finally, Hank found a cavern that seemed to be the ant’s treasure trove. There was a bunch of manmade objects that they had been collecting for their nest, including toothpicks, matchsticks, elastic bands, cigarettes and candy wrappers. Hank snatched up the matchstick, just as the ants were catching up behind him. He prayed it wasn’t too damp to ignite. He struck it against the stone floor once. Then twice. Then finally- FWOOOSH! The end of the matchstick caught fire, blazing like the Human Torch. He waved it back and forth in front of the ants, scaring them and making the insects back off. The warm glow bathed the cavern in light, and more importantly, showed Hank a way out. There was a tunnel that had an incline, leading to the surface.

“Perfect.” Hank said, dropping the matchstick outside the passageway and grabbing a toothpick, before climbing up the incline. He could feel the cool wind funnel through the tunnel until the exit was suddenly blocked by a spider head. Its eight eyes peered through to Hank curiously. It was dark brown, furry and incredibly disturbing.

“Oh, come on!” Hank groaned, tired and scared. He had no choice. If he wanted to avenge Maria, he had to do it. Hank plunged the pointy end of the toothpick directly into the spider’s head, piercing through its skin and into its delicate innards. Hank was surprised by his own strength… It felt unnatural. Hank climbed out to the surface and found himself outside Egghead Innovations’ parking lot. Curious, Hank jumped. He launched into the air and landed on the metal railings that went around the perimeter of the parking lot. Hank had soared through the air like he had been catapulted. Hank stumbled a bit as he landed on the steel platform, taken aback by his new ability to leap like the Hulk. 

I just fought a spider to the death and narrowly avoided becoming ant-food. I really need to check myself back into Doctor Winslow’s sanitarium… although our sessions may prove to be a tad awkward at this height.

Hank was just about to jump down when someone came storming out of Egghead Innovations. It was Bill Foster. He held a box of his things (books, equipment, pictures, etc.) as he angrily walked into the parking lot.

“Bill?” Hank said, surprised, although he went unnoticed by the upset scientist.

“Stupid Egghead. I barely had time to get settled.” Bill mumbled to himself. Hank came to the realisation that he had been fired, and Bill was bitter about it. Hank quickly jumped off the railing and landed on the concrete as graceful as a feather. Again, a fall from that height should’ve killed him, but for some reason, Hank was stronger when he was smaller. Hank caught up with Bill, just as Foster unlocked his car. He put his stuff in the passenger seat, completely unaware of his shrunken lab partner who had hopped into the car. Bill got in the driver's seat, but before he put the key in the ignition, he let out a long, exhausted sigh and rubbed his eyes.

“Dammit. Fuck!” Bill groaned. “Hank, what did they do to you, buddy? Why did they actually fire you?” He asked, completely unaware that Hank himself was listening in Bill’s box of personal belongings. 

Well, shit. Looks like Dad didn’t hire Bill to spy on me. Sounds like Bill actually cares about me. Did he get fired for defending me? Now I feel like I’m the asshole. Trust has always been an issue for me. Maybe it has something to do with being a child of divorce. Or maybe my brain’s just faulty. Either way, I’m going to have to trust Bill.

Bill parked up outside his house and unknowingly brought Hank into his suburban home and placed his box of things on the kitchen counter. Bill looked miserable. He was wearing a green jumper and a pair of grey jeans. His kitchen was fairly basic. It was open, with a breakfast bar between the kitchen and the dinner table. Bill opened the fridge and took out a bottle of beer. KKST! He used a bottle opener and took a big glug as he leaned against a counter.

“Fuck you, Elihas.” Bill said, holding up his beer.

“You really mean that, Bill?” Hank said, loud enough for Bill to hear.

“ WHAT THE-?! ” Hank blurted out, looking around in fear. There wasn’t a person in sight, or so he thought.

“Down here!” Hank shouted, standing on the marble-surfaced counter - only a few inches away from Bill’s hand. Billy looked down and his eyes bulged in horror.

“P-P-Pym?!” Bill stammered, before double-checking the alcohol percentage on his beer.

“It’s not the booze talking, Foster. It worked. The gas works and I’m living proof of it.” Hank assured him.

“Holy shit… No way… Oh my God… I can’t… Fuck…” Bill said, hyperventilating and rubbing his eyes. 

“Take a deep breath, Bill.” Hank told him.

“Did you do this to yourself? Is this why Starr fired you?” Bill questioned, panicky.

“No! No, his goons did this to me. They wanted to kill me, Bill.” Hank told him. 

“Are you serious? Oh shit, you’re serious…” Bill said, running his fingers through his hair. 

“Bill, I need you to grow me. I need you to fix me.” Hank told him.

“Right… Right!” Bill said, coming to a realisation. He went to his box of things and took out a vial of blue mist from a leather pouch.
“I quickly saved a couple, while packing my things. I don’t think Elihas’ men noticed. T-This should make you normal again, although… Well, we haven’t tested it on regular objects, let alone people. ” Bill pointed out, anxiously.

“Actually, Bill… I have tested it. I tested the Pym Particles on a chair. I guess there were hidden cameras in our lab, because the moment it proved successful, I was ambushed.” Hank confessed.

“Wait… You were experimenting without me? Why?” Bill asked, hurt.

“Because… Because I have trust issues, Bill. It’s my fault. I convinced myself that my Dad hired you to spy on me.” Hank admitted.

“You thought I was spying on you?” Bill said, surprised.

“If you knew my Dad, you’d know that wasn’t a crazy conclusion I came to. But I was wrong. I’m sorry, Bill.” Hank apologised.

“Hang on.” Bill said, before holding out the vial of blue mist and removing the cap. It poured out onto Hank and engulfed him in the blue cloud. 

GRRRRREEEEWWWKK!

Hank started growing on the countertop into his normal size. When the transformation ended, Hank was crouched on the countertop - panting and taking in his morphed surroundings. 

“Fuck… Fuck, that’s so weird…” Hank breathed, sliding off the counter and clutching his head. “Could I get one of those?” He asked, referring to Bill’s beer.

Soon, Hank and Bill were sitting in the lounge. Hank told Bill everything. What happened to him in his lab with Stern and Bowski, and his theory that Elihas killed his wife. 

“I dunno, Hank. Elihas is a dick, but he’s also one of the most highly respected scientists in the world. Do you really think he’d murder your wife?” Bill asked, concerned.

“Let me guess… Did my Dad tell you I suffered from a ‘mental snap’?” Hank sighed.

“...Yeah.” 

“Figures. You realise he’s always been Starr’s lapdog? He’s always chosen Elihas over me.” Hank reasoned. “Look, Bill, I hate to do this to you. Especially after how I treated you when you could’ve been my friend. Maybe the only person I could trust. But I need your help to recover my research from Starr.” Hank said, anxiously.

“And you can’t just go to the police?” Bill asked.

“Who do you think they’ll believe? The local celebrity who employs thousands or me, with my history of mental illness?” Hank pointed out.

“Yeah… Even as I said it, I knew it was a bad idea to trust the police.” Bill scoffed. “Okay, I’m in.” 

“Really? Oh my God, thank you! Oh, and um… Can I borrow your laptop? I hid copies of all my notes on a secure site. I need to download them.” 

ONE MONTH LATER…

Hank and his only friend had converted Bill’s garage into a very bare and makeshift laboratory. There were computers powering big, chunky machines and desks cluttered with equipment and pages of notes. Hank’s experience with the ants had inspired him to complete Maria’s work.

“These schematics are incredible.” Bill said, wearing a basketball jersey as he sifted through the papers. “A device to communicate with ants through their antennae? ” 

“That’s right, Bill. We’re about to transform my wife’s theories into reality!” Hank said, gesturing towards a helmet. A silver helmet with long antennae poles coming out the ‘forehead.’ 

“Well, it took long enough. And that doesn’t count the time we spent converting my garage. But the prototype’s looking good.” Bill smiled as Hank picked up the helmet. It was surprisingly light, despite the complicated machinery inside.

“Any updates on Egghead?” Hank asked, putting the helmet back down.

“I don’t think he knows you’re here. I doubt he knows you’re alive. ” Bill answered. “So how do you propose we test this prototype?” He asked.

“Only one way to do it properly. In the field!” Hank shrugged, before opening a metal cupboard. He pulled out a red jumpsuit, looking quite eager.

“You’re not seriously suggesting-”

“I am.” Hank nodded.

The scientist pulled on the red jumpsuit. It had a black stripe going up along his abs with a big, black circle on his chest. Hank wore black gloves and boots that were designed to climb mountains. He also wore a black set of briefs over his red tights - just to make him look less naked, and a grey chunky belt that had Pym Particle canisters attached to it. The buckle was a large, black circle. 

“You look… Ridiculous. Kinda hot, but also ridiculous.” Bill chuckled as Hank slotted the helmet over his head.

“Thanks… I think? I designed this protective jumpsuit to shield me from insect bites and stings.” Hank told him.

“Uh huh… Sure you didn’t get in on the superhero action?” Bill asked, knowingly.

“Hey, if stretching makes you a super, then shrinking should too.” Hank defended, as Bill put on a headset.

“Well, we should be in constant communication. I want you to abort at the slightest sign of trouble.” Bill told him.

“No argument there, Foster.” Hank nodded.

“Okay. Then I guess we’re good to go.” Bill said, anxiously.

I’ve never been a man of action. Spent most of my life playing the clinical observer. The cold and objective scientist.

That changed the day Maria died.

Red mist enveloped Hank’s body and in a matter of seconds, he shrank to the size of a lip balm. Bill looked down on him, somewhat disturbed by the miniature man now standing in his garage.

“God, that’s disturbing.” Foster muttered, before opening the garage door.

I don’t know why Elihas Starr ordered her death. His motivations don’t matter. Only his actions. 

Hank made his way outside, trekking through the nature that now felt huge. He was simply walking through blades of grass, but to him, it felt like a jungle. 

“Hank? Talk to me. Are you okay?” Bill asked over the comms. “I can’t record silence. We need to document your observations.”
“Right, sorry. Sometimes I forget I’m still on the same planet down here.” Hank admitted, before spotting an anthill.

“I’ve found the target.” Hank said, approaching it.

“No sense taking any needless risks. Just wait at the mouth until one of them appears.” Bill advised.

“Where’s the fun in that?” Hank chuckled, before jumping in. Hank slid down the slope, before landing amongst a group of large, rusty-brown ants. They all clicked and chirped, looking over at the intruder with intrigue.

“Uh… Hi?” Hank said, awkwardly.

“For fucks sake, Hank. This is supposed to be a scientific experiment, not a suicide.” Bill said, frustratedly. “What is your current status?” He asked, but at that moment, Hank was desperately running through anthill tunnels, away from the bugs.

“Not good! I am surrounded by an army of worker ants! And they are not responding to my helmet.” Hank shouted. 

“Concentrate, Hank! Tune the helmet. You may still have a chance.” Bill told him. The miniaturised scientist fiddled with the dial on the side of his head, concentrating his thoughts. 

“Hank, if you can’t control these ants, then you need to abort. We may need to terminate this entire experiment! ” Bill reasoned.
“Wait, wait, wait…!” Hank shouted when he suddenly heard a click in his helmet. He turned around to see the ants were now standing still. It worked. The helmet worked.

“Bill. I’m… I’m speaking to them!” Hank gasped.

“No way…” Bill said in disbelief.

“I-It’s hard to describe. It’s like I can sense their thoughts. Almost as if I’m seeing them in the form of crude pictures. And similarly, I think they can hear mine.” Hank explained.

“Perfect. Great. How about you get back here before I have a heart atta-”

“OW!” 

“Hank?!”
“Good news. The bodysuit protects me from bites.”

“Please don’t tell me you told an ant to bite you, to test it?” Bill groaned, face in his hands.

“I’m a scientist, Bill! What do you expect?” Hank defended, amused. “I’m on my way.” 

Bill waited inside the garage, squinting at the ground and waiting for a tiny man, dressed in red spandex, to come running in. He didn’t expect the shrunken man to come fluttering through the air, beneath his nose.

“Hank?!” Bill blurted out in horror. Hank was riding on a flying red ant.

“Check it out! I’m riding an ant! ” Hank laughed, thrilled. He landed down on the concrete ground, as Bill laughed with both nerves and accomplishment. In a puff of blue smoke, Hank grew back to his regular size. He immediately gave Bill a hug, beaming and grinning from ear to ear.

“It’s astonishing, Bill! Ants are far more complex than I could’ve ever imagined.” Hank said, sounding as happy and excited as he had been on his wedding day. “While they don’t quite fit the definition of intelligent life, they seem smarter and more loyal than many people I know.” He continued, darting around the garage and making wild gestures like he was a bug. “Present company excluded.” Hank added, not wanting to offend Bill.

“This is amazing, Hank. I can’t quite believe it. It’s fascinating. I’m going to try and organise these notes into something resembling a coherent report.” Bill told him.

“Hang on, Foster. I’m not sure I want to present these findings to anyone.” Hank admitted.

“W-W-What?! But Hank?! I don’t understand. You said it yourself, we’re scientists! We have an obligation to-!” 

“Bill! Elihas Starr ordered Maria’s murder! He’s certainly behind the two goons who tried to kill me. Besides, I’m not and never have been employed by Egghead. I’m an independent contractor and own everything I develop. That’s why Starr wants me dead. ” Hank reasoned. “He’s determined to steal my work.” 

“Hank, I get it. Elihas is a piece of shit. He’s not the first highly respected person to be a crook. But you’re not the Human Torch or the Hulk. Are you sure you want to try this ‘Masked Vigilante’ business? You could get hurt… Or squashed. ” Bill reasoned.

“Sorry, Bill. But this isn’t a debate. I am avenging my wife.” 

Bill Foster is a good man. He and Doctor Winslow are the only ones who stood by me. Even my own Father thinks I’m nuts. Maybe I am… a little. Doesn’t change the fact that Elihas Starr killed Maria and tried to kill me, too. I’ve got to find the two bozos he sent after me. Throw a real scare into them. Force them to turn on Starr and confess to the police.

Who am I kidding?

I haven’t been in a real fight since grade school. Am I even capable of raising my fists? 

I hope so.

Maria deserves justice.

Something Bill said about my protective suit looking like a superhero… Yeah. Maybe I can bluff those thugs into thinking I’m some new superhero arriving on the scene. Hell, maybe I can bluff myself into thinking I am one.

Egghead Innovations believes its security is state of the art. Yeah. Let’s see about that.

The tiny Hank was straddled on a flying ant, zipping into Egghead Innovations without a care in the world. Nobody suspected him, nobody even noticed him. He soared past the metal detectors. There was no need to spend hours searching for his targets - not when he had a veritable army at his command. Hank pictured Stern and Bowski in his head and projected them into the mind of every ant in the vicinity. Hank’s troops would do the rest. All the ants stealthily scoured the entire building and in a matter of minutes…

“ SUCH BLATANT INCOMPETENCE IS INTOLERABLE!! ” Elihas Starr shouted, slamming his fist down on the desk as Bowski and Stern jumped back in fear. Elihas was standing behind his desk, with various open files on his desk and a collection of screens behind him that displayed various live feeds from various laboratories and corridors.

“Mr. Bowski. Mr. Stern. You were given a simple assignment: to secure Hank Pym’s research. ” Elihas said, taking a deep breath and trying to calm down, but speaking through gritted teeth. “But you failed to acquire the formula for his shrinking and enlarging gases. You better prepare yourselves, gentleman, because Hank Pym will return to this facility. Find him and bring him to me. Safe and secured. ” Elihas growled.

“Y-Yes, sir.” Bowski nodded.

“You can count on us, Mr. Starr.” Stern said, nervously. They left Elihas’ office and both took a sigh of stress.

“Fuck. Fuck, the boss is really pissed.” Bowski muttered, wiping the sweat from his brow.

“What was your first clue, moron?” Stern rolled his eyes.

“Why’ve you gotta call me names, man? We’re supposed to have each other’s backs.” Bowski said, hurt.

“Sorry. I wasn’t thinking.” Stern admitted, completely unaware of the ant that was watching them.

“I’m just saying, a little respect goes a long way. What’s the big fuss on Doctor Pym, anyway? Last time we saw ‘im, he was as big as a pill. Ain’t much of a threat, if you ask me.” Bowski reasoned.

Hello, boys. Time to prove that I’m not crazy. Not paranoid.

Prepping final helmet adjustments. Ready the fail-safe.

Okay, maybe always building a fail-safe into my devices is an indication of my paranoia…

Hank flew through the air on his ant towards the two henchmen, following the directions his other ants informed him of. Hank couldn’t help but smile as he felt the air-conditioned breeze in his face, marvelling at his own scientific victory.

“I’m going to call you ‘Faithful.’” Hank smiled, giving the head of his ant a couple of pats, and it chirped in response.

“Called the front desk and alerted Bohan and the other guards to keep their eyes open.” Stern said as he and Bowski wandered through the empty locker rooms.

“For what? A creepy crawly that walks like a man? ” 

“Gimme a break, Bowski.” Stern complained, opening a locker door where a gun was sitting on a shelf. “If Starr thinks Pym is a problem, so should we.” 

“Jesus, Stern?! A gun?!” Bowksi blurted out, nervously.

“You have a better idea?”

“Yeah. Bug spray. And a few dozen fly swatters. How do you even aim a gun at a fuckin’ ant?” Bowski reasoned. Neither of them had noticed the sea of ants that were beginning to emerge from beneath the lockers and benches.

“Okay, okay. Maybe it is a little-” Before Stern could finish though, they both noticed the mass of ants that were beginning to climb their legs.

“ YEOW!! ” Stern cried out, dropping his gun as he felt hundreds of ant bites at once on his legs.

“Shit! There’s hundreds of them! The gun! Grab the gun!” Bowski shouted, trying to shake them off. “W-Where’d they come from Why are they swarming us? ” 

“It’s Pym! It’s gotta be Pym! I don’t know how, but… It must be!” Stern declared.

So you’re the smart one. You deserve a prize.

Hank dived off his flying ant and shot his body into Stern’s foot, crashing into it like a bullet.

“ARGH, FUCK!” Stern hissed in pain.

Meanwhile, back in Foster’s garage/laboratory, Bill was at the computer with the headset on, desperately trying to make contact with Hank. But no matter how much he tried, he never heard Hank’s voice on the other end.

“ARGH!” Bill shouted, slamming his fist on the desk. “He’s either out of range or has shut off his receiver.” He said to himself, getting up and pulling on his grey jacket. “I’ve had enough of this crap. It’s got to end before someone gets hurt.” 

Bowski and Stern were still stumbling around the locker room, getting nipped on by thousands of ants that continued to climb up their legs and arms. 

“Owwww! Fuck! What is happening?! ” Bowski cried. Neither of Elihas’ goons noticed the puff of blue smoke behind them, as Hank grew into his normal size. Hank tapped Stern on his shoulder twice, making the man jump. 

“‘Scuse me.” Hank smiled, cockily, before punching Stern across the face and making him fall backwards onto the ground. Then in a puff of red smoke, Hank was tiny again. 

“Stern? Y-You okay, man?” Bowski asked, hurrying over. “Who was that lunatic in the freaky Star Wars getup?” 

“I… I think it was Pym…” Stern groaned.

“Seriously?”
“We need to get outta here. If that dude’s running around in a suit like that, he’s obviously crossed into total nutcase!” Bowski told him.

“Hey! I like this getup.” Hank said as he grew into his normal size again, in a cobalt cloud. “Since when did you become an expert in fashion?” He added, before kicking Bowski in the stomach and making him tumble backwards into Stern. The ants were now nibbling at their faces, necks and torsos, turning their skin into lumps.

“Come on, get up. Fight like a man.” Hank growled.

“T-This can’t be real…” Bowski croaked.

“Oh? Does it feel like a nightmare? That nothing makes sense anymore? Welcome to my world.” Hank snarled, standing over them.

“I don’t know if this is a trick, or if you’re really changing size. But you ain’t winning a fight against me! ” Stern spat, leaping up and aiming a punch at Hank’s stomach. But Hank instantly shrunk in a puff of smoke, making Stern miss and smash his fist into a hard, metal locker door.

“Argh! FUCK!” Stern shouted in frustration, as Bowski stood up again.

“I want answers! ” Hank said, growing again and punching Bowski across the face. “I want the truth about Elihas Starr.” Hank said, grabbing Bowski by his shirt and pinning him against the lockers. “Why did he order the hit on Maria Pym? Who did he send to kill her? Was it you? WAS IT YOU?! ” He shouted, furiously.

“Y-You’re fucking crazy! B-Boss had nothing to do with Maria Pym! He was freaked when he heard what happened.” Bowski blurted out.

“ LIAR! ” Hank shouted, hysterically. “I know he’s responsible! He’s got to be responsible!” 

“Believe what you want, but he’s telling you the truth.” Stern said. “Everybody around here knew how Starr really felt about Mrs. Pym.” He revealed. Hank thought he was going to be sick.

“He used to follow her around like a lovesick teenager. You can’t fake a thing like that. He blamed you for her death.” Stern explained. “For not protecting her. I figure that was the real reason he sicced us on you.” He added. Hank didn’t know what to believe anymore.

“No… NO!” Hank shouted, kicking the locker door with a loud clang.

“What the hell is going on in here?!” A voice shouted. Hank turned around to see his Father standing there, looking bewildered by the scene taking place. Security guards covered in ants and bites, and Hank standing there in red spandex.

“Henry?” Brad muttered. “Is that you, son? Why are you wearing that ridiculous thing?”

“Dad, I know what this looks like…”

“Hank’s lost his mind, sir! He attacked us for no reason!” Bowski blurted out.

“Made all sorts of wild accusations, too!” Stern said.

“Is this true, son?” Brad questioned.

“Don’t listen to them, Dad. They’re liars and thieves. No, they’re worse than that.” Hank said, pulling the helmet off his head. “I’m just trying to make them confess. They know who murdered Maria, Dad.” Hank explained.

“ Everybody knows, Henry. The authorities said terrorists were responsible.” Brad sighed.

“ THE AUTHORITIES ARE WRONG! Elihas Starr did it! He also sent those men to kill me and steal my research!” Hank accused, pointing his finger at Bowski and Stern.

“Try to calm down, Henry. Think about what you’re saying. They’re security guards. I’ve worked with Elihas Starr for most of my adult life. I know the man.” Brad insisted. “He always treated you with kindness and the utmost respect.”

“Oh for God’s sake. You think I’ve snapped again, don’t you?” Hank groaned, frustratedly.

“You told me you weren’t ready to leave the sanitarium. Perhaps I should have listened.” Brad admitted.

“Dad, you need to listen to me now. ” Hank told him.

“Look at yourself, Henry!” Brad said, grabbing his son and bringing him to a mirror. Hank looked at himself, wearing the superhero get-up.

“How can dressing up in a Halloween costume and assaulting innocent men fit any definition of sanity? ” Brad reasoned.

“I…” Hank mumbled, looking down at his feet, sadly. “I might be crazy, Dad. But not about this.” He said, but when he looked back up, his Dad had been replaced. Bill stood there, and before Hank could react, a needle had already plunged into his neck.

“You need to stop fighting us, Dr. Pym. This will help you relax. ” Bill told him, calmly.

“Bill?!” Hank squeaked. “When did you… turn against me…?” He said, hurt and confused, while the room started spinning and shaking around him. But he noticed his Dad was there, with Elihas Starr and the security guards. 

“Have you always been their mole? See, Dad? I’m not paranoid.” Hank mumbled. “I really thought… I could… trust… you…” He said to Bill, before collapsing onto the floor in a heap. Bill felt awful. Tears had formed in his eyes as he looked down at his good friend.

“Hank?” 

“Don’t ever doubt yourself, Dr. Foster. You did the right thing.” Elihas assured him, patting Bill on the shoulder.

Never thought I’d end up like this. Sure, I have issues. Who doesn’t? I was only a child when my Father tossed my Mother to the curb. And his idea of bonding was to list the many ways I disappointed him.

Seeing my wife murdered certainly didn’t help my mental stability. Nor did it improve when Elihas Starr sent two goons to steal my work. And shrink me to the size of an ant.

Okay.

Okay.

Now that I think about it… this may be exactly where I belong.

Hank was sitting in an empty but large utility room, inside Egghead Innovations. He was strapped to a wooden chair, wearing a brown straightjacket and a muzzle. Elihas, Brad and Bill looked down on him like he was a caged animal in a circus.

“I still don’t think this is necessary, Mr. Starr. Why hasn’t he been turned over to his Doctor by now?” Bill reasoned.

“Henry’s Father and I have yet to call his psychiatrist, Dr. Foster. Rather than parade Dr. Pym past his coworkers, we decided to wait until Egghead Innovations closed for the day.” Elias assured him, with an insincere smile, while he held Hank’s helmet.

“Are you sure that’s wise?” Bill questioned, sceptically.

“Poor Henry has suffered enough. Brad and I are only trying to spare him further embarrassment.” Elias reasoned.

“You were doing so well, Henry. I thought you were finally back on your feet…” Brad sighed.

“For all his failings, Dr. Pym does very good work. He has somehow managed to transform his dear wife’s designs into reality, and developed a device capable of communicating with insects.” Elihas said as he went to leave.

“You see, Henry? You’re frittering away a very promising career.” Brad tutted.

“Hank needs serious treatment, Dr. Pym.” Bill said.

“His name is Henry. Don’t coddle him, Foster.” Brad told him, sternly, also leaving the room. When he was gone, Bill fell apart.

“Fuck! Fuck, I’m so sorry, Hank! I really thought I was doing the right thing. I’ll figure something out. I swear!” Bill told him, but Hank never made eye contact. He just looked down at his feet, giving his lab partner the cold shoulder.

“Okay, clear the room!” A security guard shouted, poking his head through the door. Bill quickly left, looking back at his betrayed friend with guilt. Once he was gone, Hank was left alone with his thoughts once again.

There’s an old expression about good intentions. But Faithful and I don’t have time for cliches. 

Faithful, Hank’s favourite ant, flew around his head. 

“I missed you, old friend.” Hank mumbled.

Way to go, Hank. Talking to a flying ant is the perfect way to prove your sanity. On the other hand, there’s nothing wrong with a healthy dose of paranoia.

Hank threw himself backwards, making the chair crash into the hard floor, making the wood splinter and snap, freeing him from the straps.

It keeps you on your toes. And prepares you for the worst.

With a bit more mobility, Hank rolled onto his stomach and started thrusting against the ground. No, he hadn’t snapped. No, he didn’t have a ‘thing’ for straightjackets. No, he was trying to hit the button on his belt buckle. When he finally hit it, it sent out a beacon for his army of ants. Soon enough, a sea of ants poured into the lab, under the door and converged on Hank’s bound body. They started chewing and eating through the straightjacket, boring through it like tiny drills.

“Thanks, guys. I knew I could always count you.” Hank said with a victorious smile.

“I may have underestimated Henry Pym.” Elihas admitted, standing in his office and looking down at Hank’s helmet. Bowski and Stern were there too, scratching their ant bites with fresh bandages over their injuries from Hank.

“This helmet is pure genius. My own version is, of course, far superior. Still, it amazes me how much he accomplished.” Elihas said, going over to his own helmet. It was designed in the shape of his head (like an egg) and the ‘antennas’ were more chunky and resembled horns. There was also a red lens over one of the eyes, with an interface of information. 

“My dear, sweet Maria may have conceived this device, but Henry’s contributions cannot be minimised.” He said, placing the helmet on his bald head.

“Urrrr, Mr. Starr?” Stern said.

“What is it?” 

“If I remember correctly, Mrs. Pym specialised in ants. So why the hornets?” The security guard asked, peering into a collection of large tanks filled with the yellow and black striped bugs. 

“Because, unlike the Pyms, I intend to control all the insects.” Elihas answered. One of the tanks suddenly snapped open and a swarm of hornets immediately attacked Stern. 

“ARRAAARRRRRGHHHHHH!!!!!” Stern screamed in horror.

“You will help me test the limits of that control. Pay close attention, Mr. Bowski. As the brains of your little duo, Mr. Stern must bear the responsibilities for your many failures.” Elihas said, with a sinister tone to his voice, as Bowski was forced to watch his friend be attacked by a hundred hornets. The scream was like something out of a horror movie.

“The power at my disposal may seem small, Mr. Bowski. But small things add up. At my control is a veritable army. An Army that can infiltrate any location. And strike my enemies at any time. And dispose of others by eating away brake linings, disrupting security systems and causing all manner of accidents. They can also spy on competitors like Tony Stark, and learn their most intimate secrets.” Elihas rambled, while a puddle of blood was forming beneath Stern’s mutilated body.

“Mr. Starr, we need to talk…” The door to Elihas’ office opened and Bill came inside, but was quickly cut off when he saw Stern’s fresh corpse. 

“Oh my… Oh my God, Hank was right. You’re insane! ” Bill gasped, horrified.

“That’s your reaction? I expected more from a scientist of your stature, Dr. Foster.” Elihas said with a chuckle. “Aren’t you impressed?”

“Fuck you.” Bill said, furiously, grabbing a small, potted plant from Starr’s desk and throwing it at his ex-boss’ head. It hit the helmet, making the device glitch and fizzle, giving Bill enough time to grab Hank’s helmet from the desk and bolt out of the office. 

“I need to find Hank! And beg for forgiveness!” Bill said, sprinting down corridors. Meanwhile, in Elihas’ office, Bowski nervously watched Elihas open a safe.
“A-Are you gonna send the hornets after ‘im, boss?” Bowski asked, trying to avoid looking at Stern’s body. 

“Unnecessary and wasteful, Mr. Bowski.” Elihas said, taking out a small, silver canister, that was no bigger than a mouth spray. “Why send a swarm?” He asked, before spraying a single hornet, that hovered in front of him. A blue mist engulfed the insect and in only seconds, the hornet grew at an enormous rate. It grew to the size of a baby hippo. 

“When one will suffice!” Elihas smirked as the monstrous creature flew over them. The wings were loud as they fluttered, making various papers blow away from Elihas’ desk. 

“Keep this moment firmly in mind, Mr. Bowski. You mustn’t be a disappointment like Stern.” Elihas said, threateningly.

“Y-You got it, boss.” Bowski stammered.

Meanwhile, back in the utility room, Hank was free from his straightjacket and muzzle. He couldn’t help but smile at his win.

Yes! I know it isn’t healthy, but I can’t help but be proud of my paranoiac lifestyle. I’ll admit, it can be rather depressing to go through life, always expecting the worst, but on the plus side, I always have a plan.

“ HELPPP! ” Hank was pulled out of his thoughts when he heard Bill’s voice scream from outside.

Figured Starr would eventually turn on him, too. Serves him right and I should just… Awwrrrrgh, who am I kidding?

Outside in the hallways, where unsuspecting employees had been going about their business, Bill was sprinting through. He was clutching onto Hank’s helmet tightly, as a giant hornet was chasing after him with an angry buzz. It was getting increasingly closer to Bill, about to slaughter him under the influence of Elihas Starr.

“GET DOWN!!” Hank shouted over the screams, bursting onto the scene. He held a piece of the broken wooden chair - the leg to be exact, which had been splintered into a sharp point. Bill fell to the floor as Hank charged forward, plunging the tip of the chair leg into the hornet’s chest. A yellowish, greenish goo spewed out of it, spraying all over Hank’s forearms as he murdered the enlarged creature.

Never did like hornets.

“You okay, Bill?” Hank asked, coming over.

“Hank! Y-You were right about Starr! About everything! ” Bill said, immediately giving Hank the helmet.

“Tell me something I don’t know.” Hank rolled his eyes.

“Your Father told me to keep an eye on you when he hired me. I sincerely thought I had your back, but… I won’t blame you if you don’t forgive me.” Bill apologised.

“I’m not big on trust.” Hank admitted.

BZZZZZZZZZZZ!!

Hank and Bill quickly looked up to see 6 more hornets zooming down the hallway.

“How do you feel about running?” Bill said.

“I have a better idea.” Hank said, before wrapping his arms around Foster.

“Is this really the time?” Bill asked as the hornets got closer and closer. Hank released a red mist over the two of them and in an instant, they shrank down to the size of pills.

“Whoaaaaa!” Bill gasped, stumbling about as the room around them grew enormous. He was overwhelmed and slightly dizzy, as he was shrunken for the very first time. 

“Holy shit. I didn’t expect that to actually work.” Hank half laughed.

“What?!” Bill exclaimed. As people panicked from the giant hornets, they ran back and forth, getting dangerously close to accidentally squishing the two, miniature scientists. 

“Hank?!” 

“Don’t worry. Bill, meet Faithful.” Hank said as his flying ant came swooping in. “Climb aboard and hang on! ” They both mounted the ant, one far more confident than the other before they launched into the air. Bill clung onto Hank, wrapping his arms around Pym’s waist as they flew past Egghead Innovations’ employees. 

“I-Is this safe?!”

“No! Of course not! We’re flying on an ant! ” Hank scoffed. “You want safety? Stick to planes. A flying ant is not for the faint of heart.” He chuckled as they flew away, still being chased by the hornets. They zipped down staircases, until they reached the lobby, before slipping through the entrance doors. The hornets smashed through the glass doors with a loud crash, as everybody was screaming and wailing in panic around them. Hank found a traffic officer and quickly flew up to him.

“Officer! You need to clear the streets. NOW! ” Hank shouted at him, but the man had no idea who said it. He looked back and forth, looking for the source of the voice.

“What the-?” He said, confused. It was already too late. Hornets were barreling through the streets, nearly the same size as the cars on the roads beneath them. 

“Hank, this is insane! We’re endangering everyone! ” Bill said, anxiously.

“No, Bill, we’re not. My helmet is picking up Starr’s orders. Those creatures are only programmed to attack us. ” Hank corrected.

“Oh… That’s not very comforting!” Bill said, still tightly holding onto Hank, as they zipped into a mall. “Do you have a plan, or just winging it?”

“We’ve got to reach that makeshift lab we set up in your garage. Not only do I need to replenish my supply of shrinking and enlarging gas, but I believe I can readjust my helmet so that I can communicate with Starr’s insects and countermand his orders.” Hank said, making enough sharp turns to make hornets smash their heads into pillars and columns inside the mall, thinning out the numbers.

“Just a thought, but… Maybe you could just ditch the whole ant thing? Go big, like some giant?” Bill suggested.

“Hmm… Interesting thought. I wonder what effect a sudden increase in height and mass would have on the human body.” Hank pondered as they exited the mall.

“Are you serious? Isn’t it a little late for CAUTION?! ” Bill said as Hank tricked a hornet into accidentally impaling itself onto a flagpole and making greenish blood rain down on the people below.

Meanwhile, in Elihas’ office, a confused and nervous Brad Pym was trying to figure out what was going on.

“W-What’s happening, Elihas? I heard screams from my office. People shouting about monsters and such.” Brad mentioned.

“I don’t know what to say, Brad. Your son has had a psychotic episode. He somehow managed to escape. ” Elihas shrugged. “And then murdered one of our security guards.” He said, before pointing to Stern’s dead body. 

“Oh! Oh my God…” Brad gasped, having not noticed it yet.

“Mr. Bowski saw it happen.”

“Y-Yeah… Guy was outta control.” Bowski nodded, clearly scared.

“Oh no… Not my boy… I never thought it would come to this… I-I’ll call the authorities.” Brad said, devastated.

“It’s probably better coming from you. I consider you and Henry family, Brad. You can count on Egghead Innovations to get him the best legal team money can buy.” Elihas assured him, ushering Brad out of his office.

“What a piece of shit!” Hank complained. He and Bill were in the lab, after escaping the monstrous hornets. The sun was setting, and in the dimly lit garage, Hank was tinkering with his helmet.

“Elihas just copied my tech, made a messed up version of it, yet he’s supposed to be the Egghead?!” Hank said, frustratedly.

“I’ve distilled more gas. Even filled a couple of spare cartridges. Although I’m not sure why you need them. Maybe we could just call the police and tell them everything?” Bill said.

“Bill, we’ve been over this! They’re not gonna believe a paranoid lunatic over the famous, genius who runs a multinational conglomerate!” Hank snapped.

“I know, but… I can back you up, now-”

KWAAAKKKKKK… THWOK! THOOM!

“W-What is that?” Bill stammered.

“Sounds like we’ve got a large pest problem…” Hank muttered.

Sure enough, the house was being swarmed by massive bugs. A giant caterpillar, a giant moth, giant beetles and ants, giant wasps, giant spiders- getting the picture? Inside the laboratory, everything was falling apart as creatures were climbing on the roof and walls, causing violent tremors throughout the building.

“Urrrr, Hank? Got any ideas?” Bill asked, scared.

“Ummm… Well, I know I said I could probably adjust my helmet to communicate with the Giant-Sized insects Elihas Starr sent to kill us.” Hank began.

“I don’t recall no ‘probably.’” Bill said.

“I just need more time!” Hank shouted.

“And I need a fucking M-16!” Bill yelled back. 

“Don't panic! I have a backup plan. I'm going to follow your suggestion…” Hank said, before releasing a blue mist onto himself.

“And GO LARGE!! ” He shouted, growing exponentially huge. Hank crashed through the ceiling, growing to 30 feet tall. 

“Oh fuck, my HOUSE?!!” Bill cried out as Hank already started slamming his fist down onto bugs and crushing them with a loud SPLAT! 

“I d-don't know how much longer I can… I can maintain this size… F-Feels like my heart is about to explode!” Hank groaned, continuing to squish and crunch the angry bugs as he stepped onto the driveway. Bill made sure to follow him outside. The insects were starting to retreat.

“Don't overstrain yourself, Hank! The bugs are already running away, you might as well-” Bill trailed off when he saw the boys in blue at the end of the road. “Oh no…” 

“FREEZE! DROP THE errrr… BUGS AND PUT YOUR HANDS UP!” One of the cops shouted. They were all holding guns.

“W-We can explain everything, officer!” Bill claimed. 

“SAVE IT! I'm having trouble believing my own eyes at the moment. Either of you freaks Henry Pym?” The officer questioned.

“W-Why are you looking for Hank?” Bill asked, holding his hands up. 

“He’s wanted for questioning about a murder at Egghead Innovations. And kidnapping a man named Bill Foster. And for unleashing monster insects that are plaguing the city.” The policeman explained. 

“ I'm the man you want, officer. We can talk as soon as I return to normal size.” Hank said. 

“If it means anything, I’m Bill Foster. Hank saved my life.” The other scientist added. 

“We’ll sort things out at the station.” The officer said. A red mist engulfed Hank and he shrank back down to his regular size… Or at least, that’s what the policemen thought. But Hank kept shrinking and shrinking.

“Hey! How come you're still-?!” 

“Clumsy me! I employed too much gas!” Hank laughed before he was nearly invisible. 

“Where’d he go?!” The officer shouted. The tiny Hank jumped onto Faithful and flew up to Bill. 

“Hank. You’re only making things worse by running away.” Bill warned him.

“Maybe. I have to at least try to prove my innocence though. Tell the police they can find me at Egghead.” Hank told him before Faithful fluttered away. 

As I flew to Egghead, I finished adjusting my helmet. And then…

“Attention troops!”

Back in Elihas’ office, Bowski was expressing his concerns. Starr was still wearing his version of Hank’s helmet, unaware of the tiny ants that were spying on him.

“Mr. Starr, the cops are asking old Doc Pym about Stern.” Bowski mentioned.

“You have no need to worry, Mr. Bowski. Brad actually believes his son is guilty. I doubt the police will question his sincerity.” Elihas reasoned, before gesturing to a screen. It was showing a live feed of an office that the police were using as an interrogation room.

“You say your son has been behaving erratically?” The detective asked. She had her hair tied in a ponytail and a stern face that meant business. 

“Ever since his wife was murdered by some terrorist organisation. You may have read about the incident, Detective?” Brad nodded.

“Maria Pym? Tragic case. They ever catch the perps?” She asked.

“No. And that has always haunted my poor son. I… I guess I’m partially to blame for his actions. I never should have forced him to leave the sanitarium. Is there any way to help him, Detective?” Brad asked, actually concerned.

“Hire a good lawyer. Barring a burning bush from the Almighty himself, your son will spend the rest of his life in some kind of institution.” The detective told him, coldly.

“Urrr… Detective?” 

“What is it, sergeant?” She said, looking up. Her eyes widened behind her round glasses.

“Do ants count?” The sergeant asked as words were being spelt out on the wall.

PYM INNOCENT!

STARR MURDERER!

They used their bodies to form the letters, before creating an arrow pointing towards the exit. Immediately, the detective and the sergeant left and followed the moving arrow throughout the building. 

“T-This is crazy. They’re actually pointing the way!” The sergeant said, simply baffled. He was a handsome, older man with auburn hair and a muscular build.

“All units be advised - Elihas Starr is wanted for questioning!” The detective said into her radio. “I also need a blanket search warrant for Egghead Innovations.” 

“As the company’s chief administrative officer, I can grant you full access.” Brad said, catching up.

“The situation has taken a most unfortunate turn, Mr. Bowski.” Elihas said, having witnessed the whole thing through the computer screens. He turned to Bowski, who looked pale in anxiety.

“ You must delay the police as long as possible.” Starr commanded.

“W-What about me, Mr. Starr?” 

“Sacrifices must be made. But trust me, I will never forget your dedication.” Elihas told him. Bowski went to the office door, just before it swung open and crashed against the wall. The sergeant and the detective came bursting in.

“ DON’T SHOOT! I SURRENDER! STARR MURDERED STERN! I saw it happen and have the videotape to prove it!” Bowski immediately blurted out in panic. “I’m willing to testify for a deal.” 

“I bet you are, cupcake.” The sergeant scoffed.

“I-Is that man shrinking?! ” The detective gasped, as she watched Elihas shrink in a cloud of red mist.

“I’m very disappointed in you, Mr. Bowski.” Elihas tutted, disappearing. “Sadly, your betrayal comes as no surprise. And I’m already prepared to take my leave.” Starr hopped onto a hornet and flew away, confident in his escape.

“A dozen or so wasps can distract the police, while the rest of the swarm will serve me as my honour guard.” Elihas smirked to himself, once he was outside of the office, in the corridors.

“I wouldn’t get too comfortable, Stern!” Hank’s voice shouted as he came flying over with his own swarm of flying ants.

“Henry! I was hoping we would run into each other. Contrary to what you may mistakenly believe, you haven’t won. You’ll NEVER WIN! ” Elihas declared. The ants and the hornets already began fighting each other, ripping themselves to shreds as they fought in the air.

“Not only are my wasps far superior to your ants, but I am a visionary! A creator of jobs, technologies and innovations! You are only a temporary annoyance at best. A tool to be used and discarded! ” Elihas shouted with a cocky smile.

“Is that how you treated Maria? Is that why you stole her tech and ordered her death?! ” Hank questioned, kicking away wasps and hornets that flew at him.

“How DARE you mention her name! It sickens me to hear it on your lips!” He screamed.

“So… It’s true?! Y-You were in love with her?!” Hank said, feeling his stomach turn at the thought.

Meanwhile, back in Elihas’ office, the wasps had all been swatted (or given a new priority with Hank). The sergeant was already arresting Bowski. 

“When I get my hands on your boss…” The sergeant muttered, scratching at the new sores on his face thanks to the wasp stings.

“Seems like your son’s in the clear, Mr. Pym.” The detective told Hank.

“How could I have been so blind about Elihas? And… poor Henry…” Brad said, mortified.

Back outside, employees were screaming as flying ants and wasps swarmed the cafeteria. All unaware of the tiny battle taking place in the air around them. 

“Your actions are ruining your company, Starr. Destroying everything you’ve created.” Hank told him as he flew closer and closer.

“I can rebuild. The rich always return for a second act! ” Elihas scoffed, before looking up. He was surprised to see Hank had leapt from his ant and was diving towards him. Before Egghead could tell his wasp to move, Hank crashed into Elihas.

“Oh, really?! Why don’t you take your entitled, privileged ego and shove it RIGHT UP YOUR ASS! ” Hank yelled, tackling Elihas off the bug. They dropped out of the sky and- 

PLOP!

They both landed in a vat of pesto sauce. They had made it into the serving station. When they both swam and climbed out of the green goo, both of them grew back into their normal size. More employees shouted and screamed at the men suddenly enlarging in front of them.

“You are a tiresome pest, Hank! A little man that will be forgotten!” Elihas snarled, picking up a large plate and smashing it across Hank’s head. He fell backwards onto a table with a loud crash, as everyone inside the cafeteria spilled out and ran away. 

“Is that another reason why she had to die? Because you can’t face rejection? ” Hank questioned, before shrinking down to the size of a bean.

“ IDIOT! Are you incapable of grasping the simple truth?!” Elihas shouted, about to slam his fist down onto Hank’s miniature body. But in a puff of blue smoke, Hank quickly grew back to normal size. He used the momentum to land a punch across Starr’s face.

“Try me! Not that you have much credibility!” Hank spat as Elihas fell to the ground.

“I sent her to that symposium to unveil her to the scientific community. To remove her from your shadow and transform her into the superstar she deserved to be!” Elihas explained as Hank shrank back down again. “To give her a taste of the wonders which only I could provide!” He said, searching for Hank amongst the cafeteria tables.

“You ruined everything by choosing the wrong restaurant! And CONDEMNING HER TO DEATH! ” Elihas barked. “I never have and never will forgive you for allowing her to die. NEVER! ” Starr shouted. Hank grew again and grabbed Elihas, face red with rage.

“We have common ground after all. Because neither will I!” Hank said before they both started growing into a pair of Goliaths.

The front of Egghead Innovations smashed and crumbled, exposing the two massive opponents as they fought each other. They were about two-stories tall as they fought. More police arrived on the scene, including the cops who had Bill in their squad car. They all stepped out of the vehicles, amazed and terrified at the sight.

“This is not good…” Bill muttered.

“There’s two of them now?!” One of the cops shouted over the noise.

“Thank goodness you’ve arrived, officers. This man is assaulting me!” Elihas said.

“ Stop it! Both of you!” The detective shouted from below.

“I’m afraid Dr. Pym is having another one of his psychotic episodes.” Elihas said, stepping out onto the concrete at ground level, and also shrinking himself back down to normal size. 

“Mind if I borrow your gun? I need it to protect myself.” Elihas said, quickly swiping the gun from the sergeant’s hand.

“ Protect yourself?! I don’t know what you’re trying to pull with that sorry act, but you’re surrounded by witnesses!” Hank said, incredulous, as he transformed back to normal size and joined him outside Egghead Innovations.

“I believe my lawyers can make a real argument for self-defence. ” Elihas smirked, before pistol-whipping Hank across his head. It was lucky he had the helmet to protect him, but it still made Hank stumble backwards. He aimed the pistol at Hank, turning the safety off the pistol.

“Don’t do it, Starr! It’s murder one! ” The detective warned him.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about, officer.” Elihas said, turning his head towards the law enforcers. 

“Please take me into custody and protect me from this madman before… Oh no! He’s getting ready to attack!” Elihas performed, like a terrible theatre actor. Hank had barely sat up, yet.

“Help me! He’ll kill me unless-” Elihas cried out, happily pulling the trigger.

BLAM!!

Hank scrunched his eyes closed, bracing for the bullet to hit him… But it never did. Hank opened one of his eyes, to find his Dad standing in front of him, clutching his stomach.

“D-Dad?!” Hank gasped, shocked. Brad collapsed to the ground, already spitting blood.

“ DAD! ” Hank cried out. Blood boiling, he pounced at Elihas. Like a trained spy, he kicked the gun straight out of Elihas’ hands and smashed his fist across Starr’s face. Then punched him again. And again. And again. Hank tore the helmet off of Elihas’ bloodied and bruised face and smashed it into the concrete, destroying it.

“You steal my wife’s tech. You try to murder me. You try to murder my friend. Then you murdered my Father?! GO TO HELL!! ” Hank screamed with rage, with one last punch across the face. When the fury finally settled, Hank looked over to his Father. Brad was being comforted by Bill, but…

“Bill? Is he..?” 

“I’m… I’m so sorry, Hank. He’s gone.” Bill said, softly, as Hank came hurrying over.

“No… NO!” Hank cried. Sure, his relationship with his Father was never very healthy… But it still hurt. 

“Such a pity!” Elihas cackled, as he was being handcuffed. “No deathbed reconciliation. No final touching moment. You’ve lost everything, Henry. And my lawyers will probably get me off with a slap on the wrist. Do keep that in mind, when next we meet.” The villain smirked as he was escorted to the squad car.

“Ignore him, Hank. Justice will be served.” Bill told him, although even he didn’t believe it.

“Will it, Bill?”

According to Edmund Burke, ‘All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. ’ 

I’m through waiting for others to act. Done sitting on the sidelines. From now on, justice can always depend on…

THE ANT-MAN.