Chapter 27: Iron Man IV
After Tony's kidnapping and harrowing escape from the Ten Rings, he returned to the States a changed man. The experience had left a deep impact on him, and it was not just the physical toll. The revelation that Stark Industries' weapons were being used by terrorists—gnawed at him constantly.
As Tony secluded himself in his Malibu mansion, he became obsessed with building something better—something that could redeem his mistakes and protect the world from the chaos his own inventions had caused. Thus, in the solitude of his workshop, Tony began work on a new project: the Iron Man armor.
Weeks later
Tony had been working tirelessly, and after many sleepless nights, the Mark II armor was taking shape. This wasn't just about a weapon anymore—it was about something far more personal. Every bolt, wire, and circuit was meticulously crafted by his hands, a reflection of his desire to regain control over his life and legacy.
And today, after returning from his own party where he wasn't invited, Tony watched the news. The news that reporter promised to him, he watched as his creation wreak havocs, as Tony tightened the last bolt on the gauntlet of his suit, he remembered Dave's gift—the Gauntlet of Hellfire. He hadn't yet fully grasped its potential, but now it was meticulously fitted into his own armor's gauntlets. According to Jarvis, the power source within the gauntlet was stronger than the entire armor, and the firepower it unleashed could melt rock in just a few seconds of sustained burst.
"Jarvis, power up the suit for a full diagnostic," Tony commanded, his voice filled with wrath as the more he watched the news.
"As you wish, sir," Jarvis replied, and the whirring of the suit's internal systems hummed to life.
Tony slipped into the suit, feeling the familiar weight settle over him. It was heavier than the original armor he had built in captivity, but this one was refined—sleek and capable of far more than just survival. He flexed his hands, watching the gauntlets respond in perfect synchronization with his movements.
The dragon-maw-like gauntlets activated, their "eyes" glowing ominously as they came to life. Along his whole arms, the gauntlets extended, and with each flex, Tony felt the surge of new strength coursing through him. He clenched and unclenched his fists, feeling the immense power at his command.