680-688
·Chapter 680: Injured Happy
While the Christmas party at Charles's base continued, Tony Stark and Pepper Potts, after an intense moment of intimacy, had fallen asleep together.
Lying in bed, Tony began to dream about the Battle of New York, fighting off Chitauri soldiers with his Iron Man suit. The intensity of the dream caused Tony to move restlessly, which woke up Pepper.
Pepper, noticing Tony's distress, tried to comfort him by holding him and gently calling his name, "Tony... Tony..."
However, before she could fully wake him, Mark 42 suddenly appeared beside the bed and grabbed Pepper's arm, pinning her down.
"Ahhh!" Pepper screamed, frightened by the sudden attack. Her scream woke Tony.
Tony, startled, quickly sat up and saw Mark 42 pinning Pepper. Shocked, he immediately intervened, shouting, "Power down!"
Following Tony's command, Mark 42 released Pepper, stood still, and powered down. Tony quickly approached, using hand gestures to disassemble the suit into its components.
Watching the pieces of Mark 42 scatter on the floor, Tony sighed with relief and turned to Pepper. "I must have summoned it in my sleep. This shouldn't have happened. I'll recalibrate the sensors."
"Can we just... let me..."
Pepper, still shaken, looked at Tony before getting out of bed and walking towards the door.
Tony pleaded, "Please, let me catch my breath. Don't leave, Pepper..."
Pepper turned around and said, "I'm going to sleep downstairs. You can fix your toys on your own."
With that, Pepper left the room, leaving Tony alone. Tony looked at the disassembled parts on the floor, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by his anxiety.
...
Meanwhile-
At the Chinese Theater in New York, Happy Hogan was waiting outside for a performance to start.
While trying on sunglasses at a vendor's stand, he noticed Aldrich Killian's assistant, who had visited Stark Industries earlier, handing a suspicious box to a man sitting on a bench.
Seeing this exchange, Happy decided to investigate. He approached the man with the box, pretending to accidentally bump into him, causing the box to spill its contents.
"Sorry about that, buddy," Happy apologized while crouching down to help pick up the scattered items. During this, he discreetly pocketed one of the items without the man's notice.
After packing the items, Happy stood up and walked away, glancing at the object he had taken.
It seemed important...
At that moment, Killian's assistant bumped into Happy. Eric Savin looked at Happy Hogan and sneered, "What are you doing here, buddy? Out on a little solo date night? Maybe watching your favorite chick flick?"
Happy retorted, "Yeah, a movie called 'This Ends Here.' Starring you and your junkie girlfriend."
He then held up the item he had taken.
"This is the ticket."
Eric's expression darkened. "Seriously, that thing isn't yours."
He lunged to grab the item from Happy, but only managed to seize his wrist. Unfazed, Happy immediately swung his left fist at Eric's face, but Eric deftly dodged.
Happy freed his right hand and landed a solid punch on Eric's face, making him stumble. However, as Eric turned back, a red glow flashed across his face, and his broken nose healed instantly.
Happy was taken aback.
"Is this guy a superhuman?" He thought. Determined to end the fight quickly, Happy threw another punch, but this time, Eric caught his arm.
With a swift move, Eric performed a shoulder throw, sending Happy crashing into a nearby vendor's table.
"Crash!"
Happy toppled the stand, scattering its contents everywhere. The sudden brawl caused a commotion in the square, drawing attention as it was no small matter to see someone thrown through the air.
Meanwhile, the man who had received the item from Eric had started using it. However, shortly after, he began overheating uncontrollably and shouted, "Savin!"
Hearing his name, Eric paused and looked back. The man, now engulfed in flames, exploded.
"Boom!"
The massive explosion turned the front square of the Chinese Theater into a scene of chaos, killing and injuring many. Those at the epicenter were incinerated, leaving only shadows on the walls.
Happy, severely injured, shielded himself with a vendor's cart, while Eric, aided by the Extremis virus, quickly recovered and fled the scene.
Police arrived shortly and rushed the critically injured Happy to the hospital.
The next morning, Tony Stark received news of the explosion and learned that Happy was critically injured and in the hospital, fighting for his life.
To him, Happy was not only his former bodyguard but also his friend and even family member.
Thinking of Happy's injury, Tony took out his phone, dialed Charles Doyle's number, and called him directly.
...
Meanwhile-
Charles Doyle was still in bed, having had a long night of festivities with everyone. The phone call from Tony Stark pulled Charles Doyle out of his haze. He groggily answered, "Hello?"
On the other end, Tony's voice sounded urgent. "Charles, it's Tony."
"Hey, Tony. Long time no see."
"Charles, Happy was caught in an explosion and is critically injured in the hospital. I need your help. Can you bring Tsunade to help treat him?"
Charles immediately recalled from the movie that Happy was indeed gravely injured in a Christmas Eve explosion.
"Sure, I'll bring Tsunade over to check on him. Which hospital is he in?"
"Maria Hospital."
"Got it."
"Thank you!"
After hanging up, Charles got up, washed, and dressed. He then headed to Tsunade's room.
"Knock, knock, knock!"
It didn't take long for the door to open, revealing a drowsy Tsunade in her sleepwear, her body looking even more imposing in her relaxed state.
"What's the matter so early?" Tsunade asked, stretching lazily.
Charles, trying not to let his eyes linger, explained, "Tony's bodyguard, Happy, was injured in an explosion. He's critically hurt, and Tony wants your help."
Tsunade yawned and replied, "If you want my help, it's going to cost a lot."
Charles grinned, "Tony can afford it. Besides, he's my friend."
"Alright, give me a moment to get ready."
Tsunade closed the door, leaving Charles waiting outside. She soon emerged, fully dressed and ready.
"Let's go!"
With John Wick driving, Charles and Tsunade headed to the hospital where Happy was being treated.
...
Meanwhile-
The morning news broadcast was interrupted again. The Mandarin appeared, taking responsibility for the Chinese Theater explosion and warning that it was just the beginning.
Elsewhere-
Tony Stark arrived at the hospital, only to be swarmed by reporters as soon as he stepped out of his car. Cameras flashed, and microphones were thrust toward him.
A female reporter spoke, "We've been here since before dawn, waiting for Tony Stark to appear. We hope he will respond to this latest attack."
"Mr. Stark, over here!"
"Reports suggest this was another attack by the Mandarin. Are you here to seek revenge for your bodyguard?"
"Do you have anything to say to us?"
Ignoring the barrage of questions, Tony made his way through the crowd, heading straight for the hospital entrance.
-1-
·Chapter 681: Healing
Before Tony could enter the hospital, a man stepped in front of him, holding up his phone, and asked, "Mr. Stark, when will someone take Mandarin down?"
Ignoring Tony's gaze, the man continued, "I mean, if Iron Man can't handle it, can we ask other superheroes for help?"
Tony stared at the man, then at the surrounding reporters, before speaking into the man's recording phone.
"Is this what you want?"
Seeing the man remain silent, Tony turned to address the reporters. "I have a little holiday greeting I've been saving for the Mandarin. Let me organize my thoughts."
"My name is Tony Stark. I'm not afraid of you. I know you're a coward, so here's my decision."
"You're dead. I'm coming for you. This isn't about politics; it's about old-fashioned revenge. It's not about the Pentagon; it's just you and me."
"To put it simply, if you're a man, come and get me."
"This is my home address: 10880 Malibu Point, 90265. I'll leave the door open for you."
Tony then snatched the man's phone and crushed it in his hand. "This is what you wanted, right?"
With that, Tony pushed open the hospital doors and entered. The private, high-end hospital didn't allow the media inside, knowing well when to draw the line.
Inside Happy's room, a glass-walled isolation chamber held the injured bodyguard. Happy lay in a bed, wrapped like a mummy, with an oxygen mask over his face and tubes connected to his body.
Seeing Happy in such a state, Tony was filled with a mix of sorrow and anger.
"Doctor, how is he?" Tony asked.
A doctor in a white coat approached Tony and whispered, "It's not good. He has severe burns over much of his body, broken ribs, and internal injuries."
"Fortunately, he wasn't at the blast's epicenter, but he hasn't shown signs of waking up. There's a risk of organ failure."
Tony nodded, taking in the information. "Can I stay with him for a while?"
The doctor replied, "That's fine, but try not to enter the isolation chamber. If you do, wear sterile protective gear to avoid infection, which could complicate things further."
"Understood. Let me have some time alone with him."
The doctor checked the instruments one last time, then left, leaving Tony alone with Happy.
As Tony gazed at his unconscious friend, memories of their time together flooded his mind. He thought about Happy's loyalty and why he was at the Chinese Theater in the first place.
Just then, the door opened, and Tony saw Charles Doyle walk in, along with Tsunade.
After seeing them coming, Tony immediately approached Charles and said, "Happy is seriously injured and hasn't woken up yet."
He then looked at Tsunade and added, "Please, help him."
Charles gave Tony a reassuring hug and replied, "Don't worry, with Tsunade here, it's a small problem."
Charles turned to Tsunade, "Take a look at his condition."
Tsunade nodded and said, "My services aren't cheap. I'm only here because of Charles."
Tony looked at Tsunade and said, "Thank you, I really appreciate it."
Tsunade glanced at Tony, then approached the sterile room and walked in.
Standing by Happy's bed, she observed the various monitoring devices attached to him. Tsunade first reviewed the hospital's report, then examined Happy herself.
She then proceeded to remove all the instruments except for the oxygen mask.
As she disconnected the equipment, alarms began to blare. Annoyed by the noise, Tsunade switched off the power.
A doctor rushed into the room, alarmed by the scene, and asked, "What's going on?"
Seeing Tsunade removing Happy's bandages inside the sterile room, he shouted, "Stop! What are you doing?"
Tony intervened, "Leave it to her. There's no need to worry."
The doctor, visibly concerned, asked, "Who is she, and what is she doing?"
"She isn't wearing sterile clothing! Do you understand the risks of infection for the patient?"
Tony raised his hands to calm the doctor, "Quiet, quiet. I know the situation. Happy is in her hands now, and what happens inside is not your concern."
The doctor insisted, "You need to sign a waiver then, confirming that our hospital is not responsible for any consequences of her actions. Otherwise, you must transfer the patient."
Tony quickly signed the document the doctor handed him.
Inside the sterile room, Tsunade had already removed Happy's bandages and started using her chakra to examine his body.
Confirming the hospital's treatment of his fractures was correct, she began using her healing jutsu to restore his internal organs damaged by the blast.
Watching the green glow emanating from Tsunade's hands, the doctor outside was bewildered but remained silent.
After healing Happy's internal injuries, Tsunade proceeded to treat his burns. Under her healing jutsu, Happy's skin began to regenerate visibly.
Seeing this, Tony remarked, "With abilities like these, I feel hospitals and cosmetic clinics might go out of business."
Charles shook his head and replied, "Not everyone can afford medical ninjas, and besides, we don't have enough medical ninjas to compete with them."
The doctor exclaimed, "Oh, my God! This is a miracle."
Tony, seeing the doctor still in awe, escorted him out of the room, saying, "Doctor, we have matters to discuss. You shouldn't be here."
Unable to resist Tony's enhanced strength, the doctor was gently but firmly pushed out, resembling a small chicken.
Once the door was closed, leaving the four of them alone, with Tsunade continuing to treat Happy, Tony turned to Charles and said,
"Buddy, I need to ask you something and might need your help."
Charles asked, "What is it?"
After organizing his thoughts, Tony inquired, "Do you know anything about the Mandarin and the Ten Rings? And if there are any ninjas involved with him?"
--2--
·Chapter 682: The Ten Rings and the Mandarin.
Tony looked at Charles Doyle and continued:
"You may not know, but there have been ten explosion incidents, including yesterday's, and no bomb casings were found at the scenes."
"Either there's some new technology I'm unaware of, or the other party might have the support of ninjas."
"Considering what I know, the only ones who can cause explosions without leaving any trace are ninjas or Chen Haoran, but obviously, he wouldn't do such a thing."
Hearing Tony's words, Charles nodded, then thought for a moment before speaking:
"What you've summarized comes down to two issues: the Ten Rings and ninjas."
"Let's start with the first issue, the Ten Rings and the Mandarin."
"Tony, do you really have no memory of them?"
Tony was surprised by Charles's question: "Why?"
"Are you saying I've had contact with them before?"
Seeing Tony's confusion, Charles said, "2008, in the caves of Afghanistan."
Tony's thoughts immediately flashed back to the time when he was betrayed by Obadiah, attacked, and captured by terrorists in a cave, which led to the creation of his first Iron Man suit.
"You mean the Middle Eastern terrorists who kidnapped me back then were the Ten Rings?"
"No, I destroyed them at that time."
"Could they have returned?"
Charles explained, "The Ten Rings is an organization that has existed for a long time, dating back a thousand years."
"Since its inception, this organization has constantly pursued conquest, sweeping through various corners of the world over centuries."
"They operate in the shadows, undermining regimes and rewriting history."
"The group you destroyed was merely the Middle Eastern branch of the Ten Rings, just one of its many branches, and not a particularly significant one."
Tony, stunned by Charles's words, muttered, "So, it's an ancient terrorist organization?"
Then shaking his head, Tony said, "No matter how long they've existed, if they've angered me, their days are numbered."
"I'll settle old and new scores together and uproot them completely."
As he spoke, Tony clenched his fist, showing his determination.
Charles didn't tell Tony that the true leader of the Ten Rings had been the same person for centuries, as the current Ten Rings he was dealing with was just an imposter.
After all, a thousand-year-old organization and a thousand-year-old enemy are two different things, and Tony had asked about the Ten Rings, not whether the one on TV was genuine or fake.
Seeing Tony's determined stance, Charles nodded and said, "It's good that you have that resolve. I'm just letting you know that this organization is not simple, so be cautious."
"As for whether the Ten Rings have ninjas backing them, I honestly don't know."
"The absence of bomb casings is easy for ninjas to achieve; it's not a sophisticated technique. Any explosive tag can leave no trace after detonation. Increasing the explosion's scale only requires more tags."
"Additionally, some powerful ninjutsu can achieve the same result, not to mention the Explosion Release ninjas from Iwagakure."
"But I can confirm that my ninjas aren't involved."
"As for other village ninjas or rogue ninjas, I can't say for sure."
"Hiring ninjas isn't easy, and the other party might not have what it takes to entice them."
Tony, rubbing his chin, thought for a moment and said, "Could they have bought explosive tags from other ninjas to carry out terrorist attacks?"
Charles shook his head, "Ordinary people without chakra can't detonate explosive tags."
"These things only work in the hands of ninjas."
Tony thought for a while and said, "If that's the case, it's unlikely they have ninjas involved. It seems the other party has developed some new technology."
At this moment, Tsunade came out of the sterile room and said, "Happy has been treated. Apart from his fractures needing some time to heal, all other injuries are recovered."
"But he's sleeping now. He should wake up in a few hours."
"As for the fractures, you can take him to the Continental Hotel for a wax bath, and he'll recover overnight."
Hearing that Happy had been treated and even given a way to heal his fractures, Tony gratefully said, "Thank you!"
Tsunade waved her hand, not concerned about Tony's thanks.
Tony looked at Charles and said, "Since Happy is out of danger, I'm relieved."
"I'll arrange to send him to the Continental Hotel for his fractures once he wakes up."
"But I don't have any of your issued coins. Can I pay with new elements?"
Charles nodded, "That's fine."
Charles then took out ten Continental Hotel coins from his storage space and handed them to Tony.
"Have someone hand these to the hotel front desk and ask for the wax bath treatment."
Tony took the coins and nodded, "Got it."
"Now that Happy's issue is resolved, the next step is to eliminate the Ten Rings."
Charles asked Tony, "Need any help?"
"No, buddy. This is my personal vendetta."
Charles nodded, "Good luck."
Charles didn't stay at the hospital any longer and left with Tsunade.
Tony also drove home. He had already responded to the Mandarin of the Ten Rings, and he believed it wouldn't be long before the other party took action against him. He needed to prepare.
On the way back to the base, Tsunade asked in the car, "You mentioned that the Ten Rings have something you need?"
Charles nodded and said, "Yes, they possess the 'Ten Rings', which are useful to me."
Tsunade thought for a moment and said, "Since they are in the hands of an evil organization, we should take them back."
Charles smiled and said, "I'm waiting for the right moment."
"I have a story about the Ten Rings that you might find interesting."
…
Elsewhere-
After returning home, Tony tasked his assistant with looking after Happy at the hospital. He handed the ten Continental Hotel coins to her, instructing her to take Happy to the Continental Hotel once he woke up and explaining how to use the coins.
After handling this, Tony went to his basement to investigate about the Mandarin and the Ten Rings.
Jarvis: "I've compiled a database on the Mandarin for you, sir."
"It consists of intercepted data from S.H.I.E.L.D., the FBI, and the CIA."
"Initializing virtual crime scene reconstruction."
As the virtual crime scene reconstruction began, Tony walked in and observed the data, saying, "Alright, what do we know?"
"The name Mandarin refers to an ancient Chinese term for a counselor of war, meaning 'advisor to the king.'"
Tony analyzed, "Based on the video footage from the recent hijacked broadcasts, he employs South American insurgency tactics and speaks like a preacher."
"The incident occurred during a celebration, with many theaters..."
Looking at the information Jarvis gathered, Tony said, "Shut it down."
With Tony's command, Jarvis shut down the gathered intel and continued, "The explosions generated heat exceeding 3000 degrees Celsius."
"Anything within 12.5 yards was instantly vaporized."
Watching the virtual reconstruction, Tony said, "No bomb fragments were found within three miles of the Chinese Theater."
"None, sir."
---3---
·Chapter 683: Maya Hansen
"Tell me about Happy."
With Tony's command, a virtual image of the severely injured Happy appeared, showing Happy's eyes and finger pointing towards something.
Tony sighed and said, "I don't know when bombs stopped looking like bombs..."
"Are you sure there were no defectors involved?"
Confirming the item Happy was pointing at before collapsing, it was a soldier's nameplate with the name Jack Taggart on it.
Tony asked, "Any military casualties?"
"According to official records, none, sir."
"Show me the thermal characteristics again."
"Include 3000 degrees as a factor in the statistics."
As Tony gave his instructions, the statistics were completed and displayed multiple pieces of information in front of him.
"Calculations completed."
"Linked with the satellite, generating heat records for the past 12 months."
Seeing the numerous heat records displayed in front of him, Tony frowned slightly and said, "Remove all places attacked by the Mandarin."
"Sir, there have been numerous records of heat above 3000 degrees Celsius in Africa and South Africa, occurring frequently."
Looking at those locations, Tony shook his head and said, "No, the temperatures there are a bit too high, and the areas are too large."
The places Jarvis presented were where Hidan conducted his sacrifices to the Jashin. The high temperatures from explosions were from Deidara cleaning up traces afterward.
However, Deidara's bomb range and temperature were higher, as he cleared entire villages or even towns, which was more terrifying than the Mandarin's attacks.
But since the incidents occurred in Africa, they didn't cause a stir like in New York, and no terrorist organization publicly claimed responsibility.
When Tony noticed the thermal signal from Rose Hill, he realized the temperature was exactly 3000 degrees, matching the explosion's heat. He said, "That one."
Jarvis responded, "Are you sure about this?"
"It happened before any known Mandarin attacks."
"It was a case of suicide bombing."
As Jarvis spoke, he displayed the incident's cause and released local media news.
"USA Today Weekend Edition, six lives lost in explosion."
"Zoom in."
"The heat signature is very similar, 3000 degrees Celsius."
Looking at the information displayed, Tony murmured, "Two soldiers."
Then he said, "Have you ever been to Tennessee?"
Jarvis immediately started planning, "Flight plan to Tennessee is in progress."
Tony then waved his hands, closing the virtual images, when a virtual screen showed a visitor knocking at the door.
Tony was surprised, "Someone can knock on the door?"
Then he sighed, tapping his box, "We should be in full lockdown. I just threatened a thousand-year-old terrorist organization."
"Who's knocking?"
Jarvis explained, "I've done all I can, sir."
"Who told you to announce your address to the world?"
Tony reluctantly put on his Iron Man suit and headed upstairs.
Seeing a woman knocking at the door, Tony, still puzzled, opened it.
As the woman walked in, the door's mechanical device scanned her, confirming no danger.
Seeing her trying to walk further, Tony held out his hand, "Stand there."
Looking at her, Tony opened his visor and said, "You're not the Mandarin, are you?"
Maya Hansen looked at Tony, "You don't remember?"
"Just as I thought."
Looking at the woman in front of him, Tony wondered if she was one of his previous lovers.
Then he said, "Don't mind me, I even forgot what I had for breakfast today."
Jarvis reminded from the side, "Gluten-free waffles, sir."
Tony sighed, "Oh, right."
Maya Hansen said, "I need to talk to you alone."
Glancing around, she continued, "Not here, it's urgent."
Tony looked at her and then turned to walk inside, "Normally, I'd be fine with that, but I have a girlfriend now."
At that moment, two packages dropped from above. Tony was startled as Pepper Potts' voice came from upstairs, "Tony, do we have a guest?"
Tony stepped out of the Mark 42 armor and said, "Yes, this is Maya Hansen."
"A scientist in botany, a friend of mine, not very close."
Tony turned to Maya Hansen and whispered, "Don't tell me I have a 12-year-old kid I've never met waiting in the car outside."
Maya Hansen, seeing Tony's expression, jokingly said, "He's 13 now."
Tony was shocked, but Maya quickly clarified, "No, but I need your help."
Tony asked, "Help with what?"
"Why now?"
Maya said seriously, "Because I read the newspaper today, and I think you won't survive the weekend."
Tony replied earnestly, "I'll be fine."
Pepper Potts came downstairs and said, "Sorry, since Happy is in the hospital, I didn't expect a guest."
Tony said, "It was indeed unexpected."
Pepper joked, "An ex-girlfriend?"
Tony clarified, "Doesn't seem so."
Maya added, "Not exactly, just a one-night stand."
Seeing Maya say it directly, Tony nodded, "Yes."
Pepper said to Tony, "That's just like you, isn't it?"
"A passionate night..."
Pepper said to Maya, "You dodged a bullet."
Tony exclaimed, "What?"
"I'm sure..."
Before Tony could finish, Pepper said, "Believe me, we are leaving."
Tony refused, "Hey, didn't we agree?"
"No leaving."
Pepper insisted, "Yes, we are!"
Tony, "Please say no..."
Pepper interrupted, "Now, immediately."
Maya interjected, "Good idea, let's go."
Tony protested, "Sorry, that's impossible, don't touch the bag."
As they argued, Maya Hansen saw the TV on the wall showing Tony's address. She said, "Excuse me, is this important?"
Tony looked at the TV and saw a missile flying towards his villa.
Seeing this, Tony turned to the window, witnessing the missile's approach and explosion.
"Boom!"
The villa's glass shattered, and the explosion's shockwave blew Tony and Pepper Potts away.
In mid-air, Tony quickly controlled the Mark 42 to fly and protect Pepper Potts.
Tony crashed into a wall but was relatively unscathed thanks to his enhanced physique.
Outside the villa, apart from a news helicopter broadcasting live, three armed helicopters appeared, opening their weapon systems. Machine guns aimed at Tony's villa.
Tony, getting up, saw the unconscious Maya Hansen, and noticed a collapsing wall about to fall. Before he could react, Pepper Potts, in the Mark 42, shielded him, saying, "I'm protecting you."
Tony, unwilling to be outdone, said, "I protected you first."
"We can't stay here anymore."
Getting up, Tony hadn't had time to evacuate before three more missiles hit the villa, blasting him to the other side of the villa.
Tony, crawling up, shouted to Pepper, "Go, I'll follow."
With the RPG bombardment, the villa couldn't withstand the damage. The floor collapsed, separating Tony and Pepper.
Seeing Pepper trying to help, Tony shouted, "Don't come, save her."
"I'll manage."
"Don't stand there, go save her, get out."
"Go."
Knowing Tony's enhanced physique, Pepper didn't refuse, putting on the helmet and rescuing Maya Hansen, knowing staying would burden Tony.
Pepper quickly lifted Maya Hansen and flew outside, assisted by a repulsor blast, landing safely outside the villa.
----4----
·Chapter 684: Tony Under Attack
Pepper Potts had just escaped the villa with Maya Hansen when another rocket attack came.
"Boom!"
Tony had just stood up when the room shook violently again, and the walls began to collapse quickly, making it impossible for him to stay upright.
Pepper Potts, seeing the villa continuously collapsing, exclaimed, "Oh my god!"
Then she shouted inside, "Tony…"
At that moment, the three armed helicopters in the distance continued to launch rockets at the villa.
"Whoosh!"
"Boom!"
Under this rocket attack, the building's structure couldn't hold any longer and began to tilt towards the sea below the cliff.
Tony seized the opportunity to grab an iron frame by the window to steady himself when Jarvis's voice came through.
"Sir, Miss Potts has escaped the building."
Hearing that Pepper Potts had left, Tony breathed a sigh of relief and looked out the window, spotting the positions of the three helicopters.
He immediately began controlling the Mark 42 to return to him, knowing that despite his enhanced physique, he was more proficient in the Iron Man suit.
As Tony summoned the suit, the Mark 42 began disassembling from Pepper Potts outside and flew back to the villa.
Meanwhile, the machine guns on the three helicopters outside began spinning, firing at a rate of 6,000 rounds per minute, sweeping the villa indiscriminately while continuing rocket attacks.
"Da-da-da-da…"
"Whoosh! Boom!"
Tony dodged bullets while suiting up, finally completing the process just before the villa fell into the sea.
However, when Tony, now in the suit, prepared to fly and fight back, he realized his thrusters were missing and asked urgently:
"Jarvis, where's my propulsion system?"
"Installing, sir. This is a prototype, after all."
Seeing the continuous gunfire from the three helicopters, Tony tried to use the weapon systems to counterattack but found that, being a prototype, the suit had no weapons installed.
In frustration, he used a repulsor blast to throw a piano at one of the helicopters, luckily hitting the target.
With no weapons, Tony had no choice but to run and dodge. Eventually, the relentless rocket attacks caused him to fall into the sea along with the villa.
Entangled in the building's cables, Tony was temporarily trapped underwater.
The helicopters, seeing the villa completely destroyed and no sign of Iron Man on the surface, turned and left.
As seawater entered the armor, Tony lost consciousness. At this critical moment, Jarvis activated the thrusters and brought Tony out of the water, then followed the pre-planned route to Rose Hill, Tennessee.
Pepper Potts, seeing the villa completely submerged, ran over and looked down, but she didn't see Tony emerging in his Iron Man suit. In anguish, she shouted, "Tony…"
…
Meanwhile-
After listening to Charles's story, Tsunade asked incredulously, "Nine-tailed foxes?"
"Heavens, are there many nine-tails there? Aren't people afraid of tailed beasts?"
Charles shook his head, "Tsunade, those are nine-tailed foxes, not the tailed beast Kurama."
"Although they have similar appearances, they are not the same."
"And their size is much smaller than Kurama."
Recalling the battle in Ta Lo from "Shang-Chi," Charles continued, "Those mythical creatures aren't very powerful; in fact, they're quite weak."
"I even suspect they just share the appearance and name, but not the matching strength, like a knockoff version."
Tsunade asked curiously, "Are they really that weak?"
Charles thought for a moment and said, "The power of the dragon is interesting, but creatures like the qilin, phoenix, Dijiang, nine-tails, and Foo Dog are quite disappointing."
"If I get the chance, I'll show you. They are somewhat like the magical creatures in our world."
Understanding from Charles's comparison with magical creatures, Tsunade realized those animals were far from tailed beasts, perhaps not even as strong as some powerful summon animals.
As they talked, Charles Doyle's phone rang. Seeing the caller ID, he saw it was Pepper Potts.
…
Having waited at the ruins for a long time, even after the police, rescue teams, and journalists arrived, Pepper Potts still hadn't seen Tony return.
Though she believed Tony was fine, her worry grew, leading her to call Charles Doyle.
"What's up, Pepper Potts?"
"Charles, Tony…he was attacked at the villa and is missing."
"I believe he's okay, but he's out of contact, and the media is saying he's dead…"
Hearing Pepper's words, Charles learned that Tony's house had been blown up.
Thinking of his own Agency being blown up multiple times, Tony's incident seemed minor as it was only the first time.
"Don't worry, Tony will be fine."
"I'll come to the scene and check it out."
Pepper Potts gratefully said, "Thank you, Charles."
With Tony missing and Happy in the hospital, Pepper didn't know who else to turn to besides Charles Doyle.
Maya Hansen, puzzled, asked, "Who did you just call?"
Pepper, despite her anxious face, responded, "I called Charles Doyle. He's a good friend of Tony's, and if there's any accident, he should be able to find Tony."
"He'll be here soon."
Hearing this, Maya Hansen was shocked, "The Ninja Immortal?"
Pepper nodded.
Hearing that the Ninja Immortal was coming, Maya Hansen's face paled even more, though it was unclear if it was due to the attack or another reason but it was obvious that pepper didn't notice her reaction.
…
Elsewhere-
Charles Doyle put down the phone and said, "Tsunade, it seems I can't continue the story. We need to go to Tony's villa."
"Is he alright?"
Charles nodded, "He should be fine."
At that moment, Jiraiya came over, asking, "I just saw the news. It says Tony Stark was killed?"
Although Tony had confirmed his relationship with Pepper Potts and stopped hanging out with Jiraiya regularly, they had already formed a deep friendship.
Tony had even recommended interesting places to Jiraiya, and Jiraiya had helped Tony develop an anti-ninja suit.
Seeing Jiraiya's worried expression, Charles shook his head, "Fake news, don't worry."
"I need to go to the attack site. Come along."
Jiraiya nodded.
Soon John Wick drove quickly, bringing the three of them towards Tony's seaside villa.
Meanwhile, Kankuro, in his Sand Village puppet shop, also saw the news about Tony's attack. After organizing his puppets, he left the shop as well.
…
On the other side-
"Sir, sir…"
Tony Stark, who had fainted, gradually woke up to Jarvis's voice and said:
"I get it, turn off the alarm. I'm fine."
"This is an automatic emergency alert for energy levels below five percent."
The next second, Tony found the suit rapidly falling, crashing onto the nearby road and rolling several times before stopping.
Lying on the ground, Tony's suit was sparking and severely damaged. Taking a deep breath, Tony removed the faceplate and, seeing the snowflakes, asked:
"Is this snow? Where are we, the North?"
Jarvis replied, "We are five kilometers from Rose Hill, Tennessee."
Tony, surprised, said, "What's going on?"
"Jarvis, I didn't plan this."
"What are we doing here? This is completely off track."
"I need to find Pepper. I need to…"
Jarvis said, "I planned this flight. This is the destination."
"Who told you to plan it?"
Tony, a bit helpless, said, "Open the armor."
"I... I malfunctioned, sir."
"Hurry up, Jarvis."
The next second, the armor opened, and Tony sat up, saying, "Much better."
Feeling the cold in his short sleeves, Tony decided, "I better get back in."
Jarvis said, "I think I need to sleep, sir."
"Jarvis."
"Jarvis, are you still there?"
"Don't leave me, buddy."
Confirming Jarvis had shut down due to lack of power, Tony felt helpless. The place was icy with no one in sight.
Tony had no choice but to reassemble Mark 42, then carry it as he walked towards a distant place.
After walking for some time, Tony arrived at a Texaco store. Seeing a mannequin outside with a cloak, he took it and wore it, then went to the phone booth inside.
"Stark Security Services, broadcast to all known receivers."
"Pepper, it's me."
"I know I owe you a lot of apologies, but time is short now."
"So first, I'm sorry for putting you in danger because of my complete selfishness and stupidity. I promise it won't happen again."
"And Merry Christmas. That bunny was indeed too big."
"That's it. Sorry."
"And I apologize in advance because I won't be able to return home on time."
"I need to dig that guy out. I just want you safe."
"Also, I just stole a cloak from a wooden man."
After leaving the message for Pepper Potts and reporting his safety, Tony hung up the phone, carried Mark 42, and continued walking. He needed to find a place to repair the chip in his arm and the Mark 42 suit.
…
Elsewhere-
Kankuro, running all the way, first arrived outside Tony's seaside villa, now surrounded by reporters, police, and rescue teams.
As soon as Kankuro appeared, sharp-eyed reporters spotted him and rushed over.
"Mr. Ninja, are you here to confirm Tony Stark's attack?"
Kankuro pushed the microphone away and ignored them, heading straight towards Pepper Potts.
"Miss Potts!"
Seeing the young man with a face full of paint appear in front of her, Pepper Potts said, "You're here, Kankuro."
Kankuro looked at the anxious Pepper Potts and asked, "Miss Potts, Mr. Stark..."
Pepper Potts shook her head, "We were attacked, and Tony fell into the sea with the villa. He hasn't surfaced, and I have no trace of him."
Hearing this, Kankuro looked at the sea and asked, "He fell into the sea with the villa?"
Pepper Potts nodded, "I didn't see Tony fly out. Some speculate he was buried in the debris underwater."
"The rescue team is using cranes to lift the building debris, but Tony's villa is too large."
Kankuro looked at the cliffside and said, "I understand. I'll go down and check."
With that, Kankuro leaped off the cliff.
"God!"
Kankuro's actions shocked everyone around.
A reporter, with a cameraman, started broadcasting live, explaining:
"This is the site of Tony Stark's attacked villa. A young ninja has just arrived."
"Oh my god, he jumped straight off the cliff."
"He's standing on the sea. Is this the magic of ninjas?"
"The ninja is salvaging debris from the sea. His strength is greater than a crane's. Is he here to save Tony?"
Maya Hansen, looking at Pepper Potts, asked, "Who is this?"
"Are all ninjas this powerful?"
Pepper Potts, watching Kankuro search the sea, said, "He's Kankuro, a longtime friend of Tony's."
On the sea, Kankuro used his puppets to search underwater for Tony Stark.
After some searching, Kankuro found several damaged Mark series suits but no sign of Tony. Even after lifting some building debris with his puppets, he still didn't find Tony's body.
Seeing no trace of Tony reassured Kankuro. As long as no body was found, Tony Stark's chances of being alive were high.
At that moment, John Wick arrived on the scene. As Charles Doyle got out of the car, reporters surrounded him.
-----5-----
·Chapter 685: Tony's Message
John Wick drove up to the scene, and as Charles Doyle got out of the car, reporters surrounded him.
"Mr. Ninja Immortal, are you here to confirm the death of your friend Tony Stark?"
"What do you think about this attack on him?"
The reporters gathered around Charles Doyle, taking flash photos and repeatedly pressing their shutter buttons.
The commotion caught Pepper Potts's attention, and seeing Charles Doyle arrive, she breathed a sigh of relief.
Facing the gathered reporters, Charles Doyle picked up a microphone and said:
"We are not afraid of any attacks!"
"The attack on Tony Stark won't bring him down."
A reporter interjected, "But he has been missing for a while now. He is most likely dead."
Charles Doyle looked at the reporter and said calmly, "He is Iron Man!"
After saying that, Charles handed the microphone back and walked towards Pepper Potts.
Seeing Charles, Pepper Potts rushed forward and hugged him, saying, "Tony, he's... missing."
Charles gave Pepper a comforting hug and said, "Don't worry, Tony will be fine."
Maya Hansen glanced at Pepper Potts and then at Charles Doyle but said nothing.
At this moment, Kankuro leaped from the sea, landing directly in front of the group. He greeted them, saying, "Lady Tsunade, Lord Jiraiya, Lord Charles."
Charles nodded, "Kankuro, you're here too."
Kankuro nodded back, handing over an Iron Man helmet to Pepper Potts and said, "I searched underwater and can confirm that Mr. Stark is not there."
"He must have already left the scene."
Hearing this, Pepper Potts breathed a sigh of relief but still asked, "Where could he have gone without leaving any trace?"
Charles then said, "At least we can be sure he's alive."
"If necessary, I will step in."
Pepper Potts looked at Charles and said, "I'll leave it to you."
At that moment, the Iron Man helmet Kankuro had given to Pepper Potts began flashing red. Seeing this, Pepper thought for a moment and then put the helmet on her head.
"Stark Security Server, identity verification successful."
The helmet then played a message from Tony. Hearing his words, a smile spread across Pepper's face, and she completely relaxed.
After listening to the message, Pepper took off the helmet and said to Charles and the others, "Tony is alive. He just left a message through the security system."
"He said he would definitely track down the mastermind."
Hearing this, Kankuro and Jiraiya also breathed a sigh of relief.
Confirming Tony's safety, Charles thought for a moment and then said, "Pepper, come with us to the base."
"We can't be sure if the Mandarin will take more drastic actions once he learns Tony is still alive. It's safer at my base."
"Stay for a while, and reunite with Tony once the threat is resolved."
Hearing Charles's suggestion, Pepper Potts nodded. She was Tony's weak spot, and if the enemy knew Tony was alive, they might capture her to threaten him.
After all, if they dared to use an armed helicopter to bomb Tony's villa in New York, there was nothing they wouldn't do.
"Okay, I'll trouble you for this period."
"Also, I think Tony might need help. He wants to investigate this matter alone, and I'm worried."
Jiraiya volunteered, "Leave it to me. I'll find Tony and help him deal with this Mandarin."
Kankuro added, "And me. I want to help Mr. Stark too."
Seeing Jiraiya and Kankuro offering to help, Pepper Potts felt relieved but still said to Kankuro, "Kankuro, you're still a kid. This isn't something you should be involved in."
Knowing that Kankuro was only 15 years old, Pepper Potts treated him like a child. Even though he had great strength and could fight Tony to a standstill with his puppets, she still didn't want him involved.
Kankuro insisted, "No, I'm strong and have completed many missions."
Seeing Pepper about to say more, Charles intervened, "Kankuro is already a ninja. Let him go."
"Jiraiya, Kankuro, I'll leave Tony's matter to you."
"Protect him and take down the mastermind."
"Yes!"
Then Charles turned to Pepper Potts, "Let's go. Let's head back to the base."
Kankuro and Jiraiya stayed behind while Charles, Tsunade, Pepper Potts, and Maya Hansen got into the car with John Wick driving them to the base.
In the car, the three women sat in the back seat, while Charles sat in the front passenger seat.
Pepper Potts looked at Maya Hansen and asked, "What's so urgent that you need to talk to Tony?"
Maya Hansen was somewhat helpless. She initially thought she'd have a chance to approach Tony and have him help solve the Extremis virus problem.
Later, she planned to use Tony's girlfriend to make him help resolve the virus's issues. But now, heading to Charles's base, she wondered if she'd have a chance to get Pepper Potts kidnapped by Killian.
After a moment of despair, Maya Hansen still said, "I suspect my boss is working for the Mandarin."
"If you still want to know more, I suggest we wait until we're somewhere safe. I'll explain everything in detail."
Pepper Potts was surprised, "Your boss works for the Mandarin? But Tony said you're a botanist."
Maya Hansen nodded, "You could say that. But actually, I'm a DNA genetic coder."
"A forty-person team, part of a private think tank."
"Of course, you could also call me a botanist."
Pepper Potts asked, "What's your boss's name?"
"Aldrich Killian."
Sitting in the front passenger seat, Charles smiled slightly.
Maya Hansen, once you reach my base, as an expert in the Extremis virus, you won't have a chance to leave.
As for Pepper Potts missing Tony's fireworks display, Charles wasn't concerned at all.
[------6------
·Chapter 686: Mechanic
The car carrying Charles and others continued its journey towards the base.
In the meantime, Happy had already been taken to the Continental Hotel for wax bath treatment.
Eddie, on the other hand, was still celebrating Christmas with his girlfriend. This holiday was the most important for them, spanning from December 22nd to January 5th.
As for Hawkeye Barton, Eddie apologized when called; he was on vacation and wasn't about to jeopardize his relationship to go off fighting crime. He wasn't that noble.
With Eddie continuously rejecting calls, Barton had to reconsider Eddie's situation.
...
Meanwhile, Tony Stark, carrying his Mark 42 suit, found a warehouse. After confirming that the owner was absent, he forcibly opened the door.
Standing at the entrance, Tony glanced at the items inside. After placing the Mark 42 suit on a sofa, he said to himself mockingly, "Make yourself comfortable."
Tony sat down on the sofa to rest for a moment, then moved to the workbench, picking up pliers to remove the fragments from his arm.
At that moment, a child walked in, holding a potato gun aimed at Tony.
"Stop! Don't move."
Tony looked at the child at the door, put down the pliers, and cooperatively said, "You caught me."
Then he added, "Nice potato gun."
"But the barrel is a bit long, making it hard to aim accurately."
The boy aimed at a glass on the shelf and shot it, shattering it to show that his aim was spot-on.
Tony put his hands down and said, "Now you're out of ammo."
The boy looked at the glowing item on Tony's chest and asked, "What's that on your chest?"
Tony smiled and said, "It's an electromagnet."
"You must know, given all the stuff you have here."
The boy continued, "What's it for?"
Tony didn't answer, instead standing up and shining a desk lamp on the Mark 42 suit on the sofa.
The boy's expression changed as he excitedly exclaimed, "Oh my God!"
"Is that... is that Iron Man?"
Tony looked at the boy and said, "Strictly speaking, I am Iron Man."
The boy walked up to Tony, placed a newspaper on his chest, and said, "Strictly speaking, you're dead."
Tony opened the newspaper, and right in front was his photo with the headline: "Mandarin Attack, Stark Rumored Dead."
Tony sighed and said, "Alright."
He tossed the newspaper aside, while the boy went to the sofa and looked at the battle-damaged Mark 42, asking, "What happened to him?"
"He's alive."
"I built him, maintain him."
"I'll fix him."
The boy looked at Tony and said, "That's just mechanical work."
Tony didn't argue, "I suppose so."
The boy looked at Tony and said, "If I were building Iron Man and War Machine..."
Before he could finish, Tony corrected him, "It's called Iron Patriot now."
The boy exclaimed, "That's even cooler!"
Tony disagreed, "No, not at all."
"Anyway, I would have fixed him up and install a mirror…"
Tony asked, "A mirror reflection device?"
The boy nodded, "So it can turn invisible."
Tony responded, "You want stealth mode?"
The boy confirmed, "Good idea, right?"
Tony nodded, "That's a great idea. I might build that someday."
The boy, curious, started to fiddle with the fingers of the Mark 42 suit and ended up pulling one off.
Tony quickly shouted, "Don't do that!"
"What are you doing?"
"Are you trying to break his fingers?"
"He's injured and in a lot of pain. Stay away from him."
The boy, feeling guilty, said, "Sorry."
Tony asked, "Are you really sorry?"
He continued, "Don't worry, I'll fix it."
Then he asked about the boy's family, "Who's home?"
"My mom's working at a restaurant, and my dad went to 7-Eleven to buy scratch-offs."
"I guess he must have won because he's been gone for six years."
Hearing this, Tony pondered for a moment and said, "That happens sometimes. A dad leaving his kid isn't something to dwell on."
"I need a few things: a laptop, a digital watch, a cell phone."
"The gas canister from your potato gun, a map of the town, a large spring, and a tuna sandwich."
The boy asked, "What's in it for me?"
Tony thought for a moment and replied, "Saving you. What's his name?"
"Who?"
"The guy at school who bullies you. What's his name?"
The boy was curious, "How do you know?"
Tony didn't answer. He knew that a kid who lost his father seven years ago would likely face bullying at school. He walked over to the Mark 42 suit and said, "This might be just what you need."
He took out a metal canister from the suit's arm and held it up, saying, "This is a cricket jar."
"Just kidding, it's a very powerful weapon."
"Don't aim it at your face. Press the button on top, and it'll scare people off."
"It's non-lethal, perfect for self-defense. How's that?"
The boy immediately reached out for it, but Tony didn't hand it over. Instead, he asked, "How about it?"
"Deal?"
"Deal."
After giving the item to the boy, Tony asked, "What's your name?"
"Harley. What's yours?"
Tony replied, "Mechanic, Tony."
Then he looked at Harry and said, "You know what I'm thinking?"
"Where's my sandwich?"
Harley jumped up from the sofa to gather the items Tony had asked for.
…
Meanwhile, at Rose Hill-
Aldrich Killian received a call from one of his men.
"Sir, we destroyed the house, but we didn't find any bodies."
"No sign of Stark."
Killian calmly said, "Understood."
"I have to go. The Master is about to record, but he's a bit…"
"You know his temperament."
"Continue with the plan today. Call me when it's done." Killian hung up the phone and walked into a room filled with cameras and crew members.
He announced, "Listen up, no talking and no eye contact. Otherwise, you get a bullet to the head."
Soon, the Master arrived and took a seat. Looking at Killian, he said, "Alright, what are we waiting for?"
This Master was none other than the infamous leader, the Mandarin, seen in the news. However, in reality, he was just a washed-up actor and a drug addict.
With Mandarin in place, the video recording began immediately.
-------7-------
·Chapter 687: Investigation
After examining the scene, Jiraiya and Kankuro arrived at a deserted cliff.
Kankuro looked at Jiraiya and asked, "What should we do?"
Jiraiya replied, "We need to find Tony."
Biting his finger and forming hand seals, Jiraiya shouted, "Summoning Jutsu!"
"Boom!"
A puff of smoke cleared to reveal Pakkun, the ninja dog.
Seeing that it was Jiraiya who had summoned him, Pakkun tilted his head up and said, "Master Jiraiya!"
Jiraiya looked at Pakkun and asked, "Pakkun, do you remember Tony Stark's scent?"
Pakkun nodded, "Of course, I'm very familiar with that guy."
"Is he in trouble?"
Jiraiya explained Tony's situation, "He disappeared after an attack. We need you to help us find him."
Pakkun shook his head in exasperation, "That troublemaker. He's been captured again? Unbelievable."
Pakkun sniffed the air for Tony's scent. After a while, he looked up and said, "Tony isn't in New York; he might have gone far this time."
After a bit more sniffing, Pakkun said, "Found him. Follow me."
As Pakkun vanished, Jiraiya looked at Kankuro and said, "Stay close, Sand kid."
In the next moment, Jiraiya took off in the direction Pakkun had disappeared, with Kankuro quickly following.
...
Meanwhile-
Tony and Harley arrived in town. Tony commented on the items Harley had brought, "The sandwich is decent, but the spring is a bit rusty."
"The other materials will have to do for now."
"And you said you'd give me your sister's watch..."
Harley asked, "What's wrong?"
Tony rolled up his sleeve to reveal a girl's cartoon watch on his wrist and said, "I thought it would be a bit more mature than this."
Harley laughed, "She's only six. Come on, it's a limited edition."
Harley then asked, "When can we talk about the New York incident?"
Tony replied, "Probably not going to happen. Forget about it."
"What about the Avengers? Can we talk about them?"
Tony dismissed the idea, "Maybe later. Give me some space, kid."
As they talked, Tony and Harley arrived at an open area with memorial items and several black silhouettes on the wall.
Tony asked curiously, "What's the story here? What happened?"
Walking to the center and looking at the items on the ground, Harley said, "A guy named Chad Davis lived just around the corner."
"He won a lot of medals while he was in the military."
"But then people say he went crazy one day. He made a bomb and blew himself up right here."
Tony approached, looking at the shadows on the wall. He remembered seeing this news while having Jarvis investigate. After observing for a moment, he asked, "Six people died here, right?"
Harley nodded, "Yes."
Tony continued, "Including Chad Davis."
"That's right."
Tony sat down beside Harley and said, "Really? That doesn't make sense."
"Think about it. Six people died, but there are only five shadows."
Harley nodded, "Yeah."
"People say these shadows are marks of souls entering heaven."
"But poor bomb guy fell into hell, so his shadow followed him."
"That's why there are only five shadows."
Tony asked, "Do you believe that?"
Harley didn't say he believed it; instead, he said, "That's what people say."
Tony shook his head, clearly not buying it. He had seen hell and demons firsthand.
Harley looked at the crater left by the explosion and said, "Do you know what this hole reminds me of?"
"I don't know, and I don't care."
Harley smiled, making a gesture with his hands, "That big wormhole in New York."
"What does it remind you of?"
Tony looked at Harley, "Trying to get me to talk, huh? I don't want to."
Harley pressed on, "Aliens. Are they going to come back?"
"Maybe."
Tony, now visibly agitated, said, "Can you shut up?"
"Didn't I tell you I have anxiety?"
Harley asked, "Does this topic make you... uneasy?"
"Yes, a little. Can I catch my breath?"
But Harley kept going, "Are there bad guys at Rose Hill?"
Seeing Tony struggling to breathe, Harley asked, "Do you need a bag to help you breathe?"
"Did you take your meds?"
"No."
"Do you need to take your meds?"
"Maybe."
"Do you have PTSD?"
"I don't think so."
"Will you... will you go crazy?"
"I can shut up. Do you want me to shut up?"
With Harley's constant questioning, Tony finally snapped, "Didn't I tell you to shut up?"
"I swear, you're driving me crazy."
After a moment, Tony couldn't take it anymore. He got up and started running away, saying, "Kid, you're really driving me nuts. Are you happy now?"
Harley, bewildered, called after him, "What did I say?"
"Hey, wait up."
Harley got up and chased after Tony.
Tony had barely reached the street corner when he collapsed, shaking uncontrollably.
Harley chased after him, calling, "Wait, wait."
He finally caught up to Tony and asked, "What's wrong?"
Kneeling on the ground, Tony took off his hat, grabbed some snow, and pressed it against his face.
Tony cooled down a bit by holding the snow to his face. Then, he tossed the snow at Harley and said, "You made me have a fit."
Harley, hit by the snow, didn't get mad; instead, he suppressed a laugh, clearly finding Tony's reaction amusing.
Feeling better, Tony put his hat back on and said, "Alright, back to business."
"Where were we?"
"That guy died. What about his family? His mother, Mrs. Davis, where is she?"
Harley thought for a moment and then said, "She stays at a place, a bar."
Tony told Harley, "See, now that's helpful."
"Take me to that bar you mentioned."
Soon, Harley led Tony to a bar nearby. Tony looked at the bar across the street and said, "Harley, you wait here. Don't go in."
Harley nodded, and Tony pulled down the brim of his hat and walked towards the bar.
Just as he was about to enter, Tony bumped into a woman and knocked something out of her hands.
"Sorry."
Tony turned around, picked up the item, and handed it back to her.
"Ma'am, your thing."
The woman turned, took the item from Tony, and said, "Thank you."
A gust of wind blew, revealing a scar on the woman's face through her red hair. Tony noticed the scar and, after a brief pause, shifted the conversation, "Nice hair. It suits you."
The woman glanced at Tony's watch and said, "Your watch is nice too."
Tony lifted his arm, pointing at his wrist, and said, "Yeah, it's a limited edition."
The woman smiled, "Of course."
Then she said to Tony, "Have a good night."
As she left, Tony turned and walked into the bar.
Once inside, Tony scanned the room and found Mrs. Davis. Approaching her, he said, "Mrs. Davis?"
Seeing her look at him, Tony confirmed he had the right person and asked, "May I sit?"
Mrs. Davis glanced at Tony and calmly said, "It's a free country."
Tony nodded, "Indeed it is."
He sat down, and Mrs. Davis said, "Alright, say what you have to say."
Tony spoke, "I'm sorry for your loss. I want to understand what happened."
Mrs. Davis looked at Tony and said, "I brought the files for you. Take them and leave."
"Whatever they say, it wasn't what he wanted to do."
Tony looked at the documents labeled "Secret File: MIA Operations." Flipping through the pages with photos and details, he said, "Clearly, you're expecting someone else, right?"
"Someone else will meet you here, correct?"
Mrs. Davis nodded, "Yes."
Tony skimmed the files and then looked at her seriously, "Mrs. Davis, your son didn't commit suicide."
"I assure you, he didn't hurt anyone."
"He was used by someone."
Mrs. Davis asked, "Who?"
Tony continued, "Someone made him a pawn."
Hearing Tony's words, Mrs. Davis took back the files, tucked them under her arm, and looked at him, "You're not the person from the phone, are you?"
At that moment, the woman Tony had bumped into earlier approached the table and placed an item on it, saying, "Actually, it's me!"
Tony looked at her, and in the next second, she grabbed his arm, pinned him to the table, and handcuffed him.
--------8--------
·Chapter 688: Fight
The sudden turn of events left Tony momentarily bewildered, but instead of immediately resisting, he decided to see who his captor was.
At this moment, the sheriff, who had been drinking at the bar, stood up and asked, "What's going on here? What's the situation?"
Ellen Brandt replied, "I'm apprehending someone."
"Sheriff, right?"
The sheriff looked at her and said, "Yes, ma'am. And you are?"
Ellen Brandt held up her Homeland Security badge and said, "Homeland Security. Is that good enough?"
The sheriff shook his head, "There are still issues."
"I need more information."
Ellen Brandt retorted, "I'm saying this is none of your business, Sheriff."
While the two were talking, Tony signaled Mrs. Davis with his eyes. She quickly understood and threw the files under the bar counter.
The sheriff countered, "Oh really?"
"Why don't you get the state government to promote me?"
Ellen Brandt walked toward him, saying, "Well, I was hoping to handle this smoothly."
"But I guess a little fun wouldn't hurt."
As she spoke, Ellen Brandt's right hand, which held the Homeland Security badge, turned red-hot. Tony's eyes widened at this sight, realizing she was someone extraordinary.
The sheriff turned to his deputy and said, "Deputy, arrest this woman."
In an instant, Ellen Brandt pressed the red-hot badge against the sheriff's face.
"Ah!"
The sheriff screamed in pain. The deputy reached for his gun, but Ellen Brandt swiftly thrust her burning hand through the sheriff, snatching the deputy's gun.
Seeing this, Tony realized she definitely wasn't Homeland Security. He mustered his strength and snapped the handcuffs.
As Ellen Brandt aimed to fire, Tony somersaulted and kicked her, sending her crashing through several tables, though she still clutched the gun.
Chaos erupted in the bar, and patrons rushed out in a panic.
Ellen Brandt, still on the ground, raised her arm and fired several bullets at Tony.
Bang, bang, bang!
Tony dodged the bullets with a roll and took cover behind the bar, grabbing the files and stuffing them into his jacket.
Ellen Brandt stood up, holding the gun and looking for Tony. She said, "I didn't expect Tony Stark to be this strong."
When they bumped into each other at the bar's entrance, Ellen Brandt didn't initially recognize Tony but found him familiar. After returning to her car and checking, she discovered he was their previous target, Tony Stark.
She planned to complete the unfinished task of eliminating Tony Stark.
After all, Tony was without his Iron Man suit, making it the perfect opportunity to take him out.
Tony grabbed a chair from behind the bar and hurled it at Ellen Brandt. Ellen Brandt did not dodge the chair Tony threw at her. Instead, she turned her left hand red-hot and chopped the incoming chair in half, while her other hand fired the gun at Tony.
"Bang, bang, bang, bang!"
Four bullets struck the bar where Tony was hiding, sending wood splinters flying everywhere.
Luckily, Tony had ducked in time, and none of the bullets hit him.
With the seven bullets in the police handgun expended, Ellen Brandt tossed the gun away and jumped onto the bar.
However, as soon as she landed on the bar, she was met with an attack from Tony.
Tony suddenly stood up and swung a powerful punch at Ellen Brandt's leg, sending her flying and breaking her bone.
Seeing his opponent fly away, Tony blew on his fist and joked, "Even without the suit, I'm still a super soldier."
Thinking he had dealt with his opponent, Tony jumped out from behind the bar to investigate the files and uncover the mastermind.
What Tony didn't realize was that Ellen Brandt, who had been sent flying, was already healing. Her leg glowed red, quickly mending the broken bone. Her hands turned red-hot again as she lunged at Tony.
Ellen Brandt tackled Tony to the ground and straddled him, her scorching hands reaching for his throat.
"Sizzle!"
The smell of burning flesh filled the air as Tony screamed in pain, then used his arm to sweep her off him.
As Ellen Brandt was knocked away, her chest glowed red, and her broken ribs healed swiftly.
Tony, seeing this, asked, "A ninja? Or a superhuman?"
Ellen Brandt didn't respond to Tony's question. She stood up and attacked again, her body glowing red and her arms turning crimson.
As she lunged, Tony executed a sidekick, sending her flying back faster than she came.
In the instant he retracted his leg, Tony extinguished the flames on his shoe, shouting, "It's melting!"
His kick had struck Ellen Brandt but had also melted his shoe sole due to her high temperature.
Tony quickly took off his shoes, frowning. If she maintained this state, it would be a situation where both parties suffer significant damage.
Meanwhile, Ellen Brandt, now entirely red, was furious. She couldn't accept that she, a veteran of countless battles, was being bested by a playboy like Tony Stark.
"Ah!"
She screamed in rage and charged at Tony again.
Tony grabbed a nearby table and threw it at her.
"Boom!"
The table shattered upon impact, and the fragments ignited from the heat radiating from her body.
At that moment, Ellen Brandt had one thought: to get close to Tony Stark. She was even willing to self-destruct if it meant killing him.
Seeing her charging at him, Tony noticed something was off. The red glow on her body seemed to be surging.
He immediately turned and ran, his speed much greater than hers.
"Don't run!" Ellen Brandt shouted as she lost control of her emotions and body. The next second, she exploded, sending a massive burst of flames through the bar.
"Boom!"
Tony had barely taken three steps when the explosion's heatwave hit him, blasting him out of the bar.