WHAT I'M MEANT TO BECOME!

Alexander slowly regained consciousness, he found himself disoriented in the darkness of the cave. The faint glow of dim light pierced through the shadows, casting eerie shapes on the walls around him. His head felt heavy, and his body ached with a dull, throbbing pain.

Groggily, he reached up to touch his face, only to feel a tube inserted in his nose. Panic surged through him, and he instinctively tried to pull it out, his movements clumsy and uncoordinated.In his disoriented state, Alexander's attempts to grab a glass of water proved futile, resulting in a loud clatter as it fell to the ground. Frustration mounted as he struggled to comprehend his surroundings, his senses overwhelmed by the unfamiliarity of it all.As he reached down to tug at the wires protruding from his chest, a voice broke through the haze of confusion. It was Yinsen, sitting at the side of the bed, his expression calm but concerned.Yinsen: You shouldn't do that, my friend. You need to rest.Alexander's gaze snapped to Yinsen, his eyes searching for answers in the darkness.Alexander: Where... where am I? What's happening?Yinsen's gentle tone offered some reassurance, but Alexander's mind was still reeling with questions.Yinsen: You're in a cave. You were injured. But you're safe now.Alexander's attention shifted to his chest, where he noticed the bandages and the faint glimmer of an electromagnet beneath them. The realization hit him like a tidal wave, and he reached out to touch it, his fingers trembling.Alexander: (whispering) No... no, this can't be happening...But before he could process the full weight of his situation, the darkness closed in, and his consciousness slipped away once more, the shock of his reality too much to bear. With a soft thud, Alexander fell back onto the bed, unconsciousness claiming him once more.30 Second Later Alexander woke again, he found himself in a dimly lit cave, his mind still groggy from unconsciousness. Sitting up slowly, he turned to Yinsen, his voice hoarse with uncertainty.Alexander: What did you do to me?Yinsen turned to face him, his expression calm and reassuring.Yinsen: What I did was to save your life, Alexander. I removed as much shrapnel as I could, but there's still some left. It's headed into your atrial septum.Yinsen held out a glass bottle containing small pieces of metal, offering it to Alexander.Yinsen: Take a look. It's a souvenir.Alexander hesitated for a moment before taking the bottle, his gaze fixed on the shards inside.Yinsen: We call them the walking dead where I'm from. It takes about a week for the shards to reach the vital organs.Alexander's eyes widened at the gravity of the situation. He glanced down at the electromagnet implanted in his chest, his mind racing with questions.Alexander: And this device? What is it?Yinsen explained calmly, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.Yinsen: It's an electromagnet, hooked up to a car battery. It's what's keeping the shrapnel out of your heart.Alexander nodded, his mind struggling to process everything. He zipped up his jacket, trying to steady his nerves. As he looked up, he noticed a camera in the corner of the room.Alexander: What is that?Yinsen followed his gaze and chuckled softly.Yinsen: Smile, Alexander. We're on camera.Alexander frowned, feeling a sense of unease at the thought of being watched. Yinsen's next words only added to his confusion.Yinsen: You know, we've actually met before. It was at a technical conference in Bern.Alexander furrowed his brow, trying to recall the encounter, but coming up empty.Alexander: I don't remember.Yinsen chuckled again, shaking his head.Yinsen: I'm not surprised. You were quite... intoxicated. If you had been any more drunk, you wouldn't have been able to stand, let alone give a lecture on integrated circuits.Before Alexander could respond, a commotion erupted outside the room. Yinsen sprang into action, helping Alexander to his feet.Yinsen: Stand up, Alexander. And do as I do. Put your hands up.With a mixture of confusion and apprehension, Alexander followed Yinsen's lead, his heart pounding with uncertainty about what was to come.Then a man open the door approached, speaking in Arabic, Alexander's gaze flicked to the guns at his side, a knot of unease forming in his stomach. He turned to Yinsen, his voice tense with concern.Alexander: What's he saying?Yinsen listened to the man's words, his brow furrowing with worry. He turned to Alexander, his expression grave.Yinsen: He's welcoming you, Alexander Stark, the most famous mass murderer in the history of America.Alexander cringed inwardly at the title, the weight of his past sins pressing heavily upon him. There was a time when he might have reveled in such notoriety, but now, it only served as a painful reminder of the lives he had taken, and the person he used to be.But in a strange way, he was grateful for it. It had forced him to confront his own darkness, to strive for redemption and become a better man than he once was.Yinsen continued translating, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.Yinsen: He says he's honored to meet you and he wants you to build the Jericho. He's asking for your help.With a heavy heart, Alexander took the picture of the missile from the man's outstretched hand, studying it for a moment before looking up at Yinsen, his expression conflicted.Alexander: Jericho... I demonstrated that missile once. I thought it would bring peace, but it only brought destruction.Yinsen nodded in understanding, his gaze sympathetic.Yinsen: I know, Alexander. But now, they're asking for your help to rebuild it. What will you do?As Alexander listened to the man's request to rebuild the Jericho missile, a wave of conflicted emotions washed over him. He couldn't ignore the weight of his past mistakes, nor the lives that had been lost because of his creations. With a heavy heart, he shook his head, his voice firm with resolve.Alexander: I can't help you. I won't build another weapon of destruction.The man's expression hardened, and before Alexander could react, he found himself being grabbed roughly and dragged away. Panic surged through him as he was forcibly taken from the relative safety of the cave.Ten minutes later, Alexander found himself in a nightmare. He was being tortured, his body subjected to unimaginable pain. He was dunked headfirst into a tub of water, the sensation of drowning overwhelming him. In his head, he heard the distant echoes of his parents' voices, calling out his name in desperation.Then, as if from nowhere, a surge of electricity jolted through his body, causing him to convulse in agony. The car battery powering the torture device had shorted, sending sparks flying and leaving Alexander gasping for breath.An hour later, Alexander was led out of the cave, his hands bound and a sack over his head. Beside him, Yinsen walked silently, his presence a source of quiet strength in the midst of the chaos. As they were pushed forward by their captors, Alexander couldn't shake the feeling of despair that clung to him like a shroud. He didn't know what awaited them outside the cave, but he knew that whatever it was, it would test him to his limits.As the sack was lifted from Alexander's head, he blinked against the sudden brightness of the outdoors. His eyes adjusted, and he took in his surroundings with a mixture of shock and apprehension. Stark Industries weapons were scattered everywhere, a stark reminder of the power and destruction they wielded.A man approached, speaking in a foreign language. Alexander tensed, but Yinsen stepped forward, acting as translator.Yinsen: He wants to know what you think, Alexander.Alexander's mind raced as he considered his options. He looked at the man, his expression determined.Alexander: Tell him that using Stark Industries weapons to cause harm is not the answer.Yinsen relayed the message, and the man nodded thoughtfully.Yinsen: He says they have everything you need to build the Jericho. He wants you to make a list of materials and start working immediately. Once you're done, they'll set us free.Alexander shook his head, a sense of defiance rising within him.Alexander: They won't set us free, Yinsen. They'll use the Jericho to further their own agenda, and then they'll dispose of us.Yinsen nodded in agreement, his expression grim.Yinsen: I know, Alexander. We can't trust them.With a heavy sigh, Alexander extended his hand to the man, his resolve firm.Alexander: Tell him I'll make the list. But we do this on our terms, not theirs.As the man shook Alexander's hand, a sense of determination settled over him. They may be trapped in a dangerous situation, but Alexander was determined to find a way out, one step at a time.Alexander sat in front of the crackling fire, his thoughts were consumed by the weight of his circumstances. Yinsen approached him, his expression grave as he settled beside Alexander.Yinsen: People are looking for you, Alexander. But they won't find you here in the mountains.Alexander nodded silently, his gaze fixed on the flames dancing before him. The sight of Stark Industries weapons in the hands of murderers haunted him, a stark reminder of the legacy he had unwittingly left behind.Yinsen: Is this how you want to go out, Alexander? Is this the last act of defiance from Alexander Stark? Or are you going to do something about it?The weight of Yinsen's words hung heavy in the air, stirring something deep within Alexander's soul. He knew he couldn't continue to stand idly by while his inventions were used for destruction.With a determined glint in his eyes, Alexander turned to Yinsen.Alexander: No, Yinsen. This isn't how it ends. I refuse to let my legacy be tarnished by violence and bloodshed. I will do whatever it takes to make things right.Yinsen nodded in approval, a sense of hope flickering in his eyes.Yinsen: Good. Then let's make a plan, Alexander. Together, we can change the course of history. We can reclaim your legacy and ensure that Stark Industries is used for good, not evil.Alexander: How long have I been here, Yinsen?Yinsen glanced at him, his expression thoughtful as he considered the question.Yinsen: You've been here for six days, Alexander. It's been a challenging time for both of us.Alexander nodded, a sense of disorientation clouding his thoughts. But then Yinsen posed a question that stirred something deep within him.Yinsen: Do you remember anything before you arrived here?Alexander nodded slowly, his mind swimming with the chaos of the moment.Alexander: Yes, I... I remember being on a plane. Suddenly, there was an attack. It felt like a missile strike... And then, everything went black.Yinsen listened intently, his expression grave as he processed Alexander's words.Yinsen: It seems like you've been through quite an ordeal, Alexander. But you're safe now. We'll find a way out of here, together.Alexander: Why should I do anything, Yinsen? We're both going to be killed, and if we're not, I'll die within the week anyway.Yinsen's gaze remained steady, his expression calm yet determined.Yinsen: It's a very important week for you, Alexander.Alexander's brow furrowed in confusion, but before he could respond, Yinsen rose to his feet and began issuing orders to those around them. Alexander watched in surprise as Yinsen translated his instructions to the group, his words carrying a sense of urgency and purpose.Alexander: (to Yinsen) What are you doing?Yinsen turned to him, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips.Yinsen: You said it yourself, Alexander. We may not have much time left, but that doesn't mean we can't make a difference.A sense of determination welled up within Alexander as he watched Yinsen take charge, his words ringing true. With a newfound resolve, Alexander stood up, joining Yinsen as he began to outline the tools and equipment they needed.Alexander: If this is going to be my work station, then I need it well-lit. I need welding gear I don't care if it's acetylene or propane. And I need a soldering station, helmets, goggles, and two sets of precision tools.As Alexander worked diligently to dismantle one of the bombs, Yinsen observed him from across the makeshift workshop. The tension in the air was palpable, a reminder of the dire situation they found themselves in.Alexander: (focused) How many languages do you speak, Yinsen?Yinsen paused, considering the question before responding.Yinsen: (calmly) Many, but not enough for where we are.He glanced at Alexander, his expression grave.Yinsen: Uhhh fine! We speak Arabic, Urdu, Dari, Pashto, Mongolian, Farsi, and Russian among others.Alexander's brow furrowed in confusion.Alexander: Who are these people? Why are they doing this?Yinsen sighed, his gaze turning inward as he spoke.Yinsen: They are my loyal customers. They call themselves the Ten Rings. They... they are not to be trifled with.Alexander absorbed the information, his mind racing as he processed the implications.Alexander: (thoughtfully) I see. Thank you for telling me, Yinsen.Yinsen nodded, his eyes searching Alexander's face.Yinsen: We would be more productive if you were included in the planning process, Alexander.Alexander met Yinsen's gaze, his expression unreadable. He nodded slowly, acknowledging the truth in Yinsen's words.Alexander: (quietly) I understand.He returned his focus to the task at hand, his mind already spinning with plans and strategies. The weight of their situation hung heavy in the air, but Alexander was determined to do whatever it took to survive and escape this nightmare. And if that meant working alongside Yinsen and the Ten Rings, then so be it.-SIX DAYS AGO-Alexander is with a female flight attendant, their passion palpable in the small, enclosed space. The flight attendant's name tag reads "Lindsey." They are engaged in a fervent encounter.Alexander: (breathless, teasing) Who's better, me or your boyfriend?Lindsey: (moaning) You, Mr. Stark! It's you!Alexander: (smirking) Damn right.Their movements become more intense until Lindsey suddenly shouts, a mix of pleasure and urgency in her voice.Lindsey: Impregnant me!Suddenly, the jet shudders violently. The lights flicker as the sound of an explosion rocks the aircraft. Alexander's eyes widen as he realizes they've been hit. He immediately stops, adrenaline surging through him.Suddenly, the jet shudders violently. The lights flicker as the sound of an explosion rocks the aircraft. Alexander's eyes widen as he realizes they've been hit. He immediately stops, adrenaline surging through him.Alexander: (urgent) Shit!He quickly pulls on his pants, leaving Lindsey in a state of confusion and panic.Alexander rushes to the cockpit, the jet still trembling from the impact. He flings open the door to find the pilots slumped over their controls, clearly dead from the initial missile strike. Blood and broken glass are everywhere.Alexander: (yelling) Dammit!He pulls the dead pilot out of his seat and takes control, frantically scanning the instruments. The jet is losing altitude rapidly.Alexander: (to himself) Come on, come on...He struggles with the controls, trying to stabilize the plane. Just as he manages to level the jet slightly, another explosion rocks the aircraft, more violent than the first.Alexander: (grimly) Not again...The second missile strike causes critical damage. The jet's systems fail, and it begins to nosedive uncontrollably. Alexander fights the controls, but it's a losing battle. The ground rushes up to meet them as alarms blare and the cabin fills with the sounds of tearing metal and rushing wind.Alexander: (desperately) Brace for impact!The ground rushed up to meet them, and Alexander could do nothing but hold on, his mind racing with thoughts of survival. The last thing he remembered was the horrifying sound of metal tearing apart and the intense, all consuming fireball of the explosion. Darkness took over, and everything went silent.In a grand conference room adorned with flags from nations around the world, government officials sat in tense silence, their faces etched with concern and disbelief. Papers shuffled, murmurs filled the air, and tension crackled like electricity.At the head of the room, a high-ranking official slammed his fist on the table, demanding answers.Official 1: How did this happen? How did Alexander Stark fall into enemy hands?Voices rose in a cacophony of frustration and urgency as officials from various countries demanded explanations.Official 2: We need him back! His technology is vital to our national security!Official 3: This is unacceptable! We cannot allow his brilliance to be exploited by our enemies!As the clamor reached a crescendo, one voice cut through the chaos with quiet determination.Official 4: We must find a way to rescue him. His expertise is our best hope against the threats we face.In the midst of the heated government meeting, the door creaked open, and a figure stepped into the room, exuding confidence and authority. All eyes turned to Lex Luthor with a hair as he made his entrance, his presence commanding attention.Lex Luthor: My esteemed colleagues, it seems we find ourselves in a predicament. But fear not, for I believe I have a solution.The officials exchanged wary glances, uncertain of Luthor's intentions.Official 1: And what solution might that be, Mr. Luthor?Luthor strode confidently to the front of the room, a sly grin playing on his lips.Lex Luthor: Stark Industries may have fallen into enemy hands, but why concern ourselves with that when we have the resources of LuthorCorp at our disposal?A murmur of surprise rippled through the room as the officials considered Luthor's proposal.Official 2: How can we be sure that LuthorCorp can provide what we need?Luthor smirked, his eyes gleaming with ambition.Lex Luthor: Allow me to demonstrate. The weapons produced by LuthorCorp are second to none. Stronger, more advanced, and more powerful than anything Stark Industries could offer.He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in before continuing.Lex Luthor: And let's not forget our common goal to safeguard Earth from all that threaten it. Aliens, metahumans, even the so-called "superman."The mention of Superman sent a shiver of unease through the room, reminding the officials of the looming threats they faced.Official 3: And you believe LuthorCorp can help us achieve this goal?Luthor nodded, his expression serious and determined.Lex Luthor: Absolutely. With LuthorCorp at your side, you'll have the means to defend our world against any threat that dares to challenge us.Official 1: Very well, Mr. Luthor. You have our support.Official 2: We'll provide you with the necessary resources and support to ensure the success of LuthorCorp's endeavors.Lex Luthor's smirk widened, a gleam of triumph in his eyes as he accepted their acquiescence.Lex Luthor: Excellent. You won't regret this decision.As the officials turned their attention back to the matters at hand, a silent consensus settled over the room. In exchange for Luthor's assistance and cooperation, they would turn a blind eye to the fate of Alexander Stark.Official 3: What about Alexander Stark? Shouldn't we be focusing on rescuing him?As the debate raged on, a consensus began to emerge among the officials. With a solemn nod, one by one, they reached an agreement, knowing that sacrifices had to be made in the name of national security.Official 4: It's a difficult decision, but we must prioritize the safety of our nation above all else.Official 5: Agreed. If Stark Industries is lost to us, then so be it.Finally, the decision was made. The officials turned to Lex Luthor, their expressions resigned yet determined.Lex Luthor: Gentlemen, it has been a pleasure. I look forward to our future collaboration.As he stepped out into the hallway, his footsteps echoing against the polished marble floors, a smug grin spread across his face. He glanced back at the closed door of the conference room, his eyes glinting with satisfaction.Lex Luthor: (whispering to himself) All according to my plan.In Gotham City, Bryce Wayne aka Batwoman, the owner of Wayne Enterprises, watched the news coverage with a furrowed brow, her concern evident as she absorbed the gravity of the situation.Bryce: (worriedly) Where could he be? What happened to Alexander?Meanwhile, across town, Selina Kyle, aka Catwoman, lounged in her luxurious penthouse, her attention captured by the news flashing across the television screen. As the report detailed Alexander's disappearance, a smirk tugged at the corners of her lips.Selina: (whispering) Damn handsome... Shame he's gone missing.In Pakistan, Talia al Ghul and her father, Ra's al Ghul, sat in silence, the glow of the television casting flickering shadows across their faces. The news anchor's voice filled the room, reporting on the disappearance of Alexander Stark, the renowned inventor and CEO of Stark Industries, in the aftermath of a devastating missile attack in Afghanistan.Talia's sharp eyes narrowed slightly as she watched the report, her mind already calculating the potential ramifications of Stark's disappearance.Talia: (to Ra's al Ghul) This could present an opportunity for us.Ra's al Ghul nodded in agreement, his expression thoughtful as he considered the possibilities.Ra's al Ghul: Indeed. With Stark Industries in turmoil, their weapons technology could be vulnerable. It would be foolish not to seize the opportunity.-CURRENT-Alexander meticulously dismantled one of the bombs, his hands moved with precision and purpose. With a steady hand, he carefully pulled apart a crucial component before tossing it aside.Alexander: We don't need this.Yinsen watched intently, his curiosity piqued by Alexander's actions.Yinsen: What is it?Alexander held up a small square of metal, examining it closely.Alexander: Palladium. It's only .15 grams. We need 1.6.Yinsen frowned, understanding the implications of their shortage.Yinsen: And the other bombs?Alexander nodded, a determined glint in his eyes.Alexander: Break them down. We'll find what we need.Yinsen nodded in agreement, recognizing the urgency of their situation. Together, they set to work, dismantling the remaining bombs with a sense of purpose and determinationYinsen worked diligently over the smelting furnace, his hands deftly maneuvering the smelting cup within the searing heat. Beads of sweat formed on his brow as he focused on the task at hand.Alexander: (watching closely) Careful, Yinsen. We only have one chance at this.Yinsen glanced up at Alexander, a small smile playing on his lips.Yinsen: Relax, my friend. I have steady hands. That's why you're still alive.With practiced precision, Yinsen carefully poured the molten metal from the smelting cup into a waiting mold. The fiery liquid flowed smoothly, filling the mold with a soft hiss.As the metal cooled, Alexander took a moment to break the tension.Alexander: So, what should I call you? I can't keep calling you "hey you."Yinsen chuckled, his eyes crinkling with amusement.Yinsen: My name is Ho Yinsen.Alexander extended a hand, a smile spreading across his face.Alexander: Well, Ho Yinsen, it's nice to meet you.Yinsen shook his hand firmly, his grip strong and confident.Yinsen: Likewise, my friend.They paused, a moment of realization dawning upon them.Alexander: Wait a minute... we just introduced ourselves an hour ago, didn't we?Yinsen's laughter echoed through the workshop, mingling with the crackle of the flames.Yinsen: I believe we did, my friend. But it's nice to meet you again, nonetheless.Alexander sat hunched over a workbench, his focus unwavering as he assembled the intricate components of a small device. Yinsen watched with keen interest, his eyes flickering between Alexander's hands and the scattered tools and parts.Yinsen: (curiously) That doesn't look like the missile.Alexander looked up briefly, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.Alexander: (matter-of-factly) It's not. This is a miniaturized arc reactor.Yinsen's eyes widened in surprise.Yinsen: An arc reactor? What do you need that for?Alexander continued his work, his hands moving deftly as he explained.Alexander: (focused) I have a larger one powering my factory. This one... this one should keep the shrapnel away from my heart.Yinsen nodded slowly, understanding dawning on his face.Yinsen: Clever. But what could something like that generate?Alexander paused, considering the question for a moment.Alexander: (thoughtfully) If my math is right... and it always is... this reactor could generate 3 gigajoules per second or an Fifty lifetimes.Yinsen's eyes widened in awe as he processed the magnitude of Alexander's revelation.Yinsen: Fifty lifetimes... that's extraordinary.Alexander nodded, a hint of excitement in his voice as he spoke.Alexander: Indeed. But it could also power something larger for a shorter duration. Fifteen minutes, to be exact.He reached for a stack of papers nearby, his hands trembling with anticipation. With a flourish, he spread them out on the workbench before Yinsen.Alexander: This... this is our ticket out of here.Yinsen leaned forward, curiosity piqued as he examined the blueprints spread out before him.Yinsen: What is it?Alexander's eyes sparkled with determination as he gestured to the papers.Alexander: Flatten them out and take a look.Yinsen did as instructed, smoothing out the papers with care. As he studied the intricate designs before him, realization slowly dawned on his face.Yinsen: Is this...?Alexander nodded, a smile spreading across his face.Alexander: It's a suit. But not just any suit. It's our way out of here.Yinsen looked up at Alexander, a mixture of disbelief and hope in his eyes.Yinsen: A suit? How is a suit going to help us escape?Alexander's smile widened, his eyes alight with determination.Alexander: Trust me, Yinsen. With this suit, we'll have the power to change our destiny.As they looked at the blueprints together, a sense of purpose filled the workshop, driving them forward with renewed determination.In that moment, they knew that no matter the obstacles they faced, they would find a way to overcome them and emerge victorious. With the power of the arc reactor and the ingenuity of their minds, nothing could stand in their way.Hour Later Yinsen and Alexander sat across from each other, a board game spread out between them. With each roll of the dice, tension and laughter filled the air as they engaged in a friendly game.Yinsen: (smiling) Nice roll, Alexander.Alexander grinned, moving one of his pieces strategically across the board.Alexander: Thanks, Yinsen. Your turn.As Yinsen contemplated his next move, Alexander took the opportunity to strike up a conversation.Alexander: So, Yinsen, you've told me about this place, but you haven't told me where you're from.Yinsen looked up, a nostalgic smile crossing his face.Yinsen: I'm from Gulmira. It's a beautiful place, full of life and color.Alexander nodded, genuine interest in his eyes.Alexander: Sounds wonderful. Do you have a family back there?Yinsen's smile faltered slightly, a hint of sadness flickering in his eyes.Yinsen: Yes, I do. And I'll see them again when I leave this place.He turned the question back to Alexander.Yinsen: What about you, Alexander? Do you have a family?Alexander's expression darkened for a moment before he shook his head.Alexander: No, I don't.Yinsen's gaze softened as he looked at Alexander.Yinsen: A man with everything and nothing.In the cramped confines of their workshop, Alexander and Yinsen toiled away on the Iron Man suit, their hands moving with precision as they meticulously assembled the intricate components. Unbeknownst to them, a camera discreetly captured their every move, transmitting the footage to an unknown audience.As the hours passed, voices could be heard discussing their progress, some expressing skepticism about their abilities.Voice 1: Look at them. They're not even building it right. The tail is all wrong.Voice 2: Yeah, they're never going to get it to work at this rate.Despite the murmurs of doubt, Alexander and Yinsen remained focused on their task, undeterred by the criticism.Suddenly, the door swung open, and Raza strode into the room, his presence commanding attention. Instinctively, Alexander and Yinsen raised their hands in a defensive gesture.Raza: Relax, gentlemen. I come in peace.Reluctantly, Alexander and Yinsen lowered their hands, eyeing Raza warily.Raza: (contemplative) Do you know what the pinnacle of weapons technology was once, Alexander? The bow and arrow. It allowed Genghis Khan to rule from the Pacific to the Ukraine.Alexander and Yinsen exchanged a wary glance, unsure of where Raza was going with his line of thought.Alexander: (cautiously) And what does that have to do with us?Raza's gaze hardened, his words carrying a weight of history and significance.Raza: It means that even the most advanced weapons can be overcome. But it takes skill, ingenuity, and determination. I see those qualities in both of you. Don't squander them.Raza: It was an empire twice the size of Alexander, but not you, Alexander Stark, but another Alexander the Great. And four times the size of that of the Romans.Alexander and Yinsen listened intently, the gravity of Raza's words sinking in as he spoke of ancient conquerors and the power they wielded.Raza: Today, whoever has hold of the most recent Stark weapons rules the lands. And soon, it will be my turn.His gaze fell upon the blueprints spread out on the workbench before him, his eyes narrowing in suspicion.Raza: Why have these failed me?Yinsen responded in the same foreign tongue, his tone respectful but firm.Yinsen: We are working diligently, sir.Raza's expression darkened, his frustration evident as he addressed Yinsen once more.Raza: I spared your life, and this is how you repay me?He strode purposefully toward Yinsen, his anger simmering beneath the surface.Yinsen: It's complex. We're trying our best.As Raza drew closer, Alexander's eyes darted around the room, searching for a way out. But before he could react, a group of men entered the room, their faces masked and their intentions clear.Without warning, one of the men grabbed Yinsen and forced him to his knees, his hands bound behind his back.Raza: Do you think I'm a fool?Yinsen's response was steady, his voice firm despite the gun pressed against his temple.Yinsen: We're both working.Raza's grip tightened on the coal, his expression darkening with suspicion.Raza: I'll get the truth.With a swift motion, he plucked a hot coal from the fire, its glowing embers casting an eerie light across the room. He held it menacingly before Yinsen, a silent threat hanging in the air.Raza: Open your mouth.Before Yinsen could comply, Alexander interjected, his voice laced with desperation.Alexander: What do you want, Raza?Raza turned his attention to Alexander, his eyes narrowing with suspicion.Raza: Do you think I'm a fool? What's going on here?He lowered the coal dangerously close to Yinsen's mouth, his patience wearing thin.Yinsen met Raza's gaze steadily, his resolve unwavering.Yinsen: Alexander is building the Jericho.Raza's grip tightened on the coal, his expression growing more menacing by the second.Raza: (in a foreign language) Tell me the truth.Yinsen's voice remained steady as he repeated his statement.Yinsen: Alexander is building the Jericho!!!As Raza moved the coal closer to Yinsen's mouth, Alexander stepped forward, his voice trembling with fear and defiance.Alexander: Do you want a delivery date, Raza?The men by the door tensed, their guns trained on Alexander as he spoke.Alexander: I need Yinsen. He's a good assistant.Raza's gaze flickered between Alexander and Yinsen, weighing his options carefully.With a final, menacing glare, Raza dropped the coal to the ground.Raza: You have until tomorrow to assemble the missile.With that, Raza turned on his heel and left the workshop, his men following closely behind him, leaving Alexander and Yinsen alone once more, the threat of impending danger hanging heavy in the air.Next day the sound of metal clanging against metal echoed through the air as Alexander hammered away at a piece of metal with determination. With each strike, sparks flew, illuminating the room in brief bursts of light.Once satisfied with his work, Alexander dipped the metal into a bucket of water, the steam rising as it hissed against the cool liquid. He placed it carefully on the table next to where Yinsen was diligently working.Meanwhile, Yinsen lifted up a chest piece, examining it closely as he assessed its construction. In the background, Alexander wrapped his hands in tape, preparing himself for what was to come.As Yinsen turned his attention back to Alexander, he noticed him putting on a coat, a sense of urgency evident in his movements. Yinsen stepped forward to assist, helping Alexander slide his arms into the sleeves before fastening it securely.With the coat in place, Yinsen moved to help Alexander put on gloves, ensuring that every detail was attended to. He then fastened something around Alexander's neck, a final touch before the culmination of their efforts.Yinsen let the chest piece down, carefully positioning it onto Alexander's torso. With a nod of approval, he asked the crucial question.Yinsen: Can you move?In response, Alexander made a fist, testing the mobility of his hands within the gloves.Alexander: Yes, I can.Satisfied with the response, Yinsen instructed Alexander to recite their escape route, his tone firm but encouraging.Yinsen: Repeat our escape route.Alexander took a deep breath, his mind racing as he recited the steps from memory.Alexander: Forty-one steps forward, then sixteen steps from the door. Fork right, then thirty-three steps, then turn right.In the control room, Raza's eyes flickered across the screens displaying the camera feeds from various parts of the cave. He spoke in a foreign language, his voice commanding and urgent.Raza: Where is Stark?He turned to a man standing nearby, seeking answers.Raza: Where was he last?The man responded in the same language, his voice tense with uncertainty.Man: He was here just a moment ago.Raza's brow furrowed in frustration as he issued orders to search for Stark.Raza: Find him.Two men dashed off towards the entrance of the cave, calling out for Alexander and Yinsen.Meanwhile, in the workshop, Alexander and Yinsen listened as the men approached. Alexander urged Yinsen to respond.Alexander: Say something, Yinsen.Yinsen hesitated, then spoke in Hungarian.Yinsen: (in Hungarian) Nem tudom a nyelvet.Alexander pressed him, his voice urgent.Alexander: Speak Hungarian!Yinsen hesitated for a moment, then muttered something in Hungarian, unsure of its meaning.Unbeknownst to the approaching men, a makeshift bomb was tied to the door handles. As they opened the door, the bomb detonated with a deafening roar, throwing them backward.In the control room, Raza's eyes widened in shock as he watched the explosion unfold on the screen. The feed was abruptly cut, leaving him in tense silence. He wasted no time, sending more men to the workshop. In the aftermath of the explosion, Alexander turned to Yinsen with a grin.Alexander: How did it work?Yinsen chuckled, a hint of pride in his voice.Yinsen: It worked just fine.Alexander grinned back, a sense of satisfaction washing over him.Alexander: That's what I do.Yinsen's voice cut through the urgency with a calm determination.Yinsen: Let me finish the setup.Alexander: Initialize the power sequence.Yinsen nodded, turning away to type commands into the laptop. Alexander watched closely, his heart pounding with anticipation.Alexander: Function 11. Let me know when you see the progress bar.Yinsen's voice was tense with urgency as he responded.Yinsen: I see it.Alexander instructed him further, his voice urgent.Alexander: Hit 'I', then 'Enter'. Button me up.As Yinsen turned back to the progress bar, his expression fell. It would take too long. Panic rising in his chest, he heard the approaching footsteps of Raza's men.Yinsen: They're coming! They're coming!Alexander's voice cut through the chaos, firm and determined.Alexander: Finish buttoning me. Make sure the checkpoints are clear before you follow me out, okay?But Yinsen knew they needed more time. Desperation etched in his features, he turned to Alexander.Yinsen: We need more time.Alexander's tone was insistent, his voice filled with urgency.Alexander: Stick to the plan, Yinsen! Stick to the plan!As Yinsen hesitated, torn between duty and survival, Alexander called out to him, his voice filled with urgency and desperation.Alexander: Yinsen! Yinsen!!!Yinsen sprinted through the cavern, his heart pounding with adrenaline, he fired shots into the air, the echoing gunfire serving as a warning to Raza's approaching men. His actions bought precious moments of distraction, allowing Alexander to focus on completing the power sequence.Meanwhile, back in the workshop, Alexander's eyes were fixed on the progress bar as it steadily climbed towards completion. With each passing second, the tension in the room mounted, the fate of their escape hanging in the balance.Then, finally, the progress bar reached 100%, and with a flicker, the lights in the cave began to dim, casting shadows across the workshop. The power sequence had been initiated, and their plan was set in motion.As Raza's men entered the dimly lit cell, their faces twisted with malice, Alexander tensed, his muscles coiling like springs ready to release their pent-up energy. In the shadows, he tightened his fist, a silent determination burning in his eyes.Without warning, he exploded into action, launching himself at the nearest man with blinding speed. His fist connected with a resounding impact, sending the assailant flying backward, crashing into the hard ground.The other men reacted swiftly, their guns blazing as they fired blindly into the cell, the staccato sound of gunfire echoing off the walls. But Alexander was already in motion, a whirlwind of violence and determination.With precise movements, he incapacitated each of his attackers, his blows landing with devastating accuracy. One by one, they fell, unconscious and defeated, at his feet.Then, the Mark 1 emerged, its sleek and formidable form gleaming in the dim light of the cell.Alexander strode forward, his resolve unyielding, as two more men charged at him, their weapons blazing.But the bullets ricocheted harmlessly off his armor as he dispatched them with ease, their bodies crumpling to the ground like discarded puppets.As he pressed on, a group of men attempted to flee, slamming shut a heavy metal door behind them, leaving one of their own behind to face the wrath of the relentless avenger.The trapped man's cries of desperation filled the air, a chilling symphony of fear and regret as Alexander advanced, his steps measured and deliberate.The men on the other side of the door listened in horror as their comrade's pleas grew more desperate, their own fear mounting with each passing moment.Suddenly, with a deafening crash, Alexander began to break down the door, the sound like thunder in the confined space. The men recoiled, their resolve faltering as they realized the futility of their efforts.But their hesitation was short-lived as the door was hurled at them with terrifying force, sending them scrambling for cover.Amidst the chaos, Alexander knocked out another man and found himself got his arm stuck in the wall. As he struggled to free himself one man approached him and went for a head-shot only for the bullet to bounce back and hit him.With a final surge of strength, Alexander broke free from his confines, his eyes ablaze with righteous fury as he pressed on, unstoppable in his quest for justice.Alexander made his way towards the cave's exit, he felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through his veins. His heart pounded in his chest as he prepared to face off with Raza, the leader of the enemy forces. Beside him, Yinsen lay on the ground, wounded but still conscious.Alexander: (shouting) Yinsen!Yinsen turned towards him, his face pale with pain.Yinsen: Watch out!Before Alexander could react, Raza fired a shot, narrowly missing him. With quick reflexes, Alexander fired back with his wrist-rocket, aiming for the wall behind Raza. The explosion knocked Raza unconscious, buying them a moment of reprieve.Alexander: (rushing to Yinsen's side) Yinsen!Yinsen looked up at him, his breaths coming in shallow gasps.Yinsen: Stark.Alexander knelt beside him, his expression filled with concern.Alexander: Come on, we have to go. Move for me, come on. We've got a plan. We're gonna stick to it.Yinsen shook his head weakly, a sad smile touching his lips.Yinsen: This was always the plan, Stark.Alexander's heart sank as he realized the truth of Yinsen's words. He reached out, gently lifting Yinsen's helmet.Alexander: Come on, you're gonna go see your family. Get up.But Yinsen's response was unexpected.Yinsen: My family is dead. I'm going to see them now, Stark. It's okay. I want this. I want this.Alexander's eyes brimmed with unshed tears as he realized the depth of Yinsen's sacrifice.Alexander: ...Thank you for saving me.Yinsen's grip on his hand tightened, his voice barely a whisper.Yinsen: Don't waste it. Don't waste your life.With those final words, Yinsen's hand went limp in Alexander's grasp. He closed his eyes, a sense of peace washing over his features as he passed away.Alexander bowed his head, overcome with grief and gratitude for the man who had given everything to save him. As tears streaked down his cheeks, he made a silent vow to honor Yinsen's sacrifice and make every moment count. Then, with a heavy heart, he rose to his feet, ready to continue his fight against evil, fueled by the memory of Yinsen's selflessness and courage.Alexander walked out of the dark cave into the blinding sunlight, he was greeted by a barrage of gunfire from all directions. Bullets whizzed past him, kicking up dust and debris as he darted for cover behind a nearby rock formation.Alexander: (grim determination) My turn children of stupid.With a flick of his wrist, Alexander activated the incendiary capabilities of his suit. Flames erupted from his palms, engulfing the surrounding area in a blazing inferno.The attackers scrambled back, their shouts drowned out by the roar of the flames. But their assault didn't end there. From the top of a nearby hill, a figure emerged, aiming a rifle directly at Alexander. More gunmen appeared, firing relentlessly at him from every angle.Despite his best efforts to evade the onslaught, Alexander stumbled, his strength waning under the relentless barrage.Bullets tore through his suit, sending searing pain coursing through his body as he fell to his knees, his breaths coming in ragged gasps.Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, the ground beneath him began to tremble. Explosions erupted in rapid succession, sending shockwaves rippling through the air. With a burst of determination, Alexander forced himself to his feet, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon.With a swift motion, he pressed a button on the arm of his suit, activating its thrusters. Jets of flame erupted from his boots as he soared into the sky, leaving behind the chaos and destruction below.As he ascended higher and higher, the chaos below dwindled into insignificance. With each passing moment, he left behind the horrors of the battlefield, soaring towards the promise of a new dawn.With the wind rushing past him, Alexander felt a sense of freedom unlike anything he had ever known. For in that moment, he was more than just a man in a suit. He was a symbol of hope, a beacon of light in a world consumed by darkness.And as he flew towards the horizon, his resolve hardened. For he knew that no matter what trials lay ahead, he would face them head-on, fueled by the memory of those who had sacrificed everything for the greater good.With his heart set ablaze with determination, Alexander disappeared into the distance, a silent guardian watching over the world below.Alexander soared through the sky, his heart pounding with adrenaline, he marveled at the breathtaking view unfolding beneath him. For a few exhilarating seconds, he felt invincible, untethered from the constraints of the world below.But then, without warning, something went wrong. A sudden malfunction caused his suit to falter, and Alexander's heart plummeted as he began to plummet towards the ground below.Alexander: (panicked) Oh shit!As gravity took hold, Alexander's descent accelerated, the wind roaring in his ears as he hurtled towards the earth below. With a deafening crash, his suit shattered upon impact, sending debris flying in all directions.For a moment, Alexander lay there, dazed and disoriented, surrounded by the wreckage of his suit. Slowly, he pushed himself upright, his body aching from the impact.Alexander: (assessing his surroundings) Well, that wasn't so bad.Despite the chaos and destruction around him, Alexander couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. He had survived the fall, battered but unbroken, and for that, he was grateful and passout.In the depths of his subconscious, 16-year-old Alexander Stark found himself in a surreal dreamscape. He stood in a dimly lit room, surrounded by shadows that seemed to whisper his name. Suddenly, a familiar voice echoed through the darkness, sending shivers down his spine.Howard Stark: (disappointed) Alexander, you've really done it this time.Alexander's heart sank as he turned towards the source of the voice. Before him stood his father, Howard Stark, his imposing figure casting a long shadow over the room. Beside him stood his mother, Maria Stark, her expression a mix of disappointment and concern.Alexander: (uneasy) Dad? Mom? What are you doing here?Maria Stark: (sadly) We're here because of you, Alexander.Alexander's stomach churned with dread as he realized what was happening. This was no ordinary dream. This was a manifestation of his deepest fears and insecurities, brought to life by his subconscious mind.Howard Stark: (sternly) Your recent behavior has been unacceptable, Alexander. You've brought shame upon the Stark name.Alexander's chest tightened, his throat constricting with unspoken words.Alexander: (defensively) I-I've been trying my best, Dad. I just...Howard Stark: (cutting him off) Your best isn't good enough, Alexander. Not for a Stark.Alexander: (defensively) But I've been trying, Mom, Dad! I just...I don't know if I'm cut out for this.Howard's expression hardened, his disappointment turning to anger.Howard Stark: Cut out for it? You think you have a choice in the matter? You're a Stark, Alexander. You don't get to choose. And as for that fiancée of yours...The mention of his fiancee's name sent a shiver down Alexander's spine, his fear and insecurity magnified by his parents' disapproval.Howard Stark: She'll never accept a failure like you, Alexander. You're not good enough for her, and you never will be.Tears welled up in Alexander's eyes as he listened to his parents' harsh words, feeling the crushing weight of their expectations bearing down on him.Alexander: (pleadingly) Please, Mom, Dad, give me another chance. I'll do better, I promise.Tears stung Alexander's eyes as he struggled to find the right words to defend himself. But before he could speak, Maria stepped forward, her voice soft but firm.Maria Stark: (gently) We've decided that you need some time to think about your actions, Alexander. You'll be staying here while we go on vacation.Alexander's heart shattered into a million pieces as the weight of their words settled over him like a heavy blanket. He felt like a failure, unworthy of the love and respect of his own family.Alexander: (desperately) Please, Mom, Dad, I'll do better. I promise.But his pleas fell on deaf ears as Howard and Maria faded into the darkness, leaving Alexander alone with his thoughts and regrets.Alexander Stark jolted awake from his nightmare, his heart pounding against his chest, he found himself in an unfamiliar place. The room was dimly lit, and the air carried the scent of antiseptic. His body ached, and he felt a dull throbbing in his head.Groggily, Alexander tried to sit up, only to be met with a sharp twinge of pain. He glanced down to see his body covered in bandages, evidence of recent injury. Confusion clouded his mind as he struggled to piece together what had happened.Before he could gather his thoughts, a voice broke through the haze.Old Man: You okay, son?Alexander turned his head to see an old man standing by his bedside, his eyes filled with concern. His face was weathered with age, but there was a warmth to his smile that put Alexander at ease.Alexander: (confused) Who are you?The old man's smile widened, and he extended a wrinkled hand.Old Man: The name's Stan Lee, kid. I'm just a friendly face passing through.Alexander's brow furrowed in confusion. The name sounded vaguely familiar, but he couldn't quite place it.Alexander: (skeptically) Stan Lee?Stan chuckled, nodding in acknowledgment.Stan: The one and only. Though I've been known to dabble in a few other things as well.Alexander's confusion only deepened. What was a legendary figure like Stan Lee doing here, by his bedside?Alexander: (puzzled) What?Stan's smile softened, a hint of wisdom shining in his eyes.Stan: Let's just say I'm here to offer a little guidance when you need it most, kid. And it looks like you could use some right about now.Alexander's mind raced with questions, but before he could voice them, Stan laid a comforting hand on his shoulder.Stan: You've been through a lot, son. But remember, even in the darkest of times, there's always hope. You just have to keep fighting.Alexander stared at Stan, his mind swirling with a mix of emotions. There was something about the old man's words that resonated deep within him, stirring a sense of determination he hadn't felt in a long time.Alexander: (softly) Thank you, Stan. I needed to hear that.Stan nodded, his smile filled with genuine warmth.Stan: Anytime, kid. Anytime.Alexander Stark tried to make sense of his surroundings, still reeling from his encounter with Stan Lee, the old man reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a folded newspaper. He handed it to Alexander with a solemn expression.Stan: Here, take a look at this, son.His curiosity piqued, he reached out to take it, his heart sinking as he read the headline.Alexander: (in disbelief) "Alexander Stark Dead at 27"?His hands trembled as he scanned the article, the words blurring together in his panic. The newspaper detailed his supposed demise and the subsequent downfall of Stark Industries, now under the control of Lex Luthor.Alexander: (frantically) This can't be happening. I'm not dead. Stark Industries can't be in Luthor's hands.Stan watched Alexander's distress with a sympathetic expression, his presence a calming presence in the midst of the chaos.Stan: Easy there, kid. Take a deep breath.Alexander struggled to steady his breathing, his mind racing with thoughts of the implications of his alleged death and the loss of his family's legacy.Alexander: (frustrated) How can this be happening? I need to do something. I need to fix this.Stan placed a reassuring hand on Alexander's shoulder, his gaze filled with empathy.Stan: You've got to stay calm, kid. Panicking won't solve anything. We'll figure this out together.Despite Stan's comforting words, Alexander's mind continued to race with fear and uncertainty. He felt like he was drowning in a sea of confusion and despair, with no lifeline in sight.Alexander: (voice trembling) But how do I fight back? How do I prove that I'm not dead?Stan's expression softened, his eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief.Stan: That's for you to figure out, son. But remember, you're Alexander Stark. You're stronger than you think.Alexander Stark sat in his bewildered state, trying to process the surreal events unfolding around him, Stan Lee reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a worn, weathered comic book. He handed it to Alexander with a mischievous glint in his eyes.Stan: Here, kid. Thought you might enjoy this.Alexander accepted the comic book, his confusion deepening. He glanced down at the cover, his eyes widening in surprise.Alexander: (curiously) What's this?Stan grinned, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes as he flipped through the pages of the comic.Stan: It's a little something to lift your spirits. Trust me, you'll want to read this.Intrigued, Alexander took the comic from Stan's outstretched hand and began to flip through the pages. As he did, he noticed the title emblazoned across the cover:"The Invincible Iron Man #1 - 1968"His breath caught in his throat as he realized what he was holding. This wasn't just any comic book it was the very first issue of the iconic Iron Man series, written by the legendary Stan Lee himself.Alexander: (in awe) This is... incredible.Stan chuckled, nodding in agreement.Stan: You bet it is, kid. Go ahead, take a look.Alexander flipped open the comic and began to read, his eyes scanning the pages with growing fascination. The story unfolded before him, a tale of heroism, adventure, and redemption.As he read, Alexander found himself drawn into the world of Iron Man, captivated by the exploits of Tony Stark and his high-tech suit of armor. He felt a sense of connection to the character, as if he were reading about a kindred spirit.Alexander: (amazed) This is amazing. I've never read anything like it.Stan smiled, watching Alexander's reaction with pride.Stan: Just a little something to pass the time. Trust me, you'll enjoy it.Alexander nodded, his appreciation for the comic growing with each passing page. For a brief moment, he forgot about his own troubles and lost himself in the fantastical world of Iron Man.As the last page turned, Alexander looked up, only to find that Stan was gone. Confusion flooded his mind as he surveyed the room, which now seemed abandoned and decrepit.Alexander: (calling out) Stan? Where are you?There was no response, only silence echoing through the empty space. Alexander's heart sank as he realized that Stan was nowhere to be found.Suddenly, he noticed a sign outside the abandoned house, its words illuminated by the faint light filtering through the windows: "No Trespassing".Curiosity piqued, Alexander reached into his pocket and found a crumpled note. With trembling hands, he unfolded it and read the words written in elegant script:Note: You have the power to write your own story, Alexander Stark. Embrace it. Excelsior!Alexander read the note several times, the words sinking in as realization dawned upon him. Stan Lee wasn't just an ordinary man he was something more, something otherworldly.And as Alexander looked around at the abandoned mansion, he knew what he had to do. This place, with its hidden secrets and forgotten history, would become his base of operations. From here, he would rebuild his life, reclaim his legacy, and become the person he was meant to be.Alexander Stark start flipped through the pages again of The Invincible Iron Man #1 from 1968, he found himself drawn deeper into the story. His eyes scanned the vibrant illustrations, the words on the page coming to life in his mind.But as he reached a pivotal moment in the comic, something caught his eye a detail he hadn't noticed before. Tony Stark, the protagonist of the story, stood before him, his chest adorned with a glowing arc reactor, much like the one Alexander himself had.Alexander: (muttering to himself) An arc reactor...?His gaze lingered on the image, his mind racing with possibilities. He studied the intricate design of Tony's suit, noticing the subtle differences from his own.Alexander: (thoughtfully) Mark 1... But it looks nothing like mine.As he continued to read, Alexander's fascination grew. He found himself comparing Tony's journey to his own, seeing parallels between their lives that he hadn't considered before.Alexander: (realization dawning) Tony Stark... Iron Man... Is this what I'm meant to become?The thought sent a thrill of excitement through him, mingled with a hint of apprehension. Could he truly follow in the footsteps of a fictional superhero? And if so, what would that mean for his own destiny?Lost in thought, Alexander read on, immersing himself in the world of The Invincible Iron Man. And as he turned the final page, a newfound determination burned in his chest.Alexander: (firmly) If i may not have all the answers yet, but one thing's for sure I'm ready to find out.