Machine Man 99 : A reunion of sorts.

Alex stood in front of the META HQ building, its distinctive blue facade gleaming under the bright New York sun. The structure stood out among the towering skyscrapers, its sleek, modern design a symbol of the power and innovation the three of them had built together. It was a stark contrast to the shadows that now loomed over Alex's other ventures, particularly Militech, his defense and security company.

He walked through the glass doors, the familiar scent of polished floors and faint electronics filling the air. His steps echoed slightly in the quiet, high-ceilinged lobby. The elevator ride to the executive floor felt longer than usual, his mind focused on the weight of the decision he was about to make.

The elevator doors opened to reveal Peter and Gwen standing in the conference room, a large table in front of them with panoramic views of New York City. Peter wore a simple white shirt and jeans, his brown hair slightly tousled as usual, while Gwen had on a light blue blouse and black slacks, her blonde hair tied in a loose ponytail. Their expressions were bright at first, happy to see Alex, but it soon shifted to confusion when they noticed the stack of documents in his hand.

"Alex!" Peter grinned as he approached, extending his hand for a firm handshake. "It's been too long, man. How are things?"

"Hey, Pete," Alex smiled, shaking his hand before turning to Gwen for a warm hug. "Gwen. You look great."

"Alex, you're a sight for sore eyes," Gwen said, chuckling as she pulled away. "We were just talking about the old times. It feels like ages since we all got together like this."

Alex looked between the two of them, his closest friends, the people who had helped him build META from the ground up. The memories flooded back, late nights in college, brainstorming sessions that went till dawn, and the dream they all shared to revolutionize the online world. Now, though, he was about to hand it all over to them.

"I've got something important to talk to you both about," Alex started, his tone serious, though he tried to keep the mood light with a small smile. "I'm giving you both my shares of META."

The room fell into a stunned silence. Peter blinked, his brain seeming to take a second to register Alex's words. Gwen's eyes widened as she looked down at the documents on the table.

"What?!" Peter finally managed, stepping forward. "Why? Why would you do that, Alex? This was our company, we built this together."

"Exactly!" Gwen added, clearly taken aback. "You can't just leave it all behind. We're in this together, right?"

Alex took a deep breath, leaning back against the table as he folded his arms. He looked out the window for a moment before responding. "I wish it were that simple. There are things happening behind the scenes, things I can't control. The government's been circling Militech for a while now, trying to get their hands on it. I've noticed some pretty dangerous players eyeing META too. If I stay, you two could get caught in the crossfire."

Gwen frowned, her eyebrows knitting together. "We can handle it, Alex. We're not backing down just because some suits want to take over."

"She's right," Peter added, frustration evident in his tone. "We've faced worse before. Why run now?"

"I appreciate that, really, I do," Alex said softly. "But this is different. I can't let you two risk everything for something that's tied to me. I'm already a target because of Militech, and being connected to me and META's success would only put you in their crosshairs too."

Peter and Gwen exchanged a glance, both clearly struggling to understand. They were upset, maybe even hurt, but Alex knew this was the right choice.

"And where are you going to go?" Gwen asked after a moment, her voice softer now, as though she already knew the answer would be hard to accept.

"I'm moving to the Philippines," Alex replied, watching their faces carefully. "I'll be relocating the headquarters of Arasaka Industries and Militech to Madripoor."

"Madripoor?" Peter scoffed. "That place is a warzone. It's a haven for criminals and pirates. You can't seriously be thinking of setting up there."

Gwen crossed her arms, clearly concerned. "Alex, it's dangerous. There are better places. You don't have to go there. Why not stay here and fight?"

Alex shook his head, smiling faintly. "I know it sounds crazy, but Madripoor is changing, because I'm the one changing it. I've taken control of the city, and I'm planning to transform it from a lawless pit into something better. Something free."

Peter raised an eyebrow. "You're... changing Madripoor? I heard it was taken over by a freedom fighter. Were you behind that?"

"Kinda," Alex nodded. "It's always been corrupt, ruled by the worst people. I have a file here that explains everything. You can read it if you want, but delete it afterward."

He thought to himself that the data would automatically erase, and he had purposely left out information about the Skrulls and Hydra. Those were battles far too large for Spider-Man and Nightbird to handle. Knowing their nature, they would surely act if they learned the truth, and for their safety, some secrets were better left untold.

Alex then continued. "That's why I'm doing this. I've put someone in charge who truly believes in fighting for freedom, for the people. My goal is to turn this place into a safe haven for those who need it most."

Gwen sighed, rubbing her temples. "We get it, Alex. You're trying to fix things, but Madripoor? You really think you can pull that off?"

"I have to," Alex said, his voice firm. "It's the only way I can stay out of reach of the ones after my tech. And I'm inviting you both to join me."

Peter shook his head. "I can't, man. Aunt May needs me. I can't just leave her behind."

Gwen nodded, her expression somber. "Same here. My parents and siblings are here. We have responsibilities."

"I know," Alex said, his voice soft but understanding. "And I don't expect you to come. But you're always welcome. Anytime you want to visit, you know where to find me."

They stood in silence for a few moments before Alex broke it, offering them a reassuring smile. "Come on, let's take a break. I've got something special for us."

He walked over to a small bag he had put down on the corner of the room, pulling out a bottle of alcohol that glowed faintly. It's a rare and potent drink that I made, something that could even make super soldiers feel its effects. He poured three glasses, handing one to Peter and another to Gwen. They clinked their glasses together, the tension slowly fading as the conversation turned to lighter topics.

"Remember that time in college?" Peter chuckled, shaking his head. "When we stayed up all night coding facebook and almost failed the semester because of it?"

Gwen laughed, taking a sip of her drink. "Oh yeah, and then Alex swooped in with that miracle solution at the last minute. You were always saving our asses."

They shared more memories, laughing and reminiscing about the old days. Eventually, the conversation turned to their superhero work, with Peter recounting his latest run-in with a group of thieves, while Gwen mentioned a new villain she was tracking.

As the alcohol kicked in, both Peter and Gwen began to feel its effects, their words slurring slightly as they continued talking. Eventually, the two of them fell asleep, their heads resting on the conference table. Alex smiled softly, watching them for a moment before standing up.

He left the documents on the table, the signatures already forged, making the transfer of his META shares look legitimate in any court. He glanced back at his sleeping friends one last time before quietly leaving the room, his heart heavy but resolute. They would be safe now. And that was all that mattered.

----The Next Day,

The Capitol Building gleamed under the morning sun, its marble steps crowded with reporters and curious onlookers. The atmosphere outside was frenetic microphones thrust forward, camera shutters clicking, but inside the hearing room, the tone was far more tense, rigid with formality.

Inside, an air of cold authority filled the large chamber. The walls were lined with portraits of past leaders, their faces stern, as if silently judging the proceedings. At the center of the room was a long oak table, polished and pristine. The wooden benches were filled with government officials, while onlookers crowded the back, watching the two men seated at the table.

Tony Stark sat casually, as if he were in his living room rather than in front of a Senate committee. His sharp, custom-tailored charcoal suit contrasted with his playful smirk and sunglasses, which he arrogantly perched atop his head, even indoors. Beside him was Alex Arasaka, dressed in a sleek, white Arasaka corporate blazer with gold plates, over a crisp white button-up. Semi casual, but formal enough to fit the setting. His cool demeanor suggested he wasn't here by choice, but if he had to be here, he'd have a little fun with it.

Both men exuded confidence, though each in their own distinct way. Tony, with his brazen charm, and Alex, with an almost mocking intellect that seemed barely interested in those around him.

The committee chair, Senator Stern, cleared his throat as the sound of a gavel echoed throughout the room. He was a man past his prime, with thinning grey hair and a look that said he hadn't smiled in at least a decade. "Mr. Stark. Mr. Arasaka. We are here today to discuss the pressing concern of your highly advanced technologies. Both of you possess suits of armor that the U.S. government believes should be brought under control, specifically, into the hands of the military."

Tony raised his eyebrows and casually removed his sunglasses, tossing them onto the table. "Weapons of mass destruction? That's quite a leap, Senator. The Iron Man suit is a prosthetics, not a weapon. It's like the cybernetic limbs made by Arasaka Industries. You know, giving people a second chance. Maybe that concept's a little foreign to you?"

Alex leaned back, crossing his arms with a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "My suit, is the same." he began, his voice slow and condescending, as if addressing children, "It's not even equipped with weapons, Senator. If you'd bothered to read the technical specs, you'd know that. But I suppose that would require a certain level of comprehension." He waved his hand dismissively, as though the subject itself was beneath him.

Stern's face reddened, clearly not appreciating the jab. "Mr. Arasaka, I'm fully aware of your suit's capabilities."

Alex gave a dry chuckle, his eyes narrowing. "Oh, I sincerely doubt that. It's not designed for warfare, Senator. My suit is for industrial applications, precision work. The fact that we're even having this conversation makes me question how little you understand about the technology. But, then again, that's not surprising, is it?"

The senators whispered amongst themselves, uncomfortable with Alex's condescension. Tony watched with a barely contained smirk, clearly enjoying the spectacle.

As the hearing continued, Alex leaned forward, looking directly at Senator Stern, his expression a mixture of amusement and disdain. "Senator," he began, his tone dripping with sarcasm, "aren't you already satisfied with the robots I've been selling to the military? I mean, those have been quite the hit, haven't they?"

Alex continued, his voice carrying a biting edge. "And now, you're asking to take control of an experimental project that's not even completed yet? Really? You want to handle something you're not equipped to understand? Why don't we stick to what's already working instead of reaching for things beyond your grasp?" He leaned back again, folding his arms as if the absurdity of the situation was self-evident.

Stern shifted uncomfortably in his seat, sensing where this was going.

Stern turned his attention to Tony, hoping for a less insulting exchange. "Mr. Stark, we have intelligence that foreign governments are actively working to replicate your Iron Man suit. You've single-handedly weaponized the skies. Don't you think this is a matter of national security?"

Tony stretched back in his seat, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, I'm well aware of what they're trying to do." He leaned forward, pressing a few buttons on the tablet in front of him. Instantly, the room darkened, and a large screen behind the senators flickered to life.

It displayed grainy footage of various countries. There's North Korea, Iran, China and others, each attempting to create their own version of the Iron Man suit. The attempts were laughable at best, and tragic at worst. One video showed a suit collapsing under its own weight, practically killing the pilot. Another showed a suit flying for a few moments before violently crashing into a wall, sparks flying everywhere and worse the sight was very gruesome as body parts laid separated here and there.

Tony stood up, walking slowly in front of the screen. "This… is the best they've got. You're welcome, by the way. I've successfully privatized world peace." He glanced around the room with that signature Stark bravado. "What more do you want? I mean, you're asking for oversight, but I'm telling you, you're safer all because of me."

Alex looked over at Tony, a small smirk forming. "Let's be honest senator, handing technology like this over to people who can barely figure out their own email isn't exactly reassuring." His tone was dripping with sarcasm, as if talking to a room full of monkeys struggling with basic tasks.

Stern, his patience visibly thinning, tried to regain control of the room. "This isn't about jokes. This is about accountability."

"Accountability?" Alex laughed softly, shaking his head. "You keep using that word, Senator. I don't think it means what you think it means. We're accountable, alright. But not to you. We're accountable to the future we're building, the future you can't even begin to comprehend."

Just as the tension was reaching its peak, the large wooden doors at the back of the room opened, and in walked Nick Fury, Director of SHIELD, wearing his signature black trench coat and eyepatch. His entrance was commanding, instantly silencing the room.

Fury strode to the front, standing next to Alex and Tony. "Senator," he said with a gruff voice, "you're barking up the wrong tree. These men are consultants for SHIELD, and their technology is not under your jurisdiction."

Stern looked like he had swallowed something unpleasant. "Director Fury, this is a government hearing. I don't see why SHIELD should be involved."

"SHIELD is involved because these men are under my purview, not yours," Fury shot back. His tone left no room for argument. "And I'll remind you that SHIELD is responsible for handling global security matters, matters that extend beyond what you're capable of understanding. Now, if you want to continue this little song and dance, fine. But you'll be wasting your time."

Alex leaned back in his chair, smiling lazily. "Looks like the grown-ups are here, Senator. Maybe now you can take a step back and let the professionals handle things."

Tony grinned, enjoying every moment. "I think we're done here, Senator. I'll keep my suit. Alex will keep his suit. And the world will keep spinning just fine."

Fury shot a quick glance at Tony and Alex, his stern expression not softening even an inch. "We're done here."

Without another word, Fury turned and left the room, leaving Senator Stern sputtering in his chair. Tony and Alex stood, both looking completely unbothered as they followed Fury out.

As they exited the room, Tony turned to Alex, flashing a grin. "You know, you're pretty good at pissing off senators. I think I'm starting to like you."

Alex smirked, adjusting his jacket. "Sorry Tony, but I do not swing that way."

"That's now what I mean, "Tony scuff and retorted at Alex's remarked.

Grinning Alex knew what Tony really meant but he can't help but play around at Tony's expense. There's just something so ego boosting when toying with geniuses. "They make it too easy. It's like talking to children who think they know how to build rockets."

Tony chuckled. "Well, with Fury on our side, I'd say we've got this covered."

"Let's hope they don't make a habit of this," Alex replied dryly as they walked into the bright light of day outside, the Capitol steps now a distant memory.

Inside Tony Stark's luxurious Malibu home, the sunlight spilled through the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The air was heavy with tension as Nick Fury stood near a large glass table, arms crossed, exuding his usual stoic demeanor. His eye-patch and leather jacket gave him the air of someone who had seen too much, and yet was still here, managing the chaos.

Tony was slouched on a couch, wearing a loose-fitting shirt that barely hid the glowing arc reactor embedded in his chest. His face showed weariness, both physical and emotional. His skin was paler than usual, and dark circles had formed under his eyes, a testament to his struggles with the palladium poisoning coursing through his veins.

Alex Arasaka leaned against the doorway, arms folded. His attire was crisp and casual but still carried a certain formality that reflected his polished demeanor yet calculating nature. His eyes observed Tony with a hint of disdain masked behind a smirk, but there was a sharp intelligence lurking beneath.

Fury broke the silence. "Alex told me to bring this to you, Stark. Maybe with this, you'll finally consider being a S.H.I.E.L.D. consultant."

Fury tossed a box onto the glass table in front of Tony. It made a soft thud as it landed, the contents rattling slightly inside. "That's your father's. Everything he has with S.H.I.E.L.D. is in there," Fury said, his voice steady and firm.

Tony raised an eyebrow, looking unimpressed as he leaned forward slightly, his hands resting on his knees. "My father? The guy who thought of me as a distraction?"

Fury didn't flinch. "Howard Stark was more than you know. He was one of the founding members of S.H.I.E.L.D. Maybe you should start taking that more seriously."

Alex, who had remained silent up to this point, straightened up and walked closer to the table. His voice carried a sarcastic edge as he spoke. "You might want to pay attention, Tony this could have something you might badly need."

Tony chuckled lightly, the sound hollow. "Consultant, huh? Give me some time, Fury. I'll think about it."

Fury nodded and turned on his heel, walking toward the door. "Don't take too long, Stark. The world moves fast." With that, he left, leaving just Tony and Alex in the room.

The room fell into an uneasy silence. Tony rubbed his eyes, his exhaustion evident. Alex stood near the window now, looking out at the ocean with his back to Tony. Then, without turning around, Alex broke the quiet. "I know you're dying, Tony. The palladium poisoning, it's not doing you any good."

Tony blinked, thrown off by Alex's bluntness. He tried to hide the nervous glance toward his arc reactor. "Wow, straight to the point. You could work on your bedside manner, Alex."

Alex finally turned, his face serious. "You might want to take a closer look at your father's work. I have a feeling you'll find something that will help."

Tony made a joke to deflect, his classic defense mechanism. "What? You're telling me he left behind a new element or something? Maybe he hid it in one of his old films."

Alex didn't respond immediately. His silence, however, said more than words could. Tony's smirk faded as realization slowly began to dawn on him. "You can't be serious," Tony muttered.

Alex walked over to the table and placed a triangular-shaped arc reactor in front of Tony. The design was sleek, with sharper edges compared to the round one Tony was used to. Its glow was different, more intense, more powerful.

"This has no name yet," Alex said, his voice softer now, but still carrying the weight of the moment. "Since it's based on your father's work, I think it's only right that you give it one and don't worry SHIELD doesn't even know about this new element."

Tony stared at the reactor, the light from the device reflected in his eyes. He was silent, for once unsure of what to say. Alex gave him a moment, glancing back at the briefcase and thinking to himself, Hopefully, this will give you the time you need. Maybe then, you won't be a raging asshole hurting the people who care about you or start a civil war.

With a small nod, Alex turned toward the door. "Just look at it, Tony," he said softly. "You'll figure it out." He left the room, leaving Tony alone with his thoughts, the briefcase, and the glowing reactor.

As Tony sat there, he couldn't help but feel the sting of nostalgia. His father's shadow had loomed large over his life, but now, it felt like Howard was still trying to help him, even from beyond the grave. Slowly, he opened the box and pulled out an old film reel.

The hum of the projector filled the room as he watched the grainy footage of his father, Howard Stark, speaking directly to him. "Tony, this is for you."

It was strange hearing his father's voice again. The old film crackled and skipped, but the message was clear. His father had always believed in him, had always planned for him to take the mantle, even when Tony couldn't see it. And now, staring at the Stark Expo blue prints and calculations left behind, the realization hit him like a punch to the gut.

Tony whispered to himself, "A new element. Of course." The message was clear, his father had left him the key to saving his own life. With a newfound resolve, Tony began sketching designs, determined to synthesize a new element based on Howard's work. Although Alex might have already recreated the element but as he said, this was his father's work and it would be an honor for him to name his Father's Legacy.

He worked tirelessly, reconstructing his father's plans, refining them, and finally, creating something new. The reactor… his new reactor, it was powered by an element he would later call Badassium. The symbol would be NE [1], a fitting tribute to the next evolution of Stark technology.

The light of the new arc reactor glowed brighter than ever before, pulsing with life, with potential. As Tony held it in his hands, the weight of his father's legacy no longer felt like a burden, but a gift.