"Now you can ditch the mask and metal boots I gave you before," Tony said with a grin. "This suit is the upgraded version. It'll help you handle plenty of threats."
He continued, "While it's not invincible, it'll protect you unless you're hit directly by heavy firearms or close-range explosions like grenades or missiles. It comes with a temperature and pressure regulation system, so you're covered against water, fire, and electrical attacks under normal conditions. Plus, it retains the chest-mounted repulsor and laser features in the mask's eyes. In short, this should serve you well."
Tony added, "The suit won't interfere with your magic, and it'll help keep your identity hidden. So, what do you think? Not bad, right?"
The suit was indeed a masterpiece of Tony's current technological prowess. Its features covered many of Abel's potential weaknesses. However, the color and design—true to Tony's flamboyant style—didn't sit well with Abel.
"Aside from the design, I'm satisfied with everything else," Abel admitted.
"I figured you'd say that," Tony chuckled. "I had hoped your sense of style would evolve to match mine, but clearly, you're still lagging behind. So, to suit your tastes, I prepared an accessory."
At Tony's signal, another bio-chamber rose from the floor, revealing a sleek black hooded trench coat.
"This coat is made of the same material. It's simpler—just defense, no bells and whistles. But it'll protect your head with the hood, offering extra security."
Abel nodded, satisfied with the coat. However, he approached the first bio-chamber and started adjusting the suit's colors.
Ignoring Tony's protests, Abel changed the suit to a black-and-white scheme: predominantly white, with black accents. The new look was clean and understated, aligning more with Abel's preferences.
Surveying the repainted suit, Abel turned to Tony on the screen. "There. Now it's perfect. And thanks, Tony, really."
"If you're grateful, consider changing the colors back," Tony quipped.
"Not a chance," Abel shot back, grinning.
After ending the call, Abel turned to Happy. "Are you sure you should be drinking so much? You still have to drive."
"No worries. I can switch to autopilot anytime." Happy stood, stretching. "Well, since you've sorted things out with Tony, I'll head out."
He added, "Oh, by the way, Tony mentioned that if you ever bring anyone over, use the house's stealth mode via your phone. It'll make the place look like a regular house."
"Got it. Thanks, Happy."
With that, Happy left, the car sliding smoothly into autopilot as he relaxed in the passenger seat.
---
After seeing him off, Abel tidied up his belongings and went down to the underground lab. Standing at the workbench, he resumed his potion research. The lab was linked to Stark Tower, allowing Abel to activate a shared holographic projection and collaborate with Tony in real time if needed.
During the day, Abel attended classes, spending his free time with Victor or studying magic. He worked on refining the Rage Potion whenever he could, aiming for a safer, more stable version.
By late September 2012, Abel's social circle remained small. Apart from Victor and a few professors, he knew hardly anyone at school. This suited him fine—he had little interest in socializing.
One morning, Abel met Victor in their shared class. Noticing Victor's sullen expression, Abel asked, "Victor, something bothering you?"
Victor, unlike Abel, thrived in the academic and social environment. A top student involved in numerous projects, he was well-liked by peers and professors alike. His recent success had made him the pride of the school.
After a pause, Victor sighed. "I just realized I've been too complacent. I got caught up in the praise and thought I was doing enough. But it hit me—I'm still far from where I need to be if I want to truly make a difference."
"What happened?" Abel asked, intrigued.
"Our school's been collaborating with the National Space Administration. A bunch of scientists and astronauts came by, and among them was this young guy, about our age. He's already leading the project. His knowledge and expertise blew me away. It made me realize I've got a lot of catching up to do—both in science and magic."
Victor's gaze shifted to Abel. "You've always been ahead of me in magic. Between him and you, I've got my work cut out for me."