Eman Right, known as one of the most influential figures in the field of mechanical limbs, had earned a reputation as a savior for people with disabilities. Alongside his college friend, John Right, he had pioneered advances in myoelectric prosthetics. The two had spent over a decade in research, redefining movement for those who had lost limbs and becoming known as the "Right Brothers" for their achievements. But tonight, Eman and John found themselves in a situation stranger than anything they'd experienced in their careers.
The two were jolted awake by a phone call, instructing them to prepare for an immediate visit. Within the hour, a high-ranking official arrived at each of their doors. Neither Eman nor John had encountered someone of such high stature, even with their current achievements. The situation was clearly serious, and they cooperated without hesitation, even as every question they asked was met with a brisk "confidential."
Accompanied by a group of professionals who looked like they could be Secret Service, they were subjected to tests and evaluations. Finally, they were escorted to the airport, where a private plane was waiting. As the jet took off, John exchanged a bewildered look with Eman, but neither had any clue what was going on.
It wasn't until they landed that they learned their destination: Riverton. After a short drive through the city, they arrived at a towering, government-owned building. This skyscraper was infamous in its own right; it had been planned as Earth Star's tallest building until budget cuts and construction disputes led to a reduction in height. Since completion, it had remained vacant.
Upon reaching the top floor, the Right brothers realized they weren't the only ones summoned. The room was filled with other leading experts in biomedicine, energy, and electromechanics, including some notable figures they recognized, like Dr. Hines from Secret Service Nine. But the person who made them glance at each other in awe was a distinguished guest standing nearby: Chai, a top official whose influence spanned the Earth Star.
They exchanged brief greetings and took seats, stealing glances at the expansive glass walls and the incredible view of Riverton at night. It was clear to everyone that something monumental was about to unfold.
When Chai, his words cut through the murmurs of curiosity.
"You're probably wondering why we went to the lengths we did to bring you here at this hour," he began. "Tonight, you're about to witness something that could affect the future of our civilization. Your expertise will be essential in handling what comes next."
The group fell silent, glancing at each other with a mix of surprise and suspicion. These were well-informed professionals, but even they seemed rattled. What had they uncovered—an alien craft or some ancient tech?
Chai continued, "You're about to see technology that will challenge everything you know. It will change the world as we know it. And it all comes from one individual—a person who should be arriving at any moment."
As he finished, a faint roar grew louder, drawing everyone's attention to the windows. At first, they thought it was a shooting star. But as the figure grew closer, it became clear that it was a person encased in red and gold armor, descending on a plume of fire. The figure landed smoothly on the balcony, and with a quiet hiss, the armor opened to reveal a man inside, adjusting his suit jacket.
"Good evening, everyone," Tony Stark said as he stepped into the room with a relaxed smile. "Or good morning, I guess. Hope you're enjoying the view of Riverton at four a.m."
Eman and John Right exchanged a stunned look as Chai greeted Tony with utmost respect. "Mr. Stark," he said, welcoming him inside.
The others stared in disbelief. They'd all heard rumors of "Iron Man"—flying armor that people thought was either cutting-edge tech or alien machinery. But seeing it here, in front of them, was another matter entirely.
"Yes, gentlemen," Chai announced, turning to the room. "This is Mr. Tony Stark—or as you may know him… Iron Man."
Eman and John, along with the others in the room, watched as Tony casually strolled to the bar and poured himself a drink.
"Yeah, I'm Iron Man," he said, raising the glass in salute. "I got a look at most of your résumés on the way over. They're impressive. It's nice to be working with the best."
The Right brothers struggled to form words. Finally, John managed to stammer, "So…this is real?" He pointed to the armor, standing motionless near the balcony.
Tony smirked. "Very real. And it's only the beginning."
Chai continued, addressing the room. "We've assembled a committee to work directly with Mr. Stark. You'll be responsible for coordinating technology implementation, resource allocation, and oversight. This committee will report directly to him."
Tony raised a hand. "You'll get the full rundown later from my assistant. But for now, let's dive into the first phase."
He snapped his fingers, and the armor came to life, projecting a digital list of high-tech concepts into the air, which split into separate screens for everyone in the room. The scientists' eyes widened as they scrolled through the information, glimpsing innovations in energy, biotech, materials science, and more.
The Right brothers quickly found a section titled "Bionic Prosthetics" and felt their pulses quicken as they read about neural-linked mechanical limbs with faster reflexes and greater strength than human capabilities. In awe, Eman muttered, "This… this is superhuman technology."
Tony shrugged as if it were no big deal. "In my world, it's just a basic neural interface. Nothing rare about it."
The others exchanged stunned looks, realizing the transformative potential of this technology. This wasn't an incremental improvement; it was a leap toward a future they hadn't even considered.
Chai spoke again. "This technology could impact every corner of human life, and we'll need each of you to ensure it's developed responsibly. We're at the frontier of what humanity can achieve."
Tony casually tapped the helmet of his suit, which powered on, casting a soft glow.
"Remember," he said. "This tech is only as powerful as the hands it's in. In the right hands, though…" He gestured to the virtual display as the Right brothers felt a mix of excitement and trepidation.
They hadn't just come here to witness history. They were about to help make it.