That night, the Baxter Building was alive with celebration. Crystal chandeliers reflected golden light over the grand hall, where businessmen, politicians, journalists, and some of the country's greatest scientists mingled among champagne glasses and enthusiastic speeches.
The reason couldn't have been more momentous: the space research consortium headquartered in the Baxter Building had announced that, in just a few days, it would launch its first experimental space shuttle, designed to break through Earth's magnetosphere and withstand the unstable currents of deep space.
It was a historic milestone, something NASA would never have dared so soon without private initiative. The project had attracted billions in investments and placed the Baxter Building's name as the epicenter of global scientific innovation.
On the stage set in the center of the hall, one of the program directors, smiling, raised his voice:
"Ladies and gentlemen, we are about to witness the birth of a new era! Humanity will finally extend its hand beyond Earth's known frontiers. And all of this is thanks to what this building represents: science, progress, and courage!"
The audience applauded with enthusiasm, camera flashes erupted, and the orchestra resumed its elegant melody. Yet, among the laughter and toasts, there were also serious eyes—cautious investors, rival laboratory competitors, and even undercover agents interested in the secrets behind the technology being used.
---
The hall buzzed with the chatter of politicians, scientists, and entrepreneurs when the most awaited guests began to arrive. Each time the doors opened, photographers jostled for position to capture the illustrious presences.
It was at that moment that Tony Stark made his grand entrance. The billionaire, wearing a perfectly tailored suit, displayed his trademark smile as if the entire party had been organized in his honor. At his side, Pepper walked with her usual elegance, a graceful contrast to Tony's showy demeanor. She smiled discreetly, but her attentive gaze scanned the hall, already anticipating the list of problems she would have to resolve later.
"Well, well, the nerd club decided to throw a masquerade ball," Tony muttered under his breath, adjusting his tie as he welcomed the camera flashes with a grin.
"Tony…" Pepper sighed, already bracing for the night's provocations. "At least try not to offend anyone before dessert."
"Relax, sweetheart. I'm the dessert." He winked, earning an elegant eye-roll from Pepper.
A few minutes later, the atmosphere shifted again when Arthur entered, accompanied by Jean and Gwen. Unlike Tony's flashy arrival, Arthur's was quiet but no less noticeable. Jean, in an emerald-green gown that reflected the chandeliers' light, radiated confidence and serenity. Gwen, in a light silver dress full of grace, carried a youthful, relaxed air, her blue eyes sparkling with curiosity as she explored every detail of the place.
"So this is the famous Baxter Building…" Gwen murmured in awe, holding tightly onto Arthur's arm.
"It's even more impressive than I imagined."
Jean nodded, her expression serious.
"Impressive, yes… but also risky. A mission like this isn't just science. There are always hidden interests at parties like this."
Arthur gave her a faint smile, trying to lighten her words.
"Maybe. But tonight, let's just pretend it's a beautiful evening. Who knows, maybe we'll even have some fun."
The two women exchanged quick looks. Gwen chuckled softly, as if doubting his promise. Jean simply took a deep breath, though the gleam in her eyes revealed she trusted Arthur.
Across the hall, Tony had already noticed their entrance. With a sly grin, he raised his champagne glass in a silent challenge, as if to say: Let's see who enjoys this scientist party more…
Arthur returned the gesture with a subtle nod, maintaining his calm demeanor. For him, the evening wasn't just a celebration. There was something in the air—a sense that the night marked the beginning of something much greater.
---
Tony didn't resist for long. He slipped away from a group of investors eager to secure promises of future partnerships and headed straight toward his friend.
"Look who finally crawled out of his cave!" Tony exclaimed loudly, drawing a few curious glances from the surrounding guests. He spread his arms in a dramatic gesture.
"The man who somehow makes me look lazy."
Arthur smiled, stepping closer, and the two exchanged a firm handshake.
"Tony, you do have a talent for making an entrance… loud as always."
"It's not talent, it's duty," Tony replied, pointing at himself.
"When you're the party's official genius, billionaire, and philanthropist, blending in just isn't an option."
"Of course," Arthur replied with mild irony.
"And here I thought it was just your oversized ego."
Jean hid a discreet smile, while Gwen laughed openly.
"You should have seen him on the way here," Gwen said, nudging Arthur.
"He was trying to guess how many people you'd irritate before the night was over."
"Oh, that one's easy." Pepper joined the conversation, her tone serious but her eyes sparkling with amusement.
"Fifteen. Ten if he's in a good mood."
"Hey!" Tony raised his hands, theatrically offended.
"You make it sound like I'm some kind of… trouble magnet."
"Not 'some kind.' You are," Arthur replied, his calm expression only deepening Tony's mock scowl.
The two burst into laughter, and the elegant tension of the party seemed to ease around them. For many, it was strange to see Tony Stark laughing so freely, without his usual cynicism. But there, beside Arthur, he seemed almost… normal.
Jean, still poised, leaned slightly toward Pepper.
"They look like teenagers when they're together, don't you think?"
"Not look like," Pepper corrected with a sigh.
"They are. Just with more expensive toys."
Arthur shook his head in amusement, then remarked:
"Well, let's just hope tonight doesn't end in disaster…"
"Trust me," Tony cut in, throwing an arm around his friend's shoulders.
"When I'm around, it always ends in disaster. But at least it's a fun disaster."
Their laughter mingled with the orchestra's music, while waiters passed by serving champagne and canapés.
---
(End of Chapter)
"Hmph. If you really want to be useful, then entertain me, try to throw those pathetic power stones at me. Let's see if even your insolence can amuse a king."
Honestly, I was a bit crazy when I wrote this, so if you see anything bizarre, please let me know. By the way, I made more edits, up to chapter 8, if you want, take a look there and tell me what you think.