Ace steps through the threshold, his eyes widening as he takes in the grand foyer of Tony Stark's mansion. The space is filled with an eclectic mix of guests – tech moguls, celebrities, and military leaders, all mingling and conversing in hushed, excited tones. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the marble floors and ornate furnishings, creating an atmosphere of opulence and exclusivity.
Ace feels a tinge of unease, aware that he stands out among the polished, sophisticated crowd. Yet, he can't help but be captivated by the sheer grandeur of the setting, a far cry from his usual surroundings. As he moves further into the mansion, he catches glimpses of familiar faces, each one seemingly more impressive than the last.
Ace scans the room, his eyes landing on a familiar face – Tony Stark, surrounded by two individuals he recognizes as Pepper Potts and James "Rhodey" Rhodes. The trio appears deep in conversation, their expressions a mix of seriousness and camaraderie. Ace watches them for a moment, wondering if he should approach, but his gaze is then drawn to another corner of the party, where he spots a stern-looking man he believes to be General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, engaged in a discussion with a group of military personnel.
Suddenly, Ace is approached by a man with a clean-cut, professional appearance. He has short, light brown hair and a friendly, yet composed demeanor.
"Excuse me, are you Ace Ukiyo?" the man asks.
Ace nods, slightly taken aback by the stranger's direct approach.
"I'm Agent Coulson, with the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division," the man introduces himself, extending a hand.
Ace shakes his hand, trying not to let his surprise show. "That's a mouthful," he comments.
"Yeah, we get that a lot," Agent Coulson replies with a slight chuckle. "You can just call us SHIELD."
Ace recognized Agent Coulson from the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies he had watched in his original world. He knew Coulson worked for Director Nick Fury and was a key member of the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division (S.H.I.E.L.D.). Ace was familiar with Coulson's role and the organization he represented, thanks to his prior knowledge of the MCU.
Ace looked at Agent Coulson with a hint of suspicion. "Is Fury sending you to keep an eye on me?"
Coulson seemed slightly taken aback by Ace's perceptiveness. "Well, you're certainly aware of how SHIELD operates," he remarked. "But no, I'm not here specifically for you. As part of my duties, I monitor any 'enhanced individuals' who attend events like this. It's just a precaution."
Ace nodded, understanding Coulson's explanation. The agent's presence was a reminder that the world he now found himself in was far more complex than he had anticipated.
"Director Fury wanted me to express his gratitude for your assistance to Mr. Stark," Coulson said, his tone professional yet sincere. "He recognizes the importance of your intervention."
Ace considered Coulson's words, his brow furrowing slightly. "I didn't do it for the thanks," he replied, his voice level. "I had to step in. That's all."
Coulson nodded, a hint of understanding in his expression. "Well, in any case, enjoy the party, Mr. Ukiyo." He offered a small smile before turning and making his way back into the crowd.
Ace watched the agent's retreating form, his mind racing. He knew Fury and SHIELD were likely keeping a close eye on him, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease.
Pushing those thoughts aside, Ace took a deep breath and refocused his attention on the lavish party unfolding around him. He might as well try to make the most of this unexpected opportunity, even if he still had to navigate the challenges that lay ahead.
Ace decided to take Coulson's advice and try to enjoy the party. He made his way over to the lavish spread of hors d'oeuvres and finger foods, his eyes widening at the array of delicacies. Selecting a few small plates, he found a quiet corner to enjoy the delicious offerings, savoring each bite. Though he didn't know anyone here, Ace was content to simply observe the well-heeled guests mingle and converse. For now, he was happy to keep to himself, taking in the sights and sounds of this high-profile event.
Ace stood in the corner, savoring the delicate hors d'oeuvres, when a well-dressed woman approached him.
"Enjoying the party, Mr.Ukiyo?" she asked, a warm smile on her face.
Ace turned, surprised that she knew his name. "I am, thank you," he replied. "How did you know who I am?"
"I'm Pepper Potts, Tony Stark's personal assistant," she explained. "It's my job to know everyone on the guest list. And I remember you quite well - you were one of the investors who bought the most Stark International stock when the prices crashed."
Ace nodded, impressed by her attention to detail. "I suppose that would make me memorable," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice.
Pepper Potts smiled warmly at Ace. "Well, I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. And I have to say, your investment in Stark International was quite impressive. You really have an eye for spotting opportunities."
Just then, Tony Stark approached, a glass of champagne in hand. "Pepper, who's our young friend here?" he asked, his gaze settling on Ace.
"This is Ace Ukiyo," Pepper introduced. "One of our top investors. He had the foresight to buy a significant amount of Stark stock when the prices dropped."
Tony's eyebrows rose in appreciation. "Is that right?" he said, turning his attention to Ace. "Well, Mr. Ukiyo, you must have some impressive analytical skills. Most people were running for the hills when the stock took a nosedive."
Ace felt a touch of pride at the compliment. "I just had a good feeling about the company," he said modestly. "And I believed in your vision, Mr. Stark."
Tony chuckled, taking a sip of his drink. "Well, it's always nice to meet a fellow visionary," he said, raising his glass to Ace. "Keep up the good work, kid. You might just have a future in this business."
Pepper smiled, pleased to see Tony engaging with one of their young investors. Ace felt a sense of validation, grateful for the unexpected praise from the legendary Tony Stark himself.
Xu·Wulfu·Da, the imposing Wolf Grongi, stood amidst the towering trees of the forest surrounding the Stark Mansion. His sharp senses detected movement within the lavish estate, and his gaze zeroed in on the figure of Tony Stark, the self-proclaimed Iron Man. A low, guttural growl rumbled in Wulfu's throat as he uttered a single word, his eyes narrowing with predatory focus.
"Found you..."
***
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Advance chapters are in my P@|r3on - Najicablitz