Wakanda
The Wakandan royal family and the rogue Avengers were deep in a combined battle simulation, honing their tactics and exposing weak points. Vibranium weapons clashed with energy shields. T'Challa's voice rang across the field, barking instructions. Okoye pushed Steve harder in the sparring zone. Shuri was notably absent tucked away in her lab, where her mind did its own battle with physics.
The exercise was interrupted by a familiar hum in the sky. Vision descended gracefully into the center of the field.
"Good afternoon," he said, voice calm but firm. "I've received a message from Mr. Stark: all individuals involved in the upcoming confrontation must report to the New Avengers Compound. Friday is en-route with Mr. Stark's personal stealth jet. Departure is in three hours. Please prepare."
Before anyone could reply, Vision phased upward, heading straight for Shuri's lab without looking back.
At the lab's entrance, Vision politely rang the intercom then promptly phased through the wall before Shuri could buzz him in. She didn't flinch.
"You know, most guests knock," she said, only half sarcastic.
"Forgive me," he replied. "I believe you're the missing piece in a larger equation, Princess. We have much to discuss Pym particles, nanotech integration, and two American teenagers I think you'll enjoy working with."
Back on the training field, the others stood in silence.
Clint was the first to break it.
"So that's it? He disappears for four days and now we're supposed to meet in a place where we're still considered fugitives? Sounds like a Raft-sized setup."
Natasha didn't even blink.
"Tony wouldn't have called if Ross was sniffing around. He sent his stealth jet there are maybe four people alive who've even been in it. If he wants us back, it's serious."
Steve added gravely,
"And if Tony's calling all of us? It means this meeting could be the last before everything hits the fan. Thanos. Maw. Whatever's coming."
With that, they scattered to prepare for departure.
New York – Stark Industries Tower
After Dr. Strange dropped him off, Tony wandered the halls of SI Tower alone, still haunted by the weight of what was coming. But there was a comfort in solitude, especially when it meant he could indulge in his two favorite coping mechanisms: building and bonding.
"Friday, pull up the schematics for the latest Stark Pads from R&D. Let's tighten them up before we roll them out."
He worked for hours, buried in circuitry and code, until the clock blinked 3:00 PM just in time.
"Let's go pick up the kid," Tony said, smiling to himself.
He jumped into the matte black Jeep (illegally modified, obviously) and sped toward Midtown High. Traffic rules were more like suggestions today.
In just 15 minutes, he pulled up near the school. He saw Peter exiting the building with Ned and MJ. They were laughing carefree, young. Tony snapped a photo from the Jeep. It was perfect. If only he could freeze that moment.
Peter Parker's POV
Today had been awesome. No Flash stomach flu had blessed Midtown. Aced the AP Physics midterm. Four A*s total. MJ decided to hang out instead of roasting them from the shadows. And Ned? Ned made it into the robotics tournament finals.
Peter was riding a high when his phone buzzed:
[The Mr. Stark]
Roo, I came to pick you up. Head for the matte black Jeep. Bring your friends if they're free for the next 1–2 hours. I was thinking dinner, then the lab I've got some upgrades I want your opinion on. Or you and Ted can show me that Star Wars thing you're always raving about.
Peter nearly levitated.
"Hey Ned, MJ how about dinner with Mr. Stark?"
Ned nearly choked. "I'd give up my LEGO Star Destroyer for that. Seriously."
MJ shrugged. "Is Pepper Potts joining?"
"Let me ask," Peter said, trying not to combust.
He typed:
[sunshine]
Hey Mr. Stark so cool you came to get us! Star Wars lesson maybe this weekend? For now, I want to see the new suit stuff. Ned's totally in. MJ says she'll come if Miss Potts is joining.
Seconds later, a ping:
[The Mr. Stark]
That's great, kid. But Pepper's in China for work. Maybe next time.
MJ glanced at the screen, then sighed.
"Alright, I'll join you nerds. Reluctantly."
Peter couldn't contain his grin. They walked toward the Jeep.