Chapter: Innovation, Alliances and the Consumer Revolution
New York, 1933. A luxurious hall in the heart of Manhattan, where visionaries gathered for a conference reserved only for the names who would shape the future.
Among scientists, businessmen and politicians, Akira Urameshi walked discreetly. His European-cut suit hid subtle traces of his elven heritage—slightly pointed ears hidden beneath dark hair, emerald green eyes attentive to every detail.
He watched as Howard Stark, young and fearless, wowed the audience with a bold speech:
"— The future belongs to those who dare to mix science and ambition. It's not just about war or weapons, but about building tomorrow with the right hands and minds," — Stark said, receiving enthusiastic applause.
It was after the speech, in a private room, that the expected meeting took place.
Howard Stark, curious and ever alert, approached the discreet table at AstraTech, where Akira was displaying revolutionary prototypes.
"You must be the man who's making the competition nervous," Howard said with a sly smile. "Akira Urameshi, right? I heard your company came out of nowhere and is already messing with materials no one understands."
Akira replied calmly, "The best advances often come quietly, Mr. Stark. I prefer results to fanfare."
Howard analyzed the materials: nearly indestructible metal alloys, flexible and resistant polymers, compact communication devices.
"These alloys… are years ahead of what we have. And I don't see any defense patents here," Stark noted.
"We don't make weapons," Akira said firmly. "AstraTech works with technology that enhances infrastructure, communications, and logistics. Wars already have people who fuel them. Our focus is on rebuilding, not destroying."
Howard
The two exchanged a firm handshake, sealing the beginning of a historic collaboration.
That's it
In the following years, AstraTech introduced products that discreetly accelerated global development, without generating temporal suspicions:
Auralium-X (Ligas Leves
Used in aircraft, vehicles and buildings, these alloys were lighter than aluminum and as strong as reinforced steel. They seemed to be the result of advances in metallurgy, but they carried subtle charms of durability and heat resistance.
Polaris Thermoregulating Panels
Systems for buildings and vehicles that maintain stable internal temperatures without the need for energy
AstraLink: Long Range Communicators
Compact devices that overcame the limitations of radios of the time, with extended range and superior clarity. Officially, they were the result of "new transmission techniques"; in practice, they carried small amplification runes.
Self-Repairing Materials
Fabrics and surfaces capable of regenerating themselves from minor damage—presented as the result of research into smart polymers, but discreetly enhanced with restorative enchantments.
Verdant Trade — Food Innovations
While AstraTech was growing in the technology sector, Verdant Trade was transforming food trade and safety:
Durabilis Grains and Legumes
Genetically improved foods — under the guise of agricultural crossbreeding — that had accelerated growth, resistance to pests and greater nutritional value.
Naturalis Conservation Systems
Packaging and preservation methods that kept food fresh for weeks, even without modern refrigeration, seemed like simple scientific advances, but they contained subtle preservation enchantments.
VitaPlus Seasonings
Enriched spices that, in addition to flavor, offered discreet health benefits: strengthening the immune system, improving mood and resistance to common diseases.
Verdant Home Air Purifiers
Simple, compact equipment that purified water and food, eliminating toxins and microorganisms. Officially, they were the result of "advanced filters", but they operated with purification magic.
The Supermarket Revolution
Inspired by the flow of trade in the other world and the need for efficiency on Earth, Akira introduced a new concept:
Verdant Markets — The World's First Supermarkets
From 1935 onwards, large stores appeared in urban centers, offering:
Long-lasting fresh food.
Canned products with superior quality.
Innovative hygiene items and household items.
Affordable prices, thanks to Verdant Trade's logistical efficiency.
Air-conditioned, clean and organized environments — something unheard of for the time.
The impact was immediate:
Small grocery stores and local markets have adapted or been absorbed.
Families could purchase everything in one place, reducing waste and time.
The population began to become accustomed to convenience, paving the way for the global consumption pattern of the end of the century.
Meanwhile, Akira operated in the shadows, ever careful not to introduce technology or products that would disrupt the natural flow of historical events.
Closing — A Silent But Relentless Future
Howard Stark became a respected ally, enchanted by Akira's innovations and enigmatic mind.
"You play a long game, Akira," Howard said in one of their private meetings. "Not everyone has that patience. But I'm a quick learner. Let's build something that will last, without fuss... until the world is ready."
Akira smiled, looking at the secret projects and the hidden portal of AstraTech, which continued to be active, bringing resources and ideas from other worlds.
"This is just the beginning," Akira replied. "The real revolution is yet to come."
And so, in the underworld of innovation and commerce, Earth prepared itself—silently—for the inevitable impact of the Marvel world, with Akira pulling the gears of fate behind the scenes.