Marvel Cybernetic Girl

Tony Stark.

A patriot, a playboy, a genius, a billionaire.

And to Kagura Hitomi, he's something more—Iron Man.

He's the man who, in the future, will give his life to save humanity, the Earth, and even the universe.

The name Tony Stark holds a special meaning for Kagura Hitomi, as she knows the future of this world. She deeply admires him—Tony Stark is her favorite character in the Marvel Universe.

However, in 2008, Tony Stark is still just a wayward playboy.

Even in the few times they've met, as soon as Tony sees Hitomi, he relentlessly flirts with her, just like Pepper Potts has often complained about.

Ah, seems like he's a VIP member of the "Looks-Only Club."

At this point, Tony Stark has no idea that the young girl standing before him, Hitomi, is someone with memories of this universe's future. And he certainly can't imagine the complicated feelings Hitomi experiences every time she sees him.

When she first saw the "living" Tony Stark, her golden eyes trembled slightly, and she could even feel tears welling up.

Countless emotions and memories flooded her heart.

"Such a mortal, yet standing side by side with the gods."

"You have a warm heart."

"I love you three thousand times."

...

From that moment, Hitomi made a silent vow.

Since she came to this world, and since she had promised to ensure that everyone gets a happy ending, Iron Man, Tony Stark, would never fade away in the tears of others!

"Hitomi, Hitomi?"

Pepper's voice pulled Hitomi out of her thoughts.

"Ah, here!" Hitomi blinked, a little dazed.

"It's okay, long drives make anyone sleepy. I feel the same," Pepper chuckled. "We're almost there."

"Right." Hitomi took a deep breath. "I'm about to go on a business trip with the boss, I'm a bit nervous, hehe."

"You don't need to worry," Pepper smiled, brushing Hitomi's silver hair. "Tony is a very friendly guy. His style... well, you probably know."

"I understand. I'll be careful," Hitomi nodded. "I'll do my best with this job and make sure we get back safely with the boss!"

"Good!" Pepper nodded in approval.

At that moment, Pepper had no idea what deeper meaning Hitomi's words held.

This seemingly ordinary arms deal trip would change Tony Stark's life forever.

Hitomi didn't plan to stop Tony from facing danger. After all, if Tony didn't face this "attack," perhaps there wouldn't even be an Iron Man in this world.

Rather than seeing an entirely new, unfamiliar universe unfold, Hitomi would rather this world remain close to the Marvel Universe she remembers—so she wouldn't lose any advantage in terms of information.

The sleek black car slowly pulled up in front of a mansion.

This building was very familiar to Hitomi as well.

Well, this place will be blown to pieces in a few years…

Even though it's only 2008, Tony Stark's mansion still leaves Hitomi, who once lived in 2019, in awe.

Automated security systems, ultra-luxurious smart home setups, the AI assistant J.A.R.V.I.S., countless holographic displays…

When she watched the movies, it didn't seem all that impressive. But now that she's in Tony Stark's home, Hitomi is sure of it—this world's technology is definitely not normal.

As they entered the spacious living room, the sound of heavy metal music floated up from the basement.

"Ugh, Tony must have forgotten we're heading to the other side of the Earth today," Pepper sighed, shaking her head. She turned to Hitomi, smiling. "Follow me, he's probably in his workshop downstairs."

"Okay." Hitomi nodded and followed Pepper down the stairs to Tony Stark's private workshop.

Inside the workshop, the "exciting" music was playing as Tony Stark sat next to his vintage sports car, working on swapping out the engine for a newer model.

"The pressure in cylinder three is too low."

J.A.R.V.I.S. immediately analyzed the data and returned a report.

"Hmm, make a note of that."

Tony said as he reinstalled the cylinder components he had removed.

"Beep beep beep."

As Pepper verified access and opened the workshop's glass doors, the music was automatically turned off.

"Don't turn off my music like that," Tony said, without looking up from his work.

"Tony, you should already be on your way to the other side of the Earth by now," Pepper said, holding her tablet and organizing his schedule. "Your private jet should have taken off over an hour ago."

"Oh, I thought that was my private jet, so it should have waited for me," Tony replied, still focused on his work.

"Tony, I need to confirm a few things with you before you leave."

"If my jet doesn't wait for me, why did I even buy one?"

Tony put down his tools and began to tidy up.

Although he was arguing with Pepper, he was still being efficient and preparing for departure.

"Actually, it's not that I'm hurrying you, but Colonel Rhodes just called." Pepper continued. "There are a few things you need to review. That painting you mentioned last time, the price has gone up a lot. Do you still want to buy it?"

"A painting? You can handle that, right? You've got... well, your cute little assistant now."

"I think the painting is nice, but the price is just too high."

"Don't worry about it, just buy it and keep it," Tony said decisively. "Anything else?"

"The MIT speech..."

"That's in June. Don't nag me about it yet."

"Well, the school is pressing me," Pepper replied. "I'll take that as you agreeing."

"By the way, Pepper, why are you in such a hurry to send me off today? Why don't you come with me?"

Tony turned to her and asked.

"Because... I have other plans today, so Hitomi will go with you as your assistant."

"I don't like it when you have other plans."

"Aren't you fond of Hitomi?"

"Can we focus on you for a moment, Pepper? What are your plans?"

"Today's my birthday, so..."

"Oh, sorry, it's your birthday today?"

"Yes," Pepper smiled. "Kind of funny, right? It's the same day as last year."

"Happy birthday. Buy yourself a gift from me."

"Oh, I already did."

"How is it? Do you like it?"

"Of course, I love it."

"Guess my taste is pretty good, huh?"

"Thank you, Mr. Stark."

"No problem, Miss Potts. Now, let's talk about your little assistant."

Tony's gaze shifted to Hitomi, who was standing behind Pepper.

"Hello, Mr. Stark."

Hitomi gave a slight bow, following proper etiquette.

"Oh, hey."

Tony looked her up and down with an appreciative look, making her feel a little uneasy.

"Oh, don't be nervous, it's just normal work stuff."

"Mm."

Hitomi nodded.

"Oh, by the way, Hitomi," Tony said.

"Mm? What can I do for you, Mr. Stark?"

"Have you ever driven a car?"

"…Huh?"