Chapter 4: Meeting of Two Tech Giants
As Ben parked his sleek black BMW S 1000 RR in front of the company's headquarters, a modern glass-and-steel 10-story building in Midtown, he took a moment to reflect. Tennyson Industries wasn't just a company to him; it was a statement. With Stark Industries still recovering from its pivot away from weapons manufacturing, I chosen a different path.
From day one, Tennyson Industries had been about accessibility and innovation for the everyday consumer. The company's smartphones, laptops, and smartwatches had already disrupted the tech landscape, offering futuristic designs, advanced AI for the general public integration, and seamless interconnectivity—all with a touch of Ben's unique insight into what the future might demand.
Angela Green, his right-hand woman and operations manager, was waiting for him in the lobby. Her no-nonsense demeanor had kept the company running smoothly when Ben's ideas threatened to outrun practicality. She had a background in corporate logistics and finance, and her experience complemented Ben's futuristic thinking.
"You're late. Again," Angela said as she tapped her high heels on the polished marble floor. Her dark blue eyes locked on him, both stern and faintly amused.
Ben flipped up his helmet's visor, his boyish grin barely hidden beneath it. "Sorry, Angela. Traffic was—"
"Spare me the excuses," she interrupted, though her tone softened. "You've got a meeting with the R&D team in ten minutes, and the Stark Industries delegation is arriving this afternoon for their tour. You need to be sharp today."
As Ben entered the building, he marveled at how much they'd achieved in just two years. The lobby was a showcase of innovation: holographic displays demonstrated the latest advancements in sustainable energy, including the company's patented ArcCore battery technology—a safer, smaller, and more efficient power source for consumer electronics and electric vehicles.
"Sure." Angela followed him into the elevator, continuing to brief him. " Anyway, the board is waiting upstairs, and Stark Industries is sending a delegation this afternoon. They want to talk about our electric vehicles."
Ben smirked. "Let them try. We're not here to play second fiddle." Angela rolled her eyes at Ben's words but didn't rebuttal his words. She isn't just Ben's assistant—she's the backbone of the company. Overseeing day-to-day operations and ensures projects stay on schedule and within budget.
Acts as a liaison between Tennyson Industries and potential investors or government officials. Keeping Ben grounded, reminding him of the practical challenges of running a business.
She also secretly suspects there's more to Ben than meets the eye but hasn't pressed him about it yet.
Tennyson Industries had already set itself apart with its flagship devices like:
The OmniPhone:
A sleek smartphone current known for its unmatched processing power, intuitive AI assistant ("Mia"), a damped down version of his one personal assistant Olivia.
The OmniBook:
A laptop that combined lightweight portability with high-end performance. The OmniBook was favored by both creatives and professionals for its ability to render complex graphics and run AI-driven software effortlessly.
The OmniWatch:
A smart wearable that seamlessly synced with the OmniPhone, OmniBook and offering health tracking, activity tracking along with fall detection.
All of this advancements in technology brought Tennyson Industries, to the forefront when it came to tightly integrated ecosystem where its devices and services work seamlessly together, enhancing user experience.
And now with their foray into electric vehicles had been bold. Ben leveraged his futuristic knowledge and Omnitrix-inspired engineering to develop M-Xara, an electric vehicle platform that prioritized affordability, performance, and style. The cars were equipped with proprietary AI, advanced self-driving features, and a sleek design that made them instant head-turners.
This put Tennyson Industries on Stark Industries' radar. While Stark dominated energy and tech for industrial and military applications, the consumer vehicle market was still open for competition. Stark Industries' Audi E-Tron prototypes had been impressive, but M-Xara's customizable vehicles, and integration into Omni ecosystem promised to redefine the game.
Angela's voice brought Ben back to the present."You know Tony Stark doesn't like competition in his sandbox, right?" Angela said as the elevator doors opened to the executive floor.
Ben chuckled. "Tony Stark doesn't scare me. We're doing something different. People deserve more than overpriced, underperforming tech."
Angela gave him a sidelong glance. "Still, we need to tread carefully. Stark Industries may be focused on energy now, but if Tony decides to pivot back to consumer tech, we'll be in his crosshairs."
"Let him try," I said, grinning. "M-Xara is just the start." Angela gave Ben a exhausted look before shaking her head in resignation. " I'm still a little iffy about that name."
" If you have any better names then please feel free to give your suggestion." Angela remained silent as she really good at coming up with any better ideas for their new products name.
Several hours later. Tennyson Industries conference room was an ultra-modern space filled with sleek, minimalist furniture and walls that doubled as digital displays. Holograms of the M-Xara design specs floated above the long glass table. Angela Green stood at the head of the room, arms crossed, exuding her usual air of calm authority.
Ben leaned casually against the table, dressed in his usual green shirt and jeans, an outfit that stood out in the otherwise formal setting. Across from him sat Pepper Potts, impeccably dressed in a tailored white suit, her expression calm but guarded. Beside her, Tony Stark lounged in his chair, sunglasses still on, a smirk playing on his lips.
"So, Tennyson Industries," Tony began, tapping his fingers on the sleek glass table as he stared at the holographic displays showcasing the M-Xara. He couldn't help but feel a flicker of intrigue mixed with annoyance. The holograms were strikingly similar to his own technology, and while he appreciated innovation, seeing someone else wielding tools he'd pioneered stirred a competitive fire within him.
Pepper had insisted he attend this meeting with the relatively new tech company that had emerged just two years prior, and Tony was curious about how they had managed to develop something so sophisticated in such a short time. He leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued. Was this a genuine advancement, or just a clever imitation?
As the holograms danced in mid-air, displaying intricate designs and data flows, Tony felt a twinge of protectiveness over his own creations. He'd spent countless hours refining his technology, pouring his heart and soul into every pixel. He couldn't shake the thought that Tennyson Industries might be riding on the coattails of his genius, and he was determined to find out just how deep their innovation ran.
"Nice holograms," he remarked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Did you guys get those off a clearance rack, or are they actually cutting-edge?" He glanced at Pepper, sensing her disapproval, but he couldn't help himself. This was his world—his playground.
Pepper shot him a warning look, but Tony leaned back, a smirk still playing on his lips as he sized up Ben. The casual posture and relaxed demeanor didn't fool him; there was a sharp mind behind that green shirt. Tony's competitive instincts kicked in. *If Tennyson Industries was a threat, he'd have to keep a close eye on them.*
As he continued to analyze the displays, Tony found himself torn. Part of him wanted to dismiss them outright, to assert his dominance in the tech world, but another part was genuinely curious. If this company could innovate so quickly, perhaps there was something to learn from them. He had always believed that competition pushed him to be better, to think outside the box.
Ben straightened, a spark igniting in his eyes. He wouldn't take Stark's provocations lightly. "Actually, Mr. Stark," he replied, his tone steady and unyielding, "these displays were developed in-house, leveraging algorithms that we've refined to optimize real-time data processing. I'd say they're quite cutting-edge." He held Tony's gaze, refusing to back down.
"Alright new kid on the block. You've done well for yourselves—phones, laptops, watches, holographic displays.... And now, you want to take a swing at cars?"
Ben smiled, not rising to the bait. "Not just cars, Mr. Stark. We're building an ecosystem. Our M-Xara isn't just a vehicle; it's an extension of the tech people already rely on. Seamless integration with their OmniPhones, OmniBooks, and OmniWatches. Imagine starting your car from your watch or having your OmniPhone optimize your route in real time based on traffic."
Tony raised an eyebrow. "Cute. The name still needs a little work though. But it takes more than flashy integration to dominate the EV market. Our E-Tron prototypes are already being tested by high-end consumers, and they love the feel of driving something Stark-built."
"True," Angela interjected, her voice measured. "But consumer loyalty doesn't come from a name alone. People want systems that make their lives easier. That's what we're offering—a product that doesn't just perform but anticipates their needs."
Pepper leaned forward, her diplomatic tone cutting through the tension. "We're not here to argue. Stark Industries recognizes the potential in what you've built, and we're interested in exploring a collaboration. Electric vehicles are still a developing market, and there's room for multiple players—if we work together."
Ben exchanged a glance with Angela, who nodded subtly.
"We're open to collaboration," Ben said carefully, "but we're not looking to be absorbed into the Stark brand. M-Xara's represents a vision of independent innovation. If Stark Industries wants to partner, it has to be as equals."
Tony grinned. "I like this kid. Bold, a little naive, but I like it."
" Thanks, but please don't call me 'kid.' I'm only a few years younger than you," I replied, a hint of defiance in my voice. "I've been in this game longer than you think."
Pepper shot Tony a warning look before turning back to Ben. " What kind of collaboration do you envision?"
Angela stepped in to answer Pepper questions. "We focus on the consumer side—vehicles integrated into everyday life through our ecosystem. Stark Industries can handle advanced charging infrastructure. Your expertise in energy could revolutionize how EVs interact with grids."
Tony tapped his sunglasses thoughtfully. "Energy grids and charging stations, huh? Fine. Let's say we're intrigued. But I'm going to want a test drive of this M-Xara of yours. Got one handy?"
Ben grinned. "I thought you'd never ask."
Meanwhile deep beneath the bustling streets of Hell Kitchen, a secret gathering of the Hand convened in an hidden chamber shrouded in shadows. The flickering light of ceremonial torches cast ominous patterns on the walls, etched with the symbols of their centuries-old order.
At the center of the room stood an altar, its surface carved with runes pulsating with faint crimson light. Around it, robed figures knelt in a circle, their faces hidden beneath their hoods. Black Tarantula stood among them, his towering presence commanding attention even among the elite of the Hand.
An elder raised his hands, his voice a low, guttural chant in an ancient tongue. The room seemed to hum with energy, the air growing heavy as the ritual reached its crescendo. Finally, the elder's voice fell silent, and he turned his gaze to Black Tarantula.
"The time approaches," the elder rasped. "The Black Sky must rise to fulfill the Beast's will. But the artifact remains hidden."
Black Tarantula's eyes narrowed. "Then we take it. No matter the cost."
Another elder interjected, their tone cautious. "Our enemies grow bold. The criminal underworld fractures with each passing day. If we strike too openly, we risk drawing attention—from those who would seek to destroy us."
Black Tarantula smirked. "Let them fracture. We will not strike openly. We will strike surgically. The shadows are our weapon."
The elder nodded, appeased. "What do you propose?"
"We consolidate our power," Black Tarantula said, his voice like steel. "Bring the crime lords to heel. Control the flow of information and resources. Let them serve our purpose, willingly or not."
"And the artifact?" a younger ninja asked.
Black Tarantula's gaze turned to the altar. "It is here, in the West. Buried beneath layers of deceit and time. We will find it, and when we do, the Black Sky will rise, and the Beast will claim its dominion."
The gathered ninjas murmured in agreement, their loyalty unshaken.
"Ensure the Hand remains invisible," Black Tarantula continued, his tone commanding. "We do not engage unless necessary. Let the world think we are a myth—a whisper in the dark. Only when the time is right will we reveal our power."
The elder raised his voice again, chanting a final prayer to the Beast, and the room fell into darkness as the torches extinguished themselves one by one.
In the shadows, Black Tarantula smiled. The world would soon learn the truth about the Hand—but only when it was too late.
" Good, and what of tonight. I hope you're fully prepared for what is coming. " Another clad figure spoke out, regarding another issue. " There is no, need to worry soon our power here will be fully engraved in the heart of those who try and stand against us.
Outside Tennyson Industries' headquarters, the sleek prototype of the M-Xara also called the LightningDrive by the R&D team sat waiting—a midnight-blue electric sports car with sharp lines and an aerodynamic build that screamed speed and style. Tony Stark circled the car, his hands stuffed in his jacket pockets, whistling appreciatively.
"Not bad, kid," Tony said. "Looks like something I'd design—if I weren't so busy saving the world."
Ben smirked, holding up the key fob. "Let's see if you can handle it, Stark."
Tony arched an eyebrow. "You're letting me drive first?"
Ben grinned. "It's only fair. But I'll warn you—the car might be smarter than you."
"That's cute," Tony replied as he climbed into the driver's seat. Ben slipped into the passenger side, the interior greeting him with a soft hum as the car powered on. The dashboard lit up, displaying interface synced to Ben's OmniPhone.
"Alright, M-Xara." Tony said, gripping the wheel. "Let's see what you've got."
The car roared to life—silently, of course—and they sped onto the streets of New York. Tony handled the car with practiced ease, weaving through traffic with a wide grin.
"Not bad," Tony admitted. "Smooth acceleration, responsive handling. But I need to see what this baby can really do."
Ben tapped the display. Switching to Sport Mode. And suddenly the engine seems to roar to life with the switch. As much as Ben liked the electric vehicles for all its benefits he still loved to hear the roar of a gas power engine. Hence he added this feature with the help of Brainstorm's.
" Okay, let's see if you can keep up, old man."
Tony laughed, flooring the pedal as the M-Xara surged forward. His excitement evident as he heard the roar of the electric engine, and he also gain more respect for Ben. Especially since he not only heard engine noises but, he also feel the vibration through his hands and feet.
" This wouldn't happen to be same sort of hybrid. " Tony couldn't help but ask, " Huff, of course not just a feature I added personally to the car more appealing. I do love the sound of an engine roaring himself you know. "
"Hahaha, spoken like real man kid. " Tony couldn't help but out laughing as he stepped on the pedal, at Ben's wise words. "
Back in the Tennyson Industries conference room, Pepper and Angela sat across from each other, holographic blueprints and financial reports floating between them.
"Honestly," Pepper said, crossing her legs, "it's exhausting sometimes. Tony's brilliant, no question, but he has a way of making everything harder than it needs to be."
Angela nodded knowingly. "Sounds familiar. Ben's a genius too, but he's young. Full of ideas, no sense of patience. Half my job is keeping him from running off to chase the next big thing before we finish the last one. And making sure he turns up for work. "
Pepper chuckled. "Right I know what you mean especially, since he became Iron man it's hard for me to get him to at least visit the R&D department in person. Sometimes I feel like I'm babysitting a grown man with a billion-dollar toybox."
"And I feel like I'm managing a teenager who just discovered the cheat codes to life," Angela replied, smirking.
They both laughed, the shared frustrations easing the formality of their conversation.
"At least your boss is a billionaire," Angela added. "Ben's still catching up."
Pepper smiled. "Give it time. From what I've seen, Tennyson Industries is going to be a real contender. Just… keep him grounded. Tony didn't have anyone like that early on, and trust me, it showed."
"I'll do my best," Angela said, glancing at the clock. "They've been gone a while. Should we worry?"
"Only if Tony's driving," Pepper quipped.
When Tony and Ben returned, the M-Xara pulled smoothly into the parking lot. Tony climbed out, sunglasses back in place, looking impressed.
"Alright, Tennyson," Tony said, tossing the keys to Ben. As for why the electric vehicles had keys was simple because it was still in the testing phase.
"You've got something here. The integration with your ecosystem is genius. But if we're going to collaborate, I have a few ideas about the design."
Ben caught the keys and grinned. "I'll consider it—as long as you don't touch the AI."
Tony smirked. "We'll see."
Pepper approached, hands on her hips. "Tony, did you behave?"
"Of course not," Tony replied, grinning.
Angela gave Ben a look. "Same question."
Ben shrugged. "I didn't let him crash it, if that's what you mean."
Tony Stark / Iron Man
Full Name: Anthony Edward Stark
Age: 27
Eye Color:Brown
Hair Color: Dark Brown (often depicted as black)
Height: 6'1" (185 cm)
Occupation:CEO of Stark Industries, Inventor, Superhero
Notable Traits: Genius-level intellect, charismatic, witty, and sometimes arrogant
---
Pepper Potts
Full Name: Virginia "Pepper" Potts
Age: 28
Eye Color:Brown
Hair Color: Red
Height:5'8" (168 cm)
Occupation: Businesswoman, CEO of Stark Industries
Notable Traits: Intelligent, resourceful, compassionate, and strong-willed
Let me know if you need more information!