Marvel: A.T.L.A.S. - Ghost Protocol

Phillips Academy, Andover - September 1977

The historic brick buildings of Phillips Academy rose before them, morning sunlight glinting off centuries-old windows. At seven years old, Caspian stood beside Tony in the courtyard, both of them younger than the typical students by several years. Their early admission had caused quite a stir among the faculty, though the Stark and Valemont names carried enough weight to silence most objections.

"This place looks like it was built before dinosaurs roamed the Earth," Tony commented, adjusting his blazer with typical Stark restlessness. "Bet the science labs are from the Stone Age too."

"Actually, the main building was constructed in 1778," Caspian replied, his Emperor Eye taking in every detail of their surroundings: the positions of security cameras, sight lines between buildings, potential escape routes—habits ingrained by both his former life and two years of training with Walter.

"Show-off," Tony grinned. "Think they'll let us upgrade their equipment?"

"Let's try to make it through the first day without any explosions," Caspian suggested, remembering their last collaborative 'upgrade' at the Stark mansion.

"That was one time!" Tony protested. "And technically, it was more of an aggressive renovation."

Their banter was interrupted by Walter's arrival with their luggage. Even here, the butler maintained his immaculate appearance, though Caspian knew beneath the formal exterior was a warrior ready for any threat.

"Your rooms have been prepared, young masters," Walter informed them. "Master Stark, your belongings will be placed in the room adjoining Master Valemont's, as arranged."

Tony shot Caspian a knowing look. They both understood this arrangement wasn't just about friendship—the Valemont family wouldn't leave their heir without protection, and extending that protection to Tony strengthened both families' bonds.

As they walked toward their dormitory, Caspian noticed the stares from older students. Two child prodigies from America's most prominent families were bound to attract attention. His Emperor Eye caught whispered conversations, calculating looks, and a few dismissive sneers from upperclassmen.

Their rooms were in one of the oldest dormitories, though Caspian recognized several modern security measures subtly integrated into the historic architecture. A.T.L.A.S. didn't leave anything to chance.

"Young master," Walter said quietly as they reached their rooms, "Director Valemont has arranged for a secure training space in the basement of the old gymnasium. The schedule remains unchanged."

Caspian nodded. His mother's standards didn't drop just because he was away at school. If anything, she'd likely increase his training now that he had to maintain his cover among peers his own age.

"Hey, what's first on the torture schedule?" Tony called from his room, already unpacking various electronic components alongside his textbooks.

Caspian consulted their schedules. "Advanced Mathematics with Dr. Harrison."

"Perfect," Tony grinned. "Want to bet how long it takes before they move us up again?"

"Mother expects me to maintain a low profile," Caspian reminded him, though he couldn't quite suppress a smile.

"Low profile? Us?" Tony laughed. "Have you met me?"

The first class proved Tony's point. Dr. Harrison, a distinguished mathematician in his sixties, had barely begun his introduction to advanced algebra when Tony interrupted with a correction to one of his equations. Caspian caught the professor's annoyed glance and the subsequent look of surprise when he checked his work and realized Tony was right.

"Mr. Stark," Dr. Harrison said stiffly, "while your observation is... correct, perhaps we could save questions for after the explanation?"

"But then everyone would learn it wrong first," Tony pointed out with innocent logic. "That's inefficient."

Caspian maintained his composed exterior, but inwardly smiled at his friend's characteristic lack of filter. He raised his hand politely before speaking. "Perhaps, Dr. Harrison, we could explore how that error might affect the broader theories you're planning to introduce?"

His diplomatic intervention smoothed the moment, though he noticed several classmates—all significantly older—watching them with increased interest.

The rest of the day followed a similar pattern. In each class, Tony's brilliant but unrestrained intellect clashed with traditional teaching methods, while Caspian balanced between supporting his friend and maintaining the careful image his mother had trained him to project.

That evening, after Tony had finally crashed from his excitement-fueled energy rush, Caspian met Walter in the converted basement training room.

"An interesting first day, young master?" Walter asked as Caspian began his warm-up exercises.

"Tony's going to draw a lot of attention," Caspian observed, moving through a complex kata. "Which might actually help me stay less noticed."

"Indeed. Though Director Valemont's reports indicate several students of interest in your year. Children of various intelligence operatives and political figures."

Caspian activated his Emperor Eye, analyzing his own movements for any imperfection. "Mother wants me to watch them?"

"To be aware," Walter corrected. "A Valemont must always understand the landscape they're operating in."

As he continued his training, Caspian reflected on the new chapter beginning in his life. Phillips Academy would be both cover and crucible—a place to build his public persona while continuing his private preparation. And with Tony by his side, it would certainly never be boring.

"Oh, and young master?" Walter added as they finished the session. "Do try to ensure Mr. Stark doesn't actually blow up any laboratories. Director Valemont was quite clear about maintaining the building's structural integrity."

"I make no promises," Caspian replied with a slight smile. "But I'll do my best."