"...Tony Stark: dreamer, genius, patriot. From his teenage years onward, as the son of legendary weapons developer Howard Stark, he had quickly drawn attention with his extraordinary intellect. At the age of four, he built a circuit board; at six, he made his first engine; at seventeen, he graduated from MIT with top honors..."
Dr. Connors stared blankly at the documentary playing on the screen, which proved that Tony Stark really was a genius. Hadn't they agreed to attend the awards dinner together? Where had Sean and Harry gone?
The anxious middle-aged scientist sitting below was now troubled by three ancient philosophical questions, while thunderous applause erupted throughout the venue. Colonel Rhodey, the military representative, stepped onto the stage to speak—
"As Stark Industries' military liaison, I have had the privilege of working with a true patriot. He is both my mentor and my friend. Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to present this year's highest award to Mr. Tony Stark!"
As his words fell, lively music began at just the right moment, followed by another burst of applause. The guests below looked around, searching for the scientific genius.
Colonel Rhodey called out several times with the trophy in hand, but Tony Stark still did not appear. Only when he noticed Obadiah below constantly shaking his head did he seem to understand, a helpless expression appearing on his face.
Stark Industries' CEO, Obadiah Stane, hurriedly rose and took the stage to save the situation. Cleaning up after Tony's reckless behavior was practically routine for him. People often saw only the brilliant halo surrounding Stark, the genius, but rarely paid attention to whose hard work had allowed Stark Industries, spanning two generations, to achieve its current glorious status.
Dr. Connors sipped champagne, thinking that young people these days were truly