Marvel & Wattpad's Metal Man 2: Armor Wars

Chapter 1

Aqil Muhtadi's life had undergone a dramatic transformation in the six months since he revealed himself as Metal Man to the world. The heroism he had shown, coupled with his technological innovations, had brought about a negotiated peace treaty among the major superpowers. His immense popularity only grew as he fulfilled his late father's dream of reopening the "Muhtadi Expo" in Shah Alam, Selangor, showcasing groundbreaking inventions aimed at benefiting the world.

As the grand event approached, anticipation filled the air. The Expo was a testament to Aqil's determination to make amends for the past and build a brighter future. Aqil's heart swelled with pride as he stood backstage, donned in his full Metal Man regalia. The armor that had once been a tool for survival had now become a symbol of hope and unity.

With a sense of grandeur, Aqil soared into the Expo in his Metal Man suit, a flamboyant entrance that captivated the crowd and solidified his role as the embodiment of world peace. The crowd erupted in cheers, and Aqil addressed them with heartfelt words, expressing his commitment to a future where technology would serve humanity's greatest aspirations.

As the event concluded and Aqil left the stage, the weight of the armor's legacy gave way to a personal struggle. Aqil retreated backstage, away from the adoring public. In the privacy of his quarters, he conducted a quick test of his blood. The truth was harsh: the palladium powering his chest arc reactor, the very heart of his suit, was slowly poisoning his body.

Aqil's heart raced as he grappled with this revelation. The technology that had saved his life was now threatening to take it away. His mind raced with the urgent need to find a solution, not just for himself but for the world he had pledged to protect.

Exiting the Expo, Aqil and his loyal friend Harraz were approached by a woman. She handed Aqil a subpoena, summoning him to appear before a Senate Armed Forces Committee hearing. The weight of responsibility deepened as Aqil read the words, realizing that his actions had drawn the attention of powerful forces beyond his control.

Harraz's brow furrowed in concern. "What's this all about, Aqil?"

Aqil's gaze remained fixed on the subpoena. "I'm being summoned to a Senate hearing. It seems my role as Metal Man has caught the attention of the government."

Harraz crossed his arms. "This could be tricky. You've brought about peace and inspired hope, but there are always those who fear what they don't understand."

Aqil nodded in agreement, his mind racing with the implications of this new challenge. "You're right. I can't ignore this. I have to face it head-on, just like any other threat."

Harraz's eyes met Aqil's, unwavering in their support. "You're not alone in this, Aqil. We'll face whatever comes together."

A hint of a smile tugged at the corners of Aqil's mouth. "Thanks, my friend. Let's head back to the city. We have a road trip to the Kuala Lumpur High, Sessions, and Magistrate Court ahead of us."

With determined hearts, Aqil and Harraz stepped into Aqil's new Audi R8, the engine's roar echoing the challenges that lay ahead. The road ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: Aqil Muhtadi, both as a man and as Metal Man, was ready to confront whatever storm awaited him. 

The morning sun cast a warm glow over Kuala Lumpur as Aqil Muhtadi and Harraz entered the imposing chambers of the Kuala Lumpur High, Sessions, and Magistrate Court. The weight of the upcoming Senate hearing pressed upon Aqil's shoulders, but his usual irreverent humor was never far behind.

As Aqil took his seat before the Senate committee, a sly grin tugged at the corner of his lips. The seriousness of the situation was undeniable, yet he couldn't resist injecting his trademark charm into the proceedings.

Colonel Irsyad, a familiar face from their S.H.I.E.L.D. interactions, stood before the committee to present the investigation into the events surrounding Metal Man's creation. Aqil listened intently, his eyes flickering with a mix of curiosity and mild amusement.

However, as Colonel Irsyad's remarks unfolded, Senator Hadi, the stern committee chairman, seemed to take snippets of his statements out of context. Aqil's eyebrows raised, sensing that things were about to take a complicated turn.

When the floor was finally opened for Aqil to speak, he rose with his usual swagger, his demeanor an effortless blend of confidence and humor. "Ladies and gentlemen of the committee," he began, his voice carrying a mix of charm and audacity, "I must say, it's an honor to be the center of attention once again."

He paused for the expected chuckles, but the mood quickly shifted as the government's classification of his Metal Man armor as a weapon took center stage. Aqil's gaze sharpened, his light-hearted demeanor giving way to focused determination.

Colonel Irsyad's presentation was meticulous, laying out the facts of the investigation. But as the spotlight turned back to Aqil, he seized the opportunity to assert his position. "Let's address the elephant in the room," he said, a spark in his eyes. "Yes, I am Metal Man."

The room buzzed with whispers and camera flashes. Aqil pressed on, his voice unwavering. "But make no mistake, my identity isn't up for negotiation. Handing over the Metal Man armor would be akin to indentured servitude, and I'm not prepared to part with my freedom."

As tension filled the air, Aqil's fingers danced across his tablet, a confident smirk tugging at his lips. "Allow me to demonstrate a point," he quipped. With a few swift taps, the committee's screens displayed video clips of supposed attempts to replicate his armor.

North Korea's version teetered and collapsed, Iran's plummeted to the ground in a fiery explosion, and Malik Industries' prototype turned around 180 degrees, resulting in a catastrophic crash that severed its pilot's spine. The room fell into stunned silence.

Aqil leaned forward, the glint in his eyes resolute. "Gentlemen, ladies, I present to you the culmination of my life's work. My Metal Man armor isn't just a weapon; it's a symbol of hope, progress, and protection. It's a responsibility I won't take lightly."

Senator Hadi's stern expression didn't waver, but there was a spark of begrudging respect in his eyes. Aqil continued, his voice carrying the weight of conviction. "I won't relinquish the armor. Not to any government, organization, or entity. It belongs to humanity, and it will remain in my care."

Aqil rose from his seat, the room's attention squarely on him. With a nod to Colonel Irsyad, acknowledging their shared commitment, Aqil turned and walked out of the hearing. He carried himself with the same unyielding determination he had displayed since his journey began.

As he stepped out into the daylight, Harraz fell in step beside him. "That was quite a performance," Harraz remarked.

Aqil offered a lopsided grin. "Sometimes you have to remind them that heroes can't be controlled. Let's head back, Harraz. There's much to do."