Chapter 2

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Inside the sanctuary of Aqil's home, a symphony of screens surrounded him as JARVIS analyzed the latest prototypes and developments for the Metal Man suit. The room was alive with technological innovation, a reflection of Aqil's unrelenting dedication. But his solitude was short-lived as Putri entered, her expression a blend of determination and concern.

"Aqil, we need to talk," Putri declared, her voice carrying the weight of unresolved issues.

Aqil glanced up from his screens, his brow furrowing. "Can't it wait, Putri? I'm in the midst of—"

"No, it can't wait," Putri interrupted, her tone firm. "We can't keep avoiding this conversation."

The tension between them was palpable, a reflection of the paths their lives had taken since Metal Man's emergence. Aqil was resolute in his commitment to the armor's development, while Putri carried the responsibility of managing Muhtadi Industries.

"You're making more money off the company's common stock than you ever did as CEO," Aqil countered, a hint of frustration edging his words.

Putri's eyes narrowed. "That's not the point, Aqil. Muhtadi Industries isn't just about profits; it's about legacy and impact."

Aqil sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I know, Putri. But I've had enough of being the CEO. I want to focus solely on Metal Man."

Putri's expression wavered between disbelief and frustration. "And what about the company? What about the responsibilities that come with it?"

A tense silence hung in the air as Aqil met Putri's gaze, his resolve unwavering. "That's why I've made a decision."

Putri's eyebrows lifted in surprise, awaiting his words.

"I'm appointing you as the new CEO," Aqil declared, the weight of his decision evident in his voice.

Putri blinked, stunned into silence. The magnitude of his announcement echoed in the room, leaving her grappling with a mix of emotions.

The next day, as sunlight streamed through the windows, a lovely notary public named Lilik Rahayu entered the home. Aqil greeted her with a polite smile, the presence of official documents and the weight of his decision palpable.

"Mr. Muhtadi," Lilik began, her tone professional, "I'm here to oversee the official transfer of Muhtadi Industries to Ms. Putri's name."

Aqil nodded, his expression resolute. As he signed the documents, the gravity of the moment settled upon him. He was relinquishing a part of his past to embrace his future.

Later that day, the spacious training room echoed with the sounds of exertion as Aqil and Harraz engaged in fighting drills. Aqil, clearly immersed in his training, executed a move that was anything but legal in the context of their current training regimen.

Harraz rubbed his side, casting a bemused look at Aqil. "You know this is MMA, not a street brawl, right?"

Aqil chuckled, wiping sweat from his brow. "Old habits die hard, my friend."

The entrance of Lilik Rahayu caught their attention. Aqil introduced her, and Lilik's presence infused a new energy into the room. With a hint of curiosity, Harraz offered, "Would you like to join us for a bit?"

Lilik's lips curled into a confident smile. "I appreciate the offer. How about a quick boxing lesson?"

Harraz's eyebrows shot up in surprise, but he didn't hesitate to step forward, ready to teach her the ropes. As the training session commenced, it became clear that Lilik was no ordinary notary. With precision and grace, she executed a takedown move that left Harraz momentarily stunned.

Aqil and Harraz exchanged surprised glances, and Lilik laughed, her demeanor a delightful blend of professionalism and hidden skills.

"Looks like there's more to me than meets the eye," Lilik quipped, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

As they continued to train, the room resonated with the vibrancy of unexpected connections and the shared pursuit of growth and challenge. In Lilik, Aqil and Harraz had found a new ally, a reminder that even amidst the complexities of life, there was always room for surprises and camaraderie.

The day dawned with a sense of restless purpose. Metal Man's relentless pursuit of the thieves who had stolen his armor technology had become a wild crusade, driven by a determination to prevent his creations from falling into the wrong hands. The battleground shifted, and Aqil found himself in a fierce battle against a formidable opponent, Stingray.

Yet, amidst the sparks of combat, Aqil's realization hit like a lightning bolt: Stingray wasn't the thief. Their battle revealed that another adversary was manipulating events, exploiting Aqil's reputation for their own gain.

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