Marvel: Ned the Master of Mystic Arts

Although this world seemed like his original one, with all familiar details intact, Ned Leeds knew one thing for certain: to everyone else, he was officially dead. After all, he had "died" during the Battle of New York.

Now a "ghost" in the eyes of the world, Ned needed a way to return without causing a stir. Among everyone he knew, only Tony Stark had the resources and audacity to pull off something so impossible.

"I need to meet Tony Stark," Ned said with a resigned expression to the security guard blocking his path. "Please report this to your higher-ups and mention the name Mystic—"

Before he could finish, Ned's eyes caught a familiar figure approaching the entrance.

"Hey! Happy!"

Ned instantly recognized Happy Hogan. Though they had only briefly crossed paths during the events of Avengers: Endgame, Happy's appearance remained nearly identical. Even though he was slightly younger and visibly more energetic now, there was no mistaking him.

However, the security guard, unimpressed, stepped forward and cut him off. "Sir, I don't know if you're some kind of journalist or a desperate fan, but people like you try to meet Mr. Stark every day. If you continue to cause a scene here, tomorrow's headlines will read, 'Stark Industries Security Beats Up Disabled Man.'"

The guard's dismissive tone and broad stance were clearly meant to intimidate.

"What's going on here?"

Happy's booming voice broke through the tension as he approached, his usual no-nonsense demeanor immediately setting the scene right.

"Sir, just another pushy journalist trying to meet Mr. Stark," the guard quickly explained, eager to deflect blame.

Ned seized the opportunity. "Happy, it's me—Ned Leeds. You probably don't recognize me, but Stark does. He knows me as the 'Mystic Sorcerer.' I really need to talk to him."

Ned's blunt self-introduction was deliberate. On the way here, he had confirmed through a cab driver that no one in New York remembered the name "Mystic Sorcerer." During the Battle of New York, his fearsome appearance—accentuated by the Pain Mask he wore—had earned him the nickname "The Phantom Demon" among the locals.

It wasn't a name Ned particularly liked, but it was a reality he couldn't change.

"You don't need to say more," Happy interrupted, scrutinizing Ned with narrowed eyes. "You can come upstairs with me, or if you prefer, wait in the lounge. After I finish some business, we'll head to Stark's place together."

Happy's trust in Ned was surprising, especially given his usual cautious nature. Allowing someone to share a ride with Pepper Potts, Tony Stark's closest confidante, was a privilege rarely extended to anyone.

"Thanks. I'll wait in the lounge," Ned replied, deciding not to push his luck.

"Good. Take this." Happy handed over his security badge. "Pepper's always thorough with her work, so you might have to wait a while. If you get bored, this badge gives you free access around the building."

"Thanks," Ned said, taking the badge with a nod.

As Happy walked away toward the private elevator, he cast a subtle glance at Ned's empty left sleeve. Though the movement was barely noticeable, Ned's keen awareness picked up on it instantly.

'What was that about?' Ned wondered, puzzled. 'Happy doesn't seem like the type to judge people based on disabilities. He's been close to Rhodey after all.'

With those thoughts lingering, Ned followed a receptionist into the lounge, leaving the now-sweating security guard in stunned silence.

Inside the Elevator

Happy's expression turned serious as the elevator doors closed. "Jarvis."

"Yes, Mr. Hogan?" Jarvis's smooth, calm voice echoed within the elevator.

"I need you to contact Tony. This is urgent."

"Mr. Stark is currently upgrading his next-generation Iron Man suit. I can leave him a message and ensure it reaches him immediately," Jarvis replied.

"Do it," Happy said firmly. "The Mystic Sorcerer is back—Ned Leeds, the kid whose grandmother Tony once secretly asked me to watch over. He's returned."

Happy paused, his tone darkening. "And he's missing an arm."

"The strongest and most mysterious superhero from the Battle of New York has reappeared after a year-long disappearance—and someone, or something, has taken his left arm. This could mean a new, powerful threat is emerging. Tony needs to be prepared."

"Understood, Mr. Hogan. I will relay your message to Mr. Stark immediately," Jarvis confirmed.

"Good. Thanks, Jarvis."

As Jarvis's voice faded, the elevator doors opened, and Happy stepped out, heading straight for Pepper Potts's office. He had made up his mind—interrupting Pepper's work was rarely a good idea, but this time, it was necessary.

Pepper's Office

"Bam!"

The door to Pepper's office burst open, startling her.

"Oh my God, Happy!" Pepper exclaimed, her irritation clear.

Normally, anyone who barged into her office unannounced would face an intense reprimand. But knowing Happy as a close family friend, she took a deep breath and calmed her racing heartbeat.

"What's going on?" she asked, now sensing the urgency behind Happy's actions.

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