Chapter 7 - **Chapter 7: The Confrontation at Stark Tower**

**Chapter 7: The Confrontation at Stark Tower** As they gracefully landed on the ground of the city, Lucas and Robin felt adrenaline coursing through their veins. Stark Tower loomed imposing in front of them, reflecting the city lights and emanating an aura of mystery. Lucas couldn't help but think of Tony Stark and how he always seemed to be one step ahead, even in the most dangerous situations. *"Remember, Lucas,"* Robin said, breaking the silence as they walked toward the entrance of the tower. *"Information is key. We need to understand what's going on before we act."* Lucas nodded, recalling the countless times the Avengers had to use their intellect to overcome adversities. He was determined to use not only his elemental abilities but also his cunning. As they approached the main entrance, they noticed heightened security. Surveillance cameras rotated slowly, and armed guards patrolled the area. Robin signaled for Lucas to hide behind a pillar while they observed the guards. *"Looks like they're well prepared,"* Robin whispered. *"But we can use that to our advantage."* Lucas smiled, feeling the energy of the air around him. He raised a hand and summoned a small windstorm to distract the guards. Leaves began to dance, and the guards turned toward the unexpected movement. *"Now!"* Robin shouted, taking advantage of the distraction to quickly advance toward the entrance. The two managed to enter the tower unnoticed, but soon realized they were not alone. Long, bright corridors led to a laboratory where hooded figures were gathered around a table full of technological equipment—something reminiscent of Stark's own projects. *"This must be where they're developing the new weapon,"* Lucas thought, watching closely as he tried to identify any useful information. Suddenly, one of the mercenaries noticed their presence and sounded the alarm. The room was invaded by a group of mercenaries armed with advanced rifles. *"Get ready!"* Robin shouted as he pulled out his futuristic pistol. Lucas quickly positioned himself beside him, focusing on the elements around him. He channeled energy from fire and earth, creating a barrier of flaming rocks that blocked the mercenaries' initial shots. The heat radiated from the barrier as he looked at Robin with determination. *"Now it's your turn!"* Robin commanded. With a swift gesture, Lucas transformed the flames into small fireballs that shot towards the mercenaries, causing them to retreat. But he knew he had to be careful; this wasn't just a physical fight—it was also about protecting innocents and preventing that new weapon from falling into the wrong hands. The mercenaries were quick to react, throwing smoke grenades to disorient them. The room soon filled with thick fog. Lucas closed his eyes for a moment and concentrated on the element of air. He summoned a strong current of wind that quickly dispersed the smoke. When visibility returned, Lucas saw one of them about to attack Robin from behind. With an agile movement, he invoked roots from the earth beneath the mercenary's feet, trapping him in place before he could act. *"Great job!"* Robin shouted as he continued his attack against the other mercenaries. The combat raged intensely, with Lucas using his elemental powers to dodge bullets and counterattack with increasing precision. He was far from perfect but felt he was evolving as a hero. Finally, after a fierce battle, the mercenaries were defeated and under control. Lucas and Robin were panting as they surveyed the now silent laboratory. *"We need to find out what they were developing here,"* Robin said as he examined tables covered with technical documents and weapon prototypes. Lucas approached an active holographic screen in a corner of the room. When he activated it, complex graphics and information about a new type of armament appeared before them—something that could change the course of battles in the city. *"This is even more serious than we thought,"* Lucas murmured while reading about a device capable of amplifying mutant powers—something dangerous in the wrong hands. Robin looked at Lucas with a grave expression. *"We need to take this to our contact at SHIELD immediately."* With this new mission in mind—not only defeating the mercenaries but also preventing a greater catastrophe—they knew they were about to embark on another epic journey worthy of Marvel's greatest heroes. And so, with renewed determination and the weight of responsibility on their shoulders, Lucas and Robin left Stark Tower ready to face the next challenge waiting for them in the shadows of pulsating New York City.