From Battlefields to Bright Lights: How the Avengers Adapted to Their Global Spotlight
Kimmie Hans, Entertainment Correspondent
6/29/2012
In the aftermath of the Battle of New York, the Avengers and the Iron Family have become household names—heroes who fought to save the planet from an alien invasion. But with global fame comes a new kind of challenge: adapting to the limelight. Over the past month, the team has embarked on a press tour to connect with the public, answer questions, and—surprisingly—show a lighter side of themselves.
From late-night shows to children's programming, Earth's Mightiest Heroes are proving they can handle media appearances as skillfully as they handle intergalactic threats.
Saving the World, One Episode at a TimeFor Tony Stark and Dr. Bruce Banner, the dynamic duo of science and wit, the press tour was an opportunity to inspire and educate. Their appearance on Sesame Street stole hearts as they explained simple science concepts with Grover and Elmo. Tony, never missing a chance to make learning fun, helped Grover "fix" a toy spaceship with basic tools and engineering tips. Meanwhile, Bruce—calm, gentle, and relatable—showed Elmo how to measure ingredients for "Hulk's Super Green Smoothie," emphasizing the importance of balance (a clever nod to his own struggles with the Hulk).
Tony and Bruce followed up their wholesome Sesame Street visit with an appearance on Bill Nye the Science Guy. Nye, a hero in his own right for young science enthusiasts, welcomed them with open arms as they dove into topics like clean energy, arc reactor technology, and the science behind gamma radiation (explained carefully for young viewers). Banner's calm demeanor balanced Stark's charismatic energy, and the result was educational gold.
"If anyone can make quantum mechanics and clean energy cool, it's Tony Stark and Bruce Banner," Nye said at the end of the show. "These two are walking proof of how science changes the world—and, in their case, saves it."
Late-Night LegendsThe entire Avengers team—along with members of the Iron Family—came together for a highly anticipated appearance on The Late Show, hosted by David Letterman. The segment started off light, with Letterman poking fun at Steve Rogers' struggles to adapt to modern life:
"Steve, I hear you still haven't mastered texting. Is that true?"
Rogers, ever the good sport, grinned. "I'm getting there. Margaret's trying to help, but I think Tony's still hiding my phone."
James Barnes, seated next to Rogers, chimed in: "He's better at using the shield than technology. Give him time."
The conversation quickly turned to the realities of the Battle of New York. Margaret Stark, the Avengers' Initiative Director and Iron Peacemaker, spoke earnestly about the public's trust and the responsibility the team feels.
"We're not perfect. None of us asked for this level of attention, but we understand why it's there. People need to know we're here for them—not just when aliens attack, but whenever we can make a difference."
Natasha Romanoff and Clint Barton, often seen as the quieter members of the team, revealed unexpected wit and humor. When asked about life as Avengers, Natasha shrugged:
"One day you're fighting aliens. The next you're covered in glitter on Sesame Street. I'm adjusting."
Clint added with a grin: "I'm just glad Elmo didn't get his hands on my arrows."
Loki, appearing more subdued than his teammates, offered an apology to the audience for his actions during the invasion. "There is much I cannot undo, but I will spend the rest of my days ensuring I make amends." His words were met with polite applause, showing a cautious but hopeful reception from the public.
The segment ended with Tony Stark jokingly presenting Letterman with a cardboard cutout of himself wearing the Bisexual Pride flag from last month's parade.
"Every team needs a little Tony Stark," he said with a wink.
Adjusting to FameFor many Avengers, sudden worldwide fame has been a challenge. Steve Rogers, once a man out of time, has found himself a symbol of hope yet again. Margaret Stark balances her public duties with the weight of leadership, while Natasha and Clint maintain their preference for working behind the scenes. Bruce Banner, who has spent years trying to escape the spotlight, now finds himself celebrated as both a scientist and a hero.
James Barnes, perhaps the most reserved of the team, expressed his gratitude for being welcomed back into the world he once thought he'd lost:
"I fought for freedom once. I thought I lost it. Being here now, being part of this team—it's a second chance I never thought I'd get."
The Avengers have shown through their press tour that they are more than just superheroes. They're people—flawed, funny, and earnest—who have stepped into the public eye with grace and humility.
The Bigger PictureThe Avengers' presence in media isn't just about interviews or photo ops; it's about connection. Whether it's Tony Stark teaching kids about clean energy, Natasha Romanoff playing tag on Sesame Street, or Steve Rogers embracing modern life with humor and humility, the team is showing the world that heroes are human, too.
And as the press tour wraps up, one thing is clear: the Avengers may have saved New York, but now, they're winning hearts.
Line Break
It was the first annual Stark Industries, New York, Fourth of July picnic, and the Iron Family, and the Avengers were out in force. Even some of the Legacies had come out, after meeting the team at Tony and Grey's birthday bash. Sharon had missed both, with Fury keeping her busy with various missions and operations, sending her out of the country any time Sharon even thought about asking for time off.
Steve was umpiring a baseball game with Trip and Katherine Dugan as opposing team captains. Tony and Bruce had taken over a picnic table and were lecturing half the science department on something Tony had discovered that morning; CERN had discovered a Higgs Boson particle.
Jim was walking along with Helen, their arms intertwined, and their heads lowered so they could whisper to each other. Grey waved as they walked past where she was holding court with Pepper, Hali, Jayne, and Loki. They were discussing the backlash that came with their public appearance at New York's Pride Parade just last weekend. It was scathing but not slander or libel.
"I'm just saying, it's possible to be both," Grey said, gesturing with the plastic cup of wine she had in one hand. "My appearance at Pride can be masterful public relations, and a genuine thing!"
"I'm both," James said, swooping in to refill the cups with the expensive wine bottle he carried. Most of the party was enjoying beers from various kegs scattered around the party, but Grey had smuggled in two bottles of Chenin Blanc, and the family was sipping on those instead. Grey gave James a look that suggested he'd made the same joke every day since Pride (he had.)
"Yes, James, you're a bisexual icon, we get it," Jayne teased, shaking her head when offered the wine. "Well, GQ put you on the cover, so at this point, you're just an icon. Men and women everywhere are daydreaming about being in your arms."
"Pride was a success," Grey continued, as if no one else had ever spoken. If it weren't for the amused look in her eyes, even her family would've thought she hadn't heard them. "The tower opening was a success, hell, all the press we did last month was a success. The Avengers are trending, Stark Industries is making profit like it'll go out of style, and Marvel has three new projects."
"But you're bored," Pepper put in, knowing Grey well enough to guess.
"But I'm bored. I got used to going on missions every other week," Grey said with an exaggerated sigh. "And I should be glad there's nothing catastrophic happening, but I've got too much energy."
"You wanna do something," Hali translated. While not certified as a therapist, or a psychiatrist, Hali always made herself available to talk with Grey if she was struggling. "Why not ask James to teach you to fight with batons, like you were talking about. It'd be something new, it's physical, so it'll help with the energy, and you love learning new things!"
"That's a really good idea," Pepper encouraged. "James, what do you think?"
"I think Natasha would be a better teacher for that," James said, a gentle smile on his face. "She learned batons – I never truly did."
"Where is Natasha?" Grey asked, scanning the area for her signature red hair. James pointed her out, by the playground with Clint and Allie, who came out with her wife and kids. Zora and Natasha were running through Cap's obstacle course, something that had been put in place in mid-June, when the city realized that Captain America ran through the park every morning. Stark Industries sponsored it, making sure that while safe for baseline humans, it was sturdy enough for future enhanced to play on. Zora was shrieking and giggling madly, pretending to run from Natasha. "I'll ask her this evening; we can start it when I get back from the convention next week. I'm only going out for Friday and Saturday. I have one appearance to make at hall H, then I'm wandering the booths, taking pictures with cosplayers, and coming back home."
"You didn't have to go last year," Pepper said, confused.
"Last year I didn't release an international hit movie about a real-life superhero that isn't as dead as the world used to believe," Grey said with an eyebrow raise. She took a sip of her wine and shook her head. "I have to admit, even with him being found, I wasn't expecting the movie to be that good."
"What are you working on now?" Loki asked, finally finding his way into the conversation. He flushed as Grey beamed at him for participating. She did every time he spoke up in a group setting, leaving him to marvel at how accepting she was.
"Well, I'm working on dad's origin story. His time in the cave, coming back, I'm having him discover that it was Stane behind it all, and giving him a slightly bigger betrayal. Script's with the editors right now, making sure it's his movie and not mine." Grey laughed, and so did Pepper, who was the only one in the group that knew just how much Grey had altered Tony's origin story. "Giving myself a reduced role. I'm not the main character, dad is."
"Grey, you are definitely the main character in any story," Jayne said, laughing brightly. Steve chose that moment to walk over, one arm still around Trip's shoulders as they approached. "Hey Trip, Steve."
"Hello," Steve said, suddenly shy with six pairs of eyes on him. "Um, Trip was telling me that there would be fireworks tonight, we were just wanting to know what time?"
"Sunset is around eight thirty tonight, so likely around then," Pepper said, glancing at her watch. Bambi likely told her what time sunset was, whispering in her ear, like they always did with Grey. "We're planning on watching from the helipad since they'll be launched over the water."
The helipad pointed north, giving the family perfect views to the east and west. The panoramic windows made it, so they had an unobstructed view in every direction, perfect for when New Years hit and made it too cold to go outside to watch fireworks.
"How'd you like the cinnamon roll breakfast, for your birthday?" James asked. Since his first birthday, cinnamon rolls had become his favorite tradition, even beating out family game night.
"Great surprise, is that a tradition within the Initiative?" Steve glanced at Grey, slowly starting to understand that she always had all the answers. Sometimes it grated on him, not already having the answers himself, but Grey was always kind about it and never made anyone feel stupid for not knowing. Steve thought to himself that she would've made a great schoolteacher, if things had been different.
"It's a family tradition, Steve," Grey said with a gentle smile. "My mom talked about it to the nurses before I was born, they told dad, he insisted on doing it every year. Except for when I was eight and he decided to try and make them from scratch. We didn't have cinnamon rolls that year."
"Tony can cook, he can't bake," Pepper said in fond exasperation. "I still think hiring Lyn was the smartest move we made."
"You're welcome," Grey said, bowing her head. Pepper laughed, one hand on her baby belly. She wore another maternity jumper, her favorite thing to wear when she wasn't at work. Tony and Grey had bought her one in nearly every color. "Speaking of, last night I approved the menu for the month. We're having Norma Turtle Bay on Tuesday for game night."
"Pizza takeout on game night, could you be a bigger cliché?" James teased. Grey simply raised an eyebrow as she looked at him. He started to dread whatever idea she was having behind her blank look.
"We're playing Monopoly," Grey said dryly. James groaned, knowing none of the Starks took Monopoly lightly. No one was sure who was the worst, Pepper or Grey.
"What's wrong with Monopoly?" Steve asked. Grey and Pepper had matching devious smiles. Steve suddenly found himself nervous.
Stark Industries Fourth of July Picnic Brings Family, Fun, and a Big Announcement
Christine Everhart, Stark Industries News
Yesterday, Central Park was alive with celebration as Stark Industries hosted its first annual New York Fourth of July picnic. With record turnout, beautiful weather, and the perfect mix of food, festivities, and family, it's clear that Stark Industries knows how to bring people together. Employees, their families, and even some special guests—Earth's Mightiest Heroes—gathered to mark Independence Day in what's already being hailed as the event of the summer.
A Celebration for the Ages
Stark Industries, voted "Best Place to Work" for two years running, demonstrated once again why its culture remains unmatched. Set against the iconic backdrop of Central Park, the event was a perfect blend of community and camaraderie, where employees mingled with the Iron Family and Avengers alike.
Tony Stark and Dr. Bruce Banner were spotted holding court with a group of research scientists, enthusiastically discussing the recent discovery of the Higgs Boson particle—perhaps a bit of light science talk for the summer picnic crowd. Still, many were thrilled to engage with two of the brightest minds of their time.
Meanwhile, Steve Rogers, Captain America himself, embraced the all-American tradition of baseball, stepping in as umpire for an employee-family game. His calls were fair, though some playful ribbing could be heard from both sides—Rogers taking it all in stride with a smile and a well-timed "Play ball!"
Natasha Romanoff and Clint Barton, ever the team players, took to "Cap's Obstacle Course," a new addition to the running trail installed earlier this year in Rogers' honor. The two Avengers spent the better part of the afternoon laughing and racing through the course with the youngest picnic attendees, proving that even superheroes can appreciate a good jungle gym challenge.
Margaret Stark and Pepper Potts were the heart of the gathering, walking through the crowd to greet employees and their families, sharing stories, and making sure no guest felt out of place.
A Family Announcement to Remember
As the sun began to set and the fireworks display loomed, Tony Stark and Pepper Potts gathered everyone's attention for a surprise announcement. In a moment that felt equal parts joyous and intimate, the couple shared that they are expecting their first child together. Pepper, radiant in a maternity jumpsuit, revealed that the baby is due in late November.
"We've had so much to celebrate this year already, but this is by far our biggest news," Tony said, grinning ear to ear. "Pepper and I are thrilled, and we're so excited to share this moment with all of you—our extended Stark Industries family."
Margaret Stark, standing proudly beside the couple, was quick to add her excitement:
"I can't wait to be the world's coolest big sister. And no, I'm not open to negotiations on that title."
The announcement was met with enthusiastic cheers, congratulations, and, of course, a standing ovation for the growing Stark family.
Why Stark Industries Sets the Standard
What sets Stark Industries apart isn't just their technological advancements or their commitment to innovation—it's their dedication to people. The Fourth of July picnic underscored the company's values of community, family, and inclusivity. From fun-filled activities to moments of meaningful connection, employees felt valued and appreciated, further cementing Stark Industries as a leader not only in the tech world but as an employer.
"This company isn't just a place to work—it's a family," said one employee. "The fact that we can celebrate alongside our leaders and heroes shows just how much they care."
A Night of Fireworks and Gratitude
As dusk fell, the picnic concluded with a spectacular fireworks display sponsored by Stark Industries. The colorful bursts of light over the water served as a fitting end to a day of joy, connection, and gratitude.
With a growing family, thriving employees, and a continued commitment to the betterment of the world, the Stark Family and Stark Industries have plenty to celebrate. Yesterday's picnic was more than a company event—it was a powerful reminder of what it means to stand together, both as a family and as a team.
Congratulations to Tony and Pepper on their growing family, and to Stark Industries for showing the world how to celebrate in style.
Line Break
Margaret Stark Shocks Fans with Surprise Appearance at San Diego Comic-Con
Riley Grant, Entertainment Correspondent
San Diego Comic-Con's Hall H is no stranger to surprises, but this year, the biggest shock came from none other than Margaret Stark herself. The Iron Peacemaker and Director of the Avengers Initiative made an unexpected appearance during Captain America: The First Avenger panel, interrupting Chris Evans mid-sentence in a moment that sent the room into a frenzy.
Evans, who was discussing what it's like to work alongside Margaret Stark as the writer of The First Avenger film, was in the middle of a playful question: "I wonder what Margaret herself would say about working with us?" Before he could finish, Stark stepped onto the stage with her trademark smirk and a microphone in hand, quipping:
"I'd say you all did a pretty good job of making me cry into my popcorn. Nice work, Chris."
The room erupted into applause and laughter, with stunned cast members and fans alike cheering on the unexpected guest. Hall H, already packed with eager convention-goers, buzzed with electric energy as Margaret took a seat alongside the cast for a few moments.
A Moment for the Fans
Margaret, who is as much a public figure as a superhero, took the opportunity to share her appreciation for the fans and for the actors portraying her team in the film.
"It's surreal to see Steve and James' story brought to life like this, and to know people care about it as much as I do. I'm just a kid who grew up with Marvel comics. Seeing these characters on screen—and the love you all give them—is unreal."
The surprise appearance was especially meaningful for fans who have come to see Stark not just as a superhero but as an advocate for storytelling, inclusivity, and leadership. Her involvement in Marvel Comics since her time as its President has made her an icon, bridging the gap between real-life heroism and the fictional heroes so many look up to.
A Legendary Comic-Con Moment
Social media exploded almost immediately after Stark's entrance, with #MargaretStark, #IronPeacemaker, and #SDCC trending within minutes. Fans took to Twitter to share videos, reactions, and memes celebrating the moment.
HeroFan123: "Margaret Stark casually interrupting Chris Evans is THE energy I want to carry into the rest of 2012. Hall H just witnessed history. ️ #SDCC #IronPeacemaker"
AvengersFanForever: "She just walked in like she owns Comic-Con (because she does). Margaret Stark is the queen we don't deserve. #SDCC"
While Margaret didn't stay for long, her brief appearance left a lasting impression, creating one of the most talked-about moments of Comic-Con 2012. For fans, it was a reminder of the real-life heroes behind the stories that inspire them—and a testament to Stark's ability to connect with people in any room she walks into.
As Hall H attendees buzzed with excitement long after she exited the stage, one thing was clear: whether on the battlefield or on the big screen, Margaret Stark knows exactly how to make an entrance.
Line Break
"Oh, fuck you, Stark," Steve groaned as he landed on Grey's freshly hoteled Boardwalk.
"Fuck me yourself, you coward," Grey said back, holding out her hand for the pile of fake money. Steve turned a violent shade of red as the rest of the team laughed at his expense. Natasha and Clint exchanged a pile of real money, betting on the outcome. So far, Grey had bankrupted both her parents, and Jim with just three sets of unmortgaged properties. The red, the dark blue, and the light blue. Steve, who had just bought a green property, counted out the last of his cash, and mortgaged a railroad. Grey danced in her seat as she accepted the money. "Are you sure you don't want to concede, Steve? Might save you some money, there."
James and Loki were sitting on the couch, watching the brutal defeat with amusement clear on their faces. James was whispering to him the best way to win. Steve was the last man standing, getting his own monopoly of the yellow properties, beating out Tony, who was aiming for violet, red and yellow.
"Just never play against a Stark," James stage whispered, sending a glance at the Stark women. They looked back at him, unimpressed. "They're all brutal."
"They take these games of finance more seriously than the royal hunts of Asgard," Loki said.
"They take everything seriously," Natasha added from the other side of the room.
"Except aliens, those are a joke," Grey said.
"And we frequently laugh at how stupid nazi's are now-a-days," Tony said, frowning at an email. Grey glanced over, wondering why he was thinking of nazis while answering emails. Tony flashed her the email, it was a security concern after Pride, the nazi protestors migrated to stand outside Stark Tower.
"No, we won that war," Steve said, alarmed.
"Ha," Grey said loudly, still sneering at the thought of nazi's outside her tower. "We won the civil war too, people are still racist, buddy. Just wait, nazi's still exist. I saw a group of ten protesting Pride, over near Kip's Bay."
"Nazis. In this year? Are you sure?" Steve asked. Grey turned her sour expression to him, letting him read the disappointment on her face. "Put me back in the ice."
"I felt that way, too," James said. "Especially learning what Hitler and his duck-footed lunatics did."
"Oh, I saw something about that in the welcome packet, didn't I?" Loki asked, eager to show off his newest earth knowledge, even if he found the subject matter abhorrent. "Hitler was a political leader in Germany, and you two fought against him."
"Yes. What we didn't know, at the time, was that Hitler was having his soldiers gather up any people of a certain religious belief or sexual preference and having them slaughtered."
"That's… horrifying," Loki said, going pale. A glance around showed that the entire family found it despicable, proving again to Loki that these were good people. He didn't often find himself needing reassurance about it, it was very clear, but Loki felt comforted, knowing that they continued to prove it.
"That's why if you ever see someone waving the nazi flag, you're allowed to punch them," Grey said sagely.
"No, because you'll get arrested," Tony said firmly.
"I can afford bail," Grey said, cocky. Pepper raised an unimpressed eyebrow, and Grey deflated. "I will not punch another person unless I have been given legal recourse, or they strike me first."
"Or they're holding nazi shit," Steve said, suddenly grumpy. It was likely the Nazi talk, Grey made a mental note to check in with him, see how he was doing. "That's reason enough."
"I'm with Steve," James said. "Nazis are fair game."
"I'm not gonna win this, am I?" Pepper asked. Tony and Grey both shook their heads. "Just try to stay out of jail, yeah? And the press."
"I will do my absolute best, mom," Grey promised, looking innocent as she rolled the dice. She moved the Scottie dog onto the railroad Steve just mortgaged, causing him to throw his hands up in the air.
"I give. Grey is the undisputed Monopoly champion. What do they teach you kids in the future?"
"It's just her, she's a menace," Tony said. Chenin chose that moment to chase Alpine into the common area. Alpine leapt over the table. Chenin was significantly less graceful and took out the board, the bank, and Grey's glass of wine. All the monopoly houses and hotels scattered as they fell to the floor. "And so is her cat."
"Chenin the Menace, I'm telling you," Grey said, shaking her head as she pulled the bank off the floor. "I need a new glass of wine, damn."
Twitter Break
QueenMargaretStark:
Some say Monopoly is about luck. I say it's about crushing your enemies and making them mortgage everything they own.
RescueMachine:
She said, "It's just business, Mom." I've never been more proud or more terrified. #MonopolyChampion
CoffeeAndArrows:
How does Margaret even win Boardwalk AND Park Place in one turn? It's witchcraft.
IamIronMan:
I invented a flying suit and got outclassed by my own daughter in Monopoly. That's it. I'm calling my lawyers.
BlackWidowBaby:
Margaret Stark: World's most ruthless Monopoly player. A name whispered in fear across Stark Tower.
NewYorkerAtHeart:
Clint Barton blaming "witchcraft" for Monopoly losses is the highlight of my week.
ClintIsMyFav:
Clint Barton complaining about being bankrupt is the most relatable thing I've seen today.
TeamStarkAlways:
Game night at Stark Tower? BRB, imagining Tony Stark flipping a table over losing Boardwalk to Margaret.
Line Break
James was asleep, until he wasn't. His girlfriend sitting upright and shouting ruined any thoughts he was having of going back to sleep, until his mind caught up with him, and he realized that Grey was shouting at someone, rather than just yelling from a nightmare.
"What's happening?" James asked, sitting up and immediately reaching for a shirt. The lights came on in the room, and James could see that Grey was doing the same thing.
"There was a shooting," Grey said, grim faced. "Bambi, I need to go to the office."
"Is this an Avengers thing?"
"No, there's nothing for us to respond to, it's already over. Bambi, what's local law saying?" The TV in the room came on with three muted news feeds, each one in front of the same theater.
"Around twelve thirty, local time, the shooter reentered the theater wearing tactical gear. He released tear gas and fired three types of weapons. A Smith and Wesson semi-automatic, a Remington Express Tactical shotgun, and a Stark Industries twenty-two model weapon. I've tracked the serial number; it was sold legally."
"Fatalities and injuries? Bring up a news feed for me." Grey sat back on the bed with her tablet and watched the muted news as Bambi continued reporting, using the bedroom speakers so James could hear as well.
There were ten declared dead in the theater, with seventy injured and two in critical condition. News outlets were already calling this the most victims in a shooting in American history. Grey tried not to cry, knowing it was going to get worse.
"One of the victims in the theater was a six-year-old girl," Bambi reported. Grey gagged.
"How can I help?" James asked, taking one of Grey's hands in his own. She looked at him, and he could see how much this was killing her.
"There's nothing I can do here, but release another statement on how abhorrent we find gun violence, you up to sparring? Bambi, email Jayne, and have her write something up for me, get it out there with the morning news. I want a statement from mom and dad too."
"Send the Pepper Stark foundation," James suggested, rummaging in a drawer for the hand wraps he preferred for sparring. He tossed a pink set over his shoulder to Grey, who absently started wrapping her wrist.
Standing With Aurora: A Message from the Stark Family
Jayne Vittori, Stark Industries
At twelve thirty, on July 20th, tragedy struck the community of Aurora, Colorado, when a senseless act of violence took the lives of twelve innocent people and injured dozens more at the Century 16 movie theater. Today, the Stark Family wants to make one thing clear: they grieve with Aurora, they stand with Aurora, and they refuse to remain silent in the wake of this abhorrent act.
Among the weapons used by the shooter was a Stark Industries 22 handgun, legally sold before the Stark weapons program was shut down in 2010. Though this gun was obtained lawfully, it is a gut-wrenching reminder of how weapons—regardless of origin or intent—can fall into the wrong hands and be used to cause unimaginable harm.
Margaret Stark, Director of the Avengers Initiative and a powerful voice for accountability, shared the family's sentiments in a personal statement:
"We made the decision to shut down Stark Industries' weapons program because we knew that the path we were on was unsustainable. That decision was the right one, but moments like this are a painful reminder that we can't erase the past—we can only take responsibility for the future. This is not about policy. This is about people. The victims, their families, their community—we are thinking of them, mourning with them, and doing everything we can to help them heal."
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the Stark Family and Stark Industries are taking immediate action. The Pepper Stark Foundation will fund a complete redesign of the Century 16 theater, ensuring that it becomes a place of light, hope, and community rather than a symbol of loss. The redesign will include enhanced safety measures, green energy measures, and a community memorial space honoring the victims.
Additionally, the Stark Family Trust will partner with the hospitals caring for the injured to help cover medical expenses for survivors and their families. The Stark Family believes no one should have to shoulder the financial burden of recovery in the wake of such a devastating act.
Pepper Potts, CEO of Stark Industries, shared her heartbreak over the tragedy:
"What happened in Aurora is incomprehensible. No words can bring back those who were lost or erase the pain felt by their families and the survivors. But what we can do—and what we will do—is stand with them. We will help rebuild. We will help heal."
The Stark Family has long been a lightning rod for public scrutiny, and they've often faced the weight of accountability for Stark Industries' past. Yet this time, it is not about optics or narratives—it is about people.
"The weapons we made—legally or not—have a legacy that I will carry for the rest of my life," Tony Stark said in a brief statement. "I will never stop working to undo the damage my past has caused."
The Pepper Stark Foundation and Stark Family Trust are working closely with local leaders, the theater's management, and community members to ensure that this response is both meaningful and impactful. For the Stark Family, this isn't just about repairing a building—it's about restoring a community's faith, strength, and sense of safety.
In times of tragedy, words can feel hollow. But Margaret, Tony, Pepper, and the entire Stark Family hope their actions will speak louder. Aurora is not alone in this, and they will not be forgotten.
For those wishing to donate or support survivors, the Stark Family has provided resources through the Pepper Stark Foundation website. Because healing, they believe, is something we do together.
Pepper found them two hours later, sweaty and exhausted as they finally stopped sparring to greet her. James looked at Pepper in relief, knowing Grey needed something other than sparring to work through all the emotions she was feeling.
"Are you okay?" Pepper asked. She knew about the shooting; Bambi had filled her in the minute she woke up.
"Two more people died enroute to the hospital. Twelve dead, seventy injured, in a movie theater, is nowhere safe?" Grey lashed out, kicking the bag next to her, sending it swinging wildly with the force of her anger. "How many kids are going to die before the motherfuckers in our government are going to do something?"
Grey's face screwed up as she finally moved from fury to heartbreak and started crying. Pepper was quick to pull her into her arms and let her cry. James helped Pepper sit on the floor, absently adjusting Grey's leg so it didn't hurt her later, then left. He knew Pepper was the best person to help Grey work through her emotions.
"Talk to me," Pepper said softly, knowing it was best to get it out.
"A dozen dead. Over five times that dead, because some psychopath was given access to a gun. I hope the motherfucker fries." Grey's rage flared, and Pepper could almost feel her temperature rise as she worked herself back up. "I hope he rots in whatever prison they send him to. I hope they make him listen to victim impact statements on loop."
"The courts will see to him. People were killed, he will get what he deserves," Pepper promised, hoping that she was right.
The two sat there for almost an hour before Grey's leg started twinging in pain. Grey stood and rubbed her hip for a moment, before picking Pepper up and setting her on her feet. Once both women were up, they cut through the locker rooms, Grey to splash water on her tear-streaked face, Pepper to run to the bathroom.
"There you are," James sighed in relief when the girls walked into the labs. He checked on Grey first, making sure she was alright. After her nod, James said, "he will not stop. Make him stop."
"There's going to be a solar storm on Monday, and it's going to throw off all the satellites we need to fully program Veronica," Tony said. Bruce glanced up from his computer screen and nodded emphatically. Grey simply rolled her eyes. It was staggering to her, to go from grieving a shooting to switching into science mode, but she did it with grace, pushing her problems to the side to deal with the newest problem in front of her.
"Does Veronica need programmed on Monday, or is it something we can only do on that day?" Grey asked, cutting her dad off. He opened his mouth to speak, but Grey held up her hand. "Yes or no. Is it something that can only be done Monday?"
"No," Tony muttered petulantly.
"Then wait. We can't control the sun, dad. Let her win this fight," Grey said, slipping back into teasing, her mood changing based on what was happening around her. "On that note, I have paperwork. I'll be out for lunch. Bambi, make sure I'm up here for lunch. I do not want to lose a full day to fucking paperwork."
Grey's voice trailed off as she took the stairs back up to her apartment, where she would, in fact, lose a full day to her paperwork. Bambi would make sure someone brought her lunch and fetched her for dinner.
"Paperwork on a Saturday?" Tony asked, his face scrunching in disgust. While he loved science, and inventing, and coding, he hated the paperwork that came with it all.
"She's grieving," Pepper explained. Bruce looked up and frowned.
"Grieving? Did something happen?"
"There was a mass shooting at a theater in Colorado," Pepper said, shaking her head in fury. "Twelve dead, seventy injured."
"Jesus Christ," Bruce said, taking his glasses off as he straightened up. "Did she see this one? She's gotta be crushed."
"She takes them all personally. Tony, if we don't give her something to do about gun violence, she's going to run for office and ban weapons outright," Pepper said. James sighed.
"What if we sponsored a buy back? She's mentioned that before," James offered.
"I'll run it past legal and finance," Pepper promised, pressing a kiss to Tony's cheek, then putting her hand on James' shoulder. "Thank you, for taking care of my daughter."
"Anytime, Peps," James said. Pepper took her leave, leaving the three boys alone. "So, what's the plan?"
"Grey put in a request for non-lethal self-defense options for her and Pep. I was thinking sound waves."
"In the suit?"
"No, for when they're out of the suit," Tony explained. He brought up a new screen, showing the designs for the Iron Family bracelets that they all wore daily. "I want to condense a gauntlet into it. With a sonic disrupter."
"I think I can help with that," Bruce offered, glancing up from his workstation. "I was actually looking at something along those lines, let me save this really quick. If you want another set of hands, that is."
"The more the merrier, Brucie-bear," Tony said, beaming at the scientist. "Now, this was what I was thinking."
Line Break
"Heard you had an exciting morning," Loki said as he knocked on the door to James' office. "Is Lady Grey unwell?"
"There was a mass shooting today, in Colorado, she hates gun violence. Come on in," James said, gesturing for Loki to take a seat. James felt for the wayward prince, and wished he was able to do more to help him settle. He was working weekly with his PR rep, and his therapist, and was actually the first one to finish their welcome packets after they'd been handed out. "What brings you to my office?"
"Restlessness," Loki said, quickly sitting and looking at his hands. "I know I am not yet allowed to travel unsupervised by Lady Grey, but is there anything I can do?"
James thought about it for a few minutes, then smiled and said, "there are a few of us that aren't used to this quieter lifestyle. Natasha and I have made plans to start studying for the GED – do you know what that is?"
"I do not."
"Kids in America go to school until they are eighteen, and after they complete that schooling, they get a diploma – a fancy piece of paper that says they finished their schooling. If they don't finish it, for one reason or another, they get a GED instead," James explained, hoping he was doing a good job. He and Steve had high school diplomas. But the modern-day government said they were as good as useless. "Steve, Natasha, and I were planning on working together to get our GEDs this summer – would you like to join us?"
"Get a Midgardian education? I can see how that would be beneficial to have. Might I consider it? I assume it would be different from the tutors I had back on Asgard."
"Sure. Grey and Pepper found us a tutor, they're starting on the thirtieth. We've scheduled from eight to noon, Monday, Thursday and Fridays."
"I will return this coming Monday with my answer," Loki said, rising to his feet. "Thank you, James."
"Hey, Loki, you're part of the family now. That's something that matters to us here," James said, freezing Loki in his tracks. "You're here for twenty years, at least. Relax, get comfortable. This is your home now."
James knew how it felt to feel on the outside of things. His first month with the family was a whirl of confusion, new sensation, and therapy. Looking back on it, James could see how overwhelming it would be for someone like Loki, who had always played the outcast. Hopefully, with time, the man would find his own peace within the family. James hoped everyone would.
"Thank you, James."
Line Break
James considered himself as someone that was not often surprised. His years as an assassin meant that he was always ready for whatever the universe threw at him. The only thing he'd ever been truly surprised by was his freedom, when he was first rescued by the Stark Family. And even then, his surprise came more because he couldn't remember a life outside of Hydra. Now that he had most of his memories in mostly the right order, he found himself difficult to surprise.
So, James was very surprised when he came home to an empty apartment. The dartboard on the back of the bedroom door had his favorite throwing knife embedded in a note, that just said my office. So, James turned around and headed downstairs to see what Grey had planned this time.
Last time Grey surprised him, it was a cat. Now, Alpine was a trusted therapy cat, good at grounding him when he had an anxiety attack or woke up from a nightmare. This time, he had no idea what to expect.
Finding Grey in her office wasn't a surprise. The state of her office was a surprise. Gone was the desk and tables and chairs, in their place was a picnic blanket, a basket of food, and a bouquet of flowers. Roses and Lilies were the only ones he recognized immediately; he'd have to ask Jarvis what the bouquet meant – they all had meaning when designed by a Stark.
"What's goin' on?" James asked, knocking lightly at the door frame. Grey looked up at him and outright beamed.
"I owe you an apology," Grey said, gesturing for him to sit across from her. She busied herself with pulling out drinks and food, setting it all in between them. James wondered why she thought she owed him an apology, and if that's what the flowers were for.
"Grey, if this was for the fight last week, that's already forgotten, you've already apologized, and I was never mad to begin with," James said, shaking his head. Besides, the fight had been his fault. He had known she was having a rough day, and he had tried to push. She pushed back with a fierce fire, yelling at him, and both her parents, before running off to hide somewhere quiet until she calmed down.
"No. James, sugar, I've been taking you for granted," Grey said, holding her hand up when he went to protest. "Please. James, I love you. More than the love I have for Jayne and the rest of them, different from the love I have for my parents. James, I love you and want to spend the rest of our lives with you, cherishing you, loving you in the way you deserve, and I haven't been doing that this year. I've taken you for granted, just expecting you to be there, and that's not fair to you. You deserve so much better than someone who occasionally forgets to treasure you."
"I'm gonna stop you right there, you overly dramatic sap," James said, reaching over to cover Grey's mouth with his hand. "Worse than your father, you are. Margaret, I love you. And while I don't know everything that goes on in your head, I know enough to know that you have never once taken me for granted. I love our casual affection; the easy way we love each other. I don't need a bouquet of flowers every week to know that you love me. I don't need you to remember to come home every night, or even romance, as sweet as this all is. I just need you."
Grey's eyes filled with tears, and James moved so he could sit next to her. She leaned against him, and he could feel her relax.
"I see mom and dad together, and I just know that I could be doing more for you," Grey mumbled sadly. James picked up a strawberry and held it out for her.
"Grey, you run two different PMC divisions. You have weekly meetings with the US government, the UN, and the international criminal court. You're the parole officer for an Asgardian Prince, and you're still the President of Marvel comics. Give yourself a break!" When she didn't accept the strawberry, he held it up to her mouth, waiting for her to bite into it. She finally did, taking the whole fruit. "I knew what I was getting into, when I agreed that you and I wanted to be in a relationship together. As long as I have you, I'm happy."
"Will you tell me if you ever feel neglected?" Grey asked softly.
"On the off chance I ever feel neglected by you, yes, I will talk to you about it, and we will find a solution. Now, Lyn packed us a lovely spread, but I have a much better idea for us to use this picnic blanket, if you're interested, Miss Stark."
Grey looked at James and smiled. She let him lay her down on the blanket, and she kicked the basket out of the way with her foot.
Line Break
Hope Van Dyne had no idea why she had been invited to a meeting at Stark Industries newest location, all the way out in New York. All of her emails had been returned with Come and See as the only answer. So, she had packed a bag, climbed into the Pym Technologies jet (that Darren had deemed essential) and flew to New York. It wasn't until halfway through her flight, that the thought occurred that Hope might be walking into another lawsuit.
Upon arrival to the hotel, she was immediately greeted by a hired driver, who carried a few Stark Industries files, but never handed them over. After settling into her room, and changing clothes, she was ushered into a sleek town car and driven straight to the front of Stark Tower. When she checked in with security, she was given a badge with her photo on it, directions to the closest conference room, and pointed in the direction of the coffee shop.
Stark Tower was beautifully designed. Trailing greenery on the walls, surrounding the history of Stark technology, with a few wide windows to let in the natural light. Hope was debating ordering a coffee when she heard her name.
"Hope! Nice to meet you, my name is Cate, I'm Mrs. Stark's PA, I'm here to make sure you make it to the right conference room," Cate said, looping her arm through Hope's without permission, and guiding the confused woman away from Stark's Best Coffee. "They moved the board meeting upstairs to the conference floor, and I'm fairly certain Dr Stark forgot to tell Happy."
Hope's mind stopped working, and so did her legs, bringing the girls to a halt near the arc reactor in the middle of the lobby. Hope felt slightly overwhelmed as Cate spoke, her nerves finally catching up to her.
"I'm very confused," Hope admitted as she shook her head and started walking again. Cate simply smiled and guided her over to the elevator bank.
"That's why I'm here," Cate explained. "Because this is new, and practically unheard of. But Margaret had the idea, so she'll explain."
The mention of Margaret Stark sent cold chills down Hope's back. She also wondered what the other woman was doing still so heavily involved in Stark Industries – wasn't she leading the Avengers now?
Up a short elevator ride to the conference floor, Hope learned that she was not alone in her bewilderment. As they stepped out onto the floor, an intern stepped out of the elevator opposite them, herding two confused women in front of him.
"Oh good, Cate, there you are," the intern said brightly. "Here are your directors, Dr Stark brought George up himself."
"Laura, Alishia, good to see you, we're aiming for conference room three today, come along!" Cate started walking, dragging Hope along by the arm. Laura and Alishia shrugged and followed along. Cate quickly introduced Hope to the Directors of Human Resources, Alishia, and Laura, the Director of Ethics.
"But why are we going to conference room three?" Laura asked, glancing back at the elevator like she was considering making a run for it.
"Because my kid has too many ideas," Tony said as he stepped out in the hallway to look for them. "Admittedly, this was a good idea, but still – her fault."
"Oh, well if it's Margaret behind all the secrecy," Alishia said with a shrug. A lot of the employees that survived the purge of 2010 held the belief that Margaret could do no wrong after she did all she did.
"That's all it takes?" Hope asked, thinking to herself that she didn't believe in any of her employees that well – except maybe her PA Sue. Sometimes. She'd never accept a blind summons though. Except she did, didn't she, following the cryptic emails all the way across the country.
"We trust in Margaret here," Alishia said with a head nod. She was the director of Human Resources and was promoted to that role after Margaret shoved through the new company handbook and all the policies that came with it. The man who held the role before her, Mark Hanson, had been fired, with prejudice. "After all she's done for us, she deserves a little bit of leeway and trust."
"Come on in, have a pastry, a coffee, whatever you want," Tony said, gesturing to the bar, set up with breakfast food and drink. Laura, the director of ethics, made a beeline for the last maple bar, saving it from Margaret's hungry eyes.
"Anyone else missing, Mrs. Stark?" Cate asked.
"I believe that's everyone, Cate, thank you!" Pepper said, glancing around the room. She nodded as Cate took her leave. The files Hope saw her driver with were sitting in an open seat with her name on them. She sat, but didn't dare open the first file. She prayed she wasn't getting sued again. It didn't feel like she was getting sued, not with all the other people sitting around the table, but Hope had learned – the hard way – that the Stark Family was a completely different breed.
"Thank you all for coming, I know this was secretive, but that's how things tend to be around me. I'm going to pass around an NDA, this just prevents you from talking about this meeting, in case you decide you don't want to get involved," Margaret said, sitting up in her chair. Hope waited until everyone else had signed, before deciding she was definitely curious about what was happening now. She signed her NDA, and Margaret nodded. "As most of you know, Stark Industries privatized after Obadiah Stane's bull-"
"Mess," Pepper cut in quickly, fond amusement visible in her eyes, despite the stern expression.
"Mess, right," Margaret corrected with an eyeroll. "So Stark Industries proposed a board of advisors, to ensure we don't cause problems, step on toes, all of that. That's where you all come in."
"Even me?" Hope asked, startled. She couldn't believe she was being asked to sit as what was essentially an outside director on the board of advisors for Stark Industries. Oh sure, Hope knew that she'd never be given an opportunity to sabotage, even if she had wanted to, but the mere fact that she had been invited – even after getting sued.
"Especially you," Tony said. "You don't follow your father's hatred of us, never did. But you also don't pander to us in the way some do. You're objective."
"What's the purpose of this board?" George Matteson was the Assistant Director of Research and Development, just under Tony. He was there to represent the R department, as Tony was only there in his capacity as a Stark.
"To act as the board of directors did," Pepper answered. "And as an advisory body. Stark Industries has a lot of fingers in a lot of pies."
"The Iron Family, the PMC division that also houses the Avengers' Initiative, Sark Industries consumer technology department, Stark Industries medical advancements, and now Stark Industries bioengineering, under Doctor Cho." Margaret listed them, ticking them off her fingers one by one. "Not to mention Marvel Comics, and everything that brings to the table."
"You all are – if you agree – going to be brought on to help us with it all," Tony said. "This is going to be the governing body of the company, and everything the Stark Family does."
Hope had to admit, as far as ideas went, this was a fairly good one. Private companies didn't need a board of directors, because the company answered to the owner exclusively. Turning such a large company private undoubtedly left too much on the Stark Family to handle. Creating a board of advisors would help, and act as accountability, possibly even helping steer things in the best direction.
Hope agreed to join them for a second meeting before making any decisions. Before she left, she said, "and don't worry, Hank won't learn about this from me."
"We aren't worried Hope," Pepper assured as they all filed out, nearly three hours after they gathered.
"I'm worried," Margaret said after everyone left. "That was entirely too easy. I expected a fight, or an argument or something."
"Not everything in business is a struggle, Grey," Samantha reminded her, getting a raspberry blown in her direction. "It's just more fun when it is."
"No, do not get her to start liking the fight – she's too amped up as it is."
"I have no more fight left in me," Grey said, flopping over to put her head down on the desk. "After the Oak Creek shooting yesterday, I'm just tired. Tired of it all."
Pepper put her hand on her back – two mass shootings in two weeks was too much for the young girl.
"Did you release another statement?" Sam asked. Christine nodded.
"Yeah, we released one from the family, the Stark Trust scooped up the injured's medical bills. The Margaret Stark Foundation went to help rebuild, if there was any damage," Christine said. She found it sad when there was a shooting, but she didn't understand why Grey took them personally the way she did. Grey never explained it, always looking at them with haunted eyes, saying you'll see. Christine glared at the table in disgust. Just because she didn't take them personally, didn't mean she didn't think them abhorrent. "Six dead, and the shooter – religiously motivated, of course."
"Oh yes, my God is better than you God, the oldest of excuses," Sam said with a heavy eye roll.
"Men created god because they couldn't handle that women create life," Grey mumbled through her arms. Everyone looked at her in a mix of confusion and surprise. "Sorry, I'm cranky today. It makes me cynical. Are we finished today? I think I want to take a nap."
Grey left without waiting for an answer, missing the worried looks everyone exchanged behind her.
Line Break
"If I add any more gauntlet, it won't compress into the bracelet," Tony said, frowning behind his micro-engineering glasses. "But if I use any less – it loses protection value."
"So, what do we do then?" James asked.
"We hope that it's enough, and that it works," Tony said, twisting two wires together. He nodded in satisfaction and moved onto the next gauntlet, absently explaining what he was doing as he did it.
"Since these aren't repulsors, they shouldn't have heat, right?" James asked, looking at a computer screen, showing the lab in thermal imaging. James was the brightest. His body temperature hovered around 101 most days, forcing him to be a constant target for when Grey had cold hands or feet. The gauntlet Tony wasn't working on was showing a high heat signature, one that was steadily growing brighter as it heated up.
"No, they won't emit any heat after we use them, so we won't need to wear protective gloves under them," Tony said, still stripping a wire. "Why do you ask?"
Tony finally looked up at James and saw what the problem was. The power source of the gauntlet was overheating, and well on its way to causing an explosion.
"Fuck," Tony managed as James grabbed him by the shirt and threw the two of them under the table behind them, just as the gauntlet exploded, taking out the soldering gun Tony had used as well. "Oops."
"Yeah, oops," James bitched as he rolled off of Tony, having dove on top of him to protect him from any spare shrapnel. "Are you okay? What were you thinking connecting those wires? You never connect a power source directly to a trigger mechanism, damnit, Tony, you're the one that taught me that!"
"Am I okay, you're the one that flipped us both over a table – are you okay?"
"I'm fine, but you get to tell Pepper and Grey what happened – because I'd bet twenty bucks Jarvis or Bambi already snitched." Tony laughed as he sat up and started brushing himself off – he really needed to get a roomba for the labs.
"Not taking that bet. We should be glad the girls are out today."
"We have a dinner function tonight, so you two fuckheads better be in perfect condition," Grey's voice snapped through Jarvis' speakers, spooking both men. Tony jolted upright and smacked the top of his head on the bottom of the table. "If I come home and find a single bruise, scrape, or abrasion where a camera can see it I will personally string you up by your balls from the point of the tower. Honestly!"
"Did she just send us a howler?" James asked. Tony rubbed the top of his head and stood up, looking chastised. James looked awed. "Awesome."
"She yelled at us all the way from DC, that's just like her," Tony whined, moving to check himself over in the mirror. Unhurt, and no evidence of what just happened. A glance in James' direction saw that he was the same. "She's right though. Wanna come teach Loki how to play poker?"
"This is going to end in disaster."
Line Break
Steve walked into the room behind Bucky and was nervous. Grey, Bucky, and Steve's PR rep, Jonathan, had made it very clear to him that as long as he was working as an Avenger, he was required to have at least one therapy session a month. That was the bare minimum stipulated in his contract, and that was what Steve was expecting to do.
"Lilian, this is Steve, Steve, this is Lilian. She's one of the psychologists on staff with the initiative, and she's the one I see personally, twice a week," Bucky said, going so far as to hug the woman. "It's great to see you in person again, I thought we'd never get you out here."
"You're lucky your girlfriend doesn't take no for an answer; I hate snow," Lilian teased. "Steve, it's good to meet you. Why don't you take a seat, we'll kick James out, and get to know each other."
"Why kick Bucky out? Can't he stay?" Steve asked. James practically pushed Steve into a chair and sighed.
"Therapy is best done one on one. Once he leaves, I'll tell you a bit more about what to expect. If you don't like it, we can end the session there for the day." Lilian's tone didn't leave room for arguments, even from Captain America. "Bye James!"
James gave each of them a two-finger salute and closed the door behind him. Steve felt his apprehension rise.
"There are a few rules to therapy that I should bring to your attention. Especially this kind of therapy. Anything you tell me stays in my confidence. Grey, anyone in authority, no one can compel me to tell them what you tell me. What happens in this room, stays in this room," Lilian explained. Steve felt himself relax, trusting her at her word. Bucky wouldn't bring him to someone he didn't trust – would he? "I might take notes, that's okay. No one will see the notes. Now, here's where I tell you the less than good news. Grey has asked me, in her role as Director of the Avengers' Initiative to write a psychological evaluation, just to see how ready you are to be back in the field. We are writing two for everyone. One after our first session, one after five months. You will get a copy. She will get a copy. It will be considered classified and no one else will read it."
"I sat for one of those before," Steve remembered. "I think. Colonel Phillips ordered me to sit with someone in the SSR after the serum. Make sure I wasn't going to be a problem."
"Good, then you have some experience with this. Are you ready to begin?" Lilian asked, reaching for her tablet. Steve nodded. "Then let's jump right in. Why don't you tell me about why you joined the Army, back in the forties?"