Tony regarded Bogg with profound complexity. "First—clean yourself thoroughly. You must appear presentable. Additionally, I'm attending a gala this evening—a Mug—no, a regular people's event. Prepare appropriate attire for me, then familiarize yourself with the residence. I'll summon you if needed. Most importantly—address me as 'sir,' never 'master.' Understood?"

  "Yes, sir—I shall obey your instructions completely." Bogg bowed again and vanished with a gentle pop.

  Only then did Tony release a relieved breath. Turning around, he witnessed a scene that nearly induced cardiac arrest.

  George was practically draped across the Mark II, mesmerized as he caressed the faceplate with reverent fingers, appearing as though he might devour it entirely.

  "What are you doing?" Tony bellowed, startling George from his trance.

  "What is this masterpiece? Your creation? Observe these lines, this exquisite texture, this color coordination! Absolutely magnificent! This represents true masculine engineering!" George's glazed eyes swept briefly over Tony before immediately returning to the armor with magnetic fascination.

  Tony couldn't suppress his prideful posture, chin lifted with supreme satisfaction. "I designed and constructed this personally. The custom metal components I commissioned are destined for this beauty."

  Approaching the workstation, Tony continued, "Where are your delivered materials? I require immediate installation."

  Observing the dark finger apertures, George immediately snapped to attention and produced a diminutive wallet. He reached inside, rummaging extensively before extracting a briefcase far exceeding the wallet's apparent dimensions.

  Upon opening, it revealed metal plates of various configurations—silver scales engraved with exquisite golden magical patterns that intermittently flickered with flowing luminescence.

  "Complete inventory present." George stepped aside, allowing Tony unobstructed examination.

  Tony meticulously inspected the metal components, trailing his finger across the glowing magical patterns. They appeared freshly inscribed, yet his finger detected no tactile sensation—as though the metal plates had always possessed this intrinsic appearance.

  "These alloys combine mithril, adamant, and goblin iron ore. They maintain superior hardness while preserving exceptional lightness—mithril's magical conductivity ensures seamless spellcasting." George enthusiastically detailed his craftsmanship. "I've also solidified several fundamental enchantments, demonstrated thusly."

  George selected one component, positioned it carefully, and gently placed it upon the armor's right index finger. After precise adjustment, he withdrew his hand—the metal plate adhered perfectly. George then grasped it and tugged vigorously multiple times—the plate remained absolutely immobile.

  "Observe? Gentle placement creates perfect adhesion—even giants couldn't dislodge it, assuming they possessed sufficient dexterity for such delicate manipulation." George explained with professional pride.

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  "My turn." Without further discussion, Tony commenced installation. As component after component attached seamlessly, the Mark II's fingers achieved final completion.

  "Will paint application compromise the magical patterns?" Tony and George adopted identical poses—stroking their chins while scrutinizing the Mark II. The predominantly red-and-gold armor now featured jarringly silver fingers that appeared completely discordant.

  "Standard paint materials pose no interference—I utilized dragon's blood and moonflower essence to create that proprietary compound." George replied confidently. "How do you don this armor? May I attempt it?"

  Tony immediately became intensely wary. "Absolutely forbidden. This armor was custom-fitted for my precise measurements—you couldn't possibly fit."

  "Then demonstrate it yourself." George appeared momentarily disappointed before immediately brightening.

  "FRIDAY, activate the armor." Tony's enthusiasm ignited instantly.

  Accompanied by mechanical harmonics, the Mark II opened from the chest section. Tony approached and positioned himself with his back to the apparatus. FRIDAY immediately coordinated each segment's closure—screws tightening, armor sealing, and finally the faceplate descending as azure light emanated from both chest and optical sensors.

  Tony descended the platform step by measured step, testing his limb mobility within the powered exoskeleton.

  "Status report? Any discomfort?" George inquired with keen interest.

  "Optimal functionality—no irregularities detected. Magical testing commences now." Tony approached the workstation and awkwardly grasped the slender wand with his metallic appendages. After brief consideration, he employed a fundamental incantation: "Lumos."

  The wand tip began emanating gentle luminescence. "Magic functions flawlessly—zero impedance detected. However, one complication exists—grip mechanics prove challenging." Tony observed the delicate wand, carefully extinguishing the illumination and placing it upon the table, fearful of accidental destruction.

  "That represents a legitimate concern." George also examined the substantial fingers and diminutive wand, beginning contemplation. "Are there available spaces remaining on your armor? Locations that could accommodate a wand sized appropriately for metallic manipulation?"

  "I could fabricate a specialized sheath for your wand—during non-use it remains within the armor, and when required it can materialize directly in your grasp." George proposed.

  With FRIDAY's assistance, Tony removed the armor and accessed the design schematics, collaborating with George to identify suitable mounting locations.

  "This position—what was your original intention for this section?" George indicated a specific area on the armor's left forearm.

  "Missile deployment. Observe—acceleration through this propulsion system, launching from this upper-arm conduit—completely unobstructed." Tony demonstrated via holographic projection.

  "Would eliminating this missile create significant impact?" George inquired.

  "You intend that location?" Tony comprehended immediately, testing the motion—right hand sweeping to left upper arm, drawing and wielding a wand. "Highly feasible. One fewer missile presents minimal compromise."

  "Excellent choice. I'll measure dimensions and calculate the optimal wand proportions for metallic manipulation, then craft a superior sheath." George retrieved parchment and quill from his wallet, preparing calculations.

  Tony observed with speechless bewilderment. "Unnecessary complexity. FRIDAY, execute calculations."

  "Certainly, sir."

  Within sixty seconds, comprehensive data materialized on Tony's display screen. George's jaw dropped. "Is this technology available for purchase?"

  "Absolutely delusional!" Tony snorted dismissively. "Even if I provided it, you couldn't utilize it within the magical world!"

  "Valid point." George appeared somewhat deflated. "Do you lease workspace? I'd like to rent a section as my workshop. This FRIDAY is extraordinarily efficient—could eliminate countless tedious tasks! I could upgrade your armor without charge! Construct an armor combining cutting-edge technology and ancient magic—what's your assessment of this collaboration?!"

  Tony observed the luminous-eyed George, rendered speechless for extended moments. "You do realize this is my private residence, mate. My personal sanctuary."

  George sighed with profound disappointment.

  "Additional fees apply." Tony continued with calculated timing.

  "No complications whatsoever! What are your terms?!" George immediately brightened with renewed enthusiasm.

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