Iron Lad

Iron Lad is the name used by Nathaniel Richards, a teenage version of the time-traveling villain Kang the Conqueror, when he travels to the present in an attempt to prevent his future self from becoming Kang. This version of Nathaniel is a hero, though his destiny is to become one of the Marvel Universe's most powerful antagonists.

Character Overview

Nathaniel Richards, fearing the destiny of becoming Kang, travels to the past to seek the help of the Avengers. He uses advanced technology from his future, including a powerful suit of armor mimicking that of Iron Man, hence the name "Iron Lad." Iron Lad possesses enhanced strength, speed, and durability through his armor. His armor is also capable of manipulating magnetic fields, energy projection, and time travel (limited).

History

Upon arrival in the present, Iron Lad, along with the assistance of the Vision's operating system, assembles a new team of Young Avengers, believing them to be essential in stopping Kang's emergence. The Young Avengers, inspired by the legacy of the Avengers, fight alongside Iron Lad against various threats.

However, the timeline becomes unstable due to Nathaniel's presence in the past and his attempts to alter his destiny. Eventually, Nathaniel is forced to return to his own time and embrace his role as Kang the Conqueror to stabilize the timestream and prevent a greater catastrophic event. His departure is a reluctant acceptance of his fate.

Powers and Abilities

• Advanced Technology: Iron Lad's armor is derived from advanced future technology, granting him numerous abilities.
• Superhuman Strength and Durability: The armor provides significant physical enhancements.
• Energy Projection: The armor can project energy blasts.
• Magnetic Field Manipulation: He can control and manipulate magnetic fields.
• Time Travel (Limited): Though not as powerful as Kang's time travel capabilities, Iron Lad's armor allows for limited temporal jumps.
• Tactical Acumen: As a future version of Kang, Nathaniel possesses inherent strategic and tactical skills.

Significance

Iron Lad represents a pivotal point in Nathaniel Richards' life, a desperate attempt to escape a preordained destiny. His actions have significant consequences for the timeline and the Marvel Universe, highlighting the complex nature of time travel and the struggle against fate.