Marvel's Invincible Iron Man ends perfectly

Gerry Duggan was one of the premier writers during the X-Men’s Krakoan era, writing Fall of the House of X, X-Men, and Invincible Iron Man. The latter was shocking; Tony Stark has connections to the X-Men, but not enough that you’d think he’d be a key to defeating Orchis and Nimrod. It’s a good thing Gerry Dugan is a fantastic writer as he connected everything flawlessly.

Now, Invincible Iron Man has come to an end. The good thing is that Duggan ensured Marvel Comics readers got a satisfying conclusion. Here are four important takeaways from Invincible Iron Man No. 20 and what’s next for the Iron Avenger.

Feilong's fate

Tony Stark defeated Kelvin Heng (a.k.a. Feilong) and took him to an undisclosed location in Invincible Iron Man No. 18 and 19. Iron Man No. 20 then reveals that he was taken to Arrako. Tony said he didn’t trust the legal justice system as his foe has money and connections that will keep him out of prison. So, all by himself, Tony decides an inescapable prison would be his fate.

Considering what happens when Tony Stark keeps secrets, it’s amazing that he doesn’t see this backfiring. And he calls himself a futurist. 

Tony Stark is rich again

After being “broke” for years, Tony Stark is rich again. It was a parting gift from Emma Frost (more on that next). She used her telepathy to do what he described as insider trading. Thankfully, she only stole from villains like A.I.M. Dario Agger, and Tombstone.

Tony Stark being a billionaire again is like Bruce Wayne getting his money back over on the DC Comics side of things (see Batman No. 149 by Chip Zdarsky for more on that). It’s great when rich heroes can’t rely on their money as it provides them with opportunities for character growth. However, it feels “normal” when they have disposable income. It means they can create things without worrying about money. Now, like with Batman, the writers can go back to having Tony create ridiculous things because he's wealthy beyond belief.

Married no more

Emma Frost and Tony Stark’s marriage was never legal. Emma was going by a fake name and their marriage helped them fight Orchis behind the scenes. Regrettably, there was no way this would last. As much as they loved each other, Emma needed time to herself. She did leave Tony with billions of dollars and said that he was the one bright spot in the most difficult time of her life. As sad as it is, they can say they had happiness and love for a little while.

West Coast Avengers

During Invincible Iron Man No. 19, Tony Stark and Rhodey hinted at the West Coast Avengers making a comeback and using villains as their teammates. Rhodey saw that some criminals want redemption and he could help with that Invincible Iron Man No. 20 made it official. Rhodey says he has a lot of names and Tony won’t like them. Tony responds, “I don’t have to if you do.”

The last thing said was in Tony Stark’s book, “Okay, maaaybe we’re starting the new West Coast Avengers. Just don’t tell anyone yet.” Stay tuned to Bam Smack Pow to see how that works out.