Invincible Iron Man #593

Previously in Invincible Iron Man #11

The previous issue focused on Tony Stark’s relationships with the women in his life. It was a nice foundation for this issue, wherein those same women desperately try to figure out what happened to Tony. Amanda, his birth mother, pushes through her grief and uncertainty to make sure Tony’s annual science expo goes as planned. Behind the scenes, a member of Stark Industries’ board, Mr. Lynch, informs MJ that the board has already voted to remove Amanda as head of the company.

Who’s providing protection with Tony Stark missing and the Ironheart (RiRi Williams) focused on finding him? Why Doctor Doom dressed as Iron Man, of course. He’s personally responsible for capturing many high-powered super villains and depositing them in jail. Unfortunately, they pull off a massive prison break. When Doom goes to the scene, he’s confronted by Ben Grimm, Thing, who doesn’t believe Doom has changed at all.

Now here’s where things get weird. Well, weirder. Tony Stark — at least I think that’s him — falls out a liquid-filled chamber. He’s bald and naked. Through great pain, he crawls to a wall of his suits and puts on one. Then he lies in the fetal position on the floor.

Is this Tony Stark? Where has been? And what does this mean for Doctor Doom’s new role as Iron Man? Most importantly, when will be getting back to Ironheart?