Chapter 125: Chapter-122
It was Merlin's suggestion to let Gwen's band open today's Baymax Technology Exhibition. Being a holiday, the band members had plenty of free time, so they eagerly accepted such a grand opportunity.
While the band was somewhat popular among students, it lacked the credentials to perform at such a prestigious event. However, the Baymax exhibition, centered around the themes of warmth and family, perfectly suited the charm of a high school band. After all, Baymax wasn't just a medical machine; it embodied joy and love.
......
"Merlin, over here!"
As they chatted, Pepper arrived with her assistant.
"Mr. George, Mrs. Stacey," she greeted them politely, then turned to Merlin. "The exhibition is about to begin, and I'll need to borrow him for a while."
"Of course, no problem. We're excited to see the Baymax robot!" Mrs. Stacey replied cheerfully, nudging Merlin forward.
"I need to go too; the opening show is about to start!" Gwen smiled and walked off toward her band.
......
Pepper led Merlin to the backstage area, where rows of Baymax robots, adorned with Santa hats and fake beards, stood cheerfully. Behind them was a power storage unit shaped like a Christmas tree.
"These Christmas-themed Baymax robots are special holiday editions. The proceeds from their sale will go to a medical foundation through an auction," Pepper explained. "The foundation is managed directly by Stark Industries, so you can rest assured."
Pepper clearly understood how to shape Baymax's character and marketing strategy. Words like family, warmth, and happiness became the core of Baymax's branding.
"It looks great. Where's Mr. Stark? Isn't he attending such an important event?" Merlin asked curiously.
Mentioning Stark made Pepper's expression darken. "He's busy with the Iron Legion recruitment and has been ignoring company affairs."
"Uh… I saw news about him yesterday." Merlin's expression turned awkward, recalling Stark's party, where he'd been spotted with several women. There were even rumors of an affair with Black Widow.
"Forget about him. We've broken up. I'm only focused on running the company now," Pepper said with a shrug. She sighed, thinking about Stark's unchanging playboy tendencies.
......
After Gwen's band finished their lively opening performance, it was time for the main event.
"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your patience. Let's get to the heart of today's event!"
"Please welcome Stark Industries CEO Ms. Pepper and Baymax designer Mr. Merlin!"
"And we're thrilled to present our Christmas gift—a limited-edition Baymax!"
Applause filled the exhibition hall as cheerful music played. The crowd buzzed with excitement as a line of Baymax robots wearing Santa hats rose onto the stage. Behind them, a giant screen displayed animated clips of Baymax from Big Hero 6.
"Dad! Look! It's Baymax!"
"Baymax!!! It's really Baymax!"
"Mom, can we get one, please?"
The children's enthusiasm was contagious, and even the adults couldn't hide their excitement.
"Leading technology, happy life..."
......
Meanwhile, the android exhibition on the other side of the stadium commenced in a starkly different atmosphere. Unlike the lively Baymax display, this event was somber and formal, attended by military officials, intelligence agents, and politicians.
Android technology, particularly for military applications, had the potential to revolutionize society. Today, the primary goal was to identify the mastermind behind this groundbreaking innovation.
"Let's welcome Ms. Justine Hammer, CEO of Hammer Industries, and Mr. Merlin, chief engineer of Hammer Industries," the announcer said.
"Today's feature presentation: the Android."
Polite applause followed as Justine, dressed in a striking red gown, ascended the stage with Merlin.
"Ladies and gentlemen, since the dawn of science and technology, humanity has sought more comfortable living, efficient production, and automation. Robotics has always been central to these advancements, and now, Hammer Industries has taken a bold step forward," Justine began, setting the stage for Merlin's presentation.
"I'd now like to invite our chief engineer, Merlin shaw, to introduce the future prospects of bionic human technology." She stepped aside, signaling Merlin to take the lead.
......
"Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to present the bionic man developed by Hammer Industries," Merlin began, launching into his detailed explanation.
In the audience, Fury sat watching with a frown. Something about Merlin on stage felt off, stirring an uneasy feeling.
As Merlin explained the integration of androids into society, a group of agents in suits abruptly entered the venue.
Coulson's eyes widened when he recognized the bald agent leading them. "Sitwell? What's he doing here?"
Fury narrowed his single eye. He had only brought Coulson along for this mission, so Sitwell's sudden appearance was both unexpected and suspicious.
Merlin paused mid-sentence, his gaze fixed on the intruders.
"Who are you? Why did you barge in here?" Justine demanded, her voice sharp.
Without hesitation, Sitwell reached into his coat and produced an ID.
"SHIELD. Merlin shaw is suspected of smuggling weapons and endangering public safety. We need to take him in for questioning," Sitwell declared coldly.
The crowd erupted in shocked murmurs.