Banquet

Stark searched for relevant information and found that two vehicles, "Super Burn" and "Slant Magic Treasure," had appeared in a game. He also discovered that the EMP emitter and the atomic energy gun, which had only been exhibited once at the Midtown High School Science Fair, had prototypes in that game.

He began to wonder if there might be a connection between the two.

Originally uninterested in the banquet, Stark became intrigued when he heard that Merlin would be attending.

---

"Wear something more formal. There will be many important people at this banquet, and it could be crucial for your future," George urged Merlin as soon as he returned home, still in his work clothes.

"Alright, but it's just an EMP emitter. It's not that big of a deal, is it?" Merlin asked curiously as they entered the house.

"If it were just the atomic energy gun, maybe it wouldn't be. But recently, the crime rate has skyrocketed in various areas, and the incidents in Manhattan and Brooklyn have had a massive impact," George explained. "Your EMP emitter is just part of why this banquet is happening, but it's important."

"Fine," Merlin shrugged before heading to his room to change into formal attire. He didn't want to embarrass George by showing up in casual clothes.

As Merlin emerged from his room, George smiled nostalgically. "It's been a while since I've seen you in that suit. It still fits well."

"My growth spurt is over, and it hasn't been that long since I wore it," Merlin replied, adjusting his suit.

This suit had been custom-made earlier that year by his father for various events and gatherings.

"Let's go. Just be mindful during the banquet," George said with a smile, pushing Merlin towards the elevator.

"Where's Gwen?" Merlin asked casually as they descended.

"She's at band practice. Like you, she's been quite busy lately," George replied with a touch of sentiment. His daughter had grown up, and he was often swamped with work, especially after the incident with the Lizard.

Their casual conversation brought them closer on their way to the banquet.

---

In Manhattan, at the Waldorf Hotel on Park Avenue:

"This hotel is the tallest in the world and has hosted several presidents. It has witnessed much of Eagle Nation's history," George explained to Merlin as they entered the opulent lobby.

As they passed through the grand doors, Merlin's attention was immediately drawn to the elegant décor, the bright lights, and the fashionably dressed men and women mingling throughout the hall. Laughter rang like the sound of wind chimes in the air.

Scanning the room, Merlin's gaze fell on a central group. Stark, Obadiah, and Hammer were among them, holding wine glasses and engaged in conversation.

Nearby, a burly, bald man in a white suit chatted with a middle-aged man with graying hair and a commanding presence.

*Kingpin?* Merlin thought, surprised to see him there. Given Kingpin's status, it made sense considering the reason for the mayor's banquet.

"Let's go," George said, patting Merlin on the shoulder as they made their way toward Kingpin's group.

---

"What's your take on the Hell's Kitchen massacre, Mr. Fisk?" Mayor Kristen asked as she sipped her wine, stretching her words out deliberately. While Kingpin had a reputation as a philanthropist and businessman, the mayor clearly knew his true nature.

"They deserved what they got. But the police involved were also bound to meet their end, and the sole survivor has now become the villain," Fisk replied with a shake of his head, feigning regret.

"This isn't something to celebrate," Fisk continued. "But the root of the problem lies in these gangs exploiting loopholes in the law."

"The sword of Damocles didn't fall, so only the butcher's knife remains," Mayor Kristen remarked, with a pointed undertone. She implied that Fisk was ultimately responsible for what happened in Hell's Kitchen.

Fisk, unbothered, responded calmly, "That just means the sword of Damocles has dulled."

Just as Mayor Kristen was about to reply, her eyes fell on George and Merlin as they approached.

"Ah, it seems the one who might sharpen that sword has arrived," the mayor remarked, eyeing Merlin with a hint of interest.

Kingpin chuckled softly, offering Merlin praise. "This must be the young genius who developed the micro-EMP emitter, Merlin Shaw. I've heard you created this weapon to help relieve some of your uncle's burden in fighting crime."

"A truly enviable family bond."

George responded with a forced smile, maintaining a cold tone toward Fisk. The mutual understanding between the two was clear, despite their pleasantries. Meanwhile, Kingpin's eyes lingered on Merlin with curiosity—after all, many of the weapons he'd recently acquired came from this young inventor.