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After Merlin's healing and transformation, Optimus Prime had undergone remarkable, earth-shaking upgrades. The previously damaged areas were now fortified with adamantium, dramatically enhancing his power, durability, and physique. It was akin to humans integrating advanced mechanical prosthetics.
"Is there any problem?" Merlin asked with a smile, noticing everyone's excitement.
"There's no problem at all. He's even stronger than before!" Ratchet replied, admiring Optimus Prime's upgrades. "If I hadn't seen you repair him with my own hands, I'd never believe a human could achieve this." Ratchet ran his hands along Optimus Prime's armored exterior with an admiring expression.
"Hey! Hands off!" Optimus Prime said with a hint of discomfort, despite Cybertronians not having overt physical sensitivities.
"Chief, I've never asked you for anything. Let me take a closer look!" Ratchet leaned in, fascinated.
"Step back, or I'll tear you apart!" Optimus Prime grumbled, reluctantly shoving him away.
"That's perfect! Now, Merlin, transform me too!" Ratchet joked, only half-serious as he admired Optimus's upgrades.
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As they sat in the shop, Merlin perched on Bumblebee's shoulder, they discussed the Autobots' next moves.
"What are your plans for the future?" Merlin asked, eyeing Optimus thoughtfully.
"To find Megatron and the source of the AllSpark," Optimus replied firmly.
"Well… more specifically? Earth is vast; searching with only a few Autobots might not be enough," Merlin noted.
"I've sent a signal to Cybertron," Optimus continued, "and reinforcements should arrive within the next few years. Meanwhile, we're coordinating with the military to counter the Decepticons." He had developed this plan during his recovery period.
"Smart approach," Merlin agreed. "The military has satellite tracking, and it's better than running around Earth while being targeted. I'll send your application to various countries. But it's best to wait until the Decepticons make themselves known."
Optimus nodded in agreement, understanding the risks of premature exposure. The two discussed further details, and before leaving, Merlin handed Optimus contact information for Agent Simmons.
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As Merlin returned home, he found George waiting for him, along with a red-haired woman in a sleek black dress.
"I'm Justine Hammer. My father asked me to discuss the contract with you," she introduced herself, brushing her long hair behind her ear.
"We need to go over the contract Hammer Industries sent over," George said, holding a folder. Merlin nodded and welcomed them inside.
"Are you sure you want to join Hammer Industries?" George asked once they sat down, sounding skeptical.
"Yes. Mr. Hammer has been persistent, and only Hammer Industries has the resources I need for my research," Merlin replied.
"My father wanted to come in person today, but he had urgent matters. To show sincerity, he sent me instead," Justine added with a polite smile. However, she felt some unease—she knew Merlin might soon be just one of Hammer's many assets, especially now that her father had hired Ivan Vanko for additional projects.
George, unimpressed, voiced his concerns. "Hammer Industries doesn't have the best reputation lately. Stark revealed some issues, and the company has been… less than professional."
Quick to defend, Justine replied, "I understand, Sheriff George. Setbacks are inevitable in any business, but these challenges don't define our future."
George reviewed the contract thoroughly with Merlin, pushing for amendments to protect his interests. Justine reluctantly agreed to the changes, and after both sides signed, she offered a warm handshake.
"Welcome to Hammer Industries! We're thrilled to have you," Justine said.
"I hope the new department and funding can be implemented quickly," Merlin replied with a smile. "I'm ready to begin."
As Justine departed, George turned to Merlin. "What about school?"
"The principal approved my situation. I just need to attend the graduation ceremony," Merlin reassured him.
"Good to hear. Let me know if you need anything," George nodded, feeling more at ease.
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A month later, in the western suburbs of New York City, Hammer Industries had completed Merlin's state-of-the-art laboratory. Partnering closely with the government, Hammer Industries aimed to secure Stark's armor technology for military purposes, even as they worked with Ivan Vanko on additional designs. Hammer planned an ambitious event showcasing their mecha army, touting it as the future of military technology and claiming Hammer Industries would soon dominate the tech industry.
Merlin's entry into the company, however, didn't garner much attention. He was content, knowing that the resources were sufficient for his work. Hammer Industries had even allocated a 6,000-square-meter lab for him.
"Merlin, this will be your lab from now on," Justine said, guiding him through the space. "Are you sure you don't need any assistants?"
"As long as there are no problems with procurement, I'm set," Merlin replied with a smile.
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