As I stared at the numbers Baymax had displayed on my screen, I asked, "So, how much have we earned so far, Baymax? With all the buzz, we must be doing well, right?"
Baymax's calm, measured voice replied, "Sir , While user engagement has been high, there has not yet been sufficient time to generate significant revenue. Advertising income, subscription fees, or other earnings from the platform will take time to accumulate."
I frowned. "So, nothing from the website yet?"
"That is correct," Baymax confirmed. "Revenue from the website will require more time to materialize, as monthly subscriptions and advertising payments are typically processed on a delayed schedule."
I let out a sigh. "All right. What about the deals you just finalized?"
Baymax's display shifted to a summary of the agreements. "The upfront payments for the advertising, offline publishing, and merchandise deals total $505,000. However, these funds will be transferred to your account tomorrow after the contracts are signed."
"So," I said, running a hand through my hair, "I'm basically sitting on promises and buzz until tomorrow."
"That is an accurate assessment, Creator," Baymax replied. "However, once the upfront payments are received, your financial position will be secure for the foreseeable future, with additional royalties and revenue expected to follow."
I nodded, trying to focus on the positives. "All right, Baymax. Let's get everything signed and locked in tomorrow. It's just the beginning."
"Understood, Sir ," Baymax said. "I will ensure all processes are handled efficiently."
"Baymax, I need to learn how to fight," Ben said, determination etched on his face. He stood in the center of the room, surrounded by the comforting hum of his various devices.
The room lit up as a holographic projection of Baymax materialized in front of him. The AI, designed for various applications, had a gentle, reassuring presence even in its digital form.
"Certainly, Ben," Baymax replied, its voice calm and soothing. "As an AI, I can provide you with basic self-defense techniques. Please follow my instructions closely."
The holographic Baymax assumed a simple defensive stance, its form glowing with a faint blue light. Ben took a deep breath and mimicked the stance, adjusting his posture to match the AI's projection.
"Like this?" Ben asked, glancing at the holographic figure.
"Precisely," Baymax confirmed. "Now, let's proceed to a blocking maneuver. When your opponent strikes, you must intercept their attack with a controlled movement. Observe."
The holographic Baymax demonstrated a slow, deliberate block, moving its arm to deflect an imaginary punch. Ben watched intently, then imitated the block, his movements slightly awkward but filled with determination.
"Excellent attempt, Ben," Baymax encouraged. "Remember to keep your movements fluid and your stance grounded."
Ben nodded, his resolve strengthening. "Okay, I'll try again."
He repeated the block, this time with more confidence and precision. Sweat began to bead on his forehead as he focused intensely, pushing himself to improve with each repetition.
"Much better," Baymax said. "Consistent practice will enhance your skills. Let us now move on to evasion techniques."
The holographic Baymax stepped to the side, demonstrating a simple dodge. Ben followed its lead, stepping to the side with agility, the room's limited space making the movements feel more intense.
"This maneuver allows you to avoid incoming attacks by shifting your position," Baymax explained.
"Alright, side step, got it," Ben replied, his voice tinged with excitement.
As the training session continued, Ben's determination only grew stronger. His movements became more fluid, more precise, but also more taxing. Sweat dripped down his face, and his breathing grew heavier with each exercise.
"Impressive," Baymax said. "You are learning quickly, Ben. However, mastering these skills will take time and persistent effort."
Ben paused for a moment, wiping the sweat from his brow. "I know, Baymax. I just... I want to be ready."
"Your commitment is admirable," Baymax replied. "With patience and perseverance, you will achieve your goals."
Ben nodded, a renewed sense of resolve in his eyes. "Thanks, Baymax. I'll keep at it."
Ben has just done his training and was in his way for dinner when his father came in
"Ben, what's all this going on? I heard noises, and I saw your latest post. Are you really launching Tweet tomorrow?" his father asked.
Ben took a deep breath, turning to face his father. "Yeah, Dad. I am. And I'm doing this because I want to make a difference. This is about more than just that incident. It's about giving people a voice."
Ben's father nodded, his expression softening. "I read your post on your comic website. It was powerful. I'm proud of you for standing up for what you believe in, but remember to take care of yourself too.
Yes Dad.
At exactly 11 a.m., the sound of car engines hummed outside, followed by the soft crunch of tires against the gravel driveway. I looked out the window and saw three sleek black sedans pulling up in front of the house.
"Ben," my dad called from the living room, "are you ready for this?"
I nodded, adjusting my hoodie nervously. "Yeah, Dad. Let's do it."
We stepped outside together, the cool morning air doing little to calm my nerves. The doors of the cars opened, and out stepped several representatives, all dressed sharply, carrying briefcases.
"Mr. Ben," one of them greeted, a tall man with a firm handshake. "I'm Mr. Carter from Stellar Ads. We're excited to finalize the advertising deal with you."
Another stepped forward, a poised woman in a navy suit. "Sophia Marks from Horizon Publishing. It's a pleasure to meet you, Ben."
Lastly, a slightly older man introduced himself. "Daniel Rhodes, representing Creative Merchandising Ltd. We've been looking forward to working with you."
Dad shook their hands firmly, adding, "I'll be here to ensure everything goes smoothly. Ben's worked hard for this."
Inside, we gathered around the dining table, where the contracts were neatly arranged. Baymax, though silent and unseen, was monitoring everything from my laptop, cross-referencing the agreements in real-time.
"Let's begin," Mr. Carter said, sliding the first document forward. "The advertising deal includes an upfront payment of $55,000, with additional earnings based on ad performance."
I glanced at Dad, who nodded. "Looks good," I said, picking up the pen and signing.
Next was Sophia Marks. "For the offline publishing deal, we're offering a $200,000 advance, with royalties as detailed here." She pointed to the relevant sections, which Dad scanned quickly.
"All clear," Dad confirmed. I signed again, my heart racing.
Finally, Daniel Rhodes laid out the merchandise agreement. "We're providing a $250,000 minimum guarantee upfront, plus 12% royalties on net sales. It's a strong starting point for merchandising your characters."
Dad leaned in, studied the terms, and gave me a nod. "Go for it."
I signed the final document, and with that, the deals were done.
After the contracts were signed, each representative activated a portable payment terminal.
"Here are the upfront payments," Sophia explained. "We'll process the transfers immediately."
One by one, the confirmations came through:
Stellar Ads: $55,000Horizon Publishing: $200,000Creative Merchandising Ltd.: $250,000
Baymax's voice spoke quietly through my earpiece, unheard by anyone else. "Creator, the total amount of $505,000 has been successfully transferred to your account."
I tried to keep a straight face, but the weight of what just happened hit me hard. This wasn't just talk anymore—I'd made it happen.
Dad clapped me on the back. "You've done well, son. I'm proud of you."
"Thanks, Dad," I said, shaking hands with each representative as they packed up.
As the cars drove away, Dad and I stood on the porch, watching them leave.
"Now what, Ben?" Dad asked, looking at me.
I grinned, already thinking of the next steps. "Now we get to work, Dad. This is just the beginning."