The executives at Umbrella were surprised when they learned of Shaina's request. They dared not be negligent, as Shaina, being the first successful cyborg, held significant importance for the cyborg project. Further observations were necessary to ensure the modified body would have no adverse reactions. Allowing her to leave was also intended to observe any differences between cyborgs and ordinary humans in normal human life.
However, they hadn't anticipated Shaina would make such a demand.
Had it been anyone else, Umbrella's higher-ups would have been overjoyed. After all, having Shaina work at Umbrella would make future observations much more convenient. But the person inviting her was *that* individual, and even these executives couldn't casually agree.
Upon hearing the report, Bai Qi also became interested in Shaina and, with a wave of his hand, agreed to her request.
However, as the founder, Bai Qi didn't need to work. It was impossible for Shaina to partner with Bai Qi, so a compromise was reached, and Shaina became Bai Qi's secretary.
Upon learning of Bai Qi's true identity, Shaina not only showed no fear but also expressed a different kind of emotion, leading Bai Qi to wonder if she had some kind of problem. Later, to ensure Shaina was alright, Bai Qi obtained all of her information through various means, from her birth to the schools she attended, the boyfriends she had, and even her preferences, all clearly documented.
After confirming that Shaina was not a spy sent by the United States to his side, Bai Qi was relieved. Once the cyborg technology matured, he gave Shaina's body a major overhaul.
After all, Shaina was Bai Qi's secretary, and her capabilities could not be too weak.
Although Shaina only used a machine gun when dealing with thugs, her body was equipped with various advanced weapons, making her a walking arsenal.
The reason Bai Qi had the Shadow Ninjas deliver Shaina this time was simple: to showcase Umbrella's products.
Bai Qi knew very well what would happen at the upcoming exhibition.
If Bai Qi's guess was correct, this exhibition corresponded to the plot of Iron Man 2.
To retaliate against Tony Stark, the iron robots manufactured by Ivan Vanko would riot at the exhibition. Coupled with Bai Qi's planned release of the lightning demon Zhong Su atop Stark Tower, the scene was bound to be quite lively.
When the situation devolved into chaos, Shaina would have her chance to shine.
After picking up Shaina, Bai Qi caused no further trouble. The driver quickly arrived outside the exhibition hall.
As soon as they stepped out of the car, a large crowd of reporters, armed with cameras and microphones, swarmed them. They descended upon Bai Qi and his companions like hungry wolves upon prey, eager to extract every last detail, even about his ancestors.
"Sir, sir, what new products will Umbrella be exhibiting this time?"
"Sir, what are your thoughts on Stark Industries withdrawing from the arms industry? Will your company take any action?"
"Sir, please..."
Billy skillfully pushed away the surrounding reporters and had two bodyguards escort Bai Qi and Shaina inside, while he remained to skillfully deflect the reporters' questions with professional jargon.
Most reporters focused on Billy, as he was Umbrella's spokesperson in New York. However, among them were some sharp-eyed individuals who, observing Billy's attitude and actions towards Bai Qi, immediately sensed a significant scoop. This younger man clearly held a higher position.
Soon, a black-haired female reporter, holding a small notebook, approached Bai Qi. "Hello, sir. I'm Lois Lane, a reporter from the Daily Planet. What are your thoughts on tonight's exhibition?"
Upon hearing her name, Bai Qi was taken aback. He hadn't expected to meet Superman's girlfriend.
Though inwardly shocked, Bai Qi outwardly maintained a calm demeanor. "I am honored to be invited to the exhibition hosted by Stark Industries. As for my thoughts on this exhibition, I believe tonight will be a lively and unforgettable evening."
With that, Bai Qi continued walking, with Shaina closely by his side.
Watching Bai Qi's retreating back, Lois couldn't help but mutter, "What a strange man."
There weren't many reporters as perceptive as Lois, but she wasn't alone. However, Bai Qi easily brushed off most of these unknown reporters.
Although the exhibition was initiated by Stark Industries, many other companies were also involved. As the crème de la crème of American society gathered, how could there not be a reception?
"Sir, please present your invitation."
At the entrance to the reception, Bai Qi was once again stopped by a waiter in a suit, who politely asked him to present his invitation.
After all, behind this door were gathered various influential figures from America. Many reporters would take risks to obtain exclusive scoops, and forgeries of invitations were common.
This was simply the waiter's job, and given his humble demeanor, Bai Qi would appear petty if he refused.
With that thought, Bai Qi presented his invitation.
The waiter took the invitation, confirmed there were no issues, respectfully returned it to Bai Qi, and even opened the door for him.
Many people were attending the reception, and Bai Qi recognized quite a few of them. There was the most eye-catching bald man, Lex Luthor, the "playboy" Bruce Wayne, who was engaged in conversation with a female CEO, and Justin Hammer, who was introducing his company's latest products to several politicians.
Judging by the smile on Hammer's face, the products seemed to be selling well.
Although Hammer Industries had numerous setbacks in the Iron Man 2 plot, giving an impression of unreliability and inferiority, the company itself had strength. It was simply that he insisted on going head-to-head with a behemoth like Stark, making bloodshed an inevitable outcome.
Seeing the small groups huddled together, Bai Qi felt a sense of awkwardness.
As the boss behind Umbrella, Bai Qi had never appeared in public. His very existence was so shrouded in mystery that only a few high-ranking Umbrella executives knew of his presence.
Now, appearing here, with no one recognizing him, he felt out of place.
Shaina also noticed Bai Qi's discomfort and tugged his arm. "Boss, shall we leave? Our purpose isn't here anyway."
Hearing Shaina's words, Bai Qi felt they made sense. His purpose here was to release Zhong Su; why should he mingle with these commoners?
With that thought, he turned to leave. However, before he could take a step, a voice called out from behind him.
"Isn't this Boss Bai?"