Despite how worried, angry or whatever feeling she had at the moment, Pepper still looked completely composed. Completely under control. She’d had to so similar things in the past and for worse reasons. She’d spent the majority of her initial years with Stark Industries making excuses for Tony’s behavior. It seemed as if she had to do so once more. Damn it. But at least this time it didn’t include paying off a Playboy Bunny. Or seven.

With her hair pulled up into a professional twist, her makeup covering the dark circles under her eyes and her pencil skirt business suit hiding the fact that she’d lost weight in just a few days from stress, Pepper stepped onto the podium and spoke into the many microphones attached to it.

“I want to thank you all for coming,” she said, glad to hear her voice steady and strong. “This will be a brief statement, and I will not be taking questions afterward.”

Her hands were clasped behind her, and those who could see would notice how white her knuckles were. She didn’t need 3X5 cards since she had memorized the talking points and would wing the rest. Her winging it was better than most presidential speech writers best attempts.

“Stark Industries began a beta test of new, full immersion virtual reality technology. As happens during such testing, something went wrong. The regretful and unexpected reaction extended beyond the lab and its effects are still uncertain. We at Stark Industries want to assure the public that we have recruited urgent assistance from the most reputable and talented minds available. Notable names such as Dr. Bruce Banner, Dr. Jane Foster and IT specialists from law securities are currently working on a resolution to this emergency. Stark Industries accepts the responsibility for these events, and have put all of our resources toward rectifying these unfortunate incidents.” Not exactly an apology, but enough of a verbal dance to satisfy the mobs. “An emergency number has been created for information and new incidents as they occur. We and the law enforcement of New York encourage anyone to make use of this number so that we may immediately address the situation.” She was SO tempted to give out Dr. Strange’s number since he was being a bit elitist about this whole mess. “Thank you for your attendance and attention.” And with that Pepper left the podium to a chorus of shouted questions from the crowd. Happy was nearby with the limo which had Morgan in the back. Pepper made a bee line for it.