The applause at Munich's Olympic Stadium was deafening, so loud that it seemed to threaten to break through the dome.
Moments earlier, an incredible scene had unfolded before the crowd: Michael Jackson's bridge malfunctioned and began to fall. In a move that seemed straight out of a comic book, Martin, who had come to support the singing, leapt from the sky like a superhero to rescue Michael.
The medical team, stationed in the audience, rushed toward the stage, but Michael, still shaken, stopped them.
"No, don't come up! Really, nothing happened to me!" he said, waving them off. Then, turning to the audience, he added, "I'm so lucky to have Martin here with me today. He saved my life. Please, everyone, give our hero a round of applause!"
The crowd erupted in cheers. The dramatic rescue had left everyone in awe. The scene where Martin fell from the sky was now etched into their memories, and it would be the talk of the town for weeks.
The TV station that had bought the rights to the live broadcast was ecstatic. The thrilling, unexpected moment had become a ratings sensation, and the replays of the concert would surely skyrocket. Merchants who had purchased the concert's video rights were also jubilant, knowing it would become a hot commodity. The footage of Martin's heroic act would surely be a timeless classic.
Journalists were equally overjoyed. "This will make our bonuses this month," one of them thought. The scene had everything—the perfect blend of justice, heroism, and surprise. They were already writing their reports as the audience continued to buzz with excitement.
"I was there when Martin saved Michael!" people proudly boasted, already recounting the legendary moment to their friends and family. Today's concert had given them a story they could share forever.
For an hour after the incident, the crowd was still buzzing. While they enjoyed the rest of the concert, many were busy calling friends, texting family, or discussing the heroic rescue. Some were even chanting Martin's name.
Finally, after an intense, emotional hour, the concert came to an end. Despite the shock, Michael insisted on completing the entire performance with flawless professionalism.
Michael called all of his special guests to the stage to bow to the audience. As Martin stepped on stage, the loudest cheers of the night erupted.
Grabbing the microphone, Michael spoke with deep emotion, "Thanks to my friends who came to help me sing. Without you, I wouldn't have made it. Thanks to all of you here tonight—you are the reason I keep going. Thanks to the crew, who made this incredible stage possible..."
After a long list of thanks, Michael finally spoke of the person who had saved him:
"Thank you, Martin. Because of you, I can still stand here, I can still sing and show my gratitude. Because of you, I can continue my life. From today on, Martin Meyers, you're not just a friend—you're my brother!"
With that, Michael threw the microphone aside and enveloped Martin in a heartfelt hug.
The audience roared with applause once again.
In Martin's ear, Michael whispered, "Kid, if you ever need anything from me, just ask. If I can help, I will."
Martin smiled and replied, "No need for that, Michael. I did what anyone would do."
But in his heart, he thought, I will definitely take you up on that offer, Michael.
Almost every major newspaper, magazine, TV station, and radio station around the world was reporting on the concert accident and Martin's heroic rescue.
Martin's fame spread like wildfire, and his name was now known in every corner of the globe. The concert had been broadcast live in nearly a hundred countries, and with replays, print articles, and online reports, Martin and Michael Jackson were now household names.
Some of the reports included:
"Superheroes come to life! Martin Meyers performed a Spider-Man-like rescue to save Michael Jackson from a potentially fatal fall. He is the modern-day superhero." — München Press
"Martin Meyers, remember this name. His heroic act saved the Munich charity concert and Michael Jackson's life. A rescue that shocked the world!" — The Times
"We almost lost Michael Jackson, but the genius of Martin Meyers saved the day." — New York Times
"Not only does Martin Meyers have a genius brain, but a heart of gold. Unlike other child stars, he hasn't fallen into excess, and he continues to create and learn. Most importantly, he is willing to put others' safety before his own. A truly exemplary youth idol." — Los Angeles Times
Even in far-off New Zealand, the name "Martin" was becoming a whirlwind sensation.
At the same time, in a large conference room at a hotel in New Zealand, the entire Lord of the Rings crew had gathered to watch the live broadcast.
The footage of Martin rescuing Michael was playing on the TV, and it had been shown countless times in the days following the concert. But each time, it captivated the audience, increasing the TV ratings with every viewing.
When the crew saw Martin swing across the stage, holding onto the steel wire with one hand, rescuing Michael Jackson in mid-air, the entire room burst into exclamations.
"That was a life-or-death situation!"
"I think Michael should leave half his fortune to Martin. He saved his life, after all."
"But Martin doesn't need the money. He's not short of it."
"Did you see him holding Michael with one hand? And he's only thirteen!"
"I heard he's got supernatural strength. He once lifted Liv Tyler with one hand, right?"
Liv Tyler blushed, recalling the incident, and nodded quickly.
"Isn't he like Hercules?"
"Maybe he's the son of Zeus?"
"No, no, it's got to be Odin!"
"Alright, alright! Everyone, shut up! I didn't bring you here to discuss Martin's divine parentage," Peter Jackson interjected, a little exasperated. "We need to focus on how we can use this to promote the movie."
"Okay, okay," one crew member joked, "But I still say he's the son of Zeus. After all, Hercules was his son!"