The Batplane cut through Earth's atmosphere with the kind of smooth precision that made Connor understand why Batman had a reputation for being prepared for everything. Through the cockpit's reinforced windows, he could see the curve of the planet below, city lights scattered across the darkness like someone had spilled diamonds on black velvet.
"First time in space?" Nightwing asked from the co-pilot's seat, noting Connor's obvious fascination with the view.
"First time seeing Earth from this perspective," Connor confirmed, his enhanced vision picking out details that would have been invisible to normal human sight. "It's beautiful. And smaller than I expected."
"Wait until you see the Watchtower," Batman said from the pilot's seat. "The League's headquarters makes most space stations look like mobile homes."
Connor's technological interface was already reaching out, detecting the massive construct ahead of them. What his enhanced senses perceived made him whistle low with appreciation.
*[TECHNOLOGICAL INTERFACE: Detecting massive orbital structure]*
*[WATCHTOWER SPECIFICATIONS: Analyzing...]*
*[LENGTH: 2.1 kilometers, advanced alien and Earth technologies integrated]*
*[DEFENSIVE SYSTEMS: Multiple layers, energy shielding, teleportation dampeners]*
*[POWER SOURCE: Solar collection arrays + unknown secondary systems]*
*[TECHNOLOGICAL SOPHISTICATION: Beyond current Earth science by decades]*
"It's incredible," Connor breathed as the station came into full view. The Watchtower looked like someone had taken the best elements of science fiction and engineering and created something that belonged in orbit around a planet of superheroes. Sleek curves integrated with functional design, energy fields shimmering around key sections, and docking bays that could accommodate everything from Batplanes to alien spacecraft.
"Welcome to the big leagues," Nightwing said with a grin. "Try not to look too impressed when we dock, or Flash will spend the entire evening giving you the technical tour."
The docking procedure was smooth and professional, handled by systems that responded to Batman's approach codes with immediate recognition. As they settled into the docking bay, Connor could see other vehicles already present—what looked like Wonder Woman's invisible jet, some kind of sleek spacecraft he didn't recognize, and what appeared to be a modified motorcycle that probably belonged to Flash.
*[GENETIC SIGHT: Multiple enhanced signatures detected]*
*[RANGE: Approximately 400 meters through station superstructure]*
*[SUBJECTS: 4-5 distinct enhancement patterns detected]*
*[ABSORPTION OPPORTUNITIES: Significant - Multiple unique abilities available]*
"Connor," Batman said as they prepared to disembark, "remember what we discussed about the extent of your abilities. The League needs to know you're trustworthy, but revealing everything too quickly might raise questions we're not ready to answer."
Connor nodded, mentally reviewing his cover story. AI-assisted ability absorption, limited to genetic enhancements, reduced capability compared to original sources. Technically true, just not complete.
The docking bay opened to reveal a welcoming committee that would have made Connor's comic book reading teenage self faint from excitement. Wonder Woman stood near the airlock, her presence commanding attention even in casual conversation with someone Connor couldn't see clearly. The Flash was vibrating slightly in place—apparently even standing still was a challenge when you could move at light speed. Behind them, the imposing figure of Martian Manhunter waited with patient dignity.
"Breathe," Nightwing said quietly as they walked down the ramp. "They're heroes, not gods. Well, most of them aren't gods."
Wonder Woman approached first, moving with the fluid grace of someone who had trained in combat for centuries. Up close, she was simultaneously exactly what Connor had expected and completely different. The strength was obvious—she moved like someone who could bench press a mountain and found the weight unremarkable. But there was also warmth in her expression, genuine curiosity rather than suspicious assessment.
"Connor," she said, extending her hand. "I'm Diana. Welcome to the Watchtower."
Connor shook her hand, trying to calibrate his grip to seem normal while his system immediately went into overdrive.
*[GENETIC SIGHT: WONDER WOMAN ANALYSIS]*
*[SUBJECT: Diana Prince - Amazon/Divine Heritage]*
*[SPECIES: Enhanced Human/Demigod hybrid]*
*[ENHANCEMENTS: Divine strength (Class 100+), immortality, combat mastery, truth perception, divine weapon proficiency]*
*[THREAT LEVEL: Planetary]*
*[ABSORPTION INITIATED...]*
*[GENETIC TEMPLATE INCOMPATIBLE FOR FULL INTEGRATION]*
*[PARTIAL ABSORPTION ACHIEVED: Combat Mastery (Master), Truth Perception (Basic), Divine Resilience (Adapted)]*
*[ABILITIES STORED IN GENETIC INVENTORY - Slot integration pending]*
The handshake lasted perhaps three seconds, but Connor felt like he'd just downloaded the combat experience of someone who had been perfecting warfare for three thousand years. The system efficiently filed the abilities away for later integration.
"Thank you for having me," Connor said, surprised by how natural his voice sounded despite the mental chaos of absorbing divine combat techniques.
"Barry Allen," came a voice from Connor's left as Flash stepped forward with that characteristic vibration that suggested he was consciously slowing himself down to normal human interaction speeds. "Though most people call me Flash. Batman filled us in on your situation—sounds like you handled yourself impressively for someone so new to the hero business."
Flash's handshake was quick—literally. Connor felt the contact for maybe half a second before Flash was already moving back to his previous position.
*[GENETIC SIGHT: THE FLASH ANALYSIS]*
*[SUBJECT: Barry Allen - Speed Force conduit]*
*[SPECIES: Human with extradimensional energy enhancement]*
*[ENHANCEMENTS: Super speed (light speed+), speed force manipulation, temporal resistance, accelerated healing]*
*[THREAT LEVEL: Extreme - Reality alteration potential]*
*[ABSORPTION INITIATED...]*
*[SPEED FORCE CONNECTION: Cannot replicate - Unique extradimensional bond]*
*[PARTIAL ABSORPTION ACHIEVED: Accelerated Reflexes (Expert), Temporal Awareness (Basic), Kinetic Processing (Advanced)]*
*[ABILITIES STORED IN GENETIC INVENTORY]*
"Thanks," Connor said, trying not to show that he was processing what felt like advanced physics lessons about time and motion. "Though I had a lot of help."
The next introduction came from someone whose presence felt different from the others—older, more contemplative, with an alien quality that Connor's enhanced senses picked up immediately.
"J'onn J'onzz," the tall, green-skinned figure said, his voice carrying formal courtesy. "I am pleased to meet you, Connor. Your situation presents interesting questions about identity and purpose that I believe many of us can relate to."
The Martian Manhunter's handshake was firm but brief, his red eyes studying Connor with what seemed like genuine interest rather than assessment.
*[GENETIC SIGHT: MARTIAN MANHUNTER ANALYSIS]*
*[SUBJECT: J'onn J'onzz - Martian physiology]*
*[SPECIES: Green Martian - Telepathic shapeshifter]*
*[ENHANCEMENTS: Shapeshifting (unlimited), telepathy (planetary range), invisibility, intangibility, Martian strength]*
*[THREAT LEVEL: Extreme - Telepathic and physical capabilities]*
*[ABSORPTION INITIATED...]*
*[MARTIAN GENETIC TEMPLATE: Partially compatible]*
*[PARTIAL ABSORPTION ACHIEVED: Enhanced Shapeshifting (Basic), Telepathic Range Extension, Mental Discipline Protocols]*
*[ABILITIES STORED IN GENETIC INVENTORY]*
"Thank you," Connor said, wondering if the Martian had picked up anything from his surface thoughts during the handshake. "I'm definitely still figuring out the identity part."
"A process that never truly ends," J'onn said with what might have been a slight smile. "But having good companions makes the journey more meaningful."
The final introduction came from someone Connor hadn't expected to meet—Aquaman stood near the observation windows, looking out at Earth with the kind of focused attention that suggested he was monitoring oceanic conditions even while socializing.
"Arthur Curry," he said, turning to offer Connor a handshake that carried the strength of someone accustomed to deep-ocean pressures. "Welcome aboard. I understand you chose to help others rather than serve those who created you. That speaks well of your character."
*[GENETIC SIGHT: AQUAMAN ANALYSIS]*
*[SUBJECT: Arthur Curry - Atlantean hybrid]*
*[SPECIES: Human/Atlantean hybrid]*
*[ENHANCEMENTS: Aquatic adaptation, underwater survival, marine telepathy, enhanced strength, durability]*
*[THREAT LEVEL: Regional (oceanic environments), High (general)]*
*[ABSORPTION INITIATED...]*
*[ATLANTEAN GENETIC MARKERS: Compatible with existing physiology]*
*[PARTIAL ABSORPTION ACHIEVED: Aquatic Adaptation (Complete), Marine Communication (Basic), Pressure Resistance (Enhanced)]*
*[ABILITIES STORED IN GENETIC INVENTORY]*
"Thank you," Connor said, feeling his lungs subtly shift to accommodate underwater breathing capabilities he hadn't possessed moments before. "It seemed like the right thing to do."
As the greetings concluded, Connor took a moment to mentally review his genetic inventory while maintaining conversation.
*[GENETIC INVENTORY STATUS UPDATE]*
**Currently Active Abilities (Slots 1-2):**
- MINDBRIDGE Package: Telepathy (Novice), Mental Shielding (Basic), Cognitive Acceleration
- UPGRADE Package: Technological Interface (Advanced), Adaptive Learning, System Analysis
**Genetic Inventory (Awaiting Integration):**
**From Justice League Members:**
- Wonder Woman: Combat Mastery (Master), Truth Perception (Basic), Divine Resilience
- Flash: Accelerated Reflexes (Expert), Temporal Awareness (Basic), Kinetic Processing
- Martian Manhunter: Enhanced Shapeshifting (Basic), Telepathic Range Extension, Mental Discipline
- Aquaman: Aquatic Adaptation (Complete), Marine Communication (Basic), Pressure Resistance
**From Cadmus Subjects:**
- PSYCHE: Precognitive abilities, temporal awareness
- ARSENAL: Shape-shifting, weapon generation
- GUARDIAN: Combat coordination, leadership enhancement
- PRISM: Energy manipulation, crystalline armor generation
- MATCH: Cellular regeneration protocols (degraded), Kryptonian resistance
- 10 Additional Enhancement Packages: Various specialized abilities
*[TOTAL GENETIC INVENTORY: 19 ability packages available for integration]*
*[NEXT ABSORPTION SLOT: Available at Level 10]*
*[CURRENT LEVEL: 6 - Need 4800 XP for next slot unlock]*
"So," Flash said, settling into what looked like a casual lean against a wall but was probably some kind of high-speed pose, "Batman mentioned you have some kind of AI-assisted ability absorption? That's got to be useful in combat situations."
Connor nodded, falling back on his prepared explanation. "It's helpful, but limited. I can analyze other enhanced individuals and absorb maybe ten to fifteen percent of their capabilities. The AI helps organize the information so I don't get overwhelmed."
"Fascinating," J'onn said, his alien features showing genuine interest. "The concept of technological integration with biological enhancement represents a significant advancement in human development."
"Though probably terrifying for the person experiencing it," Wonder Woman added with obvious concern. "Connor, how are you handling the psychological aspects of having multiple ability sets integrated into your consciousness?"
It was a perceptive question, and one Connor realized he should probably have an answer for. "It's... complex," he said honestly. "Some abilities feel natural, like they've always been part of me. Others are more like tools I can access when needed. The AI helps maintain separation between my core personality and the absorbed capabilities."
"That's remarkably sophisticated psychological architecture," Arthur observed. "Most enhancement procedures that involve personality integration result in some form of identity fragmentation."
"The Kryptonian neural structure might provide better resilience," Batman suggested, joining the conversation. "Enhanced processing capacity, natural resistance to psychological trauma."
Connor nodded gratefully at Batman's support of his cover story. "That's what we're thinking. Though honestly, I'm still discovering the limits."
"Speaking of limits," Flash said with obvious curiosity, "what's the most complex ability you've successfully absorbed?"
Connor thought about his absorption of UPGRADE's technological interface, which had essentially given him the ability to mentally network with any electronic system on the planet.
"Technological interface capabilities," Connor said carefully. "Direct mental connection to electronic systems, data processing, network infiltration. It's useful but overwhelming—like having the entire internet running through your consciousness."
"And you can handle that level of information flow?" Wonder Woman asked with impressed concern.
"The AI helps filter and organize it," Connor explained. "Without that assistance, I think the data overload would be... problematic."
J'onn nodded thoughtfully. "Mental discipline is crucial when dealing with expanded consciousness. The Martian techniques for compartmentalizing different aspects of awareness might be useful for your development."
*[SYSTEM NOTIFICATION: Potential training opportunity detected]*
*[Martian mental discipline protocols could enhance current telepathic abilities]*
*[Recommend pursuing training relationship with J'onn J'onzz]*
"I'd appreciate any guidance you could offer," Connor said, meaning it completely.
"Speaking of guidance," came a familiar voice from across the room, "I think it's time Connor met the person he's probably most curious about."
Connor turned to see Superman entering the common area, and felt his enhanced heart skip a beat. In person, Clark Kent was simultaneously everything Connor had expected and nothing like he'd imagined. The strength was obvious—Connor's genetic sight immediately registered the incredible power radiating from the figure in red and blue—but there was also something fundamentally approachable about him. This was someone who could bench press mountains but would still stop to help a kid with their homework.
*[GENETIC SIGHT: SUPERMAN ANALYSIS]*
*[SUBJECT: Clark Kent/Kal-El - Kryptonian physiology]*
*[SPECIES: Kryptonian - Full heritage]*
*[ENHANCEMENTS: Complete Kryptonian power set at maximum development]*
*[STRENGTH: Unlimited (solar powered), SPEED: FTL capability, DURABILITY: Planetary+]*
*[ADDITIONAL: Heat vision, freeze breath, x-ray vision, super hearing, flight]*
*[THREAT LEVEL: Cosmic]*
*[ABSORPTION POTENTIAL: ...ANALYZING...]*
*[ERROR: Identical genetic template detected]*
*[ABSORPTION INCOMPATIBLE: Cannot absorb abilities from genetically identical subject]*
*[ALTERNATIVE: Could potentially learn technique applications through observation and training]*
Connor felt a strange mix of relief and disappointment as his system informed him that he couldn't absorb Superman's abilities. Relief because it meant he wouldn't accidentally gain cosmic-level powers he wasn't ready for, disappointment because those abilities represented the full potential of his Kryptonian heritage.
"Connor," Superman said, approaching with a warm smile that somehow made the entire situation feel less overwhelming. "I'm Clark. It's wonderful to meet you."
The handshake was firm but careful, and Connor could feel the incredible restraint Superman was using to avoid accidentally crushing his hand. What surprised him was the emotional undercurrent he picked up through his telepathic abilities—genuine warmth, curiosity, and something that felt protective.
"It's an honor," Connor said, and meant it. "Though I have to admit, this is probably the strangest family reunion in history."
Superman laughed, and the sound was exactly what Connor would have hoped for—genuine, warm, without any of the complex emotions Connor had been dreading.
"I've had stranger meetings," Superman said with obvious amusement. "Though admittedly, not many. Connor, how are you handling all of this? The abilities, the situation, meeting everyone?"
Connor glanced around at the assembled League members, all of whom were watching with expressions of support and interest rather than judgment or suspicion.
"Better than I expected," Connor said honestly. "Everyone's been incredibly welcoming. Though I keep waiting for someone to point out that I'm a genetically engineered weapon who's been conscious for less than forty-eight hours."
"Connor," Wonder Woman said with gentle firmness, "genetics don't determine who you are. Your choices do. And your choice to help those people at Cadmus tells us everything we need to know about your character."
Flash nodded enthusiastically. "Plus, most of us have pretty complicated origin stories. Alien refugee, Amazon princess, Atlantean hybrid, Martian survivor, guy struck by lightning—we're not exactly a normal bunch."
"Barry's right," Superman said. "The League is full of people who had to figure out how to use unusual abilities responsibly. We're here to help each other with that challenge."
Connor felt something settle into place in his chest—belonging, maybe, or just the realization that he wasn't going to have to figure everything out alone.
"What I'm most curious about," J'onn said thoughtfully, "is your perspective on identity development. You've been conscious for a brief time, but you've already made significant choices about who you want to be. What drives those decisions?"
Connor considered the question while his enhanced mind processed the complex emotional and philosophical implications.
"When I woke up in Cadmus," Connor said slowly, "they told me I was their weapon. That my purpose was to serve their vision of humanity's defense against alien threats." He looked at Superman. "They wanted me to see you as an enemy, as something to be contained or eliminated."
"But you didn't accept that framework," Arthur observed.
"No," Connor said with certainty. "Maybe it was intuition, maybe something deeper, but when I looked at the other subjects in that facility—people who had been turned into prisoners for the crime of being enhanced—I knew that wasn't the kind of person I wanted to be."
"And when you met Batman's team?" Wonder Woman asked.
Connor smiled, remembering the moment in the corridor when Batman had dropped through the ceiling access panel.
"I saw people who were willing to risk themselves to help strangers. Who treated the enhanced subjects like people worth saving rather than problems to be managed." Connor looked around at the assembled heroes. "That's the kind of person I want to be. Someone who helps others, who protects people who can't protect themselves."
"That's exactly the right answer," Superman said with obvious approval.
*[EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Strong foundation established]*
*[HEROIC IDENTITY: Solidifying around service and protection values]*
*[LEAGUE ACCEPTANCE: High probability based on current interactions]*
"So what happens now?" Connor asked. "Batman mentioned training programs, but I'm not sure what that actually means."
"Now," Superman said, "we help you figure out how to be the best hero you can be. Training, mentorship, guidance on using your abilities responsibly. And Connor—you're not alone in this. Whatever questions you have, whatever challenges come up, we're here to help."
Connor looked around at the assembled Justice League members—heroes whose adventures he'd read about in comic books, now offering to be his mentors and colleagues—and felt like his new life was finally beginning.
"I'd like that," Connor said simply. "I'd like that very much."
As the conversation continued, Connor's system provided a final status update:
*[QUEST COMPLETED: Training Begins - Initial Phase]*
*[JUSTICE LEAGUE RELATIONSHIP: Positive - Training and mentorship offered]*
*[NEXT PHASE: Formal evaluation and power development]*
*[GENETIC INVENTORY: 19 abilities catalogued and ready for strategic integration]*
*[CURRENT DEVELOPMENT TRACK: On path toward full Justice League membership]*
Connor Kent looked out through the Watchtower's observation windows at Earth turning slowly below, surrounded by the most powerful heroes in the world who had just offered to help him become everything he was meant to be.
For the first time since waking up in that sterile Cadmus laboratory, he felt like he was exactly where he belonged.
The real adventure was just beginning.
—
After the group introductions wound down, Superman gestured toward a quieter section of the Watchtower's common area—a smaller observation lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows that provided a spectacular view of Earth rotating slowly below.
"Connor, would you mind if we talked privately for a few minutes?" Superman asked. "I imagine you have questions about the Kryptonian side of your heritage, and I'd like to understand your perspective on everything that's happened."
Connor nodded, following Superman to a pair of comfortable chairs positioned near the observation windows. His enhanced hearing picked up the subtle sound of the other League members moving to different areas of the station, giving them privacy without making a production of it.
"This is incredible," Connor said, settling into his chair while looking out at the Earth below. "I never imagined I'd see the planet from this perspective."
"It never gets old," Superman agreed, his voice carrying genuine appreciation. "Though I have to admit, the view always reminds me of how small and precious Earth is. How much responsibility we have to protect it."
Connor studied Superman's profile as he looked out at the planet. There was something in his expression—not burden exactly, but the weight of someone who genuinely felt responsible for the wellbeing of billions of people.
"Is that what it's like?" Connor asked. "Having this much power? Do you always feel responsible for everything that happens?"
Superman turned to look at Connor directly, his blue eyes serious but not unkind. "That's a very perceptive question. The honest answer is yes, sometimes it feels like that. When you have the ability to help in almost any situation, it's hard not to feel like you should be everywhere at once."
"How do you handle it?" Connor asked. "The guilt when you can't save everyone, the pressure to be perfect, the knowledge that people are depending on you for things no one person should have to handle alone?"
Superman was quiet for a moment, clearly considering his answer carefully. "Experience helps. Learning to accept that I can't save everyone, can't solve every problem, can't be everything to everyone. But Connor, what concerns me is that you're asking these questions after being conscious for less than two days."
Connor felt his enhanced senses pick up the subtle shift in Superman's tone—concern, maybe even worry.
"I can feel it," Connor said honestly. "The weight of these abilities. When I was fighting Lex's armor, when I was helping evacuate those subjects from Cadmus, there was this constant awareness that I could do more, could have prevented more damage, could have acted faster."
"That awareness never completely goes away," Superman said gently. "But Connor, you saved seventeen people. You stopped Lex Luthor. You chose to help rather than harm. Those aren't small things."
Connor nodded, then found himself asking the question he'd been avoiding: "What's it like, knowing that someone used your DNA without permission to create me? Are you angry about it? Resentful?"
Superman leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful rather than troubled. "Angry at Cadmus and Lex? Absolutely. They violated fundamental ethical principles about genetic material and human experimentation. But Connor, I need you to understand something important—I'm not angry about you existing."
The simple statement hit Connor with unexpected emotional force.
"When Batman first told me about you," Superman continued, "my first thought wasn't about the violation of using my DNA. It was concern for what you'd been put through, what Cadmus had intended you for, whether you were safe and being treated well."
Connor felt his newly enhanced telepathic abilities picking up emotional undercurrents from Superman—genuine warmth, protective instincts, and something that felt almost paternal.
"You see me as a person," Connor said, surprised by the realization. "Not as a copy or a weapon or a violation of your genetics."
"Connor, you are a person," Superman said with quiet certainty. "You have thoughts, feelings, moral instincts, the ability to choose who you want to be. The fact that you share some of my genetic material doesn't make you less real or less deserving of respect and autonomy."
Connor looked out at Earth rotating below them, processing the conversation while his enhanced mind worked through the implications.
"Can I ask you something that might sound strange?" Connor said.
"Of course."
"When you were young, discovering your abilities, figuring out how to use them—did you ever feel like you didn't deserve them? Like maybe someone else would be better at being Superman?"
Superman smiled, and Connor could see understanding in his expression. "All the time. Even now, sometimes. The abilities I have, the trust people place in me—it's humbling. Sometimes overwhelming."
"How do you get past that?"
"I don't, completely," Superman said honestly. "But I've learned that the question isn't whether I deserve these abilities. The question is what I choose to do with them. And Connor, from what I've seen, you're making excellent choices."
Connor felt something settle into place in his chest—not complete confidence, but the beginning of it.
"Tell me about the absorption abilities," Superman said, shifting to a more practical topic. "Batman mentioned you can integrate capabilities from other enhanced individuals. How does that work?"
Connor had been expecting this question and had his explanation prepared. "There's some kind of AI system integrated into my consciousness—probably a Cadmus modification. When I make physical contact with enhanced individuals, it analyzes their genetic modifications and allows me to absorb a fraction of their capabilities."
"That sounds incredibly useful but potentially overwhelming," Superman observed. "How do you maintain your sense of self with multiple ability sets running in your mind?"
"The AI helps compartmentalize everything," Connor said, which was technically true. "I can access the absorbed abilities when needed, but they don't interfere with my core personality. It's more like having additional tools available than having my identity fragmented."
Superman nodded thoughtfully. "That's remarkably sophisticated. Most genetic integration procedures result in some form of psychological instability. The fact that you're maintaining clear self-identity suggests either exceptional mental resilience or very advanced integration protocols."
"Probably both," Connor said. "The Kryptonian neural structure seems to provide better stability than baseline human psychology."
"Have you discovered any limitations to the absorption process?"
Connor considered his answer carefully. "I can only maintain a limited number of absorbed ability sets at once—currently two active packages. And the abilities are reduced in scope compared to the original subjects. I get maybe ten to fifteen percent of their full capabilities."
"Still significant," Superman said. "Especially if you can strategically choose which abilities to maintain based on the situation."
Connor nodded, then found himself asking another question he'd been curious about. "Clark, what's your perspective on the whole 'alien threat' narrative that drove Cadmus to create me? Do you think humanity has legitimate reasons to be concerned about Kryptonian abilities?"
Superman was quiet for a long moment, his expression becoming more serious.
"That's a complex question," Superman said finally. "The power level I possess could theoretically be used to cause incredible damage. In the wrong hands, or with the wrong motivations, Kryptonian abilities represent a genuine threat to planetary security."
Connor felt his enhanced senses pick up the weight behind Superman's words—this was something he'd clearly thought about extensively.
"But Connor, the same could be said about many things—nuclear technology, artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, even conventional military capabilities. The question isn't whether power can be dangerous. The question is how we choose to use it and what safeguards we put in place."
"What kind of safeguards?" Connor asked with genuine curiosity.
"Personal accountability, transparent relationships with legitimate authority structures, willingness to accept oversight and limitation when appropriate." Superman gestured toward the Watchtower around them. "The Justice League exists partly to provide that accountability. We watch each other, challenge each other, make sure none of us becomes something the world needs to fear."
Connor nodded, understanding the deeper implications. "And you think I need that kind of accountability too?"
"I think everyone with significant abilities needs it," Superman said simply. "Connor, you're incredibly powerful and you're still developing both your capabilities and your judgment. Having mentors, colleagues, people who can provide guidance and perspective—that's not about controlling you. It's about helping you become the best version of yourself."
Connor looked out at the Earth below, then back at Superman. "What do you think I should do next? I know Batman mentioned training programs, but I'm not sure what that actually means."
"Several things," Superman said, his tone becoming more practical. "First, you need to develop better control over your existing abilities. Kryptonian powers can be dangerous if not properly managed, and your absorption capabilities add another layer of complexity."
"What kind of training are we talking about?"
"Physical conditioning to understand your limits, tactical training to apply your abilities effectively, psychological counseling to help process everything you're experiencing." Superman paused. "And Connor, I'd like to spend time with you personally, helping you understand the Kryptonian heritage we share."
Connor felt a warmth in his chest that had nothing to do with his solar-powered physiology. "I'd like that. I have so many questions about Kryptonian culture, history, the scope of abilities I might develop."
"All of which we can explore together," Superman said with obvious satisfaction. "Though Connor, I want you to understand something important—you're not bound by Kryptonian traditions or expectations. You get to choose who you want to be."
"Even if I choose something different from what you would choose?"
"Especially then," Superman said with a slight smile. "Connor, you're not me. You're not required to be me. You're required to be the best version of Connor Kent you can be."
Connor felt his enhanced emotional processing working through the implications of that statement. Freedom to choose his own path, but with support and guidance from someone who understood the unique challenges of Kryptonian abilities.
"Can I ask about something that's been bothering me?" Connor said.
"Of course."
"The other enhanced subjects from Cadmus—people like MINDBRIDGE and UPGRADE, all the others we evacuated. What happens to them now? Do they get the same kind of support and training opportunities?"
Superman's expression shifted to something that looked like approval mixed with concern. "Why do you ask?"
"Because they didn't choose to be enhanced any more than I chose to be created," Connor said with growing certainty. "They deserve the same opportunities to figure out how to use their abilities constructively. And honestly, some of them are incredibly capable people who could make real contributions if given the chance."
"You're thinking about them as potential allies rather than just victims who need help," Superman observed.
"I'm thinking about them as people who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances and deserve the chance to make something positive out of it," Connor corrected. "Same as me."
Superman smiled, and Connor could see genuine pride in his expression. "Connor, that perspective—seeing people as individuals with potential rather than problems to be managed—that's exactly the kind of thinking that makes a good hero."
"So what can we do for them?"
"The League has programs for situations like this," Superman said. "Enhanced individuals who want to use their abilities constructively can access training, support, even potential membership opportunities if they're interested and qualified."
Connor leaned forward with obvious interest. "Really?"
"Really. Though it's not automatic—everyone has to prove they can handle the responsibility and make good decisions under pressure." Superman paused meaningfully. "Just like you're doing now."
Connor felt the implication settle over him. This conversation wasn't just about getting to know each other—it was an evaluation. Superman was assessing whether Connor had the judgment and character to be trusted with his abilities and potential League membership.
"What do you think so far?" Connor asked directly.
Superman smiled. "I think you're asking the right questions, showing concern for others, demonstrating good judgment under pressure, and approaching your abilities with appropriate respect and caution. I think you're going to make an excellent hero, Connor."
The simple validation hit Connor harder than he'd expected. This was Superman—the person whose genetic template he carried, whose reputation he would inevitably be compared against—saying he had potential.
"Thank you," Connor said quietly. "That means more than you probably realize."
"I think I understand exactly how much it means," Superman said gently. "Connor, I want you to know that I'm proud of what you've accomplished so far, and I'm looking forward to watching you develop into the hero I know you can be."
Connor looked out at Earth rotating slowly below them, surrounded by the Justice League's orbital headquarters, having just received mentorship and approval from Superman himself.
Forty-eight hours ago, he'd been unconscious in a laboratory tank. Now he was planning a career as a superhero with the support of the most powerful heroes on the planet.
"This is really happening, isn't it?" Connor said, more to himself than to Superman.
"Welcome to the Justice League, Connor," Superman said with obvious satisfaction. "I think you're going to fit in perfectly."
*[RELATIONSHIP ESTABLISHED: Superman (Mentor/Father Figure)]*
*[JUSTICE LEAGUE STATUS: Provisional member - Training phase initiated]*
*[PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT: Strong foundation established for heroic identity]*
*[NEXT OBJECTIVES: Formal training programs, ability development, integration with League operations]*
Connor Kent looked out at the stars beyond Earth's atmosphere and felt like his real life was finally beginning.
---
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