Connor sat alone in the small guest quarters the Justice League had provided aboard the Watchtower, finally out of the sterile Cadmus bodysuit and wearing civilian clothes that actually fit—jeans and a plain t-shirt that felt like luxury after the clinical environment he'd escaped from. The room was simple but comfortable, with a small desk, a bed, and most importantly, a window that provided an unobstructed view of Earth rotating slowly below.
He'd asked for some time alone to process everything, and the League had been understanding. But really, Connor needed space to properly assess his situation without having to maintain his cover story about limited AI assistance.
*[PRIVACY CONFIRMED - NO SURVEILLANCE DETECTED]*
*[SYSTEM ACCESS: Full functionality available]*
*[GENETIC INVENTORY: Ready for detailed analysis]*
Connor settled at the desk and opened his enhanced consciousness to the system's full interface, letting the translucent blue text fill his peripheral vision.
**CURRENT STATUS:**
- **Level:** 6 (800/5000 XP to Level 7)
- **Absorption Slots:** 2/2 (Next slot unlocks at Level 10)
- **Active Abilities:** MINDBRIDGE Package (Telepathy/Mental), UPGRADE Package (Technology/Learning)
**GENETIC INVENTORY: 19 CATALOGUED ABILITIES**
Connor mentally expanded the inventory system, studying each entry with careful attention to potential synergies and strategic value.
**Justice League Acquisitions:**
*Wonder Woman Package:*
- Combat Mastery (Master level - 3000+ years of tactical experience)
- Truth Perception (Basic - detect deception, assess character)
- Divine Resilience (Adapted - enhanced resistance to mystical/divine attacks)
*Strategic Value: Extreme - Combat expertise would revolutionize fighting ability*
*Flash Package:*
- Accelerated Reflexes (Expert - enhanced reaction time without true super speed)
- Temporal Awareness (Basic - sense timeline disruptions, limited precognition)
- Kinetic Processing (Advanced - understand and manipulate momentum/motion)
*Strategic Value: High - Significant tactical advantages, potential for growth*
*Martian Manhunter Package:*
- Enhanced Shapeshifting (Basic - limited form alteration, not full Martian capability)
- Telepathic Range Extension (Significant increase to existing telepathy)
- Mental Discipline Protocols (Advanced resistance to mental manipulation)
*Strategic Value: Very High - Complements existing telepathy, adds versatility*
*Aquaman Package:*
- Aquatic Adaptation (Complete - unlimited underwater operation)
- Marine Communication (Basic - communicate with ocean life)
- Pressure Resistance (Enhanced - deep ocean/space vacuum tolerance)
*Strategic Value: Moderate - Useful but situational*
**Cadmus Subject Acquisitions:**
*PSYCHE Package:*
- Precognitive Abilities (See potential futures, probability analysis)
- Temporal Awareness (Enhanced - detect timeline alterations)
*Strategic Value: Extreme - Information advantage in all situations*
*ARSENAL Package:*
- Adaptive Shapeshifting (Transform body parts into weapons/tools)
- Weapon Generation (Create advanced armaments from body mass)
*Strategic Value: High - Significant combat versatility*
*GUARDIAN Package:*
- Combat Coordination (Direct tactical leadership abilities)
- Leadership Enhancement (Inspire and coordinate team efforts)
*Strategic Value: High - Team operation force multiplier*
*PRISM Package:*
- Energy Manipulation (Absorb, store, redirect various energy forms)
- Crystalline Armor Generation (Near-invulnerable defensive capability)
*Strategic Value: Very High - Both offensive and defensive applications*
*MATCH Package:*
- Cellular Regeneration Protocols (Enhanced healing, though degraded)
- Kryptonian Resistance Adaptation (Improved immunity to specific threats)
*Strategic Value: Moderate - Useful but comes with degradation risks*
**Additional Cadmus Subjects (10 more packages available - various specialized enhancements)**
Connor leaned back in his chair, processing the strategic implications. The system had catalogued an incredible variety of abilities, but choosing his third absorption slot would be crucial.
*[SYSTEM ANALYSIS: Optimization recommendations based on current development track]*
**TOP STRATEGIC CHOICES FOR SLOT 3:**
**1. Wonder Woman Package (Combat Mastery)**
*Pros: Instant master-level combat expertise, 3000 years of tactical knowledge, would make Connor nearly unbeatable in physical confrontations*
*Cons: Primarily physical enhancement, doesn't add new capability types*
*Synergy: Excellent with existing Kryptonian strength/speed*
**2. PSYCHE Package (Precognition)**
*Pros: Information advantage in all situations, strategic planning enhancement, could prevent disasters before they happen*
*Cons: Potentially overwhelming psychic input, may create dependency on future sight*
*Synergy: Excellent with existing telepathy and technological interface*
**3. Martian Manhunter Package (Enhanced Mental Abilities)**
*Pros: Significant boost to existing telepathy, shapeshifting adds versatility, mental discipline improves all psychic abilities*
*Cons: Limited new capability types, primarily enhances existing rather than adding new*
*Synergy: Perfect complement to current MINDBRIDGE package*
**4. PRISM Package (Energy Manipulation)**
*Pros: Adds entirely new capability type, excellent defensive and offensive options, would complement Kryptonian solar absorption*
*Cons: Complex power set that might require significant training time*
*Synergy: Potentially excellent with Kryptonian physiology*
Connor stood and paced to the window, looking down at Earth while his enhanced mind processed the strategic implications. The question wasn't just which ability would be most powerful—it was which would best serve his long-term development as a hero.
*[EXPERIENCE GAIN ANALYSIS]*
*Current XP: 800/5000 to Level 7*
*Average XP gain from major heroic actions: 1500-3000 per incident*
*Estimated timeline to Level 10: 15-20 major missions or equivalent training milestones*
The system's analysis suggested he could reach Level 10 relatively quickly if he actively pursued heroic activities. Justice League training missions, responding to emergencies, major villain encounters—all would provide significant XP gains.
But Connor found himself thinking about something Superman had said: "You get to choose who you want to be."
Looking out at Earth, Connor realized his choice of abilities should reflect the kind of hero he wanted to become, not just the most efficient power combination.
*Did he want to be a tactically perfect warrior like Wonder Woman?*
*A strategic precognitive like PSYCHE?*
*A versatile shapeshifting telepath combining his current abilities with J'onn's expertise?*
*An energy-wielding powerhouse like PRISM?*
Connor returned to the desk and pulled up another system interface he'd been curious about.
*[ADVANCED ANALYSIS: Long-term development paths]*
**Path 1: Combat Specialist**
*Wonder Woman + Future combat-focused absorptions*
*Becomes: Nearly invincible physical combatant with tactical mastery*
*Weakness: Limited versatility outside direct confrontation*
**Path 2: Information/Support Specialist**
*PSYCHE + Martian Manhunter + Information-gathering abilities*
*Becomes: Ultimate intelligence and reconnaissance operative*
*Weakness: Less direct combat capability*
**Path 3: Versatility Specialist**
*Balanced absorption across multiple capability types*
*Becomes: Swiss army knife hero capable in any situation*
*Weakness: Master of none, potential identity confusion*
**Path 4: Power Amplifier**
*Focus on abilities that enhance existing Kryptonian baseline*
*Becomes: Superman-plus with additional capabilities*
*Weakness: May become overpowered, difficult to relate to normal people*
Connor stared at the analysis for a long moment, then mentally dismissed all of it.
He wasn't trying to optimize a character build in a video game. He was trying to figure out how to use incredible abilities to help people and protect those who couldn't protect themselves.
*What did the world need from Connor Kent?*
He thought about the Cadmus subjects—seventeen people who had been treated like lab equipment until someone decided they were worth saving. He thought about Batman's team, working in the shadows to protect people who would never know their names. He thought about Superman, carrying the weight of being Earth's ultimate protector while somehow remaining fundamentally human and approachable.
Connor opened a new system interface.
*[PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT]*
*Question: What type of hero do you want to become?*
Connor considered the question seriously, then began typing his response into the system's interface.
*I want to be the kind of hero who sees people as individuals worth protecting, not problems to be solved. I want to help enhanced individuals like the Cadmus subjects find their place in the world. I want to be someone other heroes can rely on, but also someone normal people can trust and relate to.*
*I want to be strong enough to handle serious threats, smart enough to find solutions that don't require violence, and wise enough to know when each approach is appropriate.*
*Most importantly, I want to remain someone who chooses to help others because it's right, not because I have to or because it's expected of me.*
The system processed his input for several seconds, then provided a response that surprised him with its simplicity.
*[RECOMMENDATION: Choose based on immediate need rather than long-term optimization]*
*[CURRENT SITUATION: Justice League evaluation and training period]*
*[IMMEDIATE CHALLENGES: Proving competence, maintaining cover story, developing heroic reputation]*
*[SUGGESTED FOCUS: Abilities that demonstrate heroic judgment and tactical competence]*
Connor smiled, realizing the system was right. He was overthinking this.
Based on his immediate situation—proving himself to the Justice League while beginning his career as a hero—the choice was actually clear.
*Wonder Woman's Combat Mastery.*
Not because it was the most powerful option, but because it would give him the tactical knowledge and fighting expertise to handle dangerous situations without unnecessary collateral damage. Three thousand years of combat experience would teach him not just how to fight, but when to fight, how to minimize harm, and how to protect others effectively.
Plus, if he was going to be working alongside heroes like Batman and Superman, he needed to be competent enough that they could rely on him in serious situations.
*[SELECTION CONFIRMED: Wonder Woman Package prioritized for Level 10 absorption]*
*[SECONDARY PRIORITY: PSYCHE Package for situational awareness and strategic planning]*
*[TERTIARY PRIORITY: Martian Manhunter Package for enhanced telepathic capabilities]*
Connor stood and stretched, feeling more settled about his development path. He had a plan: reach Level 10 through Justice League training and missions, absorb Wonder Woman's combat expertise, then continue developing based on the situations he encountered.
A soft chime indicated an incoming communication. Connor activated the room's intercom system.
"Connor," came Batman's voice, "we're ready to begin your tactical assessment if you're available. Training Room 3."
Connor grinned, his enhanced hearing picking up the subtle sounds of multiple people moving through the Watchtower's corridors—probably the other League members preparing for his evaluation.
*[QUEST AVAILABLE: Justice League Training Assessment]*
*[OBJECTIVE: Demonstrate competence and heroic judgment]*
*[REWARD: XP gain toward Level 10, formal training program access]*
*[BONUS OBJECTIVE: Impress evaluators without revealing full capabilities]*
"On my way," Connor replied, then looked once more out at Earth rotating below.
Time to show the Justice League what Connor Kent could do.
And more importantly, time to start earning the XP he'd need to unlock his next ability slot.
The real training was about to begin.
*[CURRENT STATUS UPDATE]*
*Level: 6 (800/5000 XP)*
*Next Goal: Level 10 for third absorption slot*
*Selected Ability: Wonder Woman Combat Mastery Package*
*Estimated Timeline: 2-3 major training exercises or heroic missions*
*Current Development Focus: Proving heroic competence while maintaining strategic development path*
Connor Kent walked out of his quarters and toward Training Room 3, ready to begin the next phase of becoming the hero he was meant to be.
—
Training Room 3 aboard the Watchtower looked like someone had taken the holodeck from Star Trek and given it a significant budget increase. The space was roughly the size of an aircraft hangar, with walls that seemed to shimmer with barely contained energy. Holographic projectors lined every surface, and Connor's technological interface immediately detected the sophisticated computer systems managing what appeared to be reality-manipulation technology.
*[TECHNOLOGICAL INTERFACE: Analyzing training room systems]*
*[HOLOGRAPHIC PROJECTION: Military-grade simulation capability]*
*[ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROLS: Gravity manipulation, atmospheric adjustment, terrain generation]*
*[SAFETY PROTOCOLS: Multiple redundant systems - injury prevention prioritized]*
*[ASSESSMENT: Technology decades ahead of current Earth science]*
"Impressive, isn't it?" Flash's voice came from behind Connor as he entered the room. "The Watchtower's training facilities can simulate pretty much any environment or threat scenario you can imagine."
Connor turned to see not just Flash, but the entire Justice League contingent assembled along one wall of the room. Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Martian Manhunter, and Aquaman stood in a loose group, their expressions focused but supportive. This wasn't going to be a casual workout—this was a formal evaluation.
"The purpose of this assessment," Batman began without preamble, "is to understand your current capabilities, identify areas for development, and evaluate your tactical decision-making under pressure."
"We're not trying to test you to failure," Superman added with reassuring warmth. "We want to see how you handle different scenarios so we can design a training program that helps you develop most effectively."
Connor nodded, his enhanced senses detecting the subtle emotional undercurrents in the room. Professional interest from all of them, but also genuine concern for his wellbeing. These weren't people looking to exploit his abilities—they were mentors trying to help him succeed.
"What kind of scenarios?" Connor asked.
"Several different types," Wonder Woman replied, stepping forward with the fluid grace of someone who had been perfecting combat for millennia. "Physical capability assessment, tactical problem-solving, threat response, and team coordination exercises."
J'onn added thoughtfully, "We're particularly interested in observing how you integrate your various abilities. The combination of Kryptonian physiology with absorption-based enhancements presents unique opportunities and challenges."
*[QUEST INITIATED: Justice League Training Assessment]*
*[PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: Demonstrate competence across multiple skill areas]*
*[BONUS OBJECTIVES: Impress evaluators, maintain cover story, identify XP opportunities]*
*[ESTIMATED XP REWARD: 500-2000 based on performance]*
"I'm ready," Connor said, settling into a ready stance. "Where do we start?"
"Physical assessment first," Batman said, activating a control panel. "We need baseline measurements of your current capabilities."
The training room shimmered and transformed around Connor, holographic walls rising to create what looked like an obstacle course designed by someone with a very creative understanding of physics. Gravity fields, energy barriers, moving platforms, and obstacles that seemed to shift between solid and intangible filled the space.
"Complete the course as quickly as possible," Superman instructed. "Use whatever abilities you think are appropriate, but try to demonstrate range rather than just raw power."
Connor studied the course with his enhanced vision and tactical analysis capabilities. His technological interface mapped the energy patterns, his telepathic abilities probed for any hidden elements, and his adaptive learning protocols began calculating optimal approaches.
*[TACTICAL ANALYSIS: Course designed to test speed, strength, problem-solving, and ability integration]*
*[OPTIMAL APPROACH: Demonstrate variety of capabilities while maintaining efficient completion time]*
*[ASSESSMENT: Multiple solutions available - choose based on evaluation objectives rather than pure optimization]*
"Beginning run," Connor announced, then launched himself forward.
The first obstacle was a series of energy barriers that required precise timing to navigate. Instead of relying purely on his Kryptonian speed, Connor used his technological interface to analyze the energy patterns and predict the timing windows, then moved through with efficient precision rather than overwhelming force.
*[XP GAINED: 25 - Demonstrated integrated ability use]*
The second section required lifting and repositioning massive holographic blocks while navigating a shifting maze. Connor's enhanced strength made the lifting trivial, but he used his telepathic abilities to detect the maze's pattern changes and plan his route several moves ahead.
*[XP GAINED: 30 - Showed strategic thinking under physical pressure]*
The third obstacle was the most interesting—a complex mechanical puzzle that required both fine motor control and systems analysis. Connor placed his hand on the central interface and let his technological abilities flow into the system, understanding its logic and solving it from the inside rather than trying to manipulate it externally.
"Innovative approach," he heard Batman comment to the others. "Most subjects try to solve it through trial and error."
*[XP GAINED: 40 - Creative problem-solving demonstration]*
Connor completed the course in what felt like reasonable time, landing gracefully in the finish area without breathing heavily despite the complex sequence of challenges.
"Time: four minutes, thirty-seven seconds," Flash announced, sounding impressed. "That's faster than most League members on their first attempt."
"More importantly," Wonder Woman added, "you demonstrated tactical thinking rather than just applying overwhelming force. Many individuals with your power level would have simply smashed through obstacles rather than finding elegant solutions."
Superman nodded approvingly. "Connor, how did that feel? Any strain, difficulty integrating different abilities?"
"It felt natural," Connor said honestly. "The different capability sets seemed to complement each other well. The technological interface helped me understand the systems, the telepathic abilities provided spatial awareness, and the Kryptonian physiology handled the physical demands."
"Excellent," J'onn said, making notes on a tablet. "That suggests good psychological integration of your various enhancements."
*[ASSESSMENT PHASE 1 COMPLETE]*
*[PHYSICAL CAPABILITIES: Above expected baseline]*
*[ABILITY INTEGRATION: Excellent]*
*[XP GAINED: 95 total for first assessment phase]*
"Next test," Batman announced, and the room transformed again. This time, Connor found himself in what looked like a city street during some kind of disaster. Buildings were damaged, holographic civilians were scattered throughout the area, and the sound of emergency sirens filled the air.
"Disaster response scenario," Superman explained. "Your primary objective is civilian safety. Secondary objectives are threat assessment and damage mitigation."
Connor's enhanced senses immediately went into overdrive, cataloguing the scene. His technological interface detected the disaster parameters, his telepathic abilities picked up the emotional states of the holographic civilians, and his tactical analysis began prioritizing response actions.
*[SCENARIO ANALYSIS: Building collapse, gas leak, multiple injured civilians, potential secondary hazards]*
*[PRIORITY ASSESSMENT: 12 civilians in immediate danger, 6 requiring medical attention, 2 trapped in debris]*
*[OPTIMAL STRATEGY: Systematic evacuation with damage control]*
Instead of rushing toward the most obvious problems, Connor took thirty seconds to assess the entire situation comprehensively.
"Gas leak from the damaged building poses explosion risk," Connor announced to his evaluators. "Addressing that first to prevent cascading damage."
Using his technological interface, Connor located the building's gas lines and systematically shut down the supply, preventing potential explosion. Then he moved to civilian evacuation, using his enhanced speed to relocate threatened individuals while his telepathic abilities helped calm panic.
*[XP GAINED: 50 - Comprehensive threat assessment before action]*
The most challenging part involved two civilians trapped under debris too unstable to lift safely. Connor used his technological interface to analyze the structural stress patterns, then applied his strength with surgical precision to stabilize the debris while extracting the trapped individuals.
"Medical triage," Connor called out, using his enhanced senses to assess civilian injuries and organizing them by priority level for emergency responders.
*[XP GAINED: 75 - Demonstrated medical assessment capabilities and strategic thinking]*
When the scenario concluded, Connor had successfully evacuated all civilians, prevented secondary disasters, and organized the scene for efficient emergency response.
"Fourteen minutes, no civilian casualties, minimal additional property damage," Aquaman reported. "Most impressive was the systematic approach—you treated it as a complex problem rather than just a series of individual rescues."
"The gas leak assessment was particularly good," Batman added. "Many powered individuals focus on the obvious threats and miss the systemic risks."
Connor felt a warm satisfaction at the approval, but more importantly, the scenario had felt right. Protecting people, preventing harm, using his abilities to solve problems rather than just overpower them.
*[ASSESSMENT PHASE 2 COMPLETE]*
*[DISASTER RESPONSE: Excellent strategic approach]*
*[CIVILIAN SAFETY: Prioritized appropriately]*
*[XP GAINED: 125 for disaster response demonstration]*
"Combat assessment," Wonder Woman announced, and Connor felt his pulse quicken with both excitement and nervousness.
The room transformed into what looked like a gladiatorial arena, but with sophisticated tactical elements—cover positions, elevation changes, and variable terrain.
"You'll face multiple opponents with different capabilities," Wonder Woman explained. "The objective is to demonstrate combat effectiveness while maintaining appropriate restraint. These are training constructs, but treat them as if they were real opponents who need to be subdued rather than destroyed."
Three holographic opponents materialized around Connor—one that looked like a enhanced human with military gear, one that appeared to have energy projection abilities, and one that seemed to possess super strength comparable to his own.
*[COMBAT SCENARIO: Multiple opponent types requiring different tactical approaches]*
*[OPPONENT 1: Enhanced human - Tactical/weapons specialist]*
*[OPPONENT 2: Energy projector - Ranged threat]*
*[OPPONENT 3: Strength-based opponent - Direct physical challenge]*
*[OPTIMAL STRATEGY: Divide and conquer, leverage ability advantages appropriately]*
Connor assessed the situation quickly, his tactical analysis capabilities running through options. Instead of engaging all three simultaneously, he used his speed advantage to isolate opponents.
The energy projector was the highest immediate threat, so Connor moved first against them, using his technological interface to disrupt their energy systems while closing distance. Instead of overwhelming force, he applied precisely calibrated strikes to disable without permanent harm.
*[XP GAINED: 60 - Demonstrated threat prioritization and appropriate force]*
The enhanced human required a different approach. Connor used his telepathic abilities to anticipate their tactical decisions while his superior physical capabilities allowed him to avoid their weapons and neutralize them through superior positioning rather than brute force.
*[XP GAINED: 55 - Showed tactical creativity and restraint]*
The strength-based opponent was the most challenging, requiring Connor to use technique rather than just matching power. He applied principles that his system had absorbed from Wonder Woman's combat knowledge, using leverage and precision to overcome raw strength through superior skill.
*[XP GAINED: 70 - Combat technique demonstration under pressure]*
The entire engagement lasted less than three minutes, with all three opponents subdued through tactical superiority rather than overwhelming force.
"Impressive," Wonder Woman said, and coming from someone with three thousand years of combat experience, the approval carried significant weight. "You treated each opponent as an individual problem requiring a specific solution rather than applying the same approach to all of them."
"The restraint was particularly noteworthy," Superman added. "You clearly have the power to end those fights much more quickly and decisively, but you chose methods that neutralized threats without excessive harm."
Batman nodded approvingly. "Combat effectiveness combined with appropriate judgment. That's the kind of thinking that separates heroes from just powerful individuals."
*[ASSESSMENT PHASE 3 COMPLETE]*
*[COMBAT EFFECTIVENESS: High]*
*[TACTICAL JUDGMENT: Excellent]*
*[APPROPRIATE RESTRAINT: Demonstrated consistently]*
*[XP GAINED: 185 for combat assessment]*
"Final assessment," J'onn announced. "Team coordination exercise."
The room transformed once more, this time into a complex environment that looked like a mix of urban and industrial settings. Multiple holographic threats appeared simultaneously—some requiring physical intervention, others needing technical solutions, and several that appeared to be civilian rescue scenarios.
"You'll be working with League members to address multiple concurrent threats," J'onn explained. "The objective is to demonstrate how effectively you can coordinate with a team while contributing your unique capabilities."
Superman, Wonder Woman, and Flash stepped into the scenario area, taking positions around the environment.
"Real-time coordination," Batman announced. "Treat this as an actual emergency response with live teammates."
Connor immediately opened his telepathic abilities to create a communication link with the team members, allowing for instant information sharing and coordination.
*Can everyone hear me?* Connor projected mentally.
*Clearly,* came Wonder Woman's mental response. *Useful capability for team operations.*
*This is efficient,* Flash added mentally. *No radio delays or communication breakdown.*
Connor used his technological interface to assess the scenario comprehensively, then shared tactical information instantly through the telepathic link.
*Multiple threat types detected. Sharing assessment now.*
Through the mental link, Connor transmitted his analysis of structural weaknesses, civilian locations, optimal approach routes, and threat priorities to all team members simultaneously.
*[XP GAINED: 90 - Innovative team coordination approach]*
The scenario required precise timing. Wonder Woman handled the direct combat threats, Flash managed civilian evacuation, Superman addressed structural hazards, and Connor coordinated information flow while providing tactical support wherever needed.
When Flash needed structural analysis to plan safe evacuation routes, Connor provided it instantly through their mental link. When Wonder Woman required information about opponent capabilities, Connor shared real-time assessment data. When Superman needed technical solutions for complex hazards, Connor interfaced with the relevant systems and guided his approach.
*[XP GAINED: 110 - Effective team support and coordination]*
The scenario concluded with all objectives achieved in record time, with no civilian casualties and minimal property damage.
"That was remarkable," Superman said as the holographic environment faded. "The telepathic coordination eliminated most communication delays and allowed for incredibly precise teamwork."
"I've never experienced that level of real-time information sharing during combat operations," Wonder Woman added with obvious appreciation. "It's like having a tactical computer integrated directly into the team's consciousness."
Flash nodded enthusiastically. "Plus, Connor provided exactly the right support at the right moment for each team member. That's not just communication—that's genuine tactical awareness and team integration."
"The ability to adapt your role based on team needs while maintaining overall situational awareness," Batman observed, "that's advanced teamwork capability. Most individuals with significant powers struggle to work effectively with others because they're used to handling problems independently."
*[ASSESSMENT PHASE 4 COMPLETE]*
*[TEAM COORDINATION: Exceptional]*
*[TACTICAL SUPPORT: Highly effective]*
*[COMMUNICATION INNOVATION: Significant advantage demonstrated]*
*[XP GAINED: 200 for team coordination excellence]*
Connor stood in the center of the training room, breathing easily despite the comprehensive assessment, feeling energized rather than exhausted.
*[TOTAL XP GAINED: 665]*
*[CURRENT XP: 1465/5000 toward Level 7]*
*[ASSESSMENT: Significant progress toward Level 10 goal]*
"Overall assessment?" Connor asked, genuinely curious about their evaluation.
Superman stepped forward, his expression showing obvious pride. "Connor, that was one of the most impressive training assessments we've ever conducted. You demonstrated not just power, but judgment, creativity, teamwork, and most importantly, the kind of moral instincts that make someone a true hero."
Wonder Woman nodded in agreement. "Your approach to every scenario prioritized civilian safety and appropriate restraint while still achieving objectives efficiently. That balance is difficult even for experienced heroes."
"The technological and telepathic integration capabilities," J'onn added thoughtfully, "represent entirely new possibilities for League operations. Your ability to coordinate information flow and team communication could revolutionize how we handle complex missions."
Batman's approval was more reserved but somehow carried more weight because of it. "You think before you act, you consider consequences, and you choose methods that minimize harm while achieving necessary objectives. Those are the marks of someone who can be trusted with significant power."
Flash grinned. "Plus, you made all of us look good by making the teamwork so much more efficient. I vote we keep him."
*[QUEST COMPLETED: Justice League Training Assessment]*
*[PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: Demonstrate competence - ACHIEVED]*
*[BONUS OBJECTIVES: All completed successfully]*
*[RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Justice League (Provisional Member - Training Track)]*
*[NEW QUEST UNLOCKED: Formal Training Program]*
Connor felt something settle into place in his chest—belonging, acceptance, the knowledge that he'd proven himself worthy of the trust these heroes were placing in him.
"What happens now?" Connor asked.
"Now," Superman said with obvious satisfaction, "we design a training program that helps you develop into the hero we know you can be. Welcome to the Justice League, Connor Kent."
Connor looked around at the assembled heroes—mentors, colleagues, friends—and felt like his real life was finally beginning.
He was exactly where he belonged.
*[CURRENT STATUS UPDATE]*
*Level: 6 (1465/5000 XP toward Level 7)*
*Progress toward Level 10: 29.3% complete*
*Justice League Status: Provisional Member - Training Track*
*Next Milestone: Formal training program and first field assignment*
*Strategic Goal: Continue XP acquisition through training and heroic activities to reach Level 10 for Wonder Woman Combat Mastery absorption*
The path forward was clear. Train with the Justice League, respond to emergencies, develop his abilities, and prepare for the moment when he could integrate Wonder Woman's combat expertise and take his place as a full member of the most powerful heroic organization on Earth.
Connor Kent was becoming exactly who he was meant to be.
—
Connor walked out of Training Room 3 with a lightness in his step that had nothing to do with his Kryptonian physiology. The Justice League assessment had gone better than he'd dared hope—not just in terms of demonstrating competence, but in feeling like he genuinely belonged among these heroes.
*[XP UPDATE: 1465/5000 toward Level 7]*
*[Progress tracking: 665 XP gained from single assessment - Excellent efficiency]*
*[Strategic note: Justice League training opportunities likely to provide consistent XP advancement]*
He was mentally reviewing the assessment highlights when his enhanced hearing picked up something unexpected—a quiet sniffling sound coming from around the corner, accompanied by what his telepathic abilities detected as intense emotional distress.
Connor paused, his hero instincts immediately engaging. Someone was upset, possibly crying, and his enhanced senses suggested they were trying to hide it. His newly developed moral compass didn't even hesitate—if someone needed help, he was going to offer it.
He rounded the corner carefully, not wanting to startle whoever it was, and found himself looking at a figure slumped against the Watchtower's corridor wall. She appeared to be a young woman, maybe his apparent age, with distinctive green skin and long red hair that immediately triggered his genetic sight abilities.
*[GENETIC SIGHT: ACTIVATING]*
*[SCANNING... ANALYSIS COMPLETE]*
*[SUBJECT: Martian physiology - Green Martian heritage]*
*[SPECIES: Martian/Shapeshifter hybrid]*
*[ENHANCEMENTS: Full Martian capabilities - telepathy, shapeshifting, invisibility, intangibility, flight]*
*[EMOTIONAL STATE: Severe distress, shame, disappointment]*
*[THREAT LEVEL: Potentially extreme, currently non-hostile]*
*[ABSORPTION POTENTIAL: Complete Martian ability set available - would exceed current slot limitations]*
The system information flowed through Connor's consciousness, but what struck him most was the raw emotional pain radiating from the figure. This wasn't just someone having a bad day—this was someone dealing with something genuinely devastating.
"Hey," Connor said gently, approaching slowly with his hands visible. "Are you okay?"
The young woman looked up, and Connor saw tear-streaked cheeks and large, expressive eyes that carried a depth of hurt that made his enhanced empathy abilities ache in sympathy.
"I'm fine," she said quickly, wiping at her face and attempting to compose herself. Her voice carried a slight accent Connor couldn't place, but more importantly, his truth perception abilities detected the obvious lie.
"You're not fine," Connor said with gentle certainty, settling down against the wall a respectful distance away. "And that's okay. Whatever happened, you don't have to handle it alone."
She looked at him with surprise, clearly not having expected direct honesty rather than polite acceptance of her deflection.
"You're Connor Kent," she said after a moment. "The new Kryptonian. I heard about your assessment today."
"Guilty as charged," Connor said with a slight smile. "Though I prefer to think of myself as just Connor. And you are...?"
"M'gann M'orzz," she said quietly. "Though most people call me Miss Martian." She paused, then added with bitter self-awareness, "When they call me anything at all."
Connor's enhanced intuition immediately picked up the deeper implications. Someone with Miss Martian's apparent capabilities didn't end up crying alone in Watchtower corridors without a significant reason.
"Want to talk about what's wrong?" Connor asked simply. "I know we just met, but sometimes it's easier to talk to someone who doesn't have preconceptions about your situation."
Miss Martian studied him for a long moment, and Connor could feel her telepathic abilities probing gently at the edges of his mental shields—not invasively, but like someone testing whether he was genuine.
"I failed my Justice League evaluation," she said finally, her voice carrying crushing disappointment. "Not just failed—completely embarrassed myself. I lost control of my abilities during the combat assessment and nearly hurt the evaluators."
Connor felt his enhanced empathy abilities picking up the complex emotions beneath her words—shame, frustration, fear, and underneath it all, a desperate desire to prove herself worthy.
"What happened?" Connor asked, projecting calm acceptance through his own telepathic abilities.
"I was trying so hard to impress them," Miss Martian continued, the words coming faster now that she'd started. "I wanted to show that I could be just as capable as my uncle J'onn. But when the pressure built up, I panicked. My shapeshifting went wild, my telepathy started broadcasting to everyone in the area, and I..." She trailed off, fresh tears starting.
"You're J'onn's niece?" Connor asked with genuine interest rather than judgment.
"Yes, and that makes it so much worse," Miss Martian said miserably. "He's this incredible hero, respected throughout the galaxy, and I can't even handle a basic training scenario without falling apart."
Connor processed this information while his enhanced tactical analysis ran through the implications. A young Martian with full capabilities but control issues, trying to live up to the reputation of one of the most respected heroes in the Justice League.
"Can I tell you something?" Connor said after a moment. "About an hour ago, I was terrified I was going to embarrass myself in front of the same people who just evaluated you. These are literally the most powerful heroes on the planet, and here I am—less than a week old, genetically engineered weapon who doesn't even fully understand his own capabilities—trying to prove I deserve to stand among them."
Miss Martian looked at him with surprise. "But your assessment went well. I heard Flash talking about how impressed everyone was."
"It went well because I got lucky, had good support, and managed not to panic under pressure," Connor said honestly. "But M'gann, the difference between success and failure in that room wasn't about our power levels or our heritage. It was about managing stress and maintaining control when everything felt overwhelming."
"How did you do it?" she asked with genuine curiosity.
Connor considered the question carefully. "I focused on helping people rather than impressing people. Every scenario they gave me, I tried to think about what would actually help the civilians or solve the problem, rather than what would make me look most capable."
Miss Martian was quiet for a moment, processing his words.
"Also," Connor added with a slight grin, "I reminded myself that these people want us to succeed. They're not looking for reasons to reject us—they're looking for reasons to help us become better heroes."
"That's... actually a really good perspective," Miss Martian said, some of the crushing weight lifting from her voice.
"Want to know a secret?" Connor asked conspiratorially. "I'm pretty sure most of them failed their first evaluations too. Batman probably has files somewhere documenting every mistake Superman ever made during training."
Despite everything, Miss Martian actually smiled at that image.
"Thank you," she said quietly. "Connor, I know we just met, but... would you be willing to practice with me? Help me prepare for a re-evaluation? I think having someone else who's still figuring things out might be exactly what I need."
Connor felt his system pulse with new quest information, but more importantly, he felt his developing heroic instincts engage. This was someone who needed help, who had incredible potential but was struggling with confidence and control. Helping her would be the right thing to do.
"Absolutely," Connor said without hesitation. "When do you want to start?"
*[NEW QUEST UNLOCKED: Mentorship and Alliance]*
*[OBJECTIVE: Help Miss Martian prepare for re-evaluation]*
*[BONUS OBJECTIVE: Develop working relationship with potential long-term ally]*
*[ESTIMATED XP REWARD: 300-800 depending on success level]*
*[ADDITIONAL BENEFIT: Potential absorption opportunity for complete Martian ability set]*
Miss Martian's smile was the first genuine happiness Connor had detected from her since finding her in the corridor.
"How about tomorrow?" she asked. "I think I'm ready to try again."
Connor stood and offered her his hand to help her up. "Tomorrow it is. And M'gann? You're going to do great. I can tell."
As they walked back toward the Watchtower's main areas together, Connor reflected on how quickly his new life was expanding. Training with the Justice League, mentoring a fellow young hero, developing his abilities while maintaining his cover story about their true nature.
It was exactly the kind of complex, meaningful challenge he'd hoped for when he chose to be a hero.
---
Hey fellow fanfic enthusiasts!
I hope you're enjoying the fanfiction so far! I'd love to hear your thoughts on it. Whether you loved it, hated it, or have some constructive criticism, your feedback is super important to me. Feel free to drop a comment or send me a message with your thoughts. Can't wait to hear from you!
If you're passionate about fanfiction and love discussing stories, characters, and plot twists, then you're in the right place! I've created a Discord (HHHwRsB6wd) server dedicated to diving deep into the world of fanfiction, especially my own stories. Whether you're a reader, a writer, or just someone who enjoys a good tale, I welcome you to join us for lively discussions, feedback sessions, and maybe even some sneak peeks into upcoming chapters, along with artwork related to the stories. Let's nerd out together over our favorite fandoms and explore the endless possibilities of storytelling!
Can't wait to see you there!