Bruce had been assigned to stay with a local family, but he'd arranged something different through Wayne Foundation strings.
"Hey, Clark," Bruce said as they walked toward the parking lot. "Your family has a farm, right?"
"Yeah. Three miles outside town. Why?"
"I was thinking, if it's okay with your parents, maybe I could come by tomorrow after school? I've never been to a working farm before. Might be interesting to see."
Clark looked surprised. "You want to come to my farm? Really?"
"Yeah. I mean, if it's not an imposition. I know you probably have chores and stuff."
"No, it's, uh, that would be great actually. My mom loves having guests. She'll probably cook enough food for an army." Clark smiled, genuine this time. "You sure you want to? It's not exactly exciting."
"I'm sure. Text me the address and a good time?"
"Okay. Yeah. I'll ask my parents tonight and let you know."
They parted ways. Bruce climbed into the car he'd arranged, a rental that would take him to his temporary lodging. As they drove through Smallville's quiet streets, he reviewed the day in his mind.
First contact with Clark: successful. Trust beginning to establish. The heat vision incident had accelerated the timeline, but Bruce had handled it smoothly. Clark now saw him as someone who understood, someone who didn't judge. That foundation would be critical for everything that came later.
The Whitney situation was a bonus. By standing up to the bully, Bruce had positioned himself as Clark's defender and friend. That would resonate with the farm boy's natural loyalty and gratitude. When the time came to recruit Clark into the Justice League, he'd remember who had his back in high school.
Bruce pulled out his tablet and updated his files.
*CLARK KENT - UPDATE*
Day 1 of Smallville trip: Multiple positive interactions. Heat vision incident in Chemistry class used to open dialogue about his powers.
Clark is desperate to talk to someone who understands. I've positioned myself as that person.
Friendship with Pete Ross and Chloe Sullivan observed. Both are good influences. Pete provides normalcy and humor. Chloe provides intellectual stimulation. Neither knows about powers.
Whitney Fordman situation escalated as predicted. Confrontation in cafeteria and gym class established my willingness to defend Clark. This builds trust and loyalty. Whitney now sees me as enemy, which is acceptable collateral damage.
Tomorrow: Visit Kent farm. Meet Jonathan and Martha Kent. Assess their knowledge of Clark's alien heritage. Continue building relationship with Clark. Look for opportunities to discuss his growing powers in private setting.
Timeline Assessment: Clark's powers are manifesting faster than some comic continuities suggested.
Full Superman emergence likely within 18-24 months. Need to position myself as trusted confidant before he learns Kryptonian truth. When spaceship reveals his origin, I need to be person he turns to for guidance.
Next Steps: Maintain natural friendship development. Don't push too hard. Let Clark come to me. Be patient. Foundation is being laid properly.
Bruce closed the file and looked out at the Kansas sunset. Endless fields turning gold in the fading light. This quiet little town had no idea what it was harboring. In a few years, Clark Kent would become Superman, Earth's greatest hero.
But first, he'd be Bruce Wayne's friend. His ally. Someone who trusted Bruce completely.
And when the Justice League formed, when the world needed heroes, Superman would follow Batman's lead.
Not because he had to.
But because he'd chosen to.
Bruce smiled slightly.
Phase one of the Clark Kent recruitment was complete.
Tomorrow would be phase two.
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