Chapter 2: A Hero in the MakingPart 2: A Hero in the Making
Somewhere on the road leading to Smallville
The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows over the open road that stretched toward Smallville. Inside a sleek, black sedan, the atmosphere was thick with a mix of anticipation and unspoken tension. Roger Trevor gripped the steering wheel, his eyes fixed on the horizon as his thoughts drifted far from the picturesque Kansas countryside.
Roger glanced in the rearview mirror, catching a glimpse of his wife, Elizabeth, who was softly humming a tune to their young son, Steve. The boy's eyes were wide with excitement, his small hands pressed against the window as he took in the vast, open fields. For Steve, this trip was an adventure—a chance to see the countryside and spend time with his parents. But for Roger, this journey held a much deeper, more secretive purpose.
Roger's thoughts drifted back to the conversation he had with his superiors just days before. The orders had been clear: conduct a discreet reconnaissance mission in Smallville. There had been whispers of something unusual in this quiet town—something that could potentially alter the balance of power. The higher-ups in Washington were interested in any signs of metahuman activity, and Smallville, with its recent, unexplained occurrences, had drawn their attention.
"Keep it low-key, Roger," his commanding officer had warned. "This isn't just another assignment. What you find could change everything."
But Roger knew better than to ask too many questions. He had been in the game long enough to recognize when something was being kept under wraps for a reason. His mission was simple: gather intel, report back, and avoid drawing attention to himself or his family. The cover story was solid—just a family on a summer road trip, exploring the heartland of America.
Yet, as they approached Smallville, Roger couldn't shake the feeling that there was more at play. He had seen the reports—strange lights in the sky, unusual weather patterns, and odd occurrences that couldn't be easily explained. Smallville was no ordinary town, and he suspected that whatever was happening here was far beyond the scope of his usual assignments.
His thoughts were interrupted by the voice of his son from the back seat. "Dad, are we really going to fly in a plane? Like, a real one?"
Roger forced a smile, nodding at Steve through the mirror. "That's right, champ. Once we're done here, we'll be taking a plane from the local airstrip. It's all been arranged for us, thanks to Mr. Luthor."
The mention of Luthor brought a slight frown to Roger's face. Lionel Luthor, the powerful and enigmatic businessman, had offered to provide the Trevor family with a private flight to Europe, a gesture that had raised more than a few red flags in Roger's mind. But Luthor was a man of influence, and refusing his generosity could have complicated the mission.
"Mr. Luthor is a very important man, Steve," Elizabeth added, sensing Roger's unease and trying to keep the mood light. "He's making sure we have a safe trip."
Safe. The word echoed in Roger's mind as he turned his attention back to the road. He had checked the plane's details—everything seemed to be in order. But in his line of work, trusting someone like Lionel Luthor was risky. Luthor's reputation preceded him, and Roger knew that nothing came without a price.
As the Trevor family continued their journey toward Smallville, Roger's mind raced with the possibilities of what he might find. The quiet town held secrets, of that he was certain. And as much as he wanted to keep his family out of harm's way, he knew that this mission was just the beginning of something much bigger.
---
At The Kents Farm
The Trevor family's car pulled into the gravel driveway of the Kent farmhouse, the crunch of tires on the loose stones signaling their arrival. As the car came to a stop, Roger Trevor couldn't help but take in the sight of the quaint, yet sturdy, farmhouse that stood as a testament to the simplicity and resilience of rural life. It was a stark contrast to the covert world he was used to, but he knew better than to be fooled by appearances. Smallville, and the people in it, were far from ordinary.
Clark Kent, who had been playing in the yard, perked up at the sound of the approaching car. He watched curiously as the black sedan came to a stop, his young mind already racing with questions. His parents had mentioned that they were expecting visitors, but they hadn't said much more than that. Clark could sense that something was different about these newcomers, something that set them apart from the usual visitors to the farm.
Jonathan and Martha Kent emerged from the house, their faces lit up with welcoming smiles. Jonathan's sturdy frame and Martha's gentle demeanor gave off an air of warmth and security, something that instantly put most visitors at ease. But as Roger Trevor stepped out of the car, Clark could see the tension in his posture, the way his eyes scanned the surroundings as if assessing every detail.
"Mr. and Mrs. Kent," Roger greeted them, extending a hand to Jonathan. "Thank you for having us."
Jonathan shook Roger's hand firmly. "It's our pleasure, Mr. Trevor. Please, call me Jonathan. And this is my wife, Martha."
Martha stepped forward with a kind smile. "We're so glad you could join us. You must be Elizabeth," she added, turning her attention to the woman who had just stepped out of the car with their young son.
Elizabeth returned the smile, though hers was tinged with a hint of reservation. "Yes, thank you for having us on such short notice. This is our son, Steve."
Steve, who had been clinging to his mother's side, peeked out from behind her and looked up at the Kents with wide, curious eyes. Clark, who had been quietly observing from a few steps away, took the opportunity to approach the boy, his natural curiosity getting the better of him.
"Hi, I'm Clark," he said, offering a small wave. "Do you want to play?"
Steve looked at his parents for approval, and Elizabeth nodded with a gentle smile. "Go ahead, Steve. It's alright."
With that, Steve slowly stepped forward, his initial shyness beginning to melt away. "Okay. What do you want to play?"
Clark grinned, already thinking of the games they could play in the wide-open spaces of the farm. "We can go explore the barn, or maybe check out the woods behind the house. There's lots of cool stuff to see."
As the boys began to chat, Jonathan turned his attention back to Roger. "Would you like to come inside for a cup of coffee before you go about your business? I'm sure you've had a long drive."
Roger hesitated for a moment, his mission tugging at the back of his mind, but he knew it was important to maintain the cover. "That sounds great, thank you."
As they all made their way toward the house, Clark couldn't help but steal a glance at Steve's father. There was something about him—something that reminded Clark of the stories he'd read in his previous life. The way Roger carried himself, the quiet intensity in his eyes, it all pointed to someone who was used to dealing with things far beyond the ordinary.
"SS," Clark thought, his curiosity piqued. "What do you know about Steve's dad?"
The SS system, always alert, responded immediately.
[Roger Trevor, former military, now involved in covert operations. Current mission: reconnaissance. Subject poses no immediate threat, but caution is advised. Potential for future interaction with significant individuals in the DC Universe.]
Clark's eyes widened slightly at the information. "Covert operations? Reconnaissance?" It seemed the Trevor family's visit to Smallville was more than just a casual stop on a road trip. And Roger's connection to important figures in the DC Universe? That was something Clark would need to keep an eye on.
As they reached the porch, Roger turned to his wife. "Elizabeth, I need to take care of something in town. It shouldn't take long. Why don't you and Steve stay here and get to know the Kents? I'll be back before you know it."
Elizabeth nodded, her trust in her husband evident. "Of course, Roger. We'll be fine here."
Jonathan opened the door, gesturing for everyone to come inside. "You're welcome to stay as long as you like. We don't get many visitors out here, so it's nice to have some company."
Roger offered a polite smile. "Thank you, Jonathan. I'll be back soon." With that, he gave his wife a reassuring nod and headed back toward the car.
As Roger drove away, leaving his wife and son in the care of the Kents, Clark couldn't shake the feeling that something significant was about to happen. His mind raced with possibilities, wondering what role this family—particularly Steve—might play in the future.
---
The day passed in a blur of youthful energy as Clark and Steve explored the vast Kent farm. The two boys quickly bonded over their shared sense of adventure, running through the fields, climbing the sturdy old oak tree near the barn, and even daring each other to venture into the woods at the edge of the property. Steve, though initially shy, soon found himself laughing and playing with abandon, enjoying the freedom that the wide-open spaces of Smallville offered.
Clark, for his part, was glad to have someone his age to share the day with. As much as he loved his parents and the simple life on the farm, there were times when he longed for companionship, someone who could understand the excitement of discovering the world through a child's eyes. Steve's arrival had provided that, even if only for a short time.
As the afternoon wore on, the boys found themselves sitting by the creek, throwing rocks into the water and watching the ripples spread out across the surface.
"Your farm is amazing," Steve said, his eyes wide with admiration. "I've never seen so much space before. Back home, everything's… smaller."
Clark smiled, a sense of pride welling up inside him. "Yeah, it's pretty great. There's always something to do, and my parents let me explore as much as I want. We're pretty lucky to live here."
Steve nodded, though a flicker of uncertainty crossed his face as he considered what was coming. "We're heading to Europe soon. My dad says it's for his work, but I wish we could stay here a bit longer. This place just feels... safe."
Clark noticed the change in Steve's tone and felt a pang of empathy for his new friend. He knew what it was like to carry a burden that no one else could see, and he could sense that Steve was worried about more than just the trip.
"Don't worry," Clark said, trying to sound reassuring. "Everything's going to be okay."
But even as the words left his mouth, a nagging feeling tugged at the back of Clark's mind. He had spent countless hours poring over the SS system's database, learning everything he could about the DC Universe and the people in it. Steve Trevor was no exception, and the more Clark thought about it, the more he realized that Steve's life was far from ordinary.
Suddenly, the SS system chimed in, its tone more urgent than usual.
[Clark, this is a crucial moment. Do not interfere. The timeline must be preserved.]
Clark's heart skipped a beat as he realized what the system was referring to. According to the database, Steve Trevor's parents were destined to die in a plane crash—a tragedy that would shape Steve's future and eventually lead him to become a key figure in the DC Universe. But now, with the knowledge of what was to come, Clark found himself grappling with an impossible choice.
"No," Clark thought, his resolve hardening. "I can't just let it happen. I have to do something."
[Interference will have unforeseen consequences,] the SS system warned, its tone almost pleading.
[You risk altering not only Steve Trevor's fate but the fates of countless others. The ramifications could be catastrophic.]
Clark clenched his fists, his mind racing. He understood the system's logic—knew that meddling with the timeline could have dire consequences. But how could he stand by and do nothing when he had the power to prevent such a terrible loss? How could he live with himself knowing that he had the chance to save lives and chose not to?
"I'm not letting his parents die," Clark thought, his voice filled with determination. "I can't. I won't."
[…]
After a short silence, the SS system warned, its tone heavy with the weight of what was to come.
[This decision will change everything. Proceed with extreme caution. There will be no turning back.]
Clark took a deep breath. He knew the risks, knew that he was about to cross a line from which there would be no return. But he also knew that he couldn't let Steve's parents die—not if there was something he could do to stop it.
"SS, what are my options?" Clark asked, his mind sharpening with focus.
[You must act quickly,]
the SS system responded, its tone resigned but still supportive.
[Intervene at the airstrip before the plane takes off. Ensure that the aircraft is grounded before it reaches a critical altitude. Use your speed and strength, but be mindful of collateral damage. The window for action is narrow.]
Clark nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. "Okay. Let's do this."
---
As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the farm. After staying at the Kents' farm for 3 days and 2 nights, the Trevor family prepared to leave. Clark stood by quietly, his heart pounding. He knew that the time for hesitation was over. He had made his choice, and now he had to act on it—no matter the cost.
"Thank you for your hospitality, Mr. and Mrs. Kent," Roger Trevor said warmly. "It was a pleasure meeting you all."
"Safe travels," Jonathan replied, shaking Roger's hand. "Come back and visit us anytime."
Steve waved at Clark as they got into the car. "Bye, Clark! Maybe we can play again sometime!"
Clark smiled and waved back. "Yeah, I'd like that."
As the car drove away, heading toward the airstrip,
After excusing himself from his parents, Clark turned and ran toward the woods, his expression was full of a mix of fear and determination. He didn't know what the future held, or what consequences his actions might bring. But one thing was certain: he was about to step into a role he had always known was his destiny.
Clark sprinted through the woods with a speed that defied the limits of human ability, his feet barely touching the ground as he raced toward the small airstrip on the outskirts of Smallville. The trees blurred into a kaleidoscope of green, the wind whipping through his hair as he pushed himself faster than he had ever gone before. The SS system kept him focused, feeding him constant updates about the plane's status, the timeline, and the narrow window he had to act.
[The plane is scheduled to depart in fifteen minutes. You must reach the airstrip before then,]
the SS system informed him, its tone devoid of its usual caution, replaced by a sense of urgency that spurred Clark on.
"I'm almost there," Clark thought, his heart pounding in his chest.
As the trees began to thin out, Clark caught sight of the small airstrip ahead, a single-engine plane already on the tarmac, its propellers slowly beginning to turn. He could see the Trevors in the distance, Roger standing by the plane's door while Elizabeth and Steve waited nearby. There was no time to waste.
Clark came to a sudden halt just beyond the tree line, ducking behind a cluster of bushes to assess the situation. He was close enough now to hear the hum of the plane's engine, the smell of fuel mixing with the scent of freshly cut grass. His mind raced as he tried to figure out his next move.
"SS, what do I do? I don't know anything about planes or how to fix them," Clark admitted, the enormity of the situation weighing heavily on him.
[You must identify the source of the danger and neutralize it. The system's analysis shows that the plane's engine has been sabotaged—several critical components have been tampered with. Your strength and speed will allow you to access and repair the damage, but you must proceed with extreme caution,] the SS system instructed, its tone filled with tension.
Clark swallowed hard, the fear of the unknown gnawing at him. He had never done anything like this before—never had to face a situation where lives hung in the balance, where his actions could mean the difference between life and death. But he knew he couldn't back down now. He had made his choice, and there was no turning back.
"Okay, I'm going in," Clark thought, steeling himself for what was to come.
With a quick glance around to make sure no one was watching, Clark activated his enhanced speed, dashing toward the plane with a burst of motion that left him nearly invisible to the naked eye. He reached the aircraft in seconds, ducking down behind the landing gear as he assessed the situation.
The engine was exposed, a tangled mess of wires, bolts, and machinery that made Clark's head spin. He had no idea what he was looking at, no idea where to even begin. But he didn't have time to hesitate. The plane was scheduled to take off in less than ten minutes, and he had to act now.
"SS, guide me," Clark thought, his voice steady despite the anxiety gripping his heart. "Tell me what to do."
[Begin by locating the main fuel line. It has been deliberately loosened to cause a leak. You must tighten it to prevent fuel from spilling into the engine and igniting,]
the SS system directed.
Clark's eyes scanned the engine, searching for the fuel line amid the chaos of wires and metal. His enhanced vision kicked in, allowing him to zoom in on the components, and he spotted the line—a thick, rubber hose that was barely attached to its fitting. With trembling hands, Clark reached in, his fingers wrapping around the line as he tightened the clamp with all the strength he could muster.
The line snapped into place, and Clark let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. But there was no time to relax—there was still more to do.
[Next, you must secure the throttle linkage. It has been tampered with to cause a stall during takeoff,] the SS system instructed.
Clark's mind raced as he searched for the throttle linkage, his hands moving faster than his thoughts as he tried to follow the system's guidance. He found it—a thin metal rod that was barely connected to the engine's throttle control. With a quick twist, Clark reattached the linkage, using his enhanced strength to bend the metal back into place, ensuring it wouldn't come loose again.
[Final step: the ignition wires have been deliberately crossed to cause a short circuit. You must uncross them to prevent an engine failure during flight,] the SS system directed, its tone sharp and precise.
Clark's heart pounded like a drum in his chest as he reached for the ignition wires, his fingers trembling as he carefully separated the tangled mess. The wires sparked as they came apart, and Clark quickly reconnected them to their proper terminals, his breath hitching as the sparks subsided.
[Repairs complete. The plane is now safe for takeoff,]
the SS system confirmed, its tone finally releasing some of the tension.
Clark felt a wave of relief wash over him, but he knew he wasn't out of the woods yet. He needed to get out of there before anyone noticed him—or before anything else went wrong. With one last glance at the engine, Clark took off at super speed, dashing back into the woods as the plane's propellers began to spin faster.
As he reached the cover of the trees, Clark slowed to a stop, his heart still racing with the adrenaline of what he had just done. He had fixed the plane—saved Steve's parents from the tragedy that was supposed to befall them. But as he caught his breath, the reality of what he had done began to sink in.
[You did it, Clark,] the SS system said, its tone a mix of relief and caution.
[But remember, this action will have consequences. The timeline has been altered. The future is now uncertain.]
As the plane's engines roared to life and the Trevors prepared to board, Clark watched from the shadows, a mix of accomplishment and doubt lingering within him. He had made his first move as a hero, but the journey before him was more unclear than ever.
The SS system, always attuned to his every move, suddenly chimed in with a notification he hadn't expected.
[Congratulations, Clark. You have unlocked a hidden reward: Title 'Great Boyscout.']
Clark blinked in surprise.
The SS system's tone was notably lighter, almost as if it was pleased with this unexpected outcome.
[The title 'Great Boyscout' has been awarded in recognition of your actions that align with the highest moral and ethical standards, reminiscent of the traits that Superman will one day embody. This title reflects your commitment to doing what is right, even in the face of uncertainty, and your willingness to go above and beyond to protect and help others.]
Clark felt a surge of pride at the words. He knew that Superman, in the stories he once read, was often called the "Big Blue Boyscout" for his unwavering commitment to justice and morality. Being acknowledged in a similar way, even at such a young age, gave Clark a strong feeling of direction.
[Title Effect: Great Boyscout.]
The SS system continued,
[This title grants you an enhanced sense of moral clarity and instinctual understanding of ethical dilemmas. It also provides a slight boost to your charisma when interacting with others, particularly in situations where your actions inspire or motivate those around you. Additionally, it strengthens your resolve in the face of moral challenges, ensuring that you remain steadfast in your principles, even under pressure.]
Clark took a deep breath, letting the significance of the title sink in. It wasn't just a reward; it was a reminder of the path he was on, the hero he was becoming. The title of "Great Boyscout" was a badge of honor, one that signified not just his growing power, but the strength of his character—the qualities that would one day define him as Superman.
"Thanks, SS," Clark thought, his voice filled with gratitude. "I'll do my best to live up to it."
[You have already begun to do so, Clark. Continue to follow your instincts, and you will grow into the hero you are meant to be,]
the SS system responded, its tone both supportive and proud.
As the plane carrying the Trevor family ascended into the sky, Clark stood in the shadow of the trees, watching it until it became a tiny speck against the vast blue expanse. The adrenaline that had fueled his every move began to ebb, leaving behind a sense of quiet contemplation. The weight of what he had done—altering the course of fate—still lingered in his mind, but so too did the knowledge that he had saved lives today.
The soft rustling of leaves in the breeze and the distant chirping of birds filled the air, creating a soothing symphony of nature. Clark turned away from the airstrip, his feet carrying him back through the woods toward the Kent farmhouse. As he walked, his thoughts turned inward, reflecting on the events of the day.
Without even realizing it, Clark began to hum a tune, the melody rising gently from the depths of his memory. It was a song from his previous life, one that had always resonated with him—Starman by David Bowie. The words flowed naturally, as if they were meant for this moment, for this journey he was on.
"There's a starman waiting in the sky... He'd like to come and meet us, but he thinks he'd blow our minds..."
Clark's voice was soft, almost a whisper, as he sang the lyrics that seemed to capture the essence of his dual identity. He was Clark Kent, the boy who lived on a farm in Smallville, but he was also something more—something that the world wasn't ready to fully understand. The starman in the song, waiting in the sky, was not so different from the boy who walked through the woods, hiding his true nature from those around him.
"He told us not to blow it, 'cause he knows it's all worthwhile..."
The words echoed through the trees, a reminder to himself that the choices he made mattered. He had the power to shape the future, to protect those he cared about, but with that power came the responsibility to use it wisely. The SS system had warned him of the consequences of his actions, but Clark knew in his heart that he had done the right thing. He had saved Steve's parents, and that was something he couldn't regret.
As he continued to sing, the farmhouse came into view, its familiar silhouette framed by the setting sun. The warm light bathed the fields in gold, casting long shadows that stretched toward him like welcoming arms. Clark felt a sense of peace settles over him, a calm certainty that, despite the uncertainty of the future, he was on the right path.
"Let the children lose it, let the children use it, let all the children boogie..."
The final lines of the song left his lips as he reached the edge of the woods, the farmhouse just a few steps away. Clark paused for a moment, letting the last notes linger in the air before they faded into the stillness of the evening. The song had brought him comfort, a reminder that he wasn't alone in his journey. There were others—heroes and starmen—who would one day join him, each with their own roles to play in the story of the world.
With a quiet smile, Clark walked the rest of the way to the farmhouse, feeling lighter than he had when the day began. He had made his first real decision as a hero, and though the future was uncertain, he knew he wouldn't face it alone. The starman within him was prepared, waiting for the moment he could finally step into the world.
But for now, he was just Clark Kent, heading home to the family who loved him, humming a song that spoke of hope, wonder, and the promise of the future.
---
Status Window
Name: Clark Kent / Kal-El
Age: 6
Race: Kryptonian (under the Yellow Sun)
Title(s):
- Dark Knight Superboy: Increased strategic thinking and stealth capabilities.Ability to blend strength and strategy, akin to Batman's methods.
- Great Boyscout: Enhanced moral clarity and instinctual understanding of ethical dilemmas.Boosted charisma when actions inspire or motivate others.Strengthened resolve in the face of moral challenges.
KP (Kryptonian Potential): 23.8% (Level 3)
Abilities:
- Super Strength: Enhanced; capable of lifting objects up to 3 tons.
- Super Speed: Enhanced; capable of running at speeds up to Mach 1.
- Heat Vision: Controlled; capable of sustained low-intensity output for up to 60 seconds.
- Enhanced Senses: Heightened vision, hearing, and reflexes.
- Invulnerability: Partial; limited resistance to physical damage.
- Flight: Not yet unlocked.
- X-Ray Vision: Not yet unlocked.
- Super Breath: Not yet unlocked.
Skills:
- Run Through Water: Allows for maintaining speed and balance while running across the surface of water. Requires precise control of speed and momentum.
- Basic Mechanics (Improvised): Instinctual understanding of mechanical systems in urgent situations. Limited application, primarily focused on emergency repairs.
Mission Status:
- Current Mission: Protect the Trevor family.
- Mission Progress: Successfully prevented the plane crash; future consequences pending.