Superman flew up to us, his voice easily carrying across the distance. "Nice to see you both flying around! Mind if we join?"
I smiled, keeping my thoughts about the system to myself for now. "Not at all. It's always good to have company."
"May I ask what you two are called?" Superman asked, his curiosity evident.
Before I could respond, I sensed something strange—a subtle, probing sensation in my mind. It was Martian Manhunter, attempting to use his telepathy on me. Without thinking, I sent a small mental shock back, not enough to harm but just enough to make him understand that my mind wasn't a place anyone could freely explore.
He quickly realized his mistake and spoke up. "I apologize, Sentry. I wasn't trying to read your mind intentionally. I was merely trying to greet you telepathically. You see, on Mars, it's customary for us to say hello this way. I didn't mean to intrude. It won't happen again. I'm sorry."
I could feel the sincerity of his apology, so I nodded and smiled. "No problem. Just be careful—my mind isn't exactly open for prying. But no harm done, so don't worry, everything's fine."
He visibly relaxed, grateful for my understanding, and Superman chimed in, "Yeah, sorry about that, Sentry. He's done it to us before, so I know it wasn't intentional. Trust me, no ill will."
Superman's attempt to smooth things over was appreciated, though unnecessary. I waved it off, showing them both it was fine. Then, I shifted my tone a little more seriously, preparing to say what I had originally intended.
"I go by Sentry," I clarified, "and this is my friend, Whisper. She's still learning to speak, so don't expect much conversation from her—at least not yet. But I thought Batman would've already filled you in about us."
I looked at both of them, sensing their curiosity, knowing this conversation was only the beginning.
"Batman did mention you two," Superman replied. "He told us about two teenagers with unbelievable powers acting like superheroes in Blüdhaven. But as usual, he warned us to be cautious while he figures out your true intentions. That's Batman for you—anyone he encounters with powers is immediately categorized as a potential threat until proven otherwise. But I didn't take it to heart; I was more curious than anything, and so are most of the Leaguers."
Superman then paused, his expression shifting to one of curiosity mixed with confusion. "But I want to let you know, Sentry—since I first encountered you, I've felt this overwhelming pressure, almost like a deep instinct telling me to bend down and worship you. It's strange—something I've never experienced before. From what I can tell, you're not doing anything to provoke this feeling. I even asked Martian Manhunter if he sensed anything unusual around you, and he said no. Do you have any idea what this could be?"
His words were genuine, and I could tell he wasn't here to cause any trouble, just to understand what he was experiencing. I nodded, listening carefully before replying.
"I'm not exactly sure what's happening, to be honest. Like I told Batman, I have memories, but they're incomplete. I'm still piecing things together, and until I figure it out, I'm just as stumped as you are."
Superman looked deep in thought, clearly unsettled by this feeling he was having. But he managed a smile and said, "I understand, Sentry. I just need time to figure out how to process this. It's the first time I've ever felt anything like this pressure to worship. I'm really curious to know who—or what—you are to me. So, when you do get more of your memories, let me know. It might help clear up this mystery."
While flying, Superman glanced down at Blüdhaven, his eyes scanning the city below. After a moment, he commented on his observations, "I've been looking around while flying, and I have to say, the city is much quieter than I expected. A few hours ago, when I sensed you two flying around, Martian Manhunter and I decided to come meet you. To be honest, I was expecting to see a lot more crime when I got here—something similar to Gotham. But I'm surprised, in a good way, by how quiet Blüdhaven has become. It's clear you're doing something right as the city's hero. Now, it's not quite Metropolis yet," he chuckled, "but what city is, right? HAHAHA!"
His laughter was warm and contagious, making me smile. I couldn't help but acknowledge how true his words were. After all, Metropolis, Superman's home, is one of the safest cities in the DC universe, and that's no small feat.
DING! I heard the familiar sound of the system activating, and a message appeared before me while flying:
{Kyn, the system suggests you receive your mimicry now. Don't worry—there are no memories attached. The powers and abilities will be automatically mastered, a perk you received last time when you advanced your Godly physique. This will only take a split second to activate.}
I was surprised. The system had never suggested I unlock mimicry before—it usually left the decision entirely up to me. But now, it was specifically requesting I do so. This was new. Still, reading the message reassured me that there would be no visible change, even with Superman and Martian Manhunter flying nearby.
With that, I made my decision. "System, unlock mimicry," I said in my mind, fully prepared for whatever would come next.
DING! Another notification echoed in my mind.
{Request confirmed. Unlocking Mimicry for J'onn J'onzz (Martian Manhunter) in 3… 2… 1… Warning! Warning!}
A warning? That was unexpected. I was caught off guard, my attention drawn to the screen. Another DING! immediately followed.
{Kyn, some of J'onn J'onzz's abilities will enhance your newest unlocked godly abilities, further elevating them to unprecedented levels of power. These include Shape-shifting, Invulnerability, Regeneration, Telepathy, Telekinesis, and Matter Absorption.}
I felt a rush of power surge through me, a sudden wave of knowledge and abilities, things I had never even imagined. It was overwhelming, but it happened so fast that I barely had time to process it before it was over. In an instant, I had fully assimilated J'onn's skills and abilities. The experience was surreal, as if years of knowledge and experiences had been uploaded directly into my mind. Then, I heard the system chime, providing me with an updated view of my latest status.
Ding!
{{The Ultimate Dimensional Travel System}}
Host Name: Kyn James, Age: 17 years old,
World: Altered DC – New Earth 0 (Stable multiverse)
Worlds Traveled: 0/∞
Meta Gene Unlocked: Absolute Mimicry and Replication
Unlocked Progress: 40%, Level ∞
Current Mimic and Status:
Kryptonian God Rao – Authority over all Kryptonians - Divinities: Energy Manipulation, Life, Strength, True Creation (atom, reality, and magic manipulation), Adaptation, Creator and Master of the Phantom Zone, Spatial, Temporal, and King of All Gods
Richard Drakunovski/Dragon – Martial Arts Prodigy, Martial Arts: Aikido, Karate, Kung Fu, Jiu-jitsu, Judo, Muay Thai, Pencak Silat, Taekwondo, Krav Maga
J'onn J'onzz (Martian Manhunter), Gained Abilities: Shape-shifting, Invisibility, Phasing, Invulnerability, Advanced Hand-to-Hand Combat, Regeneration, Telepathy, Telekinesis, Matter Absorption, Criminal Justice system
Current Mimic Unlocked Progress: 100% (Using 40%)
Race: Human/Kryptonian God
Physique: Mortal/Godly Immortal (Beyond Time)
Attributes (Based on unlocking only 40% of Meta Gene):
Strength: Low 2-C, Defense: Low 2-C, Visual: Low 2-C, Speed: Low 2-C, Agility: Low 2-C, Reflex: Low 2-C, Senses: Low 2-C, Intelligence: Low 2-C, Knowledge: Low 2-C
Overall: Low 2-C (absolute peak of Universal level)
Maximum Potential: 1-B Up to or possibly higher (when completely unlocked)
Abilities:
Innate Abilities (Permanent):
Absolute Mimic and Replication: Level ∞,
Godly Immortal Physique: Level 3/∞ Includes: Godly Invulnerability, Godly Shape-Shifting, Godly Healing, Godly Stamina, Godly Speed, Godly Biosphere, Godly Vision, Godly Breath, Godly Hearing, Godly Strength, Godly Phasing, Godly Invisibility, and Godly Flight, Currently: 1000/10K
Strength Divinity: Level 3/∞, Currently: 1000/10K
Energy Manipulation Divinity: Level 3/∞, Currently: 1000/10K
Phantom Zone's Master Divinity: Level 2/5, Currently: 150/1000
Adaptation Divinity: Level 3/∞, Currently: 1000/10K
Martial Arts in Hand-to-Hand Combat Level: Grandmaster Level 3/5, Currently: 1000/10K
Eastern Meditation: (Enhances inner energy manipulation/chi/ki) Level: Grandmaster Level 3/∞, Currently: 1000/10K
True Creation Divinity: Level 3/∞ (can now manipulate reality on a planetary scale), Currently: 1000/10K
Almighty Mind: Level 3/∞: planetary scale
Merged Abilities: Godly Intelligence, Godly Recall, Godly Mind, Godly Telepathy, Godly illusions, Godly Telekinesis, Tactical Analysis, Multilinguist, Genius-Level Intellect, and True Creation manipulation
Currently: 1000/10k
Size Manipulation: Level 3/∞, Currently: 1000/10K
Criminal Justice System Encompasses: Law, Investigation, Criminology (J'onn J'onzz's knowledge) Level 2/3, Currently: 200/1000
Healing Sight: Level 1/∞, Currently: 10/100
Regeneration: Level 1/∞, Currently: 0/100
Life Divinity: Level 1/∞, Currently: 0/100
Locked/Mimicked Abilities (Temporary):
Equestrianism: Level 2/3, Currently: 200/1000, Weaponry: Level 2/3, Currently: 200/1000, Military: Level 2/3Currently: 200/1000, Power Bestowal (Locked), Spatial Divinity (Locked), Temporal Divinity (Locked), King of All Gods (Absolute Command) Divinity (Locked)
This screen faded from my mind, leaving behind an overwhelming feeling of immense power and newfound mastery.
While flying just moments ago, I had saved some young kids from getting hit by a speeding sports car. At the same time, Cass—also known as Whisper—knocked out a purse thief who had tried to steal a woman's purse while she was holding her daughter, who had just fallen down. The perpetrator decided to run off with her purse at that moment, but that's when Whisper arrived. Just as he snatched the purse and started running half a block away, she landed a punch that knocked him unconscious before a police patrol car arrived to arrest him.
It was in that moment, as we engaged in our hero work, that J'onn addressed me with his characteristic seriousness and calmness. "You are doing commendable work here, Sentry and Whisper. However, the government is not entirely comfortable with two young teenage meta-humans operating independently. A few years ago, they implemented restrictions requiring that new and young superheroes undergo training and supervision by the Justice League. This is the primary reason for our approach to you.
We needed to assess how you manage your abilities, and both Superman and I recognize your potential. Therefore, we extend an invitation for you to train alongside other young meta-humans who can aid you and Whisper in honing your powers. This team is known as the Teen Titans.
What do you think? We can facilitate an introduction to these young heroes. If you decide against this option, that's perfectly understandable; however, it will mean you'll be classified as an illegal vigilante not sanctioned by the government." He paused, noting my troubled expression as the weight of the government's restrictions settled in, urging me to contemplate my future choices. After a moment of silence, he continued, "We'll give you more time to decide. We will contact you tomorrow, around the same area where we met today."
I couldn't help but cringe at the thought of becoming a Teen Titan. To me, it felt like they never received proper acknowledgment from the adult Leaguers. So, turning to Superman, I asked, "I appreciate your consideration, but honestly, I know that among every single Leaguer, I can guarantee I'm the strongest, fastest, and, dare I say, the most powerful. To prove it, I'd like to spar with you, Superman, and show you that what I'm saying isn't out of arrogance but confidence. What do you say, Mr. Man of Steel—let's have a friendly spar."
Both Martian Manhunter and Superman were visibly taken aback by my challenge. After a moment, Superman's serious expression softened into a smile. He seemed to be processing my intentions before asking, "Sentry, why do you want to spar? I understand that you want to be acknowledged as an independent hero, but you have to realize we're simply following government protocols. You're too young to be accepted into the Justice League, at least for now. But with time, as your actions prove to the world and the government that you're a force for good, that can change. Now, if your goal is to test your strength and compete with me in a friendly spar, I'm willing to accept."
He paused, gauging my response, and I nodded, though I made sure not to mention Captain Marvel—Billy Batson—since I knew he was likely close to my age. I didn't want to throw him under the bus. Then I replied, "Yes, Superman. I don't agree with the conditions the government has imposed on the Justice League, but I understand and accept this arrangement—for both myself and Whisper. However, I want to prove to the League that I shouldn't be dismissed just because of my age or limited hero experience.
"My learning ability… it's hard to explain. I absorb new skills instantly, like I've always known them. It's as natural to me as a baby instinctively knowing how to breathe or move their fingers. Every ability I acquire, I master as if it's been with me since birth."
I glanced up at the sky and added, "Let's take this higher, above the city. I don't want our friendly spar to cause any damage or accidentally harm anyone."
Both Superman and Martian Manhunter remained focused on me, their expressions thoughtful. It was clear that my challenge had captured their attention. My intent wasn't born of arrogance—it was driven by a need to show them that there was more to me than just being a young hero. I wanted them to see that I was ready to stand among them, not because of my age or experience, but because of my potential.
Once we reached about 30,000 feet, I noticed Whisper looking at me, confusion clear in her eyes. She didn't understand why we were up here. Keeping things simple for her, I used both words and hand gestures so she could follow along. "You move back with him," I said, pointing toward Martian Manhunter. "I fight with friend now, okay?"
She narrowed her eyes, trying to make sense of the situation. Her gaze lingered, skeptical, but after a moment, she nodded and moved back near Martian Manhunter, who gave me an encouraging smile.
Superman and I separated, creating a distance of roughly 100 yards between us. As we floated in the sky, the tension building, I whispered to him, letting my voice carry over to him with just enough focus. "Superman, you can come at me. I promise, I can take whatever you throw my way. I know you feel like everything around you is as fragile as cardboard, and you're always holding back. But for me, it's worse."
I paused, hoping he could feel the weight behind my words. "Every step I take feels like it could crack the planet in half if I'm not careful. Every breath I draw, if uncontrolled, could blow away the atmosphere and wipe out everything on this planet. What I'm saying is... don't hold back. Not this time. I need you to come at me with everything you've got."
I could feel his hesitation, but I knew he understood what I was asking. This wasn't about ego; it was about trust. Trust that I could handle it.
I knew Superman would still hold back, no matter how much I tried to convince him otherwise. But I didn't dwell on it. He moved toward me, leaving a trail of sonic booms in his wake. To anyone else, it would have been blindingly fast, but to me, it felt like he was moving in slow motion, like watching a snail crawl across the ground. I stayed focused, though, resisting the urge to yawn out of sheer boredom.
He threw a barrage of punches at my face, which I easily dodged by shifting my head side to side. I could tell I was moving so fast that afterimages were being left behind, something Superman hadn't expected. Realizing his punches weren't connecting, he shifted tactics, speeding around me in an attempt to strike from my blind spots. But every hit he thought landed was just another afterimage.
Backing off, Superman darted a mile away, moving so quickly that to an observer, it would've looked like nothing more than streaks of blue and red light flashing across the sky. He then rocketed toward me, his fists poised to deliver a double ramming punch. I could tell by now that, during our initial exchanges, he was holding back, fighting at a level I'd estimate to be around Low 6-B in terms of strength and speed. But as he flew toward me now, it was clear he was tapping into more of his power, probably approaching High 6-A level.
The moment his fists neared, moving in slow motion from my perspective, I raised my left hand and caught his punch. Just like that, his momentum came to a dead stop. The force behind his strike was immense, so much so that the surrounding clouds evaporated, leaving the sky clear for miles. The resulting shockwave was massive; if we had been anywhere near a city, skyscrapers would've been obliterated in an instant.
Superman wasn't ready to give up. He shifted gears, unleashing Torquasm Rao, a Kryptonian martial arts technique that multiplied the force and speed of his punches by tenfold. I estimated this boosted his strength close to low 5-B level. The way his movements flowed reminded me of something—like Goku's Ultra Instinct in its incomplete form. He was fast and precise, but not fast enough.
He came at me with a renewed ferocity, combining punches and kicks. For the first time, I saw him use kicks, but I easily deflected them all, calmly swatting away his attacks with my arms, never needing to move from my spot. Despite the power behind each strike, my feet stayed firmly planted in my spot. My left or right arm moved only when necessary to block each incoming blow, never once requiring both.
The environment around us, however, wasn't as fortunate. Our clash was unleashing chaos on the planet—tsunamis formed, tornadoes spun wildly, and storm clouds crackled with lightning. The sheer energy we were putting out was too much for the Earth to handle. Marveling at his technique's almost supernatural quality, I finally spoke up.
"Superman, we need to stop. Your technique is incredible, but the Earth can't take much more of this. We're causing too much damage. Let's end it here, okay?"