|Metropolis
|July 3, 8:00 EDT
[System Integrated]
The words stopped me in my tracks. They sat in a square box right in the middle of my vision. I turned my head to the side and it followed my line of sight. Waving my hand in front of my face I grunted in confusion as it passed straight through. I jumped when another screen popped up.
<=Scanning brain wave activity and memories for information=>[€÷¢^¢°¢÷¢¢°¢×¢{^|=£]\°€°€×'=[®{]¢]£¶'}'[^€^|¥•°•{€]€±¶€{|=•=|{'['=•℅•℅™¥|¥|°=•=•]¥[¥=•{=]
<5%>
<28%>
<49%>
<63%>
<81%>
<99%>
<=Scan Complete=>
[Interface Integrated]
Name: Kai Jackson
Other Titles: N/A
Health: 100/100
Level: 1
Sex: Male
Race: Mortal Human
Age: 17
Power Points(PP): 10
Strength(STR): 12
Intelligence(INT): 28
Perception(Per): 9
Agility(AGI): 10
Vitality(Vit): 10
Wisdom(WIS): 10
Charisma(CHA): 10
Abilities:
Scan:
Info: "Scan" allows the user to gather information about any being and object. This includes detailed insights into stats and abilities.
Grade: C
=======================
Mimicry :
Info: "Mimicry" allows the user to replicate another being's ability using the "Scan" ability, provided they have the necessary (PP) to execute the mimicry.
Grade: X++
=======================
Genius-Level Intellect:
Info: "Genius-Level Intellect" grants the user extraordinary intelligence and problem-solving abilities. This encompasses a vast knowledge of various scientific disciplines, strategic planning, and the ability to innovate and create advanced technology. (This is an evolved ability) [+15 INT]
Grade: B+
=======================
[End of information]
I mean, I lived in a world were seeing someone in Halloween costumes "fighting crime" with superpowers was the norm. But this was a whole different kind of weird. I rubbed my eyes and tried to wake up completely. The words were still there. The screens were still there. And they didn't seem to be going away anytime soon. I needed answers, but it didn't look like I would be getting any anytime soon. I looked at the words again, this time thinking about them as I read. The idea that if I could gain enough levels as say, Superman, then I would be able to mimic his powers. And if I could also mimic the other superheroes powers then I would even surpass Superman. The mere thought of it was insane. I needed to test this first to see if it was real or if I was just going insane. But first I needed to find out how to exit out of these damn screens. "Exit?" I sighed when nothing happened. "Uh remove, discard, shut off, close." I let out a sigh of relief as the screens disappeared. I looked around me to see people passing by me in the street corner. I probably looked crazy. An average looking man bumped into me as he walked past me. "Uh, scan," I muttered under my breath, not knowing what else to do.
[Scan Completed]
Name: Dan Thomas
Level: 1
Sex: Male
Age: 37
Race: Mortal Human
Abilities:
Master Pianist:
Info: "Master Pianist" grants the user extraordinary skill in playing the piano. When activated, the user can perform complex pieces flawlessly, exhibiting mastery over technique, expression, and musicality. This ability encompasses a deep understanding of music theory, perfect pitch, and the ability to sight-read complex compositions effortlessly.(This is an evolved ability)
Grade: F++
Required (PP) To Mimic: 5
=========================
Average Cooking:
Info: "Average Cooking" is a basic culinary ability that allows the user to prepare meals with moderate success. While not exceptional, it ensures that the food is edible and generally acceptable in taste and presentation. This skill covers fundamental cooking techniques and standard recipes.
Grade: F
Required (PP) To Mimic: 2
===========================
[End of information]
I blinked in astonishment. It worked. Dan's abilities seemed mundane compared to superhuman powers, but it was a start. I needed to gather more information and experiment further. Mindlessly I glanced at my watch.
"Shit!"
As I raced away from the bustling street corner, my mind raced with the possibilities of what I could achieve with this newfound power. When I reached my destination I was a sweaty wheezing mess. As I tried to catch my breath I looked up at the huge skyscraper in front of me. The steel and glass structure of Lexcorp loomed above, an architectural marvel that screamed power and ambition. I had started my internship with Lexcorp about a year ago. In the beginning it was hard. Everyone was essentially your enemy and they were hugely competitive. It started to lighten up when I first met Mr. Luthor. Mr. Luthor was a man of extraordinary intellect and a formidable presence. His aura of confidence and authority was palpable, and it was clear he was a man who demanded excellence. As I caught my breath, I remembered my first meeting with him. He had looked at me with those piercing blue eyes, assessing me as if I were an equation to be solved. I had felt a mixture of intimidation and awe. Soon after meeting him he took me on as his personal assistant. I shook my head from the memory. Then I took a deep breath and wiped the sweat from my brow. The gleaming glass of LexCorp's entrance doors reflected my disheveled state. Straightening my tie and brushing down my shirt, I hurried through the revolving doors flashing my ID at the security guard who barely glanced at me before nodding me through. The lobby was bustling with employees and visitors, each absorbed in their own world. But I navigated through the crowd with practiced ease. I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement and nervousness every time I entered this building. Once Inside the elevator, I pressed the button for the top floor, where Lex Luthor's office was located. As the elevator ascended, my mind raced with thoughts of how to use my abilities strategically. The elevator dinged softly, signaling my arrival. The doors slid open to reveal a sleek, modern office space. The floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of Metropolis, the city bustling with life far below. I stepped out of the elevator and into the opulent reception area. Lex Luthor's receptionist, a stern woman named Ms. Grant, greeted me with her usual no-nonsense demeanor.
"Mr. Jackson, you're late," she said, not bothering to look up from her computer.
"Sorry, Ms. Grant. Got caught up in something on the way," I replied, trying to sound casual. She merely nodded and pointed toward Lex Luthor's office.
"He's waiting for you. Don't keep him," she said curtly.
I walked past her desk and approached the massive double doors leading to Luthor's office. Taking a deep breath, I knocked and waited for the familiar, authoritative voice to call me in.
"Enter."
I pushed the doors open and stepped inside. Luthor's office was minimalist yet luxurious, with sleek furniture and high-tech gadgets strategically placed around the room. Lex Luthor stood by the window, his back to me, hands clasped behind him. His presence was intimidating, a combination of his towering figure and the sheer aura of power he exuded. Beside him stood his body guard. It looked like a woman, but I knew it was a robot, Luthor's own creation. The thing had always freaked me out. Luthor turned to face me, his piercing blue eyes scrutinizing me as always.
"Jackson," he said, his voice a smooth blend of authority and intellect. "You're late."
"Apologies, Mr. Luthor," I replied, straightening my posture. "It won't happen again."
"See that it doesn't," he said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "We have much to discuss today. Follow me."
He turned and walked toward a large conference table at the center of the room. As I followed, I couldn't help but feel a surge of anxiety mixed with curiosity. What could he possibly want to discuss with me? I was just an intern, albeit one who had managed to catch his eye.
"Sit," he commanded, and I complied, taking a seat opposite him. The robotic bodyguard, whom I knew was named Mercy, stood silently behind him, her eyes glowing faintly.
Luthor leaned forward, steepling his fingers. "Kai, you've been working here for a year now. I've been impressed by your initiative and your quick thinking. There's a new prototype we've been developing, and I need someone with a keen eye and sharp intellect to oversee its final tests. You fit the bill."
My heart skipped a beat. This was a significant responsibility, one that could either catapult my career or bury it. But now, with my abilities, I felt a newfound confidence. I nodded, trying to maintain my composure. "I'm ready, Mr. Luthor. What kind of prototype is it?"
Luthor's lips curled into a slight smile, as if he were pleased by my eagerness. "It's a new AI-enhanced exoskeleton, designed to enhance physical abilities and provide strategic support in the field. Think of it as a super-suit for the modern era."
My mind immediately jumped to the potential applications of such technology. Luthor waved his hand in front of his desk and a hologram flicked to life. The hologram was of a sleek, and black exoskeleton suit. It was impressive, a blend of advanced materials and cutting-edge technology. "This is the Mark V Exosuit. You'll be heading down to lab 87 to meet Dr. Emily Harper, the lead engineer on this project. Assist her in any way you can and ensure the tests go smoothly."
I stood up, excitement and nervousness battling for dominance within me. "Understood, Mr. Luthor. I won't let you down."
As I turned to leave, Luthor's voice stopped me. "And Mr. Jackson, remember—this technology is highly confidential. I trust you understand the implications of any breach in security."
I nodded solemnly. "Of course, Mr. Luthor. You can count on my discretion." Luthor's eyes lingered on me for a moment longer before he turned back to the window, dismissing me with a nod. I almost smacked myself in the head. I had totally forgot to scan Luthor.
Scan. I thought silently before I walked out the door.
[Scan Completed]
Name: Lex Luthor
Other Titles: N/A
Level: 28
Sex: Male
Age: 34
Race: Mortal human
Abilities:
Genius-Level Intellect:
Info: "Genius-Level Intellect" grants extraordinary intelligence and problem-solving abilities. This encompasses a vast knowledge of various scientific disciplines, strategic planning, and the ability to innovate and create advanced technology. (This is an evolved ability)
Grade: B+
Required (PP) To Mimic: [User Already Has This Ability]
=========================
Master Strategist:
Info: "Master Strategist" allows the user to devise intricate plans and strategies with a high success rate. This ability includes anticipating opponents' moves and manipulating situations to one's advantage. (This is an evolved ability)
Grade: B
Required (PP) To Mimic: 25
=========================
Advanced Robotics Engineering:
Info: "Advanced Robotics Engineering" gives the user unparalleled skill in designing, constructing, and programming advanced robotic systems. (This is an evolved ability)
Grade: B
Required (PP) To Mimic: 18
=========================
[End of information]
I sighed sadly seeing that I couldn't get Master Strategist. After a couple more minutes of looking longingly at it, I headed for Lab 87.