More Than A Bird, More Than A Plane
I remember coming to this Earth feeling the sun on my face for the first time...
Martha: Oh my God, Jonathan...it's a baby boy.
Jonathan: Hold on, Martha...
Hearing the voices of my parents...
My mother called me their greatest surprise...
And boy, there sure were lots of them....
I remember loving Smallville. The people, the community
How the small things were the big things.
And I thought I'd live there forever
Clark: Dad...dad! Somebody call 911!
Martha: Jonathan!
But...my father's death set me on a different path
Eventually, I moved to Metropolis...to become who I was meant to be
Superman: Here you go, friend...
Kid: Thanks! Cool costume.
Superman: Thanks! My mom made it for me
But...my most vivid memory of all...
...was the day I met her...
Perry: Stick with Lane. She'll show you the ropes
Clark: Lane, sir?
Lois: Who told you to wear a tie?
We fell in love...
I told Lois who I really was. Where I came from
We married, got out first place together...
Y/N came...our eldest boy
And oh man is he special
After him...it was the twins
And they were as different as brothers get
Jonathan was easy...always happy, always smiling
But...things with Jordan were more... challenging. Tantrums, night terrors
A year ago, he was diagnosed with social anxiety disorder
And now...here I am
Living in Metropolis raising three teenage boys, married to the most famous journalist in the world.
Trying to make the world safer for the people I love...
But this time...I'm not flying alone...
...
Wichita Nuclear Plant, Kansas
The scene is pure chaos. Warning lights spin and alarms blare, creating a cacophony that drowns out all but the most urgent voices. Army soldiers hustle employees, clad in white body suits, away from the looming danger of the large containment structure housing a boiling water reactor
General Sam Lane: How long we got before this thing pops its top, gentlemen?
Scientist: Minutes!
Sam Lane: The fallout?
Scientist: Far as Metropolis.
General Lane's expression tightens as he regards a small device in his hand. It's been activated a military-style ELT, a desperate signal calling for Superman's help.
Sam: Christ. Let's hope he hears this
The sharp ringing sound of the ELT takes us to Superman and Superboy speeding through the night sky, their capes billowing behind them as they race over the land. Superman's eyes narrow, his super hearing picking up the sharp ringing that transforms into a flurry of conversations, muffled voices, and frantic screaming
The sense of urgency is palpable. Superman and Superboy exchange a glance, unspoken understanding passing between them as they push themselves to fly even faster. Below them, the landscape blurs into a dark smear, the nuclear plant's growing crisis their sole focus.
As they approach the plant, the level of the emergency becomes evident. The soldiers, the scientists, the glaring lights. All signal a situation on the brink of catastrophe. Superman's jaw sets in determination, and he speeds ahead, Superboy following closely, ready to confront the danger and prevent the fallout from reaching Metropolis
Scientist: We don't get water back in the reactor vessel, we're going to have a meltdown the size of Fukushima!
The situation is dire. Superman and Superboy kick into high gear and disappear into the mouth of the cooling tower.
They land atop the bridge inside the massive tower and use their X-ray vision to examine the space around them. Like thermal imaging. They see purple and yellow heat signatures outlining the innards of the tower, its distribution manifold, the fill, and hexagonal compartments that lead to a large, empty basin. Then they see it: a large fissure that runs the length of the basin, the reason all the water escaped.
Clark: You see that?
Y/N: Yup...
Red beams blast from their eyes, melting the concrete into a glass-like compound, essentially welding the crack together.
Y/N: Is there a way we can get that much water in here?!
Clark: Yes...there is
WHOOSH!
They speed out of the opening in a blur.
After that, they fly out to the nearest body of water, hover above it, then inhale deeply and let out a cold, long breath that starts freezing a large section of the water.
The Supermen stop their breath, fly up into the air, loop back down, and disappear into the lake. After a few beats, a massive iceberg starts to rise from the water, held up by both Superman and Superboy. They fly with the iceberg towards the tower, passing over the groups of soldiers, scientists, and General Lane, who all watch in awe.
Inside the tower, Superman and Superboy hover, holding the massive iceberg together. The tremendous heat starts melting the ice, and water falls into the basin. The water disappears into the tubes below, leading to the reactor vessel
Back to General Lane, one of the scientists notes the temperature on a tablet still rising.
2100 degrees, 2200...then it holds for a beat...and starts falling
Scientist: It's cooling down!
Relief washes over the faces of everyone on the ground. The immediate crisis averted, Superman and Superboy land next to General Lane.
Sam: And?
Clark: Just like Oyster Creek. Same kind of crack in the basin of the cooling tower.
Sam: How is it no one at either plant saw or heard anything?
Y/N: We don't know yet, but you can't get equipment in here unnoticed. Both cracks were man-made, General.
General Lane's brow furrows as he processes this information. The implications are grave, suggesting a coordinated sabotage.
Sam: You two have been putting in a lot of OT lately. Lois okay with that? Y/N, what about your team in SanFran?
Y/N nods, thinking about his other life as part of the Titans, a team composed of young heroes like Robin, Starfire, Beast Boy, Cyborg, Kid Flash, Arsenal, and Raven. His ability to fly at speeds up to Mach 7 allowed him to zip across the country for missions, balancing his duties in Metropolis with his commitments to his friends in San Francisco
Y/N: She understands, and my team in San Francisco...well, they manage. We've got a good system going. I fly out for missions, spend some time with them. Even manage to squeeze in some fun.
A flash of fond memories crosses Y/N's mind: late-night strategy sessions, intense training drills, and yes, even smooching around with Raven. Despite the seriousness of their work, there were moments of lightness and camaraderie that made the constant pressure bearable
Sam: Just make sure you're getting enough rest. Can't save the world if you're running on empty.
Superman and Y/N share a look, a mixture of gratitude and mutual respect passing between them. The work is never done, but they wouldn't have it any other way. They turn their attention back to the General, ready to discuss the next steps in uncovering the mystery behind the sabotage
With the crisis averted, Y/N and Superman prepare to leave. They exchange a nod, understanding that their paths diverge from here. Y/N needs to head to San Francisco to check in with the Teen Titans, while Clark will return to Metropolis to be with Lois and the twins.
Clark: You take care of yourself out there. It's your last day before high school starts, and I know how much this senior year means to you.
Y/N: Thanks, Dad. I've got it covered. I'll be back in time for breakfast
With a final nod, they both take off in different directions. Y/N flies west, his thoughts shifting to his friends in San Francisco and the impending start of his senior year. His football skills have drawn the attention of scouts from Metropolis University and other prestigious schools, but his heart is set on MetU, close to home and family
Clark had allowed Y/N to play football only on the condition that he control his powers, knowing the immense risk of exposure. Jonathan and Jordan, unaware of their father and brother's secret identities, added an extra layer of secrecy and caution
Titans Tower, San Francisco
As Y/N nears the familiar sight of Titans Tower, a mix of excitement and nostalgia washes over him. Landing gracefully on the rooftop, he heads inside to find his friends. The Titans greet him warmly, their camaraderie evident in the easy banter and laughter that fills the common area.
Dick: Look who decided to grace us with his presence!
Garfield: Thought you'd forgotten about us with all those football scouts chasing you.
Wally: Must've been nice hanging out with America's daddy
Y/N: Missed you guys too. But hey, I'm here now, and I've got some time before school starts.
The group exchanges stories and catches up, the bond between them as strong as ever. Eventually, Y/N heads to his room to gather his belongings. As he packs, a familiar presence makes itself known.
Raven: So, you're really leaving for high school, huh?
Y/N: Yeah, senior year. Gotta finish strong and all that.
Raven: Well, before you go...
Raven steps closer, taking off her shirt, her smirk turning into a playful grin. Y/N's heart quickens, knowing exactly what she's implying. They share a moment of mutual understanding before closing the distance between them.
Y/N: One last bit of fun?
Raven: Just for old times' sake.
Y/N and Raven kiss, their connection palpable and intense. After a spicy, intimate moment, they lay on his bed, the quiet of the room enveloping them. Raven rests her head on Y/N's chest, tracing lazy circles on his skin. They were friends with benefits, no strings attached, enjoying their time together without any commitments.
As the time to leave approaches, Y/N reluctantly begins to gather his things, each action a step closer to his departure. Raven watches him, her eyes filled with a mix of sadness and understanding.
Y/N: Take care, Rae. I'll be back soon.
Raven: You too. And remember, we're always here if you need us.
With a final, lingering kiss, Y/N leaves Titans Tower, the city of San Francisco behind him as he speeds towards his next adventure. The dawn of a new school year awaits, full of promise and potential, and Y/N Kent is ready to face it head-on
...
Kent Brownstone, Metropolis
Clark places eggs on a plate before Jonathan takes a seat. As Jonathan begins scarfing down his large serving, Clark calls for the other twin.
Clark: Jordan, your breakfast's getting cold!
Lois enters in a pantsuit, her blouse unzipped in the back.
Lois: He's coming. Little help?
Clark helps zip up the blouse.
Lois: Your mother called about planning a visit while you were in the shower.
Jonathan: Are we going to Grandma's?
Clark: Maybe for Christmas...
Jonathan: Smallville...where you can spend a full year in one afternoon.
Just then, Y/N comes down the stairs, surprising Jonathan and Lois.
Y/N: It's not that bad...
Lois: Y/N?
Y/N gives his mother a kiss on the cheek.
Y/N: I got here really late... but hey, no way I'm losing my last ever first day of school! I've got energy.
Jonathan: Yeah... from doing whatever you did with Rachel on those vacations of yours...
Y/N's vacations on the West Coast were the cover story, ensuring his superhero identity remained hidden from his brothers. As Jonathan makes his comment, Y/N grabs him and gives him a playful noogie.
Y/N: You're just jealous, little bro.
Jonathan wriggles free, grinning. Lois watches them with a smile, a hint of concern flickering in her eyes.
Lois: Just remember, boys, it's a big year for all of you. Let's try to keep things as normal as possible.
Clark: Agreed. No slipping up, okay?
Y/N: You got it, Dad. I've got this.
Jordan: Sorry, I overslept.
Clark: Just in time. Eat up, everyone. First day of school waits for no one.
As the family settles into their morning routine, the sense of unity and purpose is palpable. Each of them has their own challenges to face, but together, they know they can handle anything that comes their way
On the road to school, Y/N, as the older brother, drives himself and the twins to school in a Ford Sedan. Jonathan sits in the front passenger seat, buzzing with excitement, while Jordan, in the backseat, is lost in his music, earbuds in place
Jonathan: Guess what? Coach said I'll be starting as Wide Receiver this year! Freshman and already on the team.
Y/N: Nice, Jon! That's awesome. Guess I'll be throwing you some dimes, huh?
Jonathan: Yeah...maybe we can practice one of these days too.
Y/N: That'll be amazing, Jon.
Jordan, meanwhile, stares out the window, the music from his earbuds drowning out the conversation. Y/N glances at him through the rearview mirror, sensing the younger twin's quiet demeanor.
Y/N: You okay back there, Jord?
Jordan gives a noncommittal nod, not really looking up from his phone. Y/N exchanges a look with Jonathan, who shrugs.
Jordan: Whatever...
Y/N: Just hang in there, bro. High school can be pretty cool once you get the hang of it.
The car ride continues with Jonathan animatedly discussing football strategies and upcoming games, while Jordan remains in his own world, the music providing a refuge from his thoughts
Jonathan: Hey, Y/N, why do you always go to San Francisco every summer to visit Rachel? What's the deal with her?
Y/N pauses, glancing briefly at Jonathan. The cover story about Rachel's father was their best option to keep the truth hidden.
Y/N: Well, her dad's got a pretty unique job, you know. She also told me that he's very...conservative and can be a demon when his little girl does anything unusual. But it's a good excuse to get out of Metropolis for a bit, see the West Coast.
Jonathan: Yeah, makes sense. I guess it's good to have friends in different places.
Y/N: Exactly. Plus, it's always nice to have a change of scenery. You never know what new experiences you'll find.
Jonathan accepts the explanation, turning his attention back to football as they near the school. Y/N lets out a small sigh of relief, grateful that his younger brother didn't press further.
As Y/N parks the car, the three brothers get out and walk towards the school entrance. Jonathan, already a popular kid in his grade, walks with a confident stride. He waves at friends and exchanges high-fives with other freshmen. Jordan, on the other hand, walks with his head low, feeling like an outcast in the crowd.
Jonathan: Catch you later, Y/N!
Y/N: Later, Jon. Have a good day. You too, Jordan!
Y/N walks into the school, the star quarterback of Metropolis High. He instantly garners attention from everyone around. Pretty girls smile and giggle as he passes, and the guys give him daps and nods of acknowledgment.
As Y/N navigates through the hallways, he keeps an eye on Jordan, who is trailing behind, feeling the weight of being different. Y/N wishes he could do more to help his brother fit in but knows that Jordan needs to find his own way.
Katherine: Hey, Y/N!
Y/N: Hey, Katherine. Looking forward to seeing you at the game.
Katherine: Definitely!
Y/N's popularity is undeniable, but he remains humble, always acknowledging everyone with a friendly smile or a nod. He knows the importance of staying grounded, especially with the secrets he has to keep.
As they reach their lockers, Y/N gives Jordan a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
Y/N: Hang in there, Jordan. High school can be tough, but you've got this. If you need anything, I'm here. If Cutter messes with you, you tell me, alright?
Jordan: Thanks, Y/N.
Later that day...
Metropolis High School, Football Field
The sun hangs high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the football field. The sounds of players calling out plays, the thud of feet on turf, and the occasional cheer fill the air. Y/N stands at the center of the field, already in his football gear, exuding confidence as he surveys his team.
Coach: Alright, team! Gather up!
The players jog over, forming a semicircle around the coach. Y/N stands at the front, next to Jonathan, who's practically bouncing with excitement.
Coach: Kent, I want you to run some drills with the new guys. Show them how it's done.
Y/N: You got it, Coach.
As Y/N begins organizing the drills, he catches sight of Jonathan, who looks ready to burst with questions. Y/N gives him a nod, indicating it's okay to ask.
Jonathan: So, what's the plan for today?
Y/N: We're going to focus on teamwork and precision. You'll be running routes with me, alright? Just follow my lead.
Jonathan: Got it, big bro!
The team starts the drills, with Y/N throwing perfect passes and Jonathan impressing everyone with his speed and agility. The camaraderie among the players is evident, and Y/N's leadership shines through.
Robby: Man, Y/N, your throws are insane!
Y/N: Thanks. Just keep practicing, and you'll get there too.
As they continue, Y/N keeps an eye on his younger brother, making sure he's integrating well with the team. Jonathan is doing great, earning nods of approval from other players and even the coach.
Coach: Good hustle, Kent! Both of you!
After a rigorous practice, the coach blows the whistle, signaling the end of the session. The players gather their gear, laughing and chatting about the upcoming season. Y/N and Jonathan walk off the field together, sweat-soaked but exhilarated.
Jonathan: That was awesome! I can't wait for the first game.
Y/N: You did great out there, Jon. Just remember to keep your cool and play smart.
Jonathan: Will do. Thanks, Y/N.
As they head towards the locker room, Y/N spots Jordan sitting in the bleachers, earbuds in, watching the practice. He walks over, motioning for Jonathan to go ahead.
Y/N: Hey, Jord. What'd you think?
Jordan: You guys looked good out there. Jonathan's...really fitting in.
Y/N: Yeah, he is. How was your day?
Jordan: Same old. But I'm alright.
Y/N: Good. Just know I'm here for you, alright?
Jordan: Thanks, Y/N.
The bond between the brothers is strong, each supporting the other in their own way. Y/N is especially protective of Jordan, who was diagnosed with social anxiety a year ago. Jordan's shyness and anxiety made him a target for bullies at school, and Y/N often stood up for him, ensuring that no one messed with his younger brother
The sun is setting, casting a golden hue over the landscape as Y/N drives the Ford Sedan, with Jonathan in the front seat and Jordan in the back, earbuds in. The car ride is filled with Jonathan's excited chatter about football, while Jordan remains lost in his music. Suddenly, Y/N's phone rings, and he sees it's a call from his mom, Lois.
Y/N: Hey, Mom. Me and the boys are headed back home. Be there soon.
Lois: Y/N... it's your grandmother...
Y/N's heart skips a beat, sensing the gravity in his mother's voice. He then focuses and uses his super hearing, managing to hear Clark, who was already in Smallville at this point
Clark: It's okay, Mom... go be with Dad again...
Y/N's grip tightens on the steering wheel, his mind racing. Jonathan, noticing the change in Y/N's expression, looks concerned.
Jonathan: What's wrong, Y/N?
Y/N: Grandma... she passed away.
Jonathan's face falls, his excitement about football replaced with worry and sadness. Jordan, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, pulls out his earbuds.
Jordan: What's going on?
Y/N: Grandma's gone, Jordan. She's with Grandpa now...
...
A couple of days later...
Smallville, Kansas
A somber atmosphere envelops the small Kansas town. The sun shines softly, casting long shadows over the large gathering of neighbors and friends dressed in a range of attire from dark suits and dresses to tucked-in flannels and jeans. The community encircles a grave site next to an adjacent headstone that reads "EBEN Jonathan Kent"
Father Linquist: Faithful God, Lord of all creation, you desire that nothing redeemed by your Son will ever be lost, and that the just will be raised up on the last day...to live with you and all yourchildren, for ever and ever...
All: Amen
In the center of the gathering stands the Kent family, dressed in their finest black attire, standing close together for support. Lois holds onto Clark's arm, her eyes red from crying. Jonathan and Jordan stand beside their parents, each looking solemn. Y/N stands slightly apart, his face a mask of controlled grief.
The boys drop their roses on her casket and so does Clark
Kent Farm, Smallville
Folding tables are set up on the lawn, covered with red checkered tablecloths. The scent of freshly mowed grass mixes with the aroma of homemade food. Children play horseshoes near the cornfields, their laughter a bittersweet reminder of life continuing amidst sorrow.
Clark, Lois, and their sons mingle with various guests from the funeral, sharing stories and offering comfort. The tables are laden with sandwiches, pies, and a variety of homemade dishes. Guests sip beer and bottled pop, some laughing at fond memories while others quietly wipe away tears with napkins
Jordan sits at a table, absorbed in his cell phone. Jonathan and Y/N approach, each carrying slices of pie. They sit down across from him, and Jonathan plops two slices on the table in front of Jordan.
Jonathan: Here. Got you some dessert. It's almost one. You need to take your pill with something.
Jordan: Who are you, Mom?
Y/N: No, but if you want, we can let her know.
Jordan grimaces at the thought, then reaches into his pocket and takes out a pill. He looks at it for a moment before setting it on the table next to the pie.
Jonathan: We just want to make sure you're okay, Jordan.
Jordan: I know. Thanks.
He reluctantly picks up the slice of pie and takes a bite, following it with the pill. Y/N watches his younger brother, sensing the weight of Jordan's emotions
Meanwhile, Clark and Lois are chatting with Cobb Branden, a local farmer, thanking him for coming.
Cobb Branden: She was a remarkable woman, Clark. We're all going to miss her.
Clark nods, his eyes softening at the memory of his mother. As Cobb continues to talk, Clark's superhearing picks up a familiar laugh. He turns, scanning the crowd, and spots a profile he hasn't seen in years.
A woman in her late 30s stands with a man the same age, Kyle Cushing, and two young girls: Sarah, 14 and Sophie, 8 chatting with some guests. Clark's heart skips a beat as the woman turns and locks eyes with him, revealing Lana Lang Cushing.
Lana's eyes widen in recognition and warmth, a small smile playing on her lips. Clark's mind races with memories of their shared past
They embrace briefly, the weight of years passing between them. As they pull back, Lana's expression turns somber.
Lana: I'm so sorry, Clark. Your mother was always so kind to me. To all of us.
She hugs Clark again, this time more tenderly. Clark closes his eyes for a moment, absorbing the comfort.
Clark: It's good to see you, Lana.
Kyle extends his hand, and Clark shakes it firmly.
Kyle: Our condolences, Kent.
Lana: Lois. Nice to see you again. Sorry it's under these circumstances.
Lois: Nice to see you, Lana. You remember our boys, Jonathan, Jordan, and Y/N.
Jonathan smiles warmly, while Jordan looks on awkwardly, unable to keep his eyes off Sarah. Y/N gives a casual wave.
Kyle: This is our littlest... Sophie. She was a baby when you saw her last. Your boys may remember our wayward daughter, Sarah...
Kyle tries to be funny, but Sarah isn't having it. She turns to the boys, her expression sincere.
Sarah: Sorry about your grandma. She was really special. Even my dad liked her, and he's an asshole, so...
The boys chuckle at Sarah's bluntness. Jonathan and Jordan both relax slightly, appreciating her honesty.
Lana turns her attention to Y/N, her eyes sparkling with warmth and nostalgia. She steps closer and, with a playful smile, reaches out to pinch his cheeks gently.
Lana: Look at you, Y/N! You've grown so much. I remember when you were just a little guy running around here.
Y/N blushes slightly, feeling a mix of embarrassment and affection. He chuckles and gently pulls away from her playful grip.
Y/N: Yeah, time flies. It's good to see you, Aunt Lana.
Lana: You've turned into such a fine young man. Your grandmother would be so proud.
Y/N nods, the weight of her words settling in his heart. The warmth of Lana's affection provides a small but significant comfort amidst the day's sorrow
Y/N then smells a familiar scent...lavender. His senses sharpen, and he picks up a familiar laugh, one that tugs at his heartstrings. He turns around, and there, in the golden light of the setting sun, he sees her. Blonde hair cascading over her shoulders, a radiant smile lighting up her face...
Megan Olsen
Megan: Well...if it isn't the star quarterback. Back in Smallville, huh?
Bạn đang đọc truyện trên: Truyen247.Pro