Over the following week, Connor found himself settling into a routine that felt more natural than anything he'd experienced since awakening in Cadmus. Morning combat training with M'gann, afternoon tactical exercises with Dick Grayson, evening coordination drills with Barbara Gordon, and specialized aquatic training sessions with someone Dick had introduced simply as "Kaldur."
Kaldur'ahm proved to be everything Dick's introduction had suggested—calm, competent, and possessed of the kind of natural leadership presence that made Connor understand why he'd been selected as field commander for their emerging team. The Atlantean moved through water with the same fluid grace Superman showed in flight, but more importantly, he approached every training scenario with methodical precision that complemented Connor's own tactical analysis abilities perfectly.
"Your technological interface capabilities," Kaldur said during their third joint training session, as they completed an underwater rescue simulation in the Watchtower's aquatic training facility, "provide significant tactical advantages for team coordination. Have you considered integrating with Atlantean bio-communication systems?"
Connor floated beside him in the crystal-clear water, his recently absorbed aquatic adaptation from Aquaman making the underwater environment feel as natural as breathing air. "I hadn't thought about that specific application. How would it work?"
"Atlantean technology uses bio-electrical interfaces that might be compatible with your direct neural connection capabilities," Kaldur explained, activating a holographic display that functioned perfectly underwater. "If successful, it would allow for seamless communication and coordination during aquatic operations."
*[TECHNOLOGICAL INTERFACE: Analyzing Atlantean bio-electrical systems]*
*[COMPATIBILITY ASSESSMENT: High probability of successful integration]*
*[NEW CAPABILITY POTENTIAL: Underwater tactical coordination enhancement]*
Connor reached out with his technological interface abilities, carefully probing the Atlantean communication system's parameters. The integration felt natural, like his consciousness was designed to work with advanced biological technology.
"This is incredible," Connor said as the connection stabilized, allowing him to communicate with Kaldur through a combination of technological interface and bio-electrical transmission. "It's like having a direct mental link that works through technological rather than telepathic means."
"Precisely," Kaldur confirmed through the new communication channel, his thoughts appearing as clear conceptual information rather than words. "This could revolutionize team coordination in complex environments."
*[XP GAINED: 95 - Advanced technological integration achievement]*
Their training sessions quickly evolved beyond basic coordination exercises. Dick had introduced scenario-based challenges that required all team members to work together, using their individual capabilities in support of shared objectives. Connor found himself naturally falling into a coordinator role, using his technological interface to manage information flow while his tactical analysis capabilities helped optimize team positioning and strategy.
"Connor, you're developing excellent team leadership instincts," Barbara observed during one particularly complex scenario involving hostage rescue, environmental hazards, and multiple opponent types. "You're managing information distribution while maintaining awareness of everyone's capabilities and limitations."
The scenario required M'gann to infiltrate a holographic terrorist compound using shapeshifting and invisibility, Kaldur to manage aquatic approach routes and structural flooding tactics, Dick to coordinate direct assault elements, and Connor to provide technological disruption and real-time tactical analysis.
*[TEAM COORDINATION: Analyzing optimal strategy integration]*
*[M'GANN: Infiltration specialist - stealth approach with telepathic intelligence gathering]*
*[KALDUR: Environmental control specialist - tactical flooding and aquatic combat]*
*[DICK: Assault coordinator - direct action and leadership]*
*[CONNOR: Information warfare and technological disruption]*
Connor's consciousness flowed through the compound's simulated security systems, mapping layouts, identifying threats, and coordinating team movements through multiple communication channels simultaneously. His technological interface disabled alarms and security cameras while his telepathic abilities maintained contact with M'gann during her infiltration.
The scenario concluded with all hostages rescued, all opponents neutralized through appropriate restraint, and zero civilian casualties.
"Execution time: eleven minutes, forty-seven seconds," Dick announced with obvious satisfaction. "That's faster than most Justice League response times for similar scenarios."
"More importantly," Kaldur added, "the coordination was seamless. Each team member's capabilities were optimized through information sharing and tactical integration."
*[XP GAINED: 150 - Superior team coordination and leadership demonstration]*
M'gann's emotional signature radiated excitement and confidence as they gathered for debriefing. "Connor, the way you managed information flow while maintaining tactical awareness of the entire situation—that was incredible. I always knew exactly what was happening and what my next objective should be."
"That's the advantage of technological interface combined with telepathic coordination," Connor explained, though he was careful not to reveal the full scope of his system-based capabilities. "When everyone's connected through shared information networks, the team functions like a single organism rather than individuals working in parallel."
Barbara pulled up holographic recordings of their performance, analyzing key moments with the thoroughness Connor was learning to associate with the Bat-family's approach to continuous improvement.
"Look at this sequence," Barbara said, highlighting a moment where Connor had simultaneously disabled three security systems, coordinated M'gann's route adjustment, and provided Kaldur with structural analysis for his flooding strategy. "Connor's managing at least four different information streams while maintaining physical combat readiness. That's advanced multitasking capability."
Dick nodded approvingly. "Plus, he's not just managing information—he's making tactical decisions that optimize everyone else's effectiveness. That's genuine leadership thinking."
*[TACTICAL ANALYSIS: Team performance metrics exceeding baseline expectations]*
*[LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: Significant advancement in coordination and decision-making]*
*[XP POTENTIAL: Current training approach providing consistent advancement opportunities]*
Connor felt his system processing the experience gains while his enhanced consciousness analyzed the team dynamics. Working with Dick, Barbara, Kaldur, and M'gann felt natural in a way that his individual training never had. Each team member brought unique capabilities, but more importantly, they brought different perspectives and approaches that made everyone more effective.
"Can I ask about the rest of the team?" Connor said during a break in their training cycle. "You mentioned there would be other members, but we haven't met them yet."
Dick exchanged a look with Kaldur that suggested they'd been expecting this question. "There will be others," Dick confirmed. "The final roster is still being determined based on mission requirements and candidate availability. But Connor, the four of you represent the core team—the members we know can work together effectively under pressure."
"What about you?" M'gann asked Dick directly. "You'll be team leader, but will you also be active in field operations?"
"Absolutely," Dick replied with the confidence of someone who had been preparing for leadership responsibilities his entire hero career. "Though my role will be more strategic coordination than direct action. Think of it as battlefield command rather than front-line combat."
Kaldur added thoughtfully, "The team structure is designed to be flexible. Different missions will require different compositions, but the core coordination protocols we're developing will remain consistent."
*[SYSTEM NOTIFICATION: Progression milestone approaching]*
*[CURRENT XP: 4850/5000 toward Level 7]*
*[MAJOR LEVEL UP: Imminent - Additional training should complete advancement]*
Connor could feel his system approaching a significant threshold. Level 7 would represent major advancement in his development, potentially unlocking new capabilities or enhanced versions of existing abilities.
"Want to try something more challenging?" Connor suggested to the group. "I feel like we're ready for advanced scenario integration."
Barbara's expression shifted to something that might have been concern mixed with professional curiosity. "Connor, you've been pushing pretty hard in training lately. Are you feeling pressure to advance quickly, or is this just natural competitive drive?"
The perceptive question made Connor pause and consider his motivations honestly. His system's progression mechanics created inherent incentives for XP accumulation, but was he pursuing advancement for its own sake or because it genuinely served his development as a hero?
"Both, probably," Connor said after a moment of self-reflection. "I want to be worthy of the opportunities I've been given, and I know I have a lot of catching up to do compared to people who've been developing their abilities for years. But also, working with all of you feels like the most natural thing I've ever experienced. I want to be the best team member I can be."
"That's healthy motivation," Dick said approvingly. "Though Connor, you should know that you're already exceeding expectations. The progress you've shown in the past week is remarkable."
M'gann nodded enthusiastically. "Connor, when we first started training together, I was impressed by your capabilities. Now I'm impressed by your judgment and leadership instincts. You're becoming someone other heroes can depend on."
*[EMOTIONAL VALIDATION: Team confidence and respect achieved]*
*[CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: Healthy balance between ambition and service to others]*
"All right," Kaldur said with the decisiveness Connor was learning to associate with his leadership style, "let's design a scenario that challenges all of our capabilities while testing Connor's coordination limits. Something that requires genuine problem-solving rather than just tactical execution."
Barbara activated the training room's most advanced holographic systems, loading a scenario that made Connor's enhanced senses immediately recognize the complexity level.
"Multi-dimensional crisis," Barbara announced. "Simultaneous threats across different environments—underwater facility compromise, aerial hostage situation, underground terrorist network, and surface-level disaster response. Four separate locations, time-critical objectives, and coordination requirements that will push our communication and tactical capabilities to their limits."
Connor felt his system's tactical analysis capabilities engage automatically, processing the scenario parameters while his technological interface began mapping optimal coordination strategies.
*[SCENARIO ANALYSIS: Maximum complexity training exercise]*
*[COORDINATION REQUIREMENTS: Simultaneous multi-environment team management]*
*[SUCCESS PROBABILITY: Moderate to high with optimal information management]*
*[XP POTENTIAL: Significant - Major advancement opportunity]*
"This is exactly what we need," Connor said, his confidence growing as his enhanced consciousness processed the challenge parameters. "Everyone ready?"
The scenario that followed pushed every capability Connor had developed to its absolute limits.
M'gann handled the aerial hostage situation, using her shapeshifting and telepathic abilities to infiltrate and neutralize threats while maintaining constant communication through Connor's technological coordination network. Kaldur managed the underwater facility crisis, his Atlantean capabilities allowing him to prevent environmental disaster while coordinating with surface operations. Dick directed the underground infiltration, using his tactical expertise and leadership skills to guide the overall operation.
Connor found himself simultaneously managing technological warfare across all four environments, maintaining telepathic coordination with M'gann, providing real-time tactical analysis to Kaldur and Dick, and making strategic decisions that affected the entire operation's success.
His consciousness flowed through security networks, communication systems, environmental controls, and tactical databases while his physical presence handled the surface disaster response—evacuating civilians, preventing structural collapse, and coordinating with emergency services.
*[MULTITASKING: Operating at maximum sustainable capacity]*
*[TECHNOLOGICAL INTERFACE: Managing seventeen different system connections simultaneously]*
*[TACTICAL ANALYSIS: Processing four concurrent strategic situations]*
*[TEAM COORDINATION: Maintaining perfect information flow across all team members]*
The scenario reached its climax when all four situations required simultaneous critical decisions. Connor found his enhanced consciousness expanding to accommodate the information processing requirements, his system capabilities pushing beyond previous limitations.
*[SYSTEM NOTIFICATION: BREAKTHROUGH ACHIEVED]*
*[LEVEL UP! LEVEL 7 ACHIEVED]*
*[MAJOR ADVANCEMENT: Enhanced multitasking capabilities unlocked]*
*[NEW ABILITY: Parallel Processing - Can manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously without performance degradation]*
*[XP GAINED: 350 - Exceptional performance under extreme coordination stress]*
Connor felt the level advancement like a wave of enhanced clarity flowing through his entire consciousness. His ability to process multiple information streams simultaneously improved dramatically, his technological interface capabilities expanded to handle significantly more complex systems, and his tactical analysis could now run multiple scenario assessments in parallel.
The training scenario concluded with complete success across all four operational environments.
"Connor," Dick said with obvious amazement as the holographic environments faded, "that was extraordinary. You managed four separate crisis situations while maintaining perfect team coordination. That's League-level performance."
Barbara was studying her performance metrics with the kind of focused attention that suggested she was seeing something unprecedented. "Connor, you just processed more simultaneous information streams than our most advanced AI systems can handle. How are you managing that level of multitasking?"
Connor felt his new parallel processing capabilities organizing his response while maintaining awareness of everyone's emotional states and the room's tactical situation. The enhanced multitasking made everything feel more manageable and natural.
"The AI integration system seems to be adapting as I develop," Connor explained, maintaining his cover story while describing genuine system advancement. "Each training session teaches it more efficient ways to organize and process information."
Kaldur nodded thoughtfully. "Whatever the mechanism, the results speak for themselves. Connor, you've just demonstrated coordination capabilities that could revolutionize team operations."
M'gann's emotional signature radiated pride and excitement. "Connor, working with you feels like being part of something incredible. The way you helped everyone perform at their absolute best—that's genuine leadership."
*[CURRENT STATUS UPDATE]*
*Level: 7 (200/7500 XP toward Level 8)*
*Major advancement: Parallel Processing capability unlocked*
*Team Leadership: Established as primary coordinator role*
*Progress toward Level 10: 53.3% complete*
Connor looked around at his teammates—friends, really—and felt like his development was proceeding exactly as it should. Not just in terms of power acquisition, but in building the relationships and capabilities that would make him the kind of hero worth being.
"So," Connor said with satisfaction, "when do we get to try this coordination approach on a real mission?"
Dick's grin was answer enough.
*[NEXT PHASE: Real mission deployment imminent]*
*[TEAM STATUS: Ready for operational assignment]*
*[CONNOR'S ROLE: Primary coordinator and information warfare specialist]*
The path toward Level 10 and Wonder Woman's combat mastery was progressing ahead of schedule, but more importantly, Connor Kent was becoming exactly the hero he was meant to be—someone other heroes could depend on and someone who used his abilities in service of others.
The real adventures were about to begin.
—
Three days after his breakthrough to Level 7, Connor found himself standing outside Lana Lang's design studio in downtown Metropolis, feeling a mixture of anticipation and nervousness that had nothing to do with superhuman abilities or cosmic enhancement systems. This was about identity—about how he would present himself to the world as Superboy.
The studio occupied the top floor of a converted warehouse, with floor-to-ceiling windows that filled the space with natural light. Through the glass, Connor could see work tables covered with fabric samples, sketching materials, and what appeared to be several partially completed costumes for clients he couldn't identify.
"Ready?" Clark asked, his civilian clothes and relaxed demeanor making him look like any other supportive friend rather than Earth's most powerful hero.
"As ready as someone can be for something they've never experienced before," Connor replied, checking his appearance in the building's glass doors one final time. He'd chosen simple clothes—dark jeans and a fitted t-shirt that would make it easy for Lana to assess his build and proportions.
*[SYSTEM NOTIFICATION: Costume acquisition represents significant milestone]*
*[HEROIC IDENTITY: Formal establishment through visual representation]*
*[TACTICAL VALUE: Proper equipment enhances operational capability]*
Clark pressed the intercom button, and Lana's voice came through with obvious excitement. "Clark? Connor? Come on up! I've been working on this for three days straight, and I can't wait to show you what we've accomplished."
The studio interior was organized chaos—fabric samples, design sketches, and cutting-edge technology integrated in ways that suggested Lana had turned costume creation into both art and advanced engineering. Connor's technological interface immediately detected sophisticated materials testing equipment, 3D modeling systems, and what appeared to be some kind of molecular fabrication setup.
"Connor!" Lana called out from across the studio, emerging from behind a work table with her hands covered in what looked like metallic thread. "Perfect timing. I've just finished the final integration work, and I think you're going to be amazed."
She moved toward them with the focused energy of someone who had been completely absorbed in a creative project, her expression carrying the satisfaction of a problem solved through skill and persistence.
"Integration work?" Connor asked, his enhanced senses picking up unusual energy signatures from several areas of the studio.
"That's where things get interesting," Lana said with obvious pride. "Connor, when Clark first described your abilities—particularly the technological interface capabilities—I realized that a traditional superhero costume wouldn't be adequate. You needed something that could enhance your capabilities rather than just protect and identify you."
Clark looked intrigued. "Lana, what did you design?"
Instead of answering immediately, Lana led them to a specialized area of the studio where a costume was displayed on what appeared to be an advanced mannequin system. The sight made Connor's enhanced vision immediately catalog every detail while his tactical analysis processed the implications.
The suit was unmistakably inspired by Nightwing's design aesthetic—form-fitting bodysuit integrated with strategic armor plating, designed for maximum mobility while providing protection. But where Nightwing's costume used blue accents, this version featured deep crimson highlighting that seemed to shimmer with subtle energy. The overall effect was sleek and modern, suggesting competence and approachability while maintaining an unmistakably heroic presence.
Most striking was the chest symbol—not Superman's classic diamond-shaped S, but the more stylized House of El family crest, rendered in the same deep crimson as the accent colors.
"Lana," Connor said quietly, his enhanced emotional processing working through the significance of what he was seeing, "this is incredible. It looks like... like something a real hero would wear."
"That's exactly what I was aiming for," Lana replied with satisfaction. "But Connor, the visual design is actually the least impressive part. The real breakthrough is in the materials and integrated technology."
She activated a control panel, and the suit began displaying information through what appeared to be embedded systems. Energy flow patterns became visible as subtle light displays, and Connor's technological interface detected sophisticated electronics integrated throughout the fabric.
"The base material," Lana explained with obvious pride, "is a variation of the same synthetic fabric I developed for Clark's costume. But where his version is optimized for pure protection and solar energy absorption, yours is designed for technological integration and enhanced capability."
Connor stepped closer to examine the suit, his enhanced senses detecting multiple layers of technology woven into the fabric itself. "What kind of technological integration?"
"Direct interface ports for your abilities," Lana said, indicating nearly invisible connection points distributed across the costume. "Conductive threading that can carry data and energy. Environmental sensors that feed information directly to integrated processing systems. And most importantly, solar energy collection and storage capabilities that exceed even Clark's costume."
Clark looked impressed and slightly concerned. "Lana, how advanced is this technology? Where did you source components for something this sophisticated?"
"STAR Labs partnership," Lana replied with the confidence of someone who had solved complex technical challenges through collaboration. "When I explained Connor's unique requirements, they were fascinated by the engineering possibilities. Dr. Sarah Charles personally worked on the solar energy systems."
*[TECHNOLOGICAL INTERFACE: Analyzing costume specifications]*
*[DETECTION: Advanced solar collection matrix integrated into fabric]*
*[CAPABILITY: Energy storage approximating 72 hours of peak Kryptonian performance]*
*[INTEGRATION POINTS: 23 technological interface connections distributed throughout suit]*
*[ASSESSMENT: Significant enhancement to operational capabilities]*
Connor's system provided detailed analysis of the costume's technical specifications while his enhanced consciousness processed the implications. This wasn't just protective clothing—it was wearable technology designed specifically to enhance his abilities.
"Can I try it on?" Connor asked, his excitement growing as he understood the sophistication of what Lana had created.
"That's why we're here," Lana said with obvious anticipation. "Though Connor, the first full integration might feel overwhelming. The suit's systems will interface directly with your technological abilities, and there's a lot of information to process."
Clark looked concerned. "Is it safe? Connor's still developing his capabilities, and adding complex technological integration could be dangerous if his control isn't perfect."
"Dr. Charles and I designed multiple safety protocols," Lana assured him. "The suit will only integrate as deeply as Connor's comfortable allowing, and there are automatic disconnection systems if anything feels wrong."
Connor looked at the costume—his costume—and felt something settle into place in his consciousness. This represented the final step in establishing his identity as Superboy. Not just another enhanced individual training with the Justice League, but a hero with his own equipment, his own visual identity, his own place in the world.
"Let's do this," Connor said with certainty.
Lana directed him to a changing area equipped with privacy screens and what appeared to be additional technological systems for monitoring the integration process. "Take your time putting it on," she called out. "The suit is designed to conform to your build automatically, but the technological systems will need a few minutes to establish proper connections."
Connor began changing into the costume, immediately noticing how the fabric felt against his skin—not like normal clothing, but like a second skin that somehow enhanced rather than restricted his movement. As he pulled on each piece, he could feel subtle technological connections activating.
*[SUIT INTEGRATION: Beginning automated connection protocols]*
*[STAGE 1: Physical interface connections - ESTABLISHED]*
*[STAGE 2: Basic technological communication - ACTIVE]*
*[STAGE 3: Solar energy system integration - PENDING USER AUTHORIZATION]*
The sensation was unlike anything Connor had experienced—like having his consciousness gently expanded to include new capabilities and sensory input. The suit's integrated systems began providing information about his environment, his physical condition, and available technological interfaces within range.
"Connor?" Clark's voice called out with obvious concern. "How are you feeling?"
"Amazing," Connor replied honestly, stepping out from behind the changing screen to show them the completed integration.
The transformation was remarkable. Where Connor Kent had been a young man in casual clothes, Superboy now stood before them in a costume that conveyed competence, heroism, and technological sophistication. The suit fit perfectly, moving with his body like it had been designed specifically for his build and movement patterns.
"Connor," Lana breathed, her expression showing the satisfaction of a vision perfectly realized, "you look incredible. Like you were born to wear that costume."
Clark's expression showed pride mixed with something that might have been paternal approval. "Connor, you look like a hero. More than that, you look like yourself—someone who chose to use extraordinary abilities in service of others."
Connor moved through a series of basic exercises, testing how the suit responded to his enhanced physicality. The integration felt seamless—the costume enhanced his capabilities without restricting his movement or interfering with his natural reflexes.
"The technological integration," Connor said, accessing the suit's systems through his interface abilities, "this is incredible, Lana. I can feel the suit's systems connecting with my consciousness, providing information and capabilities I never had access to before."
"Show us," Lana said with obvious excitement.
Connor reached out with his technological interface, connecting not just with the suit's systems but through them to the studio's electronic equipment. His consciousness flowed through computers, communication networks, and fabrication systems with enhanced efficiency and precision.
*[TECHNOLOGICAL INTERFACE: Enhanced through suit integration]*
*[RANGE: Increased by 340%]*
*[PROCESSING SPEED: Improved by 180%]*
*[SYSTEM COMPATIBILITY: Universal interface protocols now available]*
"I can interface with systems I couldn't reach before," Connor explained, his enhanced capabilities allowing him to demonstrate by activating and controlling multiple pieces of studio equipment simultaneously. "The suit acts like an amplifier and translator, making my technological abilities more versatile and powerful."
"That's exactly what we hoped for," Lana said with obvious satisfaction. "But Connor, the most important feature is the solar energy system. Show him, Clark."
Clark stepped forward with the expression of someone about to share important knowledge. "Connor, the costume isn't just collecting solar energy—it's storing it in ways that can supplement your natural Kryptonian abilities. Even if you're operating in environments without direct sunlight, you'll have access to stored solar energy that can maintain your capabilities."
Connor felt his system analyzing the implications while his enhanced consciousness processed the technical specifications.
*[SOLAR ENERGY STORAGE: 72 hours peak performance capacity]*
*[STRATEGIC VALUE: Operational capability in underground, underwater, or space environments]*
*[ENHANCEMENT POTENTIAL: Could support ability usage beyond normal sustainable levels]*
"How much energy are we talking about?" Connor asked with growing excitement.
"Enough to operate at full Kryptonian capability for approximately three days without solar exposure," Lana explained with obvious pride. "And the collection efficiency means that even brief periods of sunlight can rapidly restore stored energy reserves."
Connor looked down at himself—at his costume, his new identity, his enhanced capabilities—and felt like he was seeing Superboy for the first time.
"There's one more feature," Lana said with obvious anticipation. "Connor, try accessing the suit's communication systems."
Connor reached out with his technological interface, connecting to communication protocols he hadn't realized were integrated into the costume. Immediately, his consciousness expanded to include secure communication channels, encrypted data networks, and coordination systems that connected him to Justice League resources.
*[COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS: Justice League integration protocols active]*
*[SECURE CHANNELS: Available for team coordination and emergency response]*
*[DATA ACCESS: Real-time intelligence and tactical information networking]*
"This is incredible," Connor said, his voice carrying awe as he processed the full scope of his enhanced capabilities. "Lana, this isn't just a costume—it's a complete operational enhancement system."
"That's exactly what it's supposed to be," Lana replied with satisfaction. "Connor, you have unique abilities that required unique solutions. Traditional superhero costumes are designed for protection and identification. Yours is designed to make you more effective at helping people."
Clark stepped forward, his expression showing obvious pride and approval. "Connor, how does it feel? Not just the technical aspects, but wearing the costume, carrying the House of El symbol?"
Connor looked down at the crimson family crest on his chest, understanding the significance of what Clark was asking. This wasn't just about costume design—it was about identity, family, and the responsibility that came with representing something larger than himself.
"It feels right," Connor said honestly. "Like this is who I was meant to become. Not just genetically, but through choice and growth and the support of people who believed in me."
"The crimson instead of blue," Clark observed, "that was your choice?"
"It was," Connor confirmed. "I wanted to honor the connection we share while establishing my own identity. Blue belongs to Superman. Red belongs to Superboy."
Lana looked between them with obvious satisfaction. "The color psychology works perfectly. Blue suggests reliability and traditional heroism. Crimson suggests energy, determination, and someone who's willing to fight for what's right. It's perfect for who Connor is becoming."
Connor moved through more complex exercises, testing how the suit responded to enhanced speed, strength, and technological interface usage. Everything felt natural and enhanced—like the costume had been designed not just for his body, but for his specific capabilities and fighting style.
"There's one more test I want to try," Connor said, looking at Clark. "The solar energy storage system. Can we test it under controlled conditions?"
Clark nodded approvingly. "STAR Labs has facilities designed for exactly that kind of testing. Dr. Charles has been wanting to see how the suit performs under actual operational conditions."
"When can we arrange that?" Connor asked eagerly.
"This afternoon, if you're ready," Lana said with obvious excitement. "I've been waiting to see how all the theoretical work translates to practical performance."
*[XP GAINED: 125 - Major equipment upgrade and identity establishment]*
*[OPERATIONAL CAPABILITIES: Significantly enhanced through suit integration]*
*[HEROIC IDENTITY: Fully established as Superboy]*
*[NEXT MILESTONE: Operational field testing with enhanced capabilities]*
Connor looked at himself in the studio's mirrors, seeing Superboy reflected back—not just Connor Kent in a costume, but someone who had chosen to use extraordinary abilities in service of others, equipped with technology designed to make him more effective at protecting people.
"Lana," Connor said with genuine gratitude, "thank you. This is more than I could have imagined, and exactly what I needed."
"Connor, seeing you in that costume, knowing how you're going to use it—that's all the thanks I need," Lana replied with obvious emotion. "Now go show the world what a real hero looks like."
As they prepared to leave for STAR Labs testing, Connor felt like his transformation was complete. Not just from Project KR to Connor Kent, but from enhanced individual to genuine hero. The suit wasn't just equipment—it was a symbol of everything he'd chosen to become and everyone who had helped him get there.
Superboy was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.
*[CURRENT STATUS UPDATE]*
*Level: 7 (325/7500 XP toward Level 8)*
*Enhanced Capabilities: Suit integration provides significant operational advantages*
*Identity: Fully established as Superboy with unique visual and technological identity*
*Progress toward Level 10: 55.8% complete*
The path toward Wonder Woman's combat mastery continued, but more importantly, Connor Kent had become exactly the hero he was meant to be—someone who used extraordinary abilities in service of others, enhanced by technology designed to help rather than harm, representing values of hope and determination rather than fear and control.
The real adventures were about to begin, and he was ready for all of them.
—
After the successful suit testing, Clark suggested they take a walk through Centennial Park rather than immediately returning to the Watchtower. The late afternoon sun filtered through the trees as they strolled along the quieter paths, Connor still adjusting to how the suit felt during normal movement.
"Connor," Clark said as they settled on a bench overlooking the park's small lake, "there's something I've been wanting to discuss with you. Something personal rather than related to training or team operations."
Connor's enhanced senses picked up the shift in Clark's emotional tone—this wasn't casual conversation. "What is it?"
"It's about identity, heritage, and family," Clark began, his voice carrying the weight of someone sharing something significant. "When I arrived on Earth as an infant, my Kryptonian birth name was Kal-El. The Kents gave me the name Clark, but Kal-El represents my connection to Krypton, to my biological parents, to the heritage I carry."
Connor nodded, understanding the importance of what Clark was sharing. "Your real name. Not just the identity you chose, but the one you were born with."
"Exactly. And Connor, there's someone else you should know about—my cousin Kara. Her Kryptonian name is Kara Zor-El. She's been training with the League and will likely be joining your team soon."
Connor felt his system provide tactical analysis about potential team composition while his enhanced emotional processing worked through the implications of meeting another Kryptonian.
"She's family," Connor said simply. "Someone else who shares the genetic heritage."
Clark turned to face Connor directly, his expression serious but warm. "Connor, you share that heritage too. You carry Kryptonian DNA, you're developing the same abilities, you're part of the same legacy of trying to use extraordinary power responsibly."
Connor could sense this conversation building toward something significant. "What are you asking, Clark?"
"I'm asking if you'd like a Kryptonian name," Clark said quietly. "Connor Kent is who you chose to become, and that choice matters more than genetics. But if you want to honor the Kryptonian part of your heritage, I'd like to offer you the name Kon-El."
The simple statement hit Connor with unexpected emotional force. This wasn't just about names—it was about family, acceptance, belonging to something larger than himself.
"Kon-El," Connor said, testing how the name felt. "What does it mean?"
"In Kryptonian, it means 'abomination of the house of El,'" Clark said with completely straight delivery.
Connor's enhanced pattern recognition immediately detected the subtle humor in Clark's expression and timing.
"You're joking," Connor said with relief and amusement.
Clark's smile broke through his serious expression. "Sorry, couldn't resist. Actually, Kon-El means 'kinsman of the house of El.' Someone who belongs to the family not through birth, but through choice and character."
Connor felt his enhanced emotional processing working through the significance of the offer. A name that represented not just Kryptonian heritage, but acceptance into Clark's family in the most fundamental way possible.
"You want me to be part of the House of El," Connor said, understanding the weight of what was being offered.
"Connor, you already are part of the House of El. You've proven that through your choices, your character, your commitment to helping others. The name would just make it official."
Connor looked out at the lake, watching families enjoying the afternoon together, children playing while their parents watched with protective love. This was what Clark was offering him—not just a name, but a place in a family that chose to see the best in people and help them become everything they were capable of being.
"Kon-El," Connor said again, feeling how naturally it fit with his sense of identity. "I'd be honored to carry that name, Clark. More honored than I know how to express."
Clark's smile was radiant with genuine happiness. "Then welcome to the family, Kon-El. Though I suspect you'll always be Connor to the people who matter most."
"Both names feel right," Connor said with certainty. "Connor Kent for the person I chose to become, Kon-El for the heritage and family I'm proud to represent."
They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, watching the sun reflect off the water while Connor processed the significance of what had just happened. He wasn't just a genetically engineered copy anymore—he was Kon-El of the House of El, someone who belonged to a family that spanned galaxies and represented the best of what people could become.
"Clark," Connor said finally, "thank you. For the name, for the family, for believing I was worthy of both."
"Kon-El," Clark replied with obvious satisfaction, "thank you for becoming someone who proves that family is about choice, not just genetics."
---
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