Astra & Non!
The night sky over National City was calm, a blanket of stars scattered across the darkness. It was the kind of night that suggested peace, yet below the surface, tensions simmered.
In a secret base somewhere in or around National City, within the dimly lit, cavernous hideout nestled deep underground, two figures gathered around a holographic display. The room was sparsely decorated, filled only with the essentials—alien technology, weapons, and data terminals.
One of the figures was a woman, tall & statuesque with an air of authority, with sharp facial features and a stern, focused expression. She had a fair complexion and had piercing, ruthless eyes, with long, dark hair wearing a black Kryptonian uniform that suggest a mix of alien technology.
The other figure was a man, muscular with an intimidating presence, exuding strength and unwavering loyalty towards the woman. He had a rugged face with a strong jawline and a stoic expression, with dark short hair and a similar Kryptonian uniform.
The hologram displayed images of recent events—crime scenes, Kayn's actions as Harbinger, and snippets of conversations pulled from encrypted communications.
The focus of the display was a single image of Kayn in his Harbinger suit, his eyes glowing with an intensity that suggested he was far more than just a hero.
"Harbinger," the man growled, his voice deep and resonant, echoing in the chamber. "He's a problem Astra His movements are too calculated, too deliberate. He's picked up on our trail."
The woman, named Astra, narrowed her eyes, studying the image of Kayn. "His appearance has caused some problems. Although we weren't planning to reveal ourselves till much later, this causes some issues Non.
"Shall I deal with him directly?" Non asked, his eagerness for violence barely contained.
Astra shook her head. "No, not yet. Harbinger is powerful, but we don't know the extent of his capabilities. Engaging him directly without a full understanding would be foolish." She turned away from the hologram, her mind racing through potential strategies.
Non frowned, clearly displeased. "Then what do you suggest?"
Astra's lips curled into a cold smile. "We test him. Send some of our lesser forces—alien creatures with enough power to challenge him but not so critical that their loss would be significant. If he can handle them, we'll have a better measure of his strength. If not, then we've rid ourselves of a nuisance."
Non nodded, understanding the plan. "And if he survives?"
"If he survives," Astra said, her voice low and contemplative, "then we'll need to reassess. We can't afford to let anyone disrupt our plans, Alura's weakness and stupidity lead to Krypton's destruction, we can't allow our stupidity to clear our judgement."
At the mention of Alura, Non's expression darkened, "The Anti-Kryptonite vest research is improving rapidly, as are the Telepathic Blockers. Most of the Justice League shouldn't be a threat with our natural power due to this yellow sun."
"I never would've expected anyone to survive the explosion of Krypton, but Kal-El did, and I have a suspicion that Kara did as well. Kara especially is my niece, my favorite family member. If only Alura didn't raise her so weak." Astra said with a frustrating gaze.
Non crossed his massive arms, his tone cautious. "The longer she remains hidden, the greater the risk that someone else finds her first. We need to intensify our efforts."
Astra turned back to the hologram, focusing now on the image of her niece—a younger version of herself, full of potential but unaware of the destiny that awaited her. "I know she's out there, hiding among these humans. They've likely influenced her, made her soft, but that can be corrected."
She paused, her mind formulating the next steps. "Increase our surveillance. Use every resource we have. If necessary, infiltrate the local law enforcement and government agencies. If Harbinger becomes too much of a threat, we'll consider more drastic measures. For now, we stay the course."
Non bowed slightly, his respect for Astra clear despite his earlier impatience. "Understood, General. I'll make the arrangements."
As Non turned to leave, Astra spoke once more, her voice cold and commanding. "And Non—if we fail to locate Kara, or if Harbinger becomes a serious problem, be prepared to go into hiding. We can't afford to be exposed. Not yet."
Non paused at the doorway, his back to Astra. "We won't fail. Myriad is inevitable."
Astra watched him go, her expression unreadable. She was determined, ruthless, and utterly focused on her mission. Failure was not an option. And if Harbinger or anyone else stood in her way, they would be dealt with—one way or another.
________________________
Kayn sat cross-legged next to the shimmering waters of the outdoor pool, the night sky reflected on its surface like a canvas of endless possibilities. His eyes were closed, his breathing steady, as he immersed himself in the cosmic energy that coursed through him.
Overhead, the stars shimmered, their energy pouring towards Kayn as he trained, intimately connected with them. Since merging with the essence of Aurelion Sol, the celestial dragon, his understanding of the universe had expanded exponentially.
He had spent the last few days honing the powers granted by the Aurelion Sol template, a gift that had vastly expanded his arsenal of power.
Closing his eyes, Kayn focused inward as he felt the raw, star-forged power pulsing throughout his body like a wellspring waiting to be shaped by his will. With each controlled breath, he molded the energy, shaping it with an artistry he hadn't possessed mere days ago.
Wisps of stardust began to swirl around him, forming intricate patterns that mirrored constellations above as he slowly began to control the energy.
The pool's calm surface rippled slightly as Kayn extended his awareness, drawing on the energy of a nearby star. He visualized it in his mind, its heat and light swirling into a focused point of power.
With a gentle exhale, he guided this energy through his body, letting it flow like a river of molten gold through his veins. After days of relentless training, this type of action was as natural as breathing.
The stars themselves seemed to recognize his growth, their light growing brighter as if in approval. Kayn opened his eyes, and with a subtle gesture, he formed a miniature black-hole in the palm of his hand, a delicate swirl of stars and cosmic dust.
He let the black-hole eventually dissipate into the night, its remnants mingling with the starlight above as he opened his eyes, slowly finishing off his training.
As Kayn stood by the pool, basking in the lingering energy of his training, the water suddenly rippled. With a graceful motion, Violet emerged from beneath the surface, her wet hair clinging to her skin as she rose, droplets shimmering in the moonlight. She brushed her hair back, revealing a playful smile as she stepped onto the pool's edge.
"Enjoying training?" she teased, her voice carrying a lightness that contrasted with her words. Her form, still dripping with water, caught the faint light of the stars, giving her an almost ethereal appearance.
Kayn turned to her, a relaxed smile crossing his face. "Of course, you should keep training too."
Violet nodded, her expression turning more serious as she toweled off. "I did. But I also know how easy it is to get lost in that kind of power and forget to enjoy your life You've got the focus, but you can't let your guard down. Not out there, not even for a second, and you need to have more fun, didn't Kara invite you to go out?"
Kayn chuckled softly, appreciating her concern. "I know, Violet. I'm always alert, as for Kara, I'll figure that out."
"Okayyy," she replied with a grin, tossing the towel over her shoulder. "Just don't let this new power make you reckless, keep your wits sharp."
He nodded, the playful banter giving way to mutual understanding. "I won't forget. We've got a lot of work ahead of us, and I plan to see it through. Together."
Kayn smirked, watching her walk away, her presence a comforting constant in the ever-changing chaos of their lives.
As she disappeared into the house, he turned his gaze back to the stars, looking at the various constellations as he got up, ending off training for the night.