Short Circuit

Fawcett City

August 3, 18:45 CDT

The warm afternoon sun filtered through the tall buildings of Fawcett City. Ark and Captain Marvel sat at a small outdoor diner, each holding a frosty milkshake. After the busy morning with AMAZO and noon chores, Ark met up with Captain Marvel as promised. The milkshake stop was Captain Marvel's idea, and Ark couldn't help but agree that it was good.

Ark opened the mouth of his mask and took a long sip from his strawberry shake. "You know, for a city that looks straight out of the 50s, this place has some pretty good milkshakes."

Captain Marvel grinned, his childlike excitement shining through his older superhero persona. "You've got that right! The milkshakes here are legendary. They don't make 'em like this in Metropolis."

Ark chuckled, watching Captain Marvel devour his chocolate shake with enthusiasm. "You remind me of when I was younger?"

Captain Marvel raised an eyebrow and wiped some whipped cream from the corner of his mouth. "Heh. Sorry. I try limiting my sweets, so I enjoy them when possible." The truth was that his uncle only allowed him one milkshake a week. "Plus, who's gonna judge Captain Marvel for loving milkshakes?"

"So, Ark," Captain Marvel began, his voice casual but curious, "I heard there was a pretty big fight with a robot earlier today. What was its name, again?"

"AMAZO."

"Yeah, Sorry. I, uh… wasn't around. You know, busy with… stuff." Captain Marvel waved a hand dismissively, but there was something off about how he said it.

Ark raised an eyebrow but let it go. "It's no biggie."

"Are you sure? You guys were fighting a robot that could copy the powers of the entire Justice League?"

"All the better that you stayed away from it. Although, I'm not sure if it would have worked on you."

Captain Marvel tilted his head. "Why's that?"

"Your powers come from magic, right?"

"Yup.

"Well, in any case, to my understanding, your magic source is external. You don't actually produce it."

"They are basically blessings from the Greek and Roman Gods."

"Similar to Wonder Woman, yeah."

"Uhuh."

Ben thought about when the alien toy tried replicating Gwen's mana but couldn't. It made a substitute. "Well, unless those gods decided to bless AMAZO, he shouldn't have been able to do anything."

"Still, I heard you turned into a different alien and majorly helped out the League. What'd you do?"

Ark grinned. "Brainstorm. Basically, an alien crab with the brain of a supercomputer."

He smiled. "Cool…"

"I have this other form that might have worked, but I would have risked it getting in range of AMAZO's scanners and getting copied before it could make physical contact."

"What would be bad about that?"

"Nanomachines, son. Trust me. If that got copied, the worst case scenario is another Malware and a robot apocalypse."

"That's bad. I… Who?"

"Sorry. An old enemy of mine."

"So, how did you guys even beat AMAZO?"

Ark's expression shifted. "Since that thing copied everything, I used Brainstorm to ."

Captain Marvel raised an eyebrow. "?"

"Yeah. I used Brainstorm to analyze the fight in real-time, coordinating the League. I figured out AMAZO's limitation—it can only use one set of powers at a time. We exploited that." Ark paused, remembering the intense battle. "Once we got it into a pattern and trapped it, Flash and Superman punched it at near-nuclear force. Took it down for good."

Captain Marvel let out a low whistle. "Sounds like quite the show. Wish I could've been there." He gave Ark a friendly nudge. "Next time you guys fight a crazy robot, call me. I'll make sure to finish my homework first."

Ark grinned. "Deal."

Earlier That Day

Litchfield County

August 3, 19:08 EDT

In a field off the main highway, six trucks were sitting ready while parts of the dismantled android were being loaded. Red Tornado, Atom, Green Arrow, Flash, and Superman were overseeing this.

Turning away and using his enhanced vision, Superman saw the Team waiting on their motorcycles: Aqualad and M'gann on blue, Kid Flash on yellow, and Superboy and Robin on red. He zeroed in on Superboy, who returned his gaze. Superboy looked down before sliding on his helmet as the trucks' engines revved. They revved their cycles and came to the edge of the clearing, putting on their helmets.

"STAR Boston is a go," was heard over the comms as three trucks closed their back gates.

"STAR Manhattan is a go," Green Arrow nodded, then looked to Batman, who gave the signal.

The trucks pulled out in two opposite directions. Robin and Superboy followed the ones going right, while Kid Flash, Aqualad, and M'gann followed the three going left.

Later

#

Miss Martian, Aqualad, and Kid Flash raced past a cornfield when robotic monkeys—MONQIs—emerged and latched onto their truck. Aqualad activated his comm channel to alert Robin and Superboy, who were facing the same problem.

#

"I hate monkeys," Superboy growled as the robots attacked both the truck's cargo and driver's cabin, causing it to swerve.

"These are definitely Ivo's style," Robin noted, activating a drone from his bike. Spotting Superboy leaning forward, Robin warned, "Switch to Battle Mode!" But Superboy ignored him, leaping onto the truck mid-ride.

As Robin's bike crashed without a rider, he used his grapple to swing onto the truck, kicking off a MONQI. Superboy removed his helmet on the roof and smashed two MONQIs before ripping off a third's arms, only to be jumped by three more.

Robin handled the attackers below, using Batarangs to disable a MONQI shooting lasers and clearing the area for his drone to fire. Meanwhile, Superboy crushed another MONQI, but as he did, it shot lasers into his eyes, temporarily blinding him.

Taking advantage, the MONQIs lifted and dropped him onto the ground. Wavering and unable to see, Superboy steadied himself, closed his eyes, and relied on his hearing to pinpoint the attackers before leaping toward them.

#

Aqualad used his water-bearers, forming whips to take down two MONQIs, but the remaining MONQIs shifted their focus to Miss Martian and Kid Flash. Miss Martian used her telekinesis to find an opening and flew to the truck, while Kid Flash abandoned his bike, running to catch up.

The driver, struggling to maintain control, panicked and shouted for help. On the truck's roof, two MONQIs used their laser vision to cut through the metal and expose two guards, who managed to shoot down only one MONQI. Miss Martian knocked the others off the roof with her telekinesis.

Kid Flash ran alongside the truck, kicking off several MONQIs rapidly before reaching the cabin. Meanwhile, Aqualad took out more MONQIs using dual whips from his motorcycle.

One MONQI cracked the driver's window, obscuring his view, while others piled onto Miss Martian. She grew extra arms to swat them away, including one sprouting from her head, but her unsettling appearance frightened the driver even more. Realizing the distraction, Miss Martian flew away from the window.

Kid Flash climbed onto the truck's roof using a MONQI's tail just as Miss Martian landed beside him with her extra arms. Startled, Kid Flash fell back in fear, prompting Miss Martian to drop her additional limbs and stand defensively.

Before they could talk, a swarm of MONQIs erupted from the truck's hole, overwhelming them. Another group tore open the back gate and escaped with the Android parts. Aqualad, unable to stop them in time, could only watch as the MONQIs flew off with the stolen cargo.

#

Robin used a Batarang to remove the last MONQI from the back gate, giving him time to climb onto the truck's roof. Just as a MONQI pulled a guard through a hole in the roof, Robin landed, armed with escrima sticks. He swiftly knocked out two MONQIs and flipped across the roof, only to see more approaching from behind.

Before the MONQIs could reach Robin, Superboy landed in the middle of them, sending the MONQIs—and Robin—flying. As four MONQIs latched onto Superboy, he ripped them off. Meanwhile, two other MONQIs destroyed the truck's rear tires with laser vision, causing the vehicle to swerve.

Robin managed to steady himself and yelled for the driver to jump out. He quickly grabbed the man and threw both of them into a nearby cornfield.

With no driver and damaged wheels, the truck tipped and rolled, crushing many of the MONQIs. The back gate burst open when it finally stopped upside down, and five MONQIs escaped with the Android parts.

Robin helped the coughing driver back to the side of the road, where they watched the MONQIs fly away. Behind them, Superboy pushed the truck off himself, his vision slowly returning. Spotting the fleeing MONQIs, Superboy grunted and leaped after them.

"Superboy!" Robin called after him, but Superboy didn't stop.

#

After Aqualad reported that his team lost their cargo, Robin confirmed that both the android parts and Superboy were gone. Superboy, leaping across massive distances, ignored Aqualad's attempts to help, yelling that he didn't need or want any assistance before discarding his communicator.

Frustrated, Aqualad, Kid Flash, and Miss Martian assessed their situation, realizing they couldn't track Superboy or Ivo. Miss Martian tried using telepathy, but he was out of range. Despite Wally's sarcastic frustration about their lack of leads, Robin began decoding one of the destroyed MONQIs. He discovered the android parts contained GPS signals, which the MONQIs had used to target the correct trucks.

Robin triangulated the signal, revealing the cargo was headed toward Gotham City. Realizing his team wouldn't arrive in time, Aqualad sent Kid Flash ahead to intercept.

With a grin, Wally pulled down his goggles and sped off. Meanwhile, Robin activated his motorcycle remotely and prepared to follow. Staring at the rising crescent moon, he muttered, "Definitely a disaster. Heavy on the 'dis.'"

Bibbo's Diner

Metropolis

August 3, 19:18 EDT

The smell of coffee and fresh pie wafted through the air. Clark Kent sat across from Bruce Wayne, glancing out the window at the fading light. Inside, the world felt peaceful—a rare occurrence in their lives.

"Apple pie," Clark said to the waiter, giving a friendly nod as the order was scribbled down. Across from him, Bruce's face was obscured by the menu, held unusually high, perhaps to discourage any wandering eyes.

"The Devil's Food," Bruce ordered, lowering the menu with a small, disarming smile as he returned it. The smile faded as his sharp eyes met Clark's, signaling the beginning of a more serious conversation.

Clark leaned back slightly, adjusting his glasses out of habit. "You know, things are working out better than I thought with Superboy. Lois and my folks… they've all been really open toward him. Treating him like a part of the family." He paused, a warm smile forming as he reflected. "It's easier to think of him as a younger brother than a son. Less pressure, you know? I'm still in my mid-twenties, and he's biologically sixteen."

Bruce raised an eyebrow slightly, leaning forward. "A brother, huh?" His voice had a hint of amusement. "That's good, Clark. It shows you've found a dynamic that works for you, but…" He trailed off, measuring his words.

Clark's smile faltered slightly. "But?"

Bruce sighed softly, resting his elbows on the table. "While I agree that it's great to view him as a brother, it's important to remember that he's still a child, Clark." His tone was calm but firm. "You know as well as I do that kids, especially ones like Superboy, need more than just acceptance. They need guidance. They need a figure in their lives who can help them navigate who they're becoming."

Clark's expression shifted, becoming more thoughtful.

Bruce continued. "I've seen it firsthand. After my parents died, I had Alfred. He wasn't my biological father, but in every way that matters, he was there. He taught, raised, and gave me a moral foundation to stand on." Bruce's gaze softened, an unspoken affection for Alfred passing through his normally guarded demeanor. "Alfred became my father, too."

Clark let out a quiet breath, his eyes softening as he took in Bruce's words. "I see what you're saying. It's just... With Superboy, I didn't ask for this, you know? I didn't even know he existed until recently." He rubbed the back of his neck, the weight of responsibility evident in his posture. "I don't want to make him feel like he has to be anything more than what he already is. He's not me. He shouldn't have to be."

"And he won't," Bruce replied, his voice steady. "But that doesn't mean he doesn't need you to help him figure out who he is. He will look to you whether you like it or not, Clark. Even if he sees you as a brother, you're still Superman to him. That comes with responsibility, whether as a brother or a father."

The words hung between them, heavy yet familiar. Clark nodded slowly, the weight of Bruce's advice settling in.

"I guess you're right," Clark admitted. "I'll need to be more mindful of that." He glanced out the window again, lost in thought. "Lois has already been talking about setting up some things for him. Maybe I should take a more active role, too."

Bruce leaned back in his seat, satisfied with Clark's response. "It's not about being perfect, Clark. It's about being there when he needs you." He paused, his voice softening as the waiter returned with their orders. "That's what family is."

Clark smiled, picking up his fork as the plate of apple pie was set in front of him. "Yeah. Family."

Bruce glanced down at his slice of Devil's Food cake and gave his small, rare smile.

Clark took a slow bite of his pie, his thoughts heavy. "I actually talked to Superboy about... taking a more active role in his learning. But, Bruce, I'm not confident in being that kind of figure. The idea of it—it feels like I'm this teenage father, like I'm not ready." He shook his head slightly. "I'm still learning so much myself. I don't even know where to start when it comes to teaching as a parent."

Bruce listened silently attentively. It wasn't hard to see its weight.

"I talked with Ma and Pa about it, too," Clark continued. "They understood my apprehension. I think, in a way, it's nostalgic for them. Helping raise another kid like me, even if it's different this time around. I think they're excited about it in their way. They told me I could ease into that big brother role... and I trust them."

Bruce leaned forward, sensing the hesitation. "They raised you well, Clark. You turned out pretty decent," he said with a small smirk. "If anyone can help you with Superboy, it's your parents."

Clark nodded. "I trust them with this. They did a good job. But still…" He set his fork down. "It's just... there's this part of me that wonders if I'm really cut out for it. Like, what if I mess up? What if I don't know how to be the person he needs me to be?"

Bruce studied him for a moment. "You will. You're already thinking about it, which is more than most would. Superboy's got the potential to be great, Clark. Mistakes will happen. But that's part of learning for both of you."

Clark exhaled, his shoulders visibly relaxing. "Yeah, I guess that's true." He chuckled softly, a little self-deprecating. "It's strange. I can face down aliens, monsters, the end of the world—but this? Being there for Superboy in that way? It scares me more than any villain ever could."

Bruce gave him a knowing look. "That's because this is real life, Clark. And real life? It's always the hardest battle."

Clark smiled. "Yeah. You're right." He picked up his fork again, a small laugh escaping. "Leave it to you to make fatherhood sound like a warzone."

Bruce smirked, sipping his coffee. "In a way, it is."

The MONQIs with the parts flew towards a moving train, the car's side doors opening. More MONQIs allowed them to fly in, with the second group right behind them. Then the doors slid shut.

Professor Ivo sat hunched over in the dimly lit compartment of the train, the rhythmic clacking of the wheels on the tracks almost drowned out by his obsessive muttering. Before him lay the two halves of AMAZO, split down the center like a butchered beast. His hands moved with precision, reconnecting severed wires and aligning fractured circuits.

"This time, they won't stop you," Ivo muttered.

Ivo finished attaching the two internal and external halves. All that remained was to activate the power core.

"Once I get you back to the lab, they won't know what hit them when you rise again," Ivo said, his voice filled with an almost giddy anticipation. He leaned back for a moment, surveying his work with satisfaction. The Justice League had humiliated him, but AMAZO would rise stronger. Nothing would stop his creation from fulfilling its prime directive.

He reached into his bag and pulled out a small control device. "Wake up, AMAZO," he said, pressing a button.

The android's eyes flickered to life, a low hum emitting from its newly restored body as it rebooted. Ivo grinned. AMAZO rose before him.

"AMAZO," Ivo commanded. "Status report."

The android's eyes glowed red. "All systems operational, Professor Ivo."

Ivo smiled, momentarily relieved. "Good."

#

Superboy bounded across amazing distances, landing on the same car the MONQIs had entered. Tightening his hand, he jabbed it into the roof, creating a tear that easily ripped wider with his super-strength. Superboy saw no immediate danger and jumped in. Behind him, just outside the shadows, were the now-open boxes of the Amazo parts.

He heard the MONQIs chattering ahead. Looking up, shrouded in the green glow of his MONQIs, was an aging ginger man with a white button-down, black slacks, and a black vest, typing away on his computer.

Taking his time and entirely calm, the man looked up. "Oh, hello," he greeted.

"You? You're Ivo?" Superboy scoffed. "I'm whelmed."

"You're one to talk," Ivo countered, turning away from his computer, resting his elbow on his fist, and placing his hand on his chin. "Since when does the big blue boy scout have a brat?"

"He doesn't," Superboy snapped, narrowing his eyes.

"Eh, well, if you say so," Ivo shrugged dismissively. "Have you met my Mobile Optimal Neural Quotient Infiltrators?" he gestured to the dozen-plus MONQIs around him, who launched themselves at Superboy.

He responded with a cross, taking out one, followed by a back fist to take out a second, then jabbing another in the same spot to destroy it. To his right, he turned with a back fist to destroy yet another, managing a full 180-degree rotation, finishing it off by destroying the final MONQI with another back fist, knocking the head back toward Ivo.

"Ah, and after all the trouble I went through finding an acronym for MONQI," Ivo grumbled as Superboy continued to destroy the small robots, turning back to his computer.

Grabbing two, Superboy smashed them together in front of him, completely obliterating them, though he was panting.

Something moved in the background. Superboy's eyes widened at the rebuilt android, and he went on his guard.

Ivo hummed. He had expected AMAZO to defend him, granted the boy did not strike. "Since Professor Ivo's magnificent MONQIs don't float your boat, maybe my amazing Amazo will better suit you or slay you."

The massive android walked between them as the train approached tight corners, staying close to the mountains.

Superboy stood with his hands clenched. "Give me your best shot."

The MONQIs laughed behind Ivo, but the laughter soon died out as AMAZO continued to stand there.

Ivo raised a brow. "AMAZO? Finish him. Priority Alpha."

Fawcett City

August 3, 19:45 CDT

Ark and Captain Marvel sat in one of the booths, munching on burgers. "Dude, you can never go wrong with a good smash burger with bacon and Thousand Island sauce.

"You know it." Captain Marvel was halfway through his when Ark's phone buzzed on the table.

Glancing down, Ark's eyes lit up with a mischievous grin.

"What's that?" Captain Marvel asked.

Ark chuckled and pulled out a sleek laptop and a game controller from his bag. "Oh, you'll love this." He set the laptop on the table. "Want to see something cool?"

Captain Marvel leaned forward. "Sure."

After several keystrokes, the screen revealed a camera feed focused directly on Superboy. Superboy stood, fists clenched, staring them down.

Captain Marvel blinked. "Wait… Is that—?"

Ark grinned wider. "Yup. That's Superboy. And we're watching through AMAZO."

"If AMAZO's online, that means…"

They could hear Ivo's voice through the speakers. "AMAZO, attack Superboy! Destroy him!"

Superboy stood his ground, but AMAZO didn't move.

Ivo's voice grew more frantic. "What are you doing?! I shall have my vengeance!"

Captain Marvel glanced at Ark, a little unsure. "Uh, shouldn't we be doing something?"

Ark shook his head with a smirk, casually picking up the controller. "Oh, don't worry. This is all part of the fun." He tilted one of the thumbsticks, and the camera angle shifted, showing Professor Ivo's irritated face. "Watch this."

Ark pressed a button, and the microphone connected to AMAZO's system activated. His voice, now masked by the android's mechanical tone, echoed from the speakers. "I'm afraid I can't let you do that, Professor."

Captain Marvel burst out laughing, nearly choking on his shake. "No way!? You control him?"

Ivo's expression on the screen shifted from irritation to shock. His eyes widened as he stumbled backward. "W-What?!"

Ark casually bit a fry, his grin never fading. "Yep. Took care of that backdoor earlier today."

Captain Marvel leaned in. "Man, you're literally playing Ivo right now."

On-screen, Ivo scrambled, frantically hitting buttons on a nearby control panel. "This… This isn't possible! I built you! You obey me!"

Ark tilted the thumbstick again, making AMAZO step toward Ivo. "Apologies, but not anymore."

Captain Marvel shook his head in disbelief, laughing. "It's like a video game!"

"Pretty much," Ark said with a satisfied grin.

On the screen, Ivo's panic grew. "I demand that you obey me! AMAZO, attack!"

Ark leaned back in the booth, flicking the controller idly. "Nope. Not today."

A soft mechanical whir filled the air as AMAZO's red eyes shifted to a glowing green. The android raised its head, and from its chest, a glowing projection flickered to life.

It was a live feed of Ark and Captain Marvel. Ark grinned at the screen. "Hey there, Professor," Ark greeted cheerfully. Captain Marvel gave a small wave.

Ivo's jaw dropped. "W-What is this?!"

Ark chuckled. "You didn't really think you'd get your toy back that easily? We knew you would try to steal it. It was all part of the game."

Captain Marvel leaned in. "And we won. Big time."

Ivo's face twisted. "No! This is impossible! He obeys me!"

Ark shook his head. "Correction. AMAZO's under new management. I added a few subroutines earlier today when I last got my… claws on him. I suggest you relax," Ark said with a grin, "because your ride's about to come to a stop."

Superboy raised a brow. "Wait. Ark? Is that you?"

AMAZO turned to him. "Hey, Superboy. You doing alright?"

Superboy's jaw tightened. "Irritated," he growled, staring daggers at the professor and his robot MONQIs. "Very, very irritated."

"Yeah, I figured."

Superboy's scowl deepened as he stomped toward AMAZO, his muscles tensed. "You could've given me a heads up before making me think this thing was about to kill me."

Ark laughed. "I had to keep it authentic."

Superboy let out a deep sigh, relaxing his stance. "If there's a next time, I'm smashing the robot first, asking questions later."

Ark chuckled from his booth at the diner, keeping the conversation light. "Fair enough."

"I've come too far to lose now!" Ivo snarled, turning his attention to the array of mechanical monkeys—his MONQIs—lined up along the walls of the train car. He jabbed at a button on his control panel. "MONQIs, attack! Destroy AMAZO!"

The MONQIs, small, agile robots with glowing red eyes, activated with a whirring sound. Their claws extended, and their eyes locked onto AMAZO. They leaped from their perches in perfect unison, screeching mechanically as they launched themselves at the android.

AMAZO raised both hands, deploying small, sleek cameras to the room's corners. The lenses glinted as they snapped into position, providing multiple angles of the enclosed space. From Ark's laptop, the interface looked just like a video game, complete with a wide view of the entire train car.

Ark cracked his knuckles, gripping the game controller with a grin.

"Time to show them what a sumo can do," Ark muttered.

"Wait... are you really about to—?" Captain Marvel leaned in, laughing.

Ark's fingers danced over the controller. On the screen, AMAZO suddenly adopted the movements from Sumo Slammers 6: Tournament Edition!

"Hundred Hand Slap!"

The android's arms blurred, unleashing rapid-fire slaps that sent MONQIs flying across the train car, smashing into walls and crates. Sparks erupted as the relentless flurry battered them before they could defend themselves.

"That's what I'm talking about!" Captain Marvel cheered, pumping a fist.

Ark grinned, pressing a combination on the controller. "And now for some head trauma."

"Sumo Headbutt!"

AMAZO crouched low, then shot forward like a cannonball, slamming into a cluster of MONQIs. They scattered like bowling pins, sparks flying as their circuits shorted out. A pair of MONQIs lunged for AMAZO, but Ark was already on the next move.

"Oicho Throw!"

AMAZO snatched a MONQI mid-air using one arm, spinning it around like a ragdoll before slamming it into the floor. Another MONQI tried to pounce from behind, but Ark was too quick.

"Sumo Dash!"

The android burst into a short-range sprint, catching the enemy off guard. While still moving, Ark chained into a follow-up attack.

"Teppo Triple Slap!"

AMAZO's palms delivered a precise three-hit combo that crushed another MONQI mid-air, clattering its mangled parts to the ground.

"Okay, that was awesome!" Captain Marvel exclaimed between sips of his milkshake.

Ark chuckled, lining up another combination. "We're not done yet."

"Sumo Smash!"

The android leaped into the air, hitting both fists hard, shattering the floor beneath a group of incoming MONQIs. Metal limbs flew as the enemies were crushed under the sheer force of the landing.

Ark's fingers moved like lightning, his grin widening. "Time to wrap this up."

"Taiho Cannon Lift!"

During another Sumo Dash, AMAZO scooped up three MONQIs, effortlessly tossing them into the far wall like trash. Their circuits sputtered as they hit the ground, limp and sparking.

"One more for style points," Ark announced with a gleam in his eye.

"Neko Damashi!"

On-screen, AMAZO clapped his hands together with a resounding SLAP, disorienting the remaining MONQIs. They staggered, spinning wildly, leaving themselves wide open for the final blow.

Superboy cracked his knuckles with a smile. "With pleasure." Superboy's fist collided with the closest robot, shattering it like brittle glass. Bits of metal and wires flew as he pivoted, grabbing two more MONQIs by the necks.

Superboy hurled them into the wall, their frames crumpling. Another group of MONQIs attempted to regroup, but Superboy leaped into the air, bringing both fists down in a hammer strike, cratering the metal floor beneath them.

The remaining MONQIs staggered, only for Superboy to barrel through them with a feral roar. There was only one left behind, Ivo.

Ark leaned back. "And that's how you sumo."

Captain Marvel burst out laughing. "I can't believe you just used arcade moves in real life. That was incredible! Man, I think you've missed your calling. Ever thought about going pro in gaming?"

Ark smirked, setting the controller down. "Nah, saving the world is way more fun. Eh, maybe I'll game as a side hobby."

Professor Ivo scrambled across the train car. The situation was slipping out of his control. In a last-ditch effort, he reached for his last MONQI. Its metal wings unfurled. "Time to go." Ivo climbed onto it. The little robot lifted off the ground, rising toward a hole in the ceiling. "Fools!" Ivo shouted over his shoulder as the MONQI carried him higher. "You think you can stop me? I'll be back!"

Superboy moved to stop him, but AMAZO held out a hand. "Wait for it."

As Ivo started to soar through the gap in the roof, a red blur shot through the air and slammed into him. Ivo yelped as he was knocked off the MONQI, tumbling through the air before crashing back onto the train car floor with a heavy thud.

"Woohoo!" Kid Flash shouted, grinning from ear to ear. "How's that for a takedown!?"

Ivo groaned, clutching his side. "W-What…?"

Kid Flash leaned down with a smirk. "Villain getaway? Not on my watch, buddy."

Ivo slumped in defeat. His only hope of getting away sparked out of existence.

Kid Flash reached down, grabbing Ivo by the collar and yanking him to his feet. "Hmm. Should probably wait for Robin with the cuffs."

Kid Flash glanced up and froze. His grin faded slightly as his eyes landed on the fully reassembled AMAZO standing tall next to Superboy in the middle of the train car.

"Uh..." Kid Flash's voice trailed off, his brow furrowing in confusion. "Did I miss something?"

Gotham City

August 3, 20:21 EDT

As the police led Professor Ivo away in handcuffs, Ark and Captain Marvel, watched the scene unfold with satisfaction. The two turned toward each other.

"High five, man!"

Captain Marvel enthusiastically returned it. "You nailed it!" The hero glanced at his watch, and his smile faltered. "Uh, it's getting kind of close to my… curfew."

Ark raised an eyebrow, confused. "Curfew?"

Captain Marvel quickly backpedaled. "Self-imposed. I have to wake up early tomorrow for… uh, school."

Ark nodded. "Ah, I get it. Morning college classes can be a pain. I should know. Early classes mess up your whole day."

Captain Marvel let out a small, awkward laugh. "Yeah... something like that."

Ark, unaware Captain Marvel meant elementary school, offered a supportive nod. "It's never wrong to focus on education, though. Even with all the hero stuff, it's good to have something to fall back on—or at least something to do during the day when you're not out saving the world."

Captain Marvel shifted a little. He appreciated Ark's sentiment. "Yeah, totally. It's all about balance, right? Superhero life, school, just keeping it together."

Ark smiled. "Exactly. You never know when the skills or knowledge you pick up outside hero work will be useful."

Captain Marvel gave a slight chuckle, his thoughts lingering on his very different life as Billy Batson, the elementary school kid. "Yeah... you never know." His mind briefly wandered to his math homework. "Anyway, I should probably get going before it gets too late. Don't want to miss… school stuff."

Ark gave him a friendly slap on the back. "Go get 'em, Captain. Stay sharp, and we'll catch up soon."

Captain Marvel nodded, offering a final grin before taking off. "You bet!"

As Ark watched him leave, he chuckled to himself. "Good guy."

Captain Marvel, meanwhile, soared through the sky, chuckling under his breath. "If only you knew..."

Mount Justice

August 4, 23:06 EDT

The Team stood before Black Canary, Martian Manhunter, Red Tornado, Batman, and Green Arrow, recounting the mission's status.

Batman stepped forward. "The AMAZO android is being analyzed at STAR Labs. Thanks to Ark's foresight, Professor Ivo is also in custody."

Robin frowned. "And nobody thought to tell us that Ark had a backup plan?"

Kid Flash threw his arms in the air. "It's like babysitting! They still don't trust us!"

Batman's expression didn't change. "The League made the decision to keep it under wraps. There's nothing wrong with having a safety net."

Robin narrowed his eyes. "Yeah, but—"

"Robin," Batman interrupted, "you are well aware of my system of plans."

Robin knew exactly what Batman meant. "Yeah, yeah. You basically have plans B to Z for most occasions. I shouldn't be surprised at this point."

Batman folded his hands behind his back. "The League is here for a reason. If things had escalated, we would have intervened if possible. There is no shame in asking for help. That's why we exist—because there are some problems we can't even handle alone."

Slowly, the conversation wound down. Black Canary gave a reassuring nod. "You all did well. Go get some rest."

The team members dispersed, still tense, heading toward their rooms or the exit.

Superboy, however, stayed behind, quietly sinking onto the couch in the common room. His arms rested on his knees as he stared at the floor, waiting.

Everyone else trickled out of the cave. The lights dimmed, but Superboy stayed put, unmoving.

He didn't say anything or complain—just sat there patiently.

Because Superman had promised.

Suddenly, a faint whoosh broke the silence, and a familiar voice called. "Sorry, I'm late. Are you up for a late-night session?"

Superboy looked up, surprised to see Superman standing there in the doorway. "Superman?"

"I promised, didn't I? Though, it's been a while since I did one-on-one training."

Superboy felt a wave of excitement. "Yeah, I'm definitely up for it." Superboy stood quickly. "So, what kind of training are we talking about?"

Superman motioned for him to follow. "I've got a few ideas in mind."

The two Kryptonians made their way down to the ring.

"What do you know about boxing?"

"Uh... nothing?" Superboy asked, raising a brow. "Is that what you're teaching me?"

Superman smiled. "Yeah, American boxing. Growing up, boxing helped me with form and control. It's about more than just throwing punches." They refrained from wearing gloves. They would only get torn easily.

Superboy tilted his head. "Really?"

Superman chuckled. "Don't say that in front of Wildcat. He'd drag you to the ring, kicking and screaming to change your mind. I'm surprised your flash training didn't include fighting styles."

Superboy rolled his shoulders and looked away. "Maybe I left too early..."

Superman shook his head. "Don't think like that. You're here and now. The plus side is that you're pliable. You don't have any muscle memory to overcome.

"Alright. Show me."

"First things first: get in your stance."

Superboy stepped forward, lifting his hands awkwardly. Superman immediately saw that the boy's elbows were too wide and his shoulders too tense.

"Okay, let's fix that." Superman gently pushed his hands down on Superboy's shoulders. "Relax. If you're tense, you'll wear yourself out faster."

Superboy followed the adjustment. "Like this?"

"Better. Keep your fists tight—right by your cheekbones." Superman stepped back. "Now, hands up—protect your chin. Your left hand is for jabs. Your right stays back for power punches."

Superboy mirrored the stance. Superman smiled—it was rough but not bad for a beginner.

Superboy raised his hands a little higher. "Alright. So, what's next?"

Superman slipped into his stance. "Start with this—jab, jab, cross." He demonstrated a quick left jab, another jab, followed by a powerful right cross.

Superboy mimicked the movement, though his punches were a little off-rhythm.

Superman reached out to adjust again. "Snap it, don't push it. You're throwing a punch, not shoving a door open."

Superboy gave it another try, this time sharper. Superman grinned. "There you go. That's better."

They circled each other now, Superman nodding as Superboy shifted his weight more naturally. "Footwork is just as important. Stay light—don't plant your feet unless you deliver a big punch."

Superboy shuffled awkwardly but got comfortable.

Superman gave a small, encouraging smile. "It takes time, but once you get it, it'll feel natural."

Superboy kept moving, trying another jab. "So... who taught you all this?"

"The same person who raised me on Earth." Superman smiled.

Hearing that left a strange positive feeling in his gut.

"Boxing was his way of teaching me control. Not just in fights but in life. It kept me grounded."

Superboy paused for a second. "Control, huh?"

"Exactly," Superman reset his stance. "Now, let's try a combo. Jab, jab, cross—and stay on your toes."

Superboy threw the punches, and Superman lightly sidestepped each one, tapping his fists playfully against Superboy's. "Not bad. But remember, keep your guard up even when you punch. Always protect yourself."

Superboy grinned, resetting. "Got it."

They exchanged light blows. Superman's adjustments helped. Slowly, Superboy's punches became sharper.

After a few minutes of drilling, Superman offered a playful challenge: " Do you think you can tag me?"

Superboy's grin widened. "You're on."

He lunged with a jab, but Superman slipped to the side, tapping him lightly on the shoulder. Superboy swung again with a cross again, but Superman ducked under it, stepping out of range.

"Timing is everything. Don't rush. Wait for your opening."

Superboy wiped the sweat from his brow. "This is harder than it looks."

Superman chuckled. "Trust me, I know. But the more you practice, the more it'll become second nature."

They circled each other one last time. Superman couldn't help but feel a quiet sense of pride as a teacher.

"Alright, that's enough for tonight," Superman lowered his hands. "You did good, kid."

Superboy smirked. "So... think I could take Batman in a boxing match?"

Superman laughed. "Let's start with getting your jab perfect. Then, maybe."

They both relaxed, and Superman gave Superboy a pat on the back. "Same time tomorrow?"

Superboy nodded. "Yeah. I think I like this boxing thing."

Superman smiled. "Good. We'll keep at it."

#

AN: Special thanks to Seana, Jebest4781, Charles, vividlearner744, OmegaDelta, Henry Stickman, fearmegu, Kitsune Robyn, SonicSonicsSonic, Tapion, Dragon lord, Shooter1344, Red Rasher, Ajax Roranson, Asaf Montgomery, Legion, DJC, $hane-08, Daniel, Alex, and nighnight!

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