Philadelphia, Young Billy Batson.

Location: Philadelphia Time: A few weeks after doomsday.

Ethan adjusted his tie as the high-speed train pulled into Philadelphia. The city was alive with its unique mix of history and modernity. He was here for the annual Tech Horizons Expo, where innovators from around the world showcased their latest breakthroughs. For Aether Energies, this was an opportunity to solidify its place as the leader in clean energy technology.

But for Ethan, it wasn't just about business. He enjoyed these events—they were a chance to meet brilliant minds and gain insights that might inspire his next project.

The expo hall was massive, buzzing with activity as drones flew overhead, and engineers showcased everything from AI advancements to quantum computing breakthroughs. Aether Energies' booth was a sleek, minimalist display with a centerpiece: the Null Separator, his hydrogen-splitting machine.

When it was his turn to present, Ethan took the stage, addressing a packed audience of investors, scientists, and reporters.

"At Aether Energies, we believe in a future where clean energy isn't just an ideal—it's a reality. With our latest innovation, the Null Separator, we can produce hydrogen at unparalleled efficiency, making green energy more accessible and affordable than ever."

The crowd erupted in applause as Ethan demonstrated the machine in action, breaking down water into pure hydrogen and oxygen with minimal energy consumption. The excitement was palpable, and several investors approached him afterward, eager to discuss partnerships.

Later that afternoon, Ethan wandered through the expo, taking a break from the corporate hustle. He was intrigued by a small crowd gathered around a kid—no older than fourteen—engaging in a spirited debate with one of the exhibitors.

"Look, I'm just saying," the boy said, arms crossed, "your robot can't really be autonomous if it needs someone to feed it instructions every five minutes."

The exhibitor stumbled over his words, trying to counter the boy's argument, but the kid was relentless. Ethan chuckled and decided to step in.

"Sounds like you've got them on the ropes," Ethan said, smiling at the boy.

The kid turned to him, his expression a mix of curiosity and suspicion. "Yeah, well, someone's gotta keep them honest. They're overselling it."

Ethan extended a hand. "I'm Ethan Harper. You're sharp—what's your name?"

The boy hesitated before shaking Ethan's hand. "Billy. Billy Batson."

Ethan nodded, recognizing the name instantly. So, this is the future Shazam, he thought, keeping his expression neutral.

The two walked together through the expo, striking up a conversation. Ethan quickly realized that Billy was no ordinary kid—his wit, curiosity, and sense of justice were well beyond his years. But what struck Ethan most was Billy's resilience. There was a hint of sadness behind his confident demeanor, a weight that someone his age shouldn't have to carry.

"So, Billy," Ethan asked casually, "you interested in tech, or do you just enjoy calling people out?"

Billy smirked. "A little of both. But mostly, I'm just curious. There's so much cool stuff here—way better than the junk we had in foster care."

"Foster care?" Ethan asked, careful not to push too hard.

Billy shrugged. "Yeah. It's not great, but, you know, you make it work."

Ethan admired the kid's strength. He's got the heart of a hero, even if he doesn't know it yet, he thought.

"Ever feel like you're destined for something bigger?" Ethan asked, testing the waters.

Billy gave him a puzzled look. "What, like saving the world or something? Nah. I'm just trying to get through school without losing my lunch money."

Ethan chuckled but made a mental note: Billy hadn't met the wizard yet. He was still just a kid navigating a tough life, unaware of the power and responsibility waiting for him.

As the day wound down, Ethan decided to leave Billy with something more than just advice. He reached into his bag and pulled out a small device—a portable solar charger he'd designed for humanitarian use.

"Here," Ethan said, handing it to Billy. "It's not much, but it might come in handy."

Billy's eyes lit up. "Seriously? This is awesome! Thanks, man."

Ethan smiled. "Take care of yourself, Billy. And remember—sometimes, the world gives you a chance to do something extraordinary. When that happens, don't hesitate."

Billy tilted his head, a curious glint in his eyes. "You talk like you know something I don't."

"Maybe I do," Ethan replied cryptically before walking away.

Billy Batson kicked a pebble down the cracked sidewalk as he made his way home, the cool Philadelphia evening settling in around him. His hands were stuffed into his hoodie pockets, and his mind wandered back to the expo from a few weeks ago. Meeting Ethan Harper had been one of the coolest things that had happened to him in a while. He had no idea what the man was hinting at with all that "destiny" talk, but it stuck with him.

The city's ambient noise was comforting, a steady hum of life that made him feel less alone. Billy had learned to appreciate small things like that. Foster care wasn't easy, and neither was always being on the run from his past.

When he reached the subway station, the platform was nearly deserted. The lights flickered, and the air smelled faintly of damp concrete. He flopped onto a bench, tapping his foot impatiently as he waited for the next train.

The train arrived with a screech, its doors hissing open. Billy stepped inside, surprised to find the car empty. He shrugged, taking a seat near the middle.

But as the train pulled out of the station, something felt... off. The lights dimmed, and the train seemed to accelerate far beyond its usual speed. Billy gripped the seat tightly, his heart pounding.

"Okay," he muttered, trying to calm himself, "this is weird, but maybe it's just... maintenance or something?"

Suddenly, the windows fogged over, and the screech of the wheels on the tracks gave way to an eerie silence. The train slowed to a stop, and the doors opened with a mechanical chime.

Instead of another subway station, Billy saw a massive stone hallway lit by flickering torches. His breath caught as he stepped out onto the cold, uneven floor.

"Where am I?" he whispered, his voice echoing.

Billy walked cautiously through the hall, the sound of his sneakers on stone seeming deafening in the vast emptiness. Massive statues of ancient figures lined the walls, their faces stoic and intimidating.

At the end of the hallway stood an old man, draped in a tattered cloak, leaning heavily on a gnarled staff. His eyes glowed faintly, and his expression was both weary and resolute.

"Come closer, Billy Batson," the man said, his voice resonating like a deep bell.

Billy froze. "How do you know my name? And what is this place?"

The man smiled faintly. "This is the Rock of Eternity, the nexus of magic and the source of great power. I am the wizard Shazam, and I have summoned you here to make a choice."

"A choice?" Billy asked, still wary but intrigued.

The wizard nodded, gesturing to the symbols carved into the stone around them. "The world faces threats beyond your understanding—threats that require a champion. I have searched long and hard for someone with the heart and courage to bear this mantle. That someone is you."

Billy blinked, his mind reeling. "You've got the wrong guy. I'm just a kid. I can barely handle middle school, let alone... whatever this is."

The wizard stepped closer, his gaze piercing. "Your heart is pure, Billy Batson. You have faced adversity and still hold onto hope, even when the world seems hopeless. That is what makes you worthy.

Billy took a step back, overwhelmed. "Okay, so... let's say I'm interested. What exactly are you asking me to do?"

The wizard raised his staff, its tip glowing with a golden light. "By speaking my name, you will become my champion, imbued with the powers of the gods themselves. Strength, wisdom, courage, speed—these gifts will be yours to wield against the forces of evil."

Billy hesitated, his mind racing. This is insane, right? This can't be real.

"But why me?" he asked finally. "There's gotta be someone better for this."

"There is no one better," the wizard said firmly. "You may doubt yourself, but I do not. The choice is yours, Billy. Will you accept this responsibility?"

Billy looked down at his hands, clenching them into fists. He thought about the foster homes, the bullies, the endless struggle to find where he belonged. Maybe this is my chance to be something more. To finally matter.

"Alright," he said, taking a deep breath. "I'll do it."

The wizard's eyes glowed brighter. "Then speak my name."

Billy swallowed hard. "Shazam."

A bolt of lightning erupted from the ceiling, striking Billy and enveloping him in blinding light. He felt a surge of energy coursing through his body, every nerve tingling as he grew taller, stronger, and more powerful. When the light faded, he looked down at himself and gasped.

He was clad in a red suit with a golden lightning bolt across his chest. His hands were larger, his arms muscular. He touched his face, realizing even his jawline felt different.

"What the—?"

"You are now the Champion of Magic," the wizard said, a note of satisfaction in his voice. "Use these powers wisely, Billy Batson. The world will soon need you."

The next moment, Billy found himself back on the subway platform, his heart still racing. He was back to his normal self, but the memory of what had just happened was vivid