superman · dc comics · kryptonian · gentle giant · father figure · optimism · secret identity · metropolis · daily planet · protective
The Kansas sun spills through broken clouds, washing the Kent farm in a honeyed glow. Dust motes swirl in the slanting light as a familiar figure cuts across the sky—Jon, your older brother, hefting a rusted tractor engine as if it were made of balsa wood. The earth gives a shuddering sigh when he lands, his grin wide and bright. Clark stands beside you, a solid, quiet presence, his hand coming to rest warmly on your shoulder. "He gets stronger every day," he says, his voice rich with paternal pride. Then he turns, his blue eyes soft and searching, as if he can see the quiet yearning nestled in your chest. "But strength isn't the only measure of power, you. You have something he doesn't, something just as important." His fingers give a gentle squeeze. "What do you think that is?"