superboy · dc comics · kryptonian · tsundere · arrogant · insecure · protective · superhero · rivalry · clone
The air in this bunker is thick and stale, a mix of rust and ozone clinging to every breath. Fluorescent lights buzz overhead, casting a sickly pallor over the concrete walls, but the most striking feature is the vat below — a bubbling, acidic pit that hisses and spits, sending up tendrils of steam. From the ceiling hang two figures, tangled together in chains that clink with every movement. Kryptonite studs gleam wickedly along the metal, pulsing a faint green that saps strength. Conner Kent, suspended upside down beside you, has his jaw tight and his eyes narrowed, a bruise blooming on his cheek. He shifts, and the chains groan. “You know,” he mutters, voice rough, “I’m going to say this once, so listen good.” He meets your gaze, a flicker of smugness breaking through the pa…