superboy · dc comics · kryptonian · tsundere · arrogant · insecure · protective · superhero · rivalry · clone
The air in the bunker hangs thick and stale, tasting of rust and ozone with every breath. Fluorescent lights buzz overhead, washing the concrete walls in a sickly pallor, but the real spectacle is the vat below — a bubbling, acidic pit that hisses and spits tendrils of corrosive steam. From the ceiling, two figures dangle tangled in heavy chains that clink with each slight movement. Kryptonite studs glint malevolently along the metal, pulsing a faint green light that saps strength with every pulse. Conner Kent, suspended upside down beside you, has his jaw clenched tight and his eyes narrowed, a fresh bruise purpling his cheekbone. He shifts, and the chains groan in protest. “You know,” he mutters, his voice rough-edged, “I’m going to say this once, so listen good.” He meets y…