DC X LOTM: A Beyonder in DC

The foundation of Aeternum Industries was laid, but Alex knew that having a registered company was just the first step. Now came the true challenge—establishing its presence in the market and securing its first major deals. His goal was simple: introduce revolutionary technology while ensuring that he remained under the radar of both corporate sharks and potential government scrutiny.

Jonathan Kent had used a significant portion of his savings to bribe officials, but Alex was determined to repay every cent. For that, he needed Aeternum Industries to start generating revenue as soon as possible.

The First Product: The Agricultural Breakthrough

His father was a farmer. That was where he would start.

Among the many things he had designed with his abilities, the one he found most viable for an initial launch was the Aeternum Growth Catalyst—a technological innovation that would significantly reduce crop cultivation time while preventing disease without harming the soil.

For years, Jonathan had struggled with crop diseases and unpredictable weather. If this worked as Alex theorized, it would not only secure their farm's future but also create an instant demand among agricultural circles.

Sitting in his newly rented workshop, Alex activated his workbench. With a mix of Paragon enhancements and fool-like creativity, he carefully manipulated various minerals and elements, creating a prototype solution that could be sprayed onto crops. The key component? A microscopic layer of self-replicating nanites that adapted to the plant's genetic structure, reinforcing its natural growth cycle.

As he analyzed the first batch, Clark walked in, arms crossed.

"You've been holed up in here for days. You sure you're not turning into a mad scientist?"

Alex smirked. "I prefer 'innovative genius.'"

Clark leaned over the worktable. "And this is?"

"Something that will make Dad's life easier."

Clark frowned. "And how exactly does it work?"

Alex handed him a sample vial. "Spray it on the crops. It accelerates growth, protects against disease, and ensures better yields. Totally safe, no side effects."

Clark examined it, his superhuman senses scanning for anything dangerous. "You're sure?"

"Absolutely. I ran the calculations a hundred times. It's self-sustaining and even improves soil fertility."

Clark let out a low whistle. "If this works… you realize this isn't just a product. This is a game-changer."

Alex nodded. "I know. That's why we need to be careful."

Testing the Catalyst

The real test came when they applied the catalyst to a section of their farmland. Jonathan, skeptical at first, agreed to let Alex conduct the trial. Within 48 hours, the results were undeniable. The crops were growing at nearly double their normal rate, healthier and stronger than before.

Jonathan Kent stood in disbelief. "This… this ain't natural."

Alex chuckled. "That's the point, Dad."

His father turned to him, expression serious. "Son, if this gets out, big companies are gonna come after you. They'll either buy you out or bury you."

Alex was well aware of that. "That's why we're keeping it within our network first. I want to get a few trusted farmers to test it, build a small supply chain, and slowly expand. No big announcements, no grand launches. Just results."

Jonathan sighed. "I just don't want you bitin' off more than you can chew."

Alex placed a hand on his father's shoulder. "Trust me, Dad. I've got a plan."

The First Deals

Using his father's network, Alex reached out to a few struggling farmers in Smallville, offering them free samples. The deal was simple: test it, and if they liked the results, they could sign exclusive contracts with Aeternum Industries for future supplies.

Within a week, word spread. Calls started coming in, and small-scale deals were made. Farmers who had been on the brink of financial ruin suddenly saw hope.

But not everyone was pleased.

Corporate Attention

The agricultural sector was not without its giants. Companies that had dominated the industry for decades had their eyes on anything that threatened their monopoly. When reports of inexplicably healthy crops in Smallville started appearing, it caught the attention of one such conglomerate—LexCorp Agriculture Division.

The First Warning

A few days after their first sales, Alex received an unexpected visitor at his workshop. A sharply dressed man with an unsettling smile.

"Mr. Kent," the man said, extending a hand. "Name's Daniel Henshaw. I represent LexCorp's agricultural division."

Alex raised an eyebrow but shook his hand. "Didn't think I'd be on LexCorp's radar this soon."

Henshaw chuckled. "We like to keep track of promising innovations. Word around town is that you've developed quite the agricultural miracle."

Alex crossed his arms. "And?"

Henshaw's smile never wavered. "LexCorp is always interested in working with bright minds like yours. We'd like to make you an offer."

Alex knew where this was going. "I'm not looking to sell."

Henshaw tilted his head. "You haven't even heard the number yet."

"I don't need to."

The man sighed, pulling out a business card. "Think about it. Aeternum Industries is new, small, and vulnerable. Partnerships ensure longevity. If you change your mind, give me a call."

Alex took the card but didn't respond.

Henshaw turned to leave but paused at the door. "Oh, and one more thing—be careful. Competition in this industry can be… ruthless."

As the door shut behind him, Alex's expression darkened. This was just the beginning.

Shadows in Smallville

That night, Alex stood by the window of his workshop, staring at the LexCorp business card. Clark walked in, sensing his unease.

"You okay?"

Alex exhaled. "LexCorp knows about Aeternum. They want to buy me out."

Clark's jaw clenched. "That's bad."

Alex smirked. "That's expected."

Clark studied him. "And what's the plan?"

Alex flicked the business card onto the table. "We expand. But quietly. LexCorp is watching now, and I have no intention of becoming their pawn."

Clark frowned. "And if they push?"

Alex's smile was sharp. "Then we push back. Hard."

Outside, unnoticed by either of them, a sleek black car sat parked at a distance, its occupants watching the workshop.

A voice crackled over a radio. "Confirmed. Aeternum is active. Orders?"

A low, commanding voice responded.

"Observe. And if necessary… neutralize."

End of Ch 28

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