Chapter 32: Project Superior, Serum Enhancement, I Am Superman.
Helios projected a series of chemical compounds and biological enhancement methods onto the holographic screen.
"Ethan," the AI began, "to achieve your goal, we need to explore multiple disciplines: advanced genetic engineering, nanotechnology, and bio-enhancement serums. Current Earth technology cannot produce these results, but with the Predator technology at our disposal, we may succeed."
Ethan nodded. "Start with the basics. I want to analyze the DNA of creatures known for their strength and resilience—mythical beasts, apex predators, and even some of the monsters we've encountered. If we can isolate the genes responsible for their abilities, we might find a way to mimic them without destabilizing my biology."
Helios pulled up scans of the Greek monsters Ethan had fought in the labyrinth and during the Philadelphia battle. "The Cyclops possesses immense muscular density. Hyperborean giants have near-impenetrable skin. And the Minotaur's stamina is unparalleled. We can start with these."
"Good," Ethan said. "Also, analyze Medusa's eyeballs. Her power to petrify was remarkable. If we can reverse-engineer it, it might provide an offensive edge."
Helios acknowledged the directive. "Processing will take time, but initial results should be available within 48 hours."
Ethan stared at the swirling data, lost in thought. This project could redefine him, but at what cost? He had always walked a fine line between using his intellect for good and succumbing to the allure of absolute power. The Predator tech had already given him a taste of what was possible, but this was different—this was personal.
"Helios," he said quietly, "do you think I'm making the right choice? Enhancing myself like this?"
The AI paused, its algorithms processing the question. "You seek to address a critical vulnerability, Ethan. However, the pursuit of power has inherent risks. It is essential to remain grounded in your purpose: protecting humanity, not dominating it."
Ethan nodded, appreciating the AI's impartial wisdom. "That's the plan. No shortcuts. No compromises."
Ethan began working tirelessly, diving into every aspect of the project. He spent hours poring over Predator schematics, cross-referencing them with Earth's cutting-edge medical research. The lab was alive with activity: robotic arms assembling prototypes, screens flashing with complex formulas, and the hum of advanced machinery filling the air.
At one point, Helios interrupted his work. "Ethan, I've analyzed the blood samples you took from your battles. The giants' DNA contains a unique protein that reinforces cellular structures, making their skin nearly unbreakable. I recommend synthesizing this protein for testing."
Ethan nodded. "Start the synthesis. We'll need test subjects to ensure it's stable. Use the lab-grown tissue samples from previous experiments."
Hours turned into days as Ethan delved deeper into the project. His mind raced with possibilities, each breakthrough bringing him closer to his goal. Yet, he remained cautious, testing every hypothesis thoroughly before moving forward.
"Helios," he said, looking up from his work, "once we've stabilized the serum, we'll need a delivery system. Something compact and efficient."
"I suggest integrating it into your Scarab armor," Helios replied. "It can be stored in a nanite injector, ready for deployment at a moment's notice."
Ethan smirked. "Perfect. Let's make it happen."
As the night stretched on, Ethan continued to refine his vision for Project Superior.
Ethan sat in his workshop, surrounded by holographic projections of DNA sequences and simulations, his frustration mounting with each passing hour. For two straight days, he had been working tirelessly with Helios, trying to perfect the serum that would push his body into the realm of demi-titanhood. The promise of Titan genes—culled from the remnants of Hyperion and Iapetus—was tantalizing. The potential enhancements were staggering:
Strength: The ability to lift over 500 tons effortlessly.
Speed: Movement comparable to a bullet train.
Durability: Near-invulnerability to physical and elemental damage.
Immortality: A regenerative factor that could rival even the gods.
Cosmic Absorption: The ability to harness and manipulate cosmic energy.
Ocular Powers: Unlocked divine vision that could see across dimensions or pierce illusions.
Most importantly, this serum wouldn't rewrite his DNA permanently. His descendants wouldn't inherit the Titan traits, preserving their humanity while giving him the temporary edge he needed.
Yet, every attempt so far had failed. The simulations kept ending in genetic collapse, the subject's body unable to stabilize the massive influx of power.
"Helios," Ethan said, rubbing his temples, "what's causing the collapse? The Titan DNA seems compatible, and the simulations confirm my body has the latent human genes needed to bond with the serum."
Helios's voice was calm and analytical. "The issue lies not in compatibility but in stability. Your body cannot endure the rapid transformation required to bond with the Titan genes. The process creates a volatile chain reaction, destabilizing cellular integrity."
Ethan scowled at the holographic display. "So, I need a stabilizer... something to anchor my genetic code long enough for the serum to take hold."
Ethan began reviewing the data, searching for anything that could act as a stabilizer. He scrolled through countless genetic profiles, mythological lore, and biochemical theories. Every option seemed to fall short. The Titan DNA was simply too potent for any ordinary method.
Helios interrupted his thoughts. "Ethan, I suggest revisiting the samples from Philadelphia. Specifically, Medusa's DNA."
Ethan frowned. "Her DNA is unique, yes, but it's not stable enough for this purpose. Her abilities are tied to her petrifying ocular powers, not bodily resilience."
"True," Helios agreed, "but her DNA contains a rare genetic marker that allows for rapid cellular adaptation. If isolated, it could serve as a bridge—temporarily stabilizing your cells during the transformation process."
Ethan's eyes lit up. "That might work. Extract the marker and run simulations. If it checks out, we'll integrate it into the serum."
The hours that followed were a blur of activity. Helios worked at lightning speed, isolating the adaptation marker from Medusa's DNA and incorporating it into the serum. Ethan monitored the simulations, watching as each trial inched closer to success.
"Simulation 78 complete," Helios announced. "Results: 92% success rate. The stabilizer marker prevents cellular collapse in most scenarios."
Ethan leaned back, exhaling deeply. "That's good enough. Prepare the serum for synthesis. I'll need to test it in a controlled environment."
"Understood," Helios replied. "However, I must caution you: while the stabilizer appears effective, the serum's effects remain unpredictable. There may be side effects."
Ethan nodded grimly. "I'll take the risk. It's better than being powerless when it matters most."
As the synthesis began, Ethan reviewed the final projections for what the serum could achieve. The Titan gene, when activated, promised near-divine abilities. Combined with his Predator technology, it would elevate him beyond the realm of mortals and even many gods.
But Ethan wasn't just thinking about himself. This serum could change everything—not just for him, but for humanity. If perfected, it could be used to empower individuals in extreme situations, granting them the strength to face cosmic threats.
Yet, he knew the dangers. In the wrong hands, this technology could spell disaster. Ethan resolved to keep the serum's existence a secret, sharing it only with the Justice League if absolutely necessar
As the serum finished synthesizing, Ethan took a moment to reflect. He walked over to the reinforced glass chamber where the vial of glowing, golden liquid awaited him.
"Helios," he said, his voice low, "do you think this is the right path?"
The AI hesitated, its algorithms weighing the question. "The path you have chosen carries great risk, Ethan. But it is also a necessary step if you are to overcome your vulnerabilities. As always, the outcome will depend on how you wield this power."
Ethan activated the Scarab suit, its sleek, alien design enveloping his body. The serum was housed within a specialized injector built into the suit's forearm. If anything went wrong, the suit's medical systems would attempt to stabilize him.
"Initiate the injection sequence," Ethan commanded.
Helios's voice was steady. "Sequence initiated. Brace yourself."
The injector pierced his skin, delivering the serum into his bloodstream. For a moment, nothing happened. Then a surge of raw, searing energy coursed through his veins, nearly knocking him to the ground.
Ethan gritted his teeth, his vision blurring as his body began to change. He could feel his muscles expanding, his bones strengthening, his senses sharpening. It was as if every cell in his body was being rewritten, reforged in the fires of creation.
"Status report," he gasped.
"Your vitals are stabilizing," Helios said. "The serum is bonding successfully. Cellular integrity is holding."
Ethan clenched his fists, feeling the immense power coursing through him. He stood, his body crackling with newfound energy. For the first time, he felt truly invincible.
"Project Superior," he murmured. "It's a success."