Superman - Rise of an Empire

The sharp wail of the alarm echoed through the corridors of the military base as red warning lights bathed the steel walls in an eerie glow. Clark and Colonel Sam Lane moved swiftly toward the command center, their boots pounding against the floor as soldiers rushed past, gearing up for combat.

"Who's attacking?" Clark demanded, his voice cutting through the chaos.

Lane pressed a communicator to his ear, listening to incoming reports. "Unknown force—highly trained, heavily armed. They're cutting through the perimeter defenses like they knew exactly where to strike."

Clark's mind raced. His body still pulsed with the effects of the serum, his muscles feeling stronger, more controlled than before. This would be the first true test of his new power.

They reached the command center, a high-tech war room with holographic displays showing live feeds from security cameras. The main screen flickered with distorted images of masked soldiers moving like shadows through the compound.

"Sir," a young officer called from one of the terminals. "They're targeting the laboratory."

Clark's stomach tightened. If the attackers got their hands on the Super Soldier Serum, it could mean the rise of a new global threat. He turned to Lane.

"Mobilize every available unit. We hold the lab at all costs."

Lane gave a firm nod and barked orders into his radio. Within seconds, the base erupted into action, squads of soldiers locking down entry points and setting up defensive lines.

But Clark didn't wait. He moved.

His new strength propelled him forward, his steps faster, his reflexes sharper. By the time he reached the outer corridors of the laboratory, the battle had already begun.

Gunfire cracked through the air, bullets ricocheting off walls as military personnel engaged the invading force. The attackers moved with tactical precision, breaching door after door, their firepower overwhelming.

Clark didn't hesitate. He lunged forward, closing the distance between himself and the nearest enemy operative. The moment they turned to fire, he was already there. With a single strike, he sent the soldier crashing against the wall, unconscious before he hit the ground.

Another attacker took aim, but Clark's instincts kicked in. His body twisted, dodging the bullet by inches before he grabbed the rifle's barrel, wrenching it from their hands. With an effortless motion, he slammed the butt of the weapon into the operative's chest, sending them sprawling.

He was faster than ever before. Stronger. But not invincible.

A sudden explosion rocked the hallway, sending debris flying. Clark barely managed to brace himself before being thrown back. His head rang, and as he shook off the impact, a familiar voice reached his ears.

"Well, well… I was wondering when you'd show up."

Clark's eyes narrowed as a figure emerged through the smoke. A tall, imposing man in tactical armor, his face partially concealed by a mask. But Clark recognized him.

Slade Wilson. Deathstroke.

A mercenary with a reputation for being one of the deadliest assassins alive. If he was here, this attack wasn't random—it was calculated.

Deathstroke twirled a sword in one hand, his single eye gleaming with amusement. "Heard you lost your alien powers, Kent. Thought I'd come see if the rumors were true."

Clark exhaled, rolling his shoulders. He could feel the serum coursing through his veins, fueling his body for the fight to come.

"Come find out for yourself."

Deathstroke smirked. "Gladly."

And with that, he attacked.

TO BE CONTINUED...