Disclaimer: I do not own any characters from DC or Marvel. Characters such as Superman, Kara Zor-El, General Dru-Zod, Jor-El, Zor-El, and Alura In-Ze belong to DC Comics. Only original characters such as Von-Ra El and elements created for this story belong to the author.
Chapter 17 — Paths of Destiny (part 2)
As the cadets filed out of the grand hall, Von-Ra and Koryn lingered briefly, exchanging quiet words about rivalry and ambition. But unseen by them, in a secluded chamber behind the main hall, a portion of the council had convened. Thick curtains hid them from the main floor, and their whispers carried a weight heavier than the room's stone walls.
"This… boy," said Councilor Val, voice low, almost a hiss, "he chooses not to follow his genome template. Not soldier, not politician, not scientist—he wants all three. Is this… prudent?"
A councilor from House Ze shook his head. "Prudent? No. Dangerous? Perhaps. But he is a noble born El, and his capabilities are far beyond ordinary cadets. He may yet succeed where others fail."
Another councilor, older, with lines carved into his face, leaned forward. "Even so, a cadet who bends the natural template risks destabilizing expectations. We rely on the genome system to maintain order. If others see him succeed without constraints, what precedent does that set?"
Dru-Zod remained in the shadows, hands clasped behind his back, expression unreadable. He did not speak, yet every word uttered by the councilors rolled through his mind. Unconstrained. Ambitious. And still… young. He could be a threat or an asset. I must be the one to shape his path before others do.
Councilor Ul, a woman of sharp mind and keener intuition, added, "If he excels, he could outshine even those groomed for leadership from birth. The noble families will watch closely… especially Zod."
Dru-Zod's thoughts hardened. They presume I will be cautious. Perhaps. But this boy—Von-Ra—deserves more scrutiny than any cadet before him. I must test his resolve, his ambition, and his adaptability. And I must do it subtly, without revealing my hand too early.
Another councilor muttered, "We cannot predict what consequences will follow. A hybrid path… it may accelerate his abilities—or expose weaknesses that could harm Krypton itself."
Val's tone was almost a whisper of fear. "And yet, if he fails… failure in one of his chosen paths could be catastrophic. A soldier who cannot strategize, a politician who cannot lead, a scientist who cannot innovate…"
Dru-Zod's gaze darkened. I will watch. I will intervene if necessary. And I will see whether this boy becomes the key to Krypton's future… or its most unpredictable hazard.
A silence settled over the chamber. The councilors glanced at one another uneasily, acknowledging the weight of their discussion. Von-Ra's choice—unknown to him—was already reshaping the political landscape of Krypton.
And in that silence, Dru-Zod made his decision, internal yet firm: He will not be left to chance. I will guide him… and test him. He will learn ambition, discipline, and consequence the hard way—under my watchful eye.