AM I SUPERMAN?

Clark Kent, Superman, folded his arms and looked thoughtful. He finally answered, "Krypton's technology was advanced—one of the most advanced civilizations in the galaxy—but even with our resources, we struggled against Brainiac. He was not just a machine or artificial intelligence; he evolved beyond that. He was created by the Coluans, but eventually, he surpassed his creators."

Kaius frowned. "Surpassed his creators? You mean, he started collecting not just their knowledge but their lives as well?"

Superman nodded grimly. "Yes. Brainiac turned on the Coluans and destroyed their civilization. He sees himself as a universal archivist, but his method of preservation is... devastating. He miniaturizes entire cities, capturing their knowledge, and then destroys the planet. Krypton faced him before, and we only barely managed to drive him away. My father once told me that Brainiac was one of the darkest threats our civilization ever faced."

Batman, ever pragmatic, was typing furiously on the Batcomputer, bringing up schematics, data, and satellite feeds. "If he's truly arrived on Earth, we need to establish his methods and objectives. Superman, if he has come here, why would he target Earth? What's his angle?"

Clark paused before answering. "Earth is a unique planet—it hosts a wide variety of species, cultures, and advanced life forms. More importantly, it's become a hub for meta-humans and superpowered beings. Brainiac would see Earth as a prime target for his collection."

Batman's jaw tightened. "Then we need to work fast. If Brainiac has been observing Earth, we're already behind."

Kaius rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Wait a second—didn't you say that Brainiac was severely damaged after his last encounter with Krypton? What if the 'replica' Kara mentioned isn't fully operational yet? We might have time to strike before he regains full strength."

Superman nodded. "That's possible. If he's sending scouts or drones, it could be to gather data and assess Earth's defenses before committing to an invasion."

Batman's fingers stopped typing, and he turned to face the group. "Then we need to bait him. If we can make him show his hand, we might have a chance to strike first. Superman, you're essentially Krypton's last survivor—he might target you specifically. We can use that to our advantage."

Clark frowned. "You want to use me as bait? That's dangerous, even for Brainiac. If he thinks I'm a threat, he could escalate immediately."

Kaius interjected. "What if we make it seem like Krypton's technology is still active on Earth? It would draw his attention without directly targeting you, Clark."

Batman turned back to the Batcomputer, pulling up an interface connected to WayneTech satellites. "If we create a false signal—something resembling Kryptonian technology—it might attract Brainiac or his drones. We'll need to place it in a controlled area where we can monitor activity without endangering civilians."

Kaius grinned. "Sounds good, but I think we should use the Fortress of Solitude. Clark's father, Jor-El, is still active there as an AI, right? We could amplify the signal using Kryptonian tech."

Superman hesitated but nodded. "It's risky, but the Fortress is isolated enough to keep any conflict away from populated areas."

Batman leaned back in his chair. "We'll need to coordinate. Superman, you'll act as the visible lure—make it look like you're guarding Kryptonian tech. Kaius and I will monitor remotely, and Fiora can act as backup with Kara."

Kaius smirked. "Sounds like a solid plan. Let's just hope Brainiac's ego gets the better of him."

With the plan set, the group dispersed to prepare. Superman flew off to the Fortress of Solitude to work with Jor-El on crafting the signal. Kaius stayed behind in the Batcave, discussing contingencies with Batman.

"What do you think, Bruce?" Kaius asked, leaning against the Batcomputer. "Is this going to work, or are we just playing with fire?"

Batman didn't look up from his console. "Brainiac is unpredictable. But if we're going to have any chance of protecting Earth, we have to make the first move. Waiting for him to strike would be suicide."

Kaius nodded, his expression serious. "Then let's make sure we're ready."

As Superman, Batman, and Kaius prepared their respective roles, the shadow of Brainiac loomed larger over Earth. The Justice League was facing its first galactic-level threat, and the stakes had never been higher.

Bruce Wayne's excitement was palpable as he quickly took out a sleek black tablet from his coat pocket, ready to transfer the funds. For him, $80 billion was a fraction of the Wayne Group's immense fortune, and the prospect of owning and operating alien technology made the cost irrelevant.

Kaius smirked inwardly at Batman's eagerness. He knew Bruce Wayne well enough to anticipate this reaction. "Bruce, you're not just investing in a spacecraft or upgraded satellites. You're investing in Earth's safety. This partnership will put humanity on the galactic map and ensure we're ready for any future threats."

Bruce nodded, fully aware of the strategic advantages this would bring. "Consider it done. I'll have Alfred set up the transfer to your designated account by the end of the day. But tell me, who will oversee the upgrades and the construction of the spacecraft? I assume we'll need more than just the three of us."

Superman interjected, "The technology comes from Krypton, but the manufacturing process can be streamlined by Kryptonian intelligent machines. We'll need to repair the ones stored in the Fortress of Solitude first. Once they're operational, they can handle the upgrades and construction under our supervision."

Bruce's eyes gleamed. "If we're involving Kryptonian machines, then I'd like to upgrade the Batcave as a secondary operational hub. It can serve as an emergency backup for the Justice League's headquarters."

Kaius gave an approving nod. "That's a solid idea. Having multiple operational hubs will enhance our ability to respond to threats quickly. Plus, with Kryptonian tech integrated into the Batcave, it could serve as a staging area for advanced reconnaissance missions."

Superman looked between the two. "It sounds like a good plan. I'll coordinate with Jor-El's AI to repair and program the machines. Once the machines are fully operational, they can integrate seamlessly with your systems, Bruce."

Bruce smirked slightly. "Good. As for the $80 billion, I'll allocate it as follows: $10 billion for the spacecraft and satellite upgrades, $20 billion for the Batcave renovations, and the rest for research, development, and future projects. I don't want this to be a one-off investment. This needs to be a continuous effort."

Kaius was impressed by Bruce's foresight. "That's the kind of long-term thinking we need, Bruce. You've officially set the standard for Justice League contributors. Now, let's get to work. The sooner we start, the sooner we'll be ready for Bleniak—or anyone else who thinks they can threaten Earth."

With the plan in place, the three heroes agreed to meet at the Fortress of Solitude the following day. Superman would begin repairing the intelligent machines, Bruce Wayne would start logistics for the funding and material procurement, and Kaius would oversee the integration of Kryptonian technology into both the spacecraft and satellites.

As Bruce prepared to leave the Batcave, he glanced back at Kaius. "Avenger, I have one condition for this partnership."

Kaius raised an eyebrow. "Let's hear it."

Bruce's voice was calm but firm. "When this is all done, I get to be the first human to pilot that spaceship."

Kaius laughed. "Deal. But don't scratch the paint, Bruce."

With that, the Justice League's first major project was underway, a testament to their unity, resources, and shared determination to protect the Earth from any threat—whether it came from within or beyond the stars.