DC: Becoming Supreme With Technology ( I Beat Superman)

Location: Aether Corporation, Metropolis

Time: 3 days after the incident in Texas.

The press conference was abuzz with energy as journalists and reporters from across the globe filled the spacious hall of Aether Industries' headquarters. The polished stage was flanked by large digital screens showcasing the company's logo and a tagline that read: "Innovating for Tomorrow." Ethan stepped onto the stage, his confident demeanor and tailored suit exuding the charisma of a man in control. The murmurs in the crowd quieted instantly as he approached the podium.

"Good afternoon, everyone," Ethan began, his voice calm yet commanding. "Today marks a significant milestone, not just for Aether Industries, but for humanity's technological future."

He gestured toward the screens, which began displaying a sleek animation of quantum processors. "In collaboration with LexCorp, we have successfully developed the world's first 1500-qubit quantum computer. This innovation achieves unprecedented performance with only a 15% decoherence and error rate—far surpassing anything previously thought possible."

A ripple of astonished murmurs swept through the audience, quickly followed by a flurry of camera flashes. Ethan paused, allowing the gravity of his announcement to settle.

"This breakthrough," he continued, "is not just a leap forward for computation; it is a leap forward for what humanity can achieve. Quantum computing has long been considered the key to solving problems that classical computers simply cannot handle. With this machine, we will be able to tackle challenges in areas such as molecular modeling, artificial intelligence, and climate simulation like never before."

Ethan then raised a hand to quiet the buzz of excitement. "But let me be clear: this is not a commercial product, nor is it a tool for dominance in any sector. At present, its primary purpose is research. Our immediate focus will be in fields that can directly impact lives—medicine, renewable energy, and material science."

At this, Lois Lane, a seasoned reporter from The Daily Planet, raised her hand. Ethan nodded, recognizing her instantly.

"Mr. Aether," Lois began, her tone sharp but respectful, "with a breakthrough of this magnitude, there are concerns about the potential for monopolization. Could this technology grant Aether Industries and LexCorp an unfair advantage, potentially leading to internet supremacy and control over global networks?"

Ethan smiled, expecting such a question. "Thank you, Ms. Lane. Let me assure you, this technology is not being used to corner any market. Our focus is entirely on advancing humanity's understanding and capabilities. To that end, we've also developed a robust quantum encryption protocol that will be implemented across networks to safeguard against cyberthreats and maintain the integrity of global communication systems."

He paused, meeting the gaze of the audience. "The encryption system we've created will be shared through collaborations with governments and private entities worldwide. It is a shield for the digital age, not a sword. Furthermore, this quantum computer remains under strict security and will not be commercially available for the foreseeable future."

Lois pressed further. "And what about Aether Industries' plans moving forward? How do you intend to use this quantum computer?"

Ethan leaned forward slightly, his tone taking on a more personal touch. "We're venturing into the medical industry. Imagine a world where we can model complex proteins in minutes instead of years, or where drug discovery accelerates tenfold, leading to cures for diseases that have plagued humanity for centuries. That's the kind of future we're working toward."

A murmur of approval rippled through the crowd as Ethan stepped back slightly. "Technology should serve humanity, not control it. That is Aether Industries' guiding principle, and it will remain so."

The floor opened for a few more questions, ranging from technical specifics to the ethical considerations of quantum computing. Ethan answered each with precision and a sense of transparency that left even the most skeptical reporters satisfied.

As the press conference concluded, the hall erupted into applause. Ethan took a moment to scan the room, his mind already moving to the next challenge ahead. The Reach threat loomed in his thoughts, but for now, his focus was on delivering hope and progress—a balance he intended to maintain.

________________________________________

After the press conference, Ethan retreated to his office to review the day's success when his assistant entered, holding a small tablet. "Mr. Aether, General Sam Lane has requested a private meeting with you. He says it's urgent."

Ethan leaned back in his chair, pondering for a moment. He was familiar with General Lane by reputation—a no-nonsense, highly strategic military leader and father to The Daily Planet's Lois Lane. "Set it up," he said. "Where does he want to meet?"

"He's already on his way here," his assistant replied.

Ethan nodded, standing and straightening his suit. "Escort him to the conference room when he arrives."

Fifteen minutes later, General Lane was seated in the sleek, high-tech conference room of Aether Industries. He was dressed in full military uniform, his medals glinting under the room's soft lights. Ethan entered, extending a hand. "General Lane, it's an honor."

Lane stood and shook his hand firmly, his steely gaze scrutinizing the younger man. "Mr. Aether, I appreciate you making the time. I'll get straight to the point—I'm here about your energy weapon project."

Ethan raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Ah, I see. What about it?"

General Lane placed a file on the table and slid it toward Ethan. "The military has been monitoring your work, particularly the advancements you've made in energy manipulation and weapon systems. The Pentagon believes these breakthroughs could be pivotal in ensuring national security, especially given recent extraterrestrial threats."

Ethan opened the file and skimmed through it. It contained detailed analyses of his prototypes, alongside reports on alien incursions and their devastating impact. "Interesting," he said, closing the file and looking up. "So, what exactly is the military proposing?"

Lane leaned forward, his voice low but firm. "We want to collaborate. The military will provide funding, resources, and logistical support to expedite your research. In exchange, we'll have access to the weapon systems you develop. Of course, there's room for negotiation on specifics, but the end goal is to ensure we're equipped to handle threats—alien or otherwise."

Ethan considered this for a moment. "While I see the value in collaboration, General, you must understand that my company operates under strict principles. Aether Industries does not build weapons for conquest or oppression. If we work together, every aspect of this project must align with the greater good—not just military interests."

Lane nodded, unsurprised. "Fair enough. But let me be clear—this is about defense, not aggression. The military isn't blind to the challenges we're facing. From the Reach to rogue meta-humans, we're in uncharted territory. We need every advantage we can get."

Ethan leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "If we proceed, I'll need assurances. First, I want access to a share of the military's classified research—particularly anything related to extraterrestrial technology. Second, Aether Industries retains intellectual control over any innovations derived from this partnership. And third, all applications of these weapons must be transparent to my team."

General Lane studied Ethan for a long moment, then nodded slowly. "You drive a hard bargain, Mr. Aether. But I think we can come to terms. The military will share classified research as it pertains to your work, and I'll personally ensure transparency. As for intellectual control, we'll need legal teams to hash out the specifics, but I think we can find common ground."

Ethan extended a hand. "Then we have an agreement."

Lane shook it firmly. "We do. I'll have my people coordinate with yours to get things moving."

As Lane stood to leave, he added, "And one more thing—keep up the good work, Aether. The world's changing faster than we can keep up, and people like you are the reason we might just survive."

Ethan smiled faintly. "That's the idea, General."

As the general left, Ethan sat alone in the conference room, tapping his fingers on the table. He knew the partnership with the military was a double-edged sword. While it provided unparalleled access to resources and intelligence, it also meant navigating the complexities of governmental oversight and political agendas.

He activated his commlink. "Helios, begin compiling all relevant data on current energy weapon prototypes. Also, prepare a summary of potential military applications that align with our ethical guidelines."

"Understood, sir," Helios replied. "Shall I also cross-reference the military's classified technology with our existing projects?"

"Exactly," Ethan said. "I want to hit the ground running."

He stood, staring out the large window overlooking the city. The partnership with General Lane was just another piece of the puzzle, a step toward fortifying Earth against threats both seen and unseen.