Chapter 3: First Dates and First Abilities – The Spark Ignites
[SYSTEM MESSAGE: RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT: KARA DANVERS. EMOTION STATUS: GROWING AFFECTION. SKILL ACQUISITION IMMINENT. RECOMMENDED ACTION: MAINTAIN CHARM AND WIT. UTILIZE FUTURE INSIGHT FOR SUBTLE GUIDANCE. PREPARE FOR INITIAL POWER MANIFESTATION. WARNING: AVOID EXCESSIVE SHOWBOATING. IT'S A DATE, NOT A TALENT SHOW. FOCUS ON AUTHENTIC CONNECTION.]
Their first dinner date was, by Adam's estimation, a masterclass in controlled charisma and subtle manipulation – manipulative in the best possible way, of course. He'd chosen a hidden gem of a restaurant, tucked away on a quiet side street in downtown National City. It was intimate, with soft lighting and an atmosphere conducive to deep conversation, far from the prying eyes of the public or the lurking threats of National City. He wore a perfectly tailored dark suit, exuding an air of understated elegance that complemented Kara's effortlessly stylish, yet casual, dress.
He spent the evening being the most engaging version of himself. He asked Kara probing, yet respectful, questions about her life, her dreams, and her passions, truly listening to her answers. He learned about her aspirations at CatCo, her desire to make a real difference in the world, and the quiet frustrations she sometimes felt. He shared amusing anecdotes from his fabricated "travels," painting himself as a cultured, well-traveled individual with a dry wit and a keen observational eye. He subtly nudged conversations towards topics where his Future Insight could shine without seeming like outright omniscience. For instance, he might "randomly" predict a surprising surge in popularity for a specific, obscure author, or comment on a nuanced geopolitical development that would make headlines the following week. Kara found his insights uncanny, almost prescient, but attributed it to his vast experience and intelligence.
Kara, in turn, found herself utterly captivated. Adam wasn't like anyone she'd ever dated. He was sharp, undeniably handsome, and incredibly funny, but beneath the wit and charm, she sensed a genuine kindness, a thoughtfulness that resonated deeply with her own empathetic nature. He made her laugh effortlessly, and his gaze was always attentive, making her feel truly seen and understood. She found herself opening up, sharing small details about her day-to-day struggles and triumphs, the ordinary moments that made up her life outside of her superheroics. The fact that he seemed to inherently understand her without her having to explain everything was a comforting novelty.
As the evening progressed, their conversation flowed effortlessly from lighthearted banter about National City city life to surprisingly profound discussions about purpose and meaning. Adam made sure to maintain a delicate balance, always leaving her wanting more, hinting at deeper layers to his seemingly enigmatic past. He watched her, keenly aware of the Copy System humming faintly within him, waiting for the right moment.
During a lull, as Kara was describing a particularly challenging editorial decision she'd faced at CatCo, she paused, her eyes meeting his across the table. A genuine, warm smile spread across her face. "You know, Adam," she said softly, her voice filled with a surprising sincerity, "you're… really easy to talk to. And you make me laugh. A lot. I haven't laughed this much, truly, genuinely laughed, in what feels like ages."
At her words, Adam felt it. A distinct, powerful surge. It wasn't just the faint tingle from their first encounter; this was a resonant hum, a deep thrum that vibrated through his entire being. He saw, faintly, an almost imperceptible aura of warmth and brightness surrounding Kara – a manifestation of the Copy System locking onto its trigger. This was the "love/affection" signal, strong and undeniable. He held her gaze, allowing a small, gentle smile to form on his lips.
[SYSTEM ALERT: SKILL COPY INITIATED. SOURCE: KARA DANVERS. EMOTION: ADMIRATION/AFFECTION. SKILL ACQUIRED: ENHANCED STRENGTH (10% PROFICIENCY). INITIALIZING ADAPTATION PROTOCOL. EXPECT SUBTLE PHYSICAL CHANGES AND AN INCREASED SENSE OF POWER. CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR FIRST SKILL ACQUISITION.]
A jolt, like a sudden surge of electricity, coursed through Adam. It wasn't painful, but intensely invigorating. He felt a profound shift within his muscles, a subtle but definite hardening, a sensation of latent power coiling beneath his skin. He suppressed a triumphant grin, maintaining his suave demeanor. Enhanced Strength. From Kara Danvers. Ten percent proficiency. This was an incredible start. It felt like receiving the first piece of an ultimate power set.
"Well, Kara," he said, leaning forward slightly, his voice a low rumble, filled with a warmth that was entirely genuine. "I aim to please. And if making you laugh is part of that, then I consider my mission a success. Besides, your laughter is quite infectious." He chuckled softly. "And speaking of pleasing, how about we skip the pretentious desserts here and grab some ice cream from that little place on 5th Street? The one that has that incredible salted caramel flavor that's almost criminally good?" He added the last part, knowing from his Future Insight that this obscure ice cream shop was about to explode in popularity.
Kara's eyes widened slightly, her smile transforming into one of genuine delight. "They do! How did you know about that place? It's a hidden gem!"
"Just a hunch," he said, winking conspiratorially. "A very delicious hunch, I might add."
As they rose from the table, Adam felt the subtle surge of power in his limbs, a newfound lightness and efficiency in his movements. It wasn't the planet-shattering strength of Supergirl, but it was far beyond peak human. He had to consciously resist the urge to casually lift their heavy table just to test it out, or perhaps playfully pick up Kara as they walked out. The implications of this power, even at 10%, were immense. He now had the ability to subtly intervene, to push through obstacles, to be more than just a rich guy with foresight.
They walked hand-in-hand through the cool National City night, the city lights a romantic blur around them. The ice cream was, as promised, delicious. Adam felt a deeper connection to Kara, not just romantically, but as the source of his evolving abilities. She was more than just a love interest; she was the catalyst for his transformation into something greater. This initial copy wasn't just a power; it was a testament to the growing bond between them. The Copy System hummed with contentment, a silent partner in his grand adventure.