thisavrou | video; locked

[ private to: Ivan, (Solid) Snake, Bruce, Miles, Gregor, Elizabeth, and Tony ]

So, about my secret identity. [ A small quirk of his lips - it's still odd to say it, but still, he should have done this months ago. ]

I know that I've already spoken to most of you about this, but not in a whole lot of detail... the short of it is, I really need you to keep what you know about me to yourself, for your own safety. I thought it wouldn't be as much of an issue here, but there are some things I didn't take into account.

[ Namely, his family showing up, and the fact that Superman is a lot more popular than he imagined. It was one thing, when the worst he had to worry about was maybe the Ingress pulling Faora out of the phantom zone, but that's just in his corner of the universe. Suddenly there are a lot of people who might have a bone to pick with him, and anyone around him.

But mainly, there are things that only Superman can deal with. He needs his own space to maneuver just as much as Clark needs the space to be, well, Clark. ]

I've got a second ID on the network now, under Superman. If I'm out in that suit, I'd prefer if you called me that, or Kal, instead of Clark. [ He rubs the side of his neck. Theoretically, asking people to call him Superman is a thing he'll eventually get used to. ] Mostly it's there if anyone needs to contact me in case of an emergency, or if there's anyone you know who might need my help.

If anyone asks, there's nothing special about Clark Kent. I'm sure there are some questions, and I'll answer them, but suffice to say, the less people know about what I really am for now, the better.

Oh, and if anyone else shows up and mentions Superman or the Justice League, I'd appreciate a heads-up. Thanks.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Of course. [Simple as that.] What do you prefer to be called in private, Clark or Kal? I somehow doubt you want to be called 'Superman' all the time, though I will if you ask.

[ Simplicity is something he can definitely appreciate - but of course Gregor would understand. Since Miles had asked the same thing, he's given it some thought, and this time he has an answer. ]

I'd really prefer if you didn't. [ He smiles. ] They're both my name but - Kal, I suppose.

All right then, Kal. [Gregor smiles slightly, tilting his head--curious, but not pressing.]

I'd be interested in hearing more about whatever situation you have back home that's prompted this split. Or just more about you in general. [He turns a palm out in view of the vid pickup, an offering gesture.] I'd be happy to trade again, if you liked. No urgent questions, though, it's just my own curiosity.

It's my kryptonian name. [ It seems fair to volunteer that much. ] That crest on my suit is my family name: El.

[ The rest of it is a longer story, but Clark props his chin up on the heel of his palm and returns Gregor's expression with an easy, unrestrained smile of his own. For once he doesn't feel quite so apprehensive about the idea of talking about all of this. He's not particularly interested in putting his strangeness on display, but with Gregor it's different. He thinks maybe they'll find more common ground. ]

We could have that drink, if you're up for it.

Oh, I see. [Gregor sounds enlightened, warmed by the smile spreading over Clark--over Kal's face.] I'd like that very much, if you have time. I'm assuming some kind of minor crisis prompted this sudden tightening of security.

Actually, it's good news. [ His smile brightens further. ] I didn't think it was possible but... Some of my family arrived recently. [ He inclines his head. ] Come on, we'll talk at the bar.

[ Clark will be behind the bar, leaning casually against it whenever Gregor arrives. Most people have taken their leave for Ceta, so the place is empty. He figures Miles and company won't mind if he helps himself, as long as he makes the proper notes in the inventory. ] I don't suppose looking after an empire gives you any insight into looking after teenagers?

[Gregor makes his way over to Kal when he finds him at the bar and slides into a seat across from him, his mouth tilting wryly.]

I'm so glad, Kal. I spent most of my childhood trying to keep up with Miles and Ivan, but considering I just got decked twice by a nine-year-old last month [his hand steals up and runs delicately over his jaw, his expression extremely dry] I do not believe I am particularly qualified to give advice on this particular subject.

I am, too, all things considered. At least when they're fighting in the pit they're not likely to blow a hole in the ship.

[ This is the bright side, he's just going to have to accept that. ]

What can I get you? [ He indicates the alcohol arrayed behind him with a roll of his shoulder. ] I didn't realize you'd... taken on an aggressive young ward..? [ Clark raises his eyebrows. Tell him how you got punched in the face by a baby, Gregor. ]

It was Chara, while they were still in the hold the first time.

[Gregor's voice is bone dry.]

I'm not sure exactly how old they are, but that doesn't temper my embarrassment much.

[ He pours Gregor a drink, and one for himself. ]

Yeah, I can... Actually I can't imagine that. How'd they even manage? And more importantly - why?

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EXTRA PRIVATE

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i tried to make this sound less like flirting and i didn't succeed

AND THEN I HAD THIS TAG COMPLETED IN MY INBOX FOR A MILLION YEARS AND LOST IT

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