Chapter 48: 48

Joseph came home to a package on his desk. Why did Batman insist on this mysterious act? He could've just given it to him in person. Still, Joseph opened the package eagerly. The contents did not disappoint. Inside was exactly what he had asked for—maybe even better. A golden helmet resembling a plumeless Spartan design. Beneath it lay a sleek purple bodysuit, reinforced yet flexible, with golden gloves and matching boots. Batman had even included a golden belt, seamlessly blending into the suit's aesthetic. He stepped in front of the mirror, slipping into the suit. The fabric stretched comfortably, fitting him like a second skin. In hindsight, he almost looked like a capeless, purple Doctor Fate. Not that anyone would mistake him for the missing Lord of Order. Doctor Fate had vanished years ago, and besides, Joseph's powers were rooted in energy—not magic. The material was surprisingly durable, yet breathable. He clenched his fists, testing his range of motion. Perfect. Batman had delivered. Joseph made a mental note to thank him the next time they met. This suit had arrived just in time—because tomorrow, he would be training with Captain Atom. ** The next day, after handling his business affairs, Joseph took off, flying at high speed to the remote training ground where he had last met Captain Atom. A stretch of barren land greeted him, the terrain a mix of rocky formations and desert plains, far from any civilian population. Captain Atom was already there, arms folded as he watched Joseph descend. The older hero's silver skin gleamed under the sunlight, his red emblem reflecting a stark contrast. "You're on time," Captain Atom said approvingly. "Good. We've got a lot to cover today." Joseph landed smoothly, rolling his shoulders. "So, you're finally going to teach me how to control Nova Force?" Captain Atom nodded. "Exactly. You generate an immense amount of energy, but you haven't been channeling it properly. Right now, it's like trying to push a tidal wave through a garden hose. That's why your abilities fluctuate so much." Joseph exhaled. He had been waiting for this. "Let's get started." Captain Atom raised a hand, and in an instant, energy flared around him, glowing with an almost liquid intensity. "First, you need to feel the force inside you. You're already tapping into it on instinct, but you need control." Joseph closed his eyes, focusing inward. He could feel it—the ever-present energy coursing through his cells, a boundless reservoir waiting to be harnessed. Until now, he had relied on his enhanced strength, speed, and durability. But there was more beneath the surface. Captain Atom observed him carefully. "Try drawing it out slowly. Not all at once." Joseph inhaled, pulling at the energy inside him, willing it to manifest. At first, there was nothing—then, a flicker. A soft yellow glow radiated from his hands. Captain Atom nodded. "Good. Now maintain it." Joseph gritted his teeth, sweat forming on his brow as he struggled to hold the energy steady. It wanted to explode outward, wild and untamed. His fingers trembled. "Relax," Captain Atom instructed. "Don't force it. Guide it." Joseph exhaled sharply, adjusting his mindset. Rather than trying to suppress the energy, he envisioned it flowing naturally, like water in a stream. The tremors ceased, the glow intensifying. Captain Atom smirked. "Now, let's test it. Fire a controlled burst." Joseph shifted his stance, aiming at a nearby boulder. He pushed forward with his palm— A blinding pulse of energy erupted from his hand, obliterating the rock into dust. Joseph staggered back, blinking. "Okay. That was... strong." Captain Atom chuckled. "Not bad for a first attempt. But you need precision. Let's refine it." For the next few hours, they worked through a series of drills. Captain Atom guided Joseph through energy projection, teaching him how to regulate the output and direct it into concussive blasts rather than uncontrolled explosions. It was grueling work. Joseph's muscles ached, his suit damp with sweat, but each attempt brought improvement. By the end of the session, he was no longer just able to absorb energy—he was releasing it. Captain Atom stepped back, watching Joseph generate a steady beam from his fingertips. "You're learning fast." Joseph smirked, extinguishing the beam. "What can I say? I'm a quick study." Captain Atom nodded. "We'll continue this next time. You've taken the first step, but there's more to learn." Joseph flexed his fingers, feeling the lingering hum of power beneath his skin. He could barely wait for the next session. For the first time, he truly felt in control. And this was just the beginning.