Months had passed since the events of Christmas, and the next challenge loomed: graduation. Michael Silver had spent the last five years not only surviving but mastering every challenge life had thrown at him.
Quentin and Dinah had supported him every step of the way, making sure he remained a model student and a positive influence on their daughters. Quentin sometimes felt a pang of bittersweet sorrow. At nearly fifteen, Michael would soon leave for college—but he also recognized the magnitude of what this boy had achieved.
Michael's schedule was relentless. In addition to completing his regular studies, he had independently reviewed and mastered all the curricula of the last five years. His plan was clear: graduate at the top of his class and secure the Queen Consolidated scholarship. That scholarship would give him the capital to fund his future ventures—his inventions, his AI, and even his long-term research projects.
Two days before the graduation exams, at the family dinner, Quentin looked at him with a mixture of curiosity and concern:"You want to study biochemistry and engineering at one of the best colleges in the world. Don't you think you're taking on too much?"
Michael, calm and confident, replied:"Don't worry. I'm not studying these fields without purpose. I believe the future lies in them, and I want to contribute as much as I can to humanity."
Quentin nodded, impressed. Sarah, meanwhile, declared proudly:"I'll join the police academy, just like Daddy!"
Quentin rolled his eyes, while Dinah laughed:"If you want to succeed at the police academy, first you need your father's approval."
Quentin immediately interjected:"Absolutely not! She can visit the precinct, but that's it!"
The family laughed, and Michael smiled quietly, thinking about the path ahead.
Graduation Exams
The day of the exams arrived. Word had spread of Michael Silver's brilliance. Before entering the auditorium, he saw his friends waiting outside: Oliver, Laurel, Tommy, Carter, and others.
They wished him luck, and Carter, with a hint of jealousy, handed him a gift:"I already know you'll take first place, but I wanted you to have this."
Michael, slightly surprised, almost refused."Don't worry, you'll like it. Tickets for the Giants—figured you'd enjoy them."
He smiled politely, thanked Carter, and prepared himself mentally. A proctor called him:"Michael Silver, ten minutes until the exam begins. Please enter."
Michael grinned:"Ten minutes? Perfect—I hate waiting anyway."
Even the proctor and Carter exchanged glances—this boy was calm, collected, and effortlessly confident.
Graduation Results
A week later, the rankings were published:
USA TOP 100 HIGHSCHOOL GRADUATES
1. Michael Silver (Starling City)
2. Jonathan Weehler (Central City)
3. Leonard Smith (Gotham City)
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Michael, composed on the surface, felt a surge of satisfaction inside. Laurel and Dinah immediately called him to confirm, excited beyond belief.
When he returned home, the family had prepared a surprise celebration. Quentin even baked a cake:"Congratulations, my boy. I'm proud of you."
Michael felt a warmth he had never known in his early childhood. He turned to Quentin and Dinah: "I'm glad I have a family like you. There's nothing else I could wish for. When you brought me here, I was empty—someone unwilling to accept love. But you showed me what family truly is."
He then turned to Laurel and Sarah, who were crying: "Don't worry. During semester breaks, I'll visit. I'll always be there for you."
The Lance family spent the rest of the day celebrating. Michael quietly packed, mentally preparing for the next phase: Harvard.
Preparing for Harvard
Four days later, Michael delivered a short speech at the graduation ceremony and was interviewed by local media. A photo captured him receiving the $1 million scholarship check from Robert Queen. Headlines screamed:
"15-Year-Old Michael Silver: Best High School Graduate in the USA!"
Michael blushed slightly, but Quentin had already bought ten copies of the newspaper.
Robert Queen offered advice:"After college, you can join Queen Consolidated if you want."
Michael nodded politely:"Thank you, but it's too early to make that decision."
Leaving for Harvard
One month later, Michael had completed all preparations. He said his goodbyes to friends and family. He boarded a plane to Boston. His scholarship guaranteed admission to top colleges, but he had plans to accelerate his studies—completing four years in as little as 2.5 years.
He thought about finances: tuition was $22,500. He had rented a house with a garage: $3,000 rent, $9,000 deposit. He needed the scholarship not only for education but to fund his first projects.
Once settled at Harvard, Michael planned to continue:
Artificial intelligence development – finally finishing projects postponed for years.
Super-soldier serum research – inspired by Marvel.
Combat and magic mastery – DC Universe techniques.
Haki development – inspired by One Piece.
Breathing techniques – inspired by Demon Slayer, to improve physical performance.
He meticulously planned seven years to accomplish all of this, setting the stage for what he called the main story of his life.
The Plane Ride
As the plane ascended, Michael put on headphones, listening to music and focusing. He thought:"Harvard is only the first step. I have to become independent, complete my projects, and master combat, science, and strategy. I've spent my life preparing for this. Nothing will stop me now."
Volume 1 End Prologue