Start of the Kryptonian Galaxy
Chapter Four — The Newbie Package
The hum of the System filled Dru-Zod's chamber as he stood before the glowing interface. Atlantis—the legendary city-ship—was ready. The Stargate network pulsed faintly in the corner, awaiting his command. Yet Dru knew that raw power alone would not secure success. He needed tools, advantages, and knowledge beyond even the best-trained Kryptonian minds.
The System flickered again.
"Newbie Package available, Host. Accept rewards to proceed."
Dru folded his arms, considering the words. Newbie Package. The term sounded absurd, almost juvenile, but he knew better. In Earth games, "newbie rewards" often meant items that were deceptively powerful—gifts capable of giving the player a disproportionate edge. Here, it was no different.
"Yes," he said firmly. "I accept."
The System responded with a bright flash, and a holographic inventory materialized in front of him. It displayed a list of items, each glowing with faint, alien energy.
NEWBIE PACKAGE REWARDS:
• Modified City-Ship Atlantis – Now fully compatible with Kryptonian physiology and capable of concealed interstellar deployment.
• One Gate-Ship (Puddle Jumper) – Equipped for long-range intergalactic jumps, emergency extractions, and stealth operations.
• Kryptonian DNA Integration Module – Allows seamless interaction with all Kryptonian systems, including weaponry and command interfaces.
• Resource Vault – Preloaded with essential materials, energy cores, and supplies for up to 50,000 individuals.
• Military Command Interface – Direct integration with local Kryptonian forces for rapid mobilization.
• Stargate Network Control – Full authority over gate activation, coordinates, and interplanetary routing.
Dru's grin widened. This… this was beyond anything he could have hoped for.
He reached out and touched the holographic icon for Atlantis. The city-ship shimmered, projecting its intricate architecture into the room. He could see the towers, the energy conduits, the docking bays, and the massive shields that could repel almost any assault.
"Alright," Dru muttered. "Let's see what you can really do."
He activated a simulation mode. The city-ship slowly rose into the air above Krypton's ocean, its energy fields glowing softly. Drones and defense systems engaged in silent drills, moving like ghosts through the sky. The level of sophistication left him momentarily breathless. Even a decade before Krypton's destruction, this technology far surpassed anything the planet's leaders could comprehend.
"Not bad," he said, nodding. "Not bad at all."
The System spoke again, calm and precise.
"Host, integration of the DNA module is recommended. This will enhance your interface efficiency and allow complete control over all systems."
Dru hesitated. A part of him was wary of relying too much on the System, but he quickly dismissed the doubt. He had no choice.
"Do it."
Immediately, a surge of energy coursed through his body. His senses sharpened. He could feel Atlantis, the Stargate, even the surrounding city of Kandor in intricate detail. Every structural panel, every energy conduit, every troop and civilian within the city—he could sense them as if they were extensions of his own body.
A flood of data appeared in his mind: population statistics, security patterns, patrol schedules, energy consumption rates, and potential evacuation routes.
Dru exhaled slowly. He had become something more than a Kryptonian noble. He was now a living command node, capable of controlling vast networks of people and machines.
"And now…" he said, pacing in the chamber, "we start moving."
He activated the Stargate interface. The blue event horizon shimmered into existence, reflecting the silver sky of Krypton. Coordinates appeared automatically—exit points calculated to avoid detection, with maximum efficiency for population transfers.
Dru studied the list of potential departure cities, military installations, and hidden bases. He would begin with Kandor, of course—the city that pulsed at the heart of Krypton's power. From there, he could expand operations, moving loyal soldiers and civilians to Atlantis, and then begin stealthily relocating other settlements.
He smirked at the thought of House El. Their arrogance would be their undoing. They would remain behind, blind to the evacuation, powerless to interfere.
A soft chime echoed in his mind.
"Host, your personal army roster is ready. Recommend recruitment and training protocol."
Dru crossed his arms. Personal army… yes. That would be the backbone of his new civilization. Soldiers trained under his direct command, loyal only to him, capable of enforcing order on Atlantis and beyond.
"Activate recruitment," he commanded.
Immediately, a list of candidates appeared—engineers, pilots, medics, and combat specialists. All from House Zod's extended territories, all loyal and capable. The System even highlighted their psychological profiles, ensuring compatibility with his leadership style.
Dru's lips curved into a determined smile.
"Perfect. Let's get to work. Atlantis is our first priority, but this is only the beginning. In ten years, we will leave Krypton behind—but not empty-handed. We will bring strength. We will bring knowledge. And most importantly, we will bring Krypton's legacy into the stars."
As the System hummed quietly, projecting holographic schematics and resource maps across the room, Dru-Zod took a deep breath.
"Time to turn a new page," he whispered. "For me… and for all Kryptonians who survive."