01
Although I have no memories from before I transmigrated, my System tells me:
I've transmigrated.
My current body seems to be a clone, and there's even a Lantern System in my head, chattering nonstop.
[...I'm not a system. Never mind.]
My System tells me the best way to survive in this world of life and death, the Marvel universe, is to become a supporting character and work my way into the main story.
I ask, puzzled, "Why not become a major character, or even an A-lister?"
[Because you're weak.]
The System says that being a supporting character is the highest level someone like me can reach. Once I make it to the supporting cast, I'll be part of every major event, and even reboots won't forget me. If I play my cards right, I might even get my own solo series.
[Besides, I'll help you.]
I ask eagerly, "What can you help me with? Can you change my backstory? Maybe make my clone body that of a major superhero, then have me adopted..." For some reason, I feel like this plan has a high chance of working.
[You're too late. There's no room left. The major superhero families already have everything: Asians, Black people, LGBTQ+ characters, and so on.]
I'm disappointed. "Okay, then what can you do? Give me an omnipotent superpower?"
[No. I fixed three anchor points for you. Even higher-dimensional editors can't change them.]
[Your gender, nationality, and sexual orientation.]
Me: "...Well, thanks for that."
02
The System says it's picked a popular comic series for my debut. If I do well and become memorable to readers in the real world, maybe I can join the main universe next time. So it advises me to stick close to those top-tier heroes and get my face known.
I declare confidently, "Don't worry, I get it. Adjust my age and I'll be great at playing the victim!" This sort of scheme is old hat to me. Now all I have to do is figure out which popular hero to target, so I ask, "Which popular comic is it?"
[Injustice.] After hearing me out, the System calmly drops me into the story. [I've prepared a starter pack for you. You have 300,000 in your account.]
Me: "..."
03
Right now, I'm just some nobody and can't change the plot. I'm weak and useless, so if I throw myself into the front lines, I'll definitely be the first to die.
Luckily, I suddenly come up with a brilliant idea. In the comics the System gave me, the resistance doesn't have any kryptonite later on, but the story hasn't started yet. If I can secretly stash some now and hand it over when the time comes, won't that get me a role in the story?
[Do you happen to know where to find kryptonite?]
Of course I don't.
So I spend 300,000 to hire a formidable mercenary to carry out my plan.
Deadshot: "You want me to break into Luthor's lab alone and steal kryptonite?" He looks at me like I'm an idiot, then turns and walks away without hesitation.
Me: "..." Don't go, man! Thirty thousand dollars is all I can afford to hire you with!
-
Notes
1. First-person narration. The protagonist occasionally makes guest appearances in other worlds, like a crossover comic.
2. See my Green Lantern short story in my column for the prequel. It's fine if you haven't read it.
3. A lighthearted, snarky story featuring some less well-known characters.
Theme: Work hard and make your own life
