I've been bad with my feedback on this tale, but I really like it. I found Lex' manipulation of his "brother" convincing and reasonable. I also found his decision to utterly control Kal/Clark to the point of creating an unstoppable, undetectable assassin believable.
The only thing I have difficulty in swallowing is that Clark, despite his obvious desire to be a good man, can actually become a productive member of society - or a superhero. Although, if someone had given me a quick summary of the story so far and told me I'd like it a lot, I probably would have disagreed.
I know that this Clark had few choices in his life and was controlled from the time he could talk. I also know that he killed Lois' family, albeit under orders from Luthor. But at this point, I don't see how he can forgive himself, much less get full forgiveness from Bruce or Lois.
But I do like it, from start through this chapter. There's obviously a reckoning with Lex coming, and I have to believe that Bruce, Alfred, and especially Lois will all be on Clark's side. I have no doubt that Batman can take Nigel St. John in a fight, and I'd bet Lois could take the green K from Luthor and free up Clark to do whatever he thinks he needs to do.
I also believe that you'll bring us to a point where we see Clark forgiven and trusted. Will Lois be able to love him? If a woman had killed members of my family, I would find it exceptionally difficult to love her, irrespective of the circumstances. My first inclination would be to put a couple of bullets in her brain. (I don't know that I'd actually do it, but....) I'm pretty sure that my response shows a shortcoming in me, but I don't know how else to react.
Anyway, we'll see what happens. And I just bet it'll be a real corker. Great job!
