EarthIt was five o’clock on Friday the fifteenth, quitting time for the Daily Planet’s daytime newsroom staff. Ace investigative reporter Lois Lane had finished writing her latest story about the perils of being a toll taker on Gray Narrows Bridge which spans Hobb’s Bay. A quiet sigh escaped her lips as lackluster fingers eased off the keyboard. She stared longingly at the sparkling one-carat diamond solitaire engagement ring, sighed again and then shut down the computer. She looked at the calendar next to Clark’s picture and was reminded of that evening’s appointment.
In a few moments, the desk items were placed into drawers and locked up. She poured the morning coffee which had grown cold into the pathetic planet that sat at the edge of the desk and then, threw the strap of the ever-present, slightly battered, caramel-colored briefcase over one slender shoulder in preparation to leave for the evening. She stood, looking down at herself as she did. Gone were the colorful pantsuits and dresses that showed off her figure. Lately Mad Dog Lane’s wardrobe and personality had become as lifeless and drab as her writing. Today’s simple gray blouse with matching baggy gabardine pants confirmed her general lassitude.
Diane walked over to her, all smiles, ready for the weekend. “Do you want to hang out with Cat, Janet, and me? We’re going to the Pen and Pencil to play a round of darts and then grab some dinner. It’ll be fun!”
“No,” Lois muttered with a downcast expression. “Thanks for the invitation, but I have an errand I promised to do for the Kents. Maybe some other time.”
With an understanding nod, Diane moved out of Lois’ path and back to her own desk. It was important for Lois to have more time to heal. Only a month had passed since her fiancé had been taken by that intergalactic kidnapper. No doubt she was taking care of something for Clark in his… absence. There would be other days for them to get together.
Jimmy came up to her, wearing a lightweight jacket and camera around his neck, obviously getting ready to go on some assignment. “Hey Lois, No Knees Nolan called, he wants to talk about a lead on a possible insurance scam. Here’s the phone number where he can be reached.”
The young man tried to hand the slip of paper to her, but she waved it away. “Oh, Jimmy! He was Clark’s source, not mine. Let somebody else call him. Besides, I have somewhere important to be tonight.”
“Nolan said that it’s either you or a second-rate hack at The Metropolis Star. Somehow, I don’t think Perry’s gonna like to hear that.” Jimmy said, holding the paper out to her like it was the Kerth award itself. He really hated to see Lois give up what might be a great tip. As an afterthought, he asked. “Where are you going? On a stakeout? Alone?”
Instead of answering his question, Lois rolled her eyes, snapped up the paper and stuffed it into her pants pocket. This was the most energy she had displayed in days. “No, I have an errand and then an appointment. Jimmy, the Kents and I plan on calling each other on the anniversary of Clark’s … departure. I have a life you know.” She said with a touch of Mad Dog Lane.
A smile cracked Jimmy’s face. Lois was giving him grief! “High time! Sorry, it’s not a stakeout, ‘cause I would be happy to tag along and maybe get some great pictures!”
“Not this time Jim, but thanks anyway.” She walked over to the managing editor’s office, stuck her head in, and said quietly, “Perry, I’m going to check on one of Clark’s old sources. There... there might be a story of interest. After that, I’m going to contact Jonathan and Martha.”
Perry raised his hand and said with a weary smile, “Go on ahead darlin’. Hope that source pans out.” He watched her turn away, cross the room, and climb the ramp without that trademark Lane quick step. She pressed the elevator’s button, seemingly waiting patiently for it to arrive.
Drab. Quiet. Gentle. Patient, Perry mused. Once upon a time, those words would never be used to describe Lois Lane, but now sadly, they were the only words.
But a month ago, before that lowlife Kryptonian agent of Nor’s showed up and snatched Clark Kent out of the Bullpen and out their lives. Perry remembered comforting her as she wept onto the sleeve of his suit coat, her heart breaking. It pained him deeply to see Lois this way, missing her partner and fiancé while he fought battles on a planet far from Earth. Frequently in the past month, Perry wanted to reveal that he knew the truth about Clark’s interstellar heritage. That way, Lois could talk to him rather than just the Kents. Maybe with that knowledge he could break her out of the impenetrably deep miasma that seemed to surround her. Yet, for some reason the right time for such a conversation never presented itself.
He was also concerned that if she continued behaving this way, if her article productivity did not improve, Franklin Stern might start insisting that she be removed from the City Desk or even terminated. Shaking his head, he reconsidered the thought, Franklin was tough but fair. He knew it had only been a month since Clark’s departure. Lois was one of the great ones. She would shake herself out of this funk. She just needed the right story. Great Shades of Elvis! Nor’s creature hadn’t taken one top investigative reporter when he flew Clark out of the newsroom. He had taken two.
The Daily Planet’s managing editor returned to editing a story by a free-lancer, Sarah Silverman. She had an engaging style and had written a catchy article about the trend to shop via computer on something called the Internet Superhighway. In many ways, she reminded him of Lois when she’d first started at the Daily Planet. Maybe lightning would strike twice?
***
It was early evening and the harsh metallic scratching sound of a key being inserted into a lock echoed piercingly in the quiet hallway of Clark Kent’s apartment building, although calling this structure an apartment building was a tad misleading. In years gone by, it had been a small warehouse, used for storing all manner of paper: writing paper for journals, business cards for the influential executives, and elegant stationery for the most privileged of Metropolis society. Huge crates had been driven underground directly from the docks of nearby Hobb’s Bay. Clark’s residence once held members of the accounting department. It was there in his loft that the payroll office had been stationed, far from inquisitive eyes.
Lois opened the wood and glass door and cautiously stepped into the apartment, a delicate hand stretched out, to flick on the light switch. Keen brown eyes searched the space before her, eager to detect changes ... any sign of life. As she knew it would be, the search was fruitless. All was the same as it was the last time she had been here with Clark. A brief sigh escaped her lips as she touched the handrail that led down the short flight of wide wooden steps into the apartment, which felt forlorn and abandoned without the sunny disposition of its former occupant.
As the light came up in the loft, a tiny, sad smile tugged at Lois’ lips as she remembered that little fact of the payroll office. Clark had mentioned researching the building, which had been constructed shortly after the Civil War. Architectural History was a small passion of his and he delighted in digging up quirky little-known historic facts like this to share with her. When they first met, she had found that habit annoying. But as time went on, she discovered that listening to those facts and the stories behind them had helped the time more quickly while on a tedious stakeout or seeking materials for their articles.
Nowadays story research, like this once cozy apartment, was dull and strangely unfulfilling. It felt as if writing newspaper articles was now simply a job, not the driving force in her life. Oh, she hadn’t given up on being a reporter; it was just that without Clark, working at the Daily Planet seemed lackluster somehow. Yet despite having lost that creative fire, she’d still produced at least one reasonably decent story a week since Clark had gone.
Now Lois’ heart pounded with anticipation as she awaited the first arrival of the New Kryptonian courier Counselor Trey had promised to send.
Ching’s suggestion to preserve Clark’s secret identity by having him ‘kidnapped’ in front of the Daily Planet’s newsroom staff by Trey had been accomplished flawlessly. It was in the middle of the regular morning staff meeting. Nor’s ‘agent’ dressed in black, had flown in through the huge window, startling everyone with his appearance.
He approached and brusquely took Lois by the arm, making it clear to all the intention of taking her prisoner. But Clark, ever the gallant, insisted he go in her place. Playing his role to perfection, Councilman Trey snarled contemptuously that ‘one Terran was as good as another’. He threatened that others would be abducted or killed if Superman did not come to New Krypton and fight on Nor’s side. With as little effort as if picking up a ragdoll, he literally pushed Lois aside, grabbed Clark and flew away.
The newsroom staff had been badly frightened. Pete dropped a heavy, coffee-filled mug on his foot. The liquid had been hot, so hot, in fact, that it had scalded his ankle. Poor gray-haired Elsie in Rewrite was so badly shaken; that she collapsed to the floor in a dead faint. Cat Grant’s normally luminous skin had gone deathly pale under her makeup. Who would have guessed that the obsequious council member could act so well he even managed to frighten Lois?
Lois remembered all the chaos and how shocked she was looking at the empty window where Clark had been just a few seconds earlier. They had all agreed on this ‘kidnapping’ but the reality was so much more terrible than merely planning it out. Clark was gone.
She heard someone speaking gently to her, but the words didn’t register until Perry gathered her in a strong paternal hug and she felt the wet fabric of his jacket, soaked with her tears.
That evening, the Daily Planet ran a special edition extolling Clark Kent’s bravery and cited his many accomplishments as a reporter. That afternoon in the Planet’s newsroom, a subdued Superman gave his final press conference. His farewell speech was compassionate, urging the citizens of his adopted world to work towards a better global society. He also promised to rescue Clark Kent and return the courageous reporter back to his home and family. After saying farewell to a few statesmen and Perry White, he departed, leaving Clark’s bereft parents and fiancée behind.
As the days passed, some speculated that the Superman Foundation would fall on hard times and eventually shut down now that the Man of Steel had departed. But oddly enough, the opposite occurred; many whom he had rescued felt it was their duty to continue helping others in need. Those wealthier members of society, such as millionaire, Willard B. Caldwell, and the mysterious Bruce Wayne of neighboring Gotham, worked with the foundation to create programs for job training that would give a hand up to those determined to carve out a better life for themselves.
Surreptitiously, the foundation began paying the rent on Clark’s apartment. The official reason for those who worked there thought it was so Mr. Kent would have a home to return to after his ordeal on another world. But this kindness came from a far greater motivation.
As per Ching’s plan, following Clark’s departure, on the fifteenth day of every month a New Kryptonian AI probe, no bigger than a greyhound dog, would arrive, bearing a holographic message from the new First Lord to Lois. The vessel was programmed to land on the apartment’s balcony and activate only in her presence, then she would ‘see and hear’ her fiancé. When his message was completed, Lois would compose one of her own. Afterwards the courier would remain on the balcony for one day to absorb solar rays, thereby refueling in order to make the interstellar voyage back to its home base on New Krypton.
In a peculiar way she felt a kinship with generations of women who waited for their sweethearts and husbands to return from long ocean voyages. Those women who waited for their loved ones to return had learned to cultivate perseverance and self-reliance. In their cases, though, those men were still on the Earth. Whereas her fiancée had traveled to a distant star.
Lois made her way into the kitchen and prepared a cup of oolong tea. As the pot began to whistle, memories of evenings past sprang to mind. One in particular surfaced, when an evening of intense research on an important article somehow turned into a passionate make-out session on the couch. The memory brought an impish smile to her lips. Those happier times were precious and would help her to wait patiently for his return.
Light and unusual metallic sounds alerted Lois to movement on the balcony. She put down the cup and hurried through the living room into Clark’s sleeping alcove, where she flung open the French doors and stepped out onto the balcony. There she saw a gleaming metallic device silently setting down on the balcony. It was about three feet in length, with an unknown silver emblem painted on the right side with the familiar Superman crest in dark blue on the left.
Gingerly, she bent down to touch it. But like a great slivery bird, the device silently lifted from the terrace pavement and, as if guided by unseen hands, floated soundlessly past her, through the open doorway into the apartment, until it reached the living room’s center. She marveled at the machine’s agility and stealth. She wondered if she should take a few pictures and share them with Bernie Klein and his wife, the former Nigerian princess Abrihet Sensei.
The Kleins were currently in Paris as guest professors at the Sorbonne. She intended to share all this information with them about the courier and its physical makeup. Perhaps one day it might be useful to earth’s technology.
Not knowing what to expect, Lois cautiously kept her distance from the machine and stepped back, startled, when a harsh green light filled the room. There was an abrupt shimmer of light across the walls, the apartment and its familiar surroundings vanished. She was suddenly standing in what looked like a large chamber It was adorned with eight majestic gold columns, four on each side of her Between each were colorful banners with Kryptonian symbols.
Clark stood in the center of the room on an ornate blue and gold carpet. He was wearing a black jumpsuit with the House of El’s symbol emblazoned in red on his chest and gleaming black boots. He seemed so real and handsome that she almost ran towards him. But she halted the impulse, remembering that both Clark and this regal chamber was merely a holographic image.
Her heart leaped when his mouth twitched into a big-hearted grin. His expression reminded her of sweet promises whispered softly in her ear while they sat on a wooden porch swing the night of his marriage proposal. On that occasion, he had smiled with all the happiness of a man whose heart was brimming over with joy. Jonathan and Martha had chuckled with delight when they cast eyes on her sparkling diamond engagement ring. Minutes later in the cozy kitchen over plates of delicious warm lemon pound cake and homemade vanilla ice cream plans were made for a small wedding in the country. They had all been so excited and happy that night!
For the first time in weeks, the tender rumble of Clark’s voice reached her ears.
Lois, honey, I miss you so much! Hopefully, these courier devices are as good as the technos say and this message reaches you. Please tell my folks everything is okay … I’m …I’m adjusting to life on New Krypton ...” He stopped, looking like he wanted to add something else but deciding against it.
Nor’s opposition forces are numerous, but they are not nearly as well organized as we originally thought. With any luck, I should be home in a few months or at the very latest a year.
He turned, extended his arm as if calling someone who she could not see, then he said, “I want to introduce you to someone. She has been a tremendous help getting me acquainted with New Krypton and its political landscape.” He stepped aside and a tall older woman wearing a dark gray and lavender tunic and pants joined him. On her chest was a symbol that matched the one on the courier. Despite her age, she was in excellent physical shape, at one time this woman had been strikingly beautiful. Her platinum hair was pulled back in a loose chignon, and a circlet of exquisite silver jewelry rested comfortably upon her head. With all her attractive features, it was the cool violet eyes that captured and held Lois’ attention; they took in everything around her. Lois sensed there were very few events that happened which missed her attention.
Over the years, Lois had met royalty visiting Metropolis, occasionally writing puff pieces on them. Not surprisingly, many had demanded deferential treatment simply because they had been born into royalty. However, their arrogant demeanor proved to her that there was nothing ‘regal’ about them. Seeing this woman, though, there was no doubt that Lois was seeing someone of true nobility.
“Lois Joanne Lane, I would like to present to you, my Grandmother, Lady Polara Lo.” Lois was stunned. According to the globe, Clark was the last survivor of his father’s family. She made to speak but then felt rather foolish, remembering this was a recording.
The woman bowed her head as if addressing an equal.
“Greetings Lady Lois, my grandson has told me much about you. It grieves me that we are unlikely to ever meet. I am Lara’s mother. Kal-El told me of the device which described the last hours of his parents’ life. Contrary to the globe’s explanation, some members of the house of El did survive our planet’s destruction, such as Zor-El, Kal-El’s uncle. He could not take the mantle of First Lord because his health simply would not allow for it. He and Alura have a daughter, Kara. Unfortunately, Kryptonian tradition demands that a male must be the ruler of New Krypton.” Here Polara’s mouth twitched in annoyance, as if chafing at a long-standing wound.
I am the maternal head of the house of Lo; as such, it is my responsibility to lead the family and those loyal to us in this conflict alongside my grandson, the head of the house of El. Do not let appearances deceive you; I am a warrior and have been one my entire life, but that is a story for another time. Kal-El, as the head of those who fight for the family of El, will lead that division when we go up against Nor and his minions. We pray this conflict will not be of long duration. In our need for a younger male of the El house we have cruelly disrupted yours and Kal-El’s existence. Grieve me it shall, but my grandson must return to where his heart desires when this conflict comes to an end. We, of New Krypton, owe you a debt which can never be repaid.” Tears spilled down Lois’s face, Clark’s grandmother was very compassionate and obviously understood her pain. Before she could stop herself, Lois said, “Thank you Lady Polara.” The woman in the hologram spoke on:
“My lady, please listen, as per your arrangements with Councilman Trey and Commander Ching, this device shall send messages to you from Kal-El once a moon round or thirty days in the Terran manner of tracking time. In one of our many conversations, Kal-El described a custom, a man and woman writing letters to each other using something called ‘paper and ink’? They are preserved so that in the future, they can be looked back upon and cherished.”
It is a good tradition. One to be respected. Zara and Kal-El are bonded in a marriage contract, but I shall make certain they are not wed, despite anything Trey and the rest of the council has to say. Kal-El would probably wed her, yet defy everything by not consummating the union. I chose not to have him placed in such an untenable position. His heart is truly yours as hers is bound to Ching, even though those two have tried to conceal their attraction to one another.” Polara sighed for a moment and continued. Kal-El is much like his mother in that way. She defied her father and I by insisting upon marrying Jor-El.”
Lois perked up; she had an ally with this fierce, graceful noblewoman. It was a pity she could never repay Polara for standing by them.
“In any event, the projection crystal can be removed from the courier and its recording can be transferred to the Globe by merely placing the two objects side by side. The transfer will only take a few minutes. When it is complete, place the crystal back in the courier and make your own recording. Once the courier has remained in the sun long enough to be re-fueled, it will return to New Krypton.”
“It is time for Kal-El to speak with you and unburden for a time the mantle of leadership. Until I communicate with you again, Lady Lois, farewell.” Polara bowed her head and exited the chamber.
Clark stepped back into view. Speaking with a pride that was almost palpable, he said. “Isn’t my Grandmother fantastic? Our conversations have been extremely beneficial to both of us. So many questions about who I am have been answered. If the circumstances were different, being on New Krypton would be not only enjoyable but educational! I miss so many things about Earth, but the most important … is being with you.” For a time, Clark became silent, running long fingers through wavy, dark hair and when he spoke she could clearly hear the anguish of his voice.
“Grandmother, my Aunt Alura, cousin Kara, Ching, and Zara are all trying to help make my transition from Earth to New Kryptonian life easier, but the simple fact is I was not raised on this world. Everything about this planet and the people who are taming it is foreign and strange. Grandmother has been a tremendous influence. My uncle Zor-El has been teaching me Kryptonian statecraft.”
The very idea of going to war frightens me, Lois. Hurting people is against everything I stand for. But I know that for these people to survive this conflict, they need more than a figurehead; they need a strong leader at the frontlines. I will try to be such a leader, while still holding onto whom I a. Clark said with conviction.
Eyes shining bright with tears of pride, Lois struggled to listen as Clark continued.
“Honey, these messages can keep me tied to you, my parents, and everything I love on Earth. Please talk to Mom and Dad, share with them everything I tell you, and do the same for me, even the little things like if the tractor is working or Maisie’s new recipe for raspberry crisp was a success. I’m worried about my dad’s health. Doc Stewart told him to take it easy. I’ve been flying to Smallville twice a week to take care of the chores he can’t. Mom told me before I left they can get by without my help, but I’m not so sure. If …if they have any trouble can you please be there for them? I have a little money set aside. Right after we became engaged I added your name to all my bank accounts and insurance policies and included you in my will. In all the excitement of the New Kryptonians’ arrival, it completely slipped my mind to tell you about it. Give the money to them if they need it.
Fresh tears began to roll uncontrollably down her cheeks. It was just like Clark to think about everyone else and not himself.
“Also tell me about your life and how everything is going. I know how stubborn you can be about sharing burdens. Please don’t shut yourself off from our friends; Perry, Jimmy, the Kleins and Molly Flynn they love you and want to be there for you.” He gave her a pointed look. “Living just for these brief messages once a month would be a terrible mistake. Jump into a juicy investigation …but be careful! Take someone trustworthy with you as a partner and backup. When an investigation comes up, talk to me about it. I …I need that …”His voice trailed off and then he said,
“It’s time for me to leave, another strategy meeting. After that, Ching wants to do some sparring in the gym and Grandmother is teaching me Kryptonian swordsmanship.” He suddenly grinned.
“Don’t let the white hair fool you. She is lithe and moves much faster than I do. Since no one here has powers, this conflict will be conducted using traditional Kryptonian weapons. I love you so much, Lois. Please take care of yourself.” He managed a warm, if reluctant smile. Then his image slowly faded, the council chamber evaporating into Clark’s apartment, and the hologram ended.
She yelled, “No! Not yet!” But the man she loved had vanished. The meeting, sparring and swordsmanship session had taken place weeks ago. What was Clark doing now? What dangers did he face? The courier’s holographic message hadn’t really helped, but only emphasized how great the distances were between them. Could any love – could any relationship – survive such interminable detachment?
The question brought back her earlier thoughts about the wives of sailors who boarded whaling vessels for months at a time. She thought about the separation those couples had endured. If they did that, could she and Clark not do the same?
Lois contemplated all the trials of their relationship, focusing on their love and their strength. Lifted up, she played the message again. Clark appeared as he had before handsome and determined. Yet upon further examination it was evident how lonely and isolated he was, surrounded by people with whom he shared DNA and cultural heritage, but not binding memories or deep friendship. When Clark received her holographic message, he would need to hear words of love and encouragement, not just see her tears and disappointment.
What worthwhile task, event or story had she participated in since his absence that she could relate to him? What had she written in all that time except a few stories that were worthy of a seasoned investigative reporter? She knew she’d been submitting work that more closely resembled an intern’s best efforts. No way could she tell Clark that!
She spoke into the air, “Maybe I think those stories have been decent but does Perry? More importantly, does our publisher, Mr. Stern? No. Clark’s right, I have to do better to get through this latest challenge in our lives.”
She thought back to Clark’s other requests. Had she offered comfort and support to the Kents? Sure she had made a couple of desultory phone calls to Martha and Jonathan where she cried, thinking of her pain, but not considering their wounded hearts. They were not at all the loving and helpful considerations of a future daughter-in-law.
At the Planet, Perry, Jimmy, Diane, and Pete Ross had all tried to be there for her. Take this evening’s invitation, for example. However, she had rebuffed their sincere efforts to reach out and help her through this difficult time.
She thought about Clark’s grandmother. What catastrophic events had those calm eyes witnessed? Yet, here she stood; ready to fight to the death against a madman who wanted to dominate the survivors of a once noble civilization. Could Lois do no less – by simply leading a well-lived life while waiting for her fiancé’s return? It was time to take back her life and be the woman Clark would be proud to have stand by his side. She would record a message for the courier tomorrow, but, she had to have some meaningful things to say.
Getting up from the couch she walked over to the phone and began punching the keys with Mad Dog Lane fury.
<<Hello?>> Said a woman’s tired voice on the other end of the line.
Hearing the familiar voice caused the beginning of tears to spring in her eyes, but Lois swallowed quickly, and then spoke with genuine cheer. “Hi Martha, it’s Lois. How are you and Jonathan doing? I received the first message from Clark. He … he loves and misses you both …”
***
Early Monday morning Lois exited the elevator wearing a bright orange dress, strappy sandals, and wooden jewelry. It was a gorgeously bright outfit, picture-perfect for the waning days of summer, yet office appropriate. Over her left shoulder was slung the famous burgundy briefcase and in her right arm was cradled a jade-colored earthenware pot. Nestled inside was a small African Violet plant. As she moved down the ramp, she said a cheery hello to a surprised Eduardo, who was making his first cup of coffee for the day. Upon reaching her desk, the plant was settled in a prominent place – next to Clark’s picture. Then the early morning routine of firing up the computer and unlocking the desk drawers began with her normal characteristic speed.
Eduardo ambled over and said, “Hey Lane, where’s the fire?”
“A lead Jimmy gave me on Friday has run dry or should I say No Knees Nolan has disappeared. I spent the better part of the weekend trying to track him down. Now Jimmy’s missing!”
Pleased to see Lois more like her old self, he said. “Soon as I clap eyes on him, I’ll send him in your direction.”
She gave him a sincere smile and said, “Thanks.”
Eduardo nodded and headed back to his desk. He was more than a little glad to see Lois taking an active interest in working again.
With her usual morning ritual complete, Lois picked up the phone, dialed Nolan’s number, waited as it rang several times, and then impatiently hung up. As she placed the receiver back in the cradle, Jimmy came into view. Obviously late, he ran down the ramp, intent on reaching his desk before Perry emerged from his office.
“Jimmy!” She called out, “Where is Nolan? Did he skip town or something?”
The budding photographer nearly skidded to a stop when he heard that ‘Mad Dog’ tone of voice. He turned mere inches from his desk, walked over, bounced on his toes, and said with a curious expression. “You bellowed, my lady?”
Lois fixed him with a hard stare, “Yeah, what happened to my source? The one who threatened to take his ‘big’ story to the Metropolis Star instead of the Planet?”
Jimmy sensed that something had changed within Lois and decided to play along. He leaned forwards cocked an eyebrow and said, “Oh, so now he’s your source?”
Remembering Clark’s urge to live her life fully, she answered emphatically. “Yes.”
Before Jimmy could respond the phone rang. Lois picked up the receiver and said, “Lois Lane, City Desk.”
The voice that reached her ears sounded like it had been dragged over a pile of gravel. <<Word’s out you’re looking for me Ms. Lane. Sorry I didn’t return your calls. Pneumonia in the summer is nothing to play with.>>
“Nolan! You sound terrible. How …how did that happen?”
<<A difference of opinion with a gentleman named Icepick. Our ‘conference’ took place in a meat locker. We ‘settled’ our dispute. He will not be causing problems in Metropolis again. Please don’t concern yourself. In the unfortunate absence of Mr. Kent, I shall provide information that may give you a leg up on your investigations.>>
Lois flinched. This was a tacit reminder that his first loyalty was to Clark. Putting the thought aside she sat down and pulled out a fresh No. 2 pencil and a notepad. “Certainly, Nolan. Where would you like to meet?”
He responded with a series of wet, hacking coughs and after clearing his throat said. <<No. I was contacting you over the phone rather than meeting outside the newsroom because a man must recuperate at home.>>
“Nolan, since you have pneumonia, the best place for you is in a hospital!”
<<Which is exactly why we are talking, Ms. Lane. Have you ever heard of a New Troy insurance company called RoxxTen?>>
“Yes, they are not the largest for-profit insurance company in the state, but they do a fairly decent amount of business. Haven’t heard anything negative about them recently.”
<<Ah well, I had signed up for medical insurance with this firm, paid my premiums every quarter for at least two years. Picked a very competent physician. Had a checkup with him last year. Everything was fine until my physician moved away, and then I discovered there were no longer doctors in my area. RoxxTen misrepresented just how many health care providers they had.>>
Looking at the receiver, Lois said incredulously, “Let me get this straight, you want me to investigate a shortage of physicians covered by your medical insurance company? I don’t think something like this would be of interest to the City Desk or my editor.”
A dry chuckle that quickly descended into a rough cough was heard on the other end. She waited while Nolan took a sip of water. <<My case is not unique. At least three hundred people in New Troy have been affected by this new ‘policy’ of the company. Several other states are involved in forcing the number of ill-treated members into the thousands, which translates into millions in premium fees.>>
Lois’s ears started to perk up and the handwritten notes grew. “Go on.”
<<Tell me, Ms. Lane, would Perry White be interested if he knew Inspector Henderson, Detective Christine Reed, and the FBI were looking into RoxxTen … because of their involvement with… Intergang?>>
That got her attention. “Intergang? Who gave up this information? How did MPD and the FBI get brought into this?”
There was another cough and then No Knees Nolan said <<Everything changed when the new CEO Charles Belfield took over. Seems he used to work rather closely with Bill Church at CostMart. That’s all the information I have for you, Ms. Lane. The ball is settled firmly in your court. But you might try talking to the head of Accounting, a Mr. Elden Kraft, who I understand also has a degree in computer science – covertly of course. Two such skills would come in very handy in this burgeoning age of the internet. I sincerely hope Mr. Kent returns soon. Good-bye.>>
Slowly, Lois replaced the receiver in its cradle.
Jimmy, who had not moved since the conversation began, now bounced on his toes and asked eagerly. “Was that No Knees?”
Rubbing her chin, she answered, “Yeah, he’s given me the lead to a story. Scary what that man knows…”
“Aha! I knew it! When do we get started?” The excitement in his face faded when he saw Lois had grown quiet, and her doe-shaped, brown eyes wandering over to a nearby empty desk.
She sighed and said, “I was just thinking. This is the kind of investigation Clark would have enjoyed taking part in.”
Tentatively, Jimmy placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and answered. “Lois, if CK were here, he would be right by your side. But since he can’t, let’s you and I tackle this one together. Do this investigation in his name.”
Lois blinked to keep the tears from falling, deciding she had cried enough. “You’re right Jim, let’s make this a story he can be proud of. I need to start an outline on who to interview, starting with Mr. Elden Kraft.”
***
Later that evening in Clark’s apartment, Lois stood in front of the courier, recording her message. The machine had been on the balcony basking in the sun’s rays all day recharging. Once the message was complete, it could be sent back to New Krypton.
“That’s it, Clark. I’m on the trail of these guys, but I promise to be careful. Jimmy is going to come with me when I interview Elden Kraft … of course, Mr. Kraft doesn’t know that yet.” She smiled mischievously and added, “I’m also going to have a chat with Henderson and Detective Reed. Once we get Kraft talking, the investigation should really take off! I’m looking forward to seeing Detective Reed’s face, considering the last time we met we were in a trash compactor, and she was planning on throwing us in jail. Let’s hope she’s done something with that awful red hair!”
“Take care of yourself, Clark. Always remember, how much I love you.”
Quickly she turned off the recording device, placed the data crystal within its receptacle and then stepped back. The Courier lifted off the floor, floated to the balcony and soundlessly accelerated into the cloudy night sky.
