Chapter 22: Light and Reunion
Smallville - Kent Farm
Clark knocked on the door of the house. They had landed behind the barn a few moments earlier, moving toward the building in heavy silence. However, as they walked, Clark took a deep breath of the crisp country air, feeling a wave of serenity wash over him. Each step on the soil of his childhood seemed to dissipate a little more of the weight he had been carrying on his shoulders.
The contrast with the bustling life of Metropolis was striking. Here, everything had always been simpler. The Kent farm represented a refuge, a place where the world felt less complicated, where everyday problems could be tackled with a cup of hot coffee and the wise advice of his parents. This was what they needed—to return to the essentials, to find a clarity that had eluded them for far too long.
Clark turned slightly to look at Lois and Ultrawoman. He noticed that, despite their palpable tension, the soothing atmosphere of Smallville seemed to affect them as well. Lois, her face still marked by the exhaustion of the past few days, appeared to relax a bit, while Ultrawoman, though still reserved, seemed to have left some of her anger behind.
Suddenly, the door swung open, interrupting his thoughts. Martha Kent, with her warm smile and sparkling eyes, welcomed them.
Clark! Lois! What a nice surprise! - she exclaimed before noticing Ultrawoman. Her eyes widened slightly, but she quickly recovered, inviting the three of them in. - Come in, come in, I just took a pie out of the oven.
Clark felt a smile spreading across his lips. Whatever happened, he knew that here, on the farm, they could find a bit of the peace and clarity they all desperately needed.
A few minutes later, the four of them were seated at the table, a glass of milk and a plate of apple pie in front of them. The atmosphere, though marked by the exhaustion and tensions of the past days, began to ease slightly in the comforting warmth of the Kent kitchen.
A sound of the door was heard, followed by Martha's warm voice addressing the newcomer:
Jonathan, guess who’s here! The kids just arrived.
Jonathan entered the kitchen, wearing his usual smile and carefree demeanor. If he was surprised to see two Lois’s, he didn’t show it and came over to greet the three visitors with the same sincere affection. He also sat down, and Martha served him a slice of pie and a glass of milk, completing the family tableau.
For a few minutes, they chatted about trivialities, the weather in Smallville, the harvest, and the latest news from town. But Martha’s straightforward nature eventually took over, and with her usual frankness, she asked:
Don’t get me wrong, I’m very happy to have you all here at home, but I know you better than that. You’re in the middle of a big investigation, aren’t you? I don’t think this is just a courtesy visit.
Clark gave a faint smile in his mother’s direction. She knew him so well, and he appreciated her straightforwardness.
Yes, you’re right, Mom, - he replied softly. - We found the Kryptonite sample that affected me and caused the transfer of my powers, as well as the duplication of Lois. We’d like to take advantage of the space here to do some tests and try to get back to normal… if that’s okay with you, of course?
Martha exchanged a glance with Jonathan, then nodded with a reassuring smile.
Of course not, Clark. You’re at home here, and if there’s anything we can do to help you, just ask, right Jonathan?
Jonathan, looking serious but with visible tenderness in his eyes, nodded.
Absolutely. We’ll do everything we can to help you get back to a normal life.
The weight of their worries seemed to lighten a bit more, the unwavering support of the Kents providing a solid anchor against the uncertainties that lay ahead.
Ultrawoman had stayed inside with Martha while Lois and Clark went outside to test the Kryptonite. Martha gently took the young woman’s hand and looked at her with concern.
Honey, how are you coping with all of this? Martha asked in a soft voice.
I’m okay, Martha, Ultrawoman replied, trying to hide her emotions behind a forced smile.
Martha didn’t believe it for a second. She knew Lois well and could see beyond appearances.
Lois, I know you better than that, she said gently. I’ve watched the three of you, and I know my boy is doing everything he can to make both of you feel loved. And I also know how much you love to be in control of things…
These words were the trigger, and Ultrawoman, who had been trying to stay strong, burst into tears.
It’s so hard, Martha, she admitted, her voice breaking with emotion. I’m constantly having to leave to handle impossible situations. Every one of my actions can make the difference between life and death, and I can’t even do my job. I miss the newsroom, just like I miss doing investigative work alongside Clark. I feel like we’ve lost everything that brought us together.
She wiped her tears, but they kept flowing.
Oh, don’t get me wrong, Clark is perfect, so loving, caring… the ideal husband. But I can’t settle for that. I feel like he’s walking on eggshells around me. And I know he suffers from seeing me take his place. I’ve stolen his life.
Martha listened intently to Ultrawoman, her features softening as she let the young woman express what she had been holding back for so long. She squeezed Ultrawoman’s hand a little tighter, an expression of compassion and understanding crossing her face.
Oh, honey… - she said softly, her voice filled with tenderness. - I understand how difficult this must be for you. What you’re going through is far from simple. You’re thrust into a situation that demands you to be strong all the time, facing overwhelming responsibilities, all while seeing your life and your bearings turned upside down.
Ultrawoman wiped her tears, trying to pull herself together, but Martha continued, her voice growing more assured.
You didn’t steal his life, Lois. - Martha looked her straight in the eyes, offering all the support she could muster. - What’s happening to both of you is the result of an unforeseen circumstance, not something you chose. Clark knows that, and he loves you, just as he loves the other Lois. You are two aspects of the same woman, the one he chose, the one he wants to spend his life with.
Ultrawoman nodded, though still overwhelmed by her emotions.
But I can’t help but feel guilty… He deserves to be Superman; it’s his role, and there’s a part of me that says that if I hadn’t found myself in this situation, everything would be better. He would have his powers, his normal life, and we would be happy, like before.
Martha shook her head gently, a hint of sadness in her eyes.
Life is never that simple, my dear. Clark is an extraordinary man, but he never wanted his life to be easy. What he wants is for both of you to be happy. He suffers, yes, but not because of who you are or what you do. What hurts him is seeing you struggle alone, not being able to be there for you as he wishes.
She paused, letting her words sink into Ultrawoman’s heart.
You must remember that what you’re going through, you’re going through it together. And that’s what matters most. Clark, you, and the other Lois… you’ll find a solution, I’m sure of it. But in the meantime, don’t forget that you’re not alone. You have a family here, people who love you and are here for you. We will overcome this, together.
Ultrawoman, still wrestling with her doubts, nevertheless found comfort in Martha’s words. She felt understood, accepted, and that more than anything, eased her heart.
Outside, Lois and Clark, aided by Jonathan, began to set up the equipment for the tests. The Kryptonite sample lay carefully encased in its lead box. Clark spoke up to explain:
I was hit by a double red beam coming from the top of a building. Trying to protect Lois, who was with me, the beam hit me and must have passed through me, reaching her. We know the rest. Ultrawoman x-rayed the piece and detected a crack. We think a sniper shot with a laser-type weapon, similar to what the Newtrich sisters used during our last encounter. My hypothesis is that the laser hit the cracked Kryptonite, thus splitting the beam in two. Could we start by checking that?
Jonathan nodded and moved toward his workshop. A few minutes later, he returned with a work table, which he began to set up. He turned to Lois:
Lois, could you go get the laser from Martha’s workshop, please?
As soon as Lois walked away, Jonathan turned to his son, his face marked by a serious expression but filled with wisdom.
Jonathan waited until Lois was out of sight before turning to Clark, looking grave but filled with the wisdom that characterized him. He took a deep breath, placing a comforting hand on his son’s shoulder.
Clark, I wanted to talk to you privately before we start the tests. - His voice was gentle but firm. - What you’re going through right now… it’s not just about powers or Kryptonite. It’s also a test for your relationship, for your life with Lois, and now with these two Lois’s.
Clark lowered his head for a moment, feeling the weight of his father's words. He knew Jonathan was right. This wasn’t just a scientific or supernatural issue, but an emotional crisis that deeply affected those he loved.
“I know, Dad,” he replied in a calmer voice than he had imagined. “It’s... complicated. Every day that goes by, I feel this pull between them, and I wonder if I'm doing the right thing.”
Jonathan gently squeezed Clark's shoulder, forcing him to look him in the eye.
“Listen, son. You’ve always been there to save the world, to bear the weight of that suit. But today, it’s not the world you need to save; it’s your family. These two women love you deeply, and I know you love them just as much. But you’re all lost in this situation, and if you keep trying to handle it alone, you’re going to lose them.”
Clark felt a knot form in his throat. He hadn’t realized how overwhelmed he had become by this situation. He had wanted to protect Lois, but in the end, he realized that he may have made things worse.
“You’re right, Dad. I feel trapped between my responsibilities and my feelings, and I don’t know how... how to set everything right.” He let out a sigh, his gaze lost on the horizon.
Jonathan nodded, fully understanding his son's doubts.
“You’ll find a solution, I’m sure of it. But remember, you don’t have to bear this burden alone. Talk to each other, be honest with one another. Powers come and go. What really matters is the bond you share. So before you go any further, make sure you’re all on the same page.”
Clark slowly nodded, grateful to his father for his wise words. He now knew what he had to do. Above all, he needed to ensure that neither Lois nor Ultrawoman felt sidelined, and that together, they could find a solution not only to regain his powers but also to restore their balance as a family.
“Thank you, Dad,” he finally said, a sincere but still somewhat sad smile appearing on his face.
Jonathan returned his smile and then patted his shoulder.
“Come on, son. It’s time to solve this mystery.”
Lois quickly arrived with the laser, which she carefully placed on the table. Jonathan immediately got to work, adjusting the device with precision. He asked Clark to step back, as they needed to take the kryptonite out of its lead casing. Clark complied without arguing. Lois cautiously took out the sample and showed the crack to Jonathan, who asked his son to find a magnifying glass to examine the detail more closely.
Jonathan then turned to his daughter-in-law with an expression that was both concerned and grateful.
“Clark has no powers now, but he still bears the weight of the world on his shoulders. Lois, you’ve always been his greatest support. Make sure you stay united through this trial. My son is pretty stubborn; he won’t admit he’s overwhelmed. And don’t let him lock himself away in the whirlwind that has swept you both away.”
Lois nodded, her gaze filled with gratitude and determination. She knew how important it was for Clark to remain strong, but she was also aware of the immense pressure he was under.
“I’ll do whatever it takes to support him, Jonathan. We will get through this together, no matter the challenges.”
Jonathan smiled gently, satisfied with his daughter-in-law's response, then focused again on the kryptonite sample. Lois stepped away to prepare the necessary testing materials and get ready for what was to come.
When Clark returned, Jonathan concentrated on examining the crack in the kryptonite, using the magnifying glass to analyze the details. Lois observed silently, her mind occupied by the implications of this discovery. Clark, for his part, stood apart, looking thoughtful and concerned, the weight of his responsibilities evident in every gesture.
After a moment, Jonathan straightened up, his face marked by an expression of intense reflection.
“The crack does seem to be distorting the beam unevenly. It’s possible that the impact of the laser created a separation in the crystal, as you suspected. We need to conduct some tests to confirm this hypothesis and understand how…”
Jonathan meticulously adjusted the laser, the darkness of the workshop making the atmosphere even more intense. The laser beam began to emit a reddish glow, directed towards the cracked crystal. Lois was taking notes, ready to capture every detail that could help them understand the phenomenon.
As the tests progressed, Jonathan explained the preliminary results.
“The crack seems to influence how the kryptonite interacts with the beams. We need to determine whether this crack has altered the radiation in such a way as to affect your powers this way.”
Lois shot Clark an encouraging glance, knowing how difficult it was for him to be without his powers and to feel so powerless.
“We’re going to find a solution, Clark. We’ll make it work.”
Clark nodded, his face reflecting both hope and concern. As Jonathan continued his analyses, the team was united in their quest to solve this mystery and restore balance to their tumultuous lives.
After several attempts, Jonathan successfully split the beam.
“Okay,” he said with a satisfied expression. “Clark, your theory about the crack seems plausible. We should see if we can split something with this beam.”
“Let’s avoid testing that on me,” Lois replied with a mischievous smile. “I think Clark wouldn’t survive a third Lois.”
Clark, amused, added, “I’m willing to take the risk… as long as the third Lois doesn’t decide to steal my place at the office.”
Jonathan smiled as he adjusted the laser settings.
“Or fight me for the last pieces of apple pie.”
Lois laughed, recognizing Jonathan’s sense of humor.
“Alright, no extra versions for the pie, I promise.”
The group continued working, the atmosphere lightened by jokes and mutual support, ready to face the next steps with optimism.
Unfortunately, after many attempts with pieces of wood, stones, and various objects found around the farm, they couldn’t manage to split anything.
“Jonathan, I think your wish for a free new tractor is compromised,” Lois teased.
“Too bad, I’ll settle for borrowing Clark to do the lifting when I need maintenance,” Jonathan replied in a mockingly disappointed tone.
Clark, physically set aside from the conversation, exclaimed, “Don’t you mind pretending I’m not here?” His harsh tone couldn’t mask the smile that lit up his face.
“Oh Clark, you’re here, sorry, I didn’t see you,” his father continued humorously. “I thought you were still in Metropolis; I didn’t see anyone devour your mom’s apple pie in 2 seconds.”
The group burst into laughter, the relaxed atmosphere bringing a bit of lightness to their difficult situation.
Clark, unable to participate in the tests, took the time to observe and analyze everything that was happening. He came to the conclusion that the kryptonite only affected him or someone possessing his powers.
He called out to his father and Lois, “I think we’re going to have to admit that’s how it happened. It must only work on Kryptonians or those who have their powers. Can we try to gather the beams after the sample? Ideally, we’d need lenses to converge the two beams into one, right?”
“You mean you want to impact both Lois and me, and then recombine the beams toward you?” Lois asked, raising an eyebrow, puzzled.
Clark grimaced, wondering if his idea was more ridiculous than it seemed.
“Maybe I should reconsider this idea,” he admitted, an amused smile playing on his lips.
Ultrawoman and Martha arrived at that moment. Martha, taking the initiative, said, “Your idea is good, honey, but may I suggest another approach?”
Clark nodded, curious. “Of course, Mom.”
“What if you only used one beam, which would first pass through Lois, then her,” she indicated Ultrawoman, “then Lois again,” she indicated the other Lois, “and finally touch you, Clark?”
The group pondered the suggestion. The silence that followed was filled with hope as each person envisioned the possibility of this new method.
Jonathan, the skilled technician, added, “What Martha proposes is much simpler to execute. There’s no need for precise adjustments to get perfectly parallel beams, and adjusting the lenses would be just as complicated. However, you’re the only ones who have experienced the effects of kryptonite. What’s the risk if it fails?”
Jonathan looked closely at the three adults around him, his gaze resting especially on Clark. His question was imbued with concern and realism, reflecting the seriousness with which he approached the situation.
Clark responded gravely :
The impact of a simple beam from one person to another is fairly safe, all things being equal. Red Kryptonite has had varied effects on me with each exposure, but it wasn't through a beam the last two times.
Lois added:
From Kryptonian to Earthling, from Earthling to Earthling, and from Earthling to Kryptonian, it worked well—she recalled past events with the Newtrich sisters—but three times...
So the biggest risk seems to be that we might exchange powers between the two Lois? - Martha questioned.
Your assumptions are as good as ours, Mom - Clark confirmed.
The two Lois and Clark exchanged glances, drawing courage from the love they held for one another. Martha and Jonathan remained silent, knowing enough about the trio to understand that they functioned in perfect harmony. The silent exchanges came to an end after a few seconds. Clark took the hands of both young women, and Lois said:
We’re ready; we’re going to do it.
Jonathan nodded in understanding:
All right. I’ll prepare the necessary equipment for the method proposed by Martha. We’ll try this approach while keeping the potential risks in mind. Let’s ensure we have all necessary precautions in place.
Martha, with her practical nature, added:
And let’s not forget to be cautious and closely monitor any changes. If something seems off, we can always halt the experiment in time.
With the preparations underway, the team got to work setting up the necessary device.
Once everything was in place, Martha, who had once experimented with laser sculpting, lined up the three young people in front of the laser and the Kryptonite. Ultrawoman was placed first, then Martha paused for a moment and asked:
Clark, how far away was Lois from you during the transfer?
She was interviewing me, so I’d say about one meter.
Very well. Lois, position yourself 50 cm behind Lois. We’ll try to minimize beam dispersion. Clark, the same for you, 50 cm behind again.
Everyone took their places with great tension and palpable seriousness.
Martha burst out laughing, and everyone looked at her with concern. Had the situation become so absurd that she was losing control?
Trying to catch her breath, Martha explained:
I’m sorry, but it reminds me of you, Clark, when you were young. With Rachel and Pete, you often played in the yard. You had cowboy and Indian games, but also, I remember you played trains... I can see all three of you lined up, mimicking the train arriving at the Smallville station.
Everyone joined in Martha’s laughter, reminiscing or imagining the scene. It felt good to be here, with the hope of regaining some normalcy, and Martha’s joy of life brought a bit of lightness to the moment.
Once calm returned, Jonathan approached the laser and asked:
Are you ready?
We’ll never be more ready - Lois replied with a smile.
Jonathan pressed the button on the laser. A red flash shot out and struck the Kryptonite. The beam quickly reached Ultrawoman. Her body became almost translucent and began to drift toward Lois. The beam continued its path, hitting Lois and then Clark. Clark was enveloped in a halo of red light. When the two Lois became one, and the halo dispersed, Jonathan released the button.
Lois swayed slightly, and Clark placed his hands on her hips to stabilize her.
