**Chapter 13: In the Light of a New Day**
**The Next Morning, 348 Hyperion Avenue**
Clark sat at the kitchen table, flipping through the Daily Planet. Dressed in a charcoal suit, a purple shirt, and a black tie adorned with psychedelic spirals, he sipped his morning coffee. The steaming mug sat beside him, offering a warm contrast to the elegance surrounding him.
Lois entered the kitchen, dressed in black pants, a black jacket, and a pale pink silk top. They were perfectly coordinated, each in distinct but stylish shades.
Clark looked up at the sound of Lois's footsteps and smiled at her. She approached and kissed him on the lips before sitting down at the table.
"Great editorial, Lois," Clark said as he glanced at the newspaper. "I didn't have a chance to read it last night. I admire your ability to raise awareness and call on the city's residents to stop these heinous crimes."
Ultrawoman entered the room, dressed more casually in a blue tank top and light gray leggings. She wore a cheerful smile, contrasting with the gravity of the previous day's events.
"Good morning, everyone!" she said in a cheerful voice. "What did our dear Lois write?"
She sat next to Clark, casting a curious glance at the newspaper he was reading. Clark smiled and began reading Lois's article aloud:
---
**When Fire Consumes More Than Buildings**
*By Lois Lane, Daily Planet*
Metropolis has been the scene of two arson attacks in just a few days, targeting an orphanage and an office building, endangering the lives of hundreds of innocent people. Thanks to the quick intervention of firefighters and Ultrawoman, no lives were lost. However, these attacks reveal a troubling reality: a growing indifference to safety and human life in our city.
---
**Intergang Headquarters**
Mindy Church, a cigarette in hand, tossed the latest issue of the *Daily Planet* onto a large table around which a dozen men were seated. She had just read Lois's editorial and, visibly annoyed, read aloud the article's conclusion:
“To those responsible for these crimes: know that Metropolis will not be intimidated. We will fight for every life threatened, every hope shattered, and every building destroyed. And we will not stop until justice is served. Because Metropolis is more than just a city. It’s our home. And we will protect our home.”
"Looks like Mrs. Lane doesn't appreciate our bonfires... Well, I don't appreciate her tone... Metropolis is MY home, and I throw whatever parties I want here. So... I think we'll keep the festivities going. Last night, I was at the Metropolis Opera House, and I found the performance very disappointing, a bit 'cold'... let’s warm things up!"
The men stood, ready to carry out her orders. But Mindy stopped them before they left.
"And find me a way to get rid of that Ultrawoman!"
The men exchanged glances, aware of the difficulty of the task. Mindy stared at them with unwavering determination. It was clear she was willing to do whatever it took to maintain her power and terror over Metropolis.
---
**348 Hyperion Avenue**
Clark finished reading the editorial.
“To those responsible for these crimes: know that Metropolis will not be intimidated. We will fight for every life threatened, every hope shattered, and every building destroyed. And we will not stop until justice is served. Because Metropolis is more than just a city. It’s our home. And we will protect our home.”
Ultrawoman listened attentively, then, after Clark finished, expressed her admiration:
"That’s an excellent article, Lois. Really well written."
Lois smiled, clearly pleased with the impact of her work.
"Thanks, Lois. I hope it helps move things forward. And you were incredible last night."
Clark added with a touch of pride:
"Yes, and I’m sure your courage made a big difference."
They exchanged smiles, enjoying this moment of peace before diving into the challenges of the day.
Suddenly, Lois's cell phone rang. She answered, seeing Inspector Henderson’s name on the screen.
"Lois? Henderson! I’ve got the autopsy report on Georges Winter! You’re still on this case?"
Lois hesitated for a moment. Caught up with the aftermath of the rays and the fires, she had completely forgotten about the case. She quickly regained her composure.
"Of course, Inspector!"
"As I suspected, he was murdered. The hanging was staged. Under the rope marks, we found fingerprints. Strangulation!"
"I knew it!" Lois exclaimed. "And have you made progress on the escape?"
"My men have reviewed all the surveillance footage, but so far, nothing conclusive."
"Can we get a copy?"
"Yes, I’ll take care of it. But you haven’t found anything on your end?"
"No, nothing concrete yet, but we won’t forget about you! Can I ask you one more favor? Do you have the transcripts of his conversations with the prosecutor about the Intergang bosses?"
"Yes, I’ll send that to you too. I understand you’re onto something bigger. This could help untangle it all."
"Thanks, Henderson."
"You owe me two now!"
"Count on us to settle it."
Lois hung up, her mind already racing through the next steps. Clark, observing the scene, stood and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"We’ll figure this out, Lois. We’ve already overcome so much together. We’ll find the answers."
Lois nodded, determined, and replied:
"Yes, but we need to act quickly. Lives are at stake, and I’m convinced this case is tied to everything happening right now."
Ultrawoman, having overheard the conversation, added:
"I can help review the surveillance footage if needed. With my vision, I might spot details the cameras missed."
"Thanks, that would be really helpful," Lois said. "We should get started right away."
Clark, Lois, and Ultrawoman set out for the next stage of their investigation, ready to uncover the mysteries and put an end to the wave of terror sweeping through Metropolis.
