***
“Dr. Scott is no longer employed by LexCorp. He stole valuable technology from LexSolar, replaced, I might add, at no small cost to the company. Should any person in our employ be involved in such activities they will be dealt the same hand.”
“Mrs. Luthor, my partner is not referring to microprocessors, but to a new energy source…Harmonic crystals. They were created through a joint venture between our government and the British company Barontech.” Clark interjected.
“We overheard a conversation between Dr. Scott, Lucky Leon and Cameron Axelrod stating Lex Luthor paid Scott to act as his front man and steal the crystals for LexCorp.” Lois said.
“What possible reason could my husband have for stealing anything?” Aykira answered her tone held the barest hint of menace.
“It’s a well documented fact Lex Luthor has dreamed and worked towards sending a Space Station bearing his name into orbit.” Clark answered somewhat blandly.
“According to the article under the byline Lane and Kent, Cameron Axelrod shot Scott, who is still in ICU and has not regained consciousness, perhaps, he may not even survive, which I am sorry for. I also understand Axelrod is not cooperating with the authorities. Finally, Lucky Leon extradited to his own country to stand trial. So, it’s only by your hearsay, which despite your stellar reputations is not enough to convict my husband on. I will admit Lex’s business tactics are sometimes manipulative, no one creates and maintains such a business empire without making a few enemies.”
“Just because he is wealthy does not place him above everyone else. Dr. Scott is facing charges, trial and jail for stealing the crystals… under Lex’s orders.” Clark pointed out.
“Yes. A corporate crime.” Aykira leaned back in the comfortable chair, placed her chin in slender brown hands, and sat thinking for a moment. “Consider this Mr. Kent. Dr. Scott committed a federal crime when he conspired with members of Intergang to sell the crystals to a power unfriendly to the United States. A crime neither I nor Lex was aware of while we were on our Honeymoon in Greece."
“But Lex was the one who ordered Scott to steal the crystals in the first place,” Lois insisted.
“Oh? Where is your proof Miss Lane? Your own paper stated Dr. Scott admitted to being the mastermind behind the hijacking, he never implicated Lex. Except in this ‘conversation’ overheard by only yourself and Mr. Kent. Possibly the file printed out from his computer on the night of your disastrous break-in at LexSolar?”
Lois stood surprised, but quickly recovered and answered. “What break in?”
“The one where a ‘burglar’ printed out the file entitled ‘Crystal Harvest’ from Dr. Scott’s computer. The break-in where the burglar or ‘corporate spy’ as LNN referred to was shot while making a rather memorable escape. The security guard Todd is an excellent sharpshooter; he *meant* to wing you. Unfortunately, the torrential rainfall of that evening covered your movements. He was smart enough to take of sample of the blood found on the floor. Care to wonder if we run a private DNA test whether it will match yours?”
For the first time in years, Clark saw his partner at a complete lost for words.
“Miss Lane… Lois, please let us stop sparring with each other.” Aykira rubbed her fingers over her temples. “You want to write a story implicating my husband in this entire Harmonic crystals theft. *I* want him left alone. The government does not want the crystals in the news. The effect on the oil industries alone might create widespread economic panic. What is your purpose in coming here? It was my understanding that General Zeitlin and Secretary Cosgrove want this situation buried.”
“How do you know about that?” Clark asked.
Aykira fixed him with a direct stare was about to speak when, Lois piped up. “Where is Lex anyway? It’s not like him to let someone else face off with one of his adversaries.”
The competent business woman’s cool façade wavered, when Aykira spoke her voice trembled. “Lex’s day to day involvement with the conglomerate he built has come to an end. Two weeks ago, the foremost neurosurgeon in the country, a Dr. Kassaten operated on Lex. That is why I canceled our initial interview. The doctor says he will make a decent recovery and hopefully he will live to celebrate our second wedding anniversary.”
The two reporters exchanged looks of stunned disbelief. Lex Luthor was a force of nature, it was hard to imagine him as ill much less dying.
She turned away from Lois and looked at her partner. “I promise to keep your dual identity a secret.”
Now it was Clark’s turn to be speechless. However, he quickly found his feet and said, “Mrs. Luthor, this is all conjecture. As you say, where is the proof?
“What dual identity are you talking about?” Lois demanded.
Clark watched as a myriad of emotions played across Aykira’s countenance. “Oh, there is so much to talk about.” She sighed deeply in resignation. “Please, make yourselves comfortable. Mr. Kent… may I call you Clark? Do you drink oolong tea or green chai? Lois, I know you prefer a low-fat mocha. Jane can bring the refreshments momentarily. We are going to be here for awhile.”
***
Two people sat back in amazement and watched as Aykira removed the ring from its place on the monitor and handed it over to Clark for his examination. The two bookshelves soundlessly slide back into place, hiding the monitor.
“That’s a remarkable tale Aykira.” Clark said as he passed Lois the glowing and still warm silver beacon ring. “If it were not for this ring and the conversation with Dr. Bern Klein in your world, it might be hard to believe.”
“Yes it is.” Aykira answered, shaking her head. “If it had not happened to me, I wouldn’t have accepted it as truth myself.”
“How were you able to have this equipment installed without Lex’s knowledge?” Lois asked.
“Oh, that is a tale for another day and we have spent quite enough time on my story already. Suffice to say I only use this connection in case of dire emergency. There is another unit in my former condo.”
Two hours had passed since Lois and Clark entered the office of Aykira Luthor. Their beverages had gone cold while Aykira related her story. Two hours, in which their understanding of their world had taken on a frightening new juxtaposition. It was a great deal to absorb, learning about two similar worlds living side by side, not to mention that world had doppelgangers of everyone in their Earth.
She explained Perry White had hired her as a science consultant to assist Daily Planet’s writers of the Weekend section. It was her job to translate the amazing amount of new technologies into something the public could easily understand. She had been called in to assist Lois and Clark’s on several of their more unusual assignments, such as cracking cases on eco-terrorism or bio-tech corporate piracy.
“Your counterparts in my world are very similar to yourselves. When I worked for the Daily Planet it was actually thrilling to observe Lois interview some rather brilliant men in different fields of science. Many was the time an interviewee attempted to sidestep a question, but ‘Bone Crusher’ Lane refused to let them get the better of her.” Mentioning this Aykira smiled remembering a particularly unpleasantly condescending computer genius.
“Working for the Daily Planet as a science consultant allowed you to observe Clark and I interview people and go after the bad guys? No wonder you knew it was me who broke into LexSolar!” Lois exclaimed.
“To be perfectly honest, I did more than just consult. There were a couple of times I held the flashlight while you two ransacked files,” Aykira said sheepishly. “For good or for ill, those skills came in very handy a few years later. In any case, I stopped consulting for the Daily Planet after Barontech hired me to work on the Harmonic crystals research full-time. We all stayed in contact, especially after Bern became Superman’s personal physician.”
“The man we saw on the monitor was vastly different from the gentle and absent-minded scientist who inhabits our world. Except for the balding head, this man was athletic and wore designer clothes. He is even aware of Superman’s real identity! There are so many differences between your world and ours! Did he tell you about Clark?” Lois spoke in full babble mode.
Clark stepped in when he noticed ‘Mad Dog’ Lane coming to the forefront. “Uh, Lois, let’s finish listening to what Aykira has to say.”
“Thank you.” She turned to his partner and said, “Lois, Bern brought me in because of an extreme emergency. Superman had taken seriously ill from kryptonite poisoning thanks to Jason Trask and his mysterious agency. Lois, you had sustained injuries while trying to help him escape from those lunatics.”
“Star labs desperately wanted to help, but with a pack of media hounds crowding the building’s campus everyday it was very hard for them to get anything accomplished without outside assistance.
“Bern needed someone he could trust to help him understand the atomic structure of kryptonite and keep the reporters at bay. I was in Metropolis and being a former employee of Star Labs, plus my connections with the Daily Planet, made me the perfect choice to deal with the media.”
“Bern did not tell me your secret identity. It did not take long with the power of deductive reasoning and observing your interaction with each other to reach the proper conclusion: Superman and Clark Kent are one and the same.”
Clark cautiously posed the question. “So you have known all the time about me and never mentioned it to Luthor?”
“Please understand, besides the four of us and Clark’s parents no one in my world has knowledge of the secret. It is an important one to protect. Even though I am married to Lex, he will never hear from me about the unique relationship between Superman and Clark. Just as I trust neither of you will reveal my secret.
“Excuse me,” Lois interrupted, “but did Dr. Klein in your world find a cure for kryptonite?”
“No. However, he was able to stop the poison, by burning it out of his system in a similar fashion as when Superman was kissed by Diana Stride. Bern is still looking for a cure. The Lois of my world made a complete recovery.”
“Finally, there are no more secrets. In two years time or less Lex will be gone. He will have paid for whatever sins he has committed in his life.” As Aykira spoke, her voice cracked slightly.
Lois stood up, walked over to the picture of Lex and his wife, they looked so happy, but that happiness was fleeting. She faced Aykira. “So you admit to financing Dr. Scott’s plan?”
The black woman leaned back in her chair, again her chin in her hands. “I admit to nothing. But again, the only proof at easy access would also send you to jail or at the very least end your career as an investigative reporter. We are at an impasse, Lois. You do not want to go to prison and our lawyers will tie the case up for so long it will never come to trial.”
“Each of us has something to lose.” Lois said quietly.
“The Lois Lane of my world was compassionate and understanding. Sadly, circumstances dictate we do not have the same relationship here, but since our government has demanded we keep the existence of the crystals secret what possible good will come from bring this to light?” Aykira’s voice tinged with anxiety.
“Mrs. Luthor… Aykira, we cannot ignore what crimes have been committed to gain those crystals. If we cannot publish, at least we can let the government know and they can take it from there. Besides, when – if Dr. Scott awakens, he will testify in court that he did everything under Lex’s orders.”
The other woman’s features turned hard and her voice terse, “If he ever regains consciousness. Dr. Robert Scott is a traitor to his country. All the proof leading to my husband is gone. Scott will say *anything* to save his own skin.” She sat quite still for a moment contemplating, than asked. “What if you tell General Zeitlin and Secretary Cosgrove that Lex stole the crystals in an attempt to heal his brain, but to no avail? If he were to have stolen them for the purpose of healing himself, they could see evil intent in that.”
Lois shook her head, no, but inside, she could feel her firm resolve wavering.
Aykira gestured to Clark and looked at Lois. “What would you do if a cure for Kryptonite was discovered, but you had to steal it?”
“That’s not what happened,” Lois countered, clutching her hands so fiercely, the nails tore into her flesh.
“But if it did and Clark’s life rested in your hands. What would you do?”
“That’s a cheap shot and you know it!” She snarled.
“I… I am sorry. It is all which remains for me.” Aykira stood, walked over to the picture window, her posture, normally so erect looked… broken. For a long time, she gazed out, seeing nothing. “Miss Lane. Mr. Kent. LexCorp has vast international resources, what if we were to utilize those resources to help people rather than cause harm? There are many ills in this world, LexCorp and Superman can work hand in hand to right some of those wrongs. With my help this company’s Mission Statement can be rewritten for the good.”
“Are you talking about some deal for Lex?”
“No. I am discussing a small means of redemption… for both of us.”
***
Clark observed the two strong willed women glaring at each other in emotional combat, each one in her own way fighting for the man she loves. As long as he had known her, Lois Lane had never lost a battle, but there was always a first time…
Finally, Lois spoke, her voice had a harsh, bitter edge to it. “Nice try, Aykira, I’ll take my chances with the police. Lex has to pay for what he’s done.”
The office was silent as Aykira walked over to one of the thick comfortable chairs and sat down in utter defeat. Clark watched helplessly. Part of him wanted to make some gesture of comfort to this remarkable woman. She like himself had crossed unimaginable distances to live on this Earth. Despite blending in with its people even marrying one of its inhabitants she still walked as a stranger in the midst of humanity. Now all she wanted to do was right whatever wrongs both she and Lex and committed. Yet at the same time, how could he allow Luthor to avoid facing charges for his crimes? In the balance, Lois might end up in prison as well as destroy her career.
***
Abruptly the tension was broken when the door was softly opened, Aykira gasped. “Lex!” All color drained from her face as she raced over to reach him. The third richest man in the world stood in the threshold of his wife’s office looking pale and dangerously ill. His hair, once thick, curly and dark brown was completely gone. The small bandage from the recent surgery was still attached to the base of his head. Jane stood behind him; it was evident from her expression Lex had merely walked past her and into this meeting. Taking his wife’s hand he said, “Please my love, sit down. We might as well finish this.” Aykira looked at Jane and said, “Thank you, we will be fine.” At that moment, her assistant was quick to close the door behind her.
“Miss Lane, it would be a pity for you languish in prison, especially over a dead man.” The billionaire tried to hold himself with his former social graces, but such poise was gone forever. Once Aykira settled him into the chair she had just vacated he came straight to the point.
“My wife and I although only wed a short time have faced several challenges. But as she has informed you our time together is fleeting. The four of us need to settle revealing everything about those crystals today.” Lex paused for a breath and with his hand waved to encompass them. “We each in this room have our secrets,” he gazed at Clark with intense scrutiny. “Even the gallant Mr. Kent has something to hide I’m sure.” Both reporters stared hard at Aykira, panic in their eyes. With the tiniest shake of the head, she indicated Lex did not know Clark’s secret.
“There must be a way we can all come to an equitable solution that will ease your consciences and permit us to continue our lives without any chaotic and very public trials or prison sentences. ”Lex turned to Aykira and said, “My dear, may I continue?”
“But of course,” she responded.
Clark noticed immediately after Lex had sat down, Aykira’s body language had changed, the shoulders were once again in perfect balance, her head held erect. But most of all, he could not help but see the comfort and strength they drew from one another. The soothing balm of two people very much in sync with each other and deeply in love.
“Perhaps the authorities will be further placated if I return the two remaining crystals. My excuse will be the truth; I took them in order to cure my tumor. Even a military hardliner such as General Zeitlin will believe that.”
“Clark’s partner spoke up gently, “They might believe you. But what about the crystals Aykira sent to her world? A dozen missing crystals cannot be ignored.”
Lex gave a halfhearted shrug. “I can only account for the two, nothing more. Perhaps we can say they were stolen at Pier 17 by someone from Intergang? Eventually the hunt will cease. LexCorp is a powerful international conglomerate. The economic backlash resulting from tearing it apart might give them pause. Hopefully the authorities are not so desperate to punish me that they would allow innocent people to end up on the street.”
“No, General Zeitlin will never believe that. As Aykira mentioned earlier, creating LexCorp has provided a fair number of enemies for the company. They'll badger first you, than Aykira for the truth, which you cannot reveal. Finally, a Senate committee will be convened to parcel out LexCorp like candy.” Lois said matter-a-factly.
“I will pay whatever fines are necessary to leave my family and company in peace. Short of going to prison,”Lex’s eyes flashed with a dangerous light. His body may be weakened, but his mind and resolve were as sharply honed as ever.
Aykira had been sitting quietly on the arm of the chair, holding Lex’s hand all this time than spoke up. “Why not get them back? Any item can make one round trip through the dimensional device. The crystals can be returned.”
“Won’t that cause problems on the other side for Bern and Alexander?” Clark asked
“No. Do not under estimate the skills, abilities and most of all determination of my friends. We dismantled Bern’s device and brought it from Leeds, England to Metropolis without being detected. Replicating the crystals and sending them here should be quite simple.”
Lex took her hand and kissed it. “Now you see why I *had* to marry her?” The smile on his face was filled with joy and pride.
Aykira winked at him than grew somber as she reached over to the intercom and said, “Jane. I would like you to contact the Department of Defense. Use Lex’s name, get a direct line to General Virgil Zeitlin please.”
***
Later that evening in Clark’s apartment they discussed the day’s events while drying the dinner dishes. “Clark, that was *the* strangest and most intimidating interview I have ever done!”
Her partner’s eyes twinkled. “One great thing came out of it. Another nickname for you… ‘Bone Crusher’ Lane!”
“Urgh!” I’m going to forget I heard that!”
Clark smiled sadly. “This is galling our professional pride to keep this part of the Shackleton story under wraps. Think of the great addition it will make to the Lane and Kent memoirs?”
“’All things must be recorded, but not necessarily reported.’ I may not like it, but there is a certain truth to that particular saying.” Lois sighed as she put away the last dish and yawned.
“Sounds to me like I should take you home. It’s been a very long day.”
“Yeah, but promise me, the next time we have another interview like that I want to go to Paris for dinner.”
“Deal, Miss Lane.” He gave her that brilliant smile than spun into the suit. Moments later the apartment was empty.
***
It was close to quitting time when Jenni Reid emerged from the elevator and walked down the ramp with brisk strides. Her fashionably cut light brown hair swinging, she approached Lois and Diane and spoke, her soft Scottish accent gave a hint of the ancient Highlands. “Hullo! I understand there’s a party happening tonight! Where is the bride?”
“Jenni!” Cat shouted from her desk. “You made it!”
The two women raced across the bullpen and meet in front of Jimmy’s desk giving each other fierce hugs. The Daily Planet’s newest full time staff photographer looked from one beauty to another. “Smooth,” he said in appreciation of their beauty. The women made a striking duo. The tall auburn haired beauty wore a tiger patterned dress that clashed with her friend’s classically cut light blue suit. The petite reporter from across the pond released Cat and started laughing. “When I received the e-mail from Janet Owens telling me there was going to be a ‘Girl’s Night Out’ before your nuptials I hopped on the first flight out! My editor Labbie Rathbone graciously gave me holiday.”
“What are you going to do for two weeks before the wedding?” Cat asked.
“No worries, I have a couple of British Embassy stories that need looking into. Could Perry give me desk to work from? Labbie is a great gal, but she’s not sending me here on a complete holiday! Now, where is the rest of the crew?”
“Relax Jenni, everyone will be here in time,” those words were spoken from Corrina Hawk, one of the copy editors. She had emerged from her cubicle near Perry’s office and given her old comrade a quick, hug. “Janet Owens always throws the best outside-of-the-office parties! I’m looking forward to spending time with everyone; it is so seldom all of us are in the same country much less the same building!”
“The Daily Planet has several international editions, Ms. Hawk as you are perfectly well aware! So, our reporters and contributors must be scattered across the globe. As Ms. Reid’s appearance attests to! My dear, it is good to see you again!” Terry Leatherwood, the urbane editor of the Daily Planet’s Weekend section, interjected.
“Great shades of Elvis what is going on out here…?“ Perry crossed the threshold of his office, looked at the newcomer to the bullpen, smiled hugely, and ambled over. “I cannot believe Labbie let you out of her newsroom into ours! How long are you here for darlin’?”
Jenni beamed at her former boss than gave him a fond embrace. “Perry! I see the bullpen is running as smoothly as ever.”
“Our esteemed chief would have it no other way,” Terry responded dryly. “But then he has the talents of the best reporters of the Fourth Estate to call upon.”
“You bet your sweet Elvis I do!” Perry laughed.
More conversation swirled around the little group as long time staffers came over to greet the visitor.
Stacy Hunter, a young intern with glasses that constantly slide down her nose came out of the darkroom bearing Jimmy’s latest photos; she slipped furtively over to Lois and inquired earnestly. “Excuse me Miss Lane, what’s all the noise about? Who is Jenni Reid?”
Clark also came over and sat in Lois’s guest chair. “Thanks Stacy, I was about to ask the same question.”
“Oh, that’s right, so many people were not here when Jenni, Janet and to a much lesser extent Cat practically ran the bullpen.” Lois said with a smile. “I was only an intern then, but Jenni spent time with me, guiding me through all the interesting things regarding newspaper writing that’s not taught in journalism school.”
“My goodness,” Stacy breathed, “they must have been something!”
“They were and still are.” Diane answered, genuine respect in her voice.
“Yeah,” Lois agreed. <I guess I shouldn’t mention Jenni was the one who provided my first lesson in breaking and entering! Clark, invulnerable or not, would have a stroke!> With a slight effort, she fought to keep from laughing.
Another woman walked down the red staircase and entered the bullpen, her dark hair pulled back in a ponytail, a pencil stuck behind her ear. The Daily Planet’s Science editor carried herself with a serious demeanor, but, Janet Owens’ friendly voice cut through the hubbub of the crowd and welcomed her old friend. “Ha! I knew a little thing like the Atlantic Ocean couldn’t keep you away from this party!” The women embraced and started talking to one another a mile a minute.
“One moment!” Jenni interrupted the gabfest. “The ring! I want to see the ring!”
“See it and weep,” Cat purred as she held out her left hand. “George did me proud.”
“I say!” Jenni agreed and whistled appreciatively.
“Hey! Hey! Hey! This is a newspaper, not gossip central! You ladies have another ten minutes before quittin’ time. Oh, and I expect *all* of you to be back here bright and early tomorrow morning! No excuses. Oh and one other thing, there had better not be any phone calls from Inspector Henderson to my house! Daily Planet reporters *write* the stories, they do not become them! Janet, you are in charge.”
Janet smiled slowly, her generous mouth revealed two rows of bright teeth. “Of course Perry, whatever you say. After all, you can yodel.” Janet said sweetly.
At the sound of her voice, the Daily Planet’s Senior Editor too late realized he had made a mistake. “Oh boy, that’s like putting the fox in charge of the hen house! I don’t want to know anything!” So saying Perry returned to his office, unbeknownst to the staffers in question, a huge grin splayed on his face.
“Poor Perry, he’s still mad at us about Anna’s Girl’s Night Out.” Diane sighed.
Corinna looked up from a sheet of copy. “Pity she can’t make it tonight, still it’s hard to hop on a plane from Athens in the middle of covering a story. Cat, she is going to make it to the wedding… right?”
“That’s what her response stated,” Cat answered. “I’m grateful she told me about Lex and Aykira Luthor’s wedding. That scoop was a pinnacle of my time here!”
“Yes, but Lane and Kent scooped you on the interview of the happily married couple.” Terry interjected.
Cat glanced over at Lois and Clark shrugged and said, “The ride had to come to an end someday!” Then she turned back to Terry, winked and said to her friends. “Ladies, I have to finish up a rather drab story about another serious ‘blockbuster film’ for autumn. The director is trying to get it in for Oscar sweeps. Soon as that’s done, I’ll join you.” Waving her left hand so all could see her sparkling engagement ring, Cat walked back to her desk.
The older man acknowledged Cat’s exit and gave her departing back a courtly bow. He then moved on to his next person of interest. “Speaking of transportation and all things modern and shiny, Diane, where is your story on Suicide Slum? I need that before putting the Weekend section to bed.”
“It’s done! Thanks to Jimmy and Jack for their research, the last paragraph was typed up fifteen minutes ago. Check your inbox.”
“Excellent. Have a superb time at the party.” He headed off from the bullpen and returned to his office.
Another female voice joined the crowd, Erin Klinger, Head of the Daily Planet’s design department sang out. “I’m looking forward to this get together. Janet, we are still meeting at the Pen and Pencil ‘round 6:00?”
“That is the plan. The owner, Chuck set aside one of the smaller rooms. This is going to be a combination of party and shower. Some of the ladies will be on assignment when the real shower takes place, so this will give them a chance to be a part of the festivities.” Janet consulted a spreadsheet done on pink paper and looked at Erin. “That ought to make the head count about twenty-five - impressive.”
“Good. After the week I have had this will be a welcome diversion!”
“Erin, I thought you were pleased with the sales results of your book? It’s doing quite well on my side of the pond.” Jenni said, happy for the success her friend was enjoying.
“Oh, don’t get me wrong, I love being an author, but my first love is still reporting. However, my editor wants another book.” Janet, Jenni and Erin walked slowly towards the conference room as Erin talked of book sequels and design layout deadlines.
At Lois’ desk Stacy, Diane and Clark watched the interaction between these veteran female journalists and were completely entertained. Clark spoke first, “From the sounds of it, this is going to be some party!”
“It should be!” Diane piped up. “We have been planning it for weeks. I better check my e-mail before we leave, excuse me.” Without another word, Diane hurried back to her desk. Being caught off guard by Mr. Leatherwood was unnerving. He was an excellent and flexible boss to work for, but a ‘mean ol’ man’ when it came to wielding his editorial blue pencil.
***
Stacy was about to return to her area that she shared with three other interns. It was thrilling to be in the presence of people she had long admired. If only her parents and siblings could see her now! She smiled to herself; the experience of working here was almost as good as winning the young writers conference last year… almost. Stacy was lost in thought when Lois’ voice cut through.
***
“When did the internship start here?”
“Uh, last week, Mr. Olsen… Jimmy took me on a tour of the building. He’s very nice.”
“Jimmy and Jack are great guys if you need any help feel free to ask them. Where are you from?”
“Wyoming. I start my first year at Metro U in the fall. My English Literature teacher is an old friend of Mr. White’s… he helped me get this internship.” She was too nervous to say anything else.
Lois and Clark truly looked at the young woman for the first time. She was alone and without family for possibly the first time in her life. That was exciting, but also intimidating. Lois, a Metropolis native had always lived in the city she loved, yet she was aware it could be in frightening place to young newcomers. Clark, a seasoned world traveler understood what it meant to be the ‘new kid in town’. Although they might not spare this youngster too much attention, as to bring on the taint of favoritism, a little assistance could not impair Stacy’s progress. After all, they might be looking at a future Kerth nominee!
Lois could scarcely believe she was saying these words until they were out of her mouth. “Listen, if any staff member gives you a hard time let me know. Also, come with me to the party, it’s a great chance to spend time with some of the Daily Planet’s finest. Past. Present. Future.”
“Thank you Miss Lane!” Stacy beamed, happily, as she started back to the Darkroom.
“Its Lois,” she called after the intern. “Now get those pictures to Jimmy, he’s probably ready to conduct a search party for them!”
***
Clark smiled, this was definitely something new for the woman he loved! Imagine, ‘Bone Crusher’ Lane being a mentor to a young woman during her first year of living and working in Metropolis. Abruptly the shrill sound of his phone interrupted any further thoughts. He dashed over to his desk and picked up. “Hello, Clark Kent, Daily Planet.”
<<Oh good, I caught you! Mr. Kent, its Janice Harper. I just arrived in town. If this is a bad time perhaps we can talk later?>>
“No this is fine. What can I do for you?” Clark’s heart gave a tiny lurch. If his Landlady had returned, Pepper would be moving back in with her. He was going to miss the little guy.
<<Well to be quite blunt Mr. Kent, my Mother’s health has not improved and a permanent move to St. Louis is imminent. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in my new condo, so I can take Pepper off your hands tonight and bring him to relatives there. But don’t worry, as a token of my appreciation, your rent will remain the same for the next two years.>>
“Um, that’s great! But, can we discuss this at my apartment later Mrs. Harper? Pepper and I have become good friends. If there are no objections, may I keep him permanently? Also, regarding my lease, I was thinking of getting a bigger place… ”
The conversation continued for a few minutes more. He observed Lois, Diane, Cat and a quietly excited Stacy entering the elevator. Just before the doors closed, he heard Lois whisper so only he could hear. “Good-night, Flyboy.”
***
Bright and early the next morning Clark exited the elevator, walked down the ramp while balancing a carton containing a large low-fat mocha, his usual high caloric concoction and two blueberry muffins from the Java Perk. He had a sneaking suspicion his partner was going to need caffeine and sugar this morning. Since there were no urgent plea last night for help from Lois or any emergency phone calls from Bill Henderson. He was guessing Cat’s party was a rousing, albeit safe, success. But with that crew, it was a certainty the party had started at the Pen and Pencil and ended up who knows where.
He looked over to Perry’s office and noticed that the older man was hard at work already. <How does he do it? Arriving so early at the Daily Planet every morning? I thought newspaper ink was in Lois’ veins, Perry White has us both beat!> Shaking his head in admiration, Clark turned on his computer and began consulting his back files for story ideas.
Half an hour later, the daytime staff slowly began to arrive. Clark listened for her delicate heartbeat, but as of yet, neither she nor any of the other female staffers had shown up.
<Easy Clark, maybe she slept late, still, Perry isn’t going to be very happy.>
Just than a familiar heartbeat reached his ears even as the elevator doors snapped opened and out stepped Diane, Cat and Lois. All three women dragged themselves to the ramp, determined to get to their desks before Perry noticed how close they were to being late.
Lois seeing the coffee and muffin on her desk expressed profound relief. “Bless you Clark,” she whispered.
Clark walked over to Lois’ guest chair and made himself comfortable. It was impossible not to indulge in a bit of good-natured ribbing. “So, how are the revelers this fine morning?”
“Don’t go there Kent,” muttered an uncharacteristically taciturn Diane.
“I’m holding up,” Lois answered around a mouth full of still warm blueberry muffin.
Cat, looked as if she had a full night’s sleep, smiled triumphantly, “We had a blast! First, the party/shower at the Pen and Pencil than a smaller group of us went on a Scavenger hunt!”
“Shhh!” Diane hissed, as she noticed Perry emerging from his office. “Not so loud, he’ll hear you.”
“What’s wrong with a scavenger hunt?” Clark asked innocently.
“I’ll tell you what’s wrong son.” Perry weighted into the conversation. “When Anna got married, seven years ago, these ladies had a scavenger hunt and they all ended up in jail – for disturbing the peace. The Star covered the whole fiasco! The Daily Planet was the laughing stock of Metropolis.”
“Perry, be fair, we did *not* end up in jail, just in a holding cell. No charges, fingerprinting or mug shots.” Cat smiled mischievously. “Besides, Jenni cracked a smuggling ring. Who knew stealing an eight ball could yield a Kerth nomination for her?”
“Yeah, but during a pool game between two underworld kingpins? Who were trying to decide how to carve up their criminal territory? I still don’t understand what possessed the six of you to go in there. Great shades of Elvis, Lois was just a kid!”
“It’s quite simple, we smelled a story, and the scavenger hunt was the perfect cover-up.” Jenni’s light Scottish accent floated down to them from the top of the ramp. Flanked by Janet and Corrina, the women made a formidable trio.
“Come on Perry, we have been over this before,” Corrina jumped in with her no-nonsense manner. “Rumor was on the street about the pool tournament between Dugan and Meyers. We played the part of a bunch of bored, slightly dipsy secretaries looking for a little excitement. Is it our fault they bought the story and let us into the pool hall to watch?”
“Absolutely, we warned ‘em about our little scavenger hunt,” Cat put in.
“While Cat distracted them, I stole the eight ball,” Janet continued.
“Correct and when Dugan and Meyers discovered the theft, they started accusing each other. It did get rather exciting… quite the night.” Jenni’s blue eyes flashed, recalling the incident.
“Yeah, then a whale of a fight broke out. It took four squads cars, including the then Lieutenant Henderson to break up the melee.” Perry concluded the narrative. His face grew flush with the memory.
“Wow that most have been some smooth party!” Jimmy exclaimed.
“Yes, but you neglected to mentioned several of the gangsters talked to each about their plans to take over Metropolis *before* the fight broke out. I overheard the conversations and did a great deal of follow-up work with my sources to learn more.” Jenni commented. “That scavenger hunt yielded quite the headline. Janet and Corrina both wrote sidebars. I always said it was a shame you went into copy writing rather than reporting. Corrina.”
“It *is* what I do,” her friend said nonchalantly shrugging her shoulders.
“Trust us Perry,” Janet assured him as she stuck a freshly-sharpened pencil behind her ear and headed for the red metal stairs. “Nothing happened on this particular scavenger hunt. We only managed to bag a male model’s sneakers…no story there.” She sighed, obviously disappointed. “Jenni, you can use my office while I’m having a meeting. See everyone later.” With those parting words, she briskly ran upstairs. Jenni smiled and winked at Lois, than she and Corrina walked over to the coffee station.
It took a moment for Perry to compose himself than looked at the bullpen staff, who stood mesmerized listening to the story and watching their chief get his leg pulled. Perry realized it to and began bellowing orders. It took all of Clark’s self-control to keep from falling out of his chair from holding in the laughter.
***
Eventually the ebb and flow of the bullpen returned to normal. Lois listened to the background clatter of computer keyboards, news monitors and chatter as her co-workers went about their working day. She reflected on the past six months. A great deal had happened to herself personally and to the world at large. She and Clark were together not just professionally, but privately. Their stories were continuing to help to clean up corruption in the corporate world as well as the government. Being a couple, each leaned on qualities the other lacked, which made for a better whole.
It was a crushing point of dissatisfaction Lex Luthor would never be brought to trial for his masterminding of the crystals theft. However, the conglomerate, which bore his name, was no longer under his control. All dreams of Space Station Lex forever cast aside. True to their word, Aykira and Lex had meet with General Zeitlin and the mysterious John Cosgrove and returned all fourteen of the missing crystals. The multinational corporation quietly paid heavy fines and had to cut costs on some of its most lucrative government contracts.
The final blow; for the next ten years the Superman Foundation would privately supervise all the company’s international activities. At that last part, Lex had balked. However, supervision by the foundation was preferable to a full out media blitz regarding LexCorp’s more nefarious activities and all the problems resulting from it.
Aykira had destroyed the blood sample linking Lois to the break-in. She had done so in front of Lois and Clark that day in her office. The female reporter experienced poignant feelings that they had not meet under better circumstances. To participate in a true close friendship between them in this world, as well as in Aykira’s own. For despite the fact that Mrs. Luthor was happily married, Lois sensed she was still a little lonely - isolated. For all her machinations, she was still a sympathic figure. Being a new wife and a caregiver to her husband was a heavy load. Sincere help and compassion from loving friends was a luxury the billionaire’s wife did not have.
She thought about last night and the fun Planet’s female employees had. Did Aykira have such friends? Even acquaintances?
It also nagged at her regarding Aykira’s comment on finding a cure for kryptonite poisoning. After all, she did give Axelrod’s vial to Bernie Klein in the hopes of finding a cure. Wouldn’t she go to *any* lengths to save Clark? Possibly, even break the law. She sighed internally, painfully aware of the answer.
Perhaps she might give Aykira a phone call some day.
***
Two days after the big party, Cat came into the newsroom to tie up a few stories before officially turning her column over to the new gossip columnist, Peggy Becker.
After having conversations with several of the bullpen staff, she sauntered over to Lois’ desk wearing, for Cat, a simple purple and gray knit dress.
Looking up Lois could not help but notice the normally flamboyantly woman wearing such a simple outfit. “What? Are you in mourning? Since when does Cat Grant wear grey?” Lois asked.
Cat shrugged her shoulders and said, “Can’t a girl try something different? I wanted to ask, are you free for lunch?”
Lois glanced over to Clark’s desk and noticed it was empty. Her partner was in the middle of either a rescue or hunting down a source. Apparently, she was at loose ends this afternoon. “Sure why not?”
Since the night of Cat’s engagement, the two women had continued to trade sarcastic comments, but there was no longer animosity between them. No one would ever confuse them as being the best of friends, but there was now a mutual grudging respect between them.
“Great! I’ll come and get you around 11:45.” Cat said.
<Now I wonder what that’s about?> Lois thought.
***
The morning went by swiftly and true to her word, Cat arrived promptly at Lois’ desk and the two women headed up the ramp for the elevator.
“I’m starving. Where to?” Lois asked.
“Originally, I wanted to go to that Italian deli with the grilled veggie sandwiches and salads, but I heard a rumor, Jason might sell the Java Perk.” Cat said gloomily.
“What!” Lois squeaked, threatening to launch into full-blown babble. “He can’t sell! They make the best low fat muffins in New Troy! Come on, let’s go.”
“Yeah, I want another ‘Whispering Eye’ muffin before he sells out of them!” With a fervor usually devoted to launching a full out investigation, the reporters departed for their lunch and some desperately needed answers.
A few minutes later found Cat and Lois confronting Jason, the owner of the Java Perk in the midst of filling orders for a hungry lunch crowd.
“Tell me it’s not true,” pleaded Lois as she shouted over the noise of clattering dishes, waitresses shouting orders and conversations from patrons. “The Java Perk is not closing down?”
“Relax ladies, I’m going on vacation - first one in three years! My cousin Rico will be running the place for a month. His baking is as good as mine!”
Lois turned to Cat, cocked an eyebrow and snapped. “*This* is your idea of reporting?”
Jason, sensing the two women would be arguing about this through lunch, stepped in. “Ladies, in honor of Ms. Grant’s upcoming nuptials, I declare lunch is on the house. Take these menus, look ‘em over and have Gina take your order.”
“Really!?” Both women squeaked at once.
Gina, another of Jason’s cousins, expertly took the salad orders at the counter. She then guided the two women to a recently emptied booth. A busboy came over and swiftly cleaned off the table. Lois and Cat sat down and chatted amicably about the latter’s confusion over the rumor. Jason himself brought over the food and presented each woman with a white pastry box.
“What’s this?” Cat asked.
"Just a little tasty going away present for you and George – two Whispering eye muffins. Lois, I know Clark likes morning glory muffins so there is one for him and a chocolate chip muffin for you. Enjoy ladies!” So saying Jason returned to his accustomed place behind the counter.
Lois dived into her salad with a will, it had been a long time since yogurt for breakfast. She still wondered why Cat had invited her to lunch. It was a little late for the two of them to develop a deeper relationship. Still the two women talked over Cat’s wedding and her plans to return to school and finish her art degree.
“Since when were you ever interested in art?” Lois said.
“Always. My favorite period of study is the Renaissance. It was an amazing era. The arts, literature, science, engineering was all booming.” Cat’s green eyes shone with fascination.
“It was also a time when women were nothing more than breeders for the nobility.” Lois countered.
“Ha! That shows how much you know. Ever heard of Isabella d’Este?”
“No. Who was she? An artist?”
“Not an artist, but a patron of the arts. Isabella was very accomplished and could easily play the lute. The art of conversation was infinitely more appreciated in those days, at seventeen she could skillfully hold her own against those twice her age.”
“After her husband’s death, she ruled Mantua and was very successful. Over the course of her lifetime, she wrote over two thousand letters. The contents held information on everything from politics to war. That the nearest any woman came to writing history at that time. As an independent woman and writer, you would have liked her.”
Lois listened intently as Catherine Grant began to warm to her subject discussing many important figures of that long ago era. Both women discovered they had barely touched their food and decided to finish eating before their lunchtime was completely over. < I’m still curious as to why Cat invited me out, now is as good a time to ask.>
“This is probably the best conversation we have ever had. Which brings me to the question, *why* are we here?”
The older woman sat back in her chair and gave Lois an appraising look, the expression on her face thoughtful. She cleared her throat and began speaking. “I wanted to apology for being so unprofessional to you over the years. We should have been working together, exchanging information, rather than being adversaries.”
Lois leaned back in her chair, obliviously astonished to hear those words. “Excuse me?” she said, dumbfounded.
“Think about it. When Jenni, Janet and Corinna were in the bullpen they worked together as a *team*. The story Jenni cracked from the scavenger hunt was just one example. Their support when I began working at the Planet was invaluable and I follow most of those lessons to this very day. Corrina used to go over my copy all the time. Janet always checked my information for me when it came to anything medical. Jenni expected me to back up all my little gossip tidbits with facts.”
“True,” Lois nodded. “Legal never had to triple check your stories.”
“No, they didn’t. Anyhow, I know it’s too late to be great friends, but as a woman in a male dominated profession I should have been as supportive to you as my mentors were to me. There was one time in particular when being the more experienced, I *should* have steered you from a bad situation. So, I thought this lunch might help to say ‘I’m sorry’.”
Once again, Catherine Grant’s frankness and tact surprised Lois. She was aware of which ‘bad situation’ she was talking about. Claude’s betrayal came at a time when her full reporter status was still fresh. Perhaps if Cat had warned her, the acutely embarrassing aftermath of that ill-fated relationship might never have happened. No, she probably would have ignored any warning Cat gave, checking the water level was just not her style.
A gentle smile played across her lips, “Thank you. I appreciate the lunch and the sentiments behind it. Honestly, George is the best thing that ever happened to you!”
“I believe the same should be said about Mr. Kent. The ‘partnership’ is working out better than anyone expected.” Cat’s trademark purr clearly evident in her voice.
Lois looked back at her, not at all embarrassed or confused, but happy and proud of the intimate relationship shared with Clark. It was stronger and more powerful than being alone. What started out as a bickering brother and sister rivalry had grown into something beautiful. “Thank you Cat.” She answered with a genuine smile.
“Just calling it like I see it. Be happy Lois. You deserve it.”
Silence stretched between the two, but before it got uncomfortable, Lois spoke, changing the subject.
"Sorry to hear Peggy Becker got your gig rather than Diane, she’s really good.”
“No, Diane needs to concentrate on writing hard news, not so much stuff in the Weekend Section or a gossip column. I’ve taken a look at her piece on Suicide Slum restoration by LexCorp - solid writing. It’s a good thing Leatherwood took the assignment away from Eduardo and gave it to her.”
“That’s high praise coming from you.” Lois answered.
“Yeah well, If Mrs. Luthor follows through on her plans; the area restoration is going to be fantastic. She didn’t mention anything about the project during your interview?”
“Nope, she was pretty involved in other matters and did not discuss it.”
“No doubt, poor woman. Imagine getting married, only to discover your husband has a terminal brain tumor.” Cat suppressed a shudder. In a faraway voice, she said. “Aykira really is in love with him.”
Lois, not wishing to dwell on Aykira’s misfortune looked at her watch and said, "We need to get back to the Bullpen before Perry starts bellowing."
“Yeah, I’m going to miss that southern gentleman’s bellow… and his Elvis stories.” Cat sighed as she gathered her things. “Do me a favor Lois.”
“Sure. If I can.”
“This will be easy. Actually its two things.”
Sensing a trap Lois looked at her former nemesis and waited for it to snap.
“Keep an eye on Diane for me?” Cat lowered her voice and in a contrite tone continued. “Be the friend and mentor to her that I *wasn’t* to you?”
For the second time in an hour, Cat Grant’s words had taken her by surprise. Here indeed was a different woman from the one who wanted to test drive Clark in his Superman guise to ascertain if he was ‘domestic’ or ‘imported’. Concealing her amazement, she replied, “That’s not a problem. What’s the other request?”
“Drop me a line every once in awhile? Let me know how life is going in the bullpen. I know you will give me a true view of what’s happening. Honestly, until just now, I did not realize how much I’m going to miss everyone.”
“Okay, expect an e-mail from me at least once a month.” Lois replied.
“Even if Clark and you are in the middle of an investigation which is sure to yield another Kerth?” She asked in a teasing tone.
“Don’t push it Grant!” Lois growled in typical ‘Mad Dog’ fashion.
“Oh I wouldn’t dream of doing it!” Cat laughed in her full-throated manner. “Now tell me, how is your mentoring going with Stacy? You know, the bespectacled intern from Wyoming? Is there a future Kerth award winner there?”
Lois shook her head mentally. Cat may be leaving the Daily Planet, but in her heart, she was still into collecting gossip. The lunch crowd had thinned to a few patrons, so it was easy to pull Jason out of the kitchen and wish him a restful vacation. Once that pleasant task was complete, they exited the Java Perk.
