Part 2: By Your Side

(now been beta'd. One line difference to from previous version.)

~♥~

Even before they had become separated for days, parting had always been difficult. Being together 24/7 for the last few days was not enough, it never could be, not that it was even an option.

With recent events however, it had been that much harder to pull away. It felt like the very early days of their marriage, kissing him and watching him fly off from the balcony. Missing him before he had left, longing for him. Hoping the world would be at peace and he'd be safe.

Invulnerability didn't mean invincible. It didn't mean that the unseen couldn't hurt him, and that there wouldn't be a green kryptonite deposit or some experiment to catch him by surprise. Nothing could be taken for granted. This thought was always at the back of her mind.

Lois was proud of him. His heart was always there for everyone, ready to do what was right to protect them, be their hope. He did it with no agenda and no ego. If anything she sometimes had to be that ego for him. Clark may have found a peace with who he was and his destiny but like anyone he needed someone to tell him he did good and remind him, when the pressures got to much that it was okay to just be Clark Kent.

Lois never had any illusions that being his wife would be easy. In fact, she expected it to be full of difficulties and heartache. There were days when the burden was especially heavy for him and it was her place to help him carry it. It hurt her to see him hurt, yet Lois knew there was no other place she ever wanted to be but at his side. Yes, there had been a time when she had thought herself another burden, someone that would slow him down or prevent him from reaching his full potential. But she had been told, informed and reminded that she was what he needed. Doctor Fate, Carter Hall, Mera, Martha, Chloe and ultimately in Clark's vows. All reaffirming that her need to be needed wasn't a wasted dream. Clark needed her. Superman needed her.

Since then, the day they exchanged vows, Lois hadn't looked back. There wasn't a moment where the feeling of being needed went unanswered. She saw it in his eyes. It wasn't the kind of neediness that could send one running for the hills but the sort that said, everything she was, was perfect for him.

It was love. It was that love that made the heartache, troubles and life threatening moments worth every ounce of her effort. Carter was right. She had the strength to carry the burdens that came with this great love.

It was a great love as far as Lois was concerned. She didn't need recognition to feel it. The world may never know that Superman had a wife, that he had someone by his side. Validation from the world had no value to her, she found all she needed in his eyes. The way he would come into the room and his eyes would always seek hers, no matter where they were or what the circumstances. Happy or sad, tears or laughter. Their eyes would meet and she would drown again.

Growing up, love had felt like something others had, like somehow she had missed out on the right to have someone love her like she was the only girl in the world. She had seen glimpses that kind of love existed. Even with her parents she had, and then there had been the Kent’s, and Clark mooning over Lana. Reminders, painful ones that she wasn't allowed in on that. Yes she had family but Lois Lane did not have a home, nor was she the object of someone’s fantasy.

It was typical of Clark to turn all that on its head, all the while he was still trapped in the pull of another girl. His home became her home, his family her own, his friendship became a prize she was loathe to give up on, even when she wouldn't admit to it. It took her by surprise when she realised that he meant more to her then that and that falling for him had never stopped. Again and again he stole her heart. She was never going to get it back.

How deep could love go? It was a question she hoped was never answered.

With a deep breath and several long minutes of standing on the balcony, Lois moved back into their apartment. Lost in her thoughts of what she would do to bring back both sides of her husband, when the door buzzed,

Chloe wasn't due for another half hour.

Peeking through the peephole in the door, she frowned at the smartly dressed woman on the other side.

Lois opened the door a little, the chain still bolted on the door. Not in the mood to deal with something new at the moment, her hands were already full.

The light brunette on the other side gave her a once over just as Lois was doing the same. “Mrs Kent?” She asked in a professional but friendly manner.

Definitely not P.D and not from Metropolis either Lois thought, not with the pleasantness in her manner while still keeping a formal air. Metropolitan’s weren't exactly known for doing both at the same time, and cops, well lately Lois wasn't impressed with their manners either. No matter where they were from.

“Lane-Kent, actually". It was a statement but with the unspoken question of what are you doing here and what do you want? Lois didn't care that she wasn't exactly being friendly.

“My apologises, Mrs Lane-Kent. I was hoping to talk with you. I'm Special Agent Dianna Lassiter...” She flashed a badge, Lois barely had a chance to look at it before the woman tucked it back into her jacket and continued, “Can I come in? I promise I won’t take up too much of your time.”

There was a definite feeling that this was one of those times where, if she closed the door and ignored whatever it was the woman was bringing with her she'd be missing out on something important. Yet at the same time whatever it was, whatever importance it might have held, would only lead to more trouble.

Sighing, she made up her mind, never one to back down from a challenge. “Can I have you're badge number first?” Lois said with a tight smile.

“Of course”. Agent Lassiter seemed unfazed and gave her the number without hesitation.

“Thank you… one moment”. Lois took a quick photo of the woman with her cell before closing the door . Not caring what the woman thought she sent the badge number and the photo directly to watchtower with a question of validation. Just because she was married to Superman and had seen a badge didn't make her stupid. Especially after the story she and Clark had covered the year before on a serial killer who had used a badge to get close to his victims.

About 2 minutes Later she got back a confirmation that Agent Lassiter was legit, FBI apparently.

Lois glanced around the apartment to make sure there was no sign of Clark and then unbolted the door, opening it all the way. “Sorry for the wait, I had to be sure you are who you say you are”. Lois took a step back allowing the woman to come into her apartment.

Despite the fact she could see no obvious signs of Clark's recent presence she felt a sense of nervousness.

“I understand completely. I read the story you wrote last year and I have to say I was truly impressed.”

Lois nodded for the woman to take a seat at the table. “Thank you!” she responded sincerely before adding, “But that’s not why you're here, I don't imagine the FBI dropping by just to tell me they like my articles. If anything I'd be expected to be told to be quiet rather than encouraged."

“I'm not just anyone and why I came here has even less to do with your articles then my personal admiration of your work”

Lois leaned against the counter, a hand on her hip as she looked the woman over. “I imagined you did some research on me. If so you'd know that whatever angle you're working won't be helped by flattery”.

Lassiter nodded, “There is no angle. Nor is this an interrogation, I only wish to talk to you. Please just here me out and then I'll be out of your hair”.

The only reason Lois was giving her anymore of her time, was a result of the air of sincerity the woman was giving off. Whether it was the truth or not her curiosity was peaked. What would an FBI agent have to say to her? What could be so important?

“Fine”. Lois pressed her lips, “You've got twenty minutes”.

“That's all I need”.

“Would you like some coffee?”

“Yes please”. Lassiter specified her coffee preferences before throwing out the reason she was there. “The truth is Mrs Lane-Kent, I can help clear your husband’s name”.

Lois turned from pouring the coffee to look at her once again, incredulously “Clear his name?”

“Yes”.

“Forgive me if I’m a little sceptical about this but…” Lois waved a hand in the air, “I’'s a little left field for me. Last thing I expected from someone like you is an offer of help”.

“I'm not one of the Detectives on the case. I have my reasons for wanting to help you, one of them being I do believe he is innocent”.

“He is innocent”, Lois snapped.

It went quiet as Lois stared at her for a moment before turning to finish the coffee. For once she didn't notice to the silence, to lost in her thoughts to care. This whole conversation was completely disconcerting. She'd rather be yelling at the Metropolis P.D then deal with a sudden and unexpected wild card.

Sitting at the table, Agent Lassiter watched Lois make the coffee and bring it over. Despite the fading bruises and signs of physical trauma, Lassiter could tell she was strong. Whatever was bothering her had to do with the state of Clark, not because she was afraid of him, but for him.

Lois sat, not sure if she trusted the other woman's claims that she could help her clear Clark's name. She had been prepared for a fight and now suddenly a miracle was being offered. It seemed unreal or like it had a huge price tag possibly attached to it.

“So.." Lois began holding her coffee trying not to seem overly hostile, failing though by narrowing her eyes.

Lassiter wasn't surprised or particularly offended. “It's Dianna, and Lois...”testing the waters with her first name. “I am here to help.”

“Why? The Detectives and D.A were so convinced my Husband hurt me despite everything I said. And now because of that, Clark is god knows where. He could be sick or...” closing her eyes against the flashes of her dream, of him in her arms. Despite the twisting of truth involved the feelings were real.

Dianna took a sip of her coffee and nodded appreciatively at it before giving Lois a long look and carefully forming her next words, it was clear Lois was upset. “Lois… I deal with special cases. For years, even before the noticeable emergence of Superheroes, there were times when things couldn't be explained whether it was an horrific incident or a miraculous save. Our department mostly got witness statements and investigated as much as we could. Hoping someday to fill in the blanks”. She sat back, remembering the early days.

Lois waited listening, wondering where this was going.

Lassiter continued while nursing her drink. “Back then we weren't taken too seriously. Than the Green Arrow appeared followed by the Blur, as well as a few localised heroes”. Lois didn't miss the way she said the word ‘hero’ or how she never called them vigilantes. There was warmth to her words.

“Did you get your answers?”

“Yes, though it didn't matter for a while, we were shut down. The VRA saw us as supporters’ rather than just investigators. And I guess they were right, like you Lois we did feel that many deserved our respect. There were some that didn't but that was part of the overall picture. Extraordinary people were out there, some for good and some for not. When the VRA was shut down it took a while but we were put back in action, this time to not just investigate but to help heroes like Superman within the law. ”

Lois frowned, confused. “Why have we never heard of you? And why are you coming to me?”

“Most of what we do is behind the scenes, which is how we prefer it. And I am here Lois because I believe you. I want to help”

“Clark isn't a Superhero”. Lois found it hard to get those words out.

Dianna gave her a knowing smile, “Maybe not, but am I right in assuming that what you experienced is tied to Superman? And that makes Clark a victim in this.”

Lois fought the urge to swallow. There was something in the woman's eyes that made her feel like there was so much not being said. Did she know Clark and Superman were the same? Was she completely genuine? And if so...could she really help?

“What makes you think any of this ties to Superman..?”

“He flew straight into an airport looking directly for you. Not to mention his brief statements on what occurred over the skies of Metropolis. While there is nothing directly linking what happened to you in those statements, it’s not a long stretch to see that both events tie into each other”.

When Lois didn't dispute with her Dianna continued, “I had a good look at the medical report. Your chest wound matched the description of a number of victims found around Metropolis and those of the penitentiary. One could argue that Clark Kent was on the loose, but that doesn't explain the prison nor the survivors’ descriptions of a creature that matched the one of the Great Storm”.

Lois gave a rueful smile and took a deep breath, “If only the detectives on my case were as perceptive as you, Clark would still be here”.

Dianna nodded, “Unfortunately and in fairness to them they don't have the luxury of my experience. I can have this case transferred to my department and I can get this cleared up”.

Lois frowned and leaned forward, “If you can do that then why haven't you?”

“It’s not that straightforward. The process though will work faster and easier if you are part of it. Which is why I am here...you have a reputation Lois and for good reason. That alone could be a hindrance if we got off on the wrong footing. If you suddenly found out that a third party was handling this situation you would be doing everything you could to find out, even if it meant throwing wrenches into the works. While ultimately that wouldn't matter, the safety and expedient return of your Husband is important to us, we'd rather it is done right. ”

Lois eyed her for a moment, “What exactly is it that you want from me?”Voice heavy with the implication that she was exactly on board.

“For you to trust me and tell me exactly what happened to you”. There was so much unspoken in the way she said it that Lois knew she meant as far as Superman's involvement too.

Before Lois had a chance to respond, Lassiter stood and slipped a card across the table. “Think about it, the sooner you contact me and we talk the sooner we can clear his name and get him home”.


~ A short time later ~

Dianna stepped into the plain everyday office on the 7th floor of a non-descriptive building in the heart of downtown Metropolis, wondering as she often did, why her partner refused to leave since they had arrived the day after the Great Storm.

Before she had a chance to inform him on the one on one with Lois Lane-Kent, he asked, “Is she as tough as they say?”

Observing him, as he looked out the window, she was unable to stop the slight smile forming at her lips. “Her reputation doesn't do her justice.” He turned to look at her nodding in approval. Dianna continued, “Head strong, blunt...perceptive to say the least.”

Taking a seat behind one of the small desks set up in the spare room, her partner nodded again. “Fits the reporter mentality… does she love him?” He asked. The look in his eyes told her he needed reassurance, so she gave him the truth as she saw it. “Fiercely and very protective, her behaviour did not fit Hernandez report. She’s not a victim, far from it.”

“Good. Do you think she will accept the offer?”

Dianna pulled a chair over and sat. “Honestly, I don't know. I have a feeling she is going to be looking to find everything on me and our department, before she'll even consider it. But I think there’s a chance.”

“I hope so, for both their sakes. I have no doubt she could pull it off on her own but it would be far quicker with us.”

“So, are you going to tell me?” She leaned forward on to the edge of his desk. “Come on... how do the Kent’s tie in with Superman? And don't give me that line about Lane's articles. I know all that…no run around Peter.”

He shook his head, “No… not yet. Look I will tell you when its time but I need to see the Kent’s first.”

“Then why didn't you come today?” She asked.

“Because Clark Kent isn't home yet.”

Dianna gave Peter a suspicious glare. It irked her that he was keeping something from her. It was more than the connection between the Kent's and Superman, somehow Peter himself had one. But he guarded it like nothing else, as if it would become life or death if he spoke about it.

It would be a lie to say it didn't hurt her a little, especially considering how much of their life they did share together.

“Fine!” She suddenly stood up, “I'm going out for coffee, want some?”

“Yeah, my usual thanks.”

When she left it was the same as before. Peter came to stand by the window, looking at the sky and watching the streets. The flash of red and blue that streaked across the sky left Peter with an odd mix of feelings, the time to resolve them was coming soon.
~♥/♥~

A/N: Originally there was a lot more i was going to post for this chapter. But it was just getting to be to long (37 pages) and several scenes weren't finished. So I figured this was the best place I could split the chapter up at. So the cliffie i originally had has been moved to chapter 14 and chapter 14 (that is a special one) is now 15. Lol.. Hopefully I will have Chapter 14 up in the next week or two as it is very close to being done. BTW this does mean the sexy elevator scene i promise would be coming to certain peeps..its in the next chapter..sorry 

Despite the lack of epic ending hope this is enjoyed.

As usual feedback is cookies..please feed me! 

~♥~ Chapter Thirteen: By Your Side ~♥~

A/N:
PLEASE make sure you read the end of Chapter 12. I have a feeling some of you didn't see my reload/refresh warning and missed the sexy cloisey end and the dream. Part 3 of Chapter 12 is here.

This first half is full of fluffy sexy Clois. Not explicit but warning if your sensitive to mild suggestion and innuendo. My Pre-reader said it was hot..so hopefully the rest of you will agree. The meatier part of the chapter I am still trimming up and will be in part 2.

Edit Updated: Replaced with a version beta'd by EmLouD who is now my permanent beta for Heart to Heart. Thanks so much!!

~♥~ Chapter Thirteen: By Your Side ~♥~

~ 5 Years before Present: Kent Farm ~

“ You are so dead!”

The victory dance was done around him, almost right along his body, forcing Clark to turn with her.

“Right, Lois.”

“Don't play coy Smallville, it really doesn't suit you. Now admit it! ”

“No way...! You cheated!”

“I do not cheat... you can't 'cheat' in this game anyway. It doesn't work like that.” Lois stopped her dancing pushing past Clark, who was more than eager to win this argument. “You're just a sore loser.”

“Technically I haven't lost. ”

“We finish this...” she pointed at the game which flash 39 seconds on the screen “and you'll be dead. You know it…and I know it. Why do you wish to prolong your agony?”

Clark put his controller down and went to the island counter, watching Lois as she raided the fridge. “I'm not prolonging anything. You just don't want to finish because if we do… I'll win!”

Lois gave a barking laugh, “Yeah…right. Smallville… you keep telling yourself that.”

“What are you doing?” Clark watched the array of things being set on the counter from the fridge. He couldn't decide if she was making a sandwich or not.

“Making lunch...” She rolled her eyes at him as if to say 'duh'.

He returned the look. “Yes, I know, but I mean...exactly what are you planning to eat?”

“Whatever I can find...”

“There is left over casserole in the back.”

“Oh...” She pulled out the dish and peeled back the cover to smile at the contents. “Now that is food! Did your mom cook this and send it in the post, because this looks an awful lot like one of hers.”

“No, I did. I do know how to cook, Lois.” Clark appeared a little hurt.

Lois gave him a doubtful look,“uh huh...” turning to look away so he wouldn't see the smile threatening to break her face.

Neither noticed the two figures that stood in the kitchen with them. The brunette watched the interplay and swallowed against the pain. She wanted so badly to touch him.

The other looked at the calendar and shook their head. “We're too early…Chloe's wedding isn't for another three weeks and it will be needed before then.”

“The phantom zone” ?

“Yes.”

“She…” it was weird to word it like that. Watching Lois, Lois who had Clark. “She won't be planning to move in for another week.”

“We have to jump again.”

The brunette turned to look at her companion, “Why is he bringing us to the wrong times… why!? It hurts to see him!”

“You'll get him back. We'll get him back, I promise.”

“It has to be fixed...” She turned back to look at Clark and Lois, who continued the banter between them mixed with a discussion of work at the daily planet, the looks exchanged, the slight sexual undertone that would peak here and there. She missed having that with him, being able to talk to him. Hear his voice say her name. Instead all she got was a show of them together. It wasn't the same.

He's gone now... a small voice reminded her. Not if this works...

It had to work. She couldn't go another day without him. It no longer mattered about the world; she wanted it to, because the world needed him too. But at this point all she could see and feel was her need to have him back. The ache to pull him to her now, as his younger self, was so strong she was forced to wrap her arms around herself in order to not follow through with the desire.

“Let’s go! I can't do this.”

The others voice was filled with sorrow as well, “We can't.”

Reminded that she wasn't the only one grieving, she turned with an apologetic look but pleaded, “I can't do this... Please!”

“We'll shift when the time is right. I'm sorry...” Her companion took her hand. Offering some comfort. A reminder of a man who use to do the same.

With hurting hearts they continued to watch. Eventually the ring on the brunette’s finger glowed, and the pull and divide of reality around them began, its familiar feeling filling them both.

Her last words before they jumped were ones she said every time, “I'll get you back... I promise!”


~ Present Day: Metropolis ~


He flew his usual rounds three times, wanting to make it up to the people of this world, the world he called home. He couldn't bring back those who died from the bridge disaster, the prisoners of the penitentiary, those victims of the creeper and the storm. Knowing it wasn't his fault that he couldn't be there all the time did not change the piece of himself he always lost.

It was her words of encouragement, echoing in his ears, reminding him that not only was it not his fault. Superman wasn't responsible for death and disaster; they were not something he could control. Humanity had to deal just the same, people would always have grief, and there would always be loss. But what he stood for went beyond a quick fix to avoid this pain but to stand up despite it, for people to lend a helping hand to one another. Love and support and find hope. He was their hope and she - the beautiful Lois was his.

Dawn was only a few hours away, it had yet to break, still even in the finale dark hours of the night he made sure that Metropolis saw him. Flying in the moonlight making his presence known. A reminder that Superman was back and once again their champion.

Retreating back home, he came in through the balcony expecting to find her fast asleep, her angel form spread across the bed like she owned it. Which if he was honest she did. A part of him wondered if she took over the bed so he'd be forced to risk waking her in order to slip in beside her.

Clark had learned to never under estimate her ability to be devious when it came to their love life. Lois not only had an endless appetite for him, but knew he had very little resistance to her and her in the middle of the night charms.

The bed was empty and instead of her light snoring he could hear the tap of laptop keys and a see light glow of the TV in the living area.

“Lois...” he began.

She didn't even look up, just continued typing away while answering,“You've been a busy boy...”

“I took a cue from you I see.”

“Someone has to tell the story...” She gave an ironic smile “Well a version of it... I've become quite good at telling the truth while weeding huge chunks of it out and twisting the rest.”

He sighed and came over to lean down behind her, whispering in her ear,“Lois... you can do the reporter stuff tomorrow. ” He laid a tender kiss on the side of cheek.

“It is tomorrow.”

“Fine, later when its daylight… actual full sun in the sky over Metropolis daylight.” He came around to face her. Noting once again the dark circles under her beautiful eyes.

“I have a lot of work to do, Smallville, and some of it really shouldn't wait, I've already email Perry with a tease of what I have. He's biting at the bit now.”

He sat beside her, “Lois, you don't have to do it now. Perry will survive and Clark Kent can stay away for a few more days...”

“He could, but his wife needs him.”

Shaking his head, Clark stood again, “Lois, come to bed...”

Lois sighed and closed the laptop unable to resist the husky tone his voice had suddenly taken. He could be so mean when he did that! How was she to concentrate when he did while wearing the suit? The skin tight suit that really did not leave much to the imagination… not that she needed hers, she knew that body better then inside of the Daily Planet.

It did not escape him how her eyes travelled his full length, pausing just a little mid-way. She bit her bottom lip and he felt a heat rise through him. Oh no! Not now! She was not manipulating this.

Clark took the laptop and placed it aside, knowing full well what she was anticipating but instead as he hauled her up he swung her over his shoulder carefully with her bottom up in the air, saying as he carried her to the room.

“You are going back to bed to...sleep.”

She slapped at his back and kicked, “THAT'S NOT FAIR...! Put me down Clark!”

“No!” He slapped her behind gently.

“Why?” She asked with a huff as he put in the middle of the bed, her expression half glare half come on.

He leaned down in front of her, arm on either side, face only hairs breath away. Clark declared with so much sincerity that Lois felt a tad bit guilty,“You need more sleep. It’s been rough lately Lois. You have dark circles under your eyes and I know I won't be able to stop you from marching on in behalf of Clark Kent and clearing my name but you need the sleep.”

Her eyes scanned over his face as she reached a hand up to touch his lips. “I'm fine, I promise I am fine”

“Lois...” he took her hand wrapping it in of his warm ones, “I need you to have the sleep...I need you to be well.”

Lois sighed and leaned in touching her forehead to his, her eyes never leaving his. “I am okay. It’s gone and we are free Smallville, stop worrying. Besides,” she brought up her other hand to run over the front of his suit, “I think there is a certain kind of healing art that is perfect for making me 'well' ”

“Lois...”

“Clark, stop fighting it. And I promise to be a good girl and get plenty of sleep after.” She let her lips graze his as she spoke; when she pulled back a little she saw the shift in his eyes from loving concern to deep desire. It took a bit of control to not smile in her victory over him.

Also struggling to control himself, Clark managed to ask, “You promise?”

Lois nodded, “I cross my heart…” pulling him over her as she lay back on to the bed. “Now...I want to enjoy finding out exactly what’s under this suit...”

Clark kissed her and grinned, “You already know…”

“I need a refresher...memory is a bit foggy” She wrapped her legs around his waist, laughing as his mouth attacked her neck. This really was the best medicine there was.


~♥~


Clark become aware to her warmth and scent suddenly leaving him. With eyes still closed he stated, “You are sleeping in Lois Lane-Kent.”

“Yes, I am Mr. Kent... but unless you have acquired the power to go to the bathroom for me, than I think you can excuse this slight absence.”

He rolled on to his back and opened his eyes to give her a hard but loving stare. “Just as long as you remember you promised.”

Rolling her eyes, Lois left the room humming as she did.

Clark smiled to himself recognizing the tune, “Here I go again... ha-ha Lois.”

“Well it fits.”

“I’ve more than repaid my debt, Lois!”

“So...” her voice echoed off the bathroom walls. “it’s only cause of the debt?”

Putting his arms behind his head, Clark waited for her to return before answering. Knowing all his taunt muscles would catch her attention.“What do you think?”

Lois eyed him over with both suspicion and lust, “You're mean!”

“And you're not?”

She actually had the nerve to laugh, “I'm Lois Lane. Of course I am...haven't you heard? Apparently I eat wayward interns for breakfast.”

“I wasn't referring to that.”

Lois grinned and crawled up the bed, along the length of his body till her face hovered over his.

“You like mean Lois. You know you do.”

“No…” came the reply with a dead panned expression

Lois scowled, “No? You do too!!”

He shook his head.

“Clark!”

“Lois?”

“Fine..! I can play this game. No mean Lois from now on. Which means...? ” She teased a nail down his side. His face stayed neutral but she spotted the slight signs it was getting to him in the darkening of his eyes and the way his muscles twitched ever so slightly. “...naughty Lois is gone too.”

She rolled off him and turned to lie on her side away from him. There was silence for a moment as they waited it out. Lois waiting for him to cave and admit he liked naughty and mean Lois. Clark waiting to see what else she would do, how long it would take before the silence killed her.

Just as she hit her breaking point and was about to turn to attack him, with kisses of course, Clark suddenly got out of the bed.

Lois' eyebrows disappeared into her hairline, “Where are you going?”

“To shower...and make you breakfast.”

Rushing forward, she grabbed his boxers from the floor, “Wait a minute buddy! This is not how we play the game!”

“Lois, I need a shower... and you promised to sleep in.”

“But...” She held the boxers tight as if they were the only pair he owned and she could hold him hostage with them.

“You can't leave in the middle of it...”

Clark gave a small laugh and shook his head, “You can always prove to me how much I like mean Lois later.”

Lois shook her head in return, “No... Now..!” Actually pouting which began causing a reaction Clark didn't want. Mentally forcing himself to not go where he knew she was trying to drag him, Clark made to swipe his boxers. She only held them tighter.

“Lois... You promised! ”

“I will keep my promise. When you admit you like mean Lois.”

“No” . He mentally rolled his eyes when it dawned on him that he didn't need the boxers she was withholding from him. “You don't keep your promise and I won't cook you your favourite breakfast.”

Lois narrowed her eyes, “fiiine.” she drawled out slowly, glancing at his underwear drawer before sprinting at it with her own version of super speed. “You can cook me breakfast... but no clothes.”

“No clothes?”

“You heard me! No clothes, Clark Kent. In the buff, cooking in my kitchen.”

“Our kitchen.”

Lois coughed, “For all intents and purposes its mine for this discussion. And you will be naked... and I'll get to sleep a little longer with thoughts of you doing so.” The grin that spread across her face made him blush. “If only you could sweat from slaving over a stove, it would be even better.”

“Lois... ” He fought and lost against the smile teasing at his lips, “Okay, but I want two more hours out of you, hours of actual sleep, not you lying in bed day dreaming.”

Saluting, Lois continued to guard his drawer, “Aye... now go! Get! Shower and cook for me.”

Clark paused at the bedroom door, not entirely sure he could trust her but realizing he was going to have too. The woman was a handful.

Lois made a shooing motion at him... “ Chop chop Smallville... oh and turn slowly and walk.”

Raising a brow, Clark did as she asked, heading out of the bedroom. He heard her whisper with awe, “Now that's the money shot... my piece of...”

“Lois bed!! ”

“I am!!” She lied, crawling quickly into the bed as his gorgeous rear end disappeared into the bathroom, “...and don't pretend you don't like me admiring. You did know you blush on those cheeks as well, right?”

And he did again.

~♥~

She had taken over the bed again. Sprawled across the bed with hair, legs and arms in all directions. Light snoring filled the room and made him happy. She was sleeping as she should be. For someone who actually needed sleep to fuel her, it amazed him how much she could avoid getting the necessary amount. Clark had a feeling that if she didn't need as much, like he did, she'd still be avoiding the few hours a day that was required.

Clark had showered and by the time he finished she had begun to doze. It hadn't been easy he knew. He had purposely taken his time allowing for her to get passed all her mental blocks that prevented her from falling asleep.

Lois Lane fought sleep and fought to get it with equal ferocity. He had to laugh at one point when he had heard her muttering that sheep counting was as useless as a blind copy boy .

Her need for rest eventually won out and he had padded out to the kitchen nude as instructed. Pulling out the items he needed to treat her to a Clark Kent breakfast. One that she swore out did even his mothers. Somehow he doubted that but was hardly going to quarrel it either.

At least the hero duties had demanded attention before he had actually begun to cook. With a sigh he had slipped into the suit and was away.

There was one thing that could be counted on. There was rarely if ever just one incident, accident or crime that needed his attention at any one time. They came in groups. It took control to go from one thing to another and continue to have the Superman patience and demeanour he always did. Only this time, as he had discussed with Lois, he did not stay to talk or be photographed long. Even in the very early hours people tended to be ready for him.

Especially now as they were excited by his return, but he took care of things, spoke comforting words and was off quicker than usual, since Superman couldn't be seen to be ill. Only Clark Kent, and while he was better, he wasn't at his best yet. Any real good close ups or face to face meetings and people would catch that Superman looked under the weather.

Kryptonite radiation overdose tended to have that affect, unfortunately.

Clark felt normal other than being a little more tired than usual, but he had found fading bruises when showering, and noted the slight circles under his own eyes. Helpful for Lois' plan to get Clark Kent cleared, not so much for Superman. And they could not be seen as the same. The right idea in a perceptive mind and they would have trouble, that not even the magic of Zatanna could avoid.

The clock on her nightstand said 7:29 which meant that she was well into her first full hour of agreed sleep. Clark watched her for a few more minutes, the steady rise and fall of her chest and when he closed his eyes and tuned out the rest of the world he could feel her heart beat pulse through him. Nothing else existed but her.

Eventually turning away, Clark once again began prepping and cooking. Naked of course, like requested.

Lois stirred a while later to the most arousing smells. Her stomach growled fiercely and the pleasant dream of white sand and a toned, hard, naked body lying next to her, dissipated.

Groaning, she rubbed her hand lazily along his side of the bed, registering a moment later that if she was smelling breakfast he would have to be the one cooking it, and not in bed with her. Opening her eyes, Lois lifted herself up and peaked at the clock. Not quite two hours, maybe. She wasn't sure when she had exactly fallen asleep.

Oh well, Smallville would just have to accept what she had managed. Besides how was she supposed to ignore the idea of her husband in his birthday suit cooking her breakfast?

As if.

Rolling softly off the bed, she tiptoed to the slightly cracked door. From where it was positioned in the apartment she could make out part of the kitchen. And she was rewarded after a second with one of her favourite sights, his bare tush.

The lip bite that resulted from the sight grew into a full on ogle, made worse when he turned for a moment. Lois barely stopped the moan that escaped her and quickly stepped back, hoping he hadn't caught her. Not that she had much of a chance with his super hearing. But considering he had the TV on low and seemed completely caught up in his task there was a good chance.

Yeah, right! The man kept an ear on her almost 24/7. Who was she kidding? Sure enough, his deep voice called out from the kitchen. “You can get up now, if you want.”

Shaking her head, Lois opened the door fully and leaned against the frame watching him, without shame.

“I am so glad to have your permission.”

He turned and gave her a grin before returning his attention back to the omelette he had just started.

Lois continued her ogling session for another minute, fully aware that he was giving her the show she wanted. Finding reasons to stretch or turn. Giggling, she shook her head before heading back into the bedroom for her robe and slippers. As she did she caught sight of his tie rack, and what Clark would describe as her deviant grin spread across her face.

He had just finished his omelette and was about to start hers when he felt the familiar touch of hands on his butt, giving a quick squeeze before sliding up his back.

“Hello beautiful” He turned his head slowly. The smirk she wore made him pause. “What are you up to?” Clark asked cautiously, hand reaching for the mixing bowl. Not knowing what to expect.

“Nothing, can't I just enjoy you?” Her sweet tone was the biggest indicator that she was definitely up to something. Her hand intercepted his, sliding into his own and turning him around.

Smiling down at her, he continued to try and discern what she was up to, her beautiful hazel eyes glistened with lust and merriment. “Of course...though Lois, you were doing that before without having to invade personal space.”

“You like it when I invade your personal space. Junior can attest to this.”

He blushed despite himself. Clark noticed her hand was behind her back, he moved to try and see, but she cut him off by pulling him down till his lips crashed into hers.

It was very obvious she wanted what was in her hand to remain a mystery till she was ready to reveal. This kiss was design to completely distract him. It worked. Clark became so lost in the way her tongue teased and played against his own he forgot where he was.

Lois wasn't much better. His hands had swept her up into his arms, cupping her backside, pressing her firmly into him, she had slid hers around his neck, gripping his hair. They stumbled back a little when kissing wasn't enough and a need to feel more took over.

He sat her down on the small bit of counter not completely covered with breakfast preparation. Letting his hands roam into her robe and under her tank top. It took a second to register what she had been doing around his neck when he pulled away from kissing her.

It was her favourite of his ties, now hanging around his neck. He lifted it up and looked into her face leaning close. “What’s this?”

The smirk, she had worn to begin with, reappeared. “That's a tie Smallville”

“I can see that Lois. Why is it around my neck? I thought you wanted me clothes free?”

“I did, but do you realize how hot it is to see you walking around in just a tie?” She finished putting it in a knot. Straightening it and running her hand down his chest.

Giving a light chuckle, Clark shook his head and captured her lips again. Lois gripped the tie keeping him close. He lifted a hand and put it in her hair, tangling around his fingers, cupping her head. Pulling back, he smiled before kissing her on the end of her nose, then each eye, along the side of her face before moving to her neck.

Moaning, Lois ran her hands down his side, teasing the sensitive flesh at his waist. When her hands moved further down and in, Clark gasped and pushed her robe down off her shoulders, eliciting a gasp from her in return.

They smiled at each other before continuing. Clark lifting her up, slipping her robe completely off. Lois nipped at his neck, digging her nails deep into his back, dragging them down.

“Oh, Smallville...” She moaned breathlessly.

Lips recaptured, he pulled at her bottom one, sucked and teased. His fingers played with the hem of her lacy boy shorts. Unable to stop the groans and growls her hands were arousing out of him.

His hand, as he slide it under her, felt suddenly greasy.

Clark frowned into their kiss and pulled back. Eyes still closed, it took Lois a second to catch up. When she opened her eyes she followed his down to where she was sitting on the counter.

“I think I sat you down in the butter.” The disappointment in his voice echoed hers, but then she had to laugh.

“I uh...” She shifted and realized that it was true. She could now feel it pressed through her underwear and on to her skin. “Oh that's...”

“I'm sorry...” He wore the big puppy dog eyes now. Lois shook her head failing not to smile.

“It’s fine... I think I'll let you finish cooking while I'll get changed.”

He nodded and began backing up. She pulled at his tie again, whispering against his lips. “We'll finish this after breakfast?”

Kissing her Clark, answered “If you are a good girl and eat it all up.”

Rolling her eyes, as Clark lifted her gently by the waist and placed her down, Lois shook her head, “Gee...I don't know if I can handle that. Eat all of a Clark Kent breakfast. You might have make little airplane noises and tell me to open wide.” She ended the last sentence with a brow waggle, knowing that just implied what she didn't mean, and laughed at the look on his face as she zipped off to the bathroom.

When she came back out a few minutes later in his jersey, the table was set with pancakes, sausage, bacon and a pitcher of orange juice along with a single rose.

She took a seat and watched him finish her omelette and bring it over. Putting her plate down he kissed the top of her head and took his seat. Lois couldn't keep her eyes off the way he looked as he sat down just in the tie...

“Where's your glasses?”

“What?”

Lois swallowed down a bite of the most gorgeous omelette. The look of ecstasy on her face made Clark flush. After a moment she finally answered. “I was hoping you'd wear them.”

Clark raised a brow, “Glasses and a tie only?”

“Yes”

“How much longer do I have to be 'dressed' this way...?”

Lois picked up a piece of bacon. “Oh, I don't know, when I decide to release you... so glasses?”

Giving a slight shake of the head, Clark was suddenly there with glasses on. The only sign he had moved was the brief whooshing sound and her hair flying up. Giving him an appraising look she smiled appreciatively.

“That is better...”

Clark looked her over while taking a bit of his food. “Don't you think you should even it up?”

“No...”

“Lois” !

“Clark...”

“Take it off.”

“You know if I do we'll never finish this breakfast.”

“I can if you can...”

“Wanna bet?”

Clark just grinned and folded his arms staring at her.

Lois put down her fork, “Oh...alright.” Not that she was really bothered. It actually became quite clear to Clark that she hadn't planned wearing it long anyway, slipping it off all she had on was a pair of panties.

Giving a smirk, Clark nodded slightly before turning to his own plate. The challenge was on. With very little clothes on between them, and the very tempting way they ate their food, it really was a struggle.

Just when Clark was sure he couldn't take it anymore, with the way she was looking at him, how inviting her beautiful body was. Lois suddenly was up and sitting in his lap sparing him from having to grab her.


~♥~


“That was a first... You'd have thought we would have done that before...”

“Mmmm, we did at the farm.”

“The counter isn't the same as the table set with breakfast; I don't recall how we got to the floor.” They had been on the table at one point she was sure of it.

“You have egg in your hair...”

Lois shook her head and flipped her hair over her shoulder. Returning her gaze to his face, she took another deep breath as she ran her hand over his chest as they lay tangled together on their sides.

Smirking, Clark pulled her closer and turned them so she was now sitting in his lap. Lois let out a moan at the way their bodies made contact and was rewarded with a deep kiss.

“Mmmm…”

“You're still breathing heavy...”

“That's your fault!” Lois gasped as he kissed her neck at the pulse point.

“You make me sweat” He murmured as he continued kissing.

“Correction, that's my sweat all over you.”

“It’s ours...”

“I think...” Lois leaned her forward head against his when he pulled up from her neck. “We should include sweating in debt repayment.”

“Only if heavy breathing can be added as well.”

“That wouldn't be fair would it?... mister krypto lungs.”

“And sweating would be?”

Lois bit her lip, twirling her fingers through the damp curls at the back of his neck. He was right; she was capable of making him sweat.

“Fine, we can let it pass... but you owe me again.”

Resting his hands on her waist, he squeezed gently. “No... I wasn't the one who moaned out my name at least three times.”

“Name moaning does not trump heat vision...or in this case preheat vision.” They both looked up at the ceiling and then around to make sure there was no scorch marks. The farm was one thing the apartment another. There was a mutual sigh of relief before they went back to the conversation at hand.

Clark narrowed his eyes at her, she had him on preheat vision. About to admit defeat another thought occurred to him, “Wait... Lois, you cheated!”

“No, I didn't...”

“Yes, you did! Rule number four! Which was your rule... you know very well...”

Lois placed her mouth over his, shutting him up with a long sensual kiss, that quickly grew heated. The temptation to go for another round was heavy for them both but neither had completely forgotten the busy day ahead.

Pulling reluctantly back , Lois smiled at Clark's glazed over eyes. He was so hard to resist, she kissed him again and moaned when he sucked her bottom lip. “Clark...we can't”

“I know...” he had now moved back to her neck again.

“We can continue this later...”

“I'm going to hold you to that.”

“Turn your head...”

Clark pulled away confused, “Why?”

Taking his face softly in her hands Lois prodded for him to move his head, he yielded. Unsure as to why she wanted this.

He involuntarily shuddered when he felt her tongue slowly lick up the side of his face. “Loois!”

“You had syrup on you...” she gave a breathy giggle.

“I think I have it in many places.”

“I'm sure you do, we are after all wearing the remainder of breakfast. You're just going to have to take a shower now aren't you!”

She almost died with laughter at the pout he gave.

“A shower, I prefer the other method.” He gave his best puppy dog mixed with sexy eyes. Lois had to clear her throat and keep control.

Damn him. She was losing.

“Smallville... we really should clean up.”

Clark brought a hand to the side of her face, tangling his fingers in her hair, kissing her lips gently. “I can do it in seconds. You owe me...”

The huskiness in his voice got to her more than his reasoning. “I do not...”she responded returning the kiss.

“You so do...”

“Make me pay up than...”

At her dare Clark growled, Lois squealed as she suddenly found herself laying on the floor again. She had no time to protest or antagonize him further before he began taking his payment. Hands everywhere, mouth over hers.

A ringing sound wouldn't have been enough to ruin the moment but the cell phone, that had found its way on to the floor with them, vibrated as well. Lois could feel it against her side.

Pushing Clark back, who's hands were now in search of it, Lois turned and snatched at it before he did. Knowing in this mood he'd probably toss it to the moon rather than answer it.

“It’s Chloe.”

“I don't care...”

“Clark!”

He sighed and rolled off her. Grimacing, as he felt more egg and what was probably a sausage pressed into his back. “You still owe me.”

“That is debatable Smallville...” She leaned down and stole a kiss before attempting to stand. Giving a sly wink she added, “Tonight though, we can continue this disagreement.”

“We better...”

“We will.” Lois turned to look for the jersey and frowned at the state of it.

“Hey Chloe, I'm gonna need a bit longer before I'm ready.” She looked down at her naked husband sprawled on the messy floor. He really was hot no matter what the circumstances. “Yes, that's fine. See you in about an hour and half. Love you too!”

Clark was watching her, still unmoved from his spot. “An hour gives us plenty of time.”

Lois shook her head, “Kent... you have Superman duties, I have to clear Clark Kent. And there is this messy floor you still have yet to clean up. Chop chop!” She turned to head for the shower and found herself walking straight into said Clark Kent.

“You take too long and I'll join you.”

“I'll just have to be quick then.”

Clark looked hurt, “If I didn't know any better I'd say you didn't want me!”

Smiling, Lois touched a hand to his face, the other playing with his tie that was still around his neck, “Oh I want you... just later, rather than now when we're bound to get interrupted, again.”

He put his arms around her, planning on stealing a kiss when Lois pulled a disgusted face. “Oh gawd...egg between my toes. ”

“I'll clean up” Clark's laughter rang around her, as she hobbled to the bathroom, hearing his familiar whoosh.


... continued here..

Part 3 of Chapter 12 -Sacrifice in Black, Love in the Beat

~♥~
(Two nights after the Great Storm of Metropolis)


“I buy the idea that it would provide a suitable alibi, but if he continues to show his face in public as Superman people are going to notice, and then with the condition of Clark Kent and his own reappearance, it would look suspicious. ” Bruce remarked while cutting into his steak.

Lois didn't miss a beat between swallowing her own food and throwing back, “ Which is why his appearances have been minimal and nothing up close. ”

John Jones stopped sopping up the gravy on his plate, with his roll, to give a pointed stare at the two of them, “I thought it was agreed that dinners at Watchtower were to be free of such talk?” He then glanced at Clark for support.

Bruce sighed, “Fine, you're right..” the policy of 'family' dinners amoung the members was he found awkward but the point of it didn't escape him.

Not being put off by either the look from John or Clark, Lois started to add, “How else are we suppose to work him back in..if..” she stopped at the stares she was getting from around the table. Giving a sheepish smile, she shrugged, “Sorry.. I'll stop.. I'm just exited and happy.. I..” she didn't know how to finish it. But the smiles of understanding she received back told her she didn't need too.

Bart ever able to provide a relief, whether comical or lighthearted in these moments, through out as he reached for another roll, “ So.. when we gonna get that new game system in here? I remember, I dunno about a year ago someone promised we'd have a rematch.” He threw a glance at Victor and then looked at Tess.

“Its not coming out of league funds. The one you have works just fine..” Tess replied with a shake of her head.

“Yes Mom.” She got back. Bart grunted when he got kicked under the table from two people. He glanced around, unsure of who it was that had done it, considering more then one of the women was in his vicinity and not seeming impressed.

Clark rolled his eyes and added, “ The excuse for the reason you always lose at Rock band won't apply if we get a new system will it?”

Chloe snickered, “He has a different excuse for every game he loses.” Oliver chuckled and pushed his plate back full.

Being ganged up on didn't phase him in the slightest, Bart continued stacking more food on his plate, “ So you're telling me with the computer system we've got here you wouldn't want to hook it up the projector and BAM.. World of Warcraft in 3D.”

This of course got more rounds of ridicule and excitement from various people. Games were just one of a few pass times that league members shared and had worked into the less serious group gatherings. Lois smiled, her eyes meeting Clark's. He smiled too, both amused as John gave his opinion on a game and got another playful argument going between Dinah, Oliver, Bart and Chloe.

Bruce ended up the only one to neither be involved or amused. While he may not share in the frivolity, he wasn't bothered by it either. At first, he had insisted he had no need to take part in these sort of gatherings, but between Chloe and Lois he found he had no chance in maintaining his position. Now he had to admit that on some level the banter and exchanges were enjoyable and Lois was right.. it helped make them family which made them stronger.

Of course, when she had said it, she had done so with a playful insult. Insinuating that he was the like the old grandfather figure that sat in the corner griping. Though if he remembered correctly she had worded it as “Old fart”.

He watched them go back and forth, however, it didn't escape him the glances being exchanged between Clark and Lois.

Neither was at their optimum health and he could imagine they were in want of some much needed alone time. The creeper may have fed on them because of their strong bond but Bruce hadn't needed the knowledge of why to see it between them. Even now, as he focused on them, he could in a dozen tiny ways - from the exchange of smiles, slight touching of hands, body language as they leaned on the table.

They exchanged words and even in the tone of their voices it was written, the love and their eyes spoke volumes of desire. Suddenly feeling warm , Bruce looked away feeling as if he was intruding on something very private between them.

Standing and clinking his fork against his glass, Bruce grabbed everyone’s attention. Once all eyes settled on his, he began, “It has been without a doubt a rough few weeks.. especially, it goes without saying, for Clark and Lois. I think.. we should give them a break and ..” Bruce knew what he was about to say would not be expected from him. “give them a chance to run off, our celebration of defeating the Soul Splitter does not need them to be here, to continue. “

There was chuckles around the table, Oliver who rarely agreed with the Bat raised his own glass, “Hear hear.. I'm surprised they didn't try and slink away already.”

Lois blushed, exchanging a look with Clark that confirmed the suspicion, then glared at Oliver and Chloe who grinned ear to ear, ” Please..”

Bruce smiled softly than continued, “ Before we let you go there is one last thing.. its been decided that the two of you will.. get away. Spend at the least three days off the grid.”

Clark and Lois both started to protest but Bruce shook his head, “No..its already been decided unanimously. It doesn't have to be now.. obviously with situations that have yet to be resolved. You will though.. no arguments. ”

Oliver spoke up, looking at the surprised couple, “ I'll have the details of the very private, and I might add enjoyable location, sent to you tomorrow. ”

If it hadn't been for the very touching gift, Lois would have fled from embarrassment, instead she found her hand being squeezed by Clark. Giving a much needed reinforcement against the intense emotions rolling through her.

“Thank you all. I know how much it meant to both Clark and I to have you stand beside us and now with this gift, I don't know what to say other than Thank You.. it really means so much.”

Over the murmur of other voices offering kind words, John now stood his gaze passing over each one at the table as he talked, “ It can be said that things between all of us here have not always gone smoothly, there has been misunderstandings, rivalries, secrets, amoungst other things. Yet we have grown, matured, come together, and this past year, along with recent events has proven one thing though, we are family. When one falls.. we all fall.. so we fight and stand together. If the Soul Splitter was a trial, I would say that we passed, and I for one am happy to call you all my family.”

He stopped to look at Clark and Lois, “I have no doubt you would have done whatever it took to help any of us in your place. We could do no less. Now. Please leave..” He smiled and there were once again chuckles around the table.

Clark took Lois' hand and helped her to stand, it was obvious to all they were both tired, “Thank you! ” He took a deep breath at a loss for words. Realizing from the looks on the faces around him, he didn't need to make a speech, he looked at John, “Oh.. please don't leave me a mess.. Tess hates finding cookie crumbs in the electronics.” He added the last with an sympathetic look to Tess who smiled and made shooing motions at him.

“I shall try Kal'El..”

Once jovial goodbyes and tearful comforting hugs were finished, Clark and Lois paused at the door of Watchtower that lead out into the street. Lois leaned against the frame, taking a deep breath, gaze going from the dark night sky to the man staring with intense love at her.

“We get to go home.. ” It came out in a wistful tone, as if she couldn't believe it.

“We slept at home last night.”

Lois shrugged, “True, but we also collapsed in a heap of exhaustion last night. I'm tired now but I don't think I could sleep.. I don't want to sleep, I want to have normal again, well normal for us. ”

They held each others eyes and Clark rubbed the back of her hand, that he still held, with his thumb gently. “So should I leave and come back in the middle of the night?” He asked with a half smile.

“Haha, Smartypants, I meant a normal uninterrupted night for us. Just you and me..”

“I like the sound of this plan. Ready to go? ”He touched the side of her face softly, brushing strands of wayward curls behind her ear.

“Please.. take us home Mr. Kent.”

Clark bent his head and gently let his lips graze hers in response. The kiss was gentle and chaste but held promise for more. Just as she lingered in that promise, with her eyes, closed he swooped her up into his arms getting a squeak out of her for it.

She never had time to comment before she found them standing just inside their apartment.

~


The night gown she slipped on was one she knew he liked. It was simple and sleek, forming over her curves, the deep dark blue colour always made his eyes stand out more to her. She could drown in those eyes.

“I thought you'd have put on a flannel. ” His deep voice spoke softly as she came out of the room.

Lois leaned against the door frame, shrugging. “I thought you might like something more feminine..less farmer john.”

“I like you in plaid.. you know this.” He made his way over from the sofa, placing their drinks on the counter as he did.

“Do I?” she grinned, “ Its been so long I don't remember.”

Clark was no fool. He knew a challenge when he heard one, one he'd happily take up. Of course, she wasn't in one of his flannel shirts now so it would have to be addressed later.

“I see..”

“Do you?” She asked, failing to contain a giggle.

Stopping just before her, Clark looked down into her eyes, a hand brushing along her silky shoulder.

“I do.. question is, does Miss Lane understand that she should be careful what she asks for?”

Tilting her head to the side, Lois bit her lip, “I think its you Mister Kent that has some serious making up to do. I do believe you owe me.”

It was his turn to grin, before capturing her lips in a kiss. Pulling her close, he breathed in her scent whispering into her ear , letting the side of his face linger against hers. “Are you up for this Lois..it can wait another night.. Emil said you should get a lot of rest.”

With a deep sigh, Lois stepped back out of the hug, taking his hands with hers she lead him into the bedroom.

“Clark.. this with you is the best rest a girl could ask for. To feel you.. please.” Her eyes shone with the intensity of her desire for him.

At her words, Clark smiled gently, running his fingers from her shoulder, up her neck to cup her face. Lois closed her eyes, she could never grow tired of his touch, how he made her feel.

His hand moved behind her head, fingers tangling themselves in her hair. Then his lips met hers, the kiss was gentle, slow, and full of need. His other hand went to the back of her night gown as hers went to the buckle of his pants.

Slowly, they began to undress each other, placing kisses on lips and necks. There was nothing that could replace knowing intimately the others body, how to touch and where.. giving each other undivided attention.

Clark could see the hunger in her eyes, when she looked up from stepping out of her dress. There was a passion in the way she pulled his pants down, watched him step out of his clothes, ran her hands along his body. He knew she wanted to make it last as he did... to savour the each moment. His gaze left her face to run down her naked body, taking in every beautiful inch of her.

She blushed, which only made the desire for her more intense. Trying to keep to the unspoken promise of taking their time he ran a hand over her stomach the other along her side to her breasts.

Lois gasped, as his mouth went to her breast, placing her hands on his back, digging in, smiling at the moan she received. Remembering the first time she discovered that the harder she dug her fingers and nails into his back the more he liked it.

It was much like the first time, the pace, how they took the time to undress each other, placing reverent kisses upon newly exposed skin. Drinking each other in as if they had never laid eyes on the other, love threatening to over flow with each touch.

Touches and gentle kisses satisfied, they become locked in an embrace, the pace still slow but the passion had only begun to ignite. Moving back they fell back on to the bed, drowning in each other. A hunger to never be separated reflected in their eyes, the way lips lingered, reluctant to pull apart.

Lois was lost in the memory of the night they first made love, the last barriers between them had fallen. The secrets had been chased away by the light of a love between them that could only hold truth.. honest raw emotion had filled the night over and over, expressed through physical touch, a release from the years of sexual tension and spiritual link between them. No more shadows to haunt them only love.

With each caress now, drawn out touch, kiss, lingering sensation the connection that had been damaged began to heal. Tangled in the sheets was more then just two bodies but two hearts reaffirming the bond that had fed a dark soul, now they were free to become one again. Achieving what the literalist, those of logic would consider an impossibility, their bodies taking up the same space, no beginning and no end.

As they reached the edge of ecstasy to fall off it together, their bodies lifted above the sheet, neither completely aware of it, only of the other. Beyond the physical enjoyments of the precious and passionate moment ,Clark felt something he had never thought he'd feel again. It flowed like a rhythm through him, quieting his soul, spreading a feeling of relief and peace, the knowledge that with her he was home. Her heart beat was once more his to cherish and hold with his own and when he looked into her eyes he knew she felt it too. He was more then just in and around, he was part of her, her best friend and lover, the other half of her soul.

~♥~


Claws slashed out, blood poured. Terror..a terrible fear, heartache.

Then it went black.

She could hear the breathing.. it..no they were after them. She tried to run but her legs felt so heavy.

“Lois..you can do it..keep going.” She heard his voice encouragingly order behind her. She pushed everything she had in her, fighting back the unwanted tears that threatened to overwhelm.

A scream echoed around them, seeming to come from all directions. She turned to meet his gaze.. neither said anything. They didn't need to, she knew what he wanted.. what she couldn't give him. To leave him to the non existent mercy of those things.

Black and another flash of a frenzied attack of blood pouring, screams and anguish.

There was a sudden whirlwind of light and sound and she knew.. not again! She had dreamnt this before.. She both anticipated and dreaded what was beyond the light and much like the first time she screamed at the sight of what it parted to reveal.

Clark arched his body, held suspended in the air, while every last bit of who he was..the core of him, his soul, swirled out. Ripped from his body to flow in a darkness that hovered all around.

Screaming she ran..ran as she had done before. Pulling at him. “NO!”

He fell..fell into her arms, bruised, torn, bloody.. lifeless.

She cried, cradling him to her, then looked up to scream at the darkness, “BRING HIM BACK!!.. BRING HIM BACK!”

Without him, there was nothing.

Clark frowned, being brought of a restful sleep, the beat that was hers was all wrong. It unsettled him.

“Lois?”

When she didn't respond he opened an eye as he pulled her closer, looking down at her sleeping form to see a terror written across her features. Her body was soaked with sweat, he could feel it every where her bare skin touched his as well as in the dampness of the sheets.

“Lois.. its okay..its over!” he spoke softly into her ear. Somehow, he wasn't surprised that she would have a nightmare. They had been through so much, one night together to reaffirm love, reconnect emotionally, physically, spiritually could not undo the horror they had lived through. He pulled her even closer, needing to feel the physical connection just as much as she did.

“Lois, I am here.. sshhhh babe..” He nuzzled his face into her hair, kissed the back of her neck. Continuing to whisper to her, starting to worry as he felt tremors pass through the length of her body along with tiny whimpers that escaped trembling lips.

After a moment of shaking, that turned into her clinging onto his arm that wrapped around her, she sobbed out. Repeating several times to bring him back. Who back?

This had to stop. “Lois!” He said this time a little more forcefully, turning so she was on her back and he was leaning over her. “Lois.. Wake up.. sweetheart please..” Brushing her hair back, cupping the side of her face.

Lois' eyes snapped open and as if she had started to fall she threw her arms around him for dear life. “OH Clark.. .. ” She breathed his name like a prayer causing his chest to ache from the sound of it.

Continuing to cup her face, gently caressing the side of it with his thumb, his eyes looked her over as if he could find a physical reason for her distress , whispering with a calm reassurance, “It was just a dream.. You're safe I promise, Lois, you're safe. ”

Truth was he was frightened by the intensity of her nightmare and her next words alarmed him all the more.

“Clark.. its not me..It was you.. oh gawd!” She brought arms up to hold his face in her hands, her eyes searching his own. “Smallville.. I lost you..I thought I lost you.. ”

Closing his eyes for a second, he leaned his face against her hands, “Lois.. I'm not going anywhere.. We are safe.”

She shook her head still unable to get away from the overwhelming grief she had felt from the dream. A part of her expecting him to vanish as if it was this very moment in bed with him that wasn't reality and the nightmare was real.

“No Clark.. No! You were dead Clark.. I held you in my arms and you were gone.” She tried to fight the sob but failed, throwing her arms once again around him, holding on for all that she was worth. She couldn't lose him, she simply couldn't.

“Shhh.. Lois!” He rolled them on to their sides ,wrapping his arms around her. Wondering if the dream he had had and her own meant something.

They held on to each other this way, tears and words of comfort exchanged, till minutes turned to an hour and sleep finally claimed her once again.

Clark continued to run his fingers through her hair, listening to her breathing, feeling the beat of her heart. One day he'd have to tell her about his dream, but not now..not till he knew she was strong enough or he was. Maybe if he was lucky it truly meant nothing.

“Clark Kent doesn't believe in luck.” He heard her voice say, a reminder of the past. No, he didn't.. but just once he was happy to change his perception if it meant there would be no nightmare.

He pulled her closer, till she was nestled against him, his face buried in her hair, their legs wrapped around each other. Clark knew he had to push it all aside, he could do nothing about it now.

Tomorrow and dreams could wait.

He was wrapped in eternity,the beat of love, a place that soothed and was all his own.

Her.

His Lois.

~ ♥/♥ ~


Feed back is cookies..feed me! If its crap its okay to say that too..

2nd part of Chapter 12 -Sacrifice in Black, Love in the Beat

She heard the sound of sparking equipment above her. The feel of a cold hard floor beneath, the assaulting smell of burnt plastic and flesh along with highly ionized air. For just a second, Tess thought she was back in watchtower with him leering over her, “Come on Tess..tell me where it is and this will all be over..more quickly.” His smooth suave voice holding just the right mixture of menace and sexual overtones.

“No..” She blurted out , eyes snapping open. She was in Watchtower, the place was in disarray, Lois was there too, she could see her laying not more then a few feet away. Other then these similarities the differences stood out glaringly, Watchtower had changed quite a bit in the last few years, not to mention the sinking in of reality of what had happened cleared the momentary terror. Clark Luthor was not there, it had been a memory mingling with the haze of returning consciousness. A cruel joke.

Only the cruel joke wasn't over, it had simply altered.

Her right side, from her arm to her leg, felt bruised and made it a little hard at first to pull herself into a sitting position. A familiar and friendly voice spoke up calming her nerves, bringing with it firm arms, helping her the rest of the way to her feet.

“Are you severely injured?” Tess looked up and into the concerned eyes of her favorite Martian.

She shook her head which sent a wave of nausea through her, “I don't believe so, not anything that can't wait.”

He nodded, and once he was sure she could stand without his support, he moved over to check on Lois and Ronnie who laid not more then a few feet away. He glanced over at Tess who was checking over Lana. The small brunette was slumped up against a wall branded with a large scorch mark to the right of her.

They exchanged a look of concern, John spoke first, “Ronnie should wake momentarily, Lois ..” He touched her forehead again and shook his head, “ I am not certain..” He trailed off.

Tess frowned and added concerning Lana, “ She's alive, pulse and breathing stable. I don't think it hit her straight on. “ She gingerly touched Lana's side where the fabric was slightly melded into burnt flesh. Despite the shock she knew the woman’s system must have taken, the burn in itself, wasn't going to kill her. The second skin had more then likely saved her life.

It could have been considered cruel irony, that the very suit that had allowed Lana to save them twice, had been the very reason she was severely injured and alive. When the crack of booming thunder exploded quite literally out side watchtower, they all had looked up almost as one in shock from seeing Clark and the creeper disappear on the screen, to find glass raining down on them from the doomed ceiling above. Lana had reacted with speed to push Tess and Ronnie out of the way, preventing them from injury. John had been standing closer to Lois, shielding her from the falling shards.

Communication had shut down but not the surveillance system or satellite feed. The ever improving Watchtower computer had already begun to track and monitor the sudden change just out side the building and surrounding Metropolis.

To say Lois was upset would have been an understatement, none of the others were particularly thrilled by what they were seeing. Though seeing was wasn't accurate. Tess could barely track the movement and neither could the feeds with the speed in use, as well the teleportation. The Soul Splitters mode of transportation was not only virtually instantaneous but violent as well. Causing hiccups in the feed and a battle with establishing stable communication with the rest of the team.

“Has it grown?” Lana spoke up almost as soon as they had started watching the terrifying display of aerobatic wrestling.

Lois, who had been biting on the tip of a finger, whispered, “Yes..” Not even a second after the word was spoken, did the feed with the view of the Daily Planet flicker and Clark and the creeper appear in their endless grapple. They barely missed the rotating golden planet before disappearing again. Though from that particular position it had been obvious the creeper was now bigger then Clark himself.

Tess kept half her attention on this observation and the other half on the information streaming in front of her as she finally secured communication. It had taken almost three minutes to do so, way to long.

She didn't wait for pleasantries, not with what she was now able to hear coming from the rest of the team, “They're in Metropolis!! Practically appeared just above watchtower, interrupted communications, I'm trying to track them but they are moving fast...”

“There is panic in the streets,” she continued pausing to take in what she was seeing. The weather had not only changed and become severe but something seemed to have shifted between Clark and the creeper, they had stopped moving, hovering not that far from Watchtower itself.

“Superman and it have stopped moving..” She found herself continuing watching, silently confused, “the creeper has grown, its changed..”

And it was then in that moment the irony of Lana second skin came into play along with the visual horror. Clark jerked back violently just as the Soul splitter dived for the city, it vanished, electrical tendrils arched out on all sides from where it had been, one hitting Clark himself as several others zapped straight into Watchtower.

“... Oh My God!” The exclamation exploded out of her, not just from what she was seeing but the way it made her feel, the sight of the Soul Splitter even from the distant satellite view left her feeling unsettled.

She barely got the words out before everything around exploded into chaos. She was only marginally aware of Lois grabbing her head as Lana was grazed by a bolt, inexplicably attracted to the suit she wore, saving the others who would have been its victims.

Now in the aftermath, she watched John lift up, first Lana and then Lois, bringing her to one of the beds, Ronnie following groggily behind. Deciding to leave the injured to his care, Tess turned back to the computers and monitors which for the most part continued to spark violently.

The storm that carried on outside and with increasing violence, boomed around them, still inflicting the tower with its rage. It wasn't really safe there but it didn't sound like it was safe anywhere in metropolis.

Frustrated, she tried to get communications back up but there was nothing except a high pitch static that screamed over the system, forcing her to cut it off. What was going on?

The sickening feeling inside her grew at the loud cry that erupted from the balcony. Tess turned to look up, worried, not even registering the power outage or the generator that kicked on a moment later. The voices of John and Ronnie, the sobs and sounds coming from Lois made one thing clear.

Whatever was happening..it was getting worse!

~♥~

Dragged down. The sensation of sinking with claws gripped around ankles, tearing at flesh. Only they weren't, it was the soul being shredded. She could feel him, the essence of who Clark was being consumed.

Clark...

Reality around had slipped away, replaced by a painful nightmare, a hell shared by two souls. Lois had no awareness of grabbing her head and crying out, or falling unconscious as Watchtower sustained damage. She knew only the connection with the man she loved, and the demon responsible for so much suffering.

Grasping on to him. She tried to protect him, save him from being lost.

Fight Clark.. I believe in you!

Lois sent him love, flowing outward, hoping it would be enough. That he could hear her somehow, know she was there.

Perception of time was not available in this darkness they shared. Eternity and an instant felt the same, but Lois also felt something change, Clark moved. She could feel all that she had poured out to him sent back to her.

Pulsing out with love in the beat that linked their souls. He heard her, he would fight.

It was at the point her own torment would begin in full. Suffocated in Clark's emotions 'it' lashed out at her. The scream she let loose from inside erupted outward into a deep cry, a sob of anguish.

The only thing she could be grateful for, even in that state, was the awareness that Clarks own condition, the red k infused in his veins, had pushed the creeper away from him, preventing Clark from knowing the true extent of her suffering. He had to be able to focus, not be distracted by her.

In the few minutes since her suffering began she descended into a madness. Memories, emotions, and perceptions both her own, Clarks and at times others, filled her. A painful agony in knowing that others were now beginning to suffer as she was. An agony that went down to her soul as it devoured her.

Why it did not do so quickly? Why it prolonged her death was a thought her mind could not focus on but it allowed her to still feel the connection with him..however fleeting.

Unaware of her continuing cries or how she thrashed in response to being drained, Lois Lane-Kent sent her heart, all that she was, the core of her being, to the one man she trusted with it completely.


~


Ronnie had never felt anything like it, nor heard cries like the ones coming from her friend. She had been a nurse at a hospice and nothing there could compare to the sound of suffering or the emotions she was sharing. She knew it wasn't just Lois' own but others from around Metropolis.

One by one the Soul Splitter was grabbing, staking claim to bonds and draining people slowly. It hurt. Ronnie thought that if she could give a physical description to it would be that of having ones bones pulled out slowly while burning alive.

If she had only been trying to save herself she would have given up, so great was the pain. But the desire to help her friends, and all the victims currently sharing in the wretchedly slow agonizing demise, was far greater then her wish to be free of the turmoil to spare herself.

Ronnie never even had a chance to resist being pulled in. Once Lois became caught up in the darkness Ronnie felt herself being dragged along with.

Lois..

There was no response though she could feel her. Lois was trapped and all Ronnie could do was give her her strength. If Lois had it then perhaps Clark would too and they could all be saved. There was no guarantee, no promise, that they would not suffer till death claimed them and it would all be for naught.

~


Lois..

John called out for her. He was the only one who could now. Ronnie had fallen into the darkness with Lois. Tess could only help by holding green kryptonite close, hoping it would have some effect.

Bart repeated Clark's words. Normally he would have felt awkward at relaying such a message, but the experience he had along with the look on Clark's face fueled him. The words spilled out of him more even and calm then he felt.

Lois responded after a minute. Unexpectedly, he felt her urge him, telling him to go help Clark. At the mental argument he started to respond with, that he would not leave her, Lois pushed at him.

Clark needs you.. go..

Then the brief contact he had with her was gone. Pulling back, John didn't hesitate, he knew what needed to be done.

~♥~

“Cathy.. take deep breaths.” Perry softly ordered through a pain-filled voice, holding on to the distraught woman who normally didn't seem to let anything phase her. Now though, like so many, she seemed inconsolable. Even terribly ill.

Any other day the news being made right outside his window would have been top priority, he'd have been pissed with having loads of reporters all ignoring it. But this wasn't just any day.. this was pandemonium. He could hear cries erupting from outside his office, along with the constant booming that shook the panes of his office windows so hard he was afraid they'd break. None of that included the terrifying display of fireworks and violence that flashed over the city.

Of course, he couldn't see all of it but at one point, before Cathy seemed to have lost her mind, they had stood together in shock as Superman and some unknown foe almost collided with the Daily Planet. Later, he'd learn they barely missed the globe but from where he was, the view he had was alarming enough.

It had started as nothing more then a crackle of thunder and a flash of light that gave Cathy pause as she delivered some of Clark Kent's articles to him. She had stood mouth hanging open mid sentence. Perry followed her gaze and found himself equally mesmerized with horror as the simple storm became more,and the hero, who had been missing for thirteen days ,was in what appeared to be in an embrace of death.

Now, as he held his sobbing assistant, he felt non of the initial excitement that comes from seeing a story explode on ones own doorstep. Instead he was scared, frightened and there was a pain inside him that was growing steadily.

Perry white was afraid that in a matter of minutes he'd be no better then his assistant, who whimpered occasionally, mostly lifeless in his arms.

What was going on? Where they under attack from something? That thing Superman battled?

Despite the increasing agony inside, Perry gently laid Cathy on the floor. “Shhh.. sweetheart..” he practically croaked. Crawling across the floor to his desk, he leaned against it for a moment breathing against the pain, ignoring the emotional torrent going through him.

Focused as much as he could be, Perry opened his bottom desk drawers. His eyes flickering to the forbidden bottle, but they settled on the camcorder that had shared in several adventures and mishaps. Pulling it out, he turned toward the vibrating window. If he was going to die, he'd die a reporter. Evidence of the story on film that would hopefully survive. A legacy..

A small part of him retain the hope Superman gave, that even though it seemed grim, it would all work for the better. And the planet would have its story..

~♥~


“You don't think he..” Dinah's voice was a stressed whispered. They stood as a group at the far end of the warehouses. Emil and Victor had been set up with what could only be described as a contraption. Victor connected to a computer with a laser mounted over a small crystal in the familiar shape of the Kryptonian pentagon with the House of El symbol in red.

No one immediately replied as they stared up at the sky trying to spot him despite the storm in the distance. From where they stood, it almost had the feel of a nuclear explosion right in the city itself.

When it had become clear they had lost any and all communication with Watchtower, Chloe focused on getting whatever she could on the condition of Metropolis via Wayne enterprises satellite. The rest of them debated momentarily, going to Metropolis wasn't a possibility, even if wasn't for the travel time involved, a good 20 minutes at the least, they would likely be useless.

Instead it had been decided to head over to where Emil, Victor, and Zatanna had set up base. Zatanna had played guard dog while Emil and Victor waited for Clark to get the creeper into position. They had been on the other side of the warehouses, close enough to get back up or be backup, far enough away to hopefully not be noticed in the thick of it till they were needed.

“There isn't anyway of knowing.”

“We sit tight. Wait.. its only been maybe six/eight minutes.. He has to get it in position!” Bruce took turns glancing between the sky and the contraption Victor sat hooked up too.

A portable doorway to an empty phantom Zone, ready and waiting. Victor connected to the system allowed them an interface that could react at a word or a thought with no worries of interference. Emil monitored it all while the crystal glimmered at the heart of it. All they needed was some sign of Clark and the Soul Splitter and they would trigger a chain reaction that would hopefully free the world of soul eating menace.

“Come on Clark.” Oliver repeated over and over under his breath. The sound of the generator that powered it all was the only sound other then their own hearts that pounded with anticipation. With each minute that passed they grew more worried, were they now left to battle this thing on their own? Was their friend and colleague gone?

~♥~


He flew up searching for more sun to gain enough strength, on his own he wasn't at his strongest and the red K that still surged in his veins was tempered by the knowledge of suffering and death around him.

The people of Metropolis, his wife, anyone else if he died before defeating 'it'. The weight of the little capsule that contained the fury of death, clenched between his teeth, was another reason all the chaotic urges and thoughts were kept in check.

She had been right. Of course she was, after all Lois knew him better then anyone. He could handle this, he would feel no shame.

Breaking out above the storm, Clark closes his eye as he drifted upward but the relief from the sun was short lived. There isn't time for this..

Opening his eyes, not even a second later, he turned down ward and looked around, taking in the sight of the tempest slowly expanding below and hearing the cries of people. Terror and something more …

Swallowing Clark, held back again the thoughts of who he couldn't save and how he knew she was suffering. It would be over soon, he had to do this right. Question was how did he get it away from the city?

He never needed to question further. Clark was taken back by the presence of a friend that followed him out of the darkness.

“John!” Clark voiced loudly, even at their height above the storm the noise of wind and lightening was almost deafening. He was equally alarmed , relieved and unhappy to see him.

“Kal'El, I have come to help. ” John had no need to raise his voice knowing Clark could clearly hear him.

“You can't be here, You'll expose yourself..they'll need you, she'll need you!”

“She is why I am here. Your wife sent me. And with this!” John held up a lead lined bag Clark knew contained green Kryptonite.

Why? Why had she? He didn't need to finish the thought. Lois who knew his weakness, understood the plan and the fact the creeper was also kryptonite sensitive. They shared the same weaknesses even if not in the exact same way.

The plan was formed in a moment. In Johns hands the lethal green rock could be a weapon, diversion, a way to get the Soul splitter away from his city, his wife. End this.

John watched his face in the seconds Clarks mind turned, and then his eyes focused with clarity on his martian friend. There was no way he could know Clark had changed a detail, an important one. It didn't matter, how he would help, would regardless, be the same.

“I'll go first, push it out, follow and keep it back.” Clark ordered. John nodded, waiting.

Too much time had gone by even if it was barely a few minutes. A lot could happen in that time.

With all the strength he had, Clark took off at sonic speed straight int the heart of the storm, where he could feel it consuming.

The storm demanded attention even at the speed he was moving. He marveled at the pain he actually felt from it, how it tore at his suit, caused his nerves to scream. Focused though, he ignored it all, slamming straight into the soul splitter. It felt like hitting a brink wall, but there was no time to register the pain as 'it' reacted to being forcefully shoved right out of its own self created retreat.

They spun out, continuing to move at a speed to fast for the average human to endure. Clark pushed it off as they slowed, not that far from where the battle had first begun at the warehouses. Flying up and away Clark was not surprised as it moved to go after him, screaming with hunger and rage. He could sense its frustration at once again being interrupted by the very food source that it needed the most.

The Soul Splitter had no intention of letting the Kryptonian ruin all that it had accomplished, he had made consuming him hard, giving it a metaphysical stomach cramp. It would win. Despite this delay, it would take the man into itself even if it meant persisting through infliction, it would have this world. There would be no limits.

It did not succeed at reveling in this thought process or catching its prey as suddenly it felt a completely different sort of pain. The physical aspect of itself reacted first to the boiling inside of it. Stopping, it turned and found the source. Held not far from it, in the hands of another, one neither human or Kryptonian, was a green glowing rock. It had felt this before but never like this. It could not be held back, it had to succeed.

It moved towards John only to scream, twist, thrash in a gray swirling mass, as even the element that resided in the metaphysical reacted to the green kryptonite. John knew what Clark needed, moving closer forcing it down nearer the ground. The creeper reacted violently, unable to process, unable to resist against the forced retreat.

Clark watched making sure to block it from going anywhere but down. Once it was no more then a 100ft from the ground did he signal for John to stop, knowing the Justice league team below were now aware of them and waiting.

It was time to free himself of its hold on him, so he could send it away.

There was no way he could warn them of what was about to take place, it had to be sudden, even if it wasn't for the fact they'd have tried to talk him out of it. He hated himself in that second for the torment he was about to put Lois through. Knowing she'd forgive him wasn't enough. Knowing that his death would save them wasn't either.. but there was simply no choice.

As John stopped, Clark dove down towards it from behind, grabbing on in spite of the fury it unleashed. All who were watching thought he'd break the black capsule on it, or shove it, broken, inside of the creeper. Not one expected for Clark to bite down, crushing the shell, releasing what could only be described as psychedelic whirlwind. A scene only imagined in a trippy nightmare.

Clark hooked himself around the Soul Splitter like a vice while it seemed to separate into multiple versions of it selves, each one reacting violently. Spitting and turning, falling and flying. Around and around in circles a dozen babbling voices, a dozen screams.

Once upon a time, he would have been subjected to the same reaction. Time and experience and love had helped him to accept his kryptonian side. There was no longer two separate aspects of himself, Clark and Kal, but one coin with two sides. United in thought and belief, united in love and hope.

Instead the black Kryptonite pulled the Soul Splitter from him. The seed, the link it had with him was now being broken for good. And what it had taken from him ..not the energy but the pieces of his own soul were being returned. It was painful, it was torture and he knew very likely could lead to his death.

Far more importantly, it meant freeing her from a terrible fate and stripping the creeper of its newly gained power. Jor-El had said it would not react well, that unlike Clark its nature was divided many times over. It would not be able to sustain its recent changes, it would become fragile, easier to control.

Lost in the midst of light, power and torment, Clark held on. His own body feeling each and every bit of the what it felt, feeling as if he would also be torn apart as it left him and he left it. Separation of being.

Consciousness fled, thought ceased but he held on. Trust in those that fought for Justice allowed him this, hope that she would be alright, and that maybe so would he.

It screeched, fought to keep its hold on the city, on her and on the kryptonian. It could not.. each effort was met with resistance. It's nature splintered, torn apart. The individual aspects that had once been many were now once again so. Combined into amalgamation of horror, need, and darkness they had gone for power the sole united thought, but now separated once more they were lost in chaos, panicked, angry, fearful.

One by one a dozen hooded phantoms flew in a cyclone. Leaving Clark alone to fall away to the earth.

~♥~


“CLARK!!” The cry reverberated off the walls of the tower. Ronnie echoed Lois' call, though lost in the same nightmare she laid still, the one thing Tess and Bart could be thankful for.

One moment they been waiting, hoping John could lend the help needed, that all would end soon. The storm outside had yet to cease its pounding and Lois along with it had cried out, shook, needing them to hold her down.

Like so many across Metropolis, they felt the slow burning agony, a sensation of something clawing from the inside. They could not escape it, they could only hold out.

Then it had changed. In an instant, Lois had thrown them off her with enough force to knock them off their feet, by sheer luck it wasn't off the balcony. Pulling herself back up, Tess hadn't expected the sight before her eyes.

Lois surrounded by a strange light.

For a second her body seemed to be pulled in multiple directions at once before it settled to merely shake at hyper speed, glowing with various colours of rolling energy.

The pain inside of both Tess and Bart expanded to an intensity that neither could help but fall to the floor. Their own cries mingling with Lois' scream that filled the Watch Tower.

~♥~


Victor tracked the movement even before any of the others had even noticed it. With just a slight thought he sent the necessary single activating the crystal that began to glow and pulse.

“10” He intoned out loud. Counting down with a space of ten seconds between each spoken number.

Bruce glanced at Victor, the crystal and then back to the skies. Where were they? He didn't have to wonder long.

“9”

Stopping not that far in the distance above them, the Creeper was forced down by John and Clark.

“8”

Six pairs of eyes watched riveted as Clark dove for the Soul Splitter. Five reacted with alarm as Clark and the creeper began to vibrate.

“7”

Then increased agitation as it split apart into a dozen separate versions of its self. Swirling around in a chaotic cyclone.

“6”

“5, step back, power build up imminent.”

Emil watched the dial. The others took a step back to be behind the machine with Emil. Superman fell out of the twister.

“4”

His body hitting the ground could be felt from where they stood. Nothing could be done to help him.. not when it was about to open up.

“3”

Oliver took his eyes off the sky, waiting for his friend to stand. When he didn't he turned to meet the stare of Bruce.

“2”

Worry reflected between them. Emil pointed, just below the cyclone a crack began to form to fill the sky with a bright blue light.

“1”

The light, the crack began to pull, the strength of it tugging at things more then a 100ft away laying on the ground. Walls, windows, bodies all felt it.

The screeching of the Soul Splitters various selves being sucked in and flooding light of the portal forced the members of the Justice League to cover their ears and turn away.

It ended within a span of 30 seconds.. then silenced stretched out. The storm above Metropolis had faded with the portal closing. There was a soft rain and the sort of quiet that left only the sound of beating hearts to pound mercilessly in chests and ears.

~♥~


Awareness returned slowly like walking through mud as thick as molasses. He ached. He was tired, and a small part of him didn't want to return. He had dreamnt of long brown hair and soft skin, a beautiful face, a voice that sounded like heaven whispering words of comfort. He wanted to rest there always.

“Clark?” An anxious voice softly inquired. It wasn't the voice of comfort. But it was one of a friend.

Despite this desire to stay, he let himself drift back into a world of light and intense sound. There was a definite sense of déjà vu. He had done this before.

Unclenching his jaw, he grounded out in a voice thick with worry. “Lois..”

“Shh.. she is fine, sleeping.”

Clark felt a hand slip into his own, fingers squeeze. Chloe continued, “It seems you both are competing for the title of sleeping beauty.” Eyes would not open yet, though he didn't need see to know she was relieved, able to joke.

“What.. What happened?” Finally they fluttered and the light grew stronger but it did not hurt. It took only a second to get his focus and find her face.

Chloe smiled at him before answering, “You did it!.. Its' gone Clark..” There was so much relief in her voice it made him ache. He really hadn't expected to survive . To swallow black K and live!? How was it even possible?

As if drawn by an unknown power, he turned his head fully to the side and found her. Laying on another of the beds in watchtower only three feet away, she looked peaceful. At ease, just a sleep. Even the colour of her skin was better then the last time he had seen her. A great weight lifted off him. It was done.

Trying to sit up, he groaned with frustration from the weakness that spread through him. Chloe put a hand to his chest. “Clark, wait.. give it a few okay? You just went through the proverbial exorcism and trip to hell all in one go. ”

“I need her..”

“I know. Hold..” Chloe undid the brake on Lois' bed, and slid it closer, so she was now within arms reach. Moving around to now stand on the other side of him she watched as he picked up her cousins hand. The tender way his fingers slipped between Lois' caused tears to form in her eyes.

Swallowing, Chloe took his other hand and squeezed again. “She'll be fine. Only sleeping now, she needs it, you both do. Ronnie said it was like you both had slipped away. It wasn't the darkness but ..” She shook her head causing her blond curls to bounce, unable to explain it any more then the redheaded nurse had been able to.

Clark continued to stay quiet, just enjoying the feel of her hand in his, the sight of her. After several minutes he finally turned to look back at Chloe, taking in the damage he could see of the watchtower as he did so.

Chloe could see the questions in his eyes, “It was worse then this.. I imagine by tonight clean up will be finished. Oliver and Bruce have been full steam ahead since you were brought here.”

“The storm?”

“Yes.. Metropolis is in a bit of a state. Once you're back on your feet, I am sure the residents could do with the Man of Steel clean up. Not surprisingly, people are still in shock. The storm last night brought a lot of questions and left a lot of injured. ”

“Dead?..” the question came out cracked with guilt. It didn't matter how many years he had been doing this, would be doing it, he could not escape the emotion.

“Clark.. “ Chloe wasn't new to this with him, “None of us would be here if you hadn't faced it. There was no way of knowing how it was going to react, where it would go, or how it would respond. You saved a city, Clark. There were a few deaths but you saved so many..and at a huge risk to yourself, Emil says its going to be a few days before you're a hundred percent.” She didn't state the obvious, how they were lucky they hadn't lost him.

If only it was that easy to shake off the ones that didn't make it. To simply be glad he was alive. Before he had a chance to dwell in the thought he heard his name come out in a breathy whisper.

Unsure where he found the strength from, Clark pulled himself up and leaned over his wife. “Lois..I'm here.”

It took a moment before her eyes fluttered open and found his. The smile that spread across her face took his breath away, “You did good champ..” she whispered.

Clark laughed softly, “Yeah.. but only because you were with me.”

Lois sighed and gave a slight shake of her head, “No.. “

“Yes..” Clark brought her hand up to his lips, “I know you were there, Lois, I felt you with me. I don't think I could have done it, found the strength without you. You are my strength.”

A tear slipped from her eye from his words. Feeling heavy and drained it was the only response she could give. But the relief of seeing him there and knowing it was over flooded through, and she wanted to express how proud of him she was.

Despite the signals her brain sent to her body to sit up, to hold him, she found she couldn't move. Simply far to drained. She accepted the alternative of lifting her hand and touching his face.

“Smallville.. you had all you need in that heart of yours. You always have.”

Bending down he responded with a kiss, “I love you, Lois.. Always..”

“I love you too, Clark, forever..”

Continue to Part 3..