Book III: The Gathering Storm

Tributes and Trials

Nov 2 - Billings, Mt

It was not revenge that was her central motivation; no, she wanted people to know the truth. It was about the strangeness she had witnessed, the weirdness the Palace had exhibited. Her memories of the place were fuzzy; her doctor said it was a result of the drugs and weakness. But no, these memories seemed new, coming on like a thunderstorm in summer. She had worked at the Palace for nine months dealing with those boys, but she couldn't even prove that because her salary had come from a Smallville company’s payroll account. She had even less evidence that the children were anything but normal.

Despite her lack of proof, she was undaunted. She had written her letter and mailed it to Lois Lane at the Daily Planet four days ago, too late to prevent Luthor's election, but not too late to make the people see the truth: The Luthor family was far different from what people pictured. They were unusual, unnatural . Their behavior defied the rules of common decency, family values, and, occasionally, the laws of physics.

Jessica Worthy had advanced lymphatic cancer. Her pain was worse now, but her memories of the palace, of the children, were coming back. The haze of the drugs allowed her to see Ben and Wes fighting with each other. She recalled one of Hamilton’s devices that shorted out and caught fire. Then there was Philip, the perfect child. The one who forced her to be very precise with every order, request, and demand. He was the leader of dissent, the other boys following along to make her crazy. So now, she poured all these thoughts on paper, the memories coming one after another, as if a dam had burst. Lois Lane would come calling soon, and Jessica wanted to have all her memories down for that time.

Nov 3 - Gotham City - 2 am

Bruce Wayne was watching the election returns much as everyone else. He saw that the balance of power had shifted by just enough to hand over the Senate and the House to the Democrats. He was happy for Lex -- he would make things interesting in Washington -- but he was deeply concerned as well. The loss of control of the Senate would free Robert Kelly to pursue his objective of residing in the White House. That was something the nation did not need.

“Master Bruce, there is something you should see.” Alfred called from the cave under the manor.

Bruce went to the cave and sat at the console of his supercomputer. “An Avengers Priority One signal?” Wayne Industries built part of the satellite network that handled encrypted traffic for the Federal Government. Bruce monitored some of that traffic unbeknownst to the government. “Alfred, I may be going on a journey. Use whatever cover for the Board you need to.” Bruce got out of his chair and went to change.

Washington

Gabriel Vance met the President's gaze across the table. “Sir, I can have the Ronald Reagan and the Theodore Roosevelt on each side of the Canal in four days.” The Secretary looked over a list of other available assets and those were the only carrier battle groups available.

The President looked at Henry Gyrich, who was sitting in for the National Security Advisor. “What is your take?”

Henry looked over and saw the Joint Chiefs sitting impatiently. Henry was a member of a secret organization intent on running the United States from behind closed doors, moving pieces across the world like a chessboard. “Sir, Dr. Cooper can declare an emergency and summon the Avenger reserves. Let them go in first, as the military gathers its forces to free the Canal Zone.”

The rest of the table murmured in agreement. "What about Captain America? Is he dead?"

"Unknown, sir. Avenger Intel suggests there are only three hostages."

"We sent four Avengers down there," the President reminded them unnecessarily.

"Yes, sir."

The conclusion hung heavily in the air. Finally, the President nodded. “Tell Dr. Cooper to declare." He rose and left the room, followed by his Chief of Staff, Dick Simons.

“Well, at least CNN has not broken the story yet,” Dick commented.

The President walked back up to the Oval Office. “As if this day could not get any worse. What about the election results?”

Dick shook his head in dismay. “Luthor's win is the least of our problems. We lost the Senate, and we control the House by a single vote, at the moment.”

The President placed his head in his hands. “We have a foreign crisis and I’m a lame duck. Senator Kelly will be chomping at the bit, ready to lead.”

“That, sir, is what scares me.”

New York

Bruce moved through the steel canyons of Manhattan with ease. It was a few hours before dawn, and even a city that does not sleep has its slow times. Guiding his cutting edge, one-man fighter towards the Lower east side was easy; it was silent and stealthy. Spotting his destination, Bruce throttled back and placed his craft into a hover mode. With practiced ease, he rappelled down and next to the front door.

“Welcome to the Avenger Mansion, Batman. Thor, Tigra, Hercules, and Wonder Man are expecting you down this hall.”

Bruce looked at the elderly man, maybe a few years Alfred’s junior, but every bit as commanding. “Thank you.” He followed the man’s hand motion and went through the door he indicated.

“So you are the infamous Batman of Gotham.”

Bruce looked at the tall Nordic blond and instantly knew him to be Thor, the self-styled Thunder God. “I am. I’m here to help rescue your friends in Panama.”

Thor glanced at his three comrades, speaking for them when he told Bruce, “Your help will be much appreciated. Many of our members are off on missions.” He motioned Bruce to sit down and quickly pulled up a schematic. “We are able to get a signal from Hawkeye’s transponder, in this building in Panama City. That's where three of our members are being held. Their condition is unknown."

"Who's missing?" Bruce asked.

"Iron Man. We can't get a reading on him. His last known transponder signal was here." Thor indicated the area on the schematic.

Bruce nodded. “Very well. I will locate Iron Man, you four take the Hostages.” He saw their skeptical gaze. “I can find him, and I can communicate with you through a frequency shifter.”

In moments the room cleared out and two vehicles were racing South.

Metropolis

The victory celebration at the Adams Mark - Metropolis was winding down. Exhausted and elated, the trio returned to the Penthouse while the rest of the family headed back to the Manor. They would meet up and head back to Smallville in the morning.

While the others shed their clothes, getting ready for bed, Clark checked his PDA and saw the breaking news item. “Lex, there has been a major incident in Panama. Looks like a coup is underway.”

Whitney moved around the bedroom and settled. Glancing at the clock he saw how late it was. “Guys, the boys will be up in four hours.”

Lex and Clark both groaned. Lex collapsed on the bed. “And I know Philip is going to want to know all about the election.”

Clark let his clothes fall in a heap on the floor. “This news from Panama is not good. Just another sign that things are not as stable as people think.”

Lex motioned Clark into bed as Whitney curled around him as well. “Too tired right now to think. We’ll see in the morning.”

Panama

As the Avengers’ Jet continued on to the outskirts of Panama City, Bruce landed on the north side of the Canal; he was able to see a number of battle scars all over the hillsides. The cockpit slid back, allowing Bruce to hop out of the plane. He deployed the craft's camouflage netting, then quickly descended the hill in search of Iron Man.

Bruce had used a tracking program in the Wayne Tech satellites to review the battle over the Canal. Cross-referencing it with Iron Man's transponder signal, he’d been able to get a general location of where the hero might be. His hope was that he had not fallen into Gatun Lake.

After an hour of searching, Bruce spotted Iron man in a thicket, covered in debris. Moving quickly, he reached him. “Are you okay?”

Iron Man rolled over and looked up. “Been better, that’s for sure. So, the famous Batman came to rescue me?”

Bruce stared at him. “Well, a second team of Avengers is rescuing the rest of your people.”

"They're hostages?"

"Yes."

"Everyone?"

Bruce knew what he was asking. Were his friends alive or dead? "Now that you've been located, everyone seems to be accounted for. Injuries are unknown."

Tony Stark groaned as he sat up and checked his power packs. “We weren’t expecting a full scale assault, that's for sure.”

The sun began bleeding yellow gold over the horizon and Bruce looked around, noting how exposed they were. “We need to get moving, this country is no longer hospitable.”

Bruce and Iron Man arrived in Panama City a few minutes after leaving the lake. They tracked the second team’s location and closed in. Iron Man landed on a roof near the location and was joined by Batman a few moments afterwards. Tony was able to confirm by homing in on Hawkeye’s transponder. “They are in there.”

Bruce nodded and began to move. Noise behind him forced him to turn and see a few soldiers getting ready to attack. He moved to defend when a grenade landed near his position. He then noticed that Iron Man had been unable to get off the building. Reaching for his belt, his vision blurred.

Moments later, the world went black for both of them.

Metropolis

Lois Lane was looking over the results from the election. The Secretary of State’s office was going to certify the election around 11:00 a.m. The final tally had Lex Luthor winning almost fifty-five percent of the vote, making it look like the race was not as close as had been forecast.

“Here Lois, this arrived for you.”

Lois took the letter from one of the other reporters and glanced at the return address. Jessica Worthy, Billings, Montana. She sliced it open and read, taking the occasional sip of her fourth cup of coffee.

"Purple cats ?" She snorted and almost blew coffee out of her nose. She grabbed a tissue and blew.

Parts of the note were beyond outrageous -- Jessica Worthy, a terminally ill, alledged former Luthor employee -- made the Luthor-Fordman-Kent boys sound like a cross between Stepford Children and those creepy blond kids from Village of the Damned. But there were other things that weren't so outrageous...  Like the names of the four boys. No one knew the boys' names--no one outside of the Palace, that is.

If Lois could confirm that the names Ms. Worthy had supplied were accurate, it would go a long way toward lending credence to her claim that she'd been the boys’ nanny.

She picked up her phone and called Perry’s office.

“Hey Chief, listen, I have a very strange lead, but it just might pay off.”

Perry White hated when his star reporter was nice, it meant she wanted something and that usually meant trouble. And money. “What is it, Lane?”

“A lead on the Luthor rugrats.”

“No way, Lane. We're lucky that we haven't had any issues from our story, but if we do anything to compromise the safety of his kids…”

Lois looked at Jessica Worthy's letter and her gut told her to follow the lead. “Okay. I have some vacation time coming and with the election over…”

Perry reached for his roll of antacids. He knew she was up to something. “Fine, take your vacation. Enjoy.”

Lois smiled and logged onto the Internet to look for a cheap flight to Billings, Montana.

Lex placed the phone back in its cradle. He tried to fight the smile, but it was insistent. As tired as he was, he was excited.

“Who was that?”

Lex turned and found Clark standing in the doorway. “That was the Secretary of State’s office.”

Clark leaned on the frame, waiting patiently for Lex to explain why they called. “Well, are you going to tell me or do you want me to read your mind?”

Lex chuckled. “Jacob Fromm is resigning from the Senate today.”

Clark moved into the room and sat on one of the chairs. “What does that mean?”

“It means that I will take the Oath of Office tomorrow.” He saw the look on Clark’s face and continued, “He was appointed and I won the Special Election. By custom, he is surrendering the seat so I can fill it for the rest of the term.”

“Oh. Well, Whitney and I are going to take the munchkins back home. Are you on your way to Washington now?”

Lex came over and wrapped Clark in a hug. “No, I’ll go home with you. Mike is heading to Washington now to transition information and other stuff from Fromm to me.”

Whitney walked in and turned on the TV. “It appears as though things have gotten worse in Panama.”

This is CNN. The White House refuses to confirm or deny that the Avengers sent a rescue team to Panama to free the group of Avengers who were apparently taken hostage during the uprising last night. Reports out of Panama indicate that Tigra, Wonder Man, and Hercules have been captured as well. Dr. Valerie Cooper, the liaison to the Avengers has not issued a comment either. We will keep you posted as News Breaks.

“More news of the depressing sort," Whitney noted. "We need to get moving. Oh, the boys want to do something special for you since you are now elected.”

Lex laughed. “And what do they want to do?”

Whitney hugged Lex. “The boys decided that they want to show ‘Senator Papa’ the latest moves Chris and Alan taught them.”

Clark started laughing. “So, are they wanting to use Lex as a practice dummy?”

Lex shook his head. “Come on, let’s get back to Smallville. I’d love to see what they’ve learned.”

Whitney was rubbing Lex’s back as they relaxed in the bedroom. The kids were with Rachel, getting a lesson in the system of government and their father's new place in that system. Lex moaned under Whitney’s ministrations. “Remind me never to let the boys try to practice on me.”

Whitney kept working on some of the kinks while Clark watched the news with trepidation. “Clark, please sit down. And you,” referring to Lex, “I told you so!”

Clark watched the latest news reports, hearing the news of the capture of more of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. The edict from the men in charge had been clear, if the United States disavowed the Panama treaty, the heroes would be released in Brazil. Should the United States attack, the heroes would be executed. Clark turned and looked at Lex and Whitney. “I have to do something!”

Lex began to pace the bedroom. “Clark, you have to be careful. Let me make a few inquiries and find out what the government is going to do. Okay?”

Whitney shook his head. “We can’t wait long. I think he should go tonight.”

Nov 4, Panama - sort of

Clark flew at supersonic speed, racing for the Isthmus of Panama and its famous Canal. He hovered over thirty miles above the tiny area, using his x-ray vision and telescopic vision in concert to find where the superheroes were being held.

“Keeper, can you get a fix?”

//My Lord, they are in the Ministry of Justice. You must hurry. The US has dispatched two sets of Special Forces operatives. ETA, three hours.//

“Great.” Clark continued to hover, trying to figure out the best approach. In a flash, he plummeted until he was hovering a few inches above the ground in an alleyway across from the Ministry. He pulled his black cloak tight around his body and made sure the hood was hanging down, covering his eyes. The cloak was a stealth device of Kryptonian design. It rendered the wearer invisible in the shadows, but could not hold up to direct light. The key was that it also defeated infrared tracking and multi-spectrum reads. It also muffled sounds as well.

Scanning the Ministry again, Clark saw that they were holding the two teams in separate parts of the building. With a mental cue, a visor covered his eyes and displayed a schematic of the building and represented each life form with a blinking dot. Clark was able to do a quick calculation and pulled out his staff, another Kryptonian gift, a warrior’s weapon. It was a high yield plasma weapon. Standing over six feet in length, it was also perfect for hand-to-hand combat. The top looked like a three-dimensional trident. All three blades could shift with a mental command.

Gripping the staff, Clark activated it and took off for the roof of the Ministry. Moved faster than human vision could track, he landed on the roof and disabled the first sentry with a blow to the head. Another sentry was moving toward him before the first one hit the asphalt shingles. Shifting left and ducking, Clark brought his staff around and knocked the feet out from under his attacker. It was then that he got a surprise; the sentry moved with lightening speed and attacked him. Clark lashed out, but his arm passed through the man like a ghost. “The hell?”  Clark moved again and as the sentry closed in, Clark used his heat vision to ignite the man’s clothes. The sentry yowled in pain and Clark struck again. Whatever device had rendered him formless apparently didn't work when he was distracted by physical agony. Good information to have.

As a courtesy, Clark put out the fire.

He summoned his visor for a full frequency scan and was able to tell that only the two disabled sentries knew of his presence. Floating over to the access door, he pushed it open and floated down the stairwell, keeping one eye in his visor’s display and another in his x-ray mode to see if he could catch the captors off guard. It was then he caught a glimpse of the second set of hostages. He quickly scanned the very large building and found the shortest path to their location.

//Kal-El, the two sentries had traces of kryptonite in them. I can’t determine the source, but the visor picked up a glimmer of a radiation trigger and when he passed through the armor, the sensors confirmed it.//

“Great. These are meteor mutants.” Clark spotted three guards holding the heroes captive. He noticed that they were being held prisoner with a device, a quick scan did not give Clark any details. However, he saw that all the hostages seemed to be unconscious. He could not attribute it to the device or what looked like drugs on the table. ‘Fuck, if they are out cold this gets worse !’

A sudden movement on the staircase below him alerted him to the fact that he was running out of time. Moving into the room, he used his heat vision to destroy the machine. In seconds, a background noise he’d not noticed vanished. Thor, Hercules, and Wonder Man snapped their bonds with ease. Hercules then moved to free Tigra and Batman.

“Whoever you are, beware. They move very fast and pass through objects like ghosts,” Thor yelled.

Clark nodded his acknowledgement. “I know where the rest of your friends are, I’ll get them. You five get out of here.” He did not wait for a response, but moved quickly down a hall and blew out the wall to the outside, slipping out and creating an escape route for the freed Avengers. He moved on quickly, but behind him he could hear the fighting as the first group of Avengers fought their way out. On the far side of the courtyard, Clark pulled his staff out and fired a plasma bolt at the building, opening up a hole so he could speed through it to the second group of hostages.

Moving quickly, he found and disabled a device similar to the one that had constrained Batman and the others, but he met heavy resistance before he could breach the room that held the hostages. His vision clouded as kryptonite-infected troops swarmed the corridor. Clark's armor protected him from the some of the effects of some of the kryptonite, but it couldn't cut it off completely; something was amplifying the effect. As guards came at him, Clark moved to counter. He was still amazed at the quickness of his opponents, and their ability to phase through him made him queasy. A quick check showed him that the Avengers were free and also fighting.

Clark used the full power of his staff at short range to carve a new door way to the Avengers, then shouted “MOVE BACK!” A second blast created an avenue of escape for them and Clark resumed the indirect heat vision attacks he had used earlier, forcing his opponents to lose concentration and rendering them vulnerable. He followed the fleeing Avengers and used another high yield blast to force the invading troops away. He heard a shout in the wind.

“We are all out! Thanks!” An Avenger jet was hovering in the courtyard and Captain America acknowledged Clark with wave from its extended boarding ramp. "Need a lift, Stranger?"

Clark's smile was lost beneath this hood. He returned the wave. "No, thanks! Have my own transportation!"

"Not surprised!" America shouted, then disappeared into the craft. An instant later, Clark was alone.

As a precaution, he raced back up over the city and scanned to make sure everyone was out. Satisfied that he was correct, he lingered for a second to catch his breath. “The Hell were those people?”

//Engineered humans, but done with the radiation from Kryptonite. However, they appear to be stable.//

Clark sighed and shuddered, he did not relish taking on those types of soldiers again.

Washington

Lex’s private jet landed gracefully on the private airstrip outside of Alexandria, VA. It was just after dawn but Lex was wide-awake. The stretch Mercedes Limousine glided towards the District, but commuter traffic was making progress slow. Lex looked out the window, watching the slow-moving traffic crawl at the same rate his car was. His reverie was broken as the driver panel descended and Alan Owen looked at him.

“Sir, we will arrive at the Naval Observatory on time. Michael will meet us at the Hart building for lunch afterwards. Collins & Danforth will have two lawyers there as will Cooper, Lyons, & Reynolds.”

Lex nodded and the partition went back in place. He was meeting with the Vice-President at his official residence, the Naval Observatory, for breakfast. His swearing in ceremony would follow when a group of Senators joined them. Then the business of gathering a staff would commence. Collins & Danforth was his International law firm, inherited from his Uncle Michael. Cooper, Lyons, & Reynolds was the law-investment banking firm that used to employ Tristan. He pulled his Pocket PC from his suit breast jacket and checked his email. Lex smiled when he saw an email from the boys sending him hugs.

Lex’s car pulled up outside the Hart Senate Building and he was greeted by Michael Ross. The breakfast and swearing in ceremony had been dull, but he was officially Senator Alexander Luthor - (D) KS. “Hello, Michael. Is everything in motion?”

Mike Ross smiled at his boss. “Jeff and two of your lawyers are looking at a building to transform into a new Luthor property.”

Lex smiled and motioned for Mike to follow. “We have to get moving as well, I want to be home for dinner.”

Mike smiled. “I’ve arranged to meet with the FAA later, see if we can expand the use of the Shuttle from Metropolis to Washington.”

Lex nodded as they continued down the corridor en route to the former offices of Sen. Fromm. “Well that would be highly convenient, I could commute daily almost.”

“No, you won’t, but you can get home far more often than most politicians.” Michael commented.

Lex walked in and saw that his nameplate had just gone up. “I was told not to get comfortable here, that as many as thirty offices are being moved.”

Mike sighed. “I’ve been told as well. I have a few people I used to work with that will make excellent staffers. They can fill some of the lower level roles and also help coordinate with the Party.”

Lex looked over the office he would soon be forced to vacate. “Well, I am bringing Alice and Keith on as consultants and you will be my senior political counsel.”

Mike paused and looked out the window. “Now, do I get direct access or will I still be going through Jeff?”

Lex thought about it for a moment. “Jeff is the cog that keeps everything running. My political schedule will be in your keeping, but Jeff is nominally your superior. While I’m in Washington, you will have full access.”

Mike thought it over for a second. “Well, you are a Senator now, your whole life is now about politics. I’ll have Jeff set up a common calendar so we are all on the same page.”

Lex smiled and began looking over the briefing memos that had been given to him. “I don’t want any turf wars. They’re unnecessary. So, let me finish up here and head home. I’ll be expected back in Washington for an orientation along with all the other new Senators.”

Smallville

Clark settled into his tower, exhausted from using his abilities to their fullest. Touching the stone on his wrist, he dismissed his armor in a flash. A mental check confirmed that Lex was not in the Palace. Another mental check and he knew that the boys were in their classroom with Rachel and Whitney was in his office. Clark took a moment to sag against a wall. ‘That was draining. ’

Clark turned and saw Whitney walk into his lab, realizing that he‘d dozed off for a few minutes. “Hi,” he said wearily.

Whitney crossed the room and stared hard at Clark. After a few minutes, he finally spoke. “Hi. How are you feeling?”

Clark was about to give his blond lover a standard reply but saw the look on his face and knew better. “Very tired. The terrorists or whatever they are, are meteor mutants.”

Whit nodded and leaned over to kiss Clark. “The Keeper informed us that there was an unpleasant surprise for you in Panama.” Whitney began to look over Clark, searching for marks on his bare torso. “Well, I don’t see anything.”

Clark kissed Whitney and then pulled him into a hug. “I’m fine, honestly. It was not as bad as they usually effect me but it was a shock.”

Whitney appraised Clark again. “Well, I came up to make sure you were fine and I’ll believe you,” he punctuated that remark with a wink. “I’ll be in my office should you need anything.”

Rachel Amstead was totally taken with the Luthor-Fordman-Kent boys. She’d fallen for Philip the first night, but now they were all like her own children. Despite her previous employers and experience, she saw this job as far different than any other she’d ever had. ‘Whitney said they were special but I never realized how special.’ An old friend of hers from Boston College had come up with an amazing foreign language program that worked like immersion courses. She’d discovered that Lionel and Lex Luthor were fluent in a few languages, including Latin and antic Greek. Most of the Fordmans spoke Spanish reasonably well, as did the Kents. Much to her surprise, Clark Kent was fluent in nine languages while Whitney could speak passable German and Japanese, in addition to Spanish. So now she had the boys speaking Spanish at breakfast. Their ability to pick up anything amazed her and kept her on her toes when it came to keeping them motivated.

She looked at the boys, each sitting at his own workstation, while they concentrated on a history lesson that Lex had thought important. She agreed that the concepts of philanthropy and its sister, Noblese oblige , were fundamental to the character of the boys. She was going to be sitting down with Jeff Fordman at some point to get an idea of the wealth the LFK family held. A sigh caught her attention and she saw that Wes was not reading any longer.

“Wes, did you need something?” Rachel inquired in her most patient voice. She sensed that Wes was the one who would need the most coaxing to learn. Ben, despite being a joker, liked learning about stars and space. Wes did not have a field that appealed to him.

Wes sighed again. “Nothing Miss Rachel.”

Rachel looked at him again and smiled. “You sure?”

Wes’ face fell to a pout. “Does everything have to have to mean something? Can fun ever be fun?”

Rachel was stunned by such an astute observation from a five-year-old. “Yes, Wes, fun can be fun in and of itself. What your parents want you to understand is that people who are very privileged, like you and your brothers, have a responsibility to society.”

Philip looked up and frowned. “So, we will never be able to do what we want? We will always be forced to do what others want us to do?”

Rachel saw the other two boys frown as well and she quickly motioned for them to calm down. “I think we need to take a step back. Your parents do what they want, but at the same time they act in ways that benefit many. That is the lesson that you need to take to heart. Okay?”

The boys all looked at each other and then shrugged. Hamilton voiced a consensus opinion. “Okay, but that seems strange.”

Lex walked into the Family Dining room right as dinner was about to be served. It was strange, but he was now a member of the most exclusive clubs on the planet, the United States Senate. “Hello.” Lex was instantly assaulted by his boys. He knew they loved him, but it was their eagerness to greet him that warmed his heart.

Whitney got up and motioned for the boys to sit back down at the table. “So Senator Luthor, how was Washington?” He moved to hug his elder lover.

Lex laughed. “Don’t start.” He returned the embrace and saw Clark approaching as well.

Clark kissed him softly. “Well, how was breakfast with the Vice President?”

The mention of that office brought eager looks to the faces of all four boys. ‘They are information sponges! ’ he thought, smiling. Obviously, an answer was called for. “It was polite and quick.” Lex sat down at his normal place and greeted Jeff with a nod. “Where is everyone else?”

Jeff chuckled. “In Metropolis. Mom and Martha have that festival they are organizing. They enlisted Lionel’s help in twisting a few arms, and Jon had to be present at the Division Championship banner raising at the home opener for the Knights. Basketball season has started.”

Lex nodded. “Well, let’s eat.”

Washington

Capt America walked into the White House Situation room. He’d been here before but never with such complicated -- and bad -- news. He looked over the room and waited for the President to complete his phone call and address him.

The President spoke several more minutes, then finally was able to get to hang up. He did not waste any time. “What happened down there?”

Captain America motioned to a Yeoman and in a moment, a holographic representation of Panama appeared. “At the urging of the White House, an Avenger squad was in Panama City to monitor the country. We do not know any specifics but we do know that who ever attacked Panama was like nothing we have seen before. They had soldiers who were very fast, highly trained, and had the ability to pass through solid objects. They had an inhibitor device that made it impossible to form a coherent thought.”

Dr. Vance spoke up, “How did you escape?”

Captain America shook his head in a negative manner. “We still aren’t sure. A second team came down and was overwhelmed like the first one, but one man was able to free us, however he was very powerful. None of us have seen him before. I’ve been informed that the military is thinking of stepping in and I think that is a very bad idea.”

The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs smirked. “With all due respect, that is not your call.”

Henry was listening to what he heard and decided to stay silent. ‘This is not an argument I want to be in the middle of.’

Captain America smirked back at the Chairman. “While that is true, I have battlefield experience that you do not AND I was down there. Unless you plan on torching all of Panama to rescue it, I would look for a diplomatic solution.”

The President motioned for the Avenger to stop. “Do you have any more information that will be useful?”

“No, sir.”

“Thank you for coming so quickly.” The President waited for the Avenger to leave the room before addressing it. “Well?”

Dr. Vance looked around the table. “I think we continue moving forces into the theatre. We have two days at a minimum, but our prestige is at stake.”

The President rose and left, leaving the Situation Room cloaked in silence.

Smallville

Whitney settled back on the bed and watched as Clark kissed Lex deeply. Stroking his hard cock, he watched as Clark slowly undressed the newest United States Senator. “This is a very good show.”

Clark laughed as his hands slipped down Lex’s chest to the button on his suit trousers. “The sexiest Senator in the land feels excited,” Clark whispered as he cupped Lex’s hardening dick. Bringing his hands back up, he removed the button-down long sleeve shirt.

Lex moaned in ecstasy as Clark’s mouth sucked on the nape of his neck. “Fuck.” Lex allowed himself to be maneuvered to the bed, naked and aroused. Lex tried to control his breathing as Clark continued to suck and nibble on his neck. He felt another set of hands moving over his body and bit down to keep from screaming as Whitney’s tongue began to lap at his ass like a cat licked cream.

Clark kissed Lex to silence him, and then placed his hard cock in Lex’s mouth. Slowly moving back and forth, he fucked Lex’s mouth, enjoying the sensations. Reaching down, he began to stroke Lex’s weeping cock. He could tell by Lex’s thrusts that he was close.

Whitney loved making Lex writhe in pleasure. His tongue was moving back and forth, tasting sweat and musk. Lex was opening up for him, allowing Whit’s tongue to move deeper inside. Smiling, Whit moved into position and pushed his cock into Lex.

Lex moaned around Clark’s dick. He was getting close and Whitney was now hitting his prostate with every thrust. Lex wanted this to last but he was so close. Clark’s hand was so warm and tight, Lex could not stop his orgasm. The feeling was powerful and intense.

Clark gasped as he felt Lex come on his hand and in his head. The suction on his cock increased and forced Clark to come as well.

Lex’s ass tightened around Whit’s cock, almost painfully. Whitney could not stop his orgasm as the combined pleasure of both his lovers overwhelmed his control. He came hard inside Lex and slowly slipped out. 

Nov 5, Washington -predawn

Henry walked down the alley that’d become very familiar over the years. His access level had risen as he had inside the organization. The panels opened for him and he walked down the narrow stairwell before emerging into a meeting room. The room was well lit but Henry never forgot the first time he’d been here and the darkness still invaded his awareness. He spotted several other members of the Cabal and waited for the meeting to begin.

“Thank you for coming.”  Secretary Vance told the assembled room. “The Panamanian situation is reaching a critical point. The Avengers were unable to do anything but Captain America’s report raised a number of caution flags.”

Gen Thames looked over the room. “If what he told us is true, then it is possible that we are not the only one with that type of enhanced super-soldier. Unfortunately ours are unable to be deployed at this time. Dr. Darkholm’s new combat armor is almost ready for testing but I would not risk these soldiers yet.”

Jason Wyngard looked at Sec. Vance and smiled. “What does the President want to do?”

Thames scoffed and answered. “Considering the recommendation of Capt. America, he wants to negotiate a settlement.”

Cigarette smoke wafted across the table and a throat was cleared. “Gentlemen, the President is a lame duck. The election has gone against him and now the mightiest heroes have been defeated. American power is beginning to look very limited and useless. We did nothing to stop the fall of the Saudi Kingdom and have done nothing to interfere with this movement in Central and South America. Even our ability to control events is now suspect.”

Henry looked down the table and sighed. “Don’t forget that China is falling apart and threatening Taiwan, Mr. Vice President.”

Vice President Winston Rockefeller Trask had served in the United States Government since he’d graduated from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government in 1970. He was an old time American aristocrat, wealthy and educated, but he’d seen enough of the decline of America that he’d become involved with this group right after Nixon was forced from office. He was one of only five members who knew the entire roster. “Thank you, Mr. Gyrich. We have another issue, gentlemen.”

Sec. Vance groaned. “As if we did not have enough at the moment. Now what?”

“The task force will remain in the hands of a sympathizer and he has gained a new patron,” the Vice President remarked gravely. “Sen. Luthor will protect him and we have no control over this issue. More importantly, Sen. Kelly is going to run for the White House. He is the biggest unknown in a sea of them.”

Jason Wyngard shook his head. “Our ability to move events to our planning is not going well. Has OsCorp finished the glider yet?”

Gen. Thames chuckled, but with a resigned note. “No, the only project that has been successful has been through the aid of some extraterrestrial rocks. The glider is in final testing, the armor is almost done, the Weapon X project has been relocated again. Only our super soldiers look to be ready.”

Henry looked at the Vice President again. “Sir, about Panama?”

The Vice President nodded at the Secretary of Defense, who responded. “American power and prestige is now at stake. Both Carrier Battle groups will attack as will a Marine Expeditionary Force. The Canal will be free.”

Panama

Glass and other debris crunched beneath his boots as Damien Parker walked through the remnants of the Ministry of Justice. The Operation had been a total success until that unknown ‘person’ showed up and liberated the Avengers. Damien cursed under his breath when he saw Ivan Acevado approaching.

“Mr. Parker, we seem to have lost our hostages.” Acevado drawled.

Damien ignored the man and continued walking around the building. Kneeling in one of the hostage rooms, he closely examined the ‘Inhibitor’, a little device that created a sub-sonic pulse rendering people docile. His soldiers had earpieces that filtered out the frequency. Damien glanced up and saw that Ivan had followed him. Continuing to ignore the man, he looked at the scorch marks around the room.

“Mr. Parker, our masters back in Columbia are asking for answers and you aren’t very forthcoming at the moment.” Ivan exhaled a cloud of smoke to punctuate his statement.

Damien laughed. “Do you think I have answers yet? There is a reason I am examining the wreckage right now. An unknown variable has entered the situation and I am trying to play catch-up. Besides, I want an explanation as to how we lost twenty of our soldiers.”

Ivan scoffed. “We have other concerns right now. One of our moles in Washington has informed us that two carrier battle groups are en route. He thinks a Marine force is on its way as well.”

Scowling, Damien stood up and began walking briskly towards the exit. “The pilots are under our control and we have fifty Eagles that can defend as well.”

“If you think that we can survive American airpower then you are mistaken.”

Damien laughed. “Airpower is one thing, but their Marines can’t beat our soldiers. Get the fishing fleet out to sea with our surprise, that should throw a wrench in their plans. Also, we need to have the opposition declare a coup and call for elections. If the Americans attack, then they continue to lose what moral authority they claim to have. In any case, we don’t have hostages any longer.”

Ivan turned and began to walk away. “Costa Rica and Columbia will recognize the new government later today. The Americans will attack in three days.” Ivan left Damien alone.

‘We can do things no one has ever envisioned before. Soon I will be able to do what I want and the Luthor family had best beware. ’   

New York

Bryan Armitage did not like to lose and the loss of the Minerva Board seat was a major defeat. It was a stepping-stone for further prominence and a way to gather more influence for his insurance company. But things had not worked out the way he’d hoped. Minerva was a family company and the family had all the knowledge, savvy, and ambitions of the De Medici or Hapsburg families. Bryan was not the type of man to take setback lightly. That one family was far too wealthy to attack and now their leading member was a US Senator.

He despised Lionel Luthor; the man was responsible for the near collapse of his company. Bryan’s rise to power and influence had been set back dramatically because of the Hardwick debacle. The fact that Bryan had sold his shares at ten cents on the dollar and abandoned any position in Luthor Corp had been a mistake. Minerva’s takeover of Luthor Corp and the meteoric rise of that company would have made Bryan the largest shareholder outside of Wayne and the Luthor clan. His influence would be unparalleled and his own ambitions would be easier.

Instead, he was no longer in any position to influence events and his partners might leave him to his fate. If the Luthor clan ever found out then he might well end up dead. Lionel was calling the shots again and while he might be older and mellower, the warning that Bruce dropped at the Forum Club had been enough to give pause to all. Lionel was feared on Wall Street and in some circles, loathed. Now he was at the helm of the world’s most influential and profitable company and that was even worse. In the past Lionel would have acted to display what his intentions were, now…a hint was all it took. But it was not Lionel that Bryan feared the most, nor was it Lex. For all that formidable intellect and strategic thinking, Lex was blind. No, Bryan feared Whitney Fordman. Tristan was the brains behind the scenes, the man who ran the show and kept things moving but his youngest brother, that was a different story. Bryan was able to get any and all to smile and laugh, but Whitney always regarded him with a careful eye.

The ringing phone broke his train of thought. “Armitage here.” He listened for a moment, then quickly closed the line. ‘Well, I guess I have no choice in the matter now.’

Bryan left his office and went to the train station to head to Boston.

South Dakota

Lois was tired, cranky, and royally pissed off. She had been driving for six hours and she was only now heading towards Billings. ‘I can not fucking believe I have to drive to fucking Montana!’ She’d looked and found that it would take three flights, two long layer-overs, and twelve hours to get to Billings from Metropolis. On top of that, it was not cheap either and the planes were small. Lois already had issues with flying and there was no way she was getting on a turbo-prop plane. ‘This will be so worth it for my Pulitzer. The vacation time will be returned and all my hard work will pay off. First I have to survive this fucking trip.’ As much as she wanted to drive straight through to Montana, she knew better. It was over a thousand miles and there was no way she could do it all at once. She’d thought ahead and made arrangements to stop for the night at an inn near the Missouri river. ‘Keep your eyes on the prize, Lane. Keep your eyes on the prize.'

Boston

Sebastian Shaw sat down and looked over his notes. He was a patient man, rising to his position and wealth with careful planning and keen observation. Power was what he craved and he was willing to take his time and use what resources he had in order to achieve his goals. The woman across the table from him was a key to making it all happen. Emma Frost was a first rate telepath, one of the strongest minds on the planet. Her influence was already at work furthering his agenda, which had more than a goal but was a vision. It was the complexity that helped keep everyone off balance.

“Emma, do you have anything to report?” Shaw whispered.

Ms. Frost sat and handed him a portfolio. “We have completed our survey of the Luthor Estate. Very interesting that we can’t get a clear shot of the estate from a satellite image.”

Sebastian was suddenly more intrigued, “Really?”

Nodding, Emma motioned to the file. “Look at them and see for yourself. There is a distortion around the actual Palace and nothing registers.”

Shaw looked over the photos as well as infrared and radar composites. “So, they clearly possess technology that was able to inhibit your abilities, and they have the ability to defeat overhead satellites. I think we need to place this on our investigation list.”

“Jason sent me a message. It appears that little group is going to make a play in Panama, something about retaining prestige,” Emma stated calmly.

Sebastian dismissed it with a wave of his hand. “That does not concern me at this time. The technology that Luthor possesses is our number one priority.” Shaw prepared to leave but turned to look Emma in the eye. “Make sure that Bryan knows his place.”

Emma agreed and picked up her files. ‘The pieces are slowly falling into place. Now if we can only keep everyone off balance.’ 

The butler escorted Bryan Armitage into the empty Parlor room of the Frost townhouse and left him there without a word, as though he expected Armitage to read his mind. A portrait of Emma Frost hung over the mantel, dominating the room, dominating Bryan, making him feel oddly disconnected. he didn’t like it one bit. He should leave, he decided. He would leave. At once. But there was a pulsing in his head and didn’t seem to be able to match the thought to action.

“Mr. Armitage, so glad you could come on short notice.” Emma said as she walked into the room. “We have need of you, Bryan, and you need us.”

Bryan felt a slight headache and grimaced. “What is you want of me, Ms. Frost?” time seemed to slow for Bryan. Disorientation and a blinding flash overwhelmed him.

Emma circled him as she dug in his mind, searching for elusive information. The man had few mental defenses and he was easy to open up. “You are going to serve a noble purpose. You are going to become the face of rebellion. You are going to get your revenge and help me and my friends at the same time.”

Bryan’s head cleared and he felt different. “What?”

“Are you okay, Bryan? It looked like you have a headache.”

Bryan nodded. “Fine, my headache seems better.”

“Excellent. So, I will see you in New York after Thanksgiving?”

Bryan soon found that he was in a cab and on his way to the train station. ’What just happened? Did I miss something? ’

Nov 7, Smallville

Whitney was looking over some notes he’d been sent. The North American Imperial situation was no longer something he could control, but he still had the evidence Chloe Sullivan unearthed. Whitney sat and waited for Chris Smith to join him.

“You called, Mr. Fordman?” Chris asked as he entered the office.

“Chris, something is not right about the NAI issue. I want you to look into this, quietly and carefully, okay?”

Chris flipped through the files. “Hmm, lots of deception going on here. I’ll dig around and go looking once I have a lead I can follow.”

Whit motioned for Chris to sit. “Something tells me that this far more than what it seems on the surface. What Chloe was able to find smacks of a very careful plan, and that means you have to be on your guard.”

“I’ll make a few inquires with our network, see what some inside information might reveal. I’ll start with the usual suspects, see if activity from the ‘enemies’ list matches some of these moves. The good thing is, I’m not starting from scratch.”

Whitney nodded. “One other thing, make sure you let someone know if you are leaving. We don’t want Rachel to get worried.” Whit smiled broadly as Chris’ face went through contortions of visible emotions.

‘Why did I want this job?’ Lex asked for the tenth time since being elected. He was reviewing the last budget bill and still could not believe the number of funded items that made no sense. ‘Because I wanted to make a difference. ’ The number of memory chips that he’d been sent for legislation that had died was amazing. Democratic colleagues had begun reaching out to him to see what his views were on matters from immigration to tax policy to labor regulations. Already his Metropolis office, which had a single staffer, was taking over a hundred phone calls a day and more than three times that in email. The amount of work he'd brought home with him for the weekend was staggering.

Clark walked into Lex’s office and sat down. Lex did not acknowledge his presence. Several minutes passed. Clark might as well have been thin air. Finally, Clark cleared his throat. Lex still refused to acknowledge him, but Clark could see the telltale thinning of his lips that indicated he was doing his best not to smile. Clark gave in. “Are you just going to ignore me?”

Lex finally did smile. “Yes. The first new policy of my administration. People who don’t knock don’t get recognized.”

Clark laughed. “Point taken. Actually, I want to attend a conference in New York next week. Reed Richards is giving a lecture on the patterns of Global Warming.”

Lex sighed. “Whitney has a meeting in New York next week and I’ll be in Washington for three days."

"I know. That's why I'm bringing it up."

"What do we do with the boys?”  

Clark leaned back in his chair and relaxed. “Well, we have a fulltime governess and four grandparents in residence. Rachel has charge of them during the day, and I'm sure Mom and Anne would look after the boys for the two nights that you, Whitney, and I are out of the palace."

Lex’s face betrayed his emotions, but Clark could also hear the conflict in his lover’s head. He tried to ease his fears. “I know we have never all been away for more than two days, but they know we place them first and love them.”

Lex was conflicted. They’d agreed early on never to leave the boys alone for longer than thirty-six hours. They’d been successful in staggering their combined schedules and making every possible moment available for the boys while Whitney and Clark had been in college and Lex was building Minerva. It had been hard, which is why the household had moved for a year to Metropolis. It made life easier for everyone and allowed the second major renovation of the Palace and Estate to proceed with ease and care. “Okay, I’ll agree, but if the boys complain or act upset when we get back, it never happens again.” 

Clark leaned towards the desk. “I have a feeling they might not miss us for a short period of time. Their grandmothers will probably spoil them rotten.”

Lex tried to relax but it was hard. “Well, you’d better ask, and I still have a ton of files to review. Why did I want this job again?”

Clark stood, walked behind Lex’s desk and kissed his cheek softly. “Because you can make a difference.” Clark smiled and left Lex smiling at his desk.

Billings

Lois arrived at the address of her source scared that she’d driven over a thousand miles to find out that the woman was certifiable. But her instincts told her that she was on the right track. The apartment was in an assisted living facility that allowed the residents a measure of independence. Lois knocked on the door and watched as a frail woman in her mid- to late-fifties opened the door. She was wearing a crisply-pressed blouse and slacks that swallowed her emaciated frame; her head was swathed in a synthetic turban that almost but not quite matched the colors of her pastel blouse. Her skin was like parchment and her eyes had the hollow, haunted look of someone who had opened the door expecting to see Death standing there.

“May I help you?”

Lois kept her best smile in place. "Jessica Worthy?" 

"Yes."

“I’m Lois Lane, of the Metropolis Daily Planet. I received the letter you sent.”

Jessica’s eyes widened and her back straightened. “Ms. Lane, so happy you’ve come. Please come in.”

Lois stepped inside and surreptitiously glanced around the apartment. Clean. Orderly. Surprisingly few mementos for someone of her age. Did that mean a temporary home or a lonely life?  “So Ms. Worthy, you used to work for the Luthor family?”

“Yes. Please have a seat," Jessica said as she gingerly lowered herself to the couch. Her fragility wasn't lost on Lois, nor was the green oxygen tank on wheels at the edge of the sofa. Lois took a chair across from her. "As I told you, Miss Lane, I have no proof except that I was employed in Smallville from Sept. 2009 to May 2010. That was the time I was the nanny to the boys.”

Lois began taking notes on her Palm Pilot. “Why didn’t you come forward before the election?”

“I did not remember.” Jessica picked up a folder from her coffee table and handed it to Lois. “In there are all the memories that have come back--I keep the notepad close at all times because the memories come in unexpected waves, like prisoners being released in small tidal waves. When the process started, it was like waking up after being asleep, and suddenly my time in Smallville was vivid as opposed to a hazy dream.”

'Truth, delusions, or drugs?' Lois wondered. Unless she was very much mistaken, Jessica Worthy had cancer, and by the look of her it was fairly advanced. Lois wanted to believe that Jessica was a valid source, but she was too good a reporter to let her own desires get in the way.

She kept her skepticism carefully under wraps. “What did you recall prior to your memories returning?”

“Nothing.  I had a healthy bank account and an excellent letter of reference from Smallville Properties, but I never thought about my time there. It was like my mind avoided all things Smallville.”

Lois tried to hide her glee as conspiracy theories began to pop up left and right in her mind. ‘Mind control? Is the Luthor Family a den of mutants?’  “Can you tell me where in Smallville you worked?”

“That monstrous Palace, of course. The grandparents are decent enough, except for Lionel Luthor. He was always going on about station and duty. Those boys needed a good, proper ‘Salt of the Earth’ upbringing, not being filled with flights of fancy.”

“So why were you terminated?” Lois needed that answered properly or else this was little more than a disgruntled employee getting back at a former employer. She could get fired if that was all this turned out to be.

“Because the boys hated me. They are brilliant and inquisitive--unnaturally so. I thought they should be grounded in the basics. I think I lasted as long as I did because there had been three nannies in the past year alone. The boys didn’t get along with any of us. Of course, their parents didn’t see a problem.”

“Who are the boys’ biological parents?” Lois was curious. Lex Luthor did not answer any questions concerning his children.

“I don’t know. If I knew, the memories were...erased.” Jessica reached for her oxygen mask and took a few breaths. “I’m dying, Ms. Lane, but the truth must be exposed. They have too much money and influence. It is the sign of the Apocalypse. Sin has been rewarded and evil shall dominate the Earth.”

'Oh, shit.' Lois suddenly felt ill. This whole story fell apart if she was dealing with a religious fanatic. "Ms. Worthy--"

The dying woman shook her head. "I can't... " She took another hit on the oxygen, then her hand fell limply into her lap. She was barely able to gesture toward the notebook. "Everything is in there. What I remember about the palace, the family, those children. Take my notes."

The way she said 'those children' sent a chill down Lois's spine, as though they were the devil's spawn. Lois stood up and gathered her purse, and the folder. "Thank you, Ms. Worthy. Before I go, may I impose on you for a drink of water? I'll get it myself

Jessica coughed and then nodded. "Yes, certainly."

"Please, stay there. I'll get it myself," Lois said quickly, motioning the woman to stay seated. Jessica directed her to an arched opening and Lois quickly found the tiny kitchen. She turned on the cold water at the sink and began opening cabinet doors. Plates, bowls, glasses -- she snagged one almost as an afterthought -- and kept opening doors. Condiments, pantry...

What she was looking for wasn't in a cabinet. Lois started on drawers and struck paydirt next to the refrigerator. Bottle after bottle of neatly arranged medications. With one hand, Lois stuck her glass under the running water; the other tabbed her voice recorder on and she hurriedly the drug labels into the recorder. In order to prove that Jessica Worthy was a credible source of information, Lois would have to determine how many of her claims were the result of disease or drugs. She couldn't do that without knowing what drugs the woman was taking.

"Miss Lane?" The voice was almost too faint to be heard.

"Coming!" she called back, shutting off the water. She hurried back to the living room, smiling. "Sorry. I was admiring your African Violets on the window sill."

If Jessica doubted her, it didn't show.

"I'll be going now, Ms. Worthy, but may I call you if I have any additional questions?”
Jessica coughed and then nodded. “Yes."

Lois took out a card and scribbled a number on it. "Here. This is my private cell phone. If you remember anything else, you can call me at that number."

Jessica nodded, but didn't reach for the card. Her strength seemed to have completely run out, as though she'd been storing up strength for this moment, and now that she had passed on her burden, there was nothing left. Lunatic or victim, Lois felt very sorry for her.

Lois put the card on the coffee table and gathered her things.

"Have a safe journey, Miss Lane. I'm trusting you to show the world the truth."

"Yes, Ma'am. Good-bye." Lois let herself out and made her way to the exit. It took several gulps of crisp Montana air to settle her back into reporter mode. Clutching the folder, she jogged to her car, anxious to study the contents and find out whether or not this trip was a complete waste of vacation time.

Washington

Dr. Raven Darkholm did not like surprises and the Vice President in her office was a surprise she could have done without. “Mr. Vice President, this is most unexpected.”

Vice President Trask smiled, but it did not reach his eyes. “Let’s dispense with the pleasantries, Dr. Darkholm. When will the battlesuits be ready?”

Raven was suddenly wary and looked around. “Sir, the security clearance of that project is coded for only three people, and you are not one of them.”  

“You are correct in part, but I do sit on the National Security Council and head the National Science Foundation. I have ways of gathering information, Dr. Darkholm. I have a project I want to mate to your armor and I need to know if you are testing. Gen. Thames seems to be unavailable at this time.” The Vice President watched as Darkholm seemed to weigh her options.

“Sir, my clearance is specific and you are not on it. I have nothing for you. I’ll have the general call you.” Raven watched as the Vice president departed without a word. ‘I’d better call the General. He is testing the damned armor this week!’

Henry walked briskly to the Oval Office, his heart racing a mile a minute. Waiting at the Executive Secretary’s desk, Henry tried to calm his nerves.

“Mr. Gyrich, the President will see you now.”

Henry acknowledged the comment and walked in. “Mr. President,” Henry stated.

“Ah, Mr. Gyrich. I need you to create a report on what we do and don’t know about the forces the Avengers encountered. I’ve ordered the Navy to slow its advance until I can get a firm threat assessment.” The President paused to underscore the importance of what he was saying. “Use what resources you have, but this is for MY eyes only. I will not send U.S. forces into a situation as troubling as the one Captain America described.”

Henry nodded. “Yes, Mr. President.  How soon?”

“Yesterday, Mr. Gyrich. Since that deadline has passed, I want an assessment on my desk in the morning.”

Henry nodded and left, his dismissal very clear. ‘This is not a good sign. I need info and we have almost no assets down there. I need Valerie.’

London

Vitaly Kirov looked over the cityscape of London, an ancient capital of a long dead empire. The empires of the modern era were those of corporations and wealth, national power having slowly devolved into the hands of the masses. However, in his mind, he saw an opportunity to restore an empire to its proper place, but it required following his uncle’s plans.

He waited for his contact to arrive at his hotel to whisk him to the destination. It had taken years of planning, of growing stronger, consolidating his power base in Russia before he would think of doing this. But his Uncle had left a plethora of information and detailed contact information. Dimitri Kartov was long dead, but Vitaly was his heir and one thing Dimitri left was plenty of knowledge, about people and things. He was able to keep tabs on British Intelligence, but not to the extent he felt safe on the Isles.

Pulling his long coat around him, Vitaly walked up the steps of the small house. He knocked quietly and waited for the door to open.

The creak of a floorboard announced the approach of a person to the other side of the door and it opened. “Yes, may I help you?”

Vitaly smiled and took in the aged woman. “Yes, Ms. Hardwick, you can. We have much to discuss.” He pushed the door open and hit her exposed arm with a dispenser full of tranquilizers and other drugs. “I’ll let those work for a few minutes, but I want you tell me all you know about Dominic Haynes.”

Washington

“Mr. Gyrich, we have reason to believe that Captain America’s warning has merit. We sent in a Special ops unit and were able to capture one of the super soldiers that now control Panama.”

Henry tried to calm his blood pressure. “I thought the rescue operation was cancelled once we found out that the Avengers were free?”

“Sir, we had secondary orders that were not countermanded. The captured soldier is now under observation, but initial tests indicate an altered genetic structure, lacking the ‘X’ factor, but we are detecting an unknown mineral in the bloodstream, very minute, but still there. Plus there seems to be damage similar to radiation exposure.”

Henry looked at the CIA operative. “Any indication what the material source is?”

“No sir. It appears to be an unknown substance, but we want to have a few experts review the material before we classify it as such.”

Henry panicked. “No! I need approval to pursue this further. Right now, the President wants a threat assessment and that is more important.”

Nov 8, Boston

Emma sat down, looking over the file that had been sent to her -- the sum total of what her people had collected on the Luthor family. She saw nothing in the file that hadn't reported in the Daily Planet by Lois Lane. Emma needed rich, ripe details, but all she had on Lex Luthor and his mysterious clan were a few broad brush strokes on an otherwise empty canvas.

Clearly, legal avenues of data collection weren't going to give her the picture she wanted, which meant that extralegal sources would have to be called upon. Unfortunately, introducing a spy into Smallville was proving exceptionally difficult -- after the Daily Planet broke the story, the company town had closed ranks against anyone making even the mildest inquiry about the Luthor family.

Emma was leaving the option of going to Smallville herself open, but it was a last resort; her profile was too high and there was the matter of telepathy-beating-technology. Emma was not about to be defeated, though. She pressed the intercom on her desk. “Send me Donald Pierce.” She waited for the man to walk in. “Sit.”

A tall, well-built long-haired blond sat across from her. “Yes ma’am?”

A predatory smile gleamed on Emma’s face. “I want you to follow Lois Lane. See what her activities are, what she is doing currently.” Motioning to the file on her desk, she continued, “She seems to have developed an obsession for the Luthor family and that will be useful to us.”

Donald smiled. “Do you want her brought in for…examination?”

“Not yet, but I want to know everything about her. The reporter will do our work for us, leaving no trail back to us.” She looked at him sternly. “She is never to find out that she is being watched. Go!” Emma appraised the man as he sauntered out of the room. ’Step two is now in motion.’

Washington

Vice President Trask threw a glass against the wall of his Naval Observatory office. Secretary Vance was unfazed. “The President is going to allow the Panamanians to vote, as long as official observers are allowed from the United Nations and the European Union,” Trask ranted.

Dr. Vance walked over to the Vice president’s desk and looked at a copy of a report. “Henry prepared a report that allowed the President to make this decision?”

“Mr. Gyrich serves at the leisure of the President, not at our convenience. He did as he was told. He sent me a discreet copy so I’d not be blindsided later today.”

Flipping through the pages, Dr. Vance finally smiled. “You know, we could use this to our advantage.”

Trask looked at Vance like he was crazy. “And how do we do that?”

Vance pointed to part of the report. “Based on the preliminary study of our captive from Panama, the soldiers appear to be like ours, only not was finely honed. We still have a lot to learn about his engineering, but I think that study should be taken as far underground as we can get it. I want that Super Soldier to disappear. In the meantime, we need to let it be known that the CIA has evidence that the soldiers who defeated the Mighty Avengers were mutants.”

The Vice President sat down and pondered the implications of that course of action. “Sen. Kelly would be all over it. Anti-mutant hysteria would increase and fear would rule the day.”

Smiling at his boss, Dr. Vance also nodded. “The President would be forced to act in some fashion, perhaps intervening in Latin America. Sen. Kelly will act in a predictable fashion and call for the Registration Act again. We can have that annoying wimp, Asst. Director Desmond, thrown off the task force. Most importantly, the super soldier project will go forward and we can increase the funding for Wide Awake.” 

“Robert Kelly is a fanatic and that is the most dangerous type of leader,” warned the Vice President. “However, we can control events to our liking and retain a measure of control by maneuvering the Senator without him knowing it.”

“Henry can prove to be useful in that respect again. It's a risky gamble.” Vance cautioned.

Laughing, the Vice President smiled broadly. “But we have a plan and it solves several things at once.”

Smallville

Justin Daniels finished his shift at the bar, Wild Coyote, and was heading home. He wasn’t tired and had money in his pockets from a good night, something rare for a Monday afternoon. The sun was setting, autumn was giving way rapidly to winter even though in was early November. With a quick pivot that would make most stunt drivers jealous, he turned his motorcycle around and headed to pass by the Luthor Estate. He was becoming well-versed in the lore of Smallville and much of it was knee deep with the Luthor family. After the story of Luthor's unorthodox love life broke, Justin had listened to one implausible half-drunken tale after another. Most of them were outrageous, but Justin had learned from experience that there was usually a grain of truth in even the most ridiculous yarn. The trick, of course, was separating the wheat from the chaff. He’d gone through the box that had contained Uncle Nathan’s letter and found a key to a locker, but there was no clue where said locker was located. But the more he listened, the more convinced he became that the answers were located inside the vast Estate.

Justin parked his bike along the delivery access road. He looked down to the gates and the three-story building that served as the Estate’s loading docks. Rumor had it that the loading bays were a good five miles from actual Palace, but no one knew why. He needed to get inside and look for answers, but that was now impossible. One of his regulars was a cop who did a good job of scaring would-be interlopers by telling tales of people who'd breached the Palace walls and turned up dead. Even the FBI had no clue how it happened. No one ever mentioned the ‘M’ word, but while there was lots of respect and admiration for the Luthor family and what they'd done for Smallville, there was also fear. Justin stared at the top two stories of the building. The guys who made the deliveries here said it was beautiful and functional, and very large, like a warehouse.

‘Answers. All the answers I need are in there, I know it. How do I get in there without getting killed…or worse?’ Justin sighed as he gunned his bike and roared away home.

Metropolis

Lois was exhausted but happy to walk into her apartment after her so-called vacation. She only been able to scan the notes that Ms. Worthy given her--they were a disjointed mess and entirely out of sequence. Making real sense of them would be like putting a jigsaw puzzle together. At first glance, they seemed compelling but circumstantial. With respect to the kids, though, Lois could already see why the woman had freaked out. Their scores on standardized tests would frighten anyone. How could two seven-year-olds possibly be that advanced linguistically, scientifically, and mathematically? And the five-year-olds looked to be on the same course. One genius in a family was rare, but four brilliant minds? It was virtually a mathematical impossibility unless the foursome had been engineered, either by adoption or genetic manipulation.

That, of course, begged the question: Just where had the Luthor-Fordman-Kent boys come from?

Carefully placing the file on the coffee table, Lois threw her bags onto her bed, half unpacked them, took a shower, and returned to the Luthor file. ‘Where was I? Ah, yes, Ben and Wes drew a map of the United States on the playroom wall, in several colors of highlighter.’  She settled back and began the memory of Philip lying about having written a story of Galactic conquest. Ms. Worthy had refused to believe a six-year-old was capable of weaving in themes of religion when there was no open religious affiliation in the family. She’d asked if the boys had been baptized into the Christian faith, but had received no answer. The fathers took no action to punish Philip over the story. That was when Worthy had been dismissed.

“They trust their son over an adult," Lois mused. "Interesting.”

Nov 10, Smallville

Stephanie Fordman walked into the Medical Lab that was in the sub-basement of the Palace. She had been the boys’ personal physician since Philip and Hamilton were eleven months old. It had been overwhelming in the beginning, but she had come to understand Clark’s physiology, and together with the Keeper, they had managed deal with the four pint-sized human-Kryptonian hybrids. There was nothing wrong with them, they were in excellent health, but they had scores of unknown and ultimately unknowable genetic permutations.

Stephanie sorted through her computer files and cued up Philip's genetic code again. She had come across an article that had not been widely circulated concerning some factors in genetic structure and she wanted to see if it had any applications to the twins' genetic makeup. The boys’ had highly complex DNA consisting of six base pairs and more chromosomes than any Homo Sapien. Steph kept looking and pulled up the last mapping of Lex and Whitney. They had not changed much in the last five years; their DNA consisted of almost thirteen percent Kryptonian make-up. Clark’s, by contrast, was only seven percent Terran now, whereas the boys’ were almost sixty-four percent Kryptonian. Despite the discrepancies, the markers that linked the twins to Lex and Whitney were unmistakable.

Examining the layout of Hamilton’s and Ben’s DNA side-by-side in a hologram, she was amazed that so much of the underlying DNA -- the ‘junk’ in humans -- was alien for the boys. There was almost no difference between any of the boys, the differences all being on the surface for the most part. “There is it.”

//If I might inquire, what are you looking for?// The Keeper asked as he ‘appeared’ in the Medical Lab.

Steph was started for a moment but regained her composure. “A marker in the Human part of their structure. All the boys have it.”

//Curious, what does it do?//

She smiled and highlighted it. “That is the key. No one knows. It is the ‘X-Factor’ that so many people refer to.”

//Where did it come from? Which parent?//

“Whitney and Lex both have that marker, but it is dormant. Sebastian, Tristan, and Jeff also have it and again, it is dormant. With the boys though, I have no way of knowing. The interaction of genes is very complex.”

//I will continue to monitor.//

"As will I," Stephanie responded, because in truth, there was no way she or the Keeper could possibly guess what physical or mental traits all those extra chromosomes were going to do to those four precious, precocious children.

Alan was looking over reports for the last few days surveillance, which included -- among dozens of other items -- the ID check for a lone figure on a motorbike who had approached the loading docks, paused briefly, then departed. Alan did a double take on the vehicle license check, dropped the file, and summoned Chris to the office STAT.

It took Chris five minutes to get there. He’d been fencing with Lionel, trying to beat the old man, but Chris was no sword master and the elder Luthor was. He'd actually been glad for the face-saving emergency call. “Ok, Alan, what is it?”

Alan handed the file to Chris. “A blast from the past has shown on our doorsteps.”

Chris looked at the photo and all the information that had been pulled on the subject. “He’s here? Looking for answers and has no way of knowing where to begin.”

Alan nodded. “Works as a bartender at the Coyote. Nathan’s nephew has been in town for a few months. Looks like he's trained.”

Chris studied the young man in the photo. “Followed Nathan’s footsteps.” Chris flipped through the file again. “I worked with him once. Nathan was a pro. Shearn spoke highly of him.” Turning to look at Alan, Chris shrugged. “Suggestions?”

“We monitor and perhaps use him later. He is already in place to hear plenty and that might be useful.”

Chris contemplated that for a moment. “Agreed, we do nothing yet. But Nathan was Lionel’s personal problem solver. I know he was very upset when Nathan died. I want to know more before we bring Lionel into the loop. Keep an eye on him and keep me informed.” 

London

Victoria woke up slowly, her head killing her. Slowly coming back to herself, she noticed that she was hooked up to an IV and a monitor. “Where am I?”

“Ah, Ms. Hardwick, you are awake again. Sorry, but the drug cocktail you were given proved both useful and harmful. One of my associates has been tending to you.”

She looked up and the face seemed familiar but she could not place it. Then it came rushing back. “What do you want with me?”

Smiling, the man sat down next to her. “Nothing any longer. I have most of what you know about Dominic Haynes. Most importantly, I know Damien Parker is alive and well. Is that of interest to you?”

Vicki struggled to sit up right. “Damien? No one has heard from him in years.” She regarded the man coolly. “Again I ask, what do you want with me?”

“I told you, nothing. I however can offer you a return to glory.”

“That has been offered before and I all I received as a trip to an asylum and ashes to dine on.”

“I have many unsavory flaws, Ms Hardwick, but I am a man of my word. Damien has been very busy these last few years and I think it is time you two renew your acquaintance.”

Glaring at the man, she took stock of her situation. “What choice do I have?”

“Plenty, Victoria, plenty. Don’t worry, I’ll not discard you as Dominic did. When this is over, you can retire in luxury as you were meant to.”  With that Vitaly stood and left Victoria to ponder the possibility of a new life.  

Havana, Cuba

Damien was relaxing on the beach, enjoying the warm breeze. Cuba was the pleasure playground of the world, had been since Castro kicked it in 2004. Looking around, Damien wondered if it was at last the fifty-first state in reality because he knew it could not happen legally.

His project was done. His soldiers were in control and the Union of the Americas was on the verge of a true political birth. He’d waited years for this moment, when he could turn his exile and efforts to finally taking his rightful place. He’d been keeping tabs on the Family, both up close and from afar. To his knowledge, no one was aware of his continued existence, outside of those cultivated contacts. He still traveled under a US passport, but had lived abroad for eight years.

He was owed for all his hard work and dedication to the project. Now it was time to use his contacts and information to gather more power to his hands. But he wanted to let his brother know he existed.

Smallville

Clark often patrolled the halls of the Palace when he could not sleep. He didn’t require sleep like he used to, now an hours' rest would sustain him for over a day, but he enjoyed the peace of sleep with his lovers. Tonight, Lex and Whitney were sleeping deeply, but a restless Clark was walking the halls he heard something from the Great Hall.

“It’s my turn!” Ben.

“No, you just went.” Hamilton.

“Shut up. If Poppy, Papa, or Daddy, finds us, we are dead.” Clark was shocked. ‘Even Philip?’

“Is it my turn yet?” Wes.

Clark used his X-ray vision to watch the boys racing down the smooth tile to slide all over the hall in their sock feet. ‘If one of them ends up hurt!’ Clark took off, threw open the door, and heard their delighted shrieks. “BOYS! You are in so much trouble right now.”

Philip panicked. “Poppy! Um, we were…” He looked at Hamilton beseechingly, but found no help there. Wes and Ben were staring at the floor with intense interest. “Playing?”

Clark forced his temper to cool. The boys were in one piece and okay. “I am going to tell Daddy and Papa. We will decide your punishment in the morning. Now, go to your rooms and go to bed.” Clark ushered them out of the Hall and escorted them to their wing. Not a word came from any of them, but that was fine.

Clark walked into the bedroom and saw that Whit and Lex were awake. "What's wrong?" Whit asked.

"We sensed the boys...um... chagrin," Lex told him.

Whit chuckled. "That's putting it mildly. More like four dead men walking."

Clark glared at them. “Your sons have been up to no good again.”

Lex chuckled. “Well, at least Philip was acting like a little boy as well.”

"And no Nannies were injured in the process," Whit added, motioning for Clark to join them in the bed.

Whit sighed and stared off into space. “So, how do we punish them?”

Clark slipped into bed and cuddled with Lex and Whitney. “We'll figure it out in the morning. The boys dread of the punishment might actually be more effective than the punishment itself.”

Nov 11

Rachel watched as Clark escorted four glum boys into the classroom. Something was obviously wrong. “Good morning, boys, Mr. Kent.” She was amazed that none of the boys responded.

“Good morning, Rachel.” Clark smiled at her. “We had an unauthorized adventure last night. The boys will be helping clean the Conservatory all week. No Internet or television access for three days.” Clark looked at the boys daring them to complain. He motioned Rachel into the hallway for some privacy. “Lex, Whitney and I will all be going out of town next week -- something that rarely happens, but can't be avoided. We're leaving the boys in their grandparents care, but they all have commitments in Metropolis, so we'll be moving the boys up to the city. Can you conduct the boys lessons at the Manor for three days next week?”

Rachel smiled broadly. “Of course. May I arrange a field trip or two?”

Clark nodded. “Just tell Enrique and it will be handled.”

"What about security?"

"You've experienced most of it, but I'll have Chris brief you fully." Clark paused and smiled. “Can you cheer the boys up? And thank you in advance.”

Rachel walked back in the room and saw four pouts. “Well boys, what happened that got you grounded?” 

All the boys avoided looking at her. Finally Ben spoke up. “We played in the Hall way after bedtime and Poppy caught us. But we turned off the motion detectors to do so. ”
As infractions of the rules went, that seemed relatively minor, except for the security breach, but Rachel approved of the punishment. The boys needed boundaries, and it was good to see that their parents were willing to mete out measured and reasonable punishment. As for the guilty parties, Rachel had the feeling they were far more dismayed by having disappointed their parents then by the prospect of cleaning the Conservatory. As it should be. “Okay, well let’s review the basics of Quantum Mechanics.”

Rachel was surprised to see Chris waiting for her in her office after the boys went to start their punishment. “To what do I owe this unexpected pleasure?”

Chris motioned for to sit down. “Unfortunately, business brings me in at the moment. I’ve been informed that you are going to take the boys into the city next week and visit some public places.”

Rachel sat and nodded. “Yes. The Museum of Fine Art, the Museum of Natural History, the Metropolis Botanical Gardens, maybe the Zoo, just to see them in such an environment.”

Chris made a hand sign that did not look like sign language.

Rachel frowned. “What was that?”

Chris used his right hand, placed the Index and Middle fingers together, the others were folded down with the thumb, and made a quick downward motion with them. “That was the signal for danger. I’m here to teach you the shorthand used by the Security and protective staff in crowds or when communications are not advisable or possible.”

“Should I be frightened that this even exists?” Her calm tone masked her nervousness well.

“You're not that naive, Rachel. You know exactly why this is necessary. You were working for Ambassador Thorson when his son was taken."

Rachel closed her eyes as an involuntary shudder snaked down her spine. "Yes." She opened her eyes after a moment, raised her right hand and mimicked the danger signal.

"Good," Chris praised.

"Next one?"

"Trouble." He showed her the signal.

"How did you know about Andre?" Rachel asked, looking at the hand practicing the signal, not at her lover. "It was all handled privately. The ransom. The return. Interpol was never involved."

"There are very few secrets money can't buy, Rachel," Chris replied, his voice very gentle.

"And yet the family still hired me."

"The kidnapping wasn't your fault, Rachel. It was a carefully executed operation, very professional. You're lucky they didn't kill you. Ambassador Thorson certainly didn't blame you."
 
Rachel looked at him then. "Andre blamed me. Whatever those monsters did to him changed him, forever, and he blamed me. He trusted me to protect him, and I failed." Rachel was embarrassed by the tears that burned her eyes. She'd left this part of her life behind years ago, but she should have known that working for a family like this one would bring it all back. So much potential for disaster.

She managed to look at Chris and found that he was fighting the urge to come around the desk and comfort her. She fell a little deeper in love with him, that he could know her this well and respect her this much. She wasn't looking for a knight in shining armor to coddle and cloister her, and he knew that.

“Next sign?" she prompted.

"Close ranks." Chris smiled and continued teaching her the twenty of so signs that she would need to master in a few days time.

Lex walked into the Dining room and saw the boys sitting drinking tea, waiting for the adults to join them. None of the normal banter was going on and Lex felt bad for a moment.

//Don’t! They broke the rules and we have to punish them.// Whit told Lex as he walked into the room. //I can feel their anguish but they knew what they were doing was wrong.//

Lex looked at Whitney and nodded. He saw Clark walk in as well. Jeff had left to attend an Opera with Nick in Metropolis. The grandparents were in the city as well. The boys only had their parents at the moment to deal with. Lex sat and looked over the table. “So boys, how was the Conservatory?”

Clark saw that not one of them looked up from their empty plates. “Boys, Papa asked you a question.”

Hamilton looked down the table at Lex. “It was messy, but we resodded a few beds.”

Wes looked at his Daddy. “Are you still mad at us?”

Clark answered. “Yes, we are. You got out of bed, snuck into a forbidden room, and could have hurt yourselves.”

Philip sat up, straightening his back and tied to keep his lips and voice from quivering. “We are sorry…”

Whitney did not need to be an Empath to know just how terribly Philip felt, indeed how badly they all felt. “Yes, I'm glad you are all sorry, but you have to learn that there are consequences to breaking the rules. Poppy is right, you could have been hurt.”

Ben and Wes each had tears in their eyes. For Lex it was beginning to feel like Clark and Whitney were overreacting. //Look, they feel bad and I know they were up well past bed time, but did you do worse things when you were growing up?//

Clark’s eyes shot open and he glared at Lex. //Love, it is the principle of the matter. I don’t want them thinking they can get anything they want!//

Whitney sighed. //Perhaps if we appealed to their intellects? They must each write a page or so on why what they did was wrong. They really are upset that we are so upset with them.//

Lex shook his head again. //I think we are overreacting.//

Philip and Hamilton looked at each while the other conversation was occurring. Philip tapped Hamilton. “I wish they would not do that. It’s rude.”

Wes and Ben heard Philip and Ben could not hold back a giggle. “I tried to talk to Wes like that, but I can’t”

Clark, Lex, and Whitney all stopped at stared at their kids. Lex responded first. “What did you say?”

Philip let a faint smile cover his face. “We can tell when you are talking to other when you aren’t talking. It’s rude.”

Whitney coughed to cover his laugh, but Clark did laugh.

“How long have you known?” Lex sat back shell-shocked.

Hamilton shrugged. “I dunno. I think we've always understood that you talk without talking. I tried it with Philip, but I just get a headache.” He looked at his siblings who nodded in agreement.

Lex took a sip of his water and a moment to gather his thoughts. “Well, this is an unexpected dinner conversation.” He noticed that the boys had perked up and were nowhere near as glum as they had been.

Whitney chuckled to himself. “Boys, you will never stop surprising us, that is for sure. However, this does not change that we are upset with you for last night.” He watched as all four faces fell again. “So, since you are very smart, you will each write a paper on why last night’s actions were wrong.”

Ben pouted. “More punishment! I didn't even get to go again.” A warning glare from Philip made him shut up.

Clark caught that exchange and hid his smile. “No, the other parts of your punishment will be dropped if your papers explain that you understand why you are being punished.” The groans from the boys made Clark want to laugh.

Lex looked around and did notice that the boys seemed a little happier. “Okay, any questions on the telepathy front?”

Hamilton raised his hand in a flash. “Do you share dreams like Philip and I do?”

The three adults looked at each other.

//Shared dreams?// Whitney echoed.

//We need to talk to the Keeper.// Clark projected.

Lex answered, “Hamilton, love, that's a very complicated question."

Philip frowned thoughtfully. "Papa, how can a question that requires a yes or no answer be complicated?"

The three fathers shared a 'what now?' glance. "Yes, Philip, we do sometimes share dreams," Lex admitted.

Philip and Hamilton beamed in direct proportion to the frowns the puckered the younger twins faces. "Why not us?" they protested in unison.

"We don't know," Whitney told them.

"Does everyone share dreams when they get older?" Hamilton asked. "Because Elsa says she doesn't."

"No," Lex allowed. "Not everyone shares dreams."

"Then why us? Why are we different?" Hamilton demanded to know.

//Careful, Lex. We're getting in too deep.// Clark projected. //We need to talk to the Keeper before we say more.//

//I know.// "Boys, this requires some research on our part," Lex said convincingly. "How about if we continue this conversation later--the week before Thanksgiving, maybe? We'll answer your questions then.”

"All of them?" Philip asked hopefully.

The trio shared a mental groan. They could all easily imagine the kind of difficult questions their eldest sons had in mind. The ones they were asking tonight were tough enough. It was Whitney who spoke up, "Philip, we'll do our best to answer your questions. Week after next."

Hamilton frowned, clearly not happy being put off. "So long?"

Clark cleared his throat. “Well, boys, next week all of us will be out of town, so we really won't have a chance to look into this until the following week  -- Papa has to be in Washington, and Daddy and I will be in New York. The four of you are going to Metropolis, where your grandparents will watch you for two nights and Miss Rachel has field trips planned for you during the day. Okay?”

Apparently that was just the distraction that was needed. All four boys looked at each other and then started cheering. They started planning what to pack while they were there and what they wanted to do with their grandparents.

Clark looked at Whitney and then Lex. //And we were worried they would be upset?//

Nov 12, Metropolis

Lois had finished organizing all the memories from Jessica. The jumbled mess had finally fallen into place as soon as she was able to identify the first and last memories. There were few references to anyone other than the four small boys. Not only had Jessica named them, but she had described them in such remarkable detail that Lois had been able to match the names with the faces from her digitally enhanced pictures taken at the World Series Baseball games. This wasn't proof that the names Jessica had provided were correct, but the nanny's description of the boys was too precise to be mere coincidence. The more deeply she delved into the dying woman's memories, the more convinced Lois became that Jessica Worthy was the real thing.

Lois was working on the biographical information at the moment. Philip, oldest, dark hair, grey eyes, verbal, exact, a leader. The picture of him, to her best guess, had him being tall for his age. In fact all the boys looked tall for their given ages. Then came the mathematical genius, Hamilton. Dark red hair, green eyes and a few freckles was the given description. For the younger two, Jessica said little beyond what they looked like. Bennett, light brown hair with hazel eyes, and Weston, blond and blue eyed.

Lois saw the pictures, boys with brilliant, lively faces. ‘This might not be a good idea. Lex Luthor will probably do anything to protect them.’ Yet despite that insight, she was still fixated on this family. Picking up the phone, she dialed a number she hated to admit she had memorized. “Jimmy, Lois. Can you come over in the morning? I need to you look at some photos and see if you can get a better image. Thanks.”

She wanted cleaner pictures of the boys and was about to begin the search for information to back up Jessica’s story. 'The next step is proving she's not a crackpot. Those claims that Luthor tampered with her memory -- if it's true, it'll be devastating, but I've got to prove it's not just cancer drugs and pain meds.' Lois pulled up a transcript of the drug list she'd dictated in Jessica's kitchen, and emailed it to the Daily Planet's Health & Lifestyles Editor requesting background information and resources for a study of lymphatic cancer.

Donald Pierce heard the line go dead and smiled. Lane had been back for a few days and he’d been able to enter her apartment with ease. ‘For a reporter, she sure does leave plenty of information just laying around.’ Billings, Montana, was not on his top one thousand places to visit, but it had been important enough for her to drive there and back in a matter of days. He already picked up on the fact that she was obsessed with Luthor family.

‘Jimmy Olsen. Another lead to follow on the trail of the Luthor family.’ Pierce was in no hurry, but he knew that Emma wanted information as fast as it came in, so he composed an email and prepared to send it. Lois had visited a person in Billings and that person had given her a mountain of information. Pierce sent what he knew to Emma. He’d let her handle that aspect of this case, he had all he needed with Lois and Jimmy.
      
Washington

Sen. Kelly was in town for briefings and to do a few interviews. He still had three months before he declared his intention to run for the White House. The current leadership in the White House was lacking. The whole Panama situation proved that. Kelly sat down in his office and found an unmarked manila folder sitting on top. Carefully opening it, his jaw dropped. The report was Top Secret but what it held confirmed many of the Senator’s beliefs. “I was right, mutants are a threat!”

Henry reviewed the report that had been given to his former boss. It was different from the version the President had on his desk. No, Kelly's brief had been tailored to fit the Senator’s views perfectly. Henry continued walking down the tunnel that connected the Old Executive Office Building with the White House. The Vice President was expecting him. Quickly pulling out an access card, an elevator appeared and took Henry down an additional two levels. Emerging, he walked quickly an unmarked room. With a discreet tap, the door opened and Henry was ushered inside.

“Ah, Henry,” the Vice President greeted him. “Were you successful?”

“Yes, sir. Sen. Kelly has the false document and enough information to hang himself. Of course, it's possible he will hold this information in reserve until he can confirm it. I warned you that for an idealist, he is a shrewd political operator.”

Vice President Trask waved him off. “Your objections have been noted. All that matters is the good Senator is now in an awkward position.”

Henry took that as his dismissal and left. ‘Everyday I get in deeper with this group. I hope Robert is as smart as I think he is.’

Nov 13, Havana

Victoria walked around the new Grand Marriot Hotel in Havana Bay. Cuba was undergoing a radical transformation into paradise, and rivers of American money were flowing into it now. She passed through the ornate air-conditioned lobby on her way to the exquisite waterfall swimming pools. Her target was there. Vitaly knew only too well that Damien was treacherous, but he required his help. The risk was worth the danger. For her part, Victoria was happy for the opportunity to escape the bonds of her past. All the tragedies of her life involved the Luthor family. As much as she wanted to get away from them, it gnawed at the back of her mind. They were a poison that needed to be drained from her soul. If this worked, then she would have the life she’d wanted, and nothing could harm her again. She saw the man she was looking for. “Damien?”

Damien was relaxing in the early afternoon warmth. The Sun was shining, but a cool front of unusual power had lowered the temperature. Hearing his named called startled him. “Yes?” Looking up, he saw someone who looked vaguely familiar. After a moment or two, it clicked. “Victoria?”

Taking the lounge chair next to Damien, Victoria smiled. “None other. How are you Damien? Vitaly sends his regards.”

The mention of that name sent a shudder down Damien’s spine. “Why are you here?”

“You look like you could use a drink, Damien." Waving a Cabana boy over, she ordered two drinks and waited for him to depart before answering.  "I'm here because Vitaly thinks you need a new project. You were so very helpful to your Columbian friends. Vitaly thought you might be interested in being his helpful friend, too.”

Damien grabbed his drink as the server returned. He pondered for a second everything that she said. “I have all the friends I need, Victoria. I see no reason to disrupt my vacation or my imminent retirement, for that matter.”

Victoria simply smiled at him and then leaned over to whisper, “Then why do you keep such a close eye on a certain family? Vitaly’s people have been monitoring your activity in the States for some time.” She leaned back and sipped her drink. “You and I have a mutual interest there and after all this time, we are sure to have been forgotten. That gives us a unique advantage.”

Damien downed the rest of his drink in a single gulp. He signaled a server for another. “Do you have a point to this ramble? Or am I just supposed to sit and listen until I pass out from boredom?”

Laughing, Victoria moved close again. “You're anything but bored, Damien. We all have ambitions, and we all can work to make them happen.” She backed off and took another sip. “I hear Sydney is beautiful this time of year. Perhaps a trip to the Land Down Under will help clarify things for you.”

Damien sneered at her. “Assuming I am interested, I have some obligations left.”

Dismissing his objections with a bark of laughter, “Your job is done. You built an army and armed it. Your henchman has a host of inventions and human experiments that have proved useful…Vitaly wants to see some of them.”

“Corbeau must be watched, some of his cloning experiments, well… 'disasters' would be putting it mildly.”

Victoria smiled. “Corbeau is useful, but you pulled this off. Trust me, aid Vitaly, and he will aid you.” She walked away, dropping a note in his lap with a date and an address in Sydney.

Dreamland, Nevada

Dr. Raven Darkholm hurried down the access way as fast as her long legs could take her without actually breaking into a run. General Thames summons to Nevada not withstanding, she did not want to be out in the middle of nowhere. However, her armor had been mated to another prototype design and was going to be tested by one of the new soldiers this morning. She had to see this, no matter how much time away from her research it cost her. She came to the Observation Deck and saw the usual gathering.

Gen. Thames saw his weapons designer walk in. “Dr. Darkholm, you are right on time.” He motioned to the window and Raven moved next to him. “We start in ten seconds.

Raven watched as her battle suit was donned by a soldier. The ease with which it moved belied the strength the man had, no ordinary person could make the armor look so easy. In seconds the soldier stepped on a seven foot glider and took off. She watched both the readouts and the window as the Soldier performed feats of maneuverability that should be impossible. The armor held up to the salvos fired at it.

The general turned to her. “Well, Doctor, It appears that we are in business.”

Raven nodded and pulled a memory chip. “I’ll review this data and have a report tomorrow. I’d like to examine the armor first.” She waited for his acknowledgement before departing. ’I’ve done it, but to what end will they use these weapons?’  

Nov 14, Gotham

Bruce was in the cave under his manor looking over new data. He had all available data from his mission to Panama and did not like any of it. ‘Lex removed all the meteor rocks from crash sites. His storage facility in Utah was raided, but there is no evidence of that substance getting out of the country.’ Bruce continued to look over additional data. His capture and that of the Avengers had part of Washington in a tizzy. But it was the other activity and a report that pointed the finger in Panama to Mutants -- not fabricated mutants, but genuine genetic Mutants -- that worried him. It appeared to him that someone was manufacturing evidence to further a political agenda, and that kind of gamesmanship could get out of hand. He knew Lex’s secret and also knew that Lex would protect his family at all costs. ‘Too many variables to keep track of now. This could get very ugly, very quickly.’

“Master Bruce, sir, sorry to interrupt, but Master Dick has a soccer game in an hour.” Alfred called from the lower stairs landing.

Bruce chuckled and closed down the computer and locked the files away. “I’m coming, Alfred. I can’t wait to see how well he does.”

“Yes, sir, if I may say so, he is quite a fast fellow.” Alfred led the way up to the Manor. “He is excited that you can attend this game, sir.”

Bruce laughed. “Alfred, I am as well.”

Smallville

Whitney walked down from his bedroom and into the boys’ playroom to check the boys' progress at ‘packing’ for the few days they would be in Metropolis. He could hear them chatting in their bedrooms. The staff had already gathered a set of luggage for each of the boys, but they were now trying to figure out what to take as personal items. He walked down the hall and saw Ben trying to get his big Teddy Bear into his travel bag. Whitney covered his smile. “Ben, son, I think you can carry Teddy and place other things in your bag.”

Ben looked up at Whitney with relief. “Oh good! Thanks, Daddy!” Ben pulled Teddy’s stubby little legs from the bag and dropped him on the floor.

Whitney shook his head and continued his circuit. He stepped into the hall and was nearly mowed down by Mohiam and Duchess who streaked past him with Hamilton in hot pursuit. Whitney figured it out quickly. “HAMILTON, NO! You cannot pack Duchess and Mohiam! They stay HERE!” 

“BUT DADDY!” Hamilton whined as trudged back toward his room, but he soon found himself swept up in a hug from his Poppy. “Hey!”

Clark kissed Hamilton on the cheek before placing him on the ground again. “Are you arguing with your Daddy?”

Hamilton giggled, hugged Clark, and ran to his room. “No, Poppy, I’m not arguing with Daddy.”

Clark shook his head and started to follow Whit into Wes’ room until he heard the groan coming from inside.

“Wes…son, you can’t take every toy you own with you. You are only going to be gone for two nights.”

Clark chuckled when he could almost hear Wes’ pout. “Ok, Daddy, what can I take?” Clark turned to check on Ben and saw him trying to zip up his bag. “Do you need help, Ben?”

Ben looked up. “No, thank you, Poppy. I can get it.”

Clark nodded and walked towards Philip’s room. Clark was amazed that Philip kept his room tidy at all times. ‘I swear the boy is seven going on forty.’ Clark walked in and saw Lex looking over the books in Philip’s room. Clark stood in the doorway and watched as Philip walked around trying to figure out what to pack.

Lex smiled at Clark as he knelt next to Philip. “Philip, do you know that your Daddy has read many of these books?”

Philip picked up his wallet and placed it in his bag. “Yes, Daddy mentioned some of them before. You and Poppy have also mentioned several books before as well.”

Clark walked over and pulled the wallet from the bag. “Why don’t you keep that with you, okay?”

Philip looked up, startled. “Okay, Poppy. What should I pack?”

Clark looked at Lex and then Philip. “Well, clothes always seem to come in handy on trips. Ben is taking his Teddy and I heard Wes was trying to pack everything in his room. Hamilton, apparently, tried to pack the dogs and got busted. Just remember you will only be gone for two nights and try to avoid all poultry, livestock, and organic matter.”

Clark actually thought it was one of his better jokes, but it went totally over Philip's head. The serious young man just nodded sagely. "Yes, sir."

Clark shot a helpless look at Lex. //We have to do something to lighten this kid up, my love.//

//Or you could get funnier jokes.//

Clark rolled his eyes and left Philip with Lex. Clearly, they deserved each other. He scanned the bedrooms and saw Hamilton was with Ben and Whit was still helping Wes. Clark laughed to himself. The chaos and love were so evident. ‘Never imagined this and could not be happier!’ Clark smiled and headed to make sure that the resourceful Hamilton hadn't found a way to pack the dogs after all.

                                                                    Part 2

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Disclaimer information: Don't own them, just have fun with them.
Each story may contain or does contain explicit NC-17 material. You have been warned.

Author's Note: A special thanks to my writing partner, Beresfordlane. Also a thanks to Philtre for the Beta.

Cast - Photo Gallery

Click for Photo/Bio

Tributes & Trials
Mary-Alice Adkins
Bryan Armitage
Holly Jones
Patrick Kennedy
Jackson King
Kelly Ling
April Ross
Winston R.Trask
Simon Trent

Leaders, Legends & Lore
Bennett Andrew LFK
Weston Graham LFK
Ivan Acevedo
Rachel Amstead
Aaron Boone
Adam Chase
Valerie Cooper
Justin Daniels
Raven Darkholm
Bobby Drake
Nigel Eason
Emma Frost
Richard Grayson
Vitaly Kirov
Lois Lane
Eric Lensherr
Jimmy Olsen
Donald Pierce
Oliver Queen
Michael Ross
Sebastian Shaw
Maxwell Smith
Anthony Stark
Janet VanDyne
Perry White
Warren Worthington III
Jason Wyngard

Raids, Assaults, Revels
Philip Jonathan LFK
Hamilton Ian LFK
Dr. Stephanie Fordman

Pursuits & Milestones
Brian Corbeau

Reflections & Mirrors
Chet Desmond
Lisa Fordman
Gabriel Vance

Destinies & Darkness
Dimitri Kartov
Alan Owen

Knights, Bishops & Rooks
Enrique DeSantos
Henry Gyrich
Senator Robert Kelly

Shadows in Spring
Christian Smith

Echoes of the Past
General Sam Thames
Shern Phipps

Scores & Solutions
Stephen Hamiltion
Nathan Daniels

Battlements & Barricades
Tristan Fordman
Nick Brady
Damien Parker
Dominic Haynes (Senatori)

Repercussions&Achievements
Lionel Luthor
Anne Fordman
David Fordman
Sebastian Fordman
Jeff Fordman
Bruce Wayne

Plans, Detours, Goals:
Chloe Sullivan
Lana Lang
Clark Kent
Whitney Fordman
Lex Luthor
Jonathan Kent
Martha Kent
Pete Ross
Victoria Hardwick