Post by tiffany on May 5, 2012 17:24:01 GMT
Ok so this is kind of a stomach punch story. If it doesn't get to you then your not human, just kidding LOL. This fic was inspired by this piece of music as it feels like something you'd hear in a Clois scene. I hope you all enjoy.
He knew this day would inevitably come. The day when the catastrophe would be too much and a great sacrifice would be needed. It had started two weeks earlier, when scientists discovered a giant asteroid the size of the state of Alaska heralding towards earth. Calculations were made and it was determined the asteroid would strike the eastern seaboard of the United States, taking out all of the east coast, then sending a wave of death headed towards Europe and Africa. The debris from the fall out would send the planet into the equivalent of a ‘nuclear winter’ for decades. Life as many on planet Earth had known would cease to exist and none were guaranteed survival. The scientists and world governments did not hesitate to come to Superman immediately. After all, he was the world’s greatest hero; if anyone could save them, he could.
Superman had heard their pleas and flew into space to observe this moving death. He quickly discovered it was no mere asteroid; it was indeed the last remnant of Krypton. Still, for Superman, his resolve stayed firm. He vowed to use all his powers to find a way to save his adopted home world. He knew he could simply fly into space and break up the asteroid. However, that amount of kryptonite would surely kill him, and his comrades, the Justice League, refused to let him sacrifice himself.
“Clark,” said Bruce, “Be reasonable here, there are other ways.”
“Earth doesn’t have enough time,” Clark had argued.
“Then let me go, Kal-El,” said Diana. “You are too important here and have too many depending on you.”
“Diana, even though you are strong, we both know it wouldn’t be enough,” said Clark. “We can’t risk the fragments causing worldwide damages.”
“Clark, there is time,” began Oliver. “Bruce and I are combining our resources and Lucius Fox is heading this attempt. There isn’t a more brilliant man alive on Earth.”
“Clark, I implore you, if not us and Earth,” Bruce paused for effect, “then think of Lois,” he paused, “and your future.”
Clark nodded grimly and lowered his head as slight moisture gathered in his eyes. If his friends saw it, they didn’t say anything. When he raised his head, he said, “My wife is the strongest of any person I know,” the other hero’s nodded in agreement, “if there were no other way, she’d understand.”
“Yes, Clark, she would,” Oliver agreed. “But we are telling you there might be another way.”
******************************************************************************
Clark had left Watch Tower and headed to his new pent house apartment he shared with the love of his life, Lois Lane. He came in through the balcony window to find her sitting on the bed with her lap top, typing away at something. The slight breeze caught her attention and she looked up and smiled. Clark felt his heart constrict - this wasn’t going to be easy. He saw her smile start to fade.
“I know that look,” she began and she placed the lap top on the night stand, leapt from the bed, and came to embrace him. “What is it, Smallville?”
He held onto her tightly, tears threatened to seep through. Why was life so unfair at times? He quickly dashed those thoughts from his mind as they would do him no good now. He pulled back just long enough to sweep her into his arms and lay the most passionate kiss he’d given anyone ever on her lips as he floated them back to bed.
He lay in bed, with Lois tucked into his side, devouring her mouth as a man devouring water in the desert. He never wanted to let her go, but he knew he had to tell her about the severity of the situation. He pulled back and tucked the silky rich strands of hair behind her ear.
“Lois, the asteroid...” he began. “It’s kryptonite.”
Silence as Lois digested the latest.
“And it’s still headed this way?” she asked.
“Yes, but faster than the scientists calculated,” he stated. “It’ll be here in four days.”
“Oh, Clark,” she said holding him closer, “what are you going to do?”
“Bruce and Oliver have their scientists working on a rocket that can be piggybacked off of a 767,” Clark said. “The hope is the rocket will have enough pay load to obliterate the asteroid and I won’t be needed.”
“I know this is selfish of me to say, Clark,” Lois said tracing his ‘S’, “but that is what I want too. Our lives are just starting and with what’s coming in the next few months, I kind of want you around,” she finished with a smile.
“I know, Lois, I want to be here with you more than anything,” Clark said, kissing her forehead, “especially now.” They lay in silence, savoring the presence of each other. They knew the world would come calling soon enough, but for now, they allowed themselves the moment to delight in each other.
“Lois, what if it’s not enough?” Clark asked. “What if…” he trailed off.
He felt Lois swallow and heard her heart beat nearly shatter. He knew her next words would come at great personal pain for her.
“Then you will do as you have always done,” she began, the tremble in her voice betraying her strength. “You will save us,” she cupped his cheek and looked into his eyes. “And I will love you and be so very proud of my hero.”
“Lois,” he said crashing his lips to hers as he allowed himself to shed tears of longing.
As he released her, he said with a broken voice, “I’m so sorry, Lo,” he pleaded. “I never wanted this for you.”
“Clark, stop,” she demanded and Clark saw her eyes were shining. “I have always known what could happen and it changes nothing,” she said with resolve. “The only tragedy would have been if we’d never found each other. Just a moment with you, loving you, is worth a thousand years of loneliness."
“You are my strength, Lois,” he told her firmly. “I can be Superman because of you.”
“And you are mine, Clark,” she said smiling. “So if that moment comes, I know you will be able to do the impossible.”
Their lips met again and passion ignited. Tomorrow, they would face whatever came, but for just tonight, they would forget and celebrate the love they shared.
******************************************************************************
Bruce and Oliver had spared no expense. The rocket was ready and the best airliner was donated from Bruce’s own personal collection. A few modifications would be made to ensure it could handle the altitude and launch. A team of scientists was on aboard, and much to Clark’s dismay, so was his wife, Lois Lane.
The event had to be documented and out of all reporters, Lois had been chosen. Clark’s heart had swelled with pride when learning, but as always, his fierce protectiveness had also taken hold as well. Lois had soothed him with a kiss.
He now hovered as his alter ego over Earth, watching as the plane made its upward ascent into the outer stratosphere to launch the rocket. So far, everything had been going right on schedule and everyone seemed confident Superman wouldn’t be needed. When the scientists had learned the asteroids threat to Superman, it was as if the whole world came together to develop ways to save their favorite hero. Superman had been touched, he never knew he meant so much to them. He knew if this attempt failed, he wouldn’t hesitate to do what was needed, what he was born for. He knew the team of heroes he had helped assemble would be there in his absence to offer guidance and protection.
Hope filled his chest as the plane came to view and he heard that ignition was beginning. He saw the flare of the rocket and waited for it to shoot off. However, at that moment, disaster struck. The platform clamps malfunctioned and the rocket wasn’t lifting off of the plane. Panic ensued within the plane, and the rocket boosters were causing the plane to lose control.
He wasted no time in flying in to save the people on the plane. He used his super breath to blow out the rocket engines. He knew that once the engines had been ignited it would take too long to repair and relaunch, thus his fate was sealed. However, he still had time for one more save. He glided down and took hold of the plane, keeping it steady as the pilots worked to stabilize the engines. From the small cockpit, he saw the lead pilot give a salute and he let go of the plane.
He let the plane gently fly on as he looked at the windows and saw her. He flew up to her window and gently stroked the glass in front of her face. He saw her tears and they burnt a whole in his heart. For a moment, he allowed himself to look at her. He remembered every moment they had shared and relived each one. He would love her even in death.
He took in her face for the last time. The pouty lips that he would kiss at night with passion, the corner she’d bite when engrossed in a story, and formed a smile that was just for him. Her long thick chocolate brown hair as it framed her face. He remembered how it felt to run his fingers through it and longed for just one more caress. He’d never forget the way it brushed against his face or chest as they lay snuggled in bed. He finally lingered on her soft hazel orbs as they looked at him with pride and love. His wife amazed him. At this moment they both knew what was coming, but instead of tears and angst, his wife willed him to do what only he could. He would treasure this look and it would be the last image on his mind. He smiled softly at her and mouthed the words, ‘I love you’ and watched as she smiled back, repeating the phrase and adding, “Always” at the end. He was now ready. One last look at his heart and soul and he turned to meet the oncoming challenge with renewed passion. It wasn’t just the world he was saving or even Lois; it was the hope of a better tomorrow and the promise of a brighter future. He passed the moon faster than he’d ever flown before.
******************************************************************************
On board the jet, the scientists were frantically adjusting equipment after the near disaster, oblivious to the tender moment that was just shared between the reporter and hero.
“Well, we will have to land and repair the rockets,” said one of the scientists.
“Get everyone available; I want to be ready in five hours,” said Mr. Fox.
“But sir…” began a bald scientist.
“I refuse to accept anything less,” responded Mr. Fox.
“There’s no need,” said a younger scientist, causing all conversation to pause. “Look,” he pointed to the recalibrated monitor.
“Is that...” said a scientist.
“Superman,” said Lucius.
“But its kryptonite,” said the younger scientist.
“He knows the window is tight,” began Lucius, “He’s sacrificing…” but he couldn’t finished.
The jet was silent as Lucius Fox turned to Lois Lane, only to find her standing tall and proud, but with tears in her eyes.
“It’s what the world needs,” Lois stated.
******************************************************************************
At a rural farm in Kansas, a lady with graying hair sits on her sofa, watching the events of the attempted asteroid destruction on her television. She listens to the newscasters but she already knows what will unfold.
Yes, folks, it seems that there was a malfunction with the rocket launcher, but Superman thankfully has saved the day once again. According to scientists at the base in Dallas, Superman is now flying out to meet the asteroid head on. God Speed Superman.
The woman felt tears in her eyes, but instead of sadness feeling her heart, she was filled with immense pride. This is why he had come to us, this is what we raised him to do. We taught him to do the right thing no matter what. Oh, Jonathan she thought you’d be do proud of him.
She watched the scenes on screen and after a few moments said to no one, “My son.”
******************************************************************************
At Watch Tower, they all looked on at the monitors. Shame filled them that they weren’t enough, that it hadn’t been enough and now the best of all had to make the ultimate sacrifice. Still, their hearts were filled with courage to carry on. He had entrusted them, and they would not fail him! His memory would live on in the manner in which they defended what was right. They each made vows to protect and honor his legacy. They watched as the last satellite image came in of Superman flying off in space and each choked back on their emotions.
Out of a corner emerged a gruff voice filled with emotion, “Our Hero.”
Another added strongly, “Our Brother.”
******************************************************************************
Young Jimmy Olsen watched the broadcast from a bar in downtown Metropolis. He was sad he didn’t get to get on board the plane with Ms. Lane, but was determined to cover the reaction of the crowd with vigor. His heart had leaped when the rocket didn’t fire and the plane began to lose control. Relief filled him as he watched Superman come to aid. He was young, but he had discovered things he didn’t feel like he was supposed to know. So he had vowed to never reveal what he had learned. He looked on now as others cheered when it was announced Superman was approaching the asteroid. He smiled slightly at the screen and said, “Got get’em, big blue.”
******************************************************************************
She knew the risk in sharing his life but it hadn’t stopped her. Lois had no regrets and would live it all again. She would miss him. She would miss his warm smile and his chuckle when she said something clever. She would miss teasing him about his flannel and home remedies. She would miss him teasing her about drinking too much coffee and fussing over her not eating enough. She would miss his soft kisses on her lips. She would miss his arms holding her tight at night. She would miss his warmth, his heart, his courage, his strength. She watched the dot get closer to the large mass on the monitor and knew she would mourn later. For now she would find the strength to give him one final gift as he saved the world from destruction. She knew he would hear her, he always said he could no matter what. Bravely she whispered, “I’ll love you forever, Clark Kent, my beloved husband.”
******************************************************************************
He saw the asteroid getting closer and slowly started to feel the effects of the poison within. He wouldn’t stop, no matter what; he would see it through to the bitter end. He willed his body to endure for the sake of all. He set his sights on the middle of the rock and with all he had left, accelerated onward.
He felt the kryptonite burning his body, wanting him to give up, but he couldn’t. Out of the vastness of space came her voice of love, calling his name, and he found the strength within. Suddenly, his life flashed before his eyes and he focused on the good moments - finding two people upside down in a truck in the middle of a corn field, the love they surrounded him with, the friendships he forged, the sassy hazel eyed girl dumping him in a tank, a shared dance, a sweet kiss in a crowded bullpen, a proposal, a walk down an aisle, a life of love. He regretted nothing and with renewed strength, he barreled forward into the asteroid, dissolving it to dust in his final act as the greatest hero the world had ever known.
******************************************************************************
8 Years Later
Lois Lane sat on the porch swing beside Martha Kent as they talked about the recent comings and goings of life in Metropolis and the Dailey Planet. After the death of Superman, the world had united in a way it never had in its history. Everyone wanted to honor their fallen hero, who had saved them, by being the best that they could. When someone threatened the peace that came with such a high cost, countries banned together and met the threat head on. Heroes were still needed from time to time and the world had embraced them for the leaders they were. Thanks to Superman, they no longer had to live in shadows but were honored and respected for their good work.
“Still with all that has happened, Lex still is up to his old ways,” Lois was saying.
“Sad that he just can’t let go,” said Martha.
“Yes, world conquest seems to still be his greatest ambition,” Lois stated. “But it doesn’t matter how many bribes he tries to make, people don’t seem to be persuaded by him and that frustrates him to end.”
“I still can’t believe he tried to kill you,” said Martha.
“Oh, I can,” laughed Lois. “It was only my 43rd expose on him.”
“Well, hopefully this one gets him sentenced to jail for the rest of his life,” Martha firmly stated.
“That’s my hope,” Lois said.
Just then they heard a small voice full of pride and excitement coming from near the barn.
“Hey, Mom, look what I can do,” said the voice coming closer to the front porch.
Lois turned to look at the spectacle and gasped, quickly standing up and rushing to the banister. Martha, curious as to what drew such a reaction from Lois, turned to look as well and was just as startled. No words came from her mouth as she stood looking at the sight.
There, in her driveway stood eight year old Christopher Clark Kent, with his father’s black hair and piercing blue eyes and mother’s excited grin. The boy was carrying the family tractor over his head as if it were made of card board.
“Chris, put the tractor down,” Lois finally said.
The boy lowered the tractor.
“Sorry, mommy,” said Chris, biting the corner of his mouth. “I just wanted to show you how strong I was.”
“It’s ok, mommy is very proud of you, son,” Lois said with a smile. “Just be careful with the tractor, honey, it’s very special.”
“Because it was daddy's,” Chris said.
“That’s right,” Lois said. “Now take it and put it back where you found it and then we’ll have some of Nana’s apple pie.”
“Oh, boy,” the little boy said, picking the tractor up carefully and marching back to the barn.
“I’d say you handled that well,” came the voice of Martha Kent.
“Well, he is the son of Superman, so I guess I should be used to strange acts,” Lois said.
“Of all the legacies Clark left behind, that is the greatest,” Martha said. “The promise of a brighter future, the hope of Superman, and I have no doubts that one day, he’ll be as great as his father was.”
“No, he’ll be greater,” stated Lois with a smile, “and one day, I will tell him about all his father died for.”
At that moment, a little boy came running across the drive way and straight to his mother’s arms. Lois held her child tightly to her, before placing a kiss on his forehead.
“My little Superman,” she said proudly and turned to walk with him and Mrs. Kent into the house for some apple pie.
He knew this day would inevitably come. The day when the catastrophe would be too much and a great sacrifice would be needed. It had started two weeks earlier, when scientists discovered a giant asteroid the size of the state of Alaska heralding towards earth. Calculations were made and it was determined the asteroid would strike the eastern seaboard of the United States, taking out all of the east coast, then sending a wave of death headed towards Europe and Africa. The debris from the fall out would send the planet into the equivalent of a ‘nuclear winter’ for decades. Life as many on planet Earth had known would cease to exist and none were guaranteed survival. The scientists and world governments did not hesitate to come to Superman immediately. After all, he was the world’s greatest hero; if anyone could save them, he could.
Superman had heard their pleas and flew into space to observe this moving death. He quickly discovered it was no mere asteroid; it was indeed the last remnant of Krypton. Still, for Superman, his resolve stayed firm. He vowed to use all his powers to find a way to save his adopted home world. He knew he could simply fly into space and break up the asteroid. However, that amount of kryptonite would surely kill him, and his comrades, the Justice League, refused to let him sacrifice himself.
“Clark,” said Bruce, “Be reasonable here, there are other ways.”
“Earth doesn’t have enough time,” Clark had argued.
“Then let me go, Kal-El,” said Diana. “You are too important here and have too many depending on you.”
“Diana, even though you are strong, we both know it wouldn’t be enough,” said Clark. “We can’t risk the fragments causing worldwide damages.”
“Clark, there is time,” began Oliver. “Bruce and I are combining our resources and Lucius Fox is heading this attempt. There isn’t a more brilliant man alive on Earth.”
“Clark, I implore you, if not us and Earth,” Bruce paused for effect, “then think of Lois,” he paused, “and your future.”
Clark nodded grimly and lowered his head as slight moisture gathered in his eyes. If his friends saw it, they didn’t say anything. When he raised his head, he said, “My wife is the strongest of any person I know,” the other hero’s nodded in agreement, “if there were no other way, she’d understand.”
“Yes, Clark, she would,” Oliver agreed. “But we are telling you there might be another way.”
******************************************************************************
Clark had left Watch Tower and headed to his new pent house apartment he shared with the love of his life, Lois Lane. He came in through the balcony window to find her sitting on the bed with her lap top, typing away at something. The slight breeze caught her attention and she looked up and smiled. Clark felt his heart constrict - this wasn’t going to be easy. He saw her smile start to fade.
“I know that look,” she began and she placed the lap top on the night stand, leapt from the bed, and came to embrace him. “What is it, Smallville?”
He held onto her tightly, tears threatened to seep through. Why was life so unfair at times? He quickly dashed those thoughts from his mind as they would do him no good now. He pulled back just long enough to sweep her into his arms and lay the most passionate kiss he’d given anyone ever on her lips as he floated them back to bed.
He lay in bed, with Lois tucked into his side, devouring her mouth as a man devouring water in the desert. He never wanted to let her go, but he knew he had to tell her about the severity of the situation. He pulled back and tucked the silky rich strands of hair behind her ear.
“Lois, the asteroid...” he began. “It’s kryptonite.”
Silence as Lois digested the latest.
“And it’s still headed this way?” she asked.
“Yes, but faster than the scientists calculated,” he stated. “It’ll be here in four days.”
“Oh, Clark,” she said holding him closer, “what are you going to do?”
“Bruce and Oliver have their scientists working on a rocket that can be piggybacked off of a 767,” Clark said. “The hope is the rocket will have enough pay load to obliterate the asteroid and I won’t be needed.”
“I know this is selfish of me to say, Clark,” Lois said tracing his ‘S’, “but that is what I want too. Our lives are just starting and with what’s coming in the next few months, I kind of want you around,” she finished with a smile.
“I know, Lois, I want to be here with you more than anything,” Clark said, kissing her forehead, “especially now.” They lay in silence, savoring the presence of each other. They knew the world would come calling soon enough, but for now, they allowed themselves the moment to delight in each other.
“Lois, what if it’s not enough?” Clark asked. “What if…” he trailed off.
He felt Lois swallow and heard her heart beat nearly shatter. He knew her next words would come at great personal pain for her.
“Then you will do as you have always done,” she began, the tremble in her voice betraying her strength. “You will save us,” she cupped his cheek and looked into his eyes. “And I will love you and be so very proud of my hero.”
“Lois,” he said crashing his lips to hers as he allowed himself to shed tears of longing.
As he released her, he said with a broken voice, “I’m so sorry, Lo,” he pleaded. “I never wanted this for you.”
“Clark, stop,” she demanded and Clark saw her eyes were shining. “I have always known what could happen and it changes nothing,” she said with resolve. “The only tragedy would have been if we’d never found each other. Just a moment with you, loving you, is worth a thousand years of loneliness."
“You are my strength, Lois,” he told her firmly. “I can be Superman because of you.”
“And you are mine, Clark,” she said smiling. “So if that moment comes, I know you will be able to do the impossible.”
Their lips met again and passion ignited. Tomorrow, they would face whatever came, but for just tonight, they would forget and celebrate the love they shared.
******************************************************************************
Bruce and Oliver had spared no expense. The rocket was ready and the best airliner was donated from Bruce’s own personal collection. A few modifications would be made to ensure it could handle the altitude and launch. A team of scientists was on aboard, and much to Clark’s dismay, so was his wife, Lois Lane.
The event had to be documented and out of all reporters, Lois had been chosen. Clark’s heart had swelled with pride when learning, but as always, his fierce protectiveness had also taken hold as well. Lois had soothed him with a kiss.
He now hovered as his alter ego over Earth, watching as the plane made its upward ascent into the outer stratosphere to launch the rocket. So far, everything had been going right on schedule and everyone seemed confident Superman wouldn’t be needed. When the scientists had learned the asteroids threat to Superman, it was as if the whole world came together to develop ways to save their favorite hero. Superman had been touched, he never knew he meant so much to them. He knew if this attempt failed, he wouldn’t hesitate to do what was needed, what he was born for. He knew the team of heroes he had helped assemble would be there in his absence to offer guidance and protection.
Hope filled his chest as the plane came to view and he heard that ignition was beginning. He saw the flare of the rocket and waited for it to shoot off. However, at that moment, disaster struck. The platform clamps malfunctioned and the rocket wasn’t lifting off of the plane. Panic ensued within the plane, and the rocket boosters were causing the plane to lose control.
He wasted no time in flying in to save the people on the plane. He used his super breath to blow out the rocket engines. He knew that once the engines had been ignited it would take too long to repair and relaunch, thus his fate was sealed. However, he still had time for one more save. He glided down and took hold of the plane, keeping it steady as the pilots worked to stabilize the engines. From the small cockpit, he saw the lead pilot give a salute and he let go of the plane.
He let the plane gently fly on as he looked at the windows and saw her. He flew up to her window and gently stroked the glass in front of her face. He saw her tears and they burnt a whole in his heart. For a moment, he allowed himself to look at her. He remembered every moment they had shared and relived each one. He would love her even in death.
He took in her face for the last time. The pouty lips that he would kiss at night with passion, the corner she’d bite when engrossed in a story, and formed a smile that was just for him. Her long thick chocolate brown hair as it framed her face. He remembered how it felt to run his fingers through it and longed for just one more caress. He’d never forget the way it brushed against his face or chest as they lay snuggled in bed. He finally lingered on her soft hazel orbs as they looked at him with pride and love. His wife amazed him. At this moment they both knew what was coming, but instead of tears and angst, his wife willed him to do what only he could. He would treasure this look and it would be the last image on his mind. He smiled softly at her and mouthed the words, ‘I love you’ and watched as she smiled back, repeating the phrase and adding, “Always” at the end. He was now ready. One last look at his heart and soul and he turned to meet the oncoming challenge with renewed passion. It wasn’t just the world he was saving or even Lois; it was the hope of a better tomorrow and the promise of a brighter future. He passed the moon faster than he’d ever flown before.
******************************************************************************
On board the jet, the scientists were frantically adjusting equipment after the near disaster, oblivious to the tender moment that was just shared between the reporter and hero.
“Well, we will have to land and repair the rockets,” said one of the scientists.
“Get everyone available; I want to be ready in five hours,” said Mr. Fox.
“But sir…” began a bald scientist.
“I refuse to accept anything less,” responded Mr. Fox.
“There’s no need,” said a younger scientist, causing all conversation to pause. “Look,” he pointed to the recalibrated monitor.
“Is that...” said a scientist.
“Superman,” said Lucius.
“But its kryptonite,” said the younger scientist.
“He knows the window is tight,” began Lucius, “He’s sacrificing…” but he couldn’t finished.
The jet was silent as Lucius Fox turned to Lois Lane, only to find her standing tall and proud, but with tears in her eyes.
“It’s what the world needs,” Lois stated.
******************************************************************************
At a rural farm in Kansas, a lady with graying hair sits on her sofa, watching the events of the attempted asteroid destruction on her television. She listens to the newscasters but she already knows what will unfold.
Yes, folks, it seems that there was a malfunction with the rocket launcher, but Superman thankfully has saved the day once again. According to scientists at the base in Dallas, Superman is now flying out to meet the asteroid head on. God Speed Superman.
The woman felt tears in her eyes, but instead of sadness feeling her heart, she was filled with immense pride. This is why he had come to us, this is what we raised him to do. We taught him to do the right thing no matter what. Oh, Jonathan she thought you’d be do proud of him.
She watched the scenes on screen and after a few moments said to no one, “My son.”
******************************************************************************
At Watch Tower, they all looked on at the monitors. Shame filled them that they weren’t enough, that it hadn’t been enough and now the best of all had to make the ultimate sacrifice. Still, their hearts were filled with courage to carry on. He had entrusted them, and they would not fail him! His memory would live on in the manner in which they defended what was right. They each made vows to protect and honor his legacy. They watched as the last satellite image came in of Superman flying off in space and each choked back on their emotions.
Out of a corner emerged a gruff voice filled with emotion, “Our Hero.”
Another added strongly, “Our Brother.”
******************************************************************************
Young Jimmy Olsen watched the broadcast from a bar in downtown Metropolis. He was sad he didn’t get to get on board the plane with Ms. Lane, but was determined to cover the reaction of the crowd with vigor. His heart had leaped when the rocket didn’t fire and the plane began to lose control. Relief filled him as he watched Superman come to aid. He was young, but he had discovered things he didn’t feel like he was supposed to know. So he had vowed to never reveal what he had learned. He looked on now as others cheered when it was announced Superman was approaching the asteroid. He smiled slightly at the screen and said, “Got get’em, big blue.”
******************************************************************************
She knew the risk in sharing his life but it hadn’t stopped her. Lois had no regrets and would live it all again. She would miss him. She would miss his warm smile and his chuckle when she said something clever. She would miss teasing him about his flannel and home remedies. She would miss him teasing her about drinking too much coffee and fussing over her not eating enough. She would miss his soft kisses on her lips. She would miss his arms holding her tight at night. She would miss his warmth, his heart, his courage, his strength. She watched the dot get closer to the large mass on the monitor and knew she would mourn later. For now she would find the strength to give him one final gift as he saved the world from destruction. She knew he would hear her, he always said he could no matter what. Bravely she whispered, “I’ll love you forever, Clark Kent, my beloved husband.”
******************************************************************************
He saw the asteroid getting closer and slowly started to feel the effects of the poison within. He wouldn’t stop, no matter what; he would see it through to the bitter end. He willed his body to endure for the sake of all. He set his sights on the middle of the rock and with all he had left, accelerated onward.
He felt the kryptonite burning his body, wanting him to give up, but he couldn’t. Out of the vastness of space came her voice of love, calling his name, and he found the strength within. Suddenly, his life flashed before his eyes and he focused on the good moments - finding two people upside down in a truck in the middle of a corn field, the love they surrounded him with, the friendships he forged, the sassy hazel eyed girl dumping him in a tank, a shared dance, a sweet kiss in a crowded bullpen, a proposal, a walk down an aisle, a life of love. He regretted nothing and with renewed strength, he barreled forward into the asteroid, dissolving it to dust in his final act as the greatest hero the world had ever known.
******************************************************************************
8 Years Later
Lois Lane sat on the porch swing beside Martha Kent as they talked about the recent comings and goings of life in Metropolis and the Dailey Planet. After the death of Superman, the world had united in a way it never had in its history. Everyone wanted to honor their fallen hero, who had saved them, by being the best that they could. When someone threatened the peace that came with such a high cost, countries banned together and met the threat head on. Heroes were still needed from time to time and the world had embraced them for the leaders they were. Thanks to Superman, they no longer had to live in shadows but were honored and respected for their good work.
“Still with all that has happened, Lex still is up to his old ways,” Lois was saying.
“Sad that he just can’t let go,” said Martha.
“Yes, world conquest seems to still be his greatest ambition,” Lois stated. “But it doesn’t matter how many bribes he tries to make, people don’t seem to be persuaded by him and that frustrates him to end.”
“I still can’t believe he tried to kill you,” said Martha.
“Oh, I can,” laughed Lois. “It was only my 43rd expose on him.”
“Well, hopefully this one gets him sentenced to jail for the rest of his life,” Martha firmly stated.
“That’s my hope,” Lois said.
Just then they heard a small voice full of pride and excitement coming from near the barn.
“Hey, Mom, look what I can do,” said the voice coming closer to the front porch.
Lois turned to look at the spectacle and gasped, quickly standing up and rushing to the banister. Martha, curious as to what drew such a reaction from Lois, turned to look as well and was just as startled. No words came from her mouth as she stood looking at the sight.
There, in her driveway stood eight year old Christopher Clark Kent, with his father’s black hair and piercing blue eyes and mother’s excited grin. The boy was carrying the family tractor over his head as if it were made of card board.
“Chris, put the tractor down,” Lois finally said.
The boy lowered the tractor.
“Sorry, mommy,” said Chris, biting the corner of his mouth. “I just wanted to show you how strong I was.”
“It’s ok, mommy is very proud of you, son,” Lois said with a smile. “Just be careful with the tractor, honey, it’s very special.”
“Because it was daddy's,” Chris said.
“That’s right,” Lois said. “Now take it and put it back where you found it and then we’ll have some of Nana’s apple pie.”
“Oh, boy,” the little boy said, picking the tractor up carefully and marching back to the barn.
“I’d say you handled that well,” came the voice of Martha Kent.
“Well, he is the son of Superman, so I guess I should be used to strange acts,” Lois said.
“Of all the legacies Clark left behind, that is the greatest,” Martha said. “The promise of a brighter future, the hope of Superman, and I have no doubts that one day, he’ll be as great as his father was.”
“No, he’ll be greater,” stated Lois with a smile, “and one day, I will tell him about all his father died for.”
At that moment, a little boy came running across the drive way and straight to his mother’s arms. Lois held her child tightly to her, before placing a kiss on his forehead.
“My little Superman,” she said proudly and turned to walk with him and Mrs. Kent into the house for some apple pie.
.
.