Linda Danvers: Girl of Steel

1

"Linda's New Home"

Written by Mark Moore

Author's note: This miniseries is the sequel to my 12-issue "Linda Danvers" maxiseries. Linda Danvers and her friend, Lara Love, have recently graduated high school and have just left their home of Leesburg, Virginia, to live in Chicago, Illinois. Linda, having recently discovered that she's an alien adopted by humans, has decided to become a super-hero called Supergirl. Reading "Linda Danvers" is not necessary to understanding this miniseries but is recommended.

I wrote this story from Monday, July 7, 2003, 10:01 PM (created the directory at 10:00 PM) to Sunday, August 3, 2003, 10:00 PM. I know I said that I would start this miniseries in June, but my mom took me on an unwanted month-long "vacation" to Poland. Sorry. Feel free to send/leave me reviews, whether you love, like, dislike, or hate the story. Enjoy!


Saturday, June 14, 2003, 3:31 PM

Linda Danvers walked out of the airplane and through the corridor. She held her carry-on bag in her left hand. Lara Love was walking with her at her left, also holding a carry-on bag in her left hand.
They exited the corridor and entered Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.
Linda turned to face Lara. "Let's go to the Baggage Claim."
They walked to the Baggage Claim area and waited for their suitcases to come by on the conveyor belt.
Linda lifted her two suitcases and Lara's two suitcases off of the conveyor belt and set them down on the floor. Linda and Lara pulled the handles out and put their carry-on bags on their suitcases. Then they pulled their suitcases behind them and walked to the rental car counter.
Linda filled out a form, paid with cash, and received a key. Then Linda and Lara walked out of the airport.
They walked over to their rental car.
Linda unlocked the trunk and opened it. She put her suitcases and carry-on bag into the trunk and closed it. Then she unlocked the left back door and opened it. She put Lara's suitcases and carry-on bag onto the back seat. Then Linda locked the door and closed it.
Linda unlocked the driver side door and opened it. She got into the car and sat in the driver seat. She closed the door and locked it, then she unlocked and opened the passenger side door.
Lara got into the car and sat in the driver seat. She closed the door and locked it.
Linda put the key into the ignition and turned it. The engine started. Linda and Lara fastened their seatbelts. Then Linda put her right foot on the brake and shifted the car into Reverse.
Linda took her foot off of the brake and put it on the gas pedal. She looked in the mirrors and behind her and slowly backed the car out of the parking space. Then she took her foot off of the gas pedal and put it on the brake. She shifted the car into Drive, took her foot off of the brake, put it on the gas pedal, and started driving.
"Do you wanna stop and get something to eat or go straight home?" Linda asked Lara.
"Go straight home." Lara replied.
"Okay." Linda said. "We can leave our stuff there, do some quick grocery shopping, and then go to dinner."

Linda unlocked and opened the front door to their new house.
Then she pulled her suitcases and carry-on bag into the living room.
Lara followed, pulling her own suitcases and carry-on bag into the living room.
They went into the bedroom.
"Only one bedroom?" Linda asked in surprise. "Gee, my parents didn't exactly splurge; did they?"
"So, we'll share." Lara told her. "Big deal. Let's look around."
They left their suitcases and bags, turned around, and walked back into the living room. They went into the kitchen and stood there for a few moments.
"Okay." Linda said. "Let's go shopping."

Linda and Lara walked into Jewel.
Linda got a shopping cart, and she and Lara started walking throughout the store.
"Since we don't have a refrigerator yet, we'll get just stuff that can be left outside today." Linda said.
"Okay." Lara said.
Linda got some canned vegetables; canned sauerkraut; a box of cereal; four plates; two plastic bowls; three aluminum bowls; a pack of utensils; two boxes of tissues; a pack of toilet paper; a bar of soap; a bottle of liquid soap; a bottle of shampoo; a bottle of conditioner; two towels; two washcloths; a large container of bottled water; and 20-ounce bottles of Pepsi, Vanilla Coke, Tropical Sprite Remix, Mountain Dew: Live Wire, and Canfield's 50/50.
"Do you want to get a rotisserie chicken for dinner?" Lara asked.
"No, I'm taking to out for dinner at a restaurant." Linda told her.
"Oh, really?" Lara asked. "Why?"
"It's to thank you for coming with me." Linda replied.
"Cool." Lara said.
Linda and Lara went to a check-out lane. Linda paid for the groceries with cash.
The bagger packed their bags and put them into the cart.
Linda pushed the cart, and she and Lara walked outside.
"Here's a phone." Linda said. "Let's call our parents."
"Okay." Lara said.
They walked over to the phone.
Linda took her wallet out of her front left jeans pocket and opened it. She unzipped the coin pocket and took out some quarters. She zipped the coin pocket, closed the wallet, and put it back into her pocket. She picked up the receiver, dialed her parents' phone number, and inserted some quarters into the phone when prompted.
The phone rang two times.
"Hello?"
"Hi, mommy." Linda replied.
"Hi, Linda!" Edna exclaimed. "How was trip?!"
"Okay." Linda said. "We rented a car and took our suitcases and bags home. We just went shopping. We're outside Jewel."
"Okay." Edna said. "Your computer and other things will go by UPS on Monday on overnight. You should have Tuesday."
"Cool. Thanks." Linda said.
"So, noting else new?" Edna asked.
"Nope." Linda replied. "Is daddy there?"
"Ya. Hold on." Edna said.
Linda waited for a few seconds.
"Hi, Linda."
"Hi, daddy." Linda replied.
"Everything going okay?" Fred asked.
"Yeah." Linda replied. "Things okay there?"
"Yeah." Fred replied. "Well, I'm glad to hear that you and Lara made it to Chicago safely. How do you like your house?"
"It's fine." Linda told him.
"So, what are your plans?" Fred asked.
"I guess we'll get a car tomorrow and return the rental." Linda said. "We bought some immediate necessities today, but we'll buy appliances tomorrow, so we'll be able to get other food tomorrow. We'll also buy furniture. We'll get phone service when our phones arrive and cable when our TVs and computers arrive."
"When are you gonna look for a job?" Fred asked.
"Not sure." Linda replied. "Probably when we're all set up here."
"Okay." Fred said. "Well, good luck."
"Thanks." Linda said. "I love you."
"I love you." Fred said.
"Bye." Linda said.
"Bye." Fred said.
Linda hung up the receiver and stepped to her right.
Lara walked over to the phone.
Lara took her wallet out of her front left jeans pocket and opened it. She unzipped the coin pocket and took out some quarters. She zipped the coin pocket, closed the wallet, and put it back into her pocket. She picked up the receiver, dialed her parents' phone number, and inserted some quarters into the phone when prompted.
The phone rang three times.
"Hello?"
"Hey, mom." Lara replied.
"Hi, Lara!" Jean exclaimed. "How was your trip?!"
"Okay." Lara said. "We rented a car and took our suitcases and bags home. We just went shopping. We're outside Jewel."
"Okay." Jean said. "Your computer and other things will go by UPS on Monday on overnight delivery. You should have everything on Tuesday."
"Cool. Thanks." Lara said. "Is dad there?"
"Yeah. Hang on." Jean said.
Lara waited for a few seconds.
"Hi, Lara."
"Hey, dad." Lara replied.
"Everything going okay?" Peter asked.
"Yeah." Lara replied. "Things okay there?"
"Yeah." Peter replied. "Glad to hear that you and Linda made it to Chicago safely. How do you like your house?"
"It's fine." Lara told him.
"So, what are your plans?" Peter asked.
"I guess we'll get a car tomorrow and return the rental." Lara said. "We bought some immediate necessities today, but we'll buy appliances tomorrow, so we'll be able to get other food tomorrow. We'll also buy furniture. We'll get phone service when our phones arrive and cable when our TVs and computers arrive."
"When are you gonna look for a job?" Peter asked.
"Not sure." Lara replied. "Probably when we're all set up here."
"Okay." Peter said. "Well, good luck."
"Thanks." Lara said. "I love you."
"I love you." Peter said.
"Bye." Lara said.
"Bye." Peter said.
Lara hung up the receiver and turned around.
Linda and Lara walked to their rental car.

Linda and Lara went to Outback Steakhouse.
They sat at a table.
Linda and Lara both ordered beef. Linda also ordered onion rings.
Their meals were brought to their table and set down in front of them.
Linda and Lara bought put A1 Steak Sauce on their beef. Then they picked up their forks and knives and started eating their dinners. They shared the onion rings.
When they finished eating, Linda paid for their meals and left a tip, and they went home.

Linda and Lara put the canned food, water, and sodas in the pantry. They put the cereal, plates, and bowls in the cabinets. They put the utensils in a drawer. Linda put a box of tissues on the counter.
Then they went into their bedroom.
Linda turned on the light.
They unzipped their suitcases and bags.
As they took out some items, they talked.
"Y'know," Linda said, "since I'm gonna be a super-hero, it might be best to avoid being seen on TV as myself. I think I'm gonna try to get a job at the Chicago Tribune instead."
"Good idea." Lara replied.
"Is it okay if you take the pictures, and I submit them to the paper as my own?" Linda asked her. "It would draw less suspicion if Linda Danvers took Supergirl's pictures."
"Sure, but I want half the money." Lara told her.
"No problem." Linda agreed.
They walked into their bathroom.
Linda turned on the light.
They put away their tubes of toothpaste, combs, sticks of deodorant, packs of dental floss, soaps, shampoo, conditioner, towels, and washcloths.
"I'm gonna take a shower." Linda said.
Lara smiled. "I'll join you."
"Out."
"Right."

Linda walked out of the bathroom with her towel wrapped around her body.
Lara was sitting on the carpeted floor. She looked up at Linda and smiled.
Linda smiled back at her. "Like what you see?"
"Yeah." Lara replied. "Drop the towel."
"No." Linda told her.
"Come on." Lara said. "You can see me naked whenever you want. It's only fair that I get a full view of you every once in a while."
Linda dropped the towel. It fell to the floor, leaving her nude.
Lara sensually ran her tongue across her upper lip. "You're so gorgeous. Come over here and kiss me."
"No." Linda told her.
"But you agreed to it." Lara told her.
"Not until my computer arrives, so I can record it." Linda told her.
Lara sighed.

When they were both done with the bathroom, Linda shut of the light, and she and Lara lay down on the floor, Linda to Lara's right.
"This isn't comfortable." Lara complained. "Can I lay my head on your breasts?"
"Go to sleep." Linda told her. "We'll get beds tomorrow."

Sunday, June 15, 2003, 9:12 AM

Linda and Lara drove to the Department of Motor Vehicles.
They parked in the parking lot, and they got out of the car.
They went into the DMV.
Linda and Lara signed in and took the written test. Then they went outside with the instructors and took the road test. Then they came back inside, and Linda and Lara had their pictures taken. They waited for a while and received their Illinois state driver's licenses.

Linda and Lara stopped by a Ford dealership.
They got out of the car and walked around the parking lot, looking at some of the cars.
Soon, a salesman walked over to them. "Can I help you girls?"
"Yeah, we'd like to buy a car." Linda told him.
"Just one?" the salesman asked.
"Yeah." Linda replied. "We can't afford two."
"Okay." he said. "Are you looking for anything in particular?"
"Convertible, CD player, air conditioning, and good mileage." Linda told him.
"Okay. Follow me." he told them.
He started walking, and Linda and Lara followed him.
"What are your names?" he asked them.
"Linda."
"Lara."
"I'm Jake."
Linda and Lara each shook his right hand.
They came to a red car.
"This is a 2003 Mustang GT Premium Convertible." Jake said. "It's $28,790."
"Niiice." Linda said, grinning.
"Yeah, red looks like your color." Jake told her.
Linda looked at him. "Tell us more about it."
"The interior has dual air bags, air conditioning, power windows and locks, rear window defroster, SecuriLock anti-theft system, power decklid release, the new LATCH system to lower anchors and tethers for children, 6-way power driver seat, floor mats in the front, mach 460 AM/FM stereo with in-dash 6-CD changer, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather seating surfaces, and sport bucket seats." Jake told them. "The car has 5-speed manual transmission, a 4.6-liter V8 engine, 260 horsepower at 5,250 rpm, and torque of 302 pounds per feet at 4,000 rpm. The exterior has dual power mirrors, remote keyless entry, rear spoiler, fog lamps, and a power retractable convertible top. The car also has 4-wheel power disc brakes, anti-lock braking system and traction control, 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, stainless steel dual exhaust system, variable rate rear suspension, and rear quadra shock. It gets 26 miles per gallon."
Linda was salivating. "We'd like to test drive it."
"Okay, I'll go get the keys." Jake said.

Linda drove the car. Jake was in the passenger's seat. Lara was in the back seat.
Then Linda parked the car in a parking lot and shut off the engine. Linda and Lara unfastened their seatbelts, unlocked their doors, opened them, and got out of the car.
Linda got in the back seat, and Lara got in the driver side seat. They closed their doors and locked them. They fastened their seatbelts.
Lara looked at Jake. "I've never driven a stick before."
"Or rode one, I bet." Linda quipped.
Lara laughed. "True."
"It's okay." Jake told her. "I'll show you how to use it."
Lara put her right foot on the brake and turned the key in the ignition.

When they came back to the dealership, they went into the building.
They went inside Jake's office.
Jake sat behind his desk. Linda and Lara sat in front of it.
"There's a Pepsi machine in the back room if you're thirsty." Jake informed them.
Linda looked at Lara. "Ya want somethin' to drink?"
"Pepsi." Lara said.
Linda stood up and left the office.
She went to the back room, deposited 50 cents, and selected a regular Pepsi.
The can came out. She picked it up.
She deposited 50 more cents and selected a regular Pepsi.
The can came out. She picked it up.
Linda went back to the office and sat down.
She handed a can to Lara.
"Thanks." Lara said.
"No problem." Linda said.
They each popped open their can and took a swig.
Jake asked Linda and Lara various questions, filled out information on forms, and had them fill out forms as well.
Linda and Lara each wrote a check to pay half of the down payment.
"Okay, that's it." Jake said. "Here are your keys."
Linda and Lara each took a key from him. "Thanks."
They all stood up and walked outside.
Jake handed each girl a card. "If you have any questions or problems, call me."
"Okay." Linda said.
Jake shook each girl's right hand. "Enjoy your new car."
"Thank you." Linda and Lara said.
Linda and Lara turned and walked over to their new car.
"Let's return the rental car." Linda told Lara.
"Okay. Can I drive the new car?" Lara begged her. "I'd like to ride it hard and fast."
Linda laughed. "Okay."

After they returned the rental car, Linda and Lara went to register their new car and buy auto insurance.

After they bought auto insurance, Linda and Lara went to SEARS.
They went to the appliances department.
"Excuse me." Linda said to a salesman.
"Yes? How can I help you?" he asked them.
"We just moved here yesterday, and we need a lot of appliances." Linda told him.
"Okay." he said.
"We need a refrigerator." Linda told him.
"Okay." He walked over to the refrigerators.
Linda and Lara followed him.
"Freezer on top, fridge on top, or side by side?" he asked them.
Linda and Lara looked at each other.
"Side by side?" Linda asked Lara.
Lara nodded in agreement.
They looked at the salesman.
"Okay, what else?" he asked them.
"A stove, a microwave, a dishwasher, a laundry machine, and a dryer." Linda told him.
He laughed. "Do you have enough money?"
"Yeah." Linda replied.
"Okay, pick out the ones you like, and we'll take them over to your house." he told them.
Linda and Lara picked out their appliances, and they each wrote a check, each paying half of the total. Linda gave the salesman their home address.
Before they left the store, Linda bought a lawnmower and a mailbox with cash.

Linda and Lara went to Rooms To Go.
They walked throughout the store, looking at the various furniture.
Then they found a saleswoman.
"Excuse me." Linda said to the saleswoman.
"Yes?" she asked them.
"Do you have any cheaper single beds?" Linda asked her.
"Not at the moment." she replied.
"I guess we'll have to take a Queen size bed." Lara said.
Linda looked at her. "Oh, you just love that, don't you?"
Lara laughed. "I won't try anything."
Linda looked at the saleswoman. "We'll take a Queen size bed, two dressers, a coffee table, a kitchen table, and two chairs."
"Okay, pick out the ones you like, and we'll take them over to your house." she told them.
Linda and Lara picked out their furniture, and they each wrote a check, each paying half of the total. Linda gave the saleswoman their home address.

Linda and Lara walked into Jewel.
Linda got a shopping cart, and she and Lara started walking throughout the store.
They got some frozen microwave dinners, pizzas, and snacks; 2% milk; Polish sausage; hot sausage; ground beef; hot dogs; mustard; onions; garlic; barbecue sauce; and hot sauce.
Linda and Lara went to a check-out lane. Lara paid for the groceries with cash.
The bagger packed their bags and put them into the cart.
Linda pushed the cart, and she and Lara walked outside.
They walked to their car.
Linda unlocked the trunk and opened it. She and Lara put the bags into the trunk. Linda closed the trunk, locking it.

On their way home, Linda and Lara stopped by a gas station.
Linda bought a container of gas for the stove with cash.

When Linda and Lara got home, they waited for the appliance and furniture guys to arrive.
As soon as the refrigerator was plugged in, Linda put the food into it.
After a few hours of work, everything was set up.

That night, Linda and Lara got into bed, Linda to Lara's right.
They lay down.
"Good night." Linda said.
"Good night." Lara said.
Linda closed her eyes and waited to go to sleep.
Soon, she heard Lara moaning.
Linda smiled. She knew that Lara was masturbating. Linda wasn't ready to do that with an audience present yet, so she held off.
Soon, Linda drifted off to sleep.

Monday, June 16, 2003, 8:35 AM

Linda woke up and got out of bed.
Lara woke up and looked at her. "Hi."
Linda turned around and faced her. "Hi."
Lara got out of bed. "What do you want for breakfast?"
"Maybe cereal." Linda replied.
Linda and Lara started making the bed.

After going to the bathroom and eating breakfast; the girls put on deodorant; flossed, rinsed, and brushed their teeth; put on dress clothes; and combed their hair.
They exited the bathroom again, went through their bedroom, and entered the living room.
"So, what are we gonna do today?" Lara asked.
"We can go check out the stores." Linda suggested.
"Okay." Lara agreed.
Linda unlocked and opened the front door. Then she unlocked and opened the screen door.
"Have you ever had a gyro?" Linda asked Lara.
"No." Lara replied.
"Oh, you've got to try one." Linda insisted.
They walked out the door.

Tuesday, June 17, 2003, 12:39 PM

There was a knock on the screen door.
Linda walked over and unlocked the front door. She opened it.
A delivery man was standing there. A UPS truck was parked in the driveway.
Linda unlocked and opened the screen door.
"I've got deliveries for Linda Danvers and Lara Love." the man said.
"Lara!" Linda called.
Lara entered the living room and walked over to Linda. "Who is it, Linda?"
"UPS." Linda replied. "Our stuff's here."
"You two have got a lot of packages." He offered a small computer to each of them. "Sign here, please."
Linda and Lara each took a computer and signed their names on the screens with the pens provided. They returned the items to the man.
"Hold on." he told them.
He turned and walked back to his truck.
"We'll help." Linda called.
Linda placed the stop to keep the screen door open, then she and Lara walked outside.

After a few hours of work, everything was set up.
Linda and Lara walked into the living room from their bedroom.
"Now, I gotta call Sprint and the cable company and get our phone line, cable, and Road Runner hooked up." Linda said.
Linda and Lara went to a pay phone at a convenience store by their house.
Linda picked up the receiver.

After the phone line had been hooked up, Linda sat on their bed and picked up the receiver of the phone - formerly Lara's phone - on the nightstand to her right.
Linda dialed her parents' phone number.
The phone rang once.
"Hello?"
"Hi, mommy." Linda said.
"Hi, Linda!" Edna replied.
"Everything got here okay." Linda told her.
"This is good." Edna said.
"Our phone line is hooked up." Linda added. "Our phone number is (###) ###-####."
"Okay." Edna said.
"Our cable and Road Runner are hooked up, too." Linda added.
"Good." Edna said. "You find job yet?"
"I'll look for one tomorrow." Linda replied. "If I find one, I'll tell you."
"Okay." Edna said. "Enjoy yourself."
"I will." Linda told her. "I love you."
"I love you." Edna said.
"Bye." Linda said.
"Bye." Edna said.
Linda hung up the receiver and stood up.
Lara sat on the bed and picked up the receiver. She dialed her parents' phone number.
The phone rang twice.
"Hello?"
"Hi, mom." Lara said.
"Hi, Lara!" Jean replied.
"Everything got here okay." Lara told her.
"That's good." Jean said.
"Our phone line is hooked up." Lara added. "Our phone number is (###) ###-####."
"Okay." Jean said.
"Our cable and Road Runner are hooked up, too." Lara added.
"Good." Jean said. "Have you applied to college yet?"
"I'll do that tomorrow." Linda replied.
"Okay." Jean said. "Have fun."
"I will." Lara told her. "I love you."
"I love you." Jean said.
"Bye." Lara said.
"Bye." Jean said.
Lara hung up the receiver and stood up. She faced Linda.
"Now, how about that kiss?" Lara asked her.
"Okay." Linda said.
Linda turned around and walked over to her computer. She turned on her video camera, pointed it at Lara, and set RealProducer to record. She then turned and walked back over to Lara. Linda sat to Lara's left on the bed.
"Well?" Lara asked her.
"Well, what?" Linda asked her.
"Kiss me." Lara told her.
"I said I'll take a kiss." Linda reminded her.
Lara sighed, leaned forward, and kissed Linda on the lips.

Wednesday, June 18, 2003, 8:28 AM

Linda woke up and got out of bed.
Lara woke up and looked at her. "Hi."
Linda turned around and faced her. "Hi."
Lara got out of bed. "What do you want for breakfast?"
"I dunno." Linda replied.
Linda and Lara started making the bed.
"I can make French Toast." Linda told her.
Lara laughed. "You mean Freedom Toast; don't you?"
Linda laughed. "That's so retarded."
"Yeah, okay, sounds good." Lara said.

After going to the bathroom and eating breakfast; the girls put on deodorant; flossed, rinsed, and brushed their teeth; put on dress clothes; and combed their hair.
They exited the bathroom again.
In their bedroom, Linda picked up her Supergirl clothes, and Lara picked up Linda's video camera and digital camera.
They entered the living room.
Linda unlocked and opened the front door. Then she unlocked and opened the screen door.
"We'll go to the Tribune first, then we'll go to the university." Linda said.
"Okay." Lara agreed.
They walked out the door.

Linda parked the car in an alley and shut off the engine, and she and Lara got out of the car.
Lara turned on the digital camera.
"So, how do you wanna do this?" Lara asked.
"I dunno." Linda took off her blue dress shirt, revealing her Supergirl shirt underneath. "I guess I'll just fly around, and you can follow me." She threw her dress shirt into the car. "If something happens, start taking pictures."
"Okay." Lara said.
Linda took off her black dress shoes and put them in the car. She took off her black dress pants, revealing her red hot pants underneath. She got her red boots out of the car and put them on. Then she got her red cape out of the car and put it on, fastening the velcro straps in the front. Finally, she got her blonde wig and red headband out of the car. She put the wig on her head and held it in place with her headband.
"Okay." Linda said.
Lara got into the driver seat and closed the door. She locked it. She closed the passenger side door and locked it as well.
Linda jumped and flew into the sky. She could hear the car's engine starting. She flew out of the alley and flew up the street. She looked down at the pedestrians. She could see some of them looking up at her and staring in surprise. Linda smiled and waved at them.
Eventually, Linda noticed a car speeding down the street. She descended in front of it.
Linda put her hands forward and let the car hit her. It pushed her for a bit, and then Linda brought the car to a stop.
The man driving the car put it into Park and stuck his head out the window. "What the hell?!"
Linda smiled. "You were speeding, sir. Try to be a bit more careful."
"Let me go, bitch!" the man yelled.
Suddenly, three police cars arrive and parked. The driver side doors opened, and six officers got out. They drew their guns and pointed them at the man's car.
"Come out with your hands up!" one of the officers yelled.
The man opened the driver side door, got out, and ran.
Linda ran after him and reached out with her left hand. She grabbed the back of his shirt and brought him to a halt. She curled her right arm around his neck and walked him over to the police officers. She shoved him at them. Two of the officers tackled him to the pavement, and one of them handcuffed him.
"Thank you. This man just robbed a convenience store." the officer that had first spoken told Linda. "Who are you?"
Linda moved her legs apart from each other. She placed her left hand on her hip and did a sideways peace sign over her right eye with her right hand. "I'm the pretty soldier of love and justice - Supergirl! I shall right wrongs and triumph over evil!"
The police officers stared at her. So did everyone else who had stopped to watch.
Linda flew into the sky and back to the alley.
She landed in the alley.
Soon, Lara arrived and parked the car.
Linda walked over and opened the passenger side door. "Got it?"
Lara nodded. "Yup. Pictures and video."
Linda got into the passenger seat, closed the door, and locked it.
"You were awesome, girl." Lara told her.
"Thanks." Linda replied.
Linda took off her headband and wig. She took off her boots. She put on her dress pants, dress shoes, and dress shirt.
"Let's go to the paper." Linda said.

Linda walked into the Chicago Tribune building.
She walked over to a receptionist.
"Can I help you?" the receptionist asked.
"I'm here about a job as a photographer and reporter." Linda said.
"We're not hiring right now." the receptionist told her.
Linda held up her digital camera. "I've got pictures of a new super-hero. I think the editor will be interested."
The receptionist picked up the receiver of her phone and paged the editor. "Mr. Wycliff? There's a woman here to see you about a job. She says she has pictures of some new super-hero." She paused for a moment. "Okay." She hung up the receiver and looked at Linda. "He'll see you." She gave Linda directions to his office.
Linda smiled. "Thank you."
Linda went to the editor's office and knocked on the door.
"Come in." he said.
Linda opened the door and walked into his office. She closed the door behind her.
Mr. Wycliff was sitting at his desk. He stood up.
Linda walked over to him.
He held out his right hand. "Hello. I'm Don Wycliff."
Linda shook his hand. "Linda Danvers."
He motioned at a chair. "Please, have a seat."
"Thank you." Linda sat down in the chair in front of the desk.
Mr. Wycliff sat down in his own chair. "So, what kind of super-hero is this?"
"Supergirl." Linda replied. "She caught a robber less than a half-hour ago." She offered him her digital camera.
He took it and hooked it up to his computer. He downloaded the pictures onto his hard drive and looked at them.
"These are good." he commented. "Okay, I'll hire you."
"I'd also like to write the article." Linda told him.
"Sure." he agreed. "Can you start now?"
"I gotta go and talk to a friend." Linda told him.
"Sure, but hurry back." he told her. "I want the article for tomorrow morning's edition."
"Sure." Linda said.
He held up his right hand. "Welcome to the Chicago Tribune, Ms. Danvers."
Linda shook his hand. "Thank you, sir."
She stood up, turned, and walked back to the door. She opened the door and walked out of the office, closing the door behind her.
She walked back to the reception area and smiled at the receptionist.
Then Linda walked outside and over to her car. She opened the passenger side door and smiled at Lara.
Lara grinned. "Congratulations!"
"Thanks." Linda said. "Can we go to the university later? The editor wants me to write an article for tomorrow's paper."
"Sure." Lara agreed.
"Okay." Linda said. "Go home and copy the video tape. Drop the copy off at WLS anonymously. Then come and pick me up."
"Right." Lara said.
Linda locked the door and closed it, then she headed back to the building.

Linda and Lara walked into their house.
Lara closed the screen door behind her and locked it. She did the same to the front door.
"Okay, the city should soon learn of Supergirl." Linda walked over to the doorway to their bedroom and tossed the cameras, wig, headband, and a floppy disk onto the bed. She tossed the boots onto the floor.
Linda turned around and walked over to the TV. She picked up a fresh video cassette off of the stand and unwrapped it. She inserted the cassette into the VCR, turned around, and walked over to the couch. She sat down to Lara's left on the couch. She dropped the cassette's sleeve on the coffee table and picked up the TV and VCR remote controls.
Linda turned on the TV. It was already tuned to channel 7. She turned on the VCR, selected channel 7, and pressed Record.
"Here." Linda offered a piece of paper to Lara.
Lara took it and read it. It was Linda's article:

CHICAGO GETS A SUPER-HERO

Linda Danvers
ldanvers@chicagotribune.com

Metropolis has Superman. Now the Windy City has its very own super-hero.
Yesterday, at 9:30 AM, a blonde, teenaged girl landed on Caldwell Avenue in front of a speeding car. Her intention was to slow the speeding motorist down. It turned out that the man had just robbed a convenience store. The girl stalled the man and prevented his escape, giving six police officers the time that they needed to catch up to and capture the criminal.
The girl identified herself as Supergirl. Where she's from is a mystery, but there's no doubt in my mind that she's chosen to call Chicago home.

Lara set the paper down on the coffee table. "Cool. Congratulations."
"Thanks." Linda replied. "News is about to start."

Thursday, June 19, 2003, 12:40 PM

Linda got out of the car, dressed in her Supergirl costume, and closed the passenger side door.
"Are you sure about this?" Lara asked, sitting in the driver seat. "You've never flown this far before."
"It's for comic books." Linda told her. "I'm gonna do it. I'll be fine. Pick me up in six hours."
"Okay." Lara turned the ignition and started the car's engine.
Linda flew into the sky.
She had to land three times to rest.
Finally, she landed in an alley. She took off her wig and headband, pulled another pair of shorts and another shirt out of her Supergirl shirt, put them on, took off her boots, pulled a sandal out of each pocket of her hot pants, put them on, zipped and buttoned her shorts, and stuff her wig and headband into her front right shorts pocket. Linda carried her boots with her to Warren's Books.
She entered the bookstore. The door closed behind her. Linda set her boots down behind a stack of books.
John was standing behind the counter.
Linda walked over to him.
"Hi." Linda said.
"Hey, Linda, whatcha up to?" John asked.
"Just picking up my comics and Lara's." Linda told him.
"Okay." John got the comic books and counted. He put the comics on the counter. "Twenty-two - fourteen for you and eight for Lara."
"Okay." Linda took her money out of her front left shorts pocket and handed a twenty-dollar bill to John.
"Okay." John opened the register, put the bill in, and closed the register. He got two bags and put the comic books in them. He handed the bags to Linda.
"Thanks." Linda turned and walked to the door and picked up her boots.
John waved at her. "You take care, Linda."
"You, too." Linda said. "Bye."
Linda opened the door and walked outside.
The door closed behind her.
Linda walked back to the alley and entered it.
She took off her sandals, shirt, and shorts. She took her wig and headband out of her front right shorts pocket and put them on. She stuffed her shorts and shirt into her Supergirl shirt, put her sandals into the pockets of her hot pants, put on her boots, and zipped and buttoned her hot pants.
Linda flew into the sky.
She had to land three times to rest.
Finally, she landed in the alley. Lara had just arrived.
Linda walked over to the passenger side, opened the door, got into the car, closed the door, and locked it.
"Here." Linda handed one of the bags to Lara. "That's eight bucks."
Lara handed a five-dollar bill and three one-dollar bills to Linda. "Thanks."
"No problem." Linda replied.

Saturday, June 21, 2003, 3:57 PM

Linda unlocked and opened the front door to the house.
She and Lara walked into the living room.
Lara closed the door and locked it.
They went into the kitchen.
"'Hulk' was good." Linda said.
"Yeah," Lara replied, "but it was too slow at the beginning."
Linda opened the refrigerator and took out two bottles of Pepsi. "True."
"I would've trimmed it." Lara said.
Linda closed the refrigerator and handed one of the bottles to Lara.
Lara opened her bottle and took a swig of the Pepsi.
Linda opened her own bottle and took a swig of the Pepsi.

Wednesday, June 25, 2003, 5:37 PM

Linda entered Warren's Books. The door closed behind her.
John was standing behind the counter. Chuck was standing in front of the counter. They were currently sorting through the comic books.
Linda walked over to them.
"Hi." Linda said.
"Hey, Linda." Chuck said.
"Hey, Linda." John said.
Linda picked up the comic books that had been set aside for her, looked at them, and set them down on the counter.
John looked at Chuck. "Should you tell her, or should I?"
"You tell her." Chuck told him.
"What?" Linda asked.
John looked at Linda. "Warren got pissed at Diamond for screwing up another order. We're not going to be getting any new comics."
"Oh." Linda said.
"I don't blame him." John added. "They suck."
"Well, I guess we'll have to go somewhere else from now on." Linda said.
"Yeah. I'm sorry." John told her. He picked the comic books up and counted. He put the comics back on the counter. "Let's say...ten. Lara pays your half."
Linda took her wallet out of her front left jeans pocket and opened it. She took out a ten-dollar bill and handed it to John.
"Thank you, ma'am." John opened the register, put the bill in, and closed the register. He got two bags and put the comic books in them. He put the bags on the counter.
"Will there be anything else today, young lady?" John asked her.
"Nah." Linda replied.
"Uh, let's see. 'The Hulk'." John shook his head. "It wasn't that great."
"I saw it on Saturday." Linda replied. "It was okay."
"See, that's the problem." John told her. "'Spider-Man' was awesome. The first X-Men - it was good. The second one was great. With 'The Hulk', people were like 'It's okay'."
"Yeah." Linda agreed.
"It dragged on too long." John continued. "You don't even see the Hulk for like an hour. I'm surprised they went ahead and released it that way to tell you the truth."
"Yeah." Linda picked up the bags. "See ya later."
"Okay, yeah, we're gonna try to set something up with Mile High." John told her. "I'll let you know how it goes."
"Okay." Linda turned and walked to the door.
John waved at her. "You take care, Linda."
"You, too." Linda said. "Bye."
"Bye." Chuck said.
Linda opened the door and walked outside.

Thursday, June 26, 2003, 4:32 PM

Linda walked out of the Chicago Tribune building.
A man with short, black hair walked over to her. "Excuse me."
Linda stopped walking, and he stopped walking as well.
"Can you please tell me where I can find Linda Danvers?" he asked her.
"That's me." Linda replied.
The man offered her his right hand. "Ms. Danvers, my name is Clark Kent. I'm a reporter for the Daily Planet."
Linda shook his hand. "Hello."
They released each other's hand.
"Hello." Clark said. "May I call you Linda?"
"Sure." Linda replied. "May I call you Clark?"
"Sure." Clark replied. "Linda, I've seen Supergirl on the news, and I've read your articles about her on the 'Net. I was wondering if you'd be able to contact her for me."
"I can try." Linda told him. "Why?"
"I'd like to interview her for the Planet." Clark told her.
"Okay." Linda said.
Clark took a card out of her front right jacket pocket and offered it to her. "Here's my card. She can reach me there."
Linda took his card, stuck it into her front right pants pocket, took out another card, and offered it to him. "Here's my card."
Clark took it from her. "Okay. Thank you for your time, Linda."
"No problem, Clark." Linda said.
Linda walked over to her car.

Linda was flying over Chicago in her Supergirl costume.
Suddenly, she noticed a man with black hair in a blue, red, and yellow suit flying in her direction. He pointed down at a rooftop.
Linda descended and touched down on the rooftop of a building. The man landed also, facing her.
"Hello." the man said in a deep voice.
"Hey, Clark." Linda said.
"What?" he asked. "You must be mistaken, miss. I'm Superman."
"Good for you." Linda told him. "What do you want, Clark?"
"How did you know it was me?!" Clark whined.
"I met you a half-hour ago, dude." Linda explained.
"Linda?" Clark asked her.
"Uh, yeah." Linda replied. "Hi."
"Hi." Clark replied. "How'd you see through my disguise?"
"Because it's a pretty stupid disguise." Linda replied. "You look like Clark Kent without glasses and with your hair slicked back."
"It fools everyone at the Daily Planet." Clark told her.
"Everyone at the Daily Planet is a fucking idiot." Linda said. "What did they do? Hire the 'Pokémon' and 'Sailor Moon' characters?"
"What?" Clark asked in confusion.
"I'll explain it later." Linda told him. "I'm off work, and nothin's goin' on here. Let's go back to my house, and we'll talk there."
"Okay." Clark agreed.
They flew into the sky.

Linda walked into the living room.
Clark came in behind her and closed and locked the screen door and front door behind him.
Linda and Clark walked into the kitchen.
Lara was standing at the stove. She turned to face them. "Hey, Linda. Who's this?"
"This is Clark Kent." Linda introduced. "He's a reporter with the Daily Planet in Metropolis. Clark, this is Lara Love, my friend and roommate."
Clark offered Lara his right hand, and Lara shook it.
"Hey." Lara said.
"Hey." Clark said.
They released each other's hand.
"I've got dinner almost ready." Lara told Linda.
"Put it on three plates." Linda told her. "Clark's joining us."
"Cool." Lara said.
"Thank you." Clark told Linda.
Linda smiled. "No problem. Let me get you a chair."
Linda went to her bedroom and brought her computer chair into the kitchen. She set it by the table.
"Thanks." Clark said.
Linda and Clark sat down at the table, Linda to Clark's left.
Lara came by with three plates, three forks, three knives, and three tissues. She set them down on the table.
Clark looked at Linda. "Tissues?"
"Napkins are redundant." Linda explained.
"Uh-huh." Clark replied.
Lara sat down to Clark's right.
The three of them started eating their cooked beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, and corn.
"You didn't tell me that you have a roommate." Clark told Linda.
"It's okay. She knows." Linda said. "We can talk."
"Linda, he knows about you?" Lara asked her in surprise.
"Yeah." Linda replied.
"How can you trust a reporter with that kind of information?" Lara asked her.
"Sorry about that." Linda told Clark.
"It's okay." Clark assured them. "I wouldn't trust some reporters myself. As for how Linda can trust me, I've got a little secret myself. I'm Superman."
"You're kidding." Lara said in disbelief.
"No, he ain't." Linda told her.
"Holy shit." Lara said.
"Why did you approach me as Superman?" Linda asked Clark.
"I had decided to patrol the city, and then I saw you. Since I was looking for you anyway, I just decided to approach you." Clark explained. "You seem to be doing a good job, but...couldn't you have come up with an original costume, rather than ripping off mine?"
Linda laughed. "Are you upset?"
"Not really." Clark replied. "What made you want to become a super-hero?"
I didn't want to feel guilty over doing nothing every time that I hear someone calling for help." Linda replied.
"That's it?" Clark asked.
"That's it." Linda said.
"Not much of an interview." Clark said. "Let's see. What else can I add to the article?"
"What about writing about Supergirl's origin?" Linda suggested.
"Great." Clark said. "What is your origin?"
"You tell me." Linda told him. "I've got some stuff for you to look at after dinner."

Linda joined Lara and Clark on the couch, sitting to Lara's left and Clark's right.
"Okay." Linda set the pentagonal object on the coffee table and pressed the button on it. "Can you translate this?"
The hologram of the man appeared and started talking.
"'Hello, Kara.'" Clark began. "'My name is Zor-El, and I am your father. You were born on Argo Space Station on the 28th day of Navshech in the year 5,745 of the current history. That was three days ago. Ten years earlier, the planet Krypton had been destroyed in an explosion. As far as we know, all Kryptonians except for those on this station were killed. It had been built just a year prior to Krypton's destruction. I was one of the engineers that had helped build Argo. Five days ago, an accident occurred, and radiation started leaking from the station power reactor. Forcefields were put in place, but they won't hold for much longer. We will die. In hope that at least one of our race may survive, we are sending you in a small ship - the only one that we have - to another world in our galaxy. We have only a few minutes until we must prepare the ship for launch. There's someone else that would like to speak to you.'"
The woman stepped into view and started talking.
"'Hello, Kara.'" Clark translated. "'My name is Alura. I am your mother. We had hoped to raise you here on Argo. You would have had a good life for probably twenty more years - before our food and energy reserves were depleted. Sadly, this will not happen. We hope that you will find happiness on your new world. We don't know if you'll ever be able to understand this, but we want to say that we love you, and we wish you the best. We took many pictures and put them on a small computer for you. This is farewell, Kara. Safe journey, Last Daughter of Krypton.'"
The hologram shut off.
Everyone was silent for a moment.
"I'm Kryptonian," Linda finally said, looking at Clark, "just like you."
"More than you know." Clark told her. "My father was named Jor-El. He was Zor-El's brother."
"So, we're first cousins?" Linda asked him.
"Yes." Clark told her.
Linda hugged Clark, and he hugged her. They started crying.
After thirty seconds, they let go of each other. Linda wiped away her tears. Clark took off his glasses, wiped away his tears, and put his glasses back on.
"What would the 28th day of Navshech in the year 5,745 of the current history be as an Earth date?" Linda asked Clark.
"Let's see." Clark thought for a moment. "That was in...1984." He thought for a moment more. "November 23rd, I believe. Yeah."
"Thanks." Linda said.
"Where are the pictures?" Clark asked her.
Linda handed the rectangular object to Clark and indicated a button with her left index finger. "This button turns it on."
Clark pressed the button. The screen turned on. Clark pressed another button and started going through the pictures.
"What does that writing say?" Linda asked.
Clark briefly glanced at the writing on the object, then he turned his attention back to the pictures. "'Kara and her family'."
Linda thought about that for a moment. "I can't believe that I have a living relative here on Earth, and he's Superman. Hey, I've got another question."
"Yeah?" Clark asked.
"What's my last name?" Linda asked.
"Your full Kryptonian name is Kara Zor-El." Clark replied.
"Your Kryptonian name is Kal-El." Linda said. "Why am I named Kara Zor-El, but you're not named Kal Jor-El?"
"We're both from the House of El. However, while the given names of Kryptonian males are hyphenated with the family names of their fathers, Kryptonian females have stand-alone given names and take on their fathers' names as their surnames."
"That's so sexist." Linda told him.
"I agree." Clark replied.
"Still," Linda added, "I like the sound of Kara Zor-El better than Kara-El."
"El." Lara said. "Told ya. It's written in the Book of Mormon."
"Give it a rest." Linda told her. "I'm not a Jewish alien, and Krypton sure ain't an Israelite colony."
Clark looked away from the pictures and stared at Linda and Lara.
Linda looked at him. "Don't ask."
Clark turned back to look at the pictures.

Saturday, July 5, 2003, 2:43 PM

Linda unlocked and opened the front door to the house.
She and Lara walked into the living room.
Lara closed the door and locked it.
They went into the kitchen.
"T3 was awesome, girl!" Linda exclaimed.
"Fuck, yeah!" Lara agreed. "And I didn't expect the ending at all!"
Linda opened the refrigerator and took out two bottles of Vanilla Coke. "Yeah, I know. Kinda sad, though."
"Think any cute girls died on Judgment Day?" Lara asked.
Linda closed the refrigerator and handed one of the bottles to Lara. "I dunno. None appeared to die."
Lara opened her bottle and took a swig of the Vanilla Coke.
Linda opened her own bottle and took a swig of the Vanilla Coke.

Wednesday, July 9, 2003, 11:59 AM

Linda was standing in front of Chicago City Hall.
A lot of camera crews were gathered there, also, from lots of local television and radio stations. There were also many powerful people gathered.
Standing to Linda's left, in front of a podium, was Mayor Richard M. Daley.
"Good morning." Mayor Daley greeted. "Today, it is my privilege to welcome to our fair city a remarkable young woman. For nearly a month now, she has protected our good residents. To date, she has apprehended 30 criminals, saved 12 human lives, carried 40 dogs out of the paths of oncoming traffic, and rescued 19 cats from trees. For her service to our city, I hereby present Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl, with the key to the city."
People applauded. Mayor Daley turned to face Linda. Linda turned to face him. He handed the key to her.
Mayor Daley offered his right hand to Linda. Linda shook his hand.
"Congratulations, Kara." Mayor Daley said with a smile.
Linda grinned. "Thank you, Mr. Mayor."
Mayor Daley stepped backwards. Linda stepped over to the podium and smiled at the cameras.
"Wow, my own key." Linda said. "This is so cool. Really, though, thank you. This means a lot. I'm just glad to be of help. Thank you."
Mayor Daley and other people applauded for her.

Saturday, July 12, 2003, 2:59 PM

Linda unlocked and opened the front door to the house.
She and Lara walked into the living room.
Lara closed the door and locked it.
They went into the kitchen.
"LXG was cool." Linda said.
"Yeah, but I could tell that Dorian Gray was gonna betray them." Lara told her.
Linda opened the refrigerator and took out two bottles of Tropical Sprite Remix. "Yeah, it was pretty obvious, although some movies actually make the apparent bad guy a good guy and an apparent good guy the bad guy."
"Like Harry Potter." Lara suggested.
Linda closed the refrigerator and handed one of the bottles to Lara. "Exactly."
Lara opened her bottle and took a swig of the Tropical Sprite Remix.
Linda opened her own bottle and took a swig of the Tropical Sprite Remix.

Saturday, July 26, 2003, 3:04 PM

Linda unlocked and opened the front door to the house.
She and Lara walked into the living room.
Lara closed the door and locked it.
They went into the kitchen.
"The new Tomb Raider film was awesome!" Linda exclaimed.
"Yeah!" Lara agreed. "Of course, I like the hero's name."
Linda opened the refrigerator and took out two bottles of Mountain Dew: Live Wire. "Question: Is the film called 'Lara Croft and the Cradle of Life', 'Tomb Raider and the Cradle of Life', 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and the Cradle of Life', 'Lara Croft: The Cradle of Life', 'Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life', or 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life'?"
"I have no idea." Lara replied.
Linda closed the refrigerator and handed one of the bottles to Lara. "I've seen all of the titles suggested. Can't they make up their minds?"
Lara opened her bottle and took a swig of the Mountain Dew: Live Wire.
Linda opened her own bottle and took a swig of the Mountain Dew: Live Wire.

Friday, August 1, 2003, 7:59 PM

Linda and Lara were seated in front of Lara's computer, Lara to Linda's right.
"There we go." Linda said, grinning. "Supergirl Enterprises is now online."
Lara grinned. "Cool! All things Supergirl are now online!"
"Well, not all things." Linda told her. "Obviously, I don't reveal who Supergirl is."
"Yeah, well, duh." Lara commented. "But still, all of your articles, all of 'your' pictures, Clark's interview with you that he e-mailed to you, all TV reports, and even some radio spots are up. It's a true chronicle of the heroic deeds of Supergirl."
"Well, that's kinda the point." Linda unplugged her monitor and keyboard from the file server and plugged them back into Lara's tower.
Then both girls moved their chairs over to their right.
Linda started working on her own computer. "Now, I gotta submit our site to a bunch of search engines."
Lara smiled. "Let's see how many hits we get by the end of the day."

Saturday, August 2, 2003, 3:42 PM

Linda unlocked and opened the front door to the house.
She and Lara walked into the living room.
Lara closed the door and locked it.
They went into the kitchen.
"'American Wedding' was funny." Linda said.
"Yeah!" Lara agreed. "I can't wait to see the Unrated version."
Linda opened the refrigerator and took out two bottles of 50/50. "Too bad Shannon Elizabeth isn't in it."
"Who cares?" Lara asked. "She's got that stupid no nudity clause in her contract."
Linda closed the refrigerator and handed one of the bottles to Lara. "True."
Lara opened her bottle and took a swig of the 50/50.
Linda opened her own bottle and took a swig of the 50/50.

Linda was flying over Chicago in her Supergirl costume.
Suddenly, she noticed Clark flying in her direction. He pointed down at a rooftop.
Linda descended and touched down on the rooftop of a building. Clark landed also, facing her.
"Hey, Clark." Linda said. "What's up?"
"I just came across your website today." Clark told her. "Supergirl dot org."
Linda smiled. "Cool. Y'like?"
"'Supergirl, her distinctive likeness, and the 'S' shield are registered trademarks of Supergirl Enterprises, Unlimited'." Clark recited. "What's that all about?"
"I like 'Enterprise'." Linda replied.
"I mean the whole thing." Clark said.
"The day after we first met, last month, I formed the company, Supergirl Enterprises, which consists of Supergirl, me, and Lara." Linda told him. "I started Supergirl dot org yesterday. I've made enough money for my own domain name and file server. Ain't that cool?"
"You trademarked the 'S'." Clark said.
"Don't worry." Linda told him. "I'll let you keep using it."
Clark sighed in defeat. "I don't know if I can get used to having a relative."
Linda giggled. "Come on. I'll buy you dinner."
They flew into the sky.

The End


Copyright 2003 by Mark Moore