Disclaimer: I DO NOT in any form or fashion OWN these characters, DC comics, entertainment, and Warner Bros. are the owners not me. I do not take any credit for the characters or anything ALL CREDIT goes to DC…..again ALL CREDIT GOES TO DC! No money is being made off of this story…none, No money whatsoever is being made or exchanged so please….please DO NOT SUE ME! I have no money. None. Okay cool.
Hey Readers it me Nomad88 back again with another chapter in the Superman Mythos. I hope everyone enjoyed the last chapter and all of the characters that I introduced. I know not a lot of stuff happened in the last chapter but that was just the intro, this chapter picks up just a bit maybe not with action but with more story moments. Again I hope you all enjoy this chapter as much as you did the last chapter but I'm going to stop talking now but before I do I just one to say my usual last remarks READ, REVEIEW( A writer's main source of motivation) and of course ENJOY!
Chapter 2: The Last Days of Krypton part 2
KAARC- Kryptonian Astronomy and Research Center
"Gently now…..gently" Jor-El directed as he stood to the side watching several Mecha- sized machines handling his badly damaged ice-crystal spaceship. The Mecha-machines were lowering it down onto a special crystal-examination platform that would allow the techs to examine the extent of the damage done during space travel. Jor-El's eyes roamed over his ship and just had to shake his head in a bit of disbelief.
'It's by the grace of Rao that I made it back to Krypton in one piece' he thought to himself, chuckling a bit.
THUD! Went the sound of the Mecha-machines setting the spaceship down.
"Perfect" he said with a smile "Thank you gentlemen for your help"
The Kryptonian workers operating the Mecha-machines waved at him before they started to move to another part of the massive research center. Jor-El watched them go and he walked towards the ladder that lead up to the platform that held his ship. He then quickly climbed the short ladder.
Jor-El stepped onto the platform and he walked to his broken ship. Once he got close enough he reached towards the belt on his blue and white suit and he removed a green crystal from the pouch on his left side and he held it to one side of his ship. When the green crystal touched the section of the ship the craft began to shake and shudder for a moment.
RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE! CREAAAAAAK!
The section that the green crystal touched began to vertically lift upwards. Jor-El put the crystal back into his pouch and he ventured inside.
Inside the ship-
Jor-El sloshed through the water that had managed to seep into his ship when he had crashed into the ocean, but the water wasn't his main concern, his focus was solely on reaching the control center.
Jor-El touched a hand pad on the crystal door in front of him and it slid open. He walked through and into the control center. He looked at the badly cracked viewing screen and then towards the computer console where he saw several blinking lights. He quickly made his way over to the console and he began to assess what still worked.
Few Minutes Later
Jon-Lei sloshed through the water until he reached the control room, he peered inside to see Jor-El standing at the computer console flipping switches and muttering to himself, but he stopped his mutterings when he heard Jon-Lei enter the room.
"My father told me to see if you needed any help" said Jon-Lei as he made his way over to Jor-El.
"No, I'm just about finished here" he replied.
"What are you doing?" Jon-Lei asked.
"Just empting all of the data that I collected during my travels."
"Where did you go Jor-El, when you left you merely stated that you were going further than any Kryptonian has ever gone."
"And I meant just that, I went further than any Kryptonian has ever gone Jon-Lei. I've discovered dozens of new solar systems and planets and species that it would make your head implode."
"I welcome the implosion…it would be a better way to die than to die of boredom." Jon-Lei replied
Jor-El could only laugh at his comment.
"With my findings we'll all be busy for quite some time I can assure you." He replied.
DEET! DEET! DEET! went the sound of the computer console in front of them. Jor-El and Jon-Lei looked to the left as a small section of the computer console opened and pushed out a brilliantly colored crystal orb. Jor-El smiled as he grabbed the slightly sparkling orb and held it in his hands.
"It's beautiful." Jon-Lei commented looking at the orb.
Jor-El turned to the younger man and nodded his head.
"The universe….is a beautiful place"
The two scientists turned away from the computer console and they started for the exit.
Outside the Ship
Jor-El and Jon-Lei exited the ship and the first thing that they saw was Jon-Lei's father Von-Lei. He was climbing up the ladder and right as he stepped onto the platform he turned around and held his hand down. A feminine hand grabbed his open palm and climbed up the remaining rungs of the ladder and stepped onto the platform.
Jor-El stopped in his tracks and he let a large smile appear on his face because standing a few feet away from him was his beautiful wife Lara-Lor Van, looking just as radiant as the day that he met her 31years ago.
"Lara"
"Jor-El"
A few second passed with them looking at the other before they stepped towards each other and embraced in a hug. They hugged each other tightly and deeply breathed the other's scent and relishing in the moment.
"By the spirit of Rao" Lara-Lor whispered, "I am so happy to see you."
"And I you Lara." He responded back.
Von-Lei looked at the two and with a nod of his head he wordlessly signaled to his son that it was time to leave them alone. Jon-Lei moved from Jor-El's side and towards the ladder.
"Jor-El, we're eager to see your findings but I'm sure that it can wait just a bit longer." Said Von-Lei with a small smile, "I'm sure you have more pressing matters to attend to"
Jor-El only smiled back in response.
Jon-Lei made his way down the ladder and he was swiftly followed by his father and once they were gone Jor-El and Lara-Lor was left alone on the platform.
Jor-El and Lara-Lor broke the hug and they stared into each other's eyes. No physical words were spoken because none were needed; just being in the other's presence after being apart for a year spoke volumes about the love that held for each other. Jor-El smiled and he leaned for at the exact same time Lara-Lor tilted her head up and stood up on her tip-toes; their lips met in a gently and loving kiss.
Across Kryptonopolis- House of Ev
DEET! DEET! DEET! came the steady beeping sound. The sound reverberated with the elegant master bedroom chamber that belonged to the House of Ev leader Pol-Ev. The attractive woman stirred from her sleep and she rolled to the right.
"Computer" she stated in a slightly groggy voice.
"You have one message" the computerized voice stated.
"From whom?" she asked opening her eyes a bit more.
"House of An leader Al-An"
"Play message." She stated.
Above her bed a holographic image appeared and the person was Al-An, leader of the house of An. He was a young man in his late 20's with slicked back brown hair, brown eyes, and tanned skin. He was wearing a yellowish green outfit with his family's crest in the middle of his chest. The house of An crest was on a yellow-green background with a red N and black marks going through the middle of the letter.
"Pol-Ev, this is Al-An calling to alert you that Jor-El has returned to Krypton and he is currently at the Kryptonian Astrology and Research Center. There is word of a gathering at his house later this night as a celebration of sorts. If you are going to attend please inform me so we can further discuss the possibilities of our houses joining together. I look forward to your reply."
BEEP! "End Message" The computer responded.
Pol-Ev heaved a sigh layed back down in her bed, she heard shifting from her left and she turned her head over to see the back of her current lover General Zod.
"He has returned" he stated "My best friend has returned."
Pol-Ev heaved another sigh and scooted closer to him.
"You don't seem happy that he's back." She said while running a hand down his bare back.
"I'm overjoyed Pol-Ev, but it's just…..the Council and my recent promotion to Ruling seat. I wonder what my best friend will say. Will he accept or decline like his brother."
"Well if he's your best friend as you say he is then he will welcome you with open arms to the Ruling Council." She responded.
Zod glanced over his shoulder and looked at her for a second.
"Are you going to the celebration?" he asked.
"Depends?"
"On what?" he asked.
"Are you going to be there?"
"He is my best friend, and what kind of friend would I be if I didn't go."
"Well then I'll have to make an appearance."
"…..What was that sniveling bottom feeder Al-An going on about….joining of the houses?" he asked while turning in the bed a bit.
"Jealous?" she asked with a playful smile.
"Merely intrigued."
"It is not as you heard it to be Zod. Yes, Al-An was talking about joining our houses but it is not a union between him and I but between my younger sister and his younger brother."
"Milli-Ev?" Zod questioned while turning to her.
"Mmmmhmm" she replied "It seems she has taken a liking to Al-An's brother and he believes that our families will benefit from being joined. However I believe that he wants to join families because of the political sway my family possesses, he thinks some of my prestige will rub off onto his family which would garner him a high following. Little does he know that my sister has no interest in politics so if they were to get married he would gain nothing."
"He would have to marry you." Zod stated.
"And I would never Marry someone like Al-An." She said quickly.
"Not good looking enough?" Zod asked with a hint of humor in his voice.
Pol-Ev smiled and scooted a bit closer to him; she rose up and let the covers fall from her body.
"Not old enough to know what a woman truly desires" she said in a low husky voice. Zod smirked and lowered his eyes, allowing them to roam over her body briefly before looking back into her eyes. He leaned closer and closed the small distance and captured her lips in a fiery kiss. Zod leaned forward even more and pushed her down onto the bed not for a second breaking the passionate kiss.
Later-KAARC-
Jor-El and Lara-Lor entered the main chamber or techno-hub of the entire Kryptonian Astrology and Research Center, and upon their entrance to the expansive hub their eyes fell upon a man that stood at 6'6 with thick slicked back jet black hair, dark eyes, a five o'clock shadow, and tan skin. He had a muscular build and that along with his height made him an intimidating figure but he could be the farthest from being anything remotely violent. He was a trusted member of the Kryptonian science team and a most trusted ally and friend of Jor-El, his name was simply Non.
"Non." Jor-El stated in happiness.
"Jor-El" Non replied in a deep baritone voice. The two clasped hands in friendship, Non's eyes traveled from Jor-El and to his wife Lara-Lor, "Lara-Lor, a pleasure to see you as well."
"As it is to see you Non."
Non smiled at her comment and bowed a bit.
"Was my presence missed greatly?" Jor-El asked with a smile upon his face.
"Not while I've been here directing things." Non shot back with a smirk.
Jor-El chuckled at his comment.
"All kidding aside though, yes your presence here on Krypton has been greatly missed, and I'll be happy to get you up to speed on a few things later. My main concern now is how well the wormhole technology held up in your travels."
"I'll admit that there are a few tweaks to the technology that we must make as well as a few tweaks to the ship but for the most part it handled rather well."
"I'm pleased to hear that. When you first said you was going to use it I was afraid for you life" said Non offhandedly.
"What?" Lara-Lor questioned turning her eyes to Jor-El, "You said that the technology was safe and that there was nothing to worry about."
Jor-El scrunched his face up a bit and then he and Non both turned to Lara-Lor who had a serious look upon her face.
"I uh….I believe what Non is saying is that while the wormhole technology is safe….it had never been tested and so while my life was not in any real danger I…he…he…..it's a figure of speech darling." Jor-El answered quickly before giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. Lara-Lor looked at him and then at Non who had a sheepish look upon his face.
"Uh-Huh"
Non cleared his throat and turned his eyes back to Jor-El.
"Ah, well I believe I've said enough but I look forward to discussing this in more detail with you Jor-El as well as your finding while exploring the unknowns of the universe."
"Actually Non, I'm here to drop off some of the data that I col…." Jor-El started before being interrupted by Non who held up his hand.
"I must say Nah my friend. I know you well enough to know that you wish to go over your data at your home with your own systems before sharing with all of us here at the science council."
It was Jor-El's turn to smirk.
"You know me too well old friend."
Non nodded his head again.
"You've been gone for a whole year Jor-El, some would say that being away from your home for so long would warrant a rest and I'm inclined to agree. Once you've rested and done your own data crunch you can return where we will go over everything in depth. Does that sound feasible?" he asked.
"Yes it does" Jor-El answered.
Non bowed his head a bit again
"And again…it is good to see you. I hate to cut this short but there is a technological problem with a few of our mechanical machines that I must discuss with Brainiac" Said Non.
"What problems?" Jor-El asked quickly.
"No No Jor-El, rest, as I said there are a few things that I'll have to bring you up to speed on, but it can wait. Be well, the both of you."
The gentle Kryptonian giant turned and began to walk away but before he left he turned around again, "Oh before I go I'm must apologize in advance for not making it to your surprise celebration."
"My what?" Jor-El questioned.
"Your surprise…..wait you didn't know?"
"No Non, he didn't know because it was a surprise" Lara-Lor stated in a deadpan voice.
"I thought the surprise was an informal surprise at least that's what I heard."
"No, it was a formal surprise." Lara-Lor said.
"Ah well….then forget I said anything" he replied quickly before turning around and hurriedly making his exit while a slightly fuming Lara-Lor stared at retreating form.
"I swear for a man that's almost as smart as you Jor-El he can be quite dense at times." She stated.
Jor-El chuckled again.
"You're planning a surprise celebration for me?" he asked while looking at her.
"Yes, I was. As of right now your family and my family are at our house awaiting our return and later on in the night-cycle a few more guest should be over."
"A celebration is not necessary Lara, really."
"Yes it is." She stated "Jor-El you have no idea how important you are do you?"
"No more important than any other Kryptonian." He said honestly.
Lara smiled and gently took his hand in hers.
"That is why I love you Jor-El, you are incredibly humble. But trust when I say that your absence has been sorely missed; now come along, your surprise celebration is awaiting." She said with a smile while starting for the exit.
Jor-El let a small smile grace his lips as he watched her go, but it wasn't long before he followed after her.
About 1 hour later- House of El Residence
The crystal doorway receded to the side and Jor-El and Lara-Lor both entered their home, but immediately upon their entrance there was a blur of blonde hair that hit Jor-El directly in the stomach. Jor-El let out a grunt as he felt some of the air leave his lung as well as a pair of arms wrapping tightly around his body.
"UNCLE JOR-EL!" came a happy shout.
Jor-El looked down to see the smiling face of his niece Kara Zor-El hugging him to death.
Kara Zor-El was a beautiful 15 year old girl; she stood at 5'6 with long blonde hair, blue eyes, fair skin and a sparkling smile. She had a slim build that was covered in a silver and blue outfit with a small house of El crest on her right shoulder.
Jor-El smiled and he wrapped his arms around her and hugged her back.
"Kara, it's good to see you. Have you gotten taller?" he asked looking her over again.
"Yes, I have. I've grown precisely 3.6 centimeters" she responded
"Have you now, that's mighty impressive." He said.
"So did you bring me anything from space?" she asked while scrunching up her eyes.
"I brought back knowledge."
"Uh-huh…but anything else let's say like an asteroid rock or a moon stone or or…"
"Or nothing young" came a voice.
Jor-El looked up to see a very attractive blonde woman walking towards him. She looked like Kara only older, around her early to mid thirties. She was wearing a flowing light blue dress with blue shoes. The woman was Kara's mother Allura In-Zee El.
"But Mom I'm just…."
"No buts young lady, you've seen your Uncle now it's off to the guest room. You're still on punishment."
"Awww..."
"Go on."
Kara folded her arms her chest and she stomped away from the adults and headed for the guest rooms.
Allura watched her daughter go before turning back to Jor-El and smiling at him.
"Hello Jor-El, it's good to see you again." She said with a smile, stepping towards him and pulling him into a hug.
"It's good to see you as well Allura" Jor-El replied while returning the hug. The hug last for a second before they broke apart. Allura looked at him and smiled.
"By Rao…you are still handsome as ever."
Jor-El chuckled; Lara-Lor stepped up and gave him a kiss on the side of his lips.
"Isn't he handsome" she said.
Jor-El chuckled even more and a bashful look appeared on his face.
"Careful ladies my brother might die of embarrassment." Came a voice.
Jor-El, Lara-Lor and Allura In-Zee turned to the voice and they all saw Zor-El walking towards them with a smile on his face.
"Zor-El." Jor-El said with joy while stepping to him. The two brothers reached each other and gave the other a hug.
"HAHA! Jor-El, my brother it's great to see you." Zor-El said in the same joyous voice, "My Rao, let me look at you"
They looked each other over and they both noticed a few changes.
"You look like you've spent some time in the sun dear brother, don't tell me that's all you did on your expedition."
"Hardly, I have so much to tell you Zor-El. And, hold on, you look a bit a wiser…do I see gray hairs?"
"Probably. While you've been gone myself and Lara have been attending to the council as per your instructions and I must say. It's far more stressful than it looks."
"Did I not express that to you before I left." said Jor-El with a knowing smirk.
"You did but you didn't tell me it would be that bad."
"HAHA, well never judge a book by its cover."
"What?" went Zor-El
"Nothing, it's an expression I picked up from my travels." Jor-El replied with a smile.
"Is there anything else you discovered on.." Zor-El started before being interrupted by Lara-Lor. She stepped towards Jor-El and gently grabbed him by the arm.
"I'm sure he discovered many things and there will be plenty of time to discuss that later Zor-El. I do believe that the guests are waiting." She said while dragging Jor-El away.
"We will talk later" Jor-El said over his shoulder.
Lara-Lor led her husband through the living room and towards another section of the house. They reached a set of crystal steps that led upwards and as quickly as they could they ascended the steps and to the open crystal roof of their home.
Roof
As soon as Jor-El reached the roof his eyes widen a bit because standing around talking amongst themselves was the rest of his family…the other members of the House of El: his uncles and cousins, but not just his and Zor-El's side of the family but his wife Lara-Lor's and Allure's. Upon seeing him they all stopped talking and started for him.
Jor-El smiled at them and then turned to his wife.
"Welcome Home Jor-El."
Few Hours later-
Jor-El's welcome home celebration was in full swing, as the minutes rolled by more and more people arrived to the party and they all took the chance to give Jor-El a hearty welcome back and he was sure to greet them back kindly. All of the major Houses and other political figures appeared and they all greeted him. To say that Jor-El was shocked would be an understatement; he truly had no idea that he was this important of a figure to garner such a celebration.
He looked at all of the smiling and familiar faces and was touched but there was one face that he hadn't seen all night, and that was the face of his best friend Dru-Zod. When the people started to roll in he found himself searching for his best friend because while everyone admired him and wanted to be around him he only wanted to be next to two people and that was his loving wife Lara-Lor and his most trusted friend Zod. Jor-El looked away from the person that was talking to him for a moment and through the thick crowd of people he spotted his best friend standing off to the side sipping on a drink. Jor-El smirked and then politely excused himself from the conversation before making his way over to him.
General Zod took a sip of the green liquid in his drink and he looked to the left and smirked.
"All hail the great return of the all powerful Jor-El" he said
Jor-El let a smile grace his lips and he came to a stop in front of his best friend, he held out his hand and Zod returned the gesture and shook his hand firmly.
"Hello Dru..it's good to see you again my friend" said Jor-El before pulling Zod into a friendly hug. Zod returned the hug and then patted him on the back.
"I'm glad that you returned in one piece."
"Was there any doubt."
"When I heard the news that you were leaving in one of your inventions I did worry a little."
"I'm hurt." Jor-El replied with a smile.
"You forget I've known you since we were children and sometimes your inventions…..may not always work." Zod said in a humorous tone.
"That was a long time ago, I have since improved, now there is only the occasional blowback."
The two friends shared a laugh. Zod heaved a sigh and looked up into the starry night sky.
"So, where did you go?" Zod asked.
Jor-El slowly looked up into the same starry sky and he released a contented sigh.
"Everywhere." He simply stated, "I've finally reached my goal."
"What goal?" Zod asked turning back to him.
"Don't you remember? When we were younger I told you my dream was to reach for the stars like our ancestors once did..….to discovery each and every star and the wonders they each held."
"I've never had much interest in the stars Jor-El" said Zod, "But I'm proud that you have reached your goal."
"Thank you."
"You'll be happy to know that I'm on my way to reaching my own goals as it were."
"Oh?" he questioned with a raised eyebrow "Do tell."
"Well, it's not public knowledge just yet but while you were gone, there was a vote and to make a long story short…I'm going to sit upon the Ruling Council."
Jor-El stared at his friend for a minute before he started to nod his head and smile even more.
"That's wonderful news…..absolutely wonderful, can you imagine what we will accomplish on the council together Zod"
Zod smirked at his comment
"Great things are on the horizon for us both Jor-El, and I'm pleased to know that you and I will be at the forefront together."
Jor-El pulled Zod into another brotherly hug to which he returned.
Several Feet Away
Zor-El took a sip of the green liquid in his glass as he eyed his brother Jor-El hugging Zod. Zor-El just shook his head at the sight of them.
'Sometimes I wonder if I was supposed to be the older and wiser brother' he thought to himself.
"Zor"
Zor-El turned to the sound of his name being called to see his wife Alurra walking to him.
"There you are love, I've been looking for you" she said.
"I've been here. Keeping an eye on my brother for when he needs help. You know functions like these are not his fortay" he replied with a smirk to which his wife returned.
"I do. Where is he now?"
"Over there…talking to…the newest member of the Ruling Council" he stated seriously.
"Zod" Allure returned, her eyes locking onto Zod and Jor-El talking to each other, "Honestly love I don't know what's so bad about him. He's an excellent military leader."
"No one is questioning his abilities Allura. I agree he's an excellent military mind, I'm questioning the man's motives….his personality….his soul. As I told Lara I've looked into the man's eyes and I feel…I know he is not a man to be trusted."
Allura stared ahead at General Zod and she put a hand to her chin, she watched as he and Jor-El shared another laugh. A few more moments passed before she looked at Zor-El and the hard look upon his face as he took a sip of his drink.
"My Love I will always be by your side and stand with you but I must ask are you sure it's not jealousy you are feeling?"
"Excuse me" Zor-El responded turning to her, "Are you suggesting I'm jealous of Zod?"
"Not of him but of his relationship with your brother Jor-El"
Zor-El looked at his wife and then averted his gaze while taking another sip of his drink. The perception his wife possessed was uncanny, however Zor-El would never admit it out loud, a little piece of him was a tad bit jealous of the relationship between Zod and his brother. Ever since he was small and General Dru-Zod waltzed into his life Jor-El would always make time for him. Whatever Zod wanted to do Jor-El would always make time for him but there were times when Jor-El would reschedule or put off things with him in favor of Zod. When he was younger it stung but as he got older he put it passed him or at least so he thought.
"You're wrong Allura"
Allura smiled at him because she knew that she was right, she had been married to him long enough to know when he didn't want to admit something. She reached up and gently touched his arm.
"Jor-El loves you Zor….and no one will ever come between the relationship the two of you share. As for Zod, I believe you but Jor-El trusts him completely. And your brother is a good judge of character" she said softly.
"Occasionally" he replied
"Zor, maybe you should try to mend the fence, come to an understanding…and if you can't do that at least be civil. He is our military leader and you being one of the leaders of the House of El should say hello. Now stop standing in the shadows sulking. Go over there and talk to them."
Alurra took the drink from her husband's hands and finished it off. She set the crystal glass on the table that was next to them and she grabbed Zor-El's arm and started to lead him over to Jor-El and Zod.
Zod and Jor-El stopped talking when they saw Allura pushing Zor-El over to them.
"Look who I found" said Allura to the two of them.
"Zod" Zor-El stated in a neutral tone.
"Zor-El" Zod stated in the same neutral tone.
The two of them spent a long second staring at the other; while they were doing this Jor-El and Allura were looking back and forth between the two and then at each other. Allura gave a slight signal with her head to her brother in-law and he quickly picked up on the signal. Allura slowly started to back away and leave the three men to each other.
To mask her escape Jor-El opened his arms and wrapped one arm around Zod and the other around Zor-El
"My best friend and my best brother it is truly good to see the both of you once again, and under one roof. I've thought about both of you immensely during my travels and there is something that I must show the both of you. My most trusted council."
Zod heard Jor-El's statement but he looked at Zor-El and anger towards the younger man bubbled within his chest, because of him he was almost reject from the Council. Zod took hold of Jor-El's arm and gently took it off of his shoulders.
"I'll have to see whatever it is another time Jor-El, suddenly I'm not in the mood for a celebration anymore. Besides, I wasn't aware we were letting children stay up past their night-cycle sleep" he said, the shot obviously aimed at Zor-El.
Zor-El pursed his lips together and he stared into Zod's eyes with contempt.
"Tired Zod. I would be too if I spent every waking moment trying to redeem my family and failing every chance I got"
Zod's eyes lit up with anger and he took a step as did Zor-El but they were stopped by Jor-El inserting himself in-between the two of them.
"HEY! Enough….both of you" Jor-El demanded "Zor-El apologize"
Zor-El looked at his brother with an offended look before letting a scowl cross his features.
"I will not"
Jor-El pursed his lips together but he wasn't able to respond because Zod whipped away from them and he quickly and quietly left the celebration. Jor-El watched him go before turning back to his brother.
"Why did you say that….why must you antagonize him so?" he demanded.
"Are you being serious Jor-El?" Zor-El challenged "I antagonize him? Did you not hear what he said to me"
"He was joking Zor"
Zor-El gave his brother a blank stare before shaking his head and averting his gaze away from him.
"Of course you defend him. You always defend him, so much so that sometimes I believe he should be your brother."
"What is that supposed to mean?" Jor-El said in shock.
"You're the genius you figure it out." Zor-El answered before turning away and walking into the crowd of guest. Jor-El watched him go and then looked to where Zod went and then shook his head again.
"Jor" came a voice
Jor-El looked up as Allura walked to him.
"What's wrong with Zor-El I just saw him and he looked upset."
"He and Zod were…" Jor-El started before being interrupted by Allura letting out a sigh.
"Ah, say no more I believe I can fill in the blanks" she said in a low voice, "I thought the three of you together talking at this celebration would finally open up a positive dialogue"
"Why must they fight Allura?" he asked her "My brother and my best friend, why can't they understand each other the way that…."
"Because they are different Jor-El" she interrupted.
"We're all different Allura"
Allura smiled at her brother-in-law and then shook her head.
"That's not what I meant."
"Oh?"
"Yes we are all different but I meant that Zor-El and Zod are different in terms of the way they think, which is why they don't get along. Zod is all mind, which is why you are so drawn to him. He has a keen and insightful mind, and great minds always seek each other out. Your brother however…the love of my life, my light...is all heart. He lets his heart rule his thinking which puts him at odds with Zod"
"And with me it seems"
"No, not with you Jor-El, never with you…do you know why?" she asked.
"Why?"
"Because you are a bridge between the two; you have a keen mind…yes...but you also have a big heart."
"Zor-El…was not happy about Zod being on the council was he" he asked in a thoughtful tone.
Allura smiled and looked at him.
"Are you asking or telling me?"
Jor-El smiled back at her because he knew the answer. He thought back to Zor-El's statement before he walked off and then he glanced in the directions Zod went again. Jor-El let the gears in his great mind turn, roaming over his brother, Zod and all of their interactions leading up to this point before letting his smile fade a bit.
"He feels jealous of Zod and I. I can't believe I never noticed it before." He said after a minute looking Allura in the eyes.
Allura stepped to him and kissed him on the cheek.
"Keen mind….a keen mind indeed; now go show him your heart."
Allura slowly turned and she disappeared into the crowd leaving Jor-El standing there, alone with his thoughts.
Few Minutes Later- Guest Master Bedroom
Zor-El sat upon the king-sized bed in the bedroom scribbling dozens of notes and calculations down unto the computerized digital pad in his hand. He wrote down two more symbols onto the pad and then stopped and held it up.
"Computer…..process calculations"
DEET! DEET!
The notes on the pad rapidly moved around and around and around, the formulas interlocking with each other and forming several complex algorithms. The computer did this for a few more seconds until a holographic image from the pad appeared in front of him.
"Calculations processed" the computer stated.
"And?" he asked.
"And shrinking formula has been upgraded and sent to Master computers in Argo City and Kandor." The computer responded.
"Good, when I return, I want to start running test on the new shrinking formula as soon as possible am I clear."
"Yes sir" the computer replied before disappearing.
Zor-El smiled to himself and leaned his head back on the crystal headboard.
"I see you're still focusing on shrinking" came a voice.
Zor-El lifted his head to the door to see Jor-El standing there with a small smile upon his face.
"Of course I am…imagine the micro-universe that's beneath us….within us. The wonders that are just waiting to be discovered."
Jor-El nodded his head and moved towards the bed.
"I agree, there is an unseen world beneath us, within us and around us. I can just imagine the knowledge that is there just waiting to be learned and no one more deserving to discover it."
Zor-El put the computer pad in his hands down on the bed and looked at his brother.
"If you're here to discuss what happened you can forget it…I will never apologize to someone like Zod"
Jor-El didn't say anything he just walked to his younger brother and stood before him.
"I said I wanted to show you something"
Zor-El looked at his brother strangely and then slowly stood up from the bed; Jor-El reached for his coat pocket and he retrieved the slightly sparkling colorful crystal orb. He then grabbed the top half of the orb and turned it twice to the right; he then grabbed one side of the orb and then turned it in a downward motion.
The colorful orb glowed a brilliant yellow, it then lifted out of Jor-El's hand and hovered in the air, suddenly there was a flash and the brothers were no longer in the room but in a vivid and larger than life hologram of space.
Zor-El looked around and he saw several planets orbiting a yellow sun, he saw moving stars and asteroids. The younger El was in awe of what he was seeing, he had seen space before but it was only through the telescope at KAARC. He had never seen them so close like he was seeing them now.
Jor-El studied his brother's face and he saw the joy written all over it. He looked around at the vivid images that the orb was showing and his eyes focused on a planet in particular, he let out a sigh and let a smile grace his lips.
"Jor-El…what is this?"
He heard the question and he turned his eyes to his brother who was walking towards him.
"I've come to ask for your help Zor-El"
"My help?" he questioned "You've never asked for my help before. Why don't you ask Zod for help, that's who you usually go to."
Jor-El smirked and looked at all of the stars around.
"I'm afraid I don't need Zod's help. I need someone with a bit more heart."
Zor-El considered his brother's statement for a moment and then he let a small smile grace his lips and then nodded his head.
"What do you need from me?"
"I need you to help me to decide what to do with…..valuable knowledge that I discovered out there among the stars."
"How valuable is the knowledge?"
Jor-El moved away from his brother and held his hands out and gestured to what was around them.
"I have traveled far and wide my brother. I've collected so much information that Krypton will be deciphering for the next two maybe even three years. However, the most important discovery during my travels is this solar system."
Zor-El looked around and at each of the different planets.
"My ship was hit by a stray electric storm while I was in warp and as a result I ended up off course and I happened to stumble upon….the Milky Way galaxy which contains this solar system. This solar system is so far outside the radar that it might as well be invisible"
"That's curious…9 planet solar system…orbiting a…yellow star" said Zor-El
"Yes, a star that is very similar to our own star. The reason it's yellow is because it's younger, this is a very young solar system."
"Are there any intelligent life in this solar system?"
"Yes." Jor-El replied.
Jor-El held up his hands and he walked to the actively orbiting planets. He waited for a second and then he reached up and grabbed one of the planets and he held it within his hands. Zor-El moved to him and he stared at the beautiful planet.
"This my brother is the Earth. The third planet from the sun and the only planet that has life so far….there was life on the 4th planet but it's mostly a tomb now."
"What's so special about this planet?"
"The beings on this planet are similar to us. Their make up is not unlike our own and neither is their world. There are numerous similarities but it's the differences that I'm really interested in."
"Why?"
"Their planet is in close proximity to the yellow star and when I was among them…."
"You were on their planet"
"Yes, I had to make a few repairs. Their technology is primitive and in it's infant stage but I managed to rig a few things together. When I was among them though, I started to go through changes."
"Changes?" Zor-El questioned.
"Yes, my body…..I started to develop abilities…strange abilities. My strength increased exponentially, my eyesight became so acute that I could see micro-organisms….I could see through walls and stones…beams of heat could…."
"All of this happened to you while you were on this planet…was it some type of infection?" Zor-El asked "Disease..."
"No….it was the yellow star…the sun." Jor-El answered.
Zor-El looked away from his brother and then towards the swirling yellow sun. He narrowed his eyes a moment.
"Radiation" Zor-El stated after a second "If their star is like ours that means it emits radiation….but since their sun is younger and more vibrant, your cells and bones must've…greedily sucked up the star's radiation thus explaining your strange abilities."
"Precisely. The longer I stayed on Earth the more powerful I became. When I left I still possessed some of the abilities I had acquire but the further and further I went away the abilities faded."
"What do you want from me Jor-El?" Zor-El asked.
"As part of the Ruling Council and KAARC I am bound to report all of my findings during my explorations."
Zor-El stared at his brother and then at the image of Earth in his hands and then the spinning yellow sun. He hung his head and rubbed the back of his neck. Zor-El thought over everything his brother said to him and about earth and his abilities. For a long minute he let his great mind weigh each and every option before coming to one conclusion. He raised his head back to his brother and looked him in his eyes with a hard look.
"You can not tell anyone about this planet or its yellow star." he stated seriously, "You can't Jor-El….the potential is too great."
"What do you mean?" he asked.
"In the year you've been Krypton has been slowly changing….and not for the better."
"Is this still about Zod?" Jor-El asked.
"Not entirely...there have been so many conflict disputes and…and….I can't really explain, now that you're back and will be sitting at the council you'll see for yourself."
"So what do you suggest I do with this information?" he asked.
Zor-El stared back at his brother.
"Erase it"
"Erase it" Jor-El repeated back.
"Yes. I know that the discovery of this plaent is extraordinary but it's the best course of action….I can feel it."
Jor-El stood there looking back at his brother and a smile formed along his face.
"What are you smiling about?"
"My sister-in-law is very perceptive. Zor, I was going to erase it anyway." He stated.
"What?"
"Zor-El I know you think of me as being a bit naïve but I'm not. I'm well aware of the council and their shifting towards a more militaristic approach than scientific, which is one of the many things I'll be advocating against now that I'm back on Krypton. If word of this planet and it's star were to spread then I have no doubt that Krypton would be making frequent trips to this planet….and disturbing these people for the powers their young star grants our physiology, that is something I can not and will not allow."
"If you were going to erase this information anyway….why share it with me?" Zor-El asked, "And weren't you going to share this information with Zod?"
Jor-El let go of the image of the earth in his hands and then he clapped his hands together. The vivid images around them disappeared and colorful orb lowered back down into Jor-El's palm. The elder El placed a gentle hand upon his brother's shoulder again.
"I showed you this because I wanted there to be something between us, something no one else knows but you and I. And that is the planet Earth. You and I are the only Kryptonians alive that know about it and its yellow star. I was contemplating telling Zod but I believe that you are the better person to handle knowledge such as this"
A grin appeared on Zor-El's face.
"What about Laura?"
"Laura and I have many secrets together. This is more of a brother to brother secret…and the last time I checked I only have one brother."
Zor-El let a smile cross his lips and he placed a hand on Jor-El's shoulder.
"That's right, you only have one." He said
"Zor-El, I…..I want you to know that….no one will ever replace you or take your spot in my heart."
"I know" Zor-El replied.
"Good"
As the brother's stood there they suddenly heard the crystal door slide open to reveal Allura walking inside.
"My Love." Zor-El said.
"Am I interrupting a brother's only moment?" she asked with humor in her voice.
"No, I was just telling my younger brother how much he means to me. Is the celebration over?" Jor-El asked.
"Yes, it's over. Your wife is kicking everyone out."
"Ah, well it's about that time anyway. I am very tired and must be turning in for my sleep cycle. I shall see you both tomorrow for Morning meal" said Jor-El while moving away for his brother and heading for the door.
"Good-night cycle Jor-El" Allura called as he left the room leaving the two of them to each other.
Master Bedroom
Lara-Lor entered the master bedroom and once the crystal doors closed she let out a sigh of relief. Jor-El's celebration had gone on as planned but she didn't expect it to be such an ordeal with making everyone leave. Lara looked around the room for a second and she saw Jor-El standing by the window staring out and into the city under the moonlight.
"Jor-El" Lara called.
Jor-El turned to face her and he waved her over. Lara walked over to him and he embraced her.
"Thank you tonight Lara"
"You're welcome. I'm just glad that you're back. It's been hard without you"
"I know and I promise that I won't leave you again Lara."
Lara let out a sigh and chuckled a bit.
"What's so funny?"
"Nothing its just that….I know you Jor-El, what if you need to go off planet for something else. A diplomatic assignment or…or…or…."
"Or nothing Lara. I told you once I got back from my deep space expedition I wouldn't leave you again."
"But what if you do….I'll be by myself again, I'll be alone."
Jor-El glanced down to his wife and he let her words run through his mind for a long minute. He knew that his trip was hard on her but he was starting to realize the full and complete impact. Jor-El released a sigh and he continued to let her words sink into his mind but then as if the clouds parted in his mind a solution to his wife's concern came to him.
"You'll never be alone again Lara…..if we…expand our family….if we have a child."
As the words left his mouth Lara looked up at him and into his eyes and she could tell from the way he was looking at her that he was serious.
"A child"
"Yes, a child. It's time that you and I start a new chapter in our relationship. Parenthood. I know you've always wanted a child but because of my duties…it was never the right time, but after my exploration…and finally achieving my goal. I can't think of a better time of brining a child into our world."
Lara continued to look at Jor-El and she couldn't help smile a large smile and he had to smile back. The husband and wife started to lean closer each other until their lips met under the brightly light moonlight shinning through their window.
Kryptonopolis- House of Zod
General Zod broodingly sat in the darkness within his giant crystal living room. His mind was abuzz with thoughts and most of his thoughts revolved around beating Zor-El until he was black and blue.
'That…That….I swear if he wasn't Jor-El's brother' Zod thought but his thoughts were interrupted by a loud beeping.
DEET! DEET! DEET!
"Incoming message" came the loud computerized voice.
Zod looked around for a second and leaned back in his seat.
"From Whom"
"F…r….om…." the computer started to speak but the voice was warped and faint.
"COMPUTER!" Zod shouted.
"I have overwritten your computer General Dru-Zod" came the unmistakable voice.
Zod slowly stood from his seat.
"Brainiac" He stated in curiosity.
The darkness within his living room was cut by a holographic image of three large silver balls connected by a brilliant green energy.
Zod looked at the sudden appearance of Brainiac's symbols and he walked towards the artificial intelligence.
"How dare you intrude upon my home without permission" Zod stated seriously, scowling at the symbol.
"I…apologize for the intrusion but I have urgent news to present to you and you alone."
"What is it?"
"The Kroloteans are plotting against you and the rest of Krypton."
"Really; and how did you come across this information?" Zod asked folding his arms across his chest.
"I have been spying upon them. I have taken the initiative to hack into their systems and I have been monitoring them for some time. They are currently enlisting the help of several other planets that are under Krypton's banner and are planning a coup."
"Can you prove any of this?" Zod asked, "Solid proof. Forgive me if I don't take the word of a machine. I need proof that without a shadow of a doubt these worthless creatures are plotting against Krypton"
"I have detailed files and recordings that I can show if you would like General." Brainiac replied.
General Zod nodded his head and then took a few steps back and then he sat down in his chair but not for a second did he take his eyes off of Brainiac.
"Show me"
End Chapter: READ AND REVIEW: Hey all, this is Nomad88 and yes I am alive. I know that I haven't updated in a while and that's because I've been going through some personal stuff. My life has kinda gotten turned upside down a bit and everything has stalled on the writing front but I'm slowly but surely re-adjusting and re-evaluating a few things in my life…..okay early morning drama over. On the Superman front everything is going well, the idea of this story is still safely tucked away in my mind. I know it seems a bit slow but for those of you that don't know me I love laying out ground work first so that way when the fireworks and Epicness starts there is precedent and an awesome lead in, there is a method to the madness. All that I ask is that all of you stick with me. I thank each and everyone who has reviewed this story so far and I thank everyone who has favorited this story as well. I guess that means I'm doing something right LOL! Anyway my loyal readers and reviewers more Superman action is coming your way very soon so I'll see you all then. This is Nomad88 saying Later…..
Ps: MAN OF STEEL! One word…AWESOME! That's how you do a Superman movie. It was a tad bit on the slow side at first but it picked up later and everything was all good. I actually enjoyed everything the movie had to offer. Even….the scene…with Superman and Zod. I know pretty much everyone is split on that decision. But people…..this is just my two cents….the movies are a different medium than the comics. And when you're dealing with two mediums certain liberties could to be taken to tell a story. Now if it happened in the comics I would call Bulls*** but since it's a movie….I'll allow it…this time. Anyway sound off in the review or send me a PM and tell me your thoughts…why….. because I'm nosey like that LOL! This is me saying Later…
Next Up: The Last Days of Krypton part 3
