A/N: Well, the Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice trailer dropped in all its wondrous glory. I've watched it numerous times and wondered why no live action incarnation ever tackled this issue (Clark's god-like qualities). And so, without seeing more trailers (who knows when the next one will appear), I'm going to dive right in. Read on and I hope you enjoy it. I'm genuinely curious what everyone thinks about the trailer!

Reminder: If you haven't seen the teaser trailer (and why haven't you?), you will be spoiled!

~o~o~

Chapter 6: Not Ready for the Darkness

The next day, the Daily Planet:

Lois and Clark, still blissfully happy about their engagement, had no idea what lay ahead for them. In the next few days, their entire lives would change, and not for the better.

Sipping their coffee, they couldn't help but wonder about their lives, how they had met, quite by accident, the invasion and everything that happened to them over the past few years.

But nothing would prepare them for the shocking news that hit them in the face as soon as they stepped off the elevator.

Jenny rushed over to them. Without even a greeting, she barged right in. "Have you guys seen the news?"

They glanced at each other. "What news?" They spoke at the same time.

Jenny shook his head at them. "Superman's statue has been vandalized."

Clark was shocked. "What do you mean vandalized?"

Jenny rushed over and picked up the remote and turned up the volume. All news channels seemed to be running the same story. A photograph of the vandalized statue sat in the corner of the television. The announcer spoke up:

With sad news, I report that the Superman statue, christened only a few short weeks ago, has been vandalized. We'll take you there live. Can you hear me, Jane?

Yes, I hear you, Bob. This is Jane Douglas. I'm standing here just outside of Freedom Plaza where the Superman statue was vandalized last night. 'False God' was spray painted across its chest in bold red letters. The 'S' shield can no longer be seen. The police have found no clues or witnesses to whoever could have perpetrated this crime. If anyone has any information, contact the Metropolis Police Department at the number on your screen. Back to you, Bob.

Jenny was very upset. She then turned to her friends and they both seemed rather reserved and quiet. "I can't believe someone would do that. Superman is not God. He's," she hesitated.

"You're right, Jenny; he's not God." Lois glanced at her partner. He was silent. "He never wanted the statue to begin with."

"I know; you told me," Jenny said with sympathy. "I feel really sad for him. I wonder what he must be thinking about all of this." She thoughtfully commented. "Have you spoken to him Ms. Lane?"

"No, I haven't, but I will," Lois replied firmly.

"LANE, KENT, GET IN HERE!" That was Perry.

"We'll talk to you later, Jenny," Lois said. Clark seemed in a trance, so she pulled an arm and then they entered Perry's office.

"Take a seat," Perry instructed. He sighed and walked over to the window. "You heard the news." It was a statement.

"Yes, we heard," Lois replied and glanced at Clark again. His face was unreadable. Was he upset about the statue; stunned to be called a god; hurt by this; or any number of feelings?

Perry turned from the window. "We have to cover this story. Believe me, I don't want to. To think that people actually believe that Superman is a god. It's sad and rather disturbing."

"I know Chief, and I think Clark should write the story," Lois said.

Perry pondered that idea. "Normally, Lois, and because it is Superman related, I would give you the story. But Kent's story about Batman has caught fire, so, I agree," Perry thoughtfully said.

Clark snapped out of it. He glanced at Lois and the expression on her face of such faith and reassurance stunned him a bit, but he shouldn't have been surprised. "Are you sure, I mean?" Clark finally asked.

Perry sat down. "I think Lois is right, so the story is yours," he said, but he was distracted. He frowned. "Is that a ring on your finger?"

Lois held up her hand. "Yes, it is." She took Clark's hand. He was a bit stiff, but he relaxed after a moment. "Clark and I are engaged."

"Congratulations," he said without much enthusiasm.

Lois frowned. "Aren't you happy for us?" She was crestfallen.

"Don't misunderstand, Lois, it's just, everyone thinks you're in love with Superman, and," he hesitated.

"Chief, I cannot believe you of all people actually think that's true," Lois said getting upset.

Clark knew it wasn't true. "Perry doesn't believe that; do you Chief?"

"No, no, of course not; I'm worried that's all." He stood up and came over to them. Clark stood up. Perry shook his hand. "I'm happy for you both and wish you all the best." He glanced at Lois. "I'm sorry, Okay; just be happy, I mean that."

"Thanks, Chief," Lois said. He gave her an awkward hug.

"Go on now, get to work," Perry said and gave them a rare smile.

They left his office, closed the door, and stood still for a minute. The entire bullpen was staring at them. Lois and Clark didn't know how to behave.

"Clark and I are engaged; see?" She held up her hand.

Everyone was silent, and then Cat approached them. "Congratulations; I'm happy for you both." She gave them each a hug.

"Thanks, Cat; I appreciate it," Lois said.

Clark relaxed for a bit. "Thanks, Cat."

Then the rest of their co-workers came over to congratulate them.

Steve shook Clark's hand and then dropped an ill-advised taunt. "It looks like the best man won," he teased, but Clark took it wrong.

"If you're talking about Superman, I suggest you shut up because I don't want to hear it," he snapped.

Steve held up his hands. "Sorry, I meant no disrespect."

Clark felt contrite. "Sorry, Steve; it's just," he couldn't finish.

"Clark is worried about Superman and everything that happened to the statue; that's all," Lois finished for him.

Everyone glanced at each other.

Perry poked his head out. "What is going on around here? Don't you people have work to do?"

Everyone scurried away.

Lois and Clark breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks, Chief," Clark said sincerely grateful.

"Are you guys Ok? Do you want some time off or?" Perry began.

Lois perked up. "Actually, that's a good idea. Clark has a few thoughts about the Superman story. A few days would be a good way to find out what's really going on out there," Lois replied.

"Alright, I'll see you guys in a few days," Perry said and sent them on their way.

While gathering their things, Lois could see how upset he was, but he didn't have much to say about it. Steve's ill-advised comment wasn't a surprise. Steve was always teasing Clark about Superman and that Lois had chosen to be with Clark Kent, not the Kryptonian. He would not let it go until finally Clark spoke his mind. Hopefully, with their engagement, the taunting would stop for good.

~o~o~

A few hours later, on the streets of Metropolis:

"Lois, what are we doing?" Clark asked as they walked their familiar area not far from the Planet. It was downtown and everything seemed normal.

"Clark, we need to ask questions and try to find out what people are thinking about Superman. And suddenly why people think that you're some kind of God," Lois replied.

"I see, but does it really matter? People are going to think what they want. You know I never wanted that statue in the first place. It should be torn down."

Lois was stunned, stopped walking and stared at him. "It shouldn't be torn down and you know it. Destroying it isn't going to change what we know to be true. Superman saved the entire world and we're not going to sweep it under the rug like it never happened." Lois was getting upset.

He glanced around and took her by the arm and escorted her into a restaurant for lunch. They were seated right in the center of the room. It was a busy time, but they managed to get a table.

Lois watched him and without even speaking, meaning he should perk up his ears. Clark picked up in conversations all around him.

I think it's terrible. Superman is not a God. He's a gift from the stars and that statue proves that we haven't forgotten that.

I know, honey, but, he's an alien, different from all of us. That article said he was from another world, but how do we know that?

James, don't ask stupid questions. You witnessed the invasion. They came from another planet, not from our world. That proves that he is not a god. God is in heaven. Superman is not a God.

Clark ate his food. He glanced at Lois, and her eyebrows rose, asking a silent question.

He tried to smile and then continued with their meal. But then he heard a voice. He'd heard his voice before on the news. It was Lex Luthor. Clark narrowed his eyes, looked around and then he saw him. He was in a private section of the restaurant. A woman was with him. He concentrated and managed to find their voices.

The woman's voice asked. You must be very pleased with your plan.

Lex answered her. Was there any doubt? All it took was a few rumors that Superman was a demon sent to destroy us and look what happened.

I have to say it was a brilliant idea. You are to be congratulated.

They raised their glasses and took a sip.

Clark couldn't hear anymore as another voice came to him; a child's voice and she was praying. Metropolis General wasn't far away.

Please Superman, please don't let him die. He's my Daddy.

Honey, pray to God, not Superman; he is not a god.

But Mommy, Superman saved all of us. Can't he keep my Daddy?

Silence followed.

Clark almost lost it. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He opened his eyes and Lois knew what was happening. He must have overheard something unexpected.

"Are you ready to go?" She asked.

After a moment, "Yeah, I'm ready."

They paid their bill then went to their apartment to pack. They decided to visit Smallville and Clark's mother for a few days. After Clark told her about what he had heard, they actually needed to leave Metropolis. In Smallville, there would some peace and quiet, but they had to decide what to do, not only for the article, but to somehow stop the rumors about Superman.

~o~o~

A few hours later, on their way to Smallville:

Clark was still. Lois watched him fly, but of course she was also distracted by the beautiful scenery. "It's so beautiful up here; I tend to forget sometimes." They hadn't flown much, well, not since their engagement and before that not much at all. He was always so busy, but Lois knew what kind of life she would have when she fell in love with him and he with her. They both knew it wouldn't be easy, but this latest rather unexpected predicament seemed insurmountable at this point.

After a few minutes, Clark spoke up. "You thought I was a god too; didn't you?"

Lois was surprised by that comment. Of course, they had talked about it that first week, but to think she actually still believed that was hurtful. "No, Clark, I know what you are." She paused to gather her composure. "You're the man I love; that's all I know." Her eyes watered.

Clark felt awful. She didn't deserve that. "I'm sorry Lois. I don't know what to think about anything."

She pulled him closer. "I know you don't. We'll be in Smallville soon and the voices won't seem so loud and we can talk about all of it."

"Yeah, Smallville," he whispered, but he couldn't wait for the quiet of home.

~o~o~

Minutes later, on the farm:

Martha welcomed them with open arms. Lois then told Martha about the engagement hoping to be upbeat at least for a while.

Martha was thrilled for them. "Oh, Lois, I'm so happy for you both." Her eyes watered. "I know how long you were carrying that ring around. I'm so glad you decided to propose."

Lois glanced at him. "How long were you carrying the ring?" She asked with raised eyebrows, teasing him.

He looked sheepish for a minute. "I'll take that," he said and took her bag and headed upstairs.

Lois shook her head at him. "Do you know when he bought it?"

"No, not exactly," Martha replied. "He'll tell you when he's ready."

"I'm sure he will," Lois said and put her arm around her. "I've missed you, Martha."

They hadn't seen each other in a few months.

She gave her a tight hug. "I've missed you too, sweetie." They sat down in the living room and of course Martha was sympathetic. "How's Clark doing?"

Clark came back downstairs. "Mom, you can ask me; I'm right here," Clark replied and headed for the kitchen.

"Clark, I know you and so does Lois. You can be a bit tight-lipped about your feelings and I just wanted to help; that's all," Martha said.

"I know Mom, and I'm sorry," Clark said, sorry about all of it. "Is anyone hungry?"

Lois and Martha glanced at each other. Martha came over to him. "Son, all of this confusion about you and what you are; I know it can't be easy."

He didn't want to discuss it. His feelings were raw. "I think I'll have a turkey sandwich. Anyone want any?"

"I'll have one," Lois replied even though they had lunch only a few hours ago.

Martha and Lois both sat down. After a few minutes, Clark brought them both a sandwich and then gave them lemonade. They were seated at the table eating, then after a few minutes, Lois dived right in.

"Martha, not everyone thinks that Clark came here under false pretenses. Most everyone thinks he's here to help us; that's all. We just need to remind everyone of that fact."

Clark finally opened up. "Lois, I told you what I heard. Lex Luthor, the most powerful man in Metropolis, and he hates me. He thinks I'm some kind of demon sent from hell to destroy everyone."

"Clark, we know that's not true. And Lois is right; people have forgotten what you did for us. That statue is a reminder that not everyone has forgotten," Martha told him firmly.

He bowed his head. "I know Mom, but," he couldn't finish. After a few minutes, he raised his eyes to the two most important people in his life. He stood up and walked for a minute.

Lois and Martha glanced at each other. "Go on, son, what were you going to say?"

He turned to them with tears in his eyes. "It's just, I wish I could save everyone, take away their pain, even breathe life into them, but I can't. I can't do it. Believe me, if I could I would," he managed to say then he broke down.

Lois rushed over to him and pulled him close. "It's alright; it's alright."

Martha had her hand over her mouth, holding back tears. "We know that son. There's only so much you can do. We just need to remind everyone. You're just a man, Clark; a man trying to do the right thing; that's all."

Lois pulled away although she didn't want to. She placed her hands on either side of his face and wiped away his tears. "Listen to your Mother, Clark. We will remind them that you are a man, a beautiful, sweet and loving man. You love all of us. Most times we don't deserve it, but you love us anyway."

He pulled her back into his arms. "I don't know … I don't know what I would do without either of you."

She held him tighter. "We're not going anywhere. Come on, let's go for a walk. Martha, we'll be back in a little while."

"I'll see you later," she said watched them leave. She went into the kitchen, found a tissue, wiped at her eyes and blew her nose, then sent up a silent prayer for her son.

~o~o~

With their arms around each other, they walked for a while and headed out toward the back pasture, not far from the spot where Clark's spaceship had landed. He stopped suddenly and took her hand, the ring hand, and kissed it reverently.

"Sometimes when I'm out here, I think of my Father. We had so many talks out here." They started walking again. "He used to say to me: 'Clark, you're special, not like anyone, but that doesn't mean you're above us. When you grow up, you have to decide what kind of man you want to grow up to be. It will change the world, but you have to stay true to what we taught you. Remember that."

"Your father was a good man." Lois felt the need to say.

"I miss him every day."

"I know you do," Lois said.

Still walking for a minute then Clark had a question for her. He turned to her. "Lois, I was thinking about what I said to Steve."

Lois frowned. "Oh, when you snapped at him about our engagement?"

"Yeah, but I didn't mean to imply that Superman was a rival for my affections."

Lois chuckled. "Clark, come on, you are Superman and I love Clark too." She shook her head unbelieving that they were actually discussing this. "This is a silly conversation."

He pulled her close to his side. "I know that, it's just strange, but sometimes, I think I'm two different people. It's really weird but, when I'm in the suit flying around saving people, I become Kal-El. But when I'm with you, I'm just me, Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas, a reporter for the Daily Planet."

Lois understood. "I understand, but the real question is," she began then turned to him and touched his chest just above his heart, "What do you feel in here where it matters the most?"

He pulled her close, "Does this answer your question?" He whispered then he kissed her deeply.

Lois moaned pulling him closer and deepened the kiss, her hands running through his hair.

After a few minutes, Clark pulled away and waited for her to open her eyes. "Well?"

"You answered that question. I have another one," she whispered then leaned up and whispered then purred in his ear, her meaning clear.

"Right now, but where?" He asked not surprised. Lois was always ready for him.

"I'm sure you'll think of something," she whispered.

His eyes brightened with an idea. He picked her up and streaked to the barn.

Seconds later, they were inside and Lois didn't know what to think. There could be worse places to make love, she supposed. "Ok, but …Ummm."

"Here, wait here," Clark said then seconds later, he was standing there with pillows, blankets, a wine bottle, and two glasses."

What Martha must be thinking, she wondered. "I'm game if you are," she whispered and smiled at him.

Clark returned her smile.

She couldn't resist him, especially when he smiled at her like that.

It just wasn't in her to do it.

~o~o~

Several hours later, afterglow enveloped them, warm and cozy. They lay together, their legs entwined, so happy and satisfied. Clark was thinking but only for a moment, of giving it all up to be with her like this, just them until the end of time, if only they could.

"What are you thinking?" Lois asked.

He kissed her temple and pulled her close. "Nothing."

She didn't believe him. She leaned up on her elbow. "Tell me."

He smoothed her hair away from her forehead. "I was just thinking about you and me; together like this."

Her heart constricted for some strange reason. "What are you saying? You are happy aren't you? I mean, I know we have to fix this problem, but I have faith that we can do it; don't you?"

He pulled her close her head under his chin. "Of course, I do."

Her eyes watered. She pulled him close then decided not to push him, but he needed to hear one thing. "I love you, Clark. That will never change; no matter what."

"I know you do, and I love you too."

They both closed their eyes, holding each other close, both thinking that something very dark was coming and that it would test their love.

A little while later, it was almost dinner time and Clark awakened with a sad thought. "Lois, are you awake?"

"Yes, I'm awake," she muttered opening her eyes.

"I was thinking about Zod."

That woke her up. "Why would you be thinking about him?"

He did not want to do this. "The only way to convince everyone that I'm not a god but a flesh and blood man who bleeds and who could die," he began.

"I see what you're saying." She watched him carefully, then she touched his cheek. "Kryptonians have feelings and emotions too, which means the truth has to come out, that," she hesitated.

"Yes, I killed Zod; it's the only way."

TBC!?

~o~o~

Song Inspiration: Not Alone, Sara Bareilles.

A/N: In light of what has come before, it may be the only solution. In this update, I wanted to write about Clark, what he was thinking about the statue and what it could mean. I'm looking forward to seeing more trailers and anything else they give us. Thank you for reading. Reviews/kudos is love!