Chapter 10
"Hey, Alex do you think you can get a bunch of water, Gatorade and possibly some snacks." Kara asked as she walked the streets of National City.
"Is it a special training day?" Alex asked as she shuffled around getting ready to start her day. Earlier when she had gone into her kitchen she was meant by the sound of bickering siblings. Maybe seeing a bunch of sweaty firefighters will distract the Lanes enough to be civil.
"Yeah with everything that's been going on we haven't had a good team workout so Sam and I wanted to take the crew for a heavy duty full gear training. I already called the chief and he is waiting at the park with the training equipment as well as our truck in case we get called. I want them to jog there so if you could get water and stuff that would be a real help."
"Yeah no problem. Also, you could have told me yesterday seeing as you were in the DEO for hours recuperating."
"I didn't think about it until later," Kara said through a pout.
Alex could hear it and began to chuckle. "I'll see you soon. Love you."
"Love you too." Kara hung up as crossed the street to walk up to Fire Station 15 wearing her fire department tank top and cargo pants Kara was happy to see her crew waiting eagerly alongside Sam's. Putting her hands together Kara got the attention of everyone present just as Sam walked up to her. "Alright good morning everyone." They all greeted her before she continued, "So we haven't gotten to do training much other than hitting the weights so I wanted to do a full body workout in full gear."
Everyone was in agreement and dispersed to get ready for what was about to be the longest and most difficult workout Kara would put them through. Once they all returned decked out in their fire gear Kara nodded, "Okay so to start we are going to jog five miles to the park. Don't worry about hydrating I took care of that earlier. Everyone ready?"
"Yes Captain!"
"Let's move out!" With that Kara took off at a nice easy pace and heard when everyone fell into step with her. If people looked at them they could see that they all were in sync and moved as one unit. The sun wasn't fully up in the sky yet so the heat from it wasn't too much of a bother though the gear was getting uncomfortable for everyone.
After hitting the last one and a half mile mark, Kara gradually picked up the pace while discreetly turning on her bracelet to level eight. Instantly Kara began to sweat and felt the weight of her equipment but still it was just a fraction of what her crew was feeling. Turning around Kara ran backwards checking on all her people. Like always Sam brought up the rear not because she was slow but to make sure everyone made it safely and no one passed out from heat stroke. Once Kara was sure everyone was good she turned back around where she could clearly see the park and took off at a sprint.
It was a good four minute human all out sprint until they reached the park. Upon reaching the center of the park everyone saw Alex setting up one of the picnic tables with water. They all cheered and ran towards her eager to rehydrate. Kara slowed down and took off her helmet to wipe at her forehead so the sweat didn't roll into her eyes. As Kara continued to slow down her pace to a leisurely walk she noticed two people approaching her crew and sister. It was then that Sam matched her pace and bumped shoulders with her. As Sam took off her own helmet and tucked it under her arm she looked at Kara. "Did you know the Lane sisters were going to be here?"
"Nope," Kara shook her head but shrugged, "Maybe Alex thought it would do them some good to get some air. I mean its Lois last day in National City before heading back for Thanksgiving in Metropolis."
Sam nodded her head, "Makes sense…in a crazy sort of way. I know Alex would most likely agree with me but I cannot wait until that woman is gone." Sam shrugged before looking back to Kara with a smirk and then adding in Kryptonian, "Just try not to get too distracted."
Kara was then left to gape at her best friend who was laughing like a maniac. "Come back here Captain Steele!" Sam continued running over to where the chief was and Kara decided it wasn't worth the chase. Instead she walked over to her sister and kissed the side of her head. "Thanks Alex."
Alex shrugged as if it were no big deal and handed Kara a water bottle. "It really wasn't an issue Kara. Besides those two were driving me nuts so really I should be thanking you."
"Are they fighting that much?" Kara asked concerned.
"Every other thing out of Lois' mouth is an insult or indifferent comment. Lucy says this has been going on for years but it still bothers her. I can't wait until that witch is gone. If she stays any longer I'm not going to be able to resist the urge to throw her out of our home." Kara saw the anger Alex had been holding in as she spoke of Lois and hugged her to her side in order to comfort her. Immediately Alex sighed and relaxed into her sister. "I honestly want to fix them because sisters shouldn't fight like that but I also have the strong urge to punch Lois in the face."
"You can't meddle unless Lucy asks for help."
"I know but she's part of my circle and I protect my circle."
"And that is why we love you." Kara took this moment to release Alex in order to drink some water and "hydrate" like everyone else.
At that time Lucy and Lois came up to the table as Kara took a swig of water before handing it back to Alex. Kara made eye contact with Lois and nodded her acknowledgement of the older Lane. Then she turned to Lucy and smiled widely, "Hey Lucy."
"Hi Kara," Lucy went in for a hug but Kara took a step back. Frowning Lucy looked up at Kara for an explanation.
"I'm sweaty," Kara stated.
"I don't mind," Lucy said proceeding to hug Kara anyway. Kara sighed as she gently wrapped Lucy into her arms and hid her face in the crook of Lucy's neck. It didn't last long though because they weren't exactly alone and Kara really was sweating since her bracelet was turned up almost to capacity.
"Hey Cap can we take the jackets off for now? Its getting sticky." Jacob asked as he took off his helmet as well showing that he was completely drenched in sweat. Kara nodded as she back away from Lucy. "Oh thank god," He exclaimed as he shrugged out of the heavy jacket.
Lucy winked at Kara as the younger Danvers began to walk away making her blush. Turning to her crew Kara got their attention as she tossed her jacket to the ground. "Alright guys don't get too comfortable we are going to do some drills without the jackets for now but they will be going back on later." With that everyone else shrugged off their jackets and made a pile where Kara had dropped hers. Kara looked to Sam and nodded giving her the floor to start the next exercise.
Sam then approached with the rope dummy they usually used to simulate the dead weight of a victim that had to be dragged out. She then dropped it on the top of the jackets with a loud thud. "Listen up, you guys are used to dragging this thing around but I think that's better suited for the training academy when you don't trust anyone." Sam walked around the group who all watched ready for instruction. "Today you are going to partner up and you are going to carry your partner through a series of drills. This will help you get used to the weight of real person and help you adjust to whatever situation you find yourself in on call."
This is when Kara stepped in, "That being said this is going to be very strenuous so drink some more water and we'll get started." Everyone walked over to the table and took another swig of water before walking back to their captains. They already seemed to be paired up so that left Sam and Kara as each other's pair, which they of course had no issue with. "Alright first drill is going to be doing a fireman carry while doing squats. Remember do not drop your partner if you do you have to start over."
Lucy watched as the groups set off with their partners looped around their shoulders. She couldn't imagine the trust they all must have for one another to not even question the training. It actually seemed like they all enjoyed the change as well as the healthy dose of competition. As they came closer and closer she noticed as they all went faster trying to outdo the people beside them.
Jacob was behind Kara as he carried Mike on his back and Lucy could see from her spot that everyone was determined to finish without dropping their partner. Lucy smiled as Kara and Sam expressed how extremely proud they were that they finished the exercise without anyone dropping their partner. The boys were so pumped they were yelling and chest bumping one another. Kara started laughing before they were asked what the next drill was. "Ok so next you're going to do pushups with your partner on your back."
Sam looked at the crew before adding, "The one who went last in the other drill has to go first now. Fifty push up people lets go. You got this."
Kara got flat on the grass and once she felt Sam settle on her back she placed her hands in position. Kara went into a knuckle style pushup and lifted herself off the ground. She was on the tenth one when Sam yelled out to hold their position. "You are evil Sam."
Sam chuckled in her ear, "You love the challenge don't lie. Alright you can continue." Kara went down again and Sam looked around when her eyes landed on a concerned Lucy Lane. She watched as Lucy called out to Alex who then looked over at Kara. "Kar what level did you put on your bracelet?"
Kara was already on her last ten pushups when Sam asked. Pausing in her reps Kara turned her head, "Eight why?" She then continued to do her pushups finishing quickly in a last burst of energy.
"Shit Kar no wonder they were looking over here. You look kind of sick." Sam said once she got a look at Kara's face after having gotten off of her.
"I'm fine Sam just wanted to feel the burn. Now come on its your turn now."
Over on the side lines Lucy turned to Alex. "Does Kara look ok to you?"
Looking over at her two siblings Alex noted Kara's paler complexion and sighed. "She's probably using her bracelet. Usually the furthest she'll push it is level five but maybe she's upped the dosage for today's training."
"Is that safe? I mean just last night she was on the sun bed."
Alex looked back over to Lucy once she saw her sister jump onto Sam's back as they switched. "The bracelet I made has ten levels on it that are all safe in small doses. However, exposure to it for longer than four hours at such a high level will cause Kara to become ill. She's only had it on roughly for almost an hour so she's be fine for another hour then I'll tell her to turn it off so her cells can regenerate."
Lucy nodded at this feeling more at ease that Alex knew more about what her sister would do during training. Looking back on the field she saw as Kara and Sam shed their shirts off leaving very little to the imagination in their sports bras. "Alright I want you to do pull ups while you partner is secured to your waist." Sam yelled as they walked over to a child's playground that had the horizontal ladder. They each got into a spot and climbed up to wait as their partners secured themselves on their waists like a fanny pack.
Sam went first as Kara held onto her and proceeded to do the set. Lucy could see that Sam's body was just as fit as Kara's but her legs were more defined. Hopping down they switched positions and now Lucy had a full view of Kara's abdomen. After having caught a glimpse of what it looked like before Lucy was surprised at just how defined it really was as Kara's muscles flexed with the strain. "Hold!" Sam yelled and once again everyone stayed in position for as long as the captain said. Kara seemed to chuckle at this and swing her bottom half as if trying to loosen Sam's grip. It didn't seem to work but it did get Sam to shout out that they could all dismount.
Kara clapped her hands together, "Alright water break and then I want you all in full gear!" Rushing over to the table Kara grabbed a bottle of water. As she held the bottle to her mouth Kara felt as someone grabbed her wrist and suddenly all the sounds that had previously been blocked off came rushing back. Kara spit out her water and her free hand went to the side of her head as she tried to gain control over all her senses. The pain usually would last awhile even with Sam or Alex's help to calm her senses. However, this time as Kara's ears were covered by someone's hands, the steady rhythm of the person's heartbeat strummed so loudly into her ears it blocked all other sounds. Kara knew this heartbeat and was unsurprised to see that it had been Lucy who's heartbeat cancelled out everything else when she opened her eyes.
"I'm sorry I switched your bracelet off." Lucy started talking once she held Kara's gaze. "Its just you looked sick and Alex said it was the bracelet…so I turned it off and you already look so much better."
Kara nodded as she gave Lucy a smile as she then took Lucy's hands off of her ears and let them fall back to Lucy's side. Kara then reached out to push hair out of Lucy's face and let her hand rest lightly on Lucy's cheek. "I zhor you never have to apologize for being worried." With that Kara turned around to start the next session of exercise.
"Be careful with her Lucy."
Lucy spun around to see that Lois was not too far away now that Kara had gone. Confused Lucy squinted at her older sibling. "I'm sorry?"
"Be careful." She repeated. "Clark is practically human having grown up here. He knows nothing else but earth's customs." Lois stepped closer, "Kara however is far more Kryptonian then she will ever be human."
Lucy's eyes widened in shock before looking over at Kara. When Lucy's eyes landed on her, she saw that Kara had paused in lifting her gear onto her back. Her fists were clenched tightly around the straps of her oxygen tank and her posture was rigid. "God she can hear everything we're saying. What is Lois thinking?", Lucy thought to herself before turning back to look at her sister. "Kara would never hurt me Lois if that is what you are trying to insinuate."
"I would never insinuate such a thing. I'm just trying to help you understand what you clearly aren't seeing." Lois said as she walked around Lucy.
"Understand what exactly?"
"That she's in l…"
Both of the Lane sisters were unaware that they had two eavesdroppers. Suddenly the clear sky turned dark and a voice called out to them. "If I were you Lois I'd watch what you say about my sister. Especially about things you know she wouldn't want you meddling in." Both Alex and Sam who had been chatting quietly while Kara took care of the crew where now standing closer to them.
"I apologize Alex but this is a private conversation."
"You know as well as we do that it was never private. She can hear everything we are saying." Sam gritted out as the sky darkened. Lightning flashed across the sky with a loud crack as the sky opened up suddenly sending rain down on top of them.
"Captain Steele the less time you spend socializing the quicker this training will go," Kara bellowed effectively scolding her best friend back into the right frame of mind. Having not heard what had been said by the four women the fire crew flinched as Kara shouted. The tone of her voice was one they had never heard Kara use but instead of questioning what was happening they proceeded with the exercise as instructed. Sam shut her mouth and glared at Lois before walking over to Kara. The sky didn't let up in its down pour but the lighting had stopped.
They were all still in the park during drills after an hour and a half in the pouring rain when the Rescue teams walkies went off. This caused everyone to pause what they were doing including Alex and the Lane sisters. After Kara's outburst everyone had been silent and now with the call coming through all eyes were on the young captain.
"Fire Station 15 Technical Rescue Team, and Ambulance 10 needed at Lions Canyon Park."
Kara looked over to her guys who nodded. "Let's go boys." As a team they rushed over to the truck there chief had brought over. Doing a quick scan Kara knew they had all their equipment and pounded the side of the truck to signal Jacob to start moving.
Kara jumped in as the truck began to move and looked over to Lucy who was watching her with a worried expression. Instead of reassuring her that everything would be fine Kara turned and started barking orders to her team. When they were out of sight from the group they had left behind Kara slouched in her chair.
They had been driving in silence for a few minutes before Justin decided to speak. "So any plans for Thanksgiving day? I mean we all get the day off surprisingly." Justin asked as he checked his gear and wiped at the remaining rain drops on his brow.
"My brother and I will be out on the beach for the morning before driving up to see our parent for dinner." Jacob said as he turned down a street.
"I'm having Thanksgiving with my girlfriend's family. It should be fun but I'm also freaking out about being around her entire family." Mike said after a few moments of silence.
Justin smacked him on his shoulder, "Don't sweat it man. They'll love ya. But if you feel uncomfortable about spending so much time there you can call me and I'll go rescue you." Mike laughed and gave him a nod of thanks before Justin looked at Kara. "What about you Cap?"
"Eliza is coming into town tomorrow morning. I'm not sure where we are having Thanksgiving though. Possibly at Alex's apartment." Kara shrugged. The boys could tell she was still living inside her head from whatever had gotten her to snap at Sam earlier.
"Eliza's coming! Is she going to make pie?"
"Probably." Kara looked at Justin's face squinting her eyes as she examined him. "Why?"
"Because last year you gave us some and it was amazing!" That got Kara to laugh but before more could be said the truck rolled to a stop at the gate leading into the park.
Kara rolled down her window as the employee operating the gate approached the truck. "Hi, our dispatcher sent us here. Can you point us in the direction we are need?"
"You guys made good time. We have two hikers who fell off a trail. One is unconscious and the other has a broken leg. If you go straight down and make your third left the park ranger will show you the rest of the way."
After following the instructions the fire fighters were getting out of their truck to follow the park rangers down a trail that was too small for their vehicle. While they were getting their gear Roman and Zinda came up behind them already carrying a back board, a gurney, and medical equipment. "How bad is it looking Danvers?" Roman asked as he stood beside her.
"Not sure just yet. We still have to walk to where they fell?" Picking up most of the gear, as well as an axe she placed on her waist, Kara began following the park rangers up a hike-able but steep incline. Kara quickened her pace to walked over to the rangers, "Do you have any idea how long they have been down there?"
"Not exactly but about thirty minutes ago a runner who was taking this trail heard the man shouting for help. They got us and we reported it and got out here as quickly as we could." The ranger looked to his coworker before looking back at Kara. "This trail isn't one of the more popular ones so they could have been down there for a few hours." They walked for a little while longer before they came to a spot on the trail that seemed unstable with the way Kara's feet were sinking into the soil. "We're pretty sure that the sudden down pour caused the soil to shift which lead to them falling off the ledge."
Kara nodded and thanked them for the information before carefully leaned over the ledge far enough where she could see the two hikers. The one who was injured was losing blood from the bone sticking out of his shin. Using her x-ray vision Kara could see that the bone didn't hit a major artery but the blood loss was still a major concern. As for the unconscious hiker, it seemed as if she had hit her head on the way down where there was a large blunt force trauma. Her heart wasn't beating but Kara hoped they could revive her in time. "The man has a broken leg and is losing blood and the woman is unconscious but I can't see if she has any major injuries."
Going back to her guys she squatted by the rig they were setting up. "Ok guys we need to do this fast and as safely as we can. They have possibly been down there for an hour maybe more. I want Justin to go down and secure the man's leg while checking on the woman's vitals. Once you're done with that Justin you must get her on the board. It's important that you send her up first."
"Alright Captain."
Mike got Justin situated with his harness while Kara assessed how much rope would be needed. When everything was ready Kara went over to Justin be an anchor for his line. "Now it's about thirty-five-foot drop to reach them. When you reach them watch your footing this area is prone to mud slides." Kara looked up at the sky, "The rain is coming down pretty hard and that ledge they are on can give so just think before stepping."
"Sure thing Kara. You got my back?"
Kara smiled as she grabbed the line attached to Justin's harness. "Are you doubting me now kid?"
"Never Cap." With that Justin began walking off the ledge and began his journey towards the hikers. It took several moments to get down there but when he finally did Justin could see that the man who had been shouting for help early was barely staying awake at this point. Reaching for his radio, Justin began to speak to the paramedics for help. "Hey Roman the man is losing consciousness from the blood loss."
His radio crackled as a response came through. "Did he try stopping the blood flow with something?"
Justin got closer to the man who groaned. "Are you here to help us out of here?"
Justin smiled at the man and nodded. "Yes. Sir can you tell me your name?" As he spoke Justin was also searching for signs of first aid.
"Um yeah my name is Jonathan and…and that's Sabrina. I think she hit her head when we fell." The man got out as he tried moving.
"Sir don't move. Me and my colleagues will get you guys out safely." Justin reached for his walkie, "Hey Roman, so Jonathan here managed to get some cloth to stop the blood flow going to his leg. Is it safe to move him on the back board?"
"Can you get him in a splint?"
"Yeah yeah I can manage that if you send down the supplies."
"They are already on their way. Can you tell me anything about the woman?"
Shifting over to the right Justin began to look over the woman. Gently he managed to roll her on to her back after he saw no signs of injury to her torso. However, when he shifted her Justin saw that the left side of her body was a purple shade. "Shit." Reaching for his walkie Justin looked at Jonathan who was having trouble keeping his eyes open. "Have you ever seen a blue bird this time of year?"
"Ok now secure Jonathan with a splint and we can talk about blue birds when he's topside."
"Negative Cap specifically said to make sure the woman got up first and I don't disobey my captain." Finally, the supplies got down to where Justin could reach for them and begin doing what Kara had told him to do. Working quickly Justin fashioned a split for Jonathan's leg before securing Sabrina to the back board. "Alright she's ready to go," Justin said into his walkie while also tugging on the line holding the back board.
Once Sabrina was topside Kara and Jacob pulled her safely over the ledge. "Mike hold onto Justin's line while we get her settled." Mike nodded and grabbed hold of Justin's line while anchoring his feet into the soil.
When Sabrina's body was further onto the ground Roman and Zinda rushed towards them to look her over. Kara sighed as she looked closely at Sabrina's body. "Now I know what he meant by blue bird," Mike stated as he looked over his shoulder at the still form. Kara noted the discoloration of her skin and how the blood seemed to collect on the side she had been laying on. Immediately Zinda began mouth to mouth while Roman did chest compressions. Their job now was to do everything they could before a doctor called time of death.
In the mist of doing compressions Roman looked up at Kara. "I called for another ambulance. They should be arriving at the opening of the trail." Zinda grabbed hold of the back board before looking at Roman who nodded. Taking his hands off her chest Roman grabbed the back board as well before they shifted her onto the gurney. "We need to get her to the hospital. Unfortunately, it looks like we arrived too late to save her. But maybe they can see something we can't at the hospital."
"Go I'll make sure to fill the new guys in," Kara said as she swapped places with Mike. With on hand on the line Kara reached for her walkie as Roman and Zinda made their way down the trail. "Justin how's it going down there?"
Justin wiped his face as the rain continued to roll into his eyes. "Yeah hey Cap, Jonathan's not looking so good. I managed to splint his leg and control the bleeding but he lost a lot of blood and he's soaked through from being out here for so long."
The new team of paramedics arrived and while Jacob filled them in Mike began lowering a back board to lift Jonathan. "Hang on we're lowering the back board now." Lightning crossed the sky just then and darkened as the rain came down harder. "For the love of Rao," Kara muttered, "What pissed you off this time Sam."
"Captain this isn't looking good," Jacob shouted over the down pour.
"I want everyone with a safety line. If this soil gives we'll be in no position to help Justin get out," Kara shouted just to be heard by the others behind her as her feet sank into the softening soil.
Instantly everyone sprang into action to get everyone in harnesses and anchored to something solid. "Cap we don't have enough harnesses for everyone."
"I don't need one. Just wrap the rope around my waist." Mike quickly did as she asked and secured a line to her waist and anchored it to a section of the trail that appeared unaffected by the rain. After several moments, Kara looked over her shoulder to see that everyone had a harness except for Jacob and Mike. They both shrugged when they saw her looking at them.
Their walkies crackled as Justin called in. "Cap his heart stopped and I can't do compressions without bringing you guys down." Jacob and Mike started pulling up the line for the back board when the soil they were on shifted causing them to drop the line as they slid towards the edge. Reacting quickly Kara reached for the lines while still keeping Justin's in her other hand. Kara heard as both Jacob and Mike grunted as their safety lines caught them. Using her x-ray vision, Kara saw that the back board containing Jonathan was now lower than Justin and the ledge had collapsed. "The ledge is gone and the soil is shifting too much to get a foot hold." Justin's voice was panicked but Kara kept her grip as the others got their bearings.
"Guys I can't pull them up by myself." Kara yelled as her feet slid further towards the edge. "The soil is giving, I need to back up." Slowly she started to back up and when she reached to where the guys had managed to get solid footing they took hold of the lines they had dropped.
Below Justin was trying to keep the shifting soil out of his face when a rock hit him in his head. The force of rock hitting his head along with his body's reaction caused him to fall and lose consciousness.
The movement was a surprise that caused Kara to move towards the ledge quickly. "Oh no you don't," Kara exclaimed as she grabbed the axe she had tied to her waist earlier and used some extra strength to slam it deep into the ground. This allowed her to stop before going over the edge. Kara then sunk her heels into the soil to right herself before backing up far enough to reel in Justin's line. In several moments Kara and the boys had managed to get the both of them over the edge. Grabbing hold of the back of Justin's jacket, Kara yanked his unconscious body further onto the trail. Then with axe attached to her hip she chopped all the safety lines. "Alright everyone off the trail." As she made sure everyone got off safely, Kara hoisted Justin into a fireman carry and were the last two to make it to the truck.
After everyone was safe and Jonathan was in the ambulance Kara looked over to the park rangers. "I know it isn't my place but seeing as we could have died I think it would be best if no one ever used that trail. Regardless of the weather it is way too dangers with that soil being unstable."
"Agreed but we need to follow procedure and inform our superiors. Thank you guys for all your help."
[Station 15]
Coming off the truck covered in mud Kara took off her helmet and shook out her hair which just ended up slapping her in the face. Kara looked at her boys who wore varying expressions on their faces. Kara then went back into the truck and got Justin's unconscious form. "Listen up, regardless of the outcome you all performed admirably. Even when things looked bad out there you still stayed strong and we all got out safely." Kara saw them nod but their expressions didn't change. "I know the news we received isn't one we strive to get when we go out but it is sometimes a reality we face. Don't punish yourselves for things that were out of your control. I'll be in my office if any of you wish to speak with me." She exhaled loudly before taking off her fire gear and going towards the men's quarters to settle Justin down leaving the guys to do the normal routine check after a call. Once he was safely in his cot she headed to her office. Walking through her door Kara shut it softly and fell onto her cot with her head in her hands. Before they had gotten back to the station Roman had called saying both Jonathan and Sabrina had passed away.
Though Kara had known Sabrina had been dead on-site Jonathan had passed during the ride to the hospital when they were unable to get his heart beating again. Two fatalities plus her crews injuries both on her watch was just too much with all that Kara had to deal with that day. But to add insult to injury the deaths could have most likely been avoided if Sam had never been angry enough to lose control. There wouldn't have been a sudden down pour causing the soil to shift. No, Kara couldn't think like that. It would only cause more pain and even if it hadn't happened today it would have down the line.
There was a faint knock on her door and Kara knew immediately who was on the other side of it. "I'm sorry Lucy I am very busy at the moment." She said as sternly as she could even though she was on the verge of tears. Every part of her body screamed at her to let Lucy be closer to offer comfort. In a way this was Kara's form of punishing herself even after what she had said to the guys.
The door opened anyway and Kara wanted to scold herself for not locking the door. When Lucy walked in and saw Kara holding her head in her hands bent almost in half on the cot, she closed the door behind herself. "Please just go," Kara whimpered as her emotions got the best of her.
"I'm not going anywhere so you can stop asking me to." Lucy knelt in front of the distraught girl and gathered Kara's face in her hands. When she maneuvered Kara's face so that she could stare into her eyes Lucy sighed, "The guys found me and Alex talking with the chief and asked if one of us would check on you." Lucy leaned her forehead against Kara's and sighed, "I know what happened. We don't need to talk about it but don't hide from me ok. Let me just be here for you."
Kara tried to let out the breath she had been holding but it came out as a soft sob as she finally let the tears go. "None of this should have happened."
"It wasn't your fault." Lucy said soothingly as she ran her fingers through Kara's hair.
"I gave the wrong call. I told Justin to get the lady up first to see if they could revive her. But I knew better. I knew she had died the second her head hit something as she fell. And because of that we didn't get Jonathan out in time to save him."
"Kara you can't save everyone especially in your line of work. Even superman can't save everyone."
"But I'm supposed to be better," She snapped. Kara then fell apart again as she sobbed out, "I'm supposed to be better."
"Sweetheart, nobody is perfect." Lucy smiled as she wiped her tears. "Even with all your powers Kara you can't do it all." Lucy caressed Kara's cheek as she leaned back. "Do you know what I love most about you?"
That got Kara to freeze and look at Lucy with curiosity at the forefront of many other emotions coursing through her. She couldn't speak so she simply shook her head as she leaned further into Lucy's hand.
"That even with all your powers and the fact that you come from a completely different planet, you still care about everyone. Whether you know them or not you show so much compassion and love." Lucy took one of Kara's hands and intertwined their fingers together. "That's what I love most. And I know that the families of those two who passed will not hold this against you." Kara tried to pull away but it was halfhearted as Lucy held her still. "Because if they do come to see you they'll know that you did everything you could and that you cared."
"But will it ever be enough?"
Lucy smiled before she leaned forward and gently placed a kiss to Kara's cheek. "You will always be my hero Kara Danvers. And to me, Alex and Sam you will always be more than enough. Besides like I said nobody can save everyone but a good hero never stops trying."
[Next day at Eight in the morning]
"Where are you?" Alex demanded through the line.
Kara was in the middle of sparring with Sam when they both heard a commotion coming from inside the DEO. "Busy." Kara replied to Alex as they stumbled upon a alien prison wrecking the command station with the body of an agent.
"You both promised me that you were going to be here." Alex said as Sam ran in and caught the agent as they were then thrown across the room. As the huge alien saw Sam its attention was taken away from the agents forming a line ready to open fire.
"And we will be. Just dealing with an alien prisoner that got loose."
Lucy was at the front of this line and held a large gun against her shoulder. "FIRE," she yelled and immediately the order was obeyed. Hearing the order Sam set down the agent before turning around with her arms crossed in front of her. Luckily the alien prisoner was the only one who got hit by the blast and quickly went down without Sam or Kara stepping in. Once the alien was properly contained Lucy lowered her weapon.
Kara smiled as Lucy walked over to her while everyone else took care of taking the alien back to its cell. "He looked tough." Kara stated as she looked around at all the destruction the prisoner had caused.
Lucy nodded, "She."
Sam who had walked over to hear what they were talking about looked at the alien being carted away. Then her and Kara both managed to say, "Respect," causing Lucy to laugh.
"So Alex just called and she's flipping out that we aren't already there." Kara mentioned to Sam as Henshaw approached the trio.
Sam shook her head with a smile on her face. "Eliza doesn't come for another hour. Why is she freaking out now."
Kara just rolled her eyes, "You know how she gets." Looking to Henshaw and then Lucy before looking back to Henshaw she lifted her eyebrow. "Any chance agent Lane could have the rest of the day off?"
Lucy simply looked at Henshaw and with all three of them staring up at him he sighed. "Yes but keep your comms on you just in case there is an emergency."
[Kara's Apartment]
"Hey," Kara said as she opened the door. Lucy and Sam walked in after her as Alex turned around to look at her sister.
"Oh Finally!"
"Nice to see you too. Look this big havoc wreaking lady beast broke free. Happens to the best of us."
"I'm sorry. I'm just freaking out."
"Alex, I have seen you take down a human sized bug without a weapon. This is going to be fine."
Lucy looked at Sam for some more context to what was going on having never seen her roommate so on edge before. Sam merely shrugged and whisper, "Wait for it."
"Last year she was mad at me for you not dating enough. Okay? I can't even imagine what she's going to do to me for you being in the public eye in all of National City's magazines."
Lucy looked at Sam who nodded, "And there it is. Big tough Alex is freaking out because of Kara's recent publicity."
"She seemed fine on the phone about it. At least she's making pie."
Alex scoffed, "Yeah I'm sure your favorite."
"Chocolate pecan pie is the best dessert in all the galaxy and as someone who's been to twelve planets I mean that literally." There was a knock on the door and all four women turned towards the sound.
"Oh, God." Alex said in horror.
Excited both Kara and Sam went towards the door. Kara got there first and opened it revealing her foster mother. "Eliza!"
"Oh my girls. Oh my best favorite wonderful girls." Eliza squeezed Kara and Sam after putting her luggage down. "Oh Alex get in here." Alex walked over and immediately got engulfed into a bear hug from her mother. "You all look so great." When Eliza looked at Alex she frowned, "You look a little tired sweetie. Is the lab keeping you busy?"
"Yeah," Alex agreed.
When Eliza had finally moved past the trio her eyes landed on Lucy, who was standing stiff as a board not knowing what to do. "Oh hello I don't believe we've met before I'm Eliza Danvers."
Lucy smiled warmly as Eliza extended her hand in greeting. "Lucy Lane and it is a pleasure to finally meet the woman who raised such wonderful people."
Eliza smiled brightly at the compliment before going back to the name. "Lucy oh so you Alex's roommate."
"Yes ma'am," Lucy nodded, "She took me in when I didn't have anywhere to stay and well they've all kept me sane."
"That sounds like my girls. Any relation to Lois Lane by chance."
"Yes she's my older sister but um we don't get along. She left last night back to metropolis for Thanksgiving. So you just missed her."
"Thank god," Sam and Alex muttered at the mention of the older Lane leaving. Kara shot them a look and both shut their mouths.
Eliza frowned but didn't push further on why exactly they didn't get along. "Well it's a pleasure to finally meet the person Kara has been telling me so much about."
Kara face palmed, "Eliza."
Lucy laughed lightly at Kara's embarrassment. "I hope it was all good things."
"Oh of course but now that I'm here and I can finally see what they both love about you." Lucy looked over to Kara who was now hiding behind Sam as her cheeks went fire engine red from the embarrassment. "Now how about some lunch I'm famished."
Everyone had been comfortable getting lunch ready and the menu for the following day ready they decided to listen to the radio. "This is Leslie Willis coming to you live and wired from Catco Plaza the week of Thanksgiving." Kara handed Eliza a drink before going back to stand beside Lucy while they watched Sam and Eliza cook. "Which means it is time for my annual list of things I am not grateful for. And this year's list is only one item…the terrible twins."
Sam stopped chopping up ingredients and looked across the table at Kara. Kara ran her hand through her hair and shrugged as they continued to listen to the broadcast. "You all know them because of their recent rocket into the spot light. However like any celebrity siblings there is always one more famous or in this case infamous then the other. So Kara Danvers is really who I am not grateful for. How much do I despise, I mean loathe, her whole look at me I'm adorkable thing. And that hideous unflattering outfit she wears. I mean please people black isn't always slimming especially when you have arms like Arnold Schwarzenegger back when he was young. Your job is to save lives not do a body builder competition. I mean please it seems like overkill especially since no one is trying to tap that."
At this point Kara, had gotten out of her chair beside Lucy and walked away. Alex went to turn it off but Kara lifted her hand to stop her wanting to see how far this would go. In the meantime, Lucy was looking at the radio as if she would be able to go through it and strangle the life out of one Leslie Willis. "I mean who would that be? Who is hombre enough to puncture the chastity belt of the girl next door. Or is what's required a softer touch I mean she was spotted loving the ladies on the dance floor at the launch party before Reactron crashed it. She does give off a Sapphic vibe with her big old butch…"
Sam fearing where Kara's head was right now got up and did what Alex should have. She turned off the radio and walked over to Kara. "Hey, Kar lets go out and get some pizza or Chinese food." Kara was almost non-responsive but managed to look up at Sam. "What do you say." Kara didn't say anything and pushed past Sam to enter her bedroom. Sam looked at Alex who nodded and followed her sister.
"Kara."
"I'm fine. I just need a moment to process everything." Kara said as she looked at her sister. "I mean I know I shouldn't listen but I just…" Kara started to form her thought but just shrugged at the end.
"Hey, its your first bad review. Out of all the good feedback you and Sam have gotten are you really going to let one bad thing get you down?" Alex asked as she got closer to Kara.
Kara smiled," No I guess not." Bumping shoulders with Alex Kara gave her a side squeeze. "thanks Alex."
"Always."
Kara squeezed a little tighter before raising her voice. "Lets stay here Sam. But how about some music instead of the radio?"
"You got it Kar."
[Station 15]
It had been a slow shift and the only calls so far had been for Sam's team to go out on the Marina to help a fisherman who's engine caught on fire. So after doing some training with the team and checking in on Justin, Kara returned to her office to do reports. It quiet for once with just the clicking of the keys as Kara pressed down on them until the phone rang. Sighing Kara stopped what she had been doing and picked up the phone. "This is Fire Station 15 Captain Danvers speaking."
"Hi yes Ms. Danvers this is Winn Schott from Catco um we met before. When you uh had the interview. You knocked me down. But um anyway Ms. Grant was wondering if she could speak with you."
"I remember you Winn. Sorry again for running you over." Kara then paused as she looked at the time. "Yes I have some time to speak with Ms. Grant but I can get called out at anytime."
"That's ok. I'll patch you through," He said before the line went quiet.
"Kiera?"
"Hi Ms. Grant, you wished to speak with me?"
"Yes I was calling in regards to you possibly doing another interview."
Kara rubbed the back of her neck, "Uh Ms. Grant I highly doubt I'm someone the people want to read about. Especially so soon after the first article."
"Well Kiera I'm here to tell you they do. Especially since the first article was only over the plane and your background. Now you have been seen in the thick of it with Wonder Woman and Reactron. Plus, you saved Mr. Olsen at the party with some rather impression quick thinking."
"Ms. Grant all do respect but are you sure you aren't doing this because of the broadcast yesterday."
"I'm going after a story I think needs to be heard. There is quite frankly too much male bravado seen in the media now a days that it be a nice change to get some female success stories in the press."
Kara nodded, "Ok Ms. Grant how about I swing by after my shift. It ends in a few hours and Catco isn't far from here."
"See you then Kiera."
After hanging up the phone Kara looked at her screen only to sigh having for gotten where she was. Saving the document Kara got up and went exploring when she came upon Sam outside on the dock. The sky was the darkest Kara had ever seen it with it not being anywhere near the time for the sun to go down. However, it hadn't started raining by the station but Kara could see the down pour was heading slowly towards them which meant a lot of calls would be going through. "It's getting bad," Kara spoke in her native tongue.
"It was bad when we went to help that fisherman but now its coming closer." Sam replied without looking at Kara. It was then that a helicopter made its way into view. "What are they doing. There's no way they can stay up in this storm."
"Sam tell the chief I'm taking one of the trucks out." Kara said as she started backing up.
Sam whirled around, "What are you thinking Danvers?"
"I'm thinking something bad is going to happen and I want to be there so we don't lose any more lives on my watch." With that Kara sprinted towards the trucks shouting at for her crew to get into gear. As loyal as ever they were dressed in record time without any questions as they saw the look on their captain's face. Once they were on the street Kara turned to look out the window. The helicopter was passing above them, so Kara pointed it out to her driver. "Lieutenant I want you to follow that helicopter."
Jacob nodded as he put the truck through its paces trying to keep up with the helicopter flying over them. They were in the middle of the city when the down pour caught up to them. Kara had to tell Jacob to slow down because she knew he couldn't really see even with the wipers going at top speed. That was when disaster struck. Kara watched as the helicopter was struck by lightning and spun out of control. "Jacob stop the truck that helicopter is going to crash."
Jacob pulled over but Kara was already out of the truck. "Captain!" Kara was already sprinting towards a small child on the sidewalk when the helicopter clipped the side of a building losing its tail. Quickly Kara scooped up the girl and shouted to clear the streets as the tail came down. The girl was so shocked at what had happened she didn't start screaming until after Kara had already placed her beside her mother who had lost track of her moments before. Smiling at the little girl and her mother Kara went back to the truck.
Keeping track of the helicopter, as they grabbed their gear and saw as it skidded across the roof of one of the lower buildings. Using her x-ray vision Kara noted that it was the Catco traffic helicopter and it had two passengers still inside. "Guys we need to keep that helicopter from falling off the roof while safely extracting the passengers. It isn't going to be easy especially in this rain but we have to try. Now move it. We don't have time to waste."
Getting on top of the roof Kara and the boys immediately went into action as they tied a line to the helicopter. The nose was already over the side and any sudden movements could send it over board. "Boys I'm going to need you keeping it from going over while I get them out."
"Who's going to help you?"
Kara shook her head, "I'm going to set up the rig gear so it well keep me and them safe but if I need to I'll great an access point." Kara showed them her axe that was once again tied to her waist for easy access. She then set about putting the gear together before getting into the harness. Once she was certain the gear would hold due to the solid structure of the roof Kara then hooked up her line and jumped onto the ledge. Saluting the boys she began walking down the side of the building until she could see the door of the helicopter.
Grabbing hold of it she hoisted herself towards it but hovered so the strain of her weight did cause the boys to lose their grip. Opening the door Kara saw that the pilot was looking at her with horror in his eyes. "Sir I need you to unbuckle your seatbelt and grab onto me." When Kara peered around him she saw that the passenger was none other than Leslie Willis. The pilot shook his head violently causing Kara to look back at him. "Sir this can fall at any minute. I need you to come with me."
The helicopter moved and that caused the man to start unbuckling which was difficult with his hands trembling. Finally he got it off and looked at Kara who simply held out her hand while the other gripped her line. When he took it she pulled him towards her and gripped him tight. "Okay I need to shatter a window to get you on solid ground safely. So shield your face by tucking it into me." When he did that Kara took out her axe pushing off she flew backwards far enough that she could gain speed by propelling herself forward and slammed it using extra strength which caused her axe's hilt to break. Once they swung inside Kara dropped off the pilot and tossed her axe to the side before going out once more to help Leslie out.
"It's you." Leslie said as she gazed at the firefighter offering their hand to her.
"Grab my hand." Leslie did as she was told already unbuckled and Kara pulled her towards herself. As Kara was still hovering over the legs of the helicopter it lurched forward causing the guys to shut from above. Quickly Kara got off the helicopter and went to the access point she had made moments before and dropped off a shaken Leslie. Once again Kara didn't stay long and exited to make her way to the top to help the boys with the helicopter.
When she got topside Kara quickly rushed over to help them pull the helicopter over the ledge. The boys had done a good job of getting it back once the weight of the passengers was gone. So Kara grabbed hold of the line and in four quick tugs they managed to get it onto the roof with no problem. Clapping everyone on the back Kara beamed at them proudly. "Thanks for not asking any questions and when we get back I'll assume all responsibility. Lord knows the chief is going to chew me out for this."
[Back at the Station]
"DANVERS!"
Kara winced as she got out of the truck and looked over at Sam who was shaking her head. Walking towards the chief as he stood by the door Kara could see he was fuming. "Yes sir."
"Out of all your years here this has been the most irresponsible and reckless. Leaving without dispatch giving out instructions. Following a helicopter with the siren on in the worst storm we've seen in years. You could have caused an accident! Or what if you had been wrong and you couldn't get to a call on time because you weren't at the station in the first place."
"Understood sir. But it was my decision the boys were just following orders. I take full responsibility for my actions. Though I see your point I do not regret my call seeing as we saved them."
"You got lucky this time Captain. Don't pull this again. Are we clear?"
"Crystal Sir."
"Now get out of here. You are suspended from duty for the next week." Kara nodded and turned to walk away when she heard him mutter to her back. "It was a great save Danvers but procedures don't allow you to make your own calls."
Kara understood she did but she would have done the same thing again if it meant getting to the people on time and clearing the streets of civilians. Kara packed up her stuff and walked out of her office to be met by Sam. She looked down at Kara with a questioning gaze. "Suspended for a week."
"Danvers why do you have to pull shit like this?"
Kara shrugged, "I promised Ms. Grant I'd see her after work. But I'll be home for dinner."
Sam nodded, "Good because Alex is getting Noonan's for dinner and Eliza wants all her girls there…and your girl is gonna be there." Kara glared at Sam who started to laugh as she walked away.
"We need to talk about what we discussed at the DEO." Kara called out to her before she walked too far.
"And we will after Eliza leaves. We don't want her to worry more than she already does." Kara nodded before slipping out the door.