Chapter 44 – Escape from the Phantom Zone
For once the Phantom Zone was calm. No sandstorms to obstruct its occupant's view of the sky above. The Zoners had taken advantage of the situation and had moved out of the confines of their caves to enjoy one of the few days of peaceful bliss the Zone had to offer them.
Raya was also enjoying the day not having to fight the blustering winds, which was always a plus. One drawback of a day like this was that after being stuck inside the caves for a long period of time, the Zoners got restless and havoc usually followed, so she had to be alert in case things got out of control.
As the day was progressing without much incident there came a thunderous boom and everyone gazed up at the sky as a streak of light made its way to the sacred rock formation. Raya grabbed her staff, the crystal Jor-El had given her as well as the journal she had found that had the answers to some pertinent questions and made her way to the formation. This wasn't the normal receiving point for new arrivals and concern crossed her face. She wasn't alone. Most of the Zoners had witnessed the new arrival, but it was strange to them as well. Normally new arrivals dropped in closer to the caves. Seeing the need to welcome their newest resident to the Zone, each of them made the trek to the rock formation.
Khivar wasn't aware of their customs, since he was the last arrival and he had arrived in the middle of a dust storm. Yes, he received his 'welcome' to the Zone, but he had to feel a little empathy for the new arrival, arriving on such a beautiful day such as what they were having. The arrival didn't stand a chance. This would also give him the opportunity to see the new arrival's transformation into one of the Zoners. He was fortunate enough to keep his original body, unlike most of the Zoners. He lifted himself off the sand floor and followed the procession.
Fine arrived at the sacred rock formation and laid Lex's body on the ground. Taking in his surroundings he remarked to himself, "What a dismal place to be held captive". He looked around and found the stone tablet that was his way back to Earth. "The sooner I get back the better" thought Fine. The vial containing Kal-El's blood was still intact as well as the black transference crystal. Good.
Lex was coming out of his slumber as he pulled himself up into a seated position. He opened his eyes to the bright light that inhabited their surroundings.
Groggily he asked, "Where are we?" looking for an answer from his captor. Looking around, all he could see was a bunch of sand dunes. It looked like he was in some dessert, but it was brighter yet there was no sun to be seen. Very strange. There was also a strange hue in the air.
Fine wasn't the one that answered him though. In the distance, a female voice could be heard. "Welcome to the Phantom Zone".
"Ah… Raya. I was wondering when our paths would cross again" Fine said to the approaching female. He had recognized her as Jor-El's faithful assistant and it surprised him that she was among the prisoners living in the Phantom Zone, but he didn't see her as a threat to his ultimate plan.
"Brainiac, I thought your existence was terminated with the destruction of Krypton."
"You shouldn't underestimate my survival instincts. I was after all created by your mentor and teacher Jor-El."
Raya finally reached the rock formation where Fine had landed with a stranger. "Yes, you were created by Jor-El, but to help save Krypton, not to destroy it, why the change in loyalties?"
"Krypton was doomed and even Jor-El knew it. That was why he built the ship that sent his precious son to Earth. The Science Council wouldn't listen to his warnings and like I said survival instincts took over. General Zod was trying to convince the planet of their impending doom. Granted, he took things to the extreme and the Science Council didn't think highly of that so they convicted him and sent him away to this dreadful place, while they accepted the doom which they eventually surmised too."
"So, you're here to bust Zod out. But how? You know as well as I do there is only one way out and seeing that neither of us is a member of the House of El, you've just joined the ranks of the Phantom Zone."
"My dear Raya, you don't think I would travel through the portals without a way back, do you?"
Brainiac was right. He was very calculating in everything he did. If he had a way back, it must mean Kal-El had survived the trip to Earth.
"I take it Kal-El is alive" Raya said, questionably.
"Yes, and has been a thorn in my side for some time now"
"And he willingly gave you his blood?" Raya asked as she noticed Lex sitting up behind Fine. He was listening to the conversation between the two acquaintances. "Is that him?"
Fine had to laugh, "Him…Kal-El. No. This is just a weak human I picked up for Zod. No Kal-El still resides on Earth and no, he didn't willingly give me his blood. I don't even think he knows I have a sample of it. Oh well. His loss."
"You know I can't let you leave here, especially with Zod?" Raya said in a warning tone.
"Like you're going to be able to stop me little girl" and then the Zoners could be seen coming over the sand dunes. "Ah, it looks like we've got company."
Raya looked up and noticed the encroaching residents of the Zone. She could probably handle Brainiac, but not all the residents of the Phantom Zone. She had to think this through. She needed to get to Earth just as much as Brainiac needed to get back. If he held the key, then she was going to have to exploit him. They would have to take care of Zod and Brainiac on Earth, but she wasn't going to let anyone else out. Taking out her crystal medallion she turned towards the Zoners and said in a warning tone,
"Return to your caves immediately, else I will have to forcibly send you back." They ignored her warning. She directed her crystal towards the Zoners and activated it sending out a high-pitched whistle. The Zoners reached for what resembled their ears and withdrew. It didn't, however, affect Khivar. He kept approaching the rock formation until he came upon Zod.
"Khivar, if you want to get away from this sand blasted place, help me get to the rock formation. That's our way out of here, but I can't get there on my own," pleaded Zod, who was in pain from the affects of the crystal.
Picking Zod up and trudging through the sands as Zod struggled against the pain the crystal caused him, Khivar made his way to the sacred rock formation.
"Put that crystal away," warned Brainiac, as he saw his Master coming forward draped over the back of another creature, that hadn't lost his original body. How was that so?
Raya obliged and put her crystal away. All that she had to contend with was Brainiac, Zod, Khivar and this stranger. The odds were more even now. Pulling the tip off her staff, she pointed the end at Brainiac, unbeknownst to him, for he was waiting for the stranger to bring Zod to him. She activated the staff that made Fine fall to his knees.
"Ahhhh" he screamed in pain. The staff was sending out high frequency sound waves, which disrupted his molecular structure. Zod was able to slightly recover from his personal experience with Raya's crystal and he convinced Khivar to attack Raya while she was attacking Fine with her staff. Lex was watching all this from behind one of the rock pillars that jutted out of the ground. Khivar came up behind Raya and hit her over the head, knocking her to the ground unconscious. He hated doing this to her, but he really wanted to get away from this place and back to Earth. It took both Fine and Zod a while to recuperate from the pain that Raya had inflicted on each of them, but as they regained their senses Fine inquired,
"Who do you have there, General Zod?"
"This is Khivar. He was accidentally transported to the Phantom Zone on his way to Earth."
"Most unfortunate for you, but maybe not a total loss" Fine said cryptically.
"What do you mean?" Khivar asked.
"Well, are you associated with an individual on Earth named Max or a young boy named Zan?"
Khivar eyes lit up. "How do you know them?"
"Well, it seems like Max and his little group have united with General Zod's nemesis Kal-El," explained Fine.
"Then I think it's time for us to make their acquaintance. Were you able to obtain the key to get us out of here?" asked Zod.
Fine pulled the vial of blood out of his pocket, as well as the black crystal. "Yes, but first I brought you a gift" Fine said looking towards Lex. "I didn't think you'd want to travel as a phantom to Earth, so I've retrieved the transference crystal so you can exchange bodies with the human."
"Perfect" Zod said, taking the crystal. He walked over to Lex, who had gotten up from his position behind the jutted stone pillar and began backing up. Fear struck across his face as his saw this black skeleton figure creeping up upon him. "Your efforts are futile human," Zod stated and soon he was upon him, placing the black crystal upon his chest.
Lex screamed out in pain as his mortal soul was sucked out of his body through the crystal, which was shining brightly and into the skeleton creature. Zod's spirit was also extracted from the skeleton creature into the body of Lex. Once the transference was complete, Zod began to get the feel for his new body. Lex was also adjusting to his new makeup. He thought being bald was bad, but this was horrific. During the transference, Raya had awakened from her unconsciousness.
Next, Fine broke open the glass vial and spilled Kal-El's blood on the octagon shaped stone pedestal, which activated the portal. Standing in its epicenter Zod, Fine and Khivar stood, preparing to be transported. On the horizon, the Zoners crept back into the vicinity and had seen what was transpiring and they were pissed, especially Chimarus and Lycus for they had stood by Zod since the beginning and now he was leaving without them and taking Khivar with him.
A bright light illuminated from the sacred rock formation and then the trio was gone. Raya quickly got up from her spot off the ground, grabbed her staff, made sure the crystal was secured around her neck and Jor-El's journal was tucked securely in her pocket and jumped into its vortex. Lex followed suit grabbing the black crystal off the ground, for he wasn't going to be left on this deserted…whatever this place was called. Some of the other Zoners tried to follow their actions, but were too late, the portal closed and there was nothing. The bright light that had encompassed the day was short lived. The winds began to pick up and the remaining Zoners retreated to their caves defeated yet again.
Kent Farm
Clark was quietly sitting up in his loft when he heard Chloe's car driving down the gravel road towards his farm. The meeting would soon be upon them. He still had to break it to her that Lana was their newest member.
He heard her car finally pulling into the driveway and he decided to go down and meet her and Mandy.
"Hello, welcome to the Kent farm" Clark said, on Mandy's behalf. "If you like, we can go inside," he said, opening each of their doors and ushering them up the stairs.
Clark held the door open for Chloe and Mandy as they entered the farmhouse. "Hey Mrs. Kent, Pete" Chloe said, making herself at home. Tara and Mirek were watching tv, engrossed in everything the humans did as they were flipping through the channels, stopping when something intrigued them. Then Clark proceeded to introduce Mandy, "I'd like you all to meet Mandy. Mandy, this is my mom Martha, my best friend Pete and over there on the couch is my Aunt Tara and Uncle Mirek."
Everyone said hello, as Martha offered the young girl some homemade peanut butter cookies, fresh from the oven.
Then in a whispered tone, Mandy asked Clark, "Are there anymore aliens among us?"
Then in a normal voice he said, only my aunt and uncle. They're from the planet Dione, which is in the Whirlwind Galaxy. Tara was my biological mother's sister, but she left Krypton before it was destroyed. I've only recently learned about them and now I've had the opportunity to actually meet them."
"Wow" Mandy said, and then turning towards Martha she said, "Mrs. Kent, these cookies are delicious."
"Thanks" replied Martha.
Anxious to see Zan again, Mandy asked, "Where are we holding the meeting?"
"Down at the adjoining farm, why?" inquired Clark.
"Just wondering," Mandy said in a sighed tone. Chloe picked up on her excitement of wanting to see Zan and offered, "Why don't we just go down there a little early and see if they need any help."
"Sounds good to me," piped in Pete. So they each got up and moved towards the door.
"I think I'll wait her until Lana, Lionel, Lois and her father get here. I'll follow up with them," Martha said.
As the group made their way out the door, Clark pulled Chloe aside, "Can I talk to you in private?"
"Oh" she said with raised eyebrow, "Sure".
"Hey Pete, can you take them up to the farm, Clark wants to talk to me about something."
"No problem" he said with a wide grin on his face. Mandy, Tara and Mirek squeezed into Pete's car as he got behind the driver's seat and he drove them down to the adjoining farm.
Chloe then followed Clark out to the barn and climbed the stairs. She walked over to the window as Clark came up behind her and turned her towards him. He looked into her eyes and caressed her cheek and then he kissed her. It was one of the most passionate kisses Chloe had ever received. When they eventually parted, she said dreamily, "Well I didn't have visions, but I think I saw stars."
"What" questioned Clark?
"Oh, it's nothing. Mandy and I had a conversation and I guess she and Zan kissed and she said she had visions when they kissed of his life, his trip through the stars, Max giving him up for adoption, his adoptive family and how he felt about her. She wanted to know if I saw visions and well…I don't see visions, but I'm sure there were stars." She said smiling up at Clark. "So, did you pull me away from the group just to make out with me, not that I'm complaining."
"No" he said, offering her a seat on the sofa. "I wanted to be the one that told you that Lana has been inducted into 'the club'"
"Oh" Chloe said, "How did this revelation come about?"
Sitting next her and taking her hand he explained what events led up to Lana's knowledge of their secret society. "Michael thought it was best to bring her to the Fortress and after hearing what had happened to Lex, I'm glad he did. I also told her about us."
Chloe's jaw dropped, "What did she have to say about that?"
"She basically wished us luck. I think she realizes that I had to get on with my life, like she did. I know it hurt her and she'll probably want to talk to you about it, but I thought I'd mention it to you first."
"Well, thanks for the forewarning" Chloe said. The room was silent for a while as Chloe lay back in Clark's arms, it was really peaceful up in the loft. Finally she decided to ask a question that had been burning deep inside of her.
"Clark"
"Yeah"
"Where is this relationship leading?" The room was so silent that Chloe wouldn't need super hearing to hear a pin drop.
"Clark" she said nervously. Had she gone too far?
"I'm here," he said pulling her onto his lap and embracing her a little bit more. "I…I really like you Chloe. I have for a long time. I've never had to worry about being myself around you and I think we have a very open relationship, which I'm very thankful for. I want to go to the next step, but I'm afraid I may hurt you."
Chloe turned around and looked Clark squarely in the eyes, sitting upon his lap. "Clark, I know the risks involved, but it's not like it's never been done before. Look at Max and Liz, Michael and Maria, Isabel and Jesse and your Aunt and Uncle. In each of those cases, the species line has been crossed. We can cross that line too, if you choose to. Just like any of your other abilities, you just need to control yourself."
"That's the thing, I don't know if I can"
"Well then, let's just take baby steps" and then she began to cross that line, reaching down between his legs she felt for his extended member as she drew him into another passionate kiss. Unable to control himself anymore he proceeded to remove her clothes as she began to remove his shirt and unzip his pants.
"Are you sure about this Chloe," he said in between the kisses.
"Yes" was all that was said.
Kent House
It was getting darker earlier in the evenings due to the time change and soon the kitchen door of the Kent's house opened.
"Good Evening Mrs. Kent" Lionel said entering the kitchen. He and Lana decided to drive separately from the Luthor Mansion, since Lionel had some business to attend to in Metropolis following the meeting.
"Hello Lionel. I suppose you're here for the meeting too?"
"Right you are. Have you heard any new information about Lex?"
"No, unfortunately it's been pretty quiet since this morning, do come in. I'm still waiting for a few people. I think we can carpool over to the Evans' farm."
"I agree" and then the door opened again and in walked Lois with her father.
"Hello Mrs. Kent" they both greeted Martha as they entered the house. Lois made herself at home as Lionel and the General decided to sit at the kitchen table with Martha and talked about mundane things.
Then there was a knock at the door and Martha got up to get it. Bob and Brenda had finally made it. She ushered them in as the door opened up again.
"Hey Mrs. Kent" Lana said, entering the house carrying a fresh cup of Cappuccino from the Talon. She was amazed at the number of people that had arrived for the meeting.
"Hello Lana, come on in. Clark informed me you'd be coming" Martha said.
Lois looked up at Lana and then at Mrs. Kent and whispered, "When did she find out?"
"I guess this morning. I'm sure it'll be explained later on at the meeting," she whispered back.
Lois nodded and then she mouthed, "Chloe's not going to be happy." Martha just smiled back in agreement.
"So where's Smallville?" Lois said aloud.
"He went out to the barn with Chloe," informed Martha.
Seeing that she was closest to the door, Lana offered to go get them and tell them it was time to go and before anyone could talk her out of it she was out the door.
Climbing the stairs to the loft she heard the audible sounds of passion. Taking each step in stride she reached the top step and saw her two friends in a very compromising position.
"A-hem" she coughed, pulling them back to earth.
"Everyone's here and we're waiting for you two," she said quietly as she bounded down the stairs quickly. They were adults and she had Lex. Why did this hurt so bad? A tear leaked from her eyes as she made her way back to the house. Quickly regaining her composure she entered the house and told its occupants that Clark and Chloe would be there shortly.
Both Clark and Chloe pulled themselves together and checked each other out to make sure they were presentable. "I'm sorry Chloe. We'll have to finish this later on."
"You bet your ass we will," she said reaching up and kissing him. "We better get down there before they send someone else up to get us…like your mother."
That's all it took. The two reached the house and noticed the false façade Lana was putting on. They both knew it was really hurting her deep inside. They never meant to have her walk in on them, but what could they say. They all made their way to the Evans farm with the remaining group that had assembled for the meeting.
Evans Farm
Tess was amazed at her son's accomplishments. His abilities were way beyond most of them in some regards. She saw him blasting rocks into dust, whereas all Michael could do is get them into little pebbles. She witnessed him raising an energy shield as Mira threw energy blasts at him. He was very proficient in using the staff. She got to watch her son and Michael spar each other and both participants were amazing. Something she never thought she'd say about Michael, but he was a natural with the staff. She was sure Zan was capable of much more, but they needed to get up to the house for the meeting. As they left the confines of the invisible training field, Tess now understood how they were able to accomplish so much under watchful eyes. They really had come together as a unit. It still amazed her at the number of people that knew about their existence and soon she was going to meet these people that had so much influence over her son's future.
The group entered the house to the smells of food in the kitchen. Maria and Liz made a bunch of appetizers for the meeting and had set out drinks as well. They noticed that Mandy had arrived and was in the kitchen helping Maria and Liz out as Tara and Mirek were helping Jesse rearrange the room to fit everyone. Soon, there was a knock on the door as the rest of the group from the Kent's farm entered the house. They all found a place in the living room, which was arranged in a big circle surrounding the fireplace and once everyone was able to fill their plate, get a beverage and find a seat the meeting started. Max stood up, still wearing his royal garb.
"First of all, I'd like to welcome everyone to the 'I know an Alien' club meeting. There has been so much that has happened that I'm glad we were able to come together to plan our next move, but first I believe we need to have introductions. I'll start this little Alien Roll Call. I'm Max Evans, King over the Whirlwind Galaxy and Antar. I'm an alien-human half breed from the Roswell pods and member of the Royal Four." Max sat down.
"I'm Clark Kent, also known as Kal-El from the planet Krypton"
"Chloe Sullivan, Earth girl working at the Daily Planet"
"Kyle Valenti from Roswell. I'm an alien-human half breed changed by Max a few years back and just began developing my alien tendencies"
"Lois Lane, Chloe's cousin. I'm also just an Earth girl and inspiring reporter"
"General Sam Lane. Lois' father and here to make your lives a little easier"
"Lionel Luthor. Friend of the Kent family and the vessel for Clark's biological father Jor-El"
"Lana Lang. Friend of the Kent family"
"Martha Kent, Clark's mom"
"Tara, Clark's biological Aunt from the planet Dione"
"Mirek, Clark's uncle from the planet Dione"
"Mira, Royal Protector to the Queen Mother Ankaa and sorceress, from the planet Antar"
"Serena, Guardian and Keeper of the Granolith, from the planet Antar"
"Bob Chambers, Zan's adoptive father and car salesman"
"Brenda Chambers, Zan's adoptive mother and school teacher"
"Prince Zan from the planet Antar who also goes by the name Brett Alexander Chambers. I'm the subject of a Prophecy. Son of Max and Tess and Bob and Brenda."
"Mandy Montgomery. Alien-human half breed changed by Max when he healed me in a cancer hospital a couple years back. I'm able to read minds, so watch out and I can also communicate using my mind."
"Lady Tess Harding, from the planet Dione. I'm Zan's biological mother. I'm also an alien-human half breed and used to be a member of the Royal Four."
Stares came from those individuals that were unaware that Tess was alive and had made her way back to Earth. This especially hit the Chamber's hard.
"Pete Ross. Best Friend to Clark Kent and alien cell phone to Antar from Smallville."
"Avanya or Ava for short. Alien-human half breed from the New York pods."
"Maria Deluca. Another Earth girl attached to this guy right here" she said, clutching onto Michael.
"Michael Guerin, also known as General Rath from the planet Antar and Max's second in command. I'm an alien-human half breed from the Roswell pods and member of the Royal Four."
"Jesse Ramirez. Isabel's husband and corporate lawyer for Luthor Corp"
"Isabel Evans-Ramirez. I'm Jesse's wife and Max's sister. I'm also known as Princess Vilandra from the planet Antar and I'm an alien-human half-breed from the Roswell pods and another member of the Royal Four."
"Queen Elizabeth Parker-Evans. Married to Max and go by Liz. I was also healed by Max, which changed me. I'm also an alien-human half-breed and have recently been instated as the Queen over Antar and the final member of the Royal Four. I'm also pregnant with our little girl."
"I think that's everyone. Eleven humans and fourteen aliens, Wow, our club has really grown, hasn't it" remarked Max. "And just to inform those that are unaware of those inductees that live in Roswell, we've got Isabel and my parents, Diane and Phil Evans. Liz's parents, Jeff and Nancy Parker. Maria's mom Amy Deluca. Kyle's father Jim Valenti, who is just a little green around the gills, since I saved him too. Finally, there's Brody Davis, our link to Antar in Roswell and his daughter Sydney, who was also changed along with Mandy when I cured the kids in the cancer pediatric ward."
"Now that we know at least each other's names, I think I'll start this meeting off with what occurred on Liz's and my trip to Dione for the Summit. As some of you know, Liz and I had some problems going through the portal separately and I think that's because we are more linked than anyone understands. We are more like one person than two separate people now. When Liz got to Dione we were fine. Liz and I were treated very well and we even took a tour of the city outside the palace walls, where I healed a young boy from an animal attack. Our planets are in dire need though. During our trip outside the palace walls we got to witness some of the dire situations plaguing each of the Five Planets, about which I'll go into detail in just a moment. During the Summit, the Emissary came forward and determined that since I married Liz here, she is the rightful Queen and Tess was given the title of Lady Tess. On her behalf, she was an asset to us during our visit and has a close relationship with the current stand-in ruler over Antar. His name is Cattivo and he's the reason Zan and Tess are still around today. He helped them escape Antar and Khivar's grasps when Zan was a baby and he's the one that sent Khivar to the Phantom Zone. He was also my father's Royal Protector and the Whirlwind Galaxy's security officer and developed the portal device we were able to use to transport us to Dione. I'm hoping and I give them each my blessing if they want to pursue any relationship." Tess nodded in approval as Max continued.
"Now we learned some things at the Summit that may come as a shock to some, but here goes. Michael…" he said turning towards his friend, "…I don't want you to take this the wrong way, but General Rath was originally from the planet Celaeno, which is where the Skins on Earth were from" and then seeing the horror struck look on his face Max continued. "The Celaenoian citizens weren't followers of Khivar. He just happened to recruit certain rebellions from his home planet for his personal army, but most of its citizens are more like Courtney, which would explain her infatuation with you. They seem to be affected worse by the change in their atmosphere. Their husks are drying out and soon they will be an extinct race."
Michael understood as Maria held him close, reassuring him that it didn't matter where her Spaceboy hailed from, he was still hers.
"At the Summit, each representative was tested by the Emissary to determine their authenticity to be at the Summit. Each member of the royal family from each planet has their royal family's seal embedded in them and when Liz was tested the members of the Summit learned of her pregnancy. The baby has a unique sign attached her. There was a faint underlying seal that looked like an extremely bright blue star at its center with a cluster of bright white stars surrounding it, sitting at the opening of the V formation. The Emissary was unfamiliar with this seal and said we would have to wait and see what happens."
Max allowed that information to sink in as he continued; "The final development I'll allow Liz to explain" and then he gave the floor over to his wife.
"Well, what's happening in the Whirlwind Galaxy is their water supply is evaporating and their atmosphere is changing, drying everything up. Some planets have taken preventative measures such as water reservoirs and housing the animals in zoo-like facilities as well as growing their plants in greenhouses, but I fear this won't be enough. Does anyone known what a whirlwind galaxy is?" The room remained silent. "A whirlwind galaxy is essentially a group of stars circling around each other. There is another feature unique to the Whirlwind Galaxy known as a Red Giant, which is essentially their sun, Sorin. It looks like a cosmic ballet is being performed in the heavens as the circling stars are dancing around the red star, a dying star in its last stage of its life cycle. Sometimes the stars get too close to each other and then one star will start to devour the other star's energy. Eventually the depleted star will expand consuming the resources of the planets closest to it and eventually the planets themselves, essentially what is happening in their galaxy now. As it expands a chemical reaction is occurring, changing the color to red and as the star continues on its death walk it will finally collapse and explode. This is what we call a supernova. Sorin is at the end of its life cycle and if Sorin goes supernova, each of the planets in the Whirlwind Galaxy is doomed to the same fate that Krypton faced."
The room fell silent.
"So, this is what the second half of the Prophecy is speaking about" Isabel stated, aghast at this revelation. "How is Zan supposed to save the Five Planets? It's impossible, isn't it?
"Could someone please explain what this Prophecy is? It's been mentioned a couple of times and I'm not sure what's the full implications are and how is Zan the subject of this Prophecy" inquired Sam Lane, who was trying to get a grasp on the situation.
Isabel recited from memory what her mother told her and Max in their message. "Three different worlds will be brought together to fight the combined evils of the Universe. Their savior will come to them in the form of an innocent, a product of these worlds. He will possess the combined powers and abilities of these three worlds, which he will use to defeat this evil alliance and bring peace to the Universe. Once the evil alliances have been destroyed, the three worlds will have to join the innocent child to save one of the worlds from a dangerous galactic disturbance."
"The question was asked why Zan is believed to be the subject of this prophecy and the reason is because is he is the product of three worlds. Avanya was Tara and Mirek's daughter and Tara is Kryptonian and Mirek is from the Whirlwind Galaxy. When they mixed her DNA with human DNA they engineered Ava and Tess. Once Tess and I consummated our relationship and Tess became pregnant we had produced a product of these three worlds, an innocent child named Zan. If any of you had the opportunity to witness what Zan is capable of doing, you would be amazed. Each day his abilities are strengthening as well as developing. In fact, today I learned he flew alongside Clark, which was a first for him. The evil alliance he must battle and defeat will come up later in our meeting and how he's going to save the worlds from a dangerous galactic disturbance, I have no idea" stated Max.
"You flew?" Chloe asked looking up at Clark, as Lana took mental notes. Clark could fly too.
"Yeah, it was amazing. Of course Tara dropped me into the Mediterranean Sea before I was able to grasp the concept."
"I just tried to get you to realize your Kryptonian side" Tara said innocently as Clark smiled back at her.
Finally Michael spoke up. "Well, while you were attending the Summit there have been some developments happening back here on Earth. "
"I'd say," said Lana, who up to this moment had been silent.
"Lana, if you could. Would you explain the events that happen to you and Lex this morning" asked Max.
"Sure" she said timidly. She was really nervous about speaking in front of all these people, especially since eleven of them were aliens. Aliens. She never thought that she would meet one alien, not to mention eleven of them and here they were waiting for her to tell them her story.
"Well, it started last night…" and she related the story of Lex's abduction to the group. "The last thing I saw was Lex being beamed up into the black ship. Just prior to that I saw Milton Fine behind me saying he was preparing him for something. Then I sought out Clark after that and met up with Michael along the way. He brought me up to the Fortress where Clark was and that was where I learned of Clark and Michael's true identities."
"While Lana and Michael were up at the Fortress, I spoke to Jor-El and he believes that Lex's body is being prepared to be used as a vessel and I'm assuming for General Zod, but I don't understand how. I haven't given anyone any of my blood. Jor-El did mention that if Zod inhabits Lex's body it may be hard to reverse the process. He only uses Lionel's body as needed and allows Lionel to live an otherwise fulfilled life, Zod won't be so considerate."
"Clark, who is this General Zod character and why does he need your blood?" asked Lana, thoroughly intrigued by all these developments.
"General Zod is a Kryptonian that was sent to the Phantom Zone, an intergalactic prison and only the blood of a member of the House of El can open the portal to get out of this said prison and I'm the last member of the House of El and I haven't given anyone my blood, so I don't know how he plans on releasing Zod from the Phantom Zone."
"And if he releases Zod, who's to say he doesn't have any tagalongs with him such as our buddy Khivar" Kyle stated.
"Okay, who's Khivar?" Lana stated again.
"He murdered the original Royal Four on Antar, took over my throne there and has the hots for my sister. But he's barking up the wrong tree, because she's already sent his ass back to Antar once" explained Max.
"And she's married…to me" stated Jesse, who reached for Isabel's hand.
"And don't forget Cattivo sent him to the Phantom Zone" threw in Tess.
"So, he's probably had the opportunity to befriend Zod" stated Michael.
"Boy, this keeps getting better and better" Lois said. "Well, daddy do you want to inform the group of our little run in today?"
"Sure. Lois informed me that Liz had a vision and that your dupes and that Nicholas character were on their way to Smallville. I've positioned my guys at the Smallville Inn, so stay clear of the downtown area for a while. Anyways, I got a call from Lois today and I proceeded to the Talon. It seems like your twins and that teenage punk have made it to Smallville. They were having something to eat when I came in to do a little recon and I was able to follow them back to the Luthor Inn. I still have that device you gave me. I just need to know what you want me to do with them."
The individuals in the room who knew who Sam was talking about started talking amongst themselves as Max sat back. He was overwhelmed. What was he supposed to do? Liz felt his anxiety and opened up the line of communication.
'Max, this isn't all on your shoulders. We're all here to help make a decision. Nobody in this room wants any harm to come to anyone, especially Zan.'
'Thanks Liz. I needed to hear that' he communicated back and placed his arm around her, bringing her closer to him.
'She's right dad' Zan joined in. 'Plus, shouldn't I be the one having the anxiety attack. I've got to defeat these lunatics and save the Whirlwind Galaxy and I haven't got a clue how I'm going to do it.'
'You're right son' he said.
'Hey guys, do you want to join in on the audible conversation going on. I'm good, but it's getting really confusing listening to two different conversations at the same time'
'Mandy?' Max asked.
'Of course, now why don't you join in on the audible conversation Your Highness.'
'Smart Ass' Max communicated jokingly as he returned his attention to what was being said in the meeting, as Mandy giggled at his comment.
"Does anyone want to explain who the General is talking about?" asked Brenda, finally finding her voice and wanting to know who these added players were that her son would have to go against. Isabel was right, how was her son going to be able to accomplish everything set forth in this blasted prophecy?
Ava explained to the group who Lonnie and Rath were and Isabel filled them in on who Nicholas was and how they had joined Khivar in his plots to kill the Roswell group, except for Isabel, who he wanted to join him at his side as ruler over the Whirlwind Galaxy.
Brenda acknowledged the explanation and then asked, "I don't mean to sound rude, but I thought you told us Zan's biological mother passed away, but here she is. How did this happen?" Max looked over towards Tess wanting her to explain her resurrection.
Taking a deep breath, Tess began, "First of all, I need to make a public apology" and then turning to the Roswell group she said, "I want to say I'm truly sorry for all my actions in the past. There is no excuse for what I did. It was embedded in me to return home at any cost and I was foolish not to ask you all for help. Instead, I went behind your back and in the process I killed someone very close to each and every one of you and for this I am truly sorry. That was never my intention, but I can't bring Alex back." And then turning towards Kyle she said, "And I'm sorry for deceiving you and your father. You were kind enough to accept me into your family and I broke that trust covering up Alex's death and using you in the process. Again, I can't reverse time, but I want you to know I'm sorry for my actions. I don't expect any of you to forget what I have done, but I hope one day you will find it in your hearts to forgive me." She then turned towards Max and Liz and said, "And I'm sorry I deceived you two, but like I told Liz on our way to the Air Force Base that night, every time we kissed, Max, you were never thinking of me. You were thinking of Liz. It was wrong of me to trick you into thinking Zan's life was in danger and I had to leave Earth, but that was the last mission Nasedo gave me and I was naïve and didn't know he had alternative motives. When I got to Antar, I learned real quick why I was to return. Khivar was furious when it was only me that exited the Granolith and pregnant with your child. He was expecting the rest of you and was looking forward to a public execution. Disappointed, he locked me away in one of the palace rooms and my only contact was Cattivo. He cared for me as well as helped me in delivering Zan, when the time came. Shortly after his birth, Cattivo came to me with a plan to escape and soon after I was on a spaceship traversing through the stars. He also gave me the portal device you used. That night at the Air Force Base, I can't explain really what happened, because it was so unbelievable. I made my way to the center of the base and when they finally realized who I was, they opened fire on me, but the bullets bounced off of me. It was like my skin was impenetrable. I pulled out the portal device and set the coordinates, but not before they began to surround me. Something inside me fired up and the next thing I knew red laser beams were streaming out of my eyes uncontrollably and they hit an explosive ordinances building which exploded. I took this opportunity to activate the portal, ended up in Larek's palace on Dione."
Max looked at Clark as understanding crossed both of the alien leaders, Tess' Kryptonian side had truly emerged. The rest of the Roswellians were in shock. They didn't know what to say, so they remained quiet.
"Tess, I think I understand what happened to you at the Air Force Base" Clark stated, "Remember when we mentioned your essence came from Avanya" she nodded. "Well, I believe some of your Kryptonian genes made their debut that night." She looked at Clark, confusion clearly crossing her face. "You see, my skin as well as Tara's skin is impenetrable and I have heat vision where I can shoot laser beams out of my eyes."
"Are you serious?" Tess asked incredulously.
Clark demonstrated his ability by lighting a nearby candle. "And you said you can fly too?"
"Yes, why?"
"Will I be able to fly too?" questioned Tess.
"I really don't know what kind of abilities you or Ava will inherit, but it's a possibility."
"Cool" Tess said sitting back.
"So, what's the plan on getting my son back and dealing with Lonnie, Rath and this Nicholas?" questioned Lionel.
"Well, I can go back and ask my father if he has any more information. Oh, and I recently found the 'Father Crystal'" Clark said pulling the green crystal out of his pocket, "Tara mentioned that it's my father's personal diary and that maybe we'll be able to find some answers."
"And today, I got some more glyphics from Jor-El via Lionel that I need to translate, but once I do I'll relate that information back to the group" informed Chloe.
"Maybe" started Liz, "we can use my vision to our advantage"
"What do you mean?" questioned Max,
"Well, in my vision Chloe was sitting in a colorful Egyptian themed café drinking a cappuccino with Lois. They were soon joined by Kyle, Maria and Ava. Everyone seemed to be happy when the door chimed and three people walk in, Lonnie, Rath and Nicholas. Maybe we can used my vision and set a trap."
"I don't know. I'm not too comfortable placing civilians in the line of fire, especially Chloe or my daughter" stated Sam Lane.
"Do you truly want to put your men's lives at risk going against these three alone?" questioned Max. "I don't feel comfortable sending Maria, Chloe or Lois in alone, but they won't be alone. You forget that Lois lives in the apartment overhead and you can use that as your base of operations. We can bait the trio by showing ourselves to them and then walking into the Talon, which will only be filled with us acting as customers. They only know of the Roswell group, not the extended family we've become, so once they enter the Talon, we can seal the doors and you can turn on the TAG which will disarm most of us from using our abilities except for Clark and Tara and they dress up as your special unit guys and can come in and apprehend the trio and you can take them back to whatever facility you want to hold them in."
"That actually sounds plausible" Lane thought out loud. "I don't know where to detain them. I know you don't want them being held in one of the Special Unit's facilities, so where do I take them?"
"I think I can help you out there" Lionel spoke up. "I know about some…discreet underground facilities where we can hold the three until you decide what you what to do with them."
"I bet he does," mumbled Pete.
"So we're in agreement, but when should we put this plan in action?" questioned Michael, who was getting excited. He lived for this type of excitement.
"I'd say give it a couple of days and make your presence known, so they know you're around, but be careful to give them the slip and then in a couple of days, let's say after the noon rush, we can set up our trap" suggested Sam. Everyone was in agreement. A few people were unable to make it, such as Bob and Brenda because of work, but the majority of the group would be there for the incarceration of the alien trio.
"Well, that takes care of them, what about Lex and what happens if Fine is able to release Zod and Khivar from the Zone?" Lionel asked. Lana listened in closely, but she was disappointed in the answer she received.
"I'm sorry, but we can only wait and see what happens next. Besides talking to Jor-El, I don't know what else we can do. But if they do escape, I'm afraid we'll have more serious problems on our hands then your dupes and Nicholas." Clark said.
The room agreed. "Well, is there anything else that needs to be brought up?" Nobody spoke. "Well then I guess this meeting is over."
Everyone got up and went their separate ways as Lana walked over to Chloe and asked, "Can I have a word with you, please?"
Nervous Chloe responded, "Sure" Turning towards Clark she whispered, "I'll be right back" and then she followed Lana out the front door. They decided to walk back to the Kent farm when Chloe spoke up.
"Lana, I'm so embarrassed. I never meant for you to see Clark and…"
"Chloe, that's not what I want to talk to you about. You and Clark are adults and what you do in your spare time is your own business. Sorry I interrupted. No, what I wanted to asked you was how did you learn about Clark?"
"Oh…I thought he told you. Well, he didn't tell me, not at first. Do you remember Alicia?"
"Yeah, she tried to kill me?"
"Yeah, well she knew about Clark's abilities and believed that he was also meteor infected. She thought it was unfair that everyone labeled her as a bad person" Lana raised an eyebrow, because to her Alicia wasn't on her list of wholesome goodhearted people. "And she tried to convince Clark to tell everyone about his abilities, when he denied her request, she set up a little scene for me to witness. She transported me to her car as she sped over this bridge. She phoned Clark telling him the brakes were out in her car and then she transported us to a safe place. I watched Clark come out of nowhere, stopping the car, lifting it back onto the highway and then he was gone again. Alicia died shortly afterwards and I was in shock. I kept his secret to myself and when he lost his memory shortly afterwards, I helped him conceal his secret. I truly thought he was meteor infected and never let him know I knew until the second meteor shower. I was transported in error up to the 'Fortress' and when I found Clark, he was in a trance. Jor-El didn't approve of my presence and tried to freeze me to death, but I was able to break through the trance Clark was in and he carried me away to a hospital. This was where I learned the truth about Clark Kent. I don't know who was more dumb founded, because Clark learned that I knew his secret, well a portion of it. He filled in the blanks and I've been at his side since, helping him whenever I can."
"Before the Roswell aliens invaded our town, did Clark ever tell anyone his secret?"
"All I know is Clark was always secretive about his existence. It was instilled in him by his parents who were afraid if his secret got out then the wrong people would come and take their son away. I do think he told Pete though. I'm not quite sure how he found out, but I do know he got a chance to see his spaceship, before Clark destroyed it."
"What about Lois?"
"Oh, that was Michael's doing. Clark had no input there." Lana looked at Chloe wanting more of an explanation.
"Okay. Zan and I were kidnapped by Milton Fine and Clark called the house and told Max who went into shock. Isabel sent for Liz and while they were waiting for Pete to return with Liz, Mrs. Kent and Lois came in the door. Shortly afterwards Pete and Liz returned and Michael made the decision that our lives were more important than their existence, so they brought her into the club. Clark later found out and I still don't think those two have actually sat down and talked about her discovery."
So he was telling her the truth, he never really told anyone. They figured things out for themselves, just like she did. She was so blind. How many times had he displayed one of his abilities in front of her and she just passed it off as just being Clark Kent.
"Thanks Chloe. That explains a lot"
"No problem" They made it all the way back to the farmhouse when Lana got into her car. "Chloe, if you or anyone else learns anything about Lex, let me know. Okay."
"Sure" and then Lana pulled out of the driveway.
"She didn't stay very long?" Clark said, sneaking up behind her.
"She just wanted to know how Lois and I found out about you"
"Oh"
"Yeah, I think she thought you didn't trust her enough with this secret, but the rest of us were privy enough to learn the 411 of Clark Kent's mysterious existence."
"So, she didn't mention anything about…"
"No. I think she feels better about it though, learning that you just didn't come out and tell everyone, they just learned on their own, except for Pete. I really don't know how he found out. Do you want to enlighten me?" They walked towards the house as Clark explained.
"During the tornado that hit Smallville, my spaceship was displaced. It was originally hidden in our storm cellar, but Pete found it in a cornfield. He was all excited and I convinced him to hide it for a while. During the night, my father and I went to retrieve it from his shed, but it wasn't there, someone else had found it first. Pete saw us there that night and thought we had taken it. The next morning he confronted me and I lied to him. He was mad and began to drive away. I couldn't lose my best friend, so I told him the truth. I wasn't sure how he was going to handle it, because he was so furious with me, but eventually things worked out and he was an asset, like you."
Soon they were joined by the rest of the group. Bob and Brenda took off for Metropolis as well as Lionel. Lois and General Lane said their goodbyes and drove their separate ways. Chloe gave Clark a kiss and loaded up her car. She was going to take Mandy home and Zan wanted to tag along.
Clark, Martha, Tara and Mirek went back inside the farmhouse as Martha prepared dinner.
Evans House
Before Zan left, Tess embraced her son and said her goodbyes. They both felt fortunate to be reunited with each other. After everyone left, Tess looked towards Max and said,
"I'm ready to go back. Thanks for allowing me the opportunity to meet with my son. I really do appreciate it." She reached into her pocket and pulled out the portal device.
"Tess" Isabel spoke, "Thank you for your apology and you're right, you can never bring Alex back and no, I will never forget what you did, but I'm willing to work on forgiving you, but don't expect it overnight."
"Ditto" came Maria's reply.
"I'm not convinced, but if Isabel and Maria can find a little forgiveness for you, I suppose I can search for some too. But you will never be trusted in my book." Kyle said.
"Duly noted" Tess said, "I will try my best not to let any of you down again. Again, I'm sorry. And Max, thank you for your blessing. I will let Cattivo know." She turned around activated the device and was gone.
Road Trip back to Metropolis
Chloe was driving back in a very quiet vehicle listening to the radio. She thought it would be more eventful, considering she had Mandy and Zan in the back seat, but they were engrossed in their own personal conversation. She didn't want to interrupt them, so she kept quiet and reflected back on what had happened in the barn loft, which brought a smile to her face.
Then all of a sudden, there was a thunderous boom in the sky and a flash of blazing light came spiraling out of the sky aiming directly at Chloe's vehicle. Chloe thought it was another meteor and she veered off the highway, trying to miss the projectile, when she overcorrected herself, flipping her vehicle twice in the air landing it in the opposite ditch upside down.
