Title: A Darker Shade of Red… Chapter 3 – Into The Lions Den
Lois made her way slowly towards Miles and tried to downplay the nervous apprehension racing through her body. What if he has done something to Clark, what then? I mean I just can't ask where he is and then go save him. Calm down Lois, she scolded herself, you still don't know if he has Clark, this all could be one big misunderstanding. Yeah right.
"Hey beautiful," Miles said as "donna" walked up to him.
"Hey yourself," Lois smiled as she walked into his embrace and regrettably gave him a kiss. Yuck she thought. "So what's on the agenda for tonight? You promised me some real action," she said with fake smile.
"Yes I did," Miles said as he moved them into a corner booth. "And I meant what I said. But let's have some dinner first. It's not good to watch entertainment I have in mind on an empty stomach," Miles laughed as he motioned for the waiter and they ordered some drinks.
Lois sat there with a glum smile hoping that Miles would take the bait and ask her what was wrong. He did. "Why do you look so down my love? Bad day?"
"Yeah no thanks to Superman," Lois said trying to add a little disgust in her voice, which was very hard to do.
"Superman?" Miles asked in interest. "What happened?"
"Well I went to withdraw some money," she said with a fake smile, "you know the way you showed me. Well I was half way through when that, that, thing," she said with emphasis, "flew into the store and stopped me. Oh yeah he let me go with a warning, me being a woman and all, saying there were better career choices I could be making. Yeah as if I need his help in telling me what a better career is," she paused looking at Miles, "I'm rambling again right?"
"Yes," he said pointedly.
"So anyways here I am and that's why I'm down," Lois said pouting again. "I just wish he'd leave here already. I mean isn't there another place he can go and attach himself to, burden their lives?"
"I didn't realize that you had this much disdain towards the boy in blue?" Miles asked.
"Yeah well I guess today was the last straw."
"And have you been to see your cousin lately?"
Lois turned to him with a sharp glare, as she searched her brain at his comment. Oh yeah, she told herself, he was one of the guy's Clark's story put away. "Don't even get me started on that one. That no good do-gooder Kent. You know if it wasn't for his lies, Wally would be here right now with us," Lois said turning away in fake sadness. "He should be shown you just can't mess with people like that you know," she said turning back. "I'm sorry," She said with another fake smile, "I'm sure you really don't want to hear my opinion about Clark Kent." She picked up a menu, hoping it would at least get some kind of reaction from Miles.
"I'm glad you feel that way my dear," Miles said as he too picked up his menu, "because I really think you'll enjoy tonight's entertainment. And as for Superman, well don't worry about him, I have a plan that will take care of that. But let's eat now."
Lois just looked at Miles and tried to downplay her anxiety. What in the world does that mean? Does he have Clark? How can I ask without making myself seeming like I'm prying? And if I pry too much will he get suspicious? Oh Clark I wish you were here right now.
********
Stuart quietly made his way towards the locked room that Clark was being kept in. He quietly unlocked the door and slowly turned the handle. He walked up to Clark's unconscious body and stared at it. He felt somewhat sorry for the trapped reporter before him, but knew if he let him go before they got Superman that he'd be the one to pay. And he knew what payment from Miles meant, a slow, painful death, the one he was sure Clark would end up experiencing. He walked up to Clark with another needle in his hand and plunged the tip into Clark's neck. Since Clark was unconscious he didn't feel it.
"It's a basic sustenance compound Mr. Kent," Stuart said as he pushed the liquid contents all the way into Clark's neck vein, "it'll help you endure the next few hours. After that, by the looks of you now, I'm sure you'll be dead or pretty close to it. Just don't die before Superman comes, I really don't want anyone else involved in this." Stuart said firmly as he turned and left the room, engulfing Clark in the darkness once again.
********
It was killing Lois all throughout dinner not being able to ask anything more about Clark. But Miles had asked about her sudden interest in the reporter and she knew she had to stop. Supper of course seemed to last for eternity. Oh Clark, I hope you're okay. I hope they're not making you endure anything bad. And the only reason Miles is still here, she reasoned is that they are keeping him in a place he can't change into Superman without giving himself away. But he could change if he wanted to right, she asked herself? I mean he's still okay right? She nervously looked at Miles who seemed to be wearing a smile that would rival the Cheshire Cat. What's the real story? Lois wouldn't have to wait too long to find out.
"Well my love, dinner was excellent. Ready for some fun?"
"More than you know," she smiled as she got up out of the booth and he followed her. He walked ahead of her and led her to his waiting car.
"So which hotel are we going to?" She smiled.
"Actually we are going to the house tonight," Miles said holding the door for her.
"Oh really?" Lois asked in fake sweetness. "I have never seen it before. This will be a real treat," she said as she got in.
"Actually the real treat's what's inside the house," he said firmly as he closed the door on her.
"Yeah I'll bet." Lois said dryly as she watched as Miles walked around the front of the car and got in.
They rode most of the way in silence as Lois just watched out the window as the city got smaller and smaller in the side mirror. In no time they pulled down a driveway that led to what reminded Lois of the Wayne Manor, just a big, just as daunting and probably just as secure. Oh man, she sighed, it's a good thing I've got a ride out of here.
"Home at last," Miles said as he brought the car to a stop. Lois just stared out the window with a wide-eyed look on her face. "My love?"
"It's so big," She said quietly.
"Yeah," Miles laughed, "wait'll you see inside." He said he got out and she did the same. They slowly walked up to the front entrance and into the main foyer. Lois looked around and noticed little security cameras all over the place. If they are keeping Clark here, then with those little cameras all over the place it's a good bet he wasn't able to change into Superman, she said inside.
"Now what?" She asked some what hesitatingly.
"Now we make ourselves a drink and then I'll introduce you to tonight's guest entertainment," Miles said as he led her towards the den. Once inside she took off her coat and put her purse down beside it. She was about to walk away when something on the desk caught her eye. It was a paper with some notes on it, but more importantly it had Clark's name on it circled and then with an X through. What in the world, she wondered?
"Want a drink my love," Miles asked breaking her thoughts.
"Um sure whatever you're having will be fine," she smiled as she walked up to the bar. He poured them two glasses of brandy and then kissed her on the cheek. "Did I tell you you look beautiful tonight?"
"Well you can say it as often as you like," she smiled as she kissed him back. Yuck again. Where's Clark!!!! Her mind screamed at Miles.
"So what do you have planned for Superman?" She asked finally.
"Ah come and let me show you," Miles said as he pulled her by the arm and led her to the room that Stuart was supposed to be in. "Where in the world is he?" Miles asked. Lois looked around at all the equipment and tried to imagine just what he was planning. "I think you'll like this my love," Miles said with a grin as he flipped on a nearby computer terminal. "You see these two nuclear warheads?"
"Yeah so?" Lois asked playing dumb.
"Well they are set to detonate 5 minutes apart. Think Superman could stop both?" Miles asked.
"Easily," Lois said rolling her eyes.
"Well not this time. See the tip of the first one contains Kryptonite. So when the boy in blue gets near it'll kill him and then both will destroy my intended targets," Miles laughed. "Brilliant isn't it?"
"Were did you get the Kryptonite?" Lois asked.
"A secret my love. But it's a brilliant plan right?" Miles laughed.
"Yeah," Lois sighed sadly, "absolutely brilliant."
"So where's this entertainment you promised me?" Lois asked sweetly.
"Right this way my love," Miles said as he took her hand and led her back into the hallway and stopped in front of a locked door almost at the end. Miles slowly opened the door and opened it to reveal nothing but darkness. Miles walked in and flipped on the light switch. Lois followed him and when she stepped out from behind him, she felt her heart stop cold at the sight before her. There trapped in the middle of the room was her beloved fiancé, Clark, and Superman. She fought back tears of terror and sadness as she looked at his battered appearance. What in the world could have rendered Clark this helpless. She looked away for a brief moment; unable to bear what she knew Miles would make her watch; the senseless beating of her fiancé.
"Is that Clark Kent?" Lois asked in a shaky voice. Oh my god, she said inside, tell me that's not Clark.
Miles walked up behind Clark who was slowly starting to awaken. "Why yes it's none other than the man who murdered my brother and put your cousin away, Clark Kent, star reporter for the Daily Planet," Miles said in disgust as he punched Clark hard in the back.
Clark's body jerked forwards as his body absorbed the blow. He slowly felt his world coming back to him and started to awaken from his drugged status. He slowly opened his eyes and tried to shift his body to a standing position.
"Miss us Kent?" Miles mocked.
It was taking everything in Lois's power not to tackle Miles right now and take Clark down from that horrible trap he was in. She fought back tears as she watched him slowly awaken. Oh Clark how did this happen? She balled up her fists tight to keep her tears from coming as she stared at Clark's helpless state.
"When did you take him?" Lois asked.
"Last night," Miles smiled at Clark. "Yes Kent here spent a very enjoyable evening with us. Didn't you Kent?" Miles said as he hit him again.
Oh Clark, I'm so sorry, Lois sighed inside, I thought you were just avoiding me. I'm so sorry.
Clark cried out into the gag as he finally found himself forced awake and fully opened his eyes.
Lois watched as he lifted his head to look at them and gasped at sight before her. Oh Clark what did he do to your beautiful face, she asked herself as she noticed his swollen and bruised eye, bloody nose and cut and bruised lips. She noticed the tight gag in his mouth and forced herself not to start to cry. Oh if only he could become Superman and just fly away right now. But why didn't he before? What did this to Superman to render him this helpless? They must have Kryptonite around here some place.
"What do you think my dear? Think this is fair punishment for the man who murdered my brother?" Miles asked as he slowly circled Clark.
Clark finally managed to get himself upright again, but still held onto the chains above his wrists to keep himself from putting too much pressure on his arms.
"Think this is fair for the man who sent a child to prison?" He yelled as he hit Clark again. Lois turned away unable to watch Clark endure this undeserved treatment. Miles walked up to Clark and pulled the gag from his mouth. "Enjoy your nap Kent?" He mocked in Clark's face. "How about the little snack I gave you?"
Clark said nothing but just stared at Miles in a defiant way. I'll not show weakness to him, I'll not show fear, Clark kept telling himself.
"How do you like my hospitality Kent?" Miles asked as he walked back to Lois.
"What do you think of Kent now Donna? Think he's as tough as he pretending to be?" Miles laughed.
"I um," Lois started, "think he's in a lot of pain." She said softly.
Clark lifted his head at the sound of Lois's voice. Am I dreaming or do I really hear Lois's voice? He slowly turned his head to look at Lois and once their eyes locked he knew he at least had a chance. There was no way Lois could just watch this and not try to do something. Every other time he would have dreaded her involvement, now he couldn't wait for it. I know she'll help me.
Lois met Clark's gaze and just stared back in sadness. Oh Clark, you have to hold on until I can figure out how I can get you out of here.
"What if Superman comes for him?" Lois said.
"Well up until now Superman hasn't shown any concern for his best friend," Miles said walking back up to Clark, "of course I haven't given him a chance to call for him either. Have I Kent?" Miles laughed in his face. "I have kept Kent pretty quiet until now," Miles said turning back to Lois, "which I hope he will get used to," he laughed as he walked past her to the shelf. "But if he does somehow manage to call for his do-gooder friend I have a little insurance kept with Kent at all times," Miles said as he opened the box with the Kryptonite in it and walked back to Lois.
Clark immediately felt the pain from the Kryptonite start to take over and he fought to stand upright.
Lois stared in horror as the horrible green rock neared her and knew it was the reason Clark was rendered so helpless for so long. "How long has been exposed to that?" She asked quietly.
"Since last night right Kent?" Miles laughed as he walked up to Clark with the exposed rock. Clark gasped in pain as the rock came near to him and he knew at any second he would pass out if that box wasn't closed.
"You know Kent you really a wimp," Miles laughed he noticed Clark wincing in pain. Not he's not Lois insisted. If you only knew who you were really talking to, she said inside, he's the strongest man on earth!
Lois fought back tears as she watched Clark's body starting to falter as the deathly rock was brought near to him. She rushed up to Miles and closed the lid shut, much to Clark's relief and Miles surprise.
"Well you wouldn't want Superman flying overhead and seeing it, now would you? Then he'd never come," she asked as she tried not to look at Clark. For if she did she knew she'd break down.
"Yes my dear you are quite right. Got to like a woman that values the same things right Kent?" Miles laughed as he turned his back and walked to put the box away. "Like the death of Superman."
"I will get you away from here," Lois quickly whispered in Clark's ear.
Clark strained a smile but with the crippling effects of the Kryptonite still playing with his system it was more of a grimace than anything.
"I love you," Lois mouthed as Miles turned around to them again.
"Want to have a piece of him my love?" Miles asked as he walked up behind Lois and put his arms around her and pulled her back into his embrace. Clark watched in disgust and tried to hide his anger and rage towards the man touching his fiancé.
"I think he's had enough for tonight. I mean if you hurt him too much then he might be unable to call for Superman," Lois said sadly as she looked at Clark.
"That's really to bad my dear, I really thought you'd take as much pleasure in his slow death as I am," Miles said into her ear.
Lois just closed her eyes and fought back tears. "Sorry," she said.
"That's okay. He's going to be here with us for quite awhile. I have a lot planned for him," Miles laughed as he pulled away from Lois and walked back up to Clark. "Remember my threat in the van Kent?" Miles laughed.
Clark looked at Miles in contempt but said nothing.
"What do you say to him?" Lois asked trying to sound happy.
"Oh nothing much eh Kent? Only that I would turn him into my own personal servant. What do you say Donna? Think Kent's pride here could handle the shame of walking around the house with only this in his mouth and nothing else?" Miles laughed as he tugged on the gag.
Lois just looked at Miles in horror and disgust. He can't be serious, he must be joking. She looked at the expression on Clark's face and knew that Miles must have been taunting Clark with this horrible threat. She had to help him get away tonight. But how? How could she get close to help him if he was like this? I can't let him be subjected to Miles thinking, he'd never survive it. It would destroy him, she thought. The shame of that would kill him.
"What do you think my love?" Miles asked firmly as he walked up to her.
"Well he definitely has the build for it," Lois said sweetly.
Clark just closed his eyes and tried not to look at Miles laughing face. I know Lois is joking he told himself, but it still hurts.
"Hear that Kent, I think that was a yes," Miles laughed as he looked down at Lois. "I thought for a second you were getting soft on the man who murdered my brother and sent your cousin away for the rest of his life."
"I think not Miles. But look at him, he's really in no condition to appreciate fully the shame you have in mind for him," Lois said trying to sound firm.
"As always you're right again my dear. Well Kent," Miles said as he turned back to him, "it'll just have to wait a few days."
Yeah and hopefully you'll be dead by then and Clark will be safely away from you, Lois said inside.
"Yeah Kent it seems like the ladies have a soft spot for you," Miles said as he punched Clark in the stomach. Clark cried out as he body jerked backwards in pain. Lois bit down on her lip as she heard Clark cry out in agony.
"I don't have that soft spot," He said as he hit him again. Clark faltered a bit as he gasped for air.
Lois just stood and listened to Miles next taunt and fought to keep herself in her spot. Oh Clark don't listen to his horrible words she said inside.
"I wonder if your lovely fiancé is worried about you right now? But you know women, so fickle," Miles laughed as he walked behind Clark. "She's probably out on the town right now, seducing some other poor sap. That is if she's still loyal to you. I mean you're really not much to write home about, can't dress worth a damn and have nothing to show for in the way of money," Miles said as he hit Clark in the back. Clark cried out again but stood his ground as best he could. "And besides you're not exactly, well, you're not Superman," Miles laughed as the sad irony of his statement, to which Clark's anger and Lois's hatred for Miles grew stronger.
Miles was about to hit Clark again when Stuart walked into the room. Miles turned to him with a mean glare. "I told you I was not to be disturbed when I'm with Kent!" His angry voice boomed.
"Sorry but I need your key for the final test," Stuart said firmly.
"I see," Miles said turning to Lois. "Want to keep Mr. Kent company for a bit?" Miles asked.
"Yeah why not," Lois said trying to sound calm.
"Very well," Miles said as he turned and followed Stuart.
Lois waited until she heard another door down the hallway close before she walked up to Clark.
"This room has a camera in it," she said softly.
"Please help me," Clark said softly as Lois felt her heart break as she neared him.
"I will find a way Clark," She said trying to sound firm as she noticed the red blinking light in the corner. "I can't keep this up," Lois whispered to Clark, "I can't watch you endure this much longer."
********
"What's she saying to him I wonder?" Miles asked as he watched on the camera.
********
"Pretend to slap me then put the gag back in my mouth," Clark said.
"What? Why?" Lois asked softly.
"Because he's watching and the only way for you to help me is to make it seem like you hate me," Clark said sadly. "Which after that ring comment you probably do," he sighed.
"For that I will gag you," Lois said as she went for the gag. "But I could never hate you Clark," she whispered, "I love you."
********
"What in the world is she doing?" Miles asked.
"Helping him?" Stuart asked.
"She wouldn't do that," Miles insisted.
"Are you sure?"
********
"Oh Clark your mouth is so bruised," Lois whispered.
"Just do it," Clark said softly. "It's the only to prove to him you're still on his side. Now yell at me, whatever you want and then gag me," Clark said.
"Fine," Lois said stepping back. "How could you ask me to believe you? You killed Jimmy! You sent Wally to prison," Lois shouted, "stop telling me those lies."
"I didn't do anything," Clark said trying to raise his strained voice. "Your boyfriend killed him," Clark said firmly. Lois went to Clark and proceeded to slap his face. But Clark was ready and jerked his head back as her hand touched his face, which helped to lessen the blow.
"Miles didn't, you did," Lois said trying to sound angry as she rushed to him and pulled the gag back into his mouth. "Forgive me Clark," She said as she succeeded in gagging her beloved fiancé. Clark pretended to struggle against her touch. There spend the rest of the time in silence until Miles returns.
********
"You were about to saying something about Donna's loyalties?" Miles laughed as he watched Clark try to fight the gag being put back in.
"Um no," Stuart said as they both turned back to the terminal.
********
Lois looked up and saw the red light still on. But is he still watching, she wondered? She better not take the chance so she just stood back and stared sadly at Clark who tried in vain to pull against his bonds. Oh Clark, I have to get you away from here, I just have to.
Miles quickly finished up and entered the room with two large men behind him. Lois stared at them in horror. Oh this cannot be good for Clark, she said inside as they all walked up to a helpless Clark.
"Well Kent ready for bed?" Miles laughed. "Take him down," Miles ordered the two men beside him. Lois watched helplessly as Clark was roughly taken down and then let fall to the floor to rest a bit before Miles grabbed some more rope and went to bind his already cut and bleeding wrists. Lois was about to object but she knew she would just draw suspicion to herself, so she just had to watch in torment as Clark was tied up again.
"Too bad you can't tell me not to eh Kent?" Miles laughed as he tightly tied Clark's wrists together in front of him. Since Clark was already gagged he only mumbled inaudible words, to which Miles and his men just laughed. Miles finished tying Clark's wrists and then let him lay on the floor to rest a bit. Much to Clark's dismay the rest of the men and Stuart filed into the room. Miles roughly hauled Clark up and stood him before the group. Lois noticed the amused looks and heard the laughing from the men who just taunted Clark. Oh how can he stand to be treated like this without losing his cool, she thought. But she knew if Clark did lose his cool he would pay dearly for it.
"Well Mr. Kent now is the moment of truth," Miles said he drew his gun.
No, Lois screamed inside, they can't kill him.
Miles walked up to Clark and stuck the gun into his chest above his bound hands. "Now I'm going to ask you to do me a favor Kent. It's simple really, but the end result will mean either a quick or a slow death for you." He laughed. "Listening carefully?" Miles taunted. "I want you to call Superman. Is that clear?" Miles asked.
Clark looked at him as if he was insane.
"IS IT CLEAR?" Miles yelled in his face.
Clark again looked at him but didn't nod his head.
"Okay you want to play hardball eh?" Miles yelled as he backhanded Clark's face causing his mouth and nose to bleed again. Lois had to turn away to keep herself from crying.
"All right Mr. Kent," said Miles as he yanked the gag from Clark's bruised mouth and held a gun to Clark's face and cocked the trigger, "call for Superman or this is the last thing you see."
Clark stood before a disguised Lois beaten, bound and helpless and unable to call for his alter ego. She heard the gun cock and knew that if she didn't reveal herself Clark would die. But if she did she would die also. What do I do, she asked herself frantically as she stared into the face of her beloved fiancé?
"CALL HIM NOW!" Miles yelled.
Clark looked at him and said nothing. Miles pulled back on the trigger and Clark closed his eyes. I just can't do it, Clark said inside.
Clark opened his eyes and stared sadly at Lois. I love you Lois, now and forever he said inside as he committed her face to memory. Even with the disguise he would always know it was her.
I have to do something, Lois said. Then an idea came to mind as she walked up to Miles and whispered in his ear. Clark watched as a slow smile started to spread across his face. That doesn't look good, Clark thought. But what would Lois be telling him?
"Very well Mr. Kent," Miles said as he put his gun down, "we'll try again tomorrow."
"I'll let you think on that all night. You either call for Superman or you die. I don't think you're that noble but I guess we'll find out, won't we?" Miles laughed as he roughly stuffed the gag back into Clark's mouth and pushed him to the ground. Clark fell to the ground and landed on his side, cursing angrily into the gag.
Whatever Lois told Miles was enough to delay his execution, for now. But they had to figure out a plan of escape. Yeah how can we do that when I'll be locked in that damn dungeon for the night?
"Go secure the perimeter," Miles said to his men, "he won't give me any trouble now." Miles laughed down at Clark.
He left Clark lying on the floor and turned to Lois with a smile. "Did you pack your pyjamas?" He asked with a smile.
Clark heard his question and started to curse into the gag. Damn it Clark, Lois cursed inside, just be quiet already. As if I'm going to sleep with him, she said inside. Lois walked up to Miles and whispered in his ear something that at first made him frown but then turned to a smile.
"I understand my love. But I still want you to spend the night," Miles said to her.
"Like I'd want to leave," She smiled back. Yeah like I'd leave here without Clark, she thought.
Miles turned to Clark with a mean look which even scared Lois. "Ready for bed Kent?" He asked as he roughly hauled him up by the arm. Clark winced in pain as he felt his body being pulled up and tried not to falter on his weak legs. "Man Kent you truly are a wimp," Miles laughed as he pulled him towards the door. Miles dragged Clark to the end of the hall and pressed the button for the elevator.
The three of them got in and Lois tried not to look at Clark's sorry state, but found herself unable to turn away. He needed to see the strength and love in her eyes, to help him hang on a bit longer. Clark rested on the wall and just stared back at Lois. He felt sort of stupid standing before her bound and gagged, but he knew she'd never think any less of him in this state. If anything, he felt bad for her having to witness what she just did. The thought of Lois actually staying with Miles in his room made him want to lunge at Miles right now, but he knew if he did, he'd pay for it. And in his condition a beating was the last thing he needed. He would just have to trust Lois enough to know she'd come up with an excuse so as not to sleep with him. She will right, he asked himself?
"Hope you'll sleep a bit better tonight Kent," Miles laughed as the doors opened and they all got out. Lois looked down the long dark corridor and shuddered. Oh I can't believe Clark has to endure all of this. But as she looked around she noticed the cameras were turned off. I wonder if that'll be all night? Miles pushed Clark towards the end and pushed him into the open cell. He shoved Clark so hard that Clark lost his balance and crashed to the floor.
Lois had to stifle her anger as she watched Clark enduring what he had to. Miles grabbed some more rope and tightly bound Clark's ankles together. Miles stood up and looked at Clark and laughed. "Man you really are a pathetic sight Kent." With that he put his arm around Lois and turned to leave. Clark will freeze like this. "Man it's cold down here, won't he freeze to death?" Lois asked.
"He better not," Miles laughed as he slammed the iron door shut. "Damn it I left the Kryptonite upstairs," Miles said. "Oh well I guess I could use the exercise and bring it back down," he laughed as he pulled Lois down the hallway. She noticed some other corridors and wondered where they led. "Where do those lead?" She asked.
"Eventually outside," Miles laughed, "but I don't think anyone has ever tried to find their way out. But don't worry my love, Kent is in not condition to free himself, much less think about escaping."
"Oh that's good," Lois said slowly as they got into the elevator. She met Clark's sad gaze once more before the doors closed and took him away from her view. She wished there was a way she could get Miles not to put the Kryptonite with Clark, but she also knew that wasn't going to happen.
Clark watched Lois leave before he put his head back down on the cold cement ground to rest. He looked up and saw the camera was not on. Why? I guess he figures I'm no threat, Clark sighed. Which, at this point I'm not. He made the most of the camera being off by curling up his body into a ball-like position and tried to untie his bound feet. It was a slow process as his whole body ached and the cold was starting already to affect his fingers. Oh Lois, I hope you can figure out a way to help me, Clark sighed as he closed his eyes and tried to get some sleep.
They reached the top and Lois actually considered revealing her cover just so that she could spend the time with Clark. But if Miles found out she was indeed his fiancé, he wouldn't hesitate for a second to use that against Clark, and right now in his condition it would kill him. She couldn't take that chance. Stuart met them just as the got out of the elevator and whispered in Miles ear.
"Ah you're right. I guess will be able to sleep with out his Superman insurance with him," Miles laughed.
"I could take it down for you," Lois offered wanting to seize the opportunity to be with Clark even for a brief minute. "That is if you want me to," she smiled.
"What an excellent idea my love," Miles said to her as he went and retrieved the small lead box. He gave it to her but not before he planted a big kiss firm on her lips.
Lois took the box and walked slowly backwards to the elevator.
"Hurry back my love," Miles smiled to her as she got in. Lois gave him a wink and watched as he turned around and followed Stuart back into the secret room.
Lois willed the elevator to move faster and prayed very hard that when she reached the bottom the camera's would be off. The doors opened and Lois was relieved beyond words to see that they were indeed still off. But for how long? She rushed down the corridor to the cell that contained Clark.
"Clark?" Lois said as she felt her eyes start to water at seeing him hurting so much. She set the box away from him and went to untie his feet. "Hold on Clark," Lois said sadly as she felt the ropes finally start to loosen. She frantically pulled them away and then went to untie his hands.
Clark looked up at her and tried to speak. "Oh sorry," Lois said as she helped him sit up and then carefully untied the gag from his mouth. "Oh Clark," Lois said as she gently kissed him on the lips. "We are getting out of here now," Lois said looking up at the camera. She went back to try to untie his wrists but the knots were to firm and she was in too much of a panic.
"Help me stand," Clark said weakly.
"I have to untie you first."
"Lois if those cameras come back on while you're doing this it'll be game over for both of us," Clark said. "Please help me stand up."
Lois knew Clark was right and helped him stand and steady himself. She wrapped her arms around his cold body and hugged him close. "Oh Clark I love you so much. I just can't believe what you had to endure," Lois said sadly as she felt a few tears fall down her face. "I just can't believe Miles treated you like that, and I can't believe you had to stay here last night."
"I knew you'd find me Lois, I never thought anything else," Clark said firmly. "Now let's get out of here before we are both in big trouble," Clark said as he went to turn around and head for the door.
"But you're still tied up," Lois said "But I kinda like you like this."
"I thought you'd like that, since you can't do that when I'm him," Clark teased.
"Maybe that Kryptonite is good for something," Lois teased back.
"Lo-is," Clark sighed.
"Kidding," She said.
"I'll remember that," Clark smiled. "Now let's leave before Miles catches on."
********
"That's it," Miles said as the final test results produced what he wanted, "that's perfect." He said with a smile.
"So you must really trust her to be alone with Kent enough to leave the camera's off," Stuart said.
"I can't believe I forgot," Miles said as he walked over to another terminal and pushed a button. The screen came to view but instead of seeing Clark in his cell he saw an open door, a box on the ground and no sign of Clark or Donna. "What the hell?" Miles yelled in anger as he rushed out of the room. "BOYS ELEVATOR NOW!" Miles yelled as he went for his gun. Miles pressed the button as four of his thugs joined him in the hallway.
********
Lois heard the elevator starting to move and jumped. "Clark we have to pick a hallway and pray it's the right one," Lois said as they stood a few yards down from the main corridor, standing before two more.
"Pick one Lois, you're better at this than I am," Clark said.
Lois looked at the two paths before her. Both were fairly dim but one was more well travelled than the other, the right one. She grabbed Clark by the arm and they took off down the left one. "Are you okay?" Lois asked as Clark stumbled a bit in the darkness.
"Yeah I'm starting to feel warmer now so that's a good sign," He sighed. "Thank goodness that Kryptonite is not near here," Clark said as they slowly made their way down the darkened hallway. The candle Lois brought only provided light for a few feet in front of them, it didn't show what was ahead.
Lois heard Miles shouting behind them and her heart started to race again. "What if they catch us before we get outside? What if they catch us before you get your strength back?" Lois asked.
"Let's try to make sure that doesn't happen," Clark said firmly. "Think Miles will know which one we're down?"
"I don't know Clark. But every rat knows his maze well, so I would imagine he might," she said dryly.
********
"Which one boss?" Asked one of the men.
"You two three take that one," Miles said to the right one, "and you come with me down this one," Miles said looking down the left. "A reporter would chose the one less travelled by, right Kent?" Miles mused quietly. "Let's go."
But as they disappeared into the darkness they were unaware of the man standing in the shadows waiting. Stuart watched as Miles went down the left and waited a few minutes before he grabbed his flashlight and went after him.
********
"Hold on a sec Lois," Clark said as he stopped for a bit.
"What's wrong Clark?" Lois asked in a panic.
"My feet are just a bit sore," Clark said, "I lost my shoes remember."
"I know Clark," Lois sighed, "but we really have to keep moving," she said gently. "Can you break the ropes yet?"
Clark pulled against the ropes and felt them loosen a bit. "I think my strength is returning but I doubt it if I'll get it back fully tonight," Clark sighed. "I was exposed for too long and had to endure to much," he said as they started to move again. "But I won't let him hurt you Lois," Clark said to her. "I still can't believe he said he wanted to shame me like that. I mean why would he even think of something that demented?" Clark asked sadly as they started to walk again.
"I don't know Clark, the mere thought of it made me sick," Lois said. "I'm just glad you didn't have to experience anything like that."
Lois was about to say something more when they heard Miles behind them.
"Hurry Lois," Clark said in a panic as they both started to walk faster.
"Clark!" Lois said in a panic as Clark stumbled and fell. She helped him up only to hear loud footsteps running after them.
"Stop them Louie, but don't kill them!" They heard Miles shout.
"Whatever happens Lois pretend I made you free me," Clark said.
"What?" Lois half screeched. "You were bound and gagged, just what kind of threat made me untie you, mental telepathy?" Lois asked sarcastically.
"Look I just don't want you hurt," Clark insisted.
"Clark you can't even untie your hands how in the world will you be able to stop them once they get us?" Lois asked as they started to run. "Let's worry about that when we are free from here," Lois insisted. They ran for what seemed like forever. Down twisting and turning hallways and passages, each more dark and seemingly a dead end than the last one. But they weren't about to give up, if there was even a chance that the end might be near, the end and their freedom.
"Lois you go for help and I'll stop them. They want me anyways," Clark said firmly as he slowed down.
"Clark Kent!" Lois said firmly as she grabbed his bound hands and pulled him forwards. "If you stay then I stay, so then we'll both be in trouble, now do you really want that? I mean especially since I went through all the trouble of rescuing you. I mean is this the thanks I get? Like I said to Perry…"
"Lois your rambling," Clark laughed.
"Sorry," Lois laughed. She as about to comment further when she felt cool air coming at them. "Clark feel that?" She asked excitedly.
"Yeah it must mean we are close to the end," Clark sighed heavily, "thank goodness."
"Are they still behind us?" Lois asked as she turned around to see. It was her mistake as the thug sprang out of the darkness towards her. Lois screamed out as she ducked and the man managed to hit Clark instead. They both tumbled to the ground. Clark cried out as the man punched him in the side. Lois jumped on the guy only to have him hit her in the stomach, causing her to hit the wall behind her. Lois cried out which made Clark bring both of his bound hands up and punch the guy in the face. The man cried out as he felt his nose break and Clark brought his kneed up and connected it with his groin. The man screamed out as he crashed back down to the cold floor. Lois kicked him in the side and Clark hit him again in the face. The man hit his head oddly on the ground and finally lay there unconscious.
"Hurry Clark get up," Lois said as she rushed to help him. Clark tried to lift the heavy man off his legs but Miles ran up to them and pulled Lois back against him.
"All right Kent this time I'm not going to waste anytime in ridding the earth of my brother's murder!" Miles spat at Clark. Clark just sat on the floor with his hands still bound and the large thug still on top of his legs. At this point, the way he was and without his superpowers it would take a miracle to save him.
"Any last words?" Miles asked meanly.
"Yeah I didn't kill him," Clark pleaded. Lois just watched as Clark tried to tell the mad man who was going to kill him that he was innocent. She felt a tear escape the corner of her eye and roll sadly down her face. Oh Clark, I'm so sorry, she said inside.
"I was just doing my job," Clark said firmly, "but he took his own life. I'm not guilty of that."
"You'll always be the one that took his life," Miles insisted as he cocked the trigger.
"You need me," Clark said in a hurry, "I can get you Superman."
"I don't need you to get him," Miles said. "I'll get him on my own. Sorry Kent but this time you really do lose."
"Miles please don't do this," Lois begged.
"And you my dear. You and I will have a few quiet moments after Kent is dead and you can explain to me why you helped him escape," Miles said harshly into her ear.
"But without any further adieu," Miles said looking back down at Clark, "it's time for you to die Kent!" Miles said as he aimed the gun at Clark's chest.
"Don't do it Miles," Came a voice behind them. Clark looked up in shock and Miles and Lois turned around equally as shocked to see Stuart facing them with his gun drawn as well.
"Are you crazy Stuart? He tried to escape! Now he has to pay," Miles shouted.
"You are just blinded by your hatred for Kent," Stuart said as he neared them, "we still need him to get to Superman."
"If we kill Kent we can still get his fiancé Lois Lane. Superman is a friend to both of them," Miles said.
"Oh yeah if Lane finds out that Kent is dead do you really think she'll stop at nothing to find his killer? We'd never be free," Stuart said. "Now he's still tied up. Let's take him back upstairs, call Superman and be done with this," Stuart said.
"No, Kent dies now," Miles said as he loosened his grip on Lois. She pulled away from Miles and stood beside him.
"Listen to reason Miles," Stuart said firmly.
However Miles sense of reason had left him long ago, leaving only blinded hatred and jealousy. "I can't do that. He murdered my brother. A life for a life Stuart," Miles said.
"You're blinded by hatred and jealousy and I can't let you kill him without our plan being accomplished first," Stuart said as he cocked the trigger and aimed the gun at Miles.
"And I can't let you stop me," Miles said as he cocked the trigger and aimed the gun at Stuart.
BANG!
