MARTHA

Every teenager doesn't go through puberty afraid that he's accidentally going

to rip the door to his locker off or spike a volleyball so hard that it goes

through the floor.

Jonathan ponders this for a moment.

JONATHAN

You know what my biggest fear is, Martha?

MARTHA

What?

JONATHAN

That one day someone's going to make him so angry that he forgets to keep

himself in check. And I'd hate to be the poor devil he gets his hands on when

he does.

CUT TO:

INT. BARN

Clark picks his way toward the center of the barn and opens the trap door.

INT. STORM CELLAR

Clark walks down into the storm cellar, with no need for a flash light.

P.O.V. CLARK

Everything is bright enough to see.

BACK TO SCENE

Clark walks over to the pod. He runs his hands over it, tears forming in his eyes.

CLARK

What happened to you? Why did you send me away? Didn't you love me?

His hand hits a hidden switch. A holographic projector activates from within the pod.

Clark looks up to see a green, shimmering, holographic version of Jor-El.

JOR-EL

Greetings, my son. I am Jor-El, I am your father. If you are watching this

holographic message, then my worst fears have been realized, but at least you

are safe. This is a recording, so even though you may wish to speak, I will

not be able to respond. You are my son, your real name is Kal-El and you are

the sole survivor of the planet known as Krypton. Fifteen Earth years ago, the

planet Krypton was embroiled in a war with a being known as Brainiac. As

Kryptonians, we were a race of scholars and teachers. We were not prepared for

the sudden onslaught. In my haste to save my planet I created a computer

program given life, it was called The Eradicator. The Eradicator was powered

with the core of the planet Krypton, which again in my haste I failed to

realize the severe nature of using it as a power source. When I discovered the

adverse effect it was having on our planet, it was too late. The Eradicator

was the perfect warrior: indestructible, inhuman, without the need for food,

drink, or rest. He would kill without mercy and slaughter without a thought.

And the military and the government leaders loved it. They continually ignored

my warnings, constantly pushing the power output from the planet's core into

the Eradicator's systems higher and higher. Since you are watching this

message, it means that our planet Krypton has been destroyed. And with it your

mother and myself. I was building an escape ship for all three of us. I pity I

was only able to finish one.

Clark shakes his head. It's so hard to believe.

JOR-EL

By now you are noticing some changes in your self. Not the normal changes that

all beings your age experience, but genetic changes. The Earth, as your

predetermined new home, orbits a yellow sun, as opposed to Krypton's red. The

yellow sun is changing you, energizing you. Making you a super man. You will

find that you are faster, stronger, and more durable than the normal human. You

may even discover powers like ice breath, heat vision, and the ability to fly.

Clark's eyes widen.

JOR-EL

Kal-El, as my final words to you I wish you the best, and I want you to know

that your mother and I love you very very much. Kal-El, with these new found

powers, I want you to be a source of good in a universe of evil. Goodbye Kal-El. Remember, I will always be with you, here.

Jor-El puts his holographic hand over his heart, and then the image fades away. Clark

watches it fade, plunging the storm cellar into complete darkness. Tears stream down

Clark's face.

EXT. BARN -- EVENING

Clark is standing on the roof of the barn, staring at the horizon.

CLARK

So I can fly, huh?

He steps to the edge.

CLARK

Here goes nothing.

He leaps off the edge and plummets straight towards the ground. In a split second before

he hits, he hovers. Gravity has been broken. Clark laughs as he takes off straight up.

EXT. SKY -- EVENING

The sky, high over Smallville. Clark whirls, corkscrews, twirls, spins, and loop-d-loops

in the air, crying out with as he flies, loving every second.

CLARK

YAWH-­HOO!!!!

He flies over the city, high enough to be mistaken for a bird or a plane. He watches as

the people, so small from up here, scurry on about their business.

EXT. HIGH SCHOOL -- EVENING

Clark touches down in a tree behind the school. Through the windows he can watch the

students dance at the Homecoming Dance. He settles in the tree, watching. His joy fading.

A screech, low, almost inaudible, but Clark's hearing picks it up. He turns in the tree,

searching. He spots it. The same car as before. He stares at it.

P.O.V. CLARK

X-Ray vision, except it doesn't penetrate the roof of the car. All he sees is grey.

BACK TO SCENE

CLARK

X-Ray vision doesn't work on metal. Good to know.

He leaps down from the tree and sneaks closer to the car. He peers inside.

P.O.V. CLARK

Telescopic Vision, this time. In the car are the bully and Lana. The bully has Lana in

the back seat, his hand pressed tightly over her mouth. The bully is trying to get the

skirt of her dress up. Lana's fighting as well as she can, but the bully is bigger and

stronger.

BACK TO SCENE

Clark's nostril's flare. He's pissed.

Clark storms to the car, grabbing the door, his fingers penetrating the steel. He rips

the door off.

CLARK

Get your damn hands off of her!

The bully turns around, letting go of Lana's mouth. Lana looks up, crying.

LANA

Clark, help me.

BULLY

What the hell? My car.

The bully gets out of the car.

BULLY

No one interrupts me when I'm working. Why don't you just run along back home.

CLARK

Leave her alone.

BULLY

Why should I listen to you?

Clark grabs him around the throat, squeezing hard. The bully's eyes bulged out of their

sockets. He sucks in air, trying to breathe.

CLARK

Because I can break your neck as easily as a twig.

He rams the bully back against the font passenger door, shattering the window. Clark

reaches back, and with one punch, sends the bully the rest of the way through the

window. Clark rips off the door and grabs the bully by the ankle, dragging him out of

the car and beating his head against the roof.

Lana crawls out of the car.

LANA

Clark, stop!

Clark's too angry. He doesn't hear here. He's focused entirely on the bully. Clark

chucks him on the hood, smashing his fist into the bully's face and throwing him against

the windshield. He slams his face against the windshield, repeatedly, until the

windshield cracks where he's slamming the bully's head.

Lana grabs Clark's arm.

LANA

Clark, stop it! You'll kill him!

Clark's eyes widen as he comes to his senses. He drops the bully's head against the

hood. Blood oozes from his face. He's unconscious.

LANA

Oh my God, Clark?

CLARK

I... I...

LANA

We have to get out of here before someone finds us.

She grabs his arm.

CLARK

I have a better way.

He grabs her around the waist, takes a giant step, and leaps into the air.

EXT. SKY -- NIGHT

Lana looks down at the ground far below.

LANA

Oh my God, Clark, how are you doing this?

CLARK

I'll explain it when we get to your house. I really need to talk to someone

right now.

LANA

Yeah, obviously.

CUT TO:

EXT. LANA'S HOUSE -- NIGHT

A nice, one story in the suburbs of Smallville. Clark lands perfectly right on her porch

steps.

LANA

What happened to you? You almost killed that guy, you can fly... are you even

human?

CLARK

No. No I'm not.

LANA

Oookay.

She walks up the porch and sits in the swing.

CLARK

Lana, for the first time in my life I feel alive. I feel free. Lana, I'm not

human. I'm not from this world. I'm from a planet called Krypton and my parents

sent me here to survive after the planet was destroyed.

He sits down next to her.

CLARK

Finally, after all these years of being different, I finally feel like I fit

in.

LANA

That's a twisted statement, Clark.

CLARK

I know. I know.

They sit in silence for a while. Then:

LANA

About what I said to you, today after school...

CLARK

Don't apologize. You were right. Sometimes I'm too smart for my own good.

Lana, I realize that I have no more chances with you...

LANA

You still have one more.

CLARK

What?

LANA

You heard me.

Lana and Clark kiss, awkwardly at first, but then deeper, or at least as deep as two

fifteen year old small town residents are willing to go. Finally, they pull apart.

LANA

Thank you, for tonight.

CLARK

Lana, listen to me. Don't tell anyone what you saw, or what I told you today.

Please. For my safety, for your safety, and for the safety of my parents.

LANA

I promise, Clark.

She stands.

LANA

I'd better go in. I need to get cleaned up before my parents come home.

CLARK

Good night Lana.

LANA

Good night, Clark.

Clark stands as Lana shuts the door to her house. He walks down the steps, literally

floating over the last one as he takes off into the air again, a huge grin on his face.

CUT TO:

INT. KENT FARM HOUSE -- KITCHEN

Jonathan and Martha are still up, sitting at the table. Clark opens the door and walks

in, grinning like a complete idiot, his hair messed up, his clothes disheveled.

CLARK

Ma, Pa, I didn't expect you to still be up.

JONATHAN

This is what happens when your son says he's going for a walk at 4:45 and

shows up home at midnight.

CLARK

Is it really midnight?

MARTHA

Where have you been?

CLARK

I was out flying.

JONATHAN

Flying?!

Clark pulls a chair up to the table.

CLARK

I had the most wonderful night.

JONATHAN

Clark, are you on the marijuana?

CLARK

No. Of course not. I went to see the pod and I found this message from my

father. He told me everything, about how my home planet is now gone, and a war

with some guy named Brainiac and how he created this thing called the

Eradicator and powered it using the planet's core, which destroyed the planet.

He told me I'm special. He told me I could fly. So I flew. Whoosh! Like a bird.

Martha leans close.

MARTHA

Clark, is that lipstick?

Clark touches his lips. Lana's deep red lipstick stains his fingers.

CLARK

Ma, Pa, I think I'm in love.

JONATHAN

With who?

CLARK

Lana Lang.

MARTHA

So you did go to the dance.

CLARK

It's a long, complicated story.

JONATHAN

We have all night.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. BOOK STORE

CAPTION: Three Years Later...

Clark Kent, now eighteen, and a strapping young man, stands behind the counter of a book

store. It's early in the day and because of that, no one is around.

Standing in front of the counter is Lana.

LANA

So what time do you get off tonight?

CLARK

In about five minutes.

LANA

You do know what tonight is, don't you?

Clark pauses, thinking.

CLARK

Friday?

Lana playfully hits him on the shoulder.

LANA

You forgot?! Don't tell me you forgot!

CLARK

Okay, I won't tell you I forgot.

Lana laughs.

CLARK

Three years ago, I told you exactly what I was, and we had our very first kiss.

LANA

Bingo. And you win a kiss.

She leans over the counter. They kiss, a small, quick one, that doesn't attract

attention.

CLARK

Is there anything you're looking for, exactly?

LANA

No. I just thought I'd hang around. When you clock out, you want hit the food

court and grab a bite to eat?

CLARK

Love to.

Clark looks at his watch.

CLARK

Stay right here. I'll go clock out and be right back.

Clark runs off. Lana turns, watching a TV broadcast on a little TV on counter.

NEWS REPORTER

The emotions here at Metropolis International is nothing but pure excitement

as we wait for the new space plane to launch. The space plane, built by

LexCorp's Aeronautics and Space division, is supposed to be able to lift off

from a vertical position and meet exit speeds without the need for bulky rocket

boosters. The space plane is going to launch here in a few minutes, so let me

show you a few of the features this plane has.

The screen changes to show a 3D computer model of the space plane.

Clark exits the back room.

CLARK

Ready?

LANA

In a minute. They're about to launch.

They watch the screen as the shuttle countdown begins. The numbers appear on the screen.

5... 4... 3... 2... 1. The space plane's boosters activate, and after a second, it

launches into the air, gracefully at first. Then one of the booster's explodes.

NEWS REPORTER

Oh my God! A booster has just exploded. The plane is still intact, but the

people inside may be burning alive! The pilot's lost control!

The plane begins to wobble in the air.

CLARK

Lana, go to my house, stay there.

LANA

What are you going to do?

CLARK

Save that plane!

Clark takes off running.

CUT TO:

EXT. SKY -- DAY

Clark hurtles through the sky at speed many times faster than sound. A sonic boom echoes

as he rockets across the sky.

P.O.V. CLARK

The shuttle is in the distance, still climbing, still wobbly. It begins to tilt.

Screaming can be heard.

BACK TO SCENE

Clark pushes forward.

EXT. SKY OVER METROPOLIS -- DAY

The shuttle begins to tilt, and come down, angling straight for the airport and the

large crowd of spectators. They scream, trying to run. Some get knocked down. It's a mob

scene.

The speck of Clark Kent stops suddenly in mid air.

CLARK

I can't go down there like this!

He reaches into his pockets and pulls out two bandannas. He quickly ties one over his

head and the other over his nose and mouth. Simply disguised, Clark descends.

EXT. METROPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- DAY

The news reporter, standing in front of the camera.

NEWS REPORTER

It's chaos here as the space plane begins to come down toward the airport. The

people here to watch the event are trying to run, but there are so many that

few will be able to get out before the plane hits.

The hysterics suddenly stop as bystanders point into the sky.

BYSTANDER #1

Look, up in the sky!

BYSTANDER #2

Is it a bird?!

BYSTANDER #3

Is it a plane?!

BYSTANDER #4

No. It's a flying man!

EXT. SKY -- DAY

Clark swoops down out of the sky, grabbing the nose cone of the falling craft. He begins

angling up, pushing against the speed of the space plane's descent. He struggles with

all his strength, nothing happening at first.

EXT. METROPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- DAY

The people point, scream, too transfixed to move as the space plane and Clark come ever

closer. Then, suddenly, the plane begins to slow.

EXT. SKY -- DAY

Clark gains control, pushing with all his might against the plane, pushing it up,

leveling it.

EXT. METROPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT -- DAY

Clark brings the space plane down gently for a landing. He then leaps from the nose,

tearing open the access hatch to the cockpit. It's filled with smoke. Using his super

speed, Clark rushes in and out, carrying out the crew, laying them on the ground, as

ambulances and fire trucks rush to the scene.

Finally the last passenger is out. Clark turns to leave when..

LOIS

HOLD IT RIGHT THERE, BUSTER!!!

Clark spins. Racing toward him is LOIS LANE, an eighteen year old skinny brunette,

holding a small tape recorder. He pauses, confused.

CLARK

Who are you?

LOIS

Lois Lane, Metropolis School for the Gifted's senior reporter for the school

newspaper and intern at the Daily Planet. And you are?

CLARK

I, erm, uh...

JOR-EL

(ghost like)

A super man...

CLARK

Superman.

LOIS

I see, Superman. What brings you to Metropolis.

CLARK

It's obvious, right?

LOIS

Listen pal, I'm the one conducting the interview. Just answer.

CLARK

What brought me to Metropolis? I'll tell you what brought me to Metropolis.

People in danger, that's what brought me to Metropolis. I came here to help

right a wrong and keep innocent lives from being ended.

(on his soap box)

I came to Metropolis to fight for Truth, Justice, and the American Way!

LOIS

How Republican.

CLARK

With an attitude like that, I'm not answering anymore of your questions.

(to EMTs)

Take good care of those astronauts. They're the real heroes.

And with that, Clark Kent takes off into the air.

CUT TO:

INT. KENT FARM HOUSE -- LIVING ROOM

Lana, Jonathan, and Martha are sitting on the couch, watching the news coverage.

CLARK

With an attitude like that, I'm not answering anymore of your questions.

(to EMTs)

Take good care of those astronauts. They're the real heroes.

Clark takes off on the TV. The camera on the TV shifts to show the news reporter.

NEWS REPORTER

And that was the enigmatic being known as Superman.

WOOSH! Outside the house, a blast of air signals the arrival of Clark Kent. He rushes

into the house, throwing off the bandannas.

Lana leaps into his arms.

LANA

Way to go Clark!

MARTHA

We're so proud of you, Clark.

JONATHAN

Amazing! Simply amazing.

Clark smiles.

CLARK

Not amazing, Pa. Super.

They laugh.

NEWS REPORTER

Unfortunately the death toll has now risen to two. Two of the astronauts closes

to the blast died of their injuries.

Clark whirls, staring at the TV. The scene switches to show an MEDIC.

MEDIC

If Superman had only gotten here a few seconds earlier, we would've been able

to save these two. It's a miracle we were able to save the rest. Superman,

thank you.

Clark's face falls.

CLARK

A few seconds...

LANA

Don't let it get you down. You save the lives of hundreds!

CLARK

But two people won't be going home tonight.

JONATHAN

Clark...

Clark turns, walking out of the room. They watch him go.

MARTHA

Oh dear.

JONATHAN

He'll be okay.

CUT TO:

INT. CLARK'S BEDROOM

It's night outside. Clark is sitting on his bed, staring at a letter in his hands. In

big letters it says "CONGRATULATIONS, CLARK KENT." The letter head is for Metropolis

University.

CUT TO:

INT. KENT FARM HOUSE -- KITCHEN -- NEXT DAY

Martha and Jonathan are sitting at the table, eating breakfast.

JONATHAN

I hate these egg substitutes. What ever happened to the days when a man could

eat a dozen eggs, seven strips of bacon, and a pound of sausage without

worrying about his blasted health?

MARTHA

You know what the doctor says. Besides, those days went out with smoke signals.

JONATHAN

Bah.

There's a knock on the kitchen door.

MARTHA

Who could be here that early?

Martha opens the door. Lana stands there.

MARTHA

Lana, come in. What are you doing here?

Lana walks into the kitchen.

LANA

I couldn't sleep. I was worried about Clark.

MARTHA

Would you like some breakfast?

LANA

No thank you.

JONATHAN

Clark's been in his room all night. We didn't go disturb him. Something like

this a man has to deal with on his own.

Clark walks into the kitchen.

CLARK

Morning, Ma, Pa. Lana.

MARTHA

Morning, sweetie? Breakfast?

CLARK

No, thanks. I've come to a decision.

JONATHAN

About what, son?

CLARK

I'm moving to Metropolis.

Silence, wide eyed stares.

LANA

You're what?!

CLARK

I've been accepted on a full ride scholarship to Metropolis University and I

accepted it.

JONATHAN

Tell me this isn't because of the "few seconds earlier" thing.

CLARK

Partially. But I realized that if I want to use these powers to do any real

good in this world, I need to move to a bigger city. Smallville is nice,

quiet, it's a place I'll move back to when I retire, but right now Superman

needs to be in the middle of it all. Gotham has Batman, so Metropolis needs

Superman.

Lana has tears in her eyes.

LANA

But what about us?

CLARK

I thought long and hard about that too, Lana.

LANA

Then it's over, isn't it.

CLARK

As boyfriend and girlfriend. Lana, do you know why I told you about me? About

my abilities? Because aside from Ma and Pa you are the only one I can truly

trust. I've had a crush on you since the fifth grade, and these last three

years have been the best. Ever since I was a kid there has been something

missing in my life that I couldn't fill. Something that made me incomplete.

And you filled that void.

Clark reaches into his pant's pocket and pulls a ring box out of it. He gets down on one

knee, taking Lana's hand. He opens the box. There's a beautiful diamond engagement ring

sitting in the velvet. Lana puts a hand to her mouth, trying to stop the tears. Jonathan

and Martha's eyes widen and they hold hands.

CLARK

Lana Lang, will you marry me?

LANA

Yes. Yes, Clark, I will marry you.

Clark slips the ring of his finger and stands. Lana collapses into his arms, bawling.

Martha has tears glistening and Jonathan wipes one away.

JONATHAN

Well what are standing around here for? We have a wedding to plan!

CUT TO:

EXT. KENT FARM HOUSE -- EVENING

Clark and Lana sit on the porch swing, watching the sunset. Lana is leaning on Clark's

arm. They're entwined in each other's arms.

LANA

Isn't it beautiful?

CLARK

Yeah.

LANA

I can't believe we're going to get married. Lana Kent, has a nice ring to it.

Clark smiles. He kisses the top of her head.

CLARK

Once we get to Metropolis we're going to have a whole new life ahead of us,

Lana. A whole new world of adventure.

LANA

You know, I was thinking about the whole Superman thing.

CLARK

Yeah?

LANA

You need a costume.

Clark laughs.

CLARK

Like a Power Ranger?

LANA

No, I'm serious. I've been kicking around a few ideas for it, and I've decided

that you need to take off the goofy bandannas.

CLARK

Go bare faced? But then how I can lead the life of Clark Kent, mild mannered

college student and husband?

LANA

Just change your everyday appearance. Wear a pair of glasses.

CLARK

I don't need glasses.

LANA

So?

Clark thinks about it.

CLARK

You know, I would look good in a pair.

LANA

Plus the ruse is so totally obvious that no one will ever put two and two

together.

CLARK

Yeah. Okay Miss Art Designer, show me what you got.

LANA

Not going to.

CLARK

Why?

LANA

Because I want it to be a surprise.

CLARK

Uh oh. Are you going make it pink and purple with a flower trim?

LANA

Maybe.

CUT TO:

EXT. KENT FARM HOUSE

CAPTION: Six Months Later...

A U-Haul truck is sitting in front of the farm house. Clark finishes loading his desk,

all by himself, into the back. He shuts the door and turns to see Martha and Jonathan

standing on the back porch.

CLARK

Well, I'm all set.

MARTHA

I always knew this day would come. I just wish it wasn't so soon.

CLARK

I'll be okay, Ma.

JONATHAN

Call us whenever you get the chance, Clark.

CLARK

I'll drop in every now and then.

MARTHA

Oh don't do that. It's such a long trip.

CLARK

Not when you can fly.

Smiles all around.

CLARK

We'll come back for the wedding. Right now we just want to find a place and get

settled.

JONATHAN

I'm proud of you son.

CLARK

Thanks Pa.

They hug.

CLARK

Well I better get going. I need to help Lana move.

MARTHA

Say hi to the Langs for us.

CLARK

Will do Ma.

Clark climbs into the cab of the truck, starts it off and roars down the dirt road away

from the farm. Martha and Jonathan watch him go.

MARTHA

We raised such a good young man.

JONATHAN

That we did Martha. That we did.

EXT. LANA'S HOUSE -- DAY

Lana is sitting out on the porch with her mom, MRS. LANG as Clark pulls up in the

U-Haul. He backs up toward the porch.

INT. U-HAUL CAB

Clark sighs as he replaces his sunglasses with a pair of non-prescription regular

glasses.

EXT. LANA'S HOUSE -- DAY

He climbs down from the cab.

CLARK

Morning, Mrs. Lang.

MRS. LANG

Hello, Clark.

LANA

Hey sweetie.

They kiss.

CLARK

Ready?

LANA

Yep. My dad'll help you with the heavy stuff.

She winks at him. Clark grins.

CLARK

Could always use help moving the heavy stuff.

MR. LANG stands in the front doorway.

MR. LANG

There's my future son in law. Come on, we only need to grab the furniture in

Lana's room.

CLARK

On my way.

INT. LANA'S ROOM

The room is bare save for some heavy furniture: An empty chest of drawers, a desk, the

bed. Clark and Mr. Lang step into the room.

MR. LANG

So, which first?

CLARK

Which one's the heaviest?

MR. LANG

Chest of drawers.

CLARK

After you.

They walk over to the chest of drawers, each picking an end.

MR. LANG

Clark, I'm pretty sure Jonathan had this talk with you before, but I hope you

aren't rushing into anything. Marriage is a big step and most marriages with

people as young as you and Lana don't last.

They heft. Clark lifts it easily and supports most of the weight.

CLARK

I know. But I love Lana, always have.

MR. LANG

I just don't want to see either of you heartbroken.

EXT. LANA'S HOUSE -- DAY -- LATER

Clark shoves Lana's mattress into the back of the U-Haul and slams the gate closed. He

turns to watch Lana say good bye.

MRS. LANG

We'll miss you.

LANA

I know Mom.

CLARK

I'll do my best to make her happy.

MR. LANG

You're a good kid, Clark. Lana couldn't have picked a better one.

Clark and Mr. Lang shake hands, and Mr. Lang pulls him into a hug.

CLARK

We'd better get going. It's a long way from Smallville to Metropolis.

Clark holds open Lana's door and helps her into the cab. He walks around to the other

side and gets in himself. The truck starts up and roars away from the house.

CUT TO:

EXT. INTERSTATE -- DAY

The U-Haul drives down the Interstate, following traffic.

INT. U-HAUL CAB

Lana is looking out the window, watching the scenery as it gradually changes from small

town Kansas to the bigger towns.

CLARK

Are you excited?

LANA

And a little nervous.

CLARK

Me too.

Lana looks over at him.

LANA

You? Superman, nervous?

Clark smiles.

CLARK

I may be a super man, but I'm still a man.

LANA

And what a man.

Laughter.

CLARK

I wish I could just pick this thing up and fly us there. It'd be so much faster.

LANA

Yeah, but now we get to see if we can stand each other by riding in the same

car for a few days.

(beat)

Are we going to stop at any hotels?

CLARK

I can go for as long as I need to. Why?

LANA

No reason. We are going to stop for gas and other necessities, right?

CLARK

Would I make you ride for all this time without stopping to let you go to the

bathroom? Even Superman has to make a pit stop once in a while.

Lana smiles.

LANA

Metropolis. What do you think it'll be like?

CLARK

Well, from what I managed to see, it's going to be big, and bustling. It'll

take some getting used to. Of course, there's that Lois Lane to worry about...

LANA

Who?

CLARK

That reporter that was talking to me. Lois Lane. Said she was the senior

reporter for the Metropolis School for the Gifted. That's all I know.

LANA

Don't go getting any ideas.

CLARK

(laughs)

Don't worry. You're the only one for me.

INT. APARTMENT

The door opens to the darkened apartment and Clark and Lana step into their new home.

Clark is carrying a box.

LANA

Oh, this is beautiful.

CLARK

And not too bad on the rent either.

Lana looks around. Clark sets the box down on the kitchen counter.

LANA

It feels like home.

Clark wraps his arm around Lana's waist, and they just stand in the middle of the living

room.

CLARK

I'll go ahead and bring up a few of the necessities. Mind if I stack our

mattresses for a bed?

LANA

Not at all.

CLARK

The phone's and phone book are in the box. Go ahead and order something for

dinner.

LANA

Pizza okay?

CLARK

Fine with me.

He kisses her and walks out of the apartment. Lana goes to the box and digs through it.

The first thing she pulls out is a photo of her and Clark from their prom. She smiles at

it.

CUT TO:

INT. APARTMENT -- LATER

Clark and Lana sit on the floor, the pizza on the floor with them. A TV is sitting on

the floor, plugged into the wall socket. Otherwise there's not much there yet.

CLARK

The pizza guy almost fainted when he saw me carrying those three mattresses at

once.

Lana laughs.

LANA

So, how many kids do you want?

Clark chokes on his pizza.

CLARK

Kids?

LANA

Yeah. You know, babies. The ­pre-adult form of human beings?

CLARK

I never thought about it.

(grins)

I've always wanted a girl.

LANA

Why a girl?

CLARK

I don't know. Maybe to pass on the mother's good looks. I've always thought it

was easier to spoil a little girl.

LANA

Yeah, but you can't rough house with a girl like you can a boy.

CLARK

Unless the girl turns out to be Superwoman.

Lana goes pale.

LANA

Can you imagine raising a super baby?

CLARK

I didn't begin to develop my powers until I was ten. First thing I did was

catch a truck falling off of a jack. Almost gave Pa a heart attack.

They laugh. Clark gets serious.

CLARK

It might not be possible.

LANA

What do you mean?

CLARK

Kryptonian and Earthling biology might be so different that it could kill you.

There's really no way for me to find out without trial and error.

Lana scoots closer to Clark.

LANA

There's only one way to find out.

She kisses him, deeply. Clark pushes into it and they both lay back on the floor.

CUT TO:

EXT. DAILY PLANET -- DAY

Clark lowers a newspaper want ad that says "DAILY PLANET: HELP WANTED" with a picture of

the building on it to reveal the actual Daily Planet building.

CLARK

Black and white just doesn't do it justice.

He walks into the door.

INT. DAILY PLANET -- LOBBY

Clark walks into the expansive Daily Planet lobby. He walks up to the reception desk.

CLARK

Hi, I'm here for the job.

RECEPTIONIST

Fourth floor, Human Resources.

CLARK

Thank you.

INT. DAILY PLANET -- HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

Clark is sitting in a chair, flipping through a magazine. The human resource lady behind

the desk calls for him.

LADY

Clark Kent?

Clark stands.

CLARK

Yeah?

LADY

You're wanted in Perry White's office.

She hands him a visitor's badge.

LADY

Wear it up in the news room. He's the only one with an office.

CLARK

Thank you.

INT. DAILY PLANET -- NEWS ROOM

The elevator door dings and opens, depositing Clark into the news room, aka the Place

of Organized Chaos. The clicky clack of key board keys and the sounds of reporters on

the phone would deafen most men.

Clark looks around. A SECRETARY walks up to him.

SECRETARY

Lost?

CLARK

I'm looking for Perry White's office.

The secretary turns and points.

SECRETARY

Over there.

CLARK

Thank you.

He walks toward the office door, dodging rushing reporters. He knocks on the door.

PERRY

Come in!

Clark opens the door.

INT. PERRY WHITE'S OFFICE

Clark enters.

CLARK

Mr. White, I'm here for the job.

PERRY

Sit.

Clark does. Perry holds up the application and resume, looking it over.

PERRY

You've enrolled in Metropolis U.

CLARK

Yes sir.

PERRY

Major?

CLARK

Creative writing, computer programming, journalism, and theater.

PERRY

Four?

CLARK

Yes sir.

PERRY

Theater, eh? You an actor?

CLARK

Yeah, but I'd rather be a writer.

PERRY

Good answer.

He looks over the rest of it.

PERRY

I'm sorry to say you're not qualified for the news room.

Clark's face falls.

PERRY

But the mail room has a position open, if you don't mind starting at the

bottom.

Clark perks up.

CLARK

Oh no, I don't mind.

PERRY

You have a strong work ethic kid. You'll work you way up in no time. Why, you

may even take my job when I retire.

Perry writes something on a slip of paper and slides it to Clark.

PERRY

Report to his room tomorrow morning, eight am sharp.

CLARK

Yes sir.

The door bursts open and Lois walks into the room.

LOIS

Perry, I need to talk to you.

PERRY

Not right now Lois, I'm busy.

She looks over at Clark. Clark grins and waves. Lois turns back to Perry.

LOIS

It's about the assignments. I should be getting the city beat. All the good

stuff happens there.

PERRY

Lois, you're not ready for that yet.

LOIS

But..

PERRY

Look, we'll discuss it later.

Lois sighs angrily and storms out of the office, shutting the door behind her.

CLARK

She seems a bit..

(searches for the word)

Young.

Perry sighs.

PERRY

Lois Lane, daughter of Sam and Ellen Lane, long time fiancee of Lex Luthor the

Second.

CLARK

Sam Lane? Isn't he a military general?

PERRY

Yeah. Heads the military base just outside of town. Ellen's the CFO at

LexCorp, and good buddies with Lex Luthor the First, who just happens to own

fifty one percent stock in the Daily Planet. Lois works for us only because

Luthor said so. Without him, this paper wouldn't keep publishing.

He sighs again.

PERRY

Now she's going to go cry to Ellen about not getting the city beat and

tomorrow I'll get a call form either Ellen or Luthor subtly demanding me to

give her the beat.

Clark shakes his head.

CLARK

It's a sad sad world we live in.

PERRY

Damn right it is.

A beat. Then.

PERRY

Pleasure to meet you Clark. Hope to see more of you.

CLARK

You bet, Mr. White.

Clark stands and they shake hangs.

CUT TO:

EXT. ANTARCTICA -- NIGHT

A fairly large research dome, sitting in the middle of the white landscape.

INT. RESEARCH DOME

A group of researchers sit around a folding card table, playing poker. Behind them a

bank of monitors monitor for anything abnormal.

RESEARCHER 1

Raise you ten.

RESEARCHER 2

I'll see it. And call.

They lay down their cards. Researcher 1 has a straight flush.

RESEARCHER 1

Read 'em and weep.

The researches toss down their cards. A warning light begins flashing and a small beep

goes off.

RESEARCHER 4

What's that?

Researcher 3 rushes for the monitors.

RESEARCHER 3

Proximity alarm. Someone's approaching the dome!

RESEARCHER 1

What is it?

They crowd around as Researcher 3 sits down and types out some commands. A camera image

comes up of a black object walking through the blowing ice and snow.

RESEARCHER 2

Impossible!

The figure stops, looking at the camera. He hits the camera and it goes to static.

RESEARCHER 4

Which camera was that?

RESEARCHER 3

Camera One.

A hand busts through the side of the dome. The researchers turn as the cold air seeps in

through the hole. The hole rips bigger until the being is inside the dome. It's the

Eradicator.

The Eradicator throws over equipment and chairs as he approaches the researchers, who

cower back. He grabs Researcher 1 and violently breaks his neck. Researcher 2 gets the

same treatment.

CUT TO:

EXT. LEXCORP TOWERS -- DAY

The giant, L shaped, glass tower, sticking out of the Metropolis sky line.

INT. LEX LUTHOR THE FIRST'S OFFICE

The plush, expansive office.

Sitting in a chair, turned away from his desk, and staring out the windows is LEX LUTHOR

THE FIRST, from here on out known as LUTHOR.

Sitting in front of his desk is ELLEN LANE.

LUTHOR

So how goes the investigation into the space plane?

ELLEN

So far no one has found the sabotage, Mr. Luthor.

LUTHOR

Excellent. Now, what about the flying man. What do they call him now? Batman?

ELLEN

Superman.

LUTHOR

What about him?

ELLEN

Nothing. No one's ever seen or heard of Superman before. It's like he simply

disappeared.

LUTHOR

Will it effect our insurance claim?

ELLEN

Yes. We would have gotten substantially more if it had crashed.

LUTHOR

Damn.

He spins his chair away from the window.

LUTHOR

Ellen, I want you to find this Superman and tell him I want a conference.

ELLEN

Sir?

LUTHOR

He made a public name for himself saving one of our planes. I'll offer him a

job, publicly thank him.

ELLEN

And if he doesn't accept the job offer?

LUTHOR

Then I'll make his life a living hell.

CUT TO:

INT. CONFERENCE ROOM

LEX LUTHOR THE SECOND, from here on out known simply as LEX, is sitting at the end of a

table. Sitting at his right is Lana.

LEX

Impressive resume, Miss Lang.

LANA

Thank you.

LEX

I'll cut to the chase, Miss Lang. We here at LexCorp have a rather unique

hiring process. We are very strict on those we interview. Maybe every four out

of ten. Then we give those four an interview and a try out. Essentially you

have the job for a day. Then the hiring committee meets with myself and my

father and we decide who did the better job. Since you are the last applicant,

your try out day will not be until this coming Friday. We will notify you on

whether or not you have received the job as my father's secretary by Sunday.

The phone on the table rings. Lex picks it up.

LEX

Yes?

He listens, not liking what he hears. He hangs up.

LEX

Now, if you'll excuse me, I just got some very startling news that I need to

relate to my father. Good day.

Lex stands and leaves.

LANA

That was fast.

EXT. DAILY PLANET -- ROOF -- DAY

Lois jogs across the rooftop of the Daily Planet, which has been converted into a

helipad. Sitting on the helipad is a helicopter with the LexCorp logo on the side.

Lois slips into the cockpit.

INT. HELICOPTER

Lois buckles in.

LOIS

Hey Gary.

The pilot is sweating, he looks terrible.

PILOT

Afternoon, Lois.

LOIS

You okay?

PILOT

Just a little warm. I think I have a cold.

LOIS

Well don't give it to me.

The pilot manipulates the controls.

PILOT

LexCorp, right?

LOIS

Yeah. Lex is going to meet me at the helipad.

The 'copter lifts off.

EXT. SKY OVER METROPOLIS -- DAY

The helicopter gains altitude.

INT. HELICOPTER

The pilot suddenly keels over at the stick. The helicopter goes into a nose dive.

EXT. DAILY PLANET -- DAY

Clark walks out of the Daily Planet. A high pitched scream hits his super sensitive ears

like a bullet. He looks up fast, spotting the helicopter.

He looks around.

CLARK

Why didn't I remember to ask Lana for my costume.

He ducks into an alleyway, tearing off his shirt and removing his glasses. He stuffs

them behind a dumpster and takes off into the air.

EXT. SKY OVER METROPOLIS -- DAY

The helicopter is pitching bad.

INT. HELICOPTER

Lois quickly undoes her harness and tries to move the pilot but he's all dead weight.

The helicopter shifts suddenly, pitching Lois from the helicopter.

EXT. SKY OVER METROPOLIS -- DAY

She falls, the helicopter spiraling downward.

EXT. BUS STOP -- DAY

Lana's standing at the bus stop, watching the helicopter and falling body of Lois Lane.

LANA

Come on, Clark.

Then...

BYSTANDER #1

Look, up in the sky!

BYSTANDER #2

It's a bird!

BYSTANDER #3

It's a plane!

LANA

No. It's Superman.

The streak in the sky snatches Lois out of the sky and rockets toward the helicopter.

EXT. SKY OVER METROPOLIS -- DAY

Clark grabs the landing strut of the helicopter, hefting it to a stop. Lois comes to her

senses.

LOIS

What the Hell?

CLARK

Don't worry Lois, I've got you.

Lois blinks.

LOIS

Superman?

CLARK

At your service.

EXT. BUS STOP -- DAY

Clark slowly lowers to the ground, lowering the helicopter with him. People begin to

crowd around.

CLARK

People, please! Give me room!

He reaches into the helicopter and pulls out the pilot. He lays him on the ground and

puts his ear to his chest.

LOIS

Is he okay?

CLARK

Faint heart beat.

Clark rips the pilot's shirt open.

CLARK

Call 911.

Lois whips out her cell phone as Clark begins to administer CPR.

LOIS

A pilot just had a heart attack. Superman is here. Where?

(looks around)

Siegel and Shuster.

LANA

Are they on their way.

LOIS

Yeah.

Clark continues to administer CPR. An ambulance speeds down the street, turning and

stopping next to Clark.

LANA

That was fast.

LOIS

The hospital's right around the corner.

The EMTs get out of the back. Clark pulls away, standing, letting them get to their

work. One of the EMTs turns from the pilot.

EMT

He'll be fine, thanks to you.

CLARK

My pleasure. Now, if you'll excuse me.

LOIS

Wait! I need a lift.

CLARK

I'm not a bus service.

LOIS

I know, but it's important. Please?

CLARK

Okay. But this is the only time.

He wraps an arm around Lois's waist and lifts off into the air. Lana watches, frowning.

CUT TO:

EXT. LEXCORP TOWERS -- ROOF -- DAY

Clark sets down on the roof of LexCorp Towers. He lets go of Lois.

CLARK

If that will be all?

LOIS

One last thing. I want to interview you.

CLARK

I don't give interviews.

LOIS

Please? It would make my editor see that I'm ready for the city beat.

Clark pauses. He remembers the scene. Finally...

CLARK

Fine.

LOIS

Great! My place, ten pm. Here's the address.

She hands Clark a card. It has Ellen's name on it.

CLARK

Okay. Ten pm.

And with that, he takes off, flying away.

CUT TO:

INT. LEX LUTHOR THE FIRST'S OFFICE

Luthor is sitting on the phone. Lex is sitting behind the desk.

LUTHOR

Yes. Yes. And what about the dome? Completely destroyed huh? Did any of the

tapes survive? They did? I want them shipped her ASAP.

He hangs up.

LUTHOR

Tragic.

LEX

How so? The deaths of the men?

LUTHOR

No. The fact that whatever did this could be long gone.

LEX

Sad.

LUTHOR

So, don't you have a date with Lois tonight?

LEX

She should be arriving soon.

A buzz on the intercom. Luthor hits the button.

LUTHOR

What?

VOICE ON THE INTERCOM

Lois Lane is here.

LUTHOR

Send her in.

Lex stands as the door opens and Lois walks in. He walks over to her, taking her hand

and kissing her.

LEX

Hello love.

LOIS

You'll never guess what happened.

LEX

What?

LOIS

I almost died!

Luthor shakes his head.

LUTHOR

And?

LOIS

Superman saved me. He even promised to give me an interview at ten tonight.

Lex, darling, I hope you don't mind if I cut our night short.

Lex and Luthor exchange glances.

LEX

Not at all, love. Are you ready to go? The reservations are in forty five

minutes.

LOIS

Just let me freshen up a bit first.

LEX

By all means.

Lois walks toward the wash room. She enters and shuts the door. Lex turns to Luthor.

LUTHOR

I want you to wait until he arrives and then give him my proposal.

LEX

Yes, father.

INT. APARTMENT

Clark enters through the front door, now wearing his glasses and shirt. The interior is

now partly furnished with the things brought from home.

Lana is sitting on the couch, watching the news.

NEWS ANCHOR

... the pilot is in stable condition thanks to the heroic efforts of the one

called Superman.

CLARK

Hey, I made the news.

LANA

Have fun flying Lois where she needed to go?

Clark sits on the sofa.

CLARK

Is that jealousy I hear?

Lana whirls on him.

LANA

How did you think I would feel? You, shirtless, looking as hot as I've ever

seen you, flying off with another woman?

CLARK

Would this be a bad time to tell you I promised her an interview?

LANA

What?!

Clark touches Lana's cheek.

CLARK

She means nothing to me. I'm only giving her the interview so she'll get off

my back. If I don't, every time Superman shows up in public, she'll be there.

Plus it's good to let the public know they can trust me.

Lana touches his hand.

LANA

I know. I don't know why I was so mad.

CLARK

We all have to get used to this Superman thing. Which reminds me, when do I get

my costume.

Lana smiles.

LANA

I was thinking the same thing.

She gets up and goes to the closet. She opens the door and rummages around before coming

back with the a box. Clark takes the box. Clark rips off the tape.

CLARK

Did you get the job?

LANA

I have a trial date on Friday. I'll know by Sunday. How about you?

CLARK

Mail room. But I think the editor, Mr. White, really likes me.

LANA

That's great.

Clark begins to open the box, and pulls out the costume. He looks it over.

CLARK

Holy cow!

LANA

You like it?

CLARK

I love it!

LANA

It's the same color as your bandannas.

CLARK

Thank you,

He kisses her.

LANA

I also made the pink and purple one with the flower trim, in case you ever

feel like standing out.

Clark laughs.