A/N: Thanks to everyone who have read this story and who have left a feedback. Your input has been more than you know. The end is drawing near; it's under negotiations with my muse, which is why this chapter is short. I still hope that you enjoy it, though.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Disclaimers in Chapter One
Ian tapped on the door of the Kent farmhouse. Smug, he grinned at the ease of this assignment Lionel had given him in exchange for his use of Lex's identity. "Lionel mustn't have liked him so much," he laughed to himself as he made a final attempt to fix his suit. "Lifestyles of the rich and notorious, here I come!"
Suddenly, the door swung open and Clark grabbed him by the throat and dragged him inside. "Clark," Ian frantically shrieked as he tried to pull Clark's grip from his neck. "What are you doing? It's me, Lex!"
"Cut the crap, Ian," Clark sneered. "I'm on to you."
"And you," he added. "Will not hurt any of my friends ever again."
"Ha!" Ian guffawed as he continued to struggle. "You think this ends with me? I am only the branch, Kent! You haven't even begun to eliminate the root."
"And who would that be, Randall?" Clark urged. When Ian defied to remain silent, he squeezed his grip a little. "I said, who is it, Ian."
"Lionel Luthor," Ian choked out. Clark freed his hold, and Ian immediately fell to the floor.
A quick dig into his pocket revealed a tiny metal box, which he opened quickly. Meteor rocks filled the case and instantly radiated through the room, hitting Clark like a truck on speed.
He doubled over and fell on his knees as Ian walked close and hovered over him. "Who's got the power now, Clark?"
Few hours later, Lionel sat patiently in his office, waiting for the arrival of good news. Facing the window right behind the desk, he pondered about his coming reign over Metropolis and soon the world.
"Lionel," called a voice behind him.
He swung his seat around and grinned at his visitor. "Ian," he greeted. "My bearer of good news."