Chapter 15 [That Afternoon]
Clark streaked through the clouds. His eyes remained peeled for any birds or radio towers. His ears listened for airplanes. He'd enjoyed Landscape's changing scenes. Mountains and Lakes gave him some things to think about. Once he cleared the Great Lakes, he visualized Chandler's Field in his mind's eye. Surprise warmed his heart. Exhaustion had no effect despite the lengthy flight.
Are you doing all right? Jennifer monitored him telepathically from New York. She had wanted to fly back with him. Still, she conceded that the training wheels would have to come off at some point.
Sure. I'm fine. He peeked through the wispy cover to see familiar towns and fields passing by below. Fifty miles to go! I'm heading for Chandler's Field outside of Smallville. I'll run in from there.
That sounds great. Let me know when you land. Good luck! You can do this! Jennifer went silent. Encouragement poured from her across the expanse however.
She's supportive at least! Let's hope Mom and Dad are too! He broke through the clouds one more time. Now the familiar trees and landmarks of outer Granville and Landover just to the north came into view. He veered southwest. Within a few more minutes, he saw his destination approaching fast. Slow down. You don't need a missile strike to draw attention. He slowed his pace.
Speed gave way to Drift. Flight turned to Hovering. He floated to the ground. His feet touched the ground with barely any sign at all.
He surveyed Chandler's Field. Nothing seemed out of place at first. In fact, everything seemed as it always had.
Then Phone buzzed at him.
Now what? He answered it. "Hello?"
"Look up, Clark." Jasmine descended through the clouds on her carpet. She waved her own phone in her left hand. Then she put it back to her ear. "Nice landing."
"Thanks. Anyone else here that we should be aware of?" He looked about again.
"Other than us, no, my Friend. Professor Dubois told me you planned to land here. I wished to see your accomplishment for myself. Very impressive!" Jasmine hovered just inches off of the ground by that point. "How are our friends?"
"Peter and Gwen are just about packed up. Lana and I really couldn't help his aunt because of our secret. We got to see that Harry guy and meet his new girlfriend. That was great. They'll all be coming to Metropolis really soon. Just a second." He concentrated on his 'instructor' back east. I landed all right. Jasmine's here with me.
I know but thanks for the update. You did really well, Clark, on the flights. Keep practicing. There's always more to work on. Take care. We'll talk again soon, Jennifer concluded before going silent again. "Sorry."
"That's all right. Miri tells me of your telepathy. It is very useful. I wish your father would be more understanding. I do believe that Lana works at the Talon. I am sure she would like to see you. You might call your parents from there?" she suggested. "Harry Osborn seemed nice. He needs a stable and managed place. At last, we hear more of Miss Allan."
"She and Peter went to high school together. I think it's great they'll have their own support team down there." He grinned at that thought.
"I believe you are correct. The Daily Bugle ceases its attacks on our wall crawling friend as well. You see? Our efforts do have an effect. Now, I shall join you for that refreshment. Lana and Miri are waiting to hear." Impetuousness smirked back at him.
He shook his head. "Fine! See you there!" He took off at super speed toward Smallville.
"Ah, Clark." She had to smile. She pulled a scarf over her nose and mouth. Then she rose back up into the air on Carpet….
[The Talon]
Summer brought its lull to the café. Murder's flock remained on their families' farms. Only a few stragglers and the regulars came in for their drinks and treats. Hours reduced to 5 PM until school came back into session.
Lana wiped the tables down. Her rag streaked away Dirt's presence from Oak's varnish. She remembered to do things at a normal pace. How does Clark keep this up all day? I can see why he gets frustrated. She sucked in a terse breath.
"Patience, Boss." Miranda sprayed and wiped down the pastry case's front glass. "Mr. Plaid's not in a hurry. He's got a long way to come. Jas is waiting for him. She'll make sure he's all right."
"I hope so." Worry stabbed at her. "He did so great on the way up there. I just wish he wasn't doing this trip alone."
And if I'm okay? Clark walked in. Satisfaction lit up in his eyes. "I made it."
"I see that!" Lana exhaled. She dropped the rag and rushed over to him. "Sorry. I was worried."
"I took my time and was really careful. Lots of stuff to see from up there." He embraced her. "It's great to see you."
"I'm just glad you're back, Clark. Everything set up there?" Lana grabbed onto him as well. Relief warmed her. "Since it's been quiet, I've…well…"
"She's been thinking about you all day." Miranda poured his coffee. "How's life up there anyway? Bet it's pretty."
"It sure is. Sorry I didn't look around. I was kind of focused on flying straight and keeping my focus. But yeah. Those mountains in New York are pretty. The Great Lakes are more like oceans. All of that practice is really paying off." He accepted the coffee. "Thanks."
"And he landed without disturbing a single thing." Jasmine added.
"Now your Dad can stop worrying." Lana bit her lip.
"Yeah that. I thought he was in Dodge." He scratched his head.
"He was. Your Mom and I talked about it. It's really great that you can do that. You know?" Lana's lips brushed his cheek. "I'm really proud of you."
"Thanks. That really means a lot. You'll get up there too." His lips pressed Amor's imprint on Lana's forehead. He toasted her with his coffee mug. "I just have to call Mom. Remember I have faith in you." He walked toward a booth. As he did, he dialed the phone. "Hi, Mom!"
"Clark? Are you back?" Martha sighed. A silent prayer escaped her lips.
"Just got back into town not even five minutes ago. Everything's fine. I had a perfect trip back." He took a draught from his mug. "No problems at all.'
"That's good. I'm so glad! I can tell your Dad. So how's everyone up there?" Martha asked.
"They're all right. The Parkers are going to talk with Mr. and Mrs. Crane. Everything's packed up at their house. They've got to get his aunt packed up. His friends are doing the same. They should be in Metropolis soon." He took another mouthful of coffee.
"If they come out here to visit, they know they're welcome," Martha invited. "Clark, that sounds great. Where are you now?"
"I'm at the Talon with Lana and Miranda. I'll finish my coffee and come right back," he offered.
"That's all right. You take your time. I'll see you tonight. Thanks, Clark, for the call. See you later." Martha hung up and went back to her chores around the kitchen. He flew both ways! He really did it! Jonathan, I hope you can deal with that.
Clark disconnected the call. He stood at the counter. "I need a coffee and one of those chocolate chip cookies. Going that way builds an appetite."
"I'm sure it does." Miranda coughed. So you really flew both ways?
I sure did. It takes about three hours. It takes me twelve to run up there from here. He accepted the coffee from her. "Thanks."
"Sure thing! Jas, did you see him?" Miranda frothed up some milk for Jasmine.
"Indeed! He was masterful. He does need to watch out for hidden threats around himself. We can work with him on that. Let us celebrate this triumph." Respect prompted a bow from Jasmine.
"We'll get you up there in no time, Lana." He took a gulp of coffee. Encouragement offered a boost.
Lana nodded. Then maybe we could stay longer. Oh well….