Chapter 3 - For the girls who love to...

Dr. Olivia Von Horn's Office – Berlin.

Lena Luthor paces back and forth. "What do you think it means? I mean I was in love with the girl's sister just a moment ago! This is not good - not sane! Is this how it starts doctor?" Lena runs a hand through her long black hair nervously. "Sit down Lena" says Dr. Von Horn in a quiet authoritative voice. "This girl who loves motorcycles is the older sister of the girl who loves food – right?" Lena nods. "She is single and not in love with anyone else?" Lena shrugs. "I believe she was dating someone for quiet some time, but it seems they are no longer together." The doctor makes a note. "So your assignment is to find out if she's dating anyone and spend time getting to know her – let her see the real you." Lena looks at her with wide eyes. "I hardly think that's wise! What if I say or do something inappropriate? I'm not ready – I'm not ready!" Doctor Von Horn smiles. "It's time to test the waters Lena. You won't know if you don't try. I will see you next month."

3 weeks later. National City. The Poirot Wine Bar.

Alex had only been back on the job a week when the knots in her shoulders returned. Alex sipped her fortified ice wine and was glad she had chosen a bar were no one knew her. Alex was about to finish her drink when a familiar voice asks "Is this seat taken?" Alex could tell by the exquisite smell that it was Lena Luthor. Turning towards her Alex couldn't help but smile. "Lena! Of course." Alex extended her hand and Lena takes it. Alex uses said hand to help Lena up onto a bar stool. "Kara didn't tell me you were in town" she says leaning against the bar. Lena blushes and averts her eyes. "She doesn't know. I'm only in town for 48 hours, then I'm off to Vancouver. It was all very last minute..." Alex could sense Lena was lying but didn't press any further.

Alex blushes slightly as Lena's bright emerald eyes move across her face. "Why is it every time I see you these days you're covered in bruises?" Alex stammers "I'm not 'covered' in bruises, but I did have a tough week." Lena hops off the stool and takes Alex's hand – Alex is impressed with her firm grip. "Seriously are you okay?" Alex nods, looking her in the eye. "Good – your coming with me then!"

Lena Luthor's Laboratory The J Universe.

Lena looks at the pink orbs and smiles. "It's been a long road friends soon you'll be joining your family on the other side." The orbs emit a humming noise that lets Lena know they are happy. Lena polishes a pink and blue bowl with a hybrid lilac and jasmine leaf. On a stone alter Kara lays still taking ragged breaths. Walking over to the alter Lena places the bowl in the slot above Kara's head. "You'll be well soon love, soon."

Later that evening. Lena Lutor's Loft.

Lena has changed into a chic one piece bathing suit and she is waiting for Alex to join her in her saltwater pool. Alex walks shyly in the direction of the pool. She is keenly aware of Lena's scrutinous gaze. On her left bicep is a raw looking gash and across her ribs a freshly purple welt. "It's a good thing I have a heated salt water pool agent Danvers." Alex winces as she enters the water and it washes over the gash on her arm. "Indeed" she says, enjoying how the water seems to pull the tension from her body.

Floating on her back Alex looks up at the full moon. "Isn't it exquisite?" Lena says huskily. "Absolutely... can I ask you a question?" "Of course." "Why am I here?" Lena, seeing no reason to lie, says, "we're getting to know each other." Tearing her eyes away from the mesmerizing full moon Alex sneaks a glance at Lena. Bathed in the moonlight Lena's emerald eyes seem to glow. Alex stifles a gasp.

Recovering her composure Alex turns her gaze back to the moon. "I guess it's true that you can only truly know people you spend time with..." Alex says quietly. "Quality time with" Lena adds with a chuckle. Her laugh is some how amplified by the water, and Alex can feel her laughter travel through the water and envelop her in a blanket of mirth. Alex smiles. "And our Lady Luthor bestows us with her laughter on a full moon! What a gift." Alex says floating between waking and sleep.

Royal Castle of Jonzz. The Kingdom of Mars.

Princess Alexandra wakes suddenly, momentarily disoriented she looks to her left to find Lady Arias. Alex rubs the sleep out of her eyes and rolls off the bed. Finding her clothes she dresses quickly. Normally she would wait till morning to leave, but she has received word that a strange man has killed 3 men in Grant forest. A second report stated that the man was holding commander Lane for ransom. Putting quill to paper Alexandra hastily scribbles:

Dearest,

Duty calls, but know that I carry the warmth of your kisses in my heart always.

Your servant,

A.

Picking up her sword and boots she tip toes out of her room. Closing the door quietly, she puts on her boots. Running down the hall she bursts into her sister's room. "Get up Kara we have counsel with the Luthors today!" She hears a groan come from under a mess of blankets. "Cook has made buttermilk scones..." Kara pokes her head out from underneath the covers. "Buttermilk scones? Is there marmalade?" Alex shakes her head at her sisters food obsession. "Come and see for yourself!" Kara jumps out of bed and dresses hastily. "You better be telling the truth sister!" "Have I ever lied to you about scones?" Kara scoffs. "Too many times to count!"