Chapter 12 - Things Are Looking Up
In the province of the mind, what one believes to be true either is true or becomes true.
John Lilly
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The sleep cycle ended with Kal-El pacing the floor going over in his mind all he had learned. After Jason had fallen asleep he had gotten back on the computer and relentlessly continued his research. He had been surprised the entire system had been made available to his inquiries. Even with all his research he was not satisfied. He had studied not only the history of the Trpria but also the technological discoveries including the weapons and starship designs. He knew studying and actually understanding were two different things. During the cycle he had became even more determined to get out of the prison he and Jason had been in for what seemed like forever but was really only about 3 and a half Earth days.
When Mer Kaper knocked and entered with the breakfast he scowled and asked to speak to Der Motin.
Der Motin appeared shortly. "My Lord, I understand you are displeased. What may I do to dispel your displeasure?"
"I want out of this prison. If I am to be Lord in a matter of days I want to see the ship, to meet the people aboard. I'm not used to being confined and it's making me stir crazy. If Lord Arnken has required my confinement then I wish to speak with him directly. As you said in a few short days I will either defeat Lord Arnken or I will become him. How can I expect to defeat him if I don't have all the knowledge I need to do so? I also need to finish healing to have the strength to withstand the 'training'. Surely he understands that!"
"My Lord, I will see to it immediately. Lord Arnken trusts me. You are right you need to be able to move about freely and you need to be fully healed."
"Thank you. Are there any other sympathizers on this ship or on the sister ships in the configuration?"
"Very few on this ship at least that are known. There are several on one of the other ships but it is far too dangerous to arrange a meeting now."
"I understand we can't be too careful. Will you join me for lunch? I have much to discuss with you."
"Yes my Lord, I would be delighted. I will return shortly perhaps I can arrange a tour of the ship."
"Thank you again. I would prefer Jason stay here. Is Mer Kaper available to stay with him in my absence? By the way, she said there were other children on board. Would any be appropriate to provide company for him? He's terribly homesick and bored. I'm sure a playmate would do wonders."
"I will look into that as well." Der Motin bowed as he left the room.
As Kal-El turned around Jason came running to him jumping into his arms. "Daddy you asked for a playmate for me. Oh boy, what will we play? Will it be a boy playmate or a girl? How old will he be?"
"Whoa Jason, remember I'm still very sore. As far as a playmate goes, I don't know. We'll just have to find out together. Are you hungry? Breakfast is on the table."
"I'm sorry Daddy, I keep forgetting you're hurt. Is it getting all better?"
"Yes, but very slowly." Kal-El sat Jason down on the floor and he immediately ran over to the tray containing their breakfast. Seeing it was something new he just continued to look then turned around with a questioning look to his Dad.
"I know you don't know if you like it. Why don't you just taste it? Just about everything has been good so far. OK, you win move over, we'll eat together." He brushed Jason's hair out of his eyes as they sat down together. "What am I, your official taster?" This last statement brought a real smile to his face, one of the first since their captivity began.
"Oh Daddy, I just like to know if I like it before I try it."
Kal-El laughed heartily "Jason, it hurts too much to laugh. You are just too precious do you know that?"
"Uh huh, 'cause that's what Mommy always tells me."
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Lois had her computer open staring at an illustration of her and Clark in France made while on their honeymoon. They had been so happy that day, why did it have to end so fast. The TV was on and she was suddenly distracted by the latest news report.
Superman continues to be sighted all over the world. His appearances are becoming more and more abhorrent. So far he has not caused anyone physical harm but he has allowed harm to come to many he could have easily helped. Everyone is warned to stay away from him at this point. He is currently wanted for questioning in several unlawful incidents ranging from willful destruction of property to gross misconduct and mayhem. Again it is recommended that you keep your distance. One group has started to call for the U.N. to ask him to leave the Earth permanently.
In related news word has come that the U.N. is debating what to do in the event the Trprians return. In his current state no assistance is expected from Superman. Shortages of food and supplies continue to cause problems as people fearing their return are stocking up.
President Thorn is downplaying the possible return saying the Starship is heading away from us at speeds nearing one light year per 24 hour period.
Stay tuned to WCNN for the latest updates on this continuing story.
Lois clicked the TV off throwing the remote onto the sofa as she looked at Martha, "I can't stand to listen to any more of that garbage. How can anyone really think that… that thing is Superman? Do they really have such a short memory? Ahhh, I think I'm going to be sick." She quickly set her laptop aside as she ran for the bathroom with her hand over her mouth returning a few moments later.
"Honey, wasn't the doctor able to give you anything for morning sickness this morning?"
Coming back into the room slightly pale Lois answered, "I didn't think to even ask. I didn't get sick so early last time. I think it's the stress of what's going on. I still can't believe I'm really pregnant again. Thank you for going with me Martha, you are a godsend. Doc Baker has been wonderful as well. I'm glad I decided to stay here for awhile. I just hope I can keep Perry happy from a distance." Tears spring to her eyes as she fanned her face with her hand trying to contain them. "Oh, I hate how these hormonal swings make me so emotional. I want Clark here. I need Clark! And I want my baby back too!"
"I know honey. We all want them back. We just have to have faith that they'll be returned to us safe and sound. In the meantime we need to take care of you and that little one you're carrying."
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Cat Grant stood on the top of the Daily Planet building watching for him, hoping he would see her. She didn't believe the accounts she'd been hearing on the news. She knew the man, well sort of anyway she told herself. Perhaps he was just feeling rejected and needed someone to care of him. Looking up into the sky she kept waiting. As she continued to wait she heard and felt a swish from behind. Turning around she saw him standing right behind her with a maniacal smirk on his face.
"Looking for me?"
Suddenly not sure if this was such a good idea, Cat looked towards the door wondering if she could make it back inside before he caught her. Deciding not she answered, "Yes, I was just wondering if you perhaps wanted to rethink my offer?"
With the smirk growing even broader he walked towards her grabbing her and kissing her hard on the lips. She pulled away, "You're a little rough don't you think? You're bruising my lips."
"Hmmmp, somehow I though you would enjoy it that way. After all you were up her enticing me to join you as if offering yourself and it's not the first time you've come on to me."
"I wasn't asking to be manhandled by you. Don't you know how to be tender with a lady?"
"Yeah sure, just what will that get me? Nothing!" He had grabbed her again but as he did he was caught in a whip that went around him from behind.
"Why don't you pick on someone your own size for a change?"
Turning around the android mocked, "Huh, so when were you ever in my league Batman! Go back to your dirty cave where you belong. Can't you see I'm busy?"
"Well, you are about to get a lot busier." He pulled out a box from his belt opening it up.
"Ah ha ha ha. That crap doesn't hurt me. So what are you gonna try now, little flying ratman! You puny human you can't even hope to defeat me now!"
"We'll see about that. Let her go, this is between us."
The android laughed again as he released Cat. "I'll catch up with you later sweetie. Seems there's a rat on this roof that needs exterminating first."
Batman lunged for the android and they both went down, rolling along the roof. Batman had put on steel knuckles and managed to get in a couple of swiping blows to the androids chest. It was like ripping into a hard rubberized plastic. The skin didn't cut but he had made definite scratching marks. As they struggled Batman realized the android was strong but not nearly as strong as his friend would have been. Seeing a TV news copter above capturing the fight he decided he needed to keep going as long as possible. He wanted to expose the android for what it was. He reached up and tried to swipe the android's cheek but just as he was about to connect the android struck him with a crushing blow to his stomach. As he doubled up the android started to hit him over the head but suddenly stopped before turning to simply look at him frozen in place repeating the phase "do no harm…do no harm".
Richard and Chloe came running out from the roof access elevator door just as the android took off sneering at the cameraman in the helicopter as he left.
Seeing Batman still hunched over in pain they ran to him helping him to his feet. Batman was barely able to speak still trying to catch his breath. "You're right, that is definitely not the Boy Scout! I guess I should have come better prepared. I just didn't want to believe he would lash out like that, android or not."
"It is definitely getting more abhorrent. What can we ever hope to do to contain it?" Richard asked as he and Chloe helped Batman back inside the building.
"I scratched it with my steel knuckles which means it's not invulnerable." Batman said smiling in spite of his current pain. "It wasn't as strong as Superman and maybe there are other powers it doesn't have. We have a real chance of defeating it. It is stronger than us individually and it can fly, but perhaps that's all."
Richard and Chloe smiled at each other, finally good news for a change.
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Mer Kaper knocked and entered shortly after Kal-El and Jason finished eating. Both were delighted to find she had a young boy just slightly older than Jason with her. He was introduced as Mer Kaper's son, Der Malen.
Kal-El seemed confused remembering the proposition from the first day. Mer Kaper bowed realizing why, blushing she stated her husband had been killed in battle fighting an underground uprising a couple years after Der Malen had been born. Der Malen had brought some toys with him and the two headed off to Jason's room to play just as Der Motin arrived.
"Are you ready My Lord Kal-El? You are now free to go as long as you are accompanied."
Turning as if to leave Kal-El stopped looking towards the room he heard the kids playing. Der Malen was explaining a new game to Jason. "You need not fear, he will be safe here and well cared for."
"Kal-El sighed, yes I must believe that. What will happen to him if I fail? If I become Lord Arnken? Will you keep him safe? Protect him from what I might become?"
"You have my solemn word. No harm shall come to the child as long as I or Mer Kaper live, we will protect him as our own."
"If I fail and do become Lord Arnken, will I remember you have betrayed him, will I remember this?"
"We are in an unknown territory. In the past the host was overshadowed and lost. But you are different, stronger. It is my fervent hope you will be able to withstand the transfer and come forth the victor. We will be helping you in ways you do not know, cannot know yet. Have faith with us Lord Kal-El as we have faith in you."
"So there is a 'we' you and I are not alone in this. When will I meet the others?"
"Only when it is safe for all. If we play our hand too soon all may be lost. Faith is needed by all."
"Jason, we're leaving." Jason came running in wrapping his arms around Kal-El's legs as he bent down stroking his hair. "I'm not sure how long we'll be gone. Mind Mer Kaper and don't leave here without me, understood." He looked over at Mer Kaper as he spoke the last words for her understanding as well. She bowed her head in compliance.
"OK Daddy, I like my new friend. He's teaching me some new games. I'll see you later."
Not wanting to leave him but seeing no way around it Kal-El left their quarters. They went through several expansive corridors not seeing another sole. Finally Kal-El asked, "Where is everyone? How many people are on the ship? The records indicated each ship section could hold up to 2,000 people."
"Yes each section was designed to house up to 2,000 people families included. Unfortunately each section is currently manned by 250-300 people."
Kal-El stopped in his tracks "Why is that? Is your civilization dwindling or just the number manning the starships? There was nothing of this in the computer records I read."
"There has been civil war on Trpria for years. Since the transfer to Srnken failed, many have died. Our population was dwindling prior to that due to the harsh life on Trpria."
"Wait, your people have the gall to judge other civilizations for wars and troubles when your own civilization is in a civil war!"
"Yes, my Lord, as pitiful as it is, it is true. As I have said not all support our Lords actions." He seemed truly embarrassed at the revelation.
As he shook his head in sad understanding he went back to his plans, "Might I see the bridge?"
"This way we are almost there now. Before we arrive I would like to point out this observation alcove. The shielding is reduced here to allow the light of the stars to shine in. You might remember it for future reference."
"Yes, thank you Der Motin, I think I will." He went to the viewing window momentarily spellbound as he looked out at the expanse of space, mentally remembering the location in reference to his suite. "Are there others like this?"
"Yes, my Lord, they ring the tip of the ship. You might also like to note Lord Arnken's chamber which will be yours has a private viewing alcove much like this, only larger." Kal-El just smiled in response.
They entered the bridge to find only two people in attendance. Both stood as Kal-El entered.
"My Lord they voiced together with their heads bowed."
Not knowing what to do Kal-El simply said, "As you were. I would just like to look around for a time."
After a few minutes he started asking them questions asking them to demonstrate how various things worked including the navigation system, the communications systems, how the ships separated, how long they had been assigned the bridge, about their families and on and on becoming very personable with them. Then he started asking about the weapons system, the regeneration method how the power was absorbed and magnified. Finally he had them show him the laser systems asking lots of questions about the power and light generated by them. Even having them demonstrate the use.
"Mind if I try them. There is nothing anywhere near for them to affect."
"My Lord, as you please."
Smiling to himself he took the controls and began shooting the forward laser. Then making sure the two crewmen were occupied elsewhere with Der Motin. He began shooting the aft laser beam using a pattern he had pre-determined hours earlier in the direction they had just come. Satisfied with his results and feeling better than he had in days he went back to asking the men more questions.
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Some time later at the SETI center Dr. Kragan was looking at a series of readouts trying to comprehend what she was seeing. Several of her colleagues stood with her all shaking their heads at the same thing. Finally an older gentleman took in a deep breath. "Wait! No, it can't be but….Maybe"
"Frank, do you have an idea of not? Out with it." Dr. Kragan asked.
"Well, it looks like it could be Morse code. But who could possible be sending Morse code from over 4 light years away, on that Trprian ship?"
They all looked at each other with a dawning realization all at the same time. Superman! The Trprians must have taken him and somehow he was trying to send a message. Dr. Kragan sat down. This confirmed in her mind what she had been told over the phone.
"Frank can you decipher the message?"
"I'll certainly try." After several minutes he came up with a bunch of letters grouped together. This is what was sent but it makes no sense. Does it mean anything to any of you?"
llns bn ts ls dx d rtr bntt prz
They all stared at what he had written. Finally Dr. Kragan said, "I know some people who might know. They might be the intended recipients of the message."
She sent the message off to the email addresses she had been given and then placed a call to Richard White explaining that it appeared a coded message in Morse Code had been received apparently from the Trpria ship.
After they spoke with Dr. Kragan Chloe immediately opened up the email. After staring at it for a few minutes, she exclaimed. "OH my gosh. It's from Clark. I recognize this. We took French together in high school. Clark was a wiz at it so we formed a study group with another friend, Pete Ross. The three of us created a code using French with all the vowels dropped.
Let me see. Hmmm After several minutes she came up with the following.
Allons bien tous les deux - de retour bientôt – priez
Both Safe home soon pray
Richard grabbed her kissing her out of sheer delight. "Chloe you never cease to amaze me. Send that to Lois while I get her on the phone."
"Lois, we just sent you an email. You'll never guess. Clark sent us a Morse code message coded in French. Chloe figured it out. It's from the email Dr. Kragan just sent all of us. Lois it says, both safe, home soon, pray. At least for now, they're safe and he feels they will be home soon."
"Oh, thank goodness, at last some good news. If Clark was able to get a message off that is very encouraging news. Not only is he OK but he's able to control at least some things. Thank you Richard, I appreciate your calling me right away."
"No problem, we're just glad to help. You really need to thank Chloe. She's the one who figured it out."
"Yes I will. I have news too. I'm definitely pregnant. I found out earlier today. I'm due late September looks like Jason did in fact get his wish." Then she started crying. "He's not even here to know. Oh! I hate these raging hormones."
"Lois there's more good news too. Batman was here today. He fought with the android on the roof and it seems it's not as all powerful as Superman. He actually scratched it. We're working on a plan to overpower it or at least expose it for what it is. Part of the fight was even caught on TV."
"Yes things do seem just a little bit brighter. I just wish Clark and Jason were on their way back home now, not on their way to that dmn alien planet."
"We all feel the same way. But at least things seem to be turning for the better finally. Lois, call me or Chloe if you need anything. Don't hesitate. We're family and always will be. Take care of yourself and that new baby. Give Kala a kiss and hug from us. We'll talk to you tomorrow."
"Thanks again. I can't even begin to express how much your continued support means to me. Goodbye Richard. Give Chloe my best as well and be sure to give her my thanks."
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"How soon will we be reaching Trpria?"
"In about 3 days My Lord Kal-El. There will be a celebration when we arrive and the transfer ceremony will take place the following morning."
"What is the planet like? Sirius is a much hotter star than Sol. Why did your people pick such a harsh environment where they would have to live underground?''
"We did not really pick the planet. It was more or less forced upon us. We were a nomadic people long ago. Again much of this is not in the recorded records. Our fleet came upon hard times and had to go to ground on Trpria. We lived on the ships for a time then built a city underground. It was beautiful at first but has since fallen in decay. Since the war started there is little to return to. Our numbers are so decimated. You may be are our last hope for a continued existence."
"Do you not feel your suns warmth at all?" Kal-El felt the weight on his shoulders not only for Jason and Earth but now for Trpria as well.
"There are viewing stations like on this ship. Sirius is glorious in all its splendor. You will enjoy its warmth. I will see to it." They exchanged a knowing look but said nothing more as they returned to Kal-El's chambers.
As he entered he saw a Trprian man waiting for him. Mer Kaper and Jason were both smiling nearby but Der Malen was no where to be seen.
"Mer Kaper, what is the meaning of this! Who is this man and why did you allow him near my son without my prior knowledge?"
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Batman is here protecting me now from that evil Android.
Hey, Darth, you mind if I call you that?
Darth says HI!