JL: The Newest Recruit

Part Nineteen:

Sacrifice

Diana awakened to an empty bed. She flipped back the hair covering her face and rubbed her sleepy eyes. The clock on the nightstand read 2:45am. Feeling the coolness on Clark's side of the bed, Diana knew he was gone a while. Grabbing her robe at the edge of the bed, Diana left the bedroom and searched for him.

Diana didn't have to go far. She saw light coming from his office. Diana stood in the doorway and found Clark on the sofa reading. "Kal, what are you doing up?"

Clark looked up from his book to his wife in the doorway. "Why are you up? You're leaving for Themyscira tomorrow morning to prepare for your mother and sisters' trip here."

Diana sat beside him. "Kal, you're avoiding my question."

Clark sighed and put his book aside, "I couldn't sleep. I'm worried about Lois."

"Why?"

Clark told Diana of Lois' strange behavior when he talked to her about Mysteria. "She was trying to get rid of me. I think something's wrong."

Diana laid her head against Clark's muscled shoulder. "I don't know Lois well but the behavior *does* sound strange. Maybe you should talk to her as Superman. She may feel more comfortable confessing her problem."

"She talked a lot when we were together, but since we broke up…." His mind flashed back to his battle with Darkseid and Lois' words to him. "I don't think going to her as Superman would be the best thing."

"Maybe not but it's who she needs right now. Even though you are not together anymore, you and Lois will always have a special connection." Diana told him. "She knows you will help her if she needs it. Talk to her."

Diana was right about one thing. He and Lois would always have a special connection. He would always help her if she needs it and right now she may need it more than ever.

Lois didn't get much sleep at all the night before. Her dilemma was the cause of her insomnia. She couldn't believe the mess she got herself in. She should've known she couldn't trust Circe but she was blinded with what she wanted so bad that she threw caution to the wind.

Now the price she paid could be her life. No! Lois was determined that wouldn't happen. She was Lois Lane, ace reporter for the Daily Planet. She got out of so many situations she should've died from. This was like the others and she vowed to make it out of this one.

Of course if she really thought about it, she got out of most of those situations because of Superman. Now she couldn't go to him, not unless she wanted him to know the truth.

"He can't know," Lois decided. "I just can't tell him."

A whooshing sound was heard on her balcony followed by a light breeze. Lois turned her head, watching the curtains blowing gently to reveal Superman.

Lois rose from her bed, half in shock, half delight. Just when she needed him, Superman was there. He was always there. Lois opened the French doors, smiling at her only love. "Superman."

Superman stepped inside. "Hello, Lois."

Lois ran her hands through her hair trying to make it presentable. "What brings you here?"

Superman decided to get straight to the matter at hand. "Lois, I know you are in trouble. I want to help you."

Lois wanted nothing more than to run into his arms and confess but she couldn't. "Why do you think I'm in trouble?"

"I have a feeling you are."

Lois smiled hopeful. She knew she wasn't the only one blind to their connection. "Have you been checking up on me… while you were with her?"

"Lois…"

Lois ran into his arms and cried against his chest. "I knew you'd always be there for me."

She was getting the wrong idea and he knew it. "Of course, Lois. You'll always be special to me, but…"

"It's so good to hear you say that," Lois cried. "I'm so glad we're together again."

Superman took a step back from Lois, his expression somber. Lois hopes were dashed again. "You….." she blinked away her tears. "You're not here to be with me, are you?"

She was so heartbroken. He didn't want to cause her anymore pain but he couldn't lie to her. "Lois, you know I will do anything for you."

"But you won't be with me." Lois wiped away her tears. "I feel like an idiot. I know we broke up and I should move on but I can't deny this feeling in my heart that we belong together, as if we are soul mates."

"Maybe in another life time," Superman told Lois. "Whatever this problem is, Lois, I'd like to help you if you let me but you must know there is someone else who will always come first."

Lois turned away, feeling a tremor go through her. Just thinking of her name was setting her off. This curse was powerful. She could feel the rage slowly building. *Don't say her name. Don't say her name.*

"There's something you should know," Superman began unaware of the inner turmoil in Lois. "Wonder Woman and I are married. We can't be together, Lois, but that doesn't mean I won't do everything in my power to help you."

Lois began shaking as she felt her control slipping. *Damn this. Damn you, Circe.*

Superman saw the shaking; he could hear her heart racing. "Lois?"

Lois faced him, her face full of anger. "As long as you are with her, I don't want anything to do with you!" *I have to get him away before I lose control. He can't know I'm Mysteria.*

Lois pushed Superman but he his enormous strength prevented him from moving. "Get out!"

"What is this anger coming from?" asked a confused Superman.

"Get away from me! I don't want anything to do with you!" Lois screamed. This is all your fault!"

"I'm not leaving until you talk to me, Lois. I know something is troubling you."

*I have to get him away from me.* "If you don't leave, I'll tell the world about our relationship. I'll tell them you left me for…" she couldn't say the name, "*her*!" she snarled. "I'll expose all the secrets I know of the Justice League. I'll even expose Bruce Wayne's secret."

This wasn't the woman he knew. Lois was never this cold or vindictive, but from the scan he gave her, he knew this was Lois and from the beating of her heart, Superman knew she was telling the truth. If it was only him, Superman would stay but he couldn't risk his friends' identity or the secrets of the Justice League being exposed. He had no choice but to turn and fly away from Lois. He couldn't keep an eye on her as Superman but he could as Clark Kent.

A large crowd of dignitaries, reporters, press and civilians waited patiently for the arrival of Queen Hippolyta and the Amazons at the United Nations. Diana and the Amazons arrived secretly the night before at a private airfield owned by Bruce Wayne. Then they drove by a motorcade to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel where they were staying during their trip before leaving early this morning for the United Nations.

Jimmy Olsen took pictures of the variety classes of people waiting for the arrival of the Amazons while Clark took questions from the waiting crowd. Among the people in the crowd was Bruce Wayne wowing the press and flirting with female reporters. Of course Bruce didn't have to work hard with his flirting as the women were practically throwing themselves at him.

The crowd cheered when Diana walked to the podium. She wasn't wearing her Wonder Woman outfit but a red ceremonial robe. As Diana gave the welcoming speech, Clark thought he was crazy for secretly lusting after her. Diana was gone for a week but he felt it's been forever since they've been alone. In truth, they've not had much time alone together since they married. Diana was spending most of her time with her foundation and prepping for her family's arrival. Still, Clark knew once the celebrations of the Amazons arrival died down, he and Diana would finally get some time alone.

Once Diana speech ended, Hippolyta and the Amazons: Phillipus, Euboea, Acantha, Timandra, Magda, Penelope and Ipthime entered. All were dressed in ceremonial robes. Hippolyta spoke welcoming everyone in several languages before continuing with her speech. Clark had to admit he was surprised of Ipthime's arrival. She was the most vocal against the Amazons joining with Patriarch's World and his relationship with Diana. Whatever her reasons, Clark wished he could've change Flash's mind for volunteering to show Ipthime the tour of the Watchtower. Flash promised to be on his best behavior and that seemed to worry Clark even more.

After the welcoming, the Amazons met with all the dignitaries of the United Nations, and then they were taken by motorcade back to their hotel for the banquet where dignitaries, celebrities, selected members of media, ordinary civilians, and Justice League members: Flash, J'onn, Black Canary and Vixen were invited.

Security was extremely tight at the Waldorf Astoria. Guards stood outside the ballroom and hotel rooms of the Amazons at all time. No one could get in and out with showing a special invitation that was created by Wayne Enterprises. Members of the Justice League who weren't attending the event were keeping an eye on the hotel for any strange activity. Wonder Woman racked up a list of enemies since her arrival and could take this opportunity to strike.

Each Amazon sat at a different table to get to know the different groups of people in the room. Diana volunteered to sit with the media. Not to be with Clark (though that was part of the decision) but for her experienced with the media. Hippolyta and Phillipus sat with many of the world's dignitaries, Euboea sat with the celebrities, Magda sat with civilians who benefited from the Wonder Woman foundation, Acantha sat with scholars of Greek culture who also received an invitation and Ipthime sat with the Justice League.

Flash got his seat next to Ipthime and spent most of the night flirting with her. "Once I'm through showing you the Watchtower, I can take you anywhere else you want," he flirted. "There are lots of places in the world a beauty like you should see. I know some hot clubs we can go to."

"Flash!" Dinah scolded him. "You promised to behave."

"How exactly did he get this?" Vixen wondered.

"I didn't say anything offensive like taking her to my place," Flash defended himself. "I wouldn't do that unless she wants to." He looked at Ipthime. "You don't want to do that, do you?"

Dinah slapped a hand on her forehead. She wished she volunteered to show Diana's sister around but Flash beat everyone to the punch.

Instead of being disgusted as Dinah and Mari expected, Ipthime laughed. "You are funny, Flash."

"I am?" Flash smiled. "I mean, of course I am."

"Amazons are very disciplined but we are not without our own sense of humor," Ipthime explained. "I know you were not serious."

Flash smiled cockily at Dinah and Mari before turning his attention back on Ipthime. "Did Diana tell you I'm the Fastest Man Alive?"

Ipthime feigned her amazement. She had plans on how she would seduce Flash but she realized she didn't need a lavish plan after spending two minutes with the dolt. "You are? But I thought Superman was the fastest. His speed is remarkable."

"He wishes," Flash said smugly. "Speed is the only department where Superman envies me. I bet the happy couple never told you this but Diana went out on a date with me first before she dated Superman."

"No, they didn't." *Diana went on a date with this fool! I know my princess is naïve when it comes to men but this is ridiculous.* "You're very beguiling, Flash."

"Beguiling?" Flash repeated unfamiliar with the word. "Is that a good thing?"

Dinah and Mari looked at each other. They couldn't believe what they were seeing. An Amazon actually being won over by Flash? It really has been a long time for them.

Even though Clark shared a table with Diana, he could only ask questions pertaining to the Amazons arrival. Diana remained impartial to him as she answered his questions and focused back at the other reporters' question. Still, Clark could tell from the brief glances Diana sent in his direction when she was answering his questions, Diana was longing for a moment alone with him just as he was with her.

Much to Diana's disappointment, Clark left the evening early citing his need to file his story as an excuse. She couldn't protest it. He had his job to do and she had hers. However, when Diana retired to her hotel room once the banquet ended, she was in for a pleasant surprise.

"Kal? I thought you went home."

Clark crossed the room to meet her. "I haven't seen you in a week. Did you think I would leave without giving you a kiss?"

Clark lowered his head but Diana pulled back. "Wait. Euboea is sharing a room with me. She could come in at any moment."

"Just one kiss and I'll leave."

Diana wasn't buying that. She knew Clark too well. "I know what one kiss with you leads to."

"Come on," Clark pleaded. "I've missed you."

"I've missed you, too, but…" she found herself staring into his blue eyes. "All right," she gave in. "One kiss."

"One kiss," Clark assured Diana. He covered his mouth with Diana's and she melted against him. She missed him but she hadn't realized how much until he was in her arms and kissing her. Diana was forgetting about the one kiss she told Clark as she pulled off his dinner coat and let it fall to the floor. Diana could feel her ceremonial robes slide to her waist and feel herself moving closer to the bed. Clark's bow tie and shirt fell to the floor next.

Diana's door opened and Hippolyta entered. "Diana, do you--" Hippolyta froze catching her daughter in the arms of her husband. Both were naked from the waist up. "I had no idea you were meeting Kal-El here."

Diana turned a bright red as she was caught red handed and half naked with her husband in front of her mother, Euboea and Magda. Clark shielded Diana's nudity with his bare chest. "Mother… Sisters…. I…. I…" the Princess of Themyscira was first once at a lost of words.

"I think no words are needed. Come," the queen referred to Euboea and Magda. "We'll give Diana a moment to make herself more presentable."

Once Diana's door closed again, Diana scolded Clark. "This is your fault. I've never been so embarrassed! You were to give me *one* kiss."

"I did but you started to pull my clothes off first," Clark accused her. "I just followed your lead." He knew not to laugh for then he would really be in trouble. Instead he helped Diana fix her dress before she left to meet with her mother and sisters.

To Clark's surprise, Diana was only gone a minute. "That was quick. Everything settled?" Clark asked as he gathered his clothes off the floor.

"My mother had a question about our schedule for tomorrow. Thank Hera she didn't comment on what she saw." Diana looked over at Clark regretful. "I'm sorry but you have to go. I told Euboea you would not be staying and you have your story to write."

Clark slipped on his shirt. "You know that won't take me long."

Diana buttoned his shirt, using it as an excuse to touch him. "I appreciate you coming here today and putting up with my preparations for this moment. I know we haven't spent much time together because of it."

Clark kissed her hands. "Stop. This is very important for you and this world. There will be time for us."

Diana hugged him. "Thank you for being so understanding." Diana took his hand and walked him to her bed. "You can't stay but we can spend a few moments together. Tell me what's been going on with you. Did you talk to Lois?"

Clark grew somber as he thought about his conversation with her. "She doesn't want to talk to me as Superman, but she's still friendly with Clark." Clark fiddled with the tie in his hand. "As long as I'm with you, she doesn't want anything to do with me."

Diana put an arm around Clark in a half hug. "What are you going to do?"

"I don't know." Clark admitted.

There was a knock on Diana's door. "Princess, is it all right to come in?"

"Guess our time is up," Clark said as they both stood and Clark slipped on his jacket.

"You can come in, Euboea." Euboea, Ipthime and Magda entered.

"Hello, ladies," Clark nodded in acknowledgement. He looked to Diana. "I'll see you when I can."

Diana kissed him goodbye and said, "Maybe I'll get to see you next time."

"Maybe," Clark smiled hopeful. He looked out on the balcony, making sure it was safe before he flew away.

"If you had told us your beloved was with you, we wouldn't have entered the room," Magda told Diana. "I suggest a little warning in the future."

Diana blushed thinking how she was caught. "Trust me, Magda, I do not intend to let that happen again."

Ipthime frowned. "How can you show him such affection after he embarrasses you so?"

"Love," Euboea said as she changed out of her ceremonial robes. "It's written all over the princess' face."

"He didn't mean to embarrass me, Ipthime, and I must share some of the blame," Diana said as she fiddled with her gown.

"Yes, you weren't force into that kiss," Euboea teased as she slipped on her night shift.

"I think it's deplorable letting a man touch you like that." Ipthime said in disgust.

"They are mated, Ipthime," Magda reminded her sister. Ipthime opened her mouth to speak but Magda took her by the arm and said, "Excuse us, Princess. We will see you in the morning."

Magda all but dragged Ipthime out of the room and to their room. When they were inside, Ipthime said, "How dare you drag me out of the room like that?"

"I was stopping you from insulting the princess anymore. It was clear she was embarrassed being caught like that. You didn't have to go on and on," Magda explained.

"She had to be told."

Magda shook her head confused at Ipthime. "I'm having trouble understanding why the queen brought you. You do understand that this is a peaceful mission and we are here to teach mankind and possibly integrate with them once more."

Ipthime crossed her arms. "I don't understand why you are being so hostile to me. You weren't keen when the princess introduced Superman to us as the man she loves. You even took part in fighting him."

"I did," Magda admitted as she changed out of her ceremonial garbs and slip on a thin shift. "I wasn't fond of the princess' beloved but she does love him and I love my princess. I support what she does. However, it wasn't her that changed my opinion of Superman. It was his behavior in the coliseum. He could've destroyed us but he didn't. He only fought to stop us from hurting ourselves against him. It was also his decision to marry our princess in the way of our people. Men are known to force women into their traditions but for a man to want to follow *our* tradition…" Magda paused looking for the right words. "I've never known a man to be so respectful. He may have Heracles strength but he is nothing like him."

*Blind fool* Ipthime thought. *Just like our Princess.*

Ipthime walked alongside Flash as he gave her a tour of the Watchtower. He showed her all the important levels and ones that weren't important such as the showers and the implication it was co-ed. Flash was a terrible flirt it disgusted Ipthime but she knew she had to play along to get to where she wanted to go.

"Did Diana tell you I was one of the founding members of the Justice League?" Flash thrust his chest out. "Yep. These new members look up to me. I get as much respect as Superman and Diana."

"That must be an honor."

"Oh, yeah. I'm an inspiration to them," Flash bragged. "I saved the world when Luthor and Brainaic teamed up. If it wasn't for me, this world would be gone. "

"That was during that Cadmus nonsense, wasn't it?" Ipthime asked. "Diana told me about that."

"Yep."

"Didn't you use a nuclear ray on Cadmus?" Ipthime asked. "Isn't that what started the final battle with Cadmus?"

"You mean the main gun?" Flash asked. "It can fire nuclear weapons but that's not all it does and it only fired because Lex Luthor got control of it."

"Oh." Ipthime nodded in understanding then asked sweetly. "May I see it?"

Flash scratched the back of his head. "You really want to? It's just a weapon."

"Amazons are interested in all kinds of weapons."

Flash shrugged, not seeing the problem. "Okay. Follow me."

Flash took Ipthime to down to the level where the main gun was stored. "It still works but we disabled the nuclear part as of part our deal with Cadmus."

Ipthime touched the large gun, marveled by it. "What an amazing piece of engineering. A weapon like this would be valuable on Themyscira if we were invaded." Now she was by the gun, she had to distract Flash in order to slip Circe's crystal on. She knew Flash wouldn't leave her alone. She had to knock him out.

"I guess using bows and arrows can only do so much," Flash joked.

Ipthime smirked. "Amazons use all types of weapons. We create weapons for defense and we create weapons to satisfy Amazonian needs." She was now staring at Flash with interest.

Flash swallowed seeing the look in Ipthime's eyes. Even he knew what that look meant. "A-Amazonian needs?" Flash stuttered.

Ipthime sauntered toward him. "Amazons are strong, intelligent and fearless but we are also women and have needs like any women." Ipthime pressed her body against Flash.

"S-s-so, Amazons *do* you ever get lonely for a man," Flash nervously said as Ipthime rubbed herself against him. "Diana didn't seem interested in them when she came here."

"That's because Diana never been with a man before. She never knew about the good things a man could do for a woman. We Amazons were abused by men and it's something we will never forget." Ipthime traced a finger down Flash's face to his chest as she said, "But we Amazons can't forget that it has been a long time for us and we are still women with needs. Some have found their needs in others. I had to settle for my weapons…." Ipthime gave Flash a heated gaze. "Until now."

Ipthime pinned Flash to a wall. "Oh, wow." Flash couldn't believe this was happening to him! An Amazon wanted him. *This is gonna be so awesome!*

"Flash, may I ask a question?"

"Ask what you want, baby."

"Would you help me with my needs?"

Flash couldn't believe his good luck! His charms actually worked. A beautiful Amazon wanted him! It had been a while for her but he was going to give it to her right! "Right here?"

Ipthime nodded. "Do I make you nervous?

"No," his voice was a little too high for his taste. "But it would be better for you if we go to my room. It's only a few floors up."

"Very well. Could I get a preview here?" Ipthime requested and before Flash could answer, she kissed him.

Flash's eyes widened in amazement. *I'm kissing an Amazon! I'm such a stud!* Flash closed his eyes and kissed back. He wrapped one arm around her as the other grabbed her rear.

*How disgusting.* Ipthime thought as she kissed Flash but it was the price she had to pay. Ipthime moved a hand delicately over Flash's neck finding his pressure point. She pressed on it hard until Flash fell limp in her arms. Ipthime lowered Flash to the ground.

Ipthime wiped her lips in disgust. She went over to the main gun and took the crystal of the box she kept it in. Remembering Circe's instructions, Ipthime opened the slot of the main gun where the nuclear ray was activated. Ipthime gently placed the crystal inside. The crystal began to glow and hum as if coming to life. Ipthime closed the slot, hiding the glow and silencing the hum that came from the crystal.

"I hope I'm not making a mistake."

Ipthime looked over to Flash. Ipthime considered leaving the dolt here but that would raise questions. Ipthime shook Flash. "Flash." She shook him harder. "Flash!"

Flash groggily woke up. "Uh, wha..?" He stared at Ipthime. "Hey, baby. What happened?"

"You fainted."

"I… what?"

Ipthime stood feigning her disappointment. "Obviously, you're not man enough for me."

Flash jumped to his feet, following Ipthime out of the room. "Wait! I can explain. I mean, I can't explained. Give me another chance!" *I can't believe I fainted! My one chance with an Amazon and I blow it!*

Mission accomplished Ipthime left a pleading Flash at the Watchtower and returned to her hotel suite. Diana and Hippolyta were talking in Diana's room and the conversation sounded serious. Ipthime decided to listen in.

"Are you sure, Mother?"

"Yes. It was my decision that the Amazons come here to observe and decide if it's time for the Amazons to integrate with society again. I feel your title as Wonder Woman will be a distraction to the places we visit and people we talk to." Hippolyta placed her hands on her daughter's shoulders. "It wasn't a decision I came to lightly and, my daughter, you've done so much to spread the code of the Amazons and I'm very proud of you, but I think if the Amazons are going to come back to this world, we need to make our own personal mark."

Diana nodded. "I understand."

"You've been so busy preparing all this for us. I think it's time you go back to your life. You have that foundation of yours that help the people, the Justice League and you have a husband whom I understand you haven't spent much time with lately."

Diana blushed. "Yes, that's true."

"Go," Hippolyta encouraged. "We can handle the rest on our own."

Mother and daughter hugged, "Thank you, Mother. I'll leave everything in your capable hands. Kal is at work now. If I call now, I can meet him for lunch."

"Enjoy yourself." Hippolyta left the room.

Ipthime bowed to Hippolyta as she passed and stepped inside Diana's room. She found her princess pulling clothes from her closet and laying them neatly on her bed. "Hello, Ipthime. How was the tour at the Watchtower?"

Ipthime saw Diana crossed back into her closet and pulled out a carryon bag. She certainly wasn't taking her time to get back to that man she called her love. "It went well. You work with amazing people, Diana. The work you do for this world is very admirable," Ipthime praised honestly. She may not care for the people in this world but she couldn't deny the good work they did do. "I heard the queen's orders to you. Do you have to leave so soon?"

Diana pulled out her cell phone. "It was her decision and I agree with her. I'm going to call Kal to see if I can meet him for lunch. You can join us."

"No. You go ahead. As the queen said, you deserve some time with him."

Diana nodded as she put the phone to her ear. "Hello, my love."

Ipthime rolled her eyes and walked off. She didn't need to hear this.

Lois wondered why she let Clark talk her into having lunch with him and Diana. Though she was happy for Clark and his relationship, she couldn't help but be a little jealous on what he had. However, she was touched Clark invited her. He was being a good friend to lean on lately and she was seeing him in a new light. Perhaps, if she wasn't so obsessed with Superman and if Clark wasn't taken now, Lois would consider going on a date with him. She did have a tiny crush on him and admired him. She didn't realize it until she thought he was dead but Superman was around and he was her main interest.

*I wonder if I blew it chasing a guy who's like a God and not settling for an ordinary guy.*

Sitting at a table in Minerva, Lois and Clark waited for Diana. Lois looked over her menu as they waited and asked, "Smallville, are you sure I'm not a third wheel? I don't want to get between you and your lady."

"I told you, Lois. It's okay."

"But you didn't tell Diana I was coming," Lois reminded him. "She may want a nice lunch with you alone."

"Diana will understand if I bring another person."

"She's more understanding than I am," Lois teased. She saw Diana making her way to them. "And her she comes now."

Clark rose to greet Diana as she approached the table. "Sorry I'm late. I had to stop by our home to change."

"It's okay," Clark said giving Diana a hug and kiss. "I hope it's all right but I invited Lois."

Diana looked passed him to see Lois smiling up at them. She knew how worried Clark was for her so she didn't mind sharing Clark for lunch. "Lois, it's nice to meet you again."

"Same here." Lois noticed the white blouse and navy skirt Diana wore. The few times Lois saw Diana, she always hid her figure. There was no hiding the womanly curves Diana had now. She still had her hair in that ridiculous bun. Lois found it odd. "Why did you have to change clothes?" Lois asked Diana. "I thought you were coming from work."

Diana appeared caught off guard by that statement but she recovered. "I wanted to freshen up a bit."

And that included changing clothes? Lois wasn't buying that. Clark told Lois Diana was a teacher. Why would she need to change clothes for that profession? Her reporter instinct was telling her something was off. "How are your students, Diana?"

Diana appeared lost for a moment. "My students?" Then she recovered. "Oh, they are well. Thank you."

Clark knew what Lois was doing and took charge of the conversation. "Diana has been busy lately with work and getting ready for a family reunion."

"But I thought you and Diana met her family?"

"That was my immediate family," Diana jumped in, catching on.

Lois nodded slowly, but she couldn't shake the feeling she was being lied to. Circe told her Clark had a secret. If he did, Diana Prince knew it too. As lunch progressed, Lois couldn't help but enjoy herself with the couple. She teased Clark in front of Diana, sharing stories of their work together at the Daily Planet. It was clear to Lois Clark and Diana were deeply in love with each other. They were trying to be modest but Lois saw the look in their eyes when they made contact and the subtle touches they would share. Even Lois had to admit she and Superman were never like that.

Once they left Minerva, Clark hailed a taxi for Diana. Lois kept her distance from them, giving them a moment alone to say goodbye. Once Diana disappeared in the taxi, Lois approached him.

Clark faced Lois. "Ready?"

"You go ahead to the Daily Planet. I'm going to walk some of this lunch off."

"Are you okay?" Clark asked.

Lois smiled brightly. "I'm fine. I just want a moment alone." Lois touched Clark's arm. "I'm really happy for you, Clark. I can see you love Diana a lot. I think she's good for you."

Clark smiled touched. It would be even more meaningful if Lois knew who he was. "Thank you, Lois. I appreciate that. Your opinion means a lot."

"Well, I do have good judgment," Lois bragged. "See ya, Smallville."

Lois walked off and disappeared into an alley. She transformed into Mysteria and flew into the sky. Lois flew to Clark and Diana's apartment. She liked them as a couple but that didn't stop her from being curious about what secret they were hiding.

While Lois was flying to his apartment, Clark was entering the Daily Planet lobby. His phone rang and Clark saw it was coming from a secure line on the Watchtower. Clark entered a stairway and answered the call.

"Yes."

It was John Stewart. "Sorry to be calling you on your day off but you wanted to know when Oa would be putting Darkseid on trial."

"Yeah. When is it?" John was keeping Clark up to date on the situation on Oa concerning Darkseid. Clark wanted to know when the trial would be happening.

"It's today and in a couple of hours. I didn't find out until a few minutes ago. I'm making my way to Oa to testify and I know your statements against Darkseid would really help."

"This is sudden, but I will be there," Clark promised. He wouldn't miss this for anything.

"J'onn's not on regular rotation anymore but if you call him, I'm sure he will take your place at work for the rest of the day."

"I can handle it. Let me make a call to my boss, Diana and I'll meet you at the Watchtower."

Lois landed smoothly on the balcony of Clark and Diana's apartment. Whatever secret Clark had, it had to be in his home. Lois looked for a way to break in without using her strength but couldn't find any. The apartment was sealed tight. People were secure about their homes but this was ridiculous. Whatever secret Clark had, it must be really important.

Lois looked through the bedroom window. It looked normal except for the bed. If she didn't know any better, she would say the bed frame was steel. Who has a bed with a steel frame?

Lois floated to the other windows of the apartment. The living room looked normal, too. Too normal Lois decided. Lois ducked from view when she saw the door opening. Lois peeked and saw Diana entering the apartment. She thought Diana was going back to work. What was she doing back at the apartment?

Diana took the pins out of her hair and shook her hair free of its confinement. Her cell phone rang from her purse. Diana reached for it and flipped it open. "I didn't expect a call from you so soon."

Diana headed for her bedroom, unaware of Lois watching her. "That *is* soon. You're the best person to help put Darkseid away for good, but can Oa hold him?"

Lois raised her eyebrows. Darkseid? What would teacher Diana Prince know about Darkseid?

Diana removed her glasses and placed them back in its case. "I didn't get a chance to tell you at lunch but my mother relieved me of my duties. My mother said she and my sister can handle everything from now on." Diana laughed at something Clark said. "Apparently, my mother feels I've earned the break, and after sacrificing so much of my time away from you to work on their arrival, she feels I should spend more time with you." Diana listened to Clark as she kicked off her shoes. "I couldn't believe it myself. She really accepts you, Kal."

Kal? Lois frowned. The only person Lois knew as Kal--Lois' heart dropped at the revelation. Could it be? Was Diana Prince Wonder Woman and Clark Kent Superman?

*No matter how much of an ace reporter you think you are, you could never see what was in front of you.*

That was Circe's words to Lois and Lois was seeing how blind she was. It made so much sense now: Clark's disappearances, Clark's stories on Wonder Woman; Clark and Superman having someone now. Why didn't she see it before? Lois thought over her lunch with them and it made her angry. They were probably laughing at her the entire time? She could feel the rage build in her; the desire to kill Wonder Woman was strong and she couldn't stop the rage if she wanted too. She was too angry at herself for not seeing the truth; angry at Clark and Diana for their deceptiveness. The suit was loving the rage as it took over any rational thinking Lois had before she could regain any kind of control.

"So, can I expect you back tonight?" Diana asked hopefully. "Good. I'm looking forward to us spending time together. We might have to go to the fortress." Diana laughed. "And they call you a boy scout. If they really knew. All right, my love. Goodbye."

Diana turned off her phone just as Lois crashed through the window and tackled her from behind. Diana's phone flew out of her hands as something hard landed on her. Lois hands wrapped tightly around Diana's neck, choking her as she spat out, "Wonder Woman, you will die!"

Diana pushed her unknown assailant off her. Jumping to her feet, Diana saw it was Mysteria. How did she learn her identity? "How did you find me?"

Lois didn't answer as she reached for her again but Diana grabbed her hand and threw her down. Diana pounced on her assailant and pinned her arms down. "You're going to answer my question."

But Lois didn't. She head butted Diana hard, knocking Diana on her back. Lois jumped to pounce but Diana caught her with her feet and kicked the woman off her, sending her opponent out of her apartment.

Diana didn't waste anytime as she turned, transforming into Wonder Woman. She flew out the broken window and hovered over her penthouse, looking for Mysteria.

Diana's hearing picked up the sound of something hurtling towards her. She turned and saw it was a flying car with people inside. Diana caught the vehicle and was suddenly kicked in the back. Diana nearly lost her hold on the car but the frightened people inside made her hold. Diana turned her head and was met with a punch across her face by Mysteria. Diana couldn't fight back as she struggled to placed the car back on the ground while getting hit from all sides of Mysteria's punches and kicks.

When she safely placed the car back on the street, Diana caught Mysteria's fist and threw a punch of her own that sent Mysteria back. "Are you insane using innocent people just to get cheap shots on me!" Diana yelled at her.

*It's not me!* Lois screamed in her mind as Mysteria said, "Whatever gets the job done."

"How did you know who I am?" Diana demanded.

"I'm not so blind to what's in front of me. Not anymore," Mysteria argued. "You both made fools out of me and it's *your* fault. You have to die."

Mysteria flew at Diana and they collided together. Hand to hand in combat and their heels digging into the concrete streets, they tested their strength against each other. Both were strong, almost equal in strength but Diana felt she had the upper hand. Diana managed to break from Mysteria and pinned Mysteria's arms behind her. "I can tell you right now it won't be easy to kill me."

Mysteria struggled in Diana's hold but that only made Diana tightened it. Mysteria flew in the sky taking Diana with her and plummet faster than a rocket to the ground. Diana refused to let go and crashed to the ground with Mysteria. The impact shook the streets and Diana's hold on her was loose enough for Mysteria to get away.

Mysteria ripped a power line pole from the ground. Electricity sparkled everywhere as the transformer exploded. Mysteria didn't seem to care as sparks of electricity fell to the ground. One unfortunate spark fell into a small pool of oil left by a poorly maintenance car, creating a fire. Mysteria swung the pole at Diana never minding the cries of the people.

Diana caught the pole, only she was holding on to the end with the broken power lines. Hot wires struck her sending small charges of electricity through her body. Diana she could take but the people running for cover could not. "Stop it!" Diana told her. "There are people who need help!"

"They are merely sacrifices in my desire to kill you!"

That angered Diana. How could she who once played superhero have no concern for innocent life? Diana ripped the pole from Mysteria's hands and put it aside. She looked around at the civilians who were helping each and fighting the fire. If they continued here, people will get hurt and Mysteria already showed she didn't care about the innocents in this fight.

"You want a fight with me? Fine but let's take it elsewhere!"

Diana jumped in the sky and flew off with Mysteria hot on her tail. They flew outside Metropolis and north of the state where there were only grassy flatlands and the nearest home was only a mile away.

Seeing this place suitable, Mysteria caught up with Diana and elbowed her back. The two women began fighting in the air. Kicks and punches were thrown at one another before Diana was able to deliver a final kick that sent Mysteria crashing to the ground.

Diana's landing was much smoother. "Before we fight, Mysteria, tell me why you want me dead. I at least deserve that."

"Superman," Mysteria answered as she stood. "He belongs to me."

Mysteria was fighting her over a man? How selfish and stupid Diana thought. "You have these amazing powers and you're using them to fight me over a man you cannot have? How selfish you are to your gifts!"

"Don't preached to me!" Mysteria yelled at her. "You don't deserve him!"

"And you do? Superman doesn't appreciate people who are trying to kill others especially the ones he cares about."

Mysteria refused to listen anymore as she charged on Diana like a raging bull. Diana readied herself for the attack. She knew how strong Mysteria was. Now she wanted to study her fighting style before executing the best attack to take Mysteria down for good. Diana allowed the punch across her face and was sent reeling. Before Diana could get an equal footing on the ground, Mysteria landed behind her and kicked Diana's back. Diana fell on all fours and before she could rise to her feet a large boulder came down on her. The boulder split in pieces and Diana's head was left ringing.

Diana smiled. She had an idea on how Mysteria fought. Mysteria was strong but Diana surmised she was a low level fighter whereas Diana was strong and a very skilled fighter; a master in all kinds of combat. The fight was over.

Diana jumped to her feet and punched Mysteria across her face. Before Mysteria could defend herself she was hit across her face again and delivered a roundhouse kick to her stomach, sending Mysteria back several feet. She was only stopped when her back collided with a tree, breaking it in half.

"You're strong but you're outmatched in skills. Give up, Mysteria."

"Never!" Mysteria savagely kicked Diana in the gut. "I won't give up until you are dead!"

Diana tripped Mysteria and leapt back to her feet. "Then you're committing suicide! You are no match for me."

While Mysteria refused to give up, Lois knew she was beaten. Lois only knew black belt karate but Wonder Woman had numerous of fighting skills under her belt. No matter how strong and fast she may be, she couldn't defeat her. Each blow Wonder Woman struck her with was more powerful than the previous one and it left her body aching in pain. She was coughing up blood, her insides were burning in pain. If it wasn't for the suit, Lois didn't think she would be alive. Lois wanted to end the fight, and struggling to get some control over the power of the suit Lois took flight once more.

*I have to escape if I want to make it out of this alive?*

Diana knew she couldn't let Mysteria get away. A woman with her power and irrational thinking was a major threat. Diana grabbed Mysteria's cape and threw the woman to the ground.

"I'm not done with you," Diana told her. "I want some answers. Why do you want Superman? Are you trying to lure him into a trap?"

"I'd never lure him into a trap. I love him."

"You don't love him. You're obsessed. Do you think by killing me, he's going to fall in love with you?" Diana looked down at Mysteria in pity. This woman needed help. "Love doesn't happen that way. He will never love you, whoever you are."

"He did. He loved me once. He'll do it again."

"'He loved you once?'" Diana repeated. Diana studied her physical features. Her voice didn't sound familiar and Mysteria always moved too quickly before Diana could get a good look of her eyes. Did she know this woman or was this woman a part of Clark's life before she came to this world? Diana stared at the woman in wonder. "Just who are you? Do I know you?"

Mysteria looked away. "It doesn't matter."

"It matters to me." Diana reached for Mysteria's mask but received a kick instead.

Feeling a second wind coming, Mysteria launched an attack on Diana unlike before. She threw furious punches and kicks at Diana. Diana blocked and responded with her own attack. Mysteria was going to die if she kept fighting her and Diana didn't want that. She wanted to know who this woman was and the only way to end this pointless fight was to knock Mysteria out.

Diana caught Mysteria's fist and returned with a blow of her own. The force was much stronger than her previous hits and it left Mysteria's body shaking. Mysteria felt another blow to her stomach and heard a rib crack followed by another blow to her face that knocked Mysteria to the ground.

Then she found herself bound in Wonder Woman's lasso. She couldn't move. It was over for her.

With Mysteria defeated and wrapped in her lasso, Diana reached forward to pull the mask off her face but a bright light surrounding Mysteria forced Diana to cover her own eyes. When the light faded, Diana opened her eyes and gasped in horror at what she saw.

A battered, bloodied and barely breathing Lois Lane was wrapped in her lasso. "Oh, Great Hera. Lois."

Picking up the woman in her arms, Diana flew to the nearest Metropolis hospital as fast as possible.

Diana paced back and forth outside the emergency room. How could this have happened? How did Lois get that power? Why didn't she see it sooner it was her? How was she going to tell Kal all this? He was so worried about her and this happens. Diana prayed to her Gods, praying that Lois makes it out alive.

Diana stopped her pacing when a doctor stepped out of the emergency room doors. "Doctor, how is Miss Lane?"

The doctor was grim. "Miss Lane is in serious condition, Wonder Woman. The injuries are numerous: six of her ribs are broken, she has a punctured lung, several bones in her arms and legs are crushed, there was internal bleeding we managed to stop," the doctor sighed heavily. "It's a miracle she's alive with all the injuries she has. Whoever beat her like this had intent to kill."

Diana swallowed hard. What had she done? "May I see her?"

The doctor nodded. "Yes. Once we get Miss Lane to a private room, I'll have a nurse take you to her."

"Thank you." As the doctor walked off, Shayera came rushing in. "Diana."

Diana fell back in a chair and buried her head in her hands. "If she dies, Shayera, it's my fault. I killed her."

"No," Shayera told her. "It's not your fault. You didn't know Lois was Mysteria."

"I should've figured it out," she said angry with herself. "Who else wanted Kal? He's never going to forgive me for this."

"Don't say that," Shayera told her gently. "Clark is very understanding. He will know this is not your fault and that you were tricked. Who would've thought Lois Lane got superpowers? Right now we have to figure out who is behind this. Whoever we are dealing with knows you and Clark in your other identities and knows you two are together. It wouldn't surprise me if this person used Lois against you."

"This person would have to know everything about us and there's no one I know who knows that." Diana rose and put some distance between her and Shayera. "I can't think about this now. All I want is to talk to Lois and tell her how sorry I am. She might not survive. She might--" An idea popped in her head. She knew what she could to do save Lois. "Shayera, stay here and keep an eye on Lois. I'm going home."

"Why?" Shayera asked puzzled. "What's home?"

"The purple ray," Diana said leaving the emergency area. "It's possibly the only thing that can save her." Diana flew from the hospital heading for Themyscira as fast as possible. She hoped she wasn't too late.

Lois Lane laid in a hospital bed in critical condition. Every part of her body ached in pain. Bandages were wrapped around half her body her as if she was a mummy. She didn't know what Wonder Woman said to the doctors but she knew they didn't know she was Mysteria otherwise there would be cops or Justice League members in this room now. How was she going to explain all this?

"You gave it your best and you still came up short."

Lois opened her eyes and saw Circe standing over her. "Well, you wanted me to get rid of the suit, and even though you didn't fulfill your part of the bargain: killing Wonder Woman, I'll free you." She smiled maliciously at Lois. "Of course it will cost you your life."

Lois' eyes widen in horror and it thrilled Circe all the more. "You see, you should be dead after a beating like that. No human could survive a fight with Wonder Woman. The only reason you are alive is because of the power of the suit still resides in you." Circe put a hand to her ear. "What's that? You want to keep the suit now. Sorry. Your usefulness to me has been fulfilled."

Lois shook her head, her eyes pleading. "No, don't."

"Sorry, darling," Circe laughed. "Those eyes may weaken the eyes of men but it does nothing for me. This was all a trap to get between Wonder Woman and Superman and what better way to do that than having Wonder Woman beat you within an inch of your life. Will Superman forgive Wonder Woman for killing Lois Lane? I'm curious to find out. Are you?"

"No," Lois whispered. "No, don't do this."

Circe ignored Lois. "I have plans for this world and I need Wonder Woman and Superman apart to make that happen. I think I should tell you my plans since you won't live to see it. It's gonna make a fantastic story." Circe leaned forward and whispered her plan in Lois' ear.

"You're insane."

"I'm insane?" Circe laughed again. "You make a bargain with me to steal a guy you have no chance with and I'm insane?" Circe rolled her wicked eyes. "I think it's a wonderful plan. The world won't see it coming. Well, I must bid you a final adieu. It was fun using you. You weren't the first and you won't be the last."

Circe placed a hand on Lois heart. Saying an incantation, Circe removed the power of the suit from Lois. She was now completely human. "Now you are mortal once more." Circe frowned. "Still, there's a chance you might recover and I can't have that."

Circe discharged wicked energy from her hand directly to Lois's heart, triggering a heart attack. Lois felt her heart contracting in pain and her body going into to shock. The last thing she saw as she felt her life force slip away was Circe's smiling face.

Machines hooked to Lois sent off alarms of trouble. A nurse and a doctor rushed inside. Circe invisible to the humans watched the doctor use a deliberator to revive Lois but she knew any human tool was useless against her power. Lois Lane was dead and there was nothing anyone could do about it.

AN: Thanks for the reviews everyone!

Acosta: A friend of mine said the same thing about Lois' suit. LOL!

Ronnie: Thank you for the review. I wasn't expecting it but I really appreciate it.

Stargate: Don't worry too much about it. I was confused how you came to that conclusion.

Animeroz: Thanks. I hope you like this chapter.

Crazy4fanfic: You'll find out about what that crystal can do in the next chapter. I promise. I hope you all like where I'm going with this.