Chapter 1 [Swann Observatory—During the Fallout's Conclusion]

Swann's wheelchair carried him toward his command center. His eyes observed Computers' lights flashing on their displays. He anticipated their updates on the Kents' progress. Perhaps *this* time will make an impression on Kal-El? A heavy frown twisted at his face.

Responsibility and Clark didn't seem to be in close proximity to one another….

Images scrolled across the screens. Data updated. Calculations went on. Information from both Earth and Space prepared for Clark and the others' arrival in a few hours' time. He muddled through a training program for Clark and Lana both. Perhaps, Miranda would assist given her previous training.

"Computer, show me the Kents' plane." Swann wheeled himself into place. His eyes watched the image on screen. Satellite captured the speeding plane's images. "How much longer until landing?"

"Plane will touch down in a half hour."

"Everything in order, Doctor?" Crosby walked into the area. "Carl is bringing the car around. Shall I bring refreshments or…?"

"Thank you but no, Dr. Crosby. I believe we will serve coffee upon their arrival. Did we not have a delivery yesterday?" Swann raised an eyebrow. "Curious."

"What is?" She stood behind him. Her eyes studied the vessel. "The plane is veering off course. Surely, the pilot would compensate for wind and conditions?"

"Of course. He is not doing so." Swann observed the plane's deviation. "Computer, contact the plane."

Crackles and static met the computer's efforts to raise the pilot.

"Why isn't the pilot answering? McFlannery's one of the most trustworthy!" Crosby dialed her cell phone. Then, she stopped. "The plane's going down!"

Swann ground his teeth. "Computer, how far from the airport are they?"

Satellite triangulated the plane's location. Its map honed in on the coordinates. "Thirty miles from the airport flashed across the screen."

"They're not going to make it, Doctor." Crosby raised her phone. Secrecy remained paramount. "Should I make the call?"

Swann mulled the notion over. The authorities had to be notified. From previous observation, Clark had survived such falls and impacts. Still, Lana's durability remained a question. Miranda and Martha would have no chance at that height. "I have one call to make first." I wonder how she'll take it? "Computer, call Snapdragon. Priority." He waited for an answer.

"This is Snapdragon," a digitally distorted voice answered.

"Snapdragon, Dark Sister needs your help. She and her companions are about to crash. Sending you coordinates." Swann turned to the computer. "Computer, relay coordinates."

Two heartbeats passed…and then three more…

"I have them! By the Prophet! They'll crash into the palisade!" Arabic curse spat across the connection. "I am leaving." Connection went silent.

Swann watched closer. Martha jumped first. Then, Miranda went a few heartbeats later. Lana followed with McFlannery in her arms. Clark hesitated but brought up the rear. "They're clear."

Plane's impact and explosion carried out Snapdragon's prediction all too well.

"They're clear." Crosby dialed 911 and walked away for Swann's privacy.

Memoria taunted Swann with his own accident. Clear your head. This is no time to wallow in the past. He continued to watch.

Miracles were needed….