Chapter 2: Unwelcomed Guests
The opulent grandeur of Gotham Museum was a stark contrast to the Daily Planet's bustling newsroom. Clark, ever the observer, took in the scene with quiet amusement. He navigated through the sea of tuxedos and glittering gowns maneuvering his way up the grand staircase until he spotted Bruce by a balcony overlooking the main exhibit. His friend stood with his usual stoic composure, yet Clark could detect a hint of unease beneath the carefully cultivated facade.
"Bruce," he greeted, accepting a glass of champagne from a passing waiter. "Thanks for the invitation." He took a small sip, the bubbly liquid doing little to quell the nervous anticipation churning in his stomach. "I didn't realize you had such an interest in geological discoveries."
Bruce raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in his eye. "One can never be too well-rounded, Clark. Besides," he inclined his head towards the gleaming emerald crystal displayed below, "There were reports of unusual energy signatures radiating from the larger crystal of the lot. We should be on guard tonight."
Clark leaned against the railing, his smile fading as he studied the crystal. Even from this distance, he could feel an almost tangible energy emanating from it, a resonance that sent shivers down his spine. "I can feel it even from here, Bruce," he said, his voice low. "That's not just any crystal. It feels...familiar."
Bruce's expression turned serious,this voice hushed. "Kryptonian?"
Clark nodded slowly, his eyes never leaving the mesmerizing gem. "It's possible. I haven't felt this kind of resonance since..." His voice trailed off, lost in memories of the time his crystalized Fortress was constructed from a similar crystal.
"Which is precisely why I invited you," Bruce finished, his voice grave. "I had a feeling you might be able to shed some light on it. Perhaps after the exhibit, we can... acquire it for further study."
Clark managed a small smile. "Always the vigilant one, Bruce. I appreciate it." He paused, his brow furrowing as he noticed a woman with fiery red hair weaving through the crowd with a predatory grace. Her emerald green dress clung to her curves, accentuating her striking beauty. "That woman in the green dress...she looks familiar. Is that...?"
"Poison Ivy," Bruce finished, his voice a low growl. "Wouldn't be a night in Gotham without some villain crashing a party. This crystal is attracting unwanted attention."
A moment later, another figure, seemingly an ordinary businessman, approached the exhibit. But as he drew closer, a glint of metal shone beneath his tailored jacket. With a snarl, he ripped the jacket open, revealing the gleaming chrome and steel of his Metallo form. His kryptonite heart pulsed with an eerie green light.
A collective gasp arose from the nearby patrons. Some screamed, others stumbled back in fear. The festive atmosphere evaporated, replaced by a palpable sense of dread.
"Two villains, that's Metallo," Clark said, his eyes narrowed. "They're both after the crystal."