Rating: PG-13 (some violence, language, a little implied humor)

Xover notice: This is a crossover story involving one or more characters from each of these fandoms: Smallville, Xena, Hercules, Mutant X, Forever Knight, Dark Angel, Andromeda and the Marvel Comics Universe.

Pairings: DA, MX, FK and Marvel: general; Xena: Xena/Gabrielle (gen-uber); Smallville (Clana, some-Chlex, Martha-Jonathan)

Notes (Part 1): This is the third of a four part story crossing my three series: “Super Lana”, the “Amazon Scrolls” and the “Dubois Chronicles.”

Notes (Part 2): Forever Knight belongs to Sony Tri-Star, the characters from Xena Warrior Princess and Hercules the Legendary Journeys belong to StudiosUSA and Universal. Smallville belongs to DC and the WB. Mutant X and the Marvel characters belong to Marvel; the latter also having ties to Tribune. Andromeda belongs to Tribune and was created by Gene Roddenberry. Dark Angel belongs to its copyright holders.

Please send comments to dante0220@yahoo.com .

Introduction [Amazon Village c. 88 AD]

Gabrielle, Bard Queen of the Amazons, writes…..

Reflecting on one’s past, present and future can be a burdensome task. However, staring at one’s self can also be paralyzing. Yet David now has the charge to guide and shape his counterpart, effectively setting the destiny of another universe in motion.

But what if the other is unwilling to listen?

Worse, what if the other has a secret? One that threatens to tear at our community? That is what the other David holds…..



[Tucson]

Lana Lang-Kent writes….

Dear Diary,

Wow! The Professor has brought his counterpart back from the other universe. Now I guess we go after ourselves—I mean—the Clark, Lana and others from there.

Judging from what the Prof is going through, I wonder what that’s going to be like for the rest of us…..




Chapter 1 [Ruthwen—Hall’s End Palace]

Dave walked out of his throne room after another less than stellar session with his advisors. While his policies had made a dent in the kingdom’s food shortages and unemployment, the nobles were restless. After all, why should the tax surplus have gone to feed the hungry rather than build their new recreation facility? The funding of a memorial for the missing and fallen during the wars with the Dark also left a bad taste in the council’s mouth. However, with the veterans who had made their way onto the body pushing it, the measure passed.

“Why are these things never easy?” he asked.

“Begging your pardon, Sire, but good things never are,” Trirordon, an elf from Nurrengaard, replied. He had served in three battles against Lousain, losing his leg to Dahak in the third one. “We are grateful that you honor us.” He hobbled on his cane over to the king’s side.

“It is me who should be grateful,” the ruler declared, rubbing the other man’s shoulders supportively. “You sacrificed a leg for this land and gave us time to win.”

“And we know of the battle within you, Highness,” the counselor replied frankly. “Always do light and darkness clash within you, raging like twin tempests.”

“I’m a monster. At least they think so and so half of the beings on Outer Earth,” Dave told him.

Trirordon shook his head. “Nay, my Liege, you’ve suffered much as well. Your people and those of the neighboring kingdoms admire you.”

“Thank you. After my experiences, I don’t want kids going hungry or good people without jobs if I can help it.”

“I’d say you’re well on your way,” the counselor noted.

“Thanks to Rev Bem and Ferali,” Dave replied. “I’m glad your ruler sent you to serve on my counsel. Truly the goddess has blessed me with your wisdom and foresight.”

“As always, King David, you are too kind to me. I shall see you ‘ere I leave for Nurrengaard?”

“Of course, the Queen and I will be happy to. Sleep well, my friend,” Dave concluded.

Trirordon bowed and shuffled from the room.

“Always you seek to do what’s best. Even so, you have a heavy heart,” Rev Bem noted, entering the room. When they were alone, Dave had instructed him to dispense with the bowing.

“Lots on my mind, Rev. At least the domestic problems are being dealt with. Thanks to you and Ferali,” Dave commented.

“The Way gives us some foresight, David. You, however, have priorities. They do not include war, glory or splendid toys. The nobles want these things and you will always be at odds,” the Magog Wayist elaborated.

“Dulce et decorum est, Rev,” Dave noted cryptically.

“Pardon? I did not catch that reference,” the priest requested.

“It’s an Outer Earth poem written by Wilfrid Owen in the early twentieth century about war’s brutal nature. It’s quite eye opening,” the ruler indicated, taking a draught from his iced tea glass.  ”These playcreatures have never tasted true combat outside of mock-simulations. They never would have survived against Lousain or the Spirit of the Abyss.”

“True. But you’ve made sure that they never have to face those dangers. Speaking of such matters, I saw your look-alike out in the garden with Deirdre and the Kents. He waits to see his family,” Rev pointed out.

“Ah yes. The true test of the day. How can I help him, Rev? I can barely keep the Child under control sometimes,” Dave wondered.

“That is a puzzle. However, I would propose this—perhaps in helping this other David, you may find some more of the answers you seek? Just a thought. I must meditate now and you, my ruler, have guests awaiting you,” Rev concluded, leaving him behind as well.

He must have infuriated Dylan sometimes when he does the mind twisting stuff. Still, he does have a point. With that, he headed out the door and downstairs. On the way, he passed some of the kitchen staff who assured him that dinner would be ready within the half hour. After the usual compliment to them, he hustled for the garden.



*****


[The gardens]

The SL-Dave looked around anxiously. When the others had told him that his counterpart had a palace, a crown and actually ruled, he was incredulous. Imagine the shock when they arrived in this place. “Incredible!”

“It is, isn’t it?” the DC-Lana replied, sitting next to her husband. “I love coming here.”

“We had our wedding banquet here,” the DC-Clark noted.

“I’ll bet that was something,” the librarian commented.

“Papa pulled out all of the stops with the Faerie Empress’ help,” Deirdre recounted.

“For my friends, it’s a small feat,” DC-Dave declared as he joined them. “This is something isn’t it, Dave?”

“Uh huh. Wow. I wonder if there’s a place like this for me? I mean, who gave it to you?” the SL-Dave inquired.

“Nobody gave it to me. I fought three wars and earned my family’s place back on this throne,” the Professor-King retorted with just a hint of sharpness in his voice. “Focus with your senses, Dave. Is everything as nice as it seems?”

His counterpart groped around the auras around him. There was something but he couldn’t tell what. “It like a faint rotten odor.”

“It’s more than an odor,” Deirdre commented, recalling her own trial in the Pit.

“Follow me. Ferali awaits us on the wall. You too, Clark and Lana,” DC-Dave urged, heading up the stone stairs. When they had reached the top, the gnome-regent awaited them grimly. “Any news?”

“None. The cloud festers as always,” his honor brother assessed.

Despite their abilities, the two teens quivered with fear at the sight of the evil site a hundred miles to the south. Growing up, they had heard Miri’s descriptions from her nightmares.

“What’s that?” SL-Dave asked, pointing to the cloud.

“That is the Pit in the center of the Dark Lands. It was the home of Lousain, a foul wizard,” Ferali explained.

“And you went in there and survived?” the other Dave asked, arching his eyebrow.

Ferali tensed; his eyes sparking angrily. “You forget yourself! I accompanied my honor brother into that foul place three times and fought on its plains another!” He banged the end of his axe hilt on the stone for emphasis. “So did the King. These children fought for their homes as well! Before you speak, know of what you speak!”

SL-Dave glared at him. “I wonder what would happen if I let go?”

“I’ve faced the Dark One before,” Ferali shot back, hefting his axe. Then he laughed derisively. “By my beard! I know what your problem is!”

“Other than dealing with your attitude?” the other-dimensional visitor retorted, feeling the numbness setting in.

“ENOUGH!” the DC-Dave bellowed. “Look, Dave, you better lose the attitude right now!”

“Or what? He started it!”

“He didn’t start anything!” the DC-Lana asserted. “You picked a fight while he was making a point! Tell us, Ferali, what is your observation?”

“Thank you, Lady Kent,” Ferali expressed, still eyeing the visitor. “I think our friend here needs some experience out there.”

“How do you know what I’ve been through? Listen, Squirt, I’ve been up against more than most!” the SL-Dave countered angrily.

“In particular, a nasty witch ghost. Look, Dave, we know that. But tell me, have you ever fought beside others or do you still like to fight alone?” DC-Dave inquired.

“The Protector and I usually fight by ourselves. I can’t trust people not to freak out on us,” his counterpart answered.

Ferali looked to his honor brother and nodded. “Just as I thought. David, he’s the same as you were when you first came here.” Turning to the others, he recounted, “When David and Garth first came here as teenagers, the king was raw and frankly borderline obnoxious. Thankfully Grimwilkin noted that and set me straight, asking me to guide him. We saved each other’s lives on the battlefield.” His eyes shone for his taller brother. “Harokin made us honor brothers after that.”

“Indeed. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” the king agreed, stooping down and embracing the gnome. “Sorry to embarrass you, Ferali.”

“The combined realms could stand more of that love, my Liege,” the gnome assured him. “Dinner draws close for you all. I will join you after I’m relieved.” With a dirty look for the SL-Dave, he marched off.

“He does think a lot of himself, doesn’t he?” the SL-Dave inquired.

“Usually he’s a gnome of few words. Trust me; he’s trying to help you. Your family awaits,” DC-Dave urged, leading his counterpart toward the guest quarters.

Behind them, Clark, Lana and Deirdre all exchanged skeptical looks, knowing that this guy was going to get on their Dave’s nerves at some point.



******

[Guest Quarters]

The SL-contingent tried to relax in the plush guest suites that their hosts had given them for the evening. Between the finely crafted oak furnishings, the wall tapestries and the Persian rugs, the group couldn’t believe themselves.

“This is amazing!” Garth declared. “I can’t believe that Dave’s a king.”

“You mean the other Dave,” Karen noted dryly. “Ours has enough trouble keeping things straight at times.”

“I think he does rather well,” April disagreed. “He got us all out of Amherst, didn’t he?”

The three girls preferred to stay out of the argument, opting instead to enjoy the surroundings.

The elf attendants announced, “Attention! The Queen!”

DC-Angie restrained herself from rolling her eyes. “Thank you. Please leave us.”

“As you wish,” the head attendant concurred, heading away with his counterpart.

Angie closed the door and smiled. “How was your….?” Their shocked expressions stopped her cold. “trip?”

“ANGIE?” the adult guests asked incredulously.

Angelina rushed up to her, wrapping her arms around her waist. “Mama!”

Remembering what her husband told her earlier, DC-Angie replied, “Not exactly but close enough.” She smiled at the little girl. “Welcome.”

“You’re her though! How’d you get back?” Angelina wondered.

“It’s complicated,” the Queen noted, recalling the whole Pantheon experience. “But you can call me Auntie Angie except in the big chamber...where those servants want me to act like the Queen. All right? We can talk all you want. Okay?”

“Okay. Thanks, Auntie,” Angelina concurred, giving her mother’s counterpart a kiss on the cheek.

“My pleasure,” the oncologist expressed. “Marti and Cassie, how are you?”

“Fine, Auntie,” they concurred.

“Great,” Angie expressed. “I’m glad you’re all here.”

“Any word on Dave?” April asked.

“He’ll be here in a minute. Apparently, my Dave had something he wanted to show him first,” Angie noted.

“And here we are,” DC-Dave added, walking into the room with his counterpart. “Everyone’s safe and sound!”

April hugged her husband, nearly tackling him in the process. “Don’t you EVER disappear on us like that AGAIN!”

“I didn’t intend to,” SL-Dave assured her. “Yell at the creeps who attacked us.”

“That’s right,” the king concurred. “Xena, the kids and I pulled them off of him.”

“And the library?” Karen wondered, still trying to differentiate between the two versions of her brother.

“Gone. It’s a pile of rubble,” the medievalist informed them. “Look, dinner awaits. After which, Garth and Dave, I need to talk with you. All right?”

“Fine,” Garth concurred. “Let’s go.”




Chapter 2 [After dinner—Throne room]

[A/N: Okay, this discussion is going to redefine the meaning of the term—fireside chat (probably should be more “firestorm rant” at times). Some things you should know. The deal with Adam and Genomex will be dealt with in the next Dubois story. The situation between Jor-El and the kids in the Dubois and the canonical Smallville universes developed over the course of Smallville Season 2, peaking in a threat in “Exodus” and culminating several different ways including the standoff between Lana and Jor-El leading to her receiving those abilities (Super Lana). In the Duboisverse, the Child and Xena defeated both Jor-El and Kara after “Covenant” as retold by the Faerie Empress in “Destinies” (DC Series 2.80). ]


After an incredible feast of various meats and vegetables washed down by wine, sodas and iced tea (courtesy of Outer Earth), Dave and Angie assembled their friends in the throne room for a conference. Things were going too fast and uncontrolled in the newly discovered alternate universe. The other Miranda lay grievously hurt and fading fast. The Black Hand prepared to torture their other prisoners for information.

Around the great council table sat Gabrielle, Nick Miles, Cybelle, Adam Kane, Ferali, Grimwilkin as well as the DC versions of Steve Petersen, Clark, Lana, Chloe and Lex. Each had informed of the whole situation and asked to think on strategies for dealing with it.

Finally Dave and Angie entered the area with his counterpart and the latter’s brother-in-law. “Thank you all for coming,” the former declared, signaling for the doors to close and starting the meeting.

The SL-Garth shook his head at the gathering. “I guess the lone wolf approach hasn’t been the right way after all, has it?” he asked his brother-in-law.

“Jury’s still out,” the SL-Dave retorted, looking over the group. He recognized most of the faces from his past, especially one in particular. “Hey! What’s HE doing here?”

“Excuse me?” Adam asked. “This is the first time we’ve met.”

“Uh uh! You’re one of those Genomex doctors!” the SL-Dave accused, feeling himself change. “Ya did stuff to us!”

“Wait a freaking minute! I don’t remember that,” the DC-Dave interrupted.

The Protector glared at his counterpart, “Ya’ll wouldn’t. ‘Member, Kanie, ‘bout the prison fight w’ Asscrock? An’ then how he got ‘way?”

Cybelle rubbed her forehead, trying to decipher a telepathic message from the Empress. “It’s true.”

Adam shook his head. “And you may remember I helped you to escape.”

The king stared incredulously at him. “Adam?”

“He’s right,” Nick concurred, now remembering the newspaper account of the incident in his mind.

The SL-Garth inquired, “You mean that super mutant from junior year of high school?”

“Ooooh yeah! Ah ‘member ya’ll an’ them Strandie boys!” the Protector asserted.

Dave rubbed his forehead, feeling the emotional tremors rumble through him as well. Is he right?

[“Yeah. Ah hate ta say it but Baby Bro’s right! The kiddies! ‘Member the kiddies!” the Child indicated.]

His wife could sense the dialogue going on in his head. “Are you all right?”

“I’m fine,” the DC-Dave assured her before rising from his throne and banging the end of his metal staff on the floor. “All right! ENOUGH! We need to focus on our immediate situation first! As such, I’m tabling the Genomex situation for now. Adam, as soon as this is over, I want a full briefing on what happened in 1982.”

The geneticist nodded, feeling ashamed once again for how Eckhart and Lionel Luthor perverted the goals of the organization.

“This isn’t about assigning blame, Adam. I want to know so I can deal with it. Meantime, I need you and Mutant X onboard. All right?” the king pointed out.

“Fine,” Adam agreed, glad to be putting off that discussion for now.

“Fine,” DC-Dave indicated, looking at his counterpart. “Is there anything else I should know? Why don’t you let Dave out?”

“Make me,” the Protector declared firmly.

DC-Dave grinned. “I could but the usual fight would take too much time. Besides, we need you anyhow.”

“Me?”

“Yeah you,” DC-Dave reiterated. “I have a plan and you’re going in with the rest of us. Cybelle, can you get Jor-El please?”

“Certainly,” his sister agreed before disappearing and reappearing again with the spirit form.

Greetings to you all, Jor-El greeted.

“And to you,” Dave agreed, feeling the Child’s anger boiling over. This isn’t the same Jor-El! Cool it!

[“Yeah, yeah! Let’s whup ‘im anyhow!” the Dark One directed.]

He shook his head. Both of them want Jor-El’s head too? Great. Why do I bother? “You’ve been in the headquarters, Jor-El?”

I have indeed. It is a vast place. I did not see all of it however—just where they are holding Lana Lang.

“And can you find her again?” Gabrielle inquired.

I can through our telepathic link. Why do you ask? Jor-El wondered.

“We’re going to get the Black Hand’s prisoners out of there,” Clark stated, trying to keep his decorum (and temper) while addressing his father’s counterpart. “We…could use your help.”

Is there a problem, Kal-El? I have always tried to do what’s best for you whatever world it is.

“Right,” the DC-Lana disagreed. “Was that before or after you threatened Clark, his parents and me?”

“We settled that,” the DC-Dave asserted, again whacking his staff on the stone to end the thread.

Before we end this if I may? Jor-El requested. Seeing Dave nod tentatively, he continued, I did confront your counterpart. She has proven a worthy match for my son there as you are for him here. Therefore I freely admit my error once more and apologize.

The DC-Clark gaped. He’s apologizing?

His wife elbowed him in the side while addressing her father-in-law. “Uh…thanks. It’s going to take a while but that took a lot of effort for you and…well…we appreciate your willingness to accept us.”

Nice going, Lana! “Look, gang, we need a truce on all fronts, all right?” Seeing the others nod around the table, the king continued, “Fine. Adam, can you get Shalimar and Max? Meantime, Nick, Clark and Lana, you’re all going too. I need you three to return to Tucson and get Michelle and Spider-Man.”

“And you actually have all of these people in reserve?” the SL-Garth wondered.

“He does,” Nick declared. “What are we going to do?”

“I’ll explain the plan when everyone’s onboard. Uh…Protector, you’re with us too,” the ruler continued. He turned to his wife. [“Is Xena ready?”]

[“Just give the signal,” she indicated.]

Fantastic, he mused. This is all coming together. Let’s hope we can make it work. “That’s all for now. I’ll let you know when we move out.” He opened a side portal. “Nick, Clark, Lana and Dr. Kane, can you follow me?” When the foursome had vanished into the mists, he quickly followed.

The Protector shook his head. “That’s somethin’! Man, why can’t mah Big Bro do that?”

Angie sighed, “Different circumstances. Now come. I’m sure your families are concerned.” With that, she led the group from the area.





Chapter 3 [Super Lana Universe]

[Black Hand Headquarters]

Lana ground her teeth, trying to ignore the pain from her wrists and ankles. In between kryptonite doses and occasional visits from the Black Hand to gloat, she had managed to loosen the bonds a bit. “Miri?”

On the old mattress in the corner, her best friend muttered, “Y…yeah, La…na?”

“You’re still with me, then?” Lana asked.

Using her shoulders and rear end, Miranda forced herself to roll over, facing her friend. “Ya…ain’t gettin’ rid of me that easily, Bo…ss,” she cracked defiantly, the last words whistling through the gaps in her teeth. “Now I know what a snake feels like.”

Oh, Miri, how do I deserve a great friend like you? Lana wondered, yanking at her bonds.

“Cuz…yer…you,” her friend retorted. “I know what yer thinkin’.”

“Yeah you always do,” Lana concurred.

“We’ll get ‘im back, Lana,” Miranda reminded her.

“I know, Miri, but thanks for the reminder,” Lana expressed. “Rest now.”


*****


[Javalstani Yacht—Metropolis harbor]

Meantime, Jasmine patrolled the waterfront on Carpet, looking for any sign of Hand activity. She needed something to do while waiting for the rest of the Hamijj to arrive from the Middle East. Where are they hiding? And worse, what are they doing to my friends? We will find you! Not finding anything, she had her transport return to the yacht, landing there. After dropping her off, it headed to its usual perch high above the clouds.

<“Anything?”> her sister asked.

<“Nothing, Shajara,”> Jasmine reported. <“The dogs are well-hidden.”>

<“Patience, Sister. We will find them,”> Shajara assured the other princess. <“Meantime, our brethren will be here in five hours.”>

Jasmine shook her head impatiently. <“This is taking too long. While I appreciate tactical advantages, they could be dead within the hour!”>

Shajara retorted, <”Pity the Hand if they are, Snapdragon. If any more blood is spilled, Allah help them! Knowing you, there are worse fates than Hell itself.”>

<”Indeed. Meantime, I must see to my friends,”> Jasmine concluded, trembling at the blossoming anger inside of herself. Perhaps speaking with Mrs. Kent and Chloe can help me to deal with it. Allah, help me please!


*****


[Guest Quarters]

As with Jasmine on the deck, Chloe was growing impatient. While she appreciated the treatment that she and Martha had received, enough was enough. “When are they going to do something?”

“Chloe, I’m sure Jasmine and Rajah are doing the best they can,” Martha soothed, fighting her own fears over how the Black Hand was treating the captives.

“Yeah whatever!” the reporter retorted moodily. Hearing a knock at the door, she called, “Yes?”

“My friends, it is Jasmine. May I come in?”

Martha opened the door. “Please do.”

“Thank you,” Jasmine expressed, entering the space. “Please close the door if you would?” When that had been done, she continued, “Everything will be in place soon. The others have crossed the Atlantic and are taking off from your city…New York, I think. They will be here shortly.”

“Thank you for letting us know that, Jasmine. Meantime, how are you holding up?” the farm wife asked.

The princess quivered, allowing a tear to streak her left cheek. “I’m trying to hold my resolve but it’s so difficult! I’m terrified and angry and overwhelmed all at once! I fear for them all.”

Martha nodded and embraced the younger woman. “I know. For what it’s worth, you’re holding up well.”

“Thank you. I appreciate that. How do you do it?” Jasmine wondered.

Martha sighed. “I put up a good front. I hope my husband and the others are safe.”

“We will get them back,” Jasmine vowed. Looking toward the reporter, she stated, “You heard me, Chloe.”

“Yeah, we’ll get them back. We have to march in there first against their ninja and those two that attacked us,” Chloe pointed out.

“There are five enhanced enemies actually. Don’t worry. Papa, Shajara and I make preparations for them as well,” Jasmine indicated. At that moment, a knocking came from the door. “Yes!”

<“Princess, it is Rajah!”>

Martha opened the door to see the veiled figure standing there. “What is it?”

<“Did you authorize an attack, Jasmine?”> Rajah inquired.

<“No. What are you talking about?”> the Princess asked.

<”We’ve found the dogs’ hole. There’s a battle going on there right now. Who?” > Rajah recounted.

<”Has Papa authorized anyone to investigate? If not, we’re going in!”> Jasmine asserted.

<”Jasmine! No!”> Rajah disagreed, seizing her sister’s arm in a vice grip. <”We shall wait until it’s over! Come. Papa wishes to speak with us.”> Switching to English, she told the others, “We shall have news soon.”

Jasmine shrugged as she left the room with her disguised sister. “Soon, my friends.”

“What was that about?” Chloe queried.

“I wish I knew,” Martha replied, trying to figure out the context of the two sisters’ argument.

Chloe peered out the portal toward the city beyond. For some reason, she had a feeling that the crap had just hit the fan. Just stay safe all of you!




Chapter 4 [Rooftop in back of Black Hand Headquarters]

Even as the Sultan prepared his forces for the Black Hand, another group watched the back entrance to the Hand’s compound. Max, Shalimar, Nick and Spidey crouched low, keeping a sharp eye on things.

“How many?” Max whispered.

Shalimar finished her sweep with the night vision goggles. “I’d say they have at least six snipers and twenty-five ninja waiting for us. Ever do any karate, Nick?”

“A little,” the Elder indicated.

“How about you, Bug Boy?” Max asked.

“I’ll improvise,” Spidey replied low. “We’re safe for now. Going in!”

“Yeah. Yell if you need help,” Shalimar advised. Getting on her comlink, she whispered, “Hey, Michelle, status?”

“Clark, Lana, Agent Singleton and I are at the outer computer connections,” the student responded. “Ready to blow them on your signal.”

“Hold,” Shalimar directed. “Dave, status?”

“Trio of Trouble ready to cause mayhem,” DC-Dave retorted, getting an eyebrow quirk from Xena. “Signal?”

“I’ll take a look,” Nick told his companions, rising into the night. Seeing all three pincers in position, he returned to their spot and nodded.

“Okay, guys,” Shalimar directed and looked at her companions humorously. “Meow, Me-OW!”

“And you do that so well,” Max teased after Shal had cut the transmission.

“I learn from the experts,” the other feral retorted. “Let’s join Spidey before he makes too big a mess.” She jumped down from the rooftop.

“On your tail,” Max concurred, following the other’s path down.

Nick took off for the assigned spot, hoping that their blitz would work before anyone was the wiser.




*****


[Inside the main control room]

“How’s everything on the outside?” High Leader wondered.

“All looks quiet,” the chief technician reported.

“You see?” High Leader asked his colleagues. “Take out a few gnats and the others learn quickly.”

“What about the Javalstanis in the harbor?” Arighatto inquired. “They’ve sat out there for a while. They’re up to something.”

“Probably. Let them try what they want,” the Stuart-clone insisted.

“Don’t get overconfident, Stuart,” Lionel declared. “I wish we had Velasca with us.”

“She proved no match for the other Amazon before. Perhaps you overestimated her,” High Leader presumed.

“I overestimate nobody!” Lionel declared. “Wait.” He frowned. “You may wish to check your perimeter. I’m detecting guests.”


****


[Back door]

Five ninja patrolled the back entrance to the headquarters, doing what seemed like tedious guard duty.

Then a voice asked, “Psst! Hey, any idea where I can find black rags on the cheap?”

As the ninja turned, Spidey was already on them, knocking down and webbing them up before they could react.

Max and Shalimar finished off the rest of the group.

“Nice work. Thanks,” he expressed.

“Back at ya,” Shalimar replied frankly, speaking into both radio and comlink. “We’re set in back!”



****



[Front door]

DC-Dave grinned and shut the radio off. “Fun time!” He focused, allowing his personalities to shift.

“’Bout time ya came out,” the Protector hissed. “Ah was gettin’ itchy!”

“Tough,” the Child retorted. “Ready?”

The Warrior Princess frowned, wondering what in Eli’s name she’d done to draw this assignment. “Oh yeah. Last time I did something like this was during the Trojan War. You two, keep yer heads!”

“Nah!” they chorused, rushing toward the front door.

“Ah git the door!” the Protector called.

“Shaddap!” the Child growled, powering up his hands. Seeing the ninja tense in front of them, he grinned. “Well howdy!”

“Ready fer yer whuppin’?” the SL-Dark One sassed as they took out the guards.

As she watched this scene, she rolled her eyes. They’ll be okay, you said. David will keep them under control, you said. Gabrielle, you owe me BIG for this!

“Door?” the Protector asked.

“Door,” the Child retorted. “Same time.”

Together the two kids blasted the foot thick reinforced steel from its hinges. Once inside, they let off the twin screams, alerting the complex to their presence.

As the ninja horde swept toward them, Xena tensed, sword at the ready.  Now they've done it!

All three charged and began taking down its share of opponents.



*****


[Back computer unit]

Garth shook his head. “Sounds like they’re in.”

“They’re good at that,” Clark concurred while ripping the cover off the computer controls. “Michelle?”

As Lana kept an eye out around them, Michelle interfaced with the computer, using her abilities to traverse the circuits and electronic pulses to its nerve center. Less than a second later, she had shut it down and ordered the computer to wipe the Black Hand’s restoration codes, replacing them instead with the “safe code” that Agent Singleton had given her.

“It’s done,” Michelle reported. “Their security’s down and so is their network. They’re blind.” She touched the electronic lock and made it open the door. “After you all.”

“Hey, can we use that too?” Spidey whispered from just behind them, as Nick and the two ferals rushed over to them.

“The more the merrier,” Garth agreed, drawing his pistols and leading the way into the dark area.



****


[Command Center]

“SIR!” the head technician called in a panic.

“What is it?” High Leader asked impatiently.

“Our security’s down!” the underling reported. “For some reason, secondary cameras are snarled with something. Switching to front cameras!”

The screen revealed the two Children and Xena finishing off the core of the elite ninja guard and heading toward them.

“Damn it! It’s them!” the clone realized. “The ones that appeared at the university!”

“You were saying something about gnats, High Leader? It seems their sting is more potent than you anticipated,” Arighatto hissed. “I’m going to collect my prize!” He ran off toward the prison compound.

High Leader scowled clearly under the disguise. How could this happen? Impossible! “Evacuate! Come, Lionel, Dubois, we’re leaving!” He led them toward the prepared escape hatch, leading to the subterranean garage below.


*****



Less than a minute later, the doors blew open to the command center.

The Child and the Protector glared about the room warily, not understanding what was going on. They wanted to exact a major butt whipping but were cheated of it. “DAMMIT!”

Xena rushed in behind them. Looking at the mostly-abandoned area, she frowned. “Just a minute!” She stalked over to a desk where she heard something shaking. “Come out!”

“Leave me alone!” the head technician ordered as she yanked him out by the leg.

“Givin’ orders?” she asked. “That ain't nice!” She put the Pinch on him.

“Tha’s COOL!” the Protector announced.

“Stuff it! Let the girl do ‘er thing!” his counterpart interjected.

Xena rolled her eyes and glared at the Protector before focusing on the interrogation at hand. “Awright! I’ve just cut off the flow of blood to yer brain! Ya’ve got thirty seconds unless I release ya! Where’s yer boss?”

The man sputtered and his eyes bulged. Blood dripped from his nose.

“Come on. I don’t have all day and neither do you,” she informed the interrogatee.

“High Leader…is gone. You scum…won’t get…him!” the technician answered defiantly.

“Oh. Now we’re scum?” she supposed. “And what about his friends?”

“They we…nt with…him,” the technician answered.

“Yeah. Figures,” she supposed, undoing the Pinch and punching his lights out. “The rats have fled!”

The Child grinned. “Nah! There’s one left! ‘Mon!” He bolted off toward the side door, heading for the prison complex.

“Wait fer me!” the Protector called, hurrying after him.

She threw her hands up in the air. “Thank, Eli, we usually only have one of him!” With that, they rushed toward the hostages.



*****

[Outside ‘Normal Cells’]

Garth stopped the group in front of the so-called “normal cells”. “Michelle and I can get this. Find Lana and Miranda!”

“We’re on it,” Spidey declared, crawling along the ceiling as fast as he could.

Sweeping his wife up into his arms, Clark sped off after him followed by Nick and the two ferals.

“Get the lock?” Garth requested.

She nodded, shorting that one out as well, making both doors slide open.

“Garth?” Steve asked.

“Yeah it’s me,” his associate replied, shaking his hand. “How are you all doing?”

“We’re holding up all right,” Gabe noted.

“We survived,” Jonathan added. “Thanks!”

“What about Clark, Miranda and Lana?” Lex insisted.

“We have help going to them,” Michelle told them.

“Arighatto’s going to try and haul Miranda away,” Steve guessed.

“He can try but he’s outnumbered with the muscle we’ve just sent after him,” she assessed. And knowing the Professor, he’s ready to wipe the floors with the guy anyhow!



******

[Lana and Miranda’s cell—five minutes earlier]

Arighatto rushed into the cell, slamming the door closed behind him. Maybe the complex was about to fall but he would have his prize: his soon to be reclaimed stepdaughter.

“Leave her alone!” Lana screamed.

“As if you could do anything?” he challenged, jabbing at her with the meteor hilt of his sword again.

“Maybe he can though?” she retorted, using her x-ray vision and managing a dirty smile at what she saw on the other side of the door.

“Now you’re delusional!” He chuckled as he began dragging his semi-conscious burden away.

“Lana!” Miranda called. “Don’t…let him take me!”

“Be quiet!” he commanded before he stopped. “What?”

He heard a crunching noise and saw two sets of hands, one plain and one web-covered, tear through the door like it was tissue paper.

The DC-Clark stepped through the door first followed by Spidey and the DC-Lana. “Going somewhere?”

“Through you!” Arighatto retorted, revealing the kryptonite tip again.

“Guess it’s losing its juice,” Spidey added, webbing the sword and yanking it out of Arighatto’s hand. “Best to deal with this!”

“NO!” The samurai screamed.

Spidey smashed the kryptonite against the wall, allowing it to fall down the drain cover beneath the spot. “Huh? Sorry. Did you say something, Karate Kid? I must have missed it.”

Arighatto snarled, seeing that he was about to be cheated out of his prize. Losing both the star sword and Miranda was unacceptable. “We’ll meet again! You can count on it!” Turning intangible, he phased through the floor toward the hidden escape complex below.

“How did he?” Max wondered, as she and Shalimar caught up to them.

“He can phase and mass,” Spidey declared. “Went right through the floor.” Looking at the sword, he asked, “Why’s this so important?”

“Bring it with us but he’s not important,” the DC-Lana asserted, leaning over her best friend’s counterpart. “Miri?”

“Lana? Wait! How did you…?” the badly injured woman wondered, looking at both Lanas. “I must…be losing it. There…are two of you.”

“There are,” the DC-Lana affirmed. “Clark, can you get…umm…me down?”

Clark smirked at her. “What do I do with two of you?”

“I’m sure you’d like to find out, now wouldn’t you?” his wife supposed.

He flashed her a grin before freeing her counterpart from the bonds. “How are you doing?”

“I’ve been better,” the SL-Lana informed him. “Hanging up there for two days and getting jolted by kryptonite does wonders.”

“Yeah it does,” DC-Clark agreed. “Let’s get going and we can talk later.”

“First we’re going to need a rig a litter up for Miri because there’s no way I’m leaving without her!” the SL-Lana declared.

“As if we’d let you,” her counterpart concurred.

Working quickly, the DC-Clark and Spidey took the metal posts from the demolished restraining harness and fashioned a web-hammock between them. After helping Miranda onto it, the two heroes carried her out.

“Come on. We’re almost out of here,” DC-Lana told her counterpart as they headed for the exit.

“The sooner, the better as far as I’m concerned. You haven’t seen Clark…well, my Clark, have you?”

DC-Lana shook her head. “Sorry. We’ll do what we can as soon as Miri gets proper medical attention, I promise.”

“That works. Kara’s got him imprisoned in this side universe. I was able to get there once but that was it.”

“We’ll find him, Kiddo,” Shalimar vowed.

“Count on it,” Max concurred. “Besides, we can’t keep you two apart.”

SL-Lana looked at DC-Lana and got a shrug. She gave the two ferals a confused look. “Thanks…I think.”

Onto Part 2