Rating R (violence, language)

Pairings: Clana, Martha-Jonathan some Chlex

Notes: Smallville and its characters belong to DC and the WB. All other characters and scenarios are mine. Please send comments to dante0220@yahoo.com.


Chapter 1
[Los Angeles—a week following “Transitions”]

The night sky remained clear along the Pacific coast, as cool ocean breezes caressed the land. Just a few stray clouds obscured the starlight above.

Within a downtown skyscraper, the High Leader brooded about his group’s next move. In the time since the Metropolis debacle, the Black Hand relocated its operations here and Tokyo, allowing for a cooling off period in the Midwest. Unfortunately, the renegades’ attempt on Lionel Luthor proved that strategy’s inadequacies unnervingly well, revealing a rift within the ranks.

As such, Hansei Arighatto had dealt with this revolt, snuffing it out mercilessly. Both he and his new “mystery associate” were proving beneficial in many ways. It’s almost as if he knows us. How would that be? Hearing the phone ring, he picked it up. “Yes?”

“High Leader, this is Samurai,” Arighatto replied. “Everything’s coming together nicely.”

“You’ve dealt with the loose ends, I trust?”

The samurai reported. “The diseased limbs have been severed. One other thing awaits our attention. My daughter. I’ll have her back.”

“Yes, we’ve agreed on that. In exchange for your services, especially in quelling the recent situation, you shall have what you require. When will this happen?” the High Leader agreed.

“In three days’ time. This time, I’ll be prepared for anything,” Arighatto confirmed, seething over the emancipation. “Nobody takes anything from me!”

“And if those masked brats show up?”

“I’m ready for them,” Arighatto confirmed. “I have new information on them.”

“Really? Interesting. If possible, take them alive. All of them,” the overlord noted, emphasizing the last point.

“The Princess and Lex Luthor as well? As you wish, High Leader. I’ll contact you once we’ve accomplished the mission. Samurai out,” he concluded, hanging up.

Yes. This could be very profitable indeed…if he pulls it off. With that, the High Leader went back to planning another operation.


*****

Arighatto turned to the corner. “Are you sure about this?”

Lionel Luthor stared at him from the shadows. His orange eyes and mouth were his only remaining distinguishing features left to him. “I saw it in their subconscious. The meteors will work.”

The warrior held up the damaged kitana from the museum heist. A green space rock had once sat on its handle. In that encounter, the weapon had taken its toll on the masked ones through its special blade. If his associate was correct, the kryptonite had wrecked equal damage. “I’ll have this repaired when we get to Metropolis.”

Lionel donned his special cape and pulled the hood over his head. Since the accident, he had learned to conceal his face lest he unleash his powers on an undeserving victim. “Do that. And what about the warning?”

“What about it? You’re imagining things, Lionel,” Arighatto disagreed, feinting over and over with the blade.

“There’s only one person who could do that,” the former businessman countered.

“And I killed him along with the rest of his brood the day I took Miranda,” the samurai retorted. “Even if his pet demon’s lurking about, I don’t fear ghosts. Neither should you.”

“Just the same, I’m happy to see that High Leader has agreed to fund my Level Three projects again,” Lionel noted.

“Yes, yes…why do you insist on distorting nature?” Arighatto glared at him. “Are there enough freaks running around? Present company excluded of course.”

“Of course. Let’s say that this particular subject could be useful, especially if he’s back from the dead.”

Arighatto focused, turning his hand rock hard and breaking a concrete block in two. “If he is, that will be him. Now come; our plane awaits!”

****


[Three Days later—Amherst, MA]

Across the country, summer had descended on the college town. While most students went home to work their jobs and be with their families for the season, a few remained for summer school. In addition, the regular residents kept their shops open and lived peaceably.

In the midst of the medium-sized crowd, one figure holding two flower arrangements walked by himself. He didn’t look left or right. Occasionally, he would wave to someone walking past; however people mostly avoided him and his wife. Turning right off of Pleasant Street, he headed east toward the cemetery and hurried in there. Weaving his way through the gravestones and monuments, he quickly found what he was looking for.

In front of him, a pair of markers stood testament to those dearest to him; the ones who had been stolen from him on that terrible day in 1992.

The day they were murdered.

The day his niece disappeared.

The day Arighatto gloated over him, leaving him and his alter ego broken and seething with rage.

He quivered, trying to keep control over his emotions. “Hi, everyone. It’s me as if you couldn’t guess. I wanted to see how you were doing.” He dusted off the stones and placed a bunch of fresh flowers in the holders. “I…I found her. Miri’s alive. She’s out in Smallville, Kansas. Remember where Dad and I had our spat? She’s with the Kents so I know she’s…okay. And Lillian’s boy, Lex, is watching her and so is Steve Petersen. I’m going out there tonight with April.”

A gust of wind blew past him, making him perk his ears to the sky. “Arighatto?”

He trembled before the smirk appeared on his face. “Ah’ll deal w’ him mahself! Don’t ya’ll worry ‘bout nothin’!” Taking a deep breath, he calmed, allowing the Other to reassert control.

“I haven’t forgotten about that,” he continued when he had composed himself enough to do so. On the second stone, he traced the three names there, thinking of his late wife and two little girls buried there. “I haven’t forgotten, Angie. I won’t. Angelina and Cassandra deserved better. Cassie, your Mom will be here tomorrow to see you. Sorry, Sweetheart, I….” He broke down, sobbing as he thought of all of them again. “I love you all. Take care.” With that, he left, heading back for town.

****



[Cappuccino Express]

Meanwhile a tall and slender woman with dark black hair and eyes sat in the café, sipping on a cappuccino and waiting for her husband to arrive. April Dubois had learned to deal with a lot in life, especially where it concerned her family and husband. His “spells” were often difficult to deal with but she managed them. I hope the visit went well this morning. At least we’ll get to see Miri tommorrow. That thought brought a smile to her face, as she recalled her husband’s slightly improved mood over the past three days. If anyone can bring some light back to him, it’ll be Miri. Lord knows I try. Thank you, God, for letting me be with him though. Even if he is difficult, he’s good to me.

“Hi, Honey,” the man in question greeted, kissing her on the cheek. “Break or lunch?”

“Neither. Amanda’s running the shop so I can go with you, remember?” she reminded him, cracking a smile. “Going all absent minded professor on me again, are you?”

“Yeah, I guess,” he conceded. “I just want everything to be perfect, you know? She’s gone through enough, April.”

“Dave, cut it out. Lex assured us that everything’s fine. Leave it at that. Unless you know something you want to tell me?” she stated.

“You Know Who’s already been out there. He’s ranting something about Lionel Luthor but the man’s dead!” he indicated, starting on his mocha.

“Well, there you go. I wish the Other would leave you alone,” she lamented. “Come on; we need to pack and get to the airport.”



Chapter 2 [Smallville]

[Kent Farm]

Getting up with the sun, Lana raced from the Sullivans’ place over to Clark’s house. Today would be a busy day. Even with their gifts, there would be enough to do for them both. I want this party to be perfect for Chloe.

Now who’s the worrywart? he asked telepathically.

She could almost feel his grin. Oh yeah? You’d be doing the same thing in my shoes, Mr. Kent.

I probably would. He walked out to meet her. “Mom’s got breakfast going if you want some.”

After they kissed, she shook her head. “Maybe just some coffee. I already ate at the house.”

“Okay,” he relented, leading her into the house.

“Hi, Lana,” Martha greeted. “Take a seat. We were just talking about the party tonight.”

“Mr. Luthor and I ordered the supplies yesterday,” Miranda informed her boss. “The shipment should be here after 1. Your aunt’s sending flowers with that truck. And oh yeah, I informed everyone that this is a surprise for the soon-to-be paroled prisoner. Is there anything else?”

“How about making the Talon a hot spot?” Clark quipped. “After being cold turkey off of the Internet, you know Chloe’ll be chomping at the bit to get back on.”

“Maybe next time. Budget doesn’t allow for it yet,” Lana countered. “Good idea though. I can’t believe you got everything!”

“I have my list and I checked it twice,” the sensei cracked. “I want this to be perfect too.” At that moment, they saw Steve standing at the door. “Steve, how are you?”

“I’m fine,” he noted. “Can I come in?”

“Certainly, what is it?” Martha wondered. “Is something wrong?”

The agent cracked a smile. “Actually, no. Miri, you have the guest list made up?”

“Yeah, sort of. Why?” Miranda inquired.

“I hope you all don’t mind but there need to be two more names on it,” Steve declared, allowing his smile to grow wider. “Guess who’s coming tonight?”

“He’s coming, isn’t he?” Miranda guessed enthusiastically. When he nodded, she grinned and her eyes watered. “YES! Finally!”

Lana inquired, “When did you hear about this?”

“Last night. Lex’s arranging for him and his wife to fly in as we speak. Rather than have it be a total shock, I thought I’d let you know. Just don’t make it a big deal to everyone, all right? He’d rather keep his visit here low key.”

Clark stared incredulously at him. “Why? Everyone will be happy that Miri’s got a relative, won’t they?” Seeing his mother’s expression, he asked, “Won’t they?”

“Dave made enemies out here a while back over the Talon,” Martha indicated, once again seeing the standoff in her mind. “I agree with Steve. Let’s keep it as calm as possible.”

“Anyhow, I need to check in with Lex, Jasmine and Abdul on security detail. See you all tonight.” With that, the agent walked back out to his car and drove off.

“What is this about, Mom? How could keeping the Talon open be such a big deal?” Clark wondered.

“It’s a story we don’t need to tell now. Right now, let’s allow Miranda to enjoy her uncle’s visit,” Martha asserted while setting out the plates of food. “Your Dad wanted to know what time we should be there.”

“About 6:45,” Lana noted. “Mr. Sullivan’s coming by with Chloe at 7 sharp.”

“She’s also craving coffee too,” Miranda presumed knowingly. “No Internet, Torch or coffee. That hospital staff should be canonized for putting up with her.” The smirk let them all know she was kidding.

“Chores are all done around here,” he pointed out. “Does Dad need help with anything?”

“We’re set. Just be back here around 4 so you can deal with things. If something comes up, let me know and I can milk the cows. Everything else could wait until tomorrow if necessary,” Martha said.

“Well then, I get a helper, don’t I?” Lana eyed him, indicating he’d been “volunteered” for set up duty.

“I think we’ll have plenty to do,” he noted.

Then he and Lana heard Jor-El call, I need to speak with you both.

“Now what?” Miranda wondered.

“Jor-El. He wants something,” Lana indicated. “Come on, Clark.”

After the super teens had left, Martha stared at Miranda and then at the door. I hope there’s nothing wrong.

****


[Loft]

Clark and Lana hustled into the barn and up into his private sanctuary. What is it?

You are in danger. Jor-El’s spirit “image” appeared in front of them. It seems that someone knows about you.

Knows? How? She wondered, trying to think how they’d been so careful.

“That’s because someone followed you here through the spirit world,” Laura pointed out as she appeared in front of them.

“Mom?” Lana asked; her eyes going wide.

“Yes, Lana, I’m here to warn you too. I learned of this four nights ago. An old friend told me,” her mother’s spirit informed them.

“Who, Mrs. Lang?” Clark wondered.

Tell them.

“The Protector told me,” Laura continued.

“But he’s back in Massachusetts! How could he do that?” her daughter asked.

“He can project himself over great distances,” Laura explained. “In any event, you already know he’ll be here tonight. Fortunately for you both.”

“Why?” Clark asked.

“The spirits are restless. Apparently, your unknown enemy plans to strike soon. We don’t know where or when. Just be ready,” Laura advised before vanishing.

Be watchful. We all need to keep a sharper eye out—myself included. With that, Jor-El vanished as well.

Lana paced about the area. “I should call off the party.”

“Lana, we can’t do that!” he argued. “Think about Chloe. She needs this. Maybe we should move it here or to Lex’s?”

“Agent Petersen said that he’s going over the security detail. I assume that means we’ll be okay,” she hoped. “Clark, if there is trouble, how can we deal with it in front of everyone?”

He embraced her, hoping for the best. “Let’s think positively, all right?”

She nodded but still felt uneasy about the warning.

Chapter 3 [Luthor Castle]

Lex hung up the phone and steepled his fingers in front of himself. With that last phone call for supplies, everything was in order for the night’s party over at the Talon. He smirked. Chloe will flip over this. As much as he had enjoyed needling the reporter for the past week about surviving without her vices, he knew it was killing her to be cut off. He heard a knock at the door. “Yes?”

“Lex, how’s it going?” Steve wondered.

“I just finished the last order for tonight. We’re all set food and staff wise,” the billionaire informed him while pouring a coffee for himself.

“How are we security wise?” the agent asked.

“I have my best staff on it,” Lex replied.  "Why?”

“You know we need more,” Steve retorted.

“We can get the Sheriff,” Lex noted half-seriously.

“Fat lot of good that’ll do,” the agent groused. “How do we know some lunatic won’t try something?”

“Steve, this is a party. I don’t think Smallville’s exactly crawling with terrorists,” Lex countered.

“Dave’s coming. You know as well as I do that some folks around here still bear a grudge,” Steve argued.

“True but those folks also know not to mess with him,” Lex noted.

“And if let’s say, the Black Hand were to show up gunning for him or the Princess?”

“What does he have to do with them?” Lex wondered, looking curiously at his guest.

“Let’s say he and I have a history with them,” Steve admitted.

“I doubt they’ll want to crash a party like this, Steve,” the billionaire argued with surprising overconfidence.

“I hope you’re right, Lex,” Steve remarked. “This party’s really important to him and Miri.”

“It’ll be fine. Come on, let’s get down there and check things out,” Lex assured him, as they headed out.


****


[Jasmine’s Room]

Even as Lex and Steve departed, Jasmine stood at her closet, trying to decide on an outfit to wear to Chloe’s party. Let’s see…white blouse and blue slacks? Blue blouse and white slacks? Or should I wear a skirt? While she knew she should wear a skirt, she tried of think of reasons not to do so. I wish I didn’t have to.

Then Cocoa chattered at her.

“I know you think anything I wear is nice. Thanks, Cocoa,” she expressed. “I just want to do my part for Chloe. She needs cheering up and I’m glad Lex and Lana are doing this for her.”

At that moment, the cell phone buzzed urgently.

What? She picked it up and saw the red light flashing on its side. That means trouble. Stepping into the closet, she answered, “This is White Dove. When the skies grow dark….”

“Never flies will the lark. White Dove, this is Rajah. My apologies for contacting you like this but we have an emergency,” Rajah noted.

“And that is?” she wondered.

“The Black Hand is marshaling its forces in Metropolis. Be careful. They may be trying again to kidnap you,” he warned.

With Clark and Lana not to mention our friends nearby? They can try if they want. “Thank you for the advance notice, Rajah. I will have effective countermeasures in place by tonight.”

“The Sultan worries about his citizens abroad, White Dove. Be careful. Rajah, out,” he concluded.

Again, the Hand seeks to strike. What is it with them? “Ah well. Cocoa, be good. I’m going to visit Chloe with Abdul.”

The monkey made a low noise and then went to sleep.

Chapter 4 [Chloe’s hospital room]

Chloe finished dressing in a brown top and slightly darker slacks. After adjusting the sling on her left arm, she sighed. “I guess I should count myself lucky.”

“As should we all,” Lana supposed, walking in with Clark. “Hey, Chloe, we thought you’d like some coffee.”

“Besides we wanted you in a good mood,” he added humorously.

“And this is a good start,” Chloe agreed, taking a deep drink from the cup. Instantly, her deprived body perked up from the hot caffeinated boost. “Ah yes!”

“When is your Dad coming by?” Lana wondered.

“I got to wait until after he gets off work,” the patient supposed. “At least, he brought me my laptop last night.”

“With no Internet access though? What can you do?” he wondered.

The reporter snickered at him. Holding up a phone cord, she countered, “This is the great equalizer, Clark.” Plugging it into the wall, she pirated the hospital’s phone system to serve as her Internet dialup connection. “It isn’t DSL but it works.”

“I should know better than to doubt you, Chloe,” he mentioned.

She grinned at him. “Yeah you should, Clark. By the way, what are you guys doing later? Maybe we can all meet for coffee or something?”

The two super teens looked at each other before he replied, “I think my folks need me in the barn, Chloe. I’ll give you a call on your cell when I’m through.”

“I’ll be on shift if you want to stop by with your Dad,” Lana invited. “He could use a chance to sit for a while.”

“That’s Dad for you,” Chloe assessed.

“And I’ll be there too. I have some reading to catch up on,” Jasmine added, joining them. “You look as though you’re set.”

“I am. Dad will be here in a couple of hours. Can you stay for a while, Jasmine?” the reporter wondered, giving her friend a hopeful glance.

“Just remember you need to be back by 5:30 for your Dad’s call, Jasmine,” Lana reminded her.

“Right,” the Princess concurred, understanding her friend’s hidden meaning. “I’ll have Abdul drive me back in an hour or so.”

“That’ll work,” Clark agreed. “See you later.”

“Take care,” Jasmine told them, as they left. I hope everything’s okay at the Talon.

Seeing her friend wince, Chloe asked, “What’s wrong?”

“Oh nothing. I just remembered something I needed for later. No big deal though,” the Princess replied.

Chloe arched her eyebrow. Yeah right. Now she’s doing it. I’ve got to find out what this big secret is!





Chapter 5

[On Route 90, just beyond the Smallville town limits about 5:45 PM]

Three dark black vans rolled through the Lowell County countryside, heading for Smallville. They had started from Metropolis only two and a half hours before and wasted no time in heading toward their target.

Inside of the lead vehicle, Arighatto ran his blade across the sharpening stone repetitively. Before departing from the Hand’s new headquarters in the city, he had briefed his subordinates on the plan. For the most part, they were to surround the theater, keeping their victims inside and everyone else out. The fifteen with him and Lionel would go in and assist in rounding up the teenagers and Lex in addition to dealing with Petersen or any other surprises that might pop up.

“It’s a good plan,” Lionel advised.

“I know but one takes nothing for granted,” the samurai countered. “With these targets, we can’t make a mistake.”

“We won’t,” the former businessman assured his partner.  He focused on their targets, locking in on their fears and desires. “They’re getting ready for a party.”

“You’re certain?” Arighatto wondered.

“Yes. They are indeed.” Lionel grinned. “We’ll give them a party they’ll never forget!” He stood up. “I’ll scout ahead. Meet you there?”

“Good idea. See if that poor excuse for a sheriff is anywhere near there,” Arighatto concurred.

Lionel vanished into thin air, leaving the others behind.

Soon, Miranda, you’ll be mine again…and so will your friends. This time, I’ll have you all!


****


[The Talon—6:00 PM]

Meanwhile Lana inspected the scene in the café. Clark, Byron and Pete worked together to get the streamers hung along the balcony. Meantime, she, Miranda and Jasmine covered the tables with white cloths. In the back, Sandra worked with Steve and Lex to get the food supplies in order.

“That’s it!” Clark declared, coming down off the ladder.

“Looks majestic if I do say so myself,” Byron remarked.

“I’ll second that, guy,” Pete concurred. “And that coffee smells great, Lana.”

“Thanks but it’ll have to wait until the Guest of Honor shows up,” the former cheerleader noted.

“Having other people at the well before the Deprived One would be bad news,” Miranda cracked. “By the way, Lana, has Mr. Sullivan picked her up?”

“He was just arriving at the hospital as we left,” Jasmine replied. “Is there any word on your aunt and uncle?”

Miranda nodded. “Mr. Luthor said they changed planes in Chicago. They should be landing in about 20 minutes.” She bit her lip and wrung her hands. “I hope he likes it here.”

“He will,” Lex reassured her, as he and Steve walked back into the serving area. “Sandra’s finishing up a few odds and ends. Meantime, I can deal with Sullivan and her moods. Break out the coffee.”

“Oh all right,” Lana relented. “Just remember it was your idea.”

Her business partner smirked. “Yeah, I’ll do that.” At that moment, his cell phone rang. “Lex Luthor.”

“Hi, Lex, this is Dave Dubois. April and I will be landing in about twenty minutes,” Dave informed him.

“Great! Look for a big white limo. The driver will be expecting you. Meantime, there’s someone who wants to talk with you,” the billionaire replied pleasantly. He handed the phone to Miranda. “Guess who?”

“Uncle, where are you?” she asked.

“We’re still up in the air, Short Stuff,” he chuckled. Still as impatient as ever. Ah, Miri. He gave his wife’s hand a gentle squeeze before continuing, “We’re starting our descent. Your aunt and I will be there before you know it.”

“O…okay. I just have a bad feeling and…” She winced, feeling a white hot pain between her eyes.

“What’s wrong?” her uncle panicked, beginning to feel the numbness creeping across his scalp.

Don’t rile him, Miri. “Just a headache. You know me, big baby and all that,” she assured him.

“If you say so. If you need anything before we get there, you call. Give us twenty minutes to land before you do though. Okay?” he offered. “Gotta go. See you really soon, Miri. Love you.”

Miranda’s eyes watered and she smiled. It’s going to happen. It’s really going to happen. “I love you too. Bye,” she concluded, hanging up and handing the phone back to Lex. “Thank you.” Seeing everyone watching her, she apologized, “Sorry about the scene, guys.”

“We enjoyed it,” Lana assured her, giving her a hug. “This is a double celebration tonight.”

“I don’t want to take away from Chloe!” she protested.

“She’ll want the byline for the Torch anyhow,” Clark reassured her.

“And there is the matter that we’re standing here because of him,” Lex added, walking across the room. “You all walk by this plaque everyday but never really look at it.”

“It’s your plaque,” Lana indicated.

“There is another name on it, Lana,” Martha indicated, as she and Jonathan walked in. “Take a closer look.”

As they did, Miri’s eyes went wide. “Uncle Dave?”

“You asked why he put his money into this place. Miranda, this is a place of dreams for everyone,” Jonathan added. “For Lana and her parents, you and your friends, but for Lex and Dave, they paid a price for that.”

“Friendship is important to him, Miri,” Steve indicated. “And the older folks in this room not to mention you, Clark and Lana are certainly that.”

Jor-El and Mom said that much, Lana mentioned to Clark.

Now we know why he’s the way he is, he replied to her.

No, my Son, you do not. The agent will explain in due time but now is not the time. Be aware. Danger is close, Jor-El advised.

“What?” Clark asked.

Lana used her x-ray vision, sweeping the street in front of them. Sure enough, three vans stopped right in front of the café. She saw the ninja inside of them. “Guys! Get in the back! Now!”

“What?” Lex asked.

Steve drew his gun and concurred, “You heard her! MOVE IT!  Abdul, go with them!”

As the group headed for the back room, they were met by six armed ninja waiting for them.

Miranda and Jasmine looked at each other and then at Clark and Lana. Somehow, these creeps knew about them.

Jasmine whispered, “We can’t let them expose themselves.”

“Right. On three?” Miri asked.

“Three!” the Princess indicated, launching into the black robed mob.

Miranda followed quickly, kicking and chopping her way into their attackers.

Meantime, while some had surrounded the theater, the others stormed the entrance, finding Byron more than ready for them.

“Stop!” Arighatto commanded, strutting into the area.

Byron rushed him in a dark rage.

“Byron, NO!” Miranda protested.

Arighatto’s blade slashed at his side, dropping him to the floor. “That will teach you. This is pointless. Surrender and I’ll spare you.”

“Like you did my family?” Miranda spat.

“You especially should learn to behave!” the samurai retorted. “No matter they’re all dead.”

“You think so, don’t you?” Steve countered, training his gun on the braggart.

“Petersen, don’t be a fool. You’re outnumbered and outgunned! Drop it!”

The agent shrugged. “I’ve been this way before. Remember the mall?” He pulled out his cell phone. “I only need this to end it.”

“A phone? Really, Petersen, are you call in the Marines with that? Or are you wired to a bomb?”

“Maybe on both questions. I’d advise you to surrender now,” Steve indicated, holding the phone up.

As he did so, Clark and Lana realized the prophecy’s meaning about Steve being the key. The next call would unleash the Protector.

“No? Your funeral.” Steve pressed three buttons and put it to his ear.




Chapter 6
[Smallville Airport]

Even as the situation worsened at the Talon, Dave and April deplaned and walked into the terminal. The flight was smooth and uneventful although they were about ten minutes behind schedule.

“It still looks so scenic,” she declared, getting off of the plane and surveying the countryside.

“It does,” he agreed, taking in a deep whiff of the country air. “And it feels nice.”

She grinned at him. It’s so nice to see him feeling like this. “Let’s get our stuff. Lex’s driver will be waiting for us.”

He nodded, as they approached baggage claim. Sure enough, their bags were already waiting for them. “It pays to be a friend of Lex’s around here, I see.”

“As if you aren’t enough of a celebrity yourself?” she inquired, recalling their last trip here.

He shook his head, remembering the Langs’ funeral and the fracas surrounding it. Please let there be no trouble. For some reason, his instincts told him that trouble waited for them. “I’d rather avoid any of that, Honey.” He took their suitcases and led them out the front door.

As promised, a white limo waited for them.

Its driver, a large African American male in a dark suit, stepped forward. “Good evening. David and April Dubois, I presume?”

“That’s right,” she replied. “Are you our driver?”

“Yes, Ma ‘am. Name’s Henry Robertson and it’s a pleasure. Get your bags?”

“Thanks,” Dave agreed, handing him the suitcases. As he did so, he winced, feeling the numbness creeping over his head.

Not now! She rubbed his shoulder. “Dave, are you okay?”

He took a deep breath. “Something’s wrong. They’re in trouble. She’s in trouble!”

“Sir?” Henry wondered.

She knew better than to doubt his instincts especially where this town and Miri were concerned. Still their luck was going normally—from bad to worse. “Stay calm. We don’t want an episode.”

“Tell me about it,” her husband replied, feeling the tug of war starting in his head. He shuddered and winced.

Henry stared at Dave, wondering if the latter would be all right. “Ma ‘am, is he okay?”

“Just give him a minute,” she stated. We need to get him out of here. “Let’s get back to the mansion.”

The driver popped the trunk and deposited the luggage in there as quickly as he could. Then he opened the back door. “Right inside, Folks. I’ll have you to the mansion in ten minutes.”

“Thanks,” she expressed, helping her husband.

At that moment, his cell phone rang.

“Yeah?” Dave answered.

“Dave, it’s Steve. Tell Little Bro this—the dove and package are caught. The Old Score’s waiting in Picture Place,” Steve told him cryptically.

“I…is tha’ so?” the other rasped.

“It is,” Steve indicated. Seeing the samurai glaring at him, he smirked. “He’s laughing at you both.”

“Tha’ so? Ah’ll g…get o..ver there,” he retorted, cutting off the connection and handing the phone to his wife.

“Who?” she asked.

“Steve,” he growled; his right eye closing. “Trouble. Arighatto’s got ‘em!”

Her eyes went wide. “Not again! We can’t lose her again!”

He shook violently, snarling like an angry animal. Then his left eye snapped open.

“Git ‘er to Lexie’s place!” he told the driver. “Git!”

“Sir, what about you? You need a doctor!” the driver protested.

“Trust him; take me there,” she concurred. “I just need a second.” She looked at the man in front of her, knowing that his Other had just emerged. “Keep her safe.”

“Ah’ll whup ‘im!” he hissed. “Git goin’!”

She nodded, while getting into the limo and telling Henry, “Go!”

The car sped off toward the mansion.

Meantime, the Protector growled, “Pic’ure Place! Home!” In a black flash, he vanished.