Wedding Jitters (Super Lana 23)
DJ Dubois
June 2006

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

Chapter 1 [A week after “Senior Week”]
[Cowache Caves]

Since the graduation ceremony, Clark and Lana had spent most of their time assisting his parents, Lex, Miri and April with the little details surrounding their ceremony. They had super sped food orders all over the country, collected multiple plant types for the Emporium and dealt with the dreaded details of clothes fittings for themselves and the wedding party.

On top of all of that, they had kept up their normal responsibilities around the farm and the Talon.

Desperately needing a break, they headed over to the caves to talk with Jor-El.

The father spirit waited for them as they arrived. My children. How are you?

[“Tired. We find that monotony can wear even us down,”] Clark complained.

[“Added to still doing our regular things, you have that right,”] Lana agreed while leaning against the stone wall for support and wiping her brow off.

Everyone wishes to share in your special day. Take pleasure in that. You know I am.

[“Great. You too?”] The younger man grimaced.

To me, it is done. According to Kryptonian custom, you two are joined. If the Earthers wish to do a counterpart custom, then let it be so. As long as our line is continued then so be it. Admit it though, you’re both enjoying it.

The two teens conceded a couple of tired smiles.

There! That’s better now, isn’t it? Have you given any thought to what comes after?

[“After? As in the honeymoon or….?”] she wondered.

He shook his head. [“He’s talking about the next prophecy.”]

[“Oh…that,”] she recalled. [“We could go and talk to our counterparts. They did invite us to spend some time there.”]

I would be more than happy to send you there if that is your wish.

[“Even with everything going on here? What about the kids and that creep?”] Clark asked.

I will send for you if anything happens. The more information you can get from Dubois’ counterpart, his associates and your counterparts, the better it will be for us all.

[“He’s right, Clark,”] she concurred. [“So a day or two after the ceremony, we head there.”]

[“Fine,”] Clark agreed, taking a deep breath. [“Before that, there is the routine. Shall we?”]

[“Be a killjoy,”] she teased before speeding off.

[“See you soon,”] Clark advised before pursuing her.

Be careful, my Children. Turning to the wall paintings, Jor-El felt concern for his charges. Of what you find here and in the other world.

 


Chapter 2 [Luthor Mansion]

Lex walked about the backyard between the main house and the stables, overseeing the project that a hired crew toiled over. As his part in his friends’ impending nuptials, he was constructing a magnificent outdoor complex. When finished, there would be rows of fine chairs, a gazebo with an open front where the actual ceremony would take place and a red carpet extending down the center aisle. “So far, so good,” he mused.

“I don’t know who’s worse—you or your mother,” Dave kidded his younger friend as he approached. “I know it was supposed to be a surprise but I bypassed the security.”

“Mom taught me everything I know in this regard. And you know this would be bigger if she had her hands in it,” Lex remarked dryly.

“Given how she was, I wouldn’t doubt it. Thanks, Lex, for doing this.”

“They are my friends, Dave.” Seeing the other’s heavy expression, he asked, “You miss them, don’t you?”

“Yeah. I started thinking about them right before the kids’ Prom. I know they’re here with us in spirit,” Dave conceded.

“But that’s not all. Is it?” the billionaire probed. “Let’s go up to my study and talk.” He guided the Professor up to his sanctum where they sat down. “All right, Dave, you’ve been moody since we brought Angie back. What is it?”

“You know me too well,” the visitor retorted.

“You and the Protector both. Something’s eating at you two,” Lex noted.

“The Mystery Man.” Dave got up and paced about the library, looking at the shelves. “He’s asserted his claim.”

“But according to what the others said, we should still have three years,” Lex supposed.

“With this wedding and April giving birth that creep’s changing the rules again. You know what he and his spawn are capable of,” Dave pointed out. He slammed his fist down on the table and felt his scalp going numb. “Not again. It’s not going to happen again!”

“He wouldn’t come here,” Lex hoped.

“Lex, come on.” Dave sighed. “He damn well knows his way here! If he didn’t, he can track us not to mention Lana! No. I can’t take a chance on April, my family or the rest of you. Maybe it’s time I called Heloise.”

“The creepy lady from France?”

Dave turned from the window. “Oh so you do remember her?”

“The woman scared the Hell out of me a couple of times.” Lex reached for the scotch on that note.

“She also saved your life a few times too,” Dave reminded him. “The Protector trusts her. Besides, as we learned from our last trip to the other side, there’s a bigger threat out there than our Puritan friend.”

Lex stared at him. “Now you’re talking about Isobel.”

“Right. I hope I’m just being paranoid but I need to know for sure.” Dave scanned the shelf and did a double take. “You have it? Edrindoux’s Annees d’ Vendee.”

“Mom picked up the last copy at auction right after you and Karen reappeared. She wanted to know what happened,” Lex indicated. “And I kept it knowing you would want to have access to it one day.”

“You read it, I trust?”

Lex nodded. “Not something for the nightstand. They really tried to burn you at the stake?”

“They did. I changed,” Dave recalled, shuddering as he said it. “Beyond that, I don’t remember anything else really.” He read the account again, translating from the Middle French as he did so.

“But the whole thing about the flaming hellhound….”

Dave added, “Isobel did that to my counterpart. That’s why the Protector had to go and deal with him.” Seeing his host’s face go white, he sighed, “Now you can see why I’m concerned. Jor-El has told Clark and Lana about the Mystery Man but not about this. He wants them to go to the other universe for their honeymoon. They could get some more information if they’re careful around that campus. The other Isobel is lurking around there but I trust my counterpart’s dealing with the situation.” He glanced at his watch. “April’s going to need help closing the shop. Let’s keep a good face forward for the ceremony but be careful too.” He considered the book before reshelving it. “Thanks for keeping that, Lex. It’s going to be more important than you know.”  With that, he left.

Lex drank his glass of scotch and a refill right after it. This again? He still remembered most of the gory details surrounding the infernal coven as well as the face offs between the Mystery Man and Protector. So much for a carefree summer!

“Hey, Luthor,” Chloe called, knocking at the door. “Everything okay?”

“Professor Dubois and I were talking about the past again. Beyond that, I don’t want to worry you or the others with it at the moment,” he replied before dropping the subject.

She noted the empty glass and half-empty bottle. Yeah but you’re worried. Lex, that makes it my problem too. Going along with his need to change the subject, she asked, “How’s the magic complex going?”

He smirked. “See for yourself.”

She glanced out there to see the gazebo’s framework going up. “You’re really doing it!” She grinned and felt her eyes tearing up.

“Just as we envisioned it,” he declared while rubbing her shoulder. “You are a genius.”

“Flatterer,” she cracked.

“Hey, I can call them like I see ‘em. You’re a bad influence in that regard, Sullivan,” he noted, giving her a kiss.

“That’s me all right. Glad you recognize that, Billionaire Boy,” she indicated before taking his hand. “Come on; let’s take a walk.”

 


Chapter 3 [Talon Complex—Angie’s Floral Emporium]

April sat in the chair behind the counter feeling frustrated. Before the last couple of months, she had been able to run the shop with her eyes closed. Now she felt fat and tired easily. You wanted this…

In response, the twins kicked.

Sorry, guys. Mommy’s really impatient right now. I wish you were out here.

“It’s okay,” Karen assured her.

“I know. I’m glad that Clark and Lana can help with getting the orders and other things around the café. You and Garth too. I appreciate it,” the florist expressed while getting up.

“It won’t be much longer. Take it easy,” her sister-in-law advised.

“I guess. I just wish I could do more with the flowers. Remember what Laura and I did for the theater back there?” April inquired.

Karen chuckled. “How could I forget? Look, you’re doing fine. It just happens that you’ll have to draw it up for us. Nothing wrong with that.”

“I guess. At least Miri’s dress is okay. Dave’s nervous enough to make a litter of cats in a room full of rocking chairs look calm.”

“He’s got a lot on his mind. You know how close he was to Lana’s parents.” The nurse smiled. “You know he’s representing them.”

“That’ll be nice,” April concurred. “Miri said Lana asked him to do that.”

“Anything to help,” her husband agreed. “Karen, she’s been sitting, right?”

“Right,” his sister agreed.

“As if anyone will let me do anything else,” April complained.

“It’s not that bad and you know it. Sorry, but we’re concerned about you,” he replied.

“I know and I appreciate that I can still do my share. I just want to do more is all,” she noted. “You have enough to worry about.”

“And you’re at the top of the list,” he pointed out. “I just came back from Lex’s. You should see what he’s doing. It’s right out of Auntie Lillie’s book of tricks.”

“Oh brother!” Karen giggled. “That woman was a saint but she did throw the money around on us.”

“And Lex is the same way,” April noted, knowing everything he was doing to find help for her. “Dave, can you help me upstairs?”

“Sure. Karen, I’ll be right back,” he indicated.

“Take your time,” she noted while finishing a few things here and there around the shop. A minute later, she saw the super teens standing there. “Hi, Kids! Is there something Mrs. Dubois wanted you to do?”

“No. We just wanted to check and see if there’s anything else,” he told her.

“Not that I know of.” Karen sighed. “You two should take off and have a night to yourselves. Forget about things. Or do I need to sic my niece on you?”

“That’s not fair,” Lana retorted, knowing full well the lecture Miranda would give them.

“All’s fair in love, war and wedding planning,” the older woman teased them. “It’ll be over in a couple of days.” She noted the heaviness in their faces. “Is there something else?”

Clark and Lana looked at each other before he slid the glass door shut, giving them privacy. “Mrs. Singleton, has the Professor told you who we ran into up in Amherst?”

“No but I sensed it. We hoped not to have to worry you two about this until after the wedding,” Karen admitted. “The Mystery Man isn’t someone to take lightly.”

“The Protector wasn’t,” Lana presumed.

“He wouldn’t especially with you two there,” Karen agreed while inspecting the shelves. “I’m glad he’s not here.”

“He will be at some point,” he disagreed.

“What?” Karen stared at them. “How do you know this?”

“Jor-El showed us a section of the cave wall. It predicts that the Mystery Man will come and the Protector will face him. After the ceremony, we’re going to talk to our counterparts and get more info on this guy,” Lana explained. “It’s about us and the kids.”

Karen sat down. “I knew this was too easy.” She shook her head. “Bad enough we lost Cassie and Angie once, now this is coming too. No wonder my brother is the way he is. This is going to be ugly. Really ugly.”

“You know?” Lana queried in surprise.

“Agent Singleton saw them fight twice back in 1983. Both times were standoffs. The Protector’s stronger but the Mystery Man knows Dave too. You have a good plan. Go there and talk but also enjoy yourselves. It will be your honeymoon after all,” Karen advised, suppressing a grimace. Glancing at her watch, she added, “You two have a fitting, don’t you?”

“In an hour. Thanks,” he expressed as they left for that appointment.

[“Dave?”] she called.

[“Be right there,”] he indicated before coming into the shop with two cups in his hand. [“What’s up, Miss?”]

“Close the door. We need to talk now that April’s upstairs. I don’t want to worry her about this,” she insisted.

He secured the door, ensuring their privacy. “All right. What is it?”

“Clark and Lana were just here. Apparently, your run in with Mr. Creepy’s not going to be an isolated event,” she informed him.

“So Jor-El says. I was just talking to Lex about it. Look, Karen, let’s just get the kids through their wedding. They deserve a great day. After that, I want to make sure April’s okay.”

“I know that. But if that guy shows up….”

“We let the Protector deal with him. Hopefully, we can get some other help too. I’ve decided to call Heloise,” he indicated.

“Her? With the wedding?”

“She is Lana’s great-grandmother—several times removed of course. Why not have her around just in case?” he proposed.

“And if she tries to assert Mommy’s claim?” his sister argued.

“She hates her mother more than we do,” he countered. “Besides if I know His Darkness, he’ll make it clear to her up front.”

“She has helped us in the past. All right, Dave, I guess you know best. Just be careful.”

“Hey. I wouldn’t be doing this if I didn’t think it was necessary. Our daughter is a part of this too, you know,” he reminded her.

“Tell me something I don’t know, Dummy,” she groused angrily. “I just hoped that we could start over here without the garbage.”

“We’re always going to deal with it, Sis,” he pointed out. “Sometimes, we have to do what’s necessary.” He pulled out his cell phone and dialed the old number. “I hope she’s still there.”

“Oui?” a voice asked on the other end.

<”My name is David Dubois. I need to speak with Heloise Gregoire please,”> he replied.

“Un moment.”

A minute later, an older voice interjected, <”I wondered when you’d call, Dubois. How is my descendant?”>

<”She and her fiancé are fine, Heloise. They’re getting married next week,”> he mentioned.

<”I’ve heard that. And I understand you let Le Hombre Mysterie see them? Idiot!”> she chided.

<”Le Puer dealt with him. Besides, he knows where we are. I expect him to appear before year’s end,”> he countered.

<”On December 10th no doubt. And your twins, have they been born yet?”> she presumed.

He frowned. Now I remember why she creeps Lex out. <”Almost. It could be two more weeks. I don’t want any problems. Since you’re one of the few people that the Protector trusts, I was hoping you could be close by.”>

<”Of course. My granddaughter shouldn’t have to worry about Mama’s mess. I will be there at the beginning of next week. Until then, Dubois, au revoir!”> With that, she hung up.

“She hasn’t changed,” he assessed while putting the phone back in his pocket.

“I figured that,” she replied somberly. “She’s coming, isn’t she?”

“Beginning of next week,” he indicated. “If there’s anyone who knows about what we’re dealing with, it’s her.”

“Considering she was there at the time, yeah, I’d say so. Well, Marti and Garth are waiting,” she conceded. “Take care and I appreciate that you’re letting me know. I’ll pass the message along to Garth and Steve and have them keep it under their hats. Don’t worry April with it.”

“I won’t. You take care.” He gave her a hug. “Not too long now you know.”

“I know. Trust me,” she noted before leaving.

He took a deep breath. I hope this is all for nothing. Making sure that the shop was in order, he turned out the lights and locked the door. Then he headed back up the stairs.

 


Chapter 4 [Kent Farm—two hours later]

After one of his mother’s best roast beef dinners, the two teens excused themselves and walked out in back of the house. In the deepening twilight, they scanned the area looking for something out of the ordinary.

“What are we looking for?” Lana asked.

“You heard Agent Singleton before we went to Amherst? He was talking about a fight out here between the Protector and that creep in the cemetery,” Clark noted.

“Maybe we should have him with us while we’re looking for the spot?” she supposed, recalling the warning about some things being more than they could deal with.

“I want to see the spot not challenge that guy,” he declared as they headed toward the stone wall.

“My parents’ old farm is right on the other side of that wall,” she noted, looking around the area. Then she crinkled her eyebrows. “That’s weird.”

“What?” he wondered while looking at the wall. Along it, his mother had planted a row of tulips—except for a twenty foot dirt circle off to their left. “Mom would never leave a patch like that.”

Two throats cleared behind them.

They turned to find Jonathan and Martha standing behind them.

“What are you doing out here?” his mother asked pointedly.

“We wanted to see what you were talking about,” Clark replied.

“At night? Son, your Professor didn’t warn you for nothing!” The farmer scanned the area anxiously. “Let’s go, Kids.”

“Dad…”

“Now!” the farmer insisted.

The two teens stared at each other in disbelief. Granted, Jonathan could be insistent and often was but he never yelled at them like that. Deciding that discretion is the better part of valor, they hurried back for the house.

“Did you have to yell at them?” Martha asked him.

Feeling the hair standing up on the back of his neck, Jonathan indicated, “You know the reason why. Come on; let’s go.”

She felt anxious too…as if they were being watched. She almost tugged him from the corner almost rushing back toward the house.

When they had walked back into the house, they found the teens talking to each other.

“We’re sorry,” Lana apologized.

Getting a sharp look from his wife, Jonathan replied, “I am too. We’re concerned.”

“Who is that guy?” Clark asked, wanting to know what had his parents so concerned.

“Honestly, we don’t know and rather keep it that way. Please let’s just focus on the wedding and then we’ll worry about everything else,” his mother insisted before heading off toward the kitchen.

Jonathan followed quickly, leaving the teens to wonder what was really going on.


****

[Bare spot]

As the parents had feared, they were indeed being watched.

From the dark stand of trees, the mysterious figure from the cemetery emerged, glaring at the house. “Ye can be as careful as ye like. They’re mine!” Seeing the patch there, he frowned. “An’ this time, the boy won’t stop me!”

He disappeared back into the shadows, waiting for his opportunity.



Chapter 5 [Monday June 18th]
[Kent Farm]

Lana sat in the kitchen, admittedly hiding from the world. “I can’t believe this! If I’d have known it would be this hard, I would have asked Clark to elope!”

“Jonathan and I did,” Martha indicated with a shrug. “But I know that’s not what you two want.”

“We already have…sort of.” Lana held up the bracelets. “Jor-El married us.”

There’s the rub, isn’t it? “It is up to you two but you’d disappoint everyone.”

“And then I’d have to hunt you down,” Miranda added while coming down the stairs.

Lana rolled her eyes. “Miri, we need witnesses anyway. You’d be there.”

“That’s comforting but I’d still need to set you and Clark straight. Mr. Luthor’s building that gazebo just for this. The catering prep’s going on. Auntie April’s been planning the flowers for months. And Uncle Dave, well…you know how he’d be disappointed. Then there’s Chloe. She’d be madder than a wet hen,” the sensei pointed out.

Martha chuckled. “She just made my point, Lana.”

“All right,” Lana conceded. “I just wish it weren’t so complicated!”

“Welcome to Partyville, Boss,” Miranda quipped mischievously. “Look, you’ve done everything you have to short of the ‘I Do’s’.”

“I guess. By the way, Clark and I were at Lex’s yesterday. There’s a name on my family’s side: Dr. Heloise Gregoire. Who’s she?” Lana wondered.

Martha set the pepper she was cutting down on the counter. “She’s a…friend and you might say your distant relative. We met a long time ago.”

“My what?” Lana asked, feeling both panicked and indignant. “How come he never said anything?”

“You have enough on your mind. Knowing Uncle Dave, she’s Mystery Man insurance,” Miranda pointed out while looking at her watch. “Speaking of which…”

Lana glanced at the clock and sighed, “I know. Talon, here we come. Mrs. Kent, thanks.”

Martha hugged her. “It’s okay, Lana. Every girl frets over her wedding day.”

Lana nodded before following her friend to the Explorer and letting Martha get back to the task at hand. Three days to go! Let’s hope we make it that long!

 


Chapter 6
[Smallville Airport]

Dave watched the skies anxiously through the terminal’s windows. Recalling how terse this guest could be, he wanted things to go as smoothly as possible. Hope the flight from Paris was a good one!

“It’s going to be okay,” Steve Petersen indicated.

“I know. Heloise wouldn’t come this far unless she’s willing to play by the rules,” Dave noted. “Garth ready?”

“Of course,” the other agent agreed from where he sat with Karen and April. “Let’s hope you’re right.”

Seeing the private plane appear on the horizon and then get bigger as it descended toward them, Steve added, “It won’t be much longer.”

The corporate jet landed and taxied up to the building before coming to a halt. Its door opened and stairs came down.

From it, a tall woman with intense eyes and an almost regal bearing stepped onto the pavement. She wore an elegant rouge colored blazer and long skirt. Her hair hung loosely to her shoulders. <”Just as I remembered it,> she commented to herself while waiting for the pilot to carry her bags into the building.

“Bon jour,” Dave greeted as they shook hands. <”Was it a good trip?”>

<”More or less,”> Heloise remarked almost flatly. <”I see your companions are still with you, Dubois.”> She walked over to the others. “It’s good to see you all again especially given the day fast approaching. Let’s hope it is a good one given what we’ll face afterwards.”

“Face?” April asked. “Dave, what?”

“Great.” Dave winced, shaking his head. Seeing his wife glaring at him, he admitted, “We think the Mystery Man’s targeting here.”

“Him?” she asked sarcastically. “Why not?”

“April, it’s going to be all right,” Karen assured her, not wanting her to go into labor prematurely.

“Let’s get her checked into her room and then Steve and I need to get back,” Garth advised while picking up one of the bags.

Dave grabbed the other two. “Follow us.”

Heloise sighed. <Dubois still doesn’t trust those around him. He’ll never learn!> With that, she headed out of the building toward the waiting vehicles.

****

[The Talon—two hours later]

After checking her into her room, Dave and Heloise headed for the café. They walked in and found it almost empty—quite surprising indeed for a Monday night.

<”You’ve certainly done wonders for the place, Dubois,”> she complimented.

<”Thank Lex Luthor and our friends. It was a team effort,”> he clarified. <”Pick your pleasure, Heloise. If it’s there, we either have it or we can create it.”>

<”As you did with your infamous ‘dandy’?”> She chuckled.

<”I didn’t name it. I just asked them to make it for me,”> he pointed out. <”Follow me.”>

As they reached the counter, they found Miri wiping it down.

“Hi, Uncle Dave. Is this our visitor from France?” his niece supposed.

He nodded. <”This is Heloise Gregoire. Heloise, my niece, Miranda. Lana should be around some place.”>

“Charmed,” the elder woman replied, shaking Miri’s hand.

“Likewise,” the teen agreed. “Lana!”

On cue, Lana came out of the kitchen while considering the next promotion Lex wanted to run in the Ledger. “What is it, Miri? I….” She considered the tall woman standing next to the Professor. “Madame Gregoire?”

“Oui, Lana.” Heloise smiled as she embraced her descendant. “It is good to finally meet you!”

“Likewise. Professor Dubois mentioned you were coming but I wish I had known. I would have sent you a personalized invitation myself!” Lana lamented.

“That’s our Lana. Ms. Control Freak in action,” Miranda teased.

“Like her mother was.” Heloise looked warmly upon Lana. “I am honored nonetheless to be sharing this day and I appreciate that your professor notified me of it. But I am impressed by what you have accomplished here! Quite a feat.”

“It is. We all pitched in to help, Madame,” Lana indicated.

“Please call me Heloise, Lana. One should never be that formal with family,” Heloise noted. “Still you are being modest.” She smiled knowingly. “And you, Alexandre, should know that you can’t sneak up on me.”

Lex shrugged nonchalantly. “Can’t blame a guy for trying.” They shook hands. <”How was your flight?”>

“Fine,” Heloise answered, choosing to stick with English for her granddaughter and Miranda’s benefit. “The jet makes excellent time.”

“I imagine it does. I’m sure Dave has offered you anything you want. Let me reiterate that offer. It’s good to see you again, Heloise,” the billionaire declared.

“You exhibit your mother’s generosity and hospitality. Impressive especially given your father’s true nature,” Heloise observed.

“Mom could win over Attila the Hun if you had given her long enough,” Lex presumed. “Anyhow, I do have some numbers to go over. Perhaps you can stop by the mansion after the wedding and we can catch up on things?”

“Trust me; I will be there. Merci, Alexandre,” Heloise expressed.

She hasn’t changed. This is going to be *very* interesting. Lex turned and headed toward the back room where he was prepping to meet with Lana in a few more minutes.

“I should be joining him but can we talk some more? I’d like to get to know you better,” Lana requested.

“Of course. I will be here for some time as I’m sure you can gather…at least until our other problem is dealt with,” Heloise assured her. When Lana had left, she approved, “She is quite the young woman.”

“She’s that all right. So is Miranda for that matter.” He rubbed his niece’s shoulder. “Keep up the good work, Kiddo. Meantime, I need a coffee and our visitor wants….?”

“How about a caramel hazelnut latte with double foam?” the visitor supposed.

“Coming up.” Miranda ground the beans and made the drink. She handed it to the woman. “How’s that?”

Heloise sampled it and nodded. “Impressive! This is at least as good as anything in Paris. Merci, Cherie. Come, Dubois. Let’s talk a while.”

Dave drank from his cup and headed for the corner booth where they did so.

 


Chapter 7 [Wednesday night]
[Loft]

In the previous two days, Clark had hid out on the farm, working on extra chores in an effort to deal with his nerves. Even though he had hefted two truckloads of hay bales, swept the barn out (three times) and super sped all the way up to the Canadian border and back, he still had nervous energy to burn. I hope I can do this tomorrow! It’s gotta work!

“There you are!” Pete called as he stood at the top of the stairs. “Man, I thought we were going to put a national manhunt out on you.”

“I actually crossed the border into Canada, Pete,” Clark retorted, managing a grin.

Not giving a beat, his friend countered, “Then we would have had the Mounties after your butt! If you’re nervous, you should have come to Wichita. You know you can talk to me, right?”

“Yeah. Thanks, Pete. Actually I’m glad we’re not having that bachelor party tonight. One less thing for Lana to find out about,” Clark declared.

“This is your last night of freedom. You should be living large, Clark!”

“Actually, Lana and I are already married—in the Kryptonian sense,” Clark argued. “Jor-El did it almost a year ago. He’s been pushing us to…well…you know.”

Pete looked incredulously at him. “Okay. Let me get this straight. We’re having a wedding for two people who are already married.”

“Technically.”

Pete continued, “Said married guy’s father wants them to do the Deed. Said married girl’s mother approves?”

“Yes, Pete.”

“Guy has had hots for girl since he could toddle out of the crib….”

“Pete! Come on!”

Pete grinned, knowing he had Clark on the ropes. “All of this and the power to do whatever they want and they haven’t done it yet? You’re beyond hope, Dude!”

Clark rolled his eyes. “We wanted to wait until after the ‘Earth ceremony’. Trust me; tomorrow night, you all can take a hike for a while….”

“You mean you two….?” Seeing Clark grin, Pete nodded. “About damn time! I think Lex, Miranda and I can run interference for you two tomorrow night. You have a plan?”

“We might have something in mind,” Clark hinted; a knowing smirk crossing his face. “You’ll have to find out later though.”

“What have we done? Clark Kent, perfect farm boy’s about to become a beast!” Pete cracked. “Without the red meteor in sight of course.”

“Right. If we get through the ceremony intact, that is,” Clark worried.

“I keep telling you, Clark. You have nothing to worry about. Come on; let’s have some of your Mom’s pie and coffee and tell some of the old war stories. Doesn’t cost anything,” Pete indicated.

Clark put his arm around his friend’s shoulders. “You’ve got yourself a deal. Let’s go.”

****

[Talon—after closing]

Lana set the last glass in place and sighed. “Time to go home, I guess.”

“Jitters stink, huh, Boss?” Miri supposed. “You know it’s not too late for me to call Chloe and get something set up.”

The bride-to-be shook her head. “That’s okay.” Then she smiled. “Maybe we could rent some DVDs? Have Chloe pop some popcorn perhaps?”

“Make it kettle corn and you’ve got a deal!” her friend cheered while getting on her cell phone for a couple of minutes. After hanging up, she added, “Chloe anticipated this. She rented a few really good comedies.”

“I can deal with that,” Lana agreed while grabbing the keys and deposit bag. “After we deposit this, Hollywood, here we come!”

 


Chapter 8 [Wedding Day]
[Luthor Mansion]

Lex rose with the dawn and dressed in his sweats. After grabbing a juice, he strolled out into the backyard and surveyed the ceremony site. The white gazebo sat in front of several rows of chairs. As planned, a red carpet extended from the back door to the edge of the gazebo stairs.

He knew April and the girls would be along shortly to start setting up the flowers. With the small army she had recruited, he had no doubt they would be ready in time for the noon nuptials. That lady could set the Talon up in four hours, she can do this in half that time.

“It’s something else,” Chloe indicated drowsily while pulling off her shoes and coming down the “runway.”

He watched her do so—his mind swimming with pleasure. I’m leaving the gazebo up. Some day, Chloe, you’ll make that walk for real!

“Hey, Luthor.”

He snapped out of his daydream. “Huh?”

“Already thinking of ways to torture Clark, are you?” she teased.

“The boy’s in enough trouble as it is. I have to keep him in line if anything. No I was indulging in my own private fantasy,” he admitted, smirking at her as he said it.

“I don’t suppose this wouldn’t involve a certain reporter we both know, would it?” she asked.

“No, Lois isn’t my type,” he indicated, letting the Smirk grow wider.

“I wasn’t thinking of her.”

“Of course you weren’t,” he agreed, turning serious. “Chloe, I just realized something…and maybe this is a lousy time. I can wait.”

She stared at him; her mind trying to keep up with him. “Lex, maybe I’m just really caffeine-deprived right now but I get the feeling you’ve got a question for me.”

“Maybe I do. We should let Clark and Lana have their day first,” he pointed out.

“Hey, they’re still sleeping off the pre-wedding stuff. It’s still early,” she disagreed. “What is it, Lex? Are you asking me what I think you are?”

He put a finger up. “Just a minute.” He ran back into the mansion.

What on Earth? She heard him tromping up the stairs. Then a crash came from the study. Finally, the footsteps hurried back. “Are you okay?”

He huffed for breath. “Never better. I haven’t run for a woman like that in…I don’t know when….whew!” He slumped into one of the guest chairs. “Okay.” He chuckled. “Leave it to you to get me completely discombobulated, Sullivan.”

She grinned, letting her eyes sparkle at him. “I do keep people on their toes. You especially, Lex.” She sat down next to him and took his hands in hers. “It’s just us, Lex. You know you can ask me anything. Just keep it simple and shoot straight.”

He nodded, realizing he was about to make the right move. “Straight, huh?”

“Get right to the core. No fancy stuff. No beating around the bush. Let’s leave that to Clark and Lana,” she advised.

“All right, here it is straight. Chloe, will you marry me?” he asked.

She heard the words but they didn’t register at first. “Now I know I need coffee. I could have sworn you just asked me to marry you.”

He rolled his eyes. “I did.”

“Really? You mean…you want me to….?” She gaped; her jaw slackened.

For over two minutes, the impossible happened—Chloe was speechless.

I’ll definitely need to pull the security tape after this! Then he jabbed her in the shoulder. “Hey, Sullivan, wake up!”

“Oh…I…Lex, what were we…?”

He suppressed the urge to laugh at her. “You were considering my proposal.” He arched his brow at her.

“You’re serious?”

He pulled a small velvet box out of his pocket. “Never more so on anything.” Opening it, he revealed a stunning diamond engagement ring set in fourteen karat gold. “Like it?”

“I…what do you think? Honestly, Lex, of course I like it! And….” She pumped her arms in the air and jumped about two feet off of the ground. “YES!”

“Wow. On second thought, I think we can cancel the coffee,” he cracked.

“Yeah right,” she replied sarcastically. “We have one piece of business and then I want my coffee.” She held out her right hand. “Put it on there, Billionaire Boy.”

“Answer first, Chloe,” he urged, the Smirk threatening to eclipse the lower part of his face by now.

“Geez, Lex, I just did. Oh all right.” She said really slowly and clearly. “Yes, Lex, I’ll marry you but none of that obey stuff. Got it?”

“As if you’d listen anyhow.”

“What was that?”

“Nothing, Sullivan. Yes, I got it,” he countered before slipping the ring onto her finger. “I wanted you to wear it today. Don’t want Lana worried about you stopping the wedding or anything.”

“I’m past Clark.” She kissed him. “Let’s get breakfast. Then we can start spreading our own news. This town’s going to party.”

And I won’t mind paying for it! He took her hand and led her toward the kitchen.

 


Chapter 9 [Cemetery]

Dave stepped out of his car and entered the necropolis by himself. He checked his watch again and noted that it was still before 8:45. Lana won’t be here yet. If anything, she deserves to talk with her mother.

And you need your friends…..

He saw his deceased wife’s spirit floating next to those of Lana’s parents. “Hi, everyone. Big day, you know. The one we waited for since well…that day.” He rested his forehead against the tree.

You didn’t cause the meteor shower, Lewis argued.

“Lichtenfeld did that. She got me to fly over here. Whammo! Instant disaster!” he countered.

And because of you, Lana didn’t fall into her hands. Nor did your father or Lionel take Clark away from the Kents, Laura pointed out.

“It should be Lew walking her down the aisle, not me,” Dave noted.

I wish it could be but I trust you, Dave, Lewis asserted.

“And so do we, Professor.”

He grimaced. “I had hoped to say my piece and then let you have your moment.”

Lana smiled. “I talk to them all of the time.” She glanced over at Angie. “Clark and I never had the chance to thank you, Mrs. Dubois, for the warning.”

It was my pleasure, Lana. Now if we can just convince him of that, the deceased doctor indicated. Dave, we’re around because we want to be. I’m there with you, April, Miri and the kids. Don’t feel guilty. She turned corporeal so that she could hold him. “It’s up to you to play your part as you always do.”

“Even now, you inspire me,” he told her, giving her a kiss and then holding up his left hand. “I thought you might like to see this. April gave it to me as an anniversary gift.” On his left forefinger, an extra long piece of gold covered it. “She had her band and yours fused together.”

Angie sighed, wanting to go deeper into the moment but knowing it was Lana’s day. “Sorry, Lana.

“Don’t apologize. You just showed me something important.” Lana grinned; her eyes glistening with happy tears. “I’m going to ask the priest to take out the part about death parting Clark and me. Love is forever, overcoming tragedy. I was nervous about today. I’m not anymore.”

“So you don’t mind if I walk you down the aisle then?” Dave supposed.

“As long as you’re not too hard on Clark when we get to the gazebo, sir,” the super teen insisted.

“Have to represent your Dad, you know,” Dave replied, smiling mischievously. “There will be one point I have to make. We both know what the answer Clark’ll give.” He rubbed her shoulder. “Thanks, Lana. You helped me too.” He kissed her forehead. “You should talk with them. Just remember to be back at the mansion in an hour and a half.” He turned to the three spirits. “Hope you’re there. It’ll be a great time.”

“We will be,” his deceased wife concurred. “Thank you.” With that, she disappeared.

“See you back there,” Dave concluded before heading back to the car and driving away.

Lana fidgeted. “The day’s here.”

You’ve already taken the step, Lana, her mother pointed out. Pete helped Clark to realize that last night. I’m telling you the same thing. When Jor-El joined you both, he married you. All you’re doing today is announcing that to the world. Now let’s talk…..
Lana nodded and asked one question after another…..

 


Chapter 10 [Kent Farm—10:30 AM]

Martha checked her watch anxiously. What is keeping him? She shook her head while smoothing her crème colored dress again. Then she saw her husband and Pete come down the stairs in their tuxes. “You two look great!”

“And you look fantastic as well,” her husband complimented. “Clark’s almost ready.”

“Here he comes,” Miranda called from the top of the stairs and came down to meet them in her pink dress. “Hey, Nerves of Steel, come on!”

“I’m coming,” Clark replied anxiously while following her into view. “Sorry I’m nervous.”

“Man, I knew we should have done something last night,” Pete told him. “Remember, deep breaths, all right?” He heard a knocking at the door.

Martha answered it to find Lex standing there in his dark tux with a matching cummerbund to everyone else’s. “Hi, Lex. Come in.”

“Thanks, Mrs. Kent. Sorry for the impromptu visit but Miranda told me that a certain groom didn’t want to come down,” Lex explained. “I see that’s not a problem anymore.”

“I just about had to kick his butt down the stairs,” Miranda interjected with a bit of humor.

“It’s not much longer, Clark. Hey, this is the happiest day of your life. Enjoy it,” he indicated while straightening his friend’s tie and cummerbund. “There! How are you doing, Pete?”

“I’m hanging in there. We’ve been waiting a lot of years for this day, Lex,” Pete replied.

“Amen to that,” Jonathan agreed. “Come on, Son; let’s get over to the mansion.”

Clark nodded. “Thanks, everyone.” He smiled anxiously before they headed for the Explorer, truck and Ferrari.

****

[Mansion—11:15 AM]

Lana sat in the chair in the mansion’s guest quarters, enduring Metropolis’ top stylists prodding and twisting her hair back into the coiffure from the Prom…and that was after the manicure, make up and dress adjustments. I wish Nell and Henry could have been here today. Ah well, maybe it’s for the best.

From where they watched in the corner, Miri and Chloe noted the contemplative mood.

“What is it?” Chloe asked.

“Just wishing for Nell and Henry to show up. It’s too bad really. You think they’d make time for my wedding,” Lana supposed.

“It’s too bad but we’ll survive. They’re the ones who are going to miss out,” the reporter noted.

“And Uncle Dave will be walking you down the aisle so you’ll be set there too,” her best friend indicated. “What happened at the cemetery anyhow? I’ve been picking up on these weird feelings from him this morning.”

“He’s nervous and yet at peace,” Lana told them. “My parents and his deceased wife were talking to him when I got there. They assured us both of a few things. By the way, Miri, have you seen his wedding band?”

Miranda nodded. “You mean bands. It’s really great that he can wear both of them and she’s all right with that.”

Chloe smirked mischievously as the stylist finished. “Can we have a minute to ourselves?”

“Of course,” the woman agreed before departing.

“What’s wrong, Chloe?” Lana asked.

“Nothing. Lex and I were talking out back this morning.” She blushed. “He surprised me.”

“What did he do?” the other two girls demanded.

“Lana, this isn’t intended to upstage your day, all right? We were going to wait but I needed to share,” Chloe explained before revealing the diamond ring. “Like it?”

“Why would you be upstaging my day? Chloe, this is great!” Lana assured her. “You know Clark and I will return the favor.”

“We’re counting on it. Anyhow, I thought you’d like to know. I just want us all to be happy,” Chloe commented while hugging the bride.

“And we will be,” Miranda concurred. “All of us. I’m going to check on Uncle Dave. Be right back.” She left and walked down two doors. She knocked on one. “Uncle Dave?”

“Come in, Miri,” he indicated.

She did so to find him checking himself over in the mirror. “Wow. You look really handsome.”

“Think I’ll do, Sunshine?”

She quirked her brow. “If Lana says anything, I’ll kick her butt.” She made sure his tux, tie and cummerbund were straight as well. “Where’s Auntie?”

“Putting the last touches on the flowers outside. Karen and the girls are helping. How’s Lana?” he replied.

“Nervous but hanging in there. Have you talked to Mr. Luthor today?” she queried.

“Briefly. He’s been busy.”

“You can say that again,” she agreed. “Did he mention what happened?”

“Chloe showed it to you both, didn’t she? Lex and I were hoping not to say anything until tomorrow. Ah well, how did Lana take it?” he figured.

“How else? The Boss was offering her services in the bridal party. Personally, I’m glad we know. This way, she won’t be worrying if Chloe would say something during the ceremony—you know during the objection part,” she explained.

“Considering the ‘til death do us part’ segment is out, why not take that out too? You didn’t see Madame Gregoire this morning, have you?” he wondered.

“Not yet. She’ll probably show up for the ceremony,” she assumed.

“She’ll want to look at Lana first. That’s how she is.” He gazed out the window to see the woman in question entering the mansion. “Speaking of the devil, there she is now.” He checked his watch. “It’s 11:50. I’ll be there in about five minutes.”

“Right,” she agreed while leaving.

Here goes! He checked himself over again before deciding to leave early anyhow.



Chapter 11 [Ceremony Area—11:56 AM]

Clark watched as the small group of friends, acquaintances and interested parties filled the seats beside them.

Pete and Byron worked like madmen to escort each person to their place, making sure that they were accounted for.

Then he received a tap on the shoulder and found his grandfather standing there. “Granddad?”

“Hello, Clark. Hope you don’t mind if I wanted to share the day?” Grandfather Clark supposed.

“Are you kidding?” The groom hugged his grandfather. “This is great! Mom!”

Martha patted her husband’s arm as if to remind him to watch it around her father. Then she walked over and hugged the older man. “I’m so glad you came, Dad.”

“No matter what my feelings are, Martha, toward certain things, Clark did reach out to me. I can be here for him and you. Thank you for including me,” her father expressed.

She wiped her eyes clear. “You have no idea how much that means, Dad. Wait until you meet Lana. You’ll love her. Meantime, let’s get seated.”

“Thank you, Martha. I’ll take the seat next to you on the other side from Jonathan.” When they reached Jonathan, he nodded. “Jonathan.”

“Attorney Clark,” the farmer replied, trying to be civil but not making an attempt to shake the other’s hand.

Please, God, don’t let anything happen today! Martha pleaded silently

****

Meantime, Lex sauntered up to Clark and patted the groom on the back. “Hanging in there?”

“Barely. I wish it were noon already.”

The best man arched his brow. “One minute to go, Clark. It’s going to be okay.”

“I hope so,” Clark relented. Seeing Jasmine, Chloe, Byron and Pete get into position, he knew the time was getting close.

“Deep breaths, Mr. Plaid,” Miranda teased as she stood on the opposite side of the gazebo. “She’s on her way down.”

“How’s she doing?” Clark asked.

“She’s about the same as you. I think you’ll like what you see,” she assured him.

At that moment, the organ cued the group.

Byron, Jasmine, Pete and Chloe marched in, coming down the red carpet and sitting in their seats.

Then Dave came in, leading Lana down that same runway. She was clad in her mother’s white gown with the Kryptonian bracelets on her wrists and a golden necklace around her neck. Much to everyone’s surprise, a golden tiara glittered in her hair under the veil.

“Where did that come from?” Clark whispered.

Lex shrugged and retorted low. “I have no idea.” Then he saw Heloise smiling. “Correction, I know exactly who. Just enjoy it, Clark.”

The crowd admired the bride as she passed in their midst toward the gazebo and ascended the stairs to where her friends and groom awaited.

“Who gives this woman to be wed?” the priest asked.

Dave smiled. “I do, Father, on behalf of the bride’s parents, Lewis and Laura Lang.” He placed Lana’s hands in Clark’s. “Take care of each other.” With that, he took his seat next to April.

“Well now, shall we begin?” Opening the book, he recited the mantra (minus the part about death per the bride’s request).

The vows were sworn; their eyes never leaving each other as they did so.

The rings were exchanged.

The priest closed his book and told them, “By the authority vested in me by God and the state of Kansas, I declare you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”

“Ready?” Clark asked, as he lifted the veil.

“Kiss me, Clark,” she requested; her eyes tearing up and a big smile across her face.

The couple kissed.

“Ladies and gentlemen, may I be the first to present Mr. and Mrs. Clark Kent?” the officiator introduced.

At that point, handshakes, organ music, gratuitous confetti and congratulations popped up all around.

But for Clark and Lana, it didn’t matter….They were married at last. Joined on Krypton and Earth and now in the eyes of all.

And that is what truly mattered to them.



Chapter 12 [That night]

As expected, Lex and Martha threw the wedding dinner to retire all others. Between the former, Jasmine’s father and Heloise, they had flown in the finest delicacies from around the world, allowing Smallville’s Finest Cook to head up the effort for her son and daughter-in-law.

The speeches touched everyone. Lex spoke up as best man of course, congratulating the happy couple on their achievement, cajoling them on how much effort it had taken to get them to that point, wishing them the best and reminding them that he and Chloe were always there for them.

Dave and Byron read original poetic works written for the occasion. Not surprisingly, they flowed together as they were written with their counterpart in mind….

The music and dancing sent everyone’s hearts soaring.

Most of all, Clark and Lana glided across the ballroom floor smoothly and gracefully, holding each other tightly in their arms.

It was bliss….For that moment, time seemed to stop.

****

[Crater Lake—9:30 PM]

[A/N: As you can guess, this is the chapter where the rating goes from T to M. And yes, I’m borrowing from “Slumber” (SV 3.04). But this time, it’s no dream!<g>]

After the festivities ended, the newlyweds ran at super speed back to the farm and changed out of their formal wear into the clothes they had worn a month earlier during their last interstate race. Then they zipped over to the dock by the lake side.

“I hope you don’t mind if I left my ring at the house, Clark,” she apologized. “I don’t want to lose it.”

“I think I can forgive you this once,” he noted with a smirk. “Look at the stars. Aren’t they something?”

“They’re beautiful,” she agreed. “Too bad our star isn’t there.”

“You can still see the light. The red one,” he pointed out. “The light still shows but it’s no longer there. Ask Jor-El to explain it.”

“Some other time,” she told him. “The night’s perfect. The stars, sky and the breeze are great. And so are you.”

“Likewise,” he complimented as they kissed again. “Still for leaving the ring at home, that does merit getting tossed in.”

“I need to do something first,” she indicated before stripping and standing there in her full glory. “Now you know what you’re going to get, Clark. Your turn.”

After taking a moment to admire the view, he did the same at super speed.

“Impatient, aren’t you?” she queried saucily; her eyes glittering at him.

“You have no idea,” he replied as they jumped into the lake.

As they surfaced, he kissed her over and over again, reveling in how her wet skin felt under his fingertips.

The attention aroused her as well. With each kiss, caress and touch, her own desire grew for him. She locked lips with his; their tongues diving into each other’s mouths as well. “Let’s get to…shore.”

“Tired?” he cracked.

“No, Clark, we’re just getting started,” she sighed, rolling her eyes while climbing up on the dock. “I hope you brought it.”

“Don’t worry,” he assured her while pulling out a red squared patch. “It’s here.”

She ripped it open and placed its contents on him. “Now take me please!”

As she lay on the pier awash in the dim moon’s glow, he admired her beauty, thinking of something poetic.

“It’s okay,” she declared. “You don’t have to say anything.” She pulled him toward herself. “I’m glad we waited for each other.”

He touched her core, feeling her desire literally soaking her. “I love you.” With that, he thrust his member deep into her, breaking through the maiden’s wall and truly making her his wife.

Perhaps it was the world exploding around them as a result of their lovemaking. But she heard something in the woods. “Clark?”

“Yeah, Lana?” he asked, feeling almost high from the euphoria. “Something wrong?”

“I swore I heard something out there,” she told him.

Then they both heard something hit some trees nearby hard.

The Scream sealed it.

“The Protector?” he asked.

“Peeping Toms,” she groused while wiping herself off and getting dressed again at super speed. “We’ll finish this at the house.”

“Count on it,” he agreed. “Let’s see what’s wrong first.”

****


[Woods—ten minutes earlier]

[A/N#2—The Child and Heloise first met in an AU version of the encounter told in “Timeswap” Dubois Chronicles 1.33.]

Unbeknownst to the ecstatic skinny dipping newlyweds, the Mystery Man had followed them from the Luthor Mansion to the farm and then there. “Ain’t ye two a sight? Too bad it won’t last.”

<”I would disagree.”>

The intruder turned to see Heloise step into view; the former wearing a white robe with long flowing sleeves. <”I knew you’d try this.”>

“Yer gonna die this time!” He fired a dark energy burst.

She deflected it with an energy shield. “Idiot!” She smiled coldly. <”Surely you didn’t think I’d come alone?”>

The Mystery Man heard the familiar growling nearby in the darkness. He saw the Protector stomp toward him.

“GIT!” the Dark One growled, hitting the other with a blast of his own, sending the intruder into the trees and splintering them in the process.

For added emphasis (and to advise the teens of trouble), he screamed.

One more blast knocked the Mystery Man deeper into the shadows.

“Cut the shit!” the Protector snapped.

“One day soon….remember that…all of ye!” With that, the intruder vanished.

“Crap! Ah wanna whup ‘im!” the Protector spat.

“Calm yourself. You will get your chance soon enough,” the visitor advised while heeding the vibrations around them. “Over here, you two!”

Clark and Lana entered the clearing to find the duo waiting for them.

“What happened?” he asked.

“Puritan Boy watchin’ ya! Gonna try somethin’!” the Protector hissed. “Comin’ here was STOOPID!”

“But it’s our wedding night!” Lana protested.

Heloise looked at them all before lecturing, “That is true but his point still remains! You know of the danger and yet you ignore it, Lana! I know what almost happened at the farm last week.”

“There was nothing by the wall,” Clark asserted.

The Protector snorted. “Wrong, Boy! Puritan Boy was there! Big Bro an’ Ah checked!”

Lana buried her face in her husband’s chest. “Clark, if he’s watching us, what can we do?”

“Be mindful of your surroundings. Both of you,” her ancestor advised. “That is why Dubois asked me to come. And why I am grateful for Le Puer’s assistance.”

“Your robes. Are you like Isobel?” Lana wondered.

The Protector laughed sarcastically. “Ah woulda whupped ‘er if she was!”

“I practice the white arts independently. I learned so as to oppose my mother, the Countess, and sister. That is where we first met. He traveled back in time.”

The duo stared at their friend.

“Yeah Ah was there an’ whupped Iso-Smell,” he admitted. “Hope Chi…ld an’ others can ‘plain it.”

“Child and others?” Heloise asked.

“It’s a long story,” Clark replied. “When we go, maybe she can come with us?”

“Wha’ver. Ah wanna talk w’ Chi…ld,” the Protector reiterated.

The newlyweds steeled themselves, trying to deal with what had happened and almost happened to them.

Then Clark suggested, “Let’s get back to the farm. Then we can decide what to do after that?”

“We should be safe enough for tonight,” Heloise noted, mumbling an incantation and making them vanish into the night.

 


Conclusion [Next Day][A/N: The poem “Forever Love” is my work as well.]
[Loft]

Clark and Lana sat on the couch, staring into space and wondering what they had done wrong. It was their wedding night after all. Weren’t they entitled to a night of peace? To celebrate?

“Why can’t these threats just leave us alone for one night?” he insisted.

“Clark, it’s okay,” she assured him.

“No it’s not. I can’t even make love to my wife without some creep threatening us,” he disagreed. “Why?”

Jor-El’s spirit appeared before them. Because of who you both are and what you represent. There are those here who crave our gifts and talents, my children. Listen to Dubois, he knows this from experience.
[“And he really was there? With the Countess?”] Clark insisted.

Your counterparts have the answers you seek. The other Dubois will soon tell his world’s version of the battle between Isobel and the Destroyer—the one whom the Protector defeated in the other Smallville. I cannot say more for I do not know. As for the trip, he and the white witch are waiting.
[“What about Heloise?”] she asked.

She practices sorcery but she does not have the same aura as the Mystery Man who pursues you. Go with her but be cautious. The Protector’s trust speaks well of her but I would like to know more about her as well.

[“We’ll be more careful,”] Clark promised.

“Good,” Dave agreed while walking up the stairs with Heloise. “You two all right?”

“Fine, sir. Is this where the lecture comes?” Lana supposed.

The two older adults looked knowingly at each other before he shook his head. “The scare you got last night should drive that point home. Still, guys, you need to be more careful, all right? I keep telling you that you’re not invulnerable. Believe me; magic can kill you.”

“Listen well, my darlings, for he speaks the truth,” Heloise agreed. <”Do you wish me to stay here or come with you?”>

<”Miri and Jasmine are guarding the fort. Besides, there are some friends you need to meet,”> he indicated.

On cue, wisps of mist hung in the air, congealing and forming the familiar portal. From it, Deirdre stepped into the Loft.

“All ready, I see?” the Althanorian priestess supposed. “How was the wedding?”

“Great,” Lana sighed while squeezing Clark’s hand. “And we’re ready to take your Dad up on his offer.”

“He’ll be glad to hear that,” Deirdre agreed. Then she looked at Heloise. “And this is?”

“I am Heloise, a practitioner of the white arts in the legends of the lost sisterhood beyond the mists.” She considered the portal. “There are stories of those who could do this but they are lost to us.”

Deirdre frowned. “That’s a pity. While you’re there, you may meet my Aunt Cybelle, Papa’s sister. She can tell you more.” Noting the piece of parchment paper in Lana’s hand, she asked, “What is that?”

“The poem I wrote for the occasion,” Dave told her. “Want to hear it before we go?”

“Of course,” the priestess agreed.

“Here goes:

Forever Love
David Dubois

Love is fleeting
So they say
Eyes scarcely meeting
Before going away

Love is like a fire
So fragile, so strong
Smothered in mire
Or burn it does a tree throng

When given time
Love us binds
When it common hearts does find
And together it locks their minds

Like the two trees in a story old
Lovers together do grow
As with Tristan and Isolde
Bound you are through rain and snow

Love, when set
Forms the universal base
The true road, she lights
Her symbols many

When we inside of us do her let
And let her weave her delightful lace
Our ardor allows us to another site
A paradise as good as any…”

“Only you and Papa can write like that.” She allowed them all to consider the words before advising, “Follow me. The answers you want not to mention that honeymoon are through the mists,” Deirdre complimented.

“Can we stop and get April? Sorry but she’s really close to her due date. I’d feel better if she’s with us,” Dave requested.

“Of course. After you.”

With that, the quartet passed into the mists, followed by their other dimensional friend who shut the gate behind them.

And so, the newlyweds seek to pick up their bliss from where it was interrupted, find the answer they seek and prepare for the future threats as well.

That preparation would be sorely needed indeed.

 


THE END (for now)

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