The Clana Journals

[C.A.chick]

HEHE, UPDATE SVSLEUTH

[SmallvilleMan]

i need an update.

[Cardinal]

This is so weird.

I just picked up my Season 4 DVD set today, and now, thanks to SV and her 'Journals,' every time I watch an episode, I think about how SV wrote about this or how she improved it with an alternate version.

It's such a weird way to watch Smallville. :p

Which leads me to beg for more before my watching catches up with the "Journals."

[NYC300Z]

oh man I didn't recognize u for a second Cardinal. I see u changed ur avatar for a second I was like who is this...... and i'm like no way Cardinal is that you???:lol:

[luckykentcharm21]

^^^lol

just a friendly reminder to update ;0)

[LovinMe210]

ha this is good!

[SVsleuth]

Sorry I'm taking longer than intended to finish this. It is actually written out, but not typed. I will TRY to get to it tomorrow. If it's not up by Sunday, it may be a much longer wait. We will be returning home to get repairs done on our house after the hurricane. Power is restored, but not DSL, so I may not be able to post much on dial-up, & with so much to occupy my time. I do want to at least post what I already wrote, so I will really try tomorrow.

[Cardinal]

Update when you can, we'll still be here to read it.

You still get me with the non-update posts. Doh! ;)

[SVsleuth]

The CLANA Journals: RUN Part 2

I hope y’all don’t mind that I’m minimizing actually quoting the episode & mostly giving very concise summaries, to refresh your memory, and concentrating on the journals.

Inside the Talon, late at night, Martha is seated at a table after hours working on the bookkeeping. She is on the phone with Jonathan.

Martha: I'd like that too, Jonathan, but I can't. (Pause.) Because I still have all this work to do. I'll be home as soon as I can. That's the best I can do. (Pause.) Okay, bye.

She hangs up the phone and puts it down on the table. She brings her hand to her forehead with an expression of exhaustion. Lana enters behind her.

Lana: You're working late.

Martha: Oh, God. It's like this never stops. I don't know how you managed all this and went to school too, Lana.

Lana: It wasn't easy. But I don't remember staying this late after closing every night.

Martha: Well, it's easier to do this here than at home.

Lana: Is everything all right, Mrs. Kent?

Lana sits down at the table.

Martha: Oh, Jonathan thinks the only reason I took this job is to help out with our finances. (Lana nods. Martha pauses, becoming emotional.) I love him so much. But after everything that's happened, all his health problems, the only time I'm not worried about losing him is when I'm here working.

Lana: But if you're here all the time, then, um, you don't see him anyway. Isn't that like you've lost him already?

Martha: (Smiling.) A summer in Paris has really given you some insight, Lana. (Lana smiles in return.) Thank you for reminding me.

Lana: Reminding you of what?

Martha: That it's easier to deal with your fears if you can share them with someone you love.

Lana nods thoughtfully, affected by Martha's words.

***

LANA’s JOURNAL

“It's easier to deal with your fears if you can share them with someone you love.” That’s what Mrs. Kent said. Ironically, she said I somehow reminded her of that. I have so many fears related to this tattoo, and the missing 12 hours, and Isobel’s tomb, and the caves and the symbols. How are they connected? Share my fears with someone I love? I guess that would have to be Jason. He’s the only person in my life right now that I really love – at least, I think I love him. But how could he help? What if he thinks I’m crazy and leaves me? Then I’ll have no one at all.

Should I risk it? Will it really make it easier to deal with my fears if I tell him? Maybe. Well, I’m getting nowhere on my own, so I guess it’s worth a try. If I don’t tell him, and keep it from him, he probably won’t stay with me anyway – he’ll probably leave me, just like I left Clark when he wouldn’t open up to me. Maybe Jason’s right: secrets destroy relationships. If I want any chance of keeping a good relationship with Jason, I have to be honest with him, and let him decide if he can handle it or not. That’s the only way. It’s what I always begged Clark to do – to confide in me and let me decide if I could handle it. But he never would. Several times it seemed he was about to, but would always change his mind and push me away. I still wish he hadn’t. I wonder how different things would be if he had opened up to me. But he never could; and I can’t change that. I’ve accepted the fact that I can never be with Clark. So now there’s Jason. And I can’t do to him what Clark did to me. No. I will be honest with him – let him decide whether to believe me and if he wants to continue in a relationship with me. Yes. I’m going to tell him everything – very soon. I’m convinced it’s the only way.

***
Bart brings the manuscript page to Hanison. Lex shows up. Fighting begins and guns are pulled. Clark comes to the rescue, Bart uses kryptonite against Clark & takes the manuscript. Clark & Bart exchange some words, after which Bart closes the box with the kryptonite & speeds away.

***
Clark and Jonathan have a conversation about Bart.
***

CLARK’s JOURNAL

I keep trying to talk to my dad about how I’m feeling, but he just doesn’t get it. Sometimes a part of me wishes I could be more like Bart. I spend so much time trying to hide who I really am that I’m starting to feel like two separate people. Dad says lots of people feel that way. But it can’t be the same for them as it is for me. I wish I knew someone else who had to keep something secret, who could understand what I’m going through. Sometimes I’m just tired of keeping it a secret. I just want to come right out and reveal to everyone who I really am and let them have to deal with it. I want to be able to use my abilities openly, at least with a few people – or even one person – like I used to be able to do with Pete. Of course, I really wish it could be Lana. I always have. But I don’t see how we could ever get there now – after all the times I’ve let her down….

***
More coming soon, hopefully later today...

[MOOman0618]

Awesome update! I still love no matter how hard she tries, Lana's journals always end up coming back around to Clark. Having Bart around for a least a while must have been great for Clark. He could actually be himself for a while. Can't wait for more, maybe today. :)

[Cardinal]

Yup, MOOman, I love it, too! :)

Lana and Clark are like two blind mutes playing a game of Marco Polo. Each desperately needs the other, but has no idea how to find the other, or even that the other needs them. :(

[NYC300Z]

Yeah what Mooman I love that element of the Journals!

:lol: @ Cardinals Marco Polo explanation!

Can't wait for the rest later today!:D

[linn]

that was great.and really it was.....i hope for the other the one too.!!!!!!!!!!

[SVsleuth]

The CLANA Journals: RUN – Part 3

Martha pulls up at the farm. She gets out of the car as Jonathan walks toward her.

Jonathan: Hey. I thought you'd be at work all day.

Martha: Well, that's one of the benefits of being the boss. I promoted Linda to assistant manager so I could take a break and spend some time with a ruggedly handsome farmer.

Jonathan: Well, you're in luck. There just happens to be one sweating in your driveway right now.

Martha: (Flirtatious.) Maybe I should get the hose and a bucket of soap.

Jonathan smiles and walks closer to Martha, putting his hands on her face.

Jonathan: I've really missed you.

Martha: Me too.

They kiss and then embrace. Martha closes her eyes happily as she leans her face against Jonathan's chest.

***

Jason and Lana enter the Kawatche caves. Jason looks around in wonder, shining his flashlight on the walls.

Jason: This is amazing.

Lana: When Clark first found these caves, I had no idea why he was so obsessed with them. I always felt like he was keeping secrets from me because he was afraid of how I was going to react. I don't want to live like that. I don't want to be afraid all the time.

Jason: You don't have to be. Not with me. That's what I've been trying to tell you.

Lana: Okay.

Nervously, Lana walks past Jason.

Lana: Do you remember the church we went to in Paris?

Jason: Yeah, and I had to leave early to make arrangements for your birthday.

Lana: Right. Well, after you left, I noticed something strange on the tomb of Countess Theroux. There were these symbols etched into the rock like the ones in this cave.

Jason: (Looking at the walls.) How is that possible?

Lana: (Turning to look at him.) I don't know. (She walks past him again, keeping her back to him.) And when I touched them, there was this blinding light and then pain. And all I remember is waking up the next morning to you knocking on my door. And I had this.

Lana pulls up the back of her shirt and shows Jason the tattoo. He looks at it for a long moment, having a hard time accepting the story.

Jason: Okay, wait a second. So you're saying that some strange symbols on the tomb of a dead countess gave you a tattoo?

Lana: I know how it sounds. Why do you think I didn't want to tell you?

Jason: (Beginning to understand.) That's why you left Paris.

Lana: I had to come back to these caves. I had to find out why I was missing 12 hours of my life. But all I found were more questions.

Lana points over Jason's shoulder at the wall. He turns around and sees a wall painting of the symbol tattooed on Lana's back. He shines his flashlight on it.

Jason: It's the same as yours. What does the symbol mean?

Lana: (Afraid) I don't know. Jason, I don't know what's happening to me.

Jason: Hey, hey. Whatever it is, we'll figure it out together, okay?

Lana: (Whispered.) Okay.

Jason holds Lana close. She rests her chin on his shoulder as he stares at the wall painting warily.

***
A peek into JASON’s THOUGHTS

That is a really bizarre story Lana told me. Yet, she’s right: the symbol on her back does match the one on the cave wall and the one on Isobel’s tomb. I wish I had never taken her there. Why did I? Well, I guess it was just because the story had intrigued me when my mother brought me there earlier in the summer. Yeah, that was when she unexpectedly showed up in Paris for a day, then went back to the Hamptons. She took me to that church & told me a story about Countess Theroux. I never paid much attention to the details. My mother has always been obsessed with obscure things from the past. What did she say? Let’s see… I think she said the Countess was a warrior princess who was martyred, & her tomb was later moved to that church. The warrior princess just seemed to me to be an interesting subject for Lana’s art project. That’s why I brought her there.

But what in the world could be happening to Lana? How could it be connected to the Countess Theroux? I’ve got to help Lana figure it out. She seems so frightened. I feel so helpless. But at least she’s confiding in me. At least she’s trusting me. I’m glad. Because secrets always destroy relationships – like my parents’. And I don’t want anything to come between me and Lana. I really care about her. I wish we didn’t have to keep our relationship a secret. But it can’t be helped for now. It will only be for this school year. After Lana graduates, we won’t have to hide anything anymore. I’ll be glad for that.

***

LANA’s JOURNAL

Well, I did it. I told Jason the truth. He didn’t think I was crazy. He didn’t understand it any better than I do, but he promised he’d help me figure it out. I’m glad I told him. It is easier, feeling that I have at least one person to talk to, one person to help me sort this out. I hope we can figure out what is happening to me. All of this is so scary, so strange. What possible connection could I have to that Countess Theroux? Why is that symbol on her tomb, on the cave wall & on my back? Why me?

I still wonder if Clark knows something. He found those caves. He was obsessed with those caves & those symbols, & he was so secretive about it. Could there be some strange connection between those caves and Clark? Do his secrets have something to do with those caves? Did something unexplainable happen to him too, that he was afraid to share with me? I wish we were on better terms, so I could confide in him. He may be the only one who can help me understand what is happening to me. But I’m not ready to ask him – not yet. I’ll see what Jason & I can uncover first. If we get stumped, I guess Clark is my last resort - I’ll have to approach him. But not yet. No. Not now.

***

Clark goes to see Lex. He finds out that Bart returned the manuscript. He uses his X-ray vision to get a better look at the hidden map. We find out that Lex has uncovered the hidden map & has it on his computer, but Clark is unaware of this.

***
Clark sits outside the farm on a bale of hay drawing the map from the manuscript in his notebook. Bart superspeeds up and is suddenly standing behind him, looking over his shoulder at the notebook.

Bart: Dude, your drawing sucks. Stick to the hero thing.

Bart drops his backpack on a bale of hay and walks around Clark to face him as Clark closes his notebook.

Clark: You mean like returning a priceless artifact to its owner?

Bart: Carrying all that money around would've just slowed me down anyway.

Clark: To a dead stop if I hadn't found you.

Bart: Yeah, how did you do that? What are you, fast, strong, and psychic?

Clark: (Smiling.) I wish. (Clark holds up the MP3 player Bart gave him.) I spent a whole night down in Suicide Slums trying to convince someone that I had a thousand of these to fence. A few guys pointed me in the direction of Hanison.

Bart: Well, look at you - channeling your inner criminal.

Clark: So, um, what are you gonna do now?

Bart: I don't know. I mean, it's a big world. I figure I'd check it out, see if there's anyone else out there like us. Maybe start, like, a club or a league or something.

Bart puts on his backpack as Clark nods a little disappointedly.

Bart: You know, you could come with me.

Clark: Or you could stay.

Bart: You have a great life, Clark. But it's not mine. I have no reason to stay in Smallville.

Clark: (Hopeful.) You have me.

Bart: (He smiles, but refuses.) Thanks for being my friend.

Bart turns to go.

Clark: Are you sure there's nothing I can do to change your mind?

Bart: (Turning back to Clark.) Tell you what. If you can catch me... I'll think about it.

Without waiting for an answer, Bart super speeds away from the farm and onto the road. Clark super speeds after him, chasing him down a road lined with corn and catching up slowly. In slow motion, we see Clark gaining on Bart as the scenery blurs past. Bart looks back at him. Smiling, he turns around so that he's running backwards. Clark smiles in return.

Then Bart waves his hand goodbye, and gains even more speed. His body flashes red and he runs out of sight, too fast for even Clark to keep up. Clark comes to a stop in the middle of the road, amazed at Bart's speed. He looks in the direction that Bart went with a smile.

***

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Wow! That was fun – trying to catch Bart. I haven’t had that much fun in a long time. I hope he stays out of trouble. I’m encouraged that he returned the manuscript. I think there’s hope for him. Maybe there is for Lex too. He’s not pressing me for info, even though I know he suspects that I knew who stole and returned the document. It’s still a strained relationship with Lex, though. His continued interest in Kryptonian artifacts concerns me. Does he believe they are connected to me? Is he trying to expose me, or to protect me? I can’t quite peg his motives. I just feel that I have to continue to be cautious with him. I can’t let myself forget that either Lex or Lionel is Segeeth – but can that destiny be changed? I hope so. Maybe my destiny is to change his. Maybe that’s why Lex seems to have a connection to all the Kryptonian artifacts: the Starblade, the stone, the manuscript. And Lionel once had the key. I wonder where the key ended up when it disappeared? I wonder if it will ever re-appear? I guess I can’t find answers to any of this without it. The key is the only way I know to talk to Jor-El. So I guess I’ll have to wait and watch – just keep my eyes open to anything that seems connected to Krypton – like that map – collect information, and try to make sense of it as best I can until Jor-El communicates with me again or the key resurfaces. Meanwhile, I’ll just go to school, hang out with my friends, and play football – like I wanted to do. I hope senior year turns out to be the best year ever.
***
END of RUN. Next post will be on the Alt. CLANA Journals thread, Alt. RUN. May take a while, due to Katrina. I'll try, though.

[MOOman0618]

Awesome Update. I feel bad for Jason when I rewatch the beginning of the season. He was actually a likeable guy...except for the fact he was with Lana. Anyhow, nice work of getting into his and the other's heads. I can't wait for the Alt. Run! This should be fun.

[binkys711]

WAHOO!!! a SVseuth update! loved it! thanxz a bunch for the update!:D:D:D It's always so cool reading what they might have been thinking in that instance! can't wait 'till Alt. run! PPMS!!!:D

[NYC300Z]

Nice job with Run even though it lacked Clana...kind of hard to do Clana journals with an episode with no Clana.....but u gave something to advance season 4 and had Lana thinking about Clark in her Journal.

[Cardinal]

Thanks, SV! Any update from you right now is a bonus!

I was somewhat surprised that Jason doesn't seeme to have an ulterior motive in his relationship with Lana, at this point anyway. I guess his momma hasn't taken him into her confidence yet! :\

[linn]

im with cardinal

[NYC300Z]

yeah good point Cardinal

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by Cardinal
Thanks, SV! Any update from you right now is a bonus!

I was somewhat surprised that Jason doesn't seeme to have an ulterior motive in his relationship with Lana, at this point anyway. I guess his momma hasn't taken him into her confidence yet! :\

Sorry - NOT an update.

Jason has not been in contact with his mother. We will begin to see an influence by her upon him when she shows up in Smallville, in Bound.

[binkys711]

OoOoO.....ok!

now, you must update Alt clana! MUAHAHAHA!!!:p (if ya can:\)

[SVsleuth]

Sorry... I probably can't update, at least for several days. Maybe by next weekend... We are travelling home tomorrow, then have clean-up to do at the house, have to see how long lines are when I need gas, groceries, etc. This will impact how much time I have. I also have to get my homeschooling going..... So I can't give a good estimate, but it's on my mind & I will try to get to it as soon as I can. Thanks for reading.

[NYC300Z]

It's ok we all know you've been through a lot. Well be here waiting though!:D

[MOOman0618]

We will be waiting patiently but vigilantly!

[Cardinal]

This one, too! :)

[binkys711]

*bump*

[SVsleuth]

I decided to work on the Clana Journals version of Transference first after all, before doing Alt. Jinx. I will post it tomorrow, if I can get it transferred from the laptop via a disc since I'm waiting on a part to re-connect to the network. I tried tonight, but it keeps saying the disc is write protected or something. Oh, well. soon anyway...

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: Transference - Part 1

NOTE: I’m just giving excerpts from Transference, in order to place the journals in context. No happy Clana here, unfortunately. If you want that, try Alternate Transference instead, in my other thread.

-----
Jonathan: Clark. What's the matter, son?

Clark: I hear a ringing.

Jonathan: Can you tell me where it's coming from?

Clark: [Still in pain.] I have to go.

Clark super speeds away to the Kansas State Penitentiary.

Jonathan: Clark!
----
At the prison, Clark comes between Lionel and Lex, and Lionel & Clark switch bodies when Lionel touches Clark with the transference stone.
-----
Later…

Jonathan: Hey, Clark. Look who came to check up on you.

Jason: Hey.

Clark smiles at Jason politely, not recognizing him. Jonathan walks away to let them talk, and pats Clark on the back as he passes by. Unsure of how to respond, Clark pats Jonathan on the back in return. Jonathan looks at Clark strangely, then continues into the kitchen, leaving Clark and Jason alone in the living room.

Jason: How you feeling? It's good to see you up and around.

Clark: I feel fine.

Jason: You sure? 'Cause you're looking at me like you have absolutely no idea who I am.

Clark: No, I know you are. You're my... coach.

Clark pokes Jason in the chest, pointing to the word Coach on Jason's Smallville High jacket. Clark leaves the living room and starts to walk up the stairs. Jason follows him into the entryway.

Jason: All right. Well, I guess I'll see you at practice tomorrow.

Clark: [Turning around.] You know, uh, I'm not gonna be able to make it.

Clark starts to go up the stairs again.

Jason: It's pretty important... [Clark stops and turns around, becoming impatient.] ...considering you could clinch a scholarship on Friday.

Clark comes down the stairs and escorts Jason toward the door.

Clark: Coach, I just, um, I need to rethink my priorities. I have no interest in football whatsoever.

Clark tries to push Jason out the door, but stops when Jason keeps talking.

Jason: Whoa, Clark, hey. You realize that every player on that roster would kill to be in your position? I mean, you get a free ride to a college of your choice. You just want to quit the team?

Clark: Precisely.

Clark closes the door in Jason's face. Jason stands there confused for a moment, then leaves.
-----
Smallville High School. Clark is seated at the computer in the Torch office. He enters a username name and password to log on to the LuthorCorp intranet. The password is denied. Clark angrily pounds on the corner of the desk and a chunk of the wood breaks off.

Clark: Lex changed the password.

Chloe enters the office and turns on the light surprised to see Clark.

Chloe: [Noticing Clark's dress shirt.] What, is flannel too five minutes ago?

Chloe comes toward Clark and puts down her bag. She notices the broken corner of the desk.

Chloe: Whoa. Who pulled a Paul Bunyon on the desk?

Clark: It was that way when I got here.

Chloe: Weird.

Clark: You know, Chloe, I'm concerned about your well-being.

Chloe: Oh, yeah? Why's that?

Chloe goes over to the other desk. Clark twirls around in his chair to look at her.

Clark: If Lionel Luthor managed somehow to get out of prison, what do you suppose he'd do? About you, I mean.

Chloe: Why? Has the Lionel Luthor alert suddenly been elevated to orange? [Clark looks at her mysteriously.] Do you know something I don't?

Clark kicks off against the desk and wheels his chair over to Chloe.

Clark: No. But it always pays to be cautious.

Chloe: Well, I'm not exactly shaking in my sneakers. I mean, he won't be eligible for parole until he's, like, 112 so...

Clark: [Standing up.] You never know. He could get out sooner than you think.

Clark starts walking toward Chloe flirtatiously, and she backs away laughing.

Chloe: Yeah, well, I think maybe our quarterback has been sacked one too many times.

Clark: Maybe.

Chloe goes back to the broken desk looking at a file with her back to Clark. Clark walks toward her slowly.

Clark: I do feel as though I'm looking through a different pair of eyes. I certainly see you in a whole new light.

Chloe: [Turning to face him.] What exactly is that supposed to mean?

Clark: [Standing very close to Chloe.] I have to confess that I... I find you absolutely fascinating. It's that twinkle in your eye... [He looks at her lips, touching her chin gently with his finger.] ...your wonderfully sexy smile... and your skin is...

Clark leans in as if to kiss her, and Chloe pulls her head back.

Chloe: Clark, what are you doing?

Clark: [A seductive whisper.] What I've wanted to do for a very... very long time.

Clark leans in again, closing his eyes. Chloe turns her face up and closes her eyes, ready to accept the kiss. They stand with their lips almost touching for a moment, and then Clark takes a breath and pulls away. Chloe opens her eyes to see what happened. Clark looks at her coldly.

Clark: Don't you wish. [Making his exit.] Miss Sullivan.

There are tears of shock and disbelief in Chloe's eyes as she watches Clark leave.
-----

Lana and Jason are in Jason's office at the high school. Jason is looking at a file that Lana gave him.

Lana: I did some research on the Countess Theroux. It turns out that we have a lot more in common than I thought.

Jason: Don't tell me the countess ran a coffee shop.

Lana: No, she's from this village in France. Castelnois de Montmiral. The same village that my mom's ancestors came from.

Jason: Really? What do you think it all means?

Lana: I don't know. It's all really strange. She was buried as a martyr, but, um... She was burned as a witch.

Jason puts down the file and goes to Lana who is becoming upset.

Jason: Hey. We will figure this out. I promise.

Jason takes Lana into his arms and she holds onto him gratefully.
-----
In the hallway two cheerleaders come out of the locker room and walk down the hall. Clark walks between them in the opposite direction.

Clark: [Charming.] Ladies.

The cheerleaders smile at him and keep walking. Clark's super hearing suddenly comes into focus, and he hears Jason talking to Lana.

Jason: You are my main concern, Lana. We'll get through this countess thing together.

Jason is still holding Lana and they kiss. Clark walks into the office, and Lana quickly pulls out of Jason's arms.

Clark: Oh, please, don't stop on my account.

Lana: [Defensive.] Clark, it's--

Jason: Lana.

Clark: Oh, you don't have to explain yourself to me... Lana. You're young, vital. You have... needs. [To Jason, taunting.] Right, coach?

Clark leaves the office with a smug grin, shutting the door behind him. Jason looks at Lana who puts her hand over her mouth with worry.
-----

LANA’s JOURNAL

What am I going to do about Clark? He saw me with Jason. If he tells anyone, Jason could get fired. It almost seemed as if he already knew - like he purposely broke in on us just to worry us. But, that just doesn’t seem like something Clark would do. I don’t know, maybe he found out somehow & he’s just jealous. I guess it is hard for him to find out behind the scenes that I’ve moved on to someone else. I hated that he found out from Lois the way it happened when I got back. I always intended to tell him myself about Jason. I thought he deserved that, in case he was still holding on to feelings for me. But when Jason took the job at our school, I couldn’t tell anyone, not even Clark. I never wanted to hurt Clark. I wish we could have preserved our friendship. Maybe we still can, someday.

Well, in any event, I’ve got to make sure he keeps his mouth shut. I’m going to have to go and talk to him. Keeping secrets seems to be something he’s pretty good at. Yeah. I’ll go and talk to him tomorrow. I wish I didn’t have to. Ever since I got back from Paris, things have been really strained between us. It’s like I really don’t know Clark at all any more.

-----
Part 2 coming later today... if someone posts a reply, that is..

[linn]

awesome update somehow i really hate the Jalana

[EEE]

Here's your reply SVsleuth. I'm curious what Lana writes in her journal after her confrontation with Lionel/Clark.

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: Transference - Part 2

The next day, Clark is in the loft talking on his cell phone. He is holding the tape recorder near the phone as he talks to a woman.

Woman: Your account number, please.
Clark turns on the recorder.

Lionel's voice: 434690.

Woman: May I please have your mother's maiden name?

Lionel's voice: Meehan.

Woman: Voice verification complete. Account balance is two dollars and fifty-nine cents.

Clark: No. No, no, there was 57 million U.S. dollars in that account.

Woman: A withdrawal for that amount was made two months ago.

Clark: The day I was convicted.

Woman: Sir?

Clark crushes the phone in his hand furiously.

Clark: Lex. Of course.

Lana enters behind him.

Lana: Clark?

Clark turns to look at Lana, then turns away again, exasperated.

Clark: [To himself, about Lana.] This one.

Lana: About last night, um, I'm sorry that you found out about me and Jason the way that you did.

Clark: You'll get over it.

Clark throws the remains of the phone onto the table and walks away from Lana, still upset about the phone call and not really paying attention to Lana.

Lana: We didn't just meet. He was in Paris over the summer, and we sort of spent a lot of time together.

Clark: [Flat.] How romantic. A lovers' meeting, the first kiss shared on the banks of the river Seine.

Lana is confused by Clark's coldness.

Lana: He moved to Smallville to be with me, Clark. It's kind of serious.

Clark: Well, I'm not surprised.

Clark walks to Lana, suddenly seductive.

Clark: A man would travel around the world to... pluck your succulent fruit.
Lana: [Angry.] Don't talk to me like that.

Lana walks toward the door as Clark chuckles.

Clark: I can't help it. Sorry.

Lana: [Turning back to Clark.] Clark, I need you to promise me something.

Clark: Whatever you want.

Lana: Don't tell anyone about me and Jason.

Clark: I don't understand why you're so interested in this high school football coach. Think a minute. Do you have any idea what I have to offer you? [He walks slowly to her again.]

Lana: Yeah. Yeah, I think I do. Lies and secrecy and a whole lot of confusion. You were the one that broke up with me, remember?

Clark: Well, that was a mistake. I was... I was too young to know what I was doing. I'm older now, more mature.

Lana: Well, I'm not so sure.

Clark: Oh, Lana, I'm very different. Let me show you.

Clark grabs Lana by the shoulders and kisses her forcefully on the lips. She jerks away from him and slaps him across the face.

Lana: Who the hell do you think you are?!

Lana storms out of the loft leaving Clark with a satisfied smile on his face.

Clark: Clark Kent. Of course.

He touches his face where Lana slapped him.
-----

Lana’s Journal

What the hell has gotten into Clark? I have NEVER known him to be so - so - so - Oh, I don’t even know what to call it! I am SO angry with him! I’ve never been more upset with him ever - not even when he asked me out on a date, then went home with Jesse instead! What is it with Clark & these sudden personality changes? It’s like he’s a totally different person, like someone I’ve never met before. How could he grab me like that, and force me… ooh, I wish I could have smacked him even harder. What makes him think he has the right…? Just because we were together for what, like 2 days? What, does he think, he owns me?

I hope he doesn’t say anything about me & Jason. I guess he has no reason not to. He was acting so strange, I guess I should expect that he’ll be eager to blow the whistle on us. Jason doesn’t deserve to lose his job over this. After all, we were dating before he got the job; and I’m eighteen. We’re not hurting anyone. If only I can convince Clark to keep it to himself. How can I get him to keep silent? I cannot go over to his place again and give him another opportunity to …. Well, maybe I can corner him at school, where it’s a more public place. Yeah, that’s what I’ll do. Tomorrow.
-----

Clark strides in through the double doors of Lex's study where Lex is seated at the desk. Day. Clark is dressed in black slacks and a black dress shirt.

Clark: Crunching numbers? Or spinning day dreams?

Clark walks over to the bar and picks up decanter of liquor, taking off the lid and smelling it with pleasure.

Lex: I don't remember you being a scotch drinker.

Clark: [Pouring a glass.] It's very difficult to resist a 29-year-old Highland. [Lex smiles.] You know, I had a feeling you'd pillage your father's collection of single malts.

Lex: Now, how do you know it's from my dad?

Clark: Isn't it all your dad's? This castle, LuthorCorp, the cars, the jets, everything. The very cufflinks in your sleeves.

Lex: Clark, I know you well enough to realize this isn't you talking.

Clark: You're absolutely right, I'm not myself. [Clark downs the scotch in one gulp.] I'm under stress. Lex, I need to get my hands on 57 million dollars.

Lex: That's an interesting dollar amount.

Clark: It's not your money. You stole it. Now I want it back.

Lex looks at Clark for a moment. Then he gets up quickly from his chair and opens a small box next to the desk. He pulls a handgun out of the box and points it at Clark. Clark super speeds to Lex and grabs him by the throat, cutting off his air. Lex gags and drops the gun, grabbing onto Clark's arms as Clark walks him around the desk.

Clark: [Calmly.] Now, get on the phone, tell the bank to wire the money, or I'll snap your larynx like a twig. [He slams Lex's face down onto the desk.] All right?

Lex: [Choked.] Go ahead. Kill me.

Clark: All I wanted was the best for you. And you destroyed me.

Lex: Dad?

Clark suddenly becomes weak and falls to the ground. When he falls, we see that Martha is standing behind him holding a piece of kryptonite. Lex chokes and also falls to the floor. Martha kneels next to him.

Martha: Lex.

We hear a rush of air, and when Martha turns around, Clark is gone. She looks around the room, panicked.

-----
At the prison, a riot breaks out. Amid the violence, Lionel walks through the commons area looking around. Along the periphery of the room, Lionel sees a small glimpse of Clark's eyes as he walks behind a group of prisoners. Lionel fixes his gaze in that direction and soon sees Clark clearly, walking outside the cage of the commons area and keeping his eyes coldly fixed on Lionel.
Clark super speeds to the middle of the room where he is standing only several feet away from Lionel.

Lionel: What happened to concealing your powers?

Lionel walks toward Clark and Clark grabs him by the throat, lifting him into the air.

Clark: Sorry. Only one Clark allowed.

Lionel: [Breathless.] What are you gonna do, go to high school and stack hay for the rest of your life?

Clark: A farm boy? I don't think so. I have big plans for this Clark Kent.
Lionel straighten his right arm and holds his hand out. The black stone falls down from his armpit, and he catches it in his hand. It glows as he slowly brings it up to Clark's hand at his neck and touches Clark with it. The room darkens and again the energy rises from their bodies. White energy from Lionel and green energy from Clark. They trade places in the air and fall back into the correct bodies with a burst that sends them sliding across the floor in opposite directions.
Lionel, now in his own body, looks down at his hand with shock as a group of guards enters wearing gas masks and shields and carrying nightsticks. Clark looks down at his hand, relieved.
The guards throw several smoke bombs into the room, filling the area with tear gas. We see the black stone resting on the floor, but someone walks by, and it is suddenly gone. Clark gets to his feet as the guards run into the room and start to overpower the prisoners. Still on the floor, Lionel looks up into the smoke filled room, his eyes watering from the gas, and sees a silhouette of Clark standing before him. Lionel squints to get a clearer look, but Clark super speeds away. Lionel remains on the floor, breathless.

-----
Part 3 maybe in a few hours.....

[baldy92]

great update PPMS

[linn]

that was awesome....ppms!

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: Transference - Part 3

-----
Clark, now dressed in his traditional flannel, helps Martha and Jonathan clean up the mess Lionel made of the Kent kitchen. Jonathan is measuring the cupboard above the fridge to put in new doors as Clark sweeps broken glass into a dustpan.

Clark: What else did Lionel do?

Jonathan: Well, for starters, you quit the football team.

Clark: I better call Coach Teague. [He grabs the phone.]

Martha: He's not the only one. Lana and Chloe came by to see you, and they both looked pretty upset.

Clark: [Putting the phone down.] Before I do any of that, I gotta get that artifact.

Jonathan: Clark, I don't want you going anywhere near that prison, son.

Clark: If I don't find it, Lionel could.

Martha: You can't risk having the same thing happen to you all over again.

Clark: Look, this isn't the first time I heard the ringing sound. When I was Kal-El, I heard the same sound, and it led me to an artifact with a Kryptonian symbol on it in Lex's jet.

Jonathan: Where's the artifact now, Clark?

Clark: I put it in a chamber in the cave wall. There's a slot for two more. Lionel's artifact matches one of them. I don't know where the other one is.

Martha: Why didn't you tell us about this earlier?

Clark: With everything we've been through with Jor-El, I just wanted to close that chapter in my life. I guess it doesn't matter what I want. Look, these artifacts, I think they're somehow meant for me.

Jonathan: And I think Lionel Luthor would disagree with that, don't you?

Martha: And now that he knows about your powers, he's more dangerous than ever.

Clark: Not for long.

Jonathan: Clark, what are you talking about?

Clark: Lionel Luthor is dying, Dad.
-----

Clark’s Journal

Boy, am I glad to be myself again. It sure wasn’t fun being Lionel Luthor. So Lionel’s been scouring the globe looking for artifacts with the Kryptonian symbols on them. What do the Luthors have to do with these Kryptonian stones that Jor-El wanted me to seek out? Lex had the first one. Lionel had this one. Are those stones meant for me? The slots for them are in the cave. This is all so confusing. I wish I could just be normal, go to school, and play football, and forget about those stupid stones and Jor-El’s crusade.

I wonder how much of a mess Lionel’s made out of my life? He quit the football team? And got both Chloe and Lana upset? Lana and I weren’t on great terms to begin with, ever since she got back from Paris. I guess that hot summer fling changed her. And Chloe and I were just beginning to get back to normal after that whole spiked sports drink episode. What am I going to tell them? How in the world can I explain? He better not have hurt either of them or I’ll - I’ll have to hurt him. Well, it’s late. I guess I’ll see Chloe & Lana soon enough at school tomorrow. I just hope I can come up with something half-plausible to say.

-----
At Smallville High students enter the school. Chloe walks through the hallway. When Clark speaks to her, she keeps walking, and he follows.

Clark: Chloe. Listen, I'm not really sure what I did to you.

Chloe: Another convenient case of amnesia, huh?

Clark: No, but whatever it is, I'm really sorry.

Chloe: [Facing him.] Clark, you know what? It's a really valiant effort, but you've used up your lifetime allotment of apologies. Look, I'm only saying this to you because I care about you, but I think you should go and look for help. [Clark doesn't understand.] Some psychological help.

Clark: Chloe, I totally appreciate your looking out for me, but I really don't think I need to talk to anyone.

Chloe: Well, then how are you gonna explain all of this? Clark Kent, crackhead?

She walks away. He follows.

Clark: Chloe, I don't do drugs. Look, it wasn't me.

Chloe: Yeah, but, see, Clark, it was you. Now, a lot of people in this town have pulled a Jeckyll and Hyde, but deep down, they're still the same person.

Lana walks up behind Clark. Chloe sees her.

Chloe: Lana. He's all yours. [Chloe leaves.]

Lana: Have you said anything to anyone?

Clark: [Confused.] What?

Lana: Don't play games with me, Clark.

Clark: Seriously, Lana, I have no idea what you're talking about.

Lana takes Clark by the arm and leads him over to the side of the hallway, away from the other students.

Lana: This isn't about you and me, all right? This is about Jason losing his job.

Clark: Why would Jason lose his job?

Lana: Why do you think? If anyone had the slightest inkling that we were a couple, he'd be fired in a heartbeat.

Clark is visibly shaken.

Clark: You and Jason?

Lana: We're both adults, and we're not hurting anybody. But the school has its rules. He needs this job, Clark. [Clark nods.] Please, you know, after everything that you've put me through, can you at least keep this a secret? It seems to be the one thing you are good at.

Clark: [Hurt, but agreeing.] Yeah.

Lana walks away, leaving Clark stunned and unhappy.

-----

Clark’s Journal

Woah! Lana is dating Coach Teague? How in the world did THAT come about? I guess that guy from Paris is history after all. I can’t believe coach Teague would risk his job to date a student - although, Lana is pretty hard to resist. And Lana - who would have thought that she’d be in a secretive relationship with a teacher? Lana hates secrets and lies. How…? I guess I never really knew her as well as I thought I did. Well, at least I finally know why Coach Teague beat the hell out of me when he drank that spiked Gatorade. The girl he wanted me to stay away from was Lana!

Well, she asked me to keep it a secret. I guess Lionel must have found out about them, and she thought it was me. Well, I am the Fort Knox of secrets. And I like Coach Teague; I don’t want him to lose his job. And as much as we’ve grown apart, I could never do anything to hurt Lana. No, I won’t tell. I’ll just pretend I don’t know at all.

I wonder what Lionel did to Chloe? She seemed very miffed with me. She thinks I need a psychiatrist? Or that I’m on drugs? I guess after several episodes with Red K, and now this, it must seem to her that I have a personality disorder, or am on drugs. How am I supposed to explain? How are we supposed to get beyond this? Thanks a lot, Lionel. You’ve managed to isolate me even further from the few friends I had left. I guess I really am alone. That is the hardest thing for me - the isolation. If there were just one person that I could let in on my secrets, one person with whom I could just be myself - well that would make life a lot more tolerable. It’s so hard being an outsider. I want to be able to get close to someone. I wonder if I ever will?

-----
Lex's mansion. In his study, Lex opens a bottle of scotch and starts to pour a glass as Clark comes into the room.

Clark: Lex!

Lex picks up a gun and points it at Clark.

Lex: Stay where you are!

Clark: [Holding still.] Lex, it's me, Clark. I need to talk to you.

Lex: [Walking toward Clark.] After I drove my Porsche into the river and you fished me out, I asked your dad if there was any way I could repay him. What did he say that we always joke about?

Clark: Lex, what is this, a pop quiz?

Lex: Answer the question!

Clark: He told you to drive slower.

Lex lowers the gun.

Lex: Welcome back. [He goes to Clark and they hug.]

Clark: So you know what happened.

Lex: Well, it was a bit of a giveaway when you asked for 57 million dollars.

Clark: Lex, my mom told me what I did. I'm sorry.

Lex: Clark, if you didn't come between me and my father in that visiting room, it would've been me sitting behind bars. I should be thanking you.

Clark: I didn't do anything you wouldn't have done for me.

Lex smiles and pats Clark on the shoulder. Then he walks back to the bar and puts down the gun.

Lex: So how did my father do it?

Clark: I-I don't know.

Lex: And that strength you had. It was incredible. Where did it come from?

Clark: Um, it must've been a side effect of the transference.

Lex: Well, whatever happened, I'm just glad it wore off.

Clark: Lex, I have a favor to ask.

Lex: Name it.

Clark: Well, it has to do with your father's cellmate. He's actually the one that helped me through this whole ordeal. He saved my life. He swears he was framed.

Lex: Clark, a lot of convicts swear they've been framed.

Clark: But I believe him. And I promised him that if I got out, I'd do everything in my power to help him. And Lex, you're the only one I know with the resources that might be able to help.

Lex: Well, if I can manage to put a guilty man in prison, maybe I can get an innocent man out.

Clark nods and smiles thankfully. Lex smiles in return.


CLARK’s JOURNAL

Lex knows that Lionel and I were somehow switched. He doesn’t know how, but he knows it happened - and that Lionel intended it for him. How did that stone cause such a change? I guess there’s some kind of Kryptonian power to transfer attached to that stone - or that symbol. I wonder if I’ll ever understand what it’s all about? Well, I guess if Jor-El wants me to know, he will let me know somehow. I’m just glad Lex thinks it was al Lionel’s doing, and not mine. Yet Lex is the one who had the first stone. How did the Luthors know about these stones anyway? Edgar said a Mayan legend says that uniting the three elements will lead to a great trove of knowledge. I guess they’re just trying to solve an ancient mystery, especially when they noticed the symbols match some of the ones in the caves. I hope they don’t suspect a connection to me. How much do they really know? I wonder. I guess I’ll be extra cautious around both of them from now on.
-----
End of Transference

[SVsleuth]

-----
Thanks for suffering through the Jalana with me. To perk you up, go read the Alt. Clana version on my other thread. Lots of CLANA there. :)

[Cardinal]

I absatively, posilutely HATE Jalana!

GRRRRR!!! :mad: :mad: :mad:

Originally posted by SVsleuth
CLANA JOURNALS: Transference - Part 3

She seemed very miffed with me.
End of Transference

:lol: Clark has a serious talent for understatement. :lol:

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by Cardinal
I absatively, posilutely HATE Jalana!

GRRRRR!!! :mad: :mad: :mad:

ME TOO! But remember, this thread doesn't change the episode, it just tries to get inside Lana and Clark's minds & hearts, so we can better understand the journey they took in season 4 - & how they end up dancing together in Spirit, getting closer in BLANK, & saying "I Love You" in Commencement - and beyond..... Now early Season 5 journals will be fun, won't they???? We won't even NEED Alternate versions there. Well, I wonder if I'll ever get that far.... Stick with me, Cardinal, there IS Clana ahead! ;)

[Cardinal]

Oh, I know the Clana is coming, I was just agreeing with your comment about suffering through the Jal...the Ja...dang it, the J-word.

I can't even type it now.

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by Cardinal
Oh, I know the Clana is coming, I was just agreeing with your comment about suffering through the Jal...the Ja...dang it, the J-word.

I can't even type it now.

:lol: :lol: :lol:

[NYC300Z]

just read transference. Very sad bringing up those memories. Can't wait to move on...

Set your mind at ease we gotta take it slow...

PPMS!

[C.A.chick]

yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!YOU'RE WRITING AGAIN

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: JINX - PART 1

The football game has just begun at Smallville High. Chloe goes to a guy named Mikhail Mxyzptlk to place a bet on the game. Mikhail then goes to watch the game, and seems to have the ability to control the players, in order to influence the outcome of the game. On the last play of the game, Mikhail makes Clark trip. Clark trips and plows into another player, injuring him, but does score the winning touchdown.

-----
At Smallville Medical Center, the injured football player is sitting in a hospital room having a sling put onto his arm. Jason and Coach Quigley stand outside the room watching through the open door. Clark gets off the elevator nearby.

Clark: Is he okay?

Jason: His collarbone's broke in two places. I can't figure out how you could pummel a guy that outweighs you by 100 pounds and shatter his collarbone.

Clark: I'm sorry. It must've been an accident. I mean, I got a surge of adrenaline.

Jason: Adrenaline doesn't explain the fact that you went from chucking bales of hay to chucking 60-yard passes overnight.

Clark: I guess I'm a fast learner. I mean, you said yourself I was a natural.

Jason: Yeah, a natural who adamantly refused to see a doctor after he collapsed a couple weeks ago.

Clark: What are you trying to say?

Jason: Coach Quigley thinks you’re on some kind of performance-enhancing drug.

Clark: (Stunned.) Like steroids? (Jason nods.) What do you think?

Jason: Well, I put myself on the line and said there's no way that Clark Kent would do something like that.

Clark: (Pause.) I'm not on drugs.

Jason: I hope not. Because if it comes out that you're not on the same playing field as these guys, let's just say it's gonna be pretty disappointing to have to forfeit an entire championship season. (Clark looks away.) And a college career.

Clark returns his gaze to Jason, and Jason walks away. Clark then looks through the window into the patient’s room.
-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL

What am I going to do? How did I injure that player? I have never tripped before. It was weird; it was like my mind was telling me to do one thing, but my legs were doing something else. It was like I wasn’t in control of my own legs. Now Coach Quigley thinks I’m on steroids? What if he wants to do a drug test? I can’t do that. Even Coach Teague seems to have doubts about me. He has always supported me before.

Well I’m not on drugs - not performance enhancing drugs, like Quigley thinks, nor on other drugs, like Chloe inferred. This is so hard to endure - people thinking things like that about me. I wish I understood what happened out there on that field. I’ve got to figure it out. I cannot let something like that happen again.
-----

Clark is seated in the kitchen, staring downward unhappily. Jonathan is standing near him pouring a cup of coffee.

Jonathan: There's more to life than championships, Clark.

Clark: I bet it's easier to say that when you have one. Dad, when I put on that uniform, it's like I forget who I am. But at the same time, I've never known myself better. It's more than just a game.

Jonathan: Clark, I allowed you to join the football team because I thought you understood your responsibility not to let anybody get hurt out there.

Clark: And I accepted that responsibility because I know I can control my abilities.

Jonathan: Then why don't you explain to me why there's a kid lying in a hospital bed right now?

Clark: Have you ever seen me trip? Ever? (Jonathan can't respond.) Something happened out on that field. It was like I couldn't control my own legs.

Jonathan: Just because you are strong does not mean you can't get rattled out there just like anybody else. Now, I'm sorry, but the last place you need to be right now is out on that football field, and you know it. (Clark refuses to make eye contact.) Coach Quigley is likely to be at the victory party tonight. Now, I'll give him a call and I'll be the bad guy.

Clark: (Standing up.) No, Dad. Like you said, it's my responsibility.

They look at each other for a moment, then Clark walks away.

-----

The Talon is full of high school students talking and dancing to loud music at the victory party. There are decorations up for the party including a banner that says "Go Crows." There is a small group of cheerleaders standing around the punch bowl. Martha passes by them with a tray of pastries which she sets on the bar next to where Jason is standing. She smiles at him and touches him on the shoulder as she walks by. Clark enters wearing his letterman jacket and walks to Jason.

Clark: Hey, coach, can I talk to you for a second?

Jason: What's up?

Another player walks up and interrupts and slaps Clark on the chest happily.

Guy: Kent, Kent! Huge save today! Oh, man what a play! You put us in the championship!

The guy pulls Clark away from Jason and another player walks up to congratulate Clark.

Clark: No, the team put us in the championship.

Guy: I can see the ring on my finger already.

Guy #2: I can see the scholarships already

Guy: Oh yeah! Whoo!

Clark looks at Jason apologetically. A cheerleader comes over to Clark.

Cheerleader: Hey, Clark, you're here! Ta-da!

Two other cheerleaders walk out carrying a huge cake that looks like a football field with sparkling candles on it. They set the cake on the bar and everyone applauds for Clark. A young man standing nearby pulls the "Go Crows" banner down from the ceiling puts it around Clark's shoulders like a cape.

Guy: (Breaking up the applause.) Whoa, whoa, whoa. Coach!

All the football player start to chant.

Players: Coach! Coach! Coach! Coach!

Coach Quigley walks to the center of the team.

Quigley: All right! All right! (Everyone quiets down.) Topeka West may have three titles under its belt, but I know we have a real shot at the championship, and this year we got it all! An impenetrable defense, an aggressive offense, (He looks at Clark.) and a golden arm!

Everyone starts to cheer again and a few guys pat Clark on the back. He accepts the praise reluctantly.

Quigley: Let's go take the title home!!!

The whole crowd cheers with enthusiasm and they start to chant.

Crowd: Crows! Crows! Crows! Crows!

Clark looks at Jason who is still standing next to the bar. Jason looks back at Clark seriously.

-----
Jason’s thoughts

I wonder what Clark had on his mind. Was he going to confess to using steroids? He sure seems reluctant to accept the praise of the team. It seemed like something was really bothering him. What if he is on something? Why did I risk my own neck for him? I let him on the team without his parents’ permission. I saw potential in him, and cut him a break. I let him slide on drug testing. Why? Just because he has enough talent to take the team to the championship? I should have known better. This could cost me my job. Well, better this than the teacher/student liason coming out. At least it doesn’t get Lana involved. - I wonder what Lana thinks about the possibility that Clark is on steroids? I’ll have to ask her. She seems to have known him pretty well.

----
Part 2 is coming up, if I get a buffer...

[Cardinal]

Buffer! I just love being torn away from writing my stories so I can read others' stories. Go, SV! :D

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: JINX - PART 2

In the Torch office, Mikhail tries to convince Chloe not to write her article on betting.

Mikhail: (Walking closer.) But you're only just starting to scratch the surface and I can give you so much more dirt.

Chloe: You're just trying to stall the article, aren't you?

Mikhail: I don't think you understand me, Chloe. (Almost a whisper.) I always get what I want.

Chloe: (Jokingly.) On looks, apparently because your charm just ran out.

Chloe starts to walk past him.

Mikhail: Stop.

Chloe stops moving immediately, staring at him with surprise.

Mikhail: Kiss me.

Clearly against her will, Chloe kisses Mikhail slowly on the lips. He breaks the kiss and puts his mouth to her ear.

Mikhail: This is me asking you nicely. Now, you are going to drop that article whether you want to or not.

Mikhail steps away from Chloe and looks at her silently. She looks back at him with fear and confusion. He leaves the office.
-----
In the loft, Clark practices throwing footballs through a tire. He then uses a piece of kryptonite to weaken himself as he plays. Martha discovers what he is doing and stops him. He wants to find a way to play like everyone else so as not to let his teammates down.

Martha: (Stern.) You are not taking meteor rocks out on that field. I know this is hard, but you can't make yourself sick.

Clark: And I can't quit, either.

Martha: Clark, the answer is no. You asked your father if we'd ever seen you trip before. Never. Not without kryptonite. I was so excited to see you get a chance to be like everyone else that I guess I forgot for a moment that you aren't. I didn't think anything of it when you tripped, but you've never had mishaps like other kids. (Clark turns to look at her.) Something happened to you out there, and if you really want to play in the game on Saturday, you need to find out what it was.

Clark nods. Martha touches his shoulder and smiles at him lovingly.
-----

Clark is in the Torch office. He is watching a videotape of the game from the other day. He rewinds it over and over and watches the part where he tripped. Chloe enters and Clark stands up as if to leave.

Chloe: It's all right, Clark. You can stay.

Clark: I thought you had some self-imposed restraining order against me. Does this mean you're talking to me again?

Chloe: No, this just means that I'm willing to take a chance on getting your Dr. Jekyll side today. (Noticing the paused video.) What's up with the self flogging?

Clark: I'm watching the sports editor's tape of the game, trying to figure out what happened, but... It's like I had no control, like my mind was sending one message, but--

Chloe: But your body was getting another.

Clark: Yeah.

Chloe: It's Mikhail.

Clark: The foreign exchange kid? Mix-uh

Chloe: Mxyzptlk. Say that three times fast. He's our new resident puppet master. This is kind of embarrassing, but he made me kiss him.

Clark: (Slightly doubtful.) Made you.

Chloe: Yeah. It was just like how you explained your trip. It was like someone else was controlling me.

Clark: Okay, but why would he want me to throw the game?

Chloe: Clark, he is the biggest bookie in the school. (She sits down at her computer.)

Clark: The power to control the odds.

Chloe: Let me do a search on his name.

Chloe types Mxyzptlk into the search engine. Nothing comes up.

Chloe: I guess I shouldn't be surprised that Mxyzptlk didn't bring anything up.

Clark: (Pointing to the screen.) What's that?

Under the search bar, it says "Did you mean Kltpzyxm?"

Chloe: It's Mikhail's name backwards.

She clicks Yes. Clark & Chloe discover that Mikhaik has the power to control the hand of luck.

Chloe: Looks like Mikhail's still running from his heritage. (She comes back to the computer.) It doesn't exactly say how to stop the kissing bandit, does it? (Noticing something on the screen.) Oh, here. According to the legend, the only thing that stopped them was a plague of locusts.

Clark: There may be one other force they didn't count on. Think about it. Who brought him here in the first place?
-----

Lex is playing pool as he talks to Clark in his study.

Lex: You want me to deport a LuthorCorp exchange student?

Clark: Gambling on Crows games isn't a sanctioned extracurricular.

Lex: I'm surprised you care so much about some half-rate bookie. Or is there something else about Mikhail you're not telling me?

Clark: Lex, you sponsored him. I just thought you might want to do something about it.

Lex: Of course I'll look into it. But I'm surprised you didn't go to the principal first or Coach Teague. But then I can see how that could be more complicated than it sounds.

Clark: (Pause.) Why would it be more complicated?

Lex: Come on. I can't be the only one who's picked up on Lana's fondness for quarterbacks. Even retired ones.

Clark: Yeah, to be honest, it has been hard to see her with someone else.

Lex: Don't worry. Paris can have a magical effect on people, but the enchantment has a funny way of waning the longer you're gone.

Clark: I know Lana. She's never been this serious about anyone.

Lex: You sound awfully concerned about that for someone who let her walk out of his life.

Clark: Yeah, I guess the whole "If you love them set them free" thing kind of backfired.

Lex: It's not about love, Clark. It's about what you're willing to do for it. On that field, you'll do whatever it takes to win, but if you're not willing to do the same for Lana, maybe she doesn't mean as much to you as you think.

Lex watches Clark for a response. Clark merely thinks about what Lex said.
-----

CLARK’s JOURNAL

I sure do miss having Lana in my life. My feelings for her have never changed. I’m still having a hard time grasping that she is with Coach Teague - and apparently it’s rather serious. From what Lex said, it sounds like Jason must be the guy Lana met in Paris - apparently, it was more than a summer fling. He must have come here to be with her. She must want to be with him pretty badly to be willing to keep their relationship a secret and all.

How I wish I could turn back time to before Lana went to Paris. How I wish I had been honest with her. Lex says I just wasn’t willing to do what it takes to win Lana to me - and that, if that’s the case, maybe she doesn’t mean as much to me as I thought. Is he right? No, I WAS willing to tell Lana the truth. I fully intended to do it. It was Lex who interfered with that. What about now? Am I willing to do what it takes to gain another chance with Lana? But what can I do? Lana seemed rather miffed with me when she asked me to keep their relationship to myself. I guess all I can do is respect her wishes. That’s not much, but hopefully, Lana can begin to trust me again, at least.

-----
Lana is in her apartment above the Talon talking to Jason.

Lana: Clark on steroids. It's a little hard to picture.

Jason: It happens to a lot of guys. You want so badly to outperform everyone, before you know it, all you care about is winning, no matter what the cost.

Lana: (Sympathetic.) You're not responsible for Clark.

Jason: Actually, I am. Coach Quigley asked me to give him a drug test, and I never mentioned it to Clark, so I lied and said he came back clean.

Lana: Why would you do that?

Jason: I don't know. Because I believe in Clark. And because he knows about us. I didn't want to stir the waters. If he wanted to get back at me, all he's gotta do is tell somebody at the school and I lose my job.

Lana: Clark wouldn't make it personal.

Jason: Why not? I mean, I can't imagine what I would do if somebody tried to take you away from me.

Lana: Nobody took me away from Clark. I left.

Jason: Right.

Lana: Clark's a big part of the reason why I took off for Paris in the first place.

Jason: Oh, well, that must be from the book of things you never want to hear about your girlfriend's ex.

Lana: Look, Jason, I'm with you now, and I couldn't be happier. And I know, I know, Clark can be unpredictable, but he knows that you need this job to stay in college.

Jason: I know it's hard because you've been so close to him, but are you sure you really know him?

Lana can't respond.

-----
LANA’s JOURNAL

What a question Jason asked! Am I sure I really know Clark? No, I am NOT sure I really know Clark. I certainly didn’t know him at all the other day at his loft. Could he be on something? If so, maybe that’s why he was acting so out of character that day. Or maybe it really was pure jealousy. Would Clark make it personal and try to get Jason fired out of jealousy? Not the Clark I used to know. But the Clark who came on to me at the loft? Yeah, he definitely would.

If I’m honest with myself, I have to admit that Clark has changed a lot. He is nothing at all like the Clark I used to know - the Clark who was so sensitive and caring and gentle. I do miss that Clark. If he were here, I wonder….I wonder if looking into his eyes could still cause my heart to pound the way it used to. No one else has ever had that effect on me - not Whitney, or Byron, or Ian, or Seth, or Adam - not even Jason. Is Jason really the guy for me? Well, for now he is. Long term, I really don’t know. I guess only time will tell.
-----
buffer?

[HP_DRAGON]

Buffering

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: JINX - PART 3

Mikhail gets Lex to take a bet on the Crows’ championship game. Lex bets on Clark. Mikhail threatens Clark & nearly chokes him to death at the loft. Clark and Chloe try to figure out a way to jam Mikhail’s powers.

-------


The members of the football team are running toward the field led by Coach Quigley. Jonathan is standing nearby waiting for Clark. Quigley shouts at the team energetically.

Quigley: All right, let's go! All right! Let's go, let's go! Come on, come on!

Clark finally comes into view and almost runs past Jonathan without seeing him.

Jonathan: Clark.

Clark turns around to face Jonathan as the rest of the team keeps running.

Jonathan: (Disappointed.) What are you doing?

Clark: You know what Mikhail said. He'd hurt those guys if I wasn't out there.

Jonathan: A bunch of 250-pound guys banging into each other on a football field is one thing. But getting hit by you is like getting run over by a freight train. It's a big difference, son.

Clark: I hope that doesn't happen. I think Chloe and I found a way to stop Mikhail.

Jonathan: Chloe and you think you've found a way to stop him? Well, I'm sorry, son. Thinking is not good enough.

Clark: Dad, I know you don't agree with me. But sometimes taking responsibility means having faith in yourself to make the hard choices.

Jonathan: And it also means being willing to accept the consequences.

Clark: Every handshake, every hug, every time I'm out on that field, I make a conscious decision to fall when those guys hit me so they don't get hurt. No matter how hard you try, you can't understand that. That's why it's my decision, not yours.
Jonathan is silent for a long moment. Then he takes a deep breath and smiles.

Jonathan: You're starting to sound more and more like your father.

Clark smiles in return.

Clark: I hope so, Dad.

Clark turns away and jogs toward the exit. Jonathan watches him go proudly.

-----

Chloe sets up a jamming device to block Mikhail’s powers. It works, and as Mikhail tries to control the players his powers are gone.
Chloe is still in the sound room holding the transistor radio. In the bleachers, Mikhail touches his ears, then looks at his hands and sees blood on his fingers. He looks around and realizes that the frequency is coming from the loudspeaker. He gets up from his seat and walks away.
Mikhail makes his way through the basement of the school toward the sound room holding his ears. He gets there and finds Chloe holding the radio. She looks up at him, startled.

Mikhail: Fancy toy!

He rips the wire out of the radio and the noise stops. Chloe pulls back her arm as if to punch Mikhail in the face.

Mikhail: Stop.

Chloe punches him.

Chloe: Looks like someone's been broken. Kind of sucks when you have to play fair, doesn't it?

Mikhail grabs her by the coat furiously and pushes her against the wall.

Mikhail: Yes, well, in my country, you do not survive if you cannot adapt to the unexpected.

He pulls out a switchblade and pops it open next to Chloe's face. She stares at the knife, frightened.
-----


Clark is standing near the edge of the field and Mikhail is standing behind him.

Mikhail: Clark.

Clark turns around and walks to him.

Clark: What are you doing here?

Mikhail: (Holding up Chloe's press pass.) Here's how the last play in my game works. If the Crows score another touchdown, Chloe's dead. If you don't go back out on the field right now and lose the game, Chloe's dead.

Mikhail walks away as Jason walks up to Clark. Clark listens to Jason but his expression is distant and worried.

Jason: Kent. Let's go. (Putting his hand on Clark's shoulder.) All right. We're gonna do an ace back Montana post. This is it. This is for the title.

Jason pats Clark on the shoulder and Clark runs out onto the field.

Announcer: The Crows have first and ten on the 50-yard line. Five seconds remaining on the clock. Smallville has time for one more play. The season all comes down to this.

As the announcer is speaking, the team huddles are breaking up.

Clark: All right, guys, let's do it!

They all clap their hands once and run out to the middle of the field and get into position, hunched down across from the other team.

Clark: Blue 32!

Martha and Jonathan watch nervously.

Clark: Blue 32!

Clark looks at the bottom of the bleachers and uses his X-ray vision to look through the concrete wall. He sees Mikhail holding Chloe by the hair as he holds the knife near her throat.

Clark: Set! Hut!

As the time ticks down from 5 to 4 seconds, the ball is passed to Clark and he runs backward as the rest of the two teams run at each other. Another Crow is already running in the opposite direction, waiting for Clark to throw him the ball. Clark throws the ball high into the air toward the other player and the entire crowd is riveted. Jason and Coach Quigley are completely silent as they watch the ball fly through the air.
A Husky runs to Clark, about to tackle him, and Clark suddenly goes into super speed and runs off the field. We see him moving at normal speed while everyone around him seems to be frozen in time.
He runs into the basement of the school where we see two janitors in the process of mopping and sweeping the floor, but again, they are completely still. Clark takes off his helmet as he runs toward the sound control room where he finds Mikhail and Chloe facing each other.
Chloe's hands are handcuffed together and she holds them up in front of her trying to ward Mikhail off. Mikhail is holding the knife pointed at her as if about to stab her. Clark slaps the knife out of Mikhail's hand and pushes him away from Chloe. Then he rips the chain off of Chloe's handcuffs. Mikhail and Chloe stay frozen in their new position and Clark puts on his helmet as he runs out of the sound room and back onto the field.
He gets in front of the Husky who was just about to tackle him and he goes back into normal speed, raising his arm into the air as if he had just thrown the ball. The Husky knocks into Clark's chest, and Clark allows himself to be taken down.
In the sound room, the momentum of Clark's push sends Mikhail flying backwards and crashing into the wall. Chloe looks over at him, unsure of what has just happened.
On the field, the Crow that Clark threw the ball to is still running toward the goal post with his neck craned up to see the ball coming toward him. Jason mouths the words "Come on" and Martha and Jonathan watch the football coming toward the earth.
The Crow jumps into the air and reaches out, catching the football and then falling to the ground just as the clock reaches 0.

Announcer: Touchdown! The Crows win! Can you believe that?!

Martha and Jonathan scream with joy. Jason throws his arms into the air. The roar of the crowd is deafening. The Crow who caught the ball gets back to his feet and holds the ball high above his head.

Announcer: Clark Kent makes another unbelievable play!

In the sound control room, Chloe looks down at the broken chain of her handcuffs, then over at Mikhail who is unconscious on the floor. She cannot figure out what has happened.

Clark is still lying on the field after being tackled. Another member of his team takes his hand and helps him to his feet and holds Clark's head to his own in a half hug as he laughs hysterically.

Player: Yeah!!! Come on, man! We'll miss the party! Ow! Whoo!

He pulls a smiling Clark toward the other players. Martha and Jonathan hug ecstatically. The players and cheerleaders all converge at the end of the field and lift Clark onto their shoulders.

Clark: Yeah! Whoo!

------
one last buffer?

[HP_DRAGON]

OK buffering

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: JINX - PART 4

At Kent farmhouse, Jonathan and Martha are in the kitchen. Jonathan is holding a tray of tea and Martha puts a note next to a plate of cookies and a glass of milk on the counter. Clark enters in his letterman jacket and smiles when he sees the cookies.

Jonathan: Oh, looks like championship quarterbacks no long have a curfew, huh?

Clark: (His smile fades.) I'm late. Sorry.

Martha: (Quietly.) Jonathan.

Jonathan: Clark. Your mother and I know that Mikhail was arrested. Now, when I was out on that same field, all I had to worry about was completing the next pass or whether or not I was gonna get sacked. But we're very proud of you.

Martha: For everything.

Clark smiles again.

Martha: (To Jonathan.) Hey, you. Come on. (To Clark.) Good night.

Jonathan: Good night.

Jonathan and Martha leave the room as Chloe knocks on the door and enters.

Chloe: I don't know what it is with you, but no matter how many times I put you in the penalty box, it never sticks. I hear you're quite the hero tonight, Clark Kent.

Clark: Yeah, well, if it wasn't for you, we wouldn't have won the game.

Chloe: Yeah, well, you can thank Uncle Sam for that. (Clark doesn't understand.) My Uncle Sam. It's amazing the access a three-star general has to cool toys. And you never know when a jamming device for stealth fighters will come in handy at a football game.

Clark: Because of that jamming device, Mikhail can't control anyone anymore.

Chloe: Awesome. (She sits on the counter.) But what I don't understand is how I miraculously came untied.

Clark: (Avoiding the subject.) And what I don't understand is how you get sucked into anything besides anonymous tips.

Chloe: Well, we all have our weaknesses, I guess. Except for you of course.

Chloe and Clark look at each other silently.

-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL

Woah, that was a close one. For a moment, I thought Chloe was a gonner. I’ve never run faster in all my life. I wonder if even Bart could have run faster. Well, I hope Mikhail’s ability is gone for good.

-----
Lex brings Mxy to Level 33.1.

-----

LANA’s JOURNAL

I can’t believe it! Jason actually got fired! I am so steamed at Clark. He agreed to keep it quiet. Why the hell couldn’t he? I mean, Jason stood by him and everything. Why would he blow the whistle on us? Is he really just jealous? Does he really think I would ever go back to him after he treated Jason like this? I certainly don’t know Clark at all any more. I would never have expected something like this from Clark. I guess this severs our friendship completely. What the hell happened to you, Clark? I guess I’ve never really understood you, and I never will.
-----

At Smallville High students enter the building. In the hallway, Lana is at her locker. Clark walks over to her.

Clark: Lana. Hey, where's Jason? I've been looking for him. I actually left him three messages.

Lana: (Keeping her back to Clark.) Yeah, I know.

Clark: Well, I thought he'd want to know that Metropolis University offered me a scholarship.

Lana: (Unenthusiastic.) That's great, Clark.

Clark: One of the scouts he called saw me in the game. I wanted to thank him for trusting me.

Lana: (Shutting her locker.) Well, it's too bad that you couldn't return the favor. (She turns to him.) Jason was fired this morning.

Lana walks away angrily and Clark watches her with surprise.

-----
Lex's mansion. Lex pokes at the fire in his study with a fire poker. Clark stands behind him.

Lex: It's good to know the local football star still has time for his friends.

Clark: (Cold.) I wouldn't put it like that.

Lex: (Facing Clark.) Wild guess. You're not talking about the football star part. (He puts down the poker.)

Clark: Maybe I wasn't clear. But what you and I talk about is supposed to stay between us.

Lex: I see.

Lex walks to the bar and opens a bottle of water. Clark follows.

Lex: So today I'm taking the role of the despicable, untrustworthy friend, and as usual, our hero is making the fatal flaw of jumping to conclusions.

Clark: Are you gonna tell me you're not the one who got Jason fired?

Lex: A teacher-student liaison is a taboo that's pretty hard to come back from.

Clark: Oh, you're gonna take the moral high ground on this.

Lex: Clark, I'd hate to see Lana's infatuation earn her a scarlet letter around town.

Clark: Well, she has you to thank for that. Because you and I were the only two who knew about it. Now everybody's talking. You didn't do this to protect her.

Lex: (Stepping closer.) You know Lana isn't meant to be with Jason.
Lex walks toward the fireplace, his back to Clark.

Clark: Maybe a year ago, I would've believed that you got him fired out of some twisted loyalty from being my friend. But you didn't do this for me. Why did you do it?

Lex turns to face Clark and looks at him with a small ambiguous smile.

-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL
I can’t believe Lex got Jason fired. Why would he do that? And Lana thinks I’m the one who did it. Doesn’t she know me better than that after all these years? Doesn’t she at least know I would never do something that would hurt her? Why would I purposely get Jason fired? Does she think I would do it out of jealousy? No, she must know me better than that. Then again, I still don’t know what Lionel did to Lana when we were switched. Maybe he really did something that made Lana distrust me. I wish I knew. Man, all I wanted to do was honor Lana’s request so she would at least begin to trust me again - but again, Lex has interfered and messed things up.

Oh, Lana, if you only knew how I still feel about you - could you ever have feelings for me again?
-----
End of JINX
-----
Thanks for the buffers, Cardinal and
H P DRAGON. ;)
-----
My plan is to write Alt. JINX next.

[HP_DRAGON]

your welcome PPMS

[NYC300Z]

oh just read jinx....very sad like most of these have been...still nice to look at how far they have come.

PPMS!

[Cardinal]

Sorry, SV, I went to stretch out for a sec and I fell asleep. :(

I just woke up. :rolleyes:

Lana has her claws out now, that's for sure.

[linn]

all that was just awesome!!!!!

[C.A.chick]

PPMS!!!!!!!!THAT ROCKED! even though i hate that episode you made it better

[spiceinator]

Okay, I've been reading this thread for the past two days during my lunch break and now I'm all caught up. This is a lot of fun to read and makes some of the worse episodes of early season four more interesting. Can't wait for the next update. Now I'm off to start reading the Alternate Clana scenes. :)

[SVsleuth]

Welcome to Clana heaven, spiceinator. The first few episodes in the Alt Clana thread are separate episodes, not tied to each other. But starting with Alt. GONE, it becomes a continuous Season 4 Alternate drama. There are instructions posted there for understanding the continuity properly. If you get confused, let me know and I'll clarify.

SVsleuth

[SuperNes]

yeah I read chapter one so I am putting in this post as a bookmark :D and to let you know I checked it out and Like it! :) I'll be back to read more later.

[SVsleuth]

Welcome, Nessie. Hope you continue to enjoy the Journals and the Alternate episodes. :)

[akuma]

When can we expect more updates on ur story here SV?

[SVsleuth]

Soon. I may do Spell here next, before updating HIDDEN again. - it shouldn't have too many journals, though, since Lana is Isobel most of the time... The update of Alt. Spell will have to be a huge re-write though, so will take the longest to get to.

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: SPELL - Part 1

The scene from France 1604 , with Isobel, Briana & Madeline being burned at the stake.
-----
The scene of Jason and Lana at her apartment. Lana is possessed by Isobel when she touches the symbol in the Spell book.
-----
The scene where Lois tells Clark she is throwing a party for Chloe at the barn.
-----
The scene in Lana’s apartment where she is mixing her potion & Lois & Chloe show up. Lana/Isobel seeks the hair of two virgins for her potion. Finding one on her own head, she tried Lois with no luck. She then thinks of another person whose hair should do.
-----
In the Kent kitchen, Clark is trying to wrap a large box as a gift for Chloe. He slaps a red bow on top, sits down, turning the gift around, inspecting it as Lana enters behind him.

Lana: [Seeing the present.] Maybe you need a woman's touch.

Clark stands up and turns around, surprised to see her.

Clark: Hey, Lana.

Lana: Hello, Clark. It's a big box.

Clark: It's, um, it's a gift for Chloe. Lois and I got it for her.

Lana: Well, I'm sure that she'll love it. Especially if it's from you.

Clark: Look, um, I'm glad you're here. I wanted to talk to you about what happened with Jason.

Lana: Oh, well, don't worry about it. It's water under a very... tall bridge.

Lana walks slowly toward Clark, smiling up at him as she drags out the word "tall." She is hiding the pair of scissors from the table behind her back.

Clark: Are you, uh, feeling okay? You seem a little, uh... [Clark plops down on the stool as Lana continues to advance on him.] ...different.

Lana: Well, maybe it's the company.

Lana puts a hand on Clark's face and drags it down his cheek softly.

Clark: Jason's my friend.

Lana: [With her face extremely close to Clark's.] Well, he doesn't think so.

She closes in on him, about to kiss him. Clark's eyes close as their lips touch lightly and Lana brings the scissors up behind his head to cut off a lock of his hair. But when she tries to cut the hair, the scissors break into two pieces. Clark stands up, backing away.

Clark: Hey, what's-- what are you doing?

Lana: I need a lock of your hair for a scrapbook I'm making for Chloe's birthday.

Clark: [Slightly annoyed.] Well, all you had to do was ask.

Lana: [Smiling.] Well, where's the fun in that?

Clark stares at Lana, trying to figure out what's wrong with her. Lana holds up the two pieces of the scissors.

Lana: What happened to these?

Clark: [Taking the scissors away from her.] They were broken already.

Clark reaches up to his head and pulls a strand of hair from his head. He hands the hair to Lana.

Clark: Here. Is that enough?

Lana holds up the hair and looks at it closely. She smiles with satisfaction.

Lana: It's perfect. Thanks, handsome.

She walks out of the house happily. Clark watches her go, then looks at the broken scissors.
-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL

Lana was acting really strange. For a moment it almost seemed like she was about to kiss me. My feelings for her rose to the surface in an instant, at the first inkling that she still might have feelings for me. She didn’t seem to care about Jason at all. And what was with that whole attempt to cut my hair? She seemed totally out of character - almost like an entirely different person. Hmmm… that’s what Chloe said about me when Lionel & I switched bodies. Could something like that have happened to Lana? Well, this is Smallville, so anything is possible. I guess I’d better keep my eye on her - as if I don’t already do that anyway.

-----
Lana/Isobel visits Lex, obtains a bottle of wine, vaporizes the manuscript from RUN, and leaves Lex under a spell which makes him play the piano forever.
-----
Lana/Isobel takes Lois & Chloe into the woods, where she chants her spell and causes them to be possessed by Briana & Madeline.
-----

In Clark's barn, a large banner is hanging that says "Happy Birthday Chloe." The whole place is decorated and music plays as the guests mingle. A lot of people are there, but the party is calm. Clark is trying to call someone on his cell phone, but no one answers and he hangs up his phone, frustrated. He sees Jason looking around and checking his watch. Clark goes to him.

Clark: Hey, Jason, do you know where the girls are? They were supposed to be here an hour ago.

Jason: [Dismissive.] No, sorry.

Jason walks away. Clark follows.

Clark: Look, Jason--

Jason: Clark, I'm only here because Lana wants me to be here. Because I'm her boyfriend, whether you like it or not.

With a loud clank, the double doors at the front of the barn slide open and Lana, Lois, and Chloe enter the barn, not acting at all like their usual selves.

Clark: [to Lois] Have you been drinking?

Lois merely smiles in response. Jason goes to Lana.

Jason: Hey, so, I don't want to be rude, but I think I'm just gonna tell Chloe happy birthday and take off.

Lana: Well, you're a big boy. You can do what you want.

Jason: You're the one who wanted me here.

Lana: Well, things change.

Jason: Why are you acting like this? And why are you dressed like that?

Lana: Because it makes me feel sexy. [Rudely.] Weren't you leaving?

Lana walks away from Jason to where Chloe is standing at the refreshment table.

Jason looks at Lana for a long time, then leaves.

The three girls use their magic to turn the party wild. Mr. Jacobson, from Princeton, arrives to visit Clark about a scholarship.

Jacobson: Pardon me.

He taps a young man on the shoulder.

Jacobson: Where's Clark Kent?

The young man points to the stairs to the loft. Mr. Jacobson looks up and sees Clark in his boxers dancing with reckless abandon next to Lana and Chloe.

Jacobson: Clark!

Clark looks down to see who called his name.

Jacobson: Clark!

Clark smiles down at him, still dancing.

Jacobson: Mr. Jacobson, Princeton University.

Clark: Hey, come on in! Join the party! Whoo!

Jacobson looks around as if he can't believe his eyes and ears. Clark continues to dance.

Clark: Whoo!

-----
The next day, inside the barn, party decorations from the night before are strewn all over the ground. The guests are all gone. A cell phone starts to ring, and Clark sits up behind several bales of hay where he had been sleeping. He looks at the caller ID on his phone, has a brief moment of panic, then answers the phone.

Clark: Hey, Mom. Yeah, how's Metropolis? Really? I'm glad you're having a great time.

Clark tugs at his pants which are lying next to him but seem to be stuck under something. It turns out they are stuck under a guy and a girl who were also sleeping nearby. They both get up and run out of the barn.

Clark: [Standing up.] What? Oh, yeah, the guy-- the guy from Princeton. Yeah, I met him last night. I, um... Don't worry. I-I think I made an impression.

Clark looks at a dangling line of strung lights miserably.

-----
[b]CLARK’s JOURNAL

What in the world happened to that party last night? How did it get so wild? Did I really dance in my boxers in the loft with Chloe and Lana? I hope that was just a bad dream. Man, I really blew my chance at that Princeton scholarship. How could I be so dumb? If I was the only one acting strange, I would think that someone slipped me some Red K. But whatever happened, it was affecting everyone. Lana was again acting so rude to Jason. I thought she was in love with him, but - maybe I’m wrong. Maybe she’s mad at him or something. Jason sure wasn’t very nice to me either. I guess I can’t blame him - he thinks I was the one who got him fired. I guess he thinks I was jealous or something. I wish he would let me set things straight. I really like him. He’s been really cool as a coach.

Well, what am I going to do about the scholarship? Maybe I could ask Lex to help. After all, we are trying to get our relationship going again. Well, I guess it can’t hurt to ask.

-----
Clark enters Lex's study. He starts talking, asking Lex about Princeton. When Lex doesn’t respond, Clark realizes that Lex is playing the piano uncontrollably, his fingers bleeding all over the keys.

Clark: Lex, what are you doing?

Lex looks up at Clark. His eyes are desperate, watery, and tired, but he plays on. Clark kneels down next to him and grabs his arms.

Clark: Stop. Stop it!

Lex: I can't.

Clark pushes the piano with one hand, and it wheels away from them. Then he holds Lex's arms tightly to keep him seated.

Clark: Lex, what happened?

Lex: [Weakly.] Lana.

Breathless, Lex lets his head slump down and his eyes close.

-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL

That was really weird, what happened to Lex with the piano. It was like he could not stop playing. Almost like he was under a spell. He said Lana did it. But how could Lana…?

Well, I did notice that Lana has been acting strange - not at all like herself. And at that party last night, everyone was acting out of character, not able to control themselves - even me. Could Lana have something to do with that? I think it’s time to investigate this further, before someone really gets hurt.

-----
(to be continued)

[linn]

PPPPPPPMMMMMMMSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!

[Cardinal]

Clark has to do the detective work without Chloe, this time.

Too bad Pete's no longer around. :(

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: SPELL - Part 2

Jason is in Lana's apartment looking at the cover of the spell book. A fire lights itself in the fire place and Jason looks at it as Lana enters behind him.

Lana: You really shouldn't play with that. You might hurt yourself.

Jason: I heard you and the girls were the life of the party last night.

Lana: One last fling before I finish what I started a long time ago. [Jason walks to her slowly.] You don't want to get in my way.

Jason: Who are you?

Lana: Qui est-ce que vous pensez? (What do you think?)

Jason: [Quietly.] Isobel?

Lana: In the new flesh. [She laughs.]

Jason: What did you do with Lana?

Lana: She's in here somewhere.

Jason: Could you let her out?

Lana: [Laughing loudly.] Now, why on earth would I ever do that?

Jason: [Looking at the spell book.] You know, all this started when Lana found this book.

He picks up a kitchen lighter and clicks the flame to life, holding it above the book.

Jason: So, I'm guessing if anything happens to this book...

Lana wiggles her finger at the spell book, and it is suddenly out of Jason's arms and in hers.

Lana: You have no idea what you're dealing with, little man. [She points to the wall.] Porta! (Carry!)

Jason flies across the room and crashes against the wall, falling to the floor.

Lana: [Pointing at him.] Suus summum. (His highest!)

Jason rises against the wall until the side of his face is pressing against the ceiling, bending his neck dangerously.

Lana: So now you begin to understand. You are not but an insect in my path to be crushed on the journey toward greater things.

Lana holds her hand out and pink energy floats above it. She laughs as Jason struggles against the force that is holding him to the wall. Clark enters and sees what is going on.

Clark: Lana, no!

Lana looks at Clark, then whips her hand in the direction of the window. Jason flies across the room and crashes through the glass. Clark super speeds out of the apartment and down to the street outside, catching Jason.

Clark: Jason! Are you okay?

Jason is too weak to answer. His face is cut up from the broken glass. Clark's face is suddenly lit by a fiery glow, and he looks at the side of the building where he sees the words "The barn midnight" written in flame.
-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL

This is getting stranger by the minute. Now Lana is actually trying to injure Jason? It’s a good thing I was there, or she may have actually killed him. This is definitely not Lana. What in the world is going on? Well, the only clue I have is "The barn midnight" - so I guess that’s where I’ll go to try to make sense of this. I’ve got to figure this out and find a way to reverse it. I hope Jason was too out of it to realize that I raced out and caught him. I don’t need anyone getting curious about me.

-----
JASON's THOUGHTS

How did I ever get mixed up in this? Somehow, Isobel Theroux has possessed Lana. It must have something to do with that tattoo and the missing twelve hours in Paris. And unfortunately for me, Isobel does not seem to like me very much. How did she lift me up like that - and throw me out the window. It’s a good thing Clark showed up and caught me - wait - How could Clark catch me? I fell from a 2nd story window! That’s impossible! And how did he even get out there so fast? That’s the second time he saved my life, because of his speed.(He remembers the shooting in the locker room, in Devoted.) There’s something going on with him too. Quigley thought it was steroids - but steroids can’t account for the things Clark is doing. Something else must be going on. Well, I’ve heard that a lot of strange things happen in this town, but I never expected things like this.
-----

(Buffer?)

[Cardinal]

Wow, I'm actually awake and online when you posted an update. That hasn't happened in a while.

*Scurries off to read the update*

[SVsleuth]

(CLANA JOURNALS: SPELL - Part 2 continued)


Clark enters his barn. He looks around and doesn't see anyone. Lana speaks from the loft and Clark turns around to see her standing on the upper level with Chloe and Lois.

Lana: You're early. You're not planning something devious, are you, Clark?

Clark: What did you do to Lex and Jason?

Lana: Nothing compared to what we're going to do to you.

Lois: Surgite! (Rise!)

Lois points at a large wooden wagon wheel, and it rises into the air and flies at Clark, knocking him across the barn. He lands on the ground, and the girls come down the stairs as Clark stands back up, unharmed.

Clark: I don't know what's going on, but this needs to stop before it gets out of hand.

Lana: So you're more than just fast. Well, that'll make this a whole lot more exciting.

Chloe smiles at Lana, then steps forward holding her arms out to both sides and then bringing them together.

Chloe: Incede! (March!)

Several tools rise into the air including pliers, a wrench, and a blade from an electric saw. They come together in front of Chloe, then fly at Clark one by one. He shoots bolts of heat vision at each tool, knocking them all out of the air. All three women watch him, astounded.

Clark: I don't want to hurt anyone.

Lana: Your magics are impressive.

Clark: Magic?

Lana: But so are mine. Evertere! (Overturn!)

Lana points at Clark and he rises high into the air, convulsing.

Lana: We have traveled through the ages to complete our quest, outwitting death itself! We will not be outdone by some farm boy with a few tricks.

Lana lowers her hand and Clark drops to the floor. Chloe and Lois both kneel down next to him.

Chloe: He's not what he seems, Isobel.

Lois: I can feel his power.

Lana: Then perhaps we should rid him of it.

Clark looks up at them with bruises on his face and blood dripping from his lip.

Clark: Chloe. You gotta help. I know you're in there.

Chloe: [Looking into his eyes, seriously.] Clark?

Clark: [He nods.] Listen to me. You gotta help me.

Chloe looks distressfully from Clark to Lois. Then she breaks into hysterical laughter, revealing that she was only pretending to be affected by Clark's words. Lois laughs too. Then Lana kneels down over Clark and rips his shirt open, putting her hands on his bare chest. She chants in Latin quietly.

A bright light begins to shine out of Clark's chest and a long purple-white string of energy flies from Clark and out of the barn.

Lana: It is done. His powers are gone.

The girls stand up and back away from Clark who is now unconscious. They smile down at him triumphantly.

----
Clark's hands are chained to a wooden railing above him in the barn. He struggles to get free but can't. Lois, Lana, and Chloe watch him. Clark has bruises all over his face and blood trailing from his nose and lips.

Lois: He awakens.

Clark: What have you done to me?

Chloe: We made sure you were no longer a threat, sorcerer.

Clark: I'm not a sorcerer.

Chloe: You're not? You sure?

Lana: No. He's something else. Something special. [To Clark.] I could sense it when the magics were ripped from your body. I can taste it on you. [Pause.] The three stones of power. You know of them, don't you?

Clark: I've never heard of them.

Chloe and Lois walk to Clark slowly.

Chloe: You've done more than hear of them. You've touched them.

Lois: We can feel it.

Lana: There's more. You know where one of them is hidden.

Chloe: Tell us where it is, Clark.

Chloe runs her hand gently down Clark's chest.

Lois: Please tell us.

Clark: I don't know what you're talking about. How do they know all of this?

Chloe: Let me cut it out of you.

Chloe claws her fingernails down Clark's chest, drawing blood.

Clark: Ah!

Lana: No!

Chloe stops hurting Clark, looking at Lana questioningly.

Lana: There are easier ways to get what we want.

Lois and Chloe back away from Clark. Chloe licks the blood off of one of her fingers. Lana comes toward Clark very slowly.

Lana: This body I inhabit. You have desires for it, don't you? Well, it desires you too, Clark. Very, very much.

Lana kisses Clark softly on the lips.

Lana: [Whispered.] Demonstra. (Point out.)

Lana kisses Clark again, slowly and sensuously, and Clark returns the kiss. When Lana finally pulls away, a pink mist comes from Clark's mouth and surrounds Lana as she steps back from him. Though Clark's mouth doesn't move, the sound of his whispering voice comes from the mist.

Clark: [Slowly, whispered.] The cave...

Clark looks at Lana, startled by what he has just heard. Lana smiles. How is she able to make me do what she wants?

Lana: Thank you, Clark. You've been very helpful. [She holds up her right hand.] Abige! (Drive away!)

A blinding pink light flashes in the barn and the three women are suddenly gone. Clark struggles against the chains binding him, but he still can't get free. Jason enters.

Jason: Clark?

Jason runs to Clark and helps him get free.

Jason: Are you all right? What happened?

Jason releases the chains and Clark falls to the ground. Jason kneels next to him.

Jason: Did Lana do this to you? Take it easy, take it easy. Where is she? I need to find her.

Clark: She's with Lois. And Chloe. But they're different. They're not themselves. It's like their bodies have been taken over.

Jason: They have. In fact, this is gonna sound kind of out there. Let's get you up. [He helps Clark stand.] Lana has been researching a 17th century witch. She tracked down her spell book, and when she touched her hand to the page--

Clark: Wait a second. Lana's been possessed by the spirit of an evil witch?

Jason: Yes. Isobel got into Lana by using the book. So we've got to find her and destroy the book. Any idea where they went?

Clark: Uh, I'm not sure. Um, why don't you check the school? I'll go to the Talon.

Jason: All right. Clark, call my cell if you find them, okay? Don't-- don't try anything alone. Just be careful, okay?

Jason leaves.
-----
CLARK’s THOUGHTS

What is going on here? Lana is possessed by a witch? And Chloe & Lois too? How did they take my powers? So I’m vulnerable to witchcraft? How do they know about me - and the stones? They’re after the stones. Somehow I know that they must not be allowed to get a hold of them. I must stop them. But how? I have no more power. Well, I guess I’ll have to resort to more primitive methods. I hope I can reverse this without harming Lana.

"She" said that Lana has very strong desires for me? I wonder if that’s true - or if it’s only the "witch" who does. I certainly have not lost my attraction to her. I wish things could be different between us. I hope someday it can be.
-----
(to be continued)

[Cardinal]

Planting the seeds of future Clana, huh?

Can't wait for the rest of "Spell."

--------------------

Also, Hooray, Post #800 for me.

I'm happy to use a rare milestone post (rare for me anyway) on one of your threads!

[SVsleuth]

Congrats on post 800, Cardinal! Thanks for posting it here. And thanks for the buffer. Great to have you around when I'm posting.

Yeah, I've got to work at it to find the seeds of future Clana in these episodes. I dread trying it with Unsafe & Pariah! :eek:

[Cardinal]

I don't know, Lana might see how CLark is with Alicia. How patient he is, how willing to give a second chance.

Plus, she's likely to be seriously remorseful about the way she acted when she finds out, after Alicia dies, that Alicia wasn't the one the tried to kill her.

I think you have some stuff to work with there.

[MOOman0618]

Super stuff going on here! Looks like I totally missed your Jinx update somehow. But I am caught up. I can't wait to hear Lana's thoughts after 'Spell' is over. Post more soon!

[akuma]

Great updates and i really want to see what Lana thinks of all that has happened here!

[linn]

that was a awesome update.....ppms!

[SVsleuth]

Hi, readers. Glad you are enjoying this episode. I have written the rest of Spell. I just need to proofread & tweak it a little after I have dinner, then I should be able to post it. If someone is around to buffer, I can post all of the rest of the episode tonight. Be back a bit later. :)

SV

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: SPELL - PART 3

Lana, Chloe, and Lois are in the Kawatche caves. Lana touches her special symbol on the stone wall with one hand as she holds her spell book in the other.

Lana: It begins to make sense. Why I was resurrected here in this time a thousand miles from my home. It was destiny.

All three women walk to the wall which hides the secret chamber for the stones of power. They stare at the wall lustily.

Lana: Can you feel it? Calling to us. The first stone of power lies behind this wall. And with it, our magic shall increase tenfold. And when we possess all the stones, we shall walk on earth as gods among men. Reach out and seize what was meant to be.

Lana opens the spell book to a page with three symbols on it. They are the same symbols that were glowing on the ground in the woods just before she transformed Lois and Chloe. She takes a deep breath and points at the wall.

Lana: Murus scinde! (Tear the wall.)

The wall begins to open and a white lights shines out of the chamber. Lana, Lois, and Chloe all begin to chant as they walk toward the opening.

All: Volutus vita nostra est. Volutus vita nostra est. Volutus vita nostra est. Volutus vista nostra est. (Our life has been turned.)

Inside the chamber, they look at the altar where rests the first stone of power that Clark took from Lex's jet.

Lana: All of our suffering, all of our pain and persecution. It ends tonight.

Lois: And our future begins.

Chloe: Take it, Isobel. Lead us to glory.

Lana: The first stone. How I've dreamed of this moment. And at last, it has arrived.
Lana reaches for the stone slowly, but just before her hand reaches it, we hear a gun cocking.

Clark: Not quite.

Lana looks across the altar and sees Clark standing there with a shotgun. He is now wearing a shirt. His bruises are still present.

Lana: [Smiling.] You shouldn't have come, Clark.

Chloe: Silly boy.

Lana: We owe you a debt for revealing this chamber to us. We were going to let you live.

Clark: I'm sorry, Lana, but I can't let you do this.

Lois: You don't have a choice!

Lois points to Clark's gun and whips her arm to the side, causing the gun to fly out of Clark's hands and across the room.

Lana: Bear witness, Clark Kent, to the dawn of a new age.

Lana grabs the stone off of the altar. Almost immediately, it starts to glow white and burn her hand. She screams and drops it. Clark catches it before it hits the ground, and then he stands up slowly. The light from the rock begins to trail into his chest. When the light is gone, Clark's face is healed and he stares at the women strongly.

Lois: [Confused.] His powers are restored.

Chloe: How?

Clark: I'm not from around here.

Lana: It doesn't matter. We took them from you once before. Do you really believe that this time will be any different?

Clark: I'm counting on it.

Clark's eyes turn orange-red and he shoots his heat vision at the spell book in Lana's hand. Lana looks down at the page and the symbol representing Isobel begins to glow white.

Lana: No!!!

White energy shoots upward from the open book.

-----
Lana, Chloe, Lois, and Clark all lie unconscious on the floor of the Kawatche cave. Clark wakes up and looks around. He stands up as the girls awaken.

Lois: Why are we lying in the dirt?

Chloe: And what the hell are we wearing?

Clark: [To Lana, helping her up.] Are you okay?

Lana: Clark, what happened?

Clark: Well, let's just say that you haven't been yourself lately.

Lana folds her arms over her chest, embarrassed by her clothing. Clark smiles at her.

-----
LANA’s JOURNAL

I don’t remember anything that happened this last day. All I remember is being in my apartment with Jason, and showing him the spell book of Isobel Theroux that I got from eBay. Then the next thing I remember is waking up in the caves with Lois & Chloe…. and Clark. I am really getting freaked out. This is the second time something like this has happened - first in Paris, now here in Smallville. The first time it happened I had just touched the symbol on Isobel’s tomb. This time, I touched the same symbol, in Isobel’s spell book. The common denominators are Isobel and that symbol - the same symbol that is tattooed on my back. What is it? What does it mean? Why me?

Jason said I seemed to be possessed by Isobel - and that I had powers - like witchcraft. So, what, Isobel was a witch, & somehow I got caught in one of her spells? It’s got something to do with that symbol. It’s on Isobel’s tomb, in the spell book, on my back, & on the cave wall. What possible connection could there be between Isobel and those caves? I came back from Paris for that very reason - to try to figure out that connection. So far I still just get more questions. Who can help me with this….?

Clark. Clark has spent so much time in those caves. And he was there in the caves when we woke up. Somehow, it seems that I have Clark to thank for getting rid of Isobel. I wonder if he knows what’s going on - with the caves, the symbols - and Isobel. If anyone knows, it’s Clark. I knew that before I left Paris. I intended to ask him. But the way things happened when I got back - well I was just not comfortable confiding in him. We seemed to grow so far apart - like a huge wall has sprung up between us. Even now, I’m still ticked at how he got Jason fired and all. How can I trust him? But if I don’t, will I ever find out why all of this is happening to me?

I wonder if I did anything to anyone else while I was possessed? I’ve already seen Jason. I guess I should check with Lex to make sure Isobel didn’t do anything to him.

Yeah. I’ll go see him later, after I clean up the mess Isobel left in my apartment.

-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL

So Lana, Chloe & Lois were apparently possessed by witches who were seeking the stones that Jor-El wanted me to find. What in the world are those stones, that so many people want them: first Lex, then Lionel, now, some witches - and even Jor-El? Edgar said a Mayan legend says there are three stones, which, when united, will lead to great knowledge or power or something. Yeah, I guess the Luthors, witches and Jor-El do have that in common - they want power - they want to rule. So is that all this is about? - a quest for ultimate power? - a quest to rule?

I wonder how Lana got mixed up in all of this? She’s certainly not one to seek power. Jason said she was researching a 17th century witch, and touched a page in her spell book. Why would Lana be researching a 17th century witch in the first place? I’ve never known her to be interested in that kind of thing. I guess maybe something in Paris piqued her interest in such things. I don’t know. I don’t really know Lana very well at all any more since she returned from Paris. But she sure does seem to still have a hold on my heart - even as a witch. What is it about Lana that has captivated me for so long? Why can’t my heart let go of her?
-----
Clark comes down the stairs to where Martha is in the kitchen slicing fruit on the cutting board.

Martha: Well, look who's finally awake.

Clark: Mom. When did you guys get home?

Martha: This morning. Your dad is out there doing your chores.

Clark: Sorry. I guess I overslept.

Clark gets a pitcher of juice from the fridge and pours a glass. Jonathan enters.

Clark: Hey, Dad.

Jonathan: Hey, Clark. Son, is there maybe a little something you'd like to tell your mother and me?

Jonathan holds up a sexy red and black bra.

Martha: [Quietly, eyes wide, jaw dropped] Where did that come from?

Jonathan: From out in the barn. In the hay.

Martha: [Shocked.] Clark...

Clark: [Quickly.] It was magic.

Martha: I'm sure it was.

Clark: No, I mean it really was. Look, I should not have thrown this party without talking to you guys. I know that. But it's the way things spun out of control. It was Lana. Well, it wasn't Lana exactly. She was possessed by a witch who then cast a spell on us, and... that's how that happened.

Jonathan: Son, I realize that, after all, this is Smallville. But witches and spells and... [He holds up the bra.] ...magic?

Clark: Dad, magic exists. I saw it. And worse, it can hurt me.

Jonathan and Martha share a concerned glance.

-----
(buffer, please)

[clana4ev3r]

BUFFER!!!!

[SVsleuth]

(CLANA JOURNALS: SPELL - PART 3 continued)

Lana is in her apartment, cleaning up some broken glass from the countertop. Lex enters.

Lex: You leave quite a path of destruction.

Lana: Lex. I was going to come see you.

Lex: Preemptive strike. Just in case there was any evil dead action still brewing.

Lana: Well, apparently I have been exorcised. I didn't do anything to you, did I?

Lex looks at one of his hands.

Lex: Oh, nothing permanent, but you did display some intriguing abilities.

Lana: Yeah, I don't remember anything. I don't think I really want to.

Lex: Well, I'm just glad you're all right.

Lana: Thanks to Clark. I don't remember what he did, but Isobel's back to being history.

Lex: I guess we all owe Clark our gratitude.

Lana: Yeah. You know, I really don't understand him. He can be so selfless, risking his life for his friends, and... you know, and then he turns around and gets Jason fired. Because, what, you know, he's jealous?

Lana goes toward the living room. Lex hesitates for a moment.

Lex: Lana. [Lana turns to face him.] Clark didn't get Jason fired. I did.

Lana: [Softly.] You what?

Lex: Look, no matter how mature you may think you are, the fact is you're still in high school, and I wasn't gonna sit idle while someone in a position of authority coerced you into a relationship.

Lana: [Angry, but still quiet.] What are you doing, Lex?

Lex: I'm trying to protect you.

Lana: Do you really think that's what I need?

Lex: Lana, I know you're upset, but I only had your best interests at heart.

Lana: My interests are none of your concern, Lex. I'm old enough to decide who I want in my life. [Pointedly.] And who I don't.

Lana leaves the apartment. With a hurt expression, Lex watches her go.

-----

LANA’s THOUGHTS (while on her way to Clark’s)

Lex got Jason fired? And all this time I assumed it was Clark. I assumed he was jealous. Maybe that’s just what I wanted to believe, deep down - that Clark is jealous of Jason - that he still cares…. But the way he acted that day in his barn, when he tried to kiss me forcefully… Oh, Clark is so confusing! He didn’t seem like the Clark I’ve always known that day. I wonder… I wonder, with Clark’s interest in the caves and all… could he have been possessed by someone else - like I was? That would explain the personality changes he’s shown periodically. It would also explain why he has always been so secretive. I mean, I’m certainly not eager to tell anyone about the tattoo and all. Maybe Clark really knows something. Maybe we have more in common than we think. Maybe I should show him the tattoo, and see if he knows what the symbol means. Maybe we can finally be honest with each other. I still wish he would have opened up to me last year. I resented him for keeping secrets from me. Maybe if I show him the tattoo, it will open a door between us again. Maybe he will have the courage, even now, to open up to me. Why does my heart race at that thought?….. Stop kidding yourself, Lana. Deep down, you know that Clark still has a hold on your heart - always has - always will.

-----

Clark is cleaning up the rest of the party decorations in the loft. He picks up a pair of red women's underwear and stares at it uncomfortably. Lana enters behind him, seeing the underwear.

Lana: At least those aren't mine.

Clark quickly tosses the underwear into the garbage.

Clark: Hey, Lana.

Lana: [Coming up the stairs.] I wanted to thank you. Once again, you managed to come to my rescue.

Clark: Well, it's good to have the old Lana back. Isobel was, um... aggressively sexy.

Lana: [Smiling, embarrassed.] Oh, great. Possessed by an evil slut.

Lana looks at Clark silently as if she has more to say. Clark waits for her to go on.

Lana: Um, look, I found out that Lex was the one that got Jason fired. I should've known that you would never do anything like that.

Clark: I wasn't thrilled when I heard about you and Jason. But I realized that the way I acted when we were together didn't make you happy.

Lana: You know, I always resented you for keeping secrets from me. And I don't want to do the same thing to you. Clark, there's a reason I came back to Smallville. When I was in Paris, I touched Isobel's tomb, and then there was this flash of light and the next thing I remember is waking up in my apartment. And I had this.

Lana turns around and lifts up her jacket, showing Clark the tattoo. Clark reaches out to touch it, but doesn't.

Clark: I've seen this before. (Then adds quickly) On the cave wall.

Lana: I should've told you this months ago, but I was too scared. Clark, you know those caves better than anyone else. Do you know what this symbol means?

Clark: [Wanting to say yes.] No. I'm sorry.

Lana looks into Clark's eyes pleadingly, as if knowing that he isn't telling the truth. Clark looks back at her guiltily.
-----
A flashlight shines on the symbol on the cave wall. The person holding the flashlight is Lex. He stares at the symbol very seriously.

-----
LANA’s JOURNAL

Damnit, Clark, I know you know something! Why won’t you tell me? I risked showing you the tattoo! I trusted you. I tried to open the door between us - but again you just slammed it in my face! Do you know how much it hurts when you do that? If you know something, don’t you think I have a right to know - since that symbol is branded onto my back? It must have something to do with Isobel. It must have something to do with those caves. How can you leave me in the dark about this, when it is affecting my life so much? Don’t you care about me at all anymore? - even as a friend?

Clark said Isobel was “aggressively sexy.” I wonder what she did? Did she come on to him? Did she express the desires that I still have for him? I wish I knew. But there is no way I can ask him that. That would be far too embarrassing. No. I guess if she did, I’ll leave him to wonder if it was really my desires or just Isobel’s.
Besides, it doesn’t matter, because he’s as tight lipped as ever.
-----
CLARK’s JOURNAL

Woah! Lana has a Kryptonian symbol tattooed on her back? And she doesn’t know how it got there? The same symbol from the transference stone, the water element, the symbol of transference. Somehow, that witch - Isobel, did she say? - possessed Lana when she touched that symbol - and it was branded onto her back. I guess it’s similar to how the transference occurred with Lionel & me. Should I have told her about the transference with Lionel, and how the same symbol was on that stone? Should I have told her that it seems to be connected to transferring spirits between bodies? But that would raise so many more questions - about what I know about the caves, & what the caves have to do with me, & where those symbols originate. And I couldn’t risk anyone prying into all of that - not even Lana. I was so tempted to tell her. I long to be close to her again. When Isobel kissed me, every kiss I ever shared with Lana flooded back into my consciousness. I long so much to hold her again, and kiss her again. But I can’t. Besides, she’s with Jason, so what’s the point? If I didn’t tell her when we were together, I certainly can’t tell her when we aren’t. I wonder if Isobel is really gone for good. The tattoo is still there, so maybe she’s not. I certainly can’t risk telling anything to Isobel, knowing now that I am vulnerable to her witchcraft. I wish I could help Lana. I wish I could work with her to figure this out. But, no. I can’t risk it.

-----
(END of SPELL)

Thanks for the buffer clana4ev3r! :)

[clana4ev3r]

WOW! I just caught up with the updates and it was no problem buffering...

Great updates really enjoyed it! hope you update more soon!

[Cardinal]

Yeah, Clark really can't risk telling everything to Lana until she's exorcised.

Once Isobel is gone for good, then CK should step up to the plate...supposing Jason is gone, that is. :p

[MOOman0618]

I can only imagine how mad Lana was when Clark lied to her about the symbol. She can always tell when he is lying, and that time was no different. Good stuff SV! I think you have your work cut out for you in the next few episodes.

[NYC300Z]

oh wow that episode in this light has so much more meaning. Amazing...all the hidden desires coming out so great to read that!

PPMS!:D

[akuma]

Wow nice look inside their heads SV!! Still very frustrating that Clark didnt open up back then!

[binkys711]

YAY! caught up with the journals also! I just love the wy ou describe what they must have felt in those moments! great job! Glad to be back on track!:DPPMS!

[spiceinator]

It's sad to read how hurt and dissapointed Lana was that Clark didn't tell her the truth about the symbol on her back. This was a really rocky time in their relationship and I'm glad to have this insite into their minds at the time. Can't wait for happier, more hopeful times like in Blank and Spell.

[SVsleuth]

Glad y'all caught up, Binks & spicinator. Yeah, it is tempting to just jump over Alicia & stuff & get right to Blank.... but I'm going to try not to do that.

[MOOman0618]

Originally posted by SVsleuth
Glad y'all caught up, Binks & spicinator. Yeah, it is tempting to just jump over Alicia & stuff & get right to Blank.... but I'm going to try not to do that.

LOL...that is a lot of stuff to skip! But hey...whatever does it for you! Blank is where the good Clana starts anyhow! But what about Sacred and Spirit? There is good Clana stuff there. Regardless of where you pick up...post more soon!! :)

[Cardinal]

I'll bet you can squeeze Clana out of a box of lemons, so I'm sure you'll find some in "Unsafe" and "Pariah."

[NYC300Z]

PPMS!

[spiceinator]

Originally posted by SVsleuth
Glad y'all caught up, Binks & spicinator. Yeah, it is tempting to just jump over Alicia & stuff & get right to Blank.... but I'm going to try not to do that. Yes, please do try. :) It'll be interesteing to see what Alicia does now that Clark and Lana are together. I picture her flipping out again and trying to kill Lana, but maybe that's just me. :p

[clana4ev3r]

hey, i was wondering where you got those translations for the latin stuff? and how to spell them..? :D

[SuperNes]

OKAY! WOW I finnally caught up! :O :) So Is this a this still a W.I.P or are you not posting in here any more? :( I hope for the first :)

Love ya's Mrs. Sleuth, Nessie

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by SuperNes
OKAY! WOW I finnally caught up! :O :) So Is this a this still a W.I.P or are you not posting in here any more? :( I hope for the first :)

Love ya's Mrs. Sleuth, Nessie

I'm so glad you caught up, Nessie! Okay, this IS a Work in Progess, but I won't continue it until AFTER I finish writing Alt. Spell on the Alt. CLANA thread. After I finish that, I will do BOUND here, then Alt. BOUND there, then SCARE here, then Alt. Scare there, etc. That's how it's supposed to go - except when I started HIDDEN, I've been giving all of my time to that one. BUT, I think HIDDEN is nearing its end, so then I'll do Alt. Spell, etc. as I just said. I hope that makes sense. :\ :) If you haven't been reading the Alt. CLANA thread, and want to, P.M. me so I can explain the proper continuity before you get started. -SV

[NYC300Z]

Sounds like a lot of writing for you! Hope you have time for it.

[Cardinal]

Umm...don't forget us over here! There's ALWAYS room for more Clana...especially in S4. I can't wait until you have to explain the emotions Clark and Lana are feeling during Alicia's return. :D

[SVsleuth]

That might actually be easier to write than Alt. Clana has been lately. I should be back to it soon.:)

[SVsleuth]

Hi, everyone. I'm working on an update for this thread. The next episode is BOUND. I know it's been a really long wait for y'all. Sorry about that. I'm hoping I can write it today, but there is a lot going on today, so I'm not sure. It will be my next update, though, before my other 2 threads. :)

-SV

[MOOman0618]

Wow...we haven't gotten and update for this one in a while! YEA!

[SVsleuth]

BOUND - Part 1


This episode is mostly about Lex. I will presume the reader knows that whole plot & not repeat it here.

Lex has been talking with his lawyer Corinne Harper, at the mansion, about the events at the opera and hotel the night before. As she is about to leave, Clark enters behind her.

Corinne: I'm not here to hold your hand, Lex. You want a hug, call your mother.

Lex shakes his head unhappily. Corinne glances at Clark, then leaves the room with the guard as Clark walks to Lex.

Clark: Lex.

Lex: Clark. I take it you saw my walk of shame on the news?

Clark: How are you holding up?

Lex: Not so great, actually. I trust you're here as a friend.

Clark: Just tell me you didn't do this.

Lex puts his hands on Clark's shoulders.

Lex: I met a girl at the opera. I took her to a hotel. I didn't kill her.

Clark: [He nods, believing.] Who is she?

Lex: I don't know.

Clark: [Shocked.] Wait, you slept with her, but you didn't know her name?

Lex: It's one of those nights that never happens. You meet somebody and you just get caught up in the moment. I'm guilty of that, but I'm not a murderer. It was my father. He's framing me.

Clark: Your father's in prison.

Lex: You really think that matters? Go home, Clark. You don't want to be involved in this. Trust me.

Lex leaves Clark alone in the study.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

I don’t understand how Lex could get himself into such a mess. He doesn’t even know her name and he slept with her? Man, I’ve been in love with Lana for forever, and have never even got close to that. I guess Lex and I are two different kinds of people. Or maybe he was drinking and got caught up in the moment. That could never happen to me, since alcohol has no effect on me. I hope he was telling the truth, and it really was something that never happens. I wish I could help him.


*****

Lana is asleep in her apartment at the Talon. She has a nightmare about Isobel being burned at the stake. She tosses and turns in the bed.

In the middle of the dream a woman walks to the front of the angry mob and speaks to Isobel in French.

Woman: Tu m'as trahis Isobel, maintenant tu vas mourir. (You have betrayed me Isobel, so now you are going to die)

A guard lights the pyre. Flames begin to surround Isobel, who just smiles at the woman. The woman gazes back at Isobel and her eyes glow pink.

As Isobel is engulfed in flames, Lana jolts upright in bed with a gasp. She is breathless and covered in sweat.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

What the hell kind of dream was that? It felt so real, like I was actually being burned at the stake in Isobel’s place. Who was that mysterious woman? Why was my tattoo on Isobel’s back? What does Isobel want with me? I thought she was gone, and I had been exorcised. But maybe not. The tattoo is still on my back. I got it when I touched her tomb and her book. God, I’m still shaking. I really feel like I was being burned alive. I can feel the pain of it. I wish I knew what was going on. I wish I knew what that tattoo is and why it is on me. I still think Clark knows more than he would tell me about that symbol. He’s spent so much time in those caves. Why does he refuse to help me? I am so scared - Being possessed by Isobel and all. Was she really a witch? Or could there be more to it than that? Somehow I know that the symbol connects Isobel and me, and the caves - - and Clark. I don’t understand how, but I just have a feeling that somehow Clark is the only one who can help me find the answers.

*****


Martha is trying to use the cappuccino machine in the Talon. She is having trouble with it as Lana walks up to the bar behind her.

Martha: Stupid, stupid.

Lana: I swear, one time, that thing actually bit me.

Martha: Oh, hi, Lana. It does take a certain touch. [Martha turns to face Lana.] Are you feeling all right? You look a little pale.

Lana: I just had this really weird dream last night. I can't seem to shake it.

Martha: Oh, I'm sorry, Lana. You have a visitor.

Martha gestures beyond Lana to a woman who is standing with her back to them. The woman is well dressed and very elegant.

Lana: [Disbelievingly.] She's here for me? [Martha nods.]

Lana looks at the woman again, then walks toward her.

Lana: Excuse me.

The woman turns around and we see that she looks exactly like the woman who spoke French to Isobel in Lana's dream. She speaks in a British dialect.

Genevieve: Lana.

Lana recognizes her from the dream and looks very startled.

Genevieve: It's wonderful to finally meet you. You are beautiful.

Lana: I'm sorry. Do I know you?

Genevieve: I'm Jason's mother.

Lana makes a soft noise with her voice, exhaling sharply as her unease grows.

Genevieve: [Apologetic.] Did I catch you off guard?

Lana: [Quickly.] No, no. [Pause.] Yeah, actually. Um, you have a little. I just didn't know that he was expecting you.

Genevieve: Well, he isn't. Could we sit?

Lana: Sure. [Leading Genevieve to a table.] Would you like some tea?

Genevieve: Um, no thank you. [They sit.] I know this may sound impossibly British, but I just can't bring myself to drink tea from a mug. [She laughs.] Is that terrible?

Lana: No, of course not.

Genevieve: How's Jason? I haven't spoken to him since he left Paris, and he won't answer any of my calls. I'm afraid that, um, I'm afraid he thinks I'm angry with him.

Lana: You're not?

Genevieve: [Shaking her head.] I simply want to see him again.

Lana: Mrs. Teague, I... I've wanted to meet you. But if Jason isn't ready to be a part of your life, I don't think that I can either. Not behind his back.

Genevieve: [She nods, disappointed.] Well, the last thing in the world I want to do is to put you in the middle of all this, but... if you could just tell him that I'm here and that I'm staying at the Smallville Inn. Tell him I want to see him.

Lana: Sure.

Genevieve: Thanks.

Genevieve stands up to go. Lana stands too, and then Genevieve turns to her.

Genevieve: You know, it's interesting. A moment ago, when I first met you, you looked at me as though you recognized me. [Lana doesn't answer.] How can that be?

Lana shakes her head with a nervous smile. Genevieve smiles.

Genevieve: Goodbye, Lana. You must come and visit me in Metropolis. [She kisses Lana on the cheek.] You are so beautiful. I see now why he had to be with you.

Lana smiles and nods uncomfortably as Genevieve touches her shoulder, then leaves. When she is gone, Lana lets her smile go as she takes a deep breath.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

Now I’m really freaked out. Jason’s mother looks exactly like the woman in my dream. What the hell is going on? I am so scared. I don’t know what to do or who to turn to. Why would Jason’s mother be in my dream about Isobel? I hadn’t seen her before. How could that happen? Does Jason’s mother have some connection to this whole Isobel situation? ……. Does Jason?…. Yeah, Jason is the one who brought me to Isobel’s tomb in the first place. I wonder if he knows something. Maybe I’ve trusted him too easily. No, that’s silly. How could Jason possibly know anything about what happened to me that day? Oh, I’m so confused and so scared. I don’t know what to do. I don’t know who to trust.

I wonder what happened to create a rift between Jason and his mother. Why did she come to see me, instead of just going to see Jason? Does she have some other reason? Something related to Isobel? I wonder if Jason’s real reason for coming here is to be with me, or if there is some other reason - something to do with Isobel & the symbol? I wish it would all go away. I wish I had never gone to Paris, and had just stayed here and patched things up with Clark. Then none of this would be happening to me. Why, oh, why did you have to clam up again before I left, Clark? If only you had confided in me, we could have been happy….

*****

Chloe and Clark are in the Torch office, discussing the events concerning Lex and the murdered woman.

Chloe hands Clark a newspaper with a headline that says "Luthor Sex Scandal Expands!"

Chloe: The police have interviewed over 13 women that have slept with Lex in the last year.

Clark looks hurt.

Chloe: What's wrong?

Clark: Lex told me that this little one night stand was something that never happens.

Chloe: And you believed him?

Clark: I gotta believe somebody, Chloe.

Clark tracks Eve Andrews & finds Lex there, burning photos.

****
Later, back in the Torch office, Clark & Chloe talk again.

Chloe: She was stalking him, and he didn't know what she looked like?

Clark: He said he'd never seen her before. Lex lied about a lot of things. He lied about all those women. Do you think he could've done it?

Chloe: I'd have to say the whole fire starter thing doesn't exactly scream innocence, but there's something really strange about this. Look at this.

Chloe leads Clark to her computer and clicks the mouse, starting the video taken by the elevator security camera of Lex and the woman kissing. She points out to Clark that the woman in the elevator had only one earring, but the police report said the murdered woman had two. Chloe & Clark suspect that there were two different women with Lex that night..

*****

Clark and Chloe go to the hotel in Metropolis where Lex took the mystery woman before she was killed. They walk toward the bank of elevators and Chloe pushes the button.

Chloe: So the police still haven't picked up on the missing earring thing, and according to the people at the front desk, they haven't found anything yet. So that's where we're at.

A soft ding is heard as an elevator arrives and the door slides open. Clark and Chloe step inside the empty elevator and Chloe pushes a button inside.

Clark: [Looking around.] Well, if I were an earring...

The door slides shut and the car starts to ascend.

Chloe: Let's re-enact the event, okay? [Gesturing to the side of the elevator.] So Lex had Eve up against this wall right here, so...

Chloe stands up against the wall as if she is Eve, and waits for Clark to join her.

Clark shifts his eyes at her awkwardly.

Chloe: Okay, come on, big boy, it's for the cause of truth and justice. Now, push me up against the wall.

Clark: I don't--

Chloe takes Clark by the hand and pulls him back toward the wall. He bumps into her intimately, looking extremely uncomfortable. Chloe doesn't acknowledge his discomfort and keeps talking in a businesslike manner.

Chloe: And her hand was like this... [Chloe puts her right hand on Clark's shoulder.] ...and I think his hand was like this.

She takes Clark's right hand and puts it on her face.

Chloe: And they were...

With her free hand, Chloe feels up and down Clark's back trying to find the right position. Clark becomes even more embarrassed.

Clark: Maybe he knocked the earring off accidentally.

Chloe: Yeah. Yeah, and then she pushed him up against this wall over here like this.

Chloe pushes Clark across the elevator and up against another wall, her body slamming forcefully into his as he hits the wall. They end up nose to nose, their bodies pressed together, and Chloe finally notices the intimacy of their position. Her attraction to him comes out, and she looks up into his eyes.

Chloe: [Quietly.] Hi.

They stand as if frozen, with their faces very close for a long moment, Chloe looking into his eyes, Clark trying to avoid hers. Chloe seems about ready to kiss him. Clark seems to feel very uncomfortable as he realizes her feelings for him are resurfacing - again. Then the elevator dings and the door slides open. Standing outside is a woman with her young twin daughters.

Woman: Oh, my.

Clark: [Pulling away from Chloe quickly.] It's okay. You can come in.

Woman: Um, no, that's fine. We'll just, uh, take the stairs.

The woman starts hurriedly escorting her girls toward the stairs. Chloe steps out of the elevator to speak to the woman.

Chloe: No, but nothing was happening! We weren't doing anything, really!

The woman looks at Chloe one more time, and pushes her daughters around the corner. Chloe steps back onto the elevator, but remains in the doorway so that the door cannot shut. She looks back at Clark, who rubs his hand uncomfortably behind his neck. Chloe turns and looks down at the threshold between the elevator car and the level they are on and a thought occurs to her. She kneels down. Behind her, Clark nervously rubs his hand over his mouth and across his chin, obviously still uncomfortable about Chloe’s re-enactment activities.

Chloe: Hey, Clark. What if the earring fell down this crack?

Clark looks through the floor of the elevator with his X-ray vision. His sight zooms all the way down the elevator shaft to the ground floor where he sees a single diamond earring on the ground.


*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Boy, was that ever uncomfortable. I don’t know how Chloe manages to get me into situations like that. Re-enacting in the elevator… when she slammed up against me as I hit the wall, I could see that she still does have feelings for me. She told me after that whole incident with the spiked Gatorade, that she still had feelings for me buried inside somewhere. I brushed it off, not wanting to believe that without the love potion she would still have feelings for me. I guess I was wrong. She looked up at me in the elevator, and I could see in her eyes her desire to kiss me. I felt a strong urge to bolt out of the elevator at superspeed. I just don’t have those kind of feelings for Chloe. She’s a great friend, but I have no romantic attaction to her at all - or to any other woman, except Lana.

Lana. I miss her. Man it was so hard when she came to talk to me last week, and showed me that tattoo on her back. I desperately wanted to tell her about the transference stone, & the Kryptonian symbols. It took a lot of courage for her to show that to me - probably as much as it would take me to tell someone my secret. But I couldn’t risk it. I have no idea how or why Lana got possessed by Isobel, and I really don’t get what it has to do with Kryptonian symbols.

I wish she would never have gone to Paris. Then none of this would be happening to her. I wish I would have told her everything, and she would have stayed here. Then maybe we would still be together. But now she’s with Jason. And she may still have ties to Isobel & her magic - which can hurt me. So it seems there will never be a way back to Lana. I guess I should try to accept the fact that I will never get another chance with Lana. I should try to move on. Well, maybe I can try to pay a little more attention to other women who might come into my life, and give someone a chance - but it‘s not Chloe.

I’m really lonely without Lana. I need to find someone to fill the void in my soul left there by Lana. My heart still aches when I think of her with Jason, and when I think of how much I’ve hurt her in the past. She didn’t deserve all the pain I’ve caused her. My heart has to let go of her. I truly want her to be happy. I wish I could have been the one to make her happy. But I didn’t. All I did was cause her pain. I’m so sorry, Lana. I hope you can find happiness. I will try to force my heart to let go of you. I’ll try to find someone else. But somehow I can’t believe that anyone can ever measure up to you, Lana. Good-bye, Lana. Be happy. Just be happy.

*****

[Cardinal]

Both of them are lonely and confused right now, but the best part of this update...the confirmation that there will be NO Chlark! :D

[akuma]

Good point Card:)
That was awesome SV, u did an amazing job goin into their minds showing what they felt. Cant wait for ur next update, wherever it may be!:D

[linn]

true no chlark allowed.....ppms!!!!!!

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by akuma
Cant wait for ur next update, whereever it may be!:D

The next update will be here, Part 2 of Bound. :)

[HP_DRAGON]

Great update SV PPMS

[akuma]

Thanks for lettin us know SV, cant wait!

[binkys711]

awww....that glumpse in their minds were great! I felt sorry for Clark when I read his last journal entry:( and Lana also, the idiot should have told her so many times before:mad: great update SVS! Glad to see you finally updated!:D PPMS!!!:D

[NYC300Z]

That was really good SV! You made some thing out of nothing! Good job! Keep it up I like the way you were setting it up!

PPMS!

[SuperNes]

*Nessie wails full heartedly* auuuauahahau that left me so sad! Any way to slip in some happy Clanana in the next one... pleeeesa *sniff snifff*

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by SuperNes
*Nessie wails full heartedly* auuuauahahau that left me so sad! Any way to slip in some happy Clanana in the next one... pleeeesa *sniff snifff*

NOPE, not in this thread - That's why I started the Alt. CLANA thread. When the angst gets unbearable here, you're supposed to go read the happy CLANA there. ;)

TPTB wrote the episodes. I don't change that on this thread, just add how they might be feeling behind the scenes, so there is more emotional continuity. So we can understand WHY Clark turns to Alicia, & HOW he & Lana end up dancing together at the prom in Spirit, after a year of Jalana & a stint of Clalicia. So hang in there through Part 2 of Bound, then I'll write Alt. Bound, & put the happy CLANA there.

The Journals are supposed to help us tolerate Season 4 better, because we at least see Clark & Lana still thinking about each other & having feelings for each other, even though they do not express them to each other - yet. Not until Commencement, with a hint in Blank & Ageless & Forever.

NOTE: At this point, I plan to continue the Journals into Season 5, only through HIDDEN. At that point, the continuity will flow right into my HIDDEN fic smoothly, & Clana Journals will end.

[NYC300Z]

oh that's a good idea SV! Having this thread go into your hidden fic!

[SVsleuth]

BOUND - Part 2

Jason and Lana are in her apartment. The lights are off and there is a fire burning in the fireplace. Lana is sitting on the couch staring blankly into the fire. Jason walks over to her and stoops down in front of her, in order to be at eye level with her.

Jason: Hey. (She turns her head toward him) What's wrong? You haven't said anything all night. (Lana stares at him uncomfortably, her eyes wide.) Talk to me.

Lana: (turning her eyes away from his) I met your mom.

Jason: (Still looking directly at Lana) Where?

Lana: (looking back at him uncomfortably) Here. She, um, she said that you weren't returning her calls, so she came to see me. She's staying at the Smallville Inn, wants you stop by.

Jason: (nods slightly) Why didn't you tell me earlier?

Lana: (getting even more agitated and uncomfortable) I don't know. I guess, um... Maybe I don't want to be the one passing notes between you and your mother.

She stands up and walks away from Jason toward the fire, leaving him still stooped down in front of the couch.

Jason: I wouldn't have asked you to do that. (He stands up, rolling his eyes, obviously annoyed with his mother.) She had no right to come here. (There is silence for a few moments. Then Jason turns toward Lana.) I’m sorry.

Lana: (glancing toward him & figiting with the bracelet on her arm) She seemed really worried about you.

Jason: (Spiteful.) I'll bet she did. I'll bet she seemed sad and heartbroken. But she's not. (He steps a little nearer to Lana, looking into her eyes) She's manipulative. And all my life, she's tried to control me.

Lana looks scared and nervous. Here eyes shift away and back. She swallows hard.

Jason: What, is there something else?

Lana: (nervously, fearful) I dreamed about her. I mean, I was dreaming about Isobel Theroux. She was being burned at the stake. And suddenly, your mom was there.

Jason: (trying to downplay it) Well, it's probably not that unusual to dream about someone you just met.

Lana: Jason... (she looks up at him with frightened eyes) I dreamt about her before I met her.

Jason stares at Lana for a few moments, then lowers his eyes, concerned.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

I was so nervous telling Jason about dreaming about his mom. He must think I’m going crazy or something. But he didn’t react much. He seemed to take it all in stride, pretty much - except he seemed a bit annoyed with his mother. I had a hard time reading him. Does he know something? He said his mother has always been manipulative. Is it possible that somehow she is trying to manipulate me, through my dreams? No, that can’t be it - that’s just crazy. How could she do that? But how did I dream about her before I ever met her? I’ve never heard of anything like that happening to someone…. Or maybe I have. Clark.

There was that girl who moved into my old house. Somehow, she kept Clark asleep and communicated with him in his dreams. I remember he was so afraid to fall asleep, and tried so hard to stay awake. I made a LOT of coffee for him. But he did fall asleep again, and he did see her in his dreams again. She somehow entered his dreams to seek his help. Could Mrs. Teague be entering my dreams somehow, in an attempt to manipulate me? All of this really frightens me. I don’t understand what is happening to me: Isobel’s tomb, the tattoo, the spell book, the symbol in the book, Isobel possessing me, and now dreaming about Isobel being burned at the stake… AND Jason’s mom being there. Is all of this really happening? Maybe I’m just losing my mind. I don’t know what to think anymore. I wish it would all just go away.

At least Jason didn’t seem to think I am going crazy. I guess that’s a good sign. But, I don’t know. His reaction was almost nil - as if he were trying hard not to make a big deal of it & to just brush it off as nothing. Seems like he should have reacted more strongly. Could he possibly know something he’s not telling me? Could he be keeping something from me? No that’s not Jason. He’s never kept things from me. Clark was the one who always did that. I guess Clark’s really made me paranoid in relationships. I have no good reason to not trust Jason. I need to get over this feeling that people are always keeping things from me. I have to trust Jason. I have to trust somebody.

*****


Clark and Chloe are looking at the diamond earring through a microscope in the Torch office. They are looking at a series of numbers and letters engraved on the diamond, too small for the human eye to see.

Clark: There it is. Just like he said.

Chloe: How do they get the serial number so small? It's Lilliputian.

Clark: Lasers. Lionel said all the high-end diamond dealers do it. In case it ever gets lost or stolen, you can track it down.

Chloe: Or it can track you down. (The FAX machine starts printing a page.) Oh. (She goes to it.) I still can't believe that Lionel actually called his old jewelry guy and had him send over the purchase orders.

Chloe picks up the FAX pages and looks at them.

Chloe: All right, give me the numbers.

Clark: (Reading from the diamond serial number.) 7-2-2-D-J-S-3-9-7-0.

Chloe finds a matching number on the page.

Chloe: Here we go. Two diamond earrings. Wow, very expensive. Couriered to Miss Shannon Bell.

Clark: Shannon Bell. How do I know that name?

Chloe: Well, according to this, she works in Lex's law firm.

Clark: We have to warn him.

Chloe: I'll call the police.

Just as Chloe turns away from Clark to grab her phone from the desk, Clark super speeds away. Chloe dials the police and turns around, seeing that Clark is gone. She looks slightly annoyed sound, but turns her attention back to her call.

*****

Shannon and Lex are at the mansion. Lex is still tied to the chair. Shannon attempts to set Lex on fire, to end what he keeps doing to women. Clark superspeeds in, puts out the fire, & knocks Shannon unconscious.

*****
At the Kent farm, several days later. Jonathan is in the kitchen reading the front page of the Daily Planet. There is a picture of Lex and a headline that says, "Luthor Acquitted of Double Homicide." Martha is pouring a cup of coffee, and Clark is in the kitchen also.

Jonathan: I'm glad Lex was found innocent, but I sure wish you would've come to us before you got yourself involved.

Clark: Well, at first, Dad, I just wanted to help. Then I had to figure out if I could trust him or not.

Martha: What did you decide?

Martha hands the cup of coffee and a bottle of honey over the counter to Jonathan.

Clark: (Sad.) I haven't. I mean, the way he treated those women... It showed me a side of Lex I hadn't seen before. I mean, how could you just not care that you hurt someone?

Jonathan: He's just following what he's learned, son. That's all.

Clark: There's something else you should know. I went to see Lionel.

Martha: What?

Clark: He wanted to help Lex, and he did. I couldn't have done it without him.

Jonathan: Clark. You know how dangerous that man is to you.

Clark: But, Dad, that's the thing. I think he's changed. And his liver's healed.

Martha: I thought his condition was terminal.

Clark: I think something in me actually healed him.

Jonathan: (Stunned.) Clark, does Lionel know about this?

Clark: No. He actually thinks it's a miracle.

Martha: It is.

Clark: Look, I know this sounds crazy, but I really think he has changed. I could see it in his eyes.

Jonathan: Clark, as far as I'm concerned, Lionel Luthor is never gonna change, and neither is Lex. Now, we're just gonna have to accept that.

Clark looks from Jonathan to Martha noncommittally.

*****

Clark's loft at night. Clark stands at the open window and stares out with his arms folded over his chest. He hears someone entering behind him and turns to see Lex coming up the stairs. Then he turns away from Lex and back to the stars. Lex remains at the top of the stairs.

Lex: I wanted to say thank you. And I'm sorry. I know you were only trying to help me.

Clark: (Turning back to Lex.) How long is this gonna continue, Lex?

Lex: I don't know. What do you want me to tell you?

Lex walks to Clark's side and looks forlornly out the window.

Clark: (Quietly angry, hurt.) I don't want you to tell me anything. I want you to change.

Lex: I don't know if I can.

Clark: You know, it seems the only person you care about is yourself. There's a whole side of you that I don't know about, Lex. And what else don't I know about you?

Lex: You don't know that every day, I wonder why I keep going. Why I do the things I do. You know, Shannon might have been crazy, but she was right about me. I treated those women terribly, Clark. People died, and I could've stopped it. I see that now.

Clark: Well, that's a start.

Lex: You know, there was a moment the other night when that fire she set was coming towards me. I thought, good. It would save the world a lot of grief. But somehow, the fire went out. And she was lying on the floor. And suddenly, I had a second chance.

Clark: The last few days, Lex, I... I thought your father was being more honest with me than you were. And I hated that feeling. I felt like we were enemies.

Lex: (Looking into Clark's eyes pleadingly.) Don't give up on me yet.

Clark returns his gaze.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

I wonder if Lex will ever really change. This whole thing has shown me a side of Lex that I never really saw before - a really dark side. How could he just walk all over people like that? All those women. Has he always been that self-centered, that selfish, that unfeeling all along? Why have I been so blind to it? I guess I always want to see the good in people - and sometimes I focus on that so hard, that I miss the obvious. I hope Lex really can change. I hope I can help him somehow.

And what of Lionel? I think he really has changed. Something in me must have healed him and changed him during the transference. Or maybe that stone had some kind of healing properties - like my ship, when it healed me and my mom from the effects of those deadly spores. It did have a Kryptonian symbol on it. In fact, it was the same symbol that Lana showed me - that was mysteriously tattooed onto her back in Paris. How are these Kryptonian symbols showing up all over the place anyway? In Paris? And on a stone found in Mayan ruins near Honduras? I wish I understood what in the world is going on. And Lex is the one who had that first stone, the one I got from his plane when I was Kal-El. How is it that Lex and Lionel are finding these apparently Kryptonian stones?

Oh, I wish all of this would go away. I hate having to deal with all of it. I wish could just live a normal life, have a normal girlfriend, play football, and enjoy my Senior year - no stones, no Luthors, no ties to Krypton. But, I’m not normal. I guess I never will be. I guess I can never have the life I really want. The more time goes by, the more alone and isolated I feel. Even my parents don’t seem to understand me anymore. Maybe I’m destined to be alone - forever. I truly hope I’m wrong about that.

*****

At night, Jason comes out of the Talon through the backdoor into the alley. The rain is pouring down. In the alley, there is a chauffeur standing under an umbrella next to a parked car. Jason comes to the car and the man opens the back door for him. Jason gets inside and sits down next to his mother, Genevieve. She smiles at him.

Jason: What are you doing here, Mother?

Genevieve: I know you don't want to talk to me, Jason. But every mother has a right to see her own son.

There is a thunderclap and flash of lightning. The light reflects off of Genevieve's red coat and casts a strange red glow onto Jason's face that is gone almost immediately.

Jason: You didn't come here to see me.

Genevieve: Is it so terrible to want to meet your girlfriend?

Jason: It's the way you go about it. But I'm not gonna let you do it this time. Because it's different. [Another flash of lightning.] I will come see you when I'm ready.

Genevieve: When will that be?

Jason: I don't know. But you can't come back here.

Genevieve: I just want you to know, Jason, that I'm really glad that you're happy. I mean, Lana is... an enchanting girl. I can see why you moved to the middle of nowhere to be with her. I mean, she's... She's special.

A third lightning flash makes Genevieve's face impossibly pale for only an instant.

Genevieve: I knew you'd meet someone like her one day.

Jason looks at Genevieve for a few seconds, processing what she just said.

Jason: Did I meet her by accident, or not? (Lightning.)

Genevieve: (Laughing.) What on earth are you implying? Of course you did, Jason. How else could you meet her?

Genevieve leans across the seat and kisses Jason on the cheek, dismissing his question. He remains very still, unconvinced that her answer is the truth.

Genevieve: I'll wait to hear from you.

The lightning holds a fairly steady rhythm as mother and son share a last look, and then Jason gets out of the car. He walks a few feet away, then turns back as the chauffeur gets into the driver's seat and starts the engine.

Even as the car drives away, Jason remains in the middle of the alleyway in the pouring rain.

(End of BOUND)

[binkys711]

1st!

Great update SVsleuth! Glad to see you'll continue it thourgh season 5 hidden! I loved the update! PPMS!!! Clark and Lana are so confused.

[clana4ev3r]

when are they not confused? :D

[NYC300Z]

yeah they sure were confused alot last season! :lol: good job with that SV!

PPMS!

[SVsleuth]

Some of you have yet to discover this early morning update....so I'll make it more visible for you. Merry Christmas.

[Dr. Jeckyll]

Well, thank you :)

I read it just now and loved it. Ofc it hurts to read this oh so tragic clana, but your journals makes it a little easier. Then again, after reading this, Alt. endings make me feel so good. So PPMS, SV!!

[akuma]

Awesome SV, sad clana yes, but cant for happy ALT.

[Cardinal]

Reading...finally. :p

The cracks in the Clark/Lex relationship grow wider and Lana is less and less sure who, if anyone, she can trust.

Keep it coming, SV.

[cufcchic]

awesome update SV!!!!! ppmasap!

[SVsleuth]

CLANA Journals: Scare

Lana is in her Talon apartment. As she is about to exit, she hears a crash and screams from customers in the Talon. Lana comes out of her apartment and looks down into the Talon with concern. When she sees that it is Jason who is lying unconscious on the floor, a shattered table beneath him, her eyes widen and her face fills with fear.

Lana: Jason!

She runs quickly down the stairs and kneels at Jason’s side, placing her hand on his chest. She is visibly shaken.

Lana: (turning her head toward the crowd, yelling) Someone call an ambulance! (Turning back to Jason) Jason. Jason, can you hear me?

Jason is unresponsive.

*****

Jason is unconscious in a hospital bed at Smallville Medical Center. Lana is sitting next to him stroking his hand and caressing his face. Tears run down her face as she cries silently, looking at him lovingly. Jason’s heart is being monitored by a machine next to the bed. Chloe and Clark walk down the hall, Chloe in the lead, looking for Jason’s room. Chloe enters the room, with Clark right behind her.

Chloe: Hey. How’s he doing?

Lana: [Wiping her tears and looking at Chloe.] The doctors don’t know. His heart’s beating a mile a minute, and they can’t get his blood pressure down.

Chloe: That’s a little bit odd for someone who’s unconscious, isn’t it?

Lana: (directing her answer to Chloe) They said he’s in some sort of a panic mode, like he’s having a severe nightmare.

Clark: What happened?

Lana glances at Clark, seemingly noticing for the first time that he is there. Clark looks over to Jason, then back at Lana, somewhat uncomfortably.

Lana: He, um, came by the Talon to pick me up for lunch, and I ran upstairs to grab a jacket.

Chloe: And?

Lana: And I heard a crash. That’s it. He’s been -- he’s been perfectly healthy, but the doctors say that if they can’t get his heart rate down that he could have a heart attack.

Clark: They must have some idea of what caused this.

Lana: I wish I could help them. But he was just studying all morning before he came to the apartment. The first time I saw him, he was lying on the Talon floor.

Chloe: Well, let us know if there’s anything we can do to help, okay?

Lana: [She nods.] They need his insurance card. It’s, um, it’s in my apartment. Could you guys go get it for me? I don’t want to leave his side.

Chloe: Yeah, okay.

Chloe touches Clark’s arm and starts to leave the room. Clark looks back at Lana and Jason for another moment, as Lana gazes lovingly and tearfully at Jason. Clark then follows Chloe out of the room.

*****
[b]LANA’s Journal

Maybe if I write something it will help me deal with this. I was so scared when I saw Jason lying there unconscious. What if he never comes out of it? I feel so guilty for beginning to doubt him, for thinking that maybe he hasn’t been honest with me. He’s been nothing but good to me. How could I doubt him? What kind of nightmare could he be having, to make his heart beat a mile a minute and his pressure skyrocket like that? I can hardly imagine a nightmare worse than the one I had about Isobel being burned at the stake - but I didn’t go into a coma. I wish I knew what was causing this. I wish I could do something to help.

At least Chloe and Clark are trying to help. Knowing them, they’ll dig up more than Jason’s ID card. Well, I can’t just sit here and do nothing. Maybe I can help Chloe & Clark figure out what caused this.

*****
Clark and Chloe are in Lana’s apartment. Clark picks up a framed picture of Jason and Lana and stares at it seriously, while Chloe observes him from across the room.

Chloe: (walking toward Clark) Clark, I don’t mean to go all Dr. Phil on you, but don’t you think that you should, uh, admit that they’re in a relationship?

Clark: (uncomfortably, trying to shrug it off) Come on, Chloe. I’m past that. (He puts down the picture.)

Chloe: Yeah, I should’ve known by that crippling stare on your face ever since you walked in the apartment.

Clark: (struggling emotionally) I just could’ve used more time to ease into it, you know?

Clark walks past Chloe.

Chloe: Clark, you were in love with her. That’s not something you just ease out of.

Clark: Just by the time I found out, they were already this --- serious thing.

Chloe: Yeah. But we all keep secrets for our own reasons. I don’t think I have to tell you that.

Clark doesn’t respond. Chloe walks to a chair where Jason’s book bag is resting. She unzips the bag and starts looking through it.

Clark: I don’t think going through Jason’s personal things falls under your snoop jurisdiction.

Chloe: Well, I’ll take my chances with the jury on this one.

Chloe finds Jason’s PDA and pulls it out of the bag.

Chloe: I think maybe if we backtrack through Jason’s last couple of days, it might help. [She pushes several buttons on the PDA.] Ooh. Jason had a meeting at LuthorCorp this morning.

Clark: [Surprised.] Why didn’t Lana say something?

Chloe: Maybe she didn’t know.

*****
CLARK’s THOUGHTS (while on the way to LuthorCorp with Chloe)

Clark, you were in love with her. That’s not something you just ease out of.
Clark, you were in love with her. That’s not something you just ease out of.
Clark, you were in love with her. That’s not something you just ease out of.

Chloe was almost right. But the truth is that it’s not past tense. I am still in love with Lana. And she’s with Jason. And there’s nothing I can do about it.

I know that Lana is together with Jason - but I’ve never been around them to actually see them together. I saw the way Lana was looking at him, as he lay there in that bed. She was really worried. She really does love him. My heart wrenched as I saw how she looked at him - to see her look at someone else that way - the way she used to look at me - with so much love in her eyes. It really hurts - a lot. I miss her so much.

And then I see Jason, my former coach, lying in that bed unconscious - and I feel so guilty for feeling so envious of his relationship with Lana. And then I think of Lana, and how difficult it must be for her to see Jason in this condition - and my heart goes out to her, full of sympathy for her pain. And I long to do something to help ease her pain. But what can I possibly do? I can’t take her in my arms to comfort her - that would be quite awkward anyway - me trying to comfort her because her new boyfriend is in a life-threatening situation.

I guess all I can do is what I am doing - try to figure out the possible cause of Jason’s sudden illness in time for the doctors to help him. Well, here we are at Luthorcorp. Maybe we’ll find a clue here.

*****

Chloe and Clark walk up outside LuthorCorp. They walk toward the gate that leads onto the company grounds. Nobody else is around.

Clark: [Looking around.] This place seems dead.

Chloe: Yeah. My dad used to work the overtime shifts on Saturdays. This lot should be full by now.

Chloe pulls a security card out of her pocket and swipes it through a slot outside the gate. She then pushes the gate open and they walk onto the grounds.

Clark: Where do you think everybody is?

Chloe: I don’t know. But while you’re talking to Lex, I’m gonna give myself a little backstage tour.

They split up. Chloe keeps walking forward and Clark veers off to the left.

*****

Inside of LuthorCorp, Lex is walking down a hallway with pipes lining the ceiling. Clark turns a corner and walks into the hallway in front of Lex. Lex is clearly in a hurry and seems on edge.

Lex: [Angry] Clark? How the hell did you get in here?

Clark: The, uh, the gate was open.

Lex keeps walking and Clark follows him.

Clark: Your security seems a little MIA lately.

Lex: That’s obvious, but this is a restricted area.

Clark: This’ll only take a second. Lex stops next to a security phone on the wall. He picks up the receiver and speaks into it.

Lex: I need someone to escort a guest out. [He hangs up the phone.] Look, Clark, I’m sorry, but I just got in from Metropolis. I got a lot to do.

Lex starts walking again and Clark follows him.

Clark: Just now? I thought you had a meeting with Jason this morning.

Lex: Not with me. He was meeting with the head of my HR department.

Clark: You giving him a job?

Lex stops walking and turns to face Clark.

Lex: Just some leads. I felt guilty for getting Jason fired from the school. He didn’t even want Lana to know about it. I’m surprised he told you.

Clark: He didn’t. Jason’s lying unconscious at the hospital, some sort of neurological stress.

Lex: Do they know what happened?

Clark: No. But your HR guy might have been the last person to talk to him.

Lex: Look, I’ll track him down, but Clark, there could be a lot of reasons for Jason’s condition.

Lex starts to walk away.

Clark: There could also be a lot of reasons why this place is deserted halfway through a Saturday shift.

Lex: [Turning back.] I’ll call in a specialist from Metropolis to take a look at him. Assure Lana I’m doing everything I can for him.

Clark watches Lex walk away as a security officer drives up behind Clark in a small cart.

*****

Clark sees Chloe running out into a main hallway at LuthorCorp. She is screaming and struggling as if wearing a straitjacket, but there isn’t one.

Chloe: No! No! Aah!

She keeps screaming as Clark and the security guard come driving toward her in the guard’s cart. The guard stops his cart and starts to stand up looking at Chloe strangely. Clark then taps the guard on the back of the head, knocking him unconscious. Then he runs to Chloe and catches her in his arms just as she passes out, sweating profusely.

*****

Clark hangs up the phone as he walks into the Kent kitchen to talk to Jonathan and Martha.

Clark: Eight other people have just come down with the condition that Jason and Chloe have.

Martha: The doctors haven’t found anything in common?

Jonathan: Didn’t you say that Jason and Chloe were both at LuthorCorp today?

Clark: Yeah, but half the victims at the hospital weren’t. Whatever this is seems to strike completely at random. There’s no way to tell who’s gonna be next.

Jonathan: That sounds contagious - in the air or water?

Clark: Maybe it’ll show up in some environmental quality report.

There is a knock on the door. Jonathan and Martha turn and see Lana through the screen. Jonathan walks toward the door.

Clark: (uncomfortably) Lana.

Jonathan: Come on in.

Jonathan opens the screen door for Lana and she enters.

Lana: Um, sorry to show up like this. I just didn’t know where else to go.

Martha: Clark told us about Jason. Has something happened?

Lana: One of the other infected people just died.

Martha looks at Lana sadly.

Jonathan: Lana, do the doctors have any idea at all what’s going on?

Lana: Just that a person’s body can only sustain a level of panic for so long before their heart gives out. [Becoming more emotional.] I can’t...I can’t just sit in that hospital anymore just... just watching Chloe and Jason die. I want to help.

Clark looks at Lana seriously.

*****
CLARK’s THOUGHTS

Can she be serious? Lana wants to help me sort out this mystery illness? How’d she even know I’d be working on it? How awkward is this? Not exactly how I envisioned spending time with Lana. But with Chloe in the hospital, I guess I could use someone’s help with this.

*****

Lana and Clark are in the Torch office. Clark is sitting at the computer looking at an environmental quality report for Kansas on the screen.

Lana: We know that Jason was in town by nine o’clock.

Clark: Well, according to the hourly satellite images, we had clear skies all morning.

Lana leans over next to Clark to look at the screen.

Lana: Hourly? Can we get a bit more specific than that?

Clark: I’ll try.

Clark begins to type.

Lana: You know, I just don’t understand why Jason wouldn’t tell me that he had a meeting at LuthorCorp. (As Lana mentions Jason, Clark stops typing and a look of uneasiness comes over his face)

Clark: (still facing the computer, his back to Lana) It might’ve been a blow to his pride, accepting Lex’s offer.

Lana: Well, maybe that’s what all of this has been about. [Clark turns around to look at Lana. They maintain steady eye contact.] I’ve been getting this feeling lately that there’s something he hasn’t been telling me.

Clark: (responding immediately) Maybe he thought you’d see him differently if you found out.

Lana: [Stricken, she looks intently at Clark.] Do you really think that I’m that shallow, Clark?

Clark: (exhaling uncomfortably, Clark blinks and swallows, but succeeds in keeping eye contact with Lana) It might take him a while to get to know you as well as I do.

They maintain a steady gaze for a long moment. Suddenly, there is a beep from the computer and Lana looks at the screen.

Lana: Look at that.

Clark turns his head towad the screen, & Lana walks closer, leaning in next to Clark to see the screen. On the screen, there is a simulation of a cloud forming rapidly over Kansas.

Clark: It looks like that cloud came out of nowhere.

Lana: And then it’s completely gone five minutes later.

Clark: It covered two miles before it dissipated.

Lana: Why would a cloud just appear like that?

Clark: Maybe it’s not a cloud. Maybe it’s pollution or smoke or something.

Lana: Well, if that’s the county line, then Chloe’s house was right in the middle of it.

Clark: So is LuthorCorp.

Clark gets up quickly and turns away. He doesn’t notice that Lana suddenly starts to feel weak and has to brace herself against the desk to keep from falling. She turns and a white light begins to flash in her face like a strobe light. Lana holds her hands up in front of her face to block the light. She keeps moving her hands in front of her face as if she is trying to move something out of her way.

She is pushing at a dirty plastic sheet, trying to get it out of her face. She is lying in a dark empty morgue on a metal table covered by the sheet from head to toe. The sheet suddenly pulls itself down her body and off of her face. Her eyes open with a start.
The dim fluorescent light above her continues to flash eerily as Lana turns her head to the left, and her jaw drops at what she sees. As she sits up, she sees a row of similar metal tables with dead bodies on them, all covered by the same plastic sheets.
Lana gets off of the table and walks slowly toward the table next to her. The sheet covering the body pulls itself down and we see the dead body of Lara Lang. Lana gasps.

Lana: [Lana gasps and is shaken, becoming emotional] Mom...

She touches her mother’s face softly as the sheet on the next table is pulled down as well. Lana turns to see a dead Lewis Lang. Her breathing is shaky and fearful.

Lana: Dad!

Lana keeps walking to the next table in the row, and the sheet pulls away to reveal Chloe, pale and motionless. Lana gasps loudly and her breathing becomes loud and raspy as she begins to panic. She walks to the next table and stands next to it, almost as if waiting for the sheet to remove itself. It does, and we see Jason. Lana leans over him.

Lana: [with a desperate sob.] Jason!

She reaches out and caresses Jason’s pale face and lips. Then she hears a woman’s voice calling to her.

Woman: [Taunting.] La--na. La--na.

Lana turns around and at the end of the room, there is one more sheet-covered body lying on a table. She walks to the table and stands next to it, resting her hand on the edge. A hand suddenly reaches out from beneath the sheet and grabs Lana’s wrist. Her eyes go wide with fright and she gasps.
The body on the table sits up and it is another version of Lana. Her hair is wild and her skin is whitish-green and spotty. Her teeth are tinted a green color and her lips are deep green as if she has been dead and rotting for a long time. Her eyes are glazed over and white with black circles around them.

Dead Lana: They’re all going to leave you. And there’s nothing you can do about it.

Lana begins to scream.

Lana is standing in the Torch office screaming at the top of her lungs, in a heavy sweat.

Clark comes quickly to her side just as she passes out, collapsing into his arms.

Clark: Lana!

He holds her, worry washing over his face.

*****

Lex enters the Smallville Medical Center. The hallways are full of patients, some standing and some unconscious on gurneys. Lex walks to Dr. Scanlan who is standing over a gurney near the waiting area.

Lex: Dr. Scanlan, I understand you’re treating a patient named Jason Teague.

Scanlan: Lex, I’ve got my hands full right now. We’re watching Mr. Teague along with all the others in his condition.

Dr. Scanlan starts to walk away and Lex follows him.

Lex: The others? Are you telling me all these people have the same symptoms?

They stop at another patient who is unconscious on a gurney in the hallway.

Scanlan: Unfortunately. We have no idea what we’re dealing with.

Scanlan looks at the heart monitor and then keeps walking.

Lex: It’s a synthetic toxin.

Scanlan stops and turns back to Lex.

Lex: [Lowering his voice.] A pressure tank exploded this morning at my plant. We thought we had it contained, but the toxin must have escaped into the atmosphere. It’s possible all these people were exposed at the time

Scanlan: And you’re just telling me this now? I have to call the Center for Disease Control.

Lex: [Following Scanlan.] I don’t know how much they can do, but there’s an antidote my project manager’s been modifying as we speak.

Scanlan: How close is it?

Lex: The first trial was unsuccessful, but I assure you we’ll have the situation under control.

Scanlan: It’s too late for that.

Clark enters the hallway carrying Lana.

Clark: (calling urgently) I need a doctor! I need a doctor!

Clark walks swiftly toward Dr. Scanlan and Lex. Dr. Scanlan motions to an empty stretcher next to the wall and Clark puts Lana down on it, caressing her face as an orderly begins to wheel the bed away and Dr. Scanlan follows. Clark goes to Lex, grabbing him roughly by the shoulder.

Clark: Did you know about this when I talked to you earlier today?

Lex: Clark, other than Jason, I had no idea anyone outside of LuthorCorp was exposed. You have to believe me.

Clark: What is this stuff?

Before Lex can answer, there is a loud zooming noise and then a large explosion by the window in the waiting area as a flaming meteor crashes into the medical center. Clark turns to the waiting area as it fills up with smoke and several more meteors crash through the wall, knocking a man to the floor and flipping an empty gurney upside down.

Clark runs down the hallway to Lana’s hospital room, where Lana is now sitting up in her bed and wearing a hospital gown. She looks fearfully toward the window where we can hear several car alarms going off. Clark runs to the window and pulls up the blinds. Several meteors with fiery orange heads and long tails of black smoke shoot out of the sky and into the parking lot where they crash into the cars and send them doing flips into the air. Two more meteors crash into the pavement leaving large black craters in the ground.
Then Clark looks up into the sky and sees a meteor headed straight for the window where he is standing. He runs over to Lana’s bed and hunches over her, standing between her and the window as the meteor hits. The meteor crashes through the wall and strikes Clark in the back, breaking into dozens of kryptonite rocks, but he successfully protects Lana from getting hit as she holds her arms over her head.
She uncovers her head and they look into each other’s eyes for a long moment, before Clark collapses to the floor, weakened by the kryptonite. There is now a huge hole in the wall and a ray of sunlight comes into the room through it. Lana gets up from her bed and walks to Clark slowly. The lights in the room surge noisily and sparks fly from exposed wires in the hole in the wall. Lana looks at Clark intensely.

Lana: It all makes sense.

There is a flash of light and a pop from a bulb behind Lana. She jumps slightly and turns to look at it, then turns back to Clark.

Clark: [Painful whisper.] Lana... Help me.

Lana: [Quietly, in shock.] The meteor shower. You came the same day. How could I be so stupid?

Clark: (in pain, speaking with difficulty) The meteor shower’s the reason I’m here. I’m from a planet called Krypton.

Lana stares at Clark as he struggles to remain conscious.

Clark: Lana, I wanted to tell you. [He grimaces with pain.] I didn’t think you’d accept me.

Lana bends over and picks up a long piece of glowing kryptonite.

Lana: You’re not even human?

Clark: [He groans.] Please. That stuff makes me sick.

Lana: [Near tears.] My parents are gone because of you, and I’m never gonna see them again. [A whisper.] You killed my parents.

Clark looks up at Lana pleadingly. She lowers her eyes to the kryptonite in her hand, and then she rushes toward Clark, holding the kryptonite above her head, ready to stab him. Just before the kryptonite hits Clark in the chest….

Clark wakes up in a hospital bed with a jolt. His bed is in the hallway and he looks around, seeing that the hall is still full of patients and doctors, but the meteor shower was just a dream. A thought occurs to him.

Clark: Mom.

Clark gets off the bed and starts to walk down the hall hurriedly looking at all the unconscious patients. Dr. Scanlan sees Clark and follows him.

Scanlan: [Surprised.] Clark?

Clark: I need to find my parents! Where are they?

Scanlan: They haven’t been admitted. Clark, you’re the first patient to come out of this. I think you’d better sit down.

Clark: No, I feel fine.

Scanlan: Clark--

Before Dr. Scanlan can say anymore, Clark runs out of the hallway.

*****

Clark super speeds to the Kent farm. He comes inside through the kitchen door and finds Jonathan unconscious on the floor near some broken glass.

Clark: Dad?

Clark kneels next to Jonathan and touches his shoulder, but Jonathan is unresponsive. Clark continues to look around and he can hear the phone beep signifying that the phone is off the hook. He follows the sound and sees Martha unconscious next to the kitchen counter with the phone and a broken lamp lying on the floor next to her.

Clark: Mom! [He goes to her.] Mom?

He turns her gently onto her back and her body remains limp. Clark super speeds from the room.

*****
CLARK’s THOUGHTS

First Jason and Chloe. Now Lana, and my parents. I cannot lose everyone I love. I’ve got to do something.

*****

At LuthorCorp, Lex is talking on his cell phone in an office outside a quarantined patient room. Doctors in protective suits are administering to the patients. Dr. Ford is in the office with Lex and is already very anxious. Clark runs into the office.

Clark: Lex!

Lex: [On the phone.] I’ll keep you updated. [He hangs up his phone.]

Clark: You’re running out of time.

Ford: How did you get past security?

Lex: It’s okay. [To Clark.] I don’t understand. I left you in the hospital. What happened?

Clark: My parents are in there now.

Lex: [Taking a moment to digest the news.] Clark--

Clark: Lana, Chloe, Jason-- they’re all gonna die if you don’t do something!

Lex: What do you suggest I do?

Clark thinks about it, noticing the vials of liquid in the incubator. Then he thinks of something.

Clark: Use me.

Ford looks at Lex, confused.

Clark: I want you to use me. Look, I came out of this panic state. Maybe there’s something in me that can help. I’ll give you whatever samples you need.

Ford: Well, even if your immune system could offer us some sort of insight, I don’t know, those kind of tests take months, years to analyze. No, no.

Lex walks toward the incubator holding his hand to his head pensively. There are beads of sweat forming all over his scalp. He knows he has been exposed. He turns back to Clark.

Lex: He’s right, Clark. We have a new antidote that we can test in a few hours.

Clark: There’s no time.

Lex: The antidote needs to be heated to 1000 degrees Kelvin until it clears. Otherwise, it’s useless.

Ford: [To Lex.] This time we’re gonna test it first.

Lex: People’s lives are at stake. We’re running out of time!

Ford: [Pointing to the window.] Look at them, Mr. Luthor. Look at them. Are you going to point the finger and decide which one of them is going to take the potentially lethal injection? Whoever it is, you could be killing them.
Lex goes to the window and looks through it, caught in an impossible decision. When he and Ford have their backs to Clark, Clark uses his heat vision on the incubator, raising the temperature to 1000 degrees in seconds. The dark solution in the vials becomes clear and the incubator beeps. Both Lex and Ford turn to look at the incubator in disbelief.
Then Lex walks toward the counter, grabbing an injection gun on his way, and opens the incubator, pulling out a vial and sticking it into the top of the gun. Both Ford and Clark look at him expectantly, unsure of what he is going to do. Without a word, Lex sticks the needle into his own wrist and injects himself with the antidote. Clark’s mouth opens in shock.

Ford: Mr. Luthor, no!

*****

Lex jolts awake in the office at LuthorCorp. He sees Clark kneeling next to him.

Lex: Clark?

Ford: Thank God it worked. I’m gonna get the antidote to the hospital.

Clark: Lex, you’re gonna be okay.

Clark smiles at Lex proudly.

*****

[b]CLARK’s JOURNAL

I would risk anything to save the people I love. I’d reveal my secret. I’d give up my own life, if it could save them. I hope that antidote works. I can’t wait to have my parents and Lana and Chloe well again - and Jason.

That nightmare. Man, it felt so real. That’s been my fear for so long. That someday I’d be in a situation where I am forced to use my abilities to save Lana, and she finds out my secret - and cannot accept me - and blames me for her parents’ deaths. It’s like I told Lana about Jason. When I said, “Maybe he thought you’d see him differently if you found out” ….. I could tell by her reply that she grasped that that has been my reason for hiding the truth from her. She said, “Do you really think that I’m that shallow, Clark?”
Do I? I don’t know. I just know that I am deathly afraid to reveal my secret to her, and have her reject me and blame me. But when she asked me that, I felt a surge of hope - like maybe I could tell Lana the truth - and maybe she would be able to handle it. What if she’s not that shallow? What if she would accept me?

Lana said she’s felt that Jason is keeping something from her. Was it really the LuthorCorp job? Or could there be something else? I wonder if it will work out for Lana with Jason after all?

It did feel good for her to open up to me again. She used to do that so often - I really miss that. But I guess it could never work if she is the only one opening up. At least I’m glad to know that when she’s in a bind, Lana knows she can still come to me for help. That gives me some hope.

Yet, after that nightmare… could Lana really blame me so much that she would kill me? Just when I had a glimmer of hope that maybe I could tell Lana, that nightmare comes along…. No, I don’t think I could tell her. I wonder if I’ll ever be able to tell anyone.

It’s so lonely not having someone that I can totally be myself with. I wonder if I’ll ever get a chance at that, with anyone. I guess only time will tell.

*****

Clark, Martha, and Jonathan enter their house. Jonathan stops to hang his coat up, and Martha and Clark walk to the kitchen.

Martha: [With a relieved sigh.] Home.

Jonathan follows them. Clark stops when he gets to the kitchen entrance and looks around uncomfortably.

Jonathan: Clark. Is something bothering you, son?

Clark: No, it’ll just take a few days before I can walk into that room... and not get a flash of the two of you unconscious on the floor.

Martha: Well, thanks for cleaning everything up.

Clark: Yeah, somebody really did a number on that lamp back there. Must’ve been some nightmare you had.

Jonathan: And we woke up to find it had almost come true.

Martha: Clark, you walked right into Lex’s office and almost gave up your secret. Who knows what they would’ve done to you?

Jonathan gets a pitcher from the fridge and three glasses from the cupboard.

Clark: I didn’t see any other choice. It’s funny because lately I’ve been thinking I’ve gotten closer to being able to tell someone the truth about me. Now I’m convinced more than ever that I can’t tell anyone. Especially not Lana.

Martha: I know how much it would mean to you to be able to share your secret with her.

Clark: [Nodding.] As far apart as we’ve grown, I think about it every day.

Martha: I-I hope our own fears haven’t gotten in your way. I would hate for you to look back and regret not telling the people closest to you. I mean, there is a chance Lana would understand.

Clark: There is. But what if she didn’t?

Martha looks at Clark sympathetically.

Jonathan: Clark, look, I’m not sure that it’s Lana, but I am sure that someday there’ll be someone you can tell.

Clark smiles slightly, trying to accept the encouragement.

*****

Inside Lana‘s apartment, Jason is packing his bags as Lana enters with a bag of food.

Lana: Egg fu yang to the rescue!

Her smile fades when she sees what Jason is doing. She closes the door.

Lana: So. If I had waited around for the Peking duck, you’d have what, been gone?

Jason: No, I would’ve been here, trying to figure out what to say.

Lana: [Coming toward him.] I don’t understand. Is this because of your mom? You’ve been different ever since I met her.

Jason: No, I’ve been different ever since I came to Smallville. I mean, six months ago, I would’ve never gone to someone like Lex and groveled for a job that I don’t even want. I guess the worst part is I was too embarrassed to even tell you about it.

Lana: Since when have you ever been embarrassed around me?

Jason: Exactly. I don’t like this person that I’m becoming, Lana, and I don’t want to wait around for you to resent me as much as I resent myself, so...

Lana gazes at Jason as if studying him.

Lana: That’s not why you’re leaving. The one thing I learned from my relationship with Clark is when someone isn’t being honest with me.

Jason makes eye contact with Lana, thinking about whether or not to answer. Then he lowers his eyes.

Lana: Jason, just tell me the truth.

Jason looks at her again and they share a long silent moment. Then Jason zips up his bag and picks it up walking around the bed toward Lana. He stops when he gets to her, looking at her for another few seconds, then kisses her on the cheek.

Jason: Be careful.

Lana grimaces sadly as she realizes that Jason isn’t going to tell her any more. She watches him as he leaves, shutting the door behind him.

*****

LANA’s JOURNAL

What is it with men? Do they all have to be so secretive? Or are they all that insecure? When Clark said, “Maybe he thought you’d see him differently if you found out,” I knew immediately that that was his fear - that’s why he never would open up to me, and tell me whatever it is that he is hiding. He’s afraid that I’ll see him differently if I find out? Does he really think I am that shallow? Does Jason too? It really hurts that neither of them would risk telling me the truth. Maybe it’s me. Maybe I would be unable to keep from changing how I see them, if I knew the whole truth.

I was so afraid of losing Jason to that illness. But now, he’s gone anyway. And somehow, I’ve lost all of the men I have loved. That reminds me of that horrible nightmare. The fear of losing everyone I love: my parents, Chloe, Jason - and that hideous version of myself, telling me that they will all leave me. I fear that I will always end up alone. And, here I am, alone again, as Jason has left me and I have no one. Will I always be alone? Will there ever be a man who can have an open, honest relationship? That’s all I’m really looking for.

I wonder what Jason’s nightmare was - and Chloe’s - and Clark’s - even Lex’s. I guess most of us will never tell what our darkest fear was. And that’s too bad, because then all we end up being is isolated and alone.

*****

Chloe is in the Torch office holding her cell phone to her ear, looking stressed. Clark comes in and she hangs up the phone.

Chloe: [Raving and pacing circles around the desk.] I can’t get a statement from LuthorCorp. I mean, a huge chemical explosion causes everybody to relive their worst nightmares? What is that?! And then there’s no sign of a lawsuit. I mean, it’s like this whole thing is just being completely forgotten about!

Clark looks at her strangely.

Chloe: What! What?! What?

Clark: [Putting down his bag.] I’ve seen you worked up before, but this is more than amped, even for you.

Chloe: [Calming down.] I guess it’s just displaced anxiety.

Clark waits for her to continue.

Chloe: I found my mom, Clark.

Silence. Then Clark walks around the desk to Chloe.

Clark: Wow. That’s... Chloe, that’s great.

Chloe: Yeah, I mean I put my feelers out for years, and something, three months ago, finally came through, so... um, it turns out she’s, um... not exactly MIA, so to speak. [She starts to cry.] She’s in a mental institution.

Clark: I’m sorry.

Chloe: [She nods.] The real kicker is it’s hereditary.

Clark: [Soothingly.] Listen, hey. [He puts his hands on her arms.] If there’s one thing that I’ve learned it’s that you’re not destined to follow in your parents footsteps, all right?

Chloe nods wiping her eyes.

Chloe: Yeah, thanks. [She pulls away.] So, popular question of the day. What is Clark Kent’s worst nightmare?

Clark: When I woke up. [He sits on the desk.] Everyone that I knew was gone. I was completely alone. (I hope she buys that - because I certainly cannot tell my real nightmare.)

Chloe: I wish I could say that I’ll always be there for you, but somehow I get the feeling that may not be a promise I can keep.

She goes to Clark and sits next to him on the desk.

Chloe: You were the only one who came out of it, Clark, and I don’t think it’s because you’ve been taking your vitamins.

Clark: Chloe--

Chloe: Look, you know what? You don’t have to tell me. I know that I gave you my word that I was going to stop all this prying but... In these last few months, I really got a taste of what it was like to keep my mom’s secret, and I’ve never felt more alone.

Clark: [Nodding thoughtfully.] It’s weird when people think they’re so close to you but have no idea what you’re really going through.

Chloe: Yeah. I’d hate to live my whole life like this. But after ‘fessing up, it’s amazing how quickly that feeling of loneliness disappears. I mean, if you can’t tell your best friend, who can you tell? Right, Clark?

Clark looks at Chloe for a long time, trying to decide what to do. Chloe returns his gaze steadily.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

“I mean, if you can’t tell your best friend, who can you tell? Right, Clark?”

Chloe keeps dropping hints for me to tell her my secret. I’ve always only focused on Lana, and whether or not I should tell her. But Chloe has been my best friend for a long time. If I can’t tell my best friend, how can I ever tell a girl I love? Maybe I should tell Chloe? I think she would accept me - she’s very open minded. But my fear with Chloe is her inability to keep it quiet. I mean, how can I ask a reporter to sit on the story of her life? It would kill her. No, I can’t tell Chloe either. - Sigh - I wonder if I’ll ever be able to just be myself with someone. I hope so. Meanwhile, I have to endure this increasingly lonely & isolated life. I don’t seem to have a choice.

[Cardinal]

At first, Lana was so guilty when Jason got sick and Clark's jealous.

Then working with Lana took us back to "Slumber" when they worked to save the sleeping girl.

And, finally, Lana and Clark have something in common...they're both afraid of being left by everyone they know.

Now...on to Unsafe! :)

[MOOman0618]

Yea! You haven't updated the Journals in a while.

I loved how you pointed out that Lana could tell that Clark was talking about his own secret when he said maybe Jason was afraid she would see him differently. Even though it was full of angst, there was subtle Clana throughout S4.

Now...whats next on the list? An ALT Journal or Unsafe?

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by MOOman0618
I loved how you pointed out that Lana could tell that Clark was talking about his own secret when he said maybe Jason was afraid she would see him differently. Even though it was full of angst, there was subtle Clana throughout S4.

Thanks for pointing that part out, Moo! That was my favorite part to write. I watched that scene like zillion times to help me add in just the right parenthetical remarks...... ;)

Now...what's next on the list? An ALT Journal or Unsafe?

Yes, Alt. SCARE should be next (though it will have to be changed greatly, with Lana and Clark already together). Then I'll probably go back to HIDDEN for an update or 2 (I left them on the planet Nuthan), then back here for "UNSAFE" - which I KNOW Card is waiting for. (What will Lana write when Clark get's together with Alicia - & runs off to marry her? Why does Clark latch on to Alicia in the first place? What makes Lana throw herself at Jason?) I wish I could update them all at once, but I only have so much time. I worked on this update for over 7 hours last night - and part of it had been written the night before! (P.S. - Hey, Moo, can we get an update on Brilliance any time soon?;) )

[MOOman0618]

Originally posted by SVsleuth
(P.S. - Hey, Moo, can we get an update on Brilliance any time soon?;) )
Well...as soon as my Professor gets of my back about getting my work done, then I will think about it. :) I had to pull an all nighter the day I got back from break just to get myself almost caught up.

[binkys711]

that was a great update SVsleuth! Poor Clark everytime he sees a glimmer of hope it's snatched away by the darn fear and Lana well, Lana can never find a truthfull relationship now can she?:p PPMS!!!

[akuma]

Poor Lana, she had bad luck with truth:( but awesome job SV, cant wait for the rest to come!

[NYC300Z]

wow their is so much their SV that I don't think I fully saw before! you did a wonderful job piecing their thoughts together~!

PPMS!

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: UNSAFE - Part 1

WARNING: This is quite a Clalicia chapter with only a slight hint of Clana. You'll have to wait for Alt. Unsafe to get a Clana version.

CLARK’s JOURNAL

It’s getting harder and harder to be me lately. Now that I’ve been offered that Met U scholarship, girls are after me all the time. I’m the center of attention, but I feel so terribly alone. I mean, most of them probably just want to be seen with the star quarterback. Do any of them really care about me at all - really want to know me?

Doesn’t matter if they did. I wouldn’t be able to let them know me - not really. Lana begged to know the real me. And all I could do was lie to her. I guess I may as well forget about having a relationship with a girl, because it could never really work. So I’m afraid I’ll always be alone.

*****

Music is playing at the Talon. A lot of students are there, mingling, talking, and having a good time. Clark is sitting alone at a small round table, trying to do homework in the midst of it all. He leans back & sighs, a bit frustrated, taking a gulp of his coffee. Two attractive girls approach him, a blond and a brunette.


Brunette: Hey, Clark. What are you doing?

The two girls join Clark at his table.

Clark: Hey, um, I’m just trying to figure out some of this trig homework.

Blonde: What for? Don’t you already have a scholarship to Met U?

Clark: (Smiling.) Yes, for football. But they’re still gonna be looking at my final GPA.

Brunette: Well, when you’re done playing with your protractor, there’s a party over at Katie’s house.

Clark looks at her, seeming interested.

Blonde: Her parents have a hot tub.

Clark: (He looks at the blond, thinking about it, & answering quietly, almost to himself.) Really?

Brunette: Yeah.

The girls nod affirmatively, smiling at each other, seeming to agree that they have succeeded in convincing Clark to come. Clark suddenly becomes businesslike again, picking up his pencil.

Clark: Um, thanks, but I still got a lot of work to do here.

The girls’ smiles fade.

Brunette: Okay. Well, why don’t you drop by later if you finish?

Clark nods, forcing a smile.

Blonde: See ya.

Brunette: Bye, Clark.

The two girls get up and walk away from Clark‘s table. Clark sighs with disappointment. He stands up and makes his way toward the bar for a coffee refill, as the girls go up to two other guys who are standing nearby.

Blonde: Hey, there’s a party over at Katie’s house.

Clark sits down on a stool at the bar. Martha is there, standing behind the bar.

Martha: She was cute.

Clark: (turning to look back toward the girls and then back to Martha) Which one?

Martha: Both. Thinking of asking one of them out?

Clark: Yeah, so that I could ruin it just when we’re getting close by having to lie about who I really am? Like I did with Lana?

Martha: Clark, there is someone out there for you.

Clark: Who? Mom, a girl would have to be crazy to get in a relationship with me.

Martha looks at Clark sadly, at a loss to ease his emotional suffering.

*****

Clark walks slowly up the stairs to a dimly lit loft. He carries his backpack on one shoulder, a textbook in one hand, and his athletic jacket in the other hand. Walking to his desk he tosses the jacket down on the desk and dumps his book bag on top of it.
He takes his pen out of the book, drops the book onto the desk, and begins to twist the pen open and closed pensively. He hears a creak in the floor boards behind him, and his eyes become alert. A female voice comes out of the darkness behind him.


Voice: So what’s Smallville’s star quarterback doing up here alone on a Saturday night?

Clark stares ahead, recognizing the voice.

Clark: Alicia.

He turns around to face Alicia Baker.

Alicia: (nervously) I’m surprised you remember my name.

Clark: How could I forget? (She looks at him with a glimmer of hope. He takes a few nervous steps toward her.) You tried to kill me. And Lana. I’d ask how you escaped, but I guess that’s pretty obvious.

Alicia: I didn’t escape. They let me out. The doctors say I’m cured.

Clark: (Nodding skeptically) You could’ve called instead of teleporting into my loft.

Alicia: Actually, I borrowed my mom’s car and I drove.

Alicia smiles and holds up her left arm showing Clark a dark metal bracelet around her wrist.

Alicia: It’s a little something my doctor came up with. Trace amounts of lead are released into my blood stream, and it keeps me from using my powers.

She looks at him hopefully.

Clark: (Slightly surprised, but doubtful.) I’m glad they think you’re better. But it doesn’t change what happened between us.

Alicia: (seriously) I know that, Clark. I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am for everything I put you through. (Walking toward him, her eyes on his.) You’re the last person on earth that I ever wanted to hurt.

Clark nods and turns away to the side, lowering his eyes, considering. Alicia walks around to face him, trying to get him to make eye contact again.

Alicia: (breaking into a smile) But you didn’t answer my question. (He looks up at her.) Why are you up here alone on a Saturday night?

Clark turns again, looking away for a moment before looking at her again as he answers.

Clark: Maybe I prefer to be alone.

Alicia: ‘Cause of your secret? (Clark looks nervous. Alicia notices.) Don’t worry. I didn’t tell anyone. I promised you that I wouldn’t.

He nods slightly, then shakes his head side to side, his brows furrowed.

Clark: Alicia--

Alicia: (interrupting) The whole time that I was in Belle Reve, just the thought that there was someone out there like me, who knew what it was like to be different, gave me hope. In my darkest moment, you gave me hope, Clark.

Clark is affected by her words, and looks at her for a few moments but doesn’t know how to respond. He looks away, & she turns toward the stairs. Clark watches her with uncertainty as she starts down the stairs.


Alicia: (looking back for a moment) Bye.

Clark stares after her uncertainly.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Alicia. She’s the last person I would have expected to walk in here tonight. The one girl who does know my secret. The one girl who understands what it feels like to be so different. She said the doctors say she’s cured. She claims that lead bracelet keeps her from being able to teleport. But she could be lying. I mean, she did try to kill me - and Lana. I can’t just overlook that.

Then again, she was emotionally unstable. And she has been at Belle Reve for quite a while now. What if her treatments worked, and she really is cured, not obsessed any more? She said she is really sorry for hurting me. And she said she never told anyone my secret, because she promised me she wouldn’t. She seemed really sincere, and not dangerous anymore. Could she be telling the truth? Could she really be cured? There’s a part of me that really hopes that she is - a part of me that feels so connected to her, because she knows my secret, and I know hers. I could let down my guard when I was with her, and just be myself, abilities and all. I miss that.

But, another part of me is so skeptical. I mean, when Alicia attacked Lana and used kryptonite against me, I never saw it coming. She seemed perfectly normal, until she suddenly freaked out in jealousy. How can I believe anything she says? Did her doctors really say she is cured of her obsessive tendencies? Does that bracelet really stop her from using her teleporting ability? If, so, it at least would keep her from invading anyone’s privacy uninvited.

I don’t know, she probably just made that up. Why am I even considering the possibility that she is telling the truth? I guess it’s because, having her own unique ability, she knows what it’s like for me - she can understand me in way Lana never could. How could Lana ever understand what it’s like to be so - different? Especially if she also knew that the meteor shower that brought me caused her parents’ deaths. As much as I’ve always wanted to be with Lana, I have to admit that there are obstacles to a relationship with her that just will never be able to be removed. Those obstacles aren’t there with Alicia - only the question of whether or not she is really cured. I have to admit that, if she really is, I am interested. And if she’s not, then maybe her re-appearance has still been a help to me. She’s helped me to realize that maybe I should always look for a girl with special abilities, because it is more likely that I will be comfortable being myself with such a girl. Well, before starting to look for a new girl with special abilities, I should find out whether or not Alicia is telling the truth. If she is, maybe I don’t have to look any farther.

*****

The next morning at breakfast, Martha pours orange juice as Jonathan and Clark enter the room.

Jonathan: (With disbelief.) So that - they just let Alicia teleport out of Belle Reve.

Clark: No, they gave her some sort of lead bracelet that stops her from using her powers, and she doesn’t seem as dangerous anymore.

Martha: Her powers aren’t the only thing that made her dangerous, Clark. She’s obsessed with you.

Jonathan: (Sitting down at the table.) And she knows your secret.

Clark: (coming quickly to her defense.) Which she kept for over a year. Whatever they did to her in Belle Reve, maybe it worked. (He looks hopeful.)

Martha: (Pouring Clark’s orange juice.) We know how much you want to be with someone you don’t have to lie to, sweetheart, but Alicia isn’t the one.

Clark: So what should I do, just wait for the next cute girl with special abilities to knock on my door?

Martha sits at the table.

Jonathan: Clark, you know what she did. Alicia needs to be in an institution.

Clark: Then why’d they let her out of Belle Reve? Jonathan looks at Clark, having no response.(Clark continues with a hint of hope.)What if she really is better?

Martha: (concerned) And what if she isn’t?

*****

Later, Clark and Chloe are in the Torch office. Chloe pulls up a file on Alicia on the computer. Clark paces behind her.

Chloe: Damn, I’m good. All right, Alicia Baker. “Suffering from a histrionic personality disorder causing emotional instability resulting in psychotic episodes.” Yeah, that’s our girl.

Chloe pulls up another page with a picture of William McBride. Clark sees it from a distance as he leans against a wall behind Chloe.

Clark: Who’s that guy?

Chloe: It’s Alicia’s psychiatrist, Dr. William McBride. Yeah, I’ve heard of him. He graduated from Harvard in two years with more degrees than a thermometer.

Clark: What’s he say about Alicia?

Clark walks over toward Chloe and leans nervously toward the screen, looking as Chloe skims the page.

Chloe: Wow. Well, according to Dr. McBride, Alicia really is cured.

Chloe looks bit puzzled. Clark straightens up and walks slowly across the room, his expression becoming hopeful.

Clark: She was telling the truth.

Clark turns around and smiles widely at Chloe.

Chloe leans back in her chair looking at Clark with an inquisitive smile.

Chloe: And that, I take it, is exactly what our young Mr. Kent wanted to hear.

Clark returns her smile with a satisfied smile of his own.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Wow! Alicia really was telling the truth. Her psychiatrist says she really is cured. So if she was telling the truth about that, she must have been telling the truth about everything else too: that the bracelet stops her from teleporting, that she is sorry for what she did, that she never wanted to hurt me, that she kept her promise and hasn’t revealed my secret. Should I call her? I want to. A part of me is really eager to see her again. Yes. I’m gonna call her. Maybe we can just do something together - maybe go to the mall or the ice rink or something - just have a chance to talk again. Why not? What can it hurt? I’m gonna call her.

[Cardinal]

Clark's ready to take the plunge, giving Alicia one more try. We all know how that turned out, but it's nice to see his motivation and thought processes.

[NYC300Z]

2nd! Yeah Card pretty much, but still Alicia!

PPMS!

[SVsleuth]

Hmmmm...... looks like only 2 readers are ready for part two, so I guess I don't have to write tonight. If you're reading this fic, PLEASE post a reply, so I'll know when to continue. Thanks.

-SV

[SmallvilleMan]

continue!

[superman_lives_on]

You're not getting out of it THAT easily, Ms. Sleuth! :D POST POST POST!!!

[Kal-El & Me]

No. I'm reading too. Please update.

[clana4ev3r]

GET YOUR BUTT BACK HERE AND UPDATE. :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

[akuma]

*shudders* ugh alicia, oh well i still enjoy ur writing, but alicia*shudders again*

[binkys711]

great update SVsleuth! sad it was all about clalicia though :mad: poor Clark all his emotions are in a knot. PPMS!!!

[C.A.chick]

ahhhhhh! :( so sad........ clark is so mixed up, he thinks he likes alicia.....PPMASAP!

[SVsleuth]

Wow - where did everyone come from? Well, sorry I didn't write more for y'all tonight, but a good dose of Jasana/Jalana (whatever) comes next, & I'm not in the mood for that tonight. We do have to endure some unpleasantries before we get back to the Clana here. But, once I get through Unsafe here, I'll write us an Alt. version, with a healthy dose of clana. :)

[NYC300Z]

eww no Jalana! lol

I know it has to come and get over with lol

PPMS!

[clana4ev3r]

UPDATE

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: UNSAFE - Part 2

LANA’s JOURNAL

I can’t just let Jason walk out of my life like this. I’ve already lost Clark. I can’t lose Jason too. I know there’s something he’s not telling me. I have to try to get him to open up to me. It was secrets and lies that pulled Clark and me apart. I can’t let that happen again. I know Jason cares about me. I care about him too. I sat there in that hospital room, watching him slip away from me - and there was so much I wanted to say to him. And then, he just suddenly clammed up and left, without a real explanation at all. I’ve got to try to save this relationship. Maybe something is going on, and he actually really needs me. I think I’ll go see him. I’ve got to try.

*****

Lana walks up some concrete steps on the Central Kansas A & M campus. She looks up nervously as she sees Jason walking toward her.

Jason: What are you doing here?

Lana: It’s nice to see you too.

Jason: Sorry, I just didn’t expect you to show up on campus.

Lana: Like I didn’t expect you to say that you needed space right before you walked out on me? Jason, what’s really going on here?

Jason: Where this is heading with us, I just don’t think you’re ready. I don’t think you’re ready for a relationship like that.

Lana: Relationship like what?

Jason: Can we not talk about this right now? I don’t want -- Look, Lana, I have to go.

Jason walks away, leaving Lana alone on the steps.

*****

LANA’s JOURNAL

AHHHHHH! I just want to scream! What the hell is going on with Jason? Why is he pulling away like this? And what did he mean that he doesn’t think I’m “ready for a relationship like that”? - a relationship like what? ……. Hmmmm… Jason’s in college. Does he think since I’m still in high school that I’m not mature enough for him? Is he used to more physical intimacy in a relationship? But why would he pull away now that I’m eighteen? He thinks I can’t handle a sexual relationship? How does he know? We haven’t tried. Why does he have to treat me like a little girl. I’m an adult. I’m eighteen. If he wants to move into more intimacy, I’m old enough to go there. Why did he pull away, though? Maybe he needs me to be more assertive, take the lead in moving toward intimacy. I think I’ll invite him over for a surprise evening. I’ll make it an evening he will never forget. I’ll show him I can be just as grown up as any of those college girls. I can’t take losing him. Everyone I’ve ever loved has been taken from me in one way or another: my parents, Whitney, Clark. I’ve got to try to hang on this time. I don’t want to be left alone again.

*****

People are skating at an ice rink. Three small boys speed past Clark, who is skating awkwardly, holding his arms out for balance. Alicia comes up beside him, skating with ease.

Alicia: Super powers can’t save you now, Clark Kent.

Clark: [Uneasy.] No, I’m good. I’m-I’m good.

Alicia: Okay, come on.

Alicia skates backwards in front of Clark. She takes his hands and pulls him along, coaching him.
Alicia: Relax your knees. Just glide.

She skates back to his side, holding onto his hand and they continue to skate, side by side.

Alicia: I’m really glad that you called me. I didn’t think that you would after what happened last time we went out on a date.

Clark: Well, you were sick then, and I understand now.

Alicia: I don’t. [She does a quick, spin and continues to skate.] I mean, I remember feeling angry and alone and doing all those things, but I don’t know, when I think about it now, it’s like... it’s like watching a movie, like it wasn’t even really me.

Clark: Maybe it wasn’t. Maybe this is the real you.

Alicia looks at Clark, smiling at him shyly. Suddenly, Clark loses his balance and falls hard onto the ice, landing on his back, & causing Alicia to fall too. She lands on top of him and they both laugh.

Alicia: Good thing you’ve got buns of steel.

Clark caresses her face affectionately and looks as if he is about to kiss her. Alicia glances up toward the higher level of the ice rink and sees Dr. McBride standing there watching her.

Alicia: [To Clark.] Um, you might be impervious to the cold, but I’m turning into a Popsicle. [She starts to stand up and helps Clark to his feet.]

Clark: [Jokingly.] Well, I do have heat vision.

Alicia: I think I’d settle for some hot chocolate.

Clark: Okay.

Alicia: I’m just gonna go freshen up first. I’ll meet you over there.

Clark: Okay.

Alicia leaves Clark’s side, and goes up the stairs to where she had seen Dr. McBride. She doesn’t see him when she gets there, but he walks up behind her.

McBride: Enjoying your freedom?

Alicia: [Startled.] Oh, Dr. McBride. What are you doing here?

McBride: Checking up on my favorite patient. [He takes her arm and looks at the bracelet.] This does more than just keep you in place, Alicia.

Alicia: You lojacked me?

McBride: I have to know where you are so that you don’t do anything to jeopardize your release. Like associating with Clark Kent.

Alicia: What I do with Clark is my own business.

McBride: Clark was the object of your obsession, Alicia. Your feelings for him are what precipitated your psychotic break. You really want to risk an incident like that again?

Alicia: But you said that I was better.

McBride: And I want you to stay that way. Perhaps more sessions together outside of the office would be beneficial. [Alicia looks at him noncommittally.] You are such a bright, beautiful young girl.

McBride touches her face and she pulls away slightly. He holds onto her hair gently.

McBride: It’d be a shame to see you end up back in Belle Reve. Stop seeing Clark Kent before someone gets hurt.

He walks away leaving Alicia with a heartbroken expression on her face.

Alicia walks back to Clark who is now sitting on a bench inside the rink with two cups of hot chocolate. He smiles when he sees her.

Clark: There you are. I thought I’d lost you.

Alicia: [Sitting next to him.] Oh, you’re not getting rid of me that easily.

She takes her hot chocolate from him and tastes it.

Alicia: Oh, I let it get cold. Would you mind?

She holds the cup toward Clark. He looks around hesitantly, then shoots his heat vision into the cup until the hot chocolate is steaming again.

Alicia: Thanks.

Clark smiles and puts his arm around Alicia.

Clark: So what do you want to do next?

Alicia: Um, you want to go for a drive?

Clark: Sure. Where do you want to go?

Alicia: [Thinking about it.] Have you ever been to California?

Clark: California? [He laughs.] Sure, let’s jump in the truck and we’ll go to California right now.

Clark laughs, but Alicia just looks at him, biting the edge of her cup slyly.

Clark: Are you serious? [She nods.] Alicia, going to California would be--

Alicia: Crazy?

Clark: I wasn’t gonna say that.

Alicia: No, I know that it sounds crazy. I just... I just want to go somewhere where nobody knows me or what I did. And I want you to come with me.

Clark: I can’t. I mean, as much as I’d want to be with you... [Alicia lowers her eyes, disappointed.] Is everything okay?

Alicia: Yeah. Um, I actually have to go. I’ll call you later.

Alicia stands up and walks away quickly. Clark remains seated, looking confused.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Gosh - being with Alicia again - I feel so - so free. It feels so good to be able to just take my abilities for granted in a relationship - actually use them in normal situations - like heating up her hot chocolate. I feel so normal being able to do that - so accepted. Even though Alicia still doesn’t know all of my secret, still - I’ve never felt so free. I feel like I can really be myself, & I don’t have to lie and hide my abilities.

Was she serious about going to California? I wonder if she really will go - even without me. I mean, I know I’m not going to run away again - like I did when I went to Metropolis. This is my home. My family is here. We need each other. I hope Alicia stays too. I guess I can understand why she wants to go away to a place where she won’t be judged on her past mistakes. A part of me wants to go with her - just because I need someone like her in my life - someone who understands me and accepts me, even though I’m different. I hope she keeps in touch if she decides to go. She’s probably half way to California right now.

My emotions surprised me. When I fell on the ice, & Alicia fell on top of me, I had a sudden urge to just kiss her. That surprised me, because I’ve never really wanted anyone but Lana. But Lana seems to be permanently out of the realm of possibilities. I mean, she’s with Jason. And after that nightmare, I can’t imagine ever being able to be honest with her about who I am - and she would never stay with me if I remain secretive. So I guess I have to let go of that dream, because it will never happen. Maybe I can try with Alicia. Since she knows about my abilities, it’s not as scary to get close to her. I wonder if even she could handle knowing the entire truth about me, and still stay with me. I do find her attractive. And she’s fun to be with. Of course, I probably won’t see her again anyway - she’s probably on her way to California already. Too bad she feels she has to go away. I would have enjoyed her company. As it is, I guess I’ll still be alone.

*****

[akuma]

*shudders* ugh Clalicia, a dark hour in the times of smallville. Anyway, ur writing is still top notch, just clalicia, ugh. lol ready for more now

[Cardinal]

Alicia's obviously not too important to Clark yet, since he seems to be okay with her leaving.

Lana sounds almost desperate to hold onto some piece of normalcy in her life.

Having a normal relationship to anchor her with all of the weird stuff going on right now appears to be something she's invested a lot of hope in.

As always, PPMS! :D

[superman_lives_on]

Alicia actually seems likable here--I mean, she hasn't done the thing with the Red Kryptonite yet.

And Lana--WHAT ON EARTH IS WRONG WITH YOU?! I'm glad Chloe (or whoever it was) manages to make her come to her senses. But man, will it ever be a while before she realizes her feelings for Clark have never gone away.

At least when you're done with this, we can get Alternate UNSAFE, where the Clana relationship is getting stronger and stronger with every time they share a concern/fear, the Clalicia is already bound for the grave, and there's no scummy Jal--

Harsh, Staccato Voices: BLAS-PHE-MY! BLAS-PHE-MY!

HEY! I don't pay you guys to make nuisances of yourselves! Shut up already! :rolleyes:

[NYC300Z]

Yes Rick a dark time indeed both Lana and Clark were more occupied with other people....it's almost unbeliveable!

[superman_lives_on]

Originally posted by NYC300Z
Yes Rick a dark time indeed both Lana and Clark were more occupied with other people....it's almost unbeliveable!

"Almost" being the key word. The Ja--ahem--lana relationship seems to have been the lowest, dirtiest trick TPTB have ever pulled.

You know, SVsleuth, I commented in my previous post how the Clana relationship in Alternate Season Four is getting stronger with every episode--particularly when they share a concern or deep dark fear. Consider the scene where they share their nightmares with each other and subsequently make those critical promises to each other. That's what I enjoy the most about that storyline--not just seeing good and happy Clana, but seeing it grow stronger in a believable fashion.

PPMS!

[binkys711]

*sigh* so many bad times in here. I don't know how I survied through last season with all these Jalana problems and Clark with his problems, especially clalicia. :( Your insite on their feelings is always refreching though, seeing through their eyes and thoughts. It's great! PPMS!!!:)

[Dr. Jeckyll]

I just read both of the unsafe updates. They both got me in a bad mood, but not because of your writing! Excellent work. You did an amazing work with both Lana & Clark. Can't wait for the alt. ending. Maybe that’ll fix my mood again :D PPMS!

[clana4ev3r]

IF YOU READ MY COMMENT ON ALT. CLANA JOURNALS...

UPDATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. :)

[clana4ev3r]

:D

[superman_lives_on]

Yes, PLEASE update this soon--then the Alternate Journals, as I think of them! That way we can see some more of your amazing Clana, and hopefully get a minimum of Jalana--

Harsh, Staccato Voices: That word is BLAS-PHE-MY!

Oh jeez...

[SVsleuth]

Sorry, y'all. My father-in-law had a stroke yesterday, & my mother-in-law went into a nursing home last week - so I haven't time nor emotional energy for writing right now. But I hope to get back to it sometime soon. Thanks for your patience & your prayers.

-SV

[NYC300Z]

Sorry to hear that SV....my prayers are with you!

[SVsleuth]

Thanks, NYC :)

[superman_lives_on]

Originally posted by SVsleuth
Sorry, y'all. My father-in-law had a stroke yesterday, & my mother-in-law went into a nursing home last week - so I haven't time nor emotional energy for writing right now. But I hope to get back to it sometime soon. Thanks for your patience & your prayers.

-SV

I know this is late, but I'm really sorry to hear about that, SV. I hope you're able to recover enough to start posting again--and soon. My thoughts are with you and your family, especially your in-laws.

[clana4ev3r]

Hope you're doing okay SVsleuth, we'll be waiting here for an update... :D

[SVsleuth]

I've been working on an update for this thread. It is long, but I still have some tweaking to do on it. Hopefully I can get it finished & ready to post on Wednesday or Thursday. (Then I can finally start writing the Alt. version - which I know we will all like better.)

[NYC300Z]

Yay! for both counts!

PPMS!;)

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: UNSAFE - Part 3

Alicia goes to the Torch office in search of a red kryptonite stone. After searching several cabinets and drawers, she finally finds a class ring containing one of the stones. She breaks the stone from its setting and takes it with her.

*****

Clark is in the loft. He puts down a box full of birdhouses when Alicia runs up behind him and covers his eyes.

Alicia: (Giggling.) Guess who!

Clark: (Pleasantly surprised.) I was starting to think you were on your way to California already.

Alicia: Well, my bags are in the car.

Clark: What’s going on?

Alicia: Uh, Dr. McBride my psychiatrist, he was at the ice rink. He said that if I keep seeing you, he’s going to send me back to Belle Reve.

Clark: Why would he do that?

Alicia: Maybe because he’s jealous. I think, in his mind, he thought that if I was out, he could be with me.

Clark: Well, go to the review board at Belle Reve and tell them about McBride.

Alicia: I can’t risk them revoking my probation.

Clark: What do you think they’re gonna do if you run?

Alicia: As long as I’m free, I don’t care. (She slides her arms around Clark’s neck, and looks into his eyes. Their faces are only inches apart.) Come with me, Clark.

Clark: I want to. But running is not the answer. Trust me, I know.

She nods slightly and slides her hands off of his neck and down his chest.

Alicia: I wish I was as strong as you are. But... I’m not.

She moves past him, removing his arm from around her where it had been.

Alicia: Um... I made something for you in Belle Reve for when I got out.

She goes to her bag and reaches into it. Clark turns toward her but her back is still to him.

Clark: Alicia...

Alicia: I guess now it’s a- it’s a goodbye present.

She pulls a necklace out of the bag. It has several red stones beaded into it, at least one of which is red kryptonite. She unclasps the necklace as she turns around and shows it to Clark.

Alicia: Would you mind wearing it, so I can see it on you just once?

Alicia walks toward Clark, fastens the necklace around his neck, and kisses him on the cheek. Then she steps back to watch what happens.

Clark’s eyes begin to glow red and a smile forms on his lips.

*****

Chloe is seated at her computer in the Torch office when Lana enters.

Lana: Hey.

Chloe: Hey. I missed you in A.P. Lit today. What happened? You decide you just couldn’t face the love songs of J. Alfred Prufrock?

Lana smiles.

Lana: No, um, I went to go see Jason.

Chloe: Sounds like it didn’t go so well. (Lana looks surprised.) I’m sorry, but um, poker face isn’t exactly your strong suit. What’s up?

Chloe truns her full attention to Lana. Lana walks past Chloe as she begins to speak.

Lana: I think I finally figured out why he’s been so cryptic. He doesn’t think that I’m ready for that kind of a relationship.

Chloe: What? What kind?

Lana turns around and looks at Chloe uncomfortably, struggling to find the words. Chloe catches on.

Chloe: Oh, that kind. Oh, okay.

Lana clears her throat awkwardly.

Chloe: Wow. That answers a question I’ve been dying to ask you all semester.

Lana: Does everybody think that we’ve--

Chloe: (Standing up.) Lana, you were alone with him for three months in Paris.

Lana: Right. Um... Well, we haven’t. But I’m starting to think that I’m ready.

Lana walks away and sits down.

Chloe: First off, don’t do this just because you’re afraid to lose him if you don’t.

Chloe sits beside Lana.

Lana: It’s not that. It’s just Jason’s in college, and I think that he’s used to relationships that are... that are a little more adult.

Chloe: Okay, well, at the risk of going “After School Special” on you, two-thirds of all people under the age of 18 regret doing it too soon. (Lana nods.) And on behalf of that two-thirds, just be sure that you’re really ready.

Lana: Wait a minute. Are you saying that you’ve--

Chloe: Yeah. During my internship at the Daily Planet. His name was Jimmy. He was very cute in a bow tie kind of way. You know, I mean, it was -- it was a summer infatuation that I thought was the real thing.

Lana: Do you wish you hadn’t done it?

Chloe: Sometimes. I mean, it wasn’t awful by any means. But it just wasn’t special, and as cliche as it sounds, it only happens once. So just make sure Jason’s the guy that you want to remember forever.

Lana lowers her eyes, and looks away uncertainly.

*****

LANA’s JOURNAL

I wish I knew what it is I really want to do about Jason.

“…don’t do this just because you’re afraid to lose him if you don’t.”

That’s what Chloe said. I don’t want to lose him - I almost did when he was in the hospital recently. Then he left so suddenly. I don’t understand. We were so happy.

“…just make sure Jason’s the guy that you want to remember forever.”

I’m not sure that he is. When Chloe said that, Jason’s face was not the one that came to mind first. But I have to face facts: there’s no way Clark will ever be the one. We’ve tried so many times. So, with him being out of the realm of possibilities, is Jason the one I want to be with first? There are so many things I love about him that I don’t want to lose: especially how fun-loving and crazy he can be. He helps me to have fun & enjoy life. And I don’t want to lose that. I can’t lose him. I must do whatever it takes to keep him in my life.

*****

After Alicia puts the red K necklace on Clark, they make out in the loft, and Clark asks her to marry him. He breaks the bracelet off of her wrist, & she teleports them to Las Vegas. They get married in a Vegas wedding chapel, then Clark superspeeds her away to a fancy hotel suite.

Clark takes off his jacket. Alicia kicks off her shoes and stands on the bed, jumping up and down.

Alicia: Oh, my God! I can’t believe this! I’m Mrs. Clark Kent.

Clark: (Walking toward the bed.) Let’s make it official.

Alicia shrieks with happiness.

*****

Lana sends a message to Jason that she wants to see him at her apartment. She plans to offer him sex.

Jason comes, but when he realizes what she intends, he stops her.

Jason: Okay, I’m gonna stop you. Um, not that I wouldn’t love for this to happen, but it can’t. I mean, not like this.

Lana: (Confused) I don’t understand. Um, I thought that you broke up with me because...

Jason: Okay, all right, um... I haven’t been completely honest with you.

Jason walks to the fireplace, facing away from Lana.

Lana: (Afraid.) There’s someone else.

Jason: (Turning back toward her.) No. Um, no.

Lana: Then what is it, Jason? Why did you just walk out on this relationship?

Jason: Because I don’t think we met by accident. I think that my mother arranged it.

Lana: How is that even possible?

Jason: My mother was the one who convinced me to go to Paris in the first place. She said that I would meet someone special, and I did. And then everything started happening, that tattoo, and Isobel’s tomb, and the spell book. None of it made any sense. Until you saw my mother in your nightmare about Isobel being burned at the stake.

Lana: No, that was just a bad dream, that’s all.

Jason: Well, maybe it was your subconscious connecting the dots. Either way, I didn’t want my mother to use me to get close to you, so, uh...

Lana: (Placing a hand on his face.) Jason, whatever’s going on, it doesn’t change the way that I feel about you.

Jason: Yeah.

They embrace, both with fear in their eyes.

****

LANA’s JOURNAL

So it wasn’t about sex after all. It was about his mother? Why would his mother want to get close to me? What does his mother have to do with Isobel? Why was she in my dream? All of that is so scary.

So Jason really just wants to protect me from his mother? So he lied to me to protect me - where have I heard that before? Do guys always feel that they must lie to the girl they love in order to protect her? I didn’t accept that from Clark & I won’t accept it from Jason. At least Jason finally told me the truth - Clark had so many opportunities to do that, but he always clammed up. Jason was finally honest with me. As long as he keeps being honest, I will stay with him, regardless of what his mother wants.

*****

Alicia and Clark begin to strip gradually while playing around with teleporting and superspeed in the hotel sweet. Eventually they end up on the bed, kissing.

Alicia: Wait.

Clark: Wait? We don’t have to wait. We’re married.

Alicia: No. I just want this to be right. (She starts to unclasp his necklace.) I want all of you.

She unfastens the necklace and pulls it off of Clark, dropping it onto the floor. The glow of the red kryptonite fades away. Clark’s eyes turn red for a moment as the effects wear off. He looks at Alicia, mortified.

Clark: What’d you do to me?

Alicia: Okay, don’t be mad.

Clark: (Sitting up.) How’d you know about the red kryptonite?

Alicia: Because I know everything about you, Clark. We were meant to be together, remember? Just like you said.

Clark: You drugged me.

Clark stands up, running his hands through his hair and looking around the room, distraught.

Alicia: (Standing up, pleading.) No, it’s not-- I just didn’t know what else to do because I couldn’t stay, and I couldn’t leave without you so I just... I just thought you could listen to your heart instead of your head for once.

Clark: Look, you don’t even see what you did was wrong! What’s the matter with you?

Clark picks up his shirt.

Alicia: I just-- Clark you could’ve hooked up with any girl you wanted and you chose me. Why do you think that is?

Clark: You dosed me with red kryptonite! It makes me do things I don’t want to do!

Clark puts on his shirt.

Alicia: No, I don’t think that rock forces you to do anything, Clark! Maybe it dampens your inhibitions, but Clark Kent got himself into this situation, okay? Clark Kent asked me to marry him. Clark Kent brought me up to this hotel room to make love to me.

Clark: Well, maybe Clark Kent made a mistake.

Alicia: No. I did.

She teleports away.

Clark: Alicia, no!

Clark reaches out for her, but she is already gone.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

I can’t believe Alicia did that to me - purposely dosed me with Red Kryptonite to get me to go with her. Geez, I hate to imagine what might have happened if she hadn’t removed the Red Kryptonite in time. I certainly don’t want my “first time” to be because of Red Kryptonite. I’ve always imagined my “first time” being with Lana. In fact, I’ve never thought of anyone else.

Why would I get so reckless with Alicia? Marry her? Take her to a hotel? I guess somewhere buried deep inside of me is a part that longs to be wanted the way Alicia wants me - a part that longs to be needed the way Alicia needs me. I understand why she feels so drawn to me - because she knows I understand how it feels to be different and to have to hide who you really are. And she desperately needs someone in her life to know her as she really is and to accept her and love her just as she is. Yes, I understand that - because I have the same need. I need someone to know the real me, and accept me and love me, just as I am. I’ve always wanted it to be Lana. But that’s not going to happen - ever. I didn’t make her happy. She seems happy now, with Jason - she’s moved on. But I still need someone. Alicia is the only one who knows at least some of who I really am & has accepted me - no questions asked. And she’s attractive, and sweet, and cute - and desirable - even without Red K. But how can I forgive what she did to me? How can I trust her to not abuse her knowledge of my weaknesses again? She’s done it twice now - once with Green Kryptonite, and once with Red Kryptonite. Can I ever trust her with my greatest secret? I don’t know. But can I let her go? Can I just walk away from her? She makes me feel normal and special at the same time. And I need that. I make her feel normal and special at the same time. And she needs that. I’m not sure what I’ll do if I find her. But somehow, I feel I have to try.

*****

Clark is talking on the phone in the loft.

Clark: Her mom hasn’t heard anything either. (Pause.) Okay. Call me if you hear anything, okay Chloe?

A voice speaks from behind Clark.

McBride: I warned Alicia to stay away from you.

Clark: (Turning toward the voice.) Dr. McBride. Where is she?

McBride: She called me from her cell phone, hysterical, crying that maybe she wasn’t better, that maybe she belonged back at Belle Reve.

Clark: Just where you threatened to send her if she didn’t stop seeing me.

McBride: Alicia is my greatest achievement. When she came to me, her mind was fractured and broken. I made her whole again. Now look what you’ve done to her.

Clark: What I’ve done? You’re the reason she wanted to run away.

McBride: No, you stalked her. You kidnapped her. You forced her to marry you.

Clark: That’s not what happened.

McBride pulls a gun out of his coat.

McBride: Well, that is what the police will believe when I take you in.

Clark: What are you doing?

McBride: (Pointing the gun at Clark.) To help Alicia, I had to understand her obsession so I studied you. It wasn’t hard. The sheriff’s files are filled with your unexplained appearances at violent crime scenes. The classic earmarks of a troubled teen. Don’t worry, they don’t send kids like you to jail. They send them to me... at Belle Reve.

There is a flash of green light as Alicia teleports into the loft behind Dr. McBride. McBride turns around.

Alicia: Clark didn’t do anything.

McBride: What are you doing here?

Clark: Alicia, get out of here.

McBride: Don’t tell her what to do!

Alicia: Clark, I know I made a huge mistake. You’re the only person who’s ever really known me.

McBride: (Hurt.) Alicia--

Alicia: (Still to Clark.) And when I’m with you, I feel normal. I’ll always love you for that.

McBride: No! I’m not gonna let him keep hurting you!

Alicia: You don’t know what you’re talking about!

McBride: This stops now!

Dr. McBride turns back to Clark and pulls the trigger. As the bullet travels toward Clark, Alicia teleports in front of Clark, intercepting the bullet. It strikes her in the chest. She screams and collapses into Clark’s arms. He looks down at the large blood stain on her shirt, then lowers her carefully to the ground.

McBride: Alicia!

He runs to Alicia’s side, but Clark pushes him away with one hand, sending him crashing through the wall of the barn. Clark cradles Alicia’s head.

Alicia: (Weak.) We should probably get to a hospital, don’t you think?

Clark: Alicia, why’d you do that? You know I could’ve caught that bullet.

Alicia: Because I promised you that I’d always protect your secret. I promised.

She passes out.

*****

Clark enters Alicia’s hospital room. She is lying in bed with her arm in a sling. She opens her eyes and looks at him.

Clark: Hey.

Alicia: Hey.

Clark: How are you feeling?

Alicia: Like I just teleported in front of a bullet. (She laughs softly, then grimaces with pain.) Ow.

Clark sits next to the bed.

Clark: The doctor said you could be released today. You might want to hold the jokes until then.

Alicia: What happened to Dr. McBride?

Clark: They’re holding him for observation at Belle Reve for trying to kill one of his patients.

Alicia: I’m so sorry about what I did to you, Clark. I guess... I just didn’t want to lose the one good thing in my life.

Clark: I’m not so sure that drugging me was the best way to preserve the relationship.

Alicia doesn’t respond. Clark takes her hand.

Clark: I wanted you with or without that rock.

Alicia: (Sadly.) Past tense noted.

Clark: Get some rest, okay?

Clark stands up to go, although he clearly doesn’t want to. Alicia doesn’t let go of his hand until the last possible second, but she does finally let go.

Alicia: Clark? (Clark turns around.) I really am sorry. You know that, right?

Clark: Yeah, I know.

Clark turns unhappily away from her and looks at something that he is holding in his hand. He puts it down on the table and we see that it is Alicia’s broken lead bracelet. Clark leaves.

****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Wow. Alicia took a bullet to protect my secret. She never had to do that. I wouldn’t ask her to do that. She is so devoted to me. And that feels good - to know that someone cares that deeply. And yet - how can I let it go -what she did to me? At the same time, I feel so sad to lose her, and so sad for her - that she will again be isolated and alone - just like me. Does it really have to end this way?

*****

Martha comes down the stairs slowly to where Clark is seated at the kitchen counter.

Clark: (Cautious.) Is Dad still upset?

Martha: (Tersely.) What do you think?

Martha walks to Clark’s side.

Clark: How about you?

Martha: I’m upset. But more than that, I’m disappointed.

Clark: (Quietly.) I was on red kryptonite, Mom.

Martha: My God, you ran off with a girl you barely know and got married.

Clark: It wasn’t legal.

Martha: (Becoming angrier.) That’s not even the point. Marriage is sacred, Clark. It’s about two people who trust each other and are willing to go through life together no matter how difficult it gets. I thought we had taught you that!

Clark turns away from Martha, hurting, with tears in his eyes.

Martha: (more quietly) You’re an amazing young man, Clark. You make life and death decisions every day. But then you turn around and -- and you do this. Why did you do it?

Clark turns toward Martha, tears threatening to spill over his eyelids.

Clark: Mom, there’s a part of me that never feels freer than when I’m with Alicia. She makes me feel normal and special at the same time.

Martha: (her eyes tearing up as well) I know how badly you want to be with somebody. I want that for you too. I guess I just expected you to use better judgment.

As Martha leaves the room, a tear falls down Clark‘s face.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Even my parents don’t understand me! They know me better than anyone - all my abilities, all my weaknesses, and my true origin. But they don’t understand how it feels to be me. Alicia is the only person I’ve ever met who understands even a bit of that. If I let her go, I’ll be alone again - isolated from everyone, understood by no one. Alone. I don’t want to go back to that isolation. I need at least one relationship in which I can be really free - can be myself, not hiding who I am and what I can do. Can I afford to wait for someone else to come along? Can I endure the loneliness in the meantime? I wish Alicia could have been patient, instead of using the Red K. Maybe in time, things could have worked between us. I’ll miss her.

*****

Clark stands alone on the upper level of the loft. Alicia enters, still wearing her sling.

Alicia: I guess I know why you’re alone.

Clark: (Happy to see her.) Hey. Alicia.

Clark starts to come down the stairs as Alicia comes up and they meet halfway.

Clark: I see you’re wearing the lead bracelet again.

Alicia holds up her left arm, displaying the bracelet.

Alicia: It keeps me grounded. Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you.

Clark: For what?

Alicia: For helping me be a better person.

Clark: I have faith in you.

Alicia: Look, I know that we can never be together after what I did. But it doesn’t change how I feel. And I just wanted you to know that for as long as I live, I’m never gonna reveal your secret.

Clark smiles tightly, trying to remain in control of his emotions. Alicia looks at him for a moment as if waiting for a response, but nothing comes.

Alicia: I love you.

Alicia turns away from Clark and walks down the stairs, holding back her tears. Clark watches her go for moment.

Clark: Alicia, wait.

He comes quickly after her, touching her shoulder to turn her around. She turns to face him and starts to sob. Clark embraces her tightly and she cries into his chest.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

I just can’t let Alicia walk out of my life. She needs me - and I need her. She’s made some bad choices, sure - but only because she was so very isolated, so very much in need of someone to know her, and accept her. Will refusing her what she needs help her? Maybe if I give her what she needs, she won’t have to try desperate measures anymore. I don’t want her to go away. Maybe I can convince her to stay here - for a while at least - and give our relationship one more try.

*****
END of Unsafe

[Cardinal]

I was always amazed at the way Martha chewed out Clark at the end of "Unsafe." She seemed to expect Clark to somehow defeat the effects of the Red-K.

HEY, LADY!!! He was under the influence of Red-K, he couldn't help himself.

Anyway, good to see that Clark each believe that the other is an impossible dream right now...that'll make the "Sacred" Clana Journals interesting to read.

[NYC300Z]

:lol: good point Card! oh well we can really remember how much they struggled there! well I guess we have to get through this to get back to good times.....

[akuma]

Originally posted by Cardinal
I was always amazed at the way Martha chewed out Clark at the end of "Unsafe." She seemed to expect Clark to somehow defeat the effects of the Red-K.

HEY, LADY!!! He was under the influence of Red-K, he couldn't help himself.



I still dont understand that part either Card, i thought they could have been a lot more understanding with that, he was on Red-K, geez.

Awesome job SV, cant wait to see where u take the next episode.

[SVsleuth]

Thanks for being my most faithful readers Card, NYC, & akuma -

Yeah, I always thought Martha acted out of line there too - after all, he was on Red K - & TRICKED into it - not by his own choice this time... maybe they didn't know that??

Any more readers out there? Post something!

[SmallvilleMan]

I hated that epsiode......

[superman_lives_on]

Originally posted by SmallvilleMan
I hated that epsiode......

Haven't seen it myself, but the prognosis does not seem good.

Of course, as bad as things were in that episode...that's how fantastic they'll be in the alternate version.

[Dr. Jeckyll]

Yeah, what Card & akuma said.. Martha was being very unfair. And I'm sorry I haven't read this fic lately Sv. Your writing is really awesome, but I find it hard to read Clalica & Jalana. It's really interesting to read your journals though. Maybe I'll give it one more shot - because your writing most certainly deserves it.

And last I MUST say that your Alt. clana ending fic is one of my definitive favorites!! So PPMS!

[clana4ev3r]

Don't forget about this! :D :D

[SVsleuth]

1st I'll finsih Alt. Unsafe. Then I'll update Hidden. After that, back here for Pariah...

[cufcchic]

can we get an update any time soon?? this was on the 4th page! ppms!

[Nemu]

lol i wondered which page it was on... now with Hidden in the final stage... I guess we will get some Pariah Journal entries in the next week or 2???

PPMS SVS!!

[SVsleuth]

Yes. Clana Jouranls:Pariah is my next task....probably this weekend...;) Sorry to make you wait so long...

[clarkandlana2]

thats ok....the weekend is only a day a way(kind of)

[SVsleuth]

Well, I didn't get much done on it this weekend - sorry - still working on the first scene... I'll try to keep you posted on my progress. It's going slow, though.

[clarkandlana2]

maybe u should give it some coffee....that should speed it up :lol:
as long as its good i suppose i can wait.....but not very long ;)

[SVsleuth]

Clana Journals: PARIAH - Part 1

LANA’s JOURNAL

I couldn’t believe it when I heard that Alicia Baker was out of Belle Reve and was seen at the ice rink with Clark. But this latest rumor - that the two of them ran off to Las Vegas and eloped? I just have a really hard time wrapping my mind around that. The girl tried to kill me! How in the world could Clark ever forget about that or just dismiss it? Marry the crazy girl who tried to murder me? I’ll have to see it to believe it! What has gotten into him? I really don’t know Clark Kent at all any more. Maybe I never really did.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL - (repeated from the end of UNSAFE)

I just can’t let Alicia walk out of my life. She needs me - and I need her. She’s made some bad choices, sure - but only because she was so very isolated, so very much in need of someone to know her, and accept her. Will refusing her what she needs help her? Maybe if I give her what she needs, she won’t have to try desperate measures anymore. I don’t want her to go away. Maybe I can convince her to stay here - for a while at least - and give our relationship one more try

*****
It is Karaoke Night at the Talon. There are a lot of students hanging out, enjoying themselves, as Chloe and Lois sing along on stage to I Love Rock and Roll. Lana and Jason are there, sitting at a table, laughing and enjoying the performance. There is also a young man named Tim, who Lois sort of flirts with as she sings, making him embarrassed.

I love rock and roll, so put another dime in the jukebox, baby!
I love rock and roll, so come and take your time and dance with me.
Whoa!
He smiled, so I got up and asked for his name.
He said it doesn’t matter ‘cause it’s all the same.
I said, can I take you home where we can be alo-woe-wone?
And then we were movin’ on and he was with me. Yeah, me.
He said it doesn’t matter ‘cause it’s all the same.
I said, can I take you home where we can be alo-woe-wone?
And then we were movin’ on and he was with me. Yeah, me.
Next we’re movin’ on and he was with me, yeah, me singin’
I love rock and roll! So put another dime in the jukebox, baby!
I love rock and roll, so come and take your time and dance with me!

Just then, Clark and Alicia enter the Talon holding hands. Lois and Chloe notice and stop singing. Lana looks toward the door, and a look of shocked disbelief comes over her face. Lois makes a comment, not realizing her microphone is still near her mouth.

Lois: First he married the girl, now he’s dating her?

Silence drops over the Talon, as the music stops. Alicia and Clark look down uncomfortably.

Chloe: That was subtle, Lois.

Lois: (Embarrassed.) Right.

Chloe: Good.

All eyes seem to turn toward Clark & Alicia. They look around uncomfortably. Clark glares at Lois, then turns his gaze back to Alicia, apologetically. She looks up at him nervously.

Meanwhile Lana continues to stare at them, unable to believe what she is seeing. She looks around, then turns to Jason.

Lana: I think I’ve seen enough for one night.

Lana stands up and walks towards the stairs to her apartment, leaving Jason at the table. Alicia follows her.

Alicia: Lana, wait.

Lana turns to face Alicia, anger obvious in her manner.

Alicia: I just want to apologize.

Lana: (angrily) For what? Trying to kill me or not succeeding?

Alicia: Look, all I want is a chance to prove to you who I really am.

Lana: You already have.

Lana goes up the stairs. Jason and Clark follow and stop when they get to Alicia. Clark looks at Alicia with concern.

Jason: (To Clark.) I can’t believe you brought her here.

Clark: Jason, listen--

Jason: Listen to what? Another apology?

Alicia turns away, walking toward the exit. Clark’s eyes follow her, then he turns back to Jason.

Jason: You think just ‘cause she says she’s better that everything’s gonna be okay? Come on, man.

Jason heads toward the stairs. Clark stands there shaken and confused, his gaze following Jason toward Lana’s apartment.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

Finally Jason and I could go out in public together without getting stares from everyone. Since he’s no longer teaching at my high school, we don’t have to hide our relationship anymore. And that feels good. For once we could just have a normal date, hanging out at the Talon for Karaoke Night, just like everyone else. And then they had to show up and ruin the mood.

I still can’t believe Clark had the gall to show up at the Talon with…her. I guess the rumors were true. Lois said he married the girl. I just cannot grasp why he would ever do a thing like that! I didn’t want to believe it. But when he walked in with her on his arm, my heart dropped to the pit of my stomach. Its true? Clark is really with Alicia? That crazy girl tried to kill me - and very nearly succeeded! In fact, it was Clark himself who stopped her - who saved me. Somehow he was always around to save me. How can he give in to her obsession now? What if she tries something again? I don’t feel very safe knowing she’s out, and can apparently transport herself anywhere she likes. I’m scared - and I’m so angry with Clark. And now Alicia thinks she can just come and say “I’m sorry” and I’ll forget that she tried to murder me, and we can all just be friends? Well she is crazy if she expects that. I cannot forget the terror I felt when she came at me with that knife…neither can I forget what she said to me:

“What is it that Clark Kent is so in love with? I mean, what have you got that I haven't got?…Tell me, Lana. What's your secret?….You're not prettier than I am…And you're definitely not smarter. And you certainly don't have my abilities…. Clark is still in love with you. And now it's my turn. He told me the truth about himself. The things that he wouldn't tell you!….And now you'll never know…”

I felt like I had been stabbed. I still wonder if Clark really did tell her the truth - whatever it is that he has always kept hidden from me. He claimed to have feelings for me, but he would never let me in. Why? Why, Clark? Why? And yet you shared it with that crazy girl? I’ll never forget the day I asked him outright about Alicia:

“Alicia said that you, um, you told her the truth about yourself. Stuff you never told me. What'd she mean by that?”
“Alicia said a lot of crazy things.”
“She also, um, said that you were still in love with me. But, uh, but that was crazy too. Right?”
“Right.”

I wanted to die right then and there! Clark, do you know how much that hurt me? I could tell you were not being truthful with me - I always can.

But tonight - seeing him walk in with - with her - it was like rubbing salt in an old wound. All of this just came back to me in those few seconds. And it didn’t take long for a real rage to rise up within me. I couldn’t deal with all these emotions that were screaming inside of me. I just had to get out of there as quickly as possible.

I thought that writing this out might help me to settle down, but I think it’s actually having the opposite effect. So maybe I’ll just go take a relaxing shower - try to wash all of this away - while Jason finishes his studying.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

What a night! I never expected it to turn out like this. All I wanted was to take Alicia out for a normal date. I was totally shocked at the reaction when we walked into the Talon. I guess the word had gotten out about our adventure in Las Vegas. I should have guessed that people would react strangely to that. I could just kill Lois for making it ten times worse than it might have been. That big mouth of hers……….

I also didn’t anticipate Lana’s reaction. I guess I never really expected her to be there. She doesn’t normally go to those kinds of things. She seemed actually angry. I guess she hasn’t really gotten over what happened last year, when Alicia wasn’t well. She wasn’t willing at all to give Alicia a chance to apologize. I guess it’s harder for her to do than it is for me, because she never really knew Alicia. She doesn’t understand that Alicia is better now.

Jason doubted her too. His words keep echoing in my head: “You think just ‘cause she says she’s better that everything’s gonna be okay? Come on, man.” Could he be right? Is it possible that I’m the one not seeing the truth? Is it possible that Alicia really isn’t better?

Watching Lana as she turned to leave was - painful. I could see how angry and hurt she was - and again, it is my fault. It seems no matter what I do, I end up causing her pain. I never wanted to do that. I never thought about how bringing Alicia around could affect Lana. I guess this is all more complicated than I thought. Why can’t life ever be simple? I want Lana to be happy. But I want a chance to be happy too. Will there ever be a way for that to happen?

Alicia was crushed by Lana’s reaction. She was silent almost all the way back to Granville. I understand. She just wants to fit in. She just wants to be accepted, to belong. And that is always so elusive. I want her to be happy too. How did I end up, again, caught between Lana and Alicia? I don’t know what to do next. How do I move forward at all? Oh, well, I guess I’ll sleep on it.

(Clark’s phone rings and he gets a message that Lana has been attacked & is at the hospital..)

*****
(looks like Pariah will take several updates to complete. So stay tuned every few days...)

[Cardinal]

I felt like I had been stabbed. I still wonder if Clark really did tell her the truth - whatever it is that he has always kept hidden from me. He claimed to have feelings for me, but he would never let me in. Why? Why, Clark? Why? And yet you shared it with that crazy girl?

That, in truth, was Alicia's most effective weapon that night. In saying that, she drove a wedge deep into an already shaky Clana relationship.
.
.
Watching Lana as she turned to leave was - painful. I could see how angry and hurt she was - and again, it is my fault. It seems no matter what I do, I end up causing her pain.

Reading this made me think of MOO's slapstick fic, the way that Clark believes everything is his fault.
.
.
How did I end up, again, caught between Lana and Alicia?

Mmm...caught between Lana and Alicia. What a delicious sandwich to be in. :p

[happycamper]

I'd like the sandwich, too ;)

I never knew what to think about Alicia. At her best, she was sweet and beautiful - the only real rival for our own girl (in looks at least) during the whole course of the show, in my opinion. She just had that little crazy streak...

I could understand the Vegas trip, where she just wanted to get the straight-laced Clark to ease up a little bit. That's why she took the necklace off of him, in the expectation that the real Clark would fully accept her.

That really is why I never understood the scene with Chloe. I just couldn't picture her betraying Clark, despite what had happened (and she also knew Clark was going to owe her big time when he eventually found out that she was innocent of the attacks), because she really did love him, and forcing the knowledge out would have caused a reaction from him worse than the one in Vegas. Had she stopped caring because she no longer loved him?

I hope you're going to clear these up for me!!! :)

Post soon, please!

[akuma]

Awesome job SV! its gotta be tought writing Clalicia:( but still, it was an awesome update! Wonder what Clark will say in his journals when he really starts to suspect Alicia hurting people again? PPMS

[clarkandlana2]

good job...im glad u updated....its just hard for me to read all this lana/jason and clark/alicia crap....i like the alternate versions better......
UPDATE SOON

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by clarkandlana2
good job...im glad u updated....its just hard for me to read all this lana/jason and clark/alicia crap....i like the alternate versions better......
UPDATE SOON
LOL :lol: You think it's hard to read? Try writing it! :eek: It will all be worth it when we finally get to Spirit, however, so just hang in there with me, okay? ;) Once I get through the rest of Pariah here, I'll write the Alt. CLANA version. :):):)

[linn]

oh gosh......love the journals makes me now wonder what they think in the show....PPMS!!

[NYC300Z]

yeah even so I still can't see what Clark was thinking lol you tried but that never did make sense....

PPMS~!

[super12]

That was a great post. I really do enjoy the journals you make they are better then the show.

PPMS!

[happycamper]

Just great!! :D

Your capture of what they were really thinking makes it much more enjoyable, and explains much better why things went the way they did!!!

[binkys711]

Wow that was awesome! It hurt so much knowing that that was really close to what they felt in reality (well in Smallville reality anyways) great job Svsleuth!:D:D:D

PPMS!!!

[SVsleuth]

Clana Journals: PARIAH - Part 2

Later the same night…

As Jason does some homework in Lana’s apartment, Lana goes into the bathroom to take her shower. She lights a number of candles, locks the door, and dims the lights, then turns the shower on. As she showers and washes her hair, she hears a strange whooshing sound, and the candles flicker. Suddenly, the plastic shower curtain is being used in an attempt to suffocate Lana! See screams once, before being silenced by the shower curtain.

Jason hears her scream and runs to the bathroom. Finding the door locked, and getting no response from Lana when he calls to her, Jason busts down the door. He finds Lana slumped in the bathtub, her face wrapped tightly by the shower curtain. He frees her, but she has passed out. As he tries to get her to respond to him, Jason hears the whooshing sound. He turns his head toward the sound briefly, but does not see the cloud of sandy particles that has just flown out of the room.

*****
At Smallville Medical Center, Jason is with Lana in an examination room as she is being checked out by a doctor. She is sitting on the edge of the examination table, and is alert, seemingly unscathed. Chloe and Lois wait outside of the room. Having received word of Lana’s attack, Clark arrives at the hospital as well. He exits the elevator and, seeing Lois and Chloe, walks swiftly toward them.

Clark: (genuinely concerned) How’s Lana? Is she okay?

Clark walks right past Chloe and Lois and looks into the window of the examination room to see for himself how Lana is. The doctor is checking her vision with a small flashlight.

Chloe: Hey, Clark. Yeah, she’s - she’s fine. I mean, lucky for her, Jason pulled a T.J. Hooker and broke the bathroom door down.

Clark turns his attention toward Chloe and Lois.

Lois: Only to discover Lana’s mystery assailant had somehow flown the coop.

Clark takes in a deep breath, exhaling heavily, as he looks back toward Lana with concern etched on his face.

Lois: So, have they arrested your arm ornament yet?

Clark: (Taken aback.) What?

Clark turns his attention to the girls, looking from Lois to Chloe, shocked at the insinuation.

Chloe: Sheriff Adams was just here, and she spent a lot of time focusing on the “attacked inside a locked room” scenario.

Lois: And the name Alicia Baker came up more than once in a bunny boiler kind of way.

Clark: (with certitude) Alicia didn’t do this.

Lois and Chloe look at Clark doubtfully.

Clark: (confidently) Ever since she was released from Belle Reve, she’s been wearing her lead bracelet. It prevents her from using her abilities.

Lois: And did she also happen to be wearing anything low-cut when she spun you that tale? ‘Cause I’m not sure you’re thinking with your “big brain" here.

Clark turns his eyes from Lois to Chloe, with a look of disappointment at their suspicions.

Chloe: Clark, just because Alicia says that the bracelet keeps her from teleporting doesn’t mean that it’s the truth.

Clark: She was with me when Lana got attacked. I was saying good night in Granville.

Chloe: Yeah, but every second? You have to admit that she can transport easier than Captain Kirk.

Lois: And she did try to carve herself a Jack-O-Lana before, cut and dry. Emphasis on the “cut.”

Clark: I’m telling you Alicia couldn’t have done this. I know her.

Disappointed, Clark turns away from Chloe and Lois and walks closer to the door of Lana’s room, looking in through the window. A worried expression sweeps over his features as he looks in at Lana. He swallows hard as he gazes upon her, doubt being added to his concern. Jason looks up, and seeing Clark, comes out of the room.

Jason: Clark.

He turns and closes the door behind him, then turns back to Clark.

Jason: Lana doesn’t want to see you.

Clark is stricken at these words, and turns his eyes from Jason back to Lana, stunned and saddened.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

Why is everyone so quick to accuse Alicia? Alicia didn’t attack Lana. She was with me. She was wearing her bracelet. Lois seemed certain it could have been no one else but Alicia. Chloe implied that Alicia could have been lying to me about the bracelet. They said Sheriff Adams is suspicious of Alicia, since Lana was attacked inside of a locked room. True, Alicia’s teleporting ability would make it possible for her to get inside a locked room. But there are probably a lot of other people affected by the meteors who could have similar abilities. And since Alicia was wearing her lead bracelet, she couldn’t have teleported back to the Talon.

When I heard Lana was hurt, fear gripped me. I instinctively raced to be there for her, wishing I had been there earlier to stop her assailant. I promised myself a long time ago that I would never let anything happen to Lana - that I would always look out for her. I still intend to keep that promise. Lana still holds a very special place in my heart, and I am committed to protecting her - always. I want her safe and happy. I need to see her safe and happy. It’s the only way I can move on without her. Jason said Lana doesn’t want to see me - implying that somehow I am to blame for what happened to her. That really hurts. Does Lana really blame me? Does she really believe that it was Alicia who did this, and blame me for bringing Alicia to the Talon? Alicia didn’t do this. There must be someone else who has the ability to get inside a locked room. I’ve got to find out who else in Smallville has similar abilities. I’ve got to clear Alicia’s name. I’ve got to find the person who did this to Lana, and stop them - before they get another chance to hurt her. I will protect Lana - and Alicia. I have to.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

Now that was one of the strangest experiences of my life. While I was showering I heard a strange whooshing sound, and the candles flickered as if there were a wind. Then, someone I couldn’t see tried to suffocate me with the shower curtain. Next thing I remember, I’m coming to - in Jason’s arms, and he takes me to the hospital. It was kind of strange - being rescued by someone other than Clark Kent. Somehow, I always feel safe when he is around. Anyway, thank goodness the doctor didn’t find any lingering effects of the near suffocation. How could anyone have gotten inside my locked bathroom? Who would want to harm me? Seems like Alicia is the only likely suspect. Only - the person who grabbed me seemed much stronger than Alicia is. Then again, meteor freaks do display all kinds of odd abilities, so maybe Alicia has unusual strength, in addition to being able to teleport. So she came here, trying to apologize, and then turns around and attacks me again? Why? She obviously has Clark already - he even married her - no need to be jealous of me anymore. Unless…unless she still believes that…that Clark is still in love with…me - like she said last time. Is he? Why does that thought make my heart race? I do not still have feelings for Clark. I cannot. After all, he is the one who brought that crazy Alicia back here - brought her right into the Talon! How could he do that? I ought to be angry with him for eternity. But somehow, I know my anger won’t last. It never does when it comes to Clark.

*****
The next morning, Sheriff Adams is at the Kents’ talking to Clark, Martha, and Jonathan in the Kent kitchen. She writes something in her notepad.

Adams: I’m getting a funny sense of deja vu here, Mr. Kent. Haven’t we acted out this particular charade before?

Clark: This is different, Sheriff. Alicia did not attack Lana. She was with me.

Adams: I better not find out you’re covering for that girlfriend of yours, Mr. Kent. Having you as an alibi is the only thing keeping me from tossing her tail in jail.

Clark and Sheriff Adams look at each other seriously for a few moments, then she nods slightly and turns to leave. Jonathan lets her out and closes the door behind her, as Martha looks disapprovingly at Clark. He is turned away from her, however, and doesn’t see her expression. Clark takes a few steps around the table, still with his back to his parents.

Clark: (Exasperated.) Sheriff Adams already has Alicia tried and convicted.

Clark sighs, frustrated.

Jonathan: Sheriff Adams has a point, Clark.

Martha: First Las Vegas and now an assault charge. What are you doing with this girl, Clark?

Hearing this, Clark’s eyes narrow and his brow furrows as he grasps that even his parents believe Alicia is guilty. He turns toward them, to again defend her.

Clark: (adamantly) Alicia didn’t do this.

Jonathan: Son, your girlfriend has problems and this relationship is not healthy. Why can’t you see that?

Clark: (looking squarely at Jonathan) You always told me to look for the good in people, to believe in them. And Alicia deserves a second chance.

Jonathan takes a breath, about to respond, but Martha speaks first.

Martha: What I don’t understand is why do you continue to see her, knowing how we feel?

Clark: (without hesitation, forcefully) She kept my secret. She got shot protecting me. (Jonathan raises his eyebrows at this. Clark becomes more angry.) What else does she have to do to prove herself?

Martha: (looking Clark directly in the eyes and speaking intensely) What if she did this, Clark? What if she attacked Lana the way she did before?

Clark looks from Martha to Jonathan and back to Martha, silently, grieved at the dawning realization that it is a possibility that must be considered.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

My Mom’s words have been ringing in my ears all morning: What if she did this, Clark? What if she attacked Lana the way she did before? What if? Lois and Chloe, Sheriff Adams and Jason - even my parents…. All of them are convinced that Alicia is guilty. I am reluctant to even consider it - but, what if? What if they are right? What if Alicia really did do it? I said she couldn’t have done it - that I know her. But do I really? Alicia did try to kill Lana - and me - last year. She did attack her dad too. But all of that was before her treatment in Belle Reve. Now she has the lead bracelet. It keeps her grounded. Then again, she did trick me into using Red K after her release. But she also kept my secret, and even got shot protecting me. No. I cannot believe that Alicia attacked Lana. I’ve got to get to the bottom of this. I’ve got to find out who really did this. Why would anyone want to hurt Lana? When I get my hands on the person who did this to her…well, I’m going to have a hard time restraining my anger. And the fact that Alicia is getting blamed unfairly won’t help much either. The attacker better hope the sheriff finds them before I do.

*****

Chloe and Lois are in the Torch office, later that day, talking. The bell rings and they make their way toward Chloe’s locker, continuing to talk. They arrive at Chloe’s locker and Chloe opens it.

Chloe: It’s not just a theory, Lois. Alicia Baker tried to kill my best friend twice, and it was because of her meteor-induced abilities that she was able to do that.

Chloe puts some books in her locker and closes it.

Chloe: Did you know that Lana’s bathroom door was locked? Who else could’ve gotten in? Or out for that matter?

Clark walks up, having overheard Chloe’s last questions.

Clark: (seriously, but a bit nervously) That’s what I want to know. Chloe, we need to find out if there’s anybody else in Smallville who has abilities similar to Alicia’s.

Lois looks at Clark disapprovingly as Chloe answers him.

Chloe: Clark, I’m sorry, but even if there was someone else like Alicia, what would they have against Lana?

Clark is not happy with that response. Just then Tim approaches them. He manages to nervously lock in a date with Lois to have coffee and discuss the Historical Society’s new exhibit. He turns and begins to walk away, when Clark calls after him.

Clark: Hey, Tim. (Tim turns back and Clark goes over to him.) Um, you were at the Talon last night. Did you see anything suspicious?

Tim: Um, no, nothing out of the ordinary. (Clark breathes a small sigh of relief) But your mother, she was there. She was cleaning up, and the blond girl that you were with was in the alley. (Clark’s eyes widen.) Maybe they saw something.

Tim walks away, as Clark stares after him with a rising doubt about Alicia.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Tim saw Alicia in the alley? How could he? She was with me. Maybe he saw a different girl and just mistook her for Alicia. Is it possible that Alicia could have had time to teleport there and… but no, she was wearing the bracelet. She couldn’t have. - - Am I certain she was wearing the bracelet? I think she was. I hope she was. I’ve got to think this out. I shouldn’t doubt her without real evidence.

[happycamper]

Ah, 1st!

The plot thickens . . . ;)

I'm glad Lana still has feelings for Clark, and suspicions that her attacker might be someone else.



On a personal note, there you were, posting this a full hour and and a half after I updated, and you (sniff), ignored it! My heart is broken, too . . . :D

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by happycamper
On a personal note, there you were, posting this a full hour and and a half after I updated, and you (sniff), ignored it! My heart is broken, too . . . :D

What? I missed your update?!! I guess I was so busy writing mine, I never had time to check. I got a message from ajfinn that she was updating, & made myself finish mine before reading hers, then went to bed! Sorry - off to read it now.... ;)

[Cardinal]

Yes, Lana , you still have feelings for the King of Plaid! No matter how much you want to exorcise them!!!!

When will the BDA begin to suspect that the other person who was there (Tim) might be the one responsible?

Clark's overriding need to save everyone will cause him nothing but heartbreak. He needs to learn he can't save everyone all the time.

More please! :)

[akuma]

Ready for more now, each update gets us closer to Spirit!:D:D:D

[superman_lives_on]

Originally posted by Cardinal
Yes, Lana, you still have feelings for the King of Plaid! No matter how much you want to exorcise them!!!!

You know, the more I think about it, the more I believe that Isobel wasn't the only one who left right after Genevieve's death. Lana's more selfish and bitter persona, which she had shown since coming back from Paris, vanished too...and when that happened, her true feelings for Clark reappeared in all their glory.

In the end, that part of Lana that wanted to let go of Clark entirely--and was angry that her kinder side wouldn't--ended up being exorcised along with Isobel. Interesting thought, no?

Looking forward to the alternate version of this--I can't really bear to read the "official" version. The Alternate Clana Journals (or w/e) are more interesting anyway.

[linn]

ahhh....this making me crazy...

[happycamper]

Originally posted by superman_lives_on

In the end, that part of Lana that wanted to let go of Clark entirely--and was angry that her kinder side wouldn't--ended up being exorcised along with Isobel. Interesting thought, no?


Very interesting thought. I had never considered it myself, but it might actually be true (certainly an 'accidental' plot device by their writers, though).

Although, she did dance with Clark at the prom . . . I need to think about this some more! ;)

[superman_lives_on]

Originally posted by happycamper
Very interesting thought. I had never considered it myself, but it might actually be true (certainly an 'accidental' plot device by their writers, though).

Although, she did dance with Clark at the prom . . . I need to think about this some more! ;)

That's part of my point, actually. Over the course of senior year, she eventually came to realize that not only had her love for Clark never gone away, she didn't WANT it to go away. She knew it once and for all by the time she met Clark in the barn and gave him that stone... There was nothing left of the selfish and uncaring persona that came back from Paris along with the dormant Isobel.

[SVsleuth]

Clana Journals: PARIAH - Part 3

Clark is pacing back and forth in the loft as Alicia looks on. He stops with his back to her, leaning his hand against a post with a sigh.

Alicia: You look like a big cat in a small cage. You all right?

Clark: No. (He turns toward her, but avoids her eyes.) Someone saw a blond girl in the alley behind the Talon when Lana was attacked.

He glances at her, suspiciously. She takes a deep breath. Clark finally looks at her , attempting to read her reaction, then looks away again, uncomfortably. She shrugs her shoulders.

Alicia: Then somebody saw another blond girl in the alley, because it wasn’t me.

She looks back at him. Clark nods and drops his shoulders, a bit relieved.

Alicia: There’s bound to be suspicion, Clark. People think I did it.

Clark looks into her eyes, wanting to believe her, trying to convince himself of her innocence.

Clark: Besides, you couldn’t have done it because you were with me. And you were wearing your bracelet.

He smiles at her, taking her hand in his. She looks away at mention of the bracelet. Clark lifts up her sleeve to find the bracelet. It isn’t there. Clark’s smile disappears. He takes a step back, shocked, staring at her empty wrist, then looking up to her face. Alicia sees the doubt in his face.

Alicia: (whispering) Clark...

Clark: (hurt) You lied to me.

Clark walks several steps away from her, his back to her now, fearing the worst.

Alicia: (following him) I didn’t-- I didn’t lie. I mean... I didn’t think that I needed it.

He turns to face her. She looks into his eyes, pleadingly.

Alicia: You don’t understand. I couldn’t give up my powers again. It was worse than being in prison. What would you do if somebody told you that you couldn’t use your abilities?

Clark: I don’t know. (passionately) But I would - I would give them away in a second before I’d use them to hurt someone.

Alicia: Yeah, so would I. I’m better now, Clark, you know that. (He rolls his eyes upward, unsure.) I just want people to accept me for who I am. I think if you’re honest with yourself, you’ll realize that deep down inside you want that too. (He swallows and looks down, distressed.) Look, I’m so sorry that I didn’t tell you about the bracelet. But I didn’t do anything to hurt Lana. I swear. (Clark still looks doubtful.) I swear.

Clark stares back at her blankly, not certain what to believe.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

I do not want to believe that Alicia could have actually attacked Lana again - but Tim said he saw her in the alley. And without the bracelet - well, Chloe would be right: Alicia could have transported more easily than Captain Kirk. Did she, though? Why would she? Last time she was jealous of Lana. Is it possible that, even now, Alicia can detect my lingering feelings for Lana - and so is still jealous? Who else would have a motive to harm Lana?

Alicia seemed sincere in her declaration that she did not harm Lana. And she always seems so sincere in her apologies: for trying to kill me - and Lana - for using Red K on me, for lying to me about wearing the bracelet. Every time, she apologized so sincerely - I just had to give her the benefit of the doubt. I felt she deserved a second chance. But what about a third or fourth chance? I hope she didn’t do it - and I hope that I can prove it.

*****

At the Talon, after closing, Jason and Lana talk near the counter. Martha is nearby, able to overhear the conversation.

Lana: Jason, don’t be ridiculous. I’ll be fine for a few hours.

Jason: You do realize that you were attacked in your own apartment behind a locked door. You want me to just leave you alone and spend an evening digging through the university’s microfiche? No!

Clark enters the Talon just in time to hear Lana’s reply.

Lana: (playfully) Well, I am not going not let you flunk history.

Clark stares uncomfortably toward Lana for a few moments, then quickly diverts his eyes toward Martha, ignoring the couple.

Clark: Mom, ready to go?

Martha, Lana, & Jason all turn their eyes to Clark as they hear his question. Martha gets an idea, and turns back to Jason with a suggestion.

Martha: Why don’t Clark and I stay with Lana?

Lana looks toward Clark, seeming to hold back a smile tugging at her lips. Jason looks at Clark with a disapproving look. Clark returns the look, awkwardly. Lana looks again to Clark, with a small smile, then looks to Jason, & smiling more fully, back to Clark.

Lana: (with satisfaction) I think that that is a great idea.

Clark shifts his eyes to Martha’s with a sigh. Lana hands Jason his jacket, and looks up at him somewhat playfully, and with affection..

Lana: Go. I’ll be fine.

Jason: (reluctantly) All right. (Jason looks toward Martha.) I won’t be long.

Clark and Jason share a distrustful stare before Jason exits the Talon. Lana turns her eyes to Clark. He looks down with a sigh, then back up at her uncomfortably, but with determination.

*****
LANA’s THOUGHTS

Why is my heart racing at the prospect of Clark staying here with me? I can hardly contain my eagerness to have him here. I guess part of it is that I never feel safer than when Clark is with me. Whether it was Alicia or someone else who attacked me, I know Clark can protect me. He always has been good at that, anyway. …And besides that, I just honestly relish the opportunity to be around him again - I miss having him in my life. I wish we hadn’t drifted so far apart. I somehow want to remedy that.

*****
CLARK’s THOUGHTS

Mom, what are you doing? I cringe every time I just get a glimpse of them together - much less overhear their playful banter. I want to bolt out of here so fast - and now you’re arranging for me to spend several hours here with Lana? What will I say? What will I do? I guess it is safer for her with me here. Yes, I am determined to protect her still - whether her attacker was Alicia, or someone else, I’m the best one to protect Lana. I won’t let her out of my sight. Jason didn’t seem too thrilled with the idea. He doesn’t trust me. He’s still blaming me for bringing Alicia here. And he could be right. I mean, if it turns out that Alicia really did….Well, then it really would be my fault that Lana got hurt.



*****
Jason walks to his car in the alley behind the Talon. Someone attacks him, trying to strangle him with a scarf. Jason honks the horn repeatedly. Clark hears it and superspeeds to the car and smashes the passenger window. Jason does not see him speed up, but as Clark appears, the invisible attacker seems to vanish. Clark notices the green scarf around Jason’s neck - he recognizes it as Alicia’s. Neither Clark nor Jason notices the swirling dust that escapes from beneath the seat of the car.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

This is Alicia’s scarf. I know I should have given it to Sheriff Adams - but I couldn’t. Something just doesn’t add up. I mean, what reason could Alicia have for attacking Jason - unless she just thought that that was a way to hurt Lana - by hurting her boyfriend. Oh, I’m having a really hard time believing in Alicia now. I really want to believe that she didn’t do this - but…well, the evidence is right here in my hand. I know this is her scarf. If only she would wear her bracelet again and stop teleporting - then she couldn’t hurt anyone. Maybe I can find a way to help her - make her a new bracelet or something. But one thing I am certain of: I cannot let Alicia or anyone else continue to try to hurt Lana. I’ve got to put a stop to it somehow. If anything happens to Lana….Well, I just have to make sure it doesn’t.

*****
At Smallville Medical Center, Jason is just finishing getting dressed in a patient room. His mother Genevieve rushes into the room apparently full of concern.

Jason: Mom, what are you doing here?

Genevieve: I had to come to make sure my son was all right. (She hugs him.) I phoned Dr. Martin on the way here. He can see you today.

Annoyed, Jason pulls away from her.

Jason: I’m fine. I’ve been hurt worse in football.

Genevieve: Well, it never hurts to get a second opinion from a real doctor.

Jason: Let it go, Mom.

Jason picks up his watch from the table and puts it on his wrist.

Genevieve: It’s just hard to see you suffering here by yourself. You’d at least think your girlfriend would be here.

Jason: You really want to play that game?

Genevieve: This is not a game, Jason. This is your life. And I’m worried about the path you’re heading down.

Jason: Oh, you mean the path you sent me down?

Genevieve: What are you talking about?

Jason: Lana. The girl you made sure I met in Paris.

Genevieve: Are you serious? I mean, how could anyone maneuver two people meeting and falling in love in Paris?

Lana enters.

Lana: Mrs. Teague. Um, I didn’t know you were here.

Genevieve: Well, come in, Lana. We were just talking about you. (Lana looks up at Jason uncomfortably.) Did, uh, Jason share his matchmaking theory with you?

Lana: (looking back to Genevieve.) Yeah, he did.

Genevieve: And what did you think? That I had somehow used my mysterious powers to coerce you into going to Paris at exactly the same time that my son was there?

Lana turns her eyes to Jason for help.

Jason: You don’t have to answer that.

Genevieve: I think she already has. (Stepping closer.) Lana, I’m not a perfect mother. I can be overprotective and sometimes overbearing, especially when it comes to the women in my son’s life.

Jason: (interrupting) Mom...

Genevieve: I had nothing to do with getting the two of your together as you can probably realize from my reaction to it. And why my son feels the need to blame me for meeting you is something you should be asking yourself.

Lana looks at Genevieve, affected by her words.

Genevieve: (To Jason.) If you change your mind about the doctor, let me know. (She touches Jason’s face.) Feel better.

Genevieve leaves the room, as Lana glances toward Jason, somewhat shaken.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

Why is all of this happening? First I get attacked mysteriously in my own bathroom. Then Jason gets attacked in his car. Why is someone after us? Who could it be? Is it really Alicia? Why would she go after Jason, though? I was beginning to think it probably IS Alicia - but then, that encounter at the hospital….it made me wonder f maybe it has more to do with Jason or his mom - and Isobel.

What is going on with Jason and his Mom? Jason said he thought his mother had “arranged” our meeting - for some reason he never has explained. His mother certainly does not seem pleased that we are together, though. Her words are haunting me:

…why my son feels the need to blame me for meeting you is something you should be asking yourself.

It does seem far fetched that she could have arranged it - and it seems even less likely that she would have, even if she could somehow do so. Why does Jason believe that? What is really going on? There’s something he’s keeping from me - some deep, dark secret, it seems. How is this happening to me again? I went to Paris in the first place to get away from the secrets and lies - yet, here I am with a different guy and facing the same kind of thing. Can I really trust Jason? And his mom - when I saw her, the images from that nightmare returned to me so vividly - being burned at the stake - and she was there. Why? Was she manipulating me through my dreams? Is she somehow connected with Isobel Theroux? That whole tattoo thing happened when Jason brought me to her tomb. Does he know something? Did he plan it all along, and just use his mother as an excuse? Or is she really the one…? I wonder if Isobel is gone for good? The tattoo is still there - I can’t get rid of it. I’m still freaked out about how it got there, & about being possessed by Isobel. Did all of that happen because of Jason? - or his mom? I don’t know what to think anymore. I came home to find answers, & still, it all just gets more & more complicated.

[Cardinal]

Originally posted by SVsleuth
Lana looks toward Clark, seeming to hold back a smile tugging at her lips. Jason looks at Clark with a disapproving look. Clark returns the look, awkwardly. Lana looks again to Clark, with a small smile, then looks to Jason, & smiling more fully, back to Clark.

Lana: (with satisfaction) I think that that is a great idea.

Clark...Lana's security blanket. 'Nuff said! :D

[happycamper]

Poor Lana! Poor Alicia! Poor Clark? ;)


Originally posted by SVsleuth


I know Clark can protect me. He always has been good at that, anyway. …And besides that, I just honestly relish the opportunity to be around him again - I miss having him in my life. I wish we hadn’t drifted so far apart. I somehow want to remedy that.



I see Lana is starting to think about Clark again...

[akuma]

Great update SV, cant wait to see what Lana and Clark write when Alicia dies! PPMS

[binkys711]

great update SVleuth! This seems like a lifetime ago. Yet it's refreshing to read what they must have felt in that instance. PPMS!!!

[NYC300Z]

ahh read the last two. Alicia was such a problem for Clana when you look back at like this. It never seemed as bad at the time because Lana had Jason....oh well. I liked where Lana said she wanted to remedy her and Clark being so far apart now!;)

PPMS!

[cufcchic]

I loved the updates! i can't believed i missed them! thanks for telling me! yea i agree with matt, Alicia is being a problem for Clark and I think everyone!Great update! PPMS!

[C.A.chick]

WOW! Awesome job SV!!!!!!!!!! Let's get to the clana soon......... so sad to see them so far apart.......

[super12]

hey great last two post. SVsleuth sorry about not reading the last two. they just keep getting better and better.

PPMS!

[clana4ev3r]

:eek: This just keeps getting better and better, isn't it?? :D I love, love, LOVE the "Clana Journals"!! It's nice to know that Lana wants to be around Clark. I mean in the show they make it look like she didn't even want to be near him. Always with the "Well, I better get going" or "I have to get back to the Talon" or...GOSH!! Must I go on? Anyways great update(s)

Season four sucked butt!! But reading this makes it a whooooole lot better to know that they still care for each other and...yeah okay I'm gonna shut up now before I go on and on until I don't stop.

*ahem* just...UPDATE MORE SOON!!! :D :D

[linn]

oh yea i read it but forgot to post a comment....thanks for reminding me SVsleuth....Love the update so far please post agin.....PPMS:D:D

[SVsleuth]

Clana Journals: PARIAH - Part 4

The next day, Clark is in the barn. He opens his tackle box, and takes out a lead fishing lure, attempting to mold it into a new bracelet for Alicia. Alicia walks into the barn behind him and notices what he is doing.

Alicia: It won’t work.

Clark continues working on the bracelet, almost angrily, & doesn’t turn around.

Alicia: The one that they made me in Belle Reve was special. It had to be able to release trace amounts of lead into my blood stream to dampen my abilities, remember?

Clark nods his head, but continues molding the bracelet anyway, his back still to Alicia.

Alicia: I guess it’s the thought that counts… It’s a pretty ugly thought.

Clark: (Still not facing Alicia.) Where were you last night?

Alicia: I was wondering if you were ever gonna call me again. Why?

Clark closes the tackle box and carries it back to its shelf as he answers her, with only a slight glance at her.

Clark: Lana’s boyfriend was attacked. I was the one who saved him, and I found this in his car. (He turns toward her and shows her the green scarf.)

Alicia: (shocked) Okay, I didn’t do it, Clark. I don’t know how that got there, but I... it wasn’t me.

Clark: (finally looking directly at her) Alicia, you have to turn yourself in.

Alicia: (distressed) You don’t believe me.

Clark: I want to. I really do. But I need to stop who’s doing this.

Alicia: (angrily) Okay, well, then find out who really did it!

Clark: Everybody thinks it’s you.

Alicia: Why, because of my powers? Because I’m a freak?

Alicia walks away from him, standing with her arms folded with her back to him.

Alicia: You know what, Clark? Maybe if everybody knew your secret, you’d be a suspect too.

Clark: (He walks over to face her) No, Alicia, this is not about your abilities.

Alicia: That’s really easy for you to say, Clark. Everybody thinks that you’re normal. (Clark’s expression softens a bit.) How do you think your friends would react if they found out that you were exactly like me?

Clark: We’ll just go to the sheriff. We’ll tell her what happened. We’ll explain everything. She’ll understand, and it’ll all work out.

Alicia stares up at him, thinking. She nods slightly.

Clark: Just explain it to her.

Alicia: All right, I’ll go with you... (Clark breathes a heavy sigh of relief.) …if you tell her about your powers too.

They stare at each other for a few moments. Clark shakes his head side to side, with fear in his eyes.

Clark: I can’t do that.

Alicia: (softly) Why not, Clark? Don’t you understand that once people know the truth about us, then they’ll have to accept us for who we really are?

Clark: I’m sorry.

He looks into her eyes, his brow furrowed, as he struggles with what she is saying.

Alicia: Yeah, I’m sorry too. Letting people know about us is the only way that we’re ever gonna be free, Clark. Don’t hate me for wanting that.

She again walks away from him.

Alicia: Goodbye, Clark.

Alicia teleports away as Clark reaches out to where she was.

Clark: Alicia!

Clark sighs, discouraged.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Letting people know about us is the only way that we’re ever gonna be free - Alicia’s words keep ringing in my ears. Something deep inside of me knows that that is true. I will never be free for as long as I have to hide who I really am. The closest I’ve ever come to feeling free is when I am with Alicia, and can be myself - powers and all; although even she doesn’t know all of me - where I’m from and all. But I cannot reveal myself to the world - I mean, maybe if I were only a meteor freak - but I’m not. What would they do to me, if they knew where I’m from? Would I even get the chance to be “free”? No, I cannot tell the sheriff about me - not even to help Alicia.

Alicia denies that she attacked Jason. But this is her scarf. Why would it be in Jason’s car if Alicia wasn’t there? I should have given the scarf to Sheriff Adams last night, and let her investigate. What was I thinking? Tampering with the evidence…. I’d better go see Sheriff Adams, and give it to her. I have to let her investigate and find out the truth about the attacker - whether it is Alicia, or not. The sheriff is not going to be happy about me keeping the scarf…But, Alicia is out there - who knows where she could be? And I can’t let her hurt someone else - if she’s the one doing it.

*****
Clark walks slowly into the Talon with Alicia’s green scarf in his hands. He walks somewhat reluctantly toward the bar where Sheriff Adams is drinking a cup of coffee. He sighs.

Adams: Mr. Kent. Didn’t see you there. Did you come to help your mother? (She takes a sip of coffee.) Mmm. She has almost got that latte machine down.

Clark: (dejectedly) No, Sheriff, I came here to see you. (He shows her the scarf.) I found this in the car when Jason was attacked. It belongs to Alicia.

Adams: (Taking the scarf.) You flip-flop more than a politician, Mr. Kent. So now you think your girlfriend’s guilty, huh?

Clark: Maybe.

Adams: Well, I hate to disappointment you, Mr. Kent, but I’ve already been down that road. Despite your claim that Miss Baker was with you at the time of the first incident, I yanked her in for a little dog-and-pony. The scarf may have been there, but your girlfriend wasn’t. Alicia Baker was locked in an interrogation room with me at the time the second victim was attacked. There’s no way she could’ve done it.

Clark’s eyes grow wide as he realizes the implication of the sheriff’s revelation.

Sheriff Adams gives the scarf back to Clark and leaves. Clark looks down at the scarf thoughtfully as it dawns on him that Alicia is innocent after all.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

So Sheriff Adams says it couldn’t have been Alicia who attacked Jason. That means she didn’t attack Lana either. Someone is framing her. But who would do that? And I doubted her. She must be terribly hurt that I doubted her - that I actually believed she could have hurt Lana and Jason. I’ve got to find Alicia. I’ve got to straighten things out with her. I hope she will forgive me for doubting her. But I wouldn’t blame her if she doesn’t - if she never wants to speak to me again. Why couldn’t I trust her?

*****

Clark gets a phone call:

Alicia: (sounding afraid) Clark!

Clark: Alicia, what is it?

Alicia: I’m on Old Blossom Road and there’s something really wrong with the car! It won’t stop!

Clark: Hang on!

Alicia: Hurry!

Clark super speeds to the site. He sees Alicia’s runaway car, and moves right into its path.
The car gets to a construction site and rolls up a ramp, flipping sideways into the air and heading straight for Clark. Clark catches the car by the tip of the hood, holding it easily in the air. Then he slowly turns it upright and lowers it softly to the ground. When he stands up straight again, he notices that the car is empty. Clark looks around confused for a moment, unaware that Alicia and Chloe have witnessed the entire episode. Seeing no one, he super speeds away, leaving Chloe with a dropped jaw.

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

What kind of game is Alicia playing with me? She called me to come and rescue her, then she just teleports out of the car? Why didn’t she just do that in the first place, instead of calling me? Was she setting me up? She’s probably hurt because I suspected her. Could she have been videotaping me using my abilities or something? She did want me to reveal my abilities to the sheriff. Maybe she’s planning to reveal my secret on her own? Oh, I hope not! What if she does? And yet…she promised she would never tell. She even got shot to protect my secret. So it doesn’t make sense that she would reveal it now - does it? Maybe she’s upset because I wanted her to turn herself in - & because I wouldn’t tell the sheriff about me and my abilities in order to help her. So maybe she won’t keep her promise if she’s angry with me. I’ve got to find Alicia right away. I’ve got to straighten things out with her, before she does something that I cannot undo.

*****

Alicia’s dog, tethered to the fence, is barking incessantly, as Clark walks onto the Baker property. Clark walks in that direction, toward the barn. The dog continues to bark. Clark calls out.

Clark: Alicia!

Getting no answer, Clark continues walking into the barn. He looks to the side and his eyes go wide with fright. He sees Alicia hanging limply from a noose. Clark runs quickly to her and lifts her up to take the pressure of the rope off of her neck.

Clark: Alicia…

He then uses his heat vision on the rope, freeing her. Her body drops into his arms. He cradles her in his arms, distraught, as he sees that she is probably already dead.

Clark: No. Please, no. Please…Alicia…

Alicia is unresponsive.

Clark: (Starting to cry.) Please, please. No, no. (Screaming with anguish) NO!!! No!

Alicia’s head falls against Clark’s chest.

Clark: No!!!

Lois enters the barn in search of Clark, having figured out that Tim was the one who was after Lana and Jason because of their student/teacher relationship.

Lois: Clark! (She sees Alicia.) Oh, my God. Clark, what happened? (Clark doesn’t respond.) I think I know who did this. And where we can find him.

Rage builds within Clark and is evident in his face.

*****
Clark runs into the Smallville Historical Museum after hours where he finds Tim. He throws Tim onto the ground and kneels over him, grabbing Tim’s face forcefully. Tim dissolves into dust, and Clark’s hand falls to the floor. Tim rematerializes behind Clark.

Tim: Even you thought she was guilty, didn’t you? Huh?

Clark stands up, preparing to hit Tim, but Tim punches Clark first, sending him flying across the room.

Tim: Try not to feel too bad. I mean, hey, she did try to kill your girlfriend last year.

Clark stands up with tears of rage in his eyes.

Clark: You tried to kill Lana. What does that make you?

Tim: No, try to understand, Clark. I did what’s right for Smallville. I have to make things right.

Clark: You killed Alicia. I loved her, and you took that away from me.

Clark lunges at Tim, but Tim dissolves again and the dust swarms around Clark, suffocating him. Clark falls to his knees, holding his throat. He finally shoots his heat vision at the dust until Tim rematerializes on the floor, screaming in pain. Clark grabs him and pulls him to his feet, slamming him up against a support beam. Tim’s face is red and burnt from the heat vision.

Clark: You killed her!

Clark grabs Tim’s throat tightly in both of his hands, cutting off his air.

Clark: All she wanted was a chance.

Lois runs into the museum and toward Clark and Tim.

Lois: Clark, stop!

Clark: (ignoring Lois) You killed her.

Lois gets to Clark’s side.

Lois: (desperately) Stop, Clark. Clark, you’re killing him.

Clark continues to choke Tim, unleashing his anger. Tim is gasping for air & turning purple.

Lois: (Pleading.) Stop. Let him go.

Clark finally lets go of Tim’s neck, and Tim falls to the floor. Clark struggles to gain a bit of control over his rage. Lois takes Clark’s arm as Clark stares down at Tim. A tear runs down Clark’s cheek.

Lois: It’s gonna be okay. Clark, it’s gonna be okay.

Clark cries as he continues to stare at Tim.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

I almost killed him. I was so enraged, that I could not contain my strength. I wanted to kill him. I wanted him to feel the agony of suffocation - just like Alicia did. It’s scary - really frightening - to realize that that kind of vengeance is inside of me. How long will it be until I actually go through with it? I thought I came close to killing a man once - Phelan. He threatened my parents. But that incident was mild compared to this. Tim murdered Alicia and tried to kill Lana. I just cannot tolerate anyone harming the people I love. Somehow I’ve got to learn to always keep myself in control, no matter what happens - or else I’ll be the one spending my life behind bars….

*****
Clark sits on the floor in the loft, alone, thinking, for two days.

CLARK’s THOUGHTS

There’s so much that I regret. It grieves me that Alicia died believing that I thought she was guilty. Our last conversation was one in which I expressed my mistrust of her - my doubts about her - Oh how I wish I could take that back! I should have believed her. I should have trusted her. Why didn’t I? I feel like it is my fault that she died - because I didn’t trust her - because I was too afraid to put myself at risk for her…. Why? I’ve often put myself at risk for the people I love. During that scare, when everyone had those terrible nightmares, I was willing to expose my secret, if it meant saving my parents and Lana. And when Lana was caught in that tornado, I didn’t hesitate for a second to jump right into the twister to save her. So why wasn’t I willing to do the same for Alicia?…I thought I loved her…but I’m beginning to see that what I really loved was the opportunity to be a little freer with my abilities when she was around. I needed the respite from my isolation, my hiding. But to truly love her would mean I’d think about her needs, and be willing to sacrifice anything for her. To truly love her would mean I would trust her, and believe in her. I didn’t. I was focused only on what she did for me - how I felt freer when I was with her. But that’s not love. That’s not love at all…

*****

Clark is sitting on the floor in the loft in front of the couch, bouncing a baseball against the wall and catching it on the rebound. Martha and Jonathan enter and come up the stairs.

Martha: Clark? (No response.) Honey, you’ve been up here for two days.

Jonathan stoops down beside Clark. Martha sits at the top of the stairs. Clark continues bouncing the ball throughout the conversation.

Jonathan: What happened to Alicia... it wasn’t your fault.

Clark: If I had believed her, she wouldn’t be dead.

Jonathan: Clark, she was framed. There’s... there’s no way you could’ve known that.

Clark: I could’ve trusted her. Do you know that Alicia wanted me to go to the sheriff with her and tell her everything? Alicia thought that if people knew the truth about me and what I can do, they wouldn’t be so quick to judge her. But I didn’t go. I was too afraid of what people might think, how they would react. What if she was right? Because if people knew what I can do and who I really am... maybe she’d still be alive. And I just can’t forgive myself for that.

Martha lowers her eyes sadly. Clark chucks the ball despondently, letting it bounce away.

*****

Clark is kneeling in front of Alicia’s grave in the cemetery. The day is overcast and gray and Clark holds a red rose in his hand. Chloe walks up behind him as he puts the rose on Alicia’s tombstone.

Chloe kneels down next to him.

Chloe: (Quiet, almost reverent.) Hey, Clark. I just wanted to say that I am so sorry for everything.

Clark doesn’t answer.

Chloe: It must’ve been so hard being so different, having everyone judge you before they even know you, knowing that there’s some people that might never accept you.

Clark continues to stare at the tombstone.

Chloe: I just... I want you to know that I’m here for you... if you ever need to talk.

Chloe puts a hand on Clark’s shoulder.

Clark: Thanks, Chloe. I appreciate that.

Chloe stands up and walks away, leaving Clark alone in front of Alicia’s grave.

*****

CLARK’s THOUGHTS

Alicia, I am so sorry I doubted you. You didn’t deserve this. I am so angry with myself for not trusting you - for not helping you find out who it was who really attacked Lana and Jason. If I had believed you…well, maybe we would have been working with the sheriff - with my abilities - and could have stopped him before he did this to you. Why? …Why? …

I brought you a rose. I know it’s not much, but…I really am sorry. You know that, right? You stood by me - you risked your life to protect me - why couldn’t I do the same for you - risk revealing who I am in order to help you?

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

My fear of revealing who I really am keeps robbing me of happiness, thrusting me back into isolation. First with Lana - because I could not bring myself to reveal the truth to her, I lost her - she left me. It hurt her so much that I refused to let her in. But I was too afraid - too afraid of what she might think of me - and too afraid of putting her in danger. So, before I was ready, she moved on - to Jason. And I’ve had to live with the pain of that every time I see her with him. So often I’ve asked myself “What if?” - What if I had told her everything? Could things have really been worse than this?

And now, with Alicia - Alicia thought she knew my secrets - but really she didn’t. She only knew I am strong and fast, and have heat vision. But I never told Alicia the full truth about me - where I’m from, who I am. I allowed her to believe a lie - to believe I am just another human affected by the meteor rocks - just like her. What if I had told her the whole truth? What if I had told the sheriff - and everyone the whole truth about who I am and I stopped hiding? Then I could openly use my abilities to stop people like Tim from hurting people. I could maybe make a real difference - a significant difference. If I had done that, maybe, somehow, I could have stopped Tim before he got to Alicia - and she would still be alive. But because I continue to hide who I am, Alicia is dead. I cannot forgive myself for allowing that to happen - I should have been able to stop it. I cannot forgive myself for allowing my fears to direct my life. Would Alicia be alive if I had revealed who I am? Would Lana be with Jason if I had revealed who I am? I only wish I could go back in time - do things differently - not be so afraid to reveal myself. What might my life have been if I didn’t spend it hiding who I really am? Could I have been free - really free?

*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

How do I move on from here? My loneliness and isolation are greater than ever - because with Alicia, I had a taste of the freedom that comes from being able to be myself. And now she’s gone. So do I continue to hide who I am from everyone? Do I tell the world, like Alicia wanted me to do? Or do I reserve the truth for a few special people in my life? Chloe is trying to offer her support - but somehow, I have no inclination to reveal myself to Chloe. And Lana - Lana’s come nowhere near me. I guess she’s not comfortable - maybe doesn’t know what to say or do, now that she knows it was never Alicia who attacked her and Jason. Yet there’s a part of me that cries out for Lana during my grief - a part of me that wants her near me, that still yearns to tell her everything. I doubt that that will ever happen now, though…

But somehow I have to move forward in my life - stop looking back with regret at things I can’t change - find a way to live as normal a life as I can, using my abilities when needed, and refraining from using them when it isn’t appropriate. So I’ll try. I’ll focus on football, and choosing a college, and try to enjoy my life as best I can. Alicia wouldn’t want me to spend my life brooding. So I won’t. I’ll focus on football - something I really love - and throw myself into in like never before. And I’ll just meet life head on, one day at a time.

[Cardinal]

The should I/shouldn't I dance reaches its Season 4 climax here.

As Martha said in "Reckoning," with every choice comes risks. Clark has to decide when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.

Good stuff!

Now, on to the alternate version. :)

[SmallvilleMan]

Excellent, although it would have been nice to hear Lana's thoughts on this. Oh and just wanted to tell im updating one of my stories tonight.

[happycamper]

Oh, I had really hoped you were going to put in something about Alicia's thoughts as she was revealing Clark's secret to Chloe. She had promised Clark never to reveal them. Was it just bitterness at Clark for not trusting her? Or was she doing it to somehow help him 'open up'? Now, I'll never know... :( :(


I did think that Clark 'recovered' too easily after Alicia's death: I'll "... try to enjoy my life as best I can. Alicia wouldn’t want me to spend my life brooding. So I won’t." Is that enough for someone that Clark cared for, and maybe had even started to love? :(


Of course, that's still a lot more than one actually got from the show. Just a little sadness at the grave, and then nothing with the next episode. Of course, I'm a bit prejudiced. If you could just get beyond the psycho stalker aspect of her personality, there was something very appealing about her (of course, being about as 99% as attractive as our own favorite heroine certainly didn't hurt). ;)

[akuma]

WOW great insight into that episode SV, amazing writing! PPMS

[SVsleuth]

Originally posted by SmallvilleMan
Excellent, although it would have been nice to hear Lana's thoughts on this.
I try to use the actual scenes to inspire the journals - there were no more Lana scenes. I might have some ideas of what Lana might be thinking. If I come up with any, maybe I'll add it, or incorporate into her NEXT journal, down the road...
Originally posted by happycamper
Oh, I had really hoped you were going to put in something about Alicia's thoughts as she was revealing Clark's secret to Chloe. She had promised Clark never to reveal them. Was it just bitterness at Clark for not trusting her? Or was she doing it to somehow help him 'open up'? Now, I'll never know... :( :(
I think it was the 2nd case: she really believed that revealing the truth was the only way to help him be really free. Problem is, she doesn't know he is not human - she thinks the "truth" is that he has meteor induced abilities, like her. She sees how he feels free when he can use his abilities in front of her & wants him to be able to use them openly all the time. She doesn't know that his reticence has more to do with why he has his abilities - who he is & where he is from.

I also decided not to cover Chloe's thoughts, because then I would probably have to continue doing that in a bunch more episodes - & I really want to keep this mostly the Journals of Clark & Lana, throwing light on their relationship. I didin't want to veer too far off course. :)

[linn]

that was so sad...nice update...PPMS:D

[happycamper]

Originally posted by SVsleuth

I think it was the 2nd case: she really believed that revealing the truth was the only way to help him be really free. Problem is, she doesn't know he is not human - she thinks the "truth" is that he has meteor induced abilities, like her. She sees how he feels free when he can use his abilities in front of her & wants him to be able to use them openly all the time. She doesn't know that his reticence has more to do with why he has his abilities - who he is & where he is from.


That's what I always thought (hoped!!), too, SVsleuth. I just wanted (needed) to see it in writing...Did I ever mention I liked Alicia? ;) :D

[NYC300Z]

yeah Clark beat himself up and he didn't know the whole truth! oh well he does that to himself all the time anyways! lol

PPMS!

[super12]

that was a great post. Its really good to see Clark Point of view on the tragedy that he went threw and also good to see what he learned from Alicia's death. Really Enjoy the thoughts and Journal entries.

PPMS!

[SVsleuth]

CLANA JOURNALS: Recruit

(NOTE: Since Lana & Clark never interact with each other in this episode, I’m going to cover Lana’s journals first and then Clark’s, almost as if they were two separate episodes. I will keep the quoting from the episode to a minimum.)

*****
Jason meets Lex at the Luthor mansion. Lex offers Jason a job paying $100,000 a year to spy on his mom and Lana and learn everything they know about Marguerite Isobel Theroux. Jason doesn’t give Lex an answer yet. He discusses it with Lana over dinner in her apartment. Lana is not happy about it.

Lana: [Angrily] I can’t believe that you would even consider working for him.

Jason: It’s not that black and white.

Lana: I think it is. Investigating the Countess Theroux? It’s all a ruse.

Jason: Lana, the more Lex uses me, the more I get to use him and find out what he really knows.

Lana stands up and walks towards Jason heatedly.

Lana: Okay, but that’s just more secrets and more lies and at some point, it’s all gonna blow up in our faces.

Jason: Well, unfortunately when dealing with people like Lex and my mother, honesty isn’t necessarily the way to go.

Lana: It doesn’t matter. I am done lying. I can’t go along with this.

Jason: We’ve hit a brick wall. Our research with the countess is going nowhere. This might be our way of breaking through.

Lana: Or their way of breaking us up.

Jason: I’m not gonna let that happen. Trust me.

Lana: How can I trust someone who’s willing to lie for a living? As far as I’m concerned if you think that Lex knows something, then there’s only one way to find out.

*****

LANA’s JOURNAL

I can’t believe Jason would actually consider working for Lex to investigate the Countess Theroux! Spying on me, spying on his mother, lying to us, or to Lex - and getting paid for it? So, what, he thinks Lex knows something we don’t know, and he’ll be able to find out more - to help me figure out why I got that tattoo, and why Isobel possessed me? As much as I want answers about all of that, I’m not willing to go along with all the lying and deception. I’m going to go talk to Lex.

*****
Lana walks down the hall at the Luthor mansion, toward Lex. Then they walk together.

Lana: Who the hell do you think you are?

Lex: Something bothering you, Lana?

Lana: You want to know something about me, Lex, ask. Don’t go recruiting my boyfriend to conduct some covert investigation.

They arrive in the study and Lex puts down his briefcase.

Lex: Contrary to what you may think, I’m on your side.

Lana: And how would I know that? You know, with you, everything seems like it’s a secret.

Lex: What you may perceive as secrecy, I see as precautions.

Lana: I’m a big girl, Lex. I don’t need precautions. I need the truth.

Lex: Sometimes we think we want the truth until we actually get it. Lana, if you want me to be honest with you, I will. But you’re not gonna like it.

Lana: If you’re gonna feed me some story about Jason, I’m not interested.

Lex: Look, I understand he means a lot to you. But when you’re ready to talk, let me know. You can let yourself out.

Lex walks away from her.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

I went to see Lex. What was that he said? “What you perceive as secrecy I see as precautions.” Ugh! What is it with men? Always thinking they have to protect me from the truth. First Clark. Then Jason. Now Lex. All three of them, claiming they’re protecting me by covering up the truth.

Lex said that sometimes we think we want the truth until we actually get it. He said he will tell me the truth if I want him to, but that I won’t like it. I get the feeling he’d tell me something I won’t like about Jason. Is it a second attempt to break us up? Or is Lex the one telling the truth? Why did I say I wasn’t interested? If I don’t let him tell me, then I can never decide who is telling the truth and who is lying to me. I’ve had my own suspicions that Jason is hiding something from me. Do I really want to know the truth - even if it is something unpleasant about Jason? Or do I want to go on as if everything is just fine and Jason can be trusted one hundred percent?

I want the truth. No matter what it is, I want to know it. I’m gonna call Lex. I have to know.

*****
In Lana’s apartment, Lex opens his briefcase and takes out a photograph. He hands it to Lana.

Lex: This photograph of Jason and his mother was taken in Paris a day before he met you.

Lana looks at the picture.

Lana: No, that can’t be. His mom was in the Hamptons.

Lex: Look, Lana, I’m not gonna be so presumptuous as to judge Jason’s integrity, but I’ll lay out a few facts. Genevieve Teague has been researching the countess since before Jason was born. He grew up in a house full of ancient artifacts and reams of research material about Marguerite Isobel Theroux.

Lana: He never told me that.

Lex: Contrary to what you may think, Jason has been aware of the countess since he was a child.

Lana shakes her head, hurt.

Lana: No. No, I don’t believe that.

Lex: You have to ask yourself, Lana. How well do you really know Jason Teague?

Lana looks at the photograph again, doubts growing in her mind.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

Lex showed me a photo of Jason with his mother in Paris. Lex claims the photo was taken the day before Jason met me in Paris. But, if that is true, then Jason lied to me outright. He said his mother was in the Hamptons. Lex says Jason’s mom has been researching the countess since before Jason was born - that Jason grew up knowing about her ever since he was a child. Could that be true? Could Jason have been lying to me all along? How well do I really know Jason?

On the other hand, it could be Lex who is lying to me - faking the photo or lying about when it was taken. How would he have gotten such a photo anyway? Did he have someone following Jason’s mom or Jason for some reason? Why would he do that? Can I trust Lex? Why is he interested in the countess? What is really going on here? I don’t know who to trust. Who is really telling me the truth? Is it Jason? Is it Lex? I am so annoyed with both of them. Is there no one I can trust? How can I ever find out the real truth?

*****
*****

CLARK’s JOURNAL

I was so excited to get offered that football scholarship to Met U. I’ve dreamt all my life of playing for the Bulldogs. My excitement really grew when Geoff Johns himself came out to the farm to give me a ride to Met U for recruit day. I couldn’t believe it when he told me I’d get a fancy SUV like his to drive if I sign with Met U. And when they announced my name over the intercom in the stadium, I could almost hear the crowd cheering for me. The jersey with my name on it almost made it a reality. I thought, This is really going to happen! I’m really going to have the chance to play for Met U, and maybe even lead the team to a championship!

After that we went to the TriAlpha’s sorority house. The girls welcomed me enthusiastically - actually, quite a bit too enthusiastically - soon making me very uncomfortable. Do college girls really offer themselves to guys just to help recruit them to the university? I was shocked, to say the least. I would never want that kind of girl. All I could think of was what a contrast to them Lana is. I may not be able to ever be with Lana - not the way things look now - but I will never settle for the type of girl I met at that sorority house - never.

After that enlightening experience, reality really began to set in. I saw the true ugliness behind the scenes. Coop was murdered, and Lois was framed and nearly drowned - by none other than the great Geoff Johns himself! That was a shocking revelation. I had no idea Geoff had a meteor power. And to protect his secret, he was having to lie and cheat on every drug test. That was bad enough. But to be willing to kill…

Man, when I found Lois under water, I thought sure she was gone. All I could think of was Alicia - and how I got there too late to save her. I thought I was again too late. How relieved I was to find that Lois was still alive and would be fine.

My eyes were really opened by this experience at Met U. If I take this football scholarship, I’m gonna be in the same situation as Geoff. I’m gonna have to lie on every physical, rig every test. I’m gonna have to do anything I can to protect my secret. I want to believe that I can go out there and play football like any normal college kid, but the fact is, I have powers that no other athlete has. Coop was right. It’s not fair that Geoff was out there on that field, just like it’s not fair when I’m out there competing. I have to face reality. As much as I love playing football, I can’t live that kind of life. I’m sick of living a life filled with lies and deception. It’s not the life I want to live. So, as difficult as it will be, I’m just gonna have to give up football. I guess Chloe was right when she said, “I just have a feeling that you’re destined to do a lot more in this world than just score touchdowns.” I don’t know what I’m “destined” to do, but I think it’s more along the lines of saving lives than scoring touchdowns. Nevertheless, it’s incredibly difficult to give it up. Another dream, slipping away.

I sure wish things could be different. It seems I always have to give up what I really want - because of who I am, where I’m from, what I can do. Because of who I am, I’ve had to give up the game I love. Because of who I am, I’ve had to give up the girl I love - Lana. I’m sick of being so different. I’d give anything to be normal, to be… human. Sometimes I just want to scream.

*****(end of journal)*****

Clark stands alone in the middle of Metropolis University football stadium. He looks around at the huge stadium sadly, as if saying goodbye to his dream. He then sighs heavily, lowers his head and walks slowly across the field, toward the exit, leaving behind a life, a dream, he can never have.

“Untitled” by Simple Plan
I open my eyes
I try to see but I’m blinded by the white light
I can’t remember how
I can’t remember why
I’m lying here tonight

And I can’t stand the pain
And I can’t make it go away
No I can’t stand the pain

How could this happen to me
I've made my mistakes
I’ve got no where to run
The night goes on
As I’m fading away
I’m sick of this life
I just wanna scream
How could this happen to me

Everybody’s screaming
I try to make a sound but no one hears me
I’m slipping off the edge
I’m hanging by a thread
I wanna start this over again

So I try to hold onto a time when nothing mattered
And I can’t explain what happened
And I can’t erase the things that I’ve done
No I can’t

How could this happen to me
I've made my mistakes
I’ve got no where to run
The night goes on
As I’m fading away
I’m sick of this life
I just wanna scream
How could this happen to me

I've made my mistakes
I’ve got no where to run
The night goes on
As I’m fading away
I’m sick of this life
I just wanna scream
How could this happen to me

*****END of RECRUIT*****

[Cardinal]

Lana and Clark are both lost right now.

Lana seems to need an anchor in her life, someone who she can trust completely. Maybe that relates to her early abandonment by her parents.

Right now, she doesn't know who that anchor is.

Clark has that anchor in his parents. He, on the other hand, has nothing in his personal life to hold on to. Pete is gone, he gave up Lana, and now gave up football.

All he has is his family and Chloe.

Good stuff! ;)

[Nemu]

ok... i havent read this since... erm... the part where you started the alt clana i guess... but that last update... interesting...

that song was really playing in that epi? but it is kinda fitting about Clark's feeling of the football thing...

and the fact you posted journals... does it mean alt recruit is coming soon???

[SVsleuth]

Yes, Nemu, that song was really playing at the end of that epi. I liked that scene so ended with it. I'm planning to write Krypto on this thread next, since it should also be a one part episode (this week). After that, I'll do Alt. Clana Recruit & Krypto. ;)


For those looking for the new update it is here:
Clana Journals: RECRUIT (http://www.kryptonsite.com/forums/showthread.php?postid=2108647#post2108647)

[akuma]

Well no Clana interaction at all, but still very well written SV, great job!

[happycamper]

Ah, they're both so out of sorts...

You know, this was part of what I always liked about Clark and Lana...star-crossed, with misunderstandings or simple circumstance always conspiring against them. If only...

I guess I just liked the angst! ;)

While I don't much like the most recent incarnation of Lana, I think I can understand (mostly) why she is acting the way she does now on SMV.

In regards to your story, this part of season 4 was just another of the 'misunderstandings' that had spiraled out of control, and I think you've shown quite well what was going on in their respective heads.

If only... :(

:D

[SVsleuth]

(Again, there is NO Clana in this episode, so I'm keeping it short and to the point. The dialogue is just straight from the episode, to place Lana's journals in context. Clark's adventures with Shelby are largely irrelevant, so I just gave him one journal, and no quotes from the episode.)
*****

CLANA JOURNALS: KRYPTO

Genevieve Teague is escorted into Lex’s study by a servant. The servant leaves, and Genevieve walks to Lex who is standing in front of his desk.

Lex: Genevieve. What a surprise. If you’re looking for Jason, I sent him to Metropolis on a business errand.

Genevieve: Actually, I came here to see you, Lex.

Lex: Oh, I didn’t realize we had any more business to discuss. Drink?
Genevieve nods. Lex goes to the bar and pours two drinks. Genevieve takes off her coat and puts it down on the couch.

Genevieve: I take it my son has proven to be a good hire.

Lex: Excellent. He’s taken a real passion for the project I’ve given him.
Genevieve: I gather this project does not require him to relocate out of Smallville.

Lex: Highly doubtful.

He hands the drink to Genevieve.

Genevieve: I underestimated you, Lex. [She drinks.]

Lex: Well, that’s a common mistake. [He drinks.]

Genevieve: [Circling Lex slowly.] But not one I usually make. Seems that headstrong young men have become my blind spot. First Jason. And now you.

Lex: You asked me to give Jason a position at LuthorCorp. I’m not sure I understand your problem.

Genevieve: You know exactly why I wanted you to hire Jason. Get him away from Lana Lang. But instead, you decided to co-opt him for your own purposes.

Lex: Genevieve, paranoia is not a very attractive quality in a woman.

Genevieve: I’m just trying to protect my son.


Lex: Well, maybe you should get together with my father and write a parenting book. I bet it’d be a bestseller.

Lex goes to his desk and sits down.

Genevieve: Then you’re no longer interested in how your father was released from prison?

Lex: I’ve chosen to believe my father truly is reformed. Therefore, the question of his guilt or innocence no longer bothers me. But it’s great seeing you again, Genevieve.
She walks to the desk and puts down her drink.

Genevieve: And you too, Lex. Give my best to Jason. [She puts on her coat.] It’s a shame he won’t be able to help you find what you’re looking for.

Genevieve looks back at Lex slyly for a moment. Lex looks back with a blank stare. She leaves. When she is gone, Lex pushes a button on the keyboard of his laptop which brings up the ancient map on his screen.

*****

At the Talon that night. It is closed. Jason and Genevieve sit inside talking.

Genevieve: I want you to leave here with me tonight.

Jason: Why? Because of Countess Marguerite Isobel Theroux?

Genevieve looks away.

Jason: You know that name, don’t you?

Genevieve: Is this what Lex has you doing? Researching 17th century witches?

Jason: You’re incapable of giving a straight answer, you know that? So apparently when
Isobel was condemned to die, she vowed to rise again through one of her descendents. You knew that that was Lana, didn’t you? That’s why you had me bring her to Isobel’s tomb in Paris because you knew that if she received the mark then she was the one. Which means it’s-- it’s my fault that everything’s happening to her.

Genevieve puts her hand on Jason’s.

Genevieve: You can’t blame yourself.

Jason pulls away and stands up.

Jason: How could you use me like that?

He turns away. Genevieve walks toward him.

Genevieve: Look, it’s not safe for you to stay here.

Jason: Well, I’m not leaving Lana.

Genevieve: Well, perhaps you’ll change your mind when you hear the rest of the story. Isobel was condemned by a woman named Gertrude. Isobel vowed that when she rose from the dead, that she would wipe out all of Gertrude’s heirs. We’re Gertrude’s ancestors[sic] (descendants), Jason.

Jason: So you think that Lana is going to kill you?

Genevieve: No. But Isobel will, and who knows when she’ll return?
Jason: Mother, I walked out on Lana once before. I’m not gonna do it again.

Genevieve: Then you’re in love with a girl that may kill our entire family.

Jason lowers his head in frustration. Unbeknownst to either of them, Lana is standing at the top of the stairs watching them. She goes into her apartment.

******

In her apartment the next day, Lana pours a cup of coffee for Chloe and one for herself.

Chloe: So do you mind telling my why I was up until two in the morning researching Jason’s family tree? I mean, not that it wasn’t, you know, halfway interesting, it’s just you definitely got your place in the Guinness Book of Strangest Last-Minute Requests.

They walk toward the living room.

Lana: I, uh, saw him downstairs talking to his mom. It was obviously a heated discussion, but uh... when he came up to the apartment, he didn’t even mention it to me.

Chloe: Well, did you hear what they were talking about?

Lana: No. But it clearly rattled him. Chloe, he’s keeping something from me. You know,

I don’t even know who I can trust anymore.

They sit down on the couch.

Lana: Did you find anything?

Chloe: Not much. [Chloe opens her file folder.] I mean, I can only go back as far as his mom’s grandmother. After that, it’s like someone just chopped off a part of his family tree. There’s nothing there. I can tell you that she comes from a town called Castelnois de Montmiral. [She hands Lana a piece of paper from the file.] That’s all I know. Well, except that...

She stops when she sees the look on Lana’s face as she stares at the page.

Chloe: Lana, are you okay?

Lana: [Fearful.] Chloe, this is the town that my ancestors come from. And Isobel Theroux.

Chloe: Well, on a scale of weird to ten... Genevieve’s grandmother is the one who moved Isobel’s tomb into that church in Paris.

Lana: Why would anyone move a witch’s tomb into a church?

Chloe: I think that’s something you need to ask Jason.

Lana looks away from Chloe pensively.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

This whole thing with Jason, his mom, and Isobel Theroux is getting way too weird. I’m really getting scared. I saw Jason having a heated discussion with his mom. But when he came up to my apartment, he didn’t mention it at all. He’s definitely keeping something from me. So I asked Chloe to do some research on Jason’s family tree. I thought maybe that would explain why his mom has been obsessed with the countess for years - IF Lex is to be believed.

Now Chloe reveals to me that Jason’s grandmother is from Castlenau de Montmiral - the same town my ancestors are from - the same town Isobel Theroux is from. And this grandmother is the one who moved Isobel’s tomb into the church, where I touched it. Now that is really strange! I don’t understand why anyone would do such a thing.

I wonder how much of all of this Jason knows though. Has he really been aware of the countess his whole life long? Did he bring me to Isobel’s tomb on purpose, knowing I might be the one she would possess? Has he had ulterior motives in our relationship the entire time? Did he ever really have feelings for me? Or was it all an act?

I just don’t know if I can trust him anymore. If he’s been using me the whole time…well that is a far greater deception than anything Clark ever did. At least with Clark, I always got the feeling that his “secrets” had nothing to do with me. They’re something very personal about him - something he doesn’t share with anyone no matter how close he gets to them. But I never felt that I couldn’t trust him. I always knew that Clark could be depended on - that he was always looking out for me, trying to protect me. But Jason? I don’t think he’s trying to protect me. It seems more & more like he’s just using me for his own mysterious purposes.

Then again, maybe I’m jumping to conclusions too quickly. Maybe Jason doesn’t really know anything about the countess. Maybe it’s only his mother who does, and she’s been using him to get to me. I guess I shouldn’t cut ties with Jason too quickly. I should wait to find out where he really fits into this whole thing. But I’ll have to remain cautious, until I can figure out the truth.

*****
Jason enters Lex’s study. Lionel is seated on the couch reading the newspaper.

Lionel: If you’re looking for my son, he’s not here.

Jason puts a folder down on Lex’s desk.

Jason: I’m just returning something.

Lionel: Yes, yes. How’s the research coming?

Jason: I’m not sure I know what you mean.

Lionel: Yes, you do. I mean Isobel.
Jason is shocked into silence. Lionel finally looks up from his newspaper and chuckles.

Lionel: I understand your hesitation. When I found out that you’d been hired by my son, I put a few of the pieces together and saw a connection. You, um, you’re Genevieve Teague’s boy.
Lionel stands up and walks toward Jason, looking up him and down.

Lionel: Yes. Of course.

Lionel laughs softly again. Jason stares back at him nervously.

Lionel: You can’t trust her, Jason. [Jason nods.] Of course, you can’t trust my son either, but I think you know that.

Jason: And I suppose you’re gonna tell me I can trust you, though.

Lionel picks up a manila envelope and hands it to Jason.

Jason: What’s this?

Lionel: Open it.

Lionel goes back to the couch and sits down as Jason opens the envelope and pulls out a piece of paper. We see that it is the same ancient map that Lex has.

Lionel: [Without looking at Jason.] I think it might help you.


*************************************************
*************************************************

CLARK’s JOURNAL

Finally! Finally we found a name for the dog Lois brought home: Shelby. Hopefully that will put an end to Lois calling him “Clarkie” - how I hate that!

Lois has been driving me crazy as always. I hope she doesn’t have to stay around too long. She even slowed me down when I was trying to save Shelby, making me ride in her car, when I could have sped there so much faster. I hate having her around. I can’t use my abilities with her here, and everything has to be done in slow motion. Geez, if a girl had to move in here, why couldn’t it have been Lana? No such luck for me. She’s with Jason anyway, so what does it matter. And that was my doing - I let her go to Paris where she met him. I almost made her go - because I chose to not put her in danger by telling her about me. So I guess I have to continue to live with the consequences of that decision. I hope she can be happy. That’s what I really want - just to see that she is truly happy - and safe. I can continue to keep my eyes open and make sure she is safe. I promised myself long ago I’d never let anything happen to her - and I intend to keep that promise always.

*****

[Cardinal]

I'm glad someone noticed Genevieve's boo-boo. I'm surprised that did not get caught by the Smallville editors.

Lana is in a bit of a pickle right now. The two men she thought she could trust have proven to be less than honorable in their dealings with her.

She seems to be yearning for the days when her biggest problem was trying to worm her way into Clark's secrets.

[Nemu]

you know i read bits and places of the Krypto journal... and now I will have to start at the beginning of your alt story just to remember everything... (and no im not mad about it cause i know its good ;))

so... PPMS :D here there anywhere ;)

[happycamper]

Originally posted by SVsleuth
I just don’t know if I can trust him (Jason) anymore. If he’s been using me the whole time…well that is a far greater deception than anything Clark ever did. At least with Clark, I always got the feeling that his “secrets” had nothing to do with me. They’re something very personal about him - something he doesn’t share with anyone no matter how close he gets to them. But I never felt that I couldn’t trust him. I always knew that Clark could be depended on - that he was always looking out for me, trying to protect me. But Jason? I don’t think he’s trying to protect me....

Exactly. I believe Lana always knew that, so that's why I have so much trouble believing what's happening now!


Originally posted by SVsleuth
She’s with Jason anyway, so what does it matter. And that was my doing - I let her go to Paris where she met him. I almost made her go - because I chose to not put her in danger by telling her about me. So I guess I have to continue to live with the consequences of that decision. I hope she can be happy. That’s what I really want - just to see that she is truly happy - and safe. I can continue to keep my eyes open and make sure she is safe. I promised myself long ago I’d never let anything happen to her - and I intend to keep that promise always.
Same! Clark gave Lana up - again - to protect her, and then he lets her get in all kinds of danger. I would think he'd realize that she's safer with him then without him.



Love your insight into what the two feel... :D

PPMS!

:D :D



**edit
Took your advice and I did watch my tape of the show. Except for the very bad Clana, it was pretty good. Now if they could only get the relationship straight... :mad: :(

[akuma]

Ahh past the non clana episodes, ready for clana interaction, PPMS

[booze_is_me09]

PPMS!!!!!

[SVsleuth]

Oh, I'm glad someone remembered this one! As SOON as I finish the Sequel chapters to HIDDEN EX Ed, I will write Sacred on this thread, maybe even do a couple of episodes, and then turn my attention to Alt. Clana: Sacred. :)

[NYC300Z]

oh wow I missed a couple didn't even realize it!

PPMS!;)

[*#~ ClAnAfAn99210~#*]

cmon its been a few months you need to update and bring in the clana you promised steph

[emsfan]

Wow i just caught up loved the story!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please update soon :)

[SVsleuth]

A/N Hi there, to the very patient readers of this fic. Now that I have completed HIDDEN: Extended Edition, my attention is turned back to this fic. I've been re-reading and have read through JINX, so far. I need to finish re-reading, to get my head back into the story, then I'll be writing SACRED, and finally moving on to the Clana-filled episodes you all deserve after enduring all the Jasana. I will try to get back to the Alt. Clana thread soon, too, but haven't even begun my re-read there yet. Anyway, I thought I should announce my intentions and encourage you all to re-read, if you like, to get ready for the episodes to come. ;) - SV

[Cardinal]

Ya-freaking-hoo!

[NYC300Z]

yes can't wait!

[happycamper]

Waiting oh so patiently...:lol:


:D :D

[emsfan]

update if you can:)

[SVsleuth]

All right, everyone. I FINALLY finished my re-read, so I hope to be able to work on Sacred this weekend. Meanwhile, I suggest you all re-read Lana's journal from Krypto (http://www.kryptonsite.com/forums/showthread.php?postid=2118327#post2118327), to recall what her frame of mind is going into Sacred.

[Cardinal]

That's what I'm talking about! :D :D :D :D :D

[*#~ ClAnAfAn99210~#*]

ok whatever you say to make yopu post faster

[SVsleuth]

The first part of Sacred is almost done. It should be posted sometime Sunday afternoon or evening. ;)

[*#~ ClAnAfAn99210~#*]

goood

[HP_DRAGON]

Yay *clap clap clap* ^-^

[SVsleuth]

Sacred - Part 1

Clark receives a package from Dr. Swann, just as Jonathan sees a news bulletin on the TV and calls Clark and Martha over to see the report. The report announces Dr. Swann’s death. Clark is stunned at the news. He sits down with a sigh.

Clark: There was still so much I needed to learn from him about Krypton and Jor-El.

Clark tosses a balled up piece of the envelope across the table in frustration.

Martha: (sympathetically) We can be thankful for everything he did pass on to you.

Clark turns his attention to the envelope, reaching in hesitantly. He pulls out a small felt bag and a folded letter. He places the bag on the table and unfolds the letter.

Clark: (Reading aloud) “Kal-El, I wish I could continue this journey with you, but now you must seek out your father.”

Jonathan turns his head away with a sigh, uncomfortable with this turn of events.

Clark: “If I sheltered you from him for too long, forgive me. Jor-El sent you on a mission. He’s the only one who can help you finish it. I am returning something that is rightfully yours. I know that it will lead you to your destiny.”

Clark puts down the letter and picks up the small bag. He reaches inside and pulls out the octagonal spaceship key. Fear spreads over the faces of Jonathan and Martha as they see the key.

Clark turns the key over in his fingers nervously.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

I can’t believe Dr. Swann is gone. I was just with him last week - he seemed fine. He must have known he was dying, in order to send this to me in time. I wish I could talk to him again. I have so many unanswered questions.

Dr. Swann says I should seek out Jor-el, that Jor-El sent me here on a mission. Dr. Swann seemed to believe it is important. I know my parents - especially Dad - are not eager for me to get involved with Jor-El again. But I trust Dr. Swann. I feel almost compelled to follow his advice, even if Dad doesn’t like it. I know Mom and Dad would prefer it if I just continue to play football and pretend to be normal - but the truth is, I’m not. They’re going to have to accept that. I need to seek out Jor-El; I need to understand why he sent me here.

*****
Clark enters the hidden chamber in the Kawatche caves and the opening closes behind him. He looks at the key in his hand for a long moment, then, at the octagonal altar. Deciding to go through with it, he inserts the disc into a slot in the middle of the altar. Bright light shoots out from the altar, flashing about Clark until he is enveloped in a shaft of blue pulsating energy. A strong wind howls through the chamber. The voice of Jor-El booms over the sound of the wind.

Jor-El: I knew you would return, my son.

Clark observes the one stone in the table as he shouts his reply to Jor-El.

Clark: Why’d you send me to find this?

Jor-El: Because you may be the last survivor of a great civilization.

Clark: (still shouting) A great civilization that destroyed itself!

Jor-El: As will yours if you continue to refuse your mission. The knowledge of our civilization was encoded in three stones brought to Earth and hidden at the far reaches of the world. Greed will drive others to hunt the stones. But if the humans should unite them before you, they will not be able to withstand the temptation and will drive the world to famine, war, and the Earth’s ultimate destruction. You must find the other two stones. The fate of your world lies in your hands... Kal-El.

The flashing light becomes brighter until the everything is white.

*****
CLARK’s JOURNAL

Woah! Those were sobering words from Jor-El. The fate of my world lies in my hands? Jor-El says I must find the other two stones before others do. He seemed to say that those stones united contain the knowledge of Kryptonian civilization, and that humans would abuse that knowledge, leading to Earth’s destruction. I wonder why that knowledge was hidden in this manner, on this planet? I wonder how I am supposed to know where to find the other two stones? All I know is that one of them was left behind at the prison, after I switched back with Lionel. I wonder if Lionel has that one. As for the third, I have no idea where it might be.

This is really scary - no, terrifying. I’m so afraid of what might happen if I continue to ignore Jor-El. I wonder if all the trials Jor-El has put me through were his way of trying to prepare me to find the stones. I’ve never felt the weight of the world on my shoulders as heavy as it feels right now. Is it really possible that the fate of Earth depends on me alone?

*****
Lana answers the phone in the kitchen of her Talon apartment.

Lana: Hello?

Jason: Hey, it’s Jason.

Lana: (teasing) Jason who?

Jason: Very funny.

Lana smiles. She hears crowd noise in the background on Jason’s end of the line.

Lana: Well, it doesn’t sound like Kansas. Where are you?

Jason: Uh, Metropolis. I have to stay here for a few days, oversee some things for Lex.

Lana: I didn’t realize that your job required any overseeing.

Jason: Yeah. Listen, I can’t really talk right now. I just stepped out of a meeting. But I, uh, I wanted to call ‘cause I didn’t get a chance to before I left.

Lana: Is Lex with you?

Jason: No, I’m solo.

Lana: Well, you better stay that way. I know what happens to people when they run off to Metropolis.

A Chinese man standing near Jason yells something in Chinese. Jason tries to cover his cell phone so Lana doesn’t hear.

Lana: What was that?

Jason: Nothing. Um, listen, I gotta go. I’ll call you tomorrow, okay? Good night.

Jason flips his cell phone closed.

Lana hangs up her phone, confused.

Lana: Night?

Jason realizes his mistake as soon as he hangs up, and grimaces, hoping Lana didn’t catch his error.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

Even over the phone I can tell that Jason is lying to me. Why would he do that? I wonder where he really is - and why. I’m becoming even more convinced that he has been hiding something from me. Well, I can’t just sit here and wait for something to happen. I’m going to get to the bottom of this. I’ve tried to call Jason back, to get the truth out of him, but I can’t seem to get through to his cell. I think I’ll go have a chat with Lex, and find out if he knows where Jason is, and what’s going on.

*****
Lex finds Jason in Shanghi and confronts him there. Lex knows Lionel gave Jason a copy of the map that Lex had found hidden in the manuscript in RUN, and that Jason is looking for one of the stones. Jason and Lex do not trust each other.

*****

Lana enters Lex’s study where Lionel is slicing oranges on a cutting board. She stops in the middle of the room.

Lionel: Miss Lang. Please, don’t be shy. You were looking for your elusive boyfriend, I assume.

Lana: Uh, yeah. I was hoping that Lex could get in touch with him for me. He sent him to go catch up on this project and I can’t seem to reach him on his cell.

Lionel: Well, I would imagine reception would be rather shoddy in China. Lex is in Shanghai. If I had to guess, I would say that your boyfriend is there with him.

Lana stares at Lionel, surprised. Lionel takes notice of her surprise.

Lionel: I’m sorry. I-I thought Jason would’ve told you what’s happening, considering you were the one born right into the middle of all this. You should know, Miss Lang, how thoroughly Jason and Lex have been studying Isobel Theroux, your rebellious ancestor.

Lana: Looks like they aren’t the only ones.

Lionel walks to the bookshelf and picks up a wooden box which he carries to the desk and sets down.

Lionel: Isobel’s archrival was a duchess, Gertrude who was obsessed with finding three mythical stones. She sent ships to the far ends of the known earth, but all her agents could discover was this map somewhere in China.

Lionel opens the box and pulls out the map, showing it to Lana.

Lana: What does this treasure map have to do with Isobel?

Lionel: The map never made it into the hands of the duchess. Isobel stole the document and hid it. Gertrude had the exquisite young sorceress executed.

Lana: (Becoming afraid.) Isobel’s looking for them too.

Lionel: And she’s working through you, using you as a vessel. I gave a copy of the map to Jason as well. I’m not surprised he didn’t tell you about it.

Lionel closes the box and puts it back on the bookshelf.

Lionel: Your kinship with Isobel may not be a secret, but are you aware that Jason is a direct descendent of the duchess, Gertrude?

Lana’s eyes widen in disbelief as she looks from Lionel to the map, and then back to Lionel, fearfully.

*****
LANA’s JOURNAL

Ahhh! I just wanna scream! I have never been more angry in all my life! Jason’s been lying to me, took off for China in search of some stone that has something to do with Isobel - and with his own ancestor - and is hiding everything from me! What kind of relationshp is that? And Lex - he’s supposed to be my friend. What the hell is he doing, running off to China as well, without telling me anything about what he knows?

It all has something to do with Isobel, and the symbol on my back. Everyone seems to know more about what’s happening to me than I do - even Lionel Luthor! Lionel says that Isobel is using me as her “vessel”, searching for some stupid stones through me? Is that really why she possessed me? What the hell is so special about those “mythical” stones anyway? How does anyone know they really exist at all?

So what do I do now? I cannot just sit here, doing nothing. If this is about me, and Isobel, then I’ve got to be involved in getting to the bottom of it. I have to, if I have any hope of getting Isobel out of my life for good. So, if China is where the action is going down, then I guess China is where I need to go. Lionel offered to send me, on a Luthorcorp jet. I guess I haven’t any choice but to take him up on his offer, even though I know he has not been trustworthy in the past. How else could I get to China, though? I feel almost compelled to go there. Yes, I have to go. I’ve got to figure out what is going on. I guess I’ll have to trust Lionel, just this once.

*****
END PART 1

[Cardinal]

Lana is getting all riled up.

If Jason or Lex were to show up right now, they'd be in danger of being subjected to an unhealthy dose of Lana-Fu. :D

Clark, meanwhile, is realizing that it's past time for him to get up off of his butt.

[NYC300Z]

Yeah I really liked this episode I remeber calling my friend and being like yo what did they just say and him translating the Mandarin for me, but oh this episode gets confusing and I bet the journals between Clark and Lana get real interesting!

PPMS!

[happycamper]

I've missed your updates! :(

At this point, Lana really does have nowhere to turn, and no one to trust...except maybe for a farm-boy neighbor? :lol:

Why can't she remember her emotions here at the end of the fifth season...:(

Its good that Clark is starting to worry about his legacy and mission - and his need to get the stones. How convenient that Lana needs him too. ;)


:D :D

[HP_DRAGON]

Great job SV wonderful as always. it is so fun to read Clark and Lana's journals it makes the episode so much better. PPMS! ^-^

[emsfan]

wow this is awesome!!! its definitely worth to read!!!!great job! i can't wait for another update :)

[akuma]

Finally got a chance to read and great job SV!

[clana4ev3r]

YAY! An update!! These journals are just... *sigh* no words. No. words.

Update more soon!! :D :D

[*#~ ClAnAfAn99210~#*]

it was nice i ust wish that there will be some clana soon