Chapter 9

Clark drifts in darkness. The hum and beep of the monitors soft and reassuring in his ears. The feel of Lois' hand in his grounding him. Memories float in the blackness...learning how to drive the tractor with his dad, running so fast he got lost in the woods, the first time he picked up something really heavy, his first kiss, the first time he met Lois.

Slowly a warmth spreads from the center of his chest. The joy he feels at the memories warming him making him feel loved, needed, human, and superhuman. The sensation slowly spreads...unfortunately too slowly.

With a start Clark finds himself back as Superman in the grip of Scrios. Damn! I think I was...

Clark doesn't have time to finish the thought as Scrios renews his effort to destroy the Man of Steel.

Mr. Church watches with interest this new struggle. His plan going smoothly. Sipping his wine, he stares out at the spectacle. Getting rid of this partner might prove difficult. Perhaps his other partner might have a few ideas on how to get rid of Scrios. Church looks again at Scrios...the thing seems to be getting larger. How can that be? Pacing now in front of the window rolling the stem of his wineglass between his fingers. The only thing I have seen that is effective that Superman used against that thing was freezing it. :Picking up the phone he calles his other partner. "I have a new project for you...."

Superman yells in frustration and pain as Scrios tries to rip him in half. Seeing a glimmer in the sky hope flares in his mind. Oh thank God, sunrise. I could use a recharge.

Scios senses the change in Superman and redoubles his effort. Wrapping several tentacles around Superman, Scrios twists them in opposite directions. Superman bellows in agony. His strength depleted by the constant battle.

Well at least I can breath a little.

Scrios enraged now slams Superman repeatedly into the pavement below. Superman dazed by the blows, hangs limp in Scios' clutches. Blood oozing from a gash above his eye drizzles down his face and drips on the tentacle holding him. Fighting against loosing consciousness again. "Scrios, you can't win. Even if you defeat me, the people of Earth will band together and destroy you." Trying to sound confident and still strong.

"Hahahahaha" Scios' evil laughter echos off the buildings and street below. "Who could stand against me, when even the all powerful Superman has fallen before me? The people won't know reality from nightmare. Just as I have done to you, so shall I do to them.