Smallville s08e07 Episode Script
Identity
CHLOE: Previously on Smallville: I have to run faster interference on these mysterious Good Samaritan reports.
I'm doing my job.
It's just a matter of time before someone discovers that.
This crystal is the only clue that we have, so find me Lex Luthor.
TESS: Clark, do you know what this is? Tess Mercer has it.
That's the computer she wants me to hack into.
Maybe I could take a look at that supercomputer.
TESS: It was stolen.
Only a handful of people knew about that device.
When I find out who has it, I'm taking it back.
[GRUNTING.]
You're reading all this.
This is because of Brainiac.
After he attacked me, my hacking skills went from analog to digital.
- We don't know what can happen.
- So let's not worry about it till we have to.
TESS: What's the status on the Black Creek facility? ASSISTANT: Completely dismantled, and the guests have been re-assimilated.
Lionel Luthor killed my parents.
Did you know about this? I'm just trying to corroborate my new theory.
Metropolis' very own mystery hero.
I'm gonna prove that this guy exists, CK.
He's out there.
LOIS: I write news stories, not fairy tales.
Especially ones about mythical saviors that no one's ever seen.
I may not have a name or a face to connect him with but I am telling you, this stealth crime fighter is as real as it gets.
The only stealth crime fighter I know about wears green leather and plays with arrows.
And I think he's hung up his bow.
[JIMMY SIGHS.]
Lois, this guy is light-years beyond bows and arrows.
Trust me, this is the kind of story that careers are made of.
Well, without a photo that story is about as relevant as a five-part exposé on the tooth fairy.
I bet Clark won't feel that way after I pitch him the story over dinner tonight.
Oh, Clark is coming to dinner with us? Yeah, I had a feeling you were too much of a cynic for such an uplifting piece.
But, hey, you know, CK will be all over this.
I wouldn't be so sure.
As shocking as it might seem, Smallville is no hack.
[LAUGHS.]
Wait a minute.
Did I just hear you give Clark Kent a compliment? [GRUNTS.]
- Give me the purse.
- You're robbing the wrong chick.
[BOTH GRUNTING.]
LOIS: Jimmy.
Get a picture of his face.
I knew I got a good lick in.
Oh, my God.
It's him.
Hey, Jimmy.
- Have I been dying to talk to you.
- You said it was urgent.
- Is everything okay? - Everything is beyond okay.
Once you see this picture, your life will never be the same.
You might wanna sit down.
I think I'll stand.
- What am I looking at? - Well, it, uh It's a person.
What, this blur? Well, he's just moving so fast that he's out of focus.
Jimmy, it looks like a, um Looks like a reflection in the lens to me.
Maybe there was a police car driving by.
In the middle of a mugging? Don't you think that they would've stopped? It's not a person.
They can't move that fast.
It's not possible.
A few years ago, I would've agreed.
But you have to admit, we both have seen our share of the bizarre and unexplained.
And what about Lois? She's the one who's supposedly saved.
Don't you think it's weird she didn't say anything about it? Not really.
I mean, she's a naysayer, a nonbeliever.
She swears that it's her lightning-fast reflexes that came to her rescue.
So this blur saved Lois from becoming roadkill, and she didn't feel a thing? See, that's how good he is.
Does this have "front page" written all over it, or what? Jimmy, there's no way that Tess is gonna publish an out-of-focus photograph.
I wouldn't even bother showing her.
Too late.
Caught her in the elevator.
She seemed interested.
She even agreed to let you write the copy.
Jimmy, don't you think you should ask me if I was interested first? Clark, I was doing you a favor.
I mean, this is a huge story.
Look, I've been stuck in Lois' shadow ever since I landed at the Planet and I'm pretty sure the same is true for you.
It's time that we made names for ourselves.
I'd rather be stuck in Lois Lane's shadow than be in the spotlight for some make-believe story.
Just think about it, okay? And whatever you do, just keep it on the down-low.
If Lois does get wind of this, she's gonna be all over it like a pit bull on a poodle.
Don't worry.
I won't tell a soul.
Thanks.
How does a violent criminal walk free? Yes, I've heard of bail for jaywalkers or shoplifters, not muggers who almost killed me.
I hope you realize that I will personally take this up with the mayor.
Hello? MAN: There she is.
The legendary Lois Lane.
- I know you from somewhere, don't I? - I think I'd remember a face like yours.
You knew my name.
[CHUCKLES.]
Sebastian Kane, the new city reporter.
Are you on crack, detective? How does a violent criminal walk free? If you like covering robbery and homicide, you've come to the right place.
The crime rate's so high, there's a no-vacancy sign in front of county jail.
- Really? LOIS: Mm-hm.
Metropolis seems like a safe haven compared to some places I've covered.
Really? Like where, the gates of hell? Iraq.
Northern Mosul.
I was an embedded journalist when the first troops went in.
[SIGHS.]
You must've seen some pretty graphic imagery.
Yeah, a little more than I'd bargained for.
Well, I've been pretty much embedded since birth.
I'm an Army brat.
No actual combat.
But if you'd met my dad, you'd be surprised I made it out alive.
In that case, you know what it feels like to be the new kid.
This is my first time in Metropolis.
I still haven't quite gotten my bearings.
You know what you need? Lois Lane's guide to surviving the big city.
I know all the tips and tricks.
I got an idea.
Why don't I take you out for dinner? You can share some of those secrets.
Hmm.
Well, my calendar's pretty chock-full but I may just happen to be free tonight.
Perfect.
[GASPING.]
SEBASTIAN: Why so sad? Don't ever touch me again.
So did Lane steal that crystal? Takes a little more than a handshake.
Well, then I guess you're gonna have to get a little more intimate.
It's already in the works, but not under your employment.
I'm done being your personal peeping Tom.
Hmm.
For a memory thief, your own recall is surprisingly spotty.
Do I need to remind you that I'm the one that released you from Black Creek? Hmm? That without me, you'd still be staring at four gray walls waiting in vain for your freedom.
That favor's been repaid three different times.
This woman, Lois, she's a good person.
I'm not gonna steal her memories.
That's unfortunate.
Because I'm one of the few people that know what a sick, voyeuristic predator you really are.
About the women that you stalked and killed before you ended up in Black Creek.
Those things I did that was before I could control my abilities.
I want a fresh start.
You'll get it.
You will.
When you find me that crystal.
Or I'll have to place a call to my friends in law enforcement tell them about the trail of bodies in your wake.
- So I'll talk to you next weekend, okay? MAN: Okay.
I need to talk to you.
About Jimmy's latest and greatest snapshot? - You deleted it, right? - Not yet.
- I wanted to talk to you first.
- What's there to talk about? I'm not gonna let my picture land on every doorstep in Metropolis.
It's not like anyone's gonna be able to tell it's you.
- You're practically a smudge on the lens.
- But it is me.
People will know I'm out there.
And why is that such a bad thing? I know that this is gonna sound totally insane, but think about it.
We live in dangerous times.
For people to know there's someone out there someone dedicated to saving lives, I mean, that could really mean a lot.
That sounds great, Chloe, but it's not that simple.
This is my secret we're talking about.
If people find out, it's a threat to everyone who knows me.
Well, I wouldn't say anything if I wasn't absolutely sure.
You need to talk to Jimmy.
You're the only one he's gonna listen to.
Jimmy is giving you a perfect alter ego.
It's called an alias, Clark.
Writers have been writing under pen names since the invention of the alphabet.
Oliver Queen has the Green Arrow.
I think it's time for you to have your own.
This isn't a debate, Chloe.
We need to protect my identity.
Look, when it comes to your secret, I've never gone against your wishes.
And I understand what a huge leap this is for you.
But that picture doesn't reveal anything about Clark Kent.
It simply gives the world something that they desperately need right now.
A hero.
[KNOCKING ON DOOR.]
Kent.
For a cub reporter, you tend to step into the lion's den quite often.
I hope it's urgent.
Look, I'm not sure where Jimmy Olsen got the idea that I wanna write his Good Samaritan story, but I'm not interested.
Not interested? In a potential front-page story? Makes me wonder what you would be interested in.
It doesn't feel right to put my name on some manufactured story that's based on an out-of-focus photograph.
The only thing out of focus on that photo was our red and blue white knight.
You can't even tell who it is.
You can't even tell what it is.
Exactly.
That's what makes it so brilliant.
It's mysterious, tantalizing, full of hope and just a hint of danger.
I'm sure it'll sell a lot of newspapers, but to do it by running a tabloid picture? I doubt that's even something Lex Luthor would do.
I'm not gonna listen to some lecture on journalistic excellence from a reporter whose biggest byline concerned a kitten-adoption fair.
Okay? You asked to be taken off the story.
- I have no problem with that.
- It's not a story.
No, you're right.
It's a tease.
But Jimmy Olsen tells me he's up to his elbows in research.
With a few more leads, we'll have a face and a name.
When that happens, then we'll have the real story.
LOIS: Smallville? What are you doing here? Lois, I didn't realize you were here.
- I was just - Rifling through Jimmy's things? No.
He left his bag here.
I was in the neighborhood, so I thought I'd do him a favor and pick it up for him.
- What, so now you're Jimmy's errand boy? - I'm his friend.
Anything wrong with that? No, nothing.
But, ooh, could you do me a favor? Zip.
Where are you going all dressed up? A little thing called a date.
I know you're fresh off the farm, but sometimes when a guy likes a girl he asks her out.
I know what a date is.
So who's the unlucky guy? A new reporter, started work at the Planet today.
Unlike a lot of new hires, he's actually a serious journalist.
You just met him today? I know.
The sparks were flying everywhere.
I'm surprised the bullpen didn't burn right down.
Do you always wear so little on a first date? Got a problem with the way I look? No.
- Just looking out for you, that's all.
- Ah.
Thanks, Clark, but I'm a big girl.
I can take care of myself.
[KNOCKING ON DOOR.]
Behave yourself.
These are for being nice to the new guy.
How sweet.
You shouldn't have.
[CLARK CLEARS THROAT.]
You're probably wondering who the strange man in my apartment is.
This is Clark.
He's one of the Daily Planet's sharpest errand boys.
Well, it's nice to meet you, Clark.
Clark's actually on his way out.
So don't forget to drop off those papers after you pick up my dry cleaning.
[WHISPERS.]
Go.
Sorry about him.
He's still a little wet behind the ears.
[CAR DOOR CLOSES.]
CK, be prepared for your career to be launched into the stratosphere.
You are gonna want the byline after you hear this.
I'm not interested in the byline on some make-believe story.
You're gonna change your tune once you see my research.
I think the Good Samaritan started saving lives right here in Smallville.
Jimmy, that's a pretty random leap.
Not really.
"Teen mysteriously saved in lake.
" "Girl rescued in robbery.
" "Freak accident saves woman.
" Now all those happened around the time that you and Chloe were in the ninth grade.
What, did Chloe give you all this? Just because I take pictures doesn't mean I don't know my way around a search engine.
Whatever.
I think that there's a real possibility that you went to school with this guy.
And what makes you say that? Look at the people involved who went to Smallville High.
Then right around the time you graduated, these mysterious incidents, they started Well, they started popping up more often in Metropolis.
What's your point? Um, yeah.
Uh, I'm just wondering if anyone at Smallville High stood out.
You know, had hero potential.
No, not that I can think of.
Even if this guy did exist, don't you think it's his decision to go public? I don't know.
I mean, maybe a little gentle prodding might do him some good.
I mean, it's not really your choice to make.
Be careful with that, Jimmy.
It's fragile.
Since when do you take such an interest in my family's photographs? What is it? Look, Jimmy, I got a lot of work to do.
And, uh, I gotta fix the tractor, so It's all so clear.
That's what's been going on between you and Chloe.
She's known this whole time.
And now this picture.
Jimmy, you're not making any sense.
No, it makes perfect sense.
It's you, isn't it? COMPUTER: System overload.
Fatal error.
Chloe? - Jimmy knows my secret.
- What? Between the research and these family photos, he put it together.
- Oh, my God.
What did you do? - I denied it.
I didn't know what else to do.
I told him I had chores and then came here.
- Chloe, this is not good.
- I'm so sorry, Clark.
I should've listened to you.
I had no idea he could pick you out of a lineup.
Not from that blurry mugshot.
The important thing is that we find a way to throw him off the trail for his own good.
[DOOR CLOSES.]
You beat me here.
Jimmy.
When I left you, you were doing chores.
You blurred over here, didn't you? Jimmy, that's ridiculous.
I used all the shortcuts.
Wha? What shortcut? I was speeding the whole way.
Oh, you know, why don't you show me on a map? Jimmy.
This isn't a witch-hunt.
You've known this whole time.
That's the big secret that you've been keeping from me.
And I get it.
I get it.
And of course you wanna keep it a secret, but you can trust me, CK.
- I got your back.
- And I appreciate that, Jimmy.
But this deep, dark secret that you believe in so strongly just doesn't exist.
Look, I'm sorry to let you down.
Chloe, you'll tell me the truth, right? Yeah.
I mean, the truth is, as much as I wish that Clark could shatter land-speed records, it's just He's just a regular guy.
You don't trust me, do you? She's right, Jimmy.
There's nothing special about me whatsoever.
Then I guess I'll have to prove it.
Jimmy.
[WHOOSHING.]
[UPBEAT MUSIC PLAYING.]
[WOMEN GIGGLING.]
Clark.
Ah, hey, man.
Uh, listen, if you're looking for a little jaunt to Aruba, find another plane.
This one's packed.
It's all full.
And we're about ready for takeoff, isn't that right? Your assistant said you were having preflight drinks.
She wasn't kidding.
- No, she was not.
- I hope the pilot's at least sober.
Well, I sure hope the pilot's sober too, Clark.
He's gotta get us there.
You just gotta get in the right frame of mind if you're gonna fly.
Isn't that right, ladies? WOMAN: Yeah.
Ha.
OLIVER: Ah.
Oliver, I need to talk to you.
You know what, Clark? Actually, right now, not the greatest time for me.
But I'll tell you what I can do.
I'll drop you a postcard, okay? It's urgent.
[WOMAN CHUCKLES.]
Okay.
Uh.
- Just give us one second.
- Okay.
- Thank you.
Please.
WOMAN: All right.
WOMAN 1: Mmm.
Let's go grab a drink.
WOMAN 2: Yeah.
Look what you did.
So, what's the latest crisis in your life, Clark? Or did you just come here to lecture me about drinking? Jimmy's onto my secret.
He's got this picture And you're afraid that he's gonna plaster it all over the front page of the Planet.
Yeah.
You know what? That might not be such a bad idea.
Sure would force you to step up a little bit.
What happened to you? You've all but given up on the Green Arrow.
Did you know that Lois was mugged a block away from your apartment? It seems that every time someone sees you, you have a drink in your hand.
Maybe I'm not the one who needs to step up.
Whatever.
Listen, you just need to relax, okay? Sometimes even superheroes need to take a vacation.
Oliver, I understand that you're still upset with me.
I knew Lionel killed your parents, and I didn't tell you.
I made a decision.
Maybe it was the wrong one.
But you're the only one who can help me right now.
Well, I'll tell you what, Clark.
- I'll call you when I get back.
- There's no time, Oliver.
People have died because they know my secret.
Lives have been turned upside down.
I can't mind-wipe the people who already know my secret.
I can only do my best to protect the people like Jimmy.
Don't do it for me.
Do it for him.
He's an innocent bystander whose life will never be the same.
[DANCE MUSIC PLAYING.]
SEBASTIAN: So there's bombs going off everywhere.
The soldier next to me gets shot.
So the lieutenant turns to me, grabs my notebook Frisbees it out the Humvee window, and sticks an M-16 in my hand.
Wait.
I thought you said your notebook made it all the way to Baghdad and back.
It did.
Once the smoke cleared, I walked about a mile and a half to go find it.
Wow.
So, what about the last few years? What kind of misadventures have you had? Come on.
You can be honest about your past.
Where do I start? Any big investigations? You know, where you went deep undercover with a drug lord or crime family or maximum-security prison.
Okay, bullets flying over my head is one thing but stick me in a tiny little cell, no, thank you.
- Claustrophobia's a bitch.
- Heh.
So you've never, you know, seen the inside of a big government facility? Because that would be a great exposé waiting to happen.
You wanna hear about the last time I was in a big government facility? I think I was in high school.
That's about as close to prison as it gets.
Really? Have you ever had your palms read? I don't do too well with fortune tellers.
The last one I went to see told me that I was destined to fall for a guy who flies a lot and likes to wear tights.
So I'm just waiting for my cross-dressing pilot to make his landing.
Well, I'll only tell you the good stuff, then.
Give me your hand.
Okay.
- Made it all the way to Baghdad and back.
Wilson Turner.
Abilities classified? Homicide.
I knew it.
You were in Black Creek.
So am I going to live? [PHONE RINGING.]
Excuse me.
Ha.
I should take this.
I'll be back in a moment? Okay.
So are you and Lois getting to know each other? I scanned her.
She doesn't have your artifact.
I know that much.
- Anything besides air in that brain of hers? - She's figured out who I am.
She has this flash drive from Black Creek.
The one she stole from the library.
Oh, well, the facility's been dismantled.
There's nothing on it that could implicate LuthorCorp.
- It implicates me.
She knows the truth about what I can do.
Well, it sounds like you're in a bit of a quagmire.
Especially in light of the fact that she's an overzealous newspaper reporter.
You might wanna find yourself a new reporter.
Something tells me Lois Lane won't be coming into work tomorrow.
Move on to our next person of interest.
Jimmy Olsen.
Well, then, thanks for dinner.
Now you'll be able to make it across town without a tour book in your hand.
You said you had that extra transit map.
Why don't I come up and get it? We can have a nightcap.
I like nightcaps, but unfortunately, I'm on a lethal deadline.
I have to proofread a 5000-worder due at dawn.
I'm a hell of a speller.
Why don't I come up and give you a hand? Thanks, but, uh, spellcheck is actually my best friend.
See you mañana.
[SCREAMS.]
No one can know who I am.
I need that flash drive.
- Are you ready? - Ready as I'll ever be.
I don't enjoy driving a speeding car at anyone.
- Even you.
CLARK [OVER PHONE.]
: It's okay, Chloe.
Someone's gonna save me.
[PHONE BEEPS.]
That's him now.
Chloe, remember, 10:00 on the dot.
Tell me you're sober.
Let me tell you something, I wish I wasn't sober.
I could be in a cabana in Aruba now.
I'm hanging out in the middle of downtown on a rooftop with you guys.
You didn't hear me complain when I put on green leather to protect your identity.
You made out with my girlfriend, man.
What'd you have to complain about? Look, Jimmy's gonna be here any second.
We cross at 10.
And, Oliver, don't screw this up.
Just keep your fingers crossed.
Jimmy, thanks for meeting me.
Clark, I want you to know, no matter what you tell me I'm not gonna look at you any differently.
You'll always be the same old CK to me.
I swear, ask anyone.
I know how to keep a secret.
- You recognized me at the Daily Planet.
- And I can just as easily forget.
I have a terrible memory.
You can trust me.
There's one thing you learn when you get locked up in a cage for four years.
And that is, you don't trust anybody.
Jimmy, let's go get some coffee, set the record straight once and for all.
Whatever you're comfortable with, man.
I'm here for you.
I'm sorry, Lois, but I'm never gonna be locked up again.
[BOTH GRUNTING.]
On the move, Oliver.
Yeah.
Let's just get this over with, huh? [PHONE RINGS.]
- Hello? - Clark.
Help.
Help, Clark.
Hey.
[GROANING.]
Listen, I need to make a phone call.
Just wait here.
- Now? - Yeah.
I'll be right back.
- You're coming with me.
- What? - No.
Hey, man, just take my wallet.
- I don't want your money.
Come on.
Go.
OLIVER: This isn't part of the plan.
MUGGER: Move it.
Move along.
[TIRES SQUEALING.]
Jimmy, what happened? Do you actually expect me to fall for that? I know exactly what happened.
You just saved me.
Jimmy, I wish I could take the credit, but it wasn't me.
It was him.
No way.
[LAUGHS.]
[CROWD CHATTERING.]
MAN: What, up there in the sky? - Oh, yeah.
MAN: Hey.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
MAN: Man, that's hot.
MAN: Right there.
That's where he is.
WOMAN 1: I think that is.
WOMAN 2: Do they even have a name? - I'm so sorry, CK.
- Congratulations, Jimmy.
To think I just about pulled you out of a closet you weren't in.
- I feel terrible.
- Don't feel too bad.
Actually, I'm honored you thought I could move with lightning speed.
Well, you might not be superhuman, Clark.
There's a reason I thought you were the Good Samaritan.
Why? Because I buy Girl Scout cookies twice a year? Seriously, CK.
You're the kind of guy that people can count on.
Whether it's your friends or strangers, you're always there for them.
That's rare.
Yeah.
MAN: Yeah.
What's rare? A pen that works in this place? I heard about your date last night.
Ended with a thud.
Sorry I didn't get your call till it was over.
I wasn't on a date, Smallville.
I was deep undercover on a dinner with a psychopath.
Oh.
Sounds like your type.
Lois, why didn't you tell me you were working on a story? If I told you my secret, it would've put you in harm's way.
It was for your own safety.
- Thanks for looking out for me.
- You're welcome.
JIMMY: Hey, Lois.
By any chance, did you take a peek at today's front page? I certainly did, Jimmy Olsen.
I have to say that I've underestimated you.
As hard as it is to believe, I was saved now twice in two days.
Without a doubt, I'm officially a true believer in this red and blue super-dude.
Hey, Jimmy.
Hey.
- Oh, hey, guys.
- Good job.
Word from above, the mayor's gonna announce the new fire chief at 10 a.
m.
Heh, my days of covering yawner press conferences are all but over.
- Because I have a new mission in life.
- I didn't realize you had an old one.
I'm gonna use my expert tracking skills and find this camera-shy superhero.
Really? Good luck with that.
Mark my words, Clark Kent I won't stop until I land the first worldwide exclusive interview.
Watch me.
[SIGHS.]
Nice press.
I gotta tell you, I never realized how photogenic you were as long as no one sees your face.
Could've been a lot worse.
Yeah, it could have.
I'm surprised you let the thing print, though.
I was expecting to hear about some computer meltdown at the Planet.
To be honest, it did cross my mind.
But then I got to thinking maybe my destiny is more than just secretly saving people.
Maybe it was also to give people hope, someone to believe in.
I knew you'd catch on someday.
Well, I just wanted to say thank you before you went on vacation.
Well, vacation's over, Clark.
I'm headed to Europe.
- On business? - Uh, yeah, kind of.
Kind of.
You know my friends, the ones who like to dress up and kick ass? - We're having a summit.
- What happened to the party plane? Wanna know the truth? I don't know.
It's like, when I was zipping across the street, taking that punk down I finally felt like myself again.
You know? Because that's who I am.
I'm not the party boy who runs off on these lost rum-soaked weekends.
I'm not the multinational corporate titan.
That's not me.
Underneath it all, the person I really am is Green Arrow.
I'm glad you've finally come around.
Clark, I understand, uh, why you didn't tell me about my parents' murder.
You were afraid of how I'd take it.
And I It's fine.
You were right.
And once I found out I'm pretty sure my parents wouldn't have been proud of how I reacted.
I have no doubt that your parents would be proud of the person you've become.
Except for one thing, and it's just a piece of friendly advice.
Don't ever wear that cape again.
It looked ridiculous.
Really? I kind of liked it.
Sure helped with the aerodynamics.
You should give it a try.
Not in this lifetime.
[BEEPING.]
Who are you? I thought you might like a visitor, Wilson.
How do you know me? I was in that facility with you.
I know all about your ability to read people like Braille.
Now, tell me that man who stopped you the other night how much of his story did you get through? Let's just say he shouldn't have touched me.
Guys like him belong in places like Black Creek.
Why were you in there? You don't seem so special.
You know, the human mind is simply a highly sophisticated computer.
Download too much information, and it crashes and all the data's lost.
What's that supposed to mean? Here, let me show you.
[GROANING.]
[EKG FLATLINING.]
NURSE 1: Code blue.
He's having a stroke.
Get in there.
MAN 1: Code blue.
MAN 2: We got him.
NURSE 2: Looks like cardiac.
MAN: Get the portable in there.
Out of the way.
I'm doing my job.
It's just a matter of time before someone discovers that.
This crystal is the only clue that we have, so find me Lex Luthor.
TESS: Clark, do you know what this is? Tess Mercer has it.
That's the computer she wants me to hack into.
Maybe I could take a look at that supercomputer.
TESS: It was stolen.
Only a handful of people knew about that device.
When I find out who has it, I'm taking it back.
[GRUNTING.]
You're reading all this.
This is because of Brainiac.
After he attacked me, my hacking skills went from analog to digital.
- We don't know what can happen.
- So let's not worry about it till we have to.
TESS: What's the status on the Black Creek facility? ASSISTANT: Completely dismantled, and the guests have been re-assimilated.
Lionel Luthor killed my parents.
Did you know about this? I'm just trying to corroborate my new theory.
Metropolis' very own mystery hero.
I'm gonna prove that this guy exists, CK.
He's out there.
LOIS: I write news stories, not fairy tales.
Especially ones about mythical saviors that no one's ever seen.
I may not have a name or a face to connect him with but I am telling you, this stealth crime fighter is as real as it gets.
The only stealth crime fighter I know about wears green leather and plays with arrows.
And I think he's hung up his bow.
[JIMMY SIGHS.]
Lois, this guy is light-years beyond bows and arrows.
Trust me, this is the kind of story that careers are made of.
Well, without a photo that story is about as relevant as a five-part exposé on the tooth fairy.
I bet Clark won't feel that way after I pitch him the story over dinner tonight.
Oh, Clark is coming to dinner with us? Yeah, I had a feeling you were too much of a cynic for such an uplifting piece.
But, hey, you know, CK will be all over this.
I wouldn't be so sure.
As shocking as it might seem, Smallville is no hack.
[LAUGHS.]
Wait a minute.
Did I just hear you give Clark Kent a compliment? [GRUNTS.]
- Give me the purse.
- You're robbing the wrong chick.
[BOTH GRUNTING.]
LOIS: Jimmy.
Get a picture of his face.
I knew I got a good lick in.
Oh, my God.
It's him.
Hey, Jimmy.
- Have I been dying to talk to you.
- You said it was urgent.
- Is everything okay? - Everything is beyond okay.
Once you see this picture, your life will never be the same.
You might wanna sit down.
I think I'll stand.
- What am I looking at? - Well, it, uh It's a person.
What, this blur? Well, he's just moving so fast that he's out of focus.
Jimmy, it looks like a, um Looks like a reflection in the lens to me.
Maybe there was a police car driving by.
In the middle of a mugging? Don't you think that they would've stopped? It's not a person.
They can't move that fast.
It's not possible.
A few years ago, I would've agreed.
But you have to admit, we both have seen our share of the bizarre and unexplained.
And what about Lois? She's the one who's supposedly saved.
Don't you think it's weird she didn't say anything about it? Not really.
I mean, she's a naysayer, a nonbeliever.
She swears that it's her lightning-fast reflexes that came to her rescue.
So this blur saved Lois from becoming roadkill, and she didn't feel a thing? See, that's how good he is.
Does this have "front page" written all over it, or what? Jimmy, there's no way that Tess is gonna publish an out-of-focus photograph.
I wouldn't even bother showing her.
Too late.
Caught her in the elevator.
She seemed interested.
She even agreed to let you write the copy.
Jimmy, don't you think you should ask me if I was interested first? Clark, I was doing you a favor.
I mean, this is a huge story.
Look, I've been stuck in Lois' shadow ever since I landed at the Planet and I'm pretty sure the same is true for you.
It's time that we made names for ourselves.
I'd rather be stuck in Lois Lane's shadow than be in the spotlight for some make-believe story.
Just think about it, okay? And whatever you do, just keep it on the down-low.
If Lois does get wind of this, she's gonna be all over it like a pit bull on a poodle.
Don't worry.
I won't tell a soul.
Thanks.
How does a violent criminal walk free? Yes, I've heard of bail for jaywalkers or shoplifters, not muggers who almost killed me.
I hope you realize that I will personally take this up with the mayor.
Hello? MAN: There she is.
The legendary Lois Lane.
- I know you from somewhere, don't I? - I think I'd remember a face like yours.
You knew my name.
[CHUCKLES.]
Sebastian Kane, the new city reporter.
Are you on crack, detective? How does a violent criminal walk free? If you like covering robbery and homicide, you've come to the right place.
The crime rate's so high, there's a no-vacancy sign in front of county jail.
- Really? LOIS: Mm-hm.
Metropolis seems like a safe haven compared to some places I've covered.
Really? Like where, the gates of hell? Iraq.
Northern Mosul.
I was an embedded journalist when the first troops went in.
[SIGHS.]
You must've seen some pretty graphic imagery.
Yeah, a little more than I'd bargained for.
Well, I've been pretty much embedded since birth.
I'm an Army brat.
No actual combat.
But if you'd met my dad, you'd be surprised I made it out alive.
In that case, you know what it feels like to be the new kid.
This is my first time in Metropolis.
I still haven't quite gotten my bearings.
You know what you need? Lois Lane's guide to surviving the big city.
I know all the tips and tricks.
I got an idea.
Why don't I take you out for dinner? You can share some of those secrets.
Hmm.
Well, my calendar's pretty chock-full but I may just happen to be free tonight.
Perfect.
[GASPING.]
SEBASTIAN: Why so sad? Don't ever touch me again.
So did Lane steal that crystal? Takes a little more than a handshake.
Well, then I guess you're gonna have to get a little more intimate.
It's already in the works, but not under your employment.
I'm done being your personal peeping Tom.
Hmm.
For a memory thief, your own recall is surprisingly spotty.
Do I need to remind you that I'm the one that released you from Black Creek? Hmm? That without me, you'd still be staring at four gray walls waiting in vain for your freedom.
That favor's been repaid three different times.
This woman, Lois, she's a good person.
I'm not gonna steal her memories.
That's unfortunate.
Because I'm one of the few people that know what a sick, voyeuristic predator you really are.
About the women that you stalked and killed before you ended up in Black Creek.
Those things I did that was before I could control my abilities.
I want a fresh start.
You'll get it.
You will.
When you find me that crystal.
Or I'll have to place a call to my friends in law enforcement tell them about the trail of bodies in your wake.
- So I'll talk to you next weekend, okay? MAN: Okay.
I need to talk to you.
About Jimmy's latest and greatest snapshot? - You deleted it, right? - Not yet.
- I wanted to talk to you first.
- What's there to talk about? I'm not gonna let my picture land on every doorstep in Metropolis.
It's not like anyone's gonna be able to tell it's you.
- You're practically a smudge on the lens.
- But it is me.
People will know I'm out there.
And why is that such a bad thing? I know that this is gonna sound totally insane, but think about it.
We live in dangerous times.
For people to know there's someone out there someone dedicated to saving lives, I mean, that could really mean a lot.
That sounds great, Chloe, but it's not that simple.
This is my secret we're talking about.
If people find out, it's a threat to everyone who knows me.
Well, I wouldn't say anything if I wasn't absolutely sure.
You need to talk to Jimmy.
You're the only one he's gonna listen to.
Jimmy is giving you a perfect alter ego.
It's called an alias, Clark.
Writers have been writing under pen names since the invention of the alphabet.
Oliver Queen has the Green Arrow.
I think it's time for you to have your own.
This isn't a debate, Chloe.
We need to protect my identity.
Look, when it comes to your secret, I've never gone against your wishes.
And I understand what a huge leap this is for you.
But that picture doesn't reveal anything about Clark Kent.
It simply gives the world something that they desperately need right now.
A hero.
[KNOCKING ON DOOR.]
Kent.
For a cub reporter, you tend to step into the lion's den quite often.
I hope it's urgent.
Look, I'm not sure where Jimmy Olsen got the idea that I wanna write his Good Samaritan story, but I'm not interested.
Not interested? In a potential front-page story? Makes me wonder what you would be interested in.
It doesn't feel right to put my name on some manufactured story that's based on an out-of-focus photograph.
The only thing out of focus on that photo was our red and blue white knight.
You can't even tell who it is.
You can't even tell what it is.
Exactly.
That's what makes it so brilliant.
It's mysterious, tantalizing, full of hope and just a hint of danger.
I'm sure it'll sell a lot of newspapers, but to do it by running a tabloid picture? I doubt that's even something Lex Luthor would do.
I'm not gonna listen to some lecture on journalistic excellence from a reporter whose biggest byline concerned a kitten-adoption fair.
Okay? You asked to be taken off the story.
- I have no problem with that.
- It's not a story.
No, you're right.
It's a tease.
But Jimmy Olsen tells me he's up to his elbows in research.
With a few more leads, we'll have a face and a name.
When that happens, then we'll have the real story.
LOIS: Smallville? What are you doing here? Lois, I didn't realize you were here.
- I was just - Rifling through Jimmy's things? No.
He left his bag here.
I was in the neighborhood, so I thought I'd do him a favor and pick it up for him.
- What, so now you're Jimmy's errand boy? - I'm his friend.
Anything wrong with that? No, nothing.
But, ooh, could you do me a favor? Zip.
Where are you going all dressed up? A little thing called a date.
I know you're fresh off the farm, but sometimes when a guy likes a girl he asks her out.
I know what a date is.
So who's the unlucky guy? A new reporter, started work at the Planet today.
Unlike a lot of new hires, he's actually a serious journalist.
You just met him today? I know.
The sparks were flying everywhere.
I'm surprised the bullpen didn't burn right down.
Do you always wear so little on a first date? Got a problem with the way I look? No.
- Just looking out for you, that's all.
- Ah.
Thanks, Clark, but I'm a big girl.
I can take care of myself.
[KNOCKING ON DOOR.]
Behave yourself.
These are for being nice to the new guy.
How sweet.
You shouldn't have.
[CLARK CLEARS THROAT.]
You're probably wondering who the strange man in my apartment is.
This is Clark.
He's one of the Daily Planet's sharpest errand boys.
Well, it's nice to meet you, Clark.
Clark's actually on his way out.
So don't forget to drop off those papers after you pick up my dry cleaning.
[WHISPERS.]
Go.
Sorry about him.
He's still a little wet behind the ears.
[CAR DOOR CLOSES.]
CK, be prepared for your career to be launched into the stratosphere.
You are gonna want the byline after you hear this.
I'm not interested in the byline on some make-believe story.
You're gonna change your tune once you see my research.
I think the Good Samaritan started saving lives right here in Smallville.
Jimmy, that's a pretty random leap.
Not really.
"Teen mysteriously saved in lake.
" "Girl rescued in robbery.
" "Freak accident saves woman.
" Now all those happened around the time that you and Chloe were in the ninth grade.
What, did Chloe give you all this? Just because I take pictures doesn't mean I don't know my way around a search engine.
Whatever.
I think that there's a real possibility that you went to school with this guy.
And what makes you say that? Look at the people involved who went to Smallville High.
Then right around the time you graduated, these mysterious incidents, they started Well, they started popping up more often in Metropolis.
What's your point? Um, yeah.
Uh, I'm just wondering if anyone at Smallville High stood out.
You know, had hero potential.
No, not that I can think of.
Even if this guy did exist, don't you think it's his decision to go public? I don't know.
I mean, maybe a little gentle prodding might do him some good.
I mean, it's not really your choice to make.
Be careful with that, Jimmy.
It's fragile.
Since when do you take such an interest in my family's photographs? What is it? Look, Jimmy, I got a lot of work to do.
And, uh, I gotta fix the tractor, so It's all so clear.
That's what's been going on between you and Chloe.
She's known this whole time.
And now this picture.
Jimmy, you're not making any sense.
No, it makes perfect sense.
It's you, isn't it? COMPUTER: System overload.
Fatal error.
Chloe? - Jimmy knows my secret.
- What? Between the research and these family photos, he put it together.
- Oh, my God.
What did you do? - I denied it.
I didn't know what else to do.
I told him I had chores and then came here.
- Chloe, this is not good.
- I'm so sorry, Clark.
I should've listened to you.
I had no idea he could pick you out of a lineup.
Not from that blurry mugshot.
The important thing is that we find a way to throw him off the trail for his own good.
[DOOR CLOSES.]
You beat me here.
Jimmy.
When I left you, you were doing chores.
You blurred over here, didn't you? Jimmy, that's ridiculous.
I used all the shortcuts.
Wha? What shortcut? I was speeding the whole way.
Oh, you know, why don't you show me on a map? Jimmy.
This isn't a witch-hunt.
You've known this whole time.
That's the big secret that you've been keeping from me.
And I get it.
I get it.
And of course you wanna keep it a secret, but you can trust me, CK.
- I got your back.
- And I appreciate that, Jimmy.
But this deep, dark secret that you believe in so strongly just doesn't exist.
Look, I'm sorry to let you down.
Chloe, you'll tell me the truth, right? Yeah.
I mean, the truth is, as much as I wish that Clark could shatter land-speed records, it's just He's just a regular guy.
You don't trust me, do you? She's right, Jimmy.
There's nothing special about me whatsoever.
Then I guess I'll have to prove it.
Jimmy.
[WHOOSHING.]
[UPBEAT MUSIC PLAYING.]
[WOMEN GIGGLING.]
Clark.
Ah, hey, man.
Uh, listen, if you're looking for a little jaunt to Aruba, find another plane.
This one's packed.
It's all full.
And we're about ready for takeoff, isn't that right? Your assistant said you were having preflight drinks.
She wasn't kidding.
- No, she was not.
- I hope the pilot's at least sober.
Well, I sure hope the pilot's sober too, Clark.
He's gotta get us there.
You just gotta get in the right frame of mind if you're gonna fly.
Isn't that right, ladies? WOMAN: Yeah.
Ha.
OLIVER: Ah.
Oliver, I need to talk to you.
You know what, Clark? Actually, right now, not the greatest time for me.
But I'll tell you what I can do.
I'll drop you a postcard, okay? It's urgent.
[WOMAN CHUCKLES.]
Okay.
Uh.
- Just give us one second.
- Okay.
- Thank you.
Please.
WOMAN: All right.
WOMAN 1: Mmm.
Let's go grab a drink.
WOMAN 2: Yeah.
Look what you did.
So, what's the latest crisis in your life, Clark? Or did you just come here to lecture me about drinking? Jimmy's onto my secret.
He's got this picture And you're afraid that he's gonna plaster it all over the front page of the Planet.
Yeah.
You know what? That might not be such a bad idea.
Sure would force you to step up a little bit.
What happened to you? You've all but given up on the Green Arrow.
Did you know that Lois was mugged a block away from your apartment? It seems that every time someone sees you, you have a drink in your hand.
Maybe I'm not the one who needs to step up.
Whatever.
Listen, you just need to relax, okay? Sometimes even superheroes need to take a vacation.
Oliver, I understand that you're still upset with me.
I knew Lionel killed your parents, and I didn't tell you.
I made a decision.
Maybe it was the wrong one.
But you're the only one who can help me right now.
Well, I'll tell you what, Clark.
- I'll call you when I get back.
- There's no time, Oliver.
People have died because they know my secret.
Lives have been turned upside down.
I can't mind-wipe the people who already know my secret.
I can only do my best to protect the people like Jimmy.
Don't do it for me.
Do it for him.
He's an innocent bystander whose life will never be the same.
[DANCE MUSIC PLAYING.]
SEBASTIAN: So there's bombs going off everywhere.
The soldier next to me gets shot.
So the lieutenant turns to me, grabs my notebook Frisbees it out the Humvee window, and sticks an M-16 in my hand.
Wait.
I thought you said your notebook made it all the way to Baghdad and back.
It did.
Once the smoke cleared, I walked about a mile and a half to go find it.
Wow.
So, what about the last few years? What kind of misadventures have you had? Come on.
You can be honest about your past.
Where do I start? Any big investigations? You know, where you went deep undercover with a drug lord or crime family or maximum-security prison.
Okay, bullets flying over my head is one thing but stick me in a tiny little cell, no, thank you.
- Claustrophobia's a bitch.
- Heh.
So you've never, you know, seen the inside of a big government facility? Because that would be a great exposé waiting to happen.
You wanna hear about the last time I was in a big government facility? I think I was in high school.
That's about as close to prison as it gets.
Really? Have you ever had your palms read? I don't do too well with fortune tellers.
The last one I went to see told me that I was destined to fall for a guy who flies a lot and likes to wear tights.
So I'm just waiting for my cross-dressing pilot to make his landing.
Well, I'll only tell you the good stuff, then.
Give me your hand.
Okay.
- Made it all the way to Baghdad and back.
Wilson Turner.
Abilities classified? Homicide.
I knew it.
You were in Black Creek.
So am I going to live? [PHONE RINGING.]
Excuse me.
Ha.
I should take this.
I'll be back in a moment? Okay.
So are you and Lois getting to know each other? I scanned her.
She doesn't have your artifact.
I know that much.
- Anything besides air in that brain of hers? - She's figured out who I am.
She has this flash drive from Black Creek.
The one she stole from the library.
Oh, well, the facility's been dismantled.
There's nothing on it that could implicate LuthorCorp.
- It implicates me.
She knows the truth about what I can do.
Well, it sounds like you're in a bit of a quagmire.
Especially in light of the fact that she's an overzealous newspaper reporter.
You might wanna find yourself a new reporter.
Something tells me Lois Lane won't be coming into work tomorrow.
Move on to our next person of interest.
Jimmy Olsen.
Well, then, thanks for dinner.
Now you'll be able to make it across town without a tour book in your hand.
You said you had that extra transit map.
Why don't I come up and get it? We can have a nightcap.
I like nightcaps, but unfortunately, I'm on a lethal deadline.
I have to proofread a 5000-worder due at dawn.
I'm a hell of a speller.
Why don't I come up and give you a hand? Thanks, but, uh, spellcheck is actually my best friend.
See you mañana.
[SCREAMS.]
No one can know who I am.
I need that flash drive.
- Are you ready? - Ready as I'll ever be.
I don't enjoy driving a speeding car at anyone.
- Even you.
CLARK [OVER PHONE.]
: It's okay, Chloe.
Someone's gonna save me.
[PHONE BEEPS.]
That's him now.
Chloe, remember, 10:00 on the dot.
Tell me you're sober.
Let me tell you something, I wish I wasn't sober.
I could be in a cabana in Aruba now.
I'm hanging out in the middle of downtown on a rooftop with you guys.
You didn't hear me complain when I put on green leather to protect your identity.
You made out with my girlfriend, man.
What'd you have to complain about? Look, Jimmy's gonna be here any second.
We cross at 10.
And, Oliver, don't screw this up.
Just keep your fingers crossed.
Jimmy, thanks for meeting me.
Clark, I want you to know, no matter what you tell me I'm not gonna look at you any differently.
You'll always be the same old CK to me.
I swear, ask anyone.
I know how to keep a secret.
- You recognized me at the Daily Planet.
- And I can just as easily forget.
I have a terrible memory.
You can trust me.
There's one thing you learn when you get locked up in a cage for four years.
And that is, you don't trust anybody.
Jimmy, let's go get some coffee, set the record straight once and for all.
Whatever you're comfortable with, man.
I'm here for you.
I'm sorry, Lois, but I'm never gonna be locked up again.
[BOTH GRUNTING.]
On the move, Oliver.
Yeah.
Let's just get this over with, huh? [PHONE RINGS.]
- Hello? - Clark.
Help.
Help, Clark.
Hey.
[GROANING.]
Listen, I need to make a phone call.
Just wait here.
- Now? - Yeah.
I'll be right back.
- You're coming with me.
- What? - No.
Hey, man, just take my wallet.
- I don't want your money.
Come on.
Go.
OLIVER: This isn't part of the plan.
MUGGER: Move it.
Move along.
[TIRES SQUEALING.]
Jimmy, what happened? Do you actually expect me to fall for that? I know exactly what happened.
You just saved me.
Jimmy, I wish I could take the credit, but it wasn't me.
It was him.
No way.
[LAUGHS.]
[CROWD CHATTERING.]
MAN: What, up there in the sky? - Oh, yeah.
MAN: Hey.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER.]
MAN: Man, that's hot.
MAN: Right there.
That's where he is.
WOMAN 1: I think that is.
WOMAN 2: Do they even have a name? - I'm so sorry, CK.
- Congratulations, Jimmy.
To think I just about pulled you out of a closet you weren't in.
- I feel terrible.
- Don't feel too bad.
Actually, I'm honored you thought I could move with lightning speed.
Well, you might not be superhuman, Clark.
There's a reason I thought you were the Good Samaritan.
Why? Because I buy Girl Scout cookies twice a year? Seriously, CK.
You're the kind of guy that people can count on.
Whether it's your friends or strangers, you're always there for them.
That's rare.
Yeah.
MAN: Yeah.
What's rare? A pen that works in this place? I heard about your date last night.
Ended with a thud.
Sorry I didn't get your call till it was over.
I wasn't on a date, Smallville.
I was deep undercover on a dinner with a psychopath.
Oh.
Sounds like your type.
Lois, why didn't you tell me you were working on a story? If I told you my secret, it would've put you in harm's way.
It was for your own safety.
- Thanks for looking out for me.
- You're welcome.
JIMMY: Hey, Lois.
By any chance, did you take a peek at today's front page? I certainly did, Jimmy Olsen.
I have to say that I've underestimated you.
As hard as it is to believe, I was saved now twice in two days.
Without a doubt, I'm officially a true believer in this red and blue super-dude.
Hey, Jimmy.
Hey.
- Oh, hey, guys.
- Good job.
Word from above, the mayor's gonna announce the new fire chief at 10 a.
m.
Heh, my days of covering yawner press conferences are all but over.
- Because I have a new mission in life.
- I didn't realize you had an old one.
I'm gonna use my expert tracking skills and find this camera-shy superhero.
Really? Good luck with that.
Mark my words, Clark Kent I won't stop until I land the first worldwide exclusive interview.
Watch me.
[SIGHS.]
Nice press.
I gotta tell you, I never realized how photogenic you were as long as no one sees your face.
Could've been a lot worse.
Yeah, it could have.
I'm surprised you let the thing print, though.
I was expecting to hear about some computer meltdown at the Planet.
To be honest, it did cross my mind.
But then I got to thinking maybe my destiny is more than just secretly saving people.
Maybe it was also to give people hope, someone to believe in.
I knew you'd catch on someday.
Well, I just wanted to say thank you before you went on vacation.
Well, vacation's over, Clark.
I'm headed to Europe.
- On business? - Uh, yeah, kind of.
Kind of.
You know my friends, the ones who like to dress up and kick ass? - We're having a summit.
- What happened to the party plane? Wanna know the truth? I don't know.
It's like, when I was zipping across the street, taking that punk down I finally felt like myself again.
You know? Because that's who I am.
I'm not the party boy who runs off on these lost rum-soaked weekends.
I'm not the multinational corporate titan.
That's not me.
Underneath it all, the person I really am is Green Arrow.
I'm glad you've finally come around.
Clark, I understand, uh, why you didn't tell me about my parents' murder.
You were afraid of how I'd take it.
And I It's fine.
You were right.
And once I found out I'm pretty sure my parents wouldn't have been proud of how I reacted.
I have no doubt that your parents would be proud of the person you've become.
Except for one thing, and it's just a piece of friendly advice.
Don't ever wear that cape again.
It looked ridiculous.
Really? I kind of liked it.
Sure helped with the aerodynamics.
You should give it a try.
Not in this lifetime.
[BEEPING.]
Who are you? I thought you might like a visitor, Wilson.
How do you know me? I was in that facility with you.
I know all about your ability to read people like Braille.
Now, tell me that man who stopped you the other night how much of his story did you get through? Let's just say he shouldn't have touched me.
Guys like him belong in places like Black Creek.
Why were you in there? You don't seem so special.
You know, the human mind is simply a highly sophisticated computer.
Download too much information, and it crashes and all the data's lost.
What's that supposed to mean? Here, let me show you.
[GROANING.]
[EKG FLATLINING.]
NURSE 1: Code blue.
He's having a stroke.
Get in there.
MAN 1: Code blue.
MAN 2: We got him.
NURSE 2: Looks like cardiac.
MAN: Get the portable in there.
Out of the way.