”Superman— I completely trust you, Superman!—“

Bang.

That sound was sickening. Just as it was to watch Mali’s head roll to the side with no motion. Luthor was smiling like a Cheshire Cat, like all was good, and the president of Bolivia was laughing.

Superman, weakened on the ground, cried out when he saw the man collapse out of his chair. Tears streamed from his reddened eyes, and he could hear you crying, too.

Locked in the cube was him, Element man, and you, a poor child who had been thrown in there just so he would suffer even more. You were huddled in the corner like a wounded animal, sobbing as you watched with horror as Luthor and the president of Bolivia left on their floating platform.

He couldn’t help you. He couldn’t give you words of comfort. Not when element man was radiating Kryptonite. Superman was helpless, and he cried.

”n-…no…—Mali..-“ He choked out, gasping. His flesh was burnt and aching, searing with pain every time he moved his mouth or a tear slipped down his rumpled cheek.