The Visit

The Visit

The structure rose from the ice like an igloo on steroids. The crystalline shapes appeared to dance as the aurora borealis drizzled rainbow hues across its faceted surface.

"Welcome to the land of the midnight sun."

"What do you call this place ... ?" Yolanda paused.

"The Fortress of Solitude – it's kind of my home away from home."

"You know – it's rather awkward calling you Superman. Don't you have a real name?"

"Well, my real name is Kal-El but I don't use it often."

"Is that a Muslim name?" she asked suspiciously.

"No, it's Kryptonian. They had this thing about "El." Luckily, I don't have to fly commercial often," he said with a chuckle.

"Funny - maybe I'll call you hysteric-Kal."

Picking her up, he headed for the large doorway that marked the entrance. As they approached, the doors swung open and a large white dog flew out, barking.

Feeling her grip tighten, Kal looked questioningly.

"I'm afraid of dogs."

"Krypto? Awww, he's just a big softy. But, if it bothers you, I'll put him up."

"In the Ken-El?" she asked with a laugh in her voice, exaggerating the pronunciation.

"Ohhhhh – that was bad. You'll pay for that," he snickered.

Yolanda was surprised at how comfortable the inside was. Doffing her outerwear, she inadvertently knocked one of her contacts out. "Darn... how will I find it? The floor is crystal!"

"Don't worry. I have the ability to see through things as well as focus and magnify with my eyes." Looking around, he spotted and retrieved it.

"How did you get that ability?"

"Unlike my other powers, my sight is inherited from my family ... I guess you could say it's a case of parental super vision."

With a groan, Yolanda conceded, "OK – we're even ... for now."


Notes:
An entry for the 1/29/10 round of "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge"  [13+] as part of The Talent Pond's "Winter Writing Warm Up"  [E]
Prompt: Write a story that includes the words: igloo, aurora, midnight
Word Limit: 300
Word Count: 297

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please, if you're going to rate this, leave a comment. Come to think of it - as long as you're here, leave a comment . Criticisms, thoughts, reactions, yes – even a kind word of encouragement – are all equally welcome

Ken