Hi, Artemis and Framework
Framework, I'm glad the A-plot bits worked. You're right that Perry wouldn't take Caleb's word about Lex Luthor, even if Lois would. Fortunately, he doesn't have to. Lois could have come to him with an 'anonymous source' who claims that there's more to Luthor than meets the eye. All she's doing at this point is taking a closer look at Luthor's activities--just investigating, not publishing. I don't think Perry would object to that. Of course, he'll demand solid evidence before he'll print anything.
