Who: Lex Luthor & Open to Reactions When: Backdated, Monday, July 27th, 2015 What: Televised Announcement Rating: Low
It's a much thinner, paler and sickly looking Lex Luthor that addresses the cameras. He's looks older than his age, and the paleness of his face only makes the dark circles under his eyes look even darker. His voice, usually full of confidence, sounds softer and tired.
"I wanted to speak to you this afternoon, because I feel that I must. I no longer can hide the truth of what has happened to me. And I wanted to speak for myself, so that there would be no doubt of the gravity of the situation.
I have been afflicted with a disease previously unknown to man. Kryptonite poisoning in the form of cancer. It should come as no surprise that the alien rock is highly radioactive." He pauses to cough for a few seconds, leaning heavily on the podium. "It was previously assumed that the radiation only effected Kryptonians. That assumption was wrong. Although the radiation effects aliens more quickly, prolonged exposure to the element has lead to my current decline in health."
A longer pause as he looks away, gathering his thoughts. "I have been seen by the best and brightest doctors this planet has to offer, and they have all come to the same conclusion: I am dying. The radiation has weakened me and my body behind hope of recovery. How long I have to live is at this time, unknown. What is certain is that I will continue to decline until my passing.
For the safety of others, I was allowed to leave my previous place of residence, to retire to my private estate. I apologize for the secrecy of my release, I know that there was confusion and ... anger because of it. Another coughing fit, an aide steps to his side, but he waves them away, taking a long drink of water.
"My greatest wish now is that no one experiences this other than myself. Because of my past, I was exposed the most to Kryptonite, and it was a choice of my own. I grew too fascinated with the element, and have paid the ultimate price for it. I beg all fellow scientists to use extreme caution if you come into contact with it. There is still so much that is unknown, and I do not wish to have your lives risked as well.
For now, I will continue to stay at my private estate in Metropolis. This city is my true home and if ... when I am to leave, I want to be here. Thank you."