INT. COFFIN - DAY

INSIDE the DARK COFFIN where Superman lies, dead -- BATTERED and BLOODY, his suit TORN, SHREDDED. THE REVERSE-PRIMAL SCREAM GETTING LOUDER as we PUSH IN on Superman's CORPSE... the SCREAM SOUND REACHES A CRESCENDO AND STOPS AS SUPERMAN SUDDENLY GASPS -- HIS EYES OPEN -- we JUMP so much we might not even realize in the instant his SKIN IS REPAIRED -- his suit RESTORED --

EXT. ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETARY - DAY

Lois steps down from the podium. A somber CHORAL HYMN plays. Church bells RING...

INT. UNDERGROUND - DAY

Superman furiously BURROWS HORIZONTAL THROUGH THE EARTH -- his expression intense and driven -- his focus complete -- his strength doubled -- and in his eyes, the wisdom of a man who understands his destiny. A man who knows his purpose.

EXT. ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETARY - DAY

Lois, an emotional wreck, makes her way through the quiet mass of people. We're TIGHT ON HER as she walks, pale and hollow. Then, a HAND on her shoulder. And she turns to see:

CLARK KENT. He stands there, somewhat pensive.