After being gone for a time, Superman's back in Metropolis. Clark Kent is fortuitiously on assignment with the Metropolis Special Crimes Unit when they have a run-in with Replikon. Meanwhile, Lois has a few dangerous experiences on her own assignment. Then, Mr. Mxyzptlk puts in an appearance.

Ruin unleashes Replikon and his son to attack Superman before releasing the Parasites, who can drain the life from anyone, including Kryptonians.

Ruin, supposedly out to destroy Superman and his loved ones, is revealed to be someone near and dear to the Man of Steel – one of his best friends. As Superman tries to uncover the truth to prove his friend's innocence, he must contend with the return of Lex Luthor and the arrival of the OMACs, malevolent cybernetic warriors who have every super-hero marked for death.