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Chapter Text

The Multiverse is a vast place, filled with universes each full of heroes and their history. However not every universe is destined to be prosperous, some are destined for destruction. In one of those in the very centre of the dying universe resided a planet called Oa, once home of the Green Lantern Corps…when it still existed and wasn't just a memory kept by one singular living being that still inhabited the universe that was steadily being covered by white light of antimatter. The Man's name was Sodam Yat, Officer in the Green Lantern Corps and the Guardian of the space Sector 1760, when the Sector still existed and wasn't incinerated. Yat was a lonely person, guarding and belonging to what was once a force that kept peace and order throughout the universe and gave birth to heroes that saved the said universe more than a dozen, like Hal Jordan, the first human in the Corps who proved himself to be the greatest Green Lantern in the eyes of history. Or Kyle Rayner, who although picked accidentally to carry the entire Corps's legacy as the torchbearer proved to be one of the greatest Lanterns, the first to be an avatar of willpower itself, Ion. Who's current Avatar was now sitting in front of what was once the central power battery that inside contained the emerald flame of willpower. The same one the Corps would use before charging into battle against another threat, and the same one he first charged his ring when he moved up from being just a Whitecircle. Yat's eyes then turned towards the pile of rings. Once serving as a tool to bring justice into the darkest edges of the universe, now was just a pile of useless metal that was laying all around the dead planet. He then looked upwards to the sky to see the ring of debris around the planet, the debris that was once Mogo, the living planet and the heart of the Corps. And without Mogo, the rings couldn't find replacement recruits and returned here lost like children in the fog. Yat only chuckled as he looked at another lantern ring he was holding in his free hand.

"Mogo, you're lucky that you aren't the one to see the end."-Sodam said to himself as his eyes then shifted towards his final duty, or at least what he saw as his final duty. More than a dozen Green Power Batteries, each group of batteries having a different colour of light shining inside of them. Each group containing an emotional embodiment: yellow light of fear, orange light of avarice, red light of rage, violet light of love, indigo light of compassion and the blue light of hope. With Sodam himself being the living Avatar of willpower. With him for the last centuries he spent alone safeguarding them, although with him being the only being in the universe even if he allowed them to escape there wasn't any threat from them. Not that he couldn't stop as Ion, so he just sat there, Ion and his constantly weaker ring keeping him alive and young, although he was young in body he was far from the brash young Man he was when the ring approached him just as he was his hell of a home planet. And funny enough it was this Sodam that made the woman he loved the most fall for him, and the one he was awaiting to see in the Emerald Space.

"Ion…we don't have to die here, there is still time for us to escape our fate."-The group of yellow batteries that contained Parallax, the embodiment of fear spoke up as Sodam let out a sigh. Suddenly all sky turned white as Sodam looked up and sunken his head into his knees.

"Im tired, so tired demon. It's finally my opportunity to rest."-Yat said as Oa begun to be eaten a part by the white light.

"Are you expecting that the end of universe itself will calm down my Rage?!"-Butcher, the red embodiment of rage spoke up from its imprisonment, Yat only pointed upwards to the belt of debris being destroyed by antimatter.

"Will it matter? In span of few minutes nothing will remain."-Yat said tightening the grip on the ring he was holding in his left hand.

"All will be well, don't worry, all of us will be reborn in a new universe, one awaiting a much better fate then the current one."-Adara, the blue embodiment of hope spoke up from its batteries. With Sodam himself wishing that he could be as hopeful.

"I WILL NOT ALLOW MYSELF TO VANISH!"-Parallax exclaimed, its own fear giving him enough power to free itself from its prison, Sodam quickly reacted as he raised his ring and fired a small beam. That only bounced off the yellow creature resembling a bug.

"Ring power below 20 percent, recharge advised."-the Ring's inner AI spoke up as Sodam cursed himself, spending centuries on a dead husk of a planet with all his needs being fulfilled by a giant green whale inside of him made him forget the basics drilled to him by his drill officer.

"Remember to keep your rings charged at all times poozers…"-Sodam quoted with a depressed voice as he then turned towards the group of Orange Batteries, that quickly begun to crack.

"I WANT TO LIVE!"-Ophidian, the embodiment of avarice exclaimed as its form of a snake appeared with Butcher also escaping its batteries and taking a form of a large red bull.

"Then let us leave this fool and tear into a younger universe filled with emotion we can feed upon!"-Butcher exclaimed as it used its power to open a wormhole in the universe as the antimatter wall was approaching the Central Power Battery.

"I agree."-Parralax said as it joined Butcher's effort with his own power.

"YES! YES! YES!"-Ophidian exclaimed as with their united powers they opened a wormhole in the dying universe before flying though, just as Adara, Predator the embodiment of love, and Proselyte the embodiment of compassion bursted out of their batteries. Taking their forms of a bird, serpent like dragon and an octopus-like creature respectively.

"NO!"-Sodam exclaimed as he managed to gather enough willpower to get into the air, just as the pile of rings was incinerated, the last Green Lantern and the three embodiments flew though the wormhole as the universe that housed them finally vanished, disappearing like many universes before it. As Sodam and the other embodiments gave chase he felt a massive surge of power he hasn't felt in centuries, billions of creatures's willpower surged though him as his aura bursted shining like a green supernova, he also felt the awaking of the dormant Embodiment remaining inside of him. But there was something else…another power that laid buried deeper within him. Yat turned around to see something he never thought he would see again, a Yellow sun, and that meant his Daxamite abilities have awoken as well, Yat then turned back at the planet he found himself floating around. And after a brief look at the continent layout and from the stories he listened and rememebered from his past he connected the dots together. It was Earth…or at least seemed like it was Earth. Its Oceans rather than blue were blood red, he then turned towards the Moon and saw streak of something that also resembled blood.

"Even in other universes Earth can't run away from disasters."-Sodam said out loud as he focused on his mission, and by that locating the nearest emotions. As for some reason it appeared that the planet was completely abandoned as he couldn't feel any willpower from its surface. So he flew as fast as his newly charged aura and Daxamite powers allowed him. And what he found was…surprising to say the least. Parralax, Ophidian and Butcher entered a floating crucified purple giant that looked like it was Rayner's construct.

"Ion, can we go after them?"-Sodam asked as a silent "affirmative" echoed throughout his head. With the help of other embodiments he managed to open a small wormhole and fly inside the red sphere in the giant's chest, turning himself into a green surge as his search begun.

He didn't knew how long he sat there, could've been minutes, hours, days, months or even years. Shinji Ikari, the former Third Child and the pilot of Evangelion Unit 01 then turned at his comrade in misery. Asuka Langley Soryu, the one who he failed, and the one he tried to kill twice. He was pathetic, he knew that, and she knew that . Shinji finally got up from the sand on the red beach as he looked throughout the horizon, the LCL, the white decapitated head of Rei Ayanami, the crucified Mass Production Evangelions, and the destroyed city of Tokyo 3 behind them. But there was something within the boy, this spark while small was the reason he gave humanity the second chance after he pulled the trigger that started the Third Impact. The will to live. 'I wanted to live, even if I got hurt. But I can't live if im hungry.'-Shinji thought as he begun to walk away from the beach just as the redhead got up from the sand herself.

"Where are you running off again?"-Asuka asked as Shinji sighed before turning towards her.

"I'm not running anywhere, im going to gather resources, find some food and maybe set a camp and find a place to sleep."-Shinji said as much to his surprise Asuka took off the bandages she wore on her arm and the eyepatch she wore on her eye.

"Then let's get going."-Asuka said with a monotonous voice as Shinji was confused by her state.

"Aren't you hurt?"-He asked as Asuka threw away the bandages into the LCL, after stretching herself she begun to follow Shinji, who thought about trying to form at least some sort of conversation. But what he was supposed say? "Nice weather we have today?". And just as he gathered enough courage to say anything a colourful surge of energy erupted from the sky as three creatures appeared in front of them, an yellow bug, an orange snake and a red bull. If this was before the war Shinji would probably run away until his legs would give up, but now…after all the things he witnessed something like this seemed normal. So he stood his ground and calmly observed the creatures.

"Angels?"-Shinji asked as it was probably the first time in his life he wished he had Unit 01 to put up a fight.

"Does it matter?"-Asuka asked as the creatures surrounded them.

"Greetings Humans, I am Parallax the embodiment of fear."-The bug introduced itself shining its yellow light around itself.

"I am Ophidian, the embodiment of Avarice."-The snake added as it also shined its orange light.

"And I am Butcher, the embodiment of rage."-The bull said as its red light embodied it as if it was fire. Shinji, although a little bit scared stood his ground.

"And what are you doing on Earth?"-Shinji asked as Asuka walked up and pushed him away.

"And what the hell you want to do with us!? Haven't your space friends made us suffer enough!?"-Asuka asked as the embodiments continue to glow.

"We feed on emotion, it's our essence, and we seek hosts to spread ourselves throughout the universe."-Parallax explained as suddenly a green surge of light appeared before landing in front of the children and raising his ring.

"Enough Parallax, leave those kids alone…now."-Sodam said as his eyes glowed bright emerald green as his aura seemed like an unstoppable fire. With Adara, Proselyte and Predator behind him. The whole theatre was watched by two beings outside of Unit 01. Both of them taking forms of important people in Shinji's life, Adam and Lilith, Kaworu and Rei.

"We need to do something about this…infestation."-Adam said as he turned towards Lilith who nodded her head.

"Agreed, if any of those beings made contact with out brethren it could mean disastrous consequences."-Lilith said as Adam looked at the crucified figure and then smiled before turning back towards Lilith.

"Maybe we could use Unit 01's power and send them to a universe fit for them? It could also give Ikari-kun a new reason to live."-Adam said before Lilith nodded in agreement.

"I believe that it's the best decision we can make for now. Ikari deserves a new chance at living."-Lilith said as the two beings united their powers and caused Unit 01 to awake as its eyes lit up to life and a large pair of orange acrylic wings appeared with a wormhole cutting though the very fabric of universe opened, sending it into the unknown as both of them vanished.

Shinji from being mildly scared just became confused, as suddenly a man in a black and green uniform appeared in front of him with more colourful creatures accompanying him, who was he? Was he an alien as well? If angels and those creatures were aliens, why humanoid aliens couldn't exist? It just fuelled his interest as his understanding of the universe just grew beyond any ordinary person's. The first time in a while he wanted to know more about the situation he was in. From what he was seeing he could understand that the man was some kind of a guardian of those creatures.

"Enough Parallax, leave those kids alone…now."-Sodam said as he shielded the two children. The fearbug only crawled around Sodam trying to get any fear out of the veteran Green Lantern.

"You are alone Ion, against the three of us."-Parallax hissed as Adara then lit up and shined its bright blue light.

"He is not alone."-The embodiment of hope exclaimed as it alongside Proselyte lightened up alongside Sodam, Predator meanwhile quickly landed behind the two children and covered them.

"Predator, on who's side will you stand?"-Parallax asked as the embodiment of love turned its head.

"I won't participate, I shall take care of those children so the winner shall receive their hosts ready and waiting for them."-Predator said as it crouched around the children.

"So that you can brainwash them into being your hosts?"-Parallax asked as Predator turned its crystalline head.

"Their love is too weak for becoming Star Sapphires, poor children."-Predator explained as Shinji and Asuka looked at each other confused before looking back towards the violet creature.

"I can sense it, at their current state they are useless to me as well. They cannot install great fear or feel enough fear to be Yellow Lanterns either."-Parralax said as meanwhile Sodam kept his guard up.

"If any of you will touch those chi-"-Sodam was quickly cut off midsentence.

"They also lack enough rage to become Red Lanterns, although the female shows some potential."-The Butcher said as it was Asuka's turn to be confused.

"Then if they are useless to you anyways, why insisting on guarding them?"-Ophidian asked as Predator got up from the ground.

"I have my reasons."-Was the only explanation Predator gave as Butcher's flames grew more rapidly.

"IT'S ALL A PLOT FOR YOU TO TAKE CONTROL OVER THEM YOURSELF!"-Butcher exclaimed as it fired its flames at Predator who covered itself and children with a sapphire wall. Parallax also shot a beam of yellow energy that was stopped by Sodam. Just as Sodam wanted to counter the attack Adara flew in front of them.

"ENOUGH! This place isn't real! One of those children isn't real!"-Adara exclaimed flapping its wings as suddenly the beach begun to vanish, Shinji then turned to Asuka as he saw that she also vanished with a confused expression on her face. Shinji, Sodam and the Embodiments found themselves standing in a white abyss. Sodam was quickly eyeing all of the Embodiments as he kept his ring raised, not realising that the last ring of his universe was starting to try and break free from his grasp.

"What is happening?"-Shinji asked as the blue bird turned towards him.

"The place we have found you was only a figment of your imagination created with the help of the woman controlling this place."-Adara said as the embodiment of Hope flapped its wings once again, and much to not only Shinji's but also Sodam's, a woman in a lab coat appeared next to them. Yui Ikari appeared in a second with blue light surrounding her, the same person who wanted the control over the Third Impact was now being eyed by her son, a man in a weird suit and several multi coloured creatures, of course as anyone in her situation she wasted no time asking questions.

"Who-What are you? How have you entered Unit 01?"-She asked as suddenly Adara glowed brighter than any before.

"You have great hope within your heart, you shall be my Avatar."-Adara said as it flew inside Yui, causing her to suddenly get enveloped in blue flames before reappearing in a complete light blue bodysuit with a large blue cape and a hood that covered her head. Yui, now as the sole vessel of hope in the universe took off her hood to reveal her glowing blue eyes just as the symbol of the Blue Lantern Corps appeared on her chest, she then turned to Sodam who nodded and both of them using their combined power created a box and locking Parallax, Ophidian and Butcher inside of it. Meanwhile inside Shinji's head and spirit the spark finally created a fire. If his Mom was involved with this then he wanted to be involved as well. And this the moment where the ring Sodam was holding finally broke through his grasp and flew towards Shinji, Sodam turned away from the three imprisoned Embodiments as he couldn't believe his eyes what he was witnessing, for the first time in centuries, without Mogo to direct the ring, it picked this boy, 'looks like you shall have to do'-he thought as he then looked at his own ring.

"Replacement for Sector 2814 located: Shinji Ikari of Earth, you have the ability to overcome great fear."-the ring said as Shinji only reached out his finger and allowed it to slip on it. And just as it reached its resting place Shinji's eyes lit up green as he was enveloped by green flames, it was an…interesting experience, some parts where extremely hot while others stone cold. In a brief second he was standing in a traditional Green Lantern Corps uniform coloured green, black and white with a Domino mask on his face and an empty white circle where the badge would appear after finishing basic training.

"Welcome to the Green Lantern Corps."-His ring spoke up from his finger as he then turned towards the box and another layer appeared from his ring , forming his first construct, it wasn't hard. He was already used to high concertation during synchronizing with Unit 01 so forming a cube didn't seem like a hard task. Shinji then looked at his mother as his mask disappeared. In all of this skirmish they seemingly forgot about Predator who fired a violet beam at the box freeing the Embodiments.

"What have you done!?"-Sodam asked as he turned towards Predator getting ready to attack her.

"Face it Sodam Yat, no matter what you think of us. You as well know that living beings can't live without those emotions, we're the sole fabric of the universe."-Predator said as Yui also lowered her hand.

"Predator is right son."-Yui said as then Sodam Yat fell down onto his knee, breathing hard as then Ion, the Embodiment of willpower appeared in front of him as Sodam laid down on the ground, Shinji quickly walked up towards the fallen Daxamite.

"You have served our universe well Sodam Yat, it is finally the time for you to meet your beloved."-Yui said as Sodam then turned towards Shinji. Ion then looked at his host and the chosen Lantern.

"Are you sure about your decision Sodam Yat? You have been my avatar and kept your duty until the very end. However you can still guard this new universe."-Ion said as Sodam only closed his eyes and turned his head.

"No old friend, im so tired, and Adara is right. I want to go meet her again, it's been too long."-Sodam said as he then turned towards Shinji.

"You have a long way ahead of you kid, but I sense great willpower within you."-he continued as Sodam's ring flew from his finger much to Shinji's confusion.

"So be it."-Ion said as he turned into green energy and flew into Sodam's ring, that merged with Shinji's, transforming his uniform into a black and green plug suit he used to wear when he was an Eva Pilot, his mask vanished to make way for a green and black visor that from the memories he had of the instrumentality was supposed to resemble the visor worn by Keel Lorenz, otherwise known as SELLE 01, the leader of the sect that wanted to cause the Third Impact that they called the "Human Instrumentality Project". As Ion took Shinji as its vessel, he felt a massive flow of power and knowledge as his aura lit up. And in contrast to what he suffered during the Third Impact this pour seemed far more tamer and not like, it was trying to drill his way through his brain. But suddenly all this newly found power vanished like with a snap of fingers, just as in the centre of his uniform a small black circle with the Green Lantern logo appeared.

"What the?"-Shinji asked as he felt a new presence communicating with him, 'You are not ready to fully embrace my power, I shall exist in your ring in case of you needing help, you will also possess the extended database of your ring.'-Ion said is his mind as Shinji thought about what he meant. Meanwhile Sodam only smiled as he once again closed his eyes. 'An Earthman as my replacement, how surprising, right…Arisia?'-he thought as the last thing Sodam Yat saw was familiar face with short blonde hair, pointed ears and gold-brown eyes reaching her hands towards him. A warm and inviting smile on her face.

"Green Lantern of sector 1760 deceased."-Shinji's ring AI spoke up as the newly chosen avatar walked up to the Daxamite's body before it vanished. Shinji's mask disappeared as he closed his eyes in respect of his predecessor, there wasn't any time for grief as suddenly the Embodiments of Fear, Avarice and Rage lit up more prominently then before as they rapidly grew in size.

"We are here, the new universe."-Parallax exclaimed as it alongside Ophidian and Butcher turned into beams of energy and flew out of Unit 01. Shinji wanted to follow them before Yui put her hand on her son's shoulder.

"You're not ready to face them, not yet."-Yui said as she also turned into a beam of energy and flew out of Unit 01 with Proselyte and Predator following them, leaving Shinji alone inside the crucified giant.

"It's time, fly."-Ion said as Shinji gently lifted up from the white space, using a little bit of the Embodiment's power to turn into a surge of energy before bursting out from Unit 01 into the darkness of space only being lit up by Proselyte, Predator and Yui/Adara. With the Embodiments of fear, avarice and rage nowhere to be seen.

"So, what now?"-Shinji asked as the Embodiments once again lit up.

"Now we separate."-Proselyte said before turning itself into an indigo surge of energy and flying away into void of the universe.

"I sense Zamerons."-Predator said as it also turned into energy and flew in another direction leaving the Avatars of willpower and hope alone.

"I guess this is goodbye again?"-Shinji asked as he looked at his mother, who nodded before reaching out her hand into the vast universe.

"Yes, to atone for my sins Adara wants me to build the Blue Lantern Corps as this universe lacks one for the coming battle."-Yui said as Shinji only raised his eyebrow in confusion.

"What battle?"-He asked as he quickly received his answer.

"That is a question that shall be answered later, for now your priority is travelling to Oa and begin your training."-Ion explained though the ring as Shinji then looked at the sleeping giant.

"And what about Unit 01?"-Shinji asked as Yui covered the Evangelion with a blue aura.

"I shall take it with me as I explore this universe, I believe it's for the best."-Yui said as Shinji nodded.

"But it won't be a goodbye forever, Adara says that the Green and Blue Energies always find themselves, when the time will be right we will reunite, all will be well son."-Yui said as she flew towards he son before embracing him. After the hug Yui showed her son one last smile before she alongside the monster that was her prison for the last 11 years turned into blue energy and flew away, leaving Shinji alone. He took some time as he looked around the new, far bigger world he found himself in. Staring at the abyss, he then looked at his ring and thought of everyone who had to sacrifice something for him to get here. 'Misato, Rei, Asuka.'-he thought as he summoned his mask and pushed away his insecurities, his ring shining in the darkness of space.

"I guess we're off."-Shinji said as he begun to fly, quickly picking up speed as the boy couldn't stop a grin showing on his face, he then looked at his ring as he had another question.

"Ion? What exactly is the Green Lantern Corps?"-Shinji asked as Ion begun its narration.

"Millennia ago in the early days of the universe…"

Chapter Text

"Wow, so this is Oa?"-Shinji said out loud, as in the back of his head he let out a huge sigh of relief seeing that the destination of his journey after flying for four days straight. And while Ion kept him "charged" so that he didn't require food or sleep, it was still exhausting for someone not used to how the rings work. But that's what basic training is for right? But he couldn't stop mesmerising at the planet, two large rings orbiting around it and what looked like green city lights shining in the night sky. He entered the planet's atmosphere as he couldn't believe what he was seeing, aliens…hundreds of aliens in various shapes, sizes and colours all sharing one thing with him, the ring. He listened to Ion's stories about the great force with over 7200 Lanterns keeping all of 3600 sectors of the known universe safe, but it witnessing it himself with his own eyes was something totally different. It made looking at symbol on his chest different, more proudly.

"So, how do I enter basic training?"-Shinji asked as he was floating in the middle of the large city on the planet's surface, with larger-then-life buildings soaring upwards into the pollution-free sky, all perfectly resonating with his ring. It was that impressive that Shinji forgot that for the first time since any of the two rings flew onto his finger he felt lost in the situation. 'Ask Someone.'-Ion echoed throughout his head as Shinji released a slight chuckle.

"Ha ha, so im supposed to fly to the nearest alien and ask "Hello? Where can I become a Green Lantern?"."-Shinji asked with a risen eyebrow, 'Yes.'-Was the only reply he received as he sighed. 'For an embodiment of willpower that existed since the dawn of the universe it sure doesn't understand sarcasm.'-He thought as he tried to come up with some kind of a plan. 'I heard that.'-Ion suddenly echoed as Shinji tried his best to keep a riposte buried deep within his mind, truly a great test of willpower.

"Hold it poozer."-Suddenly a deep voice emanated as a green beam quickly flew pass Shinji's head, on instinct a green human sized pellet rifle appeared in his arms as he turned to see three peculiar looking aliens, all wearing similar uniforms to his. One resembling a large pink skinned porcine, another looked like a large humanoid chicken, and the third was a beautiful woman that had purple skin, pointed ears and long red hair tied into a ponytail, and all pointing their rings at him.

"I would suggest putting your weapon down."-the chicken said as he put down his ring before looking at his fellow and nodding, with the porcine visibly unhappy and also putting down his ring. Shinji then nodded and the pellet rifle disappeared. 'it seems I'm getting better at making constructs.'-he thought as his mask also automatically vanished.

"I am Shinji Ikari from Earth, I'm here to train as a Green Lantern."-Shinji quickly introduced himself to ease up the tension as the porcine flew up close to him and took his right wrist in a firm grip.

"Where did you get this?"-he asked as he pointed at the ring on Shinji's finger.

"That's a really long story."-Shinji said as the porcine got closer to his face.

"Then better start talking."-The porcine said lowering her voice as Shinji was slowly starting to be afraid for his life. That is until the chicken put his hand on the porcine's shoulder.

"Perhaps the Guardians would want to hear the story of this stray."-he said as the porcine backed away from Shinji's personal space.

"Follow poozer, and don't try to run."-He said as Shinji alongside the other aliens begun to follow him, as they flew along the chicken turned towards the "stray".

"Pardon us for our friend Kilowog, he is…blunt, and by occasion allow us to introduce ourselves, you've already met Kilowog. I am Tomar Re of Xudar from space sector 2813, that makes us essentially neighbours. And this is Laira Omoto of Jayd from space sector 112."-The chicken introduced himself as the woman bowed down mid-air to which Shinji also slightly bowed down his head.

"It's nice to meet you…but pardon me for asking, how did you know about my arrival? Aren't there hundreds of new recruits coming every day?"-Shinji asked as Laira pointed upwards to the sky.

"Oan airspace is well controlled, we can detect hundreds if not thousands of Lanterns arriving on the planet, your ring however seems to emit different kind of signal and it brought attention of the head administrator, henceforth sending us to intercept."-Laira explained as soon the four of them found themselves standing in front of a large building.

"We're here, welcome to the Guardians Citadel."-Kilowog said as they landed with Shinji standing behind him and standing in front of Tomar Re and Laira, as soon as they reached the large white door Shinji saw another alien sitting in front of some kind of a floating computer, this one far less humanoid then all the Lanterns he met up close. He also wore a Green Lantern uniform, but had four arms and a long insect like head.

"Salaak, we managed to locate this rogue signal. It appears we have another human in the Corps."-Tomar Re said pointing at Shinji, who only awkwardly waved at Salaak.

"The guardians want to see you."-Salaak said as he opened the door to reveal large conference room with a white round table floating upwards in the air. As Shinji looked up he saw 12 small blue humanoids descending down from the open ceiling, eight male and four female, all wearing red robes with the lantern symbol in the centre of their chest before taking their seats.

"I guess this is the reason of this unusual signal."-One of the guardians said with a sharp tone as another one, with peculiar long hair turned towards him, who to differ from other guardians had his long streak of hair put upwards.

"I believe we should give the boy a chance to explain himself Appa."-The other Guardian with a much kinder voice said causing the one sitting in the centre of the table to huff.

"Affirmative, boy…who are you?"-The Guardian, apparently named Appa asked as Shinji recited everything what Ion told him to say.

"I am Shinji Ikari of Earth. I was chosen by my ring to be the Lantern of the Space Sector 2814."-Shinji recited as he was quickly objected.

"This is absurd, a ring would never choose a child let alone so thin looking, not to mention that all three of the lanterns from sector 2814 are active and their rings weren't redirected by Mogo."-Appa said as once again the kind guardian intertwined Appa's words.

"Yet you seem to forget that Lantern Arisia is a full-fledged recruit and by her planet's orbiting cycle it makes her no older then this boy."-the Guardian replied as Shinji wondered if he heard that name before.

"And you Ganthet seem to forget that Lantern Rrab is a Graxonite who's lineage has been guarding sector 2815 since the beginning of the Corps, this human child is of unknown origin with a ring emanating different signal then other rings. Boy, how did you get a hold of this ring?"-Appa asked as Shinji sighed and out of desperation told his story, about Tokyo 3 and the Angel War, about the Third Impact. So much so that Kilowog, Tomar and Laira were asked to leave the citadel as Shinji ended his story on how emotional embodiments found him inside Unit 01 causing few of the Guardians to look "troubled", or at least this was how Shinji viewed it. He did skip the fact that Ion was residing inside of him and that his mother became Adara's avatar. As he ended his story all the guardians looked at each other.

"So you claim to possess the last ring of a Lantern from a dead universe?"-Appa asked as Shinji nodded.

"That is the truth sir."-Was his only reply as Ganthet once again turned towards Appa.

"I do not sense any falsehood in his words Appa, and even if we took away his ring, that flew onto his finger itself deeming him as worthy. What is he supposed to do? He doesn't have anywhere to come back to."-Ganthet said as Appa once again turned towards him.

"You suppose we let this child join the Corps Ganthet? Like I mentioned before we already have three Green Lanterns guarding sector 2814, all three from Earth."-Appa said as Ganthet then turned towards Shinji and showing him a small smile.

"Yet remember Appa that it was always the ring that chose its bearer ever since we started the Corps. Besides I believe that it's a good coincidence, since as you know Sector 2814 is… problematic. Having another pair of hands in that sector would be helpful."-Ganthet argued as Appa then once again looked towards Shinji.

"Very well, we shall put it to discussion, but first."-Appa asked as he rose his hand, causing Shinji's ring to gently leave his finger and fly towards the table.

"Ring overwrite code 01: Ring, status of previous bearer?"-Appa asked as Shinji's ring spoke up.

"Affirmative, Green Lantern of sector 1760: Sodam Yat of Daxam, Status: deceased"-the ring spoke up as if it send some kind of shockwave throughout the council as everyone begun discussing what that status meant much to Shinji's confusion. The discussions were quickly cut by Ganthet who rose his hand to signal silence.

"I believe this makes my arguments more backed up. If what the ring's artificial intelligence saying is the truth that means the "Ultimate Green Lantern" according to the sacred book of Oa handpicked this very human child as his successor. If he wasn't worthy then no force in the universe would make this special ring appear on his finger, but there it is at one with him. I believe that his place in the Corps shouldn't be up to discussion Appa Ali Apsa."- Ganthet said his last argument as Appa sighed.

"Very well, we shall put it to vote. Those in favour of Shinji Ikari of Earth joining the Corps?"-Appa asked as all of the Guardians eyes begun glow white as few agonising minutes that to Shinji seemed like hours. 'I know what you are thinking, wait for it.'-Ion suddenly said in his head as Shinji gave a slight nod. Appa Ali Apsa then opened his eyes before once again moving his hand making the ring fly back onto Shinji's finger.

"The council has decided in favour of joining."-Appa replied as Shinji managed to hide his smile as he stood on attention.

"Thank you…Guardian Council."-Shinji said slightly bowing his head down.

"Welcome to the Green Lantern Corps Shinji Ikari."-Ganthet replied just as Kilowog, Tomar-Re and Laira flew inside the citadel.

"And I don't see any problems in beginning his training immediately Sergeant Kilowog, although I would suggest reporting to the foundry for issuing a personal power battery with Honour Guard Lantern Tomar Re."-Appa said as then Shinji looked up to the large pink alien as four of them left the citadel.

"Training?"-Shinji asked as the alien gave him a sadistic grin. But before Shinji's fear would take the better of him Laira put a hand on his shoulder.

"But first the battery, food and rest, you've flown for days straight with only your ring energy, however what most interests me is how your peculiar ring is able to contain so much power without frequent charging?"-Laira asked as then Kilowog turned Shinji around towards himself.

"Technicalities for later, for now let's deal with formalities."-Kilowog said as he aimed his ring at Shinji's chest, before firing a beam that much to latter's confusion took away his lantern symbol from his chest.

"You're going need to work for it if you want it back, starting tomorrow morning on the training ground. For now you're just a plain Whitecircle…or Blackcircle. I gotta go to handle graduation of couple other poozers, Tomar and Laira will show you around. Now I will have to deal with a bunch of kids, first Fentara's kid and Sinestro's kid and now this…"-Kilowog said to himself as he flew away from the group leaving Shinji, Tomar and Laira floating in the middle of Oan sky.

Shinji was amazed by the green molten metal of the foundry residing under Oa's crust. Tomar Re only smiled before pointing at the new freshly created rings.

"Welcome to the Foundry young Shinji, this is where new power batteries and power rings are created for new recruits."-Tomar Re said as he lead Shinji and Laira throughout the large space, a bit confused now Shinji had another question.

"Are you sure that we are allowed to be here?"-Shinji asked as Laira turned towards him.

"Tomar Re is a member of the Lantern Honour Guard, special group of Lanterns responsible for not only protecting their sectors but also dealing with dangers that regular Lanterns are not experienced enough to do it themselves."-Laira explained as Tomar then turned back towards them.

"And im only showing you the part that the Honour Guard Lanterns are allow to enter, even the Guardians keep their secrets."-Tomar said as he took one of the freshly forged power batteries and gave it Shinji.

"It's now yours, charge your ring, say the oath."-Tomar said as Shinji put the ring closer to the emanating green light, at first not knowing what to say the Oath immediately burned itself in Shinji's brain, and so he began.

"In Brightest Day…in Blackest Night, no evil shall escape my sight, let those who warship evil's might, BEWARE MY POWER! GREEN LANTERN'S LIGHT!" -Shinji recited out as the entire foundry shined emerald for a second.

"This is the commissary, here you can find food from all the reaches of the universe."-Tomar Re said as he alongside Shinji and Laira walked inside the commissary and Shinji couldn't stop mesmerising at aliens sitting in various groups, chatting, laughing and sharing their food. And the weirdest thing was that he could understand it all. As if he was a character in a pre-impact science fiction movie or a character in a Manga. Shinji picked up his tray as in few seconds he found himself standing in front another alien. This one, although humanoid with its "wide" posture. Had olive green screen and wore a dirty lantern suit that seemed to resemble a tank top.

"Oi Tomar! What do you want for lunch today?"-The alien asked as Tomar pointed at Shinji.

"Hello Greet, im not here to eat, however my little friend here is."-Tomar replied as Greet then looked at Shinji before a smile appeared on his face.

"Another human? Luckily I still have enough of Human food after the black hole known as Guy Gardner visited Oa, what do you want kid?"-Greet asked as Shinji tried to look over the counter to locate something visibly "earthly".

"Can I ask for rice? A lot of rice? And black coffee?"-Shinji asked as Greet clapped his hands before grabbing Shinji's trey, and after few minutes he returned with six bowls of rice and a cup of coffee.

"There ya go kid, it's on the house."-Greet said as Shinji nodded.

"Thank you Greet."-Shinji said as he, Tomar and Laira sat in one of the empty tables. As he looked down the Earthly looking rice he wolfed down six bowls in matter of few minutes with a pair of construct chopsticks before jugging down the cup of coffee he was given. Although the rice was a bit undercooked, Shinji after feeding on his ring's energy for days of flight that for a normal lantern according to Ion would take around 18 months to get to Oa without using the ultrawarp tunnels. Shinji wiped his mouth with a napkin that resided on the trey before releasing a jaw-cracking yawn. 'There goes Ion providing energy for me.'-he thought as then Tomar and Laira lead him to another part of Oa. As the door opened it revealed a giant corridor filled with doors and Lanterns all chatting with each other.

"Here are the barracks, if you want to sleep on Oa then as a Lantern you are provided accommodations for resting."-Laira said as she pointed at one of the free bedrooms and asked Shinji to press his ring onto something that resembled a lock to which he complied, causing the room to open and reveal a small bed with a bedside table, a drawer for keeping the power battery and a small bathroom designed for humanoids, so a toilet, a small sink and something that resembled a shower. All being illuminated by a small window showing the towering skyscrapers in the higher levels of the city.

"It maybe is a little small but please understand, we spent the last few Earth weeks rebuilding our planet after our war with Krona, henceforth not all Lanterns receive accommodation of similar size."-Tomar explained as Shinji nodded.

"It is enough, a side from the ring and the battery I don't have any of my other belongings."-Shinji said as he put down the battery inside the drawer.

"Good luck on your basic training, and don't worry about Kilowog, he may have an rough exterior but he does have a soft heart."-Laira said as Shinji bowed down for the final time.

"Thank you for your help."-Shinji said as both Laira and Tomar slightly bowed down before closing the door. Shinji then turned around as he for the first time in days de-summoned his uniform to reveal his old school Uniform and hair clips he used when he was piloting Unit 01. 'I guess my LCL form still kept them?'-he thought as he folded up his clothes and put them inside his drawer, now completely naked a side from his ring he made his way towards the bathroom and stepped inside the "shower". Only to be surprised that somehow it managed to clean him without a single drop of water as he smelled better and his breath tasted better. He then fell down on his bed face flat as he began to wonder. 'Asuka, Misato…I hope you're alive, here I'm on my own, with only my ring and willpower. If I was strong then…would it choose as well and turn everything around? This is another universe, and by this logic it means another Earth. Guardian Appa mentioned something of three other Earth Green Lanterns, I wonder if I'll meet them soon.'-he thought as he soon had fallen asleep.

Shinji rose up from his bed, he looked outside though his window to realise its morning, or at least it seemed like morning as the dawn of the Sto-Oa star that worked as planet's sun was emanating over it. Shinji took a quick waterless shower before putting on his clothes, summoning his uniform over them. He closed the door to his room before flying to the commissary. As he entered he saw that there were far less lanterns enjoying their breakfast. 'Probably went back to their sectors right?'-Shinji asked as he expected some kind of reply from Ion in his mind…but that didn't happen. He didn't mind for now as he grabbed himself a tray and found himself standing in front of Greet.

"Hey kid."-Greet said as he grabbed Shinji's tray, who then took a look around the commissary, and what brought most of his attention was a scene happening at one of the tables, with a lantern that resembled a human seemed to bicker with another lantern that looked like a giant lizard. And the bickering quickly seemed to be turning into a fight. Shinji swallowed air and rose his ring with full intention of trying to stop it, only to be stopped himself by Greet who put his hand on Shinji's shoulder.

"It's not worth it, see those two? Both of them are from the same sector, from Tanaghar and Rann, and after some events that are too complicated for a human kid to understand those two planets suddenly became neighbours and tensions just keep rising. Be it the first lesson, we're not unified all the times, as any group were bound to infighting. But here we're talking and your food is getting cold."-Greet said as he handed the tray over back to Shinji.

"Thanks Greet."-Shinji said as he grabbed his tray and walked away from the counter.

"Hey kid! I never got your name."-Greet said as Shinji turned towards him.

"Oh, I'm Shinji Ikari."-Shinji introduced himself as he then turned back and sat in one of empty chairs and begun to eat his food. As he finished he then looked at his ring.

"So, where to basic training?"-Shinji asked himself as he didn't receive any answers. Shinji raised his eyebrow as he bent down closer to his ring.

"Ion, are you there?"-Shinji asked as the ring finally lit up.

"Being known as Ion cannot be located."-The ring's AI spoke up as Shinji's sighed. 'So Ion has abandoned me as well, story of my life.'-He thought as he formulated his question in a different manner.

"Ok, ring…where is the basic training?"-Shinji asked as his ring lit up before pulling his finger up.

"Right! Right! Just don't rip my finger off!"-Shinji said before lifting himself up from the ground and flying following his ring's pull like a GPS before finding himself standing in a large space being encased by a dome, similar to a gym found in some schools. He looked around himself searching for Kilowog or anyone else.

"So im first, and have nothing to kill my time, I wished I had my SDAT or a Cello to practice."-Shinji thought as his thoughts made quick work and a green replica of his own old Cello complete with a fiddlestick appeared in his hands. 'I guess this is something better to with my free time then just listen to music.'-he thought as he closed his eyes, his ring subconsciously summoning a small chair for him to sit on before beginning to play the familiar melody of "Bach Cello Suite no.1" as it begun to echo throughout the facility. Shinji being so immersed in his music that the fact 'Im playing my cello in space in the very centre of the universe.'quickly disappeared. He was so immersed that he didn't hear footsteps getting closer and closer. As he finshed his song he looked up he saw a peculiar person looking at him, a girl. The cello quickly disappeared as Shinji stood up from his chair, it also vanishing subconsciously.

"Uhm hello, im here for basic training."-Shinji bluntly said as he found himself facing the most dangerous enemy the Green Lantern trainee had faced other than angels, a conversation with a girl. He took a closer look at the girl looking at him, she had orange skin, pointed ears, short blonde hair and crystal blue eyes. She wore a white blouse with a green upper part with a blank white circle similar to Shinji's black and a short green skirt, that kind of outfit flattening her figure. In Shinji's eyes she wasn't just pretty, she was beautiful, he didn't knew how to call it but his brain felt like it just discovered a new standard of beauty lighting up like a green lightbulb. The girl itself also found herself staring at this boy who just few seconds ago was so focused on playing his instrument. 'This must be the new human recruit! But he doesn't look like Hal at all, he's smaller, he has to be my age, my age…'-she thought as then looked at his thin build and peculiar choice in uniform with it seeming to almost be his skin. Her view travelled upwards though his chest as she was a bit confused by the number of small vents on his uniform, especially in space. Before her eyes found themselves looking at his face and his soft features, short brown hair and small blue eyes, that although small seemed to have a lot of depth, she didn't knew this feeling, although it was similar to what she felt towards Hal Jordan, her superior and definitely not-a-crush-since-that-would-definitely-be-weird-and-would-stain-their-friendship. Here it was something else, all she could think was that he seemed…cute? With her two heart's heartbeats rate increasing.

"I never met anyone eager to take Kilowog's basic training."-the girl teased as Shinji wiped the back of his head.

"Not really, I just didn't have anything else to do, so I just sat here and begun to play my instrument."-Shinji said as then girl smiled at him.

"Well at least you aren't late. I've also heard you playing your instrument, it was a nice melody."-The girl replied as Shinji blushed, and in her opinion it kinda looked adorable.

"So, you're here for basic training as well?"-Shinji asked as his mind's inner self immediately facepalmed. 'What the hell are you doing!? Asuka was right you really are an idiot! She's a Whitecircle like you so it should be obvious!'-he thought as much to his surprise only happily nodded.

"Yes, and I know it's weird. I mean I come up with a plan on how to save the universe and I still get demoted to a Whitecircle, I wonder what my Ma and Da would think if they saw me like this?"-She said with an amused smile as Shinji's eyebrow rose up.

"You saved the Universe?"-Shinji asked, visibly impressed by what she said, the girl then looked at Shinji with the same amused smile before pointing at his ring.

"How new are you?"-the girl asked as Shinji sighed.

"I just arrived here yesterday."-Shinji said as the girl nodded with her smile still present.

"Oh, then it must be really exciting to be the fourth Lantern of your planet. Making 2814 the sector with the most number of active Lanterns, weird looking that all the other sectors just begun expanding to two."-The girl said as Shinji nodded. 'And technically the first Lantern of my universe. Although now it doesn't seem to make a difference.'- he thought as he looked at his ring.

"Well nobody asked you."-Another voice spoke up as Shinji and the Girl turned around to see another girl a little bit older than them, she had red skin, black eyes and hair and a small tattoo under her left eye. She then flew upwards towards them as she thrusted her hand out towards Shinji.

"Soranik Sinestro of Korugar, sector 1417."-she introduced herself as Shinji shook her hand.

"Shinji Ikari of Earth, sector 2814."-Shinji introduced himself as the orange girl then gently pushed Soranik away.

"And im Arisia Rrab of Graxos IV in sector 2815, that essentially makes us neighbours!"-Arisia said as she shook Shinji's hand who made connection with what he heard yesterday.

"I heard from the Guardians that your family has a long history in serving the Corps."-Shinji said as Arisia nodded.

"Yes, my Ma, Da, Grandma, Grandad, Uncle…and essentially all the family members before me were Lanterns. Soranik's father is a lantern as well."-Arisia said as Shinji turned towards Soranik who nodded in confirmation.

"Were? What happened to them?"-Shinji asked as their trainer walked inside the facility.

"They died."-Kilowog's voice grumbled as all three turned back towards their instructor.

"And let this be the your first lesson, our life expectancy is short, very few of us get the privilege of retiring and raising a family, our job is to keep the trouble in the universe to its bear minimum. And in the most extreme circumstances to die so that the innocent live, so if any of you poozers want to quit its your last chance."-Kilowog spoke up as he looked at the three young rookies, probably the youngest group in history. All three having determined facial expression.

"No sir!"-All three of them said in unified voice. 'No more running, no fear.'-Shinji recited as the Drill Officer showed them a sadistic grin as he clashed his fist with his palm.

"Let's begin."

Chapter Text

Shinji woke up from his bed as he wiped his eyes, it was a routine that for the last three weeks seemed to follow him ever since he arrived on Oa, get up, wash himself, put on his clothes and summon his uniform before heading out to the commissary and after brief breakfast head for another day of basic training. He took a look of himself in the mirror his small bathroom contained. Although before and even after the angel war he was fairly thin. The "basic" training with Kilowog and the physical punishment he had to endure for not performing some tasks, and it wasn't something only he did, many of the times Arisia and Soranik also found themselves on the ground gasping for air alongside him. And it showed as Shinji was in his physical peak. As he walked out of his room already with his uniform he felt a bit of pain in his left arm. 'I guess it still hasn't fully healed and it's been few days.'-he thought as he made his way towards the commissary as he begun to reminisce.

Shinji, Arisia and Soranik all were holding for dear life with construct hooks. All three definitely wishing not to get pulled into the artificial sun being projected by Kilowog, another flying lesson, but this one was far from a traditional obstacle course they were used to.

"Feeling that poozers? Its how a typical gravitational pull of an average sun feels like, if you don't watch out in space it can end very badly, the bigger you are the quicker you burn."-Kilowog said with a sadistic grin as all three teens were grunting in struggle. 'Come on Ikari think!'-Shinji forced himself as he tried to come up with something that could help, and although Evas were mostly ground units both Misato and Doctor Akagi made him study all various Eva equipment meant for different environments, and although he didn't pay much attention to those documents, there was finally an occasion to do something with it. So he poured his willpower into summoning a construct of an S-type equipment jetpack, pieces of metal connecting together and being covered by green outer shell. The engines lighting up to life before making his struggle quite easier, although still not enough to get free from the pull, digging deeper into his mind he conjured a large flight pack meant to carry Evas to the orbit. It was this contraption that finally allowed him to let go of his construct line. Kilowog only snorted as the construct sun evaporated sending Shinji flying, the gravitational pull evaporating as Shinji hit the ground with his left arm before managing to correct his course and landing on his feet, completely ignoring the fact of having his left arm broken. Meanwhile Arisia and Soranik fell flat face on the ground.

"Be it a lesson for you three, Gravitational pull can change drastically in matter of seconds, Trainee Sinestro! Patch up Trainee Ikari, break time."-Kilowog said as Shinji's mask vanished before he looked towards his arm and sat down next to the wall.

"Are you ok?"-Arisia asked before sitting down next to him. Shinji only turned towards the Graxonite with a painful smile.

"Yeah, aside from the fact that my arm is broken. It did feel kinda petty though."-Shinji said as Soranik grabbed his arm.

"He is our training officer, his job is to teach us the basics, gravitational pull is one of them. Now hold still."-She said as a construct sling formed around his arm.

"This should be enough, your Ring will take It for now, in couple of minutes it will heal itself."-Soranik added before allowing her head to rest against the wall.

"You do seem to know a lot about…patching people up."-Shinji said as the Korugarian only sighed.

"Before my father handpicked me to be the second Lantern of our sector I was training to become a doctor. In fact I was just in the middle of my first operation before he barged in and gave me my ring, and I used the said ring to save the patient's life."-She explained as then Arisia turned towards them.

"I was only a student before my ring chose me, I was sitting on a physics lecture before the ring destroyed a window on flew onto my finger. And look at me, with little as they say it on Earth "pep talk" from Hal Jordan I saved the whole universe."-Arisia said looking at her right hand. Shinji then looked towards his ring, as it begun to silently pulse with its light.

"With the help of the entire Corps."-Soranik added with her eyes closed as Arisia looked at her with a puffed up facial expression, before it turned into curiousness and looked towards Shinji.

"And what about you Shinji? Ever since we met you never said how you got your ring. Only the Guardians know and it was behind closed doors."-Arisia asked as Shinji gulped before once again turning to his ring.

"I don't like to talk about it…all I can say is that I was a soldier in a war to save our planet, we lost…and the Green Lantern that was my predecessor died in front of me, handpicking me to be his replacement."-Shinji explained as he saw Arisia's facial expression change, from a confused to a grim one, before suddenly turning to a more cheerful one.

"I guess this is why you are so good with rifles."-Arisia said as suddenly Shinji felt his arm reconnect as the sting of pain struck throughout of his whole body as the sling disappeared.

"All right poozers, break time's over…Get up!"-Kilowog said as the three trainees immediately stood up on attention in front of their instructor.

"Good, at least your ears for listening orders are those of fully trained Lanterns, now if you want to prove that you are not the most pathetic group of trainees that you are close to be then get on work with your ringless one-on-one combat. Trainees Rrab and Sinestro will be the first pair, I'll return to toughening Trainee Ikari now."-Kilowog said as Shinji swallowed air.

'How many times, I even broke that arm?'-Shinji thought as he found himself standing in front of the familiar Lantern cook.

"Hey kid, it's here waiting for you, and I took your advice to mind."-Greet said as he put four rice bowls and a cup of deep black coffee on Shinji's trey.

"Thanks Greet."-Shinji said taking back his trey as Greet put his hands on his hips.

"You know, after you finish basic training it would be nice to have more help in the commissary. And I'm telling you that cooking alien food is just as easy as Earth food."-Greet said as Shinji turned his head.

"I'm not sure I could be held down to just Oa."-Shinji said as Greet laughed.

"I understand, you're a youngster, so fiery and full of life, can't be put in one place."-Greet said laughing as Shinji awkwardly alongside him.

"Hey Shinji!"-He heard a familiar voice as he turned towards Arisia, who was sitting with Soranik both eating their breakfast in one of the empty tables.

"Ok, I better eat this quickly before getting on Sergeant Kilowog's nerves."-Shinji said as Greet chuckled.

"Good luck."-Greet said as Shinji made his way to the table where his fellow trainees sat, him all up ready for another day of training.

"Begin."-Kilowog said as Shinji and Arisia each launched a beam at each other. For some reason Shinji couldn't help but enjoy the one-on-one combat sparring, the familiarity of the countless simulations and being a former Eva pilot played a large part into it. However using a tool that worked on his imagination made combat easier and the fact that he was the one in charge with what weapon he used rather than hearing basic orders made him far calmer then being limited to a single weapon. Making this the area where Shinji's experience allowing him to excel compared to his fellow rookies. That wasn't the case on the construct department…Arisia was the best from all three of them, she could create everything Kilowog asked for with only few small mistakes, with grace and not struggling at all, her constructs holding well against Kilowog's attacks. Soranik also did well, although her constructs were just as versatile they were also really fragile and after a decent siege quickly shattered. Shinji on the other hand did struggle with his imagination, having problem with moving from basic shapes and tools, with most of his physical training and punishment being a result from it, although Kilowog's punishments for the lack of imaginative constructs were tough, in regards however for Evangelion arsenal and equipment Shinji could recreate it to the smallest detail, Progressive Knives, Spears of Longinus, Pallet Rifles, Handguns, Sniper Rifles, both types of bazookas, and the perhaps the most powerful weapon in his arsenal, the Positron Rifle, both its handheld and the sniper version that required the energy of the entire country to destroy an angel. When he used it against Kilowog during sparring not only it almost destroyed the facility but also left some burns on his armoured uniform. The accuracy of his weapons contrasted his other constructs, that seemed to rather be representations then real things. But It didn't mean that Shinji had problems when using his ring, in battles against drones he also excelled being a decent sharpshooter, landing clear hits on most of them. He also gotten quite a hand on flying, passing though yellow obstacle courses as if they were nothing, and a side from the brief interaction between him and the floor during the gravitational pull he gotten a hand on landing as well. But it didn't meant it always ended nicely, a lot of broken and shattered bones had to be healed by his ring after being sent flying either by Kilowog's punches or someone's construct and often leaving a large pile of smoke, similar to the smoke left after two beams struck itself. 'Ring! Give me a thermal view.'-Shinji thought giving his mental command as the view inside his mask changed allowing him to see though the pile of smoke, and now saw Arisia rushing towards him. Quickly leaving the path of her onslaught just as she pierced though the smoke cloud, just as she turned back towards Shinji, who summoned a pellet rifle and let out a series of shots at Arisia, who gracefully dodged all his shots before retaliating in a form of a construct fist, that quickly turned into an arm cannon. 'Mental note: Don't forget she can do that with her constructs.'-Shinji thought as the cannon begun its surge upon him, Shinji dodged the cannon's blast as he flew upwards and summoned several construct missiles with a small targeting computer activating in his mask. Letting out a breath as he pulled the mental trigger, sending out the swarm of missiles at Arisia.

"Oh oh."-The blonde said as she summoned a shield tanking the onslaught, with her attention being set on locating Shinji, her search was cut short as suddenly she was caught in a grasp of a large green Eva hand. Although if it was anyone else they would probably celebrate their victory prematurely, but not Shinji. Who even though his mask could see that it wasn't over, and he was right as he saw a smirk appear on Arisia's face. As suddenly a pair of green hands managed to break though Shinji's construct. Shinji undeterred fired beams of energy upon her, retreating as he saw Arisia fly closer towards him, firing beams of her own. Finally the two clashed, Arisia summoning a pair of stylized swords and Shinji summoning two progressive knives. Their fight quickly going into close-quarter-combat, their weapons clashing with each other, and although both Shinji and Arisia's constructs were as strong as those of veteran Lanterns, their concertation went elsewhere as the weapons shattered with their fight turning into ringless hand-to-hand combat, kicks and punches that being immediately were countered.

"Enough."-Kilowog suddenly said leaving the two trainees in an awkward position, with Shinji holding both of Arisia's hands and Arisia's right leg being ready to swipe Shinji's left leg. Both couldn't help but blush as Shinji's mask vanished from his face.

"Not bad Trainee Ikari, putting that experience and awareness of surroundings to use. You as well Trainee Rrab, both of you of reacted well to your enemy's every move, however Ikari, you still need to watch out for your legs!"-Kilowog said suddenly summoning a green construct hammer and tried to sweep it under Shinji's legs, to counter it he flew up and summoned a downsized version of the handheld positron rifle before sending a large green beam at Kilowog, who put up a shield as Arisia and even Soranik who was resting upon a wall from prior sparring watched as Shinji made a landing on the floor, ready for combat and ring risen. Before suddenly three drones risen from the floor behind him, Shinji quickly turned towards the drones and zapped them with his ring not even allowing the drones to counter him. The drones then returned to the floor as Kilowog let out a small clap.

"Not bad kid."-Kilowog said as a comment echoed throughout his mind. 'he makes of some of the adults look like total poozers, in what kind of war you were fighting in kid?'-he thought as he saw his ring letting a signal, Kilowog accepted as then an image of Salaak appeared.

"Lantern Kilowog, there has been a report of a warship leaving your sector, it is of an unknown origin and already decimated three inhabited planets, the resident lantern of the sector the ship is currently is already busy with another assignment. And so I assign this mission to you and your new batch of trainees, your mission is to intercept it and stop it, the coordinates of the moving ship are being uploaded to your ring as we speak."-Salaak said as Kilowog nodded.

"Roger that."-Kilowog said as Salaak vanished, the large alien then turning to his trainees.

"You've heard that poozers? It's now your chance to prove you are worthy of being real Green Lanterns! So get up on your butts and charge up your rings now."-Kilowog said as Shinji slowly recited what Salaak said in his mind. Him already being used to world ending threats, but here it was a threat that already destroyed three.

"Are we sure that the four of us will be enough? Shouldn't we assemble a strike force?"-Shinji asked as Soranik turned towards him.

"We are Green Lanterns Ikari, our job is to make the impossible possible. Even one Lantern should be enough to take out a battleship."-Soranik said as with a swift move of her right hand she summoned her power battery and begun to recite the oath. With Arisia doing the same thing and summoning her battery, Shinji did as well to only see that his power battery didn't appeared…then the realisation struck him as the view of the battery residing in his closet appeared.

"Damn it."-Shinji said as Kilowog looked at him as if he just insulted him.

"You can use my battery."-Arisia said as Shinji turned towards her as she held her battery for him to take, still having her smile that Shinji felt it pierced his grim heart.

"Thank you."-Shinji said as he took the battery from Arisia's surprisingly warm hand before inserting his ring inside the battery.

"In Brightest Day…in Blackest Night, no evil shall escape my sight, let those who warship evil's might…BEWARE MY POWER! GREEN LANTERN'S LIGHT!"-Shinji exclaimed the oath as powerfully as he could, some people might've called the oath goofy, but to him it felt differently, and for the first time in his life he felt some form of pride by belonging to the Corps similar to pride Asuka had of being an Eva pilot, and while he was thinking about it the energy from the borrowed lantern poured down into his ring as it was now fully charged. As he gave it back to its owner Kilowog stood in front of them looking over the young recruits.

"All right, listen up! This won't be another simulation or friendly sparring, we are going to a real combat zone, so no playing hero and sticking in front of the line, you are to follow protocols and everything else I thought you poozers, and most importantly…you listen to my commands and do whatever I order, if not then if you survive you are in a whole world of pain! Understood?"-Kilowog asked as the three trainees stood on attention.

"Sir yes Sergeant Kilowog sir!"-All three said at the same time as Kilowog smirked.

"Lanterns, on mission I'm just Kilowog. Now let's get to it."-Kilowog said as the roof of the training facility opened allowing for the three lantern recruits and their training officer to get to Oa's orbit. Kilowog threw a large sphere around himself and his recruits as they also helped maintain the construct.

"All right, ring! Take us to uploaded coordinates!"-Kilowog spoke up as his ring lit up.

"Affirmative, commencing interspace acceleration. Destination: Inserted Coordinates, space fold."- AI of Kilowog's ring spoke up as to Shinji it seemed like the entire universe was breaking around them, taking the optimal position for flight the group found themselves traveling though the corridor of light. With Shinji for the first time really feeling the strain of interspace travel purely on his own power, for his trip to Oa that normally would take around 18-25 Earth months Shinji did in matter of four days, not feeling the strain at all with Ion keeping him alive. Now with only will being his own and seeing that they flew in a group he understood why Kilowog told them to rarely use it, if it still put strain on four lanterns, what pain would be for just one? But Shinji quickly threw away all the fear and insecurity from his mind as he recited Kilowog's words. 'If you feel fear in the middle of a battle or any stressful situation you're good as dead.'-he recited as he focused his masked eyes on the flickering lights of interspace, it took them around a one Earth hour before the four lanterns left interspace and saw the warship standing in front of them. Shinji couldn't help but look at it with curiousness, with the only ships he has seen in his life being the UN fleet when he alongside Misato and his friends were picking up Unit 02, here it was like looking at a screenshot from a Science-Fiction movie. But the mission came first and so he turned towards Kilowog.

"What's the plan?"-Shinji asked as Kilowog brought up a downsized version of the ship with his ring.

"I'll go and distract their fire, and while I keep them occupied You, Arisia and Soranik will get on board, find the bridge and take it out."-Kilowog as Soranik raised her eyebrow.

"Are you serious?"-Soranik asked as Shinji turned towards her.

"I think it makes sense, the three of us are small enough to sneak aboard and remain undetected until Kilowog will take care of the rest."-Shinji explained as Kilowog smirked.

"You got it kid."-Kilowog said as the then Soranik turned towards him.

"Don't tell me you agree on this Ikari?"-She asked as Shinji unfolded his arms.

"He is our commanding officer, more experienced than us. Besides I did far more crazy things then this and most of them worked."-Shinji said as Kilowog turned towards Soranik.

"And what better plan do you have trainee Sinestro? Or perhaps you would prefer to wait here while Ikari and Rrab will collect all the fame? What would your father say if he heard this?"-Kilowog asked as Soranik blushed from the comment before silently swearing under her lip.

"Well then, let's get to it. Oh, and Ikari…you're in charge of your group now."-Kilowog said before turning away causing Shinji to startle.

"What!? Why me?"-Shinji asked as Kilowog only shot him a grin.

"You're the one with most real battlefield experience aren't you? Now get to it."-Kilowog said before flying away, the group of trainees flew in other way towards the other part of the Ship.

"It appears you mistake fearlessness for foolishness Ikari."-Soranik said as Shinji turned to her with a risen eyebrow.

"Like I said, it doesn't seem to be indifferent then other things I did before I got my ring. And what was that about your father?"-Shinji asked as Arisia only sighed knowing what will transpire.

"And do you ever stop asking questions!?"-Soranik snapped as Shinji nodded before turning away.

"Right, sorry…let's just focus on the mission."-Shinji said as then explosions could be seen in the distance, Arisia then used her ring to scan throughout the underside of the hull.

"that's our quo."-She said cutting a hole with ring allowing the three lanterns to fly into the ship, founding themselves standing in a large grey corridor. Shinji then put his ring close to the wall.

"Affirmative, Downloading the ship's corridor plan."-the ring's AI spoke before displaying a model of the ship with lines showing the complicated line of corridors. 'It feels like I'm playing Super Metroid with Kensuke and Touji again.'-he thought as he gave another command.

"Ring, display the quickest route to the bridge."-Shinji asked as another line in different shade of green begun to travel throughout the model, making a lot of twists and turns.

"I guess the way is kinda complicated."-Shinji said as the line finally reached the large room that definitely was the bridge. Arisia rubbed her chin before coming up with an answer.

"Ask it to display the air vent layout."-Arisia said as Shinji nodded and alongside the corridors several small rectangles connected by lines. Arisia then walked up to the chart and took a closer look.

"Now re direct the way using both the air vents and corridors."-She added as Shinji willed his ring to her command as the way became shorter and more easy to follow.

"So the first vent is 125 meters from here, let's go."-Soranik said as all three of their rings received the gps data, with Shinji and Arisia following Soranik.

"That was a good trick with the map."-Arisia complemented as Shinji blushed.

"If I can't use more complicated constructs at least I can be smarter with the ring, it's a tool not a weapon after all."-Shinji said as Soranik suddenly stopped showing her teammates to do the same.

"Guard patrol."-Soranik backing towards the wall with Shinji and Arisia doing the same, with the guards feet getting closer and closer to their corridor, but alongside their feet he could also feel something else, muffled screams. And they were getting louder and louder.

"Do you see anything?"-Arisia asked as Shinji peaked out and used his mask to enhance the view, and a crimson blush appeared on his face as he what was transpiring. He saw two reptile like aliens dragging a girl, although she was muscular it appeared as if she was just as thin as Shinji, she also had orange skin about a shade deeper than Arisia's, long fiery red hair that would make Asuka explode in rage, emerald green eyes and figure…oh the figure was something that Shinji never saw in his life, not on Asuka, not on Misato, and not even on Arisia's or Soranik's. All complemented by a peculiar outfit, made out of violet top, skirt and boots with silver details, that although seemingly not making her look indecent still were showing quite a bit of skin. Her hands were also encased in some kind of cuffs that were restraining the movement of her arms.

"Release me!"-The girl exclaimed being dragged down by the guards, her visibly bruised.

"Quiet slave! It's because of you we drifted off so far from the main course!"-One of the guards said as Shinji finally turned towards his fellow Lanterns who were also peeking out of the corner.

"It looks like we have a prisoner situation, what do we do?"-Shinji asked as Arisia raised her eyebrow.

"What do we do? We rescue her of course!"-Arisia hissed as Soranik sighed.

"We'll rescue her after we take out the bridge, mission and sticking to the plan comes first."-Soranik said as then Arisia turned towards her with a frown.

"We can't just leave her to those captives! A green lantern's duty is to protect the inn-"-Arisia's monologue was cut by a loud battle cry as they could see the Orange Girl using her cuffs to slam one of her guards into the wall before yanking him at his fellow and sending him to the floor.

"Time for arguing later."-Shinji said as on instinct he stepped out from his hiding spot and raised his ring.

"Space Police!"-The other one said readying his weapon from behind his compatriot before Shinji sent out a stun beam that hit the alien's head, as it fell down to the ground the alien girl looked at them suspiciously as Arisia and Soranik joined him.

"Who are you?"-She asked as Shinji de-summoned his mask to make himself look more friendlier-looking.

"We are from the Green Lantern Corps, we're here to help."-Arisia said raising her hands in peace, as suddenly all four of them heard steps of other guards.

"We must get to the bridge before we cause an alarm."-Soranik said as the girl looked towards her.

"I know the shortest way of how to get there, however I'll share it if you free me, I do possess abilities that can prove of assistance."-The girl said as Arisia turned towards her.

"Ok, I'll get you free."-Arisia said walking up to the girl and with her ring risen, and judging by the sound of the guards there was little to no time.

"We can't waste time on this Arisia!"-Soranik hissed as Arisia then turned towards Shinji.

"What will you say Shinji? As our as commander-in-field?"-Arisia asked as Shinji then turned towards the girl.

"You know the shortest way?"-Shinji asked as the girl nodded, with Shinji then turning towards Soranik and nodding towards Arisia's choice. Soranik sighed, as she flew towards the girl and looked at the manacles and their lock, a small key appearing from her ring and with a twist the manacles fell off as the girl's eyes lit up green and the back of her hair begun to cover itself with fire.

"My father thought me to observe the situation and figure out the most expedient way to solve it rather than just blasting though like some lanterns."-Soranik said ignoring Arisia's glare, as suddenly they were ambushed by a group of guards. Shinji quickly raised a shield to protect them, but before any of the lanterns could retaliate enemy fire the orange girl flew up and charged up a green blast from her hands incinerating the enemy's weapons and armour severely burning them.

"Let's go, I know a way that will allow us to dodge more guards."-the girl said flying as three lanterns shared a look and also lifted themselves up from the grounds.

"This was exactly what I was trying to avoid."-Soranik as Shinji gave her the stinkeye.

"It was bound to happen sooner or later."-Shinji snapped as the girl removed the cover from a vent shaft and flew upwards inside with the lanterns following her.

"I'm sorry for interloping, but what is your name?"-Shinji asked trying to lighten up the mood and also not get his uniform burned from her hair. The girl only slightly turned her head around as the narrow tunnel.

"I am princess Koriand'r of Tamaran, and you are?"-She asked as they took another turn.

"I am Shinji Ikari, and those are my fellow lanterns Arisia Rrab and Soranik Sinestro."-Shinji introduced himself as both lantern girls nodded confirming their identity. It took them about five minutes jumping from air shafts to corridors and back to air shafts before they found themselves under a floor vent that was just in front of the door to the bridge. Koriand'r flew up shattering the air vent with three lanterns following.

"We're here."-she said before releasing a large blast from her hands before destroying the door silencing all the protest forming on three lanterns tongues.

"What is the meaning of this?"-A deep voice said from the captain's chair as the three lanterns and the tamaranian princess flew though the remains of the door. And saw a black giant that looked as If his entire body was covered in an insect like armour, with no colour other than toxic yellow of his eyes. On instinct a mask appeared on Shinji's face as Koriand'r flew towards him with a battle cry on her mouth, the giant only smirked as he tanked her green beams and with inhuman speed grabbed Koriand'r by the throat and put her to the ground before throwing her away like a rag.

"Is this what the guardians of Oa send to retrieve my cargo? Children?"-the giant asked as Soranik raised her ring.

"Aggressor, in the name of the Green Lantern Corps I place you and your men under arrest. Put down your weapons and surrender immediately."-Soranik said as the armoured giant gave a signal to attack.

"All right meat, I surrender, not."-he said as the three lanterns quickly dealt with the henchmen, with Shinji using a handheld bazooka to blast away a group of them before helping Arisia and Soranik dealing with the rest. The giant saw how quickly the three rookies dealt with his men, his hands transforming into blasters and firing some kind of waves and plasma at the three lanterns, who threw a joint shield and held against his siege, with the giant seemingly forgetting about Koriand'r, who summoned a large blast a sent it directly into the giant's back into the scarab-like shape. Visibly hurting him as he stopped his onslaught.

"You backbiting litte-"-the giant didn't finish as he was suddenly hit to the face by a green beam, as he turned around to see the three Lanterns providing their support barrage to Koriand'r's attacks. And although the scarab on his back healed his wounds he was starting to get annoyed. With a roar he launched himself at the lanterns, pinning Arisia who was in the centre of the formation.

"You first."-He said with a sadistic grin as his hand transformed into a pincer, but before he could cut Arisia's throat a giant Eva fist hit the giant sending him flying. Shinji only have Arisia a quick smile as they turned towards the giant who just crashed into the ship's main console.

"I'm done, I don't care if the Reach wants the Tamaranian, I'll bring her and you meat to them in pieces!"-He said summoning all the weapons his armour had and fired upon all four of them.

"Does he have any weakness?! For now he seem undefeatable!"-Shinji summoning a construct pellet rifle and sending his own attack at the giant, fear slowly letting though the self-proclaimed barrier in his mind.

"Hey! With this attitude we're dead! Besides I faced Krona and he was way bigger then this guy!"-Arisia said while firing.

"And once again I remind you that you had the entire Corps behind you! We don't even have our instructor right now."-Soranik said while also holding the giant under the barrage of her ring. Shinji on the other hand transformed his rifle into a bazooka sending a floating green orb into a giant. And it was this moment when everything connected to one, 'Sometimes you'll meet someone larger then yourself and you won't take out them outright, you'll have the battlefield against him, use their power to their disadvantage.'-Shinji quoted Kilowog's words as he once again turned to Arisia.

"How did you defeat Krona?"-He asked as a quick plan formed in his mind.

"We threw a planet at him."-Arisia replied as then Soranik and Koriand'r turned towards Shinji.

"I may not have a planet, but I have something else that can pack quite a punch."-Shinji said as Soranik raised her eyebrow.

"You do realise it could potentially destroy the entire ship?"-Soranik asked as Shinji nodded.

"My kind is able to breath in the void, I don't have problem with it."-Koriand'r added as Shinji now had all the elements ready.

"All right, you three pull him away from the main console, I'll fly behind and prepare the rifle."-Shinji said as the three girls nodded and flew upwards, Shinji let out a sigh as he saw the giant took its bait. So he took his position and laid down on the ground, begining the long process, pushing his willpower to maximum as pieces of green metal were assembling bit by bit. He only did it once during sparring and that was enough for him to forget how painful it was, remembering each moment of the fight between him and the geometrical Ramiel. But the canon took its form as the targeting computer appeared in Shinji's mask. 'Come on! Come on!'-he thought as the giant finally got in his crosshairs.

"Get Clear!"-Shinji exclaimed as the three girls flew away from Shinji's line of fire, he pulled the trigger as the large green beam fired, sending a whole ship into turbulence as the giant turned towards the incoming beam.

"Oh."-Was his only reaction as the weapon that required the power of the entire archipelagos hit him from less than 20 meters, the beam so powerful that It caused the entire ship to be cut in half. Meanwhile Kilowog, who has been dealing with the ship's defences outside, saw the beam he quickly moved to the side, 'Ikari…'-was the sergeant's thought as he made his way to the source of the blast. In the detached bridge of the ship he saw not only his lantern rookies, but also Tamaranian. Arisia and Soranik had bruises and cuts from the giant's pincer blades. Shinji was gasping for air even though he was surrounded by a protective aura. Koriand'r was In the best shape out of all of them.

"What happened?"-Kilowog asked as Soranik got on her legs.

"The mission was a success, we took out the bridge. Although we found ourselves in a quite difficult position, with the help of the prisoner we freed we faced the captain, with him being covered by some sort of armour that allowed him to regenerate his wounds and create weapons on demand. We struggled until Ikari summoned his strongest weapon and fired from behind him, he sent him flying to the back of the debris that was once the ship."-Soranik reported as then Kilowog turned towards Shinji.

"You fired the positron rifle!? Don't you realise what consequences it could had!?"-Kilowog exclaimed as Shinji looked down.

"There was no other way for us to beat this opponent using conventional methods, it was the only thing that came to my mind."-Shinji said as then Arisia took his defence.

"Lantern Ikari is correct, no conventional weaponry was able to hurt him."-Arisia said as Kilowog nodded.

"But he acted foolishly, but also took the advantage of the situation and made sure no one under him got killed, not mentioning rescuing the prisoner. Good job Lantern Ikari."-Kilowog said as Shinji nodded blushing.

"What we will do with her?"-Soranik asked pointing at Koriand'r.

"Who are you?"-Kilowog asked as Koriand'r flew up close to the drill sergeant.

"I am princess Koriand'r of Tamaran, and I demand you to return me home."-Koriand'r said putting her hands on her hips.

"Well sorry Princess, but until we find this warrior and head back to Oa you are under our jurisdiction, now let's go."-Kilowog said as his trainees and Koriand'r followed him, scanning throughout the rubble, it took them about few minutes before they found the giant, his wounds and gaping holes in his armour regenerating. Kilowog snorted as he threw a construct box over him.

"Now we just need to deliver this poozer to a sciencell on Oa."-he said as the giant smirked.

"Sorry meat, but you're not catching me today."-the giant said before vanishing in a blue flash leaving the box empty.

"Self-destructed?"-Soranik asked as Kilowog scanned the nearby terrain with his ring.

"No, teleported. Now let's get back to Oa, the Guardians will sure want to hear your story Princess."-Kilowog said as he alongside his lanterns created a sphere around themselves and Koriand'r before once again they entered interspace. As they flew Koriand'r then turned towards Shinji

"I didn't have a chance to thank you for saving me Shinji Ikari."-she said as Shinji blushed.

"Well, that's what Green Lanterns do. Uphold the law and rescue innocents."-Shinji said between stutters as Koriand'r showed him an amused smile, both not noticing the look Arisia gave them, with Soranik only looking at the situation with an amused grin. 'Has she finally cured herself over that dumb crush just to have a crush on another? She does have a weakness for humans.'-she thought as they continued to make way back, all four Lanterns knowing that they will have to file a report to the Guardians, and think of what to do with their "liberated" prisoner.

Chapter Text

"And that's pretty much it, after the poozer vanished we brought the princess here."-Kilowog explained as he alongside Salaak, Shinji, Arisia, Soranik and Koriand'r stood in front of the Guardian council as the veteran trainer gave out the full report of their mission. The Guardians seemed to give them a silent treatment before finally giving out their opinion.

"The returning of Princess Koriand'r is problematic."-One spoke up as then Koriand'r raised her eyebrow before stepping out in front of Shinji and his fellow trainees.

"Problematic?"-She asked as all of the Guardians eyed the young Tamaranian.

"Salaak, display the Guardian space."-Ganthet asked as the four-armed alien acknowledged his order and displayed the map of the known universe in form of a globe made out of blocks. With one of the blocks being in different shade of green.

"For ages the Vega system that Tamaran is a part of was locked off from the Green Lantern Corps and from our influence, consequence of an ancient pact we made millennia ago."-Appa Ali Apsa exclaimed as Kilowog rubbed his large chin.

"A pact? A pact with what?"-Kilowog asked as Appa eyed him.

"With something that is none of your concern Kilowog of Bolowax Vik."-he replied as Shinji walked in front of Koriand'r.

"So…how we will get Koriand'r home?"-Shinji asked as the all the Guardians seemed to now look at him with Arisia and Soranik sharing a confused look.

"It appears we will have to make a little…exception."-Ganthet with a small chicly undertone to his words before looking at a fellow Guardian, a female with her hair tied in a bun.

"We will send Princess Koriand'r back to Tamaran with a single Lantern to serve as an escort."-She said as Koriand'r then suddenly pointed at Shinji.

"Then I chose him."-The Tamaranian said as Kilowog stepped in front of Shinji.

"Hold on there Princess, kid is still a blankcircle, a recruit, I can't let him alone on a mission alone to enemy's territory."-Kilowog said as Koriand'r raised her eyebrow.

"Maybe by your standards, but I can see it that your "recruit" has the eyes of someone that had seen combat and the horrors of war."-Koriand'r said putting her hands on Shinji's shoulder's and staring deeply into his blue eyes, with Shinji looking at her emerald eyes seemingly lost into them. Soranik meanwhile internally chuckled as she looked at Arisia, who seemed to keep fuming anger deep within herself. For someone who was after the Korugarian adolescence period with her mind being somewhere around 19 earth years old she couldn't help but look at her Graxonite "childhood friend" with amusement.

"With all respect Princess Koriand'r, leave the decision making to the Guardians."-Appa Ali Apsa said as Koriand'r once again turned towards the council.

"I go with Shinji or I'll make my way to Tamaran on my own."-She said as the ends of her hair begun to cover itself with fire showing her frustration. Ganthet then turned at the princess before nodding in agreement.

"Very well, if you wish for Recruit Ikari to accompany you then the Guardians give their agreement, and judging by what Sergeant Kilowog said in his report I believe that his training can be concluded."-Ganthet said as Kilowog sighed before turning towards Shinji.

"Right Guardian Ganthet, Shinji Ikari…In the name of the Guardians of Universe and all the unnecessary words that will unnecessary prolong it, welcome to the Green Lantern Corps."-Kilowog said emitting a beam at Shinji's chest filling out the blank black circle in his uniform with a Lantern emblem. Kilowog then turned towards Shinji's fellow trainees.

"Same goes to both of you, congrats poozers."-Kilowog added launching two similar beams at Arisia and Soranik's uniforms and filling out their white circles with Lantern emblems as well.

"However, in order to make sure that Lantern 2814.4 fills his mission accordingly I believe we should assign a senior lantern to watch over his assignment."-Appa Ali Apsa said as the female Guardian looked at Ganthet, who only nodded.

"I would suggest Hal Jordan of Earth, since the mission already requires bending the rules."-The famale guardian said as Ganthet nodded with a smile.

"Great idea Sayd, Salaak! Contact Hal Jordan, Lanterns Rrab and Sinestro can leave the citadel now."-Ganthet said as Soranik nodded and flew out of the citadel, with Arisia following her giving a small wave to Shinji.

"Bye."-She silently whispered before following Soranik out of the large building leaving Shinji, Kilowog and Koriand'r alone with the Guardians.

"I'm telling you Tom, something is up about that bird, she feels kinda stiff after crossing Mach 5."-A man with brown hair said while he was looking at the reflection of his mirror. Him spraying perfume on his body as he had a date to prepare for.

"Hal, it's not a plane that is the problem, it's you. Miss Ferris herself said not to push her this far."-A voice from the other side of the phone said as Hal Jordan chuckled.

"Carol can say whatever she wants, when I'm in the air It's up to me to keep the girl in check, like tonight."-Hal said as his own Green Lantern ring begun to glow. Causing Hal's mood to turn grimmer.

"Not now! Not now! Gotta go Tom."-Hal said closing the call on his phone.

"What is it Salaak?"-Hal asked as a small holographic image of Salaak appeared on his ring.

"Lantern Jordan, your presence is required on Oa, priority alpha."-Salaak quickly said before vanishing, Hal only sighed as he runned from his bathroom wearing only a towel to his bedroom, throwing on a plain white T-Shirt and grey shorts. Without even putting shoes on Hal summoned his Power Battery.

"In brightest day, in blackest night, no evil shall escape my sight, let those who warship evil's might…BEWARE MY POWER! GREEN LANTERN'S LIGHT!"-Hal exclaimed before his body was covered by his uniform and his eyes were covered by a green domino mask. He then took a close look of himself in the nearby mirror. Thanks to being in the Air Force he was of a muscular build and a fairly tall, traits that were passed to him from his father, who was a test pilot as well before getting killed in an accident. Hal then opened his balcony door before flying off, quickly leaving his home town of Coast City California and making his way through the Earth's atmosphere. 'Couldn't they call John or Guy for this?'-he thought as he continued his journey to Oa.

"Greetings Lantern Arisia Rrab, Welcome to the Hall of Lanterns. Here are the holos you requested of the most recent Lanterns from Graxos IV, Sector 2815, in rare occurrence all the lanterns are from the same lineage."-An AI voice said as Arisia looked at the four images of her family, her Grandfather Santara, her Mother Marata, her Father Fentara and her Uncle Blish. Arisia took a deep breath as her hand instinctively travelled towards her lantern symbol.

"Hey everyone…It's been a while. I am a Lantern now! I guess all this training you've put me through paid off Da."-Arisia said looking at the holo-image of her father.

"We did all the things you said we would do. And no Grandpa, Lantern Kilowog isn't softer then Lantern Deagan, not at all. Our first mission was also went without problems. Except for that part where I almost died, but Shinji saved me, and later dealt with our enemy by absolutely incapacitating him."

"And later you got married and there was a happily ever after."-Arisia's monologue was suddenly cut by Soranik who floated behind her, Arisia jumped before turning towards her friend.

"C-Come on Soranik, you know it's not like that."-Arisia said as her mouth was covered by a shade of red. The Korugarian only raised her eyebrow before setting her feet on the floor.

"Oh really? I've seen the way you looked at the Tamaranian when we were en-route to Oa. And if I was Ikari I would probably look at this princess as well, big competition to fight."-Soranik teased as Arisia's orange skin was slowly turning red.

"Come on Sora! Shinji is a good friend and an amazing Lantern, but he is currently nowhere near Hal Jordan'e level."-Arisia said closing her eyes and clasping her hands as to sell the illusion she was creating, but Soranik wasn't just a lantern, she was also the daughter of Sinestro. So she let out a slight chuckle.

"Arisia… Jordan is an adult human male, to him you are nothing more but a child and a junior to mentor."-Soranik said as Arisia showed her a puffed up facial expression while crossing her arms.

"By Earth's solar cycle I am 28 years old, I've also used my time while we were rebuilding Oa to learn Hal Jordan's "English" language to better communicate with him."-Arisia said while Soranik sighed hearing the naiveté of her best…and only friend since her father only allowed them to be friends because Fentara was a friend of Abin Sur, Soranik's uncle, former Lantern of Sector 2814 and Hal Jordan's predecessor, but also her father's mentor. That and the fact that the three men were meeting frequently allowing the two girls to spend time together. Soranik summoned a construct arrow before pointing at Arisia.

"And look at yourself, if Earthlings growth process is similar to Korugarians or Graxonites then to him you are nothing more than a teenager both in body and in mind."-Soranik explained as Arisia over looked her body.

"I believe I have curves worthy enough of a grown woman Hal Jordan would love."-Arisia said as Soranik rubbed her forehead in irritation.

"And how, how do you plan on becoming this grown mature woman Arisia Rrab?"-Soranik asked as Arisia herself felt she was running out of arguments.

"I-I can use my ring to make myself…look older?"-Arisia said in an uncertain manner as Soranik nodded.

"See? Even you think it sounds ridiculous, so…will you give up and finally admit the truth to your best friend? We spent 3 weeks of nonstop training, and you would always shoot him a small glance either when he was training with Kilowog or when you watched him during our combat lessons. The fact you always seem to blush and the look you gave that Tamaranian when she was smiling towards him, I may not be a therapist but I still have working eyes."-Soranik said as Arisia looked down to the floor.

"Fine…I do feel kinda, warm inside when I think about him? Or when he smiles for once, and his compassion towards life, or his courage."-Arisia said as Soranik nodded before seeing that her ring begun to glow.

"I gotta go back to Korugar, my father wants me to report. I'll leave you to think about it on your own."-Soranik said as she lifted up from the floor of the Hall of the Lanterns and left the Graxonite alone in her thoughts. 'Do I like him? I like Hal? Or have I liked him? I myself thought it was weird and tried to fight while he himself said he viewed me as something of a younger sibling. I thought of myself being able to perhaps be a woman that Hal Jordan could love, but could I be a girl Shinji Ikari could like? And would he like me back?'-she thought as she now sat there alone…with only the holos of her bloodline paying her company.

Hal finally entered Oan atmosphere before finding himself in front of the door to the Guardian Citadel as he walked towards probably another barade he gave small salute to Salaak.

"Hello Lantern Jordan."-Salaak said as Hal turned towards the four-handed alien.

"Hey Salaak, what stunt I pulled off this time that the Guardians want to see me?"-Hal asked as Salaak kept working on his terminal.

"It is not about you Lantern Jordan, but I will leave the explaining to the Guardians."-Salaak said as he opened the door allowing Hal to pass. And it was the first time that Shinji saw Hal Jordan…the first Green Lantern of Earth, in Shinji's opinion he looked exactly what an archetype of hero was, well built? Check, chiselled face? Check. A one part uniform? Check. The only thing he was missing was a cape, although Shinji himself viewed having a cape as a kinda odd stylistic choice.

"Ganthet! What's up?"-Hal asked standing in the centre of the room.

"Lantern 2814.1, your newest assignment is overviewing Lantern 2814.4's trip to Tamaran."-Appa Ali Apsa explained as Hal then looked at Shinji.

"And 2814.4 would be you?"-Hal asked as he then was struck by a realisation, it was only a kid, a human kid of frail build and with eyes of a kicked puppy, and now the fourth Green Lantern of Earth. 'Holy...shit.'-Hal thought as Shinji slightly bowed his head.

"I'm Shinji Ikari, it is good to finally meet you sir."-Shinji said as Hal realising that it was a Japanese boy also tried to respectively bow as to appeal to his customs.

"Yeah it's good to meet you too, how old are you?"-Hal asked as Shinji looked up to him.

"I am 14 years old."-Shinji replied as Hal looked at Kilowog with a risen eyebrow, with the Bolivaxian only shrugging.

"I don't mean to offend you kid, but how did you ended up with a ring? You should be in school somewhere on Earth chasing after girls and not in an intergalactic police force."-Hal said as Shinji slightly looked down…was this Hal Jordan that Arisia always talked in high regard? And he was also his sector partner, with it being very obvious Shinji's age was an uncomfortable topic.

"Be it the fact, but Lantern Ikari proved himself to be a good recruit and passed sergeant Kilowog's training and his first mission with relative ease, if you are unwilling to take part we can assign it to another lantern."-Sayd said as Hal looked at Shinji.

"No I accept."-Hal said before looking at Kilowog with a look that meant more than words, he definitely wasn't going to let him slide. So the old trainer sighed agreeing on Hal's silent offer.

"I'll go with them, the kid is still technically my recruit."-Kilowog said putting his heavy hand on Shinji's shoulder.

"Very well, now get to it."-Appa Ali Apsa said as the dome of the citadel opened allowing the three lanterns and the Tamaranian princess to leave Oa, as from the surface Arisia watched them leave the planet. Tamaran was far away from Oa, so once again the Lanterns resulted to using interspace, shortening the several hour flight into just a single Earth hour, during their flight Hal only kept looking at Shinji interested how someone like him could end up with a ring. Teenage heroes weren't nothing new, his best friends on Earth, fellow superheroes also had sidekicks, but here the situation was different, it wasn't because a young kid became a ward of a millionaire or a kid recreated a lab accident using a chemistry set to gain his idol's powers, here it was a fully sanctioned intergalactic police force and not a person putting a costume to make a difference, like a certain man from Gotham.

"The ring says we should be on the edge of Vega space in five minutes."-Kilowog said turning towards the two fellow lanterns holding the construct sphere in place with the Tamaranian princess flying inside it.

"The edge?"-Shinji asked as Kilowog nodded.

"Remember that Vega is off our turf, and you volunteered. Technically picked but volunteered. Me and Jordan will stay at the border while you sneak the Princess in."-Kilowog said as Hal interfered.

"I do think it's a bad idea, I should be the one to escort her back."-Hal said as then Koriand'r turned towards the veteran lantern.

"Her is flying next to you and can hear you very clear Lantern Hal Jordan."-She said as Hal sighed before nodding his head.

"My apologies Princess, I didn't mean to offend you."-Hal replied before pointing towards Shinji.

"And you should apologise to Shinji as well, you haven't seen him in combat and you keep judging him because of his age."-Koriand'r said as Shinji took all the courage he had and put a hand on her shoulder.

"It's ok, I'm used to it."-Shinji said as the princess turned back towards Shinji before grabbing his hand in a strong yet gentle grip.

"No it is not ok, you have proven yourself as a warrior both to me and the Guardians of Oa, and so you should be seen as warrior and recognised for it."-Koriand'r said, but before Shinji could reply the sphere that he, Hal and Kilowog were holding together with their rings left interspace.

"We're here."-Kilowog said as Koriand'r took a look around the surroundings.

"Yes, I recognise those stars, let's go Shinji Ikari."-Koriand'r said pulling Shinji's arm.

"And remember, you can only escort her to Tamaran's orbit. After that she is on her own."-Kilowog said as Shinji gave a small salute acknowledging the trainer's words before two streaks of light, one orange and one green vanished in the void of the universe. And it was the exact moment when Hal turned towards Kilowog.

"All right Kilowog, what's the deal about the kid? 14? He looks barely 12. Arisia next to him looks like a college student. And why wasn't I or John informed about it?"-Hal asked as Kilowog shrugged it off.

"Don't expect any answers from me Jordan, I just trained him, but the princess is right, kid can handle himself in a fight and took everything I threw on him during the bootcamp much better than many other rookies, that and he handled his first real mission while having subordinates to look after and completed it without my help. All I can say is that the kid and had been though some serious combat and has his fair share of experience."-Kilowog explained as Hal rubbed the bridge of his nose.

"A child soldier…great. Did he mentioned anything about his family?"-Hal asked as Kilowog sighed.

"I don't…know how to explain it to you Jordan. From what I understood when the Guardians were interviewing him, he's not from here, his ring works differently than ours as well. And from what he said to the guardians he doesn't have anywhere to come back to, I've only heard that they lost their war, whatever that means."-Kilowog said as Hal was now more confused than ever.

"You're kidding, the kid looks like he couldn't hurt a fly, much less kill someone."-Hal said as Kilowog crossed his arms.

"Maybe, but after all those years of sending out poozers to their sectors I believe that I can recognise a look of a vet who's been through hell and back, the kid's been though it and its obvious when you look him in the eyes, all before a ring slipped on his finger, the fact that the constructs he mostly creates with relative ease are guns, knives, missiles and giant claws also says something about it."-Kilowog said as Hal sighed.

"Great…"-He said turning away to look at the void.

"Then maybe you should keep an eye out for him?"-Kilowog asked as Hal once again turned to his former trainer, once again with his eyebrow raised.

"Excuse me?"-He asked as Kilowog unfolded his arms.

"You're human, he's human…and the fact I think you are best suited for it, Stewart's too stiff and Gardner…is Gardner. Also from what you told me you Earth Heroes like to take kid sidekicks so he would blend in perfectly with the others without too many unnecessary questions."-Kilowog said as Hal quickly turned his head around.

"No no no no, not in 100 years."-Hal said as Kilowog then gave him a look as if he was only a trainee.

"And why not?"-Kilowog asked as Hal flew closer.

"I don't need a sidekick."-Hal sternly said as Kilowog sighed.

"Maybe you don't need him as your sidekick. But the kid needs you as a mentor, a human mentor and a partner. You know, someone who can teach him how to be …normal? Just think about it."-Kilowog said as they spent the rest of their time in relative silence. Shinji meanwhile was escorting Koriand'r, they told themselves about their worlds, with Shinji slightly opening up about the Angel War and the threats he had to face before allowing the Third Impact to destroy everything he cared about, he found it surprising of how many painful experiences and horrors he suffered he could relate to Koriand'r's story about her being the slave of the Gordanians before being sold off to the Reach for experiments, she reminded him of Asuka, with the same warrior spirit and bravery although Koriand'r was far more kind and had less problems with herself compared to the Second Child.

"You had to be a strong warrior to face such horrors and prevail."-Koriand'r said impressed as Shinji sighed.

"No I'm not, for most of my life I was a spineless wimp, or an idiot in other people's eyes. If I was as strong as you make seem I wouldn't made the mistakes I did."-Shinji said as Koriand'r turned back to him, her emerald eyes seeming full of compassion.

"No one is perfect, if it was anyone put into your position without any real support, I don't know what I myself would do in such circumstances so what other human youths could do?"-Koriand'r asked Shinji then turned back towards her, his mask vanishing.

"You are the strong one, enduring the betrayal by your sister, the slavery and experiments."-Shinji said as they reached their destination, the planet of Tamaran, visibly larger then Oa and probably Earth.

"For which she will pay, dearly."-Koriand'r said as both of them looked at the planet under them, visibly stained and in chaos.

"It looks so…barren."-Shinji said as his memories shifted towards the images of Earth taken after the Second Impact. Koriand'r then looked at him with a smile.

"The war with the citadel has damaged it, but it's still the home of my people. And this is where we must part ways Shinji Ikari."-Koriand'r said before flying up close to the young Lantern.

"I wish I could come down there with you, but Vega is off limits and so is Tamaran."-Shinji said sadly as Koriand'r put an assuring hand on Shinji's shoulder.

"It is the business of Tamaran and it will be solved by Tamaran, rest assured and your assistance has proved meaningful to bringing peace to our planet, and I'll await the day we will fight by each other's side again."-She said as Shinji looked up to her face.

"You think we will see each other again?"-Shinji asked as the princess once again smiled.

"If X'hal wills."-She said before surprisingly planting a deep kiss on Shinji's lips, and after they separated it took a bit for Shinji to catch his breath, as he finally regained some control over himself he saw an orange streak entering Tamaran's atmosphere, the beautiful alien princess disappearing in fire as deep as her hair. 'Maybe it's how they say thank you in their culture?'-Shinji thought as he made his way back to Kilowog and Hal, him using his construct S-type and booster equipment to quicker leave the Vega space.

"So how did it go?"-Hal asked as Shinji joined them in creating the construct sphere before entering interspace.

"Well enough, but I'm still worried."-Shinji sighing as Hal gave Shinji an understanding smile.

"That's what friends are for."-Hal said as Kilowog turned nodding.

"Sometimes we have to let people fight their own battles."-Kilowog said as he turned back with the rest of the flight being in relative silence.

Hal stood in front of the door to Shinji's room in the barracks, and he stood there for the last 10 minutes. It took a lot of thinking, internal fighting, listing out the pros and cons, and so he made his decision, the tricky part was talking to the kid himself, and probably apologising. Hal swallowed air and knocked on Shinji's door, and after few seconds he saw him, dressed up in his school uniform.

"Lantern Jordan?"-Shinji asked confused as Hal smirked at him.

"Enough with the honorifics Shinji, it's just Hal, and I wanted to take you to lunch, talk about few things."-Hal said as Shinji raised his eyebrow confused.

"You want me to what?"-Shinji asked shocked by his proposition allowing his construct chopsticks to vanish. Hal only sternly nodded before taking a sip of drink.

"Yes, I want you to come to Earth, ring or not, you need to be in school, with kids your own age, with friends your age."-Hal added as Shinji looked down on his ring before raising it at Hal's face.

"You don't think I'm worthy of my ring solely because of how young I am."-Shinji said in a stern voice as Hal sighed.

"I didn't say that."-Hal said as Shinji slowly put his fist on the table they were sitting at.

"But you were thinking about it."-Shinji said as Hal wanted to object before stopping himself and put his hands up.

"Point taken, but in one thing I'm certain, ring or not you are still a 14 year old kid and you need a life resembling what other 14-year olds have, hell look at me! I need some semblance of a normal life myself."-Hal said as Shinji rubbed his chin lost in thoughts, thinking about the Veteran Lantern's proposition, every adult Shinji had knew across his life had either abandoned or betrayed him, with most of the time being both or just didn't care about him and his feelings. The fact that this man was a Green Lantern, one of the best in many of his colleague's minds, but he was an adult, although with character Hal kinda reminded him of Kaji, if Kaji was an American and lacked a ponytail, it took well over a minute for Shinji to make his decision as well, before finally thrusting out his hand.

"One year, I'll give you one year on Earth, and if I won't like it I will return to Oa and live here permanently."-Shinji said as Hal took his hand in a firm grip before shaking it.

"Deal, I'll come back to pick you up in few hours, go pack up your things in the meantime."-Hal said before flying away from the commissary.

Shinji cleaned up his small room, it served as his "home" for almost a month, and although kinda small it was better than just be LCL in Unit 01's entry plug for eternity. He then noticed what he left on his bedside table. 'What am I supposed to do with these?'-Shinji asked himself as he took the pair of his old hair clip interface headset he used back in the day as an Eva pilot. 'At least it's a small memoir, a grim reminder of my failures, but not anymore.'-he thought burying his thoughts deep as he put the hair clips deep into his pockets, although he hated that moment of his life with burning passion, he viewed this singular thing he had left from his world that weren't his clothes as a souvenir of sorts, a some sort of connection to the people he left behind. Shinji then took his power battery into his arm before staring in its green light. 'I'm sorry for abandoning all of you, but now I'll never run away again.'-Shinji thought as he put his lantern into his pocket dimension before summoning his uniform over his clothes, as he opened the door with the intention of heading to the rendezvous point with Hal as he saw Arisia standing in front of him.

"Oh, hey."-Shinji said as he walked out of his room and stood in front of Arisia.

"I've heard your conversation with Hal Jordan…I-It didn't meant I've eavesdropped! I was eating my lunch few tables away and I just happened to hear it. You are going to live on Earth?"-Arisia said as Shinji nodded.

"Yep, and what about you? Are you going back to Graxos?"-Shinji asked as Arisia nodded.

"Uhm, I'm going back to get some things talked out with my Aunt and make amends for continuing my education remotely."-Arisia said as Shinji nodded.

"Remotely? You're moving here?"-He asked as the blonde nodded to his words.

"Yes, my family had an apartment on Old Oa before we well…threw it at Krona. After we rebuilt it I received a bigger apartment and I decided to move there as well, it's better to monitor the entire sector from here then the middle of it. But that's not important, you will be living with Hal Jordan right?"-Arisia asked as Shinji nodded.

"He said that ring or no ring I still need some semblance of a normal life, if I knew what a normal life was."-Shinji said as Arisia nodded listening to his words.

"It is nice of him that he made this offer, also you don't know how lucky you are, Hal Jordan is one of the best, he was mentored by Soranik's father after he finished basic training. Also he mentored me…for a bit."-Arisia said uniting her hands looking down on the floor.

"I do hope he lives up to the expectations you were building up, I gotta go now."-Shinji said as he flew upwards, as he wanted to leave he suddenly felt a hand on his leg.

"Wait! There is something I wanted to tell you."-Arisia said as Shinji's feet touched the floor.

"Good luck…"-Arisia spurted out as Shinji nodded with a smile.

"Thanks."-Shinji blurted out blushing before leaving the barracks. 'You coward! That wasn't what you wanted to say!'-Arisia's inner critic said as she sighed. Meanwhile Hal and Shinji begun their long trip to Earth, hours were passing in relative silence, Hal of course tried to make some small talk about things Shinji didn't know or didn't care about, of course he wouldn't relay anything about his past to any adult, the guardians knew but they had to knew if he wanted to have his ring. It was finally Shinji who decided to make an effort in conversation just as they flew over Earth's moon.

"Are you sure its ok for me to live with you?"-Shinji asked as Hal nodded with a smirk.

"Of course, if what I heard you really don't have anywhere else to go, and I don't mind company as long as you aren't a complete snob, although I don't know if there is a possibility for someone to be more messy and forgetful then me."-He joked as Shinji gulped at the thought of a view similar to Misato's apartment.

"Well here we are."-Hal said as Shinji stopped in his tracks and found himself mesmerising at the planet in front of him, a pure blue jewel floating in space, with no red oceans or scars in sight. Never touched by horrors and tragedies of the Second Impact and the Third Impact. And seeing that planet was the final nail in the coffin in realisation that he was in another universe, no Evas, no Tokyo 3, no NERV or SELLE, no anything he knew, facing a new clean Earth, the planet that was supposed to be his new home and one he entered with a clean slate.

"Hey kid, you ok?"-Hal asked as Shinji looked at his ring and saw his ring glow, ever since it landed on his finger Shinji promised himself that he wouldn't run away anymore, he runned from Misato, Asuka, Touji, Kensuke and his entire world filled with people that put their hopes and dreams on his shoulders, and he failed them all by allowing their world to die, but with this ring, he had another chance to protect Earth, redeem himself, be the hero his world wanted and needed him to be but he wasn't.

"Yeah, I'm fine."-Shinji said as Hal nodded.

"Well then, let's go."-Hal said flying down towards Earth, as Shinji followed him something unusual brought his interest, and after the Angel War and his training in the Corps it was hard to make him surprised, a floating building, similar to the Green Lantern Sector Houses that are set between sectors for lanterns to rest and interact.

"What's that?"-Shinji asked pointing at the building, Hal only turned his head.

"That's off limits for the time being Shinji."-Hal said as Shinji raised his eyebrow.

"Why?"-Shinji asked as Hal continued his explanation.

"Well, me and you are full-fledged Lanterns and designated patrolmen of our sector. But on Earth it works kinda different, other then me, you and other Lanterns there are other Superheroes on Earth, you know…like Ultraman. A lot of them in fact, many of us are a part of team known as the Justice League, and this is our headquarters, the Watchtower, and if you think it looks like a GL orbiting station, that's because it was, I had to request the Guardians to lend a retired base that we can use."-Hal explained as Shinji was interested in the world he was showing him.

"There are other heroes? And you are a member of a league of heroes?"-Shinji ask as Hal nodded with a smirk.

"Yep, and not that I brag, but I was among the seven founding members of the league after our first team up."-Hal said as Shinji nodded impressed by what Hal said.

"But why would you make your base off-limits, and in space?"-Shinji asked as they finally entered Earth's atmosphere as the black of the void turned into the light blue of the sky.

"After an…incident that happened few years ago we've decided that it's for the best, and the fact you aren't a member, all heroes your age don't even know about the watchtower, you can consider yourself lucky."-Hal explained as Shinji raised his eyebrow.

"Heroes my age? How many?"-Shinji asked as Hal nodded.

"Yep, your age,and quite a lot of them we have these days, although they are sidekicks, you'll probably meet them soon enough. In fact we are planning a gathering of them all in few weeks in our public cover HQ, you in? The world will meet you soon enough anyways."-Hal said as both of them found themselves flying over the sea.

"Uhm, sure…if they don't mind."-Shinji said as Hal smiled.

"I'm sure they won't, and we are at our destination, welcome to Coast City California, home of now two Green Lanterns and the angels."-Hal said as Shinji frantically turned towards him with his ring risen, as if the word "angel" triggered something in his mind.

"The angels…baseball team?"-Hal said as Shinji sighed in relief, he then looked down to see people on the beach, all waving towards them as he followed Hal, and even though it was Earth Shinji couldn't feel more alien than ever, it was his first time in a country other than Japan, and Coast City compared to Tokyo 3 felt far less grand, although it was still an impressive city, with bridges connecting the districts and the large business district and city centre filled with skyscrapers, Shinji then saw Hal landing on a balcony of what was presumably his apartment. His uniform disappearing as Shinji followed him, his uniform vanishing to reveal his old school uniform.

"Okey, but before we'll get you settled down we need to get you a new wardrobe that doesn't scream "1990s schoolboy." Do you have any other stuff?"-Hal asked as Shinji only took out his battery from its pocket dimension, Hal only nodded.

"Uh huh, step two then, get you stuff, but first put down your battery in your room."-Hal said as he lead Shinji towards his apartment's guest room, it was larger than his room on Oa, with a decent sized bed, a fairly large window that was lighting up the entire room, on the left side a desk with a chair and on the right side a wardrobe that perfectly held the battery, as Shinji put it down Hal then pointed towards out the room.

"Come on, now let's get you clothes and stuff. Regarding that last one, any special needs?"-Hal asked as Shinji then turned towards him with crossed hands.

"Yes…can I ask for a Walkman? A one that plays DAT tapes would be sufficient."-Shinji said as they walked out of the apartment, Hal for few seconds had a shocked expression before suddenly exploding into laughter.

"A Walkman? Kid its 2010! Nobody uses those things anymore! Hell I don't know how many of your peers know what a Walkman is, if you like music then I'll get you an IPod, hell a new one just came out so you're in luck."-Hal said leading Shinji into his car, a red roadster. Shinji was confused by Hal's reaction. After the Second Impact DAT tapes were common, and what's an IPod?

"Hop in."-Hal said jumping over the door to the driver's seat with Shinji opening the door to the passenger's side just as Hal started the engine, and just as Shinji closed the door Hal jolted the car into the streets of Coast City.

"Where are we going?"-Shinji asked as Hal took another turn without turning indicators on, causing a philharmonic sound of car horns behind them.

"The Coast City mall, we'll get you clothes, an IPod and something for lunch."-Hal said as Shinji nodded.

"Oh, I've never been to a mall before."-Shinji said as Hal looked at him and not on the road, for a brief second before narrowly dodging a Semi truck.

"Would you mind not driving like a complete lunatic? I understand America has different laws but even so."-Shinji said as Hal then took another turn.

"Sorry, it's just I'm surprised what I just heard and I'm really trying not flip the car over since it's on lease, You really never been to a Mall before?"-Hal asked as Shinji unfolded his arms.

"I never had any occasion, there were smaller clothes stores near where I lived and when I wanted to do something else for entertainment I went to an arcade."-Shinji said as Hal put aside all the questions he wanted to ask about from what year he was.

"And what about your friends?"-He asked as Shinji then turned to look at the sidewalks of Coast City.

"I never really had any, sometimes I would hand out with my classmates but it was quite rare, and I don't mind being alone."-Shinji said as they reached their destination.

"Well you are not alone now and I'm here to make sure of it, now come on."-Hal said getting out of the car, with Shinji following, since Tokyo 3 was a city designed as battle fortress against the angels it couldn't really allow itself for buildings like the Coast City Mall, enormous building built with red, white and grey bricks. Everything had to be utilitarian in its design and construction, all buildings looked exactly the same, Coast City was vastly different, every building seemed to look different, all connected by streets that weren't as straight-forward as Tokyo 3's, with crisscrossed cuts that gave Shinji a headache. Hal dragged him though the crowd that even though more seemingly "normal" compared to the Green Lanterns he saw on Oa, Shinji still felt awkward in large crowds, especially when people gave him awkward looks, Hal dragged him into a clothing store, handing out various articles of clothing, the Veteran Lantern being surprised on how many of the clothes were too big for him.

"Geez, supermodels would ask you for tips for how to be as thin as you. Hand over that size two shirt, I think I got a size one that will fit you just right."-Hal said handing him a white size one T-shirt. After half an hour or so of picking up clothes Shinji now had, according to Hal a fashionable wardrobe. After paying for the clothes Hal then lead him to Coast City's Apple Shop, Shinji knew what Apple was, but ever since Steve Jobs died during the Second Impact the company stalled behind the Japanese competition, it appears that in this universe it happened differently and the company remained prosperous. Shinji couldn't help but stare at the phones behind glass displays as Hal walked with him towards the counter. Where a lady wearing a black apple T-Shirt was looking at something on her phone.

"Hello there, we're looking for an IPod touch four for the kid."-Hal said as the girl looked up towards Hal with a playful grin, Shinji only sighed at the view.

45 minutes…5 of each was picking the model and 40 of Hal flirting with the cashier, but he was still grateful considering the price. As he walked with the small white box holding the music player in his right hand with bags holding his clothes in the left.

"How those this thing work without buttons? Does it need a stylus or something?"-Shinji said asked Hal chuckled.

"From what planet did you came from? This thing has a touchscreen you use with your hands, hell it's a model with a card slot so you can still use music and internet after I put an internet card inside."-Hal said as he lead Shinji to the restaurant area of the mall.

"The internet? But don't you need to unplug your home phone to use it?"-Shinji asked as Hal facepalmed. 'Getting him up to speed with the times will prove difficult.'-he thought as they stood in front of the counter of Coast City Mall's local McDonald's.

"So, I'll take a McRoyal, what do you want kid?"-Hal asked as Shinji then looked up to the menu to see he couldn't read a word in English, not paying attention to English classes back in Tokyo 3 finally caught to him. His ring then faintly glowed as for a second he could perfectly read what was written, his ring using its universal translator.

"I'll just take the fries."-Shinji said as the cashier wrote it down in his machine.

"And two Large Kooba Colas."-Hal added as after some time their food arrived on a tray, with Hal finding them a seat as they both begun to eat.

"You barely eat those fries, no wonder you are so thin."-Hal teased as Shinji dipped another fry in ketchup.

"I'm Japanese, we don't eat a lot."-Shinji said before swallowing his fry.

"Right…I can't say if this is supposed to be a joke or not. So how about School? I know you don't really seem to plan staying here for good, but it would be nice to have some education if you will want go to college in the future."-Hal said as Shinji nodded.

"Sure, I don't mind it, although how will you enlist me? Legally I don't exist."-Shinji said as Hal chuckled between the swallows of his burger.

"Don't worry, let's just say I have some friends in high places that can help us, and don't worry its not anything illegal, and it's better to do it quick before people will start posing questions."-Hal said as suddenly the floor beneath them started to shake, seeing sheer panic among other people inside the Mall. However what brought Hal and Shinji's attention was a tv report on a near screen, showing a man in a black and dark blue armour and a helmet with two dark blue spikes shooting what looked like violet energy beams.

"Well, it looks like the world will meet you sooner Kid…Kid?"-Hal asked as he saw Shinji run out with the crowd, Hal only unfolded his arms as he hid the bags under the table and runned with the crowd. Shinji meanwhile was focused on finding a staircase. With all people seemingly using the main entrances to run away, the supposed emergency staircases were left empty, and luckily for him this one contained a window.

"Ring, deactivate nearby CCTV cameras."-Shinji said as he looked up to see the only camera around fry. It served as an confirmation that he was ready to go. So he summoned his uniform and flew out of the mall.

"All of you! Fear the might of Doctor Polaris!"-The villain exclaimed using his magnetic powers to pick up a car after car and throwing it at the Coast City Police Department's Police Vehicles as the Policemen were currently hiding for cover. Shinji meanwhile noticed Doctor Polaris throwing a car at a pair of civilians, a mother and a daughter.

"NO!"-Shinji exclaimed as he summoned and Eva hand, catching the flying car in front of the two. The mother uncovered her daughter's eyes as she looked up to their saviour.

"Thank you…Green Lantern?"-The mother asked as Shinji turned around his head towards her.

"A Green Lantern, now get out of here."-Shinji said as the mother grabbed her daughter and fled, now he focused all his attention on Doctor Polaris as he put down the car.

"Green Lantern? You look more like a Kid Lantern to me. Did he finally get a sidekick to pick up slack for him?"-Doctor Polaris asked as he threw another car at Shinji, who summoned a beam causing the car to be cut in half.

"I'm tired of people patronizing me because of my age!"-Shinji exclaimed flying towards Doctor Polaris, who threw more metallic objects at the civilians, but Shinji wasn't going to give up just like that, so he stretched his willpower to its maximum to create an elastic construct bubble around the crowd making the metallic objects bounce off of it.

"Ring power 30%" -The AI of Shinji's ring exclaimed as he internally facepalmed, 'Haven't charged it since the warship mission.'-Shinji thought as he know knew that he needed to end this with a one attack, so he put up as much speed as possible before summoning a large green construct Eva fist decking Doctor Polaris in the jaw before he could react to it, the same fist later pinning him down to the street, knocking him out in the process as his comical helmet fell off his head.

"Kid!"-Shinji turned around as he saw Hal also in his Lantern uniform fly towards him.

"Threat taken care off."-Shinji said as Hal saw Doctor Polaris regaining consciousness, not for long as Hal summoned a small construct to deck him in the jaw knocking him out the second time.

"I see, the crowd is safe and you kept collateral damage to a minimum, good job."-Hal complemented patting Shinji on the back. Just as the crowd started to cheer with journalists that appeared seemingly out of nowhere begun to show in microphones and cameras to their face.

"Well, it looks the world wants to meet you."-Hal said as Shinji awkwardly waved at the cameras.

"Uhm,hello?"

"This is Vinessa Swelter for CCN, only a few hours ago this street behind me was a scene of horror when a supervillain known as "Doctor Polaris" caused a ruckus just in front of the city mall, luckily before anyone could be hurt he was intercepted by Green Lantern, but not the one most of us would think about, Green Lantern's new partner, dubbed "Kid Lantern" by the public made a quick work of the villain and with the assist of his senior turned him to authorities hands, does it mean that our city has gotten its own Dynamic Duo? Only time will tell."-The reporter said as Shinji watched the news report from today's battle at the mall on his new IPod, since Hal put an internet card inside it not only allowed him to use the music services, but also to use the internet and watch videos. He was laying on his bed dressed in his pyjamas as he read reports on his flashy debut. Cringing at the name given to him, all other Green Lanterns were just that, Green Lanterns. Why was he getting a dumb nickname? Especially something as weird as Kid Lantern. Shinji then saw Hal opening the door to his room.

"Already settled with the IPod I see? Better than the Walkman isn't it? And you don't need to thank me again, consider a "welcome to earth" gift. Listen Kiddo, I'm impressed by the way you handle it all and Polaris seemed only as a minor inconvenience for you. I think I now see why the ring chose you."-Hal said as Shinji nodded.

"Thanks."-Shinji replied as he put down his IPod onto his bedside table.

"Sweet dreams Kiddo."-Hal said closing the door as Shinji looked up at the ceiling, an unfamiliar one, although perhaps maybe he could make it his own this time.

Chapter Text

Few days had passed since the Doctor Polaris incident, with the news about "Kid Lantern" quickly spreading like wildfire throughout the media. Hal delivered his promise as thanks to his "friend" he managed to create an identity for Shinji, who now was a son of JSSDF's pilot who sent his son to study in America thanks to his double American/Japanese citizenship and was staying with Hal indefinitely. Thanks to his now forged papers Shinji could attend High School, being enrolled to a local district school by Hal.

"Well, here we are."-Hal said as he turned towards Shinji, who was holding his backpack and put his IPod to his hoodie pocket.

"Thanks Hal, I'll get back on my own after School."-Shinji said as he jumped out of the car, but before he could leave for the school door he felt his right hand before being grabbed by Hal.

"You know, it would be better to take off the ring, put it in your pocket or something."-Hal said as Shinji raised his eyebrow before taking off his ring.

"The problem is I don't know English without it."-Shinji said in fluent Japanese with Hal only nodding.

"Point taken…have a good day out there."-Hal said as he watched Shinji leave, as he started his car in order to make his way towards his workplace he felt his phone buzz. A message from "B" appeared on his phone screen. 'We need to talk.'-the message read out as Hal quickly typed in a response. 'If it's about having a young partner then you have no right to talk me down, you were the one who started this trend anyways.'-Hal typed in as a response arrived. 'Tonight, I'll send the coordinates.'-the final message said as Hal drove off. 'I just hope Shinji will have a good day.'-he thought as he speeded though another red light.

"Attention class, from today we will have a new student attending. This is Shinji Ikari, a transfer student from Japan, now you can sit down mister Ikari."-The teacher said as Shinji obliged and found himself an empty seat. The day flew as if It was flying though interspace, with the same questions appearing from fellow students, he hasn't watched any of the popular anime so he didn't understand references people were making when talking to him, he neither could answer on how Tokyo looks and how cool is living there, he has only been in the old Tokyo once during the Jet Alone incident, and it was all dust and wrecked after WW3, so he always replied that he lived in Hakone, and it worked for most of the time. It was finally break time as Shinji stood under the tree with his IPod, some things just never change, he did sometimes eavesdrop what his other peers were talking about, and for the world filled with superheroes and the larger universe Shinji saw while stationed on Oa all of it seemed down to Earth, with occasional talk about Green Lantern and…Kid Lantern appearing and taking out another villain, most recently being a guy calling himself the Javelin, who's superpower was literally throwing yellow Javelins, and for Shinji's ring that worked on yellow the mercenary quickly found himself traveling back to Belle Reeve. His legs weren't made out of steel however as he found himself looking for a spot to sit down, one that had as little people as possible, and he just located it. A bench that was just nearby his current spot still caught in a shadow of the tree.

"Excuse me, can I sit here?"-Shinji asked as the only occupant of the bench slightly nodding from behind a book. It was a girl, definitely an American, with a slender build and a white T-Shirt with blue arms, the book covered her dirty messy blond hair. The girl then slightly turned towards Shinji allowing him to see her deep purple eyes covered by purple trimmed glasses.

"Uhm, sure."-The girl said as she turned back to her book, Shinji only nodded as he sat down next to her, reaching out for his IPod and continuing his mundane task of looking at fellow students, and it went on for minutes. Before as if a thunder struck even though his headphones he could hear the girl making an attempt at conversation.

"So, you're new here? The Japanese student?"-The girl asked as Shinji suddenly turned nodding.

"Uhm,hm yes!"-Shinji said as the girl turned back towards him taking off her glasses amused.

"Ok…I'm Amy by the way."-Amy introduced herself as Shinji once again nodded.

"Ika-Shinji."-Shinji introduced himself, still getting used to using his first name to introducing himself. Being in a country that felt like a polar opposite to his own.

"So, what are you reading?"-Shinji asked trying keep up the conversation, his first and probably last throughout his whole school day.

"A book on programming."-Amy said as she passed the book towards Shinji, who for someone who couldn't read a word in English without using his ring tried his best to pretend he could understand anything.

"Right…interesting."-Shinji said before returning the book back to Amy, before the bell finally split them off as Shinji continued his day of gathering education. The science subjects weren't much of a problem for him. Math, Physics and Chemistry were all the same everywhere and for someone who didn't do much other than study or play his cello it was quite easy for him, the trickier part was English language, History and Geography, with him not even knowing about Japan in this world it was expected that he didn't know anything about the united states, much less all those countries on the map, Markovia, Vlatawa and the whole Rheelesia peninsula that existed in the place of Korea. For someone who knew the map of the universe patrolled by the Corps it seemed laughable that Shinji couldn't get his mind together for something so "mundane." With the fact that he couldn't tell anyone he couldn't talk or read in English and not look like an complete idiot in front of the entire school . But he pushed through the entire day as the final bell rang, with Shinji letting out a sigh of relief. Returning via bus to the really nice apartment he was sharing with Hal, backpack full of English and History homework. He took off his shoes before placing them in the nearby drawer and taking a look throughout the apartment, it was fairly large and probably bigger than Misato's, although the number of rooms were smaller consisting only of a single bathroom, two bedrooms and a kitchen mixed with a living room. Shinji made his way towards his room, unpacking his notebooks and reached out towards his English and History notebooks, all written in Japanese made out of rough translations of what his teacher's said. He then turned towards his books as he still didn't seem to understand a thing, and that could mean one thing, his ring was on fumes…Shinji sighed as he then walked towards his drawer, opening it to reveal his power battery. Shinji raised his ring before putting inside.

"In Brightest Day…In Blackest Night, no Evil Shall Escape My Sight. Let Those Who Warship Evil's Might. Beware My Power, Green Lantern's Light!"-He recited as he felt the energy pouring into his ring before returning to his homework. Sitting down in his chair, ring with now enough power to translate all the words, focusing as hard on the English book in front of him, willing himself to understand the text and the language itself, as if knowledge was shot at his brain like a bullet, himself being quickly paralysed as his head felt onto the table, unable to move as the information was flooding his brain, it seemingly being close to explode with Shinji feeling he was close to going insane or that he would just die. With that thought he passed out on the table, ring glowing.

"Shinji, Shinji! Hey there wake up, come on."-Shinji finally regained consciousness and saw Hal's worried face in front of his.

"Geez, you gave me quite a scare there kid, what happened?"-Hal asked as Shinji pointed at his books.

"Homework happened, I was trying to read my English book, I was trying as hard as possible to get though the translation before suddenly I felt a massive headache, and it was then I passed out."-Shinji explained as Hal then pointed at the open drawer allowing the power battery to shed its light over the room.

"And before you did it you recharged your ring right?"-Hal asked as Shinji looked up towards his battery and then towards his ring.

"Yes? Why does it matter?"-Shinji asked Hal sighed before pointing at Shinji's ring.

"I'll explain it in a minute, for now wait here."-Hal said as he left Shinji's room before returning with tablets and a glass of water.

"Take these, if you already felt your head explode then feedback is probably coming as we speak, if it didn't return already."-Hal said just as Shinji felt another nasty sting inside his head, he quickly grabbed the glass and tablets before swallowing them and drinking the entire glass in one go.

"You know, you should've said you can't read English."-Hal said as Shinji wiped the sweat of his forehead before looking towards his superior.

"I didn't want to complain."-Shinji replied as Hal turned head.

"And try to hide the crucial part of being able to attend school? You do realise it wouldn't last very long right?"-Hal asked as Shinji raised his eyebrow.

"And what would you do?"-Shinji asked as Hal wiped the back of his head.

"I dunno, but I could've think of something, I'm your guardian and your superior in the corps, and if you have a problem it's my job to help you solve it."-Hal explained as Shinji nodded.

"Right, sorry…"-Shinji said as Hal then pointed out of the room.

"So, you want me to heat up dinner? I got us some Chinese Take-out."-Hal said as Shinji turned his head before pointing at the open book.

"I still need to finish my…homework."-Shinji said looking at the book and…seemingly understand every letter, word and sentence as if he could read Kanji, he wiped his eyes before taking off his ring to see that he could still understand it, still shocked Shinji flipped throughout other books to see that he could understand what was written in them as well.

"What the?"-Shinji asked as in English as Hal nodded before pointing at his own ring.

"That was the ring downloading the entire language to your brain, after you charged it to 100% and mixed that with willing yourself to understand the language and not just translate it, the ring responded and here you are, reading, speaking and probably writing in a language you knew little to nothing about."-Hal explained as Shinji rubbed his forehead.

"No wonder my brain feels like it's going to burst."-Shinji said as Hal bent over to see Shinji's homework.

"Here, I'll help you, I may not look like it but you have to be really smart to get to Pilot School."-Hal said as he kept his word and helped Shinji get though all the English and History homework in little over an hour.

"And that's it, all done."-Hal said as they finished the last history assignment, but Shinji's attention was brought to another picture, a black and white one of a hero dated for 1940, he had a cape with a large collar and a domino mask covering his face. In this world heroes started to appear just before the Second World War and the teams such the Justice Society of America and All Star Squadron battled Axis powers during the war and were later forced to retire after being accused to be soviet spies. However what brought Shinji's attention was the symbol of a train lantern on his chest and a small glow on his right hand, it was definitely a Green Lantern.

"Uhm Hal? Who is that?"-Shinji asked as Hal peaked in before nodding.

"That's the Green Lantern from the 40s, knew him from my Grandpa's and Father's stories, he lived in Gotham before the war broke out, he vanished from the public eye after McCarthy's accusations. Nobody has seen him since."-Hal said as then Shinji turned towards him with a risen eyebrow.

"I thought you were the first human in the Corps?"-Shinji asked as Hal nodded.

"I was, in fact I was confused when I learned there was a whole Corps. Maybe I'll ask him how it happened if I meet him one day, but enough of that, dinner time."-Hal said leaving the room with Shinji following him before the two settled on swallowing the Chinese food Hal brought, with it being of vary quality, and it was obvious judging by Shinji's facial expression.

"Yeah I know it's pretty...crap, but it is enough until one of us bothers learning how to cook."-Hal said as Shinji jugged down a Kooba Cola helping him to swallow the food.

"I still want to thank you for helping me with the homework and for bringing food."-Shinji said as Hal raised his eyebrow.

"Are you really this polite to everyone? Because it slowly starts to get quite creepy."-Hal said as Shinji sighed.

"I'm sorry."-Shinji apologised having his tick activated while looking down at the table.

"And again with apologising for everything, Kilowog said it was getting on his nerves."-Hal added as Shinji mentally punched himself in the gut to stop his mouth from saying "I'm sorry." Again.

"Listen, I'm sorry for being so harsh, it's just I'm not really used to dealing with someone so formal, especially the person who sleeps next door. Arisia was probably painting a way different picture right?"-Hal asked as Shinji's cheeks lit up a slight blush at the thought of the Graxonite and her smile.

"She did say that you mentored her…"-Shinji said as Hal chuckled.

"I think mentored is a little big word, more like giving her a direction and thanks to that and little bit of storytelling we still have a universe. Although the fact that last time I seen her she looked at me like I was her classmate."-Hal said jugging down his own Kooba Cola Diet as Shinji slightly looked down connecting the dots.

"That probably means she has a crush on you."-Shinji said in a slight sad tone as Hal spat out his drink.

"What!? I mean how did you-"-Hal asked almost choking on his drink as Shinji looked towards him.

"Let's just say I knew someone like that."-Shinji said almost on automatic tone as the thought of Asuka pierced his brain like bullet while Hal nodded carefully at his words.

"I mean, I've heard stories about girls having crushes on their teachers or simply older guys. But she is only a kid, who cares about a longer sun rotation she is your age and I'm not a pedophile. I guess talking with her is something on my bucket list when I'll be on Oa next time, getting that idea out of her head. Returning to the topic, you're a boy and you should act like it."-Hal said as Shinji felt another flashback hit his head as for a brief second he saw Misato sitting in front of him as if it was his first day in Tokyo 3. As if years had passed since he heard it, another lifetime and another world.

"I'll go get take a shower, oh…and thank you for taking me in and giving me a chance."-Shinji said as Hal sighed with an amused smile.

"You're a one weird kid Shinji."-Hal said as Shinji locked himself in the bathroom before washing himself, although not used to a more western type of showers without a bathtub, a bath was a laundry for the soul after all. 'I swear if one day I'll have my own apartment on this planet then bath is a first thing I'm buying.'-he thought before leaving the bathroom dressed up in his pyjamas before seeing Hal.

"Where do you think you're going?"-Hal asked as Shinji pointed at his room.

"To bed?"-He asked as Hal looked at his phone before showing the hour to Shinji.

"It's barely nine o'clock."-Hal said with an raised eyebrow as Shinji looked at him with a flat look.

"I have school tomorrow."-Shinji said as Hal chuckled.

"So do your classmates who party, drink and bang chicks until sunrise. Evil never sleeps Shinji, so summon your uniform…we are going on a patrol."-Hal said as his body was enveloped in green flames before standing in his uniform, Shinji following the orders did exactly as Hal said, allowing his body to be enveloped by his plug suit-like uniform topped off with his visor mask. Following Hal though the open balcony door they flew upwards until they had decent view of Coast City watching it over from the evening sky.

"You've been here for few days and we still haven't run though basics, so let's get to it, Ring! Give me a 3D of the entire Coast City."-Hal said as his ring let out an "Affirmative" before displaying a green model of Coast City, and although it wasn't anything gigantic it was still quite a large map.

"Right, so Coast City is… a coastal city that should be obvious. The channel that leads from the sea is called the Santa Clara Channel and the local docking points and shipyards are frequently attacked so have your eyes opened while flying over there. Other than that we have other official districts: Northpoint, Midtown, Eastpoint, Westpoint, Presidio, Chinatown and many others. Those are the most frequently targeted by supervillains as well, got it?"-Hal asked pointing at the districts with a construct stick while Shinji carefully nodded.

"I think I do."-He said as Hal smirked desummoning the model.

"The best way you can learn as via experiencing it yourself, follow me."-Hal said as both of them took off in almost sound breaking speeds as Shinji followed Hal, who gave him a complete tour and explanation of every important point in the city while keeping eye for trouble. With them travelling to outskirts and flying over military airspace as Hal gave a salute to a pair of air force jets that were passing them. Shinji looked down to see various facilities and air fields beneath them

"This is the part where we should definitely keep your eyes open. You'll never know what you will encounter"-Hal said as Shinji raised his eyebrow.

"Like what?"-He asked as he awkwardly wiped the back of his head.

"Well, mutants, escaped robots, government experiments, nuclear missiles going rogue, stolen experimental aircraft. Those kind of things."-Hal said as Shinji looked at him with a "you serious?" look.

"You should definitely get used to weirdness around here Shinji, and that not every villain is as goofy as the Javelin. Let's get back to the main city."-Hal said turning around with Shinji following him. Flying back from the north they finally found a crime to stop, if it could even be called stopping, two muggers that were quickly sent packing when both Shinji and Hal raised their rings shining their light over the two muggers who runned away on sight. However what sent Shinji on edge was the constant feeling of being followed ever since Hal begun their patrol and ever since they flew a little closer to the ground rather than above the clouds, a shadow within a shadow leaping from rooftop to rooftop, with sounds of something crashing a wall followed by a "twip" sound similar to a metal rope. The shadows following them throughout the city before they left for the desert, with the shadows returning to following them. Hearing another stomp Shinji finally stopped mid-air.

"Hal?"-Shinji asked raising his ring at the supposed last place where he saw the moving the shadows as Hal flew towards Shinji and patted his right arm.

"So, you noticed him?"-Hal asked as he and Shinji landed on the nearest rooftop of a large skyscraper.

"Noticed who?"-Shinji asked as Hal sighed.

"The person that got the paperwork for you, speaking of whom, you can come out Batman, you wanted us to see you right?"-Hal asked as suddenly a figure stepped to the light of their auras, and seeing the figure was enough for Shinji to feel a shiver throughout his uniform. The figure was dressed in a black and grey body armour, with a yellow utility belt and a long black cape that touched the ground beneath him, all topped with a black cowl with long ears and empty white eyes that only left his mouth uncovered, the cowl playing well with the bat emblem on the chest. Definitely fitting for someone named Batman, and ring or not, Shinji knew he wouldn't want to meet him in a dark alleyway in the pale moonlight.

"Kid Lantern, let me introduce you to the Batman, the current hero of Gotham City."-Hal said walking forward to face the Dark Knight, and it was obvious to Shinji that the two had history.

"Hey! Don't forget about me!"-Suddenly a young high-pitched voiced as another figure leaped in to the light, a boy around Shinji's age and jumped to Batman's side, contrasting to Batman's dark presence the boy was dressed up in a loud reds and yellows, wearing a scarlet body armour with a small black circle with a large yellow "R" on the right side topped off with a yellow utility belt, black leggings and a yellow cape that was black on the outside, all topped off with a black domino mask that covered his eyes and only showed his grin and black hair.

"And Robin, the Boy Wonder, Batman's sidekick."-Hal added as Robin extended his hand.

"Yo, Kid Lantern right? Nice to meet you."-Robin said as Shinji who buried deeply within his dissatisfaction that he was now known as Kid Lantern across the entire country judging by Gotham's place on the map. So he shook his hand with an awkward smile.

"Yeah, nice to meet you too."-Shinji said as then Robin looked at Hal.

"So GL, KL is your new sidekick?"-Robin asked as Hal turned his head.

"We prefer the term "Turf Partner", and no. Kid is his own full-fledged officer in the Green Lantern Corps in his own right, he is only assigned to me."-Hal explained as then Batman turned towards him.

"I didn't think the Corps authorised under aged recruits."-Batman said as Hal wiped the back of his head, knowing definitely what kind of "talk" Batman called him for.

"He's an exception, besides I already explained that it is the ring who chooses the recruit, the ring picked him and slipped onto his finger. It's simple as that."-Hal explained staring down Batman. 'Yeah, except Arisia, but it's better not to mention it now.'- he thought as Batman begun to talk.

"And this is why took him in? Because he is an exception?"-Batman asked as Hal…just like 75 percent of the times he was talking to Batman was getting close to punching him.

"I took him in because he doesn't have anywhere else to go."-Hal flatly explained as Batman eyed him.

"And what about his family?"-Batman asked as Shinji joined the conversation.

"I'm an Orphan, and I am still here."-Shinji said lying as Batman turned his intimating, stone cold gaze towards him.

"Who are you really?"-Batman asked as the piercing look he gave Shinji was reminding him of his own father, similar tone of voice and demeanour that felt as if he was brought back to the day when he ordered him to pilot the Eva.

"If you wanted to know so badly then why forging his identity without asking any questions?"-Hal raising his eyebrow beneath his mask.

"Because you never told me how young he was."-Batman said as Hal sighed before summoning a construct of a CRT TV.

"And do you even watch TV? I believe that it made it obvious the Kid in "Kid Lantern", besides it's not my problem that you didn't bothered to ask."-Hal said as he desummoned his construct.

"I trusted the Corps wouldn't recruit a young child."-Batman said again as Hal sighed.

"And I say again that it is the rings who chose new Lanterns, and like said before, you have no right to judge the fact that I wanted him to have a semblance of normal life rather than let him spend the rest of his days on Oa."-Hal said as meanwhile Shinji felt a slight touch on his shoulder, he turned around to see Robin with his everlasting grin.

"Why don't we leave the two alone to talk before they kill each other?"-Robin asked as Shinji then turned towards the adults.

"But they are talking about me."-Shinji replied as Robin only turned his head.

"Yeah but they're talking over you rather than with you. Come on KL! I hardly get a chance to work in a different city, you've gotta show me around!"-Robin said in jokingly pleading tone as Shinji then turned towards Hal talking with Batman and then back at Robin, before a small smirk appeared under his mask.

"Alright."-Shinji said as Robin shot him a grin.

"Wait about 30 seconds and meet me on that rooftop."-Robin said pointing at a building before suddenly vanishing from behind him.

"So, if you won't need me then I'll go patrol on my own."-Shinji said as Hal gave him a salute of approval. It was enough to make Shinji take off to the sky as Batman eyed Hal.

"You let him off without supervision?"-Batman asked as Hal pointed at the lantern emblem on his chest.

"That is enough of a proof I can let him go alone, he's been trained and according to his trainer and Guardians he handled it the best among his group."-Hal said as Batman shot him another cold view.

"My point, you are being reckless, having a ward comes with responsibility, or you have been in space for so long that the word responsibility is alien to you."-Batman said as he turned away from Hal who only shot him a "You Serious?" look.

"Fuck you Bruce."

Shinji landed on the rooftop, just as his feet touched the floor Robin appeared behind him, seemingly out of nowhere stood beside him looking over the street beneath them.

"So, where should we start?"-Robin asked as Shinji summoned a map.

"Well, we're already in Northpoint but the only thing we found were two muggers, a ring's light was enough to send them running."-Shinji explained as Robin smirked.

"Then you just didn't search well enough."-Robin said leaping of the building with his trademark laugh with Shinji following him, Robin using his Grappling hook as a way of transport between rooftops, Shinji couldn't help but look with amazement at how with ease Robin moved around the city just as he could fly through the night sky.

"Cool."-Shinji said as Robin swung on the grappling hook to reach Shinji's height.

"Says the guy who is a space cop."-Robin joked as he landed on the next building with Shinji following soon.

"So, what are we looking for?"-Shinji asked as Robin pointed at a man wearing a dark hoodie standing in a corner just next to a streetlight.

"Our source, and it looks we just found it, watch and learn."-Robin said as he leaped off the building, firing his grappling hook, using it like a swing before sending a juicy kick to the man's face, using the momentum he quickly disarmed the man from his knife and gun, Shinji followed him as Robin put the man against the wall.

"Boy Wonder? Ain't you supposed to work in Gotham?"-The man asked as Robin kept his grin on his face, 'Can he really joke in this situation?'-Shinji thought as he listened to the interrogation.

"Dunno, I was visiting, seeing the sights, surfing, meeting interesting people, like your boss."-Robin said as the man quickly turned his head.

"No, there is no way I'm selling out my boss."-The man said as Robin's grin vanished.

"Oh really? Is that your final answer?"-Robin asked before punching the brick wall barely missing the man's head, that only showed an evil grin on his face.

"This aint Gotham you little shit, we aint afraid of freaks wearing costumes. We have real superheroes to worry about, with real powers, and they don't even show up most the time."-The man said as Robin threw another punch to wall, before a toothy grin appeared on his face.

"Don't show up huh? Hey Kid Lantern! Get down here!"-Robin called out as Shinji landed down towards the street, he was impressed by Robin's interrogation skills, definitely taught by Batman.

"Oh shit."-The man said as Shinji landed in front of him and raised his ring.

"Scan him for drugs."-Robin instructed as Shinji looked at his right hand.

"Ring?"-Shinji asked as the ring enveloped to hooded man in green light before letting out a sound of confirmation.

"Drugs located."-The ring's AI spoke up as a small tendril emerged from his ring, the tendril travelled to the man's pocket and returned with a bag of white powder before displaying a full chemical analysis, all written in Japanese.

"Come on, don't ya Space Cops have to measure speeds on space highways or some-"-The man didn't finish his sentence before being knocked out by Robin.

"You talk too much, KL, scan chemical contents of the drugs and match them with locations throughout the city."-Robin said as Shinji … although not being used to the street-level crime fighting did as Robin followed. A full Map appeared with several dots showing the locations of various drug dens throughout the entire city, displaying coordinates and street names….all in Japanese.

"Ok…please translate this to English and upload it in my terminal."-Robin asked as Shinji once again obliged and in a second the map appeared on a holoscreen residing on one of Robin's gauntlets.

"Let's start from here."-Robin said pointing at the nearest dot before leaping into the air, using his Grappling Hook with Shinji following him, his part was simple enough…provide a distraction. Robin evaporated from behind him just as he finished explaining his plan, 'Does he always do that?'-Shinji thought as only his laugh could've been heard in the distance. He stared down the window of an apartment that was supposed to be a drug den, as he used his infrared vision in his mask to see several men holding rifles, he swallowed air as he flew at rapid speed towards the window, knowing how much the shards of glass could pierced his plug suit-like uniform he reinforced his aura, it wasn't like he could phase though solid matter could he? Although it couldn't help to try since his aura protected him even from suffocating in space. Shinji closed his eyes as his body flew through the window, but much to his surprise he didn't hear any shattering, he looked towards the window and saw it remained intact, and similar to his surprise were the thugs.

"Uhm, shoot."-Shinji said as they immediately opened fire, but the bullets were jumping off his protection field as he retaliated via a stun beam from his ring, it was enough of a signal for Robin to jump through the sunroof and get rid of several other thugs before all of them were laying on the ground.

"Uhm…how did you get inside? I don't say that you don't receive some kind of Black Ops training but glowing green in the dark doesn't help."-Robin asked pointing at the dreaded window as Shinji quickly touched his body to see if there was anything wrong.

"I-I don't know, I think I flew through a window without breaking it?"-Shinji said as he made a mental note about it, 'Could become useful in the future.'-Shinji thought as Robin shot a grin at him.

"Martian Manhunter powers, neat, and right here we have our proof, already contacted the cops."-Robin said as he couldn't help but internally chuckle. 'He's been on Earth for less than a week and already can go through walls better than KF.'-Robin thought as he and Shinji left towards another den. The young Lantern couldn't help but admit to himself that he had fun, Robin was lighthearted and fun, and although he took everything seriously while they fought crime together but added a little joke or tease here and there, with his laugh probably triggering PTSD in Gotham's crooks. And as hours passed and the two young heroes attacked several drug dens, in apartments, warehouses and even boats parked in the harbour, with newly discovered ability of density change it helped both of them create traps and surprises, Shinji himself even picked up some of Robin's quips like being a little more lighthearted and telling a joke once in a while before taking his next target out, noticing that his ring and taking care of bad guys wasn't only fuelling his guilt, but also his enjoyment. Thanks to that mutual understanding the two made quick work of the dens while Robin was giving police the right amount of clues to lead them to various dens. It was on their way back to Northpoint when the two stopped a robbery of a 24/7 store that also sold subs, as a thanks the owner gave each a sandwich and a cup of coffee.

"So, are you having fun yet space policeman?"-Robin asked before taking a sip of his coffee.

"Will it sound weird that I do? It is more efficient then following the procedures."-Shinji replied before taking a final bite of his sandwich.

"Maybe, but It makes the two of us."-Robin said grinning as Shinji couldn't help but do the same. All before the sound of a helicopter rotor could be heard before it revealed itself to the young heroes.

"Robin, this is the Coast City Police Department, take off your utility belt and put your hands in the air."-A female voice from the helicopter boomed out of the microphone. Robin didn't even say a word before running away and leaping from the building, Shinji quickly caught up with him as both of them were now on the run from the CCPD helicopter.

"What the hell?!"-Shinji asked as he took a deep dive with Robin.

"Batman and I aren't regarded very well in some places."-Robin explained as he landed on one of the rooftops. Their dash however was stopped by a bullet landing just in front of Robin's feet.

"Robin, that was a warning hot, surrender, we won't tell you again, Kid Lantern…you may leave alone."-The same female voice said as Shinji saw Robin slowly reaching for something in his belt, they had to run. So Shinji conjured a small green pellet, before using his ring to throw it right at the helicopter's window, and much to Shinji's surprise…although it was kind of stupid to think that blinding a pilot of a helicopter would be a good idea, the helicopter veered to right as much to Shinji's horror it was getting close to the nearby building, he launched several tendrils and tried to wrap the helicopter in a light grasp, although he could make a giant rifle he still wasn't strong to hold something as heavy as a helicopter, straining his willpower to maximum. It was this moment that Robin leaped off the rooftop before launching another grappling hook, making a 180 turn wrapping the rear end with metal cord before jumping to the nearest building and tying it, taking a bit of weight from Shinji, who with the help of Robin's grappling hook managed to lower the helicopter to the ground.

"Get out now!"-Shinji said as the crew staggered out, as he looked around to check on Robin he saw him jumping out of the rooftop.

"Wait!"-Shinji exclaimed as he poured all the remaining willpower into his aura before catching up to Robin, with him leaping from another rooftop, his colourful outfit visible thanks to Shinji's very bright aura, sending out another tendril of light at Robin's direction before it turned into a ball, closing Robin inside.

"Hey!"-Robin exclaimed as Shinji flew in front of him with his arms crossed.

"What was that? Those officers treated you as if you were another random supervillain."-Shinji said as if he tried to look intimidating, it wasn't very convincing judging from Robin's facial expression.

"You probably won't get it, you are sanctioned by an intergalactic Police Force, Batman and I are vigilantes and not every Police department likes it."-Robin explained also folding his arms while Shinji settled them on the nearest rooftop.

"I thought you were superheroes?"-Shinji asked letting Robin out of the dome as it retracted back to his ring.

"We are, some people just don't like the way we do things, from the shadows and all of that, they think we're shady or something."-Robin joked as Shinji couldn't help but connect the "from the shadows." to SELLE members and what he learned during the Third Impact.

"There you are."-Hal said hovering from the sky as Batman appeared from behind the two young heroes.

"We saw a helicopter parked on a street, explain."-Batman demanded as Robin walked in front of Shinji.

"It was an accident."-Robin explained as Batman eyed his protégé.

"You know how certain authorities see us. Exactly the reason why I told you no working in other cities."-Batman scolded as Robin looked up.

"Come on! How are we will be able to change our image if world still sees us as just vigilantes wreaking havoc?"-Robin asked as Hal turned towards Batman.

"Don't be so harsh on Robin, I'll smooth things over with the CCPD. And I don't want Kid to be hunted for destroying a chopper paid by taxpayers."-Hal joked as he put his arm on Shinji's shoulder.

"You need to stop being so lenient Jordan."-Batman said as he vanished into the darkness.

"See ya KL."-Robin added also disappearing into the night leaving the veteran and the rookie alone on the rooftop.

"Sorry Hal."-Shinji said looking up to his superior as his mask vanished.

"No problem, and please don't give me those puppy eyes, it gives me the creeps."-Hal said both of them made their way back to Hal's apartment.

"Roger…"-Shinji said as Hal then looked back with concern and wry amusement.

"Hey listen, don't let Batman get in your head, he just doesn't like us Lanterns very much, and we have to stick for each other."-Hal explained as they flew over a busy street, with Shinji summoning his mask back on as people on the ground were taking pictures of them.

"Are you sure it's ok?"-Shinji once again asked before Hal once again turned towards him before stopping mid-air.

"Kid, who is your partner?"-Hal asked as they flew under a bridge.

"You sir."-Shinji replied with a smile as Hal winked at him.

"Good, then listen to me whenever I tell you to not be moody, in this line of work you need to be a bit loose or you'll die before puberty."-Hal joked grinning as Shinji had another question.

"Hal? Did you know we could phase though walls?"-Shinji asked as Hal turned towards him surprised.

"What?"

Chapter Text

"Damn it! Couldn't Green Lantern bother himself with arresting us rather then sending out his brat?"-One of the bank robbers said before Shinji, or Kid Lantern knocked him with a swift of an Eva fist, few days had passed ever since his meeting with Robin. So much so that the days turned into a "routine", a routine that to someone else could sound like a plot of a comic book or a Tokusatsu show. Go to school, study, go back home, quickly get though his homework and jump into the costume before heading out for a patrol. Since having English being dumped into his mind school stopped being such a nuisance as he got through most of the subjects, his integration with his peers though…went a lot worse. The only person that he talked with was Amy, and even then it was only a couple of words, a silent type much like him. On the contrast Shinji loved flying though the clear sky with his earbuds in and listening to some dynamic music, meanwhile looking at the city beneath him and keeping an eye out for trouble. But also looking at his reflection in the windows, and occasionally cheering when he took a massive nosedive or two, but it didnt mean he was looking for a fight were there wasnt one and always having an eye for any supervilain or a robber looking for trouble. He only wanted to live to the fullest, and he enjoyed it. He still had a mission though, and currently he was just doing exactly that. By putting an end to a bank robbery he stumbled upon.

"You talk to much, and I am a Green Lantern. Just because your local space cop is a kid doesn't mean you have to add Kid to everything right?"-Kid Lantern asked himself before he gathered up all the laying money bags from the floor and handed them back to the bank cashier. Giving only a small nod he soared up though the open sunroof leaving before any of the press would arrive. In contrast to his turf partner Kid Lantern was a man of few words, but after an "incident" revolving saving a couple of teenage girls made him quite popular among the youth population of Coast City, and the fact that he was wearing a tight body suit that showed off much of his build didn't help that. So he was always choosing the option of leaving before the police and the press would arrive. 'All right, patrol done, time for shopping.'-Shinji thought as he flew back to Hal's apartment, desummoning his uniform and closing the balcony door behind him. From what Hal had told him, his job was that of a test pilot and that he would be gone for most of the day, so he left him some money so that he could pick some take out for himself. But thanks to months of living with Misato and Asuka, both quite disfunctional in terms of running a household, taught him many important skills, one of which was cooking. And judging by the amount of bills left on the table it would be quite enough for decent dinner. He then took around across the rest of the apartment and realising what mess Hal had left before leaving for work. He only sighed as once again he thought of Misato and made the same connection, a professional in both of his jobs but a mess of a human being. 'That's for later.'-he thought as he walked out of the apartment with all the money stuffed in the pockets of his hoodie, earphones in and looking down to the ground. Of course he could've used his ring in order to show him the amount of American Dollars into Japanese Yen but once when he tried that he realised how much different the course of yen was compared to his own world. So he had to rely on his intuition regarding buying food, and so he did. Buying chicken, rice, vegetables and soup stock. After coming back to the apartment the first thing Shinji did was getting the food into the fridge as his current task was to clean the place up before Hal will come back. Shoving it between all the take-out, soda and beer. Once again making a silent comparison. He took out all the cleaning equipment from a nearby drawer before taking a look across the entire apartment. 'It's going to be few hours before I manage to clean it all up myself...myself, that's it!'- a small green lightbulb lit up at the back of his head. He looked at his ring before summoning several small Eva arms, it didn't hurt to have few extra pairs of hands right? But then he realised he would need to keep an eye onto all of the hands in order to see the arms to access all the spots. His constructs then suddenly merged into one to form a single one, an image of green Asuka wearing a maid uniform, the shock itself was quite enough for Shinji to startle before the construct disvolved. The sheer shock of it made him shake his head. Sitting there on the floor for a few seconds before trying again, summoning the maid again he was sure he could some form of ache in his chest as he looked at the warm and genuine smile that the person he once knew never worn once. He focused once more as he gave the Asuka several more clones, all identical to the last detail.

"Okay…here you have the cleaning equipment. So please get to work?"-Shinji asked as the nine Asukas nodded before Shinji, trying to keep his guilt hidden in order not to lose control put the maid Asukas to work thoughout the apartment. Washing, cleaning, doing laundry, sweeping, dusting. Trying to get himself elsewere Shinji turned to cooking while occasionally glancing at the maids. In less then a hour Shinji managed to: cut the chicken and vegetables, boiled the stock and cooked it all together. His eyes focused on the small kingdom in front of him while ironing his will in order to keep the Asukas behind him in their material form. Other then playing his cello, schoolwork and crimefighting of course cooking was one of the ways Shinji tried to get his thoughts away from his own earth, the one that he abandoned to rot. If people came back from LCL? Rebuild humanity? Maybe…although he always kept those thoughts to haunt him whenever he was going to bed, trying to "enjoy" every bit of his new life, both as the american citizen Shinji Ikari and as a young corps officer and superhero "Kid Lantern". Shinji then looked around the apartment to see the apartment cleaned up as a tear, the nine maid constructs then stood facing him as if they awaited another order.

"Uhm, thank you?"-Shinji said as he dismissed the constructs, and it was then when he was struck by the realisation of what he just did. 'I've finally summoned a living construct.'-he thought as this sentence kept clouding his mind before he heard the door opening, Shinji took it as a sign and quickly prepared two plates of rice and chicken and two bowels of soup. But what surprised Shinji the most was that Hal wasn't alone. For a minute his heart skipped a beat as he thought it was Misato. She had short black hair and wore a black leather jacket thrown over a tight violet dress.

"Hey Shinji, this is my boss Carol Ferris. Carol, this is my ward Shinji."-Hal said as Shinji slightly bowed.

"It's nice to meet you Miss Ferris."-Shinji said as Carol raised her eyebrow at Hal before turning back to Shinji.

"It's nice to meet you too as well, and my I'm glad we decided to skip dinner because what you made there smells amazing, I hope you have enough for three?"-Carol asked as Shinji nodded before preparing a portion for Carol as well before the three sat down at the table. Carol kept complementing him as Shinji tried to shrug it off as it being just a simple dish he made from the money Hal had left him. As all three of them finished eating Shinji wanted to gather up the dishes, before being stopped by Carol.

"Don't worry, me and Hal will wash the dishes."-Carol said as both Shinji and Hal eyed her down.

"But I-"-Shinji was quickly cut off by Carol.

"No, you spent hours working on dinner. Allow us to take off a bit of work from your back."-Carol said as she gave Hal "the look" to which he complied. As the two adults dealt with the dishes Shinji managed to deal with the rest of housework where the Asuka maids missed and folded up the laundry. Meanwhile Carol finally saw an occasion to finally talk with Hal.

"So, do you mind explaining yourself?"-She asked as the test pilot only sighed expecting that a conversesation like this would pop up sooner or later. Of course he couldn't tell her the truth, hell she didn't he was a Green Lantern, so he chose to play dumb.

"I don't have anything to explain myself for Carol, I have a friend who I owed a favour and asked me to take care of his son, and so I did."- Hal said as Carol wiped her forehead.

"You couldn't take care of a houseplant, hell I had to sign a colease on your car so you could get yourself to work. What made you think that you can take care of a child? Let alone a teenager."-Carol asked as Hal searched thoughout his mind for any arguments.

"Let's just say that I wanted him to have a sample of normal life without moving all the time."-Hal said as a period of silence occured between him and Carol, and it lasted for a while before Carol checked her watch.

"I gotta go."-She said as Hal complied to her request, handing her jacket and leading her to the door.

"Are you leaving Miss Ferris?"-Shinji asked peaking out from the laundry room.

"I have work tommorow morning, it was nice meeting you Shinji, and good luck in not getting sucked down by Hal's messes like the rest of us."-Carol said smirking, with Shinji only letting out a silent chuckle.

"It's not a problem, comparing him prior roomates it's like a difference between heaven and Earth."-Shinji said as he once again slighty looked down. 'Great job in exposing yourself stupid!'-his inner voice said as Carol took it as a respectible bow and bowed back before leaving with Hal closing the door behind her.

"You know, if I'd know that you are a more normally functioning adult then me I'd think twice before agreeing on taking you in."-Hal said as Shinji turned towards him.

"I wasn't meaning on doing that."-Shinji said in a monotone voice as Hal raised his eyebrow.

"Come on Shinji, lighten up a little! I was just joking! And if we are going to live together then you should bring some of that sense of humour from the patrols back here, oh, and thanks for prepping dinner and cleaning up. At least for once this place didn't make Carol look disgusted."-Hal said ruffling Shinji's hair.

"Yeah, I'm going to take a shower and go to bed, fighting crime takes a lot."-Shinji said as he made his way to the bathroom.

"Right, I already showered at Ferris so I just go catch some zzz's already, night Kid."-Hal said leaving towards his bedroom. Shinji only sighed as the door closed.

"Night."-Shinji replied as he took a shower before landing in his bed, his eyes gazing at the small window and his ring that lighly iluminated in the dark, still residing on his finger before he took it off and put it on his bedside table, it finally stopping to glow. It was finally the time where Shinji would allow himself to think and finally let the realisation how simmilar Hal and Misato were. The thoughts and the chance that he could be the last survivor of his planet were clouding his mind for a while. Well, except his mom but she was lightyears away and much similar like Yui, he already died. But it was quite poetic. Sodam Yat was the last survivor and the last green lantern of his universe who past his ring to Shinji, a last survivor himself. But he couldn't allow himself to cry over spilled milk, one day perhaps with the help of Hal and the Corps one day he could perhaps travel back and see. But that would mean spilling the beans to Hal and he wasn't ready for it, not knowing the man who Shinji came to respect and appriechate as his mentor and perhaps really the best of the best Lanterns would think of him after. Guardians knew, and for Shinji for now it was enough. He wasn't ready, he was afraid, and fear was a Green Lantern's greatest enemy, but who could he trust? Koriand'r knew some of it but technically she didn't count since she was far away and probably they would never see each other digged further and the only person he could think was the familiar face of Arisia smiling at him, she perhaps being one of the few people's smiles who Shinji had burried deep as cherised memory of seeing Rei smile. But then a sudden flash of seeing Asuka's body laying on the beach made him shiver, even though it was all an ilussion it still made him disgusted with himself. He thought that he couldn't bring himself to feel something "special" to another person, he didn't want to hurt anyone the same way as he hurt and betrayed Asuka, leaving her alone to die in the hands of the mass production Evas. 'Never Again, I can't.'-Shinji thought as he finally fell asleep allowing himself to drift away.

Fire...that was what he was feeling as it appeared he was rapidly approaching something that resembled a sun…but red. Although he felt something else, peace at himself? Calm? He flew faster then ever, as if his body was once again in possetion of Ion's powers. Then what brought him to a surprise was a voice that came from his ring, it was somehow familiar, although far more mature and expierenced, less innocent.

"Sodam what are you doing!? SODAM NO!"-The voice screamed as suddenly everything turned black. Shinji, or he thought himself to be Shinji stood in the pitch black, he wore his old school uniform and noticed his ring glowing faintly in the dark. As suddenly Asuka stood next to him.

"You think this changes anything you idiot?"-she asked as she turned towards him revealing her bondages and patched eye. She then yanked his ring hand close to his face.

"You THIS is a apology to any of us? When you ran away and ditched us in order to have your grand space oddysey, where was that will of yours when I had my mind raped? Where was it when I was eaten alive!?"-Asuka asked as she grabbed Shinji by the neck, him not being able to stutter up a reply he used what little willpower he had remaing zapped Asuka with a beam as she shattered like glass. He then opened his eyes to find himself back on the beach. He then saw Asuka, standing before turning around smirking.

"Want to witness the end?"-She asked as Shinji then felt a massive pain in his head as he then found himself standing in a crater. Now fully dressed in his Lantern uniform as it appeared he was now surrounded by the emotional spectrum entities as the universe seemed to be falling apart around him, and it was then when he allowed himself to scream before a rainbow vortex pulled him in.

Shinji jolted up from his bed, his entire body covered in sweat from the sheer power of the nightmare, that although lasting for hours felt like a rollercoaster of twists and turns punching him in the gut. 'Oh god…I need a shower.'-he thought as he quickly put on his ring, the sheer volume of the need made him summon his aura as his body jolted into the air as several small tendrils quickly corrected the bed before two reached out to his drawer for fresh undergarments allowing Shinji's power battery briefly illuminating the room. Shinji closed the door behind him and flew into the bathroom. Clean of sweat, depressing thoughts and done with. His mind and willpower now sharply focused on what this day would bring. But he couldn't do it in only his pants, so he return back to his room to slip into a pair of black shorts, a white T-shirt and a green hoodie. Now done with that he made his way towards the kitchen, turning on the TV before getting to work on breakfast. It was Saturday, with Shinji still getting used to the fact he now had two free days he could use to himself. He prepared coffee, eggs and bacon as after an hour Hal emarged from his room, letting out a jawcracking yawn.

"Arent you supposed to be a lazy teenager sleeping off the school week?"-Hal asked as Shinji turned towards the veteran lantern.

"I dunno, and arent you former military types supposed to be uptight and running since dawn?"-Shinji sarcastically asked as Hal smirked before pointing at him.

"so you DO have a sense of humour, good to know."-Hal said as Shinji handed him down a plate of eggs, bacon and a cup of coffee as Shinji looked towards the tv showing Kid Lantern stopping a bank robbery from yesterday and aperhanding the robbers.

"We should really split up the chores."-Hal said as he took a sip of his coffee and just realised how good it is.

"Eh, we don't need to and it also serves as a payment for allowing me to live here and act as a normal person rather then be Kid Lantern all the time, besides with the ring at my disposal I can probably quadruple the effort."-Shinji said as he prepared a plate for himself before sitting down as well, the two continued to eat before Hal's phone begun to buzz.

"Wait kid, gotta pick it up, hey Barry!"-Hal said as he picked up the phone before walking away from Shinji. But knowing and being able to read though moods Shinji could see that Hal's mood quickly turned more grim.

"What? But how? He's in prison, what do you mean you saw him? Right we'll be there soon, of course I'm bringing him along, with those two we will need any help we can get."-Hal said as he ended the call.

"Eat up quickly, we are leaving soon."-Hal said as he wolfed down his eggs much to Shinji's confusion.

"Why?"-Shinji asked as he drinked his coffee.

"We're going to meet a friend of mine, another superhero, and don't worry he is not like Batman."-Hal said as he sent out a tendril of light bringing Shinji's power battery. As he handed it over to Shinji he then summoned his own Power Battery.

"Come on, charge up."-Hal said as both recited the oath before being engulfed in their uniforms.

"But what about the dishes?"-Shinji asked as Hal smirked.

"We'll deal with that later."-Hal said as both Lanterns flew out from the apartment in soundbreaking speeds.

"We are we going?"-Shinji asked as he noticed the shifting on the sun, meaning they entered a different time zone.

"Central City."-Hal replied as after few minutes they found themselves floating above Central City, Kansas. Hal gestured for them to dive down into the city as Shinji couldn't help but look around himself and try to compare it to Coast City or even Tokyo 3.

"It feels, different then Coast City."-Shinji said as Hal turned towards him.

"Does it?"-Hal asked as they flew next to the streets with people waving at them.

"So, where is this friend?"-Shinji asked as suddenly a red and yellow streak flew past them, managining to pick up their hair upwards.

"Wow."-Shinji said as he couldn't believe the streangth of the wind the two created, especially since he and Hal were still floating in the air. Hal only smirked as they looked where the streak left.

"That's the Flash for ya, come on…lets go say hi."-Hal said as Shinji followed him, with the two landing in front of an empty robbed bank that was being analyzed by the police and another pair of superheroes.

"Hey Flash."-Hal said as he and Shinji turned towards the pair of peculiar superheroes. The taller one wore a sleek full red bodysuit with yellow boots and yellow lightining motif on the chest and belt area. He also wore a mask with white eyes and small lightining bolts on the sides. The smaller one wore a suit in reverse colour combination with red boots and gloves and yellow bodysuit with a red lightining bolt in a white circle. In contrast to his mentor his mask was open allowing his red hair to be visible. His mask also didn't have white pupils allowing his green eyes to be visible. Above his eyes there resided a pair of red goggles to shield his eyes while running at high velocities.

"Hey GL, so this is your new sidekick? It's about time you joined our little club."-Flash said as he shook hands with Hal who only shook his head.

"Nope, he's not a sidekick, he's my partner and a full fledge Green Lantern like me."-Hal explained as the younger of Central City's heroes popped up.

"So when can I be a full Flash?"-he asked as Flash gave him "the look" before turning back to Hal.

"Right, you two don't get in trouble, we have a team-up to stop."-Hal said as he shot out into the sky in a green beam.

"Be back in a Flash."-Flash said as he turned into a red streak before running off.

"Does he always say that?"-Shinji asked as he turned towards the boy.

"You wont believe me how many times a day. I'm Kid Flash by the way!"-Kid Flash said as he reached out his hand to Shinji.

"Kid Lantern."-Shinji, as to what Hal told him only gave his alter ego as Kid Flash rapidly shook his hand.

"So…what do we do now?"-Kid Lantern asked as Kid Flash kept looking around himself.

"I dunno, they told us to stay put but I'm not really good in standing still. Come on, lets go with the exploring."-Kid Flash said before jolting off with Kid Lantern, although confused by the gung-ho attitude and the playful smirk, his thoughts travelled towards his first time when he and Asuka faced the angel Israfel, one that could clone itself and since both were unsync it ended badly. He swallowed his bad concerns and followed the streak Kid Flash was leaving behind. As suddenly Kid Flash took a major turn before the two young Brave and the Bold found themselves in the bad part of town before Kid Flash ran into a group of Lantern Although not wanting to believe someone who was a protégé of one of the founding members of the Justice League would act so petty, with a grimace he used his ring to extend the range of the sound sensors allowing him to hear the conversation.

"You're in the wrong part of town Flashboy or however you are called."-A man in a sleeveless leather jacket said as Kid Flash extended his tounge.

"It's Kid Flash, and since I'm already here how about a race tubby?"-Kid Flash said as Shinji internally cringed. 'They may be criminals, but its him who pissed them off, and why is he running so slowly? Isnt he the second fastest on Earth? I can travel like Quadrilion kilometers per hour if I put my willpower to the max, and here its as if I'm dealing with Asuka but male!'-Shinji thought was he flew closer to the street to have a better view of the situation. He saw the biker leader swing a chain at Kid Flash that he narrowly dodged, and it was then when Shinji made the realisation, he couldn't go any faster, or seemed to limit himself in order for the shockwave to not destroy everything around him. Finally making his way down Kid Lantern cought Kid Flash in a energy sphere before flying upwards for safety. The bikers stopped for a second before looking up and they were fuming, one even taking out a shotgun but Kid Lantern carried Kid Flash to the safer part of the city. Both quickly landed on the nearest rooftop as Kid Lantern desummoned the energy sphere.

"Gee thanks, finally bothering to help eh?"-Kid Flash asked in a non chalant tone as Kid Lantern was trying his best to control himsel fand not punch Kid Flash square in the jaw, although he could probably dodge it.

"Me? Me!? It was your fault for picking up a fight with a biker gang that wasn't doing anything wrong yet!"-Kid Lantern lashed out as he tried his best impression of his father's death stare, completely omitting the fact his eyes werent visible though his mask. Kid Flash only stared him down as the tension continued to rise.

"Are you hearing yourself? Look at the facts, they were A BIKER GANG IN A BAD SIDE OF TOWN, it writes itself in that sentence. Of course they done something wrong, we, or I just made them do it quicker."-Kid Flash said as he folded his arms. Kid Lantern took a deep breath as he shook his head.

"Quicker?! You cant serious right now? What if they targetted the civilians? Would you be fast enough to save them?"-Kid Lantern nonchalantly replied as Kid Flash was also ready to throw hands.

"Are you sure you are a Green Lantern? Because all I'm seeing is yellow all over your pants."-He replied as Kid Lantern sighed before flying up.

"Find your own way down."-He said as before he could fly away his ring begun to vibrate.

"What's going on GL?"-Kid Lantern asked as he kept the codename rule.

"Hey Kid…right lets just say it we're in trouble and we need your and Kid Flash's help. I've sent the cords already."-GL said as currently he and Flash were currently stuck in a mirror dimension before the message cut off. Although prematurely the message with coordinates managed to get through.

"GL? GL? Can you hear me?"-Kid Lantern asked as he displayed the map of Central City with a dot signalling where Hal's ring was last recorded.

"Hey! Hey! What's going on?"-Kid Flash asked as it was then when Kid Lantern finally noticed him, and realised, although it was deep within Shinji's mind. That he didn't have a chance alone since even veterans like Hal and The Flash were captured.

"Listen, I know we don't like each other but our mentors are in trouble. I would suggest a temporary truce and dealing with it."-Kid Lantern said as he landed back down on the rooftop. Kid Flash only rapidly nodded.

"Fine, now please get me down from here and lets get to it."-Kid Flash said as Kid Lantern begrundly agreed. Both then begun to made their way thoughout Central City, not even exchanging a glance as Kid Flash followed him. It took a little over 45 minutes as the two found themselves standing in front of their destination, an abandonded Hockey Stadium.

"Who would hide in a place like this?"-Kid Lantern asked as he tried to use his mask to locate his partner and Flash. Kid Flash only looked at him with a frawn.

"One way to find out, if you wont stop nagging me."-He said as Kid Lantern sighed before gesturing for them to enter the abandoned stadium. The two walked inside as silent as they could. Kid Lantern held his ring hand up as he ran though analysis and tried to locate GL's ring.

"Watch out!"-Suddenly Kid Flash's voice echoed as both were hit with beams of energy sending them down to the floor. Kid Flash being hit by a blue beam and Kid Lantern being hit by a green beam.

"Ring power drained-around 60% of full charge remaining." -Kid Lantern's ring AI said as he couldn't believe what he was hearing. 'How? I just charged it a little bit over an hour ago'- he thought, as the both young heroes got back on their feet they noticed two peculiar supervillains, one dressed in a orange and green bodysuit with a green face mask and holding a device resembling a pistol. The other one looked more menacing. Dressed in a black and grey suit with a matching cape and a face mask with white eyes and holding a golden device similar to a magician's wand.

"Mirror Master and-"-Kid Flash was suddenly cut off by Kid Lantern's ring.

"System Overwrite: Wiliam Hand, alias Black Hand. Enemy of the Corps, enegry absorbion powers, threat level Omega."-The AI exclaimed suddenly as the two villains eyed the young heroes.

"Oh if it isnt the sidekicks! Wishing to join your masters arent you?"-Black Hand asked as Kid Flash and Kid Lantern got back onto their battle stances.

"Screw that!"-Kid Flash said before rushing at the two villains.

"Kid wait!"-Kid Lantern said as the two villains only smirked.

"Ha! a boy trying to do a man's job?"-Black Hand exclaimed as Mirror Master chuckled before pointing his pistol at Kid Flash.

"Don't laugh Hand! Although he wont land a hit, he needs to find us first!"-He said as suddenly the whole room they were in were filled with Black Hands and Mirror Masters. Kid Lantern finally took action as he used his ring to zap though a copy after copy, while trying to use his ring and the sensors in his mask to locate the originals.

"Illusions? Magic's a ripoff! I'll just punch though you all!"-Kid Flash said as he punched another Mirror Master disintegrating him.

"Haste's a waste junior, and while you are busy, I'll get what I want from this partner of yours!"-Black Hand said before be aimed his weapon at Kid Lantern before firing.

"Lantern!"-Kid Flash exclaimed as he tried to move Kid Lantern out of the way. Not knowing that he already had a plan, he grabbed Kid Flash by the hand and flew downwards using his ability to phase though matter before the two landed in what seemed to be an abandoned locker room.

"That was a smart move…"-Kid Flash said breathing hard as he took out a candy bar from a compartment on his glove before swallowing it. Kid Lantern on the other hand wasn't in a lightly mood.

"We need a plan…"-he said as Kid Flash nodded.

"So mister space cop, what are your suggestions?"-Kid Flash asked as Kid Lantern rubbed his chin, although annoyed by Kid Flash's nonchalant tone, he still appretiated him trying to move him out of the way of Black Hand's blast. So rather than a frawn. He showed him a smirk as his ring displayed where GL and Flash were as the building blocks of his plan were assembling.

"I think I just came up a plan..."

Kid Flash couldn't believe on what he was agreeing as he watched the future battlefield, the unfrozen skating ring. 'This is so stupid, and he calls me reckless?'-he thought as from his place of hiding he watched Black Hand and Mirror Master standing in front the pyramid-like prison in which both GL and Flash were locked inside, although himself surprised that both of them were cought in a trap like that.

"Hey Hand!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed as he brought the attention of both of the villains.

"If it isnt the side-kick Lantern? Still having some ring power left? Well not for long!"-Black Hand exclaimed shooting a green beam out of his weapon, Kid Lantern noticing that the power from the villain's weapon draining from Hal's ring from the prison as both GL and Flash felt their power being sucked off. Kid Lantern only smirked as he flew upwards seemingly allowing himself in Hand's line of fire. Mirror Master then turned around to see Kid Flash sprinting towards him.

"Hand! Deal with him before-"Mirror Master didn't even have enough time to fire his weapon, let alone communicate with hand before Kid Lantern sent out a large explosion of green light. Kid Flash already had his eyes covered by his goggles. Seemingly on pure instinct he rushed towards Black Hand and took his weapon before Kid Lantern brought back the light back to his ring.

"Well that was useless, now with all of the Flash's speed I can accelerate this little heart of yours end-MY GUN!"-Black Hand exclaimed as he and Mirror Master turned towards Kid Flash, who with a smirk held Black Hand's device.

"Looking for this? Well sorry but the thing is out of juice!"-Kid Flash exclaimed he managed to fire a beam at Kid Lantern, that recharged his ring back to 100 percent while Kid Flash used the gun on himself to restore his and his partner's full speed before either Mirror Master or Black Hand could react he rushed to the pyramid-like prison, breaking it setting GL and Flash free. The two duos then turned towards the villains before rushing at them.

"Damn it Hand! Fill your gun again!"-Mirror Master exclaimed as Black Hand hopelessly aimed his gun.

"I cant! They're moving to damn fast!"-Black Hand exclaimed before suddenly two construct fists punched him in the gut and in the head and sending him flying as GL cought his device in a construct sphere.

"Then I have an avage for you Hand, "All for one, and me for me!"."-Mirror Master exclaimed trying to use his device to vanish to another dimension before the crimson rocket rushed and cought the device before breaking it.

"Well Mirror Master, all for one and one for all, so don't worry…you'll enjoy your partner's company on your trip to Belle Revve."-Flash said as he pressed a button in his suit signalling the authorities as GL held them in a construct cage, it was this moment where they dealt with the whole situation when Kid Lantern made his silent leave back to Coast City. Landing in Hal's apartment before desummoning his uniform and getting to work on dinner. Shinji did feal like a jerk for peacing out like that but he explained it to himself that he was fed up with Kid Flash's attitude. 'He may have his heart in a good place, but he is also just like Asuka: Hardeheaded, head-first, thinks he is invincible, nothing ever is his fault.'-he thought as he continued to stand in the kitchen before Hal appeared behind him.

"You really wanted to leave Kid Flash on a rooftop?"-he asked sternly as Shinji didn't bother turning back.

"He picked up a fight with a biker gang, endangering civilians and potentially himself. If it wasn't for your message I wouldn't look back at him."-Shinji said as Hal sighed.

"Funny enough it was the reason me and Barry were captured, too busy talking about how potentially leaving you two alone could cause a quarell like this. But now listen to me, you saw it today how much we need to watch each other's backs in this line of work, if they are lanterns or not. You may not like Kid Flash personally, but even you could see that without his help you would just join me and Flash as energy sources for Black Hand. And although he may pull off dumb stunts, trust me Flash berated him in front of me and sent running home you need to watch out for his back just as he watch out yours, and thanks to that you won. Do you got it?"-Hal asked as Shinji had to acknowlegdge the fact that Hal was right, Kid Flash was a hero, in his own unique way just as he was.

"Yes sir."-Shinji said as Hal took a sniff of the pan.

"Great, now what are you cooking?"

Shinji couldn't sleep, and this time not because of nightmares, more of guilt. He wasn't a person to look for enemies, he kept reciting Hal's words in his head thoughout the rest of the day. Even when he went on a patrol with Hal and the two busted some of the bad guys together. 'I guess I should say sorry.'-he thought as he got up and put on his clothes and ring before summoning his uniform, as he flew out of the window Kid Lantern then made his way into the continent and towards Central City.

"Ring, display me the adress of Kid Flash."-He ordered as the graph information appeared in front of his eyes. 'Wally West?'-he thought as he flew down beneath the cloud barrier and found himself in the suburbs of Central City and finding the West household, landing in a way so that he wont be seen by any of the neighbours and using his mask to scan though where Kid Flash's room resided. Kid Lantern took a deep breath as he summoned a small finger tapping on the window.

"Who's there?"-Wally asked asked before he opened the window, surprised to see the young Lantern floating in front of his window.

"It's me, Kid Lantern…"-Kid Lantern said as Wally raised his eyebrow.

"Dude, you used your ring to find me?"-Wally asked as Kid Lantern sighed.

"Yeah…I wanted to apologise for trying to leave you on that rooftop."-He said as Wally pointed behind himself.

"Can you come out to the front door? It must be tiring to float in the air like that."-Wally said as Kid Lantern nodded before flying towards the front door and desummoning his uniform just in time for Wally to open the door to look Shinji in the eye.

"Dude you're Kid Lantern?"-Wally asked as Shinji raised his ring hand revealing the shining ring

"You look twelve."-Wally joked as Shinji looked at him with a "You serious?" look.

"I'm fourteen."-Shinji said as Wally rubbed the back on his head.

"Right, about the rooftop incindent, you don't have to apologise to me, it was stupid of me to pick up the fight with those bikers. I should've probably expected you to react like that, your ring chose you on certain quantities and all that, should've been excepecting that you have better discipline then me."-Wally said as Shinji nodded before he also rubbed the back of his head.

"Right…I also wanted to thank you for pushing me away from Black Hand's blast, and that you were there to help."-Shinji said as Wally smirked.

"Dude! We've defeated Black Hand and Mirror Master all by ourselves! If that isnt the best first team-up then I don't know what else could be! Regarding those bikers, it's just Flash keeps me on a tight leash and rarely lets me go all on my own, it gets annoying, and if I do that I get beraded."-Wally said nervously stomping with his foot.

"He just wants you to be safe."-Shinji asked as Wally nodded sighing.

"Probably, but it must be nice to have a cool guy like Mister Jordan as your mentor."-Wally said as Shinji raised his eyebrow.

"You know his name?"-Shinji asked as Wally nodded before leaned onto door frame.

"It isnt as big of a secret as he wants it to be. So like I said it must be really cool?"-Wally asked as Shinji nodded.

"It's alright, he isnt nearly as responisble as Flash or Batman and can be a slob."-Shinji said as Wally looked at him with an acknoledging expression.

"But he lets you strive on his own and doesn't keep looking onto your shoulder all the time."-Wally said admirngly as Shinji looked at his feet.

"He wants me to do his own thing as my own hero, so that's good I think."-Shinji said as then Wally thrusted his hand out.

"And we almost forgot about proper introduction, Wally West."-He introduced himself as Shinji shook his hand.

"Shinji Ikari, and I really don't want any bad blood remaining between us."-Shinji said as Wally then raised his hand as an invitation for a high five.

"So, friends?"-he asked as he and Shinji shared a high five.

"Friends, and I should really go back to Coast City, need to catch some sleep."-Shinji said as Wally let out a yawn.

"Same, so see you around?"-Wally asked as Shinji summoned his uniform.

"See you, and good luck with Flash."-Kid Lantern said before flying away as Wally watched the green streak of light piercing though clouds. 'Rob was right afterall, he Is a nice guy.'-he thought before returing back inside.

Chapter Text

Boredom…it was this single word that could describe Shinji's Saturday. Hal went out to work and since Shinji didn't have any friends to hang out with and did all of his homework it meant he was tucked away in the apartment, flocking though TV channels from both coasts. 'For a country that supposedly revolutionised television as we know it there aren't any good shows.'-Shinji thought before flicking to another channel.

"And now on GBC's late night hour classic's program block, a show that maybe inspired Superman to put on tights and soar though the skies. A cult classic that made us think where are our heroes? Miracleman now on GBC."-The announcer said as it picked up Shinji's interest as the show began with words of an narrator.

"After discovering the incredible power of the atom, scientist Guntag Barghelt searched the world for a person worthy of granting this magnificent power. After stumbling across young copy boy Micky Moran who impressed him with his integrity he was chosen to bear the mighty atom. After Barghelt's experiment young Micky gains powers far beyond human understanding. Faster than any express train! More powerful than biggest rockets! Able to soar though the skies faster than any plane! All with a single word! When Micky Moran says the magic word "KIMOTA!" he becomes Miracleman!"-The narrator said as the frail blonde boy on the screen suddenly changed into a muscular man dresses in a blue bodysuit with red boots, gloves and belt with a yellow band with a red "MM" initials across his chest before the show finally began with it's very 60s theme song. 'Oh, so it must be similar to Ultraman.'-Shinji thought as he continued to watch the show. Very standard 60s action hero show. Followed by a routine that was probably in every episode: Micky Moran finds out about the problem from his editorial, transforms into Miracleman, goes to investigate, finds the problem and connects the dots, a villain of the week is revealed, Miracleman barges into his lair and gets trapped. And this was the moment of the episode that Shinji was strapped in for, drinking a Kooba Cola and trying to find out what would happen next.

"You're too late you Blue Baboon! With my mining rocket I will gather all of the oil on the moon and I'll be stinky rich! And with you trapped nobody can stop me!"-The villain, a scientist with large goggles and black hair exclaimed as Miracleman struggled against his restraints.

"I won't let your devious plan come to fruition Gurgunza! Fortunately, those restraints you have were designed to house the mighty Miracleman, but not a brave copy boy, KIMOTA!"-Miracleman exclaimed his incantation, transforming back into Micky Moran. With his frail hands he managed to get them free.

"Oh no! What is he doing!?"-Gurgunza exclaimed as Moran yelled out his incantation again, using his now free hands to destroy the restraints holding his legs. Miracleman then flew towards Gurgunza and grabbed the laughing scientist by the throat.

"Even if you knock my teeth out you're still too late! The rocket already launched!"-Gurgunza said as Miracleman knocked him out before soaring though the skies, in a way that had to be impressive by standards of 1960s television, but comparing it to what real heroes could do…now it looked like kind of amateur. But Shinji kept watching interested as if he was a little kid. Miracleman managed to catch up with the rocket, before grabbing it and with all his might throw it into the sun. Before coming down back to Earth and handing Gurgunza over to the authorities.

"Thank you Miracleman! I don't know what the United States government would do if the commies found out about oil on the moon."-A police officer said as Miracleman turned towards the camera.

"Well officer, as long as I stand on my feet I'll defend American soil from any threat, would it be evil scientists, giant snowmen or talking vegetables. Besides, I'm sure not even the soviets are dumb enough to destroy the moon if they want to land on it."-Miracleman said as everyone laughed just as the credits begun to roll. Shinji then looked towards his ring.

"Well, it's not like I wouldn't go on a patrol."-Shinji said as he was surrounded by his uniform. Kid Lantern then turned off the TV before leaping though the closed window and down towards the city's streets, with green construct earbuds in his ears. Kid Lantern couldn't help but smile as he casually defied gravity, using his ring to listen to police frequencies trying to keep an ear and eye for trouble. It was then when the sound of the radio broke through the music.

"All local units be advised, we have a robbery of a drug store at Northpoint on the corner of 34th and 23rd."-the police officer said as Kid Lantern instinctively picked up the signal and travelled where the supposed to robbery was taking place. In less than three minutes he found himself floating in front of a deli, seeing two armed robbers holding the man behind the cash counter hostage.

"Really gentlemen? With all the supervillains around and you just rob a guy? That's not even amateur level."-Kid Lantern said bringing the attention of the robbers who quickly towards him before firing their weapons towards him. 'They never learn do they?'-he thought before sending two Eva fists, both grabbed their weapons before knocking them out. Kid Lantern flew inside the shop to take a look around, he then noticed the owner and helped him up.

"Are you ok sir?"-he asked as the owner smiled at him as he pointed towards the two thieves and a bag of money of them was holding.

"You really saved my business there Kid Lantern! Although I'm still puzzled on why a sidekick is flying around alone without supervision."-He said as the young Lantern internally cringed.

"Oh, I am not a sidekick. I was just assigned to GL by our higher-ups as an expansion of my training."-Kid Lantern explained just as a police car rolled up to the crime scene, out of it came out a woman dressed in a trench coat that resembled something a 1970s private eye would wear. Her face although with strong feminine features had a small girly element in a form of freckles underneath her green eyes that contrasted well with her blonde hair. Kid Lantern could notice her mood turning grim as she saw him.

"I see the threat has been taken care of."-She said as Kid Lantern hid his shock as he realised with who he was talking to. Remembering what occurred some time ago when he was out crime fighting with Robin.

"It was you, you were on that helicopter."-Kid Lantern said pointing at her as the woman brushed off her hair.

"I was doing what I was ordered to, capturing a vigilante that was running around my city."-She said as Kid Lantern turned his head.

"A superhero, and a good one, if it wasn't for you ordering for opening fire we wouldn't had damaged the helicopter."-Kid Lantern explained as the woman kept her poker face.

"Maybe he is in Gotham, but not here. Although I would want to give you a talk regarding that helicopter I'm not here to cuff you, in fact I see you did a good job."-She observed as the store owner gave a thumbs up from behind the young superhero. But before he could reply the radio from the woman's car begun to stutter something between echo and radio static.

"This is patrol car 94! We're having a situation in the harbour, possible supervillain attack! Request assistance immediately!"-The radio stuttered as the woman looked towards Kid Lantern with a look that said more than any sentence.

"You need to go, if you ever need me I'm detective Jenifer Marz."-She said as Kid Lantern immediately jolted from the shop into the sky as Jennifer looked upwards into the clouds. 'Godspeed little Lantern.'-she thought as meanwhile Kid Lantern in little less than a minute found himself floating above the Coast City naval yard, and it was at this moment he realised what he was dealing with. 'Water, why did it had to be water? Couldn't be something campy? Like lava or LCL?'-he thought as anxiety over the fact he couldn't swim pierced him faster than a speeding bullet. But fear could wait as he saw another tidal wave hitting the boats with such strength that it would attack people. Kid Lantern put on speed before creating a large sea wall allowing the frightened civilians to escape. As the coast was clear with people and with ring risen Kid Lantern was ready for anything. 'Ring! Give me a scan for heat signatures from under the water level.'-he thought as the visor on his mask lit up, allowing him to see several heat signatures, and what set him on high alert. A large heat signature, that soon revealed itself in a form of a black submarine.

"Ring?"-Kid Lantern asked as he scanned though the submarine as his ring soon answered.

"Negative, no data on the submarine, caution advised."-The Ring's AI replied as Kid Lantern only sighed, just as the submarine's hatch opened to reveal a man dressed in a black diving suit with additional armour with a bubbly-looking grey helmet with red eyes and connected via tubes to his backpack. Kid Lantern made an immediate connection that it was the bad guy as the said "bad guy" looked up.

"You're not Green Lantern."-He said in a modulated voice as Kid Lantern showed him a grimace.

"A Green Lantern, and what are you doing here? Surrender and put down your weapons immediately, same for your men."-Kid Lantern replied in a stern tone as the man suddenly fired lasers from his eyes. Immediately sensing the danger the young Lantern quickly put up a shield, tanking the barrage he transformed the shield into a battering ram, propelling himself towards the man who leaped off the sub as the ram dented the side of the ship. The man, probably distraught with the fact his ship was damaged opened the compartments on his shoulders before firing a barrage of missiles that were tanked by Kid Lantern's shield. 'A guy in a scuba suit gives me such difficulties?'-he thought as suddenly he felt bullets…rapidly approaching him as he reinforced his aura. Seconds passed as he saw himself surrounded by several men dressed in similar black diving suits and holding machine guns. 'Come on Ikari, think! It's not like your shield will stand forever.'-he thought as then he was struck with an idea. It already worked once against two supervillains and with depowered ring. He concentrated a right amount of willpower into a contaminated blast before feeling the green parts of his uniform getting hotter. Before suddenly his ring released a blast of blinding light, temporarily confusing the henchmen as they went back underwater. Allowing Kid Lantern to focus on his singular target. 'Go for the leader, if the general is out then troops will hand themselves over on a tray.'-he recited internally one of Kilowog's lessons as thanks to his mask he managed to locate him, sending him deep into the water with a determined facial expression, hiding his panic that he was far from the surface. The man knew it as he decked Kid Lantern into the chest sending him flying…or swimming as it would be seen. 'Ring keeps me with air so I don't have to worry about that…although it's a shame that doesn't do anything about the thousands of tons pressing onto me.'-he thought as the main topic going inside his head was the person currently swimming in front of him. The crimson eyes of his helmet lighting up seemingly ready for firing another blast.

"Bad move little Lantern, trying to take Black Manta on the water."-Black Manta said as Kid Lantern didn't seem to mind the water…he still had the will to fight. Suddenly he fired a massive barrage of green beams from his ring but to no avail. Black Manta seemed to swim as fast as a speedboat and had great accuracy with his eye blasts evaporating the green energy beams, the fact that they were still underwater was only a cherry on the top of the cake made out of misfortunes. Kid Lantern kept firing beams upon Black Manta before he got grabbed by the throat and put into the side of submarine. Although he was still able to breath though his aura it was getting harder with every passing second. Black Manta's eyes once again lit up reading another blast.

"Game over little Lantern."-He said before suddenly Kid Lantern turned around to see a large hammerhead shark.

"MANTA!"-A deep voice exclaimed as Black Manta was sent flying away from the young Lantern who took although being underwater took a deep breath though his aura. Although any thoughts that were forming in his head were suddenly cut as he felt a warm hand on his shoulder, confused on how he could feel it though his aura he turned around to see a girl looking at him. 'Redheads, why it always have to be redheads?'-he thought at his newly met compatriot. She had short red hair and blue eyes complementing the freckles on her face. She wore a yellow top matching her gloves and what looked like water knee socks without feet and a cyan skirt that matched her choker and details on her top.

"Are you alright?"-She asked with concern as Kid Lantern wiped the back of his head.

"Yeah…I think so."-He replied as both he and the girl now looked at Black Manta as he was being fought by a man dressed in an orange scale shirt and green pants.

"Tula! Watch out!"-Another voice suddenly said as suddenly several of Black Manta's men appeared and opened fire at them, with quick thinking Kid Lantern raised a shield tanking their bullets.

"Don't worry, I'll protect you!"-he spurted at the girl as he used the occasion of the attackers reloading their rifles to fire upon them with his ring, knocking them out and destroying their weapons in a process. As the men unconsciously floated in the sea he turned around towards the girl to ensure she was right. Not knowing the fact that one of the men woke up and aimed his rifle at the young Lantern what was noticed by the girl.

"Behind you!"-She said as suddenly both of her arms and face appeared to have glowing blue marks as she fired a singular blast made out of water knocking out the man once again. Kid Lantern was…surprised to say the least as he turned towards the knocked out man and back to the girl.

"Thanks, we should probably get going. I see you don't have problem with breathing underwater right?"-Kid Lantern asked as the girl nodded.

"Right…I should thank you as well, oh! I'm Tula by the way!"-She introduced herself as Kid Lantern lifted himself up.

"Oh…I'm Shinji Ikari."-Kid Lantern blurted out as he flew away…realising what mistake he made. 'Way to get your identity leaked you idiot!'-his inner self scolded him as he found himself in front of the several of the enemy's henchmen. 'Just like Kilowog said, focus on the mission and the task at hand, if you lose focus, you lose courage and with that you're dead.'-he recited as he summoned a pellet rifle and finally retaliated against the enemy with something other than just his stun beam. Quickly dealing with another group as he saw yet another group of enemies approaching him, he pushed his imagination to its limits as he summoned a make-shift harpoon made out of a positron canon with a spear of Longinus at the tip. 'I hope this will work.'-he thought as he fired the harpoon at the group, imprisoning them on the side of the ship before making the spear electrocute the men knocking them out. Impressed he looked down at his weapon. 'I think we will be good friends.'-he thought as he put the harpoon on his back and got to work. For his second fight underwater after facing off against the angel with Asuka while piloting Unit 02 he did well, using both his ring and his harpoon to deal with remaining enemies, burying his fear of water and the fact that without his ring he would be immediately killed before he could feel it. 'Keep calm Ikari, it's like flying in space…but not weightless.'-he kept reciting before he was surrounded by unconscious floating bodies. 'That's all of them, I just hope Tula is okay…wait, where is she?'-he asked himself as he scanned the terrain with his ring before finally locating Tula, thank goodness safe as she talked with two teenage boys…underwater, and one of them had gills. One was dressed in blue and had medium-long black hair and lighter shade of skin, the second was dressed in red, he had a darker shade of skin and short blonde hair. What caught the young Lantern's attention were the tattoos on his arms and silver hilts on his back. He put on speed before finding himself among their group. What confused him was that the three underwater teenagers slightly bowing as then Kid Lantern to see the same man who was fighting Black Manta just few minutes ago, he could now see that the man was of muscular build probably better then Hal's and had short blonde hair with perfectly trimmed beard and blue eyes, although serious-looking he could see that the man was looking at him with a kind-hearted facial expression.

"Well done young lad."-He said putting his strong hand on Kid Lantern's shoulder.

"Uhm…thank you sir, but where is Manta?"-He asked as the man slightly looked down.

"Sadly escaped, and no thanks necessary. We should be the ones thanking you young Lantern, with your abilities and skills you've defended people on the surface and helped take down Manta's soldiers, what is your name Lad?"-The man asked as Kid Lantern wiped the back of his head.

"My name?"-He asked as the man nodded in understanding.

"If you want to use your pseudonym it's fine."-He said as Kid Lantern nodded.

"Right, I'm Kid Lantern."-Kid Lantern replied as the man once again smiled.

"Pleasure to meet you son, you must be Green Lantern's new protégé. It is nice to know we have another young warrior among our ranks, allow me to introduce my young accompanies, you've already met Tula, this is Garth and my own protégé Aqualad, Kaldur'am. And I am Aquaman."-Aquaman said pointing at the black-haired boy and the dark skinned boy respectively who both slightly bowed as well.

"It is nice to meet you."-Kaldur said as Kid Lantern slightly bowed as well Kid Lantern said as Aquaman put his hand on Kid Lantern's shoulder again.

"And as for a reward for aiding us, allow me to offer the hospitality of Atlantis."-Aquaman said as under his mask Kid Lantern raised his eyebrow.

"The Atlantis?"-He asked confused as Aquaman continued to smile.

"Yes Atlantis, I guess you have heard of it?"-Aquaman asked as Garth raised his hand.

"I think he means the human legend King Orin."-The black haired boy said as Aquaman nodded.

"Of course, then let me show the real Atlantis."-Aquaman said before blasting off like a speedboat with Garth and Kaldur following him. 'How can a human swim so fast? If they are even humans?'-Kid Lantern thought as he then felt the familiar hand grab his own. As he turned around he saw Tula smiling at him.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Come on!"-Tula said as she pulled him with surprising strength as Kid Lantern caught up with his speed to Tula's, who seemingly swam as fast as Aquaman and the two young boys, and kept looking at the young Lantern.

"You know, you can take off your mask. You are among friends Shinji Ikari."-She added as Kid Lantern slightly looked down. 'Yeah, I forgot about THAT. But let's hope the media don't go kilometres underwater, and it's not like I will step into the water again any time soon.'-Shinji thought as his alter ego outside sighed.

"Yeah…but you know, the whole secret identity thing."-Kid Lantern said as Tula kept her smile.

"I promise neither me nor Kaldur and Garth will tell any of your surface journalists who you are under that mask."-Tula said in a tone that Kid Lantern…or Shinji Ikari couldn't resist, either of them not knowing if it was the one or the other who couldn't resist her tone, and so with a tone of green flames Shinji's mask had vanished, allowing Tula to join the narrow group of people who had seen the face of the happy go-lucky yet responsible young superhero Kid Lantern. For some reason Tula kept looking into his face for a little too long.

"Is something wrong? Do I have something on my face?"-Shinji asked as Tula kept looking at his facial expression.

"You seem worried, is everything ok?"-Tula asked rapidly changing the subject as Shinji could feel the very reason behind his worries pressing harder against his aura as they kept swimming or "flying".

"I don't know if I can say it, for someone who lives under water you'll probably laugh at it."-Shinji said as Tula kept smiling.

"Don't worry, besides it's rude to laugh at your guests."-She said as Shinji sighed.

"Ok, I can't swim…"-Shinji said as Tula almost stopped pulling him, looking at him for a second before letting out a silent chuckle.

"Humans…well not all humans were not made to float! If we could we would all have gills!"-Shinji exclaimed in a high pitched tone as Tula kept silently laughing.

"I'm sorry if I offended you, it's just you are afraid of ocean while flying though the depths of space."-Tula said as she kept looking into Shinji's eyes, who's facial expression looked less then amused.

"Yes, but at least space doesn't press you with thousands of tons and kill you with implosion."-Shinji said as Tula gestured her free hand to showcase the view around them.

"Yet remember that space is death and isolation, the ocean is life, a breathing organism."-Tula said as they passed a group of fish and used her hand to wave at the fish. 'Well, if you are a fish…or a fish person, yet her hand doesn't feel like scales.'-Shinji thought as he saw that the ground under them was slowly turning from sand into coral, he then looked up once again towards Tula.

"How long until we will reach the city?"-He asked as then Tula once again shot a glance at him.

"We're already here, welcome to Poseidonis Shinji."-Tula said as soon Shinji saw a marvellous complex made out of several Greek styled buildings. 'A civilisation residing entirely underwater. I guess sometimes the conspiracy theories are true.'-he thought as still felt Tula's hand who kept looking at his marvelled facial expression.

"Come on."-She said as she pulled his hand along for a trip, Garth and Kaldur and Tula had toured him around the city, Shinji so immersed in the atmosphere and beauty that the fact he was thousands of miles underwater wasn't that much of a problem. The three teens proved to be great hosts, Garth was confident and boisterous but still very kind. Tula was really kind and sweet, but sometimes a little bit too pushy into his zone of comfort. Kaldur'am he grew fond of the most. Unlike his friends he was reserved and quiet but seemed kindest out of the three. The three were nothing but nice and answered any of his questions he had regarding the Atleanan history. Shinji was now being escorted towards another building, as he flew next to his newly met friends he could see Atleanians of various skin colours and shapes practicing various forms of magic…yes magic, for someone with a science background and someone with a gift of science subjects himself he should have problems with coming to grip with existence something as extra-terrestrial as magic, but after witnessing the lovecraftian horror that were the angels and after the various people he met on Oa and on his first assignment he was ready to believe in everything. Some of the young students brought Shinji's attention. Like the green skinned boy who resembled more of a fish then a human could increase his size facing off against a girl who had fish tail rather than a pair of legs.

"This is the conservatory of sorcery, it where we study…sorcery of course."-Tula said with a smile as then Kaldur turned towards them.

"And not only regular sorcery, but also combat sorcery as well. It is similar to your hard light constructs, instead made out of water rather than light."-He explained as Shinji nodded to his words.

"Look, there is Queen Mera, let's go say hi!"-Tula said as she swam down with Kaldur, Garth and Shinji following down towards the round arena as Shinji saw another woman, an older redhead with her long hair tied into a ponytail, she also wore a golden helmet on her head and her entire outfit consisted of a green bikini with golden details and a dark green skirt.

"Good La'gann, Lori…you've both made great progress."-the woman said as the quartet of teenagers landed on the floor with Kaldur, Garth and Tula all slightly bowing.

"Kaldur' am, Garth, Tula. I see you've returned. And that you brought a friend from the surface."-she said as Kaldur gestured towards Shinji.

"My Queen, this is Shinji Ikari from the surface world, he is a Green Lantern that helped us fend off Black Manta."-He said as Shinji upon reaction quickly bowed before he was overran by La'gann and Lori.

"Are you a real Green Lantern, can you show us your ring?"-Lori asked as Shinji awkwardly lifted off his ring hand as both she and La'gann inspected his hand.

"Amazing, is it the truth you can soar though the stars as if you were swimming in the ocean?"-La'gann asked as Shinji only nodded. But before he could answer any of the question the younger kids were pushed away by Garth.

"All right you two, I believe you have another class soon."-Garth said as the two younger students only sighed in dissatisfaction before swimming away from them. Shinji however turned towards Kaldur.

"Excuse me, you said Combat Sorcery was similar to my constructs. But aside from a singular blast from Tula I never had a chance to fully see it."-Shinji said as then Garth shot a smile at Kaldur.

"What do you say Kaldur? Do you think we could demonstrate how we do things here?"-Garth asked as Kaldur nodded before the two swam away and took their stances.

"Now watch it."-Tula said as the sparring began with Garth shooting out a whirlpool at Kaldur, who took out the silver hilts from his back and reshaped the attack into a pair of swords. As Shinji kept watching marvelling at their technique and he himself making mental notes Tula once again chimed in.

"You know…for someone who is afraid of water you took your fight very well."-She said as Shinji blushed while trying to keep attention on the duel. As Kaldur swung his swords and Garth kept dodging his attacks.

"I only focused and what was the task at hand, it's better that way then just be afraid of something and lose your focus, and with that your life."-Shinji said as his thoughts went back to the battle with the living shadow Leliel, where his cockiness almost got him killed. Tula for a second puzzled on what he said before she lifted up her finger.

"I know that if Green Lanterns are afraid then they lose their powers, maybe…I could teach you how to swim? There isn't anyone better than an Atleanan to teach you."-Tula said as Shinji immediately blushed as he kept watching.

"I SUMMON THE POWER OF THE TEMPEST!"-Garth exclaimed as he begun to build up a large water blast while Shinji couldn't keep his attention between what was happening in front of him and what Tula just proposed to him.

"B-But, I probably live thousands of kilometres away from here, it would be hard for me to come here."-Shinji said as Tula looked at him with a cheeky facial expression.

"And it's not like your ring cannot find people Galaxies away, ever since our king became a surface hero we have access to surface media. If you have other worries, then know I don't have problems with breathing on the surface."-Tula said as meanwhile on the arena Kaldur focused the water in his hilts into a shape of a gigantic sea monster. While that was happening Shinji thought about Tula proposed to him. He didn't want to admit it but she was right. Not every villain Shinji would face would be land-based, the fight with Black Manta proved it, if it wasn't for Aquaman then it couldn't end up well. The fact that someone proposed him to tutor him in something he was lacking in also helped. It's not like Asuka ever bothered to help him, and even if she would she would just brag about being a child prodigy. As he kept thinking the two attacks clashed as both Kaldur and Garth seemed to struggle against each other before they both vanished. Both of the participants panting for…air?...water?

"See…this is combat sorcery."-Garth said as Mera clapped her hands.

"Bravo! I see you are making progress even after you paused your studies at the conservatory Kaldur' am."-Mera said as she swam towards the two boys just as Shinji then turned towards the redhead.

"You know…ok, it's about time I've learned how to swim."-Shinji said as Tula smiled.

"Great! Visit me next week and we will formulate some form of a graph."-Tula said as suddenly in the distance all of them heard an explosion.

"It's from the science centre."-Kaldur said as he swam away alongside Garth with Tula and Shinji, who at that point put his mask back on followed them. As they reached their destination they witness a giant creature crashing through the wall, it seemed to resembled a giant purple serpent with giant teeth and angry looking yellow eyes. Kid Lantern immediately sent out several bands of light to tie the creature around, him visibly struggling with keeping the construct intact.

"What the? It shouldn't be that hard. Ring! Power percentage remaining?"-Kid Lantern asked as his ring lit up.

"Ring power: 45 percent."-the AI replied as Kid Lantern gritted his teeth. Kaldur and Garth also rushed at the serpent seeing their newly-met friend struggling with keeping the monster intact, Garth summoned a whirlpool while Kaldur formed the water into whips. Kid Lantern then turned around towards Tula and saw that she begun to chant, in a second bands of blue light appeared alongside Kid Lantern's construct, easing the strain on his ring and willpower. It was finally then when the giant serpent became unconscious. Finally letting go of his construct Kid Lantern begun to pant for air as his mask vanished.

"Are you ok?"-Tula asked as she put her hand on Shinji's back who kept panting for air though his aura.

"What, what was that?"-Shinji asked as Tula kept her smile.

"Oh don't worry, that was just an accident."-She said as Shinji turned towards her.

"Accident?"-he asked as Kaldur and Garth swam towards them.

"The staff of the science centre is already taking care of the creature. It's fairly often when you work both with magic and science."-Kaldur said as he and Garth joined Tula and Shinji.

"It's not a big deal, another day in Poseidonis."-Garth said as Tula turned towards Shinji.

"But we still thank you for your help."-she added as Shinji's ring begun to glow signalling an incoming message. Turning around he allowed his ring to project a holographic image of Hal.

"Kid Lantern? Shinji? Are you there? Where are you?"-The voice of Hal asked as Shinji nodded.

"Twenty thousand leagues under the sea."-Shinji joked rubbing his nose as Hal nodded.

"Everything is ok Green Lantern, he is in good company."-Kaldur said as the holographic Hal raised his eyebrow.

"Aqualad?"-He asked as Kaldur nodded.

"It is good to see you again."-He said as Hal rubbed his forehead.

"I should be there when Manta attacked the harbour, but I can read and see that Kid did a good job. Giving him a tour of home as reward?"-Hal asked as Kaldur nodded.

"Indeed, he has proven to be great help against Black Manta."-Kaldur said as Hal nodded.

"Right, but it's dark outside and he should get home."-Hal sternly said as Shinji nodded in agreement, 'Better to get out of here my ring dies.'-he thought as then Tula got close to him.

"Are you sure he can't stay? We have accommodations for surface people."-Tula said as Garth nodded

"Yeah, Tula's right, he's been good help and we enjoyed having him."-Garth added as Shinji turned towards them.

"That's all right, I have school tomorrow and my ring will soon be running on fumes."-Shinji said as Kaldur nodded.

"Understandable, it was good meeting you, until we meet again Kid Lantern."-Kaldur said holding out his hand that Shinji shook as his mask appear.

"Thank you, it was good to meet all of you as well. But now I'm off."-Kid Lantern said as he lifted up.

"Good luck on the surface world."-Tula said as Kid Lantern gave a small salute before finally flying towards the surface. Him picking up speed before finally jolting out of the ocean before rapidly turning towards Coast City.

"You know, that in America schools aren't open on Sundays right?"-Hal asked though the comms as Kid Lantern nodded.

"Yes, but they didn't know that."-Kid Lantern said as he kept thinking on what transpired today, there was a whole of fish people living under water, and one of them offered teaching him how to swim. A pretty girl in fact. 'I have a whole week to think of it. Let's hope nothing else like that will happen.'-he thought as in the distance he saw the tall skyscrapers of Coast City.

Chapter Text

"And so on February 26 1952 the event known as "Mystery Men's walk of shame" from the congress is considered the end of the first era of superheroes. With the Justice Society announcing that their team disbands and all of them are going into retirement, concluding the period that between 1938 and 1952 is referred as the "Golden Age", with the next 50 or so years without heroes until the appearance of Superman."-The history teacher recited pointing at the image on the screen as Shinji, in the safe haven of his desk kept staring at his history text book, ever since he begun to attend high school their history lessons revolved around the after war period of changes in the American society. Most notably the fall of public's trust in the "Mystery Men" or "Masked Good-doers" how the old media called superheroes. They learned of the paranoia surrounding the fact that literal gods were flying over their heads or could run at speeds faster than sound. How they were accused of being communists and Nazi sympathizers, with the person leading the charge upon them being Joseph McCarthy and Richard Nixon, referring to people who fought Nazis and…Japanese defending the United States as "Masked Freaks doing Un-American deeds.". 'Bureaucracy to doom us all…sounds familiar does it father?'-Shinji thought as suddenly hand risen above his head.

"Yes miss Kane?"-The teacher asked as Shinji turned around to see Amy with her hand up.

"Pardon me teacher, but isn't the death of Hourman considered as a turning point in the whole situation regarding governent's push for the ban of Mystery Men?"-Amy asked as the teacher sighed pressing a button on his remote as the image of various superheroes walking away from the American congress building after denouncing their loyalty to the American government to a black and white picture of a scientist dressed in a lab coat and holding a test tube.

"Normally you wouldn't cover something as…taboo as this, especially in this day and age with all those new heroes and the Justice League dealing with one space threat after another. But since your teacher is the one of those who like to show his students the truth and since miss Kane already mentioned it I guess we can cover this man in full detail. This is Rex Tyler, born in 1919 in New York Ithaca. Founder of TylerCo, a company in terms of chemistry second behind Lexcorp to this day. A great chemist himself, with a mystery man alter ego to boot."-the teacher said as Shinji kept looking with non-stop attention. He was one of the people who fought alongside the first human Green Lantern, yet still outcasted by society for doing the good thing, probably one of the reasons why Shinji and Kid Lantern were not one and the same person, and why he wore a mask. He needed secrecy to at least as Hal said…"have some semblancy of a normal life.". As his thoughts kept divulging the picture on the board changed to a picture of a muscular man dressed in black suit with yellow pants and red boots, with a yellow cape and hood covering his face that was hidden by a black mask that only showed his eyes and lower part of his face. What caught not only Shinji's attention but also the other students was a small red hourglass hanging from his collar. He stood on top of what appeared to be a building with barrage balloons in the distance.

"This is Hourman, aside from Jay Garrick the only original member of the Justice Society of who we learned the real name and surname. The same Rex Tyler we just saw. He died in the January of 52, not knowing what his death would do to his pals in the JSA and beyond."-The teacher continued as another picture appeared. This time of an issue of the New York Times dated for January 10 1952 with the headline being "HOURMAN DEAD!: NEW YORK'S OWN CAPED DEFENDER PLUNGING TO DEATH: Taking three policemen and a NYT reporter with him. Secret identity revealed post mortem.". Many students looking at each other with Shinji almost putting a hand over his mouth. The picture that was apparently recovered from the camera of the dead journalists. Showing Hourman falling with debris surrounding him, fear visible not only on the police officers faces but also on Hourman's, someone who should be invincible.

"It was a cold January night, Hourman was one of the few who even after a country-wide arrest warrant on the former Justice Society members who carried on their good deeds. After facing off with yet another crime he seemed to forget what could happen to him, but Police had its orders. And so three policemen alongside a journalist from the times ran after him, shooting at him as if he was another costumed supervillain. Tyler's power was both his bless and curse, from his audio journal and notes that were given to the public by his family we've learned of the origin of his powers. The Miraclo, a vitamin that boosted a human's strength, speed and endurance. But only for an single hour at a day, it appeared that the Miraclo had ran out just moments before his death and his body came smashing down on the ground. From what Tyler said on his recordings, he had gotten addicted, in his last days recorded it sounded that putting on the cape was less for "good things" as what he referred to his deeds between early march of 1940 and the last days of 1949 and more for the temporary boost of strength and ability to be more than just a regular human. Tyler's drug addiction and the fact that officers of the law were killed during his escapades proved enough to serve as a scapegoat for the anti-hero politicians, using Rex Tyler's drug-addicted scribbles and fumbling in his last days as Hourman to berate the Justice Society. To calm down the tensions between the Mystery Men, freshly elected president Eisenhower, the same one who fought alongside them in Europe. Invited them to the congress and offered them a chance, to become fully government sponsored agents and to reveal their secret identities. In that congress session the Justice Society proclaimed that they won't serve a country that doesn't trust them and with that they all vanished into obscurity."-The teacher concluded his speech just as the bell rang, with all the students rushing out, Shinji only sighed, collecting his things before joining the crowd of students. It was the first time a lesson had sent shivers to his spines, but as a fellow hero he could understand of what Rex Tyler was going though. The fear and paranoia of the public and politicians were spreading was something else. He couldn't help but compare it to his world and what he knew about the post Second Impact society.

"Taboo, taboo my ass! My Dad works in the Police and just weeks ago the cops were chasing down Robin and Kid Lantern!"-One of the students, a tall and muscular one dressed in the clothes of the high school's sports team exclaimed as a girl put a hand on his shoulder.

"Well…Robin is a vigilante and Kid Lantern is a space policeman, it makes sense why they would chase one and not the other."-She explained as Shinji in the distance begun to internally fume.

"Yeah, but I think it's odd that Green Lantern lets him to go out like that on his own, considering that he struggled with holding a helicopter. Maybe him being a sidekick comes down with less power?"-Another kid asked as Shinji begun to mutter under his lip.

"Not a sidekick…"-he muttered as then the small crowd turned towards him.

"Ikari, you actually speak?"-The boy in the jacket asked as Shinji realised what he just did and in what position he put himself in. His mind racing though different scenarios of what to do.

"Yeah, I think I heard him saying something...about sidekicks."-the girl said as Shinji turned around looking for getaway.

"I think you've heard something wrong."-Shinji said before turning on the heel and walking away as the group shared a look.

"Weirdo, and with the way he acts you would think that he is Kid Lantern."-He said as the girl chuckled.

"What? No! I've seen Kid Lantern once, and he seems as a happy, kinda cocky and hot guy In that costume. Ikari on the contrast seems…meek, way too mild-mannered and afraid of his own shadow."-She said as meanwhile Shinji made his way throughout the high school wiping the sweat from his forehead. 'That was close, I need to control myself better, lucky that you are nothing without your ring.'-Shinji thought as he tried to calm himself down, he then noticed the opened door as he walked inside the nearest room. He turned around to see the various instruments as he connected the dots…it was a music room. Shinji sighed in relief as he sat down on the floor, the calm quiet helping him to silence himself and his thoughts.

"All right, I guess I can wait here throughout the whole break."-Shinji said out loud as he reached out towards his pocket for his IPod before setting his eyes on the eyecandy that was the brand new school-owned cello. 'And I guess I can try to test it, it will be better to do something then just sit around doing nothing for 15 minutes.'-he thought as he walked up towards the cello, sitting behind it and grabbing the fiddlestick, in just seconds the room was filled with Bach Cello Suite number one as Shinji closed his eyes allowing his muscle memory to take place. Completely shutting himself off from the world and focusing on his music, not noticing the fact his ring begun to faintly glow, a signal he set if it would pick out something from the police scanner.

"Excuse me?"-Someone finally said as Shinji opened his eyes to see their school's music teacher. A woman dressed formally in a white shirt and a black skirt, her eyes being covered by glasses and her brown hair tied into a ponytail. Shinji feeling like a deer in headlights as he begun to spurt out sentence after sentence.

"I-I'm sorry! I-It's just, I w-wanted to test out this cello."-Shinji said standing up as the teacher raised her hands.

"Don't worry, nothing is wrong! In fact I was looking to test out this cello myself. But, I can see that someone did the job for me. Are you a cellist?"-The teacher asked as Shinji turned his head, him then realising that his ring begun to glow. 'Shit, I need to get out of here fast.'-he thought as he pressed fast-forward on his conversation skills.

"I never was a professional cellist, I only studied for myself back in Japan and just didn't stop."-Shinji said him barely managing to hide his tensing body. The teacher only nodded to his words as she walked up towards Shinji.

"I see, and the fact we don't have a cellist in the music club I can see that you could fill this hole very nicely. If you want to play on this cello legally then come to me after school."-She said as Shinji nodded before rushing off from the classroom leaving the confused teacher. 'He didn't even asked me for my name.'-she thought as meanwhile Shinji ran towards the bathroom. His ring instinctively summoning a pair of small green earbuds as he locked himself in the cabin.

"All police units in the vicinity of Northpoint, we have a supervillain with a…crotch gun? Robbing the main Citibank. Requesting assistance, I repeat requesting assistance."-the voice said as Shinji smirked. 'This looks like a job for Kid Lantern.'-he thought as on instinct he summoned his uniform. Although not before someone knocked on the cabin just as the upper portion of his uniform appeared.

"Ikari? Are you ok?"-A familiar voice called out that Shinji connected to Amy, the only person in this school he bothered to open his mouth for. 'Crap crap crap.'-Shinji thought as he came up with an explanation, although it would sound stupid it was probably the only way he could fend Amy off.

"No, I think I have a stomach ache, tell the teacher I'll be late."-Shinji said as on the other side of the door Amy looked concerned.

"Do you need help? Can I walk you to the nurse's office?"-She offered as the masked head of Shinji rapidly turned even though she couldn't see him.

"No, I'll come back soon, if I won't then know I headed home."-Shinji said as on the other side of the door Amy begrudgingly agreed and walked away, as Shinji heard the door closing he let out a sigh as the rest of his uniform appeared over his body. Kid Lantern, who had already mapped the entire school since his arrival knew that from that he could leap out safely into the sky using his density shift without bringing the attention to himself. And so he did, finally feeling the fresh though his aura as he soared higher before heading to from where the signal was coming from. Luckily for him and for the police offers it didn't take too long as Kid Lantern landed next to a couple of policemen.

"What's happening?"-He asked as the policemen turned towards him relieved.

"Great…you're finally here, we have a supervillain inside. A guy who appears to be having a big…problem, it shouldn't a big problem for you right?"-The policeman said between silent chuckles keeping his serious demeanour, Kid Lantern only nodded before lifting himself up and flying into the bank, luckily for him aside from bank employees and few clients appearing to be scattered around it appeared that the villain didn't bother to take any hostages. 'Here we go…'-Kid Lantern thought before shining his light on the villain who looked up towards him.

"All right…crotchgun-man? If you want me to deal with you smoothly then surrender and take off this dumb harness."-Kid Lantern said as he barely hold his emotions on a tight leash as he himself could understand why even the policemen were silently chuckling and even those with a serious approach to the job were amused. The villain was dressed in black jumpsuit with orange shoes, kneepads, gloves and helmet. All playing with the…weapon mounted on his crotch. The villain only turned towards Kid Lantern before firing his weapon, not doing any real damage as the beam was absorbed by his aura.

"Crotchgun-man? My name is Codpiece!"-He exclaimed as it was this was the part where Kid Lantern…or Shinji Ikari…or both of them actually lost it, laughing mid-air not noticing the fact that Codpiece almost took one of the people hostage before he was stunned with Kid Lantern's stun beam. The hostage, an elderly man was surprised by the fact how quickly the boy's demeanour changed. Now with a serious expression and ring risen at Codpiece.

"Damn you, I was hoping Green Lantern would show up or even someone else, at least breaking his brat sidekick to pieces should be satisfactory."-Codpiece said as he fired missiles from the codpiece's weapons system, which Kid Lantern nonchalantly caught with an Eva hand before detonating them in the safety of his force field. 'Shit, I'm out of options.'-Codpiece thought as he looked like a dear in the headlights as Kid Lantern turned his head.

"I really wanted to deal with this smoothly crotchgun, but taking a hostage is a no-no, so let's cut it short."-Kid Lantern said firing a beam at Codpiece utterly destroying his harness before decking him in the jaw as much as his build allowed him, it proved enough to send Codpiece flying towards the hole in the wall he blew up as Kid Lantern rushed towards the elderly man.

"Are you ok sir?"-He asked helping the man up and handing back his cane, for what felt like blissful seconds as behind him Codpiece managed to get up.

"Young man, look out!"-The elderly man trying to warn Kid Lantern as he turned to see Codpiece trying to land a punch upon the young Lantern's face, suddenly multiple green tendrils appeared tying Codpiece up.

"Well, it appears I'm late to the party."-A voice spoke up as Green Lantern flew into the bank earning cheers from the gathered crowd.

"I had him."-Kid Lantern said as he begun to clean up the rubble as his older partner looked at him with an amused facial expression while summoning a group of pin-up girls dressed in stylized janitor outfits to help him with the clean-up.

"Yeah, I can see that. Although you left quite an opening there, and we need to talk Kid."-Hal said as the duo dealt with the clean up before flying out of the bank with Green Lantern dropping Codpiece down in front of the policemen.

"Crotchgun-man is out, without his weapon he is powerless so you won't have a problem with apprehending him, good day officers."-Green Lantern said before he flew upwards to the sky with Kid Lantern following before the two found themselves floating above the skyline with Green Lantern dropping his mask with Kid Lantern doing the same.

"Shinji…we need to talk about this."-Hal said as Shinji sighed.

"Is it about me running off from school in order to stop Codpiece? And weren't you supposed to be at work?"-Shinji asked as Hal nodded before sighing.

"I was, but I had break and flew here after learning what happened. Listen…I'm not mad, and not disappointed as well if you think of it that way. I'm actually concerned, you know…that you put the Lantern before the Kid. Also what was with those quips?"-Hal asked as Shinji sighed.

"So, was I supposed to let the guy run freely while I sat in a classroom? The quips are only there to differentiate Kid Lantern from Shinji Ikari, you know…the mild mannered guy and a brave superhero type of thing, besides you've heard say quips before."-Shinji said as Hal nodded while rubbing his chin.

"Kid…you may be a Lantern, but you are still human. You're not omnipotent so that you can rush to any emergency. I know you're a good student, but please don't let your Lantern life overwhelm your personal one. As for the second question, yeah you did say quips but not as much as to prolong the fight. Lemme guess, you ran yourself into a corner by talking about superheroes and almost spilling the beans? Don't worry about it, in fact some guy I met said that I look like Green Lantern and I simply said "No, bye." and walked out, it happens to all of us."-Hal said as Shinji nodded while checking the hour and realising what has occurred, he spent entire lesson crime fighting.

"I should probably get back, I'll just say that I have a massive stomach ache."-Shinji said as Hal turned his head.

"Since it's your first time you've proven difficulties with the whole double life I'll let it slide this time, go home, I'll call the school and tell them you got sick mid-lesson. And speaking of getting sick I should head back to Ferris before Carol turns me inside out."-Hal said as Shinji nodded before showing a small salute and disappearing in a green streak. As the older of the Lanterns flew out of the city he was struck with an realisation. 'Wait, he actually talked with someone? At least it's some form of stepping forward.'-Hal thought as meanwhile Shinji flew into his room, not even bothering to fly through the window and just phasing though the wall, he desummoned his uniform and took off his backpack. He then followed on his typical routine, dealing with homework and preparing dinner for himself and for Hal as he put it in the fridge knowing he would come late. He spent the rest of the day watching tv and searching for news reports regarding his newest escapade. In a blink of an eye it was already dark as Hal, now dressed in his civilian clothes walked into the apartment.

"Hey there kid."-Hal said as Shinji turned towards him, who in a blink of an eye rushed to the bathroom.

"Welcome home, so…are we going on a patrol?"-Shinji asked as Hal peaked his head though the doorsill.

"Sorry Shinji, tonight you'll have to go solo. I have a really, really important meeting I can't miss."-Hal said in a tone that Shinji already had figured out what Hal meant.

"Sending me to pick up a slack while you go on a date? So what would you do if I wasn't a Lantern?"-Shinji asked with a slight tone that even Hal picked it up.

"I guess that it is a rhetorical question? And to my defence, it's a very hot girl. Besides, you do still get confused with being a sidekick, if you want to be a Lantern if your own right then you should do more solo stunts, bust some robbers…you know, all this hero stuff."-Hal called out as unbeknownst to him Shinji slightly raised his eyebrow.

"What happened with "Putting the Lantern in front of the Kid"?"-Shinji asked as he could hear the sound of running water.

"That is for your school life, now there is nothing stopping you from going out and helping people Lantern Ikari."-Hal said as Shinji nodded. Meanwhile with the senior Lantern looking at the mirror before a thought struck down his head. 'Wait, was I supposed to tell him something? Nah it's probably just my imagination from today's fight.'-he thought as he returned to preperation for his date.

"Roger, have fun I guess."-Shinji said as he grabbed himself a soda from the fridge before heading to his room, opening his drawer to reveal the shining light of his power battery. To which Shinji reached out before inserting his ring.

"In brightest day, in blackest night, now evil shall escape my sight. Let those who warship evil's might, beware my power, GREEN LANTERN'S LIGHT!"-Shinji exclaimed reciting his oath as he felt the power from the battery enveloping his ring with power.

"Ring power: 100%"-the AI of his ring spoke up as Shinji grabbed his wallet and IPod before engulfing himself in his uniform. 'Watch out Coast City, here comes Kid Lantern!...this sounded for more triumphant in my head.'-he thought as now Kid Lantern flew out of the apartment. As he soared though the night's sky he allowed himself to be immersed with thoughts as he looked out for trouble. 'I pick up the slack while he goes on a date. I can't but feel the biggest Déjà vu in my life.'-Kid Lantern thought as he flew over the local park before he felt something slightly bump off his head. A green balloon blissfully floating higher into the sky before Kid Lantern caught it in his small yet strong hand.

"What the? Some poor kid had to lose it, ring? Can you locate me where is the kid that lost it?"-Kid Lantern asked holding the balloon in a green tendril as his ring gave it a scan.

"Affirmative: Fingerprints matched."-The AI exclaimed as Kid Lantern's mask suddenly zoomed in to reveal a small crying girl holding the hand of her visibly tired Mom. With that information the young Lantern quickly took a nosedive into the city before correcting his flight and suddenly landing in front of the pair visibly startling them. Kid Lantern panting as he held the balloon tightly in his hand.

"Excuse me, but I believe this belongs to you little girl."-Kid Lantern said as the girl immediately stopped crying, her facial expression lit up in a way that even someone as stoic as Kid Lantern's alter ego couldn't help but find it cute, and satisfying. If anyone years from now would ask him why he did what he did, he would think of that little girl's smile.

"Thank you Mister Lantern!"-She happily exclaimed as Kid Lantern's masked face covered itself with a blush as he wiped the back of his head just as the mother let out a sigh.

"You have no idea how much I want to thank you Kid Lantern, she wouldn't stop crying if I didn't get her a new balloon and you can imagine how hard it would be at this hour."-She said as before Kid Lantern could stutter out a reply all three of them heard the sound of police sirens in the distance.

"Please pardon me ladies but duty calls."-Kid Lantern said as the little girl waved at him. After a quick salute and wave he shot into the night as he fallowed the pair of police cars before they stopped in alley with two other police cars guarding the second end of the alley. 'What happened here?'-he thought as he saw someone wave at him to come down, as his feet touched the ground he noticed the familiar face of detective Jennifer Marz.

"Kid Lantern…I was expecting Green Lantern more in this situation."-She said as Kid Lantern narrowed his eyes behind his mask.

"He is busy…but I'm already here, so what happened?"-He asked as Jennifer sighed before pointing at a nearby stretcher with a man visibly in pain, his shoulder almost ripped a part but what seemed to be an arrow.

"We have a group of drug dealers used as target practice, which is odd…considering the fact Green Arrow isn't from around here. The fact that some of them kept screaming about a hood makes it more suspicious."-Jennifer explained as Kid Lantern looked around to see other crooks with arrows in different parts of their bodies.

"Is anyone dead?"-He asked as Jennifer shook her head.

"No, but some of them came really close, the inexperience clearly visible in the archer's skill."-Jennifer explained as Kid Lantern nodded before looking back towards her.

"Do you have a copy of an arrow I can scan though?"-He asked as Jennifer turned towards a couple of policemen and with only less than a minute passing Jennifer, now wearing white gloves showed a freshly removed arrow towards Kid Lantern, who scanned though the arrow with his ring.

"That's what I need, now I look into the case."-Kid Lantern said before jumping into the air and quickly finding himself above the skyline level.

"Alright, ring…can you tell me what superheroes use arrows as a primary weapon?"-Kid Lantern said as his ring gave a quick reply.

"Affirmative: Individual designation, Green Arrow, real identity Oliver Queen, Speedy, real identity Roy Harper, residing in Star City California, USA."-His ring's AI spoke as Kid Lantern rubbed his chin.

"Right, are they still in Star City?"-He added before his ring displayed the map of the North American west coast.

"Negative: both Green Arrow and Speedy are currently residing in Coast City."-The AI corrected him as Kid Lantern cycled through the information he now had. 'All would seem to add well, both he and his supposed partner are currently in Coast City…wait, that's it!'-he thought as for a second he thought that sometimes his genius…was almost frightening.

"Ring, display me the 3D model of the scanned arrow and assemble me a model of Green Arrow and Speedy's arrows."-Kid Lantern said as his ring let out an "Affirmative" before his ring shot out a model of three arrows, written in Japanese as Kid Lantern felt an eureka in his head. The arrowhead from the unknown vigilante's arrow was different both from Green Arrow's and Speedy's.

"And they're still here…one way to find out. Ring! Locate me Green Arrow and Speedy."-He commanded his ring as the map of Coast City appeared with a sonar like signal telling him if he was closer or not. He crossed the Santa Maria channel as he found himself in the slums, finally reaching them after less than 10 minutes he found himself floating above the two vigilantes from Star City. One dressed in a green coat and a hood and another boy dressed in red and wearing a yellow hat. To signal himself he raised his right fist and flooded the area with green light as the two archers turned towards him covering their faces.

"What are you doing here?"-He asked sternly as the red-clad archer uncovered his eyes.

"Put down that light before-"-He was cut off as suddenly a hooded figure in green flew past them with a grappler arrow. 'There you are.'-Kid Lantern thought before flying after the figure.

"Stop!"-He exclaimed as he used his mask to scan though the buildings searching for their biosignature. 'Crap! Guy's good in hiding, and my ring cannot seem to get itself in check.'-he thought before his ring finally picked up the enemy's location as he landed on top of a nearby building. His ring summoning a down-sized Eva handgun on instinct. Seconds seemingly extending to hours, awaiting for anything to break the calm before the storm. Finally getting his wish as two hours flew directly into him before in a blink of an eye he fired two green bullets utterly destroyed the arrows, creating a pile of smoke that the figure leaped out of. Firing another of pair of arrows tanked by Kid Lantern's bullets. Seeing that the supposed attacker was preparing for a kick he reinforced his aura, creating a cover shield that the figure used as a springboard to proper themselves in the air, jumping behind Kid Lantern before firing another pair of arrows, him expanding his aura into a sphere making the arrows break upon impact. Kid Lantern finally having enough of this person's games, finally let the person land a kick on him, not knowing that they fell into Kid Lantern's trap, as he clasped them between a pair of green walls.

"Are you the one who almost killed those drug dealers?"-He asked sternly as the figure turned their hooded head towards him.

"Why do you care?"-A soft and fairly feminine voice replied as hiding his surprise behind his poker face Kid Lantern crossed his arms.

"This is my town, and let's just say I don't like people dying when a vigilante runs around."-He replied as the figure let out a chuckle.

"Big words coming from someone like you Kid Lantern. Especially when your partner is way taller and hotter and you look like a 12-year old playing hero."-They said before taking out something from their pocket, in a blink of an eye a cloud of black smoke enveloped the entire rooftop. Although it didn't affect his breathing though his aura. But It took a heavy hit on his construct, using his mask's infrared vision he managed to locate the figure again, now lunching a zip line and trying to get towards another building. Visibly fed up Kid Lantern took into the skies, before grabbing the figure mid-flight and crash-landing on a nearby rooftop. The figure managing to free themselves and jump off Kid Lantern as their hood fell down. Kid Lantern turned towards them as he saw with whom he was fighting against.

"You're a girl?"-He asked surprised, the girl taking the opening he was leaving her, punching him into the stomach. Kid Lantern feeling the overwhelming sensation of pain striking him in his stomach, leaving him no space to defend himself before the girl decked him on the head, knocking his lights down allowing his body to fell down on the rooftop. 'Serves you right rookie…one wearing a tight black and green suit, I guess you're not as hot, but definitely more cute.'-she thought as she took a look over his figure. Noticing the muscles visible under his uniform. But before she could say anything she heard the sound of attaching grappling arrows, signalling for the girl as a sign to leave she took a final glance at the sleeping lantern. 'See you around Cutie.'-she thought before jumping off the rooftop.

"Hey, hey! Wake up. Kid Lantern? Come on."-A voice called out as the young Lantern finally regained consciousness to see the face of Green Arrow, his face covered by a black domino mask and a blonde goatee with a curious yet friendly face. Kid Lantern managed to get himself up from the ground before turning towards the second end of the rooftop.

"The girl, where did she go?"-He asked as Green Arrow turned his head.

"No idea, after you gave chase we followed you both to find you knocked out cold."-Green Arrow explained as Speedy, who it this point kept looking at the rooftop's end slightly turned towards Kid Lantern.

"We would've caught up with her anyways if you didn't get in our way."-Speedy grunted out as Kid Lantern internally sighed. 'Must be one of those angry types.'-he thought before turning his facial expression as stern as possible.

"This is Green Lantern's city, if you were hunting someone you could've told us to allow you to work freely."-Kid Lantern said as for a second Green Arrow's facial expression changed from kinda angry to really confused. 'Wait, he doesn't know? Oh damn it Hal!'-he thought before finally formulating his reply.

"Green Lantern already knew about our manhunt, I guess… he forgot to mention it to you before he sent you out, probably because of a date."-Green Arrow replied as Kid Lantern, although confused by how Green Arrow's guess was correct, so he only put down his head in shame.

"Sorry…"-He muttered out as Speedy shot him another glance.

"You should be, next time don't get in our way."-Speedy said as Green Arrow shot him with a warning look, before turning back to Kid Lantern with a smile on his face.

"No worries kid, it's your partner's fault for not bothering to tell you, I'll make sure to have a word with him later."-Green Arrow said as Shinji reached out his hand.

"You must be Green Arrow."-Kid Lantern said as Green Arrow shook his hand.

"And you must be Kid Lantern, the silent type over there is Speedy."-Green Arrow said pointing at Speedy, to whom the young Lantern also reached out his hand.

"Come on, maybe we can still find her."-Speedy said before shooting a grappler arrow and swinging away to which the Emerald Archer sighed in disbelief.

"Don't mind him, see you around."-He said shooting a grappler arrow himself leaving Kid Lantern puzzled, his best calls of action was getting back to the apartment and getting some sleep, flying through the open window before dissolving his uniform. Shinji let out a loud moan as he stripped down from his clothes before finally falling asleep, face flat on the pillow and his right hand still wearing his ring instinctively covering his stomach.

Shinji finally got up from his bed awoken by the faint glow of his ring, him still tired from the night before. Knowing that he had school he quickly dealt with the morning toiletries and putting on fresh clothes, as he drank his morning coffee he noticed the door to Hal's bedroom open, him dressed only in boxers, visibly tired and suffering from a hangover from the night before.

"Let me guess…long night?"-Shinji asked while washing his plate and cup as Hal gave a slight nod before arms of an attractive redhead wrapped around him.

"Oh, you didn't say you had a cute boy living with you."-She said as Shinji sighed before putting both the now cleaned cup and plate back in their spots.

"And still going…"-Shinji said as he made his way out of the apartment, opening the door to reveal Green Arrow. Or Oliver Queen judging by the lack of the costume and bow. Now dressed in plain grey pants and jacket over a green shirt. Him visibly startled and surprised by the scene he walked on.

"Uhm, 'scuse me, but I hope I'm not interrupting breakfast..."

Chapter Text

Shinji, clad in his swimming trunks felt like his patience was running thin, now sitting on the beach of a small uninhabited island on the pacific ocean. Somewhere near hawaii, the self-proclaimed meet-up spot designated by his swimming teacher, speaking of whom…

"Hi!"-Tula exclaimed popping up from the water visibly startling Shinji, even if he was chosen for his ability to overcome great fear it still didn't mean that he couldn't be surpised. The goosebumps ran over his skin before he got up.

"You know, I've asked you not to surprise me Tula."-Shinji said as the atleanan girl slightly raised her eyebrow.

"We've been meeting here for two weeks now, I thought you got used to it. It's not like I'm surpised by the amount of bruises you keep collecting, speaking of bruises how is your stomach?"-Tula asked as Shinji's hand instinctively went towards his stomach, remembering his meeting with the archer girl few days ago. Kid Lantern from that point on made a stance on keeping his aura at all cost now, even if it needed to be as thin as possible.

"It's fine now, can we start?"-Shinji asked as Tula nodded gesturing for him to get in the water, it was hard at first, Tula almost needing to hold him so that he wouldn't drown in panic…on shallow water. But in the next couple of days thanks mostly to Tula's patience and Shinji's own determination to finally put his fear of water behind him once and for all. With that mindset and getting though the goals Tula set for him, those being getting him slowly accliminated in the water so that he wouldn't feel fear and then learning to float. Now Tula was well on way with the third step of Shinji finally learning to swim. That being to actually swim, with Tula now gently pulling Shinji by his hand into slightly deeper water.

"All right, just like I told you, stay calm. You can always fly out, synchronise your arms and legs, in that way you'll keep yourself upfloat. Everything is going to be ok."-Tula reasurred him as Shinji complied to her instructions. Him slowly getting a hang on it as Tula slowly let go of Shinji's waist, him focused enough on his swimming that he didn't register her hands.

"I…think I'm getting a hang on this."-Shinji said as Tula smiled.

"See? I told you would get a hang on swimming quickly! Come on, now lets swim couple of laps around the island to see if you really got it, and just like I showed you, move your arms and head at the same time."-Tula said as Shinji complied, several minutes of swimming later it was the self set "aclimination lesson" to him being under water, his body surrounded by his aura kept to a bare minimum, his eyes opened as not to lock himself away from fear and paranoia on being pressed by thousands of tons. Tula couldn't help but look with curiousness at Shinji who in absolute calm was getting aclimitated himself in the deeps. Few hours passing as already the sun setting with Shinji, now clad in the T-Shirt he brought with him was sitting with Tula on the beach watching the sunset.

"So, tommorow is your big day?"-Tula asked as Shinji turned towards her surprised.

"Yeah, tommorow is the Independence Day. The day where the Justice League members gather their sidekicks to formally meet at the League's Earth HQ, but how did you know?"-Shinji asked looking at Tula who only smiled at his confused facial expression.

"Kaldur and King Orin told us, I thought it was obvious that you as a…partner of the main Green Lantern you would be there as well."-Tula said as Shinji nodded.

"You're right, Ha-GL said that it would be the first step into joining the League and getting more exposure to the world…"-Shinji said looking at the slowly appearing stars 'Although I wonder why they wont tell others about the Watchtower?'-he thought as meanwhile Tula was looking at him phasing out.

"Hey, is everything ok?"-Tula asked snapping Shinji out of his trans.

"Yeah, it's just…I do feel stress for tommorow. It's just that sometimes I feel like an alien despite being from this very same planet."-Shinji said as he then internally facepalmed 'Damn it, again with letting out too much.'-he berated himself as Tula kept smiling.

"Maybe it's because you miss your parents or your homeland? You live with your mentor right? What happened to your parents?"-Tula asked as Shinji's mind ran though a mental armageddon. 'What to do? What to do? What to do? I cant sound impolite but I cant say anything!'-he thought as he mentally assembled a somehow fitting narrative.

"Well, I don't really miss my parents, my father dumped me out when I was four, and my Mom…partook in a science experiment gone wrong and vanished. A decade or so later and my ring found me. In regards of homesickness. I don't miss Japan that much, I was always kinda…detached from everybody, not even finding a real close friend until I joined the Corps."-Shinji said as his thoughts travelled to a certain Graxosian.

"Oh, that's good that you have a friend. I need to get back to Atlantis, and judging by the tommorow's occasion I guess we will have to cancel our lesson."-Tula said with a slight sad tone that even someone still oblivious as Shinji could pick up.

"Okay, so day after tommorow?"-Shinji asked making Tula slightly perk up.

"Right, I believe that it can work. See you then."-Tula said before jumping into the water before swimming away.

"Bye?..."-Shinji said confused before summoning his uniform and flying away back to Coast City. Kid Lantern couldn't help to see Tula in a similar light to Asuka if she didn't suffer the hardships in life that forged her into the person she became, both were good-looking blue-eyed redheads who loved to swim. Him silently chuckling as he remembered the class trip to Okinawa they were denied by Misato. He knew that Asuka could be kind…and sometimes really sweet, but her pride was something that kept her locked out and hiding her internal insecurities and fears. Here he had an example on how Asuka could've been, he could only hope it would happen after she comes back from instrumentality. But for now his only focus was on tommorow, after all, tommorow was the day.

"Shinji? Shinji! Wake up!"-Hal said shaking Shinji who opened his eyes to see Hal.

"Hal? What hour is it? Have I overslept?"-Shinji asked as Hal pointed at the alarm clock.

"Nope, it's 10 am, and since you came back tired I decided to let you sleep in. Now get yourself ready, eat breakfast and summon your uniform, today's the day."-Hal said before Shinji rushed towards the bathroom, taking a shower before putting on fresh clothes, although he was just as stoic as always he couldn't say he didn't have any excitement, after all the Justice League were the world's greatest superheroes, him hearing ton of praise for every league member in school, which was fairly obvious mostly directed to Hal as he was a local, but still many of the leaguers enjoyed their share of popularity. Even Batman to Shinji's surprise. With Hal talking about this being Shinji's first real step to league membership, which already put him above Guy Gardner aperantly, it did make him somehow excited, probably for the first time in a long while. The two Lanterns then finally sat for breakfast, a quickly prepared set of eggs and toasts.

"Right, lets go, we have like 20 minutes."-Hal said summoning his uniform with Shinji doing the same. Without even washing the dishes the two Lanterns leeped from the balcony.

"Where are we going?"-Kid Lantern asked following Green Lantern as the two broke the speed of sound. The younger of the Lanterns noticing the changing position of the sun, meaning they flew into a different timezone.

"Washington D.C, the capital and the location of the Hall of Justice."-GL explained as Kid Lantern then pointed at the sky.

"And why arent we going to the Watchtower?"-He asked as GL sighed with the two now lowering their flight.

"Listen Kid, please don't tell anyone you know about the Watchtower, the Hall is a way safer place for you to be in. The watchtower isnt a clubhouse."-He said as Kid Lantern raised his eyebrow, though it probably couldn't be seen from behind visor-looking mask.

"So you're bringing me to a tourist trap?"-He asked feeling enthusaism die a little bit.

"Come on, it will be some form of fun."-GL countered as the two could now see the Hall of Justice. A large white building in a visible art deco style with a small artificial pond in front of it and people lined up on the sides, seemingly awaiting the arrival of the league members. Green Lantern and Kid Lantern then saw a group that they quickly identified as Batman, Robin, Aquaman, Aqualad, Green Arrow and Speedy.

"Hey there, hope we're not late."-GL said making their presence known to the rest.

"Sup Lantern."-Green Arrow said as he and Green Lantern shook hands just as the two Lanterns landed.

"Yo, KL!"-Robin said as he and Kid Lantern shared a fistpump.

"Wait, where is Kid Flash?"-The young lantern asked as the sound of the wind was getting.

"Oh man! I knew we would be the last ones here."-Kid Flash said with a frown as now he and Flash joined the now complete group.

"Hey Flash!"-GL exclaimed as Flash ran up towards him as the two shared a fist pump.

"Shall we head inside?"-Batamn asked in his stern voice as the group complied. The group of 10 heroes bringing most of the crowd's attention.

"Ready to see the inner sanctum?"-Green Arrow asked as Speedy slightly turned his head towards him.

"Born that way."-He replied as Aqualad looked over his friends

"I'm glad we could all be here."-He said as Kid Flash turned towards Robin and Kid Lantern.

"Have all five sidekicks ever been in the same place at the same time?"-He asked as both Speedy and Kid Lantern had a frown on their face.

"Don't call us sidekicks, not after today."-Speedy said as Kid Lantern turned towards Kid Flash and Robin.

"I think I agree with Speedy here, not all of us here are sidekicks."-Kid Lantern corrected as Robin gave him a clap on his back.

"Sure mister Turf-Partner."-He joked as Kid Flash and even Kid Lantern himself let out a silent chuckle.

"Sorry you two, first time in the hall. I'm little overwhelmed."-Kid Flash said before Robin turned towards him with slight irritation.

"You're overwhelmed. Freeze was underwhelmed, why isnt anyone just whelmed?"-Robin asked as the group finally walked inside the hall of justice to see giant golden statues of the Justice League of America's founding seven members, from left to right: Aquaman, Flash, Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern 2814.1 and Martian Manhunter.

"Wow."-Kid Lantern said looking up towards the statue of his superior.

"Oh, maybe that's why."-Robin added in awe as well before founding himself standing in front of a large silver door with a sign saying "Authorised Personel Only". The door then opened to reveal three Justice League members, one was a red robot with a yellow "T" symbol and a yellow arrow going downwards on his forehead matched by a large blue cape with a colar and a yellow trim around it. The second was a bald green man with red eyes, dressed in a black one-part suit with a red trim around the waist and two red stripes forming an "X" shape on his chest matched with a blue cape with golden buttons. The third was the second Green Lantern in the league, his uniform having way more black than green. He was also not wearing any gloves, but the most important was the fact he didn't wore a mask, his identity completely public. That being a black man of a large athletic build. Kid Lantern immediately recognised the three as Red Tornado, Martian Manhunter and John Stewart, the third Green Lantern of Earth and second Green Lantern in the Justice League.

"Robin, Speedy, Aqualad, Kid Flash, Kid Lantern, welcome."-Martian Manhunter said before turning around as the whole group walked inside, Kid Flash and Robin sharing a fist pump before turning towards Kid Lantern and offering him a high five, an invite which he took.

"You now have unlimited access to the gym, our fully stocked galley, and of course our library."-Martian Manhuter added as Kid Lantern couldn't believe the sheer size of the said library. 'I couldn't read those books for a decade even if I was locked inside.'-he thought before Flash turned towards the younger part of the group.

"Make yourselves at home."-He said as Robin, Aqualad and Kid Flash sat in nearby chairs with Kid Lantern summoning a green copy of his chair before GL walked up towards him.

"Oh, let's get this over real quick. Kid this is John Stewart, another Lantern of Earth."-GL said as John walked up towards Kid Lantern and reached out his hand.

"It is good to meet you in person, Kilowog said good things about you."-John said as Kid Lantern silently stuttered before shaking John's hand.

"It..is good to meet you as well sir."-Kid Lantern said as John smiled before turning towards GL.

"I wasn't expecting him to be this polite, in contrast to what can be seen on tv."-He said as GL slightly bended towards him.

"We are working on it, Kilowog told me to make him a little loose. So I think I made some progress."-GL said as he and John joined back with the other leaguers.

"Quick debrief to discuss the coincidence of four ice villains attacking on the same day, we shouldn't be long."-Batman said before a small camera came out of the ceiling.

"Recognised: Batman-02 , Aquaman-06, Flash-04, Green Lantern-05, Green Arrow-08, Martian Manhunter-07, John Stewart-14, Red Tornado-16."-A computerised voice said before another door opened, this time marked "Justice League Members Only".

"That's it!? You promised us a real look inside, not a glorified backstage pass."-Speedy said, visibly annoyed by the so-called disrespect.

"It's a first step, you've been granted access few others get."-Aquaman said to diffuse the situation. Only making more angry.

"Oh really?! Who cares on which side of the glass we're on?!"-He asked pointing upwards towards the large windows where a crowd of civilians was taking photos and looking onto them.

"Roy, you just need to be patient."-Green Arrow said walking up towards his sidekick.

"What I need is respect, they're treating us like kids. Worse, like sidekicks! We deserve better then this."-Speedy said as the four young heroes eyed each other before turning back towards Speedy.

"You're kidding right? You're playing their game? Why? Today was supposed be THE day. Step one in becoming full fledged members of the League."-Speedy exclaimed as Kid Flash unfolded his arms.

"Well sure, but I thought step one was the tour of the HQ."-Kid Flash said as Kid Lantern internally sighed. 'Wait, does this mean Speedy knows about the Watchtower?'-he thought as he turned towards the crimson archer.

"Except the Hall isnt the League's HQ. I bet they never told you, it's just a false front for tourists! And a pit stop for catching Zeta Beam teleporter tubes to the real thing, an oribtting satelite called the Watchtower!"-Speedy exclaimed as every other sidekicks execpt for Kid Lantern had a shocked facial expression. Something that Batman noticed as he turned towards GL.

"We literally flew here from space, it's not like I could hide it when it floats around the orbit."-He explained enough for Batman to get off his back, only to jump on Green Arrow's as all of the Leaguers turned towards the archer.

"I know, I know. But I thought maybe we could make an exception?"-He asked not convincing Batman in the slightest.

"Or not."-Arrow said finally giving up as Aquaman walked up towards speedy.

"You are not helping your cause son, stand down, or-"-He said sternly before being cut off by Speedy.

"Or what!? You'll send me to my room? And I'm not your son! I'm not even his, I thought I was his partner, but not anymore."-Speedy said throwing his hat on the floor as all other four young partners just looked both in awe and shock.

"Guess they're right about you four, you're not ready."-Speedy said walking out of the library just as the nearby computer terminal received a message. With that on a nearby large monitor a giant picture of Superman appeared, probably the biggest hero on the planet.

"Superman to Justice League, there's been an explosion at Project Cadmus, it's on fire."-Superman said as the Leaguers walked up to the monitor.

"I've had my suspitions about Cadmus. This may present the perfect opportunity to-"-But before Batman could finish his sentence he was cut off by another signal, this time a picture of a man in a black suit, white shirt and yellow vest compenting his red bow and black tophat. Kid Lantern recognising the man as Zatara, the Justice League's main magic user.

"Zatara to Justice League. The sorcerer Wotan is using the amulet of Aten to blot out the sun, requesting full league response."-Zatara reported as Batman looked up.

"Superman?"-He asked before Superman gave his explanation.

"It's a small fire, local authorities have it under control."-Superman said with Batman nodding.

"Then Cadmus can wait, all Leaguers randevous at Zatara's coordinates, Batman out."-He reported sending out the distress message as Kid Lantern, Robin, Aqualad and Kid Flash walked up towards him.

"Stay put."-Batman said sternly as to shut down any hopes of cooporating with the league.

"What, why?"-Robin asked as Aquaman, Flash and GL joined Batman.

"This is a League mission."-Aquaman added to Batman's argument as Flash unfolded his arms.

"You're not trained."-He said as Kid Flash raised his eyebrow.

"Since when!?"-He asked unfolding his arms before Flash gave him a full explanation.

"I mean you're not trained to work as a part of this team."-Flash said gesturing to Batman and Aquaman.

"There will be other missions. When you'll be ready."-Aquaman said trying to one-up Flash in their argument.

"But for now, stay put."-Batman sternly added finishing any discussion, GL on the other hand bended down on his knee.

"Sorry Kid, but those are the rules. I'm sure there will be an occasion someday."-GL said before joining other heroes.

"Glad to not bring you-know-who?"-Green Arrow asked turning towards Martian Manhunter.

"Indeed."-He replied as they joined the rest of the heroes behind the closed doors leaving the younger heroes alone.

"Ugh, when we're ready? How we are supposed to be ready when they treat us like sidekicks?"-Kid Flash asked visibly annoyed as Aqualad slightly looked down.

"My mentor, my king…I thought he trusted me."-Aqualad said as Kid Flash kept his hands unfolded.

"Trust? They don't even trust us with the basics. They've got a secret H.Q in space!"-He exclaimed as Kid Lantern looked at his ring.

"Judging by what happened to their last real Earth headquarters…making your base off limits does make sense."-He said as Aqualad let out a sigh.

"What else arent they telling us?"-He rhetorically asked as Robin looked away.

"I have a better question, why didn't we leave with Speedy?"-He asked before a brief silence surrounded the four young heroes.

"What is…project Cadmus?"-Aqualad asked finally breaking the silence.

"Don't know, but I can find out."-Robin said as his mood lifted up immediately, walking up to the nearest terminal with others quickly joining him. The computer denying him access as he let out a chuckle.

"Wanna bet?"-He asked as in a blink of an eye he had access to all the systems.

"Whoa, how are you doing that?"-Kid Flash asked before Robin snarkly replied.

"Same system as the Batcave, all right. Project Cadmus, genetics lab here in D.C. That's all there is, but if Batman's suspicious. Maybe we should investigate."-Robin said turning towards Kid Flash and Kid Lantern.

"Solve their case before they do. It would be poetic justice."-Aqualad said as a calm smirk appeared on his face.

"Hey, heh, they're all about justice."-Robin said as Aqualad then remembered their mentor's words.

"But they said stay put."-Aqualad replied before Kid Lantern stepped in.

"But they were talking about bloting out the sun."-He explained as Robin nodded.

"Exactly what KL said, we have a free hand."-he added before Kid Flash put his hand on Robin's shoulder.

"Wait are…are you going to Cadmus? Because if you're going, I'm going."-Kid Flash said before he and Robin turned towards Aqualad.

"Just like that? We're a team on a mission?"-He asked as Robin smirked.

"We didn't come for a playdate."-Robin said before turning towards Kid Lantern.

"So KL, are up to it?"-Robin asked as Kid Lantern turned his ring hand into a fist.

"Ri-"-But before he could finish he noticed his ring begun to glow, it was a message.

"Lantern Ikari? Can you hear me?"-the voice of Salaak asked as Kid Lantern projected the image on the nearby wall.

"Yes Lantern Salaak, what's the emergency?"-Kid Lantern asked as Salaak brought up an image of a large planet.

"We received a distress call from the planet Aoran near the edge of your sector, since the remaining three of your sector Lanterns and the Lantern of Sector 2815 are currently busy with other tasks you'll have to do it solo. Note that the message was rapidly cut off mid-sentence so I suggest maximum caution and wait for your back-up to arrive, the coordinants for Aoran are now uploaded to yout ring, good luck Lantern Ikari."-Salaak said before the holoimage vanished, Kid Lantern sighed before turning towards his friends.

"You've heard the Man, guess you'll be going to Cadmus without me."-He said before Aqualad walked up towards him.

"What you have to do is probably of greater importance then what is happening in Cadmus, good luck."-Aqualad said as Kid Lantern nodded before taking a deep breath in and jolting upwards, using his density shift to get out of the Hall and in matter of seconds leave Earth's atmosphere.

"Ring, take me to Aoran!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed receiving an 'Affirmative.' from his ring and feeling his body go on autopilot. It would take at least few hours of flight to get to the edge of his sector without using the Space-Fold. 'I just hope the guys will have a better time then me.'-he thought as in a span of few hours he finally reached Aoran, and it immediately sent his senses on high alert. From the orbit's point of view Aoran seemed like a planet way more advanced then Earth, with orbitting space stations akin to the Watchtower or other Corps's Sector Houses. 'If so, then why was the contact cut off?'-he thought before flying into one of the stations, and his body was quickly ran over by goosebumps and cold sweats. The bodies of the natives, looking very similar to humans all twisted and looking as if they were dead for centuries.

"Dead, all of them…ring, run over a scan of every humanoid lifeform on the planet and count them."-Kid Lantern said before his ring lit up in reply.

"Affirmative, the scan only detects one living humanoid lifeform on the planet's surface, residing on the central continent."-His ring's AI spoke as Kid Lantern left the station and entered Aoran's atmosphere, only to find a beautiful planet, with pink skies and green plateaus. The local wildlife still seemed to do just fine. 'If the planet's fine, then what happneed to all of the humanoids?'-he thought as he reached to what seemed like the largest city, nothing seemed wrong at the beginning, that was until he looked down to see more twisted corpses. 'Right, that means the last survivor can either be some guy with god complex who sucked life out of the planet's every inhabitant, or is a last survivor of some plauge.'-he thought before almost being hit by a violet beam.

"What the?"-Kid Lantern asked himself as another beam almost flew pass him. Before several more violet beams appeared in the vicinity.

"Ring! You've said that there was only one humanoid lifeform left on this planet!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed hiding behind the nearest large structure. His ring only lit up in confirmation.

"The analyse was correct, whatever attacked must've been either automatoned or unalive."-His ring's AI bluntly anwsered as Kid Lantern raised his eyebrow from under his mask.

"Fine, then find me where the main guy is."-Kid Lantern said as he summoned a holographic map with a dot residing in the centre of the city. 'There you are.'-he thought before flying out from his makeshift shelter. In a little more then five minutes he flew up to see who was his opponent.

"So you are the Green Lantern sent here by the Guardians? A mere child? Shame that my conquest of the universe has to begin with such a frail kill."-The man spoke up as Kid Lantern eyed his oponent, he was a man dressed in a dark purple body suit with blue gloves, boots, belt, cape and colour with a red star-like mask residing on his face, what brought Kid Lantern's attention was a silver band around his right arm.

"Are you the one who butchered all those Aorans? In the name of the Green Lantern Corps stand down, put your appendages in the air and put down your weapon, and this isnt something up for debate."-Kid Lantern said as the man chuckled.

"Those fouls didn't understand the sheer power of immortality, with this Star Band…I'll lead my crusade until we reach Oa and decapitate every single Lantern and Guardian on our way! Soon enough the universe will tremble under the rule of Evil Star, and for your second request…that wont happen."-Evil Star said as with a rise of his Star Band summoned several humanoids dressed in similar costumes to their master, what cought his attention was the fact his henchmen looked as dead as other Aorans he found. But then the realisation struck him as did the immminent disgust…those were husks of Aoran children.

"Have you met my Starlings? Future children of the fools that Aoran's soil brought, if it wasn't for me they would continue their meaningless existance, now they serve a much greater cause! My children, bring me the Lantern's head!"-Evil Star exclaimed as the Starlings rushed at Kid Lantern, firing their violet beams from copy-star bands. Kid Lantern…no, Shinji Ikari for a second kept himself away from retaliating, after all those were still children's bodies. 'AHHH! They're dead anyways!'-he thought before summoning a Pallet Rifle and with the help of his visor managed the destroy the copy star bands, with it efectively sending the Starlings bodies down into the Aoran forests. 'All right, first find shelter, contact Salaak, report and figure out what to do.'-he thought before increasing his speed. Meanwhile Evil Star kept standing on the tower, watching the footage from the last Star Band copy.

"The Lantern has sent me back several hours in my plan, unfortunately for him I still have enough power to deal with him."-Evil Star said before being surrounded by a violet aura, as quickly four new corpses of children appeared before being transformed into four new Starlings who all bowed in front of their master.

"Listen to me my children, a Green Lantern is here to halt our conquest, find and eliminate him, or what? Bring him to me, we will send the Guardians a message by killing the first of our many Lantern victims."-Evil Star said as the four Starlings flew away in different directions searching for their prey.

"All right, this cave should work for now. Ring! Contact Lantern Salaak!"-Kid Lantern said as his mask vanished allowing him to wipe the sweat from the covered part of his face, his ring then let out a small sound before projecting a large image of Salaak on the cavern's wall.

"Report Lantern Ikari, what is the situation on Aoran?"-Salaak asked before Shinji brought up a construct of Evil Star.

"He happened, he refers to himself as "Evil Star", from what my ring's analysis said he was the one responsible for total annihilation of his race, he created a device called a Star Band. It is similar in function to our power rings, although they cannot create constructs. What is the most important part is that he can create henchmen out of Aorans corpses and outfit them with copy star bands, known as "Starlings". He aims for the conquest of the entire known universe and wants to attack Oa, probably using the bodies of the Aorans as an army. I've sent the footage I was able to record with my mask back to Oa."-Shinji reported with Salaak only giving a affirmative nod.

"I understand Lantern Ikari, from what I can see is that it will take a lot of time before this Evil Star can gather his army, Lanterns 2814.1, 2814.3 and 2815 are still busy, but 2814.2 has finished his assignment and I'll redirect him for Aoran. For now Lantern Ikari stay low, good luck."-Salaak said before vanishing leaving Shinji alone in the darkness.

"Ring, bring me up the map and show me where the Starlings are."-Shinji said with his ring complying to his orders and projecting a map on the wall. He sighed as he saw that his posistion was safe.

"I just hope the Cadmus team is doing well…"

The Cadmus team…wasn't doing really well. First off they discovered that Cadmus was actually a giant underground facility, second was the fact they breeded living weapons called Genomorphs that wanted to kill them, and the third was something called "Project Kr". One which Robin wanted to investigate, as signalled by the fact that the elevator the trio resided after escaping another Genomorph attack was going down rather then up.

"We're headed down?"-Aqualad asked before Kid Flash turned towards Robin.

"Dude, out is up."-He said as Robin narrowed his eyes.

"Excuse me, Project Kr? It's down on sub-level 52."-Robin said in a tone that meant all three of them were now in a spot with no way out. 'Dang it, if only KL was here, with his ring it would be far easier.'-he thought before Aqualad stepped out.

"This is out of control. Perhaps, perhaps we should contact the league."-Aqualad said bringing some sense into the situation, but before any of them could do something the elevator reached it's final stop. The door opened to reveal…a corridor, one looking as if it could be a look inside of an living organism. Robin didn't even hesitate before running out of the elevator leaving his comrades alone in making the decision.

"We are already here."-Kid Flash said before rushing off towards Robin, Aqualad only sighed before joining in as well. The three now fully ready into finding out what Project Kr really was, until the corridor split.

"Which way?"-Aqualad asked with Robin only silently scoffing.

"Yeah, bizzare hallway number one or bizzare hallway number two?"-Robin asked looking over the two corridors.

"Halt!"-Suddenly a voice exclaimed as the three young heroes turned around to see the same humanoid genomorph that lead them inside, dressed in a white hospital gown. With the fact he resembled more some sort of demon with his two horns and pale skin it didn't help to think that something like this was ordinary in a typical research facility. The genomorph then used his telekinesis to throw two barrels at the heroes, the explosion in the background making it obvious to make a run for it. Robin only threw a batarang as a last resort that was tanked by the Genomorph's telepathy. And so they ran, until Kid Flash managed to reach the door labled Project Kr. That was until he noticed a female scientist walking out of the supposed laboratory, not having enough space to break Kid Flash, unintentionally but still sweeped her legs, making her fall onto the floor just as Robin and Aqualad ran up towards them. To stop the closing door Kid Flash grabbed a nearby crate, managing to hold the door long enough for his friends.

"Hurry!"-Kid Flash exclaimed before Robin jumped though the door with Aqualad kicking the crate though the door, closing just before a group of Genomorphs could attack them.

"I disabled the door, we're safe."-Robin said looking towards Aqualad.

"We're trapped."-Aqualad stated as Robin couldn't agree more, Kid Flash on the other hand was more focus on exploring, and what he found was…surprising to say the least.

"Uhm guys, you'll wanna see this."-Kid Flash said before pressing a button on the console he found. In a blink of an eye several lights turned on from the ceiling, them gazing at a pod, a pod that contained something that shocked the three young heroes.

"Whoa."-Robin said as they examined what the pod held, a clone of Supeman. One younger and probably around their age, dressed in a white suit with the famous "S" symbol, on top of him there were three little genomorphs.

"Big K little r, the atomic symbol for Krypton, clone?"-Kid Flash asked as he walked up closer to the pod.

"Robin, hack."-Aqualad instructed before Robin walked up to the console and plugged in a cable from his gauntlet.

"Weapon designation: Superboy. A clone forcegrown in 16 weeks from DNA aquired from Superman."-Robin recited.

"Stolen from Superman."-Aqualad corrected as the fact that Cadmus aquired the DNA from the Man of Steel himself was virtually imposible.

"No way the big guy knows this."-Kid Flash quickly added as all three had shared the same thoughts.

"Solar suit allows him to absorb yellow sun radiation 24/7."-Robin added before Aqualad pointed at the small genos.

"And these..creatures?"-Aqualad asked pointing at the three gnomes.

"Genomorph-Gnomes, telepathic. Forcefeeding him education."-Robin explained still shocked with what they saw.

"And we can guess what else, they're making a slave out of well…Superman's son."-Kid Flash said as this was the final straw.

"Now we contact the League."-Aqualad said pressing his beltbuckle in order to contact Aquaman, to no avail. Same with Robin and him trying to signal Batman.

"No signal."-Robin bluntly stated, Kid Flash then turned towards the door and then back towards his friends.

"We're in too deep, literally. Damn now I really regret that Kid Lantern isnt here. That ring would sure be useful."-Kid Flash lamented before taking another glance at the Superboy, the sheer thought of the fact that they grew a slave Superman down here send shivers down his spine.

"This is wrong."-He said as all three thought the exact same way.

"We cant leave him like this."-Robin said adding to the argument.

"Set him free, do it."-Aqualad instructed turning towards Robin, who oblidged and in couple of clicks the pod opened…Before suddenly at a speed way higher than a regular human Superboy tuckled Aqualad down to the ground. The other two not wasting any second before rushing to hold down the raging clone.

"Whoa, hang on Supey!"-Kid Flash said while barely holding onto Superboy's arm.

"We're on your side!"-Robin added before with a punch Superboy sent Kid Flash flying. 'I'm sure Shinji is having way more fun then we do…'-he thought before hitting a glass pilar and falling onto the ground losing his conciousness.

"I don't wanna do this."-Robin said before detonating a smoke bomb on Superboy's face, using that small window Aqualad kicked superboy away before Robin fired his stun gun. Not doing any real damage as Superboy pulled Robin by the wire and tuckled him to the ground with his foot, crushing him underneath it. Aqualad then reached out for one of his hilts and summoned a water hammer.

"Enough!"-He exclaimed before tuckling Superboy with it, sending him flying back at his pod. Aqualad then tried to help Robin up, only for the Boy Wonder to succumb to the damage and fall into unconciousness. Superboy got up as well and was ready to attack Aqualad, who reached out his hand.

"We are trying to help you!"-Aqualad said not really convinving the raging clone who once again rushed at him. But this time Aqualad was ready as he dodged Superboy's attack and tackled into the wall, seemingly forgetting the fact that Superboy possessed super strength, with the clone kicking him away as the two entrered a brief one-on-one fight before Aqualad locked him and used his bio-electricity, shocking him severly. In order to free himself from the hero's grasp Superboy jumped upward, knocking Aqualad into the ceiling. He then did it again as it was finally enough to knock Aqualad out, him losing conciousness as well. The clone looked around to see the three defeated heroes, before reopening the door.

'Right, the coast is clear. If those Starlings follow though the same flight patterns thoughout the whole planet then that means I should have a clear shot on one of them from here.'-Kid Lantern thought as he walked out from the cavern that for a while served as his shelter, with him on-foot making his way though the forest before reaching a cliff. Luckilly for him the Starlings proved to be not so…inteligent, so they didn't bother to check any of the caverns under Aoran surface. Giving Kid Lantern enough time to formulate a plan so that he can have a jump on Evil Star before his backup would arrive. So now with an Eva sniper rifle in hand, his finger on the trigger, he waited, and received what he wanted. Shooting a green bullet straight into the copy Star Band, destroying it and sending the former Starling's body into a freefall.

"Great! Now I'll have a chance to finish off the rest in one blow."-Kid Lantern silently cheered before reshaping his sniper rifle into the portable version of the positron rifle. With his guesses proving correct, three Starlings crossing their paths in the air, all in Kid Lantern's crosshairs, with a pull of a trigger the rest of Evil Star's minions were now vaporised. Not wasting anymore time Kid Lantern lifted himself from the ground and made his way back towards Evil Star. Who as every evil space warlord didn't move a meter from where he stood. Without a word he sent a beam at Evil Star's tower, utterly destroying it under him before he flew upwards facing the young Lantern.

"I was expecting that my Starlings would deal with you, I guess you need to deal with some things yourself!"-Evil Star exclaimed as he fired a large violet beam from his hands, one which destroyed a large portion of the abandoned city. Kid Lantern's retaliation was far less spectacular, summoning a large Eva fist and punching hard enough to send Evil Star flying. Making it obvious that while posessing vast power Evil Star lacked any real expierience in combat, but still proved a dangerous opponent. Evil Star fired another beam that Kid Lantern dodged, sending another beam and generating a pellet rifle and firing at Evil Star. The two continued to exchange attacks, Evil Star then fired another violet beam at Kid Lantern who tanked his beam with a construct wall.

"Is this the best a Green Lantern can do? If so then my conquest will be easier then I thought."-Evil Star said as Kid Lantern slightly looked up to see a green light.

"Who said that I want to beat you? I am only a distraction."-Kid Lantern said confusing Evil Star just enough before being hit by a green big rig. Kid Lantern looked up to see a human man, dressed in black pants, combat boots and a black sleeveless shirt with a green front and the Green Lantern symbol. What cought Kid Lantern's attention was the man's ginger hair and a cocky smirk not even he in all effort to hide his secret identity would be able to reproduce.

"Don't worry Kid, they big Guy's here."-The Lantern said before lowering his flight to float infront of Kid Lantern, it was Guy Gardner, the second Green Lantern of Earth.

"Lantern Gardner…"-Kid Lantern said as Guy only kept smirking.

"Oh, you're the junior Jordan's takin care of!"-But before Guy could continue Evil Star made himself known as he fired another beam at the two Lanterns, who managed to narrowly dodge it.

"Lets keep the meet-up talk for later and now focus and takin' the bozo down."-Guy commanded with Kid Lantern nodding. The two Lanterns rushed towards Evil Star, the two firing their rings at Evil Star, who despite being much stronger couldn't keep up with an expierienced Lantern and someone who despite being a Lantern for a short period of time still exceeded at combat. Guy kept Evil Star busy with his blunt yet powerful attacks with Kid Lantern distracting him with his constructs.

"Damn it! I wont let myself be toyed with by two mediocore Green Lanterns!"-Evil Star said before he received a football in the face followed by punch to the jaw.

"WHO YA CALLIN' MEDIOCRE?!"-Guy roared as it sent Evil Star flying.

"That's it! ARISE MY ARMY!"-Evil Star exclaimed, raising his Star Band arm into the air, surrounded by violet aura before letting out almost an animalistic kind of roar. Before a green tendril slipped though and reached out for the Star Band. Quickly surrounding the confused and powerless Evil Star in a green bubble. Guy only whistled before he flew up towards Kid Lantern.

"You sneaked away this power ring rip off from him while I beated the crap out of him, impressive."-Guy said as Kid Lantern's mask vanished.

"I don't think I could do that on my own, not yet at least."-Shinji said as Guy gave him a strong clap on the back.

"Kiddo, for a rookie you've handled it quite well. With that we can finally talk! Guy Gardner, Green Lantern 2814.2."-Guy said, reaching out his hand towards Shinji who shook it.

"Shinji Ikari, Green Lantern 2814.4. You know Lantern Gardner, you differ from what I heard either Hal or John Stewart."-Shinji said while reinforcing the bubble to shut Evil Star up. Guy only laughed when he heard Shinji's words.

"They're just jealous 'cause they're not the best Lantern, if you want to be the best like the man over here then stick around me, I'll get Evil Star to Oa and you can go back to your sidekicks meet-up."-Guy said taking the sphere with his ring.

"You think this is over brat!? I'll come back and have my revenge, you have no ide-."-Evil Star was once again shut off, this time by a fist inside the bubble knocking him out. Shinji sighed before handing the Star Band to Guy.

"I guess this is goodbye."-Shinji said as Guy nodded.

"Yeah, I want to get some zzz's and maybe later have a talk with Jordan and Stewart regarding picking up slack regarding Sector protection. See ya 'round Kid! And I own you hot wings!"-Guy said before the two Lanterns split off, Guy flying off to Oa and Shinji getting back to Earth. With another trip lasting few hours Shinji summoned his mask as he entered Earth's atmosphere and made his way to the East Coast.

"Ring, take me to Cadmus!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed, his ring only lit up in confirmation before he put up speed and reached his destination, only to find rubble. He immediately scanned though the rubble for any familiar DNA or bio-signal.

"Signal of: Robin, Aqualad and Kid Flash located."-Kid Lantern's ring AI spoke up as meanwhile his visor switched to a vision highlighting the three heroes in green. Locating the piece of rubble they were stuck under he summoned an Eva Hand and lifted it up, revealing Kid Flash, Aqualad and Robin alongside another boy dressed in a ripped apart white suit.

"Guys!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed landing before Kid Flash runned up towards him for a high five, before the young speedster twisted in pain.

"Dude, you missed some serious fireworks."-Kid Flash said, Kid Lantern only looked around the rubble that supposedly was once Kadmus. 'Wow, some serious fireworks indeed.'-he thought as meanwhile Aqualad panted for air.

"We, we did it."-He said turning towards Robin, who only smirk.

"Was there any doubt?"-He asked as Superboy looked around, first at the grey monster that was once Cadmus's leading scientist before turning towards the four young heroes.

"See? The moon!"-Kid Flash said pointing upwards, with Superboy looking up towards it. Before suddenly Superman appeared.

"Oh, and Superman! Do we keep our promises or what?"-Kid Flash added as quickly Superman was joined by all of his fellow leaguers, the situation turning awkard for Kid Lantern as even from where he stood he could feel GL's confusement. With Batman, Superman, Flash and later GL standing in front of the young heroes. Without hesitation Superboy walked up towards his precedessor, lifting up the tarnished part of his costume to reveal the familiar "S".

"Is that what I think it is?"-Batman asked, with Kid Flash walking up next to Superboy.

"He doesn't like being called an it."-He said as Superboy didn't need his advocacy.

"I'm Superman's clone."-Superboy explained sending a wave of confusement thoughout the whole league, except for Batman who narrowed his eyes.

"Start talking."-Batman said with the three heroes now explaining what got them here, Kid Lantern on the other hand was pulled to the side by GL.

"I got a briefing from Guy regarding what happened on Aoran Kid, sorry I wasn't able to help…you ok?"-GL asked as Kid Lantern wiped the back of his head.

"Yeah, Lantern Gardner helped me to put the guy down."-Kid Lantern explained, GL only rubbed the bridge of his mask nose before pointing at the giant.

"Listen, go home now before Batman will get on your back for reasons unknown while I help the league."-GL said with Kid Lantern nodding before shooting out into the sky. 'So, you wont talk about the whole race being extinct? You keep making me ask more questions without anwsers Shinji.'-Hal thought before joining the rest of the league.

Chapter Text

It was another slow day both for Shinji and his masked alter ego. Ever since his mission on Aoran and his "involvement" in project Cadmus the things Kid Lantern was dealing with felt quite…small, a robbery here, a car chase there or that one time where he had to get a cat from a tree. At least he didn't have to worry about School for some time since the summer vacation started, and that meant without patrols or his swimming lessons with Tula Shinji was sitting in Hal's apartment for the last two weeks. With that he followed his daily routine, preparing dinner for himself. Hal being out all day and night…again.

"Hey Kid."-Hal said tiredly walking inside the apartment, throwing his shoes into the drawer before walking towards Shinji.

"Where were you?"-Shinji asked tiredly grabbing a mug of coffee.

"Out, with friends. How about you?"-Hal asked walking towards the fridge and taking out a diet soda.

"Well: read, watch T.V, patrol the city and went for my swimming lesson."-Shinji recited as Hal raised his eyebrow.

"Really, no friends over? No girls either?"-He asked making Shinji raise his own eyebrow.

"Of course not."-He replied turning towards the playing T.V, focusing his attention on a news report involving Superman stopping someone from committing suicide, not by sheer strength but by a talk and a hug.

"What do you mean "Of course not"? You're a kid Shinji, at your age you should have friends over, have fun, get into trouble, jump off from a girl's window in only your boxers when her parents return home?"-Hal said, with the last part catching to enough of Shinji's attention to make him turn around.

"That's oddly specific, but I thought as GL's our job is to prevent trouble."-Shinji said before Hal put his hand on Shinji's shoulder.

"When we're in uniform, out of uniform we are allowed to have fun. Hell the first time I met John was during a bar brawl. With our life expectancy being so short having fun should be the priority when not ringslinging."-Hal said, making Shinji sigh as he took a sip of his coffee.

"You don't have to tell me how short life is Hal, I've went through that."-Shinji said making Hal initially give up. 'Damn, making Kid admit the necesity of basic human interactions is like convincing Sinestro to not act like a jerk. At least Batman could invite him to his new te-…wait, Hal Jordan you are a genius.'-he thought before quickly finishing his Soda.

"Get dressed, we're leaving."-Hal said making Shinji initially confused for a second. Not even having enough time to ask questions before Hal insisted on charging his ring.

"So, we are we going?"-Shinji finally asked as Hal turned towards him with a smirk.

"You'll see, it's a surprise."-Hal said before the two walked to the side of Hal's apartment complex to see an abandoned phone booth, an invention that while still common on Shinji's Earth, before the 3rd Impact of course. Here was quickly pushed away in favour of more frequently appearing smartphones.

"What am I Looking at?"-Shinji asked as Hal summoned his uniform much to his young partner's confusion.

"Trust me, walk inside."-GL said finally convincing Shinji to follow though his request, walking into the booth with GL following, him closing the door seemingly activating a small camera scanning both of their faces.

"Recognised: Green Lantern-05, Kid Lantern-B-06."-An automated voice said before both of their bodies turned into yellow particles.

"What the hell?"-Before Shinji could finish his sentence he found himself standing in a large silver tube, way larger than a phone booth the two walked in the alley. Walking forward he noticed he and GL weren't in Coast City anymore, they weren't even on the same Coast. Looking up to see a large rocky ceiling hovering over his head.

"Welcome to Mount Justice Shinji, the first HQ of the league."-GL said making Shinji turn towards him.

"And we're here because?"-He asked before GL summoned a construct of a TV with a report of the Cadmus incident on.

"Well, remember the incident with Robin, Aqualad and Kid Flash? In short words, the bad guys are getting smarter. So the league, but mostly Batman are putting together a covert team of young heroes."-GL explained, it took a second for him to understand what GL was saying, before it all connected in his head.

"Wait, you want me to jo-"

"Hey Kid Lantern!"-A voice of Kid Flash called out making Shinji turn to see Kid Flash and Robin walking up towards him, dressed in civilian clothes with Aqualad behind them alongside the Superboy, now dressed in a black superman T-Shirt and Cargo pants and a pretty green girl with red hair floating in the air.

"Hey guys."-Shinji said as Robin gave him a high five.

"Hey KL, what's up?"-He asked before GL put his hand on Shinji's shoulder.

"Well, the reason why I brought him here was to see if you guys want him to have a shot at your team?"-GL asked making Wally and Robin's faces lit up.

"Wait m-"-But before Shinji could finish Wally immediately spoke up.

"Dude, our own Green Lantern in our own team, more good things coming every day."-Wally said before he and Robin shared a high five.

"So, how about it?"-GL asked making Kaldur step up in front of Wally and Robin.

"It would be an honour to have you in the team."-Kaldur said with a smile before Superboy scoffed behind him.

"An honour, who is this?"-Superboy asked, with Shinji only slightly bowing down.

"I am Shinji Ikari, it is nice to meet you in better circumstances."-Shinji said in a silent tone, Robin then turned around towards Superboy.

"Also known as Kid Lantern, the Green Lantern who got us from under the rubble that was once Cadmus, the upper part at least."-Robin said finally making Superboy look at Shinji.

"So, like you?"-He asked looking towards GL, who only smirked before turning towards Shinji.

"Show them Kid."-GL said before stepping back, allowing Shinji to take full stage as he summoned his uniform, before raising his ring and summoning construct versions of: GL, John, Guy, Kilowog, Greet, Tomar-Re, Laira, Soranik and Arisia. All with their rings risen constructing a sign saying "Impressive?".

"Yeah, very impressive."-Robin said marking the part where Shinji desummoned both his construct and his uniform.

"So, any objections? If Speedy said no, then the spot is open! And he is a Green Lantern! That's like 70% boost to the team's sheer power."-Wally said turning towards his teammates, Aqualad and Robin immediately nodding, Superboy only grunted in what seemed like agreement, the Green Girl then settled her feet on the ground.

"None from me as well. I'm Miss Martian, M'gann M'orzz. But call me Megan, we're on Earth after all."-She said between silent stutters before reaching out her hand, which Shinji shook. 'I guess I'm not the only one who feels like an alien.'-he thought silently to himself.

"You too?"-Megan asked making Shinji show an "Eh?" expression before looking towards Superboy.

"Superboy."-He grunted out introducing himself before GL turned back towards the Zeta tube.

"Well, I guess you accepted him, then I'll be on my way."-GL said as the tube scanned him.

"Wait, what?"-Shinji asked before GL slightly turned his head towards the young Lantern and his new team.

"You didn't think that we would just deal with the formalities did you? Kid it's summer, stick around, get to know your teammates."-GL said vanishing in the Zeta particles.

"Wait, did he even talk with Batman about this?"-Robin asked to which Shinji only unfolded his arms.

"Right…that's something we'll cross later."-Robin said with a grin causing Shinji to raise his eyebrow.

"Wait, I'm in?"-he asked confused before Wally put his arm around Shinji's head and left shoulder.

"Well duh, like I said, our own Green Lantern, so cool."-He explained finally making Shinji a bit more comfortable.

"We were just having a tour around the cave, why don't you join us?"-Megan asked in a tone that Shinji thought was too sweet to say no.

"I know, come on! We left the best part for last."-Megan said flying up with Shinji following thanks to his aura as the others followed them on foot.

The elevator door opened to the team, revealing the hangar bay, on it stood a decently sized red sphere-alike object.

"It's my Martian Bio-Ship"-Megan explained before walking towards it alongside the rest of the team.

"Cute, not aerodynamic but cute."-Wally said making Megan turn towards him with an amused smile.

"It's in rest silly, I'll wake it."-She explained before raising her hand towards the ship, before it begun to transform into a way more aerodynamic shape, with two prongs sticking out in the front. Megan then turned it around and made its rear hatch open.

"Well, are you coming?"-She asked the visibly startled teens who followed her. 'Everything feels so…sticky, biological. It kinda reminds me of Unit 01.'-Shinji thought experiencing something he never expected towards his Evangelion unit, nostalgia. Maybe it was because of his Mother? Speaking of who, he still didn't know what was his mother doing, supposedly building the Blue Lantern Corps...not really knowing how it was going. Meanwhile Megan opened another door inside the ship to reveal the ship's cockpit with 5 front seats and a captain seat in the centre.

"Strap in for launch."-She instructed as Shinji sat in the nearest chair before restraints buckled him up in his seat. 'Not beating the Eva allegations, but as long as nobody pours LCL inside it will be good.'-he thought staring though the window.

"Red Tornado, please open the bay doors."-Megan asked before the door opened allowing the Bio-ship to fly out and let the team look down on the small town of Happy Harbour. As the rest were mostly focused on Megan showcasing her abilities, Shinji on the other hand was locked in his own thoughts. 'Can really be part of a team again? I am a Green Lantern, but we normally work alone. And It's a closed circle of those deemed worthy if we have to work in pairs or more, here we are all just kids, kinda like-'-it was at this moment his brain performed a mental hiccup regarding thinking about Asuka and Rei, especially not when there was someone who could READ MINDS. 'Shinji, Shinji? Are you still here?'-suddenly Megan's voice echoed throughout his head, and if it wasn't for the restraints he would probably fall down onto the floor.

"Y-Yes? I think so."-Shinji said noticing the other five staring at him.

"Dude, have you been paying any attention to what we were talking about?"-Wally asked Shinji who then looked at the floor, visibly embarrassed.

"Sorry."-He muttered out for a second snapping back to his old meek persona.

"Don't be, I mean you are a Green Lantern. You've probably seen more of the universe than any of us will see in our lifetimes, I can understand why something like this must be boring to you."-Megan said in a sweet tone to which Shinji only raised his hands in objection.

"I don't think that, I just…thought about something else."-He said hoping that they won't dig any further.

"About what?"-Kaldur asked, causing Shinji's inner alert crank up to eleven.

"And if you don't want to tell us then Miss M can always get it out of your head."-Robin joked as the bio-ship received a message.

"Red Tornado to Miss Martian, an emergency alert has been triggered at the Happy Harbour power planet, I suggest you investigate, covertly. I'm sending coordinates."-Tornado said immediately changing the atmosphere in the ship. 'Good thing I charged this thing, though it was around 66%.'-Shinji thought looking at his ring, it lighting up for a second showing his determination.

"Received, adjusting course."-Megan said taking back the controls of the ship.

"Tornado's keeping us busy again."-Robin said scoffing as the ship was beginning to land.

"Well, a simple fire led you to Superboy. We should find out what caused the alert."-Megan said before Superboy turned around.

"I think I know the cause…"-he said as a tornado hit the Bio-Ship, Megan doing her best to get the ship out of the vortex before setting it down on the plant's parking lot. After the six In Cognito young heroes, Shinji immediately summoning his mask in order to look inside via Infrared. 'Right, that big heat signature isn't a good sign, wait? What's with the second one approaching?'-Shinji thought before turning around to see that Robin was gone…of course.

"He was just here."-Megan said confused before the windows of the plant began to blow up, signalling for the teens to run inside. Only to witness Robin getting thrown around by large figure, covered by a red armour with black details on the legs, chest, arms and head. From his back sticking out were blue tubes that matched his blue eyes, he also wore a brown scarf, quite out of place for a seeming robot.

"Who's your friend?"-Superboy asked landing beside Robin.

"Didn't catch his name, but he plays kinda rough."-Robin said as the group looked towards the figure.

"My apologies, you may address me as Mister Twister."-The figure, now known as Mister Twister introduced himself before summoning another Tornado and throwing Superboy into the wall. Shinji only sighed, summoning his aura before flying towards Mister Twister as behind him the rest of the team was getting ready to attack him. Dodging his tornados before retaliating with his own attacks, firing lasers at Mister Twister.

"I see, a Green Lantern, but so young… does your Mother know you are here?"-He asked to which Shinji smirked before summoning an Eva handheld bazooka.

"Listen tincase, we're not really in a mood to fight a rejected Ultraman villain. So please cut the part when you hand yourself over to the authorities."-Shinji said allowing a little bit of his "Kid Lantern" persona to slip though. With those words he fired a large green blast, not enough to fully vaporise, still not knowing if he is dealing with either an android or a controlled suit. Unfortunately for the young Lantern the shots weren't enough to damage Mister Twister. Who laughed before launching another Tornado aimed at Shinji who summoned a shield. Meanwhile Wally tried to attack him via a frontal kick, whom Mister Twister send flying though the second power plant entrance. Before again sending Kaldur and Megan flying back, leaving only Robin and floating Shinji alone against him.

"I was prepared to be challenged by a superhero. I was not, however expecting children."-He said visibly startling both Robin and Shinji.

"We're not children!"-Robin explained throwing a pair of explosives which were supported by another pair of lasers.

"Objectively you are, have you no adult supervision? I find your presence here quite disturbing."-Mister Twister said unfazed by either Robin's explosives or Shinji's lasers.

"Well, we hate to see you disturbed. Let's see if you're more turbed once we kick your can."-Robin said before Megan used her telekinesis, pulling down a piece of power plant's infrastructure sending a massive pile of steam down at Mister Twister. Using that as a cover Superboy jumped up trying to once again attack him, only to get sent flying before crashing into Megan. It was in that moment when Robin, Kaldur and Shinji prepared a counterattack. The two more experienced heroes rushing first before being caught in Mister Twister's tornadoes. Shinji summoned a pair of Eva hands and managed to catch his teammates before uniting the two into a fist, finally landing a punch on Mister Twister, not really doing any damage, but it was still a punch. Sending him out from the power plant.

"Turbed enough?"-Shinji asked panting as the mechanised villain eyed him.

"Indeed, and impressive little Lantern, but not enough."-He said sending another large Tornado into the power plant. Not hesitating for a second Shinji summoned a wall of green light shielding him, Robin, Kaldur, Superboy and Megan. Keeping it hold until the Tornado died out on its own. Meanwhile Wally finally regained consciousness, first thing he saw being Mister Twister trying to fly away from the power plant. He runned up towards him, who effortlessly dodged his tackles before facing him.

"What have you done to my team!?"-Wally asked.

"Embarrassed them, largely."-Mister Twister said before sending Wally in a tornado back towards the power plant, before suddenly stopping.

"I got you Wally."-Megan said before settling him down on the ground.

"Oh, thanks."-Wally replied as meanwhile Shinji was slowly getting both tired and irritated, mostly by the fact he was limited in regards to his abilities without his full-on uniform and mask. 'Ah screw this!'-he thought before looking towards his ring. 'Ring! Give me a scan of Mister Twister. Look around in the blueprints, find any sort of weakness.'-internally ordering before his ring lit up in confirmation.

"I would have thought you had all learned your limitations by now."-Mister Twister spoke up.

"What do you want?!"-Kaldur asked having enough of villain's mind games.

"Isn't it obvious? I'm waiting for a real hero."-Mister Twister said before Kaldur turned towards Megan.

"Read his mind, find a weakness."-He ordered.

"But I thought I wasn't supposed to do that?"-Megan replied, meanwhile Shinji's ring beeped out a "Scan Complete". Before showing Shinji a graph. 'So, it's an android. With powers similar to Red Tornado. Ring, run additional scan comparing Mister Twister and Red Tornado.'-he thought as Meanwhile Megan came to a similar conclusion, although being more certain.

"Hello Megan! Mister Twister is Red Tornado in disguise! He's inorganic an android. And how many androids do you know that can generate tornados?"-Megan said causing the team to banter against themselves, all expect one.

"Red Tornado sent us here."-Kaldur concluded.

"After saying we'd be tested soon enough. This is his test, something to keep us busy!"-Robin added, making their anger rise.

"Speedy called it, we're a joke."-Wally said adding to the somber tone.

"Are you really sure he's Red Tornado?"-Shinji asked turning towards Megan.

"Well…he's an android."-Megan said, herself showing that she wasn't quite sure.

"Scan complete"-Shinji's ring AI spoke up displaying another graph, making Shinji's fear come true. 'Crap! Despite being seemingly built the same way they aren't the same android!'-Shinji thought before flying off, his mind quickly coming up with a plan. Meanwhile Robin, Kaldur and Wally walked up towards "Red Tornado".

"We know who you are and what you want."-Robin said, meanwhile Shinji settled himself on his sniper position, taking a deep breath he begun constructing a handheld positron rifle. 'Why is this so much harder without a full-on-uniform?'-he thought to himself assembling his construct.

"So, let's end this."-Aqualad stated, Mister Twister only seemed to let out a scoff before raising his hands.

"Consider it ended."-He spoke beginning to create a large vortex in the air, 'Come on, why aren't they doing anything?'-Shinji asked himself preparing his rifle.

"Impressive show, but we will not indulge you, we will not engage!"-Kaldur spoke up, Mister Twister only continued his work, lighting beginning to strike from the sky.

"There!"-Shinji finally exclaimed holding his positron rifle, his mask appearing on his face in order to get a lock-on. 'Come on! Come on!'-he frantically thought watching the situation get worse.

"You think I'm Tornado…Ironic."-Mister Twister said sending another lighting down onto the team, all of them hitting the ground except for Superboy who prepared for a counterattack that never came. 'Now!'-finally getting Mister Twister into his crosshairs Shinji fired a large blast of Green Energy, it took a lot from him as the construct quickly evaporated. Using what he had remained of his willpower he flew down towards his team. Meanwhile the Green Beam managed to hit its target. Completely evaporating Mister Twister's scarf and most of its red and black paint. Using his hands to shield himself the skies turned blue once more.

"Impressive Little Lantern, you saw though in contrast to your teammates."-Mister Twister said though a damaged speaker flying down, revealing his scorched armour being now mostly gunmetal grey. Shinji didn't even react with a verbal remark and summoned a pellet ready to attack. Before suddenly stopping. 'What the?'-Shinji asked to himself before turning around to see Megan, using her telekinesis, her showing him the "shush" gesture.

"Fine then, I won't deny you children have power, especially your friend from Oa, but playing hide-and-seek with you would not help me achieve my objectives. So stay concealed! If you confront me again, I will show no mercy."-Mister Twister said before finally flying away, allowing Shinji to let go of his pellet rifle, panting for air hard as he fell onto the ground.

"Why…Is…this…harder…then normal?"-Shinji said out loud, his breath slowly returning to normal.

"What happened?"-Wally asked getting up from the ground.

"I place the bioship between us."-Megan explained, meanwhile Superboy only punched the ground in anger, creating a large crater.

"And that's supposed to make it right? You tricked us into thinking Twister was Red Tornado!"-Superboy said in anger, walking up towards Megan.

"It wasn't her fault, and according to my scan she could think that."-Shinji added looking at his ring.

"I agree with Shinji, it was a rookie mistake. We shouldn't have listened."-Robin added, Shinji then looked at Megan's face, noticing the colours on her face fading. 'Too eager to please...'-he thought to himself.

"You are pretty inexperienced, hit the showers, will take it from here."-Wally said helping Shinji up.

"Stay out of our way."-Superboy grunted out before jumping away with Kid Flash and Robin racing after him, Shinji tried to call upon his aura but only managed to lift up himself up couple of centimetres before falling down.

"The hell, ring! Energy percentage reamining?"-Shinji asked before his ring lit up.

"93% remaining, power level in norm."-the AI said confusing the young Lantern.

"Are you ok Shinji?"-Kaldur asked to which Shinji looked towards his ring.

"Yeah, I believe that attack took a little bit more than the ordinary, especially without my uniform."-Shinji explained, Kaldur only nodded before turning towards Megan.

"Stay with Megan, regain your strength before joining us. You've already helped a lot."-Kaldur suggested before turning to look at the young Martian.

"I was just trying to be part of the team."-Megan said looking down at the grass.

"To be honest, I'm not sure we really have a team."-Kaldur said before joining up with the rest.

"Guess both of us are not needed."-Shinji said looking at his ring. 'And what the hell is wrong with me today? Seemingly thinking about working in a team again is-wait wait, I get it now.'-he thought to himself while he and Megan walked inside the Bio-Ship.

"But you're the only one who got a real hit on him."-Megan said taking the controls before taking off.

"Yeah, but because of personal reasons the seemingly lenient constructs seem like creating an artificial heart."-Shinji said huffing in annoyance at his own incompetence.

"Well, there's two of us in that department then."-Megan said with Shinji looking towards his ring. 'Complete the mission and then worry about it.'-he thought to himself before turning over towards her.

"But we can't leave them to fight alone. Despite their experience working together Mister Twister wiped the floor with them."-Shinji said as Megan pressed a button on the ship's HUD.

"That's why I'm calling for help."-She said before an image of Red Tornado appeared.

"Red Tornado, the disturbance in the plant was an android calling himself Mister Twister, he possesses similar power set to you and is even immune to my telepathy. They-I mean, the team needs your help."-Megan reported on the situation, not expecting to the reply she received.

"If I intervened, it would not be to help. Still, it is an odd coincidence that this "Twister" shares my elemental abilities, and my immunity to Telepathy."-Red Tornado said before Shinji brought up the report he made with his scan.

"What is surprising is the fact that after checking though Twister's inner schematics and comparing them with yours. The match is around 60%"-Shinji explained catching Tornado's attention.

"Indeed, there could be a chance that Twister was either: Based on my schematics, or built by my creator T.O Morrow or one of his protégés."-Tornado explained as it was this moment where Megan came up with a plan.

"Hello Megan!"-Megan said to herself confusing Shinji.

"So, what is the plan?"-Shinji asked before Megan mentally uploaded the plan to his head. 'Wow…this could actually work.'- he thought to himself. 'I know right? But we need Kid Lantern now more than ever. That and to inform the rest.'-Megan echoed in his head to which Shinji nodded. His 'Mission-first-worries-later.' Mentality taking over as he summoned his uniform. Megan smirked, before turning the bioship around and heading towards the town centre of Happy Harbour.

"'Listen to me, all of you.'"Megan's telepathic voice echoed throughout not only Shinji's head, but also the group fighting Twister on the ground.

"What did we tell you!?"-Superboy roared as Kid Lantern could feel his…Eardrums? Hurt.

"'I know, and I know I messed up. But now I'm very clear on what we need to do. Please trust me.'"-Megan said before turning towards Kid Lantern.

"Your quo."-She said, the young Lantern showed her a thumbs up before phasing though Bio-Ship's hall and putting up speed. Letting go of his worries finally made him feel like he was back to 100 percent. Turning around he saw Megan, now clad in her Red Tornado disguise following him.

"'You gave them the plan?'"-Shinji asked on the rapidly established mind link.

"'Yeah…just follow through your act, when I give the signal join us. We'll need that sheer power.'"-Megan replied before the two reach their destination.

"Hit the showers boys. I was hoping, you could handle this. Clearly you cannot."-"Red Tornado" said landing alongside Kid Lantern in front of the in Cognito heroes.

"But we've got a plan now!"-Robin added playing on the act like a skilful actor.

"The subject is not up for debate. Kid Lantern, stick around and help me."-"Red Tornado" said making the other four heroes disperse.

"I was beginning to believe you'd never show up."-Mister Twister teased.

"I am here now."-"Red Tornado" replied, seeing this as a sign Kid Lantern flew back and fired several lasers, acting as both support fire and cover for Megan's "tornados" which in reality were Wally spinning at super speed.

"We're equally matched Twister."-"Red Tornado" said summoning another "tornado" and throwing rocks with her telepathy.

"No Tornado we are NOT!"-Mister Twister replied summoning a wall of air to protect himself before firing a blue beam from the canons of his forearms, the damage that Kid Lantern did before showing itself in how the armour was damaged, sparks emanating and Twister's voicebox seemingly jumping though tones. "Tornado" dodged the blasts before a hit on a random boat caused her to fly back, seemingly to malfunction.

"Tornado!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed letting out the most Oscar-worthy performance he could, releasing a wild array of beams that a marksman like him would never let out from his ring. Mister Twister only flew towards "Tornado".

"Remain still, android. The reprogramming won't take long."-Mister Twister said releasing wires from his hand, only for Tornado's head to transform into Megan's.

"Longer then you might think."-She teased before sending Twister into Wally, still spinning like a tornado. Launching him towards Superboy who with a series of quick punches increased the damage Kid Lantern had made before. With another strong punch Superboy sent him flying into the harbour. Where Kaldur was waiting for him. Showing a hook into Twister's armour before using his Electric powers, overcharging Twister enough to generate an explosion sending him back to the surface. Megan then lifted him up and forcefully removed the arms. Robin using the occasion to throw a pair of explosives which send Mister Twister onto the ground. Kid Lantern then summoned a large spear of Longinus imprisoning the downed villain before desummoning his uniform mid-air and landing alongside his teammates. Much to the team's surprise Mister Twister's body opened up to reveal a person in a pilot suit. 'But the scan indicated it was completely mechanical.'-Shinji thought to himself as the pilot managed to get out.

"Foul, I call foul."-He said, before Megan smashed him down with a boulder. Shocking everyone except for Shinji.

"Don't know how things are done on Mars. but on Earth we don't execute our captives!"-Robin exclaimed making Megan only smirk.

"You said you trust me."-She added before lifting up the boulder revealing a pile of metal.

"That's why I couldn't read his mind."-Megan concluded before Wally lifted up a sole eyeball.

"Cool, souvenir!"-Kid Flash said before putting the eyeball into his pocket.

"We should have had more faith in you, both of you."-Kaldur said looking at Megan and Shinji, who begun to clean up Mister Twister's remains with his ring.

"I haven't done much."-Shinji muttered before disposing the pieces into a construct trash container.

"You were the only one who actually damaged him at the beginning. What was that anyway?"-Superboy asked, to which Shinji sighed before flying up.

"I'll explain it later, I have all those pieces to carry to so I'll fly behind you."-Shinji said, confusing the rest of the team for a second before they complied. 'Why am I not surprised that this didn't work? Remember last time you were in a team, and how it ended.'-he thought to himself, while flying behind the Bio-Ship. Even after all the things he faced as a Lantern, he still wasn't ready to fully commit himself to being in another team, especially with his own fears crippling him and his powers to such a degree.

"It was clearly created to sabotage or destroy you."-Kaldur said, as he and the rest of the team alongside Red Tornado examined Mister Twister's remains back in Mount Justice.

"Agreed."-Tornado replied.

"Is that why you wouldn't help us?"-Megan asked looking at Tornado.

"No, this was your battle. I do not believe it is my role to solve your problems for you. Nor should you solve mine, for me."-Red Tornado stated, confusing the rest of the team, except for Shinji. Whose attention was on the Zeta tube that would get him out of here.

"But if you're in danger?"-Megan asked, the Red android only stating his reply.

"Consider this matter closed."-Red Tornado said before walking away.

"Batman, Aquaman, Flash maybe even Green Lantern. They'd jump right in to fix things."-Wally said.

"Guess if we're gonna have a babysitter, a heartless machine is exactly what we need."-Robin said startling Wally.

"Dude! Harsh."-Wally said, meanwhile Shinji begun to slightly back away.

"And inaccurate, I have a heart. Carbon-steel alloy, I also have excellent hearing."-Tornado said eyeing Robin.

"Sorry, I'll strive to be more accurate."-Robin said, embarrassed by what he said.

"And more respectful."-Kaldur added, meanwhile Shinji was in the process of finding Coast City on the map. 'I was right, they are all just regular kids. Even Megan and Superboy. And I'm…me.'-Shinji thought, not realising he caught attention of others.

"Shinji are you ok?"-Megan asked as the Zeta Tube lit up.

"Yeah dude, the after-party is just getting started!"-Wally said before Shinji turned towards them with a sigh.

"Listen…about the whole team thing, I still need to think about it."-Shinji said before vanishing in the Zeta particles, not being able to see the team share a confused and a slight worried look.

"Recognised: Kid Lantern-B-06."-The Zeta Tube hummed before Shinji opened the door of the phone booth, now back in Coast City. Which was after midnight. Not even bothered to walk by the door, Shinji summoned his aura and flew towards Hal's balcony door. He walked inside only to see Hal watching TV.

"So, how did it went?"-Hal asked as Shinji only walked towards the fridge and took out his dinner.

"I don't think this is going to work. I am not ready, and with my lack of keeping myself in check I'm only a nuisance. They don't need me. And you didn't even talk about this with Batman before dumping me off."-Shinji said, not looking to see Hal's slightly disappointed facial expression. 'Why was I expecting that?'-he thought to himself before walking towards Shinji.

"Hey, I didn't dump you on them. I just wanted you to spent some time with kids your age, ones that can understand the struggle of putting on the costume. You're not the easiest in terms of making friends."-Hal said, to which Shinji only turned around with a scowl.

"I'm not a hero, I am a Green Lantern, an intergalactic lawman. The team, they are just regular kids. Carefree and normal despite all the danger around them. I have nothing in common with them."-Shinji said while heating up his food.

"Did you at least try?"-Hal asked to which Shinji shot him a glare that Hal could describe as "a look of someone who was dead inside."

"Believe me I tried, I just can't…not again."-Shinji said before returning to working on dinner, Hal only sighing in defeat. 'I guess I can't get though him enough, perhaps it's time to call Dinah? Although Shinji will probably kill me if I try to drag him to her. I just hope that he will come though, maybe then ask her to keep an eye on him. Please kid, don't quit immediately.'-he thought to himself walking away. Shinji only to sighed to himself.

"Sorry Hal, I just don't how to be a kid."

Chapter Text

"I don't know, I just needed some time away."-Shinji said taking a sip of black coffee. It had been few days since his "audition" at the team. With summer being at full swing he could allow himself a trip to Oa. In other words, he runned away…again. With his return he managed to stumble upon Laira in the commissary, who was currently taking a break from her sector duty, having no one else to talk to he engaged in a conversation.

"You seem to be…unaccustomed to interaction with your peers."-Laira said summing up what Shinji told her. Shinji only sighed before taking another sip of his coffee.

"Agreed, it has been my problem since…forever."-Shinji said earning a sympathetic look from his senior.

"You are really young by Earth's standards, despite that I can feel you've seen certain things…that no other young person should see. And that made you feel cautious with relationships."-Laira said taking a sip of her drink.

"You are right, sometimes I feel like I'm 140 rather than 14."-Shinji said with a slight sad tone. Both his and Laira's words being not too far from the truth.

"If so, then why come to me of all people? Wasn't Hal Jordan supposed to be your mentor?"-Laira asked to which Shinji looked slightly to the floor.

"Hal is…alright. But he cannot understand it. I wasn't planning on seeing you. But the way you act, like a Ronin, strong and self-sufficient. Maybe you could teach me being the type of warrior you are?"-Shinji asked, to which Laira sighed, knowing well Shinji meant.

"You mean someone who can act alone without need friends? Yes, it is hard for me to open up to others, but this doesn't mean we don't have those that care about us."-Laira said before gesturing for Shinji to take a look around the commissary. Him complying to see several lanterns, from various races, planets and sectors. Some humanoid and some not. All seemingly chatting amongst each other, some laughing at other's stories or jokes.

"Look around yourself Shinji, each and every one of those Lanterns would have your back, despite you being of a different race. Despite suffering throughout your childhood. It shouldn't be an excuse for you to shut out those who care about you."-Laira instructed, causing Shinji to raise his eyebrow.

"From what you told me, you seemed to have a tough childhood as well."-Shinji said to which Laira nodded.

"My childhood was far from ordinary as well. But despite being trained to be a warrior, I was a princess raised among prestige, comfort and love of my family…for a time. You on the other hand, were denounced of basic affection that a parent would give to a child. And that caused you to grow up to be the person you are today, and why you made mistakes."-Laira stated, to which Shinji couldn't help to nod in agreement.

"You are right, family…is pretty much just as an alien concept as the Corps was when I received my ring."-Shinji said to which Laira gave him a sympathetic look.

"Then maybe this is your chance to fully embrace the gift you are being offered? Besides...it isn't like you don't have any close relationships within the Corps."-Laira said, a small faint semblance of a smile forming on her face, confusing the young Lantern for a second.

"Hey Shinji!"-A familiar voice spoke up with Shinji turning around to see Arisia, Laira only closed her eyes in amusement.

"I believe I should take my leave."-Laira said getting up from her chair before slightly bowing her head. Shinji, who although confused why she wanted to leave so early still paid his respects and bowed his head.

"Thank you for your time."-Shinji said to which Laira showed him a small smile.

"You are very welcome young Shinji. And I'm sure you'll persuade with this. You are a Green Lantern after all."-Laira said before flying pass Arisia. The older lantern seeing well what the younger meant by coming here, and why she decided to walk away from Shinji. 'So this is young love? Better not to interrupt it. He needs this after all.'-she thought to herself as meanwhile Arisia took Laira's chair.

"Hello Arisia."-Shinji said with a genuine smile, after all she was probably the closest person he had formed a something of a bond with ever since he joined the Corps.

"So, what are you doing here? Not that I mind seeing you, I mean I am hap-I'll…I'll shut up now."-Arisia said slightly looking away, her cheeks covering with a slight crimson. Her face showing an embarrassed smile. One that Shinji couldn't find adorable, a strange warmth feeling his insides, one similar to when Asuka was actually nice to him and not hiding her insecurities.

"I'm alright, it's just I needed to get away from Earth for a while. Look at me, chosen by a ring of limitless and still cannot stop running away despite trying damn well to do that."-Shinji said making Arisia raised her eyebrow, confused at what Shinji was talking about.

"Why?"-She asked before turning around to see Lanterns talking among each other. 'He won't talk to me fully if we won't be alone…if we are alone. Ah stop yourself! He'll think that you're weird!'-she thought to herself before summoning her aura and raising herself up.

"How about we talk while flying? Even though others won't probably care it would be still nice for us to just enjoy each other's company."-She said reaching out her hand to Shinji. Which provoked him to raise his aura as well before following Arisia out of the commissary. The two soaring though Oa's clear skylines. Shinji feeling the most comfortable around her, he told how his life on Earth was up to this point before talking about how he didn't belong in the team, this was what caught Arisia's attention before they landed on top of a building. The only thing illuminating their conversation being the clear view of the stars from Oa's orbit.

"You say that you don't feel normal around them? If they are superheroes, then I would normally expect you would fit right in? And yet you're the one feeling alien despite having a Martian and a Kryptonian…cloned but still, you believe you don't fit?"-Arisia asked sitting beside Shinji, who only sighed before he begun, bringing up construct of various team members as he spoke.

"Well, Kid Flash is too hyperactive and keeps putting himself in danger. Robin keeps vanishing into clear air and acts as if everyone knows what to do, Superboy seems too angry at everyone and everything to clearly think. Miss Matrtian is too eager to please everyone and I know from experience this never ends well. Aqualad's…Aqualad is fine. And I'm…well just me. They are so…normal, cheerful and always smiling and grinning even in the eyes of certain death, besides I feel there is always an omen following me, that every time I happen to join a team…let's say that it doesn't end well."-Shinji said before looking down towards the ground. Arisia, despite not knowing about Shinji's story all too much knows what he meant as a brief period of silence surrounded the two young Lanterns. Despite that the Graxonite still wanted to cheer him up and actually help him.

"Well, the Corps is a team and I'm still here so I'm sure you're just worrying too much. And worry turns to fear, which is our greatest obstacle. I understand that you are not used to deal with other people, but you always have a place here in the Corps. Returning to the topic, clashing with different personalities is something that you'll deal with even without any Lantern or hero business to deal with. It's just life, so why not put the past behind and give them a fair shake? You owe it to yourself, you are way too good of a person to remain a shut off, the ring chose you for a reason."-Arisia stated, despite her tone being sympathetic and encourageable, it still carried a blunt truth. One which Shinji had to hear himself. He knew she was right, and probably judging him for how childish he seemingly acted, he was a Green Lantern. He was supposed to overcome things rather than run away from them. After all he promised not to run away anymore.

"You are right, so right. Funny how I promised myself to change and I keep slipping back into my hurting tendencies. Thanks Arisia, you know, I couldn't ask for a better Best Friend."-Shinji said looking at his finger, his ring for the first time in a while glowing in confidence regarding thinking about the team. Not being able to notice Arisia's blush as internally the Graxion squealed. 'I'm his Best Friend.'-she thought to herself, it wasn't the level of affection she would wish for. But it was a start, and it was from someone that had big problems opening up so it was a major step forward.

"That's what friends are for aren't they? Besides your trip to Earth wasn't all that bad? I mean being able to phase though walls is pretty useful. It's still useful more than the ability I found."-Arisia said blushing, Shinji's interest only perked up.

"Any ability that can help us is useful. And if you allowed me to be comfortable than I should do the same as well. Come on, show me."-Shinji said with a slight anticipation in his tone. To which surprised Arisia nodded before getting up on her feet.

"Well, it was when I first got my ring…I learned I could redesign my uniform on spot."-Arisia said with silent stutters while being incinerated in green flames to reveal a more standard Green Lantern uniform in a form of a sleek bodysuit complete with a mask. Shinji immediately blushing seeing how much the tight-fitting suit revealed more of Arisia's curves than her supposedly "more revealing" regular outfit. Noticing her friend's reaction, the Graxonite couldn't help but to blush as well before quickly shifting back to her regular uniform.

"You see? And that was the uniform I got with my ring. Since designing clothes is a hobby of mine I designed my own uniform on the way to Oa."-Arisia explained, her face still slightly tinted red before returning to sitting beside Shinji. Who despite him being a little stunned still wanted to make sure she was comfortable.

"It sure fits you more…And that ability can actually become useful. You know…we glow green in the dark and that can give us disadvantage if we wouldn't switch to darker clothes."-Shinji quickly said to which Arisia's head slightly her perked up in interest, her pointed ears slightly jumping up. Which Shinji couldn't find it anything else but cute.

"Hey poozers."-Suddenly a voice of their old drill instructor spoke up, the two young Lanterns turned around to see Kilowog, the two immediately springing up onto their feet and standing up on attention.

"Sir."-Shinji said, his tone and mood immediately changing realising what this could mean.

"I got a mission for ya two, and since Salaak is busy talking with the Guardians It's up to me to pick up the slack."-Kilowog explained to which Arisia raised her hand.

"Excuse me Lantern Kilowog, but a mission for both of us?"-Arisia asked to which Kilowog nodded.

"Indeed Lantern Rrab, sorry to break up your little date but your Lantern duties come first."-Kilowog explained ignoring the blushing teenagers, he then raised his ring to bring up a star chart showing the border of Sectors 2814 and 2815.

"We got a report from a space station bordering your two sectors. Since the two of you are the closest resident Lanterns it is up to you, now get to it."-Kilowog said before flying away, leaving the two alone.

"Well, let's get to it partner."-Arisia said, to which Shinji nodded as his mask appeared on his face. The two bright streaks of green light leaving Oa's atmosphere before quickly space-folding to the coordinates Kilowog gave them. Arisia only shot small glances at her partner, her face still slightly crimson. Soranik was right all along. From one human her hearts begun to beat for another, and this time much faster.

"You know…I never got to tell you this. But it's nice having someone of similar age on the job. We understand each other's problems better than others."-Arisia said before Shinji slightly turned his head towards her.

"I know, it feels good too. But still some treat you like you are senior and more deserving wearing this."-Shinji said raising his ring to which Arisia sighed.

"It's my family they see, not me. The senior Lanterns that worked with my Dad and Uncle and they see them in me. Even Soranik and her father seem to compare me to my family. The only person that probably sees me for just me…is you."-Arisia said causing Shinji to blush earning a chuckle from the Graxonite.

"But you did save the universe did you?"-Shinji asked before Arisia looked at her ring.

"This won't be enough for people to look at me as my own Lantern. That's what I intend to do."-Arisia explained as her ring lit up.

"Exiting Space-Fold"-Her ring's AI spoke out as the two Lanterns left the rainbow vortex to see a small planet being orbited around by a space station resembling closely an earthly interpretation of a Space Colony. With the large cylinder being gold and orbited by a large red and white cylinder similar to a roulette wheel.

"I know this place, this is the Nebula resort station! I always wanted to come here."-Arisia explained to which Shinji nodded. Her taking the lead, in only few minutes the two found themselves on the ship docking port. The two then entering the elevator that would lead them to the main hall and the reception. The young Lanterns getting a decent view on the gigantic gambler's paradise from behind the glass, reminding Shinji of the footage of Las Vegas he had seen on TV.

"Despite being millennia more advanced then Earth. Some technology just stays the same everywhere."-Shinji said out loud. 'I still don't know if I can phase though with other people.'-he noted to himself noting that it would be something that would need testing in the future.

"I know right?"-Arisia asked nodding before the elevator let out a "ping" signalling the young Lanterns that the two reached their destination. The door opened to reveal the lobby. Aliens of various races, shapes and sizes performing various activities throughout the beautifully appointed hall. The two Lanterns walked up towards the reception desk seeing a good looking white-skinned woman with pupil less red eyes and hair with white antennae dressed in an outfit that could be compared to an Earth hostess.

"Greetings Green Lanterns, welcome to the Nebula Casino Resort. I am D'Kay, the Resort's guide and receptionist. How may I be off assistance?"-The woman said in a sweet, yet alarming tone in Shinji's mind. Him being well aware on how a voice can be fake.

"We got a report of an emergency. What seems to be the problem?"-Arisia asked as meanwhile Shinji continued to look around and was immediately sent on high alert thanks to his training as an EVA pilot. Despite seemingly doing mundane tasks. All the people in the hall seemed to perform carefully planned routines. Such as an alien watering the plants. Pouring down water in intervals. Seemingly in a perfect rhythm only a machine could do. He then turned his attention towards a humanoid-like alien playing on a machine, despite his lack of fluency in alien languages without his universal translator and the fact his mask had a magnifying feature, he could see well that the machine was showing the same symbols. Yet after analysing the player's behaviour. It appeared he was showing a different script of emotions every time despite earning the same amount of money.

"It was a false report, as you can see everything is all right here."-D'Kay said, her face still showing a vapid smile that sent shivers down Shinji's back. But he wouldn't back down and raised his ring.

"Shinji?"-Arisia asked but before she could receive any reply D'Kay sent out a wave of energy at them. Knocking the table in the process. The two Lanterns not waiting any longer and raised a joint shield.

"You should've have left little Lanterns."-D'Kay said floating over her desk before beginning to shape shift.

"So she's a Martian, ring! Scan he-Aughh!"-Shinji suddenly felt like his head was about to explode. 'So you know my race?'-she said in his head, contrasting the way Megan's voice seemed like a gentle caress over his head, D'Kay's felt like someone was screeching nails on the chalkboard.

"'Who are you?!'"-Shinji asked over the frantically established mindlink.

"'Wouldn't you like to know? Lantern… strange, there appears to be a barrier around your mind, nothing I've seen before. But If you want my name then it's D'Kay D'Razz and-AUGH!'"-D'Kay exclaimed cutting off the mental link, being meanwhile shot by Arisia with a construct flare gun. It was a universe-wide known fact that the Martians were nearly undefeatable…exception being fire. D'Kay didn't waste any time after falling onto the floor and quickly phased though it.

"Shinji, are you ok?"-Arisia asked as Shinji looked slightly up.

"I'm fine, I ordered my ring to scan her though. But first we need to take precautions, ring! Download me the plan of the resort and place a tracker on D'Kay D'razz's signal. Switch down the main power of the resort, we cannot allow anyone from the outside to get into her clutches."-Shinji said to which his ring lit up.

"Affirmative"-His ring said before all the light's switched off, only blue emergency lights illuminating throughout the resort. Changing the whole atmosphere into far colder, tense filling. But they were Green Lanterns, and tense wasn't in the memo.

"It is too late for us to use the elevator. You ever phased with another person?"-Arisia asked, to which Shinji only turned his head.

"I never done it before? But it should be possible."-Shinji said before Arisia took his hand.

"Then I guess I have to trust you."-Arisia said tightening her grip, Shinji took a deep breath before closing his eyes. The two then phasing though the floor and flying down into the main entertainment annex. Their feet set onto the ground before both of them used their rings to scan though the room.

"Oh, my god."-Shinji said almost vomiting from his mouth, Arisia only put her hand over mouth to hide her shock. One of the supposed many entertainment annexes that was turned into a charnel house, dismembered bodies lying in twisted poses. Gaming tables all covered with internal fluids of several alien races. What got their attention was the fact some of the casualties weren't twisted corpses, their bodies were seemingly fine, it was their facial expressions what send shivers down their spine.

"By the stars…wait, this one's alive!"-Arisia exclaimed scanning one of the laying bodies. A creature resembling anthropomorphic turquoise Octopus dressed in a fancy suit. Arisia quickly rushed towards it with Shinji following.

"Lanterns…finally you came."-It spoke up between coughs as Arisia and Shinji tried to support him.

"What happened?"-Shinji asked before the Octopus turned his head towards him.

"A Martian attack, destroyed defences. Used guests as test subjects, hurry."-The Octopus said before falling unconscious. Not wasting anymore time Shinji brought up the map of the resort with the mental tracker he placed on D'Kay D'Razz.

"Let's go."-Shinji only said before flying off with Arisia soon joining him. The two traversing though the space station that was probably the size of Coast City. Traversing the streets, buildings and vent shafts mostly though Shinji's phasing and deactivated ventilators. Finally, after what felt like hours of playing cat and mouse the two finally found D'Kay's signal. Entering a small storage room to find a Green Martian that looked like forcibly being shapeshifted into D'Kay.

"'You liked this little experiment I made?'"-D'Kay asked Shinji over the mental link. Meanwhile Arisia flew towards the Martian, trying to get into some sort of contact with it.

"'Where are you?'"-Shinji asked to which he only heard D'Kay's mental laughter.

"'Long gone, thanks to you ruining my little…experiment. This time I'll let you this slide, but the next time you interrupt my work I'll rip you and your little girlfriend a part, piece by piece.'"-D'Kay said to which Shinji once again brought up the map to see the tracker he placed disappear.

"'Experiment!? You killed almost every guest in the resort! And how did you take off my tracker?'"-Shinji asked, D'Kay only scoffing as a reply.

"'To satisfy your Oan overlords some of my test subjects are still alive in their cells. And your tracker? It wasn't hard to mentally force the Green over there to pretend he was a White and sending off my signal. A simple disguise and that's how I escaped.'"-D'Kay explained before her mental voice finally faded away. Arisia meanwhile managed to get in contact with the Martian. Who shapeshifted back into the regular Martian form.

"Thank you Lanterns. You came just in time before that White Abomination could finish me with my own form."-The Martian said before Arisia created a construct seat. Meanwhile Shinji opened the communication channel, a small hologram of Kilowog appearing.

"Report Lantern Ikari."-Kilowog said before Shinji begun his report.

"The resort was attacked by a Martian by the name of D'Kay D'Razz, it appears she used the guests as guinea pigs for her "experiments" from what we saw she killed most of the inhabitants of the resort, although some of them managed to survive."-Shinji said abridging the whole situation.

"And where is the prep?"-Kilowog asked, to which Shinji's mask vanished in shame.

"Escaped…"-Shinji said embarrassed, Kilowog only nodded in understanding.

"Martians are a tricky bunch, you got lucky. Round up the survivors, stay put until backup arrives."-Kilowog said before the message disappeared. Shinji's attention then turned to Arisia. 'Oh, she never has seen so much death before, poor girl.'-Shinji said walking up towards his partner.

"We need to round up the survivors before the backup arrives."-Shinji stated, trying to get some semblance back into his partner. Arisia only kept bluntly looking at the Martian, who meanwhile fell into unconsciousness before the construct chair transformed into a healing pod. As if frozen mentally.

"Arisia please, we can't stay here. We need to go, trust me."-Shinji said putting his hand on Arisia's shoulder, to which the Graxonite finally snapped back into attention. 'How can he be so calm?'-Arisia thought with a slight…awe, that he could keep his calm even if surrounded by so many dead. It took them around two hours to round around 150 survivors including those who served as puppets for D'Kay to lure more test subjects. Same with the station's technical crew that D'Kay seemingly used to make sure no one would interrupt her. Shinji and Arisia then spend their time on the shipping dock waiting for their backup.

"How can anyone do something like this? So…inhuman."-Arisia asked rubbing her ring in frustration.

"I…don't know."-Shinji said, not really knowing how to cheer someone up after seeing something like this, this wasn't something that could be helped with a joke. It was more or less the grim reality the two had to face as Lanterns, being young or not. So they sat in relative silence until a Lantern squadron lead by Kilowog arrived.

"Good work you two, go back to Oa. We'll take it from here."-Kilowog said, with Shinji nodding. Him then slightly caressing Arisia's hand signalling for them to go. After Kilowog and his Lanterns begun interviewing the witness and clean-up, the two Lanterns were getting ready for the return trip.

"Are you all right?"-Shinji finally asked gathering all the courage. Arisia only rapidly turned to him and looking like she was rapidly livid. Shinji being sure she was fuming.

"Of course not! How can I be…all right after seeing something like this."-She said her tone slightly going meek in the end. She was scared, really scared. And then it struck Shinji into the chest.

"YOU WONT EVEN HOLD ME!"

He wasn't going to make the same mistake again…never again. He put his arms onto Arisia's shoulders, his mask instinctively disappearing to show his intentions. It was all Arisia needed to instinctively leap onto him and wrap her arms around him. Grabbing a hold of him tight like he was her anchor. Shinji moved down his arms to her waist, allowing her to rest her head on Shinji's shoulder. Who for the first time realised that her people have two hearts, and how seemingly rapid her heartbeat was, before it calmed down feeling the slow pumping matching his own singular one.

"How can you be so calm after what we saw?"-Arisia asked whispering to his ear.

"I'm used to it."-Shinji, despite knowing in what situation they were currently in, his automatic responses were still there, no matter how much he wanted to make her comfortable.

"Why?"-Arisia asked backing away from Shinji before looking him in the eyes. Her crystalline blue matching his toned cobalt. At first he thought of turning her question down, but no. He asked her to trust him, and could she if he wasn't honest with her. Even if she would never look at him with the same view ever again.

"I will explain everything on the way back. And believe me, there is enough for me to talk to not use space-fold."-Shinji said flying up, his mask reappearing before Arisia following him. As they flew back, he let out everything. His whole story, not censoring in the slightest. From his arrival to Tokyo 3 to his fights with the angels, his ups and most importantly his downs. How he killed Kaworu, what he did to Asuka in the hospital, how Misato sacrificed his life for him. And how he killed the whole world saying the words "So they can all just die.". It felt…relieving, but he got lost in it. So much so he begun to weep. Not noticing how Arisia's facial expression change. From curious, to saddened to outright horrified, her hand over her mouth as Shinji finished talking just as the two were hovering over Oa.

"There you are, some hero I am. I will understand if you will never want to look at me again, no matter what I'm still th-"-He couldn't finish as he was stunned by the sheer power of the hug Arisia enveloped him in.

"Sorry, I am honest-to-everything so sorry for what you've been though Shinji, after going through something like I would have trouble opening up to people."-Arisia said herself beginning to weep, how she could hate him? He didn't do anything wrong, in fact his existence was always endless grooming to be a puppet of someone else using his lack of affection. Him being so desperate he did anything to receive it, no matter how disgusting it was. She only knew one thing, that if she ever meets his father first thing she will do is put that Son of a Bitch's head on a pike.

"Y-You don't find me disgusting?"-Shinji asked surprised between silent weeps, to which Arisia backed off slightly showing him an amused smile.

"Shinji…please take that ridiculous thing off your face when I'm talking to you ok?"-She asked in a sweet tone to which he complied, his mask vanishing allowing Arisia to clean his face with her thumb, her hands still grabbing Shinji tightly.

"Shinji Ikari, you were made into existence just so that you can bring the end of the world, denounced any basic interaction a child needs and treated like an expandable resource, being around people nowhere fit to take care of you. Despite that and your personal problems you saved your planet numerous times before circumstances forced you to make mistakes, carefully planned mistakes so that some people could achieve godhood, yet you still had the will to halt back and give everyone a second chance to live. There was a reason why a ring onto your finger in the first place. You think I would hate you? My respect for you as a Lantern only grew higher, no one, not probably even some of the veterans could exceed such willpower. I respect you and I care for you, as a fellow Lantern, as your partner. But most importantly as your friend. People make mistakes, but you offered yourself a second chance, like you offered it to everyone. And I believe that you should take it, no matter how big those mistakes have been. All of that is in the past and you can't change it. The only thing you can is to move forward, which was something you've been doing since you got your ring. And you don't realise how much I respect and idolise that in you. You are a Green Lantern, and you got the will for it. One that I would trust with my life and I'm happy to make that bargain, like I did today, and I would do the same thing always."-Arisia finally stated finishing her monologue with her smile…her smile so pure that it reminded Shinji of the time he saw Rei smile for the very first time, so full and honest. He felt…touched, nobody ever told him something like that, hell he never received so many complements and heartwarming words in a single sentence, but deep down he still felt unconvinced.

"But…Kaworu, Asuka."-Shinji said to which Arisia amusingly turned her head, she then caressed his left cheek.

"Shinji, you didn't have a choice. It was either him…or everyone you knew would die, that pushed you down into a spiral. Nobody bothered to help you, no one cared about what you did and abandoned you, and when Asuka landed in the hospital. You were desperate for anything, any touch, any word, and you didn't receive it. Eventually forcing you to go down to your lowest. You think of yourself that you did everything consensual despite being in a catatonic state. Besides, this isn't the Shinji I met, one who despite all the pain he suffers he always back up. The one I trained with, sparred with, faced dangerous opponents by his side. The one I grew to…care for not only as a Lantern but also as a very dear friend. That's the Shinji I know, and the one who currently floats in front of me is that very person."-Arisia stated, meanwhile internally fuming. 'You still didn't tell him how you feel!'-she thought to herself but didn't allow to show it to Shinji. Who still couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"Thank you…thank you so much, I really couldn't have asked for a better friend and partner."-Shinji said still stunned by the sheer kindness the Graxonite gave him, so much so he didn't notice Arisia blushing again.

"Thanks, I mean what are best friends for? Besides you made me feel better about my dumb ability. It is only payback that I make you feel better."-Arisia said smiling, to which Shinji smiled as well, his mood now rapidly skyrocketing.

"Gee thanks for that."-Shinji said trying to imitate a joking tone, a bad imitation of one as well. To his surprise Arisia begun to laugh, and he did as well. Thinking in the back of his mind when was the first time he got to laugh like this?

"I didn't mean it in that way!"-Arisia said between chuckles, Shinji then looked towards his ring, it shining brightly representing his newly-found confidence.

"I'm heading back to Earth, I want to give the team…and myself a second shot."-Shinji said before slightly decked him in the ribs.

"Now that's the spirit. And remember, if you need someone to talk with. You can always call me and crush at my place, trust me."-Arisia said before giving Shinji one final quick hug.

"See you around then."-Shinji said, to which Arisia gave him a wink before disappearing into Oa's atmosphere in a streak of light. Him still briefly stunned from what just occurred. He only slightly caressed his cheek in the same place as Arisia did before.

"Ring! Space-Fold, sector 2814 HQ."-Shinji ordered, subconsciously making his ring light up.

"Affirmative"-The ring's AI spoke out before the young Lantern vanished into the void of light. 45 minutes of fast-paced flight in the rainbow filled tunnel later Shinji was back in his solar system, the blue planet revealing to himself before he entered atmosphere. To his surprise flying down into sunny Coast City. 'Was I gone for this long?'-he asked to himself before landing on Hal's balcony, desummoning his uniform before walking inside to see Hal doing something on his laptop.

"Kid! You're back."-Hal said looking slightly from behind the screen, Shinji slightly confused walked up to the fridge in order to grab himself something to drink.

"You weren't worried? Or mad? In the slightest?"-Shinji asked to which Hal closed his laptop.

"Worried? Mad? Shinji I know you, that is enough of a reason besides you being a Lantern. And I am your partner and superior, not your Dad."-Hal said slightly shocking Shinji. Who although slightly saddened by the fact Hal wasn't worried about him, but also surprised by the maturity Hal saw in him.

"Listen, I want to give the Team another shot."-Shinji said determined, to which Hal only raised his eyebrow with a smirk.

"Thought so, I may not be your Dad, but I'm glad you want to try again. It's not in a Lantern dictionary to not get up after a failed attempt, because we shouldn't allow ourselves to fail."-Hal said once again surprising Shinji, him seeing some wisdom in Hal's words.

"Yeah, getting up is what I ought to do."-Shinji said nervously chuckling, his cheeks slightly tinting red remembering Arisia's words.

"Now tell me about that Martian you ran into?"-Hal asked to which Shinji raised his eyebrow in surprise.

"Shinji, you may be a full Lantern. But as 2814.1 I'm still your superior. Of course Kilowog would tell me. Well Lantern Ikari? Field report, how are you feeling?"-Hal asked, to which Shinji nodded, orders were still orders. Even if those weren't actual orders.

"I'm fine, Arisia was more freaked out then me. She still isn't used to seeing dead bodies, but it's better sooner later. Will make the job easier for her in the future."-Shinji said to which Hal slightly raised his own eyebrow.

"Why am I not surprised?"-Hal asked slightly to which Shinji sighed, he wasn't to tell him the whole like he did to Arisia. Despite him being a Green Lantern, he was still an adult and his slight bias in opening up still remaining. That being fuelled by him absorbing every soul of during third impact creating a recipe for distrust.

"Hal listen, let's just say I've been through really nasty things before I got my ring. I've seen my fair share of death, destruction, know that I have blood on my hands. I'm not ready to tell the full story yet, only thing I'll say is that I was a pilot of something that can't be described with human words."-Shinji said, to which Hal nodded.

"Right, that can at least allow me to paint me a more cohesive picture. Listen Shinji, Kilowog told me you had a look of a vet that's been though. And with those eyes I can't imagine the stuff you had seen. But now it's different, you have friends, friends that were actually worried about you. And let's be honest without you they are in major disadvantage. You can always talk to me whenever you feel ready, and I know some people in this community who specialise in helping people like you. You don't have to deal with this stuff alone anymore."-Hal said with compassion almost getting Shinji to tear up.

"Thanks Hal, but I need to catch some sleep if I'm to visit Mt. Justice tomorrow."-Shinji said before heading to his room.

"Sweet dreams kiddo."-Hal said to which he sighed in relief, him carefully analysing Shinji's words. Being slightly surprised by how many times he mentioned Arisia, a smirk appearing on his face. 'Wow, it seems Shinji the stoic Ikari has a crush. And from what Kilowog told me seemingly vice versa. As long as it gets that supposed crush on me out of her mind.'-he thought to himself remembering words from Kilowog's report that "Those kids 'bounce off each other really well.". But his attention was still on Shinji and his planned return to the team. 'Maybe I should really call Dinah? To keep an eye on him? I'll call her tomorrow.'-Hal thought before returning his attention to his laptop.

Chapter Text

"What the? Where am I?"-Shinji asked immediately after opening his eyes, seemingly surrounded by pitch black darkness. He looked around himself, seeing that the only thing illuminating the dark space being his ring. He then realised looking down to his feet and realised he was once again dressed in his old Tokyo 3 school uniform. 'So it's that type of dream?'-he thought sighing before beginning his walk through the abyss, awaiting the eventual awakening.

"That's odd, really odd. No colourful lights, no angels, no Asuka…"-He said to himself just as a figure, dressed in red stood in the distance. Not wanting to waste any more time he tried summoning his aura…but couldn't, again his own mind essentially restraining his ring. So he walked up, expecting another scolding by the inner demons disguised as the Second Child. As he walked with each step, there was something odd about the figure. The red hair slowly seemed to vanish to make place for blond… short blond.

"Arisia?"-Shinji asked making the figure turn around towards revealing the face of his best friend, her cheeks being stained by tears.

"Shinji?"-She asked before suddenly Shinji was thrown away from her by the sudden sheer force. Then it began, starting with the ground shaking not allowing Shinji to get on his feet. He could notice the fear on her face, especially since she didn't have her ring on. The shadows behind her forming into a form of nine familiar giants. Wicked grins on their mouths, all holding their spears. Before throwing them at Arisia.

" NOOOO! "-he exclaimed trying to call upon his aura, any construct possibly running through his head. The familiar scream of Asuka echoing throughout the dark space.

"No!"-Shinji finally screamed waking up before falling down from his bed, laying on the floor for a good minute before getting up. 'Damn…what a nightmare.'-he thought to himself turning his attention to the window, realising it was already morning outside. It's been some time since his last trip to Oa. With today being the day he would return to Mount Justice, after all he promised Arisia to give the team a second try. But Happy Harbour was on a different coast with a three-hour difference meaning he had to wake up earlier. Of course he didn't waste his time between his return to Earth and today's deadline. Continuing his swimming lessons with Tula, that now with Shinji wanting to fully invest himself into the team would need to take a back seat to his duties as Kid Lantern. He then reached out for his IPod that was charging on his night table in order to check the hour.

"9 In the morning, so I have about an hour. Good to know."-He said putting the music player down before opening his wardrobe to grab himself today's set of clothes, as always first being illuminated by the green light of his power battery. Looking down at his ring he realised that the best course of action would be to charge it and place the battery in its pocket dimension, after all he didn't know if he would need to recharge during a fight and with Ion supposedly giving up on him, he could only rely on his battery…so he picked it up.

"In Brightest Day, In Blackest Night, No Evil Shall Escape My Sight, Let Those Who Warship Evil's Might, Beware My Power! GREEN LANTERN'S LIGHT!"-Shinji exclaimed feeling the power of the battery pour into his ring.

"Ring power: 100 percent."-His ring's AI said before Shinji with a swift move placed the battery in its resting spot, it disappearing in a green mist. Finally, he grabbed himself some new clothes before making his way to the bathroom. With Hal being either out or suffering a strong hangover meaning he didn't have to hurry. So he took his time in the shower. Getting himself ready for the new day, putting all the fear of the team not accepting him again, after all he was a Green Lantern so fear was a no no. Besides he wouldn't know if he didn't try. After putting on his clothes he got to work on breakfast. A standard set of toast and eggs, and if everything was aligned then the fact he prepared two sets would be a crucial factor.

"Heiya Shinji…"-Hal said in a tired tone stumbling out of his room, wearing only boxers and a tank top. Sighing Shinji only handed out a set of breakfast neatly waiting on a plate for Hal to immediately eat. Shinji only took his before sitting down at the table in front of his senior, with a cup of coffee to get him awake.

"So…where were you yesterday?"-Shinji asked before taking a sip of his coffee.

"Be honest with you kid? I don't know…but that's not what's important, what's important is that you have your second shot today, just like I have at Ferris with that new plane. What hour is it?"-Hal asked making Shinji bring up a digital clock with his ring.

"9:45."-He replied making Hal's mouth open agape, realising how big of a trouble he was.

"SHIT!"-Hal exclaimed getting up from his chair before frantically rushing to his room, only to walk out a minute later frantically dressed in his clothes and a chewing gum in mouth.

"I'll be back after midnight! Good luck with the team!"-Hal exclaimed closing the door of the apartment.

"Of course he was late."-Shinji said to himself before finishing his food and coffee, after washing the dishes he finally stepped out of the apartment. Determent to not get scared off and run away again, so much so he had to put his ring hand into the pocket of his hoodie so that he wouldn't attract any attention on the street, a short walk later and he found himself standing in front of the Zeta Tube.

"Here we go."-Shinji said to himself summoning his uniform before walking inside the abandoned phone booth.

"Kid Lantern B-06, destination Mount Justice."-He recited making a small camera scan his masked face.

"Recognised: Kid Lantern-B-06"-The Zeta Tube's AI said teleporting Kid Lantern away, despite seemingly timeless transmission of his body to the East Coast he couldn't help but feel nervous. But he was determined, he was ready to put his childish fears away and face any kind of prejudices and bias with a straight face. He stepped out from the tube and could see Aqualad and Kid Flash playing a holographic version of air hockey being watched by Robin and Miss Martian.

"Hey everyone."-Kid Lantern spoke up trying to sound as cheerful as possible. Expecting the worst, he got the best possible outcome.

"Kid Lantern! What's up?"-Kid Flash asked running up towards Shinji with an invitation for a high five, one which the young Lantern took. The other team members followed him walking up towards the Zeta Tube.

"Hey, where did you run off last time?"-Robin sarcastically asked making Kid Lantern stutter for a second before forming a complete answer.

"Well, I just didn't think I had a place among you. But I'm eager to make myself a spot here."-He explained making Aqualad nod.

"You will always have a place here, and in the name of the team. Welcome back."-Aqualad said nodding, with the young Lantern giving back the nod blushing.

"It's good to have you back, but you missed this awesome recon mission!"-Kid Flash said making Kid Lantern slightly look down.

"Although i'm not sure someone who glows green would work well in the dark."-Robin then jokingly added.

"Not that it wouldnt be nice to have you along."-Miss Martian said putting her hands on Robin and Kid Flash's shoulders.

"I am truly grateful that you allowed me back, but where is Superboy?"-Kid Lantern asked just as the Zeta Tube announced Superboy's arrival, one visibly angry. Who didn't even notice the young Lantern.

"Hi Superboy, how was Metropolis?"-Miss Martian asked Superboy who didn't even turn towards her and walked through the holographic air hockey table, making all the team members share a confused look. That was until someone cleared their throat.

"Ready for training everyone?"-A female voice asked to which all the young heroes turned around to see a woman with long blonde hair and blue eyes, dressed in a black leotard with grey pantyhose and black combat boots, all complemented by a dark blue jacket and a choker with a golden locket in the centre. Kid Lantern could recognise her as Black Canary, currently fiancé of Green Arrow, and one of three heroes that fully tolerated his partner and didn't wear a Lantern ring. The other two being of course the Flash and Green Arrow. And now she was here, walking alongside Martian Manhunter.

"Black Canary, Uncle J'onn!"-Miss Martian exclaimed before walking towards her uncle and hugging him.

"M'gann, I was in the neighbourhood, so I thought I'd see how you were adjusting."-Manhunter said separating from his niece.

"A few bumps…but I'm learning."-Miss Martian replied. Kid Lantern's attention however seemed to shift towards Superboy, visibly annoyed by the affection Martian Manhunter had for his niece. Even as someone as new to the superhero community as Kid Lantern knew that the Man of Steel…not liking this situation could be call an understatement. He couldn't help but to sympathise with Superboy, perhaps projecting the relationship he had with his own father. Despite that his own mentor would also share wisdom with the young lantern, not mentioning other Lanterns he had the chance to meet, including his best friend. Here it was obvious that there wasn't any wisdom passed. Superboy only grunted with annoyance before turning around and trying to walk away.

"Stick around, class is in session."-Black Canary said before walking towards the centre of the floor, seemingly creating a circle of light.

"I consider it an honour to be your teacher, I'll throw a lot at you. Everything I learned from my own mentors, and my bruises."-She said taking off her jacket to reveal a bandaged arm.

"What happened?"-Miss Martian asked.

"The job, now combat is about controlling the conflict. Putting the battle on your terms, you should always be acting not reacting, I'll need a sparing partner."-Black Canary said to which Kid Flash immediately reacted. 'And I thought Touji and Kensuke were bad with Misato…'-Kid Lantern internally cringed.

"After this, I'll show you my moves."-Kid Flash said throwing away a banana peel. Black Canary smirked, before sending a punch towards him, which he blocked. Only for the more experienced superheroine to sweep his legs, making him fall onto the floor.

"Hurts so good…"-Kid Flash said to which Kid Lantern couldn't help but to silently face palm.

"Good block, but did anyone see what he did wrong?"-Black Canary asked helping Kid Flash up.

"Oh! He hit on the teacher and got served?"-Robin asked teasingly making Kid Flash turn red for a second.

"Dude!"-He exclaimed wiping arm.

"He allowed me to dictate the terms-".

"Oh please, with my powers the battle's always on my terms. I'm a living weapon and this is a waste of my time."-Superboy said cutting Black Canary off, earning looks of his teammates.

"Prove it."-Black Canary said to which Kid Lantern raised his hand.

"Excuse me, Black Canary? But can I try to spar with Superboy?"-Kid Lantern asked making Black Canary raise her eyebrow. The young Lantern himself not really thinking why he spoke out. Probably because he knew how much overestimating your own abilities could end in tragedy, or the fact that Superboy's attitude reminded Kid Lan-no, reminded Shinji of Asuka, the talk of living weapons also seemed to ring in his head. Especially with his last nightmare.

"Are you sure?"- Black Canary asked before Kid Flash ran up towards them before bending towards Kid Lantern's ear.

"Dude, know that Supey's a Kryptonian…you know the guys who can change course of mighty rivers? No offence, but you look like-"

"A twig? Heard that before, and none taken. I received training in the Green Lantern Corps where I've sparred with people just as strong as him, maybe even stronger."-Kid Lantern explained to which Black Canary nodded.

"Alright, but if it turns to rough I'm stopping it. But first, please take off your ring, this exercise is meant to be without powers."-She said earning a nod from Kid Lantern, who took off ring while keeping on his uniform. He walked in front of Superboy, hiding any form of insecurity behind a smirk. After all it worked on super villains so why it wouldn't work with a sparring partner? Superboy rushed at him first, sending a punch which Kid Lantern blocked. Similarly, to Black Canary he then swept Superboy's legs making fall onto the ground. Earning a chuckle from Robin.

"You're angry, good. Use that ang-"-Black Canary said before being cut off by Superboy's roar who once again rushed at Kid Lantern, using the larger boy's momentum Kid Lantern grabbed his arm before throwing Superboy with all his might, earning another chuckle from Robin.

"Wow, I wasn't expecting that…"-Kid Flash said sharing a look with Miss Martian. Meanwhile Kid Lantern let out a deep breath of relief, and with a motion of his hand his ring reappeared on his finger.

"Now, can anyone tell me what Superboy did wrong?"-Black Canary asked walking in front of the team, earning a risen hand from Aqualad.

"He underestimated Kid Lantern due to his posture and the fact he lacked his ring."-Aqualad said making Black Canary nod.

"Which allowed Kid Lantern to take the advantage of Superboy's blindness and dictate the terms of the battle."-Black Canary explained before putting her arm on Kid Lantern shoulder.

"Excellent."-She complemented earning a nod from the young Lantern. 'Hal was right, he really has ethics and skills of a soldier.'-she thought to herself before reaching out her hand towards Superboy, who only pushed it away.

"That's it, I'm done."-Superboy growled getting up on his own.

"Training is mandatory."-Black Canary stated putting her hand on Superboy's shoulder. But before anything could happen all the attention in Mount Justice was turned towards a coming message.

"Batman to the cave. Five hours ago a new menace attacked Green Arrow and Black Canary. The attacker was capable of studying then duplicating the powers and abilities of its opponents. Arrow called in reinforcements, which nearly proved disastrous as our foe gained more and more power with each new combatant."-Batman explained shocking the younger heroes.

"Wow, one guy with the powers of the entire league?"-Kid Flash asked in awe, whatever the attacker was, it was a big threat.

"In the end, it took eight leaguers four hours to defeat and dismantle the android."-Batman added.

"An android? Who made it, T.O Morrow?"-Robin asked walking in front of the group.

"Good guess, Robin. But Red Tornado doesn't think so."-Batman explained.

"The technology bears the signature of…professor Ivo."-Martian Manhunter added clearing the factor of who built such machine.

"Ivo? But Ivo's dead."-Aqualad said confused.

"So we all thought, or hoped."-Black Canary said turning back towards him.

"To make certain this threat is permanently neutralised, we're sending two trucks carrying the android's parts to two separate S.T.A.R Labs facilities in Boston and New York for immediate in valuation. Every precaution is being taken, we'll have four additional decoy trucks to create confusion in case Ivo, or anyone. Tries to recover the remains, you will split into undercover teams to guard the two real trucks."-Batman finally stated, the team had a new mission. 'An android that can replicate powers? Inflate it and it could give the Jet Alone a run for its money.'-Kid Lantern internally thought to himself.

"Yes! Road trip."-Kid Flash immediately exclaimed. Not everyone however shared the happy opinion.

"So now we take out your trash?"-Superboy growled out.

"You have something better to do?"-Batman countered shutting off any opposition.

"Coordinates received, on our way."-Aqualad said before running off with the rest of team excluding Superboy following him.

"Uhm guys? How exactly we'll guard the trucks? If we're to stay undercover, then I would have to fly too high to keep an eye on them?"-Kid Lantern asked floating making Robin turn around towards him.

"Who said anything about flying?"-Robin asked making the young Lantern raise his eyebrow as the team, Superboy included made its way to the hangar bay before standing in front of a large door. The door opened to reveal six motorcycles, well technically five motorcycles and a scooter to be accurate. On each seat there was a helmet and a set of clothes, except for Megan's due to her physiology.

"But I can't ride a Motorcycle…"-Kid Lantern said once again making Robin turn towards him.

"Neither can KF, Miss M and SB. Don't worry, they ride like they're on training wheels. Plus, some of them were modified to fit each of our powers, and with mine being recon focused and Kaldur's handlebars being hilts, yours was apparently modified to have an autopilot and an ejection saddle plus it can be remote controlled via your ring. The green one's yours."-Robin explained, making Kid Lantern walk up to his bike, an advanced piece of technology hiding under a disguise of a green and black 2010 Kawasaki ZX-6R. Kid Lantern desummoned his uniform and grabbed his helmet, a green half-opened sports helmet.

"Cool…"-Shinji said receiving a look from Aqualad.

"There will be time for appreciation and gearing later, for now we need to get those bikes to the Bioship and at the rendezvous point asap. So let's get going."-He said earning a nod from Shinji, they had a mission after all.

Shinji put on his helmet and started his bike, taking a look at Robin and Superboy. They had received their orders, and since there were six of them it meant there three guards per truck, with Kaldur, Megan and Wally going after one and Shinji, Robin and Superboy keeping a guard on the second one.

"It's go time everyone, good luck."-Kaldur said over comms earning a nod from his teammates, riding out of the bushes and joining the freeway, it was already getting dark as sun was beginning to set. Robin leading his group with Shinji and Superboy following. That was until Superboy went ahead, before Shinji and Robin joined him on the lane.

"If dislike is the opposite of like is disaster the opposite of aster. See when things go wrong they go right!"-Robin said over the comms trying to spark any sort of conversation.

"It may be the language barrier, but I don't get it."-Shinji said earning a chuckle from Robin. Superboy on the other hand remained quiet, an angry facial expression on his face.

"Well KL, clearly SB isn't feeling the Aster, what's wrong?"-Robin asked turning his attention to the other teammate.

"Canary, and what business does she have teaching combat skills to a guy with super strength?"-Superboy asked earing a sigh from Shinji, at least now he could somewhat explain.

"Taking down stronger guys is the part of the gig. Canary learned that the hard way, same thing with Batman and…well me."-Robin explained receiving a nod from Shinji.

"He's right you know. Learned that the hard way."-Shinji said earning a stern look from Superboy that looked like he tried to fry him with heat vision.

"From what I know you aren't long in the hero game yourself."-He growled out to which Shinji only kept a stern look.

"Been there, done that, stabbed here, shot there."-He said shutting off any opposition, hearing an "ouch" from Robin, before Superboy left them alone, riding in front of them. Before suddenly out of the bushes flew several robotic monkeys. Their laugh echoing in the young heroes's ears as the monkeys lacked onto the truck.

"Guys…am I seeing monkeys?"-Shinji asked to which Robin nodded.

"Yeah, and the rest probably has the same problem. Also robot monkeys! Totally Ivo's style."-Robin added as Superboy felt like his already bad day was becoming worse.

"I hate monkeys."-He growled out, his tiredness quite easy to pick up. Shinji on the other hand pressed a button on the handlebars, signalling the bike to go on full autopilot. The bike slowing down and letting Robin, who's bike was also transformed into battle mode as well.

"Right, eject!"-Shinji exclaimed before the seat rapidly extended sending him into the air, summoning his uniform mid-air he picked up speed to chase the truck.

"Hey ace, switch your ride to battle mode."-Robin suggested to Superboy, who by this point was far too angry for rational thinking.

"No point."-He replied before increasing his speed, getting close enough to the truck before jumping onto it's roof. Ditching his bike in the process and sending it onto a collision course with Robin's.

"Or not!"-Robin said before jumping off his bike just before it collided with Superboy's. Firing his grappling hook and latching onto the truck. Kid Lantern following him, using his ring he quickly got rid of several monkeys. On the contrast Superboy seemed to struggle being overran by the monkeys. With Robin and Kid Lantern doing their best to help him. Everything turning more difficult with every passing second, with one of the monkeys firing lasers from its eyes. Immobilizing Superboy before lifting him up with the intention of throwing him from the truck, Kid Lantern noticing this quickly stunned the two monkeys and caught Superboy with a construct platform, bringing him down onto the truck.

"I got you."-He said before realising he forgot Robin, once again flying off the truck to see Robin fighting off the monkeys, by hanging from the grip of his grappling hook, not wanting to leave him behind Kid Lantern summoned a rectangle construct allowing Robin to stand.

"Thanks KL."-Robin replied earing a salute from the young Lantern as he brought the platform up, allowing Robin to leap off it and focus on fighting the monkeys. With Kid Lantern doing the same summoning a pellet rifle to help himself in cleaning off. Superboy on the other hand, still with his eyes burned tried to rely on his super hearing to locate and destroy the monkeys. That didn't work as well as he expected. Two monkeys flew down from the roof and blew the truck's tires.

"Shit!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed before rapidly flying off and creating an Eva hand large enough to catch it, seeing that Robin managed to get the driver out safely he didn't hesitate to grip it and stopping it from doing a barrel roll.

"Nice Catch!"-Robin said from the distance as he helped the driver, however celebrations were cut short, as the back of the truck suddenly exploded with several monkeys carrying off a crate that contained some of the android's parts.

"Oh no, wait Superboy!"-Kid Lantern thought out loud turning towards the truck to insure his teammate's safety, only to see him leap away in order to follow the monkeys. 'This won't end well.'-he thought before landing next to Robin.

"Are you ok?"-Kid Lantern asked to which Robin gave him a thumbs up.

"Yeah, I'll stay and help here. Go follow Superboy."-Robin instructed to which Kid Lantern nodded, before shooting into the sky in an emerald surge. Immediately bringing up the communications channel

"Kid Lantern to Aqualad, Superboy ditched us. I'm currently following him and by that the cargo."-He reported watching over the leaping figure.

"Understood, he dropped his comm so you are the only one able to follow him. Don't try to stop him, keep us updated when something happens. We all count on you."-Aqualad said to which Kid Lantern nodded, lowering his altitude and bringing up a GPS showing Superboy's location inside of his visor.

"Roger, Kid Lantern out."-He replied cutting the connection, knowing or not Superboy was leading him to Ivo, and if he could take him out before he reassembles the android, bring him in and gather back all the parts then the mission could still end without them having to face an opponent that seemingly could bring the Justice League to it's knees, he could do it on his own, he was a Green Lantern after all. And comparing an Elf-resembling android to Angels or the Black Beetle it couldn't be harder, and it didn't even look like the cute type of Elf like Arisia did.

'Jet Alone only needed to be held back….'-he thought to himself before receiving a notification from Robin.

"Robin to Kid Lantern, from what I've managed to recover from the Monkeys all the parts are seem to be heading towards Gotham City. What's your current status?"-Robin asked to which the Lantern internally sighed.

"Now? Playing babysitter to a ticking time bomb of anger issues, from what my mask's GPS seems to report we're near Gotham so it shouldn't take long to find Ivo and take him out."-Kid Lantern reported to which Robin, now riding his bike only silently snickered much to lack of the young Lantern's amusement.

"Right, well keep that finger above the trigger. Watch out for him, Robin out."-He replied shutting down the comms channel. Not really in mood of tolerating Superboy's anger, Kid Lantern flew down trying to get some contact with the Kryptonian, finally earning some attention from him.

"What are you doing here? I don't need help!"-Superboy exclaimed to which Kid Lantern, hardened by months of having to put up with Asuka's moods followed on his standard procedure, and simply ignored him. His view now focused entirely on the monkeys, which flew into a passing train. Seeing that Kid Lantern put on speed before phasing inside of the train cart, quickly being followed by Superboy who jumped in via a ripped hole. Both of them quickly realised that the crates were already empty…meaning that the android could already be assembled, meaning their task had just gotten harder. Their attention however was brought to a seemingly ordinary looking man surrounded by the robot monkeys, dressed in a white shirt with a red bow and a green vest with a pouch holding a few pens, all matched by dark blue pants. He had red hair with visible grey streaks, a wrinkled face and blue eyes. 'So this must be Ivo, what could I expect from a scientist that builds killer robots with superpowers? Not everyone is Miss Ritsuko.'-Kid Lantern thought to himself.

"Oh, hello."-Ivo said turning towards the young heroes.

"You? You're Ivo? I'm whelmed."-Superboy said with disappointment earning the chuckle from the ageing scientist.

"Like you're the one to talk, and I know about your young Emerald Gladiator friend but since when does the Big Blue Scout have a brat?"-Ivo asked getting Superboy angry.

"He doesn't."-Superboy said between grinding teeth, Kid Lantern on the other hand thought it was enough and created several scarf-like tentacles before wrapping Ivo and pulling him close to towards his face.

"Game over professor, you are outnumbered with an army that can't win. So surrender yourself, your monkeys and the android parts. And we promise to maybe not completely rip your creations apart."-Kid Lantern said restraining Ivo, only letting his face free.

"And you must be Kid Lantern, such fine craftsmanship you have on finger right? Restraining your opponent before he can do anything? Way smarter than your Kryptonian friend, but are you sure you don't underestimate my Mobile Optimal Neural Quotient Infiltrators?"-Ivo asked before the Monkeys, or Monqis according to the acronym flew towards Kid Lantern and Superboy.

"Ring! Overload the circuitry of the Monkeys!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed making his ring light up in conferment. Making all the monkey-like drones's inner circuitry explode before falling down onto the train carts floor.

"Ah, and after all the trouble I went through finding an acronym for "Monqi". Still it makes my comment about your ring stand, should've painted them yellow."-Ivo said before smiling to the confused Lantern.

"Access: Captain Atom."-A robotic voice spoke up before a yellow beam went towards the young heroes. Kid Lantern quickly let Ivo go before forming a shield, making the beam collapse onto them.

"Immune to yellow? Surprising, but since Professor Ivo's magnificent Monqis don't float your boat. Maybe my amazing Amazo will suit you. Or better slay you."-Ivo said revealing the newly reassembled android.

"Give me your best shot."-Superboy said stepping in front of a wanting to object Kid Lantern.

"Oh please, my android has the strength of Superman. What chance do you have?"-Ivo asked making Superboy roar and rush towards Amazo, who tanked his every single punch.

"Oh sorry, did I strike a nerve?"-Ivo asked, amused by how easy it was to anger Superboy.

"Amazo, strike a few more."-Ivo added, to which Amazo complied, sending Superboy flying before turning its attention towards Kid Lantern, who didn't hesitate and quickly fired several beams.

"Access: Green Lantern."-Amazo said before it's right ring finger opened revealing a tab, out of which a green beam similar enough to Kid Lantern's ring yet far more wild looking fired out. Quickly reacting the young Lantern created a shield to protect him and Superboy. Despite being a "Fake" the beam was still powerful, the sheer kinetic force slightly pushing Kid Lantern back from behind his shield. Making it disappear.

"Access: Black Canary."-Amazo then added before its mouth panel's shifted revealing a speaker. Out of which a modified version of the Canary Cry was sent out utterly demolishing Superboy and Kid Lantern's ears, sending them flying back.

"Access: Flash."-Amazo proclaimed before rapidly increasing his speed and heading into the duo. Just in time Kid Lantern used his density shift making the android run through him and straight at Superboy, giving him a rapid series of punches. To aid his partner Kid Lantern conjured an Eva-designed Minigun and fired a quick series at Amazo.

"Martian Manhunter."-Amazo added using the density shift of his own making the small light missiles hit Superboy damaging him further before Amazo once again threw him back.

"Aww, no wander Daddy keeps you hidden away, You're not really doing justice to the old "S" shield are you?"-Ivo teased provoking Superboy to try land another punch on Amazo, which only used Martian powers to tank it and later throw a punch of its own sending Superboy flying out of the train cart. Kid Lantern followed phasing though Amazo and quickly joining his partner.

"Are you ok?"-Kid Lantern asked helping Superboy up.

"I'm fine…watch out!"-Superboy said as a yellow beam hit Kid Lantern in the back, normally such a blast would at best create a nasty hole though his chest. But thanks to his aura it only temporally stunned him. Amazo then walked towards Superboy.

"Access: Superman."-Amazo said before grabbing Superboy, and with a powerful punched sent him flying for what seemed like several kilometres of distance.

"Finish him, priority Alpha."-Ivo commanded making Amazo fly away from the train, just as Kid Lantern regained full consciousness. Him immediately sent on the edge realising that both Amazo and Superboy were gone.

"That can't end well…"- Kid Lantern lifting himself up into the air completely ignoring Ivo.

"Ring! Locate Amazo and Superboy."-Kid Lantern commanded to which his ring reacted with an "Affirmative". Causing a map to appear inside of his mask. Leading him to a school building, he phased through the rooftop of the gym to see Ivo alongside several of his Monqi drones sitting on the stands.

"Glad you could join us. But since Amazo is busy with your friend I brought some toys for you as well."-Ivo said before sending his Monqis at Kid Lantern. Who didn't even hesitate before blasting them all to shreds.

"Did you really expect the same trick to work on me twice? I'm disappointed professor."-Kid Lantern asked not earning any reaction from the scientist.

"Oh I didn't, I was just buying some time."-Ivo said confusing the young Lantern, before all his confusion was blasted away…literally. With Superboy coming flying from a freshly made hole in the wall and crashing into Kid Lantern, sending them onto the floor.

"Thanks for dropping in…"-Superboy said sarcastically before getting up.

"Could say the same thing, now let's-"-But before Kid Lantern could say anything Superboy once again rushed at Amazo, internally face palming before summoning green tendrils and trying to contain the android's arms and allow Superboy a shot, to no real avail.

"Martian Manhunter."-Amazo said before once again using its density shift, although it did free itself from the tendrils, it also allowed the newly arrived Kid Flash to take Superboy away. Meanwhile Robin appeared beside Kid Lantern.

"Backup's here."-Robin said before throwing a pair of explosives at Amazo, to no avail as it once again used its density shift.

"Access: Red Tornado."-Amazo said before flying towards the young heroes, but before he could do anything Kid Lantern put up a shield.

"If anyone has an idea then I suggest follow it though!"-He yelled before Amazo finally broke through sending all four of them flying all around the gym. With Kid Flash being the unlucky one to be sent closest to the Android vicinity.

"Access: Captain Atom."-Amazo said before firing a yellow beam at Kid Flash, before it was tanked by Kid Lantern who shielded his teammate.

"I'm not falling for that again."-He said between gritting teeth, giving enough time for Kid Flash to run off before he flew away himself, flying over Amazo and conjuring a sniper rifle. 'Get in Get in Get in Get in BULLSEYE!'-he thought before firing a beam at Amazo.

"Access: Martian Manhunter."-Amazo said tanking Kid Lantern's attack, before then destroying Robin explosives via a stretching arm. Kid Flash then tried his luck and rushed straight at it. Only to be grabbed with Amazo's Superman level grip, but before he could be squished surprisingly an arrow flew directly into Amazo's head, which once again called upon Martian Manhunter's powers to make it phase though it's body allowing Kid Flash to bail. Although where the arrow came from was a mystery, after all Speedy didn't want to do anything with the team. 'Why do I have a feeling I've seen this arrow before?'-Kid Lantern thought to himself as he stood beside Robin.

"Access: Black Canary."-Amazo said before turning towards rushing Superboy and threw him by the arm similarly to how Kid Lantern threw him during training, sending him straight into the stands.

"Superman."-Amazo then said before firing a blast of heat vision at Robin, which was stopped by Kid Lantern's shield. Which allowed them to keep their stance, meanwhile Superboy finally got himself from under the rubble.

"Access Black Canary…"-He muttered to himself, beginning to form a plan.

"Normally Amazo would study and mimic your abilities during battle, but what's the point? You're all such poor copies of the originals."-Ivo teased letting out a yawn. Superboy only smirked.

"So everyone keeps saying, IT MAKES ME ANGRY!"-Superboy exclaimed in anger before jumping towards Ivo, sending him running off.

"WANT TO SEE ME CHANNEL THAT ANGER!?"-He added to which both Robin and Kid Lantern smirked.

"Great, he's gone ballistic again."-Kid Flash said before Kid Lantern raised his hand gesturing to stop talking.

"Maybe not…"-Robin added with a smirk.

"Amazo, protect your master! Priority Alpha!"-Ivo exclaimed before running off. 'My chance.'-Kid Lantern thought to himself before flying to find himself in front of Ivo and conjuring a pair of cuffs for his hands and legs, making him fall onto the floor.

"Access: Captain Atom."-Amazo said before firing a yellow beam at Kid Lantern, who noticing that he didn't have the chance to dodge it focused all his willpower in order to density shift the blast though. And it worked, although not realising that he let go of his construct cuffs.

"It…it worked."-Kid Lantern said to himself surprised while watching Superboy finally deal with Amazo. Who fired another yellow beam towards the Kryptonian.

"Anyone want to play keep away?"-Robin asked before kicking Ivo away.

"Oh! Me Me!"-Kid Flash said before being sent flying by power stomp from Amazo. Robin then threw another batarang provoking Amazo to use its density, taking the occasion Superboy sent one final punch onto Amazo's face.

"Superma-"-But before Amazo could finish it's sentence Superboy's hand was already in Amazo's head, making it explode in the process. The body fell down onto the ground, the battle was over.

"Finally…it's over."-Kid Lantern said setting his feet on the floor, his mask vanishing to reveal a big layer of sweat covering his face. He just stood there, seemingly motionless as if all adrenaline had worn off.

"Help me disassemble it."-Robin said rushing towards Amazo.

"Dude, the guy has no head."-Kid Flash added holding his aching arm.

"Don't take any chances."-Aqualad said making himself known as he rushed inside with Miss Martian.

"Superboy, are you ok?"-Miss Martian asked helping him up.

"I'm fine, feeling the aster. But wouldn't done it alone, right Kid Lantern?"-Superboy asked making all the team's attention turn towards Kid Lantern. Who only kept eyeing Amazo, it struck him back, all the atrocities made by the Evas, the sheer human pride, arrogance that was the Jet Alone and what danger it could've brought. Combined with the nightmare he had in the morning, it was the final straw, and combined with his anger, his ring begun to react on itself.

"Uhm, KL?"-Robin asked as Shinji summoned nine 1:1 green hard construct Mass Production Evangelions, each with a wicked on their faces and holding a replica spear of Longinus. Before anyone could ask the nine monstrosities caused a scene that seemed like it would fit in Dante's Inferno, ripping Amazo a part into tiniest pieces possible, all before stopping and being called off.

"'Shinji, are you there?'"-Miss Martian finally asked via a mind link snapping Shinji back.

"Yeah, I'm fine. You've said that you wanted it…disassembled."-He said quietly making his teammates share a look.

"Well that was completely terrifying, but at least Ivo won't assemble him that quick again. Where is he anyway?"-Kid Flash asked pausing the awkward silence, Shinji only brought up a scan with his ring, but to no avail.

"Gone."-Shinji said sighing to which Aqualad nodded.

"What's important is that we got the android back. Let's pack those pieces and deliver them to S.T.A.R Labs ourselves."-Aqualad said earning a nod from his teammates, despite reacquiring the parts being complete, the mission was still far from over.

"The Amazo android is in pieces again, safely being analysed at the two separate S.T.A.R Labs. But Ivo escaped, and since he originated the tech, he's arguably more dangerous than the android."-Aqualad stated, it was already way past midnight when the team returned to Mount Justice for debrief, not even changing back into their civilian clothes yet.

"Capturing the Professor will be a league priority."-Black Canary replied.

"But we understand your mission encountered, other complications."-Martian Manhunter said making the team all look at Superboy. 'Should be lucky no one is mad for destroying Amazo like that.'-Kid Lantern thought to himself letting out an internal sigh of relief.

"Complications come with the job. Your ability to handle them has impressed the League."-Batman then stated walking in front of his teammates.

"The whole League?"-Superboy then perked up asking.

"Given time yes, Kryptonians as you know, have very hard heads. Of course there's no shame in asking for help. That's why the League exists, because there are some problems even we can't handle individually."-Batman said not only answering Superboy, but also addressing the rest of the team.

"Please, if we needed help, we'd never have chance to ask. Look Familiar?"-Robin asked reaching out for the arrow they found.

"You were following us! Babysitting, you still don't trust us!"-He then added. 'If only they knew, but what was she doing in Gotham of all places?'-Kid Lantern thought to himself, thinking about his... "Acquaintance" and that stomach punch that knocked his lights out.

"We didn't follow you."-Batman bluntly stated shutting down any allegations. Green Arrow then took out an arrow out of his quiver, showing that the arrow head was different than his.

"And that's not your arrow, that means-"

"Speedy!"-Kid Flash quickly cut Robin off, seemingly connecting the dots.

"He has our backs."-Aqualad added before Kid Flash grabbed the arrow from Green Arrow's hand.

"Souvenir!"-He said looking at the arrow, completely omitting the look that Batman and Green Arrow shared, before the Emerald Archer looked towards Kid Lantern.

Shinji, now clad back in his civilian clothes was currently preparing the Zeta Tube to take him back to Coast City, in a better mood then last time, still not fully happy but at least in a better mood then last time. 'Nine fully made MP Evas, when I struggle in maintaining living constructs…'-he thought to himself while inserting the coordinates.

"Shinji?"-Someone then asked making him turn around to see Megan, Wally and Superboy. All in their civilian clothing.

"Uhm yes?"-Shinji asked, confused as to why they stopped him, he wasn't running off again.

"Dude, we just wanted to ask, are you ok? I mean, not that I pry but-"-Wally was cut off by Megan who put a hand over his mouth.

"We just wanted to ask if you are alright, also someone here wanted to say something."-Megan explained before slightly pushing Superboy towards Shinji.

"Listen, I'm sorry, for the way I acted during that mission and during training. There is a reason why you wear a ring and I don't."-Superboy said in an apologetic tone to which Shinji nodded.

"It's ok."-He replied.

"So…are you alright?"-Megan once again asked to which Shinji nodded.

"I'm fine, thank you."-Shinji said just before the Zeta Tube let out a "ping" signalling that it was ready.

"Hey! Rob told me to give you this!"-Kid Flash then suddenly said before throwing a Green Smartphone, on which Shinji caught with a construct bubble.

"What's this?"-Shinji asked examining the phone.

"Aperantly you dont have a phone to track you down. So in order to get you in contact with the rest of us he gave you this."-Kid Flash explained before Shinji put the phone in his hoodie pocket.

"Thank you."-Shinji said before being taken away by the Zeta Beam.

"Recognised: Kid Lantern B-06."-The Tube's AI said as Shinji materialised back in Coast City. After leaving the camouflaged teleporter he summoned his aura and quickly flew back to the apartment, entering it via a strategically opened window in his room. Taking off his shoes he couldn't help but look at his ring.

"Ring, energy percentage remaining?"-Shinji asked making the ring light up.

"Ring's Current Power at 76 percent."-The ring's AI said, still determined to know how he did what he did he made his way towards the living room, the only place large enough to condone his experiments. He raised his ring, at first summoning a more typical robot, like Red Tornado…but despite summoning it and giving it orders he couldn't get it to come "alive" the same way as the Mass Production Evangelions. The next thing he summoned were the three main Eva Units. All of them hard green, carefully he allowed them to roam, to further the test he summoned few maid Asukas he used to clean the apartment, despite being seemingly difficult…it was all like creating a sphere. 'So I can only make living constructs of things from my past and make them roam on their own. Could become useful later on…'-he thought to himself looking at his ring.

"Cool."-A voice said causing Shinji to dismantle his constructs, turning around to see Hal.

"What are you doing?"-He then asked.

"Training."-Shinji bluntly replied.

"How did the team thing went?"-Hal then asked not wanting to give up.

"Good, so it seems."-Shinji said making his way to the fridge in order to grab himself a soda.

"So what did you summon?"-Hal then asked rubbing his chin.

"Memories."-Shinji said before making his way back to his room.

"You know, when you are ready to talk about it, I'm here."-Hal said to which Shinji nodded.

"I know, but I'm really tired, good night."-Shinji said before closing the door to his room.

"Night Shinji."-Hal replied before making his way towards the living room before sitting on the couch.

"Damn it Arisia, what did you do to get him to open up?"-Hal asked himself staring at the ceiling, he would need to talk about it with him, one day or another. But he couldn't push it, after all Shinji still needed to trust him, he could only hope that his time with his teammates would at least make him actually have friends. But he still smiled to himself, it seems not only he wasn't going to give up on him anytime soon.

Chapter Text

"Do we really need to do this?"-Shinji exclaimed with doubt in his voice. Normally during his swimming lessons with Tula he wouldn't be that doubtful even when he first entered water. The key difference was that now he was ringless.

"You won't truly learn to accept water if you will keep holding onto your ring!"-Tula, who swam in circles several meters away from the small island exclaimed while holding Shinji's ring in her hand. 'To believe that such a small device allows him to do so many amazing things, well he is amazing himself so it makes sense. Wait, what did I say?'-She considered herself lucky that Shinji couldn't see her blush.

"I thought you said I could always fly out?"-Shinji then asked walking into the sea.

"Don't worry, if anything happens I'll swim over to help you."-Tula exclaimed, making Shinji sigh as he begun what was another of his tests. After all, he already knew how to swim. The problem was that he still relied mostly on his ring to get him out of it if something happened. Now he could only fend off for himself, and that was exactly what he did. By swimming in the open sea. With no land in front of him for hundreds of kilometres.

'Tula told me to mellow out, just follow the pattern and forget about fear. Forget about fear, better said than done.'-he thought as he continued to swim. He survived the angels, the training on Oa, fighting a giant beetle monster, all the things on Earth, a genocidal maniac who doomed his entire race, a rouge Martian and just recently a supposedly "omnipotent" android with his new team. One that he was supposed to meet up with in few hours.

Tula on the other hand couldn't help but smile seeing Shinji's progress. Her thoughts coming back to when she began teaching Shinji how to swim, most notably his frightened face when he was making his baby steps. It didn't take long for Shinji to reach her.

"Was this enough to satisfy you?"-Shinji asked with a slight frown, one which Tula couldn't help but find cute. It would forever be a mystery to her how does he manage to intimidate an enemy, maybe that's why he wore a mask? She remained so immersed in her thoughts that she didn't notice that Shinji was holding onto her hands.

"Tula…can I have my ring back?"-Shinji then asked snapping her back, both teens realising what kind of situation they were in. Their faces quickly covering themselves with crimson blush matching Tula's hair.

"Y-Yes, I believe we can wrap for today."-Tula said quickly handing the ring back to Shinji. Who quickly soared upwards before returning to the island. The two not saying a word to each other for the next 10 minutes, sitting in embarrassed silence watching waves hit the shore.

"You are improving. Soon you'll swimming ringless in no time."-Tula said finally breaking the awkward silence. Making Shinji turn towards her.

"Thanks…although I don't understand why the necessity of making me swim ringless. Not that I don't appreciate your lessons, it's just I would rarely take off my ring in the first place."-Shinji said looking at his hand.

"But your ring's power won't last forever. Also if you will learn how to accept water without wearing your ring then you'll come to understand the ocean rather than be afraid of it."-Tula said making Shinji raise his eyebrow.

"Yet you said space is death and isolation, it's odd. But I feel more alive there then in the water. No offense."-Shinji said making Tula look up.

"None taken, it could be because I never had a chance to see space from any other perspective then a telescope at the conservatory. The surface world was just as much as alien as space is to surface people. Although I can't help but wonder, how does it look like up from there?"-Tula said looking towards the sky. Shinji noticed it, and it made a green light bulb light up in his head. After all she gave him lessons for free, why once he couldn't give something back?

"Do you want to see space up close?"-Shinji asked getting up from the sand making Tula look at him confused.

"What do you mean?"-Tula asked, her eyes locked on Shinji putting on his shirt before summoning his uniform minus the mask.

"I mean do you want to see space up close?"-Shinji asked reaching out his hand towards Tula. Who with immediately nodded in agreement and got up as well. After all it wasn't every day that your cru-good friend offered you a tour of space right? But then another problem risen up inside of Shinji's head, how was he supposed to carry her? A construct bubble wouldn't be comfortable and a sheer power of thrust could squish her to the surface. So there was only one option, an embarrassing one. But necessary in order to carry out his promise. And Shinji was a man of his word. Not thinking too much he wrapped his left arm around her waist. Tula didn't even have time to blush before they shot into the air. The only thing she could feel was just how strong Shinji's grip onto her waist was. And she was in the Atlantian military and one of the best cadets, so it made it even more impressive. Shinji on the other hand seeing that his aura covered them both increased their speed, it didn't take a long time before they breached the atmosphere.

"See? Space."-Shinji said summoning a small box filled with oxygen for them stand in. Finally letting go of Tula's waist, by that allowing her to walk closer to the wall of the box. Letting her see the stars for the first time from such a close distance, a view she would probably get once in her lifetime, and so she allowed her eyes to absorb it all with child-like wonder.

"It's, it's beautiful. And you get to see that every time you leave Earth?"-Tula asked with sparkles in her eyes, ones that reminded Shinji of a certain someone on a good day.

"Well yes, and that's only the edge of our planet. Space is vast and almost infinite. It shows how small our planet is compared to all that is going on around it."-Shinji concluded making Tula turn around, before hugging Shinji.

"Thank you Shinji. That was, something."-She said before letting go of confused Shinji, who only nodded with an embarrassed smile and a slight crimson tint on his cheeks.

"I'm glad to be of service, and I should probably take you back to Earth. Team-bonding stuff and all of that."-Shinji said wiping the back of his head earning a nod from Tula. It didn't take too long before he once again wrapped his hand around Tula's waist and went into a freefall.

"You know, maybe when I'll teach you how to swim, you will teach me how to fly?"-Tula cheekily asked looking at Shinji.

"I accept those terms."-He replied with a smile before bringing her back onto the sandy ground of their meet-up spot.

"So, I guess I'll be going."-Shinji said before summoning his mask. Tula nodded before she herself walked into the ocean.

"I guess same time next week?"-She asked to which Kid Lantern nodded.

"Yes, I'm sorry that I want to cut on the lessons but I really want try and dedicate to the team. After all they welcomed me back with open arms for a reason."-He replied as Tula looked into the sea.

"No, I understand. And keep an eye on Kaldur for me. Bye Shinji!"-She said and with that she disappeared under water. 'Wow, really smooth there. Trying to teach him how to swim ringless as a pretext to keep him around longer?'-she thought to herself while making her way back to Atlantis. Meanwhile Kid Lantern was well on his way to Happy Harbour. 'I'll never understand girls will I?'-he thought to himself as he speeded through the mainland.

"Hello Megan! We should hit the beach every day."-Megan, dressed in yellow bikini exclaimed as she walked onto the sandy shore of Mount Justice's beach. Accompanied by Robin, Kaldur, Superboy and Shinji. Who was more confused than surprised. 'This is a team bonding exercise? Well it's better than dancing in leotards I suppose.'-he thought to himself looking at the clear sky above him.

"First, a moment of silence for our absent comrade."-Robin said face palming.

"Poor Wally."-Megan added making them all look slightly down in sadness for Wally. Who was stuck on the first day of the Sophomore year of high school.

"But! We have our newest comrade in his place!"-Robin then added in his more usual cheerful voice before pointing at Shinji. Who in contrast to his teammates still wore a shirt over his chest.

"Why are you even wearing that?"-Superboy asked pointing at Shinji's shirt, that despite being a s size still looked loose on him.

"Because I want to?"-Shinji awkwardly replied before slightly backing off, Superboy only gave him a smirk.

"Wait don't-"-Shinji didn't even finish before Superboy jolted the shirt of him. Revealing his bare chest, despite going through extensive physical training on Oa and being in the best shape in his entire life. His eating habits haven't significally changed since he first remerged from Unit 01's core. Meaning he still retained his physique of "barely covered bones", only with some small scars on his body from his days as an Eva pilot.

"Dude, do you even eat?"-Robin asked making Shinji raise his eyebrow.

"Are you the person to ask that question?"-Shinji asked pointing at Robin.

"Come on boys, we're here to have fun remember?"-Megan said before grabbing Shinji's hand and pulling him into the shallow water before splashing him.

"See, it's fun!"-Megan said before Shinji summoned a construct water gun and shooting at Megan.

"Yes, it is."-Shinji replied with a smile earning a laugh from the Martian. The day only continued to get better, with them playing in the water Shinji summoned a construct waterslide for them slide on. But also played volleyball, having "fun" burying Superboy in the sand and later ate hot dogs.

"So Shinji, what were those things you summoned?"-Robin finally asked as they ate their lunch.

"Uhm, what things?"-Shinji asked turning towards him.

"You know, long necks, long spears, wicked smiles? Those things you used to rip Amazo apart? S.T.A.R labs wasn't happy when the pieces arrived."-Robin said as meanwhile Shinji begun to experience a cold pit in his stomach and cold sweats running over his back and forehead.

"That's…a long story."-Shinji said, he still didn't feel comfortable enough to share anything. Arisia was an exception and that happened because he wanted to help her. Although thinking about it made him feel fuzzy inside. Here it was different, and far more uncomfortable due to curious eyes looking at him.

"If you ever wish to tell it, we'll listen."-Kaldur said trying to calm him down, earning a nod from Shinji.

"Thanks, but I think I can share some basics."-Shinji said before standing up and raising his ring. A green beam flew into the sky before summoning a full, intricate construct of Evangelion Unit 01.

"What I summoned, were worse and wicked versions of this. It's an bioengineered War Machine meant to battle something way worse."-Shinji explained before summoning a construct Sachiel and making them fight.

"You, didn't get that from some kind of a story did you?"-Robin asked before Shinji dissolved his constructs.

"No, no I did not."-He replied before looking down onto the sand. The group then entered a period of awkward silence. But for Shinji it signalled a sign of progress, it wasn't letting it all go at once, but an important first step. Despite not showing it he felt proud of it, if the same situation occurred few weeks ago then he would probably be well on his way out of here as fast as possible.

"Might I ask what are you doing?"-The familiar robotic voice of Red Tornado asked making them all look at the android.

"Is something wrong?"-Megan asked.

"Those constructs could've been seen by the boats in the harbour. And due to their…intimating nature, they could generate negative responses that could've given the Cave's location to civilians."-Red Tornado explained, but before Shinji could say anything Kaldur stood up.

"Forgive us, we asked Shinji from where he got ideas for his constructs and he was showing us as he was explaining."-He quickly said shutting down any excuses that rolled on Shinji's tongue.

"Indeed, but you need be careful what you create and how large it is. Also, report to mission room in 30 minutes."-Red Tornado stated before leaving.

"Thanks."-Shinji said quietly wiping his ring.

"What? It was the truth."-Robin said with a smirk before Kaldur put his hand on Shinji's shoulder.

"All the same, and I want to learn more of your story Shinji. That is when you will be ready to share it."-Kaldur said making Shinji nod.

"Guys, I believe we should get going."-Megan said shifting out of her bikini and into her Miss Martian attire. Shinji did the same and summoned up his uniform complete with his mask.

"Once again, show offs."-Robin said with a chuckle before they begun to gather up their things. After all they had a mission.

"I wonder what kind of a mission will be? And shouldn't we wait for Kid Flash?"-Kid Lantern asked as he alongside the team, now all of them dressed in their suits. Robin then turned around towards him with a smirk on his face.

"Well a stealth one obviously! But seriously it's not like we all get a briefing on a magical space ring."-Robin said jokingly making Kid Lantern nod, although it has been a while since Salaak or anyone else contacted him regarding assignments off-world. Probably all the space missions were assigned to the rest of 2814 Lanterns, which was understandable due to his lack of experience.

After a short walk they finally reached the Mission Room to see Batman, Red Tornado, Green Arrow and another person none of them seen before. Except for Kid Lantern, who's ring hand immediately went to protect his stomach. 'What is she doing here?'-he thought to himself, trying his best as to not show his shock to his teammates. But there was no way that this wasn't the same archer as the one he found himself chasing some time ago, even if she was wearing more typical superhero attire. Made up of a green top with an arrow on the front that showed off her toned midriff and slightly muscular arms and green elbow-length fingerless gloves. Matched by green pants with black boots, kneepads, belt and a holster on her left thigh. All topped with a mask showing off her moth and eyes. What made Kid Lantern immediately recognise her was the hair, still a long blonde ponytail and grey eyes.

"You ok? You look like you've seen a ghost?"-Robin asked before Batman walked forward.

"Team, this is Artemis. Your new teammate."-Batman stated in his usual demeanour. The team members all eyed each other, except for Kid Lantern who just stood still from plain confusion and shock, his gaze then locked on Green Arrow. From whose facial expression it looked like he was giving a glare that would give Kid Lantern's father a run for his money. The team members only remained silent before Aqualad stepped forward.

"I believe we should introduce ourselves. I am Aqualad, and this is our team: Robin, Miss Martian, Superboy and our newest member, Kid Lantern."-He said as everyone stepped forward, Kid Lantern as well despite the awkwardness. One thing he did notice and he was glad that his mask essentially hid all his facial features was that Artemis seemed to smirk whenever she looked at him. And it wasn't that kind of cocky smirk, but he couldn't quite put a finger on it. At best he could've put somewhere between Asuka's smirks and Arisia's embarrassed smile. In fact, he focused so much on analysis that he phased out for a second as the team was getting themselves known with their new teammate.

"Kid Flash should be here any minute…"-Miss Martian said just as the Zeta Tube announced Kid Flash's arrival.

"There he is now! I'm sure you two will get along famously."-Miss Martian continued as Wally materialised from the tube. Dressed only in swimming trunks and holding beach supplies.

"The Wall-Man is here! Now let's get this party star-"-Wally didn't finish the sentence before he slipped and fell onto the supplies he was holding.

"ted"-he finished before registering Artemis who stood few meters from him.

"Wall-Man huh? I love the uniform. What exactly are your powers?"-Artemis cheekily asked waving her bow.

"Uhm, who is this?"-He then asked getting back onto his feet.

"Artemis, your new teammate."-Artemis cheekily replied.

"Kid Flash, never heard of you."-Wally replied in the same cheeky tone.

"She's my new protégé."-Green Arrow explained putting his hand on Artemis's shoulder.

"What happened to your old one?"-Wally then asked before the Zeta Tube announced the arrival of Speedy.

"For starters he doesn't go by Speedy anymore, call me Red Arrow."-Red Arrow said announcing himself in.

"Roy, you look-"-But before Green Arrow could say anything he was cut off by his former sidekick.

"Replaceable…"-Red Arrow said with venom building up in his voice.

"It's not like that you told me you were going solo."-Green Arrow said trying to calm Roy down.

"So why waste time finding a sub? Can she even use that bow?"-Red Arrow asked.

"Yes, she can."-Artemis replied with a snarky tone.

"Who are you?!"-Wally then asked joining the conversation.

"I'm his/She's my niece."-Both Green Arrow and Artemis said at the same time.

"Another niece?"-Robin then asked with sarcasm clear in his voice.

"But she is not your replacement. We always wanted you on the team, and we have no quota on archers."-Aqualad said walking up towards Red Arrow.

"And if we did, you know who would we pick."-Wally added.

"Whatever Baywatch, I'm here to stay."-Artemis then stated.

"You came to us for a reason."-Aqualad said as Red Arrow walked towards him.

"Yeah, a reason named doctor Cerling Roquette."-Red Arrow explained.

"Ring?"-Kid Lantern asked an in a second a full bio of the said doctor appeared for him to read. 'So, a wizard of computer science and electronics. Sounds really familiar.'-he thought to himself being reminded of a certain doctor at NERV.

"Nanorobotics genius and claytronics expert at Royal University in Star City, vanished 2 weeks ago."-Robin said bringing up the info to Mount Justice's main computer.

"Abducted two weeks ago, by the League of Shadows."-Red Arrow corrected. 'So, another society hiding in the shadows? Is today a day of comparisons?'-Kid Lantern thought to himself watching the situation unfold.

"You want us to rescue her from the shadows?"-Robin asked fist pumping with Wally.

"I already rescued her, only one problem. The Shadows already chorused her into a weapon."-Red Arrow said bringing up another screen.

"Doc calls it "The Fog". Comprised of millions of microscopic robots, nanotech infiltrators. Capable of disintegrating anything in their path. Concrete, steel, flesh, bone. But it's true purpose isn't destruction, it's theft. The infiltrators eat and store data from any computer system, and deliver the stolen intel to The Shadows. Providing them access to weapons, strategic defence, cutting edge science and tech."-Red Arrow said providing all the valid information.

"Perfect for: Extortion, Manipulation, Power-Broking…yeah, sounds like The Shadows."-Artemis then stated waving her bow.

'Yeah, you are definitely suspicious…indeed.'-Kid Lantern thought to himself, his eyes studying Artemis, from top to bottom. Only to find himself covering with a blush when realised it. After all he thought she was pretty when he was chasing after her few months ago. Again he blacked out from the conversation that was happening around him.

"Roquette is working on a virus to render The Fog inert."-Red Arrow then added.

"But if The Shadows know she can do that-"-Robin was quickly cut off.

"They'll target her. Right now she's off the grid, I stashed her at the local high school's computer lab."-Red Arrow said finishing from where Robin started.

"You left her alone?"-Green Arrow then asked.

"She's safe for now."-Red Arrow replied.

"Then let's you and I keep her that way."-Green Arrow said.

"You and I? Don't you want to take your protégé?"-Red Arrow sarcastically asked, venom hearable in his voice. But before Green Arrow could say anything, Batman walked up and placed his hand on Green Arrow's shoulder. Signalling him on what to say.

"You brought this to the team. It's their mission, which means it's their too."-Green Arrow stated to which Red Arrow only sighed.

"Then my job's done."-Red Arrow said before leaving via Zeta Tube, which once again called him speedy.

"That's Red Arrow, B-07. Update."-Red Arrow said before the Zeta particles took him away in an instant. After he vanished Wally sent out a glare at Artemis, who only smirked before shooting a glance at Kid Lantern.

"'Everyone online?'"-Miss Martian asked via mental link. Her, Kid Lantern and Superboy were out on the perimeter while Kid Flash, Aqualad and Artemis were guarding Roquette in the computer lab.

"'This is…weird.'"-Artemis said.

"'And distracting, coding a distributed algorithm virus on a kiddie computer with less Ram then a wristwatch is hard enough. Now I have to hear teens thinking in my skull?'"-Roquette asked while working on the virus.

"'Are you all scientist types sarcastic?'"-Kid Lantern then asked, his head already being flooded with Kid Flash and Artemis's bickering, with the speedster blaming her on getting Red Arrow out of the team.

"'How about I go help Kid Lantern, Miss Martian and Superboy patrol the perimeter.'"-Artemis said before leaving the room.

"'Good idea.'"-Aqualad replied before eyeing Kid Flash.

"'Might cut her some slack. After all it was her arrow that saved your butt against Amazo.'"-Robin teased.

"'No! That was Speedy's-uh Red Arrows! Arrow…right.'"-Kid Flash replied.

"'The arrowhead of the arrow didn't match neither Green Arrow's or Red Arrow's. Robin's right."'-Kid Lantern then said joining in the conversation.

"'And how would you know?'"-Kid Flash asked. To which even several meters away and outside the young Lantern couldn't help but to blush as he stood next to Miss Martian.

"'We had a…run-in before. Let's just say I had a chance to get a closer look.'"-He said quickly before trying to clean away his thoughts, and the building up pain in his stomach.

"'I can say the same thing about you, cutie.'"-Artemis then teased making Kid Lantern blush, meanwhile Robin had to keep a chuckle inside his head.

"'Lantern, you have to teach us how you do it.'"-He teased reinforcing Kid Lantern's blush.

"'Well, I'm still not giving her satisfaction.'"-Kid Flash then said.

"'You know I can still hear you?'"-Artemis then asked much to Kid Flash's embarrassment.

"'I couldn't get the Justice League…'"-Roquette said feeling the strain of seven teenager's thoughts in her head.

"'The virus won't be of much use if we cannot find a weapon. Can you track it?'"-Aqualad then asked trying to change the topic.

"'My utility fog is not a weapon. It's science, brilliant science. And of course I can track it, but I would have to go online. Might as well rent a billboard with this address and assassinate written in neon.'"-Roquette replied. Aqualad, seeing her stress put his arm on her shoulder.

"'We will protect you.'"-He said reassuring her. Finally, Roquette pressed a button on the keyboard.

"'Tracking the fog now.'"-She said as it showed a location in Philadelphia.

"So, now we're all sitting ducks?"-Kid Lantern said to himself as he floated above the building, after all he was the one with the best equipment for wide perimeter check.

'Despite that I can't be at all places at the same time. But maybe they can.'-he then thought to himself before settling his feet on the ground next to Miss Martian.

"'Listen, if we are that clear then I'll create some constructs as additional perimeter.'"-He announced though the mental link.

"'And you didn't do that before?'"-Artemis then asked, but before Kid Lantern could defend himself Kid Flash took the shot at her.

"'Maybe because last thing we needed were a bunch of green demons with wicked smiles walking around.'"-He said shutting Artemis up.

"'At first when we were hoping to keep this mission covert. But now with risk they may come of use. Lantern, if you believe you can cover the entire perimeter then do it.'"-Aqualad said making Kid Lantern nod.

"'Roger.'"-Kid Lantern replied and raised his ring, not noticing Artemis, Miss Martian and just-arrived Superboy, all looking at him. Although the archer was looking at him in a different way.

"'After all these months, I finally get a closer look.'"-Artemis said with a lustful tone in her voice, earning a confused look from the young Lantern.

"'He can hear you, we can all hear you.'"-Miss Martian said.

"'Oh I know…'"-Artemis replied not caring what Miss Martian said.

Meanwhile Kid Lantern finally finished his constructs, summoning nine Mass Production Evas, Evas 01,00 and 02 as well as a pair of the Fourth Angel Shamshel.

"'All right, the constructs are ready. They'll fly around and patrol the grounds and if they see something that isn't us they'll send out a mental warning. Be sure to not get freaked out by them.'"-Kid Lantern said making the MPE's fly towards the building.

"'Why would we-ughhh.'"-Artemis said feeling the phallic form of one of the fourth angels touch her leg before it crawled away. 'You may be cute. But you weren't that creepy the last time we met.'-she thought to herself forgetting for a second that her thoughts could be heard by everyone.

"'Miss Martian, Doctor Roquette has located The Fog. Reconfigure the bioship so that Robin and Superboy can persue.'"-Aqualad commanded stopping any further discussion. And so Miss Martian complied summoning the Bioship.

"'Ready.'"-She reported just as Robin joined Superboy on board, meanwhile Kid Lantern left as well, flying into the air in order to have a batter grasp on his constructs. Leaving Miss Martian and Artemis alone at the front gate.

"'You've embarrassed Kid Lantern!'"-Miss Martian then said turning towards Artemis.

"'Then hear him say that.'"-Artemis snappishly replied.

"'Must you challenge everyone?'"-Miss Martian asked, not noticing someone sneaking over the fence.

"'Where I come from, that's how you survive.'"-Artemis replied before turning away.

Meanwhile up in the sky Kid Lantern kept tabs on all his constructs. Having fifteen constructs all following set patterns and sharing their view both on a screen made by his ring and a display in his mask, it took a lot of concentration and more importantly the power remaining, even though his ring was well into 81 percent despite last charging it few days ago. So he just floated before one of the constructs shared their POV though his mask, a figure dressed in green, with a cat mask on her face has entered the building.

"Ring! Keep track of her."-He said out loud before flying into the building, following the tracked signal. Passing though the classrooms before bursting into the computer lab just as a shuriken hit Aqualad.

"Halt!"-Kid Lantern said, to which the figure replied throwing more ninja stars, which quickly bounced off his Aura, giving Aqualad enough time to get up.

"Protect the doctor."-He ordered out loud earning a nod from the Lantern. Who quickly threw a sphere around himself and Roquette. Then he focused on the figure, she dressed in a green kimono that reached around the middle of her thigh with black shoulder armour and belt. Complemented by thigh high black boots with grey details around the shins. What was unsettling about her look was her mask, resembling a cat with a wacky smile.

"That had to hurt?"-the figure sarcastically asked rushing towards Aqualad, who took out the hilts from his backpack.

"Atlantian skin is quite dense."-Aqualad said summoning his swords before crossing them with the figure's Sais.

"But my shurikens are quite poisonous."-The figure replied before leaping away.

"'Megan, Kid, Artemis! Me and Kid Lantern are under attack in the computer lab!'"-Aqualad announced though the mental link.

"'On our way!"-Artemis said as she rushed to the lab alongside Miss Martian, who unbeknownst to her took a detour.

Meanwhile in the lab Aqualad kept fighting the figure, who managed to get though his swords and throw one of the sais, aiming for Roquette's head before the Sai stopped mid-air via a green tendril.

"Almost, poison slowing you down?"-She asked.

"Jellyfish toxin, I'm largely immune."-Aqualad said before the figure head struck him sending him down onto the floor.

"Largely."-She added before aiming her sigh for Aqualad's face, but before either she or Kid Lantern could do anything an arrow took the Sai out of her hand.

"Don't move."-Artemis said pointing her bow taking the figure's attention from Aqualad, giving him enough time to get up, with Kid Lantern summoning a Pellet Rifle and aimed it at the figure.

"This Gig's getting interesting."-She said taking out her sword. Without any warning Artemis fired out an arrow which she cut though like it was butter. She cut several more arrows before Miss Martian and Kid Flash rushed into the lab. The figure then redirected another of the shot arrows at Roquette's head, which was quickly caught by an Eva hand while Kid Flash rushed Roquette out of the corner.

"Maybe a little too interesting."-The figure said before throwing a smoke pallet, in a second she vanished. Not even letting Kid Lantern to see her via his infrared filter. Kid Flash tried to rush at her, only to leap into Artemis's arms.

"Gone!"-He said turning towards the smoke cloud.

"She's getting away. You're letting her get away!"-Roquette then exclaimed out loud.

"This is all your fault you were on perimeter! How'd that Shadow get in?!"-Kid Flash then lashed out at Artemis. Who looked as if she was close to punching him. But before anyone could say anything Kid Lantern raised his hand.

"No, it was my fault. I saw her first and didn't bother informing you about it, I'm sorry."-He said looking downwards but enough to notice Artemis's smile. A far softer one then typical lustful smirk.

"I understand, i'm sure it had to take a lot of your concertation to have so many constructs at the same time that you could've forgotten in the heat of battle. Though I hope it won't be a recurring problem."-Aqualad said in an understanding tone.

"That's not really fair, I was outside too."-Miss Martian then said standing up for their newest teammate.

"Yeah, outside being distracted by her! Also Lantern, don't worry I'm not mad at you for letting me almost drown in a pool."-Kid Flash said smirking at Kid Lantern. 'After all it was thanks to that Megan gave me mouth-to-mouth.'-he thought to himself.

"'We heard that.'"-All of them replied via the still set mindlink.

"Dang it!"-Kid Flash said before walking off. Meanwhile Kid Lantern silently went through all stages of shock processing what Kid Flash just said. 'Damn, if Megan wasn't there he would've drown…'-he thought to himself as silently as he could.

"I didn't do half as well during my first battle, and I know you can't have been Green Arrow's sidekick for very long."-Miss Martian then said placing her hand on Artemis's shoulder.

"Focus everyone, the shadows will be back."-Aqualad said before receiving a message.

"Robin to Aqualad, we're over Philadelphia. We've located The Shadows' next target, S.T.A.R labs. We're too late. It's destroyed, The Fog decimated it."-Robin reported as he and Superboy watched from the Bioship.

"S.T.A.R labs is cutting-edge science, and now their secrets are in the hands of the enemy. What's our next move?"-Robin then asked, still shaken by the view they witnessed. Aqualad listened to what Robin said before turning around towards Roquette.

"Rescan for that fog, find it."-Aqualad ordered before turning towards the rest of his team.

"We're moving the doctor."

Kid Lantern stood on top of the small seaside building Aqualad decided to be the new safe house. Positron Rifle in hand and his eyes deeply focused on the crosshairs. All while small VTOL constructs flying around the building served as his scanners and additional eyes. 'This time no one is getting through me.'-he thought to himself trying to remain focused and calm, although the tension between Kid Flash and Artemis was bouncing on all of them.

"'Stop it, both of you.'"-Aqualad, who was hiding in bushes across the street scolded.

"'What!?'"-Both Kid Flash and Artemis asked.

"'I can hear you glaring. Lantern, Miss Martian, report on the perimeter.'"-He asked moving and hiding behind a nearby tree. Meanwhile Kid Lantern received an alert on his mask and without hesitation pulled the trigger. Aqualad looked up to see a green blast hitting a nearby tree's crown, before a man dressed in a purple full-body costume with a mask fell onto the ground knocked unconscious.

"'They're here. And there's more of them.'"-He reported just as more VTOL's. Aqualad meanwhile nodded in confirmation before rushing towards the building. Only to be met by a man whose entire right arm was replaced with a claw. Who tried to knock Aqualad down from behind before he himself got knocked out by a green blast, sending him down onto the road.

"'No one is getting through me.'"-He said before his VTOLs picked out another signal, but before he could react a hand knocked Aqualad out.

"Crap!"-Kid Lantern exclaimed out loud when he noticed the figure in the cat mask staring directly at the crosshairs. Quickly he swapped out the sniper rifle for its handheld version and sent out barrage fire just enough to get the figure away from Aqualad as she disappeared, using that occasion he left his post and flew down to grab Aqualad.

"Don't worry."-Kid Lantern said enclosing Aqualad in a bubble. He then turned around to see that the man with the claw was gone. 'All is according to plan.'-he thought before leaving with Aqualad.

Meanwhile the man in the purple suit barged into the building, Kid Flash was quick to react with a kick, only for the man to jump onto the ceiling and fire a red web from his wrist. Which Kid Flash dodged before throwing a trash can at him sending the man back onto the floor. Meanwhile Artemis engaged the clawed man, firing arrow after arrow.

"Don't stop working."-Artemis commanded making Roquette return to her computer. Both of them too focused to not see the person in the cat mask pointing a crossbow at Roquette, all except one. She knew that by the fact she felt something called at the back of her throat.

"That's a 14 inch 357 pointing at your throat. So I would suggest not moving a muscle."-Kid Lantern, holding a downsized EVA pistol stated. Meanwhile behind the mask the figure smirked.

"You don't like to play by the standard hero rules do you?"-She asked, amused by the fact someone who looked like a little kid was seemingly ready to let her drown in her own blood.

"My "no kill" policy is a lot more liberal."-Kid Lantern replied but didn't get the chance before the figure quickly leaped in not giving him enough time to shoot. 'Should've pulled the trigger, but you have my interest cutie Lantern.'-she thought before firing her crossbow at Roquette, before the arrow was tanked by a floating crate.

"Martian's here. It's now or never."-She said before rushing towards Roquette and pining her down, before her skin turned green and her head turned 180 degrees.

"We've been duped!" Kid Lantern phased though the roof of a nearby Internet Café to see Aqualad and real Roquette working on the virus.

"All three of them are busy. I made sure of that."-Kid Lantern said landing beside Roquette to which Aqualad nodded.

"Good job."-Aqualad replied before Roquette turned towards him.

"I almost got it!"

"Oh I do not like being played."-The masked figure said turning on infrared in her mask. 'No footprints, good thinking little Lantern, but not everything can be masked.'-she thought before a signal scanner appeared in her mask's display. Still, she had enough awareness to slice Artemis's arrow.

"I was hoping it would be you."-She teased before running off, eventually the chase went to the rooftops before Artemis fired a sleeping gas arrow seemingly knocking her out. Artemis pointed her bow at her, carefully walking towards her. Before having her legs swept.

"Mask has built-in-filters."-The figure said before getting into a brawl with Artemis, who was visibly outmatched.

"Better luck next time kid."-She said knocking Artemis out.

"We have company!"-Aqualad stated hearing the footsteps above.

"Uploading now! And by the way you said you would protect me."-Roquette said making Kid Lantern put up a sphere around them.

"Protection enough?"-He sarcastically asked just as a pellet rolled into the room, spitting out smoke. Aqualad took out his swords. Meanwhile one of the roof panels opened revealing the masked woman. Kid Lantern fired beams from behind his shield. Making Aqualad turn around ideally for her to fire darts at his chest.

"Let's test the limit of your jellyfish immunity shall we?"-She asked as Aqualad felt the poison's strain on his body, he tried to rush at her. Only to be quickly put down to the ground.

"There, limit tested."-She said before walking towards Kid Lantern.

"Pardon me cutie, but I have an appointment with the good doctor."-She said pointing her sigh.

"No chance."-Kid Lantern replied, the two eyed each other from behind their masks. Before suddenly the woman pulled out a pallet and the whole room was enveloped in yellow light, it was known that Green Lanterns struggled against yellow. However, that was for the old types of rings like the ones Hal and Arisia were using. So the light bounced off the bubble, however Kid Lantern thought that he could use this to his advantage. So he desummoned the shield and pointed his ring at the woman.

"Were you really expecting this would work, my ring works on ye-"-He couldn't finish before the woman punched him in the stomach. 'Again!? And in the same place?!'-he thought before he collapsed onto his knees holding onto his chest.

"You really are adorable, you may be effective against yellow little Lantern. But not against pain."-She said before kicking Kid Lantern away, launching him onto his face. 'Although I got to admit, you know how to make a woman interested in you.'- she thought before walking towards Roquette with her Sai.

"Now doctor, time for my appointment."-She said with a smirk under her mask. She grabbed Roquette's shirt and placed her Sai close to her throat. But she wasn't stupid enough to immediately kill her, so she turned her gaze towards the computer Roquette was working on.

"So you finished the virus, eliminating the reason for your elimination. Though not the entertainment value."-The woman said before kicking Roquette onto the floor.

"Lucky for you my orders are clear, you live to program another day. After all doctor, the shadows may find another use for you."-She then added before leaving the building. Few minutes passed and Kid Lantern managed to regain consciousness.

His first instinct was to turn towards the doctor, he immediately sighed with relief seeing she was safe.

"Finally, it's over…"-He said as his mask vanished, sweat swimming down his forehead as he panted for air on his knees. However, his attention then turned towards Aqualad, he crawled towards him holding his left arm over his stomach.

"Ring, scan though his body."-Shinji commanded before his ring displayed a view of Aqualad's immunological system.

"The poison is slowly losing its effect, although it will take several hours without the recovery being accelerated by an antidote."-The ring's AI said just as Aqualad managed to get up from the floor.

"Easy…"-Shinji said helping Aqualad up.

"Shinji? Where is the assassin?"-Aqualad asked taking out the darts from his chest.

"Escaped, she left when she could've killed all three of us."-Shinji said before he, Aqualad and Roquette all left the building. Only to see Artemis standing like a statue.

"Artemis, where is the assassin?"-Aqualad then asked.

"She, she got away."-Artemis said turning around in shame just as Kid Flash and Miss Martian run and up respectably towards them.

"Oh from you? Big surprise, notice we got ours."-Kid Flash quipped before looking down on the ground.

"Cool, souvenir."-He said picking up the cat mask."

"Her mask, did you see her face?"-Aqualad asked as he, Shinji and Roquette walked up towards Kid Flash.

"It was dark."-Artemis replied.

"It is fine, Robin and Superboy neutralized The Fog. And Doctor Roquette is safe, thanks in no small part to you. Welcome to The Team."-Aqualad said with a complementing tone causing Artemis to turn around and smile.

"I always wanted a sister here on Earth, I mean I have 12 back on Mars but trust me, it's not the same."-Miss Martian said while Artemis and Aqualad shook hands.

"I wouldn't know, but thanks."-Artemis replied before her gaze locked on Kid Flash, who got slightly knocked in the gut by Miss Martian.

"Yeah, welcome."-Kid Flash said before Artemis reached out for Kid Flash to shake. Last and certainly not least she looked at Shinji, it being the first time she saw him without a mask.

"Be sure not to punch me so bad this time."-Shinji said trying to joke reaching out his hand, which Artemis shook.

"No promises."-She replied with a smile.

Chapter Text

'This is boring, really boring.' Shinji thought to himself as he endured a theoretical lesson alongside the rest of the team. Their lecturer being Captain Atom regarding the topic of information gathering. Which for someone like Shinji was an oxymoron. After all he was a Green Lantern, a person who would shine their light where there was darkness, and if he needed info he would have asked his ring.

So he suffered double the amount of his neighbours, Artemis from the left and Wally on the right. He still tried to remain attentive and listen to the Leaguer's lecture.

"When your mission relies on subterfuge, resist the urge to go on the offensive. Last thing you want is to risk exposing yourself and the team…Because a covert operation means keeping to the shadows. Concealing your identities, infiltrating your targets…And that means advance research. Study, and long hours on stakeout…And, of course, you must always remain alert— "

Suddenly Captain Atom's lecture was cut by a loud yawn. One which Shinji identified to be Superboy's.

"This is boring, isn't it?" Captain Atom then asked, for a second snapping back everyone into attention.

"Oh no Captain, it's quite-" But before Megan could finish she was once again interrupted by Superboy.

"Yeah, it's boring."

For a second Captain Atom stared them down. For Shinji, it reminded him of his old teacher in Tokyo 3. A lecture so boring that nobody ever paid attention, if it wasn't for Hikari nobody would take anything from those lessons.

"All right. Let's learn in the field." Captain Atom stated before bringing up a confidential file.

"This is a Cold Case. Vietnam Era." He started before opening the file, which showed a photo of a blond man with blue eyes dressed in a USAF uniform.

"Captain Nathaniel Adams, United States Air Force. Convicted in 1968 of murdering Air Force General Clement Lemar. Adams died in prison. But I've received a reliable tip that he was framed." Captain Atom said, allowing the team to note the information before continuing.

"Your assignment: Investigate. Prove Adams's innocence and report back to me." He finished, earning a look of confusement from the team.

"Really? You need super-powered operatives for this?" Superboy asked, earning a smirk from the atomic hero.

"Right then, I'll continue the lecture." He said quickly earning objection from the rest.

"NO!" Quickly the whole team objected, earning a nod from Captain Atom.

"Good, the case was already reopened so it will make your job easier, all the data you'll need is in this file. Good luck." He said before walking towards the Zeta Tube and vanishing. Leaving the team to themselves.

"So, are we going?" Shinji bluntly asked, to which Kaldur got up from his chair.

"Gear up everyone, we're leaving."

The flight to Washington remained…silent. Up to that point all of their missions, while insanely difficult and dangerous, were straight and laid out up front. In this case, they had to assemble the clues and mission themselves in order to complete their task.

"Hey." Suddenly Wally spoke up before turning towards Shinji. "Why don't we just use Shinji's ring? After all he used it to find out who I am and presumably has data on everyone and everything in the universe. Let's just ask it if Adams was innocent and go home earlier."

That comment caused everyone to turn towards the Lantern, who only sighed before looking at his ring.

"Yes, I do possess a ring with a far more extended database. I do not want to cheat my though. Despite not feeling well with espionage." Shinji said earning a nod from Kaldur.

"I agree; we should not rely too much on the fact that Shinji could do anything for us. Especially considering there is a possibility of him not being available to partake in every mission." Kaldur explained while looking at Wally, who only gulped.

"Same here, although I need to ask." Artemis said before she looked at Shinji, who was sitting in front of him. "Weren't you a soldier before becoming a Lantern? I thought you would already have a bit of knowledge on Espionage?"

Shinji only nodded hearing Artemis's question, noticing a subtle smile on her face.

"I was, but my job mostly involved shooting, stabbing and punching." Shinji said before temporarily summoning his uniform, with an addition of a holographic projection of his badge, flashing like a police siren.

"And as a Green Lantern. My job is to protect the innocent and shine the light wherever there's darkness. You know, that "no evil shall escape my sight"." He said before desummoning his uniform. "Also I really need some experience in espionage, considering what happened last time."

That last sentence caused the rest of the team to raise their eyebrows.

"And what happened then?" Megan asked peaking from the controls, seeing that now everyone was looking at him. Shinji decided to tell the story of his first mission.

"Well, it was when I was still a Whitecircle, or a trainee in normal words. Our trainer got a report of a ship leaving his sector and that it already destroyed three worlds." Shinji begun, he noticed their shocked expressions before continuing.

"Unfortunately the resident Lantern was already busy with another mission. So it was up to us, and while our trainer was taking care of the enemies outside. We were supposed to infiltrate the ship and take out the bridge, unfortunately for me, because of my prior experience I was made the team leader."

Now the team was looking at him with wide eyes, visibly captivated by the story.

"So let me get this straight. You got pulled out of training early, got forced into a leadership role and made it out alive? I don't see how this could be a failed mission." Robin said, making Shinji nod with a slight smile on his face before he continued.

"It was more so of a luck factor, but let me continue. We found ourselves on board the ship. Using my ring I downloaded the ship's corridor layout. That was before I discovered density shift, so we had to travel though corridors while keeping an eye for enemies. The whole thing went south went we discovered there was a hostage on board, a Tamaranian princess."

That sentence caused Robin and Wally to look at each other, both having smirks on their faces.

"Was she hot?" Wally blurted out.

"Wally!" Artemis said quickly scolded him, but it couldn't hide the truth from everyone, as Shinji's face covered itself with a crimson blush remembering the fiery princess. Whose beauty could only be compared to another alien Shinji found himself close to.

"Well…how did you deal with that?" Kaldur finally asked, trying to change the topic.

"The girl carried out the "screw up" part for us. By attacking her captives, she was held by cuffs that were locking her powers away. Deciding that it was only a matter of time before it would set off the alarm, I left our hiding spot and helped her. My train of thought was that if she was already trying to escape before, she would know the way to the bridge. And luckily for our group, she knew a way that dodged the guard patrols. After a short flight though airshafts and corridors we reached the bridge. But before we could come up with a plan, she blasted through the door and went rushing at the ship commander. She was a warrior after all, the guy was powerful. He had some sort of armour that could create weapons from literally nothing, so we tried conventional attacks, they didn't work. So I resorted to using the strongest weapon in my arsenal."

Shinji paused for a second before summoning a compact version of a positron sniper rifle.

"It's a rifle which full sized version needed the electrical power of entire japan to fire a single blast. Continuing, I fired the rifle, which ripped the whole ship apart. The prep teleported away, and we returned with the princess to Oa. It was enough for me to become a full-fledged Lantern and earn my badge, as did my fellow trainees. Still, we needed to take the princess back home, and since she wanted me to do that. I complied, after completing that, GL took me under his wing and the rest is history."

Shinji finally finished his story, taking a deep breath.

"This doesn't sound so bad. Actually less screw ups then our second mission. Or first mission, I think you did a good job." Robin said, showing Shinji a thumbs up.

"And you got some one-on-one time with a hot alien babe! Which I can understand." Wally said before glancing at Megan. Earning a chuckle from Robin.

"Pentagon in vicinity." Megan then reported causing Kaldur to get up.

"We can talk about Shinji's space travels later. For now, we need to analyse what Captain Atom gave us in the file." Kaldur said before turning towards his team. It was time to begin.

"'Entering Pentagon now.'" Miss Martian reported via mental link, as she in camouflage mode entered the US department of security though the front door. Before making her way to the women bathroom.

"'The coast is clear.'" She then said before turning visible, while shapeshifting to a form of a female captain that was supposed to meet up with a general that was there during Adams's trial.

"I'm in."

Quickly adjusting to her role she made her way towards the office of said general. With a quick knock she entered the office before standing on attention in front the general.

"General Eiling, sir!" She said matching her voice to the real captain.

"At ease, Captain. Sit. And explain to me why the Judge Advocate General's Office is reopening this case?" Eiling asked, making Miss Martian sit down in a chair in front of Eiling's desk.

"Respectfully, I am not at liberty to do that, sir." Miss Martian said before continuing. "You were the judge at Adams' court martial, which makes you a potential witness— "

"Witness to what? The Adams case was open and shut." Eiling said, cutting Miss Martian off.

"Why don't you just tell me what you remember, General?" She asked, all while Robin, now clad in his suit was laying hidden in the vent. While a small camera with a built-in microphone transmitted the conversation both to Robin, and to Shinji's ring, who himself was waiting in the camouflaged Bioship close to the pentagon, serving as his teammate's eye in the sky and connection between various groups, now spread through the entire country. He was the only one who could get between them fast enough and without any suspicion, after all Miss Martian wasn't a public hero and Kid Lantern was a well-known "sidekick", much to his annoyance.

"Fine, Captain Nate Adams was your classic malcontent…We were barely acquainted before the incident. In fact, I was better acquainted with his victim." EIling begun before continuing.

"Adams blamed Lemar for a Viet Cong ambush…As if any officer would intentionally get his own killed. But Adams would not listen to reason. He was caught in the act by an MP. Sergeant Polk, I think his name was. I was only a colonel when I drew the case. I found Adams guilty and sentenced him to life in prison."

Eiling then took a deep breath before delivering the sad ending.

"It turned out to be a short sentence. Adams took his own life before a year was out."

"You heard that?" Robin asked over the comms while Shinji kept watching the footage.

"Yeah, already sent it to the rest." He replied, one of the aids they could have in regards of communication, a side from Miss Martian's telepathy.

"Great, leave the Bioship and go join KF and SB." Robin instructed, to which Shinji complied and summoned his uniform. Before giving a nod to the ship, which released him from its restraints before releasing the floor beneath him.

Now as Kid Lantern, he quickly left Washington. It didn't take him long to get to Nevada, a little less than 10 minutes of flying a little over the speed of sound and he found himself in Las Vegas. Thanks to the information they received from Captain Atom and research quickly gathered by Robin, it was where Adams' defender was hanging out these days. Quickly he found the casino Robin stated was a hangout spot for Lieutenant Henry Yarrow.

Locating where the "safespot" to quickly phase through safely, that from his experience was always the bathroom cabin. He landed inside, desummoning his uniform before setting his feet on the bathroom floor. Instinctively he flushed down the toilet to dodge any potential confusement before leaving the cabin. Not wasting his time, he walked outside the bathroom to see Wally and Superboy, dressed in their civilian clothes.

"What took you so long?" Wally cheekily asked, to which Shinji only raised his eyebrow in amusement.

"Flying over controlled airspace and trying to not potentially set off any government air space trafficking systems considering I flew from the Pentagon is something to consider. Let's just find Yarrow." Shinji said, to which Superboy pointed at a blackjack table.

"Found him already, we were just waiting for you." He stated, to which Shinji only nodded before making his way towards the table, at which sat an older man dressed in a Hawaiian shirt.

"Lieutenant Yarrow?" Superboy asked stepping in front of the trio. To which the man only turned with a tired smirk.

"No." He begun before putting the card on the table. "Retired from the uniform and the title. Now, I'm just Mister Yarrow. But you can call me Henry, hit me."

With those words the Croupier put his cards on the table.

"Twenty-two. Bust. And, sir, no one under 21 is allowed in the casino." The Croupier said turning towards Superboy, Wally and Shinji. "Are you under 21?"

"In weeks or months?" Superboy asked, to which Yarrow turned towards the three teenagers.

"Cute, you must be the Journalism Students. Come on, my luck's run out anyway. Let's find a place to talk." Yarrow said before walking out of the game room, with the three undercover heroes following him. Soon they found themselves in another portion of the complex, Yarrow found an empty table at which he sat down, while Superboy and Shinji sat in front of him. All while Wally vanished as he saw an all you can eat buffet.

"So kids, what are you looking from an old guy like me?" Yarrow asked, to which Shinji begun talking.

"We were giving a task of investigating a case from the Vietnam War, since the Nathaniel Adams case was…problematic, we decided to look into it closer. As we believe there is much more to it than meets the eye."

Shinji's statement caused Yarrow to chuckle.

"Indeed there is more to it kid, you have an eye for little things." Yarrow said, to which Superboy gestured for Shinji to begin the transmission, and so he did as show by the dimly lit up ring.

"You were Nathaniel Adams' Defence Counsel?" Superboy then asked, all while Wally kept shoving chicken wings into his mouth.

"4.95 for all you can eat buffet! My kind of town!" He said between portions while Yarrow begun to talk.

"I was his friend too. Served together in the 'Nam. The only survivors of Hill 409. Nate worked in Air Force Intelligence. He suspected a weapons smuggling ring and confided as much to general Lemar. Lemar claimed to have heard rumours too. Ordered Nate to take a squad to Hill 409. It was an ambush. Nate saved my life. The rest of Nate's men weren't so lucky. Nate became convinced Lemar was part of the smuggling ring and had sent us into ambush. I tried to talk him out of it. But Nate insisted on confronting Lemar, only to black out moments later. Later, Nate would insist he had been drugged and I believed him. Cuz there is no way there's no way the Nathaniel Adams I knew would murder a man in cold blood! I took on Nate's defence. But the prospector lieutenant Kevin Blankly proved Nate's service knife was the murder weapon. And the medical examiner Shirley Mason testified there were no drugs in Nate's system. So the judge found Nate guilty and sentenced him to life in prison."

Yarrow stopped for a second before letting out a sorrowful sigh.

"And that's where Nate died. But get this, that judge Colonel Eiling. He married Nate's widow and raised Nate's two kids as his own! Tell me that doesn't stink to the high heaven!"

Robin, while in a distant location with Miss Martian, listened to the transmission from Shinji's ring.

"If Adams was framed, looks like the place to start would be with Shirley Mason. The medical examiner who said Nate wasn't drugged."

"Looks like the Medical Officer needs a Medical Officer." Robin said as he and Miss Martian looked at the twisted dead body of Shirley Mason.

"She's got something in her hand. I don't want to disturb the crime scene, but we need to see what it is." He added before Miss Martian raised the corpse with her telekinesis.

"How's this?" She asked just as Robin noticed the photo frame the corpse was holding.

"Perfect, looks like the photo was taken in the 60s." Robin said scanning the photo with his gauntlet, before projecting the photo. Which showed the group supposedly involved with the Smuggling Ring, with an addition of a small boy of Asian descent and surpassingly, a North Vietnamese General. "The woman might by Mason…but the 60s were a long time ago."

"They don't have to be." Miss Martian before her face begun to transform.

"Here's the woman in the picture." She said as her face resembled young Shirley Mason.

"And here's the woman on the floor." She said before her face then transformed into one being a direct copy of the found corpse. "They're musculoskeletal structure is the same, she's definitely the woman in the picture."

With that Miss Martian shifted back to her regular form before turning towards Robin.

"I'll run a facial recognition software on the rest. It could take a while without KL's quick idenfication but I should be able to generate a list of names to go with Mason's." Robin said just as they heard police sirens.

"And that's our quo." He added before jumping from the open window, followed by Miss Martian.

Kid Lantern quickly found himself above Hawaii, this mission required him to serve as the middle man between all of the three teams dispatched for gathering intel. After all him being a glowing space lawman didn't seem to fit with espionage. So Kaldur assigned him to a seemingly easiest task.

Which still required him looking for landing spots in places filled with people, in this case Honolulu. He managed to locate the restaurant where he, Artemis and Kaldur were supposed to meet with Nathaniel Adams' children, Peggy and Randall Eilling. In order to quickly fly unnoticed he took a dive into the ocean. Not wasting any more time, he phased though the floor of the bathroom before desummoning his uniform.

"I'll never thank Tula enough for teaching me how to swim." He said to himself before looking though the bathroom's window, seeing vast ocean in front of him. And while the Atlantian redhead helped change his perception of the ocean, it still made him feel a little bit uneven when looking at it, as if he felt that something would happen.

But that wasn't important at the moment, what was important was the mission. He left the bathroom before making his way towards the table where Kaldur, Artemis and their guests were waiting.

"Sorry for being a little late." Shinji said noticing their guests. Peggy had short reddish hair and wore a red shirt, a black skirt and yellow sunglasses over her blue eyes and a rosary hanging from her neck. Her brother on the other hand was dressed in a USAF uniform, visibly showing he didn't want to be here.

"Being late a little over a minute isn't something terrible. I should be the one thanking you for meeting us." Peggy said, making her brother scoff in disgust.

"I'm only here for my sister Peggy's sake. Nate Adams is not a topic I would ever choose to discuss." Randy said causing Peggy to hit him on the arm.

"Randy, you're talking about our Father!" Peggy scolded, to which Randy remained undeterred.

"Wade Eiling is our father, He raised us." Randy begun his tirade. "Adams gave up any rights the day he betrayed our country and murdered his superior officer."

Peggy quickly straighten up hearing her brother's accusations.

"Our mother never thought he was guilty! And I don't believe it either!" She countered, to which Randy only raised his hand.

"I love you Sis, but your opinion doesn't count. Dad died in prison before you were born."

Peggy only chuckled hearing her brother's tirade.

"Hah! you just called him Dad!" She laughed, all while the three team members shared a look. 'This is going to be a long talk.' Shinji thought to himself letting out a silent sigh.

Shinji, Artemis and Kaldur were walking through the beach. Unfortunately for them in comparison to other field teams they didn't get much from Adams' children, it made sense considering they weren't old enough to even remember him.

The young Lantern was however focused on the ocean, so much so he didn't notice Artemis's hand slightly brush against his. Fortunately for the young Lantern, he wasn't focus on what she was wearing. A green sundress, as it could bring some bad memories.

"Well, Randy's a little…intense. But at least he's realistic. Biology hardly guarantees parental skills or even basic honesty. Nathaniel Adams may be guilty as charged, right Shinji? Shinji!?" Artemis asked causing Shinji to snap back.

"S-Sorry! It's just, I was looking at the views. I phased out for a second." Shinji said turning towards Artemis, who only smiled at him.

"Appreciating the views?" She asked turning towards the waves as well.

"Not really, a friend told me that the ocean is life and that we should all learn how to appreciate it as a breathing organism." Shinji said looking down at the approaching water, knowing that somewhere beneath those waves of water was the Atlantis.

Artemis only slightly rolled her eyes, yes she had a crush on him. But talking with him was an exercise in itself, as if he didn't understand any basic flirting. Then again he was a Green Lantern, who seemed to only think about the mission at hand all the time they were on duty. So she decided upon connecting the small talk with the task at hand.

"And what about your parents?" She asked causing Shinji to freeze for a second, before Kaldur placed his hand on his shoulder.

"You may not know that, but we have agreed to let Shinji talk about his past whenever he will feel ready." He stated, although he himself was thinking about Atlantis, more specifically Tula.

"So, how about you tell us about your parents Kaldur?" Artemis then asked, completely giving up her current approach, after all she was seeing Shinji every other day.

"My Mother, Sha'Lain'a, is a native of Atlantian city of Shayeris. Her skin is nearly as golden as her hair, and her gills are quite large and gorgeous. My Father, Calvin Durham, is a surface-worlder like both of you. Genetically altered by Black Manta to infiltrate Atlantis as a water-breather." Kaldur begun causing Artemis to raise her eyebrow.

"Your father works for Black Manta!?"

"He did, but his love for my mother caused him to switch sides. So perhaps we should reserve judgement on Captain Adams until all the facts are in." Kaldur said just as Shinji's ring lit up frequently.

Quickly he projected the image in front of him, showing a green hologram of Robin.

"Hey, we're heading Annapolis and there's a chance we'll need your firepower. I've sent the coordinates to you. We're waiting." Robin reported before vanishing. Shinji then turned towards Kaldur, who only nodded in agreement.

"We are done here for now, go." He said, earning a salute from Shinji before he vanished in a green trail. Summoning his uniform mid-air and making his way to the mainland.

Robin, Superboy, Kid Flash, Miss Martian and Kid Lantern were standing in front of a large house built in eastern standard.

"'I know my grasp of Earth history is based largely on Earth Sitcoms…But why would a North Vietnamese General be in a 1968 photograph with US personnel?' "Miss Martian asked via mind link. All while Robin kept scrolling though the information on his gauntlet.

"'Good question. This General Trang was the first person my facial recognition software identified. But that doesn't explain how Trang wound up living in a mega-mansion in the states.'"

"'That takes money and connections…'" Robin finally stated.

"'Two things participation in an illegal ring might provide.'" Kid Flash then added.

"'If so, then Captain Adams' investigation might have been correct.'" Kid Lantern said to himself, internally comparing the smuggling ring to SEELE. Although in a much smaller scale.

Superboy meanwhile was looking though the area with his infrared vision.

"'Wait a second! Trang's not alone in there!'" Superboy said, seeing another figure standing in front of a sitting figure. "'Someone's with him. Someone with a sword!'"

"'Shirley Mason was killed by a sword!'" Robin concluded.

"'Then what are we waiting for!?'" Kid Flash asked, both him and Superboy eager to attack.

"'Lets get him!'" Superboy added, before both he and Kid Flash were stopped by green Eva hands appearing in front of them. Both of them turning towards Kid Lantern.

"'No, we can't allow ourselves to be spotted by either Trang or the assassin. This is a covert operation; we should use the fact that we aren't obligated to use force as an advantage.'"

"'KL is right. We keep to the shadows; we don't take to the offensive.'" Robin added backing up Kid Lantern's argument. "'Miss M, you're in.'"

With that, Miss Martian put on her hood before turning to camouflage mode and flying away. All while Kid Flash turned towards Robin.

"'Dude, you were actually listening to that lecture?'"

"I know why are you here. I still have my sources, I know about Mason, and I know about your work." Trang, a visibly old man clad in a kimono begun. "But I am disappointed, Rako. I have protected you since you were a child. Have you no loyalty?"

Trang stared down the supposed Rako, a man dressed in what appeared to be a black Samurai armour with golden details and a red belt, complete with a helmet that had a red visor hiding Rako's gaze.

"I do, just not to you." Rako said reaching out for his sword, the blade lighting with some sort of blue energy.

Rako then raised his sword, getting ready to slice Trang down. Before suddenly the sword was yanked from Yako's hand. The sword flying towards the ceiling, much to Yako's surprise and amusement.

"A new security system?" Rako asked, unfortunately for the infiltrating Miss Martian, Rako's helmet had infrared as well.

"Impressive, most impressive."

With that he chopped Miss Martian so hard that she turned her camouflage mode off, before toppling onto the floor.

"Too, bad I'll have to dismantle it." Rako said before taking back his sword.

"Never gonna happen!" Superboy suddenly roared as he toppled though the window, all while Kid Lantern fazed though the window, with his badge pulsating in a police-light manner. Quickly he summoned a pair of Eva hands, but before they could catch Rako he already managed to slice though Superboy's shirt.

"I'm, I'm bleeding?" Superboy asked, shocked. Just as much as Miss Martian and Kid Lantern.

"'Superboy, you're cut?! But a Kryptonian can't be cut!'" Miss Martian said in shock, while Kid Lantern regained his cool and wrapped Rako in a construct wrapping.

"Sorry man, but you fell out of fashion when the Edo Period ended!" Kid Lantern quipped out loud. 'I really need to work on these.' He thought to himself as meanwhile Kid Flash joined the fight trying to tackle the already wrapped Rako, who managed to parry him despite being wrapped sending the speedster into the wall.

Rako then freed himself, his attention turning towards Kid Lantern. Spotting him as the most dangerous target, he threw ninja stars at him. Which were deflected by Kid Lantern's aura. The Lantern then created an Eva 01 construct, which suplexed Rako as if it was a pro wrestling ring.

Miss Martian took the chance and used her telepathy to lift Rako up, the Samurai managed to recover from the temporary stun and threw another set of ninja stars at Miss Martian, which were once again tanked by Kid Lantern, who this time summoned a whole shield. He then brought up a construct of an Eva Pistol and begun to shoot Rako, who simply sliced all his bullets with his sword.

While Rako was busy trying to deal with Kid Lantern, Robin meanwhile tried to use that to his advantage, by sneaking behind Rako, who despite fighting on multiple fronts noticed the Boy Wonder. Sending him onto the floor with a punch.

Meanwhile Kid Flash helped Superboy up.

"Come on Supey! Get it together! We can't leave Lantern alone!" He said while Superboy was still baffled from the fact that Rako's sword managed to cut him.

"What? Alright." Superboy said before he, Kid Flash, Robin and Miss Martian rushed at Rako, who was still busy with Kid Lantern. "Let's take him!"

But before anyone could make a single move the entire building suddenly went dark.

"Hey! Who turned off the lights!?" Kid Flash asked, before Kid Lantern lit up the whole building with his ring, turning on the main lights in the process.

"What the?" The young Lantern asked himself noticing a cloth thrown over his teammates, without a second thought he grabbed the said cloth with his ring. Revealing only Kid Flash, Superboy and Miss Martian.

"This is embarrassing." Kid Flash said wiping the back of his head. "Practically a comedy."

It was then when Kid Lantern, alongside other team members noticed the supposedly hidden behind the cloth. Meanwhile Robin could only sigh in frustration while checking Trang's pulse.

"It would be…if Trang's corpse didn't scream tragedy."

The team regrouped in Metropolis, in a diner called "Bibbo's". Which was supposedly a trusted spot by the League. While they were exchanging information by a …unique way, all of them looking at their phones while supposedly not saying a single word.

"Kids today." The bartender, Bibbo Bibbowski said. "They stay out 'till all hours, and for what? So they can ignore each other! In my diner!"

"'Has everyone downloaded the annotated photo we found in the dead Woman's hand?'" Robin asked via the mindlink. Receiving confirmation from of his fellow team members except Superboy. Who meanwhile kept focusing on his scar, still not being able to understand how he could be cut.

"'Superboy? Is it your wound? Does it still hurt?''" Megan asked.

"'What? Yeah photo downloaded, oh, it's just a scratch. I'm fine, move on.''" Superboy quickly replied shutting down Megan's further digging. Meanwhile Robin begun to lay out all information out.

"'Facial Recognition Software has identified almost everyone in the photo. Which we think was taken in 1968, the year Adams was charged with murder. The only players not in the photo are Nathaniel Adams himself…And General Wade EIling, who was the judge at Adams' court martial. EIling sentenced Adams to life in prison, where he died…After which EIling married Adams' wife and raised his two children, Randall and Peggy.'"

Robin finished his report before Shinji looked up from his phone.

"'Listen, while we fought that Samurai. I ran a silent scan through his armour to find any blind spots. I ran a facial recognition, maybe we found our match.'" Shinji said, projecting the image of Rako's head, before comparing it with the child from the photo. Quickly he ran an artificial ageing simulation.

"Facial Recognition Complete: 100 percent accuracy." The Ring AI stated. Earning nods from fellow team members.

"'So now we know that this Rako is the child from the photo. But he said he was loyal to someone else than Trang.''" Megan added, all while Robin looked at the face of the only person they didn't check.

"'it's a good bet that 'someone' was our missing CIA spook, Alec Rois.' " Robin said quickly connecting the facts.

"'This photograph is looking more like a hit list! Somehow Rako and Rois found out we were investigating the Adams case…''" Artemis continued.

"'And decided to tie up the loose ends! That means either Sergeant Polk or Adams' old buddy Henry Yarrow are the next to die!''" Wally said, finally ending setting the course on the team's next step.

"'So, what's our next move Boss-Man?''" Robin asked Kaldur, who unbeknownst to them was looking at a picture of Tula.

"'Our next move? We split the team. Half of us investigate Polk, here in Metropolis. While other half heads to Las Vegas to protect Yarrow.''" Kaldur said, to which Wally immediately nodded.

"'Ok, so who's going with who?''" He asked.

"'Me, Megan, Artemis and Shinji stay behind in Metropolis. While you three take the Bioship and travel to Vegas.''"

"Well, at very least we didn't need to wait long." Artemis said as she, Aqualad, Miss Martian and Kid Lantern were looking at the body of Enos Polk. A visible bullet hole in his chest and a M1911 pistol laying close to his hand.

Kid Lantern then stepped in front of the two girls before facing Aqualad.

"Sorry, but may I analyse the crime scene? I'm not Robin but I'm sure my ring can give us more awareness in the situation." He said, earning a nod from Aqualad.

"As long as it won't disturb the crime scene, you have my full clearance." Aqualad said, to which Kid Lantern nodded. He took a deep breath before formulating his request.

"Ring, perform a full body scan and wound autopsy."

With those words his ring immediately scanned the body, before raising a green construct of the former MP.

"Appears that death was caused by a gunshot wound, the analysis deducted that the calibre was 11,43 millimetres. The firearm laying close to the body inducts that Enos Polk tried to defend himself." His ring AI stated before Aqualad raised a question.

"Can you perform a full room scan?" He asked, to which Kid Lantern immediately nodded. In a second the whole room lit green before the light evaporated. Suddenly a creature resembling a mannequin stood in the doorsill, holding a pistol seemingly aimed at the hologram.

"Now draw the estimated trajectory of the bullet." Kid Lantern ordered, to which the green mannequin fired at now frantic moving representation of Enos Polk. Before a green bullet pierced Park's chest, before the green hologram collapsed in the same way Polk's body laid on the floor.

"So we know he was killed by gunshot, so we can immediately be sure that Rako wasn't the one to kill Polk. Then the only possible answer is-"

"Alec Rois, but we need to be absolutely sure. Lantern, is there any genetic in this room that doesn't belong to Polk or us?" Aqualad asked, making Kid Lantern turn towards the doorsill, signalling Miss Martian and Artemis to move aside. The rectangular shape of the doorsill then lit up.

"Rogue DNA sample locating." Kid Lantern ring's AI stated before the faceless mannequin begun to shift into a visibly older, yet definitely being Alec Rois.

"Now show the location of Alec Rois." He added before the ring displayed the area of the entire country minus Alaska, before a signal begun to pulse in Utah.

"Alec Rois located: current location, Saint George, Utah. USA." The ring stated, earning a nod from Aqualad.

"That's where we're heading, but first." Aqualad said before pressing the button on his earcom.

"Aqualad to Robin, we've found Polk's body, unfortunately he is dead. Did you manage to protect Yarrow?"

"Robin here, we've had similar luck to yours. Yarrow's house blew up with him still inside. So what's the plan?" Robin asked over the comm.

"We'll fly to your location and regroup, then we'll head to Rois' current hideout, if there is somewhere who'll know the truth. That will be him."

The team, now all clad-in-costume, went inside where Kid Lantern's ring lead them towards. An abandoned hangar closed to Utah's border with California.

"Can we just get this over with?" Kid Flash asked, him tired of the case just as the rest.

"We can indeed." A voice suddenly said, immediately all lights lit up. In a second the team was surrounded, first by Rako and then by Alec Rois.

"You're Rako, General Trang's protégé, all grown up to become his killer." Miss Martian said looking at the armoured man.

"And you're Alec Rois, the CIA spoof." Artemis stated.

"Alec Rois is dead." The former agent said causing Artemis to roll her eyes.

"So, you're his ghost. Whatever."

"That just leaves the big boss..." Robin added.

"Henry Yarrow." Kid Flash ended looking upwards at the man they thought died in an explosion.

"You don't seem so surprised. Did you also guess you were walking into a trap?" Yarrow asked.

"We did actually. Not much of one, though…we outnumber you six to three." The speedster countered, only making Yarrow chuckle.

"After 40 years in the arms game Kid, let me offer a little tip. Quality trumps quantity." Yarrow said before Rois took out a detonator. "My friend is holding a dead man's switch. If anything makes him unhappy, or causes him to let go, this whole hangar goes boom."

Kid Lantern meanwhile looked at his ring, and then at the detonator. Suddenly he had an idea.

"'Listen guys, I have a way out. But you'll need to close your eyes, Kid Flash, remember when we fought Black Hand and Mirror Master?'" He asked over the mind link.

"'Dude, of course I do. But in this situation I'm not fast enough to speed blitz any of them.''" Kid Flash replied, all while Kid Lantern only had a subtle smile on his face.

"'Don't worry, if I didn't think this would work I wouldn't propose it. Unless Aqualad gives me clearance.'" Kid Lantern said, all while Aqualad looked at his team and then at Kid Lantern, and nodded.

"'Lantern, if your plan gives us tactical advantage, do it.'" Aqualad said, earning a nod from Kid Lantern.

"Ring, code 1012 every explosive in the area."

With those words, the detonator's electronics suddenly fried, causing Rois to drop it. With nothing happening.

"Everyone close your eyes now!" Kid Lantern yelled out throwing a green flashbang into the sky. Immediately blinding the whole smuggling ring.

"What the hell?!" Rois suddenly asked before being speed blitzed by Kid Flash, as meanwhile Kid Lantern pulled all the light back into his ring.

"My sword could cut though that Super brat. It sure can kill this green twig!" Rako said just as Kid Lantern summoned two Mass Production Evas to face him in a fight.

"Rako you idiot! It's only because your sword is made out of a stolen X-Ionizer, it could cut real Superman!" Yarrow yelled out as a warning. Only for two Evas to suddenly shift into bands which trapped Rako.

'Thanks Arisia.' Kid Lantern thought internally, remembering how the Graxonite would transform her constructs into anything without any problem.

"He's yours." Kid Lantern said, moving out of the way and allowing Superboy to punch Rako square jaw in the face, knocking him out immediately. Quickly Kid Lantern ripped Rako out of the armour before throwing him into the wall.

Yarrow meanwhile could feel his chest tighten as everything was falling apart, because of a little Lantern. But as he watched what was happening on the ground, he realised something. That one of the brats was missing.

"Wait a minute, where's the flipping Boy Wonder!?" He said taking out his gun, before Robin landed his feet on Yarrow's chest.

"Flipping your way now!" Robin countered, making Yarrow fall. But still remained capable of counterattack.

"Should've let the sleeping dogs lie, kid." Yarrow said firing from his pistol, before Superboy rushed in front of Robin. The bullets bouncing off without even destroying his shirt. Karma however had another opinion, as one of the bullets hit Yarrow back, causing him to grab tightly onto his chest.

"Guess…the kid, was…invulnerable." Yarrow said before finally dropping onto the floor.

Miss Martian then flew towards Yarrow, before putting her hands on his head.

'Henry Yarrow, we must know the truth.'

After what felt like forever, the team was back at Mount Justice. Facing a debrief from Captain Atom.

"Adams uncovered evidence of a Weapons Smuggling Ring." Miss Martian begun. "He brought intel of a weapons drop to his superior officer, General Lemar. Unfortunately, Lemar was part of the ring and saw Adams' intel as an opportunity. Lemar could get rid of Adams and the head of the ring, Henry Yarrow. Yarrow was only a lieutenant, and the general resented taking orders from him…So Lemar tipped off their North Vietnamese contact, General Trang. Yarrow was told Trang had simply been instructed not to show at the drop. All were meant to die, including Yarrow. But Adams spoiled Lemar's plan by heroically saving himself and Lt. Yarrow."

By then Kid Flash took charge in explanation.

"His incorruptible buddy Nate, who knew Lemar was part of the ring… And Lemar himself, who had tried to have Yarrow killed. So Yarrow pitted one problem against the other…It wasn't hard to get Adams riled up against Lemar. Wasn't hard to drug Adams' drink either. Yarrow sent Adams to confront Lemar…The drug took care of Nate. And Yarrow's man Polk took care of Lemar, using Nate's knife to frame him. The trial that followed was a joke, nearly involved everyone. Yarrow, Mason, Blankly and Polk, was a member of the ring."

Captain Atom only rubbed his chin, until now everything seemed connecting into a logical conclusion.

"What about EIling? The judge at the trial?" The Leaguer asked.

"EIling wasn't in the photo of ring conspirators. Far as we know, he truly believed in Adams' guilt." Robin stated, supposedly cleaning any allegation for EIling being a part of the conspiracy.

"Yarrow's psychic "death-bed" condition didn't confirm that?" Captain Atom asked.

"I'm new at reading a non-telepathic mind. And Yarrow died seconds after we linked…" Miss Martian explained.

"Yeah, for the second time. The Yarrow that died in the explosion was supposed to be Polk, but luckily for us we had help from an Intergalactic Lawman." Artemis said putting her arm on Kid Lantern's shoulder.

"Yes, this is Polk, and this is "Polk" that died, to give Yarrow credit. They look extremely similar, even having the same tattoo, but luckily for us. The whole conspiracy had a blind spot. One that didn't consider the fact I could locate anyone in the universe and that Rois didn't bother with a proper clean-up." Kid Lantern explained showing the holograms of two now dead men.

"The height of the corpse we found in Vegas didn't much Yarrow, but matched Polk perfectly." Aqualad added, confirming Kid Lantern's case.

"And thanks to Lantern's ring, we knew that we needed to make our way to St. George. It obvious that we were being set up." Superboy said finally ending the report.

"Team, I'm impressed. You did good work." Captain Atom said shaking Superboy's hand.

"Yeah, work that comes too late to help Nathaniel Adams." Artemis said looking away. Captain Atom noticed the trouble expression on Artemis' face, and put reassuring arm on her shoulder.

"But not too late for his kids. Go tell them what kind of man their father was."

Kid Lantern, or rather Shinji finally returned to Coast City. While Artemis and Kaldur returned to Hawaii to talk with Adams' kids. The strain of staying up without keeping himself up with his ring was taking a heavy toll on him. So the best course of action was to take a long, long nap to replenish himself. It's not like Hal would mind, since he was currently at Ferris. So Shinji allowed himself a quick meal and a hot, warm shower. Silently lamenting on the fact that he couldn't take a long bath.

He finished combing his hair before he noticed something odd on his comb, a single silvery hair.

"Wow, am I going grey early?" He thought to himself out loud before washing the comb in the washbasin and making his way towards his room. He was so tired; he didn't even ask himself what the hell was code 1012?