Firstly, Let me say, sorry for taking this long to update. I realised how hard it is to build relationships between characters and I know my story lacks in that aspect. I also needed certain characters to get to certain places but they we galaxies away from each other and I had no idea how to get them to where they needed to be. So you'll have to forgive me if things seem to happen just for the sake of moving the story along. Also, if anyone wants to write stories that flesh out the characters a bit more, be my guest.
As Gohan emerged from the depths of the vast cosmos, the planet Rann came into view, a jewel of vibrant beauty suspended in the velvety expanse of space.
Its verdant landscape, adorned with sprawling cities and majestic mountains, glimmered under the warm embrace of Rann's twin suns, bathing the planet in a soft, ethereal light.
Gohan descended gracefully, passing through wisps of iridescent clouds that shrouded the planet's atmosphere. As they broke through the mist, the sprawling city of Ranagar came into focus, a metropolis that gleamed with advanced technology and architectural marvels.
The gentle serenity that had graced the streets of Ranagar was abruptly shattered as a tremor of fear rippled through the crowd. Whispers swept like a chilling breeze, and worried glances were exchanged.
Had something sinister arrived on Rann?
To the onlookers, a streak of crimson had blazed and descended with an unsettling swiftness. The atmosphere crackled with an ominous energy.
The inhabitants of Rann recoiled, their expressions marred by unease and apprehension. The sight of a Red Lantern, struck at the heart of their peaceful existence.
Breathing in the air, Gohan was greeted by a chorus of strange but melodious sounds, a symphony of alien birdsong and the gentle rustling of alien foliage. He marveled at the vibrant flora, the plants radiating hues not found on Earth—violets as rich as amethysts, ferns shimmering with golden leaves.
Whispers rippled through the crowd like a clandestine current, hushed voices carrying tales of the infamous Red Lantern Corps that had spread across the cosmos. Fear and curiosity mingled in the hushed tones of the citizens of Rann as they exchanged fragments of stories passed down through the grape vine.
"I heard they draw their power from the darkest emotions," a woman murmured, her voice tinged with trepidation. "They harness the fury of rage and use it as a weapon."
The calm expanse of Rann's skies was shattered by the sudden appearance of a colossal military vessel, its sleek, silver hull gleaming under the twin suns. The ship descended with a controlled precision, the air vibrating with the hum of its engines. The planet's inhabitants looked on with a mix of curiosity and caution.
The ship touched down, a ramp extended from its belly, and a squad of Rannian soldiers, clad in their distinctive armor, emerged with purpose. They formed a perimeter, weapons at the ready, their expressions resolute and unwavering.
The captain in command, his brow furrowed with a mixture of concern and determination, approached the Red Lantern with measured steps. He was flanked by two of his most capable fighters.
"Red Lantern, State your purpose for this uninvited arrival on the sacred soil of Rann." The captain glanced at the red energy that formed the Lanterns arm. "Be reminded that Rann is under the protections of the Green Lanterns. Any act of aggression will be met by the full forces of OA."
Gohan took a step forward, but stopped when the soldiers drew their weapons.
"I came seeking an audience with your leader" Gohan said, as he got a reading on the various power levels present.
"And why on Rann would we allow that?" asked the captain, once again glancing at the red energy constructed arm. This time Gohan noticed.
"It seems you know who am." said Gohan. " You've probably heard stories. Most of them exaggerated I promise."
"Rann is more than capable of protecting itself, Lantern" said the captain, trying his best to sound confident.
"I'll tell you what. I'll wait here while you make whatever call you need to make." Gohan said as he constructed a floating red cloud and sat. "I expect you'll either grant me an audience with Sargath or… Well I'm an optimist so I prefer not to think about the other option. I can assure you I came in peace."
The captain stepped back into the ship. Almost an hour had gone by before he emerged once more.
The captain exchanged a brief glance with his comrades, a silent agreement passing between them. "Very well," he replied, his voice carrying a tone of wariness. "You shall be granted an audience with Sargath. Under close watch."
The Rannian gestured for the Red Lantern to enter the ship.
The Royal Audience Chamber of Rannagar stood as a testament to grandeur and opulence. The golden columns, intricately carved and reaching toward the heavens, cast a warm and radiant glow upon the space. Elaborate tapestries, meticulously woven with threads of vibrant hues, adorned the walls, telling tales of Rann's rich history and triumphs. At the far end of the chamber, a majestic throne, adorned with jewels and draped in regal fabrics, sat upon a raised platform. It was upon this throne that the esteemed leader of Rann, held court.
Sargath, a figure of formidable presence and commanding stature, stood gazing out of the massive arched windows that offered a breathtaking view of the planet's natural beauty. His eyes, a piercing shade of amber, flickered with a mixture of anticipation and authority. The room buzzed with an air of expectancy as the resonant voice of a GUARD broke the silence, announcing the arrival of a visitor.
"Sargath, the Red Lantern has arrived," the Guard proclaimed, his voice resounding through the chamber.
The doors swung open, revealing the Red Lantern who's tales had spread across the Galaxy. The visitor, Gohan, stepped into the chamber. His dark eyes, shimmered with curiosity and intelligence as he surveyed his surroundings.
Sargath turned his gaze toward the entrance, his piercing eyes locking onto Gohans. His countenance bore the weight of his responsibilities and the depth of his wisdom. With measured steps, he approached the visitor, his presence commanding attention and respect.
"Welcome, honored guest," Sargath spoke with a voice that carried a tinge of authority and warmth. "I am Sargath. Your presence graces our humble abode."
Gohan inclined his head in a respectful bow, acknowledging the significance of the moment.
"Thank you, for your... warm welcome" he replied surveying the room which was now filled will armed soldiers. "I am Gohan."
"I'm sure you understand we must be cautious and protect ourselves. What bring you here Red Lantern?" asked Sargath.
"I am not of this world."
"Yes I am aware..."
"No. I mean this universe. I shouldn't be here. I came here through some kind of tear in the fabric between universes. Everythings different here."
"I see. Very interesting." Sargath scratched his chin. "A multiversal traveler. But what is it that brings you here, to Rann?"
"I've seen many galaxies. Been to many planets. Most of them hold Rann in high esteem. I heard that your planet is home to some of the most advanced technology known to the galaxies, and some of the most capable scientists."
"I see. So you're looking for a way home? To your universe of origin."
"Yes. And I hoped Rann can help me."
Sargath's gaze lingered on Gohans, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly, as if searching for hidden intentions in his words. A moment passed, and a faint smile played upon his lips, revealing his appreciation for his candor.
"The berserking Red Lantern. You have the Sinestro Corp shaking in their boots. But you're nothing like the stories I've heard" he mused, his voice carrying a note of comfort. "I sense a genuine desire in your words. But tell me, Gohan, what does Rann stand to gain by helping you? The Red Lantern have never been friends to Rann."
"Name your price" Gohan sighed
"Well I suppose it would take some time to discover the answers you seek. The universe is a dangerous place. There are rumours that Thannagar intends to attack us."
"I've spent enough time fighting battles that I don't care about. I won't be your attack dog. So don't even ask."
"Attack dog? No" said the Rannian leader. "We would ask only for assistance. To defend us from those who would do us harm. To defend Rann, on it's surface, should the need arise."
"Sargath the Rannian forces are more than capable…" the Rannian captain started.
The Rannian Leader held up his hand. A gesture that means 'be silent'.
"The Green Lanterns already protect Rann. Attrocitus would never agree to work with the Guardians."
"It is well known throughout the galaxies that the Red Lanterns strength come from the infamous berserker. We don't need Attrocitus, or the Red Lanterns. We just need you."
The room was silent as everyone waited to hear Gohans answer.
Gohan took a moment to think it through. "Fine. If Rann is under threat, I will come to it's aid."
The massive building rose like a monolith against the azure sky, an architectural marvel that merged seamlessly with the surrounding cityscape. Its sleek lines and gleaming facade exuded an air of sophistication and grandeur.
Standing before the colossal entrance, one could feel a hum of anticipation in the air, as if the very walls of the structure were alive with untold secrets and boundless potential.
As the imposing doors slid open with a barely audible hiss, a vast atrium unfolded before the eyes of those fortunate enough to step inside.
The sheer magnitude of the space was awe-inspiring, with towering walls adorned in a mosaic of illuminated circuitry, pulsating with vibrant patterns that seemed to ripple like currents of information.
Amidst the awe-inspiring expanse, a focal point emerged—the heart and mind of the building—the advanced supercomputer known as Deep Thought. Housed in a chamber at the center of the atrium, it stood as a testament to Rannian ingenuity and technological prowess.
The chamber itself was a symphony of glass panels, metal casings, and intricate wiring, forming an intricate lattice that encased the Seer's neural network. Thousands of flashing lights, akin to a starry night sky, danced within the inner workings of the supercomputer, their synchronized flickers mirroring the complex calculations being performed in a mesmerizing display.
Surrounding Deep Thought were rows upon rows of monitors and control stations, manned by scientists and engineers, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of data streaming across their screens. Their eyes darted with intensity as they deciphered the ever-flowing streams of information, the rhythm of their keystrokes echoing like a steady heartbeat in the cavernous space.
"What is this place" asked Gohan.
"You came to Rann because you heard that we were the most advanced civilization in the galaxy. But we do not have answers for you" said Sargath. "So we must turn to an intelligence greater than our own" Sargath gestured to the core.
"A super computer?"
"A super intelligence. We call it Deep Thought.''
The two walked toward the prompt chamber.
"To date, we've send out hundreds of thousand of nodes equipped with our zeta technology. gathering data from thousands of intelligent civilization that we're aware of, If they've developed any form of frequency based technology, we have nodes orbiting it's atmosphere gathering data. Zeta powered so the information is sent instantly. "
"So you gather information across the universe?"
"Yes. Rann has entire planets dedicated to the storage of information."
"So why did you bring me here?"
"Because Deep thought will need all the information you have in order to work out a solution."
The two entered the prompt chamber.
The ambient hum of the Hypercore resonated through the chamber, a constant reminder of the immense processing power it possessed. Its neural pathways, a labyrinth of interconnected nodes and circuits, were capable of untangling the most intricate of problems, unraveling the mysteries of the universe, and simulating scenarios that could shape the course of humanity.
"Deep Thought."
"Yes Sargath" said the AI.
"You've heard my conversation with our guest thus far?"
"I have."
"What's your take?"
"Multiverse travel? The concept has been proven long ago. Many have traveled to different universes, by different means. The technology exists. However, finding a specific universe, that has not yet been indexed, in the infinite multiverse is a significant task."
"But not impossible?" Gohan asked.
"Well, nothing's impossible. But the probability of finding your universe of origin is less than 1 percent. Based on the information we have."
"Where would you start looking?" asked Gohan.
"I would start with the peculiarities of your account of events."
"What do you mean?"
"Portals, tears in spacetime have been observed on many occasions. They do not generally have faces, nor do they laugh, that is perculiar, we could start there. If I could gather some data from your memory of the account, it may lead us down a path towards finding an answer."
"Very well" said Gohan. "How do we do that?"
"First, I'll need your help training my network to decode your thoughts. Then, we'll analyze each nanosecond and compare it to the vast data that I've collected over the years and seeing if there's a match. Anything like the event you've described. It is our only lead."
Sargath handed Gohan a helmet.
Soft hums and whirs echoed through the chamber as the device came to life. In the center of the room, a holographic display flickered into existence, casting a radiant glow across the room.
As the ethereal image solidified, Gohan found himselft transported to the moment the laughing portal first appeared. He stood amidst a ruined North City street. The air was thick with smoke, images were so vivid. The holographic projection had flawlessly recreated his memory down to the smallest detail. Details which his waking memory had failed to note.
His heart quickened, anticipation mounting, as he caught sight of three familiar figures. He watched as he saw himself impale the female android, the first time he had tapped into the second state of super saiyan. The projection went on and he relived the madness of the laughing portal, only this time, the maddening laughters volume was reduced and he could watch the scene unfold with a clear head.
Deep Thought computed at every frame, trying to match the portal to any known phenomena that had been recorded. The holographic projection drew Gohan deeper into the scene, it was now the moment he had arrived in this universe.
"Pause it!" Gohan yelled. He studied the scene for a moment.
Sargath was confused, had Gohan made a discovery?
The air began to feel thick.
For the first time in over a month Gohan felt the familiar feeling. It was the beginnings of losing control. The reason for the stories.
Sargath was confused, the room was shaking.
"What is it?" Sargath asked. He could see the rage breaking through as Gohan struggled to contain it. Had he made a mistake in dismissing his security? The Leader of Rann began to rethink his actions.
The Saiyan left the room, his red rage aura beginning to illuminate his suite. Sparks of electricity cracked through the room as he left. The scientist working of Deep Thoughs network were begining to panic.
Before Sargath could gather his thoughts and follow to see what was happening, he heard the sound barrier break. The building shook once more before settling. The Red Lantern was gone.
Confused, Sargath turned his attention towards the halogram. The scene was still paused. At the edge, he saw it. The holographic recreation of a black haired Android carrying the other to safety.
In the vast expanse of the African desert, where the hum of anticipation hung in the air, Supergirl and Android 18 stood poised for battle. Their friendship was a unique bond forged by their shared passion for testing their limits against one another.
Supergirl, her vibrant red cape billowing in the gentle breeze created by her levitation, radiated an aura of unwavering confidence. Her blue eyes glimmered with mischief, a telltale sign of the thrilling challenge that awaited them. Android 18, sleek and elegant, stood firmly on the ground, her arms crossed over her chest in an act of defiance. With her piercing blue eyes, she met Supergirl's gaze head-on, revealing her own anticipation for the coming spectacle.
A mischievous smile danced upon their lips, a secret language only they understood. The stage was set for another remarkable display of their extraordinary abilities.
As Supergirl descended gracefully from her aerial perch, her boots making a soft thud upon impact, she flexed her hands, her fingertips brushing gently against her palm. The crackling energy of her Kryptonian strength rippled through her veins, ready to be unleashed upon her formidable companion. Android 18, her countenance calm yet determined, raised an eyebrow in challenge.
"Ready ?" Supergirl's voice echoed with a playful lilt.
"Always, Supergirl," Android 18 replied, her voice laced with an unyielding resolve. "Lets see what you're made of."
With no further preamble, Supergirl launched herself forward, her fist hurtling toward Android 18's chest with lightning speed. In an awe-inspiring display of agility, the android nimbly sidestepped the attack, her lithe form a blur of motion. In response, she delivered a swift and calculated kick aimed at Supergirl's flank. The Kryptonian, with her inherent grace, deftly ducked beneath the attack, her majestic cape swirling around her like a protective shield.
The air room reverberated with the resounding symphony of their strikes—the thunderous claps of fists colliding, the whoosh of their kicks slicing through the air. Their movements were a dazzling display of precision and skill, a dance of unfathomable power.
Supergirl's speed propelled her through the air, her fists a blur as she launched a relentless barrage of punches. Android 18, met each strike with masterful blocks and calculated maneuvers. The atmosphere pulsated with the rhythmic cadence of their exchange, the sound of their blows blending harmoniously.
A grin tugged at the corners of Supergirl's lips, her eyes alight with determination. "You're tougher than most" she declared, her voice brimming with admiration. "But so am I!"
Tapping into her vast well of Kryptonian strength, Supergirl unleashed a mighty punch, propelling Android 18 backward. The android crashed through a sand dune, the force of the impact causing the sand to scatter. Dust settled in the air, momentarily obscuring the scene, until a defiant Android 18 emerged unscathed, undeterred by the display of power.
Impressed by her friend's strength, Android 18 summoned her own reservoir of energy, an ethereal aura enveloping her being. Her movements became a blur of motion, her strikes imbued with electrifying force. Supergirl, barely managing to dodge the onslaught of punches, countered with a flying kick, her speed and agility astonishing to behold.
The battle between them intensified, the desert transforming into a veritable battlefield of strength and tenacity. Blow after blow, they pushed each other to their very limits, the thrill of the fight coursing through their veins.
Finally, after an exchange of blows that left them both battered, the two came to a simultaneous halt. They stood face to face, their gazes locked. There, amidst the fading echoes of their fierce clash, a genuine smile blossomed across Supergirl's face as she extended a hand toward her friend.
"That was amazing!" Supergirl exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "I've never gotten the chance to push myself that far."
Android 18 returned the smile, her eyes alight with a shared understanding. "Likewise, Supergirl," she replied, her voice tinged with respect. "Oh shit!"
"What is it" Kara asked.
"I'm supposed to meet Hal".
Later, In Coast City, nestled on the outskirts of a bustling training airfield, stood a weathered establishment that had become a sanctuary for the aviators who called this place home. This was the "Silver Eagle," a legendary bar where pilots, both seasoned and fledgling, sought refuge after a day spent conquering the skies.
As twilight painted the sky with hues of deep purple, the bar came to life. The sound of engines faded into the distance, replaced by the raucous laughter and animated conversations that filled the air. The unmistakable scent of jet fuel mingled with the aroma of hearty pub fare, enticing any weary soul who wandered through its doors.
Inside, the Silver Eagle exuded a charm that could only be achieved through years of experience and shared tales. The walls were adorned with framed photographs, each capturing a moment frozen in time, a testament to the camaraderie that permeated the air. One of the framed pictures, was that of Hal Jordan, taken sometime during his years as a trainee.
The low hum of voices was accompanied by the clinking of glasses, the soundtrack of pilots unwinding and regaling one another with their daring feats and narrow escapes along with the music of the jukebox.
The bartender, a retired pilot himself, was a fixture. His rugged features told the story of a life lived above the clouds, the creases etched deeply into his weathered skin like maps of the skies. With a knowing smile and a twinkle in his eyes, he expertly poured drinks, his hands moving with the grace of a seasoned aviator maneuvering through turbulence.
In a corner booth, sat Hal, a legend to Coast City, the world, even the galaxy, but to the "Silver Eagle", a regular. It was one of the few places he could go to unwind without being asked to take pictures with excited fans. Though everyone knew and loved him, they knew not to disturb if he had company.
Across Hal, sat a beautiful blonde. To the onlookers, the Green Lantern seemed to be on a date with a young blombshell.
Hal took a sip of his whiskey, his gaze fixed on 18. With a steady voice, he broke the silence that hung between them. "You've been flying the night sky like a woman possessed lately. What's eating at you, kid?"
18 sighed, her fingers tracing the rim of her glass. "I just can't seem to shake off this feeling of hypocrisy. Every night, I look for people who need my help, people to save so I can be worthy."
"There's never enough people to save, are there?" Hal took another sip of his whiskey, studying 18's fatigued expression. A hint of concern crept into his voice as he asked, "Are you getting enough sleep?"
"I have an unlimited supply of energy. I don't need to sleep."
"But you could?"
"Sleep? Yeah"
"Everyone needs sleep 18", Hal leaned back, his weathered face etched with understanding. "Listen, kid, I've been in your shoes. I know how it feels to crave redemption. But you're no good to anyone if fall apart while searching for it."
"I'm fine", 18 said looking towards the bar "I'm not falling apart."
"Dinah say's that your brother's doing pretty well." Hal said.
"Spending his time chasing off poachers in Africa." 18 sighed thinking about her brother "Yeah that seems healthy"
Hal's voice softened, carrying the weight of his own experiences. "You need to embrace your past and learn from it. Let go of the fear"
"You think I'm afraid? I can level city blocks with a blast. I could crush a tank with my bare hands. What do I have to fear?" 18 asked.
"Failure. I recon you're afraid you might fail on your path to redemption."
The two sat in silence for a while.
18 nodded, her expression a mix of sadness and vulnerability. "Sometimes, I feel like I'm suffocating under it all. I keep seeing these faces, of people I've killed." her eyes began to tear up "How did you get over it?"
"Paralax?" Hal sighed, "I'm not sure that I ever did. But I live my life trying to be of service. To help people. But that means I have to be ready. I can't let the guilt weight me down."
"What was it like?"
Hal's gaze turned distant, memories resurfacing like specters in his mind. He took a deep breath, his voice tinged with a mix of regret and introspection. "Being Parallax... it's hard to put into words. It was like being trapped in a maelstrom of fear and rage, consumed by a darkness that I couldn't escape. It was a nightmare."
18 leaned forward, "You felt trapped. I felt enjoyment. That's what's been eating me."
"You know that wasn't you."
"It felt like me."
"You have to work through it. There's not really any other choice." Sipping his whiskey, Hal continued, his voice growing more contemplative. "Through the struggle, I learned the importance of trying, of finding the light within the darkest of places. I've managed to find some sort of peace. I hope you can find some too. It's why the Justice League assigned you to me."
18 sighed.
"How about your workouts with Kara?" Hal asked.
"What about it? We fly to the desert and beat the shit out of each other twice a week."
"is it helping?"
"I think so" 18 said.
The rest of the evening went pretty well. Hal told stories of his exploits with the Justice League and Green Lanterns. 18 shared some of the good memories she had before Gerro turned her into an Android.
At some point in the night, Hals watch beeped a tone which he knew was a summons from the Justice league.
"What is it?" 18 asked, following Hal outside to see him off.
"Four beeps means something extra terrestrial. Could be anything. Debris to be redirected, Alien invasion… Who knows? I'm meeting Superman at the edge of the Atmosphere".
The green suit manifested in place of Hals clothes as he slowly levitated.
"See you around kid." he waved.
The Green Lantern flew into the air.