The Jordan family's temporary safehouse was unremarkable from the outside—a nondescript suburban home with beige siding and a two-car garage, the kind of place that could exist in any neighborhood across America. Inside, however, the atmosphere was anything but ordinary as seven people crowded around a flat-screen TV, watching the world react to yesterday's extraordinary events.
"—unprecedented display of superhuman abilities in what's being called the Battle of Coast City,"the CNN anchor announced, her professional composure barely containing her excitement."For those just joining us, five previously unknown individuals with extraordinary powers engaged in open combat yesterday afternoon, resulting in billions of dollars in damage but, miraculously, minimal casualties."
"Minimal casualties," Thomas repeated sardonically, adjusting his position on the couch. "That's one way to describe half of downtown being leveled."
"Tom," Carol warned softly, glancing at Jessica Jordan, who sat rigidly in an armchair, her hands clasped tightly in her lap as she watched footage of her son fighting for his life.
"The emergence of these new heroes,"the anchor continued,"seems to confirm what many have suspected since Superman's first appearance in Metropolis two years ago—we are not alone in the universe, and Earth has become a focal point for extraordinary events."
The screen switched to a montage of footage: Superman lifting a collapsing building in Metropolis, Iron Man's dramatic reveal at his press conference, grainy security footage of something large and green smashing through Harlem, and most recently, shaky cellphone video of red-streaked aliens descending on Coast City.
"Joining us now is Dr. Elizabeth Monroe, professor of xenobiology at Coast City University, and Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, astrophysicist and director of the Hayden Planetarium,"the anchor said as the screen split to show both experts."Dr. Tyson, you've been particularly vocal about the implications of the Green Lantern's appearance. What makes this different from Superman or other enhanced individuals?"
"Well, Christine, what fascinates me about Green Lantern is that we're not just looking at another enhanced individual or alien visitor,"Dr. Tyson began, his characteristic enthusiasm evident."Based on the energy signatures we've observed, this appears to be technology that literally converts thought into physical matter. We're talking about bridging the gap between consciousness and reality—something that could revolutionize our understanding of physics itself."
"Dr. Monroe, your thoughts?"
"I agree with Dr. Tyson. What we witnessed yesterday essentially confirms what many in the scientific community have been theorizing,"Dr. Monroe added, adjusting her glasses."Earth isn't just another planet—we're becoming what I'd call a 'nexus point' for cosmic activity. The fact that multiple beings with extraordinary abilities chose to defend Coast City suggests Earth has strategic importance we're only beginning to understand."
Jim Jordan leaned forward from his spot on the ottoman. "Strategic importance? We're talking about my brother wearing alien jewelry and fighting space cops gone bad. How is any of this strategic?"
Hal, who had been unusually quiet since their arrival at the safehouse, shifted in his seat. The ring on his finger pulsed gently, as if responding to the mention of its cosmic origins. "She's not wrong," he said quietly. "From what I learned on Oa, Earth is... significant. Though the Guardians weren't exactly forthcoming about why."
The news coverage switched to amateur footage from downtown Coast City, showing the Flash evacuating civilians at impossible speeds while creating lightning barriers to deflect debris.
"The individual identified as 'The Flash' demonstrated abilities that defy our current understanding of physics,"Dr. Tyson continued."Conservative estimates put his speed at well over Mach 3, possibly much higher. The precision required to evacuate civilians at those velocities without causing sonic damage is extraordinary."
"Guy seems nice," Hal commented, remembering their brief exchanges during the battle. "Talks almost as fast as he runs."
"But perhaps most intriguing,"the anchor cut in,"is the emergence of Aquaman, confirming decades of maritime folklore about an undersea kingdom. His display of hydrokinetic abilities and superhuman strength has marine biologists worldwide reassessing everything we thought we knew about oceanic ecosystems."
The screen showed Arthur Curry summoning massive water columns from the harbor, his trident gleaming as he directed the liquid with surgical precision.
Jennifer Jordan, Jim's wife, shook her head in amazement. "I still can't believe it. Atlantis is real? Next you'll tell me Bigfoot runs a coffee shop in Seattle."
"After yesterday, I wouldn't rule anything out," Thomas muttered.
The coverage shifted again, this time to aerial footage of the final confrontation between Hal and Atrocitus. Even through the shaky camera work, the intensity of their battle was evident—green and red energies clashing with enough force to shatter windows blocks away.
Jessica's sharp intake of breath drew everyone's attention. On screen, her son was being driven through a building by the massive red alien, emerging moments later surrounded by emerald light.
"The individual being called 'Green Lantern' appears to wield technology similar to the hostile forces,"a military analyst was explaining."The energy constructs, flight capabilities, and apparent force field generation suggest a shared technological base, raising questions about the nature of this conflict."
"Technology," Carol scoffed. "They make it sound like Hal's wearing some kind of high-tech suit. That ring is... something else entirely."
"Christine, I have to interject here,"Dr. Monroe said urgently."What we're seeing isn't just advanced technology—it's a fundamental manipulation of energy through what appears to be willpower itself. The green constructs aren't projections; they're solidified thoughts. This goes beyond any scientific paradigm we currently possess."
"Exactly,"Dr. Tyson added excitedly."If this technology can be understood and replicated, we're looking at the potential to solve energy crises, revolutionize space travel, even address fundamental questions about the nature of consciousness itself. This is why increased funding for space exploration isn't just important—it's essential for our species' survival."
The news switched to a panel discussion featuring three talking heads arguing over the implications of yesterday's battle.
"Look, we need to face facts,"a stern-faced man in a suit was saying."For two years, we've pretended Superman was an isolated incident. Then Tony Stark reveals he's been flying around in a weaponized suit. Reports of a giant green monster in Harlem. Thor—an actual Norse god—fighting robots in New Mexico. Batman turning out to be real after five years of being dismissed as an urban legend. Now this. We're not special. We're not alone. We're not even particularly advanced."
"But that's exactly why these heroes are emerging,"a younger woman countered."Earth is becoming a battleground for cosmic forces. We need protectors who can operate on that level."
"Or maybe we're attracting these threats,"the third panelist suggested darkly."Has anyone considered that these 'heroes' might be drawing danger to our planet?"
Thomas turned to Hal. "They kind of have a point. No offense, but alien rage monsters looking for you specifically isn't exactly great for property values."
"None taken," Hal replied, though his expression tightened. "Trust me, I didn't ask for any of this."
The news coverage continued with man-on-the-street interviews from Coast City residents.
"I saw the whole thing from my office window,"a young professional said, still looking shaken."Those red aliens were going to drop a building on us. Then there was this blur—the Flash, I guess—and suddenly we were three blocks away. He saved at least fifty people in seconds."
"The fish guy—Aquaman?"an elderly man chuckled."He made a wall of water that stopped a car from crushing my granddaughter. Far as I'm concerned, he can be king of whatever ocean he wants."
"Green Lantern though,"a teenager added excitedly."Did you see him create that massive shield? It was like something out of a video game, but real! And the way he stood up to that big red dude at the end? Epic!"
Hal shifted uncomfortably at the praise. The weight of the ring on his finger felt heavier with each testimonial.
The coverage shifted to a press conference outside the Coast City mayor's office.
"While we're grateful for the intervention of these individuals,"Mayor Richardson was saying,"the scale of destruction to our city's infrastructure is unprecedented. We're looking at months, possibly years of reconstruction. The question of accountability must be addressed."
"Mayor Richardson!"a reporter called out."What about reports that the military knew about the alien technology before yesterday's attack? Sources claim there was a crash site in the desert that was covered up!"
Carol and Thomas exchanged glances while Director Faraday, who had been standing quietly by the window, turned slightly toward the TV.
"I can neither confirm nor deny any ongoing military operations,"the mayor replied carefully.
Jim muted the TV as the coverage switched to financial analysts discussing insurance implications. "So what happens now?" he asked, looking directly at his brother. "You can't exactly go back to being just a test pilot after this."
"No," Hal agreed, running a hand through his hair. "I can't." He looked down at the ring, which pulsed with soft green light. "The Guardians expect me back on Oa for more training. But after yesterday... Earth needs its Green Lantern here."
"The media's already running with that name," Carol noted. "Green Lantern. Has a certain ring to it." She winced at her own unintended pun. "Sorry."
Despite the tension, Hal cracked a small smile. "Sinestro would hate it. He's very particular about Corps terminology."
"Sinestro?" Jessica asked, latching onto the unfamiliar name. "Is he...?"
"My mentor. Another Green Lantern. He's recovering on Oa after our encounter with the Red Lanterns on his home planet." Hal's expression darkened. "They did to Korugar what they tried to do here yesterday."
The room fell silent as the implications sank in. On the muted TV, footage played of Coast City's downtown, smoke still rising from collapsed buildings.
Jennifer spoke up hesitantly. "The news keeps calling it 'The Superman Effect.' They're saying that ever since Superman revealed himself, more and more of these... enhanced individuals are coming forward. That his example gave others the courage to stop hiding."
"Or maybe we're just noticing what was always there," Thomas suggested. "I mean, people have been telling stories about Batman for years. Everyone dismissed it as urban legend until those photos surfaced last month. How many other 'myths' are actually true?"
"Flying men, rage-powered aliens, underwater kingdoms," Jim listed, shaking his head. "And my little brother as space cop. Mom, did you put something in the water when we were kids?"
Jessica didn't smile at the attempted joke. Her eyes remained fixed on Hal, maternal concern evident in every line of her face. "You almost died yesterday. Several times."
"But I didn't," Hal said gently. "Mom, I know this is impossible to process. A week ago, I was planning to steal a jet for a publicity stunt. Now I'm..." He gestured vaguely at himself, the green glow of his uniform visible beneath his civilian clothes. "This. But that ring chose me for a reason. Abin Sur believed I could handle this responsibility."
"Abin Sur," Faraday spoke for the first time, still facing the window. "The alien who crashed in the desert. The one who gave you the ring."
It wasn't a question, but Hal nodded anyway. "He was dying. The ring selected me as his replacement."
"Selected you based on what criteria?" Faraday pressed.
"The ability to overcome great fear," Hal replied, the words coming automatically now. "That's what the ring seeks. Not the absence of fear, but the will to act despite it."
Carol unmuted the TV as the coverage shifted to international reactions.
"The United Nations Security Council has called an emergency session to discuss the implications of yesterday's events,"the anchor reported."Several nations are demanding the establishment of a global framework for dealing with enhanced individuals and extraterrestrial contact."
"From Moscow, President Medvedev stated that Russia cannot rely on American 'vigilantes' for global security and announced an acceleration of their own enhanced individual program,"the anchor continued."Meanwhile, Chinese state media has remained notably silent on the Coast City incident."
The screen split to show protests in various cities—some supporting the new heroes, others demanding accountability for the destruction they left in their wake.
"Not everyone views these developments positively,"the anchor noted as footage played of protesters holding signs reading 'HUMANS FIRST' and 'EARTH FOR EARTHLINGS.'"Anti-enhancement groups have organized rallies in twelve major cities, claiming these powered individuals represent a threat to normal human society."
"Great," Thomas muttered. "Because what we need right now is more division."
The coverage shifted to a technology segment analyzing the footage of Iron Man's upgraded armor systems during the battle.
"Stark Industries stock has surged 15% in pre-market trading,"a financial analyst reported."Investors are betting that Tony Stark's demonstrated ability to hold his own against extraterrestrial threats will lead to increased defense contracts."
"But the bigger question,"his co-anchor added,"is whether private individuals should have access to this level of military hardware. The Iron Man armor represents firepower equivalent to a small army, all under the control of one unregulated individual."
"They're missing the point," Hal said quietly. "This isn't about regulation or control. Those Red Lanterns would have destroyed the city if we hadn't been there. Sometimes the system isn't equipped to handle certain threats."
"Spoken like a true test pilot," Carol observed with a slight smile. "Always pushing boundaries."
"We're receiving breaking news,"the CNN anchor announced urgently."Multiple government sources confirm that this is not Earth's first contact with alien life. We're now learning about previously classified incidents, including what's being called the 'Phoenix Event' in New Mexico just months ago."
The screen filled with blurry footage of the Destroyer armor rampaging through a small town, followed by clips of Thor and the Warriors Three facing it down.
"Eyewitnesses describe what appeared to be Nordic warriors fighting alongside a man who claimed to be Thor, the Norse god of thunder,"the reporter explained."Government sources initially dismissed these reports as mass hysteria, but yesterday's events have forced a re-evaluation."
"I remember that," Jennifer said. "We thought it was some kind of movie promotion."
"Even more disturbing are confirmed reports of what's being called 'The Harlem Incident,'"the anchor continued as footage played of two massive figures—one green, one gray—battling through city streets."What was initially covered up as a gas leak explosion is now confirmed to be a confrontation between two enhanced individuals with incredible strength and durability."
"The Hulk," Thomas identified. "Internet forums have been tracking sightings for months. Big green guy, apparently some kind of scientist who got caught in an experiment gone wrong."
Jim looked at his brother incredulously. "And you just decided to join this circus?"
"I didn't decide anything," Hal replied, an edge creeping into his voice. "The ring chose—"
"The ring chose, right," Jim interrupted. "A piece of alien jewelry decided my brother should risk his life fighting cosmic threats. Forgive me if I'm having trouble processing that."
"Jim," Jessica intervened softly.
"No, Mom, someone needs to say it." Jim stood, pacing the small living room. "Twenty-four hours ago, Hal was a test pilot. A damn good one, sure, but human. Mortal. Now he's throwing energy shields around and trading punches with aliens who can level buildings. How is any of this okay?"
"It's not okay," Hal admitted, standing to face his brother. "None of this is okay. But it's happening. Those Red Lanterns aren't going away. The threats aren't going to stop coming just because we're not ready for them."
"Boys," Jessica said more firmly, standing between her sons. "This isn't helping."
The news had moved on to expert analysis of the various heroes' power sets, with scientific consultants attempting to explain the physics-defying abilities on display.
"What's particularly fascinating about Green Lantern's constructs,"one physicist was explaining,"is their apparent solid-state nature. Unlike hard-light holograms, these creations have mass, density, and can exert physical force. It suggests a level of energy-matter conversion that's theoretically possible but far beyond our current technology."
"And Aquaman's control over water?"the anchor prompted.
"Hydrokinesis on that scale would require either technological augmentation or a fundamental biological difference from baseline humans. The pressure required to weaponize water as he did suggests strength levels comparable to Superman's."
Carol noticed Hal's expression growing more distant as the coverage continued. "You okay?" she asked quietly.
"They're talking about us like we're specimens," he replied. "Like we're something to be studied and categorized."
"People fear what they don't understand," Faraday observed from his position by the window. "And right now, you represent a fundamental shift in their understanding of the universe."
"The question on everyone's mind,"the CNN anchor was saying,"is whether these individuals will submit to any form of oversight. Superman has maintained a careful relationship with authorities, and Iron Man's identity as Tony Stark provides some accountability. But what about these others? Who is the Flash? What are Aquaman's allegiances? And perhaps most importantly, who is Green Lantern, and what is his connection to the alien force that attacked Coast City?"
Thomas reached for the remote. "Maybe we should—"
"No," Jessica said firmly. "We need to see this. We need to understand what Hal is facing."
The coverage had shifted to a roundtable of military analysts discussing the implications for global security.
"The power disparity is what concerns me,"a retired general was saying."These individuals represent force multiplication factors that make nuclear weapons look antiquated. If even one of them went rogue..."
"But that's exactly why we need them,"another analyst countered."Traditional military responses are inadequate against these new threats. We need enhanced individuals who can operate on the same level as potential enemies."
"At what cost to sovereignty?"a third voice interjected."Are we comfortable with unelected, unaccountable individuals making decisions that affect national security?"
Hal turned away from the screen, walking to the window where Faraday stood. Outside, unmarked vehicles maintained a discreet perimeter around the safehouse.
"They'll never trust us completely," Hal said quietly. "Will they?"
"Trust is earned," Faraday replied. "Yesterday was a start. What happens next will determine whether that trust grows or erodes."
On the TV, the coverage had shifted to international reactions, with various world leaders calling for everything from enhanced individual registration to the formation of a global defense force.
"Perhaps most telling,"the anchor noted,"is the public response. Despite the destruction, polls show 78% of Coast City residents view the intervention positively. Green Lantern, in particular, has resonated with locals who saw him stand against the leader of the attacking force."
The screen showed social media posts and hastily made fan art depicting the various heroes. #GreenLantern was trending worldwide, along with #CoastCityStrong.
"Look at that," Jennifer pointed out. "You're already inspiring people, Hal."
"Or terrifying them," Jim countered, gesturing to footage of anti-enhancement protests.
"We go now to President Ellis, who is about to address the nation regarding yesterday's events,"the anchor announced.
The screen shifted to the White House press room. President Matthew Ellis approached the podium with deliberate steps, his expression grave but composed, the weight of recent events evident in his demeanor.
"My fellow Americans,"Ellis began,"yesterday, our nation faced a challenge unlike any in our history. Forces from beyond our world brought conflict to our shores, threatening the lives of countless citizens in Coast City, California."
The room fell completely silent, everyone leaning forward slightly.
"In our hour of need, individuals with extraordinary abilities stepped forward. They asked for no recognition, no reward. They simply did what heroes do—they protected the innocent and stood against those who would do us harm."
The President paused, his words carefully chosen."We've entered a new era. The emergence of these enhanced individuals—some from our own planet, others from beyond the stars—requires us to re-examine our place in a larger universe. But let me be clear: whether they wear suits of armor, bear alien rings, or command the very elements themselves, those who defend innocent life will find an ally in the United States of America."
"Smart," Thomas observed. "He's positioning the government as supportive while avoiding any specific commitments."
"In light of yesterday's events,"Ellis continued, his tone becoming more decisive,"I am announcing immediate increased funding for NASA and the expansion of our SWORD initiative—the Sentient World Observation and Response Department, established in 1995 to monitor and respond to extraterrestrial threats. These agencies will work together on our most ambitious space mission to date."
The President's expression grew determined."Next year, a team of our finest scientists—Dr. Reed Richards, Susan Storm, Benjamin Grimm, and Johnny Storm—will embark on a manned mission to study cosmic radiation and the lingering effects of the kryptonite incident from two years ago, when the entity known as Metallo went critical in Metropolis. This mission represents our commitment to understanding and preparing for the cosmic forces now touching our world."
Hal's eyebrows rose. "They're sending people to study cosmic radiation? After what just happened?"
"Sounds like they're trying to level the playing field," Jim observed.
"To those who would threaten our world,"Ellis continued, his tone hardening,"know this: Earth is defended. Not just by governments or militaries, but by remarkable individuals who've chosen to stand for justice. And now, we will take steps to better understand the universe we inhabit. We will not yield to fear. We will not succumb to those who would divide us. Instead, we will move forward together, into whatever future awaits."
The press corps erupted with questions as the President stepped away from the podium, shouts of "Mr. President!" and "What about oversight?" filling the air before the coverage cut back to the studio.
"A historic address from President Ellis,"the anchor summarized."Officially acknowledging what many are calling the dawn of the 'Age of Heroes.' We'll have full analysis after this break, plus exclusive footage of the cleanup efforts in Coast City and—"
Thomas finally hit the mute button. "Well, that's it then. It's official. The world knows heroes are real, aliens exist, and nothing's ever going to be the same."
"The world's known about Superman for two years," Carol pointed out. "This is just... more of the same."
"No," Hal said quietly, still staring out the window. "This is different. Superman was one man. Stark revealed his identity by choice. Batman stayed in the shadows. But yesterday? Yesterday showed them it's bigger than individual heroes. It's a fundamental shift in how the universe works."
Jessica moved to stand beside her son, taking his hand—the one wearing the ring. "And you're part of that shift now."
"Yeah," Hal acknowledged, feeling the weight of that truth. "I am."
Jim joined them at the window, his earlier anger seemingly spent. "So what happens next?"
"Training," Hal replied. "The Guardians want me back on Oa. I need to learn how to properly use this power. Yesterday I was running on instinct and whatever crash course Kilowog managed to drill into me."
"Kilowog?" Jim asked.
"Think drill sergeant, but alien. And about eight feet tall. Built like a rhino had a baby with a bulldozer."
"Lovely," Jessica murmured.
"When do you leave?" Carol asked, trying to keep her voice neutral.
"Soon. A day or two at most." Hal turned to face them all. "But I'll be back. Earth is my sector now. My responsibility."
The TV caught their attention again—even muted, the images were striking. Aerial footage showed the devastation in Coast City: collapsed buildings, cratered streets, emergency vehicles everywhere. But also visible were signs of hope: rescue workers pulling survivors from rubble, volunteers distributing supplies, and civilians already beginning the cleanup process.
Thomas unmuted just in time to catch a human interest segment.
"Despite the destruction, Coast City residents are showing remarkable resilience,"the reporter was saying, standing amid the rubble."Many describe feeling a renewed sense of community, united by the shared experience of witnessing something extraordinary."
The camera panned to show makeshift memorials with signs reading "Thank You Green Lantern," "Flash Forward," and "Aquaman Saved My Life."
"While questions remain about oversight and accountability,"the reporter continued,"one thing is clear: the age of heroes isn't coming—it's already here."
Faraday checked his watch. "We should discuss your immediate plans, Jordan. The 48-hour window I promised is already counting down."
"Right," Hal nodded. He looked around at his family, his friends, seeing the mix of pride, fear, and uncertainty in their faces. They were all processing this new reality in their own ways.
As if sensing the shift in mood, Thomas reached for the remote again. "I think we've had enough news for now," he said, finally switching off the TV. "Besides, something tells me we're going to be living this story, not watching it."