Beware My Power Chapter 20: Another Day

Finally, Elros and Akeno stepped through a magic circle and back into Kuoh Town, both still a bit damp from the rain. Both were in high spirits after what they just experienced. Hands held they walked towards the house that they shared. Rias had obviously sensed their presence as she quickly ran out of the door and hugged them.

"Hey, Rias," Elros said as he hugged her, smiling as she greeted them. Akeno felt the same way, holding on tightly to the woman she considered a sister.

"Well? How was it? How was the date? Did you… you know?! Well? Come in! You! Do something else. Girl talk," Rias said excitedly as she took Akeno's arm in hers and began to escort her inside. As they went, Elros suddenly got a call.

"Hey, man. What's up?" he asked, answering the phone.

"I finished the a.n.a.lysis you requested. Come to Gotham," came Bruce's voice on the other end.

"Alright. I'm heading over now," Elros said. Rias and Akeno looked at him quizzically.

"Gotta go take care of something. Enjoy your talk," Elros said with a wink before he took to the skies.

"Wonder what that's about," Rias asked with a frown as she watched the green light fade.

"Probably meeting that Constantine guy. I hope he doesn't smell like cigarettes and alcohol again. I know it won't do anything to us, but the smell is disgusting," Akeno sighed.

"Enough of that! TELL ME EVERYTHING!" Rias said as she led her in.

-o-

As Elros landed in front of Wayne Manor again, he went to knock on the door but it was flung open before he got to it.

"This is bulls.h.i.+t, Alfred!" yelled a boy who looked like a very young Bruce Wayne. He was handsome and clean cut, wearing a black s.h.i.+rt and black jeans that matched his tousled black hair. He was several feet shorter than Elros - probably only a little taller than Gasper, if Elros had to compare. He was just as skinny as the young Devil-Vampire but had a more mature air about him. As he saw Elros, he grinned and ran over in excitement.

"Elros! Hey!" he yelled as he shook Elros's hand. Elros smiled back and ruffled the kids hair after shaking his hand, much to the boys chagrin.

"Hey, d.i.c.k. Or should I start calling you Robin from now on?" Elros wondered.

"You can call me Robin when Bruce finally takes me out on a mission that makes a difference," the boy sighed as he patted his hair.

"I know what you're talking about, but be patient with him. He'll come around eventually," Elros said kindly.

"I don't get it, though! I'm fast, I'm strong, and I'm smart! I can do everything he does!" d.i.c.k said confidently.

"True, but you don't have his experience. It's not a short road you're going to be traveling, d.i.c.k. There's going to be several moments like this in the future. But you have to persevere. You might get a chance today, tomorrow, or next year. Just keep following his advice, though. Bruce is a smart guy. We both know that," Elros said. The boy sighed and rubbed his temples, but nodded.

"Yeah, yeah. I'll see you later, Elros!" he said before running off.

"Perhaps you could teach Master Wayne some tact," Alfred sighed.

"Alfred, if you need an asteroid stopped, a planet saved, or a sun stopped from exploding - I'm your guy. But even I can't do the impossible. We both know what needs to happen. Bruce needs a girl to love. Like Selina," Elros said as he slung his arm around the old man, striding into the manor.

"The day Master Bruce goes on a date is the day that I put on his cowl," Alfred sighed, smiling as he led Elros to the Bat Cave. Leaving him there, Elros went down the elevator and towards the PCs where Bruce was.

"So, when are you going to give d.i.c.k a chance? The kids got the chops to follow in your footsteps… you know, when you quit. In a few hundred years…," Elros said as he leaned against a railing.

"When he's ready," Bruce replied, still looking at the screens.

"When will he be ready?" Elros asked.

"When he is," Bruce stated.

"And Barbara?" Elros asked. Bruce swiveled around at that.

"She's too young," he sighed.

"She's older than I am," Elros reminded him.

"Your case is different from everyone else, as you well know," Bruce reminded him.

"We all wish that wasn't the case, I think. You. Clark. I. Everyone," Elros sighed before he pulled up a seat next to Bruce, looking at him intently.

"What?" Bruce asked.

"Before we get down to the a.n.a.lysis… this thing that we're talking about doing. How far ahead have you thought about it?" Elros asked.

"Far enough. Take a look at this," Bruce said as he pulled up some figures.

"Statistics about extranormal activities on Earth… h.e.l.l," Elros said, frowning as he looked at it and saw the point Bruce was trying to make.

"Over the past several years, these kinds of events have been on an uptick. What frightens me is that I don't think we've reached - or are even close to - the peak yet. And these events aren't just limited to where you are now; they're spread throughout the entire world. It's getting difficult to keep track of them, and we can't keep ahead as we are now - disparate and spread out. We need a central and organized team. Right now, it's you, Clark, and I. But that's not enough," Bruce said.

"You know what you're talking about doing, right? We've all barely kept a lid on us. I know how real the Batman is in Gotham, but to those people - there, in the city - you're still a myth. If we do this, there's no turning back. We're opening Pandora's Box once we go wide," Elros said seriously.

"I know. But as long as everyone sees Batman and not Bruce Wayne, it's fine. Alfred… the others. They'll be safe. What about you? Afraid of your ident.i.ty coming out?" Bruce wondered.

"No, not in particular. Like I said, I'm in. I'm not second guessing this. But the others - how do you plan on convincing them? Who do you plan on convincing?" Elros asked.

"You, Clark, and I are the first three. I'll send you a list of the others, but I need to do a bit more research first. I need enough to make a compelling point to everyone. Not everyone is as easily convinced as you," Bruce said.

"d.i.c.k? Barbara? Star?" Elros asked.

"No. They're far too young, as I've said - that, or they lack the necessary experience to do this," Bruce said. Elros nodded; they might not like it, but he had to agree. They wouldn't be able to handle these threats - not yet, at least.

"We don't have jurisdiction," Elros pointed out dully - none of them gave a d.a.m.n about jurisdiction.

"When have you let that stop you?" Bruce asked.

"Never. But what I mean is that lacking that - and if we're serious about this - we need a place where there is no jurisdiction to operate out of. Can't do something like this in the states or j.a.pan. Have you thought of that?" Elros asked.

"I have. I'll share that with you later as well," Bruce said.

"Alright. Keep me updated and send me that list. They might not listen to you because… well, smart as you are, you're an a.s.shole. But I'm charming and lovable," Elros said with a chuckle. Bruce exasperated and shook his head; he didn't want to admit it, but if Elros was anything, it was charming. He had an uncanny ability to win people over to his side, even people he was sometimes at odds with.

"You and Clark might want to try and approach them jointly or separately. He has a way with words as well," Bruce said. At that, Elros let out a deep sigh as he looked around at the cave, an unusually contemplative look on his face.

"What?" Bruce wondered.

"You can feel it too, can't you?" Elros asked, slightly on edge.

"Feel what?" Bruce asked.

"The end of an age is coming," Elros said.

"And the beginning of another?" Bruce asked.

"Yeah. The beginning of another. Which one is to be determined," Elros said.

"I can feel it. But we can't stop that from happening. The most we can do is be as prepared as possible for it. You've done a lot to protect the Earth from these kinds of threats… but things are going to happen whether you like it or not. You're not omnipotent or omnipresent," Bruce said.

"Yeah. Which is why I'm on board with this. We need it. We need the others. Better to be ready when it happens then struggle to get prepared when it's already underway," Elros said. Bruce nodded in agreement before he began to talk about the results.

"What we're talking about now is correlated to the blood sample you gave me. I ran it across every database I could come across - I tried humans, animals, even some extraterrestrial samples. Nothing. No match. At all. Not even something it could be related to. Whatever it is is a complete unknown," Bruce said. Elros gulped as he said that but nodded.

"That's what I was afraid of. But… how? How did it get here? My ring didn't nail any phenomenon in the forest I found it in. What about you? Did you do a wide sweep over the area?" Elros asked.

"I did. Double, triple checked everything on every wavelength and spectrum I could. Nothing. Not even the slightest trail to go on. It's a mystery… and I don't like it," Bruce said with a frown.

"d.a.m.n it. Did you check for other sightings of anything like this?" Elros asked as he paced.

"I did - nothing like it. I suspect that this might be the first of its kind. I'm keeping a close watch on anything even remotely matching the model that you gave me," Bruce said.

"Alright. That's probably best. If one of those things is out there, it needs to be dealt with immediately. I'm not the best guy for the job, though. The thing was weak against fire. So Clark, Beatriz, or Jason would be ideal," Elros said.

"Alright. If it comes up, I'll let them know. I'll keep you posted as well. The more information you can index on it, the better," Bruce said.

"That works. Speaking of Fire, by the way," Elros suddenly said with a grin. Bruce let out a groan.

"Not now, please," Bruce said tiredly.

"Come on, Bats. Alfred and I worried that you're going to end up brooding alone for the rest of your life. You know… even more so, than you are now. You're not getting any younger," Elros said as he ma.s.sage chopped Bruce's shoulders.

"There are more important things to worry about," Bruce said, brus.h.i.+ng him off.

"Even you need to live a little, Bruce. If not for yourself, think about Alfred. You're like a son to him. And like any good father, he's worried that you're going to end up alone. Just give that some thought. If not, at least look like you're having a little fun, will you? Put an old man's heart at ease," Elros said as he put a comforting hand on his shoulder and sighed.

"I'll take what you said under advis.e.m.e.nt. Before that, however, we need to talk about your escapades," Bruce said.

"You mean my s.e.xcapades?" Elros wondered, taking his seat again, eliciting a broody groan.

"Fine, fine! I already told John everything, by the way - been training with him in the Room. Anyways…," Elros began his story - which Bruce listened to intently.

-o-

"So?" Rias asked as she and Akeno sat down, tea in hand and smiles on their faces.

"I took him back home…" Akeno began in a soft voice.

"Are you ok?" Rias asked worriedly.

"More than ok. He protected me… not that I needed it, but it was nice. He kept them all away and then we went to the grave. It's been so long," Akeno said, tears coming to ahead. Rias nodded and put her cup down, hugging her friend tightly.

"How are you doing?" Rias asked.

"I'm happy, honestly. It's been so long since I've seen it. I'm sorry if this causes you any trouble, though. They know he and I were there," Akeno whispered.

"Don't worry about it at all. We'll deal with it if it ever happens. But until then, don't worry," Rias said she rocked her.

"Anyways - after that, he took us to Switzerland. So beautiful. so many waterfalls, so many flowers - it's like Paradise," Akeno said fondly.

"Sounds fun," Rias said, smiling. Suddenly Akeno's smile fell as she looked at her.

"He told me a little about his dad, Rias…," Akeno said, gulping.

"What?" Rias asked in surprise.

"His dad… is a monster if he's anything like what Elros said. Especially for a human. When my uncle tried to kill me, he did it because he thought it was the right thing to do. His dad, though…" Akeno said seriously.

"Explain," Rias said, brow furrowed.

As Akeno told her the story about Elros's hunting trip, Rias gulped. She had expected his dad to hit him here and there, but she didn't expect emotional or mental torture as well - and to have a child do that? There was nothing else to call it.

"Oh, no…," Rias whispered as Akeno ended. Elros's past seemed to affect the two more than anyone else's but perhaps that was the case because Elros's case overall was so unique. Rias had saved Akeno, Koneko, and Gasper at a young age, so they were still given a semblance of life despite the memories of their earlier lives; Asia grew up in the Church, surrounded by people that loved her until her powers came to ahead, but she soon found a family as well; Issei lived normally while Xenovia had the Church; Kiba might've had one of the worst due to the Holy Sword Project, and for a long time revenge was his goal - but now that was settled. But Elros had, from the time he could walk, been under the purview of a monster who tried to make him one. And then, not long after he was left on his own, he was thrown into a world he knew nothing about and tried to make his life there.

"A sociopath or a psychopath - I don't know which, but not a good man," Akeno said.

"It's amazing that Elros turned out like he is," Rias noted.

"I know. But… like I was saying about the date…," Akeno trailed off, trying to return to a happier subject.

"Yes," Rias nodded, smiling as well.

"We had a cute little picnic over the precipice of one of the cliffs. I showed him my wings and he held me. Then we began walking to an observation point a short hike away. We were pa.s.sing through a meadow when… well.. when… he and I… you know," Akeno said, blus.h.i.+ng a bright red.

"Had s.e.x?" Rias asked with a devilish smile.

"Yes. It was… amazing, Rias. Now I know how you felt," Akeno giggled.

"You have to be a bit more detailed than that," Rias said.

"I honestly don't know what to say. He was certainly… rougher than he was with you, I think. Probably knows I'd much prefer it that way," she said with a lascivious lick of her lips. Rias rolled her eyes at that - yes, her friend really was a s.a.d.i.s.t and a bit of a m.a.s.o.c.h.i.s.t.

"At least you had a good time," Rias said with a smile.

"Yeah… But how are? Are you… ok with it?" Akeno asked, worriedly.

"I am. Honestly, I thought that I'd be more jealous than I am. But I know that he cares a lot about us both… that he loves us both. I know he's going to be coming back here later, and I'm going to kiss him when he does. We'll tell each other we love each other, and we'll sleep together at night. That's what makes me happy," Rias said with a bright look. Akeno smiled and agreed - she felt the same way.

"Anyways, I'm gonna go shower. Still feeling a bit sticky," Akeno giggled as she took her leave. Rias nodded. Watching her leave, Rias leaned back into the sofa, a smile on her lips as she thought about Elros. It soon turned to a frown, however, as her thoughts trailed back to the story Akeno told her about his father.

-o-

"So… you're a Devil now?" Bruce asked eyebrow raised.

"Yup. Extended lifespan, kicka.s.s wings, new powers - the whole nine yards," Elros replied.

"Interesting. Mind if I give you a once over? I need to know exactly what this means," Bruce said.

"Go ahead," Elros said. Bruce led him over to an operating table that he had stationed for when he needed to conduct… research. Elros laid down upon it as he had several times before; Alfred was quite the surgeon when Elros needed it.

"Do you think it wise to make such a life-altering decision? Especially, from what you told me, within 48 hours of knowing these people?" Bruce asked.

"I couldn't see many downsides - if any. I'm sure there exist, but I'll handle them as they come along. It feels good to be there, though. Rias and Akeno are quite… amazing," Elros said.

"Have you shared with them what we discussed?" Bruce asked.

"They don't even know you or the others exist. I a.s.sumed you wouldn't want me prattling on about that. No, I won't tell them until… well, until we get a bit closer to telling everyone," Elros said.

"I believe that's wise. And how much do they know about you?" Bruce wondered.

"Elros Eärendil. Born in Death Valley to a deceased mother, a terrible father, Green Lantern at the age of six. Might've shared something about a mission or two with Saint Walker, but that's it. I expect those questions will be coming soon enough. Told Akeno a bit about my dad earlier today," Elros sighed.

"I see. And dating multiple girls at once with their express blessing. Yes, you are particularly suited to asking the others to join us," Bruce noted.

"Glad my debauchery is going to come in useful," Elros said with a grin.

"You know a few that I'm planning to ask. Got a plan formed?" Bruce wondered.

"I do. For the moment, I'll just let you know that I'll be traveling to Central City this week. I think Barry will be on board. At least… I hope so. I thin - no. I don't think. I know we need him," Elros said forcefully. Bruce nodded.

"How many know about you being a Lantern?" Bruce asked.

"Quite a few. Let's see… Rias, Akeno, Gasper, Issei…, yeah a lot," Elros said cheerfully.

"You should know better than to advertise these things," Bruce said sternly.

"Oh yeah? How's Selina, by the way?" Elros asked. Bruce groaned at that; one of his enemies did indeed know who he was, but she hadn't told anyone. He had to be trepidatious around her.

"That's what I thought. I used to be afraid of the world at large finding out who I was. Now I'm thinking I might be wrong - maybe it would be better if they knew who some of us were. I know you, Clark, Barry, and some of the others are stingy about it. But the people are going to be asking it. If it comes to it, we might have to give them something," Elros sighed.

"And you're willing to be it?" Bruce asked eyebrow raised.

"I'm certainly a lot more open than you. Besides, life term wise, I'll outlive them. Can probably change my ident.i.ty in a pinch," Elros chuckled.

"Perhaps. Don't concern yourself with it now. That can wait for later. However, it might be wise to keep a lid on it for now. At least to the Devil world at large," Bruce said.

"I hear you. Speaking of which… We know that Devils, Angels, Fallen Angels, and even G.o.ds are a real thing. All of them are going to be watching us, you know? Seven billion humans… seven billion people are going to talk about this," Elros pointed out.

"I do. But from what you've told me, they've all isolated themselves from humanity. The people - they need something to protect them as well. You might be a Devil now, but that doesn't make you any less human - especially from what I can tell about your physiology," Bruce said, finis.h.i.+ng his examination.

"Good point. This should be… interesting. The world's about to change," Elros said, getting up from the table.

"Indeed," Bruce said, taking his seat for but a moment before Elros whisked him up.

"What're you doing?" Bruce asked irritably.

"f.u.c.king hungry, Bats. Let's go get something to eat. Now, before I get forceful," Elros said dangerously as he ensconced Bruce in green light and led him to the elevator.

"Fine. I can walk," Bruce said, sighing. Truth be told, he was hungry as well.

"Alfred! You free?!" Elros shouted as they got out of the elevator at the top.

"Ah Master Elros, Master Bruce. Yes sir, I am. What is it?" Alfred asked.

"We're about to grab a bite - you in?" Elros asked.

"I'm afraid I h," Alfred began before Elros slung an arm around him and Bruce.

"Perfect! That's just what I wanted to hear. What're some good, ridiculously expensive restaurants? Bruce's treat of course," Elros said cheerfully, eliciting a sigh from both men. There would be no winning this for them. After a quick change and grabbing their jackets, they left out into a crisp Gotham evening.

-o-

The night was nigh and Elros had just landed on his front doorstep. Opening it, he was met with a wonderful sight. Rias and Akeno were both lazing around on the sofa, leaving exactly nothing to the imagination.

"I can get used to coming home like this," Elros said with a grin. As they heard him, they rushed over to pepper him with hugs and kisses.

"How was your day?" Rias asked.

"Wonderful. Yours?" he asked.

"Pretty good. Heard you and Akeno had some fun," she teased. Elros winked in response as they headed upstairs, gently getting into bed. Akeno sniffed him as they did.

"You smell like cologne," she said.

"Yup. Was meeting a friend in Gotham," Elros said.

"Gotham? Not London?" Rias asked in surprise.

"Nope. Gotham," Elros said.

"How do you know someone there?" Akeno asked, brow furrowed.

"Old friend of mine, actually," Elros said.

"Girl?" Rias asked.

"Guy. You don't think I'd cheat on you in such a way, do you? I'm shocked. What's not to trust about a male s.l.u.t?" he asked, eliciting giggles from the two as they rested their heads on his shoulders.

"You know people everywhere, huh?" Akeno asked.

"Pretty much. It's good to have friends. That said, this is home now. Not that I'm complaining," Elros said as he kissed them both atop their heads.

"I'm happy to hear that," Rias said as she kissed his neck, pausing to bite it gently. Akeno did the same for the other side.

"Round 2 with both of you? Yes, I am in!" Elros said as he quickly threw his s.h.i.+rt to the side.

"No, you perv," Rias groaned.

"… Well, that's disappointing," he grumbled as he fell back on the bed.

"You'll live," Rias said.

"Can't wait for my third date this weekend," Elros said cheerfully.

"Third date? With whom?" Rias asked.

"Dominique! The mermaid, Rias - remember?! I'm getting another familiar!" Elros said excitedly.

"Yeah, I don't think you'll be able to have s.e.x with her. Fins might make it difficult," Rias said.

"Don't worry, it won't get that far. Something tells me if I even tried something like that, she'd take me to the depths of the lake. Good thing I can hold my breath for so long. Comes in useful for other things as well, now that I think about it," Elros said as he leaned over to Rias and kissed her. She giggled as her lips met his as she returned it pa.s.sionately before resting back on him. Elros did the same for Akeno, eliciting a happy response. All three were about to go to sleep but a thought came to Akeno.

"Can I ask you something?" she suddenly said.

"What's up?" Elros asked as he weaved a hand through her hair.

"You mentioned something about a mentor on our date - someone that lives in California. Can you tell us about him? Now that I think about it, I don't think we know about anyone in your life besides us," Akeno said.

"Hmmm… Well, I don't see why not. Yes. His name is Hal Jordan," Elros said with a smile.

"Did you just say Hal Jordan?" Rias suddenly asked. Akeno was surprised to learn that she knew that name as well.

"Yeah. You know him?" Elros asked in surprise.

"Not personally. I know that he's married to Carol Ferris," Rias said.

"She's a wonderful role model for girls," Akeno said with a smile. She and Rias both read a lot about Carol Ferris, CEO of Ferris Aircraft.

"Yup, that's the one. Hal was the first GL from Earth," Elros said.

"Wow. Seriously?!" Rias asked.

"Yup," Elros said.

-o-

Elros was decked out in his Lantern costume as he landed in front of a beautiful and stately home in a neighborhood in a suburb of Coast City. He could smell the seawater all the way over here as he eyed the home up and down. With a gulp, he walked up to the doorbell and rang it. It was around 9pm, so he was certain they'd still be awake. He s.h.i.+fted back into his civilian clothing - a black t-s.h.i.+rt and jeans.

"I got it, sweetheart," a man's voice called from inside. As he opened the door, Elros careened back to look up at him. He was a tall and handsome with fair skin and messy brown hair. He was wearing a yellow b.u.t.ton-up s.h.i.+rt and blue jeans, along with a jacket that said 'Jordan' across the right breast, with an airplane insignia on the left. He looked quizzically at the child before leaning down.

"Hey, kiddo - you lost?" the man asked.

"I don't think so. Are you Hal Jordan?" the young Elros asked, meeting Hal's brown eyes with his own.

"Who is it, sweety?" came the voice of a woman who appeared behind the man. She was stunning - with raven hair that fell to her shoulders, full red lips and caring green eyes. She wore a pink s.h.i.+rt with a V, a leather jacket over it coupled with a pearl necklace and well fitting faded blue jeans.

"Hi there," the woman said kindly as she kneeled down.

"h.e.l.lo, miss. My name is Elros Eärendil. I was told that I could find a Hal Jordan here," Elros replied.

"That'd be me, kid. What's up?" Hal asked.

"Hi. I'm Elros Eärendil. Green Lantern, Sector 2814," Elros stated.

Hal and Carol looked flabbergasted as they heard that. They both looked at each with a shocked look before looking to the kid, and back at each other with a 'what the f.u.c.k?' look.

"Come in, buddy," Hal said, ushering Elros in. They led him to a sofa where Carol got a gla.s.s of water before sitting down with Hal, an intense look on her face.

"Do you know what you just said?" she asked.

"Yes, ma'am. Elros Eärendil. Green Lantern. Sector 2814," Elros said as he held his ring out and made a construct with it. Hal and Carol looked on even more shocked - he wasn't kidding.

"You're the newest GL for this sector?" Hal asked weakly.

"I am," Elros said.

"But… kid, how old are you?" he asked.

"9. 10 in four months," Elros said.

"You're not even a teenager!" Hal said loudly.

"No, I'm not," Elros replied.

"Hal. Calm down. Now," Carol said dangerously. Hal nodded as he still stared on in wonder.

"Elros. Where are you from?" Carol asked kindly.

"Death Valley, ma'am," Elros responded.

"And what about your parents?" she asked.

"Moms dead. Dad left," he responded.

"Seriously?" Hal asked, a look of horror playing across his face.

"He… left you alone?" Carol asked.

"Years ago, yes. I don't want to talk about that," Elros said.

"I… see. So… how did you find out about Hal?" Carol asked.

"Kilowog. He also told me to play this message," Elros said, holding out his ring again. An image suddenly erupted from it, showing the alien Kilowog. He had porcine features, crossed with a bulldog with pinkish skin and a ma.s.sive frame. He certainly towered over Hal when he was with the corp, and that went triple for Elros.

"Hey Hal, Carol - hope you guys are doing well. I'm sending this little poozer to visit you. He's been on Oa for the past few years - this is his first time back on Earth since he was made a GL. Thought he could learn a bit from you, John, Guy, and Kyle. Give me a holler when you get this message. Kilowog, over and out," the message said. Immediately, Hal got up and left the room.

"He'll be back. Probably just going to give Kilowog a call," Carol explained. Elros nodded and sat patiently.

"So… how are you liking being a Lantern?" Carol asked, a bit of hesitation in her voice.

"I love it, Mrs. Ferris. I'm seeing things I never thought existed. It's the best I've ever felt," Elros replied with a smile.

"That's good. Has Kilowog been hard on you?" Carol asked with a sigh; he could be a brutal trainer.

"Not too bad, no. He cares about the recruits, so he pushes us to do our best. Although… he did throw me into a volcano when I first got there," Elros said with a frown.

"What?" she asked aghast.

"He threw me into a volcano when I first got there," Elros said, a bit more cheerful.

"I'll be right back, sweety," Carol said as she left to follow after Hal, about to rip Kilowog a new one.

-o-

"Wog? You there?" Hal asked the ring as he communicated with Kilowog.

"Hal! Good to hear from you, poozer! How's civilian life?" Kilowog asked with a laugh.

"Pretty d.a.m.n good - but now we got a kid on our doorstep, claiming to be a GL," Hal said.

"Yup. Elros there already, then? That's good," Kilowog said.

"He's a kid! A kid, Kilowog! What the h.e.l.l happened? How did it happen?" Hal asked in shock.

"The ring chose, Hal. Trust me, you're not the only one to react like that. Other GL's were fine with you after a while, but they've been giving the kid a hard time. But the Guardians put their foot down - the ring chose the kid. The kids the second Lantern for 2814," Kilowog said.

"A… kid!" Hal said again.

"I wouldn't get ahead of yourself, Hal. The kids got what it takes. Goes through training like a champ. You remember how much you complained when you became one?" Kilowog asked with a roaring laugh. Hal couldn't help but laugh along; he was definitely whiny when he became one.

"What's your thought of him? Honestly," Hal asked.

"Honest? He's been a GL for a few years and he's gotten d.a.m.n strong in that time. Constantly training, even when he doesn't have to. You know I love you like a brother, Hal - same with John and Guy - but this kids different. Dedicated beyond belief. Some of the Lanterns already got a nickname for him," Kilowog chuckled.

"Yeah? What is it?" Hal asked, intrigued.

"The Emerald Prince," Kilowog replied.

"You can't be serious," Hal replied.

"Dead serious. Some of the girls think he's the cutest thing they've ever seen. He and G'Nort make a h.e.l.l of a team as well - solid record already. Whenever he's not training, he's bugging Sal for a new mission; and if he ain't doing that, he's learning something else. Voracious when it comes to new things. Depending on how long he stays… or lasts… well, I'll leave it for the future to decide. But still… kid hasn't even been to Earth in the last few years. There're some bad thoughts and memories there, Hal. I know you and Carol are busy, and I don't expect you to raise a child or something. But… you know, give the kid some pointers. You're one of the best Lanterns we've had, and I figure he'll connect with you guys better than the others here. Maybe introduce him to some of the others on Earth," Kilowog said.

Hal was silent as he thought about that. He and Carol weren't ready to take care of a kid - although they had been talking about it for some time now. But he figured it wouldn't hurt to give Elros a few pointers here and there. Besides, there were others that could help him as well - a group where Elros could begin to feel at home.

"Yeah, I hear you, Wog. I'll take care of it," Hal said.

"Th-," Kilowog said before he heard a loud voice.

"KILOWOG!" Carol roared as she entered the room. Hal and Kilowog gulped; Carol was absolutely furious as she looked at Kilowog.

"Babe? What's wrong?" Hal asked.

"ELROS SAID YOU THREW HIM INTO A VOLCANO WHEN HE FIRST GOT THERE! ARE YOU INSANE?!" Carol asked.

"Oh no…," Kilowog said as Hal tried to hold his laughter in. He pa.s.sed the ring to Carol before quickly heading downstairs.

-o-

He saw Elros sitting on the sofa, patiently waiting for him.

"Carol's got something to discuss with Wog. You hungry, kid?" Hal asked.

"I don't want to be a burden, sir," Elros said, getting up.

"Na, we were just about to head out anyways, but something tells me Carol's gonna be a while. Let's go grab a bite. And kid, call me Hal," Hal said as he grabbed his keys and led Elros outside. Getting into a black 70 Boss 302, they took their leave.

Elros looked out the windows in excitement, awed by what he was seeing. He had rarely been outside of Death Valley, so seeing a city like Coast City was amazing.

"You alright, kid?" Hal asked.

"Yeah. I didn't travel much until I became a Lantern, and even then only other planets. This is my first time seeing such a big Earth city," Elros said.

"I see. You know, you're pretty well spoken for someone so young," Hal mused.

"The ring is an amazing tool for learning. I try to pick up new things whenever I can. It's helped me develop my vocabulary," Elros replied.

"Huh. When I was your age, I just collected baseball cards and watched my pops fly his plane," Hal chuckled.

"You're a pilot as well, si- Hal?" Elros asked.

"Yup. Test pilot. Love it, but nothing beats flying what that little guy," Hal said with a grin as he tapped Elros's ring.

"I agree," Elros said, looking at it fondly.

"You know kid, that ring isn't just given to anyone. Only someone who can overcome great fear… someone who has a tremendous force of will," Hal said.

"Right. That's what I was told," Elros said.

"Curious, what were you doing when it found you?" Hal asked.

"I was lost in Death Valley for a while before a s.p.a.ces.h.i.+p crash landed there. I helped the alien inside it out," Elros.

"WHAT?!" Hal asked, shocked.

"Hmm?" Elros asked.

"Seriously?!" Hal asked, aghast.

"Yes," Elros said.

"You were… how… why were you in the desert?" Hal asked.

"My father had abandoned me. I ran out of food and water so I had to get some somewhere. But that's when the sandstorms began," Elros said darkly. Hal gulped; he knew about the sandstorms that swept across the valley several years ago. To think that a child was trapped in there…

"That's something else, kid. I'm surprised you survived that long. I know how hot it can get in the desert," Hal said.

"I didn't have much choice. Either that or die," Elros said blankly.

"I see. And you said something about an alien cras.h.i.+ng down there? What was his name?" Hal asked.

"Starkaor. He said he was the second GL for this Sector, alongside G'Nort. I helped him out of his s.h.i.+p and we talked for a bit before he died. I took his body to Oa," Elros said.

"You don't seem… all that shocked or terrified by all this," Hal said.

"I'm used to it now. When he landed, I was close to dying so I had other things on my mind," Elros said.

"I see. Jeez, kid. I don't know what to say…," Hal said as he made a turn.

"Nothing to be said. I'm happy with how things turned out. I can't believe what's out there. I still get excited when I see something - old or new," Elros said happily.

"Ha. That's good to hear. Here we go," Hal said, parking and taking Elros into a diner.

"Wog said something about you being on Oa for the last few years," Hal mentioned.

"Yes. I've lived there since becoming a Lantern. I didn't have anything to come back to here," Elros said, thanking a waitress who got him a menu.

"Awww, who's the little guy, Hal?" she asked as she cooed at Elros.

"My brother's kid, Jess," Hal said.

"Hi there, cutie," the woman said, shaking his hand. Elros smiled brightly at her as he kissed it, eliciting a raised eyebrow from Hal.

"A pleasure, miss," Elros said.

"That's the cutest thing ever!" the girl squealed as she went to make get their orders.

"What was that? The whole hand kissing thing?" Hal asked with a smirk.

"Well Jade - who I believe is from Earth; I met her on Oa a few times - said that that's the best way to greet a girl," Elros shrugged.

"Oh G.o.d…," Hal grumbled, head in his hands.

"What?" Elros wondered.

"Ha. Nothing kid. Alright… so what can I do for you? Do you need advice? You need a place to stay?" Hal asked.

"I'm fine. I prefer to spend my time floating around or working missions. I'm not sure what to ask, though. Kilowog just said I just get to know you," Elros said.

"Mmm… I see. Well, you've been a Lantern for a few years, yeah? You know the basics," Hal said.

"Yes. Actually, one question comes to mind. I know there are other rings on the spectrum. I was told that some GL's can use multiple. Is that true?" Elros asked.

"Yup. Guy - Guy Gardner, that is; another GL - has used Red Rings, while I've used Red and Blue. John's done Indigo, while Kyle has just used his Green. Carol - my wife - used to be a Star Sapphire, so she used violet," Hal explained.

"Woah. That's awesome," Elros said, stars in his eyes. Hal couldn't help but chuckle - the kid definitely loved to hear about new things.

"It's hard, though. Using the Red Ring nearly killed Guy - multiple times. Same thing for me. Honestly, if Saint Walker wasn't there, we wouldn't be here right now. Blue… was hard for me to use, just because of what's required to use it. John's the only one I can think of that used another ring without any problems whatsoever, but he's also a lot more disciplined than Guy, Kyle, or I. Military background," Hal explained.

"I see. And what about the others?" Elros asked.

"Any reason you're so interested in this topic?" Hal asked.

"I want to learn everything I can about the other Lanterns," Elros said determinedly.

"Why?" Hal asked.

"So I can be the best Green Lantern," Elros said. Hal grinned as he said that. Kilowog was right - the kid was determined.

"And why do you want to do that? GL's are already respected most places," Hal noted.

"Because I want to help everyone," Elros said.

"You can't help everyone, kid," Hal said.

"I want to help everyone," Elros repeated. Hal was quiet.

"Why?" he asked.

"Why what?" Elros asked.

"Why do you want to help everyone?" he explained.

"I don't know. But that's what a Lantern is supposed to do, right? We have to help. And I want to help people if they need it. Everyone that needs it," Elros said.

"I see," Hal said, going quiet as he looked at Elros. There was a pause before the waitress finally came over with their food.

"Thank you, miss," Elros said.

"Not a problem, cutie. And here's a little treat for you," she said, setting some cake before him.

"Thank you!" Elros said excitedly as he dug in. Hal and the waitress looked at each other and smiled. Hal and Elros made light conversation as they ate.

-o-

"And that was when I first met him. Great guy. We keep in touch constantly," Elros said, smiling.

"He almost sounds like a father figure to you," Akeno noted.

"I… guess," Elros said, uncomfortable at the thought.

"Speaking of which… Akeno told me a bit about your dad," Rias said.

"Yeah? What do you think?" Elros asked after a short pause.

"I'm sorry you had to go through that," Rias said.

"It's not your fault," Elros said. He felt Rias turn his face to look at her. With a sorrowful look, she leaned up and kissed him gently, conveying that everything was ok now.

"Get some sleep," she whispered. Elros nodded and they began to doze off.

-o-

Waking up the next morning, he felt a pair of arms around his neck. He noted his position; he was cradling Rias, who had her back turned to him; while Akeno cradled him, his back turned to her. He felt her b.r.e.a.s.t.s pus.h.i.+ng against his back as she had her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, her face buried in his hair. Meanwhile, he had an arm around Rias, cupping her b.r.e.a.s.t.s. She had a hand on his, holding it there while a gentle smile played on her lips.

'Oh h.e.l.l yeah. This is definitely the best way to wake up,' Elros thought with a grin. Kissing Rias's head, he gently removed his arm. Untangling himself from Akeno's grasp took a bit more finesse but eventually, he was free. Kissing her gently as well, he got out of bed and stretched, heading over to the gla.s.s wall and remembering the events of the day before.

's.e.x in a meadow. Gotta be on the bucket list for everyone,' he thought with a smirk as he looked back at Akeno's resting figure.

'Told them about Hal. He probably won't mind. Although… I still have to tell him about what's going on with me. Bruce and John took it well. Hal will probably get a kick out of it; same as Kyle and Guy. John's gonna make me do 400 push ups, 400 sit ups, 200 pull ups, run ten miles, and then make me climb Everest in my underwear,' he continued to think, grinning. John was definitely a harda.s.s - as much as Kilowog - but he instilled some discipline in Elros.

Finally, however, Elros turned a bit more somber as he remembered his talk with Bruce.

'The end of an age is fast approaching. I don't know how, I don't know when… but it's going to happen - and soon. All these threats are rising. More aliens are becoming aware of the Earth's position in the galaxy. With Clark, Barry, J'onn, myself… was only a matter of time. It's going to erupt soon. We need to be ready, otherwise, it's gonna be a bad position to be in,' Elros thought with a deep sigh as he put his hands on the window and leaned in.

'I'll go see Barry before the full moon,' he said to himself. With that, he headed into the bathroom, figuring out the best way to approach his friend.

-o-

"It's so unfair. When can I get my familiar?" Issei groaned to Rias as they were gathered in the ORC.

"Don't worry. Your turn will be coming up soon. Although you'll have to compete with Xenovia," Rias reminded him. Issei was definitely strong, but Xenovia was no slouch. Both had earned the right to obtain a familiar.

"Isn't it supposed to be Sona's peerage's turn this month, though?" Kiba added.

"It is, although Sona hasn't mentioned anything to me about it. I'm a.s.suming their fine with Elros going a second time," Rias said. As soon as she said that, though, her phone rang: Sona.

"Hey Sona, we were just talking about you. Yeah, about the full moon - you guys are alright with Elros going, right? Oh? I see. Hmm… That does pose a problem. Yeah, come on over. We'll settle it," Rias sighed before looking apologetically at a quizzical Elros.

"Sona and her peerage are coming over. Apparently, Saji isn't happy with us all a.s.suming that you're going to be going in again," she said.

"Got it. Well, we'll get it settled. Until then: Gasper, Koneko! I had a great idea about what we could do!" Elros said as he jumped onto the couch between the two. They clamored on him and got comfortable, eliciting a sigh of happiness from Akeno and Rias.

"What is it?!" Gasper asked excitedly.

"One word: DISNEYLAND!" Elros declared.

"YEAH!" Gasper agreed.

"What do you think?" Elros asked Koneko.

"I'm in. When can we go?" she asked.

"Welllll… today is Monday. We need at least 2-3 days there. The full moon is this Sat.u.r.day, and then I need to start training for my next duels. So… we leave tomorrow and stay until Friday, yeah?" Elros asked.

"RIAS! CAN WE?! PLEASE!" Gasper asked Rias. She simply smiled as she exchanged glances with Akeno. They couldn't bring themselves to say no to the vampire, who seemed so excited about the trip.

"Sure, Gasper. I'll get everything set up," Rias said.

"YAY!" Gasper and Elros exclaimed. Koneko looked extremely pleased as well. It wasn't long after that Sona walked in with her peerage. Elros noted that Saji was looking at him intensely.

"h.e.l.lo ladies, Saji," Elros greeted them as he patted Koneko on her head, much to her delight. Sona and Tsubaki felt their hearts melt at the sight as well, while Momo and Tsubasa looked on with a smile. Rias and Akeno exchanged another glance, knowing smile son their faces.

"I see you're having fun," Sona said to him.

"You've no idea. I still have a hand free, if you'd like?" Elros offered.

"Sona's turning red!" Tomoe pointed out cheerfully, continuing to giggle as Sona turned to her in exasperation. The girls of the peerage had always known Sona to have an unbreakable exterior. Knowing that Elros was a particular c.h.i.n.k in her armor brought them much amus.e.m.e.nt since the Lantern had appeared.

"I know you mean well, but maybe don't tease Sona in front of her peerage," Rias said with a smirk as she winked at her friend, who narrowed her eyes.

'I'll get you for that, Rias,' Sona thought, groaning inwards.

"You're right. My apologies. Next time you help me with homework, then. But, on to macro: we're heading to Disneyland tomorrow. You guys wanna come?" Elros asked with a grin.

"Disneyland?" Tsubaki asked eyebrow raised.

"Yup! We need to get some fun time in. What do you say?" Elros said.

"Yeah, Sona! CAN WE?!" Tomoe asked excitedly.

"We h," Sona began before Ruruko cut her off.

"Pleeeeeeease, Sona?! Come on! We've been working hard! Can't we have some fun!" she said. Sona turned to the rest of her peerage but sighed as she saw the looks on their faces; they all wanted to go, evidently.

"Fine. Fine. We'll go," Sona said, giving in. Truth be told, she had been hoping for a reprieve as well. This would make for a good one.

"Yay!" Elros and Gasper shouted in delight again.

"That wasn't why we came here, though. The full moon is coming up. Sona said you're going down to get another familiar," Saji said.

"Yup. Got a date with a mermaid," Elros said excitedly.

"It's our turn to go this month," Saji said.

"Can't we both go?" Elros asked, confused.

"Nope. One peerage per month in this location. I was supposed to go last time," Saji said.

"Oh no…," Sona sighed, facepalming. She knew where this was going. Akeno and Rias looked on in worry as well. They figured they just wanted to discuss it, but it appeared that Saji wanted to go a bit further than that.

"I see," Elros said.

"So if I want to go… and you want to go… we're going to have to settle this," Saji said seriously.

"And how would you like to do that?" Elros asked.

"How about a one on one?" Saji suggested.

"Saji…," Sona began, but Tsubaki shook her head. They sighed.

"Really?" Elros asked, surprised.

"Yeah," Saji said. Elros regarded him seriously.

"I don't think so. I'd rather not fight over something like this," Elros said.

"You fought Riser and you've got some other fights coming up," Saji frowned.

"The situation is different. This one doesn't seem like it's worthwhile to fight over. I'll speak to Zatouji and see if I can't postpone my date until the month after," Elros shrugged. That obviously wasn't the answer Saji was hoping for, however. His brow furrowed as he took in Elros's form.

"Are you saying that you don't think I'm worth fighting? Or that you'd just wipe the floor with me?" Saji asked. Both peerage's looked surprised by that. Saji and Issei had a bit of a rivalry going on, sure - but he hadn't acted like this with Issei except for their first meeting. The behavior seemed completely out of sync with Saji's usual att.i.tude.

"Neither. I just don't want to fight over something like this. It's not worth it, man. If you want to go this time that badly this time, please - by all means. I can a month," Elros said with a smile.

"So you're a coward?" Saji asked nonchalantly.

The air itself seemed to chill as everyone gasped or swallowed. Elros's smile fell , while Sona and Tsubaki looked at each other in surprise before turning to Rias and Akeno. A look of surprise washed over their faces before it turned to anger. Looking at their own peerage, they saw mixed emotions - ranging from surprise on the younger ones and a look that was mixed between surprise and anger on Momo and Tsubasa.

"Saji, man - that's not cool," Issei started, but he stopped after Saji shot him a glare. Asia gulped, while Koneko and Xenovia glared right back at Saji. Kiba and Gasper were simply surprised, wondering how the situation had gotten here.

"Well? Are you?" Saji asked Elros. He was silent before answering.

"I'm afraid that's exactly what I am, Saji," Elros replied, his voice still surprisingly warm despite the insult.

"Saji. With me. Now," Sona said in a hard tone.

"Sona, let me handle this," Saji asked her.

"I would have, but you're stepping over the line," she warned him, eyes narrowed.

"If he doesn't think I'm good enough to take him one on one, then I want him to tell me. Stay out of it," Saji told her. Sona's eyes widened in surprise - Saji had never spoken to her this way. His att.i.tude was completely out of line with how he usually was. She looked to Tsubaki, but she held no answers - nor did the rest of her peerage. Saji turned to Elros again.

"Well? What is it, then? You think you'd wipe the floor with me? Or are you afraid to fight me?" Saji asked, his arm suddenly glowing. His Sacred Gear appeared as he seemed ready to duke it out with Elros then and there.

Rias and Akeno were fuming at how Saji spoke to Elros - in their clubroom, no less. They were about to step in when Elros got up, still holding Gasper who seemed frightened by the tenseness in the air.

"The latter, Saji. I'm out. You win. Your turn," Elros said, his voice a bit more forceful. Saji paused for a moment before his arm turned back to normal. He quickly turned and strode out of the clubroom, Ruruko and Tomoe close by - both stunned by the reaction. Momo, Tsubasa, and Reya gulped before following. Sona sighed before turning to Elros.

"I'm sorry about that," she said uneasily.

"No worries, Sona. Go make sure he's alright," Elros said comfortingly. Sona nodded.

"Sorry Rias, Akeno," she said. They frowned but nodded as Sona quickly left with Tsubaki. After they were gone, Elros let out a sigh of relief.

"Whew. That went better than expected," he said cheerfully.

"Better than - are you insane?! Man, I thought Saji was about to attack you then and there!" Issei exclaimed.

"Na, I don't think he'd do that. He's a good guy," Elros said as he put Gasper down.

"Why didn't you accept his challenge? You would've beaten him," Xenovia said.

"Wasn't worth it. I don't think Dominique will mind," Elros said.

"But… he insulted you. He called you a coward!" Xenovia said, slightly aghast.

"Yeah, but I've been called worse. It's no biggie, really," Elros said as he patted Gasper's head.

"You guys better get to cla.s.s," Rias ordered her peerage. They nodded and began to leave, leaving Gasper, Akeno, Rias, and Elros in the ORC.

"Elros, how come you didn't fight him?" Gasper asked as he looked up. Elros knelt down and put his hand on Gasper's shoulder, smiling warmly at him.

"Not everything needs to end in a fight, kiddo. Sometimes, it's better to compromise so things don't get worse. Your pride might get hurt, but you'll come out ahead overall," Elros told him. Gasper thought about that for a second before he smiled and nodded, running into his room. As he left, Elros let out an exhale before looking at Rias and Akeno - both of whom obviously didn't share his point of view.

"You could've beaten him, you know. Sona would've been fine with it. Saji's the one who asked, anyways," Rias said.

"And then he'd hold a grudge. I think this is better for everyone," Elros said.

"He insulted you, though," Akeno said.

"It's fine. Really, I've been called much worse," Elros said.

"But you don't deserve it!" Akeno told him.

"Regardless, it is what it is. Come on, let's get to cla.s.s," he said.

"You go on ahead. I need to talk to Akeno about something," Rias said. Elros shrugged and took his leave. Sure he was gone, Akeno and Rias began talking.

"I can't believe Saji would say such a thing!" Rias exclaimed.

"I know. It was completely out of character for him. But… you know, he's always had a thing for Sona. Think that could be it?" Akeno mused.

"I don't know. Perhaps. If he says something like that about him again, however…," Rias said, a slight snarl creeping into her voice. Akeno nodded as she took a seat.

"Anyways, is that what you wanted to talk about?" she asked.

"No. Theres… something else," Rias said. Akeno noted her s.h.i.+ft in her seat, as though uncomfortable.

"What is it?" Akeno asked.

"We're going to Disneyland," Rias said, unusually serious when talking about the Happiest Place on Earth.

"Yeah…?" Akeno trailed on.

"That's… in California," Rias said, gulping. A look of realization came over Akeno.

"Yeah. Anaheim. A few hundred miles away from… Death Valley," Akeno said.

"Yeah," Rias said.

"What're you thinking?" Akeno asked.

"I don't know… I… I… don't want to bring back bad memories for him. But if we're there… I… do you… are we out of line? Am I out of line on this? I don't… Akeno, you know what I'm trying to say," Rias said, fl.u.s.tering many times as she tried to convey her point.

"You think we should go there?" Akeno asked, pale white.

"Yes," Rias said, feeling her heart fall at the suggestion. It seemed like a betrayal of Elros's trust to go there and to use the excursion as an excuse to learn more about him.

"I don't know. Do we have to do it this time? Can't we go anytime?" Akeno asked.

"We're always together… and I think Gasper and Koneko will want him to themselves for a bit. A few hours is all we need," Rias said.

"It doesn't… feel right," Akeno said.

"I know what you're saying… but…," Rias said, her throat dry. After a pause, Akeno nodded.

"Sona and the others are going to be coming along. n.o.bodies been to Disneyland. They might be able to keep him distracted," Akeno said, mentally smacking herself for making such a suggestion. After how he talked to her on the date, how he made love to her… it felt wrong to treat him this way. But the sheer curiosity was overwhelming.

"Good idea. I just… hope he…," Rias said uneasily. Akeno simply nodded. Was this the right way to go about it? Elros usually clamped up when they broached his past as a topic - should they try to find out about it this way?

"This… I… we…," Akeno began, trying to find the words - but none came to her. Rias agreed, nodding before they headed out. She pulled out her phone and began to text Sona.

"I'm letting Sona know to meet us," Rias whispered. Akeno nodded.

-o-

"Do you think this a good idea?" Sona asked Rias in hushed tones as they walked along the tree line with Tsubaki and Akeno. She had just finished scolding Saji, who headed to cla.s.s as well.

"I… don't know, honestly. I think so," Rias said nervously.

"And if he finds out?" Sona asked. She didn't know Elros as well as Rias or Akeno; but it seemed to her now that Rias and Akeno didn't really know much about Elros's past, either.

"He won't," Rias said firmly, although her eyes betrayed the fear she felt at how he would react.

"If we have to be so cagey about this, perhaps we should reconsider," Tsubaki said.

"Tsubaki might be right. It doesn't… feel right. Shouldn't you have learned about all this before making him a Devil?" Sona asked.

"I should have, but… Sona, these were extenuating circ.u.mstances. And I don't regret, even for a second, making him mine," Rias said, her voice rising slightly at the fact that Sona would infer such a thing, even in the least.

"I'm not saying you should regret it! I'm just saying that… it might've been wiser to learn a bit more about him," Sona sighed.

"He's… really guarded about it. There's a lot of bad memories there. I'm not even sure if we'll find something. I just think… we're so close to it," Rias said. Since she had discussed the idea with Akeno, she felt her heart beating incessantly. The four Devils gathered were used to doing reconnaissance on people - after all, she and Sona learned everything they could about their servants before inducting them into their respective peerages. But between them all, Elros's case felt unique. Sona and Tsubaki looked at each other, gulping and trying to read the others face. Finally, they nodded.

"Fine," Sona said, her voice faltering even as the word came out of her mouth. There would be no turning back now.