Episode fanfic Title: Project Help

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(Cassandra's POV.): The next day...

After the planet exploded, I found out that the tattooed alien man was called Razer. He'd done a favor for Shyir Rev to save me from the bombing and bring me back to my uncle without getting hurt. Well, he did knock me out of a conscious state, but that's not the point. From my perspective, I couldn't see him as a monster because:

1. He hugged me, for god's sake!

2. Razer was trying to do right by his code to Atrocitus.

3. Razer could really do with a friend or someone to give him a hand. He didn't want to show any weakness or answer any of Kilowog's or Hal Jordan's questions because there's nothing more they can do for now.

There's nothing else to report besides that he's a Red Lantern who's now been captured in the Green Lantern's interceptor cell. Kilowog has been trying to get information from him by force and words for the last three hours. While I was sitting at a table across from his cell, I was listening to one of my teacher's lessons (thanks to Kia for recording the class). 

I held my breath... and waited for Kilowog to calm down before responding to his complaints. I let out a growl of frustration at the noise outside and paused the video. I turned to look at them with a stern expression, which they seemed to notice and froze:

"Kilowog, Uncle Hal, could you please be quiet? I'm trying to listen to my class. You can't interrogate Razer when I'm right across the room." I hissed at them with a threatening tone. My uncle and even Razer widened their icy blue eyes in response to my voice. 

Nevertheless, I grunted and left to continue hearing my professor's explanations for the last 5 hours.

Time skip~

"/I hope everyone understood about the assignment due tomorrow. Kia, you can turn off your cellphone since you've been recording my class for Cass-/."

I pressed the stop button and shot my friend on screen a look that said, "What the hell was that all about?" My fingers were tapping away, and I was pretty annoyed. "Are you serious? Is this an essay on aliens? "Why did it have to be that recording, Kia?"

"I followed your instructions and recorded the teacher's classes." She's got a way with words and gets straight to the point. I can see her biting into a lemon popsicle through the screen.

"I'm surprised I have to write an essay on aliens by tomorrow." I played along sarcastically in case no one could tell what I was doing. I got into a video call with Kia through my laptop, which I'm grateful for bringing with me since I was lying on my stomach on my bed. 

I'd just finished watching a biology lecture recording from my professor before our chat. There was a blank white piece of paper nearby that showed the notes I'd gathered from the class: "Oh, no! This is the worst assignment I've ever had to do!" I exclaimed, my head in my hands in dismay at the thought of not.

"Hey, chill and take a deep breath and relax." Doing as instructed by Kia, I took a deep breath, sighed deeply, and truthfully told her by taking out and eating Skittles as she requested. I calmed down afterward, "I know all the assignments are easy, but..." 

I continued to explain my point of view, "He said, 'Do not try to make an assignment of superheroes or anything fictional.' " "Let's think of other ideas since this is our chance to get an A+."

.

.

.

"Transformers?" 

"Kia, are you serious? They're fictional." I chuckled in a severe tone. This made a hacker puff her cheeks and cross her arms, "Oi, in my defense! Transformers are aliens." Kia sneakily whispers: "Plus! Megatron & Optimus a daddy!~~" 

"Not gonna lie... however," I eagerly scoot closer to the screen, "I prefer Starscream & because he is hot with heels." 

I announce it out loud; Kia rolls her eyes before she says: "And Miguel O'Hara from Spiderman 2099 is a must!"

"Ohoho! You're a bold, decisive leader." We sigh together in a daydream world of our geekiness, crushing on hot fictional characters other than superheroes since it was released. We snap out of it before I clear my throat and watch Kia snap her fingers with an idea: "What about your uncle?" "He's the Green Lantern, right? So he knows about space?" 

As I think about this, she reminds me that I'm not in my house but in a spaceship.

I managed to persuade my uncle to let me tag along on his adventures, but I've since realized how foolish I was for not realizing that I was with aliens, apart from Aya, who is an artificial intelligence. I'm stuck with Uncle Hal, Kilowog, Aya, and now Razer, who's in a cell but saved me from harm earlier. 

Unfortunately, until the hyperjump is fixed, I have to go back to Earth. But I'm optimistic that won't be the case for much longer. I gave a tentative smile. "So he's friends with an alien, which could be helpful, right?" "Oh my God! Cass, you're a genius!" I was so excited that I stumbled slightly as I rose from my bed but quickly regained my balance. My main goal was to find my uncle to ask some questions, so I began my search. 

The spaceship we were on was pretty big, but I wasn't complaining about its size. There was a time when I wished it wasn't so confusing with so many doors. Fortunately, Aya came to my aid and offered her assistance, to which I expressed my gratitude by calling her my best friend.

I also explained what that was since she was trying to learn new words from me. When I got to the door, I found out that they were going to question Razer about holding me as a hostage, even though I was actually saved by him. I'm not sure why, but it might have been because it was the last request before Rev sacrificed himself, or maybe it was out of guilt. 

I grabbed my white notebook and headed over to the dining room. "Hi, everyone!" I said hello to everyone, "Hey Cass, how was your class today?" Uncle Hal asked with a smile.

"It was a good class..." 

"But?" I watched my uncle's curiosity about my science class as he began drinking water, and immediately, I had an idea to get a reaction out of him. I poked both my index fingers at each other and said, "But the professor assigned us to do an assignment about aliens' organs." I blurted out (on purpose) before Kilowog let his worm food drop out of his mouth while Uncle Hal choked on his drink, baffled in disbelief at what I just said:

"Aliens' organs?!" Uncle Hal exclaimed, his eyes widening as he coughed from the surprise. Kilowog burst into a deep, hearty laugh, causing the room to rumble slightly. 'After this conversation, Kia will laugh once the situation is out of order.' I thought.

"Seriously, Cass? You really know how to make an entrance," Killowog chuckled, shaking his head. I grinned mischievously, enjoying their reactions. "Well, it's not like I can help it. My professor knows how to keep things interesting."

Uncle Hal composed himself, wiping his mouth and setting down his water glass. "I hope you're not too traumatized by this assignment, Cass. But I suppose if anyone fits the task, it's you. After all, you're surrounded by aliens."

Kilowog wiped a tear from his eye, still chuckling. "Yeah, yeah, I'd love to see what kinda drawings you come up with for alien innards."

I pretended to look scandalized. "Oh, come on, Kilowog! I'm a serious student. I'll approach this with the utmost professionalism." Before I gave him a playful look, "And for the record, the organs are not my assignment, it's actually about Alien origins from different planets, and I need to choose one. Considering his work, I'm sure your uncle can provide some insider information."

Uncle Hal raised an eyebrow, his smile turning into a grin. "Oh, now you're looking to Kilowog for information on alien anatomy, huh?"

As the laughter died down, I turned a bit more serious. "But on a different note, Uncle Hal, I did want to talk to you about something related to that, so I've been thinking..."

He nodded, his expression turning attentive. "Sure, what's on your mind?"

"Do you mind if I ask Razer a bit about his species? It will get me a good grade." I hoped to convince Kilowog and Hal, who gave me puzzled looks, about why I was interested in learning about Razer's species. My uncle was unpleased with my request and grew intense, expressing his concern: "Cassandra, do you understand what you're asking for?" 

"Yes, absolutely!" I keep on trying to get Uncle Hal to see my point, "I know he did some terrible things, but you and Carol taught me that if you're kind to others, they'll be grateful and return the favor. And, as it happens, Razer saved my life, so I'd like to learn more about his species. Maybe if I understand where he came from, I can help him avoid going down a bad path."

Uncle Hal let out a sigh, his expression softening as he looked at me with concern and pride. "Cass, I appreciate your compassion. I do. But," he continues, "Razer has become a threat to the galaxy as a Red Lantern is a tricky situation. He's part of a group of Lanterns with a history of violence and aggression. While he's demonstrated that he can save you, exploring this further might not be straightforward and could potentially raise some challenging issues regarding your safety.

I gave him a look. Kilowog spoke up again, sounding more serious than before. "From what I've heard, the Red Lanterns are a group of bad guys who are fueled by rage. Razer used to be one of them. "Just be careful, kid." I tiredly nodded, getting the message a bunch of times.

"I know it won't be easy, and I don't want to make him uncomfortable." I paused before I continued on, "But I believe in second chances, and if there's even a small chance that learning about his species could help prevent it, I think it's worth trying."

Uncle Hal shared a look with Kilowog before turning his worried gaze back to me. "Alright, Cass. If you're set on doing this, I'm not going to stand in your way." He sighs and says, "But I need you to promise me you'll be careful and respectful... Razer hasn't said a word since we put him in the interceptor cell."

Kilowog gave a nod of agreement, "And if this Razer is uncomfortable talking about it, just give me a call to put his mind at ease." "I promise that it won't come to that." I firmly explained, "I won't push him if he's unwilling to share. But I'll try to approach this with sensitivity and understanding," I assured them. Uncle Hal reached over and ruffled my hair affectionately. 

"You've got a big heart, Cass. Just remember that not everyone is as open to change as you are. Just take things one step at a time." "Thanks, Uncle Hal. And thanks, Kilowog. I appreciate your advice," I said sincerely.

Kilowog grinned, his earlier laughter replaced with genuine warmth. "No problem, kiddo. Just don't come running to me if things get all emotional and mushy." 

As Aya began explaining regular check-ups on the ship's repairs. I went to the kitchen to pour a cup of water for Razer's cell...

(No Pov): At the cell in the spaceship...

Razer is seated on a hard bed and contemplating the Green Lanterns' plan to question and interrogate him about his actions and the whereabouts of the Red Lanterns' ship. After the demise of his wife, Illana, he was selected to become a Red Lantern. 

He experienced a profound emotional numbness, an absence of emotional response, and a lack of remorse. Deep within his impassive and emotionally detached psyche, Razer felt a complex array of emotions, including sadness, guilt, and rage, for his role in the death of the Green Lantern, who was regarded as innocent by the people. 

Razer persistently expressed a desire to be killed, stating, 'I wish to die... in honor of the Red Lanterns.' His train of thought was disrupted by the sound of a door opening and closing, "I thought you'd be here."

He blinked and looked up from his cell to see me. The human female, named Cassandra, thought, 'The Green Lanterns are foolish to send someone else to interrogate me.' He said nothing as he intently watched her take a seat with a chair facing his cell. Smiling, she ignored his stare and placed her notebook on her lap. "What do you want, human?" Razer sneered.

"That's a bit abrupt to start a conversation, don't you think?" Cassandra says, "I just came by to drop by and thought I'd get you something to eat, but I didn't know what to get, so I thought I'd bring you a glass of water." She started by holding out a cup of water for the Volkregian man in front of her. Razer stares at it and looks away.

"I'm fine, thanks." He turns down the offer in a cold tone.

Cassandra let out a little sigh before setting the cup of water down within his reach, "I know you might not want anything, but staying hydrated is important, especially if you're not eating." She leaned back slightly and looked at him earnestly: "Razer, I'm not here to interrogate you or make you uncomfortable. I just wanted to make a conversation."

"There is nothing to talk about other than you watch me gloat." Razer coldly taunts, waiting for her to react angrily, however, her expression is unwavering despite his hostility, "You seem to have a very low opinion of yourself," Cassandra countered, her voice steady. "You must know by now that the Green Lanterns see you merely as a prisoner. 

"And someone who could help them stop the Red Lanterns. But I see you as a person, not a prisoner." Razer's gaze flicked back to Cassandra, narrowed eyes assessing her as if she were an enigma wrapped in an irritating facade of kindness. Her words hung in the air, almost daring him to respond, yet he remained silent.

Cassandra leaned in a bit, resting her elbows on her knees. "I know you've had a lot of losses." You're going through a rough time. But you can't just shut yourself off completely and expect the pain to go away. "Trust me, I get it. I understand trauma, and I know you're not defined solely by your past actions."

"Do you think that you can come here and change my mind?" Razer fired back, his voice full of disdain, "I'm a Red Lantern. I welcome the pain; it gives me strength. You're talking to someone who is stuck in a cycle of vengeance. I'm not looking for redemption or understanding from the likes of you." 

He took a moment to collect himself, fighting back the emotions that threatened to overwhelm him, "Yes  I know," she nodded, picking up her notebook. "But the only thing I came here is to learn about your species so I can finish a project for my science class. I'm looking into the origins of alien species. I thought about it and figured you might be able to help me out since you're from an alien species."

Razer's eyebrows furrowed as he looked at her, a hint of disbelief in his eyes: 'This woman... out of all things, she picked me instead of the walking pig creature lantern or her relative for this nonsense? Is she really that dense?' Razer thought, a hint of disbelief in his eyes. "Why would I want to help you?" he replied, his tone indicating disinterest.

Cassandra met his gaze, undeterred by his bitterness. "Despite everything, you possess valuable knowledge that could aid my project. We're both part of this universe, Razer, whether you like it or not." Her words lingered, leaving him feeling hollow. Was there any common ground?

It felt strange and uncomfortable, seemingly unrelated to his path. "Why do you care?" he snapped, clearly annoyed. "You think you're reaching out with noble intent, but you're saying I'm extinct, right?"

Cassandra nodded, smiling genuinely. "Yes, that's exactly it. I know it might be difficult for you to talk about, but sharing your insights could really help me. And who knows, maybe by learning about your background, I can learn your language and we could become friends."

"I already doubt that." Razer crossed his arms, his guarded demeanor betraying unease. "Why is this important to you?"

"Because I believe in understanding others and finding common ground." She smiled at him. "I've seen the damage anger and hatred can cause, but I've also witnessed change and redemption."

He blinked in surprise, rarely receiving compliments. Cassandra raised an eyebrow at his sudden shift.

"Learning about your species can help me understand why things went wrong and how I can improve them."

Razer fell silent, glaring at the floor.

"Anyway, thanks for saving me..."

He blinked again, surprised since he rarely received thanks back at Shard. "You don't have to thank me," he replied.

Cassandra chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Maybe, but I want to. Plus, it's not every day you learn something new. You've been through a lot; I can't imagine what that's like."

Razer shifted uncomfortably, the weight of his experiences evident. "Do you really think you can just walk in and understand it all? It's not that simple."

"I know it's not," she replied seriously. "But every story has layers. If you're willing to share even a little of yours, it could mean a lot. I want to help close that gap, not just for my assignment, but for us too."

He narrowed his eyes, skeptical. "What if I don't trust you?"

"That's fair," Cassandra acknowledged. "I understand it takes time to build trust, and I respect that. I'm here whenever you're ready to talk. No pressure." Razer studied her for a long moment, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly.

"You're persistent, aren't you?" he said, a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

"Only when I believe in something," she replied with a playful grin. "And I believe in you, Razer. So, what do you think? Want to give it a shot?" He paused, torn between retreating and the flicker of hope within him.

Finally, he met her gaze again, vulnerability breaking through his guarded exterior. "Alright. But that doesn't mean we're friends."

Cassandra was relieved by his willingness. "That's all I ask. Just a little. Okay... what do you normally eat?" Now this made Razer's eyes snap toward her.

For some reason, Cassandra found it quietly excited to talk to Razer as she raised my hand and explained, "Don't worry," She said, wishing that she could facepalm herself and go straight to hell for asking something stupid: "It may be a stupid question, so bare it with me, okay?" 

Silence came between them until Razer gave in to answer her question, "...Usually, I eat raw meat. Since our hunger could only sustain for months, I usually eat when necessary." Cassandra listened intently, occasionally jotting down notes in her notebook. As he spoke, the tension in his shoulders seemed to ease a bit, still stiff, yet a connection began forming between them. 

Then she asked about his species attire, to which he explained that he was covered as he wore a dark gray tunic with long black sleeves and a belt bearing a Volkregian symbol.

Razer appeared deep in thought, reflecting on Cassandra's words and questions. He reached for the cup of water beside her and took a sip. Though her honesty had left him somewhat pensive, he remained resentful towards the Green Lanterns while endeavoring to please Cassandra. "I... can tell you about my species." He continues, "But it does not mean it will be as simple as this therapy session you are pulling off to get any information for those pesky Green Lanterns."

"This may feel like therapy to you," she continued and stared directly into his blue eyes with her silver ones in an intense staring contest, "But I can assure you I'm willing to listen Razer. Take your time, and share what you're comfortable sharing."

In the cramped cell, Razer gradually revealed details about his species, except for the events that led to his transformation into a Red Lantern; Which she respected and continued asking him. Once Cassandra had gathered all the information she needed about Razer's kind, she stood up from the floor beside his cell and offered him a smile. 

"I appreciate your honesty and your time, I hope I can visit you only without assignments next time," She said and got up to close her notebook as she took the empty cup from him but before Cassandra could exit the room, Razer spoke:

"...Don't waste your time on visiting me again, human." Cassandra was taken aback by Razer's words, but she still held onto hope that her kindness towards him would be reciprocated, as she wished that he could share the same curiosity and willingness to be kind.

--The chapter ended!--

This is my chapter, and now I can return to the real deal.