Lanterns’ sixth episode traversed viewers to present day as John Stewart learns of Hal Jordan’s death. We learn a lot transpired since 2016, when the trainer and trainee went their separate ways after defeating the Manhunter.

Stewart wore the ring for five years before departing for an architect career with his brother Marcus — the only family member he’s close with. He’s in the midst of closing a lucrative deal when his estranged mother calls and lies that Hal wants to apologize.

Hal was decommissioned and sentenced to a decade in prison, before returning to the Nebraska town for a divorced Kerry — the only person who forgave him. His attempts to make amends were met with hate as the city never recovered from the destruction he unleashed.

Despite their clear bitterness, the two former Green Lanterns have a level of respect for each other, so much so that John prepares a military funeral for the fallen hero. Against best judgment, John summons current Lantern, Guy Gardner, to steal Hal’s suit and ring for the ceremony. Hal’s former love, Carol Farris, arrives with the eulogy Hal had prepared. His words are a deep, sad contrast to reality, as he envisioned a valiant send-off attended by global dignitaries and thankful citizens. Instead, three people attend his lonely descent.

Rather than return home, John remains in Rushville, as a part of him never left. With news that Sinestro has escaped, John snags the ring off Jordan’s corpse and summons Halogram to find out who killed his maker.

This episode painted a somber picture of heroism and the casualties attached to that responsibility. Hal Jordan lived long enough to see himself become the villain, a lonely existence John Stewart knows all too well. This unfortunate penance seems to bond him and Hal, even after death, making him the only person capable to solving his murder.

“Bad Optics” is wonderfully written, depicting so much in subtle conversations. The white rage in John’s encounter with Billy Macon (Jason Ritter) and the angry mob; the lone conversation with the diner’s waitress; John’s estranged phone calls with his family; all consequences of being “Chosen.” It’s a heavy burden to carry but makes for exquisite television.

And the seamless inclusion of Nathan Fillon’s Gardner, a direct link to the DCU’s Superman, shows the writers ability to weave the small and cinematic worlds with ease.

Just as folks feared the series had lost steam by ending the Manhunter storyline, episode 6 carries the torch with anticipation to see what happens next.

Rating: 9/10