Infinite DC: World's Finest Mix-Up

Part One

Craig ran as fast as his legs could go through the creek. He zoomed past the Trading Tree, bobbing and weaving in-and-out between groups of kids. He heard Kit tell him something, but he was too busy – too excited – to stop and chat. He had to get to the Stump right away.

He's waiting for me. I can't make him wait for too long.

He was completely out of breath by the time he reached the Stump, sweat beating across his brow. Regardless of his exhaustion, he was thrilled to see what he rushed all the way there to see: Neas standing in front of his open Type-Z TARDIS with his arms crossed and a smile on his face.

"You made it," he told Craig.

"I...did...big bro," he huffed. Once he took a large gulp of water from the bottle he kept in his Purse of Holding, he said to Neas with reinvigorated energy, "I'm finally ready!"

Neas frowned. "Ready for what?"

"Ready to go on a journey with you through the Infinite D.C.!"

"I'm afraid it's too late, Craig."

Craig felt the enthusiasm drain from his body again; his hopes and dreams dashed. "What? Why not?"

"I never prepared you for this day."

"What day?"

"The day when I had to regenerate...become an entirely new person."

"But it's O.K. I know all about your regeneration and that you'll one day turn into Maureen. I totally understand. No matter what, you'll always be my big bro, remember? You'll never forget about me."

Neas let out a heartbroken sigh. "I wish that were true, Craig," he lamented. "But someday I will forget you."

Craig was crushed to hear him say this, tears streaming down his face.