Lanterns' fourth episode, "The Weenie", pushes its central plot forward as Hal Jordan and John Stewart investigate the Manhunter threat looming over Rushville, Nebraska. The episode balances tense confrontations with mounting stakes, as Antaan's forces close in and the two Green Lanterns must decide whether they can trust each other enough to work together, all while facing pressure from their own superiors within the Guardians.

Hal briefly reunites with the imprisoned Sinestro, who reveals key information about Manhunters and admits Hal's true motive: grooming John as his replacement. Meanwhile, John investigates a hidden structure on William Macon's ranch, and the pair later brief Sheriff Kerry Kane on the danger facing the town. The episode closes with the Guardian Lianna reprimanding John for his father breaking protocol and issuing him new orders to formally take up the Green Lantern mantle the next time Hal offers him the ring.