Batman and Superman walked out of the Leviathan residential building still feeling pressed about their recent encounter with Arias.
The night was cool, with a slight breeze rustling the leaves of the nearby trees. The cityscape around them was alive with lights and distant sounds of urban activity.
As they reached the street, Superman turned to Batman, his cape gently flowing in the wind. "Bruce," he began, his voice a low rumble, "how do you feel about what Arias said back there?"
Batman paused, his gaze fixed on the distant skyline. He took a moment to gather his thoughts, his mind still heavy with the weight of Arias's words. "I'll contact you later," he replied, his voice calm. "We need to discuss this privately."
Superman nodded, understanding the seriouness of the situation. "Alright," he said, his eyes reflecting the concern he felt. "I'll be waiting." With that, he launched himself into the sky, leaving a trail of red and blue streaks behind as he ascended rapidly into the night.
Batman watched him go, his thoughts just as heavy. He pressed a button on his wrist communicator, establishing a secure line to Alfred. "Alfred, are you there?" he asked, his voice softened slightly when addressing his trusted confidant.
"Always, Master Bruce," Alfred's familiar and reassuring voice crackled through the communicator.
"I need you to call Robin and Batgirl back to the manor," Batman instructed. "We have a situation that requires their immediate attention."
"Understood, sir," Alfred replied without hesitation. "And the Leviathan building, sir?"
"Focus the satellite over the building," Batman ordered. "I want eyes on every inch of it. Any unusual activity, and I want to know about it immediately."
"Consider it done, sir," Alfred affirmed. "Anything else?"
"Not for now," Batman said, his eyes narrowing as he continued to stare at the Leviathan building. "I'll be heading back to the Batcave soon. Prepare everything we have on Arias and his recent activities."
"Of course, sir," Alfred acknowledged. "I'll have it ready for your return."
Batman ended the communication and took a deep breath. He knew that Arias was playing a dangerous game, and the stakes were higher than ever. As he slipped into the shadows, making his way to the Batmobile, his mind was already racing with strategies and contingencies.
———
Back in the lavish lounge of the Leviathan residential building, Cheshire and Tala were on their knees in front of Arias, their hands ready to undo his pants.
Arias leaned back in his chair, with a faint smile on his lips as he watched the two women. Their eyes glimmered with eagerness and devotion, reflecting their willingness to please him.
Just as Cheshire's fingers began to slowly work at his belt buckle, Arias's phone buzzed loudly, shattering the moment.
Arias held up a hand, signaling them to stop. Both Cheshire and Tala froze, their expressions shifting to visible disappointment. Cheshire's playful smirk faded, replaced by a slight pout, while Tala's sultry gaze turned into a frown of irritation.
Arias glanced at the caller ID and saw the name: Dr. October. His demeanor changed instantly, the relaxed pleasure giving way to focused attention. He immediately answered the call.
"Dr. October," Arias greeted, his tone calm yet commanding. "This must be important."
On the other end, Dr. October's voice came through, with a hint of urgency. "Arias, I apologize for interrupting you, but this matter is sensitive and relates to 'the' project. I need to speak with you in person."
Arias's eyes narrowed slightly as he listened. The project she referred to was one of utmost importance and could not be discussed over unsecured lines. "I understand," he replied, his voice steady. "I'll be there shortly. Where can I find you?"
"I'm in my lab, sublevel three," Dr. October answered. "Please come as soon as you can."
"I'll be there," Arias confirmed before ending the call. He looked down at Cheshire and Tala, both still kneeling and awaiting his next move. "I'm afraid we'll have to continue this another time," he said, his voice softening slightly.
Cheshire sighed, her disappointment evident. "Always business with you, boss," she teased, though her tone lacked its usual playful edge.
Tala's frown deepened, but she nodded obediently. "Ofcourze, mazter. We will vwait for you."
Arias stood up, adjusting his attire before giving them both a reassuring smile. "Patience, my dears. There are important matters to attend to. But I promise, we'll have our time."
Arias stepped out of the lounge, the soft hum of the air conditioning filling the silence as he approached the two guards stationed outside.
The guards stood at attention as he approached, their eyes showing a hint of uncertainty.
"I need you to inform your commanding officer that I want to go somewhere," Arias instructed, his tone calm but authoritative.
The guards exchanged confused glances. "Sir, you were brought here less than 20 minutes ago," one of them answered cautiously. "Are you sure—"
"Just do it," Arias interrupted, his patience wearing thin.
The guard hesitated briefly before pressing the communication device in his ear. "Commander, this is Unit 7. Mr. Markovich requests to leave the premises immediately."
A crackle of static preceded the commander's response. "Negative, Unit 7. It's too dangerous to move without at least a few hours of preparation. Maintain your position."
Arias scoffed loudly, his eyes narrowing as he reached out and snatched the communication device from the guard. "Commander," he began, "I'm going whether you agree or not. You can either play your role as a good government pet and escort me, or you can try and stop me. But be advised, only one of those options has a good ending."
There was a moment of tense silence on the line before the commander's reluctant reply came through. "Understood, Mr. Markovich. We'll prepare for immediate departure."
"Wise choice," Arias replied before tossing the device back to the guard. "Inform your men to get ready. I won't wait long."
The guard caught the device awkwardly and nodded, quickly relaying the commander's orders to the rest of the security detail.
Arias turned back toward the elevator and walked in. The irritation of dealing with the government's overreach was a constant thorn in his side, but it was a necessary measure for the plans he had ahead.