Chapter 157: Operation Markovic Part 1

A week had passed since the date for the launch of the Tara Markov initiative had been announced, along with a lavish dinner and gathering at the Markovian Royal Palace for donors and invited guests. What began as a simple event had become one of the most talked-about events of the year, as it would reveal whether Terra Markovic was, in fact, the missing Tara Markov.

However, the event did not escape controversy. King Viktor of Markovia made headlines by including Arias Markovic on his guest list, a move that essentially declared his support for the man. During a press conference, the king was asked about Arias's inclusion, and he responded with full transparency.

"All I see is the man who saved my daughter," King Viktor stated firmly. "I cannot and will not judge a man whose circumstances I do not understand. That said, I will not tolerate any foreign military harassing my guests. Markovia will view such an act as a clear indication of war."

The king's statement was directed squarely at the American government, effectively warning them not to interfere with Arias during his visit. Being among America's most wanted, there were fears that operatives might attempt to capture Arias during the event. But with King Viktor's declaration, any such plans were thrown into disarray. No president would risk war in the final months of their term—especially with no guarantee of success.

But not everyone was so easily deterred…

At 8 p.m. on Friday, the night before the launch, the Justice League gathered in the Hall of Justice. Though the mission was designated for the senior members, the junior team had also assembled, eager to hear the debrief and hopeful that they might be included in the operation.

This time, it was Superman leading the briefing instead of Batman. Standing at the head of the large oval table in the conference room, Superman projected an air of intensity, the image of Arias Markovic displayed on the holographic screen above the table.

"You're all familiar with Arias Markovic," Superman began, his voice steady but stern. "But what many don't realize is just how dangerous he truly is."

The image shifted to a photo of Arias standing with Diana and Harley after the Gotham incident. Superman's frown deepened as he continued, "Wonder Woman was misled by him, coerced into seeing the world differently. It's this ability to manipulate and draw people in that makes him more dangerous than even Lex Luthor."

Kid Flash leaned toward Robin and muttered, "Sounds like his power is charisma and money, if you ask me."

Unfortunately, Kid Flash's words didn't escape Superman's super hearing. He shot the speedster a sharp glare, causing him to straighten up and mumble, "Sorry..."

The Flash sighed, shaking his head, while Superman pressed on. "As of now, we don't know exactly what his endgame is, but none of our theories are good. Which brings us to the gathering in Markovia."

The screen shifted to a map of Markovia and its royal palace. "The king has made it clear that no arrests will be allowed on his soil, and we'll respect that. But we're planning to intercept Arias as soon as he crosses out of Markovian borders or airspace."

Batman, who had remained silent until now, furrowed his brows and voiced his concerns. "We have no idea how he plans to enter or leave the country, what security measures he has in place, or what other methods he might have to deal with League members. This kind of operation is nearly impossible without proper intel, especially given our lack of cohesion as a team."

Superman, however, appeared particularly impatient. Batman had suspected that this was related to the Kryptonite bullet Arias had used against him, though he doubted that was the entire reason. The tension between them had been palpable since Superman's recovery.

Superman's irritation flared. "So what do you suggest, Batman? That we do nothing and let him get away with everything he's done?"

Batman didn't reply, but Green Arrow chimed in. "What he's supposedly done, you mean. I've read through his files, and there's no solid proof linking him to Amanda Waller's murder. You can argue about the agents he dealt with, but what if there's more to this? I didn't sign up to be a puppet for a corrupt government."

Green Arrow's words resonated with several members of the League. The media coverage of Arias had been largely positive, and without firsthand knowledge, much of what they knew was based on speculation.

Black Canary backed him up. "I agree. Without sufficient evidence, I'm not comfortable going after a man who may be innocent."

Green Lantern, however, voiced a different opinion. "Something just doesn't sit right with me. Call it a gut feeling, but no one that perfect is really clean. The guy's got 'bad news' written all over him."

The room was clearly divided, and Superman's frustration boiled over. "I've met him. For those of you who don't know, he nearly killed me because I underestimated him. If we don't act, he'll keep spreading this false image until it's too late."

Before the conversation could spiral into a full-blown argument, Batman stepped in to propose a compromise. "Let's meet halfway. We conduct a reconnaissance mission. We gather intel, observe Arias's movements, and decide together if he's truly a threat that needs to be neutralized."

Batman's eyes moved to Black Canary and Green Arrow. "To ensure impartiality, the junior team will handle this mission, with Black Canary and Green Arrow acting as supervisors. Any objections?"

Both Black Canary and Green Arrow nodded in agreement, and though Superman looked displeased, he reluctantly stood. "Fine. But don't underestimate him."

As the room settled, Batman's eyes narrowed in thought, already planning for the mission ahead.