Ignoring the surprised reactions from the three, Arias remained relaxed as he added, "Of course, it's not like I expect you to just let them walk out, but I'm sure you can handle that much, Commissioner."
"You had me arrest them just so that they could escape. Even if arresting Wonder Woman and Harley didn't draw much attention, letting them escape is just too suspicious," the Commissioner replied.
Arias agreed with the Commissioner's point. "It is. However, your superiors will have no choice but to launch an investigation into this. By that time, I would have already begun setting a plan in motion—one that requires Harley and Diana."
Harley chimed in, "Oh!~ I get it. So all this was your plan, Mr. M? I didn't see it coming."
Diana, on the other hand, showed a confused expression. "Does this mean I am not in the wrong?" she asked, still puzzled by the unfolding events. But Arias nodded nonetheless.
"Well, between the life of a rapist or the lives of thousands—maybe even millions—of superhumans, I'll choose to save the latter. What about you, Commissioner?"
The Commissioner sighed, scratching his head. "You really don't make this easy, but fine. What do you need me to do?"
Arias stood up. "I'm sure you'll figure it out. I know Harley can put on a convincing act. It doesn't need to be perfect, because even if an investigation is carried out and you are relieved from duty for it, it won't last. Trust me on that. With the way things are going right now, even the government can't afford to divert attention this way. The risks are far too great this time."
Diana, cutting in, said, "If something troubles you, allow me to help. Whatever it may be, I, Diana, will not hesitate to play my part to assist you." Arias acknowledged Diana's comment.
"I know, and that's exactly what you and Harley will be doing by going to Markovia. Mercy will brief you on the details. For now, you two just focus on escaping. Although the Commissioner might let you slip out, the Justice League or other enforcement agencies will try to stop you. So, while it may sound simple on the surface, it's anything but. However, I trust you both to handle it."
Diana puffed out her chest proudly. If she still had her sword, she would have likely raised it high. "I will not let your faith in me be unfounded, Arias."
At this point, Harley also puffed out her chest. "Yeah, what she said, Mr. M."
Arias smiled and nodded. "I appreciate the confidence. Well then, I'll leave you two to it."
At this time, the Commissioner couldn't help but ask, "How did you even get in here, and how do you plan on leaving?"
For this, Arias didn't need to answer. Shortly after the Commissioner said this, a dark portal began to emerge from a nearby shelf, drawing everyone's attention.
Arias simply began walking toward it, saying, "Don't worry about it. Well, until we meet again."
Saying nothing more, Arias disappeared through the portal. Diana showed a determined gaze, ready to implement the plan immediately. However, Harley was quicker, suddenly lunging at the Commissioner, stripping the gun from his waist, and putting it to his head.
Without warning, she opened the door and yelled, "All right, listen up! You're gonna let us out right now, or I'll blow his brains out."
Diana was taken by surprise at Harley's actions. "Harley, what are you doing?"
"I'm getting us a way out. You just make sure no bullets come our way."
Diana was helpless to argue with her friend and could do nothing but participate in the rather chaotic escape that had just begun.
…
Meanwhile, another portal opened up on Arias's yacht, which was now in the Atlantic, not too far from the coast of Metropolis. On the deck, Arias could see Cheshire leaning against the rail with her arms crossed, waiting patiently, while Raven stood closest to him, having operated the portal.
Further away, near the entry door, stood a nervous Dr. June, who had regained control over her own body after Enchantress and Ivy's mission was complete.
Seeing Arias, June was quick to speak up. "Since when did the plan change? You told me we'd only have to hit three cities. Now the whole damn country is probably looking for me."
Arias rested his hands in his pockets, tilting his head toward Ivy, not fazed in the least by June's complaints. "From what I know, you're an escaped convict with multiple life sentences already. I wouldn't say it makes much of a difference. Though perhaps if you were caught and held accountable for these actions, the death penalty may be more in line for you next."
Arias was obviously teasing, but Ivy didn't appreciate it. She wanted to clap back but remembered who she was talking to and swallowed her words instead, clicking her tongue in irritation. *Tsk.* "So what now?" Ivy asked.
All eyes were on Arias.
"For now, you lay low in one of my safehouses while I continue to set a few things in motion. Once I'm done, I'll meet you there so we can start the next phase of the plan, which will take place close to that area."
Ivy furrowed her brows, not liking where this was going. "Which area exactly?"
Arias casually answered, "Mexico."