Batman's arrival in Starling City was characteristically understated, a silent descent from the shadows onto a rooftop overlooking the Queen mansion.
His meeting with Michael was anything but warm, the Dark Knight's intense gaze scrutinizing every aspect of the younger man, his body language radiating suspicion.
"Queen," Batman began, his voice a low growl, "Zatanna's description of your abilities… it's difficult to reconcile with anything I've encountered."
Michael met his gaze steadily, resisting the urge to make a sarcastic remark. "I assure you, being a conduit for primal energy wasn't exactly on my post-island to-do list."
"Lian Yu changes people," Batman countered, his eyes narrowing. "Often for the worse. What are your intentions?"
"To protect my family and my city," Michael replied simply. "Same as you, I imagine."
Zatanna, mediating between the two, interjected with a playful sigh. "Honestly, you two have all the charm of a gargoyle convention. Can we at least try for a modicum of civility?"
Batman's gaze flickered to Zatanna, a hint of something unreadable in his expression. "The warning you received. The 'greater darkness.' What do you know?"
Michael recounted the cryptic encounter, the unease still lingering in his voice. Batman listened intently, his analytical mind piecing together the fragmented information.
He tested Michael with a series of pointed questions, probing his understanding of his powers and his motivations.
It was a silent trial, a test of intent measured in words and subtle energy readings. By the end of their tense meeting, while Batman's suspicion hadn't entirely dissipated, a seed of cautious curiosity had been planted. He recognized a genuine desire to protect within Michael, even if the source of his power remained an enigma.