Under Michael's quiet direction, Metropolis underwent a significant transformation. Queen Consolidated's investments poured into urban renewal projects, creating affordable housing, revitalizing neglected infrastructure, and fostering a sense of cautious optimism. The city, once overshadowed by LexCorp's monolithic presence, began to breathe anew.
Superman observed these changes with a growing sense of hope. The city felt safer, more equitable. He found himself genuinely liking Michael Queen, the pragmatic yet surprisingly compassionate businessman who had seemingly rescued Metropolis from Luthor's grip.
During the dedication ceremony for a Queen Consolidated-funded science academy, Superman remarked, "You've done a remarkable thing for this city, Michael. You've given them a future."
Michael's smile held a hint of something darker. "A future I intend to shape, Superman. A future where stability reigns." And where threats like Lex Luthor are… neutralized.
Luthor, stewing in his opulent penthouse, his hatred for Superman now inextricably intertwined with a burning resentment for Michael Queen, watched the city's transformation with a venomous gaze. He saw Queen not as a savior, but as a usurper, a more subtle and therefore more dangerous enemy. His plans for revenge began to coalesce, fueled by a desperate need to reclaim his lost power.