Chapter 24: Arias Makes His Official Debut

The commissioner was a little taken aback to hear Arias wanted to speak as well and was concerned he might discuss his unfair treatment and case, which would only undermine public confidence in the police among Gotham citizens.

The commissioner was giving Arias a dubious look, but he tapped the man on the shoulder and reassured him.

"Don't worry, it's nothing negative. In fact, it's the total opposite."

Commissioner Gordon hesitated for a moment but it wasn't like stopping him now would mean the media couldn't reach him another so he let Arias do as he pleased.

Vicki Vale was standing in front of the barricade with other reporters when the two approached her.

Arias could only assume she struck a deal for privileged coverage and interviews in exchange for the information she had given the police.

"Yes miss Vale?" The commissioner approached her even though he didn't appear in the least bit pleased to see her. He appeared prepared to answer any questions she might have.

Vicki grinned and started asking questions. "Gotham as a whole is curious about the man standing next to you and if the charges against him are as true as the mayor claims?"

The commisoner cleared his throat and moved closer to the microphone before speaking as numerous flashes from cameras lit up.

"All allegations made against Mr. Markovic are untrue. A detailed statement regarding this will be released by our spokesperson later today but I can assure you now, this young man standing before me is innocent and was the victim of foul play. That is all."

After concluding his remarks, the commissioner moved aside, drawing attention to the tall young man standing next to him.

"Over here Mr. Markovic!"

"Here? Please answer a few questions."

He simply stepped over to where Commissioner Gordon had been standing, only a few inches away from Vicki, as some reporters pushed to get the official statement from him before she could.

Vicki asked with a triumphant grin and raised her hand as high as she could considering the large disparity.

"Is this all true Mr. Markovic? If yes, then what are your thoughts on the changes happening in Gotham? It's also been said you grew up in Gotham, will you be staying to invest the supposed millions you made from gambling in Las Vegas or do you feel you aren't safe in be city?" Vicki fired off what she thought were the most enticing tales and eagerly awaited a reply.

Arias looked down at her before clearing his throat and focusing his attention on the camera. His cold and collected visage apparent to everyone.

"Wether it's true or not eludes even me, what started out as journey to see my friend had turned into a battle for my life, I'm unsure of the exact reasons that lead to that situation but I'm content with it being over, I only hope Dmitri is well wherever he is and that he will see this and know we no longer need to flee for our lives."

"Regarding the changes, they're a start, but that's far from enough to overturn the image Gotham has to the world, having grown up here I understand that fact all to well. And that's why I'll be staying, I plan on creating an organization that aims to create not only a better future for Gotham but humanity as a whole."

Arias spoke with unrestrained confidence, enticing anyone who heard him in different homes with his formal speech patterns and foreign accent.

"Don't you think that's a big undertaking? You're only 21 and don't even have a formal tertiary education, not to mention your wealth was attained from gambling. Aren't you afraid you will face a lot of criticism?" Vicki enquired while grinning broadly and savoring the juicy information Arias was providing.

Even she was shocked when Arias, in response to her question, started to grin pleasantly for a time before shaking his head. After that fleeting laugh, his expression rapidly went back to being as icy as always.

"Whether they criticize me or not, my success will still be assured. Too much was lost to create this opportunity for Gotham and it's people, myself included… so I refuse to lose anything else."

After that, Arias simply turned around and left.

Vicki waved her hand at him to gain his attention so she could ask him more questions, but he didn't turn around.

The commissioner escorted Arias over to a police vehicle where the two exchanged a public handshake that was captured from multiple angles.

"Are you serious about staying to change Gotham? It's still dangerous even without a good number of the big fish. You have the super villains and other unsavory individuals to watch out for still, I can't promise I'll be able to protect you given all that is happening."

Arias nodded without hesitation in response to the Commissioner's question as he took hold of his hand.

"Like I said before, I don't plan on wasting this opportunity. As for the risks? Nothing I haven't already considered."

The commissioner smiled and sighed helplessly at the young man's determination before breaking the handshake.

"Thank you again for cooperating, it may not seem like it but this whole situation has given many residents hope, myself included."

Arias gave the commissioner an appreciative nod before getting into the car without saying anything in return.

A police officer pulled up shortly after and drove him away.

Arias sat down and exhaled, seeming happy despite his weariness.

'Now I can truly start building my organization.'