As Michael's influence over Starling City solidified its position as a beacon of stability and technological advancement (under his silent management), the Justice League found themselves in a complex position. They couldn't deny the positive changes in the city, nor could they ignore the subtle undercurrent of control and the unexplained anomalies surrounding Michael Queen.
Superman, during a League meeting, admitted, "Crime rates in Starling are at an all-time low. Their technological infrastructure is the envy of the world. Queen's philanthropic efforts are significant."
Wonder Woman countered, her Amazonian intuition sensing more beneath the surface, "Yet, there is a certain… orchestration to it all. A precision that feels less like altruism and more like… design."
Batman, ever the pragmatist, stated, "He provides assistance, often crucial assistance, without seeking recognition or joining our ranks. His motives remain unclear, but his actions, thus far, have been… beneficial."
The League reached a tentative consensus: monitor Michael Queen closely but acknowledge his positive impact, at least for now. They understood he operated on a different level, with a different set of rules.
Michael, aware of their ongoing surveillance, continued to play his part, occasionally offering cryptic advice or technological solutions during global crises, further cementing his image as a powerful but ultimately enigmatic force for stability. During a global cyber pandemic that threatened to cripple the world's infrastructure, Queen Consolidated, under Michael's direction, developed and released a universally compatible decryption algorithm with astonishing speed, earning global praise and further solidifying his influence.
"Remarkable," Superman commented to Batman. "How did they develop this so quickly?"
Batman, reviewing the algorithm's intricate code, muttered, "It's almost… too efficient. As if they anticipated the attack."
Michael, observing the global reaction, allowed a quiet satisfaction. Sometimes, the best way to control the game is to be the one who provides the rules.