The rooftop Marcus had landed on offered a panoramic view of Gateway City. In the wake of the storm's fury, the city lay before him, bathed in the golden light of the sun breaking through the residual clouds. The air smelled of ozone and the sea, a fresh, invigorating combination.
He observed the skyline, a blend of classic architecture and modern structures—less overwhelming than Metropolis, less oppressive than Gotham. It was a city that seemed to breathe, with wide thoroughfares, green parks, and in the distance, the shimmering waters of the bay. This was Diana's city. One could almost sense a touch of her grace and strength here.
His first move was to take out his communicator. He keyed in the Watchtower frequency, specifically Wonder Woman's private channel.
After a few seconds, Diana's clear, recognizable voice answered. "Diana here. Marcus? According to your signal, you're... in Gateway City?"
"Just arrived," he confirmed, a smile in his voice. "I thought it was my turn to see where one of the greatest heroes I know hangs her hat—if she wears one."
Diana's light laugh was a pleasant melody. "I prefer a tiara; it's lighter. This is a welcome surprise. Where are you exactly?"
Marcus briefly described his vantage point. "A rooftop near Bay Park. The view is stunning from here."
"Wait for me there," Diana said. "Let me finish one thing, and I'll join you. I'll be there in... let's say twenty minutes. At normal speed, that is."
"Take your time. I'll enjoy the scenery."
The communication ended, and Marcus sat on the edge of the roof, letting his legs dangle over the side. He watched the city come back to life below. Cars were beginning to move again after the bad weather, pedestrians flooding the sidewalks. It was a normal, peaceful scene. Yet he knew that behind this normality lay the same challenges, the same dangers as in any major city. But under Diana's vigilant protection, it seemed to maintain a particular serenity.
He thought back on his journey, on the fury of the elements he had traversed to get here. It was an incredible power, to be able to ride the wind like that, to play with storms. But it was also a responsibility. Every city he visited reminded him of the importance of their shared mission.
Twenty minutes later, right on time, a familiar figure landed with aerial grace on the rooftop beside him. Diana Prince, dressed in an elegant yet simple civilian coat, smiled at him.
"So, you braved the storm to visit me?" she said, sitting down next to him.
"The airlines were grounded. I improvised," he replied with a shrug. "I have to admit, Gateway City has charm. One can feel... your touch."
Diana nodded, her gaze drifting to the horizon. "It's my home away from Themyscira. A place worth protecting, like all the others."
She turned to him. "So, what would you like to see? I can show you the spots the tourist guides don't mention."
Marcus stood up, a spark of curiosity in his eyes. "After such an eventful landing, I'm in your hands. Show me Wonder Woman's real city."
Diana smiled at him, and together, they left the rooftop, descending towards the bustling streets of Gateway City, ready to explore the city's hidden treasures.