AM I SUPERMAN?

President Abraham leaned back in his chair, his professional smile masking the skepticism behind his words. Clearing his throat, he addressed the room, his gaze fixed on Kaius.

"Mr. Avenger," he began, "if you do not intend to disclose your identities publicly, how can you assure us that you act in good faith? Transparency fosters trust, and without it, collaboration becomes... complicated."

Abraham's tone was measured, but his concern was clear. Without an external threat looming, the balance of power was critical. While the Justice League's legitimacy had been recognized, Abraham, as the leader of the United States, saw the League's existence as a potential challenge to national security. An organization with the power to crush the U.S. military—even if only theoretically—was an unsettling prospect.

To him, open cooperation was the only way to ensure a semblance of balance. And, with figures like Superman—who had admitted to having family and friends on Earth—Abraham believed leverage existed to keep them in check.

Kaius, now carrying the Godhead of Judgment, felt the weight of the room's tension but remained calm. With his newfound divine power, influencing mortal minds was almost effortless. His voice carried a subtle, resonating authority as he replied:

"Mr. President, General Swanwick, General Lane..." Kaius's gaze swept across the room, his tone firm but composed. "We do not disclose our identities because, while we wear the mantle of heroes to protect this world, we are also human. Without our suits, we are simply people who wish to live ordinary lives, free from interference."

As Kaius's words filled the room, a quiet but inexplicable sense of agreement began to settle over the officials. Unbeknownst to them, his divine power subtly reinforced his argument, making his statement resonate with undeniable logic—even if it wasn't airtight.

President Abraham found himself nodding. "I understand your reasoning, Mr. Avenger. On behalf of the United States government, I pledge not to pursue the identities of the Justice League's members in any way, shape, or form." He signed the agreement, finalizing the clause.

Encouraged by the president's commitment, General Swanwick and General Lane added their signatures. "We, too, pledge the military's support in respecting the privacy of the League's members," they said in unison.

With the first clause finalized, Kaius allowed himself a small smile. "Now, gentlemen, there's just one other matter. Mr. President, don't you think the Justice League's annual funding allocation is a bit... modest?"

Abraham's professional smile froze. He straightened in his chair, his inner thoughts racing. Absolutely not. Not another dime. Even if I have to tear down the 'Viewing the Sea and Listening to the Waves' calligraphy on my wall, you're not getting more funding!

"Twenty percent of the Seventh Military Region's budget has already been allocated to the League," Abraham said coolly. "That's more than the CIA's annual operating expenses."

Kaius leaned forward, his tone turning persuasive. "Mr. President, this isn't about me or the League. It's about the millions of people we serve. Every dollar is taken from the people, and every dollar is used for the people."

Kaius leaned back in his chair, a sly smirk playing on his lips. His gaze shifted to President Abraham, tinged with admiration. "Mr. President, you truly are a leader who cares deeply for his people. A model of service to the nation. And what about you, Generals? What do you say?"

His voice carried the faint undertones of his divine power, a subtle but irresistible influence that softened even the most stubborn hearts. Both General Swanwick and General Lane visibly tensed, their postures rigid, but their expressions betrayed a growing admiration for Kaius's words.

It was as though a switch had been flipped within them, and any lingering doubts dissolved into a sudden wave of patriotic fervor.

General Lane shot to his feet, his voice firm and resolute. "The Seventh Military District is willing to allocate 20% of its military budget to the Justice League!"

Not to be outdone, General Swanwick quickly followed suit. "The North American Air Force Command will commit 40% of its budget to supporting the League!"

Kaius, suppressing a chuckle at the absurd generosity, rose from his seat and shook their hands enthusiastically. "You are true patriots! On behalf of the people of the United States, I salute you both!"

Moved by Kaius's apparent passion, the room was soon filled with a shared sense of accomplishment. Even President Abraham, typically measured and calculating, couldn't help but feel the infectious energy. Tears welled in his eyes as the weight of their commitment sank in.

"Gentlemen," Kaius said, waving for them to sit down again, "now that we've settled funding, let's discuss authority and operational structure."

For the next few hours, the discussion shifted to technicalities. President Abraham attempted to introduce the idea of embedding government agents within the Justice League to "assist" their operations.

Kaius immediately saw through the ploy. "I appreciate the suggestion, Mr. President, but the League already has specialists covering every aspect of our work. We don't need outside help."

Kaius elaborated further, his tone polite but firm.

"Weapons and equipment are designed and maintained by Batman. Our database is safeguarded with Kryptonian-level encryption thanks to Superman's father's AI. Security and patrol logistics are expertly managed by Fiora-La. And as the League grows, we'll have even more specialists. Barry Allen is faster than any courier, Arthur Curry doubles as both protector and plumber, Caitlin Snow can handle temperature regulation, and, well, Poison Ivy could take care of our landscaping if she ever joins," he said with a smirk.

Abraham's attempt to control the League through embedded agents was deftly countered, leaving the President no choice but to relent.

Despite the initial resistance, the meeting ultimately concluded with a series of agreements heavily favoring the Justice League. Under the subtle influence of Kaius's divine persuasion, Abraham and the generals signed several clauses that cemented the League's independence and operational authority.

In truth, the divine power woven into Kaius's words created a mental impression that made them believe these decisions were their own. By the end of the negotiations, they were so convinced of their patriotism and wisdom that when the Secretary of State later questioned the agreements, all three officials staunchly defended them.

"We agreed to this," Abraham had said firmly. "And it was the right thing to do for the country."

General Swanwick and General Lane had nodded in unison, their loyalty unshaken.

Later that evening, back in the Batcave, Kaius retrieved a set of elegant, light blue invitations. Each bore the words "Justice League Invitation" written in graceful English script.

With the foundational agreements in place and the League's headquarters nearing completion, it was time to formally extend the call to heroes across the world.

Holding one of the invitations in his hand, Kaius smiled. "The world is about to change," he said to himself, the silver glow of his divine power flickering faintly around him.

The Justice League was ready to rise.

Visit patreon.com/shirokendama to read up to 190+ chapters