In the White House Situation Room, President Ellis watched intently as Pierce and Fury provided running commentary through their secure line.
"He's being surprisingly open about his capabilities," Fury noted.
"While still maintaining clear boundaries," Pierce added. "Notice how he always brings it back to responsibility and service."
On screen, Lois shifted to broader implications. "There are concerns about your impact on global power structures. Some worry that your mere existence could destabilize international relations."
"I understand those concerns," Superman replied. "That's why I'm trying to be as transparent as possible about my intentions. I'm here to help, not to interfere with human governance."
"One last question," she said as they neared the end, her tone growing more serious. "What would you say to people who are afraid of you? Who see your powers as a threat?"
Superman's expression became thoughtful, almost vulnerable. For a moment, the weight of his responsibility seemed visible on his face. "I'd say I understand their fear," he replied carefully. "Power can be frightening, especially power that seems unlimited. But I'm not here to rule or dominate. I'm here to help, in whatever way I can. To show that strength doesn't have to mean force, that power can protect instead of destroy."
He leaned forward slightly, his eyes conveying absolute sincerity. "Every day, I make a choice – the same choice I hope anyone would make with these abilities. To use them for others, not over others. To protect, not control. To inspire hope rather than fear."
The studio was completely silent as he finished speaking. Even the most jaded crew members seemed moved by his words. In the control room, Cat dabbed at her eyes with a tissue, while the director forgot to signal for the final commercial break.
In the White House Situation Room, President Ellis watched the interview conclude, his expression unreadable. General Samuel Lane stood rigidly at attention, while General Thaddeus Ross paced like a caged bear. Amanda Waller, recently appointed to a special oversight position, sat quietly observing everyone's reactions.
"Thoughts?" Ellis asked the room.
"He's too powerful to be left unchecked," Ross growled. "We've seen what happens when enhanced individuals operate without oversight. The Banner incident—"
"Is classified," Waller cut in smoothly. "But the General raises a valid point. Superman represents a level of power beyond anything we've encountered. Even Banner's... condition... doesn't compare."
"That's my point exactly," Ross insisted. "If Banner could cause that much damage in one incident, imagine what this 'Superman' could do if he decided to turn against us."
General Lane cleared his throat. "With respect, Mr. President, Superman has shown remarkable restraint. His actions so far have been focused entirely on helping people. The reduction in civilian casualties during natural disasters alone—"
"Could be a ploy," Waller interjected. "Win public trust first, then—"
"Then what?" Lane challenged. "He could have taken over the moment he appeared. Instead, he stops bank robberies and helps kids cross the street."
"For now," Ross muttered.
The President held up a hand, silencing them. On the screens, multiple news networks were already analyzing the interview. CNN praised Superman's diplomatic handling of international concerns. FOX News questioned his commitment to American interests. MSNBC was running a segment on the environmental implications of his statements about global challenges.
"We need to get ahead of this," Ellis said finally. "Lane, what's your daughter's read on him?"
"Lois is..." Lane hesitated. "She's impressed. And she doesn't impress easily. Says he's genuine, truly wants to help. Though she's more interested in her partner Kent these days," he added with a slight grimace.
"Kent?" Waller's eyes narrowed. "The one who keeps getting Superman exclusives despite never being present for the actual events?"
"Focus," Ellis interrupted. "We need a response. Something that acknowledges Superman's potential while maintaining American interests. Ross, I want contingency plans, but keep them quiet. Waller, get me everything we have on enhanced individuals - Banner, those reports from Xavier's school, everything. Lane, keep your channel to the Planet open. If Superman's going to give interviews to anyone, better Lois Lane than someone we don't know."
Back at the WGBS studio, Superman paused by Lois's chair as he prepared to leave. The studio lights had dimmed, creating an almost intimate atmosphere as the crew packed up around them.
"You have quite a reputation, Ms. Lane," he said, his cape settling majestically around his shoulders. "They say you'll do anything for a story. But I noticed you didn't ask about my civilian identity."
"Would you have told me if I did?" Lois's eyes sparkled with intelligence and something else – understanding, perhaps.
"No," he smiled. "But most reporters would have tried."
"Everyone needs a private life," Lois replied. "Even Superman." She glanced at her notes, a slight smile playing at her lips. "Besides, I suspect you'll give that exclusive to someone special, when you're ready."
Superman's heart skipped a beat at her knowing look. Did she suspect? But no - she was looking at her phone, where a text from Clark had just arrived. His own message to her, sent during a quick "bathroom break" before the interview: "Great interview. Dinner tomorrow to discuss the print version? That new Italian place you mentioned?"
Lois felt her heart flutter, a warmth spreading through her chest that had nothing to do with Superman's presence. Finally! After weeks of hints and hopes, after all the lingering looks and coffee breaks that lasted just a little too long, Clark Kent was actually asking her out. The Italian place – Bella Notte – had opened recently, and she'd mentioned wanting to try it during one of their late-night stakeouts. The fact that he remembered, that he'd chosen it specifically...
Her fingers flew across the phone's keyboard, heart racing: "Absolutely, Smallville. It's a date. And I mean that literally - no work talk allowed."
The moment after sending it, she wondered if she'd been too forward with the "literally" part. But then Clark's response came quickly: "It's a date." She could almost see his shy smile, the way he'd adjust his glasses when nervous but pleased.
As Superman took off into the night sky, cape billowing dramatically in the wind, his mind was already on tomorrow's dinner. The woman he loved saw him - really saw him - even without the cape. Perhaps especially without it.
In the Situation Room, President Ellis was preparing his address to the nation. His speechwriters had presented multiple drafts, but none captured the delicate balance needed. The screens around them displayed various news feeds: reports of unexplained phenomena in Gotham, rumors of genetic mutations manifesting in teenagers, and endless analysis of Superman's interview.
"The American people need reassurance," Waller was saying, her voice carrying the weight of someone who'd seen too many secrets. "But not blind acceptance. We need to maintain authority while acknowledging his potential value. Especially with all these other... incidents surfacing."
"He's not a weapon to be managed," Lane objected, spreading files across the table. "Every attempt to control enhanced individuals has backfired. Banner's accident, those rumors from Westchester about genetic mutations—"
"That school in Westchester is not our concern right now," Ellis cut in. "Professor Xavier's work with gifted youngsters is being monitored by other departments. As for Gotham..." he paused, choosing his words carefully. "Commissioner Gordon assures me that their local situation is under control."
"If you believe in urban legends," Ross scoffed. "Five years of rumors about some vigilante in a bat costume? Probably just GCPD propaganda to scare criminals. But Superman – he's real, tangible, and far more dangerous than any street-level vigilante."
"The Batman is more than rumors," Waller countered, pulling up a classified file. "We have satellite thermal imaging of someone moving across Gotham's rooftops. Witness accounts. The drop in organized crime—"
"Gotham is off-limits," Ellis cut in sharply. "Whatever arrangement exists between this 'Batman' and Gordon stays separate from this. We have bigger concerns."
"With respect, Mr. President," Lane interjected, "we can't ignore the pattern. First these rumors of genetic mutations, then Banner's accident, now Superman. The public is starting to believe there are more enhanced individuals out there than we've acknowledged."
"The Xavier Institute alone has received hundreds of inquiries from parents concerned about their children showing unusual abilities," Waller added. "And Gotham's vigilante, whether we acknowledge him or not, has inspired copycat activities in other cities. Star City reported sightings of someone with a bow—"
"Focus," Ellis demanded. "Superman is our immediate concern. These other situations... they're manageable. Local. But a being who can fly around the world in minutes? Who could potentially hear this very conversation if he chose to? That requires our full attention."
Ross snorted. "A man in a bat costume is hardly comparable to someone who can fly and shoot fire from his eyes. Even Banner's condition, while dangerous, is limited to one individual. Superman represents a completely different level of potential threat."
"Or potential ally," Lane suggested. "His actions so far—"
"Are precisely what I'd do if I wanted to gain public trust before implementing a larger agenda," Waller finished. "We need contingencies. Especially with Stark still missing and his weapons in unknown hands."
"There's also the matter of public perception," one of Ellis's advisors added. "Social media is buzzing with theories about other enhanced individuals. That psychiatrist in Gotham – Dr. Quinzel? Her paper suggesting that Superman's appearance might encourage others with abilities to step forward is gaining traction."
"The point," Ellis said firmly, standing to look out over the Washington skyline, "is that we need a measured response. Superman says he's here to help? Fine. Let's give him the chance to prove it. But with oversight, with accountability."
"And the others?" Ross pressed. "The mutations, the vigilantes, whatever's really happening at Xavier's school?"
"One crisis at a time," Ellis replied. "For now, we focus on Superman. These other situations... they're being monitored. If this Batman wants to stick to Gotham's shadows, let him. If Xavier wants to run his school for 'gifted' students, fine. But an alien with godlike powers? That takes priority."
"The public might not see it that way," Waller cautioned. "Superman's interview is already trending alongside renewed interest in the Batman. People are starting to believe in the impossible. Some genetics forum linked to Xavier's work is exploding with theories about human potential and evolution."
"Then we control the narrative," Ellis decided. "My address needs to acknowledge these concerns while maintaining focus. Superman represents something new – but also something we can work with, properly managed."
"And if he refuses to be managed?" Ross challenged.
"That's why we have contingency plans," Waller answered smoothly. "And why we keep a close eye on certain facilities in New Mexico, on Xavier's school, on Gotham's shadows. Knowledge is power, gentlemen. Especially when dealing with the superhuman."
"Speaking of knowledge," Lane added, checking his phone, "Lois just sent her draft of the Superman interview piece. It's... comprehensive."
"Your daughter has a way of finding connections," Ellis observed. "Make sure she focuses on the approved narrative. We need the public calm, not speculating about every shadow in Gotham or genetic quirk in their children."
The screens switched to breaking news: another reported sighting of the Batman in Gotham, this time with blurry footage of a dark shape swinging between buildings. Simultaneously, an alert flashed about unusual energy readings near Xavier's school.
"One thing at a time," Ellis repeated, turning back to his speech drafts. "Superman first. These other situations... they can wait. For now."
In the Daily Planet bullpen the next morning, Clark listened with carefully concealed delight as Lois defended him to Cat. The newsroom buzzed with post-interview energy, every screen showing highlights and analysis. A smaller window in the corner played the shaky Batman footage from Gotham, while another monitor displayed a panel discussion about genetic evolution and human potential. Dr. Jean Grey from the Xavier Institute was carefully explaining the possibility of human advancement while avoiding any direct confirmation of mutations.
"He's not just some farm boy," Lois insisted, her voice carrying that particular passion she usually reserved for breaking stories. "Clark Kent sees things other reporters miss. He finds the human angle, the heart of the story. Even in his Superman coverage - he doesn't just write about the powers or the rescues. He writes about the people being saved, about what it means to them."
"And it doesn't hurt that he fills out a suit pretty well when he's not wearing that awful brown one," Cat teased, perched on the edge of Lois's desk. "So... dinner tonight? Finally making an honest woman of you?"
"The brown suit is kind of adorable," Lois admitted, blushing slightly. "In a completely hopeless way. But it's Clark, you know? He doesn't try to be anything but himself. And yes - dinner tonight. A real date."
Jimmy Olsen paused by Lois's desk, camera in hand. "Speaking of suits, did you see the new Superman photos I got? There's something about the material - it seems to reflect light differently than any fabric I've ever photographed."
"Not now, Jimmy," Cat waved him off. "We're discussing more important matters. Like how our star reporter is finally admitting her feelings for a certain Kansas farm boy."
"About time," Jimmy grinned. "The sexual tension between you two was getting thick enough to cut with a knife. Though I still think you're crazy for picking Kansas over Krypton."
"Clark is..." Lois paused, searching for the right words. "He's real. Genuine. When Superman saves someone, it's amazing and inspiring. But when Clark stays late to help me with research, or brings me coffee just the way I like it, or defends a source's privacy even when it costs us a story... that's something else entirely."
Ron Troupe joined their growing circle, newspaper in hand. "Have you seen the international reactions to the Superman interview? The UN's calling an emergency session. There's talk of a resolution about superhuman oversight."
"The world's changing," Cat noted. "First these rumors about genetic mutations, then Batman in Gotham, now Superman... People are starting to realize there's more out there than we knew."
Clark chose that moment to arrive with coffee - made exactly how Lois liked it, two sugars and a splash of vanilla. Their fingers brushed as he handed her the cup, and both their heartrates quickened. He caught the lingering scent of her perfume, something subtle and expensive that she usually saved for special occasions.
"Ready to work on the Superman story?" he asked, pushing his glasses up in that endearingly nervous way. "Before our... um... dinner?"
"Always, partner," Lois replied, and the smile she gave him had nothing to do with Superman and everything to do with Clark Kent. "Though I'm more interested in our date tonight. I think it's time we talked about a few things, don't you?"
Clark felt his heart soar higher than any physical flight could take him. "Definitely," he agreed softly.
The newsroom's attention suddenly shifted as every screen switched to the White House. President Ellis stood at his podium, the American flag behind him, his expression grave but determined. The Joint Chiefs flanked him on one side, while Nick Fury and Alexander Pierce stood to the other, presenting a united front of military and intelligence leadership.
"My fellow Americans," Ellis began, "today we face a new reality. The emergence of Superman represents both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges. His interview last night demonstrated both his extraordinary abilities and his stated commitment to helping humanity. Such power requires both trust and verification - a balance we must strike together as we move forward into this new era."
The President paused, his expression thoughtful. "In recent months, our world has changed dramatically. We've seen things we once thought impossible. The disappearance of Tony Stark has left us questioning our security. Reports from Gotham speak of a vigilante bringing justice to darkened streets. Scientists tell us humanity itself might be evolving in ways we're only beginning to understand."
"Superman's arrival makes one thing clear: we are not alone in the universe. But more than that, we are entering an age of wonders - and potential dangers. As your President, I am committed to ensuring America leads the way in this new era. We will work with Superman, while maintaining appropriate oversight. We will study these emerging phenomena, while protecting individual rights. We will face these challenges as we have faced all others - with courage, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to our values."
Ellis gripped the podium, leaning forward slightly. "Let me be clear about certain matters. First, we recognize Superman's autonomy. He is not a weapon to be deployed, not a resource to be controlled. He is, by his own declaration, a being who has chosen to help humanity. We respect that choice, while acknowledging our responsibility to ensure public safety and international stability."
"Second, we understand the global implications of his presence. Superman's abilities transcend national boundaries. His actions, whether intentional or not, can affect the entire world. This requires a coordinated, international response."
"To Superman himself, I say this: America welcomes your desire to help. We appreciate your openness in coming forward, your willingness to engage in dialogue. But understand that such extraordinary abilities must come with clear frameworks for cooperation and accountability."
"To the American people, I say: remain calm but vigilant. Superman represents hope - hope for cooperation between different peoples, hope for problems solved through strength guided by wisdom. But we must not become dependent on any single individual, no matter how powerful or well-intentioned."
"Therefore, I am announcing that SHIELD - the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement, and Logistics Division - will serve as our primary liaison with Superman. This organization's experience with extraordinary situations makes them uniquely qualified for this role."
The camera panned to include Nick Fury, his presence commanding even in silence, before returning to Ellis. "SHIELD has been preparing for the emergence of enhanced individuals since its founding. They have the infrastructure, the experience, and the global reach necessary to handle this unprecedented situation."
Alexander Pierce stepped up to the podium next, his silver hair and patrician bearing lending gravitas to his words. "As head of the World Security Council," he began, "I want to emphasize that this is a global matter. While Superman has chosen to make his debut in America, his powers know no borders. SHIELD will coordinate international responses and protocols, ensuring that any cooperation with Superman follows established frameworks for global security."
"We are not seeking to control or restrict Superman's activities," Pierce continued, his tone measured and reasonable. "Rather, we aim to establish clear channels of communication and cooperation. The world faces threats that require extraordinary responses. SHIELD's role will be to help facilitate those responses while maintaining necessary oversight."
Pierce's expression grew more serious. "Let me also address the broader implications of Superman's emergence. We stand at a turning point in human history. The existence of beings with extraordinary abilities raises questions about security, sovereignty, and the very nature of human potential. The World Security Council is committed to addressing these questions thoughtfully and comprehensively."
The President returned to the podium for his closing remarks. "We face a new chapter in human history. How we write this chapter - with fear or hope, with wisdom or rash action - will define generations to come. Let us move forward with clear eyes and steady hearts, embracing the possibilities while maintaining our values and security."
"God bless you, and God bless the United States of America."
The newsroom erupted in activity. Reporters rushed to phones, keyboards clattered, and Perry White emerged from his office barking orders. International reactions began flooding the wire services: The British Prime Minister expressing support while emphasizing the need for multinational oversight. China's cautious statement about territorial sovereignty. Russia's demands for equal access to any superhuman cooperation protocols.
But Clark barely heard any of it. His superhearing was focused on Lois's heartbeat, on the way it quickened when their eyes met across the chaos. He knew SHIELD would be watching him now, knew Pierce's reasonable tone masked deeper concerns. But tonight wasn't about Superman or SHIELD or international protocols.
"Dinner at seven?" he asked quietly.
"Seven," she confirmed with a smile that made him forget about presidential addresses and government agencies. "Don't be late, Smallville."
Later that evening, Clark stood in his apartment, adjusting his tie (definitely not the brown suit). Through his window, he could see the Daily Planet's globe reflecting the sunset. His phone buzzed with a text from Lois: "Looking forward to tonight. And Clark? No disappearing acts this time."
He smiled, both at her message and at the irony she couldn't know. On his TV, news channels were still analyzing Ellis's speech, debating SHIELD's role and Superman's place in this new world order. But for once, Clark Kent wasn't concerned with Superman's responsibilities. Tonight was about Clark and Lois, about two people who might finally be ready to be honest with each other - well, as honest as he could be, for now.
His super-hearing picked up Lois's heartbeat across the city, already getting ready for their date. The sound filled him with more warmth than any yellow sun could provide. Superman might belong to the world, but tonight, Clark Kent belonged to Lois Lane.
He switched off the TV, shutting out the endless analysis of Ellis's speech, the speculation about enhanced individuals, the debates about oversight and accountability. Tonight wasn't about Superman or SHIELD or the changing world. Tonight was about a farm boy from Kansas taking out a brilliant, beautiful reporter who saw him - really saw him - even without the cape.
As Clark headed for the door, he caught his reflection in the mirror. Not Superman, not the alien, not the symbol of hope - just Clark Kent, about to have dinner with the woman he loved. And somehow, that felt more extraordinary than any of his powers.