Disclaimer: I own nothing of the dc universe.

The stars glittered like sequins against the vast expanse of space as Superman hovered above Earth, peering down at the brilliant blue and green planet. The mere sight of the Earth united, without borders or divisions, should've filled him with pride and joy. And, for a fleeting moment, it did.

The United Peoples of Earth, the UPE, stood as a symbol of unity. But, to Superman, it also bore the shadow of the man behind its creation: Abilo.

Abilo was a paradox. The world saw him as a savior, a visionary leader who'd turned catastrophe into unity. But whispers reached Superman's ears—whispers of crisis orchestrations, of manipulations, and most troubling of all, of mass eliminations of Gotham's villains. The mere notion had driven Batman into a frenzied search for evidence, but it was elusive. All they had were rumors and untraceable sources.

Hovering high above, the Man of Steel tried to shake off the unease. He gazed at the continents below, trying to focus on the peace that the UPE had supposedly brought. But every thought brought him back to Abilo's unmistakable influence and the militaristic mindset he promoted. The very thought of it made Superman's stomach churn. The UPE's force was unlike anything the Earth had seen. It wasn't just about the tech or the numbers; it was the ideology.

He knew what he had to do. Abilo had always said he was open to discussions. Perhaps it was time to take him up on that offer.

Banking in the air, Superman soared toward Brasilia, the heart of the UPE. The city unfurled beneath him, a mesmerizing blend of the past and the future. The iconic futuristic architecture of Brasilia now intertwined with advanced technology and subtle touches of magic. Floating cars zipped by, buildings shimmered with holographic projections, and magical barriers separated various sectors. But what truly caught Superman's attention was the children—metahuman children—playing in the parks. They levitated, created illusions, and shot beams of light from their hands, all while their peers, human or otherwise, laughed and played alongside them. No fear, no prejudice.

Superman couldn't help but marvel. This was a sight he'd dreamed of—a world where everyone, metahuman or not, lived in harmony. Was it possible that some good had come from Abilo's rule?

But as he approached the core government building, his resolve hardened. The wellbeing of metahuman children did not excuse potential machinations or tyranny. He had questions, and he needed answers.

Touching down gently on a platform, Superman was immediately greeted by guards, who, despite their stoic faces, showed a hint of awe in their eyes. They escorted him inside, to a grand chamber where Abilo awaited.

The man stood tall, his face betraying no emotion. "Superman," he greeted. "Please follow me."

The grand chamber's opulence faded behind them as Superman and Abilo walked side by side, the atmosphere thickening with anticipation. As they moved through the vast corridors, the eclectic blend of the ancient and ultra-modern architecture of Brasilia was on full display. The walls seemed to breathe with a mix of enchantment and tech, responding to their presence by illuminating the path.

"I must say, it's not every day I get a visit from the Man of Steel," Abilo remarked, his voice carrying a touch of amusement. "Brasilia has certainly been buzzing since you arrived."

Superman offered a small smile, "It's an impressive city, Abilo. The harmony I witnessed outside, it's... commendable."

"Thank you. It's a vision we hope to replicate worldwide," Abilo replied, his voice carrying a hint of pride.

Upon reaching a set of ornate doors adorned with the emblem of the UPE, two guards stepped forward, pulling them open. Abilo's office was spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the sprawling city below. The skyline was alive with moving vehicles, shimmering buildings, and open parks where metahuman children continued their unabashed play.

As they settled, Superman took a deep breath. "Abilo, I'm here because you once mentioned that you'd be open to discussions. The hero community... we have concerns."

Abilo leaned back in his chair, his eyes searching Superman's face for a moment before nodding slowly. "I'm aware. And I appreciate your forthrightness. Speak, and I'll answer as best I can."

"There's the Council of Thirteen," Superman began, his tone measured. "Leaders who oversee various facets of society, from science to economy, all under the UPE. While the idea of specialized leaders has its merits, there's growing unease about the lack of transparency in their governance. The only elected positions are the Senate and the President, your position, but the council members are decided by the Senate itself. This kind of centralized power without clear public oversight is concerning."

Abilo was silent for several minutes, collecting his thoughts before he spoke, "I understand your concerns about the Council of Thirteen, Superman. Let me offer some perspective."

He gestured to the sprawling city below. "Look at the complexity of this world. The formation of the UPE was a revolutionary act, merging countless cultures, economies, and ideologies. This isn't a single nation or even a union of a few; it's a global amalgamation."

He leaned forward, his fingers interlocking. "The Council of Thirteen was formed to streamline decision-making. Each council member focuses on their respective domain, be it science, economy, or any other field. They are experts, chosen not by the whims of popular vote, but by the Senate – representatives of the entire Earth. The idea is to have specialists making decisions in specialized areas."

Superman interjected, "But why not make their actions and decisions transparent to the public?"

Abilo sighed, "Total transparency is an ideal, but we live in a world of real challenges and threats. Sometimes, for the sake of security and stability, certain decisions need to be made behind closed doors. Imagine if every strategic move, every experiment, or every financial strategy were known to all, including those who might use that information against us. It could lead to panic, misinformation, or even manipulation by external threats."

He continued, "That being said, the larger decisions, the overarching strategies, and policies are still overseen by the Senate and the President. The Council merely proposes and implements, ensuring efficiency and expertise."

Superman, though still wary, nodded slowly. "I get the need for efficiency, Abilo, but there must be checks and balances. Even experts can err."

Abilo smiled, "And that's where the Senate, the President, and, to an extent, the hero community come in. You, and others like you, act as the moral compass, ensuring we stay on course. Our methods might differ, Superman, but our goal is the same: a safe, united, and prosperous Earth."

There was a momentary silence as the minds of both men raced.

Superman's lips curved into a smile, nodding slightly at Abilo's articulate response. However, beneath the amiable demeanor, his keen mind raced. He'd had countless encounters with persuasive, brilliant minds like Lex Luthor's, and he'd learned to recognize when he was being maneuvered around the chessboard.

Abilo, noting the smile, seemed to relax a fraction, perhaps believing that he'd assuaged some of Superman's doubts. Yet, the Man of Steel wasn't about to let it end there.

"Abilo," he began, his tone sincere but probing, "You talk of checks and balances, and the role of the hero community as a moral compass. Yet, we often find ourselves in the dark, only catching glimpses of the Council's decisions after they've been made. If we're to act as this moral compass, shouldn't we be better informed?"

Abilo's eyes narrowed slightly, the ease from a moment ago replaced by cautious calculation. "Superman, the hero community has always been... independent, operating outside the traditional bounds of law and governance. The Council respects that independence, and sometimes that means not burdening you with the nuances of political decisions."

"But," Superman persisted, "if the hero community is to trust the UPE, we need to be let in. Trust is a two-way street, Abilo. We need to understand the motivations and reasons behind decisions, not just their outcomes."

Abilo sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's a balance, Superman. On one hand, we have the need for discretion and swift action. On the other, we have the hero community, an invaluable asset to the world. I understand the sentiment, and perhaps there are ways to improve our communication and collaboration."

Superman's eyes didn't waver from Abilo's. "Perhaps it's time to start then. Let's find a way to ensure that the hero community is not just reacting to the world's events, but actively partnering with the UPE to shape a better future."

For a moment, the two men simply locked eyes, the weight of their roles and responsibilities pressing down on them.

Abilo then nodded "I would welcome the league in helping to ensure proper communication between us."

Superman gave his best smile "That is all I ask."

The silence that followed their intense exchange was broken by Abilo's calm voice. "Are there any other concerns you wish to address?"

Superman, taking a moment, replied, "The increasing militarization under the UPE is another point of contention. While a strong defense is essential, the scale and intensity of the armament is... unsettling. Especially considering the potential implications against those on Earth who may voice dissent against UPE's decisions. Not to mention the message it sends to extraterrestrial civilizations."

Abilo's eyes flashed, and his response carried an edge, "Superman, you of all people know the myriad of threats we face, not just from within our world but from beyond the stars. From Darkseid to Brainiac, from the Red Lanterns to the threats we're yet to encounter. How many times has Earth stood on the brink, saved only by a hair's breadth thanks to the Justice League?"

Superman tensed but held his ground, "That doesn't justify potential oppression or paranoia."

Abilo continued, "Think of the state of the galaxy. We're aware of empires, coalitions, and forces that far exceed Earth's capabilities. The Green Lantern Corps can't be everywhere. And while we have the utmost respect for the League, what happens if, one day, you're not there? What if you lose? As the leader of the UPE, I must ensure Earth stands ready to defend itself, even in the face of the worst-case scenarios."

Superman's mind raced to the information Batman had shared with him - the covert experiments involving the metagene. It was a dangerous line the UPE was treading, but it was a topic for another day.

"We're not advocating for defenselessness," Superman said, measuredly. "But there's a difference between preparation and potential oppression. The means can't justify the ends. And we need to ensure we don't become the threat we're trying to guard against."

Superman's statement seemed to hang in the air between them, charged with weight and implications. The room's atmosphere grew tense, with the vast panoramic view of Brasilia outside the windows being the only bright counterpoint to the interior's growing shadows.

For a long moment, Abilo remained silent. When he finally spoke, his voice was cool and controlled, but Superman, with his heightened senses, could pick up on the undercurrent of suppressed anger.

"Such high-minded morality is a luxury, Superman," Abilo began, emphasizing each word with precision. "For beings as powerful as the members of the Justice League, it might be easy to stand on pedestals and champion ideals. But for the average person, for the billions that live on this planet, every day is a battle for survival. And when the very existence of our species is at stake, we can't afford the luxury of such idealism."

He leaned forward, locking eyes with the Man of Steel. "There's a saying: Desperate times call for desperate measures. We live in a universe teeming with forces beyond our comprehension. If we don't arm ourselves, if we don't prepare for the worst, we risk annihilation. In that fight for survival, everything is on the table."

Superman's gaze never wavered. "Abilo, the moment we abandon our principles in the name of survival is the moment we lose our humanity. It's what separates us from the threats we face. It's our heart, our compassion, our moral compass that defines us."

Abilo gave a mirthless chuckle. "Sometimes, Superman, the world doesn't need a moral compass. It needs a sword to guard its people. We must do what we must."

The two stood, polar opposites in their viewpoints, yet bound by their love for Earth and its people.

Superman took a deep breath, the weight of their conversation pressing down on him. "Abilo, the strength of Earth isn't just in its armies or its weapons. It's in its people and their beliefs. We're more than just survival instincts and power. We are a collective of hopes, dreams, and aspirations. The moment we start compromising on our core values, we risk eroding the very essence of what makes us human."

Before Abilo could respond, Superman continued, shifting topics, "There are whispers, Abilo, rumors about the Council's plans for the so-called 'supervillain problem.' Can you shed light on that?"

Abilo looked momentarily taken aback, his practiced poise faltering for a split second. "I'm surprised that even reached your ears," he murmured. He paused, considering his words carefully. "While I cannot confirm or deny anything at this stage, I can say this: The days of supervillains causing havoc, terrorizing cities, and taking innocent lives are numbered. The UPE will ensure that."

Superman's brows furrowed, "Justice is essential, Abilo. Many of these individuals need rehabilitation, a chance to turn their lives around."

Abilo interrupted, his voice firm, "Justice is indeed essential, but so is the safety of our people. Individual redemption doesn't justify allowing these threats to continually harm and kill innocent men, women, and children. We can't afford to wait for the potential redemption of a few at the cost of the many."

Superman felt a pit in his stomach. The path the UPE was considering was a dangerous one, possibly leading to actions that couldn't be undone. "Everyone deserves a chance, Abilo. That's been the foundation of justice."

Abilo looked Superman squarely in the eyes. "We'll ensure justice, Superman, but we'll also ensure safety. The world is changing, and we have to change with it."

Superman met Abilo's unwavering gaze, recognizing the conviction and determination behind those eyes. For a moment, neither man spoke. Then, finally, Superman nodded slowly, "We'll have to agree to disagree for now, Abilo. But remember, the Justice League's priority has always been the safety and well-being of Earth and its inhabitants. We will not stand by if those are threatened."

Abilo rose from his chair, a faint, respectful smile touching his lips. "I expected nothing less. And for what it's worth, while our methods may differ, our goals align. Earth's safety is paramount." He extended a hand, "Until next time, Superman."

Taking a deep breath, Superman shook Abilo's hand, sensing the unspoken tension and challenges that lay ahead. "Until next time," he echoed.

With that, Superman turned, leaving the grand office. The weight of their conversation pressed down on him, the vast differences in their approaches to Earth's future becoming glaringly evident. The chasm between the League's ideals and UPE's strategies seemed to widen with every heartbeat.

It was in that heavy-hearted moment and once he was in the clouds that he radioed Batman and Wonder Woman, setting the stage for the events that followed.

As Superman's silhouette melded with the skies, he pressed the communicator embedded in his suit. The emblematic bat signal appeared, followed shortly by the symbol of the Amazons. "Batman, Wonder Woman," he began, his voice somber, "We need to convene. Immediately."

Batman's voice, always steady and analytical, responded first. "I've been monitoring the situation. The Watchtower?"

Wonder Woman, with her characteristic blend of concern and determination, chimed in, "Agreed. The implications of what Abilo said about supervillains... it's a path we can't let mankind walk."

Superman's voice was thick with the weight of responsibility. "He's not wrong in wanting to protect the Earth, but we need to ensure that the methods employed don't send us down a path of irreversible darkness."

As the trio ascended to the Watchtower, the orbiting base of the Justice League, their collective minds were a storm of thoughts. There was no easy solution, but they were united in their commitment to prevent any drastic and potentially harmful actions.

o-o-o-o-o

Back in Brasilia, Abilo retreated to a secured chamber deep within the UPE headquarters. As he accessed a holographic interface, data streams flooded the room, showcasing global operations and initiatives. The conversation with Superman, and the unspoken threats that hung between them, played back in his mind.

An advisor, Lorne, entered the chamber, his features tight with concern. "Sir, I've just received a report about increased activity at the Watchtower."

Abilo nodded, his resolve crystallizing. "They're mobilizing. We knew this day would come, Lorne."

Lorne shifted uneasily, "What's our move?"

Abilo's gaze was steely as he stared at the rotating holographic Earth. "We need to accelerate our plans. I've always believed in preparation and now's the time to act. We safeguard Earth, and we safeguard our position. The League is noble, but their idealism may blind them to the larger picture. I want plan Titanfall ready to be enacted in a month."

Lorne hesitated, then replied, "I'll see to it immediately. We'll be ready."