General Rafferty shifted uneasily in his chair. The room felt like a hundred degrees and everyone was nervous. Without Superman, how would the United States defend itself against metahuman terrorists? Or anyone with the means to cause the nation harm, for that matter?
Director Waller had called the meeting to discuss what she called the "solution", as stated in the briefing document laid before each seat. What this "solution" was, though, was not explained.
Suddenly, a large screen lit up with images of fire, destruction, and massive explosions. Rafferty recognized them as a recording of the battles of Metropolis and Gotham, taken just months before.
"This..is the world we live in now, ladies and gentlemen. A world where monsters and gods fight each other in our streets, laying waste to our cities, and with no regard for how many lives are lost as a result of their actions."
Director Waller turned to address the assembled room. "Superman protected us from the worst of it, at the cost of his life. Now we must confront a new and difficult question: how do we replace him? Soldiers with weapons are no match for beings capable of generating beams of energy from their eyes or flying headfirst through entire buildings."
One of the group spoke up. "Can you get to the point, Director?"
"Very well. As some of you are aware, we maintain a black site in Louisiana for criminals deemed too dangerous to be kept in the federal system. Many of these individuals possess metahuman powers."
"We need agents who can fight the enemy on their own terms. That is why I am directing ARGUS to establish Task Force X, a team made up entirely of said inmates."
General Rafferty felt compelled to add his thoughts. "Director, your idea is both reckless and untested. As soon as we let these freaks off their chains, they will turn against us and unleash God knows what havoc upon whichever innocent civilians get in their way. We will NOT be held accountable for your showboating adventurism!"
Waller gave a devilish smile. She had been expecting this question for some time now.
"Perhaps a live demonstration would help, General." Picking up her radio, she barked an order to the guards outside. "Bring in the doctor!"
