Speak Up And Be Heard
"It feels weird just driving in a regular car," Scott remarked as he drove a simple black car with tinted windows. He was wearing a dark suit and red tie. "I feel like I'm naked without my uniform on."
"Scott we need to present a human look to the United Nations," Ororo said. She was wearing a very stylish white and black dress and her hair was up. "It isn't every day you get invited to speak at the United Nations. I'm glad you chose me to come with you."
"Well who else would I bring? Wolverine?" Scott gave her a look.
"Point taken," Ororo smirked. "This is a very important day for us. This Anti Sentinel Amendment will help mutant kind greatly."
"If everybody decides to go along with a piece of legislation banning the production of and keeping Sentinels in every country in the world. Hopefully this meeting will go better than the one in Bayville a couple of days ago," Scott groaned.
"Considering the damage the Sentinels did all over the world I think many leaders might be more receptive than you think," Ororo told him. "After M-Day people are more scared of Sentinels than mutants."
"I'd like to think so but…" Scott sighed. "You know as well as I do that many people still hate us. They hated us enough to send Sentinels after us. And hate like that never goes away overnight."
"That is why we have to stand up to them and convince them that we are not their enemy," Ororo said.
"I know. But some people we will never convince no matter how hard we try," Scott told her.
"As long as we keep trying," Ororo told Scott. "We're still here Scott. We must be doing something right."
"For a change," Scott smirked.
They parked the car a short distance away and started walking to the United Nations. There was already a large crowd of protestors chanting. "More anti-mutant protestors?" Scott groaned.
"No they are protesting something else!" Ororo pointed. "And look who is leading the charge!"
"I don't believe it…" Scott was stunned. "What is he doing here?"
"Down with the metal monstrosities! Support the Anti-Sentinel Amendment!" The Kingpin spoke loudly to the crowd and throngs of media. Many of his supporters standing behind him clapped wildly. "End this tyranny of technology! Let people choose our own fate! We are the ones meant to rule the Earth! Not overgrown toasters! My friends we must support this bill or else humanity is doomed! These machines are ten times the threat of any mutant!"
Several people in the audience agreed, even though some of them did so grudgingly. "If we allow any country to build and keep Sentinels, the tragedy known as M-Day will happen again and again and again! And humanity will pay the price for its greed and arrogance!" The Kingpin spoke. "That is why I have been tirelessly campaigning for the Anti-Sentinel Amendment! I want to live in a free peaceful world! Not some ridiculous Terminator rip off!"
"I can't believe he's gotten so many people to protest for the amendment," Ororo was surprised. "I see a few Hollywood A-listers as well as politicians with him."
"Most people don't know Wilson Fisk is the Kingpin," Scott told her. "Even SHIELD won't willingly expose him because it's rumored that he's got some pretty good proof on their dirty dealings over the years. Not to mention dirt on half the politicians and businessmen in the country."
"What could Fisk possibly have on SHIELD to make them afraid of exposing his criminal activities?" Ororo was stunned.
"I don't know, but I wish I did," Scott admitted. "Might make things a bit easier for us."
"If he's against the Sentinels and for the amendment he already is," Ororo said.
"Mostly because half of his empire is built on weapons dealings," Scott smirked wryly.
"Ah I see. No Sentinels, no competition," Ororo remarked.
"Here he comes," Scott murmured as the Kingpin broke away from the crowd and walked up to them. "Just be polite and follow my lead."
"Who do you think I am? Wolverine?" Ororo quipped. Scott smirked and shrugged.
"Mister Summers! Ms. Monroe! I can't tell you how much it means to me that you are speaking on behalf of our cause," The Kingpin smiled warmly and shook their hands with all the grace of a master politician.
"Our cause?" Scott raised an eyebrow. "I didn't know you were a mutant as well Mr. Fisk."
"Sadly no. But I like to think that I have always been a friend to the mutant community as a whole," The Kingpin said with sincerity. "Many of my own people are mutants. I have many associates who are mutants. And if one day I have a child or a grandchild that will be a mutant, that child will be welcomed with open arms into the family."
"I can imagine what would happen if there was ever a mutant in your family," Scott said wryly.
"Now I know we have had…disagreements in the past, but this Sentinel thing…" Kingpin became serious. "It's just bad for business. It affects everyone, not just the X-Men. New York on M-Day became very close to becoming another Bayville. Pardon the expression…I just never thought I'd be so glad Spiderman and so many other heroes were around that day."
"Not to mention quite a few villains were there that day too," Scott said. "And they did their part."
"When one has such a dangerous common foe, one must unite against it or be destroyed," The Kingpin agreed. "We're not talking your run of the mill robots or weapons systems or…"
"Spider Slayers?" Scott couldn't resist.
"Those too," The Kingpin shrugged. "No things such as the Sentinels are like the dark arts. Best left alone. Even I'm having my scientists go over all robotic patents and security systems within my company. I do not wish to have a similar situation within my organization. And I have made it very clear to my subordinates and associates that our focus should be on…alternative security measures."
"It would be bad for your business if a robot replaced you," Scott said.
"Quite. I think I can safely say on this one subject we can find some common agreement," Kingpin nodded.
"When you put it that way, how can I refuse such a generous offer?" Scott asked. "I take that you will ensure that other associates in your business will be counted on not only this arrangement but other issues involving the exploitation of mutants?"
"I take it you are referring to not only the horrid practice of mutant trafficking but selling weapons to the FOH and other mutant hate groups?" The Kingpin raised an eyebrow. "Actually I had a very frank talk with your mayor about that very subject."
"You did?" Scott asked.
"Yes. And I agree with Mr. Danko, such actions are…counterproductive and not cost effective," The Kingpin made a motion with his hands. "It's one thing if a mutant chooses to join my company of his own free will, but forcing a mutant to do so…Or selling arms to the FOH? That is just not good business. Nor is selling arms to Hydra since they are the competition."
"Really?" Scott was interested.
"Let's just say I have made some distasteful mistakes when it comes to that particular organization in the past. And I have no intention of repeating them," The Kingpin spoke.
"They double crossed you didn't they?" Scott asked.
"A very big mistake," The Kingpin frowned. "Anyway since members of your X-Men also have some unfortunate history with that organization I see no reason why we shouldn't work together against Hydra. I may hear certain things and will pass them on to you."
"And we in turn will pass them on to SHIELD," Scott guessed correctly.
"I have made it very clear to my people that anti-mutant attitudes or actions will not be tolerated," The Kingpin said. "I find prejudice so last century. And not good for business. And since I have no interest in harming mutants…"
"There would be no interest of us to get in the way of your affairs," Scott put it together.
"Keep in mind that I have many competitors that do not share my views of a more harmonious world," Kingpin pointed out. "However I am willing to assist the X-Men in rooting out these vile miscreants who would not only supply weapons to anti-mutant organizations, but exploit mutants for their own gain."
"I see," Scott nodded. "You do realize that from time to time the X-Men may have to check up on the mutants in your employment. Just to make sure that everything is going well and that they aren't committing any crimes. You understand that right?"
"Of course I do," The Kingpin nodded. "And I also understand that if any of my mutant employees is caught doing something illegal he or she will have to face justice. If they are caught and proven guilty in a court of law."
"And you will not interfere?" Scott asked.
"Short of providing them with good lawyers which I understand is allowed in this country," The Kingpin made a sigh. "Just recently my own son has been convicted of criminal conduct and sentenced to five years in prison. If I can't make an exception for my own son…"
"I get the message," Scott nodded.
"I understand your reservations, Mr. Summers," Kingpin sighed. "Believe me, sometimes we have to make deals with people we don't like. For the greater good. Then again considering your deal with the government I'm not telling you anything you don't already know am I?"
The Kingpin then gave him a look. "I am by no means a saint in any sense of the word. But I am not your enemy. Believe me, there are worse dangers out there than my organization. Especially for mutants."
He pointed to a pudgy man with balding black hair in an expensive suit. "Take Ambassador Clarence Harlow over there. He's one of many within the United States government that still thinks Sentinels are necessary. He and fools like him would condemn us all for his petty hatred."
"I'm aware of the ambassador's politics," Scott said.
"Did you also know he still has friends within not only SHIELD but the Pentagon?" Kingpin said. "He's been known to back quite a few black ops projects. And not all of them are in the best interests of the American People."
"I knew about the military but I didn't know about SHIELD," Scott frowned.
"Even I can only do so much so watch out for him and his little cabal," Kingpin said. "However I am not a man without influence."
He looked over. "Senator Emerson!" He waved to an older man with white hair and a dapper grey suit. "Senator! Come over here Henry and meet Mr. Summers and Ms. Monroe."
"Well hello there Wilson! Long time no see!" Senator Emerson spoke in a Texas drawl and smiled broadly. "Mister Summers, Ms. Monroe it is good to meet you. I was just talking to some of my friends in the Senate about the work you've done."
"Oh I'll bet you have," Scott smiled warmly.
"Wilson and I go way back," Senator Emerson spoke warmly. "When he called me after the horrible tragedy of M-Day I knew it was my solemn duty as an elected official of this great country that a horror like that day never happens again."
"Let's throw the jackals of the press a bone shall we?" The Kingpin smiled warmly and motioned several photographers over to them. "I think they'd be interested in a picture of one of the backers of the Amendment with two famous X-Men."
Several pictures were taken. Many reporters shouted questions and the Senator made grandiose sound bites of 'A tragedy for the world' and 'A time for coming together'.
Scott didn't believe a word of it. He had just gotten some files and information on the Senator himself that more than proved he would rather be on the Sentinel's side than the mutants. But he went along with the charade.
Eventually they moved away from the reporters. The Senator excused himself. "Mr. Summers can I count on your agreement for a future of mutual cooperation?" The Kingpin asked.
"Of course," Scott said smoothly, shaking hands with the Kingpin. There were a few more impromptu pictures by the press and a few more pleasant words for the public before the two X-Men moved away.
"I'm surprised this amendment is gaining such support," Ororo finally spoke. "It's remarkable we even got a senator as powerful as Emerson on our side."
"Yes. Especially considering until recently he was a member of the FOH until they fell out of favor. Senator Emerson hates mutants but he's in the Kingpin's pocket," Scott said snidely. "That little photo op was his way of saying he's going to make sure the Senator plays ball or else."
"I must admit, for a criminal that man does know how to make the law work for us," Ororo shrugged. "Then again sometimes I wonder if there really is a difference between a politician and a criminal."
"Of course there is," Scott said. "A criminal gets things done."
Before Ororo could say anything else something caught her eye. "Now what's going on?"
"Hello Storm. Cyclops," Reed Richards walked up with the rest of the Fantastic Four in uniform. "Welcome to New York."
"It's always a pleasure to see the Fantastic Four," Scott said. "What are you doing here? Are you testifying for the UN?"
"No, we usually stay out of politics," Reed said. "The city asked us if we would be your official escorts for this meeting."
"Escorts? You're here to guard us?" Scott found the situation slightly ridiculous.
"Well you know there are a lot of people that still want to cause trouble with mutants," Reed said diplomatically.
"Plus you guys have this big rep for causing disasters wherever you go," Johnny shrugged.
"Way to be diplomatic Torch," Ben grumbled. "And you think I got a big mouth?"
"No offense but the Fantastic Four is not exactly immune to disasters either," Scott said. "So why don't you tell me why you're really here?"
"The city asked us to be your escorts," Reed admitted. "It's the truth."
"Again why you? Why not the Avengers?" Scott asked.
"The Avengers are here they're just…" Reed paused. "They're doing security detail for all the other delegates."
"You mean all the human delegates," Scott frowned.
"That's not how it is," Reed said.
"Really? Then explain it to me Richards," Scott said. "Because I don't see too many armed guards flanking all the other delegates."
"You know there are security agents all over here," Johnny said. "All in gray suits and undercover and stuff."
"And yet you have to be right here right in front of us, front and center," Scott said. "The reason I only brought Storm was to minimize the presence of Super Powered individuals. We purposely dressed in civilian clothes to try and blend in with the public. To make people see that we are like them. That we aren't a threat. And now you're here in uniform in order to protect us?"
"How nice of you to finally do something to protect mutants," Ororo said sarcastically.
"What do you want Reed to say? People are still scared of mutants! A lot of people don't trust you!" Johnny spoke up.
"Johnny!" Sue was stunned.
"What? They're not stupid Sue. They pretty much have figured it out!" Johnny said.
"They don't trust us, the people who saved the world several times?" Scott asked. "But they trust you more than us? Yeah that makes sense."
"Maybe it does. You were talking with the Kingpin just now," Reed frowned. "Seemed kind of chummy."
"You of all people should know that appearances can be deceiving," Scott said with a hint of ice in his voice. "Besides he's a lot more vocal for the Anti-Sentinel Amendment than you are."
"That's not fair. The Fantastic Four isn't a political force," Susan said. "We're not supposed to…"
"Spare me the line about you heroes not getting involved in politics," Ororo interrupted angrily.
"Well three of you anyway," Scott gave Reed a look. Reed winced from the glare. "Tell me something Richards, before the Illuminati were disbanded how much time did your group give to disbanding the Sentinels?"
"I'd like to know the answer to that question myself," Ororo folded her arms.
"Reed?" Susan looked at her husband.
"I really don't…." Reed began.
"Come on Stretch spit it out," Ben frowned.
"Xavier mentioned it at a few meetings but we had a few…other things to take care of," Reed sighed. "He said he needed our help for a more detailed plan on the Sentinels right before his…accident."
"And after he was in a coma did you discuss it?" Ororo asked.
"Look…We didn't get together that much after that," Reed admitted. "Doctor Doom attacked us twice. The Avengers had a Skrull and Chitauri infestation they were working on. Black Bolt and Namor had their own problems in their kingdoms and Doctor Strange was off somewhere doing something mystical…."
"But you did get together, at least long enough to worry about getting rid of Banner who was supposed to be your friend," Scott's voice had an edge to it.
"We were just trying to find a way to contain the Hulk and…" Reed began.
"Hold on, Reed. Are you saying you guys promised to help Xavier get rid of those tin cans but the second he took a nap you guys welshed on it?" Ben was stunned.
"Not deliberately," Reed protested. "It just sort of…dropped from our minds."
"Dropped from your minds? Mutant kind was decimated because you forgot your promise to help!" Scott snapped. "So much for the Illuminati making a difference."
"No wonder the Professor didn't want to speak today," Ororo said. "It wasn't just because of what happened the last time he spoke. He couldn't face his former friends who betrayed him."
"Reed! How could you all do that to them?" Sue protested as Scott and Ororo broke away.
"That was pretty low, man," Johnny agreed.
"We didn't do it on purpose! It just happened!" Reed was heard protesting.
"Yeah and a lot of people died because you just happened to drop the ball!" Ben snapped. Some more arguing was heard as the mutants walked away.
"Let's try and give our bodyguards the slip inside," Scott whispered to Ororo. She nodded and followed his lead. They went inside the building.
"Well this day is getting more and more interesting by the minute," Ororo remarked. "And the UN hasn't even been convened yet."
"I'll be happy if no fights break out in the middle," Scott groaned.
It wasn't long before the UN convened and started the debate. "We agree that the Sentinel Project was poorly run and a failure without any proper safeguards," Ambassador Harlow spoke. "However the fact remains that the mutant problem is still very real. The temporary measures we have placed will not be enough to ensure peace…"
"Temporary measures?" Ororo's tone was angry as she whispered to Scott as the Ambassador kept speaking. "The bill is barely a law and he wants to throw it out! Along with the rest of us!"
"They still hate us," Scott muttered under his breath. "The government blames us for M-Day even though it wasn't our fault."
At that moment Scott knew that as much as he disliked it, he knew the deal he made with the Kingpin was the right one.
"I'm not saying mistakes weren't made," Ambassador Harlow spoke in front of the UN. "But those flaws were mainly due to the individuals that programmed the Sentinels in the first place."
"Yeah they were intolerant bigots," Scott gritted his teeth, whispering to Ororo.
"Unfortunately in today's world Sentinels have become a necessary evil," Ambassador Harlow spoke.
This caused a loud commotion. "How can you say that?" The Ambassador from Great Britain yelled.
"How can I not? First mutants come out of the genetic closet," Ambassador Harlow counted. "Then other super humans like the Hulk and whatever the hell half the Avengers are. Then aliens, werewolves, vampires and other were creatures and now we have those damned Atlanteans on our doorstep populating our oceans! The fact is that as a species humanity is more vulnerable than ever! It seems every year we discover some other race or creature is on our planet. And the more of them there are the fewer of us! How long is it going to be before our people are extinct?"
"They can't be serious?" Ororo was stunned as some people seemed to be agreeing with the ambassador.
"They are," Scott frowned. "This is why we need to speak up now! You have that power point presentation Arcade and Kitty made up?"
"Yes," Ororo nodded as she held up a disk. "Are you ready?"
"I'll have to be," Scott said.
It wasn't long before Scott made his way to the podium. It was if he could feel all the eyes of the world on him. It's now or never…He thought.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Ambassadors and Members of the Press…" Scott began. "My name is Scott Summers. I'm twenty three years old. I'm a graduate of Bayville High School in Bayville, New York. I'm an accomplished pilot, mechanic and teacher. I enjoy playing sports, watching football and hanging out with my friends. I have a family, a girlfriend…And I also have an X-Gene."
On a huge screen behind him were pictures of Scott with Jean. Scott with Alex hanging on a beach. Teenage Scott with Kurt washing his car (Kurt still had his inducer on). Scott playing baseball with some of the other X-Men. A picture of Scott in front of a Christmas tree holding up a sweater.
"Basically my X-Gene enables my body to metabolize and store certain kinds of energy. In my case mostly sunlight and other passive forms of energy. To put it simply my body absorbs sunlight and other low level energy in the atmosphere and metabolizes it into my body. The energy is redirected to my optic nerves which enables my eyes to emit a beam of energy when they are open. Although they do not emit any heat or radiation they can be quite destructive if not harnessed correctly."
Slides of medical files were shown and diagrams on how Scott's powers worked were shown behind him.
"Unfortunately due to an accident as a child I suffered severe brain damage and I am unable to turn off my optic blasts," Scott pointed to his glasses. "Fortunately my glasses here are made from a particular crystal that absorbs this energy harmlessly. This allows me to contain my powers and go about my life like a normal human being. That is the goal of the Xavier Institute. To help mutants control their powers and teach them to not only use their gifts for the greater good, but to assimilate and live normal lives."
Scenes of Scott fighting Juggernaut and other super villains were shown behind him. Following pictures of Scott and his team fighting Sentinels.
"But how can we live normal lives when we are constantly persecuted? It's not easy when you live with hate and intolerance everywhere you turn. It's bad enough there are too many secret organizations that want to experiment and exploit us. But when you send robots, machines to control the lives of people? That intolerance and hate on the highest level. And our only crime was being born."
"For a long time I have been hearing about the 'mutant problem'. A lot of people think that the problem has to do with who we are and what we can do. That is not the problem. The problem was that mutants were never seen as a whole. People only looked at our powers and never the person behind them. And that's one of the reasons the Sentinel Program was a complete and total disaster."
"It didn't take into account all the different factors a mutant has. Which mutants were aggressive and which weren't? Which mutants were unable to use their powers because they would harm themselves as well as other people? Which mutants were unable to fight back because their powers were relatively harmless? Which mutants were taught to value life and to be law abiding citizens and which were the criminals? Which mutants are adults and which are only children? Those factors are not part of the programming of a Sentinel. All the Sentinels see is a big X and a target because of one tiny gene."
"Would you like to be targeted for something that you can't control? Throughout history many minorities were ostracized and even enslaved for something they were born with. Whether it was their skin color, their gender or even being born in a certain area of the world humanity has oppressed those who were different. Mutants are simply the latest group to suffer persecution."
"Isn't it time we ended this? That we end this endless cycle of hate? Of fear and intolerance? All hate does is lead us to war, death and destruction. Isn't it time that we embrace our differences? To embrace life, peace and creativity? We could all do so much good together if we are willing to ignore our differences and embrace what we all share."
"A very wise man once told me that true evolution does not lie within one's genes, but within one's heart. And I believe that. It is our spirits that can evolve past our history of hatred and intolerance and grow into a world of understanding and peace. The greatest power anyone can have is the ability to have an open mind and a willingness to change."
"We all are people. We all need air to breathe and to live under the sun. We all need to eat, sleep, love and be loved. We all suffer due to sickness and natural disasters. And we can all do something about it."
"But Sentinels do not see that. All they see are targets. Whether they are full mutants, or humans with a dormant X-Gene or even the potential to have a dormant X-Gene it is all the same to them. Under that category, over ninety five percent of the entire human race will be targeted. If Sentinels are rebuilt they will wipe out all but a handful, maybe a hundred or two hundred human beings out of billions. And those few that do not survive will be controlled…like animals. Slaves to the machines."
"This isn't just another arms race. This is the survival of the entire human race at stake," Scott spoke. "We have all seen the destruction and devastation those machines create. They make nuclear weapons look like simple clubs and spears. If these things are built all over the world, they will simply regroup and try again!"
"I can understand your concerns Cyclops," Ambassador Harlow interrupted. "But I'm sure with better programming…"
"Mister Ambassador, even the Sentinels figured out that humans and mutants are part of the same species," Scott interrupted. "Because mutants came from humans. M-Day was not the first time I've seen this happen. Twice I've seen independent Sentinel programs come to the conclusion that the most effective way of controlling the mutant population is to eradicate the human one. We may not survive a third time."
On the screen were now shots over several capital buildings from all over the world being attacked by Sentinels, including the one in Washington DC. The room went quiet. "The Sentinel Program is not just a menace to the mutants. It's a member to all members of the human race, whether they possess an active X-Gene or not!" Scott spoke. "Mutants just happen to be the first to be attacked. The supposed reason for them being built but that is not the truth. The truth for the Sentinels being built is fear and the desire for power."
"I agree!" An unlikely voice boomed over the room. "It was an example of the United States wielding power over us!"
"Oh crap…" Scott muttered under his breath as he saw Doctor Doom make a dramatic entrance into the room. "Here we go…"
Immediately the Fantastic Four blocked his way. "What are you doing here Doom?" Johnny asked. "If it's a fight you want…"
"For once Torch I am not here for a fight with you and your…associates," Doctor Doom gave him a look. "I am here to support the Anti-Sentinel Amendment."
"You're on the mutants' side?" Someone called out.
"I'm on my own side!" Doctor Doom shouted. "Lavertia has no mutants within its borders but that did not stop the Sentinels from attacking my country and decimating half my kingdom to rubble!"
"What do you know? I guess those tin cans did some good after all," Johnny mocked.
"You wouldn't say that if you saw what happened in Bayville!" Scott snapped, his anger bubbling to the surface.
"It wasn't exactly a picnic for us in New York you know?" Ben grunted.
"And less of one in Lavertia!" Doctor Doom snarled. "I saw my people shot in the streets, burned alive like animals due to your Sentinel' malfunction. Some of them were my most loyal soldiers and allies! Doom does not take such attacks lightly! The only reason I have not declared war on your country is because I must put the needs of my people first! All my resources are being dedicating to rebuilding our country and strengthening our borders."
"The original programming of the Sentinels was not to attack Lavertia," Ambassador Harlow spoke. "Or any other country. The Sentinels were supposed to protect people."
"Yes you keep saying that. Now where have I heard that before?" Doctor Doom made a show of thinking. "Oh yes, it was over the Ultron Incident. You remember that Ambassador? When one of your most esteemed scientists Doctor Henry Pym created a thinking robot built to enforce peace? And what happened then?"
"Uh…Well…" Ambassador Harlow coughed.
"What's wrong Ambassador? Cat got your tongue?" Doctor Doom asked. He heard the sound of metal armor walking up. "Ah, Iron Man. Perhaps you can shed light on the subject we were discussing here? The topic is the Ultron incident. What happened when your friend created a robot built to enforce peace on humanity?"
"That has nothing to do with…" Iron Man in full armor spoke. Behind him was Wasp, Ant Man and Captain America.
"It has everything to do with it and you know it! But you won't dare speak the truth because of your government's involvement with…" Doctor Doom interrupted.
"It was my fault," Ant Man spoke up. "I created Ultron using my own brain patterns. And it turned on me. It became a power hungry monster."
The room grew quiet. "You see? Ant Man here admits his mistakes," Doctor Doom said dramatically. "And we all know what a peace loving man he is. Now if a robot he created could go bad…."
"There was more to it than that!" Wasp spoke up.
"That still doesn't change the fact that he's right!" Ant Man snapped. "The Sentinels and Ultron…Are two sides of the same coin."
"The only difference is that the Sentinels were programmed to destroy mutants first," Scott gave him a look.
"Yes. Rather clever of them to try and remove any and all obstacles to power out of their way wasn't it?" Doctor Doom quipped. "Personally I'll take my chances with the mutants. At least you can reason with some of them."
A murmur occurred among the crowd. "What happened with the Sentinels was a mistake and a tragedy," Iron Man spoke. "But you have to admit they were only weapons with faulty programming."
"Well Iron Man it is one thing to make a gun that you can just give to a person and he decides whether to kill someone or not," Doctor Doom remarked. "It's quite another to create a thinking gun that is programmed whether to kill someone or not."
"I have no love for mutants I admit, but I admit there are things far worse than them," A French Ambassador spoke. "Killer robots and aliens from another planet for starters!"
"Those robots are a menace!" The Ambassador from Mexico agreed. "Many people from my home city were killed for no reason!"
"Those Sentinels are the worst abominations I have seen in my life!" The Italian Ambassador agreed.
"Wait a second! Doom has hundreds of robots at his disposal!" Wasp spoke out.
"Had hundreds of robots at his disposal," Doom corrected. "And unlike Sentinels my robots didn't think for themselves. They only followed my commands."
"Iron Man why are you and the Avengers fighting this?" Ororo asked.
"Last I heard Stark Industries had nothing to do with making Sentinels," Scott folded his arms. "Granted it did give the MRD and the Government several other weapons and anti-mutant technology but not Sentinels."
"Simple, he wants to control the market on robots," Doctor Doom waved.
"That's not true!" Iron Man shouted.
Doom went on. "Everyone by now knows that Tony Stark is Iron Man and the more power he has over robots the more money he makes. But even he has to admit that thinking robots are nothing but trouble and a threat to the entire human race. Threats like the Sentinels, Ultron…And sooner or later the Vision."
It then became clear to Scott the other reason Doom had for supporting this bill so vehemently. And why Iron Man and the others were hesitant to speak against it.
"Cyclops don't you agree that it would be better for everyone if these so called sentient robots are either dismantled or placed under control?" Doctor Doom asked. "I mean you don't want the Sentinel Incident to happen again do you?"
Scott knew what Doom was angling for. He glanced at Ororo. Her face was passive, admitting nothing. But he saw the look in her eyes.
He knew what he had to do.
"Of course I agree," Scott spoke calmly. "We can't afford the world being taken over by Sentinels or any other type of thinking machine again. Of course we are excluding those androids that are half organic aren't we? Many people have had their limbs destroyed by the Sentinels and been brainwashed and converted by Mastermind…"
"Obviously there is an exception there," Doctor Doom raised his hands. "We're talking about things that were machines from the beginning. Half human- half machine is obviously a huge difference."
"Because it's the human half that does the thinking, mostly," Scott said. "Of course the language in the bill would state clearly that cyborgs or humanoid androids do not apply to this case."
"Of course they don't," Doctor Doom nodded. "I think most of our colleagues would agree to that. Its sentient robots we want to destroy. Not people who happen to have robotic parts. That's just barbaric."
"I knew you were up to something!" Ant Man snapped. "You're just using this as an excuse to try and destroy one of our members!"
"You mean your robot?" Doctor Doom said. "I'd hardly call a robot a member. After all it's not like it is a flesh and blood person!"
"Wait, several mutants are metal," Wasp said. "Sort of."
"There's a big difference in a mutant who can turn his skin to metal or his skin becoming metal than a machine that was always metal," Scott gave her a look. "The difference is that we are people! Not machines!"
Scott turned to the crowd. "Our future…The future of this entire planet is in your hands," Scott said. "Do you really think that creating menaces like the Sentinels will make your countries stronger? They will turn on you. And destroy you. That is what they are programmed to do. Look at what happened here in the United States, one of the most powerful nations in the world and even it was almost helpless against the force of the Sentinels. Only by working together with mutants, humans and other super powered beings alike were we able to turn the tide."
Scott paused for effect. "Unlike mutants who have a choice on how to use their powers. For Sentinels there is no choice. Just destruction. I am begging you all to put your differences aside for this moment and protect the human race. All members of the human race."
Scott looked at the crowd. "Most of us mutants don't want war. We want peace. But we need your help to do so. By supporting this Amendment you are all taking a stand against hate. By making sure that Sentinels are illegal you are allowing all your children to have a better future. A world where humans of all kinds can work together peacefully. Mutants are not your replacements. We never were. We're your brothers. We're your sisters. We're your sons and daughters. Friends and lovers. I'm asking you to please listen to us before you cast us aside. We can do so much good as a whole human race. Not as a divided one."
"Cyclops is right. This is not about competition between members of different factions," Doctor Doom spoke up. "This is about the survival of the entire planet. A planet ruled by people, not machines!"
"People not machines! People not machines!" A large contingent of the crowd chanted. Scott could see out of the corner of his eye that in the center of that chanting crowd was the Kingpin. He knew the Kingpin had that group in his pocket to ensure the outcome of the vote.
"And whether these people are mutants or not I'm sure we can come up with other measures to keep the peace rather than surrendering our lives and freedoms to a group of oversized tin cans!" Doctor Doom shouted.
"Yeah you'd rather be the undersized tin can in power!" Johnny shouted out.
"We are not talking about me," Doctor Doom bristled.
"For once we're talking about another threat besides you," Ben grunted. "But for once I agree with Chrome Dome. Those damned Sentinels are more trouble than they're worth."
"What about you Richards? Are you going to just stand by and let this happen again?" Scott glared at Reed, making sure he emphasized his words.
Reed gave in. "The Sentinels are a menace. There's no argument on that. And I suppose some sort of restrictions should be put in place to all robots made in the future. And the present."
"Reed…" Iron Man began.
"No Stark! This needs to be done. I…We should have taken precautions against something like this a long time ago," Reed gave him a look. "We can't stay silent on this. Not anymore. The Anti-Sentinel Amendment must pass."
"Captain America you've been rather quiet throughout this whole conversation," Scott gave him a look. "What are your thoughts on this?"
"The last thing the world needs is another arms race," Captain America admitted. "We need to work together in order to restore peace."
"See? Even your own beloved Captain America agrees with this treaty!" Doctor Doom spoke up. "How can you still think that these metal monstrosities are good for this planet?"
"The world has enough problems with people let alone machines!" An unnamed ambassador spoke up. Many people took up his sentiments while others argued against them.
"But what about mutants?" Harlow shouted back. Some of his supporters loudly agreed with him.
"Are you so afraid of mutants who don't even want to fight that you'd doom us all?" The Ambassador from Spain shouted.
"You told us that mutants didn't want peace," Another Ambassador spoke. "But it is obvious today that they do."
"Perhaps the good ambassador from the United States was counting on manipulating your opinions on mutants in order to make his country stronger?" Doom spoke.
"Just what do you mean by that?" Harlow snapped.
"Your anti-mutant propaganda was quite effective in spreading fear among the other countries," Doom said. "Not to mention your sales pitch for selling Sentinels to your allies."
"YES! Yes! He told us how if we bought Sentinels from him it would solve all our problems with the mutants!" The Indian Ambassador stood up. "And he even hinted that we could use the Sentinels against our enemies even if they were not mutants!"
"He told us the same thing about you!" The ambassador from Pakistan stood up. Many other ambassadors made similar exclamations and started to yell.
"So they were using mutants as a scapegoat in order to increase their own power and profits!" Doctor Doom spoke up. This caused a stir within many ambassadors and delegates.
"There's something I want to know Harlow," Scott stared the senator in the face. "What did mutants ever do to you?"
"What?" Harlow glared at him.
"What did a mutant do that was so bad to make you hate us so much?" Scott asked. "It's clear you hate mutants. There has to be a reason for it."
"You were born! You're a threat to us! That's reason enough!" Harlow snapped.
"No it's not. Come on. There has to be something more than that," Scott asked. "Did a mutant kill or hurt a member of your family?"
"No," Harlow said. "I don't have to answer your questions!"
"I think you should," Ben glared at the senator.
"For once I agree with Mr. Grimm here," Doctor Doom said. "I've looked over your files. There isn't even a hint of a mutant stealing your parking space. So where does this hatred come from? Oh wait…I have a clue. Does this have anything to do with your daughter?"
"You leave her out of this!" Harlow shouted.
"Is his daughter a mutant?" Scott asked.
"No. She married a black man," Doctor Doom said. "He hasn't spoken to her or her husband or any of her three children in over ten years."
"Hold on a second…You're saying you hate mutants because you think mutants are caused by interracial romance?" Scott was stunned as he looked at Harlow. "That's insane!"
There is some debate about what happened next. Some say that Harlow reacted to the growing pressure from his office and what happened that day. Some say that his personal life had finally taken its toll on his mind. Others state emphatically that some mutant telepath managed to get inside his head. But no matter what the reason, the following happened.
"Insane! Your filth is polluting the entire human gene pool and you are calling me insane?" Harlow screamed. He then started screaming several racial slurs and obscenities. This caused the crowd to gasp and even Doom was a bit shocked at the statements he made.
"What a sad pathetic little man you are," Ororo said coldly when Harlow stopped his rant.
"I agree," Scott said. "Your hatred is more of a disease than any mutant gene."
"Stupid freaks!" Harlow screamed his face red with hatred. "You're the worst mongrels of them all!" He swore several other words not fit for print. And this caused several angry shouts from the other ambassadors.
"GET THAT MAN OUT OF HERE!" Senator Emerson yelled from his seat. "Trash like that isn't fit to represent the United States of America!"
Scott barely paid attention as Emerson and other representatives of the US shouted and had their security teams remove Harlow. He did watch with pleasure as Harlow was dragged off kicking and screaming.
The words Emerson said apologizing to the crowd didn't connect with Scott's mind either. He knew that Emerson hated all sorts of minorities too but Harlow had made the one fatal flaw in politics that could never be forgiven. Never let the public see who you really were and what you really thought.
During a lull he decided to interrupt the good senator. "I'd like to say one final thing. The road to peace is hard. Factors within both human and mutant groups do not agree on everything. I'm not saying every mutant will be peaceful, but for every mutant that wants to make trouble there are twenty of us that are willing to stop him. The X-Men and our allies the Misfits are putting into place protocols to monitor and track those mutants that are actually a danger to society and themselves. Hopefully soon we will have our police force up and running. We are willing to help all of you with any problems concerning mutants. And some that do not. We can help you with natural disasters. We are still working on cures for major diseases and making great progress. All we ask is that you talk to us. We are willing to listen."
Over half the room stood up and gave a thunderous applause. Some were more cautious like Doctor Doom but then again he was not the type to be enthusiastic about his applause. Some ambassadors didn't clap but looked concerned while others just gave the mutants angry looks.
Scott didn't care. He felt he made his point.
"Look like Harlow's career is over," Ororo remarked as they finally moved away from the crowds and went into a back room.
"People like Harlow are a dime a dozen," Scott said. "You know as soon as one of those anti-mutant haters goes down two more take his place."
"True but since Harlow was a complete bigot I think this might affect his career more," Iron Man said as the Avengers came into the room after them.
"Hello Iron Man. Captain. Avengers," Scott nodded.
"The Fantastic Four are a bit preoccupied with Doom making speeches so we thought we'd take over watching you," Stark smirked.
"How considerate," Ororo smirked.
"Look for the record I agree with you in the majority of what you said about the Sentinels." Iron Man held up his hand. "And Harlow was a jerk who got what was coming to him."
"Yes but did you really have to make the United States look bad while doing it?" Captain America frowned.
"You mean not let on that the government is filled with money grubbing bigots that nearly wiped out the entire world? I don't care about their image! I'm trying to prevent another M-Day from happening," Scott snapped. "If I can't the next time those Sentinels are set loose they'll kill us all!"
"That's still no reason to throw Vision under the bus like that," Wasp snapped. "You can't just let Doom use this as a reason to destroy one of our team mates!"
"Why not?" Scott said in an angry tone. "You never stood up for any one of mine. You had no problems letting my people get destroyed. Why should I care about one of yours?"
"That's not fair Cyclops," Iron Man frowned.
"I'll tell you what's not fair, Iron Man," Scott snarled in his face. "While mutants were being persecuted, every other superhuman on this planet was given a pass! The fact that mutants were not only singled out for persecution but ignored for the most part by the rest of you is not fair!"
"We've seen many people die by your inability or unwillingness to get involved," Ororo spoke calmly but with a tone of anger. "Good friends, children, family…"
"What would you have us do? Gyrich kept pressuring the government and SHIELD to have the Avengers go after you," Captain America spoke up. "We didn't get involved out of respect for you."
"Respect? That's a laugh!" Scott snapped.
"Would you have preferred we hunted you down?" Iron Man asked. "Yes, that's just what would have happened if we did get involved. A huge fight between two super powered groups that would have ultimately ended in the endangerment of innocent lives..."
"And you made it your duty to protect the innocent, but many innocent mutants died anyway! How was that fair?" Scott asked. "And don't say you didn't get involved Iron Man because we all know you gave the Mardies some of your technology to help capture and contain mutants. Your company even made a small profit off of it. Yeah that's fair!"
"You say you didn't get involved in order to preserve lives but I have a feeling that you were more concerned with preserving your image," Ororo said. "Because maybe that would be one time too many the public wouldn't just suddenly forgive you and then start persecuting you like they did us!"
"We never considered that!" Captain America was stunned.
"Maybe you should," Ororo glared at him.
Scott added. "And let's not forget your little social club, the Illuminati. Xavier was your friend. He was one of you. You remember? You all made a pact to make the world a better place. You said you would help him find a way to get rid of the Sentinels. And you didn't lift a finger to stop the war or the slaughter that went on. And worse, the Illuminati made messes that we mutants had to clean up after you! What was fair about that?"
Scott paused. "So forgive me if I have no problem disregarding the existence of a single robot no matter how good it is when it comes to the safety of my people and the world. Besides I'm pretty sure SHIELD will think of something to keep Vision from being mothballed. It's too valuable for them to just use for scrap metal."
"You're just going along with this to get back at us!" Wasp snapped. "Destroying Vision is some kind of petty revenge for you isn't it?"
"Revenge? Revenge? Are you insane?" Scott shouted at her. "After everything I have been through in the past year and a half you really think that I have time for revenge on you?"
"Quite frankly…" Iron Man began.
"Let me explain something to you, Stark!" Scott interrupted, pointing his finger at him. "I have a lot more on my mind than thinking up little ways of annoying the Avengers! Rebuilding the Xavier Institute and the town of Bayville for one. Helping the mutants that survived M-Day is another. Trying to put together a shattered species that is at the brink of extinction and work towards protecting them so a disaster like the Mutant War and the Sentinel Attacks can never happen again! I think those things are a tad more important than attacking your team aren't they?"
"I…" Iron Man tried to say something.
"Oh and let's not forget that I have one or two personal issues on my mind right now," Scott went on. "Worrying about my fiancé who was recently possessed by a cosmic force and is currently locked up by SHIELD which is poking and prodding her. Looking for any excuse to lock her away for good! The loss of my son to God only knows what time period! The fact that I was mentally raped and used in some sick science experiment by a madman still bothers me. Plus I'm busy comforting my friends that survived the war…And burying the ones who didn't."
Scott turned away from them. "Did you know we finally managed to find a good spot for the new cemetery in Bayville? The old one was literally dug up and destroyed by the Sentinels. Well two cemeteries. One for the humans that died and a larger one for the mutants. What's left of half of them can't be identified or sent to families that no longer care. The lucky ones will have their own tombstone. The rest will be put in one mass grave with a memorial on it."
"It's overlooking the ocean in the woods near the Institute," Scott went on. "Probably the only part of Bayville that still had some trees growing…There's going to be a ceremony in a few days. We're officially burying those mutants that died there. Some of them were X-Men."
Scott gave the Avengers a hard look. "I lost friends in that war. I lost people I considered family in that war. I lost people I trained with and trained myself! People I laughed with, fought with, ate with, suffered and triumphed with. People I were proud to call my friends. Most of them were younger than I am. Maybe one of you understands what that means…" He looked at Captain America. "But I doubt the rest of you do."
"To put it simply, revenge isn't even at the bottom of my list of things I need to do," Scott finished. "I have no time for it. I just need to do what I have to do and move on. Maybe one day I can forgive what you did…Or didn't do. But I will never forget. No mutant will ever forget your decisions regarding the war. And that's a promise."
He walked away, barely realizing that Ororo was next to him. Only when he was sure they were alone in one of the hallways of the building did he stop. He took a breath, trying to control his rage.
"I don't think you should drive in this state," Ororo took his right arm and pulled up the sleeve, revealing one of the Misfit's teleportation watches on his wrists. "We can get the car later."
Scott nodded as used the device to teleport them back to Bayville. They ended up in a tent in front of what would be the new Institute. "Damn thing comes in handy you have to admit," Scott sighed. "Guess Althea was right in lending one of these to us."
"Scott…You did what you had to do," Ororo said. "And you were right."
"I know. I don't even feel guilty. I just feel..." Scott ran his hand through his hair. "So angry at everything. Especially at the hypocrisy of it all."
"I can't help but feel the same way," Ororo let out a breath. "They were more concerned about their android these past two minutes than mutants in the past two years. Not to mention the fact that they are upset that their government's precious reputation is tarnished even though it's spent nearly two years trying to exterminate us. I can't believe I'm saying this but part of me is enjoying this sort of revenge. If you can call it that."
"More like a taste of their own medicine," Scott said. "And if you didn't feel that way after everything you've been through then you wouldn't be human."
"I know it's just…" Ororo threw up her hands. "Goddess, what does it say about the state of the world we live in when we can count on the support of people like the Kingpin and Doctor Doom and can't on people like the Avengers?"
"Some people still count mutants as part of the same crowd of Doctor Doom and the Kingpin," Scott admitted. "It doesn't matter. We have to use every advantage we can get. Every contact in power we have. Even if it means using people like Doom and Fisk."
"Whatever it takes?"
"Not just whatever it takes. Whatever it takes isn't good enough," Scott said. "We do what is best. With as little bloodshed and as much honor as possible. That's the foundation we need to make our people strong. To make them better. To make our future."
"You made a huge step today in doing that," Ororo said. "Your speech and the alliances you made ensured the passage of the Anti-Sentinel Amendment. I know Kingpin and Doom are dangerous but compared to the Sentinels…"
"It's only a truce on this," Scott said. "As long as they don't come after us openly or try to take over the planet we'll leave them to the other heroes. God knows we have enough enemies as it is."
"The irony is that one of our best allies is Doom's own son," Ororo said. "I've seen Rocker's plans for the town and the new government he's making. He is deliberately trying to recruit humans into the town in order so that we can work together."
"I know. I may not have completely approved of all his methods but one thing I can say for Rocker is that he knew how to use the media to his advantage and how to keep things quiet," Scott said. "He'll be a good mayor for Bayville. With him running things I don't have to worry that much about the town."
"Keep your friends close and your enemies closer," Ororo recited the old adage. "It seems especially true in this case."
"He even contacted the Kingpin and made a deal with him. Oh come on Storm you didn't really think the Kingpin came up with this whole scheme on his own did you? Remember, he was part of Factor One's sick game even if we can't prove it. He only cares about his profits and power. By staying out of mutant affairs he's just securing his position."
"And using us to get rid of his competition," Ororo said.
"Maybe but his competition is our enemy too. And if having the Kingpin do some of our dirty work for us is a small price to pay to make sure mutants aren't exploited. The problem is that we need more allies," Scott sighed. "And let's face it, we can't count on half the so called hero population out there."
"Like the Avengers," Ororo said. "Especially after what happened today."
"They're the ones who decided to be our rivals the minute they turned their backs on mutant kind," Scott snapped. "I'm not gonna lose any sleep over what they think. Even if Captain America is Wolverine's friend."
"Iron Man was quite chummy with Xavier too," Rogue said as she walked into the tent with Remy in full X-Man uniform. "His whole Illuminati Club didn't do squat to help us."
"Unfortunately sooner or later we're going to have to do something to make peace with the Avengers," Scott grumbled.
"Hopefully not too soon," Remy folded his arms. "Let them worry about having one of their own get dismantled for a change!"
"Your speech was on TV," Rogue explained. "The whole world saw it. Hopefully your words didn't fall on deaf ears."
"Enjoyed how Harlow fell to pieces," Remy grinned. "That'll keep the gossips jawing for a few hours."
"How'd the meetings go?" Scott changed the subject.
"Not bad," Remy said. "The New Guild of Thieves and Assassins just made an exclusive contract with SHEILD."
"And we made sure SHIELD and Fury didn't forget who set it up," Rogue smirked. "Part of the agreement was that Fury would make sure the Senators in his pocket would vote for the Anti-Sentinel Amendment in the United States as well as in the world charter."
"That part was a no brainer. He lost a lot of people and bases on M-Day too," Scott waved. "Not to mention the Sentinel attack made SHIELD look like it wasn't doing its job. What about the other meeting?"
"Runaways are thinking about it," Remy shrugged. "Truth be told we all agreed that they would fit in with the Misfits better than the X-Men. And they'd be useful out in San Francisco where the other mutants are."
"That's fine with me. I have no problem with that," Scott said.
"Figured you wouldn't. That's why Wavedancer was at the meeting too," Rogue said. "I think they might go for it. It will take a couple of days to iron out all the details."
"I'm surprised you were able to convince them at all," Ororo said.
"Things are a bit tougher since M-Day," Remy shrugged. "I think they'd be getting tired of being on the run all the time and want to find a better place to live. This way they get to do their job but have somewhat of a decent home and finish their schooling."
"Good," Scott nodded. "Our good news is that our newest friends are the Kingpin and Doctor Doom. They want to get rid of Sentinels permanently just as bad as we do."
"Kingpin's no brainer," Remy shrugged. "Sentinels around hunting his hired help he'd be out of half his army in no time flat. And he makes a lot of money with his remaining contacts in what's left of the Mutant Mob."
"And Doom's pride is smarting like a kid's bottom after he's been caught stealing," Rogue said. "His whole castle is nothing more than a parking lot now."
"There's another reason," Ororo said. "Doom wants to add the Vision to the list."
"Really? Huh that's an interesting wrinkle," Rogue thought.
"I have very little doubt the United Nations will soon pass the Anti-Sentinel Amendment despite a few vocal protests from mutant hating scum," Scott snarled. "But we really need more allies. Any suggestions?"
"Well if they ever had a vote to replace the Sorcerer Supreme on Earth my vote would be for Benny," Rogue said. "He stood with us when we needed him the most. He took down Apocalypse for crying out loud."
"Of course Benny is our strongest ally in the magic world," Scott waved. "And Illyana but she's off in Limbo. And Margali won't abandon her daughter so that's three. But that's not enough. We need more magical allies."
"Well since Benny is technically dating my sister I think I'd better ask him if there's any other magicians we can talk with," Rogue groaned. "But don't expect miracles."
"Just do what you can Rogue. That's all I ask," Scott said.
"As for allies I know for a fact we can count on the support of the Black Panther," Ororo spoke. "Technically he is an Avenger."
"A reserve member who refused to have anything to do with his team when the war went on," Scott pointed out. "Better than nothing. And we know he'll stand with us. His country did harbor mutants during the whole fiasco."
"Anyone else?" Rogue asked.
"I think we just shamed Reed Richards and the rest of the Fantastic Four into helping us," Scott added. "Personally I think his guilt complex is too little too late but at this point I'll take what I can get."
"What about Namor of Atlantis?" Ororo thought. "Technically he's a mutant."
"Namor? That punk didn't do squat until near the end of the war and when he did show up he made things worse!" Remy snapped. "I'd be friendly to him like I'd be friendly to a shark."
"Yeah well that shark is going to have to be an ally if we are going to make sure that M-Day never happens again," Scott said.
"Wavedancer is gonna love that," Rogue said. "Her family ain't exactly that fond of the Atlanteans after what went down with her Momma. Can't say I blame her."
"She'll put her anger aside for the greater good," Scott said. "Shipwreck however is another story…"
"Goddess don't remind me," Ororo moaned. "I suppose I have to keep an eye on him?"
"You are the best person for that particular job," Remy smirked.
"Wonderful," Ororo grumbled.
"Think of it this way, if he gets out of hand you have an excuse to zap him with some lighting," Rogue smirked.
"I already have plenty of excuses to do that," Ororo rolled her eyes. "But for once Shipwreck isn't our biggest problem when it comes to PR."
"We're just going to have to put on the mother of all PR campaigns in order to convince people that mutants aren't the enemy," Rogue grumbled.
"Win 'em over one smile at a time," Remy said. "Do all kinds of good deeds in front of the media to prove to the people that we're human too."
"And to stop any idiots that still want to continue the war," Rogue agreed.
"You are right about needing a PR agent," Scott said. "And I think I know the people we can use for this job…"