Washington, USA
Later that night.
"…and I'd like take this opportunity to make a special announcement. You will no doubt have heard that one of our Embassies was attacked recently, in a seemingly motiveless crime. However, after diligent and thorough investigation by the FBI and Washington Police, as well as other security organizations, I can now reveal that this attack was motivated by the presence of a post-human in the Embassy. He was not even part of the staff of the embassy, and Ambassador Duchaine and his wife were caught in the attack through sheer bad luck."
There was a rustle in the room, from the forty or so reporters from various networks across the country at the words 'post-human'.
"However, the authorities are still treating this as a terrorist attack, and they will not rest until the perpetrators are brought to justice, either in Canada or America. They will be punished to the full extent of the law.
"My special announcement is for all the post-humans living in America. One was attacked in your country's capital, and it is only through his direct relation to the Canadian Ambassador that his case was so well-publicized. There have been many reports, over the years, of mistreatment, abuse, bullying, threats, and murders of enough post-humans to warrant this decision. And these reports are only the ones that make the papers.
The rustling got slightly louder. The man who spoke paused for a second, and let the room settle down. His next words had been carefully chosen for their provocative impact.
"The press and media have reported that the upcoming UN Summit will be dominated by the, and I quote, 'mutant problem.' As far as most of the world is concerned, there is no problem, save for that which America has made for itself.
"There is also this despicable piece of proposed legislation currently moving through the Senate and House of Representatives to force post-humans to register themselves and their abilities, and where they live. This has happened to certain groups of people in history before. One example that springs instantly to mind: The Jews in the 1930's. However, the resulting Holocaust has become one of Mankind's darkest days. I, as well as many other people have no wish to repeat the mistakes of the past. We would prefer to move forward, learning from the past, instead of ignoring it. This is why the Canadian Government has decided on the following policy."
The reporters and other people in the room were openly staring at him now. They had a fair idea of what was coming, but they were still waiting expectantly, holding their collective breath.
"From midnight tonight, Immigration officials on all points on the Canadian/American border are instructed to give shelter to any American post-human. Any post-human who wishes may apply for work, accommodation, and healthcare. The Canadian system of employment, healthcare and justice does not discriminate on the grounds of genetics. Powers you thought were a curse can be turned into useful gifts, with jobs ranging from public service to private sector applications. Water and fire-based powers can be used in the Emergency services, as can healing and empathic gifts.
"While Canada has no wish to split families up, this offer will also extend to any teenagers and young adults who can make the trip. If you feel that you stand a better chance of life without being bullied, tormented, or shunned because of your genes, we can help you achieve this.
"Thank you for your time. Any questions?"
The shout came from forty different people.
"Mr. Prime Minister!"
---
"That son of a bitch!" shouted the President. "How the hell did he manage that?"
The White House was in a state of shock at the Canadian Prime Minister's nationally televised address, and had been caught flat-footed and without a response. It was a terribly damaging blow to America's credibility, especially as the host of the World Summit. Now, the emphasis was on damage control and restoring the public's faith in the Administration.
"I want that Bill destroyed. Dead in the water. I don't care what you have to do, I don't care who you have to bribe, blackmail or shut up, I want that Bill stopped. Work mostly on the swing votes, those who aren't sure. Don't bother with people like Kelly or Baines. They'll never change. But get that Bill stopped."
---
"Who's gonna help me? You? Well, so far you've all done a bang-up job!"
Marc was having a late snack in the itchen when he heard the voice of Logan. Peeking round the corner, he saw the gruff Canadian dressed for travel. He was arguing with Miss Munroe about something.
"Then help us." He turned round scornfully. "Fight with us."
"Fight with you, join the 'team', be an X-Man? What the hell do you think you are, you're a mutant. The whole world out there is full of people that hate and fear you, and you're wasting your time trying to protect them." He shook his head slightly. "I've got better things to do." He turned and walked away. Pausing, he swung back, and added as an afterthought, "You know, Magneto's right, there's a war coming."
There was a slight pause as Storm tried to predict his question.
"Are you sure you're on the right side?"
"At least I've chosen a side!" she said. He turned, a scornful grimace on his face, and opened the wood-panelled door-
-just in time to come face to face with a heavily-breathing man in an ill-fitting t-shirt and denim jacket. He was pale, sweating and shaking, and his voice was hoarse.
"I'm looking for Doctor Jean Grey," he muttered, before falling heavily into Logan.
It was Senator Kelly, the lead advocate of the Mutant Registration Act.