The X-Project

"A CNN Exclusive"

"We're coming to you live from press conference called only today at the White House, where President McKenna is preparing to make a statement which concerns national security. We have not yet been told what the announcement specifically involves, but we do know it relates to the mutant terrorist attack on New York City two weeks ago and the government's successful response to the incident. President McKenna has just taken the podium."

"Good morning. Thank you for coming in at short notice." (laughter) "The reason is one of the gravest threats to face our nation since the Gulf War. On October 26, terrorists struck at one of our greatest cities, in an effort to displace American citizens and claim their home for the fiefdom of zealots and madmen. They were not successful. American forces, along with emergency services and law enforcement in Manhattan drove the mutant terrorists from their stronghold, and arrested their leader, a mutant who claimed the title of 'Apocalypse'. Those who attacked America were defeated, arrested, and will face justice for their actions. Even as I speak, access to Manhattan has been re-opened, although the way to the end of the reconstruction will be long.

Today, after speaking with President Elect Obama, we came to an agreement over a serious national security matter. As of today, as President, I officially announce the creation of the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement, and Logistics Division. This division, SHIELD, will serve as the primary agency in identifying and stopping mutant terror in the United States and around the world. I also name as Director the man responsible for the coordination and success of the operation to drive Apocalypse from New York, General Nicholas Fury. General Fury is a decorated veteran of numerous engagements in the service of his country, including the Gulf War. Director Fury will take control of this new agency, which is comprised of three main functions.

First, they will coordinate with all American intelligence and law enforcement agencies to identify, track, and monitor mutant terrorist factions and developments around the world and at home.

Secondly, they will serve as the lead response in any instances of mutant terrorism in the United States. To this end, the research and development programs involving mutants and their powers will now be controlled by SHIELD, to better prepare our troops and our agents to deal with such abilities in the line of duty.

Finally, SHIELD will work closely and provide support to local and state law enforcement in situations of mutant crime or incident. Along with the FBI, SHIELD will help train law enforcement to better understand the unique difficulties mutant powers can present, and provide material support when requested.

New York City could have been this country's greatest tragedy, if not for the actions of the men and women who now comprise this agency. Their bravery, dedication, and will forced back a would be tyrant into a cell like any other criminal. The majority of American mutants are decent, patriotic people. In Manhattan, even under threat, mutants living there rejected Apocalypse's offer, and fought with our forces against him. America will never be held hostage by terror. We will never succumb to the calls for a civil war against our own citizens, regardless of their genetic status. We will be ready and vigilant to protect the lives and rights of all Americans from terror, no matter what form it takes.

Thank you."