Fall of the Mighty ★ [4] ✔

Black and White

⏳ 2016

"Secretary Ross has a Congressional Medal of Honour, which is one more than you have."

"So, let's say we agree to this thing. How long is it gonna be before they LoJack us like a bunch of common criminals?"

I set my jaw, my arms crossed over my chest tightening in frustration. My eyes met Tony's just as they rolled in as much irritation as his body language demonstrated, hand clawed over his face and slouching in the cushioned chair.

I looked to Steve sitting in front of where Rhodey and Sam continued to argue, flicking through the document that was to decide our future. His expression was that of concern as he read. I knew immediately what he was thinking. He didn't agree. He didn't agree with any of it.

"A hundred and seventeen countries want to sign this," Rhodey said. "A hundred and seventeen, Sam, and you're just like, "'No, that's cool. We got it'—"

"How long are you going to play both sides?" Sam countered.

"Enough," I interjected, massaging exhausted fingers on the bridge of my nose. "This is getting us nowhere."

Steve was the last to read the document. I'd read it. The idea was ludicrous. Having to rely on any form of government would slow down saving lives. Having to wait for approval to save millions of people was a mistake. More would die, in fact. But...I couldn't help but think that it would save lives in the process. I was torn.

"I have an equation." All attention turned to the Vision placing his glass on the coffee table delicately.

"Oh, this will clear it up," Sam grumbled.

"In the eight years since Mr. Stark announced himself as Iron Man, the number of known enhanced persons has grown exponentially," Vision explained. "During the same period, the number of potentially world-ending events has risen at a commensurate rate."

"Are you saying it's our fault?" Steve asked, his tone bordering on dangerous.

The Vision chose his next words carefully, his oddly coloured eyes flicking to Wanda before moving back to Steve. "I'm saying there may be a causality." His next words were well thought upon. His next words were dangerous. His next words...made too much sense. "Our very strength invites challenge. Challenge incites conflict. And conflict..."