[Local News Break — 5 o’clock News]

[Camera view of the new Belport Bulletin newsroom. Bethany Wonder sits alone at the desk. She’s wearing a green blouse with her blond hair pulled back into a bun. Her expression is somber. Bethany shuffles her papers before beginning.]

“It’s August in Belport, and it’s hard to believe that the Summer is nearly over. Cities all along the Atlantic coast have spent the season rebuilding—our great city is no different. Shops are reopening in the downtown area and we’re being told that almost all residents have been cleared to return to their homes.

"This weekend, the city of Belport will host a deeply poignant memorial service to honor those who lost their lives during the devastating war with the Deep Ones. The service, which is expected to draw thousands of attendees, will take place at the newly constructed Memorial Plaza, a site that has quickly become a symbol of the city’s resilience and determination to rebuild.”

[The broadcast cuts to scenes from Belport, where workers are putting the finishing touches on the Memorial Plaza. The plaza features a towering monument, its surface etched with the names of the fallen. The monument rises out of a reflecting pool.]

"City officials have invited families of the victims, survivors, and all citizens to join in a day of remembrance. The ceremony will include speeches from local leaders, a moment of silence, and a candlelight vigil that will illuminate the plaza as the sun sets over the Atlantic.

“For the people of Belport, this service represents not just a time to mourn, but also a moment to reflect on the strength and unity that has carried them through the darkest of times. We will be providing live coverage of the event, ensuring that even those who cannot attend in person can share in this important occasion.

“Our top stories tonight concern heroes, old and new:

“In a sweeping move that underscores the Allied State’s ongoing commitment to safety and order, the Summit of Heroes has officially registered an additional 4,000 capes across the country. This unprecedented expansion of the registered superhero community comes at a critical time, as cities and towns continue to rebuild in the aftermath of the war with the Deep Ones."

[The screen cuts to footage of superheroes of various abilities and backgrounds, each receiving their official registration from Summit representatives.]

"These new registrations are not just numbers; they represent a significant increase in our ability to respond to crises, both natural and man-made. Among the newly registered are individuals with a wide array of powers and who come from all walks of life—some were seasoned veterans who had operated in the shadows for years, while others are fresh faces, eager to leave their mark in a world desperate for protection.

"This expansion also serves as a clear message from The Summit—one echoed by Speaker Rivera. The registration process ensures that every hero is accountable, trained, and aligned with the laws that govern our society."

~ ~

The screen cuts to a map of the country, highlighting the regions where these new heroes have been deployed. Most of the highlights are along the Atlantic coast, in regions most affected by the war.]

"As these 4,000 new heroes take their places across the nation, the hope is that their presence will not only help in the physical rebuilding but also in restoring the public’s confidence in a future where safety and justice prevail.

"Our main story tonight: A significant announcement was made earlier today by Speaker Rivera, addressing the future of heroism and law enforcement in our nation. We now take you live to that press conference."

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[The screen transitions to a press conference room. Speaker Rivera steps up to the podium and surveys the room.]

"Ladies and gentlemen, citizens of this great nation… Today, I stand before you to announce a critical shift in our approach to maintaining order and justice in our society.

"For too long, we have allowed a dangerous precedent to continue on our streets. The era of unchecked vigilantism has brought chaos, and while some may have acted with noble intentions, the consequences have been too great, too many… The law is the foundation of our civilization, and no individual, masked or otherwise, is above it.

"Effective immediately, vigilantism in all its forms is hereby outlawed. This includes all unregistered masks, as well as those who have chosen a darker path—villains who prey on the innocent and disrupt the peace. The period of amnesty that we extended has come to an end.

"From this moment forward, the only individuals permitted to operate as heroes are those who are registered and approved by The Summit of Heroes. This esteemed organization has been entrusted with ensuring that those who wield power do so responsibly and with the utmost respect for the law.

"Let it be known: any unregistered mask or villain found within our borders will be apprehended on sight. There will be no more exceptions, no more second chances. The time has come for order to be restored, for the rule of law to prevail.

"We stand at a crossroads, where the actions we take today will shape the future of our society. Let us choose the path of order, of justice, and of unity under the law."

[Silence hangs in the air as the gravity of the announcement sets in. Speaker Rivera steps back from the podium and turns to leave.

[The press corps erupts into a flurry of questions and camera flashes, but Rivera has already walked off stage.]

~ ~

[Video feed transitions to statements and reactions from Summit Capes.

[Ocean Guardian appears stoic and resolved.] "The sea may be unpredictable, but our response to threats should not be. Vigilantes, despite their bravery, lack the oversight necessary to prevent unintended consequences. By bringing all heroes under one banner, we can ensure that the protection of our citizens is consistent and lawful."

[Amarque runs a hand through his hair, obviously distraught by the question.] "Look, I get it—playing hero in the shadows might feel cool, but it’s reckless. You want to make a difference? Stop pretending you’re in some action movie and join the professionals. The Summit’s where the real work gets done. Otherwise, don’t be surprised when the law catches up with you."

[Sage appears on screen. Below her name it states that she is a newly registered member of the Summit of Heroes.] "I was once like them, working on my own, but I’ve seen firsthand how much more effective we can be when we work together. I’ve only recently joined the Summit, so I know what it’s like to be on the outside, trying to do good without the backing of an established organization. When I was on my own, I thought I could handle everything, but the truth is, going solo only takes you so far. Without the resources, intel, and support that the Summit provides, you end up fighting battles with one hand tied behind your back.

"Since joining, I’ve seen firsthand the difference it makes to have a team behind you. The training, the shared knowledge, the coordination—it’s all crucial. As much as we want to believe we can do it all alone, the reality is, we’re stronger together. Vigilantes might mean well, but without oversight and collaboration, they’re risking not just their own lives but the safety of the people they’re trying to protect.

"For me, joining the Summit was a humbling experience. I had to learn that being a hero isn’t just about power—it’s about responsibility and being part of something bigger. I encourage those still out there on their own to consider making the leap. It’s not about giving up your independence; it’s about amplifying your impact by working within a system designed to protect everyone. Trust me, the difference it makes is night and day."

[Midas, the leader of the Binary Brotherhood, pushes up his glasses. His expression is stark and serious.]

"The decision to outlaw vigilantes was not made lightly. As much as we respect those who have taken it upon themselves to protect their communities, we must prioritize accountability and public safety. The new laws are about ensuring that every hero is held to the same standard of responsibility and transparency. Power, without checks and balances, leads to chaos. By requiring registration, we ensure that every hero is trained, monitored, and supported. It’s about preventing misuse of power and protecting the public."

“Some may see this as the end of an era, but it’s really the beginning of a safer one. The Binary Brotherhood respects this decision and we look forward to working with the Summit of Heroes. It’s time to unite our efforts and move forward together."

~ ~ ~