“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. This is Johnathan Roberts bringing you the latest updates on the unprecedented and catastrophic event unfolding in the heart of the United States. Yellowstone National Park, known for its stunning geothermal features and natural beauty, has erupted as a super volcano, sending shockwaves across the globe. This is an ongoing situation, and we are committed to providing you with the most comprehensive and up-to-date information.

“The eruption of the Yellowstone super volcano has created a massive impact zone, with the immediate vicinity experiencing the most severe effects. The initial blast has devastated an area spanning hundreds of miles, with ash clouds spreading across multiple states. The states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho are at the epicenter of this disaster, facing the brunt of the volcanic activity. The ash fallout is expected to affect regions as far as the Midwest, with potential disruptions to air travel, agriculture, and daily life. This, unfortunately, may worsen the ongoing water problems in the Mississippi. We plan to have a panel of scientists tomorrow to fully discuss the effects these events have caused.

“The eruption has triggered a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale. Thousands of residents in the immediate vicinity have been forced to evacuate, leaving behind their homes and belongings. Emergency shelters are being set up in neighboring states to accommodate the displaced population. The ash cloud poses severe health risks, including respiratory issues and contamination of water supplies. Hospitals and medical facilities are overwhelmed, and there is an urgent need for medical supplies and personnel.

“Amid this chaos, reports are coming in of superheroes stepping up to assist with the recovery efforts. These extraordinary individuals, known for their remarkable abilities and unwavering commitment to justice, are turning their attention to humanitarian aid. They quickly arrived at the scene within an hour of the reports. Superheroes are reportedly using their superhuman strength and speed to assist in evacuation efforts. They are helping to transport people from the most dangerous areas to safety, often carrying multiple individuals at once. Their ability to navigate through hazardous terrain and withstand extreme conditions is proving invaluable in reaching those trapped or injured.

“They are working to contain the spread of ash and lava, and in some cases, even redirecting lava flows away from populated areas. Their efforts are crucial in preventing further destruction and protecting the environment.

“While the situation remains dire, the involvement of superheroes is providing a glimmer of hope in these dark times. Their efforts, combined with those of emergency responders, volunteers, and government agencies, are making a significant difference in the recovery process. However, the road to recovery will be long and challenging. The full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed, and the long-term environmental and economic impacts are still unknown.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and bring you the latest updates as they become available. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this disaster, and we commend the bravery and dedication of everyone involved in the recovery efforts. Stay tuned for more updates. Follow us online to keep yourself well informed.”

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I awoke with a coating of ash on my suit. The fires had spread, never really stopping. Some of the volcanoes' destruction had been redirected but not stopped. I slowly stepped off the rooftop and walked through the parking lot. It was empty of everything except a few emergency vehicles, though at this point, if anyone needed help, then they would be taken by a speedster or someone like me. The building seemed to be as busy as before. My mask hadn’t alerted me to anything throughout the night, or maybe I had slept through it. Running across the middle of the parking lot was a large gouge in the ground. Trees had toppled over, and ash coated the ground, not yet swept away.

I went through my mask’s notifications. The list wasn’t long and covered a few updates on the changing situation sent to everyone in the area. Considering that I wasn’t directly called on or needed now, I teleported back to the agency. I skipped past the main areas and teleported to a restroom. It was one of the recovery rooms and, for a while, had been treated as a bedroom, albeit a temporary one. I stripped off my suit and sent it through the machine cleaner so that it could be ready when I went back. The snacks were limited but appreciated for a quick breakfast.

Next, I showered and changed. The agency had an assortment of extra clothing available. All too often, some hero comes in covered in blood and additional holes in their suit with a need for new clothes. The shower was a good time to rest and relax for a bit before heading back to the chaos of Yellowstone. I also took the time while waiting for my suit to be cleaned to check the news. Yellowstone was all over the headlines, followed by other news about destruction and wars. Pulling heroes from as far away as Germany seemed to have a follow-on effect as it left open time for villains or other bad things, in general, to go by without help from the superhuman community. The world was just continuing its slow decline with the help of more destructive forces than the typical human.

The break felt less refreshing when putting back on my suit. It had been cleaned and sterilized. Washed of all sweat and ash, leaving a pristine exterior. I tried not to dwell on thoughts of the news and the reports going around. It was hard not to, though. They spoke to the reality of the situation. Or at least part of it. It was hard to avoid when I was currently a big part of that reality.

I couldn’t delay any longer after suiting up. I mean, I could, but it wouldn’t be appropriate. My system in my mask had been pinged a few times. I was missed and needed back in Wyoming. With a thought, I focused on the gravel rooftop and teleported back.

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The fires and destruction didn’t look much better in the morning light. Night had obscured much of the wreckage. Now, though, I could see much further and, at the same time, see much less. The ash had continued to spread through the sky. Only some of it had started to fall. I didn’t linger on the rooftop and checked back in on the main floor. The organization of areas had remained the same, but fewer civilians were left in the building. Most had been moved to proper hospitals or homes if possible. Now, it was an operation base for the agency and us heroes. A new agent was stationed at the front desk who looked as tired on the outside as I was on the inside.

“I’m checking back in. I was back at base for a while and wondering where I am needed next.”

“Let me see where you are stationed,” said the agent. They typed some stuff on a laptop brought in from HQ. “You were assigned to transportation yesterday. The immediate area around the volcano is clear, so you aren’t needed on that anymore. The current assignment is to help with the evacuation of people in homes affected by the situation. Forcibly remove them if needed. A continuously updating map will be sent to your ID. Keep watch on your messages next time.”

I nodded, understanding the message. They typed on their computer for a minute before hitting enter. My mask received the message, and a map of all affected houses listed by priority and by heroes working in the area. I picked a neighborhood not too far from other heroes who were in need and started traveling.

Starting from the roof, I traveled by sight. My mask helped me orient myself and keep track of where I needed to go. Travel was slow going through the woods. Sometimes, it would open to larger fields, but it was slow. After about fifteen minutes of nonstop travel, I reached the neighborhood.

The ash cloud could be seen from here. It slowly and noticeably was traveling toward the collection of houses. Walking into the town, I saw people packing up in their driveways. Some had already left. The disaster was approaching, and they needed to leave.

I teleported closer and walked by houses. “Start packing faster. Only the essentials and then leave,” I yelled toward a family stuffing more and more stuff into their minivan.

I knocked on doors and checked garages. Some were smart enough to leave already. The people were slowly trickling out of the neighborhood. I approached an elderly couple. They had stepped out of their house.

“Do you need help leaving?” I asked.

“No. No. I think we are already. You can go take care of someone else,” said the man.

“You really should be in your car and on your way by now.”

“We can take care of ourselves,” said the woman. “You aren’t needed.”

I sighed, understanding the disdain they had. Even though they didn’t understand the danger they were in. I looked past them and to the door. Teleporting passed them, I entered their kitchen.

“Hey! You can’t do that. Get out of our house!”

“I’m sorry, I can’t do that. Do you need anything medical-wise?” I paused for an answer that didn’t come. They were angrier that I had entered their home than the fact that they were in danger of fires and ash. “If you don’t need anything, then why don’t we get you somewhere safe.”

I didn’t want a repeat of yesterday. I considered what places I had available for teleport. The closest was Denver, but I didn’t want to teleport them to a rooftop and leave them there despite their annoyance. One of New York’s hospitals would have to do. I ran for the old man first and bear-hugged him before teleporting. He panicked for a moment as realization set in. I released him before returning to his home to grab his wife. There would be more people that needed ‘help’ leaving the area. I didn’t look forward to grabbing more people.

The next few people were nice about leaving their house. They had seen the news and saw their neighbors also getting into cars to leave for family or on a sudden road trip.

I continued my rounds, teleporting from house to house, urging people to leave as quickly as possible. The ash cloud loomed ominously in the distance, a constant reminder of the urgency of the situation. Most people were cooperative, understanding the gravity of the disaster. However, not everyone was so willing to accept help.

As I approached a modest two-story house, I noticed a man standing in the driveway, his arms crossed defiantly. His wife and two young children were inside, visible through the front window, frantically packing their belongings.

"Sir, you need to leave now. The ash cloud is getting closer, and it's not safe to stay here," I said, trying to keep my tone calm and authoritative. “You are now living near an active volcano.”

"We're not going anywhere," he replied, his voice firm. "This is our home, and we're not leaving it behind."

"Please, you don't understand the danger. The ash can cause severe respiratory issues, and the fires are spreading. You need to get your family to safety," I insisted.

He shook his head, his expression hardening. "I said we're not leaving. Now get off my property."

I took a step closer, trying to reason with him. "I'm here to help. I can teleport you and your family to a safe location. You don't have to do this alone."

Suddenly, he pulled a gun from his waistband and pointed it at me. "I said, get off my property!"

Time seemed to slow down as I saw the gun aimed at me. My training kicked in, and I dodged to the side just as he pulled the trigger. The bullet whizzed past me, missing by inches. Without hesitation, I closed the distance between us and clocked him in the nose with a swift punch. He staggered back, dropping the gun.

I grabbed him by the arm and teleported us both to the hospital, where I ended up sending everyone who didn’t want to drive or couldn’t. He looked around, disoriented and angry, but before he could react, I teleported him back to his house.

His wife and children were huddled together, fear etched on their faces. "It's okay, I'm here to help," I said gently. "Your husband is safe. Now, let's get you out of here." They nodded, too scared to argue. I took the children first, teleporting them to the same place. Then I returned for the wife, who clung to me as we teleported away from the danger.

Once they were all together, I spoke to the man again. "I understand you're scared and angry, but you need to trust that we're here to help. Stay here until it's safe to return."

He nodded reluctantly, holding his family close. I could see the fear in his eyes.

I teleported back to the disaster zone, ready to continue my mission. The situation was dire, but I knew that every person I helped was one step closer to safety. The ash cloud continued to spread, and the fires raged on, but I was determined to do everything in my power to protect those in need. As I moved through the neighborhood, I encountered more people who needed assistance. Some were cooperative, while others were resistant, but I didn't let that deter me.

The day wore on, and the exhaustion began to set in. My suit, once pristine, was now covered in ash and sweat again. The ash fell from the sky and continued to spread outward.