Fusion and Iron

29. A Crippling Celebration

"Good morning, citizens of Townsville."
A seasoned, familiar news anchor had his elbows folded over the table in front of him. The years added a few lines on his face, his tame brown hair slightly graying into a distinguished silver. His voice boomed with urgency and clarity, still maintaining that staple in every Townsville household everyone knew him for. Despite being old-fashioned, the white shirt, black tie, and pale blue coat never failed him. He maintained his serious look, speaking plainly on the matter.

"I'm Stanley Whitfield with the morning news," he began, adjusting his posture. "It seems that a new light has shined upon us here in the City of Townsville, as we've received several reports accounting for the sudden, almost miraculous reappearances of famous superheroes. Many presumed missing, or perhaps even departed, have emerged from hiding and coming to make their presence known and aid those in dire need."

The screen displayed the presence of a familiar man, smiling and waving towards the camera. Surrounding him on all sides were ecstatic fans eager to see him, lifting their hands and clawing to reach him. Despite his thin, withered body and fine lines on his face, he was back in the costume like before. It was well groomed, and taken care of like calling an old friend after a few years. His name was Val Hallen, and he was ready to bring rock back to the world one clash at a time.

"Many of Townsville's greats have reunited, making a sudden surprise reappearance and proud declaration to do good. Speaking of greats, the legendary Justice Friends have come together once more, led by none other than Major Glory himself! As of recently, our correspondent Linda has been allowed to speak with the hero who remains a beloved figure to many. We now go live with Linda at city hall," Whitfield continued, cueing the change. "Hello, Linda!"

The screen shifted to the bustling and recognizable street where a blonde-haired reporter with a bright white smile was front and center. Adjusting her hair with a hand and fixing her blue blazer, she held a comically large microphone in hand. "Hi, Stanley! This is Linda reporting from Townsville City Hall! Here I have beside me is none other than the great hero Major Glory himself!"

The camera panned slightly to reveal the bolstered, muscular man beside her, dressed in his iconic star-spangled, red, white, and blue suit. His chest puffed out, his chin held high, and his face beaming with purpose.

"Major Glory, it's been a while since we've seen the Justice Friends in action. What brought you and your comrades back together?" she asked politely with a wide smile, holding the microphone out to him.

The hero grinned broadly, striking a heroic pose. "Ah, my dear Linda, the Justice Friends were never truly gone–only waiting for the right moment to rise again! And now, we shall do everything within our power to ensure that the Justice Friends return to their full, righteous glory, courtesy of the Major Glory himself!"

He spoke with emphasis on his words, raising his fists into the air for added effect. The crowd behind him went wild, their excitement screaming through the microphone.

"And what sparked this sudden change of heart, Major?" Linda asked, humored by his antics. "Where did this renewed sense of duty come from?"

He lowered his fists, putting his hands on his hips. Major seemed somber yet reflective as he spoke, "Well, Linda, there comes a time in every super's life when they reflect on the past. The good old days of justice, camaraderie, and the pursuit of righteousness. I realized I missed those days, for the friends and allies I once stood beside. Now, with the ongoing war against the tyrannical Lord Fuse and his invading force, we are needed more than ever."

Major Glory paused, lowering his voice slightly yet spoke proudly. "From then, suddenly! Out of nowhere! A certain little bird (whose name I shall not reveal for the sake of his privacy) encouraged me to take up the mantle once more. Not only did he inspire me, but he also helped restore the very powers that make Major Glory, well, MAJOR GLORY! "