Elias retreated, clenching his jaw. He didn't have ten hours. His sister, Maya, was a "Sensor"—she could feel the emotions of everyone in a three-block radius. Lately, the city’s collective fear was becoming toxic, causing her to suffer from "The Sinking," a neurological decay common in Powers who overused or couldn't control their gifts. The only cure was Psyke, a dangerous drug made from the spinal fluid of other powered people, and it cost more than Elias could earn in a year of honest work.
Below is an original story set within this universe, focusing on the desperate choices people make to survive. The Flickering Light Code 8
The world of is a gritty, dystopian version of Lincoln City where 4% of the population is born with supernatural abilities. Once revered as the backbone of the industrial revolution, these "Powers" now live in poverty, face systemic discrimination, and are hunted by a militarized police force using advanced drone technology. Elias retreated, clenching his jaw
"It’s not crime if you're taking back what they stole from us," Garrett countered. "That transport is carrying pure Psyke. Enough to keep your sister stable for a decade. Or you can stay here and watch her fade away while the Guardians circle overhead." Lately, the city’s collective fear was becoming toxic,
Elias looked up. A police drone—a "Guardian"—hovered silently above the rooftops, its red optical sensor scanning the street for unregistered abilities. He felt the familiar surge of electricity beneath his skin, the "Code 8" violation just waiting to happen. "When do we start?" Elias asked.
: Abilities are categorized by class and type (Electric, Cryo, Telekinetic, etc.).