The Media brands them as "Superpowers", but that is a deeply flawed romanticization of what in truth is incomprehensible magic, it is a desperate attempt by the masses to not be driven insane with existential dread. Hero worship is the new opiate of the masses, a pop-culture drug that dulls the senses and allows us to live as normal without having to confront a terrible truth...— Leopold Verner
Introduction
Fae-touched is a recent "scientific" term to denote those with supernatural abilities related to their connection to the fae realm. It is generally understood that the Fae-touched are intrinsically linked to
Atlantis City and
Argus, as only those born there are capable of being fae-touched.
Atlas Research is the prime source for much of the world's knowledge about the fae-touched (And also the originator of the word).
It is believed that the powers of the Fae-touched are deeply personal and multifaceted, they often have drawbacks or consequences for their use that limit the individual from truly taking advantage of their power. This has the added complication of making a true understanding of these powers and their potential near impossible as in theory any ability is within the realm of possibility. (Add. Chronomancy has yet to be observed, time manipulation is still outside the capabilities of any fae-touched)
Observations
Expression:
No fae-touched expresses their powers the same, while the effects may be similar, the way they are "expressed" or performed differs greatly. This also means that how these powers manifest is shrouded in mystery, the expression of powers follows no known laws of physics or metaphysics.
Effect:
While the expressions are impossible to predict, the effects of the powers seem to follow the rules of Physics to a certain degree, so someone capable of creating fire with their hands cannot sustain a fire in a vacuum, but they are still able to create a spark through their expression, but once it is "out of their hands" so to speak, the fire still obeys the laws of physics. It should be noted that this has been used to great effect by the fae-touched themselves, as it can turn rather mundane powers terrifyingly destructive. The greatest example of this effect is
Aquarious, capable of manipulating the temperature of water, When this supernatural expression is allowed to interact with the physical realities of our world it has terrifying repercussions, like being able to boil someone with their own blood.
Side-effects:
Most, if not all, Fae-touched report issues with nightmares, visual and auditory hallucinations, and paranoid delusions. It was recently theorized this is due to their minds' "proximity" to the incomprehensible Fae realm.
Training:
It would seem that most fae-touched are capable of growing their power and control through training or experimentation, either through learning they are capable of different expressions or finding creative new applications of effects to increase their effectiveness. This has been the core tenant of
Olympus, to not just help Fae-touched control their abilities, but to help each student master their expression.
Safety:
Due to the chaotic nature of the expression of these powers, it is not unusual for catastrophic accidents to occur when a fae-touched experiments with their powers of unleashing it in an emotional state, there is even a new criminal classification under the law related to crimes of passion using fae-touched powers.
Generations
Little is known about How or Why someone becomes Fae-touched, but most express their abilities between the ages 5-7.
There have so far been 3 "Generations" of Fae-touched born so far:
- Gen 0: (1950-1980, est. 60) Mostly born from the first explorers and scientists who settled on Atlantis. This includes the 2 children born to Argus.
- Gen 1: (1980-2001, est. 3000) The first generation born to settlers of early Atlantis, most of this gen were able to attend Olympus, a school specially designed to help fae-touched master their abilities.
- Gen 2: (2001- 2023, est. 10 000) Also known as the rogue generation, as this was the largest generation by far and not all were able to enter the Olympus system, this generation grew up with the Superhero stereotype and many went out on their own as vigilantes
Classification
Fae-touched "Superpowers" are categorized in the following ways based on their "strength" or disruptive ability, its primarily used by
Atlas Research and
Olympus:
| Class | Description | Example |
|---|
| Fledgling (F-Class) |
Fae-touched individuals who barely exhibit powers. Their abilities are minimal and often uncontrollable. |
A F-Class might have sporadic visions of the Faede or temporary bursts of enhanced agility. |
| Wisp (W-Class) |
These fae-touched have more consistent control over their abilities. Powers are moderate and can be used with some level of predictability. |
A W-Class individual might be able to manipulate small objects with their mind or have a heightened sense of empathy. |
| Enchanter (E-Class) |
Significantly powerful fae-touched. They have mastered their abilities and gained more complex powers. |
An E-Class could manipulate elements, engage in limited telekinesis, or have enhanced physical abilities. |
| Mystic (M-Class) |
Fae-touched who possess profound and wide-ranging powers. They are adept in manipulating the fabric of the Faede. |
A M-Class individual might be able to teleport, read minds, have supernatural toughness, or manipulate the faede. |
| Sovereign (S-Class) |
Among the most powerful fae-touched. Their abilities can affect large populations or alter significant aspects of reality. |
An S-Class could control weather patterns, cause earthquakes, or influence emotions on a large scale. |
| Archfey (A-Class) |
The pinnacle of fae-touched power, reserved for "beings" like Argus the Archfey. Their powers are almost god-like, and they have a deep connection with the core of the Faede |
Argus , assumed to be able to have all capabilities of the other classifications, including near invincibility and flight. |
The Atlas Initiative
Event: In response to growing public fear and curiosity about the occult phenomena surrounding Fae-touched individuals, Atlas Research, a leading organization in supernatural studies, launches a significant public relations campaign.
Objective: The campaign is designed to reframe these mystical occurrences as 'superpowers', a more palatable and less threatening concept to the general public. The term is chosen for its resonance with popular culture and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder rather than fear.
Implementation: Through a series of public forums, media appearances, and collaborations with renowned scientists and influencers, Atlas Research begins to shift the narrative. They present Fae-touched abilities as a new frontier of human evolution, akin to the superpowers seen in science fiction and comic books.
Atlas's Role: Atlas Research , already deeply involved in the study of Fae-touched phenomena, positions itself as the foremost authority on these 'superpowers'. They offer explanations grounded in scientific theory, albeit with a supernatural twist, to make the concept more accessible and less ominous.
Public Reception: This initiative is met with mixed reactions. While many embrace the exciting notion of superpowers and superheroes, others remain skeptical or fearful, viewing it as a cover-up of something more sinister.
Long-term Impact: Over time, this rebranding effort significantly influences public perception. The term 'superpower' becomes commonplace, and Fae-touched individuals begin to be seen as extraordinary but not necessarily unnatural. This shift plays a crucial role in integrating Fae-touched individuals into society, though it does not completely dispel the underlying fears and mysteries associated with their origins and capabilities.
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