The world exists in a Modern Era, characterized by massive technological advancement alongside the emergence of superhuman phenomena. Society is highly urbanized, dominated by three major megalopolises clustered along the eastern seaboard known collectively as the United Coast.
Grand Metropolitan: A sprawling, optimistic city of dazzling skylines, cutting-edge technology, and immense economic power, often facing corporate espionage and high-level alien/super-tech threats.
Old Gothic: A perpetually shadowed, architecturally dense city defined by historical decay, systemic corruption, and a criminal underworld ruled by theatrical and psychological villains.
New Central: A vibrant, scientifically progressive city, characterized by advanced infrastructure and a focus on speed, energy research, and the occasional disruption caused by ancient mythological forces.
Superpowers emerged on the United Coast approximately twenty years ago and are attributed to three main sources:
Exotic Science and Technology: Technological accidents, failed military experiments, gene therapy, and the exploitation of alien artifacts (often spearheaded by powerful industrialists).
Metahuman Genesis: Latent human genetics activated by stress, extreme energy exposure (like lightning strikes or exotic wondrous objects), or unforeseen evolutionary jumps.
Arcane and Primal Forces: Ancient magic, mythological curses, divine/demonic heritage, or unique chemical and botanical transformation.
These powers range from peak human skill and genius intellect to cosmic-level manipulation of energy and matter, setting the stage for world-altering conflicts.