Crucible:Parahumans

By the dawn of the Silver Age, it became clear that human DNA was undergoing a quantum shift in evolution. Scientists speculated that the increased rate of mutation was from the testing and use of atomic weapons, the creation of new chemical compounds, and other new technologies. Humans with certain mutations comprised a new, parallel human race: parahumanity. Popularly called mutants, parahumans often manifest with superhuman abilities in their early teens, such as the power to project energy or wield psionic abilities. Some choose to use their abilities for the greater good. But many of these parahumans have been misunderstood or mistrusted, or even actively persecuted out of fear and ignorance. Bigotry is still a powerful force even in modern times.

Parahuman superheroes have included Surge and Quantum. Parahuman supervillains, who often employ terrorist tactics, include the members of Factor M.

The long-term results of this evolutionary struggle remain to be seen.