The Official History of Mutants

What follows is a detailed history of those with supermutations:

The Arcadian Event

According to public records, mutants first appeared in the 1940s.

Professor Marcus Arcadian, then a young Allied scientist during World War II, was exposed to an experimental biochemical compound while conducting wartime medical research.

The exposure altered his DNA.

Arcadian developed extraordinary abilities, most notably heightened intelligence and telepathic gifts.

Scientists eventually termed this phenomenon:

Arcadian Mutation Syndrome

or simply

The Arcadian Gene

A New Branch of Humanity

Researchers discovered that Arcadian's altered DNA could be inherited.

Some children were born with unusual genetic traits.

Most were minor.

A few were extraordinary.

Over successive generations these traits became increasingly common.

Today scientists classify mutants as:

"Naturally occurring genetic variants possessing enhanced physiological, neurological or energetic capabilities."

The public therefore believes mutants evolved naturally from Arcadian's genetic legacy.

Government Position

Most Western governments officially maintain:

"Mutants represent a naturally occurring branch of human evolution and are entitled to the same rights and protections as any other citizen."

This position emerged during the 1960s when mutant numbers became too large to hide.

Public Registration

Most countries operate some version of:

Voluntary Mutant Registration

Mutants may disclose abilities for:

• Licensing
• Public service
• Insurance purposes
• Emergency response

Registration is officially voluntary.

In reality there is considerable pressure.

Public Opinion

Public attitudes vary dramatically.

Supporters

Many see mutants as heroes.

Some view them as the next stage of humanity.

Mutant celebrities are common.

Mutant athletes dominate certain sports leagues.

Mutant entertainers attract huge audiences.

Skeptics

Some fear mutants.

They worry about:

• Property damage
• Public safety
• Government secrecy

Conspiracy theories flourish.

Extremists

Several anti-mutant groups exist.

They argue:

• Mutants are unnatural.
• Mutants threaten humanity.
• Mutants receive preferential treatment.

Most remain fringe movements.

Some become dangerous.

The Sentinels

The most famous superhero team on Earth, The Sentinels are a team of celebrity superheroes headquartered in the Emerald Tower in the heart of Emerald City.

They are effectively:

• Avengers
• Justice League
• Fantastic Four

all rolled into one.

Public Perception

Children idolise them.

Their faces appear on:

• Cereal boxes
• Films
• Merchandise
• Charity campaigns

Several members are openly mutant.

Nobody sees this as unusual.

Government Relationship

Officially independent.

Unofficially they work closely with:

• Federal agencies
• International security organisations
• Arcadian Institute

Many Sentinels are Arcadian alumni.

A fact the Institute proudly advertises.