Editing Bloodlines (section)

===''The Bloodlines Evolve''===

In the mid-fifties as the Cold war intensified, the US tested its most powerful Thermonuclear explosive yet. The pattern and range for such explosion had been well documented by this point- the blinding flash, mushroom cloud and shockwave. However, this blasts effects continued on, out beyond the limits scientists had predicted. What followed came to be known as the Promethean Wave, a series of aurora borealis lasting an entire year. Somehow, it activated genetic potential hidden deep within humanity. Within the year the first natural occurring superhumans had begun to make their mark. However it became clear quickly that the Promethean gene was held only in a few bloodlines.
 
Today scientists have determined eighteen genetic lines which possess the potential for superpowers. The spread of families across the globe during the early part of the 20th Century made tracking these lines a decade long research project. Some seem to derive from a subject perhaps half a dozen generations back, meaning that the powers exist in a relatively tight spread. Others seem to have their Subject X, a person in whom the gene first occurs in the far past, meaning that this genetic trait has spread more widely. 

These bloodlines have several factors which allow researchers to draw some inference about them. First, although bloodlines have a wide range of powers, some are more given to occur within a line. Second, the size of the population indicates how far back the line reaches. Third the frequency of occurrence as well as the distance some can be traced. Scientists are still desperately trying to figure out how this genetic information is passed. Many believe that there may be many potential members of the group, but only a few who actually pass on the full traits and breeding potential. Artificial systems such as in vitro fertilization negate the passing of abilities. If both parents exhibit powers, then their child will as well. If only one has abilities then the rate drops, dependent on the particular bloodline. 

As humanity takes its first tentative steps into the 21st Century, the superhumans are with them as well. Now with the third and fourth generation of these beings there are still many more questions yet to be resolved.