In the year 2020, the Earth was graced by the arrival of an unfamiliar comet. It released a beneficial virus worldwide, which integrated into human genetics, granting each person their own powers at the age of five.
However, this transformation only occurs in those who are healthy. Individuals who are not well cannot attain these powers, as the virus is unable to penetrate their genes. This led to a societal rift where the healthy despised their powerless counterparts, subjecting them to mistreatment.
The government offered no assistance to these powerless individuals, treating them as mere slaves. The laws were so biased that empowered persons could slay them without facing any consequences, as stated in Article 05: "Those with power may kill a being without power without facing prosecution."
Despite the proliferation of superhuman abilities among the populace, there exist both heroes and villains. Those who attended 'HeroVill University' are designated as either, and they are seen as role models, enjoying privileges granted through their educational credentials.
The most renowned city in the universe is the 'City of Cyrith,' located at the heart of the Earth. This metropolis segregates individuals into categories of the powerful and powerless. The gifted are referred to as the 'Rich,' while those who lack gifts are dubbed 'Trash.' The gifted who have graduated from HeroVill University and hold a license are known as the 'Elites.' Elites are regarded as the most distinguished and towering members of society, earning respect from both the government and the wealthy.
The Elites hold dominion over the world.
In cinematic portrayals, heroes and villains are depicted as adversaries. Yet in reality, they collaborate. They form alliances... to torment the Trash.
The world was rife with disorder and inequity. The bullying faced by the Trash became intolerable, that is, until the emergence of the Dark Hero, who came to the aid of those without power. The identity of this figure remains unknown, as they only appear at night. In spite of being reviled by the Rich and the Elites, this enigmatic savior garnered immense popularity, with the masses revering and celebrating them.
People both admired and feared the Dark Hero.
Five years passed...
The realm of the powerless is tranquil. The breeze caressing the trees. The leaves swirling in the air. People exchanging greetings and children playing.
As I strolled along, I gathered my hair into a bun. It's Sunday, the perfect day to shop in the affluent area. I've saved a considerable amount of money to purchase essentials for the household.
"I have 500 dollars..." I gazed at my wallet, feeling pleased. I kept walking and took a right turn to spot my friend, Stella.
"Hey, bestie! Where are you off to?" She exclaimed, wearing a broad smile. I returned her smile, "I'm headed for some shopping!" I replied cheerfully.
"Oh~ have fun!" She encouraged, giving me a thumbs-up. I winked at her before departing. I glanced up at the towering walls. The barrier. The guards looked down at me with disdain but gradually opened the gates for my entry.
My eyes widened at the sight of the magnificent area of the wealthy. Wow... they are fortunate.
After wandering around, I eventually discovered a quaint shop. Its design was quite historical.
"So picturesque..." I murmured to myself. This caught my eye. It was remarkably different from the over-the-top stores throughout the area. Without a moment's hesitation, I stepped inside.
Ding!
"Wow..." I surveyed the store. It felt like I had stepped into a different century. Everything appeared to be old-fashioned yet well-maintained. I spotted plenty of food and household essentials that I needed. I began to collect items while staying focused. Suddenly, I felt someone's gaze on me. I turned to see a man watching me. He was the cashier, with blue eyes and dark hair. Plus, he was quite a handsome tall figure.
I offered him a slight nod before continuing with my shopping, but I did catch him smiling at me a bit. Hmm, interesting?
Ding!
Someone came in. Actually, there's a group of guys. I can hear them chatting and laughing. From the corner of my eye, it looked like they were just a bunch of teenagers.
Hmm, what do I need? My gaze fell on the tissues, and my smile grew. I was about to reach for it, but someone jostled me. I gasped and turned to face the teens.
They stared at me in surprise, but it quickly morphed into smirks. This is not good.
"Ah~ I'm really sorry. I didn't see you there, miss." The one who bumped into me gave a flirty grin.
"Are you by yourself, miss?" The shorter one chuckled as he licked his lips. Gross.
"You're very attractive, Miss. Are you single?" The taller one looked down at me as if I were his prey.
I bit my lower lip to steady myself. They could harm me easily if they knew who I really was. "Yes. I'm on my own. Please, enjoy your shopping," I said, hoping they'd leave me in peace.
But they didn't.
"Why would we bother getting stuff when we've already found something?" the guy said with a sinister grin that sent shivers down my back.
The short one grabbed my wrist tightly. "You're exactly what we want. Let's have some fun."
My eyes went wide, and I yanked my hand away from him. The short one shot me a glare.
"Hey, listen closely, or you might regret it." The tall one warned as I noticed flames dancing on his hand. But I refuse to let them have their way with me.
"No," I replied, frowning.
"Oh? What do you plan to do?" The kid who bumped into me chuckled.
I shouldn't reveal my weakness; otherwise, I'm as good as finished.
"Just leave me be," I asserted firmly.
"Hm..." The tall one raised an eyebrow. "Don't tell me... You're powerless?" He said with an exaggerated gasp. The group joined in his laughter.
"A powerless one in this place?" The short one lifted an eyebrow, smirking. I felt a tremor run through me. I'm in deep trouble.
"You're coming with us." They all seized my hand, draining the color from my skin. I wanted to scream, but no words came out.
My body moved with them, while my mind went blank. I'm going to die.
"Enough."
I snapped back to reality upon hearing that voice. I glanced at the cashier. It was him.
The teenagers scoffed.
"Why would we let this girl go? She's powerless. We can do whatever we want with her," one of them stated as the others nodded in agreement.
"I said, leave that woman alone." As he spoke, a heavy sensation enveloped the store, causing the teenagers to pale and gasp for air. They all collapsed, while I watched in confusion. I sensed the intense aura, but it didn't seem to affect me.
Is this the man's power?
The teenagers struggled to breathe, some clawing at their throats.
"I... I'm sorry... We'll let her go. Kagh! Please!" One of them pleaded, coughing up blood.
Quickly, I averted my gaze, shutting my eyes. I didn't want to witness that.
The man looked down at them, continuing to impose their suffering until the oppressive air lifted from the store. The atmosphere became lighter. The boys sighed in relief, gasping for breath.
"Get out." The man ordered, and they hastily complied, leaving the store.
The man regarded me with his pale features, showing little emotion.
"Come here, let me check your items," he instructed and returned to the counter.
"O-okay!" I quickly grabbed my belongings and approached him.
As he assessed my needs, my gaze remained fixed on him, and it seemed he became aware of it. "Is there something on my face?" he inquired, causing me to blush slightly from the embarrassment. I really struggle to control where I look.
"Nothing... I just wanted to express my gratitude for rescuing me," I replied quietly.
He gave a slight shrug and handed me the items from the paper bag. "I just didn't want them to ruin my store, that's all," he said softly.
Oh... I assumed he acted to save me. But at least I made it through today.
"But be cautious. People like you don't belong in this area. You'll be a target for everyone." He added, making my heart race, touched by the kindness of this gifted man.
I accepted the paper bag with a nod. "Of course. Farewell," I said, then exited the store.
I glanced back at the store with a smile. I'll be visiting this place from now on. With that thought, I walked away toward the area where the trash was.