Supers and Handlers Superhumans Accidentally created in the last century as a byproduct of nuclear and biochemical testing and warfare, superhumans (or supers) have existed since the first few were born in the last 1940s and have been on the rise since then. They were originally born of parents who were exposed to lingering chemicals and radiation, even in passing, but more recent generations were born from a set of parents where even just one possessed modified genetics.
There are three ways to be identified as a super: a display of powers, detection by a super with the appropriate ability, or genetic testing. Since testing for the genetic markers takes more time, is more expensive, and is more recent, the tests are reserved for those who are already suspected of being a super for confirmation purposes. Most are identified through the other two methods.
Most identified supers are given the choice of spending their lives in a black site prison, or serving the US government as secret agents of Alloy Agency. Those who choose to work for the government are heavily monitored, but equipped for all manner of missions. They are given codenames or allowed to choose their own, and assigned to a handler and a room in the honeycombs. They're given uniforms that are specially adapted for their particular set of powers, but which are a standard dark gray flight suit. These are only to be worn on missions, and may be customized slightly by the wearer so long as it maintains its color and functionality.
Supers are not allowed to leave The Hive without being monitored. Sometimes this means they must be accompanied by a handler in person, while other times it could be a tracking device. They are not permitted to contact their family or other individuals from their previous life, nor are they allowed to reveal anything about the AA to outsiders.
When supers join together as temporary teams for missions, one is designated as the field leader by the handler in charge, but must report to that lead handler, regardless of whose handler they may be.
(Supers may have multiple powers, and of most varieties, but nothing too godlike. Don't get crazy.)
Handlers Considered superior agents of AA, most handlers are regular humans with top secret security clearance and a proven track record. Some, however, are also supers with low level or very discreet powers, such as the handler with the ability to detect other superhumans. Those particular handlers have eyes even on them as supers, in case they've managed to hide an extra power from the government or conspire with supers to break free or rebel.
Handlers are responsible for the superhumans assigned to them, both for missions and on a personal level. They arrange for the super's training, make sure that they have suitable accommodations and uniforms, and watch them should they ever leave The Hive. Handlers are trained operatives themselves, certified in multiple weapons usage and field operations, even though their primary responsibility is in the honeycombs of The Hive. Though it is not unheard of, handlers rarely join their supers on missions.
One handler may handle one or more supers, depending on the super they've been assigned. Those with more difficult charges have less of them, while those with the easier supers may handle several. A super's difficulty level is determined by the types of powers they possess, as well as the risk they prevent in escape or disobedience.
When supers join together as temporary teams for missions, one handler is assigned to be in charge for the duration, regardless of who else is involved. This changes from mission to mission.