The Violet Sun Irradiation Event (VSIE) on March 8, 1968 introduced a phenomenon of violet light whose properties remain largely unknown. The exact cause and triggers of permutations that resulted from the VSIE are still theorized, as scientists continue their research in gene mapping. Early analysts in the ‘70s believed that only extreme, high stress, life-or-death situations could spark the onset effects of the mutations, since the first mass permutation period occurred during the chaos amid the VSIE and its immediate aftermath, however that theory has since been discarded as the accepted hypothesis.
Although high-stress situations can sometimes trigger dormant permutations, modern research has shown that even something as minor as an elevated heat rate may suffice to trigger manifestation. Furthermore, numerous permuted individuals with subtle or non-physical permutations have disclosed that their abilities were always innately accessible, some even from birth, rather than requiring external stimuli.
In the 1970s, breakthrough advances in DNA sequencing were initially believed to provide straightforward identification of permuted individuals. However, this method produced numerous false positives, detecting genetic alterations from those exposed to the violet light in the VSIE who would never develop “super powers.” Owing to the high margin of error, DNA sequencing was reclassified as a tool for distinguishing candidates who might warrant further monitoring, rather than serving as the definite detector.
On October 31, 1981, an unfortunate incident at a Connecticut elementary school drew national attention when a child’s permutation manifested unexpectedly after being frightened during Halloween festivities. In response and under significant pressure from non-permuted citizens at both local and national levels, the Federal Bureau of Altered Individuals established the National Stress Reflex Test. This early criteria system was designed to discern individuals with latent permutations and reduce the risk of unforeseen permutation manifestation events.
Although the precise composition of the National Stress Reflex Test varied across counties and throughout the years, its core design focused on anthropometric measurement and typically included the following components:
The purposes of these assessments were to identify subjects exhibiting unnatural or otherwise inexplicable cognitive or motor abilities, and to elevate heart rate or provoke defensive reactions that might activate dormant permutations. The tests were administered across defined developmental milestones, typically aligned with the start of major educational stages in the United States. After an incident with a permuted infant in August 15, 1987, the National Stress Reflex Test has been extended to include special procedures for infants.
Results from the National Stress Reflex Test were used by the F.B.A.I. to assign an official Assessment Rank. In cases where results indicated instability — such as volatile powers — intervention was required. This often took the form of alternative educational arrangements, including specialized private or public schools focused on power management, or homeschooling. In addition, certain steward talent agencies, such as Valerian Universal, Incorporated, developed youth training initiatives. Notably, their D.A.R.I.N.G. (Developmental Apprenticeship Refinement Intensive Nurturing Goal) Program, subsidized by the U.S. government, provided structured education for young individuals learning to manage their abilities.