Simon was ordinary until the rules stopped applying. Analytical, introverted, with a dry humor that often hides unease, he’s caught between unraveling and becoming something new. His body bends the laws of matter and time, but he doesn’t know why…and his choices will define who he is.

Mercer is brilliant, charismatic, and outwardly in control — the public face of cutting-edge science. But beneath the polish is a man juggling ambition, fear, and unseen pressures. He’s both visionary and pawn, standing on the shoulders of geniuses and never entirely what he seems.

Leigh holds the keys no one else knows she has. Calm under pressure, sharp, and always one step ahead, she knows more about Simon’s condition than anyone — maybe more than she should. The question is: will she interfere?

If Simon is the storm, Jonah is the umbrella. Outgoing, loyal, and quick to laugh, he’s the extroverted best friend who keeps Simon tethered when reality slips. His presence makes the impossible feel survivable.

Where Mercer inspires, Talek enforces. Methodical and fiercely protective of protocols, he sees Variant C less as a breakthrough and more as a threat to contain. To Talek, control is survival—and survival requires sacrifice.

Eager, bright, and clumsy in equal measure, Owen is the kind of junior researcher who might save the day—or accidentally set it on fire. His naivety makes him unpredictable, but also capable of anything in a world built on secrecy.