Vesper

In a desperate bid to prevent an ecological disaster, humanity invests heavily in genetic technology. Despite these efforts, engineered viruses and organisms escape, leading to widespread destruction of crops and a catastrophic decline in the human population.

In the wake of the disaster, fortified cities known as citadels emerge as the new centers of power. An oligarchy thrives within these citadels, while the remaining populace outside struggles with survival amidst the desolation.

Thirteen-year-old Vesper lives with her paralyzed father, Darius, in a remote house. Darius communicates through a drone, which plays a crucial role in helping Vesper navigate her challenges in this harsh environment.

Driven by desperation, Vesper embarks on bio-hacking experiments in an abandoned lab. She aims to cultivate modified seeds, seeking a way to grow crops independently of the citadel's complex processes.

A year prior to the current events, Vesper's mother leaves to join a mysterious group known as The Pilgrims. This decision marks a significant turning point in Vesper's life, deepening her reliance on her father and heightening her survival instincts.

Vesper's uncle, Jonas, oversees a makeshift orphanage that exploits the children for their blood, which he sells to the citadel. This grim reality paints a stark picture of survival in the desolate world.

In need of supplies, Vesper makes a harrowing choice to trade her own blood to Jonas. Despite this risky exchange, she remains resolute against his coercive tactics to turn her into a breeder.

A transformative event occurs when a citizen ship from the citadel crashes near Vesper's home. Vesper takes it upon herself to rescue a survivor named Camellia, marking the start of a pivotal alliance.

As Vesper nurses Camellia back to health, she learns of another survivor, Elias, who could provide passage to the citadel. Their hope hinges on locating him, as his knowledge could change their fates.

Vesper's hopes are dashed when she discovers that Jonas has killed Elias. This grim news compels Vesper to hide Camellia while devising a way to communicate with the citadel to protect her newfound ally.

In a heart-wrenching moment, Vesper learns that Camellia is not merely a human survivor, but an advanced Jug with emotional complexities. This revelation deepens Vesper's connection with Camellia and their shared mission.

Vesper and Camellia utilize stolen seeds and Camellia's unique genetic make-up to discover a way to grow crops without the citadel's interference. This innovation holds the potential to liberate survival from the clutches of the oligarchy.

As tensions escalate, Jonas unravels the secret of Camellia's nature and betrays Vesper. In a confrontation steeped in danger, Vesper and Camellia confront him, but his treachery leads to catastrophic consequences.

In a selfless act, Darius detonates their home’s reactor to buy Vesper and Camellia time to escape from the approaching citadel soldiers. This act of bravery underscores the depth of parental love in a world rife with despair.

Amidst overwhelming grief, Vesper finds the will to reclaim her purpose after encountering Jonas's children. She embarks on a quest to uncover a tall structure built by The Pilgrims, embracing the hope of reviving life in the wasteland.