The Third

A post-war world remains scarred, with 80% of Earth's population lost. From a city named Hyperius, a species known as The Third observes humanity. Each has a red jewel-like organ on their forehead, used for data access and communication. They limit human access to technology, enforcing a "technos taboo." Violators risk death by Bluebreaker, an AI enforcer. Honoka, a 17-year-old human with a blue third eye, was rejected by The Third due to incompatibility and raised by human parents. Her eye allows her to perceive Chi, detect cloaked beings, and sense emotions. She travels with a sand tank operated by Bogie, an AI guardian from her grandfather. She performs jobs such as eliminating oversized insects and transporting clients. During a desert journey, she encounters Iks, a mysterious outsider whose intentions are unclear. The Third fears he may threaten humans. Iks joins Honoka, hiring her for travel. She often recites poems attributed to a writer named "Dona Myfree."