Maxum

To merge Human and Maxum worlds, Zach must undergo a high-stakes “Manipulation” performance to gain mentorship at Summa, an elite university. Set in a futuristic society and inspired by neuroscience, this dystopian fantasy weaves together themes of friendship, belonging—and a hint of romance.

No one in their right mind goes into the wilderness around Maryfield, a forgotten town in Oregon. Or so Zach Taylor thought, until his friend Jason sneaks him into a private event called ‘The Masked Investor’—held at a mansion deep in the woods.

The night is spectacular with red carpet trails, glittering chandeliers, CEOs in ornate masks, and a chance to connect with Sarah—his former best friend … also Jason’s girlfriend.

Amid dancing under holographic stars and negotiating with billionaires, Zach finds Jason having a whispered discussion in a conservatory “off-limits” to guests.

That’s when Zach sees them—the animals.

A deer with serrated teeth.

A duck with horns.

A crow with scales.

The slurred words of a brown-masked investor buzz in his ear like a trapped fly: Human. Human. Human.

A dagger is pointed at Jason’s throat.

Zach smells something sweet—sweet like anesthesia.

Everything goes dark.

“Welcome to Human Integration Organization.”


For lovers of Divergent and Hunger Games.