To help me refine this story into a full outline or first chapter: (e.g., Young Adult, Gritty Noir, Hopepunk)

: Elias finds a hidden frequency in an old radio. Instead of heroic anthems, it’s a distress signal from the Forbidden Zone outside the walls.

: They find the "Hero" in a remote mountain cabin. He isn't a warrior; he’s an old engineer who designed the city's life-support systems. He "disappeared" because he realized the people were becoming too dependent on a myth to save themselves.

: He teams up with Sofia, a former palace guard who knows the Shield’s armor is actually a hollow suit used by different actors over decades.

: A massive flood threatens the city. Elias and Sofia must choose: do they bring back the "Hero" to fake a miracle, or do they tell the city the truth and force the citizens to save each other? 🛡️ Core Theme