Transversal (ability)

Transversal is the ability to move between points in space at will, without the need for physical motion. People with this ability are called transversalists, or travelers.

Not to be confused with teleportation, which uses a machine for digital conveyance.

Mechanics
Transversalists have the power to pierce the dimensional veil, transmitting their physical forms through an unidentified medium to instantly reach a point in space. Theories as to how exactly this is done are few, as the ability is exceptionally rare. It is possible that they manipulate the fabric of space-time to adjust their position in a relative area, "snipping out" the point in time where they would normally move. The triggering method for this ability is unknown. To the onlooker, a transversalist appears to vanish, reappearing some distance from where they started. While transversal does defy many known laws of physics, momentum still applies. A running traveler who disappears will reappear still moving at that speed. This makes high-speed travel particularly perilous, as a transversal from a moving vehicle would result in the traveler manifesting at-speed, without the vehicle to slow or cushion them.

Transversal is proximity-based, effecting the traveler and whatever they are in direct contact with. This applies to clothing and held objects by default, but can extend to most things they touch. Whether something or someone can be brought along for transversal ties to the level of contact with the traveler, relative to size. At least 70% of an inanimate object's surface area must be in contact with the traveler to be brought along. (Example: An apple held in the hand would come along, as it is largely contained. A building hugged onto would not, as the traveler would not cover enough surface area.) This is to prevent them from bringing their surroundings with them. A living person, however, requires only skin-to-skin contact, such as hand-holding. A body-part--such as a hand--will either bring its body with it, or not be brought at all, preventing accidental dismemberment. The more contact made, the more likely the target will be brought along.

Known Transversalists

 * Nicholas Duncan-Gray: Instant transversal, unless actively delayed. Cardinal (X/Y axis) and vertical (Z-axis). Trigger is breaking line-of-sight (eg. blinking) with a target in mind. Range limited by vision or visualization. Single or multiple transversal, restricted by contact. Stable travel synced with pulse to ensure safe landing.
 * Gavin Klein: Semi-delayed transversal, marked with temporal distortion at point of entrance and exit. Cardinal and vertical. Trigger is unknown. Wide range limited by general vicinity. Single or paired transversal, restricted by contact. Able to transverse the same path concurrently, casting an "echo" in multiple places.