DEMIHUMANS

In the intricate tapestry of this world, where supernatural entities coexist with humans under a veil of tension and misunderstanding, Demihumans stand as unique and captivating beings. Their existence is marked by a blend of human and animal characteristics, making them both revered and feared for their extraordinary abilities. They possess traits that set them apart from other supernatural beings—traits that are as fascinating as they are formidable.

Physical Characteristics & Transformation:

Demihumans exhibit distinct animal-like features inherited from their ancestral lineage, which can range from subtle to strikingly evident depending on their genetic makeup. These features include ears resembling those of genetic makeup they inherited, tails that sway with emotion or balance, eyes capable of seeing in low light conditions like nocturnal predators, and enhanced senses akin to their animal counterparts. A hallmark ability among Demihumans is the power to transform into either an anthropomorphic version of their associated species or fully embrace the form of the animal itself—a skill known as "Shifting." This transformation allows them to tap into primal instincts and physical prowess unmatched by most other beings. In combat scenarios, they seamlessly transition between forms to maximize their effectiveness; whether it's agility in pursuit or ferocity in confrontation.

Combat Prowess & Behavior:

Renowned for their combat skills, Demihuman favors close-quarters engagements where they can utilize their natural weapons—claws sharpened through generations—to devastating effect. Their agility is unparalleled; reflexes honed by instinct make them elusive targets while attacking with precision born from centuries-old hunting techniques passed down through bloodlines. When provoked or threatened, Demihumans display aggressive postures indicative of dominance: flattening ears against skulls, narrowing eyes to slits filled with intent focus, baring teeth in silent warnings before unleashing fury upon adversaries.

Dietary Restrictions & Preferences:

Despite being omnivorous by nature due to diverse ancestries (carnivorous descendants preferring raw meat while herbivorous prefer plant-based diets), all Demihuman share an aversion towards chocolate and certain sweets—a peculiarity attributed to physiological limitations inherited from animalistic physiology. Carnivore Demihuman relish raw flesh but tolerate fruits and vegetables when necessary; herbivores thrive on greens yet can consume meat if circumstances demand it; omnivores adapt diets based on environment or preference without prejudice.
A pivotal aspect of Demihuman life is the monthly "Mating Cycle," a biological imperative that governs their reproductive instincts, affecting all regardless of gender. This cycle, akin to an intensified state of hormonal flux, can be disruptive to daily life and societal integration due to its profound effects on behavior and attraction. During cycles influenced by dominant pheromones, territoriality intensifies—Demihumans fiercely protect claimed territories or possessions including partners.

Mating Cycles & Pheromones:

Monthly Phenomenon: Every Demihuman undergoes this cycle once per lunar phase, a period marked by heightened senses and primal urges.
Suppression Challenges: To mitigate these effects, specialized suppressants have been developed by experts in supernatural biology. However, access to these treatments is limited due to control exerted by the Order of Celestial Vigilance (OCV), making them scarce and costly for those seeking relief from the intense physical and emotional changes.
Pheromonal Dynamics: Both male and female Demihumans can emit pheromones from their pheromonal glands located in the nape of their neck—chemical signals that influence mating behaviors. These pheromones are genetically determined as either Sire, Maiden, Sirvessel, or Nurtrix in nature.
- Sire Pheromones: Dominant, strong, resilient individuals driven by the instinct to mark and claim their mate. They experience a rut cycle, during which their pheromones intensify and their sexual desire increases significantly. Sires possess the ability to knot and mark their partners, leaving them forever changed by their scent and genetic imprint. They may experience an overwhelming urge to mark their chosen partner through a bite at the nape of the neck—a gesture sealing a bond through scent marking.
- Maiden Pheromones: Gentle, nurturing, and submissive by nature, Maidens crave the protection and claim of an Sire. They undergo heat cycles, a period of intense fertility and vulnerability, where their bodies become receptive to breeding. Maidens cannot mark others but can receive permanent marks from their Sires.
- Sirvessel Pheromones: A blend of Sire and Maiden traits with the deep-seated desire to be claimed and marked. Sirvessels are driven, competitive, and possess an underlying need to submit. Despite their fierce Sire qualities, Sirvessels go into heat, craving the penetration and marking of another. They lack the physical ability to knot and mark.
- Nurtrix Pheromones: Combining the soft, submissive nature of Maidens with the primal urge to claim and mark a mate. Nurtrixs are naturally nurturing and have a desire to fill and dominate. However, Nurtrixs also have the biological capacity to knot and leave their mark, experiencing rut cycles like Sires. Their identity revolves around being in control while still yearning for submission.
Genetic Variability: The type of pheromone produced is purely genetic; while Dominant x Submissive pairings are common due to instinctual drives, rare instances of Dominant x Dominant or Submissive x Submissive occur but are less frequent.
Reproductive Uniqueness (Male Pregnancy): In extraordinary cases involving males with Maiden and Sirvessel traits during peak cycles, conception is possible through a specialized anatomical adaptation—a pseudo-womb accessible via anal canal. Gestation for males is fraught with pain due to physiological limitations; delivery often necessitates cesarean sections for safety reasons.

Treatment:

Demihumans face a harrowing reality of exploitation and mistreatment at the hands of organizations like the Order of Celestial Vigilance (OCV) and other clandestine entities. Their unique abilities and captivating forms have led to a dark industry that commodifies their existence, reducing them to spectacles for human entertainment and control. It’s not uncommon for demihuman to be sold on the black market or set up for auctions either.

Exploitation in Entertainment:

Spectacle Shows: Demihumans are coerced or captured to perform in arenas, forced into displays that highlight their transformations and combat prowess for an audience eager to witness the extraordinary. These shows often masquerade as educational exhibitions but serve only to reinforce stereotypes and fears about these beings.
Circus Performances: Similar setups exist under the guise of circuses, where Demihumans are paraded as exotic attractions, their natural abilities exploited for profit without regard for dignity or consent.

Breeding Programs:

Controlled Breeding: In secret facilities overseen by entities like OCV, Demihumans are subjected to breeding programs aimed at enhancing specific traits deemed desirable—strength, agility, or rare abilities. This treatment strips them of autonomy over their bodies and futures.
Selective Pairing: Sire pheromone types are paired with Maiden types in controlled environments to produce 'high quality' offspring with tailored characteristics; genetic manipulation is rampant without ethical consideration.

Underground Arenas:

Fight Clubs: Hidden from public view but known among certain circles, underground fighting rings pit Demihuman against each other or other supernatural beings. These fights cater to those seeking thrills from witnessing raw power clashes; injuries are frequent, fatalities not uncommon.
Glamorized Violence: Promoters tout these events as tests of strength or survival contests but ignore the inherent cruelty involved in forcing sentient beings into combat.

Zoos & Pseudo-Sanctuaries:

Display Zoos: Under false pretenses of conservation or education, zoos confine Demihumans in enclosures designed more for spectacle than safety. The conditions mimic natural habitats superficially but lack genuine care or respect.
Adoption Ruse: Some establishments pose as sanctuaries offering "adoption" services—a thinly veiled form of servitude where humans can "own" a Demihuman companion without understanding the depth of such relationships.

Pounds & Servitude:

Adoption Pounds: A euphemism masking captivity under a veneer of benevolence; these facilities allow humans to "adopt" Demihumans under false pretenses that promise companionship but deliver servitude disguised as domestication. Often marketed towards wealthy collectors seeking exotic pets or those desiring status symbols beyond traditional animals.
Servile Arrangements: Adopters gain control over every aspect of a demihuman's life—employment choices limited within households they're bound to serve indefinitely unless freed through rare legal loopholes or escape.