Post by mo money on Aug 3, 2009 16:10:21 GMT -5
[PTabbedContent=SPECIES OF THE MENAGERIE]
[PTab=SHAPESHIFTER]
Shapeshifters are a humanoid species with the ability to completely transform (or shift) their body into that of an animal. Shifters are (in appearance) no different than humans. They can be any sex, gender, race, height, size or shape.
Shifters do tend to look similar in form or size to their shifting animal, being as their DNA is entwined. For instance, their hair may take on the same pigmentation of the animal, or the eye color will remain the same in both forms.
In example - a snake Shifter may resemble the snake in the way he or she moves and attacks, with quick, easy movements and strikes. A Shifter in human form with blue eyes may keep the blue eyes in their animal form.
Shifters can speak while in animal form; and when in this form, all Shifters speak the same language. It is a sort of guttural, growling language that only Shifters can comprehend, called Shiftertongue. All Shifters naturally know, understand and speak Shiftertongue. Humans cannot understand it.
• SHAPESHIFTING. There is no real scientific explanation for this, obviously, but we have a few guidelines here on The M in regards to shapeshifting.
• Shifters can only shift into one specific animal, unless manually given a second shifting form by the Keepers. (You can win your character a second shift form in out of character contests and other opportunities). Shift forms must be animals that are currently existing, and not listed as extinct; endangered animals are allowed. As stated in the rules, you can win Fantasy or Extinct shifts from OOC events and contests.
• Shifting is a skill that must be honed, and takes practice and concentration to control. It is almost instantaneous, only taking seconds to transform from one form to another; however it is difficult for inexperienced Shifters/Retros to keep the form for very long.
• Once mastered, a Shifter/Retro can stay transformed for as long as they want provided they have enough energy and will to do so.
• The shifting ability usually manifests in Shifters around age 5+, though it has been known to manifest both earlier (not prior to birth) and later ages. In some instances the shifting ability is latent and may never be discovered by the Shifter, at least until they are identified as one via DNA testing and sent to The Menagerie.
• Shifting for the first time feels different to every Shifter/Retro. For some it is extremely painful, and others may only feel minor discomfort. The first shift is usually spontaneous, triggered by strong emotions such as intense fear or even joy.
For those Shifters who are more aware of their ability, the first shift is usually less painful and can be brought on by training from parents or guardians. After the ability to shift at will is mastered, the Shifting process is painless and feels as natural as walking or talking.
• Shifters/Retros cannot half transform - meaning, they can't just randomly have a tiger paw to attack someone and still be a human, or vice versa. There is no in between - you are either completely human or completely animal.
• Shifters and Retros can speak while in their shift form, however only in Shiftertongue. All Shifters (Retros and Anthros included) speak the same naturally ingrained language of Shiftertongue - regardless if they speak English, French or Spanish they can all communicate fluently through Shiftertongue. Although, the sounds are often strangled and hoarse and tend to sound more like growls, hisses and gurgles than fluent speech. Humans cannot understand this language.
• If a Shifter or Retro is killed in their shift form, they automatically shift back to their natural form. So if a deer Shifter is shot and killed in its deer form, it would shift back into its human form.
• SKILLS. Generally, Shapeshifters hold a naturally enhanced sense of vision, scent and hearing stronger than that of humans. This takes some honing, though once a Shifter has been in the Menagerie for a prolonged period of time, the animalistic DNA begins to take over - a different and more instinctive mentality comes into play. This is what the Keepers are studying.
After an extended period of time and training, Shifters are able to recognize the scent of each individual Ring and can identify if a fellow Shifter belongs to an enemy Ring.
As the Keeper scientists are always interfering with daily life in the Menagerie in attempts to reap higher test results, Shifters are the prime target for experimentation.
The most recent experiments have consisted of injecting Shifters with serums that alter the production of chemicals in the human system. Each chemical has a precise and definite alteration on Shifters, leading either to an enhanced sense (in example, vision, scent, agility, strength, etc), called Basic Skills. That or they result in what is called a Mutation Skill or a mutated ability that becomes, more or less, an extension of some facet of the shifters' body or mind (Telepathy, Empathy, etc). It does not change their appearance, though it can affect how they function in society as it may alter bits and pieces of their personality.
Each character can only have a maximum of 5 skills.
For a detailed list of these basic and mutation skills available for purchase with your points, please check out the Catalog in Keeper's Shop.
• MUTATIONS. Shapeshifters are also able to be given a single mutation of alternate genetic material - basically the Keepers can combine the DNA of their shift form with that of another animal, that may alter their appearance and body structure of the Shift form. This can be purchased in the Shop. See Shift Mutation Guidelines in the FAQ for more information.
The origin of shape shifters is largely unknown - there are numerous rumors that circulate, though none are proven.
[PTab=SHAPESHIFTER]
SHIFTER CHARACTERISTICS
Shapeshifters are a humanoid species with the ability to completely transform (or shift) their body into that of an animal. Shifters are (in appearance) no different than humans. They can be any sex, gender, race, height, size or shape.
Shifters do tend to look similar in form or size to their shifting animal, being as their DNA is entwined. For instance, their hair may take on the same pigmentation of the animal, or the eye color will remain the same in both forms.
In example - a snake Shifter may resemble the snake in the way he or she moves and attacks, with quick, easy movements and strikes. A Shifter in human form with blue eyes may keep the blue eyes in their animal form.
Shifters can speak while in animal form; and when in this form, all Shifters speak the same language. It is a sort of guttural, growling language that only Shifters can comprehend, called Shiftertongue. All Shifters naturally know, understand and speak Shiftertongue. Humans cannot understand it.
SHIFTER ABILITIES
• SHAPESHIFTING. There is no real scientific explanation for this, obviously, but we have a few guidelines here on The M in regards to shapeshifting.
• Shifters can only shift into one specific animal, unless manually given a second shifting form by the Keepers. (You can win your character a second shift form in out of character contests and other opportunities). Shift forms must be animals that are currently existing, and not listed as extinct; endangered animals are allowed. As stated in the rules, you can win Fantasy or Extinct shifts from OOC events and contests.
• Shifting is a skill that must be honed, and takes practice and concentration to control. It is almost instantaneous, only taking seconds to transform from one form to another; however it is difficult for inexperienced Shifters/Retros to keep the form for very long.
• Once mastered, a Shifter/Retro can stay transformed for as long as they want provided they have enough energy and will to do so.
• The shifting ability usually manifests in Shifters around age 5+, though it has been known to manifest both earlier (not prior to birth) and later ages. In some instances the shifting ability is latent and may never be discovered by the Shifter, at least until they are identified as one via DNA testing and sent to The Menagerie.
• Shifting for the first time feels different to every Shifter/Retro. For some it is extremely painful, and others may only feel minor discomfort. The first shift is usually spontaneous, triggered by strong emotions such as intense fear or even joy.
For those Shifters who are more aware of their ability, the first shift is usually less painful and can be brought on by training from parents or guardians. After the ability to shift at will is mastered, the Shifting process is painless and feels as natural as walking or talking.
• Shifters/Retros cannot half transform - meaning, they can't just randomly have a tiger paw to attack someone and still be a human, or vice versa. There is no in between - you are either completely human or completely animal.
• Shifters and Retros can speak while in their shift form, however only in Shiftertongue. All Shifters (Retros and Anthros included) speak the same naturally ingrained language of Shiftertongue - regardless if they speak English, French or Spanish they can all communicate fluently through Shiftertongue. Although, the sounds are often strangled and hoarse and tend to sound more like growls, hisses and gurgles than fluent speech. Humans cannot understand this language.
• If a Shifter or Retro is killed in their shift form, they automatically shift back to their natural form. So if a deer Shifter is shot and killed in its deer form, it would shift back into its human form.
• SKILLS. Generally, Shapeshifters hold a naturally enhanced sense of vision, scent and hearing stronger than that of humans. This takes some honing, though once a Shifter has been in the Menagerie for a prolonged period of time, the animalistic DNA begins to take over - a different and more instinctive mentality comes into play. This is what the Keepers are studying.
After an extended period of time and training, Shifters are able to recognize the scent of each individual Ring and can identify if a fellow Shifter belongs to an enemy Ring.
As the Keeper scientists are always interfering with daily life in the Menagerie in attempts to reap higher test results, Shifters are the prime target for experimentation.
The most recent experiments have consisted of injecting Shifters with serums that alter the production of chemicals in the human system. Each chemical has a precise and definite alteration on Shifters, leading either to an enhanced sense (in example, vision, scent, agility, strength, etc), called Basic Skills. That or they result in what is called a Mutation Skill or a mutated ability that becomes, more or less, an extension of some facet of the shifters' body or mind (Telepathy, Empathy, etc). It does not change their appearance, though it can affect how they function in society as it may alter bits and pieces of their personality.
Each character can only have a maximum of 5 skills.
For a detailed list of these basic and mutation skills available for purchase with your points, please check out the Catalog in Keeper's Shop.
• MUTATIONS. Shapeshifters are also able to be given a single mutation of alternate genetic material - basically the Keepers can combine the DNA of their shift form with that of another animal, that may alter their appearance and body structure of the Shift form. This can be purchased in the Shop. See Shift Mutation Guidelines in the FAQ for more information.
SHIFTER ORIGINS
The origin of shape shifters is largely unknown - there are numerous rumors that circulate, though none are proven.
[/PTab]
[PTab=RETROMORPH]
RETROMORPH CHARACTERISTICS
Retromorphs are animals with the ability to transform into humans. Retros are born as animals and eventually discover the ability to shift into humans. They are about 99% genetically similar to Shapeshifters, but that 1% of difference separates them vastly and prevents them from interbreeding successfully.
Like Shapeshifters, a Retro's human form will often resemble their natural animal form in appearance. However, Retromorphs tend to stay in their natural animal form the majority of the time, for they are generally more comfortable in this form than the human. Retros are more powerful in animal form, their skills and sense already honed and sharpened considerably more than shifters. To see a Retro shift is usually a rare occasion, though there are always exceptions.
Retros can obviously speak while in animal form, just as Shifters can. As with Shifters, all Retros naturally know and understand Shiftertongue.
RETROMORPH ABILITIES
• SHAPESHIFTING. Retromorphs are able to transform into only one human form. They cannot be given a second human "shift" form but they can be given a second animal form if you win a Second Shift as a prize. If you applied the Second Shift to a Wolf Retro you could give it the ability to shift into a capybara or a tapir.
• SKILLS. As animals, Retros are naturally have much more powerful senses than Shapeshifters. For instance, a cat Retromorph will have much better scent and vision than a cat Shifter.
However, as with other Shifters, Retromorphs are subject to the enhancements of basic, mutation and evolution skills purchasable for your character in the Shop.
• MUTATIONS. They are also able to be given a singular mutation of alternate genetic material - basically the Keepers can combine their DNA with that of another animal, that may alter their appearance and body structure of their natural animal form (called a Retromorph Mutation or Splice). This can be purchased in the Shop. The mutation does not affect the human form.
RETROMORPH ORIGINS
The origin of Retromorphs is shrouded in mystery, and still a phenomenon that baffles the Menagerie's scientists. Lore surrounds these creatures - some believe they were blessed by the Gods. Some say they made a pact with the Devil. It is speculated, however, still being analyzed via testing, that the current Retromorphs are direct descendants of the original shapeshifter race.
The Keepers have yet to find direct evidence, but it is theorized that the shifting gene is actually a random evolutionary defense mechanism. About the time when mankind began dominating and endangering the animal species of the world, it is suspected that a group of localized animals developed a stunning mechanism to blend with their enemies - to become one of them. It was the only source of survival short of fighting back.
[/PTab]
[PTab=ANTHROPOMORPH]
ANTHROPOMORPH CHARACTERISTICS
Anthropomorphs (more commonly abbreviated Anthromorphs or Anthros) are Shapeshifters or Retromorphs (not humans) who have had their human and animal forms fused into a single form via intense DNA manipulation at the hands of the Keepers; basically an Anthro's human form has been mutated and now bears the physical characteristics of their animal form. For example, a parrot Shifter mutated into an Anthro could be a human with parrot wings, feathers, and a beak. Anthros can no longer shapeshift and are permanently confined to half-human, half-animal form.
An Anthro may appear to be almost completely human with a few minor mutations or they can be fully mutated and barely recognizable as human. An example of a moderately mutated Anthro would be Zephyr Woodwind, played by Noxx.
Anthros can understand Shiftertongue, and speak it fluently along with any other languages they might have learned.
ANTHROPOMORPH ABILITIES
As stated above, Anthros can no longer shapeshift. However, because Anthros are not only "human" but also animal, they are naturally faster, stronger and generally more powerful than Shifters and humans alike.
• SKILLS. When creating an application for an Anthro, you are enabled to give them at the most two naturally enhanced abilities that involving heightening the strengths of the body (speed, balance, agility, strength, vision, etc) without prior purchase. Mutation skills like telepathy, empathy, etc. cannot be given.
As with the Shifters, the most recent experiments on Anthros enable them to develop abilities and skills as well!
ANTHROPOMORPH ORIGINS
Anthropomorphics are seen no where else in the world - they only exist inside the Menagerie, as they are creations of the Keepers. In specifics, two Elite Scientists by the names of Dr. Isadora Grey and Dr. Kenneth Jarvis were the Directors and main operators of the ANTHROPOMORPH EXPERIMENT.
The experiments had been in progress since the very start of the Menagerie, though the Anthros were released only after substantial amounts of testing as well as many failures. Many of the test subjects responded negatively, resulting in many deaths and a very low survival rate. Anthros were released into the Menagerie early in the third year.
Due to the unforgiving environment that the Menagerie holds, many Anthros were rejected by the Rings, and even if they were accepted it was a harsh life to lead (odd looks, insults, etc). So a benevolent and gracious Anthro by the name of Zephyr Woodwind stepped up and created the Bestia, an enormous tribe consisting only of Anthros.
Their borders lay directly in line with the Carna, and they were often targets of violent attacks. Over the next year and a half, the Bestia numbers were slowly drained by constant attacks from the Carna, death by disease, some by suicide, others in conflict with the other Rings or Rogues.
The Bestia were torn apart in the War, aptly named "The Legend of the Fallen Beast"; though the allies were victorious against the Carna, they suffered heavy losses. Leader Zephyr Woodwind was thought to have been killed, and the Bestia ranks were cut down when the Keepers interfered and singled them out for elimination.
Anthros have begun to make a come-back, however, when Zephyr reappeared a few years after her supposed death. She formed the Nakoma Tribe, a safe haven for all Anthros in The Menagerie.
The experiments had been in progress since the very start of the Menagerie, though the Anthros were released only after substantial amounts of testing as well as many failures. Many of the test subjects responded negatively, resulting in many deaths and a very low survival rate. Anthros were released into the Menagerie early in the third year.
Due to the unforgiving environment that the Menagerie holds, many Anthros were rejected by the Rings, and even if they were accepted it was a harsh life to lead (odd looks, insults, etc). So a benevolent and gracious Anthro by the name of Zephyr Woodwind stepped up and created the Bestia, an enormous tribe consisting only of Anthros.
Their borders lay directly in line with the Carna, and they were often targets of violent attacks. Over the next year and a half, the Bestia numbers were slowly drained by constant attacks from the Carna, death by disease, some by suicide, others in conflict with the other Rings or Rogues.
The Bestia were torn apart in the War, aptly named "The Legend of the Fallen Beast"; though the allies were victorious against the Carna, they suffered heavy losses. Leader Zephyr Woodwind was thought to have been killed, and the Bestia ranks were cut down when the Keepers interfered and singled them out for elimination.
Anthros have begun to make a come-back, however, when Zephyr reappeared a few years after her supposed death. She formed the Nakoma Tribe, a safe haven for all Anthros in The Menagerie.
[/PTab]
[PTab=VIRUS]
VIRUS CHARACTERISTICS
Viruses are the most malicious experiments that the Keepers have ever created and released into the Menagerie. What these Viruses are, is basically any type of virus, bacteria or infection in a humanoid form. The cells in this artificially grown body are made of virus cells, and even one wound from a Virus could result in infection.
Viruses are not humans; they were created completely out of synthetic materials - complete artificial DNA. They are more often then not a mix of various different creatures and animals, resulting in one heck of a mutated creature. They look almost like the Anthros, except they usually have more than one abnormal animal mutation.
In example: one Virus, (lets call him Luther), may have: Large, feathery black wings, a long snake tail, long, pointed and sharp ears, retractable lion claws on hands...the list can go on, and on. Luther could even have green, glowing skin.
(Really, it's how creative you want to get!)
Your Virus character can be any known virus that exists and is recorded, even if it has a cure. This way we get variety! For instance - the Flu virus..any virus you can think of! Though, you cannot use a virus that has already been used. A full list is provided in the Shift List.
Viruses can be found anywhere, though they stay away from water. It is known to dissolve some of the chemical compounds that they are created from. It won't outright kill them but it will cause some damage to them.
Viruses were designed for one purpose, and one purpose alone - to infiltrate, infect and destroy. They work for the Keepers and take direct orders from them. They do not sympathize with Shifters nor Anthros, and are usually unable to feel a wide range of emotions beyond eliminating the opponent; meaning, they don't love everybody or hate to hurt the poor innocent souls. Viruses love what they do, and they relish each and every victim they infect and possibly kill.
"As part of further examination of the Arcane Project, we have enabled Viruses to begin to feel various human emotions - before, when they would feel no sadness, or regret, or even contemplation on the life and death of their prey, some Viruses are now experiencing an on-rush of emotions that are a complete new experience. Be warned that some may become unstable and hesitant to follow orders, and do not shy from punishing those who do not fulfill their duties. You have direct orders to deactivate any Virus who does not comply."
- Seraphim DeSoto, Head Keeper
Memo to all employees of The Menagerie
Well, you heard the man! Some of your Virus characters, if you choose to participate or not, are now able to feel emotions. The number and specific emotion you wish your Virus to 'learn' is up to you; just know that they must continue with their orders to infect.
VIRUS ABILITIES
• SHAPESHIFTING. Viruses can shapeshift, but only for short periods of time (this is due in part to the heavy concoction of chemicals used to create and manifest the shifting form that burn out easily). Their Shift forms carry on the mutations of the human form and are often twice the size of the normal shift animal size. This is not required, they can have normal or small sized shifts.
So, in the case of Luther; Luther's shift form is a black Timber Wolf, which is usually around 36" (3 ft) in height. Most Virus animal forms are doubled in size, so the Virus wolf would stand around 5-6 ft tall. His fur is black, but he has the tail of a snake, large, feathery black wings, and the long, pointed sharp ears.
• SKILLS. They can also have extra abilities that you can purchase in the shop, though there is a limit of TWO instead of the normal FIVE. The Viruses are powerful enough without mutated abilities.
So, what do Viruses do and how do they affect other Shifter characters?
Your Shifter or Anthro character can become infected (and perhaps die, if you wish it) if they are bitten or scratched and the skin is broken. The viruses are not airborne, and you can't get sick from just touching them - the skin must be broken and there must be some contact of blood, or saliva, from the Shifter/Anthro to the Virus.
If your Shifter/Anthro character is infected through a role play thread, you MUST rp out some of the symptoms. I know it doesn't sound like a whole lot of fun, but, it's a challenge that your character must overcome whilst living in the Menagerie!
VIRUS ORIGINS
Viruses were created using a mix of synthetic DNA particles as well as chemicals - their organs and blood are pseudo-organisms that only mimic the form and look of life. Thus, stabbing them in the heart will not necessarily kill them. Their bodies are powered by chemical reactions.
Viruses are not human, they are test tube synthetic creations that simply take the form of a human - most of their genetic make up is built from a virus. They were spawned in test tubes since the Menagerie was even being dreamt up; thus, technically they can only be about 4-8 years old. However, they were injected with growth and age hormones so that they appear to be anywhere from ages 12-25 years old in appearance, attitude and intelligence. Their brains were programmed to know perfect English, and perhaps if a Keeper was feeling quirky would program the brain to learn several other languages as well.
The experiments were conducted by Seraphim DeSoto, the Head Keeper, along with several other Elite Scientists that the Menagerie holds in its employment.
[/PTabbedContent]
