Lycanthropy

= Lycanthropy =

The creature of the genus, Lupinius has always been one fraught with mystery and fear among those who call it by its common name, Werewolf. Interestingly, the nature of a Werewolf comes from a virus in the system, mutating the genes of the affected individual to suit the climate or environment. (Said virus is undergoing classification). While any creature can become infected by the "Werewolf virus", humanoids are the only ones affected by it, with transmission being only through the bite of an affected creature. The most common recipient of the "Werewolf Virus" is the Human (Homo Sapiens), however, Vulpins, Elves, and anything in between isn't safe from affliction.

As of now, there are two subspecies of werewolf; The Common Werewolf (Lupinius Venatorus), and The Greater Werewolf (Lupinius Nobilis). There is virtually no difference in the subspecies, except how often and how sporadic the transformation is. The Common Werewolf is at the mercy of the lunar system, and the severity of the side effects is random. Meanwhile the Greater Werewolf, while far rarer than the Common variety, can control the transformation.

Description
The Werewolf while transformed is described to be 2.6 meters in hight, and possessing brown, black, or grey fur. Disproportionately long arms with razor sharp claws are also described, with a common attack trait being the Werewolf swinging its arms wildly. Red to yellow eyes are the normal for afflicted, and this is an easy way to spot an afflicted individual.

As a given, individuals while in the docile state are described to be perfectly normal, albeit the red or yellow glowing eyes may come across as uneasy. After a transformation, the afflicted individual is said to feel queasy, and possess a bleeding nose, gums, and other orifices. Fur sprouting from the ears, while unusual, is not unheard of.

Werewolf Diet
A Lycanthrope's diet is mostly carnivorous, however, a starving Werewolf will be able to survive on berries, grass, leaves, and foliage. The main delicacy among the Lycanthropic horde is human flesh, which is usually eaten after a long hunting trip.

Werewolf society
Werewolves, by nature, are social creatures, preferring to form packs of 5-9 with other affected individuals. However, there have been cases of Werewolves who have formed powerful families and alliances throughout the known world. The latter are almost always of the Greater Werewolf subspecies, given that they control their Lycanthropy. A werewolf in an urban environment is almost always hunted down and killed, however, a clever Lycanthrope can survive off the residents for as long as necessary.

As always, as I discover more about this curious species, I will add to my notes, and continue to update my journals, so people can stay safe and alive.