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There are a few things
that you need to know about the Shapeshifter as it will be defined in this
universe.
In this game,
Shapeshifters refer to individuals displaying therianthropy, the ability to
transform from a human into an animal form.
This is an ability that
one can either been born with therianthropy. Such individuals are considered
Purebloods.
In a way quite similiar to
vampires, an individual can undergo the conversion process later on, after
having been born a mortal. Such individuals are referred to as Converts, the
same term as within Vampire society, although the distinction between the
two classes of Shapeshifters is not so dramatic as it is within the society of
vampires.
The transformation is
believed to be a spiritual and a physical one, and therianthropes are a proud
groupd of individuals with cultures as rich and defined as those of the
vampires.
Werewolves are the
most well known type of shape-shifter, but they are not the only ones known to
exist in this universe.
For those looking
to play something a bit more exotic then the werewolf, there is the opprotunity
to play a wendigo, a kitsune, and a leopardman.
The shapeshifters
have their own sets of beliefs and supernatural powers which they wield with
deadly grace and precision in the war over the fate of
mankind.
Having a very
close bond with the shamans of various tribes, most local shamans will not
reveal the presense of a therianthrope to the local populace. Trusting them to
age old customs of honor and traditions which exist outside of mortal
law.
Each type of Shapeshifter
boasts of a rich heritage with laws and traditions that have existed for
centuries. Although each tribe is slightly different, a few commonalities exist.
Secrecy is observed in all
things, and for the sake of the tribe, the secret identities of the
Shapeshifters are protected by any means necessary. It is not at all unusual for
a Shapeshifter who has revealed Shapeshifter secrets to a mortal without
bringing said mortal through the rite of conversion to be ritually executed and
the mortal to be killed if found unworthy of membership in the community.
Shamans are honorbound to
keep the tribes secrets. It does not happen often but in cases where the word of
honor has been broken the wrath of the entire community has come down very
harshly open the offender and entire tribe has been punished by the
community.
Shapeshifters are expected
to keep their word of honor once it is given, and they expect the same thing out
of others whether or not they are a part of the community.
Promises are not to be
made lightly by a Shapeshifter and lies are severely punished.
Animals are always treated
with care and respect, and are only to be killed for protection and for your
food. Humans as they are technically animals do fall under this rule. Yes it is
acceptable to hunt and kill mortals according to Shapeshifter Society in this
game.
