Therianthropic humans, or Therians, are a race of evolved humans whose biological origins remain shrouded in mystery during the First Anomaly. For reasons yet to be fully understood, they developed distinct animalistic traits that closely resemble those of their feral counterparts, both in genetic makeup and functionality. These traits can range from enhanced senses and physical adaptations to fully integrated features such as fur, scales, wings, or tails. Unlike Electi, whose abilities manifest as random phenomena, Therians are a naturally occurring subspecies with stable genetic inheritance.
History and Origins
The first recorded emergence of Therians dates back thousands of years to what is now modern-day Egypt, following the first major Anomalous Event that is theorized to have altered the genetic structure of certain human populations. Over generations, these affected individuals developed into distinct Therian races, slowly taking on more and more of the features seen from various native animal species of that region at the time. As civilizations grew and spread, so did Therians, leading to isolated populations across the globe, later taking on the forms of nearly any species from the kindgom Animalia.
For most of recorded history, Therians have coexisted with humans, though their relationship has been fraught with conflict. Early human societies often regarded Therians as either divine beings or monstrous aberrations, leading to cycles of reverence, persecution, and war. Over time, Therians faced segregation and systemic oppression, with some cultures forcing them into servitude, exile, or eradication. Despite these adversities, they endured and gradually integrated into human civilization through trade, diplomacy, and, eventually, legal protections.
Biology and Variations
Therians are bipedal, sentient beings whose physical traits and abilities vary depending on their ancestral lineage. While most are mammalian, there are also Therian races that exhibit avian, reptilian, amphibious, aquatic, and even insectoid characteristics. These traits are not limited to surface-level appearances—many Therians inherit physiological enhancements akin to their feral counterparts, such as heightened senses, increased agility, natural camouflage, or even biological defenses like venom or retractable claws.
In some cases, Therians can be born as hybrids, carrying traits from two distinct lineages. For instance, a Fox-Raven hybrid might possess feathered wings and limbs along with fur-covered plume, or a canine head with a feathered torso. Though in many cases, the child may inherit exclusively one of the two parents’ lineages. Additionally, unlike their purely animal counterparts, Therians can sometimes exhibit unusual colorations, with some appearing in hues that defy their natural species—such as a bright red penguin Therian.
While Therians are physically distinct from humans, they are still biologically compatible with them. Offspring born from a human and a Therian parent tend to inherit a mixture of traits, sometimes appearing more human-like with minor animalistic features, while others lean closer to their Therian heritage. These mixed-blood individuals are simply considered Human-Therians or Therian hybrids, albeit with more varied expressions of their lineage.
Therians in the Modern World
In the present day, Therians are a known but relatively uncommon demographic, their numbers significantly smaller than that of the human population. While they have largely assimilated into contemporary society, cultural and systemic challenges persist. Some communities welcome Therians without hesitation, while others remain wary, influenced by outdated prejudices or misinformation. Discrimination, though not as widespread as in centuries past, still exists in pockets of the world, especially in regions with deep-seated historical conflicts involving Therians.
Despite these challenges, many Therians have found success in various fields, from politics and academia to athletics and entertainment. With their diverse abilities and perspectives, they contribute uniquely to modern civilization. As society continues to evolve, so too does the role of Therians, navigating a world where the lines between human and non-human are increasingly blurred.