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{"data":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>A vhalkai's mane, antennae, tail, and posture is very important for reading their mood. The movement of the antennae, the position of the mane, position of the head, movemetn of the tail, all of that can convey a lot without a single word.<\/p>\r\n<p>Warbred growl, roar, huff, chuff, grunt, and even let out a low chitter or chirping sound when greeting or happy. Their vocalizations are very low and beastly.<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the Emperor leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their Emperor is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the Emperor, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the Emperor is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Maneless: Mutation. Rare, due to the Emperor selecting against it. Maneless vhalkai are more armored than their maned counterparts, but the gene is tied to volatile aggression and they are far harder to control. Most maneless do not make it through training, as the Emperor sees them as useless and they are culled. The first maneless to make it is Artaxus, and all subsequent maneless in the army were trained extensively by him to calm their volatile nature. Maneless vhalkai are a lot more vocal, as their mane is very important to their bodylanguage. Mane position antennae position, posture, all convey mood without a sound. Maneless will go straight to growling and grumbling instead of lowering their head, pinning their antennae, and bristling their mane. This makes a mildly irritated maneless vhalkai look pissed off. Other vhalkai have trouble reading their intentions, so generally leave them alone.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>","parsed":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>A vhalkai's mane, antennae, tail, and posture is very important for reading their mood. The movement of the antennae, the position of the mane, position of the head, movemetn of the tail, all of that can convey a lot without a single word.<\/p>\r\n<p>Warbred growl, roar, huff, chuff, grunt, and even let out a low chitter or chirping sound when greeting or happy. Their vocalizations are very low and beastly.<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the Emperor leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their Emperor is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the Emperor, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the Emperor is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Maneless: Mutation. Rare, due to the Emperor selecting against it. Maneless vhalkai are more armored than their maned counterparts, but the gene is tied to volatile aggression and they are far harder to control. Most maneless do not make it through training, as the Emperor sees them as useless and they are culled. The first maneless to make it is Artaxus, and all subsequent maneless in the army were trained extensively by him to calm their volatile nature. Maneless vhalkai are a lot more vocal, as their mane is very important to their bodylanguage. Mane position antennae position, posture, all convey mood without a sound. Maneless will go straight to growling and grumbling instead of lowering their head, pinning their antennae, and bristling their mane. This makes a mildly irritated maneless vhalkai look pissed off. Other vhalkai have trouble reading their intentions, so generally leave them alone.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>"}},"title":"Vhalkai (Warbred)","is_visible":"1","summary":"Genetically engineered werebug supersoldiers that have been selectively bred for generations to create an obedient and powerful warrior.","utility_tag":["wip"],"page_tag":["Enterra","A Tale of Two Brothers"]}

{"data":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>A vhalkai's mane, antennae, tail, and posture is very important for reading their mood. The movement of the antennae, the position of the mane, position of the head, movemetn of the tail, all of that can convey a lot without a single word. <\/p>\r\n<p>Warbred growl, roar, huff, chuff, grunt, and even let out a low chitter or chirping sound when greeting or happy. Their vocalizations are very low and beastly.<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Maneless: Mutation. Rare, due to the Emperor selecting against it. Maneless vhalkai are more armored than their maned counterparts, but the gene is tied to volatile aggression and they are far harder to control. Most maneless do not make it through training, as the Emperor sees them as useless and they are culled. The first maneless to make it is Artaxus, and all subsequent maneless in the army were trained extensively by him to calm their volatile nature. Maneless vhalkai are a lot more vocal, as their mane is very important to their bodylanguage. Mane position antennae position, posture, all convey mood without a sound. Maneless will go straight to growling and grumbling instead of lowering their head, pinning their antennae, and bristling their mane. This makes a mildly irritated maneless vhalkai look pissed off. Other vhalkai have trouble reading their intentions, so generally leave them alone. <\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>","parsed":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>A vhalkai's mane, antennae, tail, and posture is very important for reading their mood. The movement of the antennae, the position of the mane, position of the head, movemetn of the tail, all of that can convey a lot without a single word. <\/p>\r\n<p>Warbred growl, roar, huff, chuff, grunt, and even let out a low chitter or chirping sound when greeting or happy. Their vocalizations are very low and beastly.<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Maneless: Mutation. Rare, due to the Emperor selecting against it. Maneless vhalkai are more armored than their maned counterparts, but the gene is tied to volatile aggression and they are far harder to control. Most maneless do not make it through training, as the Emperor sees them as useless and they are culled. The first maneless to make it is Artaxus, and all subsequent maneless in the army were trained extensively by him to calm their volatile nature. Maneless vhalkai are a lot more vocal, as their mane is very important to their bodylanguage. Mane position antennae position, posture, all convey mood without a sound. Maneless will go straight to growling and grumbling instead of lowering their head, pinning their antennae, and bristling their mane. This makes a mildly irritated maneless vhalkai look pissed off. Other vhalkai have trouble reading their intentions, so generally leave them alone. <\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>"}},"title":"Vhalkai (Warbred)","is_visible":"1","summary":"Genetically engineered werebug supersoldiers that have been selectively bred for generations to create an obedient and powerful warrior.","utility_tag":["wip"],"page_tag":["Enterra","A Tale of Two Brothers"]}

{"data":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>","parsed":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>"}},"title":"Vhalkai (Warbred)","is_visible":"1","summary":"Genetically engineered werebug supersoldiers that have been selectively bred for generations to create an obedient and powerful warrior.","utility_tag":["wip"],"page_tag":["Enterra","A Tale of Two Brothers"]}

{"data":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>","parsed":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Lifespan<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai live roughly 150 years on average. They can live a bit longer if they are healthy, but they don't make it past 160-170 without a lot of help. They tend to retire at around 100 years old. They go from nymph to adulthood in about five years in the time chambers, but if growing naturally, they grow up at about the same rate as humans. They molt into their fully adult form around 16 to 18. They have a clear line between childhood and adulthood. Once they have had their first heat, they go molt their last childhood shell, and emerge as their fully adult form and won't grow anymore. Unlike humans, who grow gradually and become sexually mature before they are physically mature, Enterrans (vhalkai included) do not become sexually mature until they are physically mature.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>"}},"title":"Warbred","is_visible":"1","summary":"Genetically engineered werebug like Super Soldiers created with a combination of science and magic that have been selectively bred for generations.","utility_tag":["wip"],"page_tag":["Enterra","A Tale of Two Brothers"]}

{"data":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>","parsed":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">The alpha of a pack is not based on strength or dominance, but rather the age and experience. Warbred do not fight for dominance, but rather settle naturally into a pack dynamic based on their abilities. They become stressed if their pack gets too large, so when they start getting to the upper limit, the youngest members would leave to find other wanderors to establish their own pack. This, of course, is not seen in action as vhalkai are highly controlled.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. Vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches, but most commonly have 1, rarely 2.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<\/p>"}},"title":"Warbred","is_visible":"1","summary":"Genetically engineered werebug like Super Soldiers created with a combination of science and magic that have been selectively bred for generations.","utility_tag":["wip"],"page_tag":["Enterra","A Tale of Two Brothers"]}

{"data":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close. <\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army. <\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness. <\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack. <\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches.<\/p>","parsed":{"description":"<p>Vhalkai, commonly called warbred,&nbsp; are massive and powerful werebug like creatures, genetically engineered using magic and science by Emperor Zarkhan in the Shadowed Empire, Reinvari. They have their smaller bipedal form and their massive Beast form. Known for their loyalty and power, Vhalkai are impressive and imposing creatures that serve as an extension of the Shadowed Emperor's power over his Empire.<\/p>","field1":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Species Name: Vhalkai<br \/>Common Name: Warbred<br \/>Species Type: Modified Biological, Wereform<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are highly modified creatures, far removed from their ancestors, the regular vhessen that wander Lumivalis and thrive there. <br \/><br \/>They were created by Emperor Zarkhan, commonly known as the Shadowed Emperor.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are quite literally bred for war, given orders on who to mate with. When not being bred, they are given a contraceptive implant which is removed once the orders are given. Most vhalkai will follow these orders without question. Those that do not, are not bred. This has furthered the selection towards docile, loyal, obedient vhalkai. The Emperor takes the eggs as soon as they are laid for his own purposes. vhalkai do still have very strong maternal instinct; and this leaves them very antsy for a while after the egg is taken. However, they usually shake it off and get back to their duties within a few days. Once the eggs hatch, the nymph is placed in a special stasis chamber that speeds up time, where all basic knowledge is put into their mind with enchantments while time is sped up. From hatching to adulthood, the chamber takes about a year, instead of the 16-ish years it'd normally take to wait for a vhalkai to mature naturally. They are taken from the chamber as a sub-adult, so they reach full maturity while in training. Zarkhan found this made for stronger, surer, better-formed and healthier vhalkai. Upon leaving the Chamber, the young vhalkai are sent off to training, where they will train for a few years before being sent off to where they are stationed. Those who do not make the cut are either stationed somewhere undesirable or outside of the city, or simply killed off to not be a burden on the Empire. vhalkai the Emperor intends to breed are kept in outposts around the Capitol, while others are sent to less important outposts.<br \/><br \/>There are some that go from the chamber into a hidden underground facility instead of going into training; mostly from very desirable lineages, siblings of vhalkai that came out the way he wanted them to, and raised like common beasts. Used for breeding to further bolster their species number or add more to desirable lineages. Eggs from these Feral stock are treated as normal, and their lineage is listed as coming from a full sibling of the Feral, since the Ferals are top secret. Only Zarkhan himself, his head scientist Lumus; a psychotic butterfly with no empathy but is damn good at what he does, and the automatons he built deal with them.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>Those who highly disappoint the Emperor or disobey direct orders also end up in the underground facility, caged up like the ferals. These ones are most often used for experimentation, to push a vhalkai as far as they can be pushed to see what they can handle and figure out how to bring out traits that he wants more. They are still bred, depending on how desirable t heir lineage is. He may pair one with a more docile Feral that shows the traits he does want and that he feels will counter the bad traits; but he is very careful with this, as explaining the lineage would be difficult and strange vhalkai from lineages he hasn't bred before may be cause for suspicion, as well as vhalkai coming from a soldier who disappeared and should be dead. He leaves all of this to Lumis, as he generally doesn't care about the breeding side of things aside from the strong, useful nymphs that come out of it.&nbsp; While Lumis is responsible for most of the cruelty inflicted on the vhalkai in the hidden facility, Zarkhan is fully aware and simply turns a blind eye because in the end, he gets what he wants. The vhalkai belong to him, after all. He created them. vhalkai who age out of usefulness but still have valuable genes are put up in retirement, usually around the edges of the Capitol City. Their only duty is to offer their genes when a younger vhalkai is sent over. Early generation\/elder vhalkai have healthy and strong genes that are somethings bred back into certain lineages to increase their health as later generation vhalkai are proving to have some health problems starting to crop up in connection to some of the traits the Emperor is trying to encourage.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai have been in the process of creation for numerous generations, and are known for being big and powerful Vhessen, towering over their already tall ancestors.<\/p>","field2":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">By and large, vhalkai are a new species.&nbsp; They are only seen within the borders of Reinvari itself, as they are a specially created and modified creature and the Shadowed Emperor holds them close. <\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of Time Chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Predecessors: Taken directly from Lumivalis after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in Lumivalis. Kavuta, the albino Wyrm that created the vhessen, was unaware of this. They closely resemble regular vhessen (See more about vhessen on their page along with their lore), and in a sense still are. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together. He started work on the Beast form, and soon managed to have a good starting vhalkai species. Because the predcessors were created using the power of an ancient dead entity known as a Lifetree, they were highly adaptable and he was able to modify them far more than he would have otherwise. He greatly boosted their fertility in hopes of them successfully breeding, and he made great use of his enchanted time chambers so they could be out and ready to pair off. At this point, they were all kept in his vast underground facility, caged up. He had the help of his head scientist, a butterfly named Lumis, through all of this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">It took a while for the vhalkai characteristics he wanted that became a part of his final product to appear. They didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation of the Predecessors. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who. He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform. At this point, he felt they were complete. He had a good starting population, and the first generations that were not to his desire were culled<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Because of this, all vhalkai have their massive beast form. He was still working on improving them, so hadn't made use of them within his Empire yet. They were significantly larger than the vhessen they descended from by this point, becoming a distinct subspecies. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many around this point were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage due to enhancing their powerful predatory nature. He then began adding things to make them obedient, loyal and docile.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The Emperor started to see improvements in the aggression around the 8th generation of modifying them, they were becoming loyal and obedient, and very strong.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Finally, after working on the Predeccessors for around 14 generations, he felt they were ready. He had about 300 individuals at this point, all sporting what he wanted. They were stationed all throughout the Capitol, and from this point they started being counted by Generations.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Around this point, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts. They were bred, on occasion, to bolster the numbers of some of his favorite lineages, but they were mostly kept as backup to keep certain genes in the pool in case one of his prized vhalkai was killed off. A notable individual among the feral stock is simply known as Ferus, though Ferus eventually managed to break away from the automatons when being exercized in a hidden courtyard, and ran off. Security was improved at this point. His current location is unknown. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone. Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are all assigned ID numbers. These are used in the Emperor's notes to track the individual. He keeps their family trees very carefully tracked.<br \/><br \/>The format of the ID number is as follows<br \/><br \/>G#[Number of Generation]-[Letter denoting their bodytype]-[Important Lineage Abreviation if there is any]-[Sire]+[Dam]<br \/><br \/>Their name would be listed after this with an abbreviation next to it. If two had the same abbreviation, the rest of the ID number would tell him what he needed to know. <br \/><br \/>An example would be<br \/><br \/>G13-A-Vherr,Vhel-Lar+Vir: Keldris<br \/><br \/>This denotes a 13th generation vhalkai of the average bodytype, bearing the lineages of Vherra and Vhelos, child of&nbsp; Larion and Virek, with their name added. <br \/><br \/>vhalkai are quite aware of their ID number, and even to a point what they mean. They know it tells who their parents are and they know it's used to track their lienages. This, however, is all they know so they do not see it as odd. The Emperor awakens them from the Time Chambers, and they are told that he is their creator, and that he created them, saved their ancestors from being abandoned and that they exist to serve him and his Empire. Very few question this.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Generations and Lineages<\/strong><br \/><br \/>The generations have passed more quickly than otherwise due to the use of time chambers, using rare and powerful magic fueled by Zarkhan himself.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are separated by Generation, though later generation vhalkai are separated by their lineage or purpose.<br \/><br \/>Generation 0 - Taken directly from the Abyss after they were abandoned, Zarkhan modified them to make them fiercer and stronger. He started with around 50 individuals chosen from the many he brought in. Those that showed traits he preferred, he modified and trained, those that did not he simply abandoned back in the Abyss. The Pale Emperor was unaware of this. They closely resemble regularvhessen. Vhessen were created with the aid of the Life Tree's reamains in the core of Enterra, thus each one of the Generation 0 is genetically unrelated to every single other one. The Life Tree's influence in addition to the malleability of Void allowed Zarkhan to modify them far more than he would have been able to otherwise. Some features are exaggerated, but subtly, but there were limits to what he could do to them. From there, he would need to breed those who displayed desired traits together.<br \/><br \/>The 2nd generation looked very similar to the 1st generation, and real vhalkai characteristics didn't start to appear until the 3rd and 4th generation. Each generation was highly modified using magic, and a strange otherworldly science he discovered around the place he founded his Capitol City before to bring out and strengthen the traits he wanted, and he continued to carefully pair them together making fully sure to track whose line came from who.&nbsp; He started adding his own blood to the mix, using intensive magic, experimenting with a powerful were-like beast form. The first attempts failed, but once he succeeded, every vhalkai was given the Wereform, including even gen1, as he was still making use of them at that time.<br \/><br \/>Around the 5th generation, all vhalkai had the massive beast form.&nbsp; Around this generation is when vhalkai traits were becoming far more clear. They were significantly larger than normal Vhessen. Longer spines on their limbs, thicker in build, larger horns. The beast forms made them even tougher. Many from this generation were quite aggressive and could be hard to manage. This problem grew worse with each generation until he started working on it around Gen 8.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">A few different bodytypes emerged at this point, and he started working on different lineages. The lean, fast build, the average build, and the large and impressive brute build.<br \/><br \/>Around the 8th generation, the Shadowed Emperor noticed that exaggerating these traits caused them to become more aggressive, so he started working on making them more docile and obedient. Some earlier generation vhalkai were added to this line. Due to strengthening the traits he wanted to come out, this had little effect on their size and strength.<br \/><br \/>Around the 10th and 11th generation, they were pretty close to what he wanted them to be. Docile and obedient, with powerful beast forms, large, and excellent soldiers.<br \/><br \/>12th and 13th generation was when he got exactly what he wanted, and the vhalkai body type was truly set in stone.&nbsp; Towering tall, but not to the point of losing mobility, fiercely loyal and obedient, intimidating... perfect in every way. While some rebelled, vastly more remained right at his side.<br \/><br \/>Starting at the 13th generation, Zarkhan started keeping a few siblings of those who had the best genes caged up and raised like simple beasts, to make breeding them far easier. His scientist, Lumis, would provide a cocktail of potent drugs that would block out their sapient mind, causing them to behave on instinct alone.&nbsp; Because of Lumis being in charge of these \"Ferals\", they are not treated well at all and are usually kept packed up in tiny cages, tended to by the Emperor's Automatons. These 'Feral' vhalkai act on instinct alone, and do question orders. Zarkhan was worried the drugs could effect their nymphs, but those descended from the Ferals show no difference from those descended from vhalkai within the army. <\/p>","field3":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai are highly social, forming packs naturally. The are most effective stationed in groups of 8-15 individuals, and often bond closely with one other vhalkai that they work well with. These duos often balance eachother out and have a sense of comradry about them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai become very depressed when alone, and prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of depression and sadness. <\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">In barracks or designated sleeping areas, the Emperor typically provides each vhalkai with their own bed, though partners share quarters. Despite having individual sleeping spaces, squad partners often choose to sleep together. They sleep noticeably better when cuddled up with another vhalkai. They are known to groom eachothers. Not to clean, but because the act is soothing and helps both vhalkai bond.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai are very open and accepting. If you befriend a pack, they'll accept you as one of them, treating you just as they treat their fellows, though being gentle with smaller folks because they are quite aware of their size. They're empathetic and attentive to the needs of eachother and those around them. A vhalkai will be able to tell if you are upset in an instant, and will try to make you feel better.<br \/><br \/>They are very pack oriented. The strongest and most experienced of them becomes the leader. The pack alpha is not chosen based on their dominance, and despite their fierce nature, they don't fight for it. Their heirarchy forms naturally based on the individuals in the pack. <\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">vhalkai are surprisingly affectionate, and love physical contact. When off duty, and not training or sparring, they can often be seen laying together and cuddling, often with one resting their head in the other's mane. They will nuzzle and touch snouts sometimes, and when one becomes distressed, gentle licks and nibbles along the antennae can calm them down and make them feel better.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">They are extremely loyal, both to their pack and the Emperor and Empire as a whole.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>","field4":"<p><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Vhalkai are obligate carnivores. Though they can eat fruits, vegetables and other things, they require a high protein diet. They have high caloric needs due to their Beast form, so they have healthy appetites.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Physical Characteristics:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">On average, vhalkai stand around 10 feet tall, though they can be anywhere from 9-12 feet on average. Some individuals can be taller or shorter, depending on their lineage. Vhalkai have thick, tough chitinous plates covering their huge, muscled bodies. Beneath the plates on their back and chest are thick, naturally armored bone scutes. The scutes around the chest are in two pieces, allowing the chest to expand and contract with their breath. Unlike actual insects, vhalkai also have an endoskeleton, which provides their main structure. The chitinous covering acts as natural armor.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have manes running down the back of their necks and along their shoulders, This often ends around their mid back, though individuals with exaggerated\/amplified manes can have this mane extending up to halfway down their tail, though this is incredibly rare. The mane consists of the long, thick guardhairs that are the hongest around the hunched shoulders and the thick, soft undercoat. The vhalkai's guardhairs are quite tough while remaining flexible, and can be used to make very nice paint brushes. A vhalkai's molted chitin can be crafted into incredibly tough and lightweight armor. If the soft undercoat is taken out of the soft, leathery plate over the shoulders and down the back that grows the mane, it can be spun into a really nice yarn. It contains some of the Voidic power, meaning that, despite being pitch black, it can actually help keep one cool.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The throat, belly, and underside of the tail is made of thick, leathery chitin resembling tough skin, which is flexible and furred. The chitin beneath the man, also, is thick, leathery, and flexible. They retain a scruff into adulthood, and do retain a bit of the scruffing response their nymphs have. One warbred grabbing another's scruff in their jaws can cause a momentary stagger as they reflexively try to curl with tail curling against their side around their back legs.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Vhalkai have smooth heads that bear a superficial resemblance to skulls. It is not made of bone, however, but rather a thick leathery chitin that is white or off white in color. They have black eyes that have a subtle white glow forming their iris and slit pupil. They have sharp plates that form their teeth, built for slicing and slashing. vhalkai can not chew very effectively, instead slicing their food into smaller bits with their teeth and swallowing. Their top teeth fit over their lower teeth, forming an almost scissor-like connection. Their teeth can slice through even solid bone with terrifying ease. They have long fangs, though these saber fangs are more for display and aren't actually that sharp. The very front teeth look pointed, but are more blunt, as they use them to carry nymphs by the scruff, or pull away bits of meat so they can slice them up with their back teeth and swallow.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai are solid black in color, though the shade of this black can vary slightly. They don't have visible markings. Older vhalkai's chitin will begin to dull as they age as their manes begin to grey. A vhalkai's head is always white or off white. WIth their black eyes, their head bears an eery resemblance with their skull. Their real skull is actually black in color, though follows the shape of their head.<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/64.media.tumblr.com\/77bd8b2ecc92e20fd0a7e76e4b672fa0\/5b5333d5baa39dc3-9d\/s540x810\/860a922f30ddadb932db9228d2cc5ffbbbbad0d2.gifv\" alt=\"\" width=\"540\" height=\"294\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Abilities<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><br \/>Vhalkai have a fair amount of natural abilities.<br \/><br \/>- Wereform. This is in the section beneath, but all vhalkai have a massive werelike beast form.<br \/><br \/>- Toxin Tolerance: Vhalkai can handle a lot more toxins than normal bugs.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>- Pain Tolerance: Vhalkai have HIGH pain tolerance. They can handle WAY more than any normal bug. A vhalkai can shrug off injuries that would make any other bug unable to do anything but scream or lay there shaking.<br \/><br \/>- Regeneration: While this isn't instant, vhalkai have a very strong rate of regenerating. Wounds, even serious ones, heal much faster than normal bugs. This is also connected to their Wereform.<br \/><br \/>- Abyssal Roar: This is something any vhalkai can be trained to do. They unleash a terrible roar that shakes the very air around them and makes the ground quiver. It is felt more than heard, making your bones rattle within you. It can send a bug flying and inflicts low-level Void-based Damage, leading to one feeling exhausted and slow. While the Abyssal Roar takes a lot of energy to unleash and vhalkai usually have to regather their energy to do it again, it is highly effective. They often have Void tendrils appearing around them and everything around them going dark while unleashing this ability. Other than that, vhalkai (Aside from early generation\/higher void content vhalkai) can not summon or control Void tendrils.<br \/><br \/>-Growl-speech: vhalkai, like their Vhessen ancestors, do not have a proper voice, but they can snarl, growl and roar. They are known to take this natural growl and force it to form words, allowing them to communicate with other bugs who can't hear their void-speech. It gives them unnatural, growly guttural beastial voices, which can take some getting used to.<br \/><br \/>Beast Connection: This is, in essence, their connection to their Inner Beast. This connection fluctuates, and strengthens when the vhalkai needs it. Such as when exposed to toxins, or injured, or frightened; the Beast form connection rises stronger and gives the vhalkai more of what they need, sometimes to the point of causing a transformation if they aren't transformed already, before drawing back when no longer needed. This has its drawbacks, however; vhalkai do not handle anesthetic well at all due to this constantly shifting connection. They have to be given enough to knock out the Beast, but when the Beast is knocked out the connection ebbs causing there to be way too much of the medication in their system, leading to an immediate overdose and death. As such... a vhalkai can not be put under for a surgical procedure. If one is needed... they just have to take it. They have intense pain tolerance, but even that makes them grit their teeth and growl.<br \/><br \/>Soul Focus: Much like their Vhessen ancestors, vhalkai are able to focus on the Soul energy within them to heal and repair damage. They are trained to direct this healing flow outward and into their comrades, allowing vhalkai to heal eachother if needed.<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Vhalkai Wereform<\/strong><br \/><br \/>-The vhalkai wereform or Beast form originates from a bioengineered virus, heavily modified with both magic and science to give a vhessen a secondary form. Many failed experiments were done before the Beast form was perfected. At this point, ALL vhalkai were given the serum. The Wereform can be passed on from one vhessen to the next with blood contact, so a normal vhessen can gain the beast form. The blood of the vhalkai must come in contact with an open wound on a normal vhessen for the wereform to pass on. It is not transmitted sexually or through the bite, but is passed to offspring. Vhessen born with wereform do not go through any of the symptoms of catching the virus, and can shift fluidly from the moment they hatch. A hybrid must have high enough Void content for the virus to take hold, as it takes advantage of the malleability of Void as well as the dravhokonus side of initial vhessen creation. There are several stages after initial blood contact.<br \/><br \/>Stage 1 - Asymptomatic. This dormant stage lasts 3-6 months depending on the individual. The infection is silently spreading, undetected by the Vhessen's immune system. Once exposed to vhalkai blood, there is no cure. It can not be reversed.<br \/><br \/>Stage 2 - Illness. The vhessen becomes very sick. Symptoms include high fever, tremors, vomiting, headache, dizziness, exhaustion, severe constant body aches, and weakness. Every cell in the Vhessen's body is being twisted and changed at this point, and it is not pleasant. Lasts 2-4 weeks. As miserable as it is, this stage never kills the Vhessen.<br \/><br \/>Stage 3 - The illness goes away. As its symptoms fade out, the vhessen experiences several strange new symptoms, increasing in frequency as the virus finishes doing its work. The Vhessen will feel a frequent burning in their chest, slowly spreading until their entire body experiences this burning sensation, usually brought on by strong emotion. Their appetite will slowly increase until they are eating way more than they were before. Their pain tolerance will start to increase as well as regeneration abilities appearing, strengthening.&nbsp; Finally, they will become more wild and instinctive with heightened senses.<br \/><br \/>Stage 4: Completion - The First Shift. This can either happen on its own, or triggered by a burst of strong emotion. The first shift is by far the worst. Even with their newfound regeneration and pain tolerance, the Vhessen will experience so much pain, they often scream. It feels like every bone in their body is being broken into pieces as every joint is twisted and stretched apart, every muscle pulled tight to the point of tearing. Cracking, popping, creaking, and various other sounds you'd expect of such a transformation are heard as their screaming turns to a gutteral snarling and growling, and finally a loud, earth-shaking roar once they've turned. The pain fades away, leaving them dazed and panting. They will remain in Beast form for several days as their body adjusts before shifting back to their natural form. The first several shifts are uncomfortable and painful, but none nearly as bad as the first. After the first few, shifting stops hurting and is natural to the Vhessen. Upon completion, the werevirus can be passed on to their young.<br \/><br \/>Vhalkai always have perfect control over their Beast forms. They do not go mad or become more aggressive, but can be wilder and more instinctive. There is no loss of cognitive function, no going \"wild\" - if a vhalkai wouldn't attack you in natural form, they won't do so in Beast form.<\/p>","field5":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai enter a heat cycle once a year, in mid to late Spring. They are gravid for around 8 months. They lay an egg, which has a soft leathery shell. The egg will hatch within a few minutes of being laid, serving more to protect the mother from the nymph's claws and horns than a proper egg shell. vhalkai nymphs are born with their eyes closed and unable to move very well on their own, though they will crawl their way to their mother's belly to knead at the pouches and lap up the milk that comes out. During the nymph's first two weeks of life, the vhalkai mother's milk has a special unique composition that makes it much more beneficial to the nymph. They do much better when they have this special milk during their early life which is why the King leaves them with their dam for two weeks before taking them away. They open their eyes when they are about a week old, and can move around by their second week, their movement and behavior reminiscent of a very young kitten. Vhalkai often become upset and distressed when it is time to give up their nymphs, but their loyalty to their king is strong enough that they rarely ever resist. Their duty is to the King, after all. Their nymphs belong to him, not them.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">Some details on vhalkai milk and a very young nymph<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/125_155_Ec2aoCNiDQTM0mx.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"896\" \/><br \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/><br \/>A hatchling, they emerge from the egg within a few hours of the egg being laid. Their eyes start off closed, but gradually open as they become more mobile during their first couple weeks of life. They at least double their weight during this two week period due to a special composition of their dam's milk.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/112_141_E8DuWmoAgSs5xPa.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"749\" height=\"482\" \/><\/span><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A teenage vhalkai. They tend to be lanky and scruffy, looking desceptively scrawny, until they near the end of puberty. Their mane starts off incredibly soft and downy, but as they enter adolescence, their adult guardhairs begin to grow in. More guardhairs come in with each molt, causing them to look extremely scruffy for several years, until they finally have their full adult mane. They are considered an adult once they go through their first heat cycle. Once the first heat ends, their transformation into their adult form is complete once they molt their last adolescent shell and emerge with the impressive mane of an adult vhalkai.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.cryptid-creations.com\/images\/pages\/0\/123_152_msmiwycI0cqP8Iy.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"819\" height=\"655\" \/><\/span><\/p>","field6":"<p data-indent-direction=\"false\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Vhalkai have a few different bodytypes.<br \/><br \/>The most common is the average. The average vhalkai stands between 9-12 feet tall, though 10 or 11 is the most common. They are powerful and muscled, though have some leanness to them, allowing them to have some speed. <br \/><br \/>The speedy bodytype tends to be a little taller than the average vhalkai, but this is due to longer limbs. They weigh less and are quite lean. speedy vhalkai are known for their incredible stamina and speed. When pushed, any vhalkai can run for a couple days without stopping to rest, but the speedy lineage, when needed, can make it twice that long at a full run. It exhausts them and they need a lot of time to recover, but they can outrun and outlast any other vhalkai lineage. speedy vhalkai are known for having what could be called a case of the \"Zoomies\", where they gallop all over the place with their head and tail up. If there are two, they will chase eachother all around at blinding speeds, stop from time to time, go into a playful bow, then take off again. <br \/><br \/>The 'dwarf' bodytype is the rarest of the vhalkai builds, as it comes from a mutation that can be traced back to a single individual and the gene is recessive, which means that some careful linebreeding needs to be done with healthy individuals that do not show some of the health problems some later generation vhalkai have.&nbsp; dwarf vhalkai are usually kept around the Capitol as they are valuable, and the King is trying to get a few good, healthy lineages with them that are only distantly connected. dwarf vhalkai stand around 5-6 feet tall, and 5-6 feet tall at the shoulders. They often have exaggerated manes, which makes them look fluffy, and they almost always have fluff on the chest and have slightly longer fluff on their belly and throat. Dwarfs are incredibly spunky, all of the ferocity and strength of a normal sized vhalkai in a much smaller package. There are some crosses between dwarfs and speedy vhalkai, though getting a more slender dwarf has been harder than anticipated, as dwarf type vhalkai tend to be stocky and thick in build. Dwarf vhalkai can not be bred together. The nymph will be stillborn, much like double merle syndrome. Because of this, vhalkai are incredibly rare.<\/p>\r\n<p data-indent-direction=\"false\">The brute bodytype is one of the most valuable, though they also tend to have more age related health problems as they get older. Brutes can stand 10-14 feet tall, though some very rare individuals can get up to 15-16 feet tall. There is only one individual that has this 16 foot tall size, one of the brute lineage founders named Jorgensen, though he retired early due to problems in his hips and joints. Brutes are extremely powerful with enhanced power to their Abyssal Roar. Brutes are thick, and almost always have exaggerated manes and extra fluff. Their claws are longer, and their beast forms even more feral in look than other vhalkai types. Despite their massive size and incredible strength, brutes are known to be incredibly docile and calm. Brutes are hesitant to get up and do much unless ordered to. Due to their impressively big horns, Brutes are most often used for their intimidation factor, but when sent into battle, they are extremely strong. Brutes are terrible at turning, and are unable to leap or jump due to their size and weight.<\/p>","field7":"<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Other Notes<\/strong><br \/><br \/>- Vhalkai have a VERY high pain tolerance. They can feel pain, but it barely bothers them. Even if severely injured, they can and will keep fighting. Many will continue to fight until they are dead, or so severely injured they pass out or can't move anymore.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are naturally very loyal to their Emperor, but also to eachother. They tend to be stationed in squads, of 6-12 vhalkai in an outpost, serving under their Commander and the Commander's second in command. Vhalkai are always stationed in pairs, these pairs often balancing eachother out. Partners are often bunked together in the barracks.<br \/><br \/>-While fierce and often used as an elite police force, vhalkai are surprisingly friendly when not under orders. They are surprisingly docile, due to breeding for obedience. vhalkai are very unlikely to attack or be dangerous unless ordered to. They can be downright lazy.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai are incredibly tough, with natural regenerative properties tied to their Beast forms. Their Beast form was engineered from Zarkhan's own abilities. As such, their beast form does somewhat resemble a Dravhokonus in some ways. In some ways they can be compared to Werebeasts, though they don't become a different creature, just a beastial version of themselves.&nbsp;<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai generally have large horns, making their heads appear bigger with longer snouts and jagged, sharp jaws.<br \/><br \/>-Unlike normal Vhessen, vhalkai have a voice, sort of. They are able to produce a thunderous growl. This growl can be forced to form words, giving them a guttural beastial voice that can be frightening until one gets used to it. They are still able to use Voidspeech.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai still have Shades, and their shades do tend to stick around for a while after they die. Due to being fairly low void-content, however, vhalkai shades don't last too long. BUT like normal Vhessen, if the Shade is stabilized, the body can be repaired\/healed. A vhalkai is not truly dead until their shade fades away.<br \/><br \/>-Vhalkai usually only have a single egg. Being gravid is quite a bit harder on a vhalkai than it is on a normal Vhessen. They can, rarely, have 2 eggs. IF somehow they have 3, the entire clutch usually fails. vhalkai before generation 5 can still have full clutches.<\/p>"}},"title":"Warbred","is_visible":"1","summary":"Genetically engineered werebug like Super Soldiers created with a combination of science and magic that have been selectively bred for generations.","utility_tag":["wip"],"page_tag":["Enterra","A Tale of Two Brothers"]}