Becombala

The becombala are the were-animal and vampire population of Degheich. They live together in a symbiotic relationship and are closely genetically related, therefore they are considered on species. They are currently in the absolute minority in Degheich, having been pushed into small territories and into insignificance politically.

Genetics and Powers

• see Genetics of the Species for more information

Becombala of both kinds have a demonic core, meaning they can only live in Degheich. Vampires have an angelic cover, but demonic blood, while were-animals have a demonic cover and angelic blood.

They do on average have a lifespan of 150 years, roughly 1,75 times longer than an average human. But they still live significantly shorter than the dáotara and sorgina, putting them at a disadvantage.

Were-animals

Each were can physically shift into one of seven animals. Some of the animals are more common in some parts of the worlds than others. A wolf, a lion, a tiger, a jaguar, a gorilla, a crocodile or a bear.

Turning into the animal is temporary and happens at will. Turning someone into a were happens through intentional biting and letting the person drink some blood of the sire.

Apart from shifting into an animal form, weres are able to heal slightly faster than a human, they possess enhanced speed, strength and hightened senses according to their animal. They also have a instinctual feeling to know when people are lying. All of those powers need practice and training to be useful and effective.

The were-animals cannot access their powers properly at night, which is why they rely on the vampires during that time.

Vampires

Vampires feed on one of four different types of essential life essences. Blood, Life Energy, emotions or soul.

They are not actually undead, they are born the way they are. Turning someone into a vampire follows the same pattern as turning someone into a were. They are also not immortal, but seem that way to the average human. They can willingly retract their fangs and do not have a shadow.

They also possess enhanced stamina and agility, heal slighty faster than humans and are capable of mind controlling people to a certain extent.

The vampires cannot access their powers properly during the day, which is why they rely on the were-animals during that time.

History

The becombala used to be the original inhabitors of Degheich. The sorgina appeared shortly after them and in the beginning lived pacefully with them together. The sorgina soon advanced fast with their magic and the resulting technology, taking the leading position in the world. With the appearance of the dáotara and the increasing tensions between them and the sorgina, the becombala were slowly pushed to the edges of the world amidts conflicts that they could not play a part in. The sorgina overpowered them with magic and the dáotara overpowered them by combining most of their best features.

Today, the becombala either live among the other two species as lower class citizens or live in secluded territories that nobody else wants to claim. Their numbers are severely decreased and in some places they are actively fighting extinction.