false-wyvern lore

  False-wyverns are an ancient species known for their aggression. But how can they be ancient if they just appeared out of nowhere? Do not interrupt, that is rude. They did not “appear out of nowhere”, you are simply ignorant. To put it simply, they originate from Camara. Where is it? Go ask a wyvern. In actuality, false-wyverns and their counterparts aren’t of this world or reality. Both tend to jump from reality to another when bored, hungry or just feel the need to roam. The wyverns, in particular, feel a greater urge to spread themselves around.

 The species name and appearance:
False-wyvern? If not wyverns, then what are they? They are wyverns, just bat-like wyverns. The false was added by outsiders who did not believe they were wyverns as wyverns aren’t generally seen as fluffy. Some tend to be just a little touchy about this, and as such will react violently when being called anything but a wyvern (Joey being one of those individuals), though they tend to call themselves false-wyverns in order to differentiate themselves from common wyverns.

 Going off of their appearance and a small aspect of their diet, they are indeed bat-like wyverns. Their bat-like features are their large pink noses and ears. Fluffy bat-like wyverns with belly scales, and extra fluffy fur from the base of the neck to the chest, which pups can often be seen clinging to. Eye, scale and skin color has been found to be purple, blue, a mix of the two colors, or changes between the two based on how the light is. The mouth, gums, ears and other things are also either blue or purple. Blood tends to be either bluish black or purplish black. Flesh tends to be a mix of skin and blood color.

There doesn’t seem to be a solid way to determine whether a wyvern is male or female by appearance alone, as their genitalia are hidden behind hinged scale plates.

Third eyes:
The third eye is located underneath the chest fur, why it is located there is a mystery. These eyes have the ability to find the truth, even if this truth is abstract, and how the eye does so seems to vary from wyvern to wyvern. When the third eye opens it throws off a wyvern’s vision significantly, allowing a greater chance to escape. If the third eye is attacked the wyvern will become enraged.

 Physical weak spots:
Physical weak spots of a wyvern’s body are the eyes, the ears, the pink nose, and the wing membranes. It is generally recommended to stay away from the third eye as inflicting damage upon it causes the wyvern to become enraged. The wing membranes of a wyvern are rather delicate compared to the rest of their bodies, even more so then their nose. The wings are your best chance at pinning a wyvern; to do this simply thrust a sharp object through the soft membranes as hard as possible into the nearest surface (such as the ground, trees, rocks, another wyvern or walls). Any thrashing from the wyvern will tear the membrane even worse than the initial wound, though the wyvern will eventually rip itself free.

False-wyvern’s eyes are somewhat photosensitive as they can see in the dark, extra sensitive in the case of nocturnals. A bright light shined into their eyes usually is enough to disorient them enough for possible escape, while attacking the eyes is just as effective it causes more irritation, which will soon translate to anger and then to a mauling. If it is not already obvious, a wyvern’s large ears are rather sensitive to sound. Loud sounds should not often be used when attacking a wyvern, however, for they risk irritating many individuals and causing a swarm. Finally, that pink nose is extremely sensitive, so a quick thump is enough to cause a wyvern to recoil momentarily and cause blood vessel ruptures. One should be ready for the attack that will follow.

 Hives:

False-wyverns live in gigantic smooth and black structures. The structures are magical and often drain magic and life from the surrounding area. Hives can be found below ground, in cave systems and occasionally within treetops. A single queen rules over each hive. The population of a hive can vary from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands. The main hive is the largest hive. The queens of the hives are several times larger than the average false-wyverns, which are usually 7 to 8 feet, though exceptions to this do occur

Hives, strangely enough, are massive sentient structures. The level of sentience varies from hive to hive, though in general the hives are somewhat aware of what is going on. The structures show a lot of affection to those inside, which can be in the form of nonverbal communication, opening routes to soft places, offering food on pedestals, or simply giving the wyverns pats. Shadowy clawed hands can often be seen emerging from walls and patting the false-wyverns, outsiders and collared ones. The hive itself will become rather upset if you rebuff or reject its affection. Anyone connected to the hive will hear constant whispering from the hive itself.

 Magic:
False-wyverns drain magic and life away from the surrounding area. With the absorption of magic comes the ability to wield it. The types of magic used varies from wyvern to wyvern, but it is very rare that a false-wyvern can wield winter/ice magic as it is what they are most vulnerable to. In the rare occurrence that a false-wyvern can use ice/winter magic, the magic slowly kills them or takes over the body and reduces it to an icy statue. It is quite possible for a false-wyvern to overload with magic, however, due to the rate of absorption it rarely occurs.  magic matching the wyvern's elemental alignment is absorbed faster than other types. Magical overloads off all types seem to have similar symptoms, such as manic energy, scale/fur loss, internal bleeding, increased irritability, death and/or bursting. there are elemental specific symptoms. ex: cooked from within (fire) organ oversaturation (water)

Mimicry:
False-wyverns can mimic voices and sounds. Typically, this is used to lure in larger prey by mimicking the sounds of a wounded/dying animal or luring in individuals by mimicking friends, loved ones or children. Some individuals use this ability for other reasons, such as using it as a placeholder due to disliking their speaking/singing voice, mockery, or just because they can. Typically, a wyvern only needs to hear a voice/sound once before being able to mimic it, while the time taken to perfect the mimicry depends on the wyvern (generally 3-4 repeats). Some individuals may need to hear the sound/voice repeatedly or again within a few hours. One should never recklessly approach the sound of a wounded animal/individual, even if it is a loved one.

Luckily, wyverns can only mimic sounds/voices for so long before they must return to their natural voice/cries. Through a few tests, it has been confirmed that an average common wyvern can mimic a voice/sound for a total of an hour before it gets “growly and distorted”. An uncommon can mimic from an hour and 15 minutes to 2 whole hours. Wyverns of higher-ranking refuse to cooperate.

traits:
Common- all black fur, horns, wings and tail scales
Uncommon-dark grey main\ chest fur and dark grey horns
Royal- grey fur can be chest fur, wings, tail scales and horns
1 trait low rank
2 traits middle rank
3 traits high-rank royal
4 traits prince/king (male) heiress/queen (female)

melanistic- as the name suggests all black. scales/eyes are much darker than average.
Albino- as the name suggests all white. Scales/ eyes are lighter in color

Rank and roles:
From highest to lowest;
Queen- female, all 4 royal traits. Rules over the hive, has, feeds and cares for many children. (The big mom)
Heiress- young female, all four royal traits. Does the work that the queen cannot such as breaking up fights, dealing with rebellions, and meeting with rulers of kingdoms/settlements. When the queen nears the end of her lifespan/abandons the hive/is seen as a bad ruler, the heiress is to be fed a special substance in order to grow, kill the queen and become the new queen.
Albino/ melanistic- enforces the rules and makes sure those of lower rank comply. Generally, serves as an advisor to the heiress/queen.
“king”- male all 4 royal traits. the queens chosen companion or mate. Assists the queen with care and producing offspring, likely to be eaten.
Prince- young male, all four royal traits. ??? Doesn’t really have a role, is just kind of there. To be fed a special substance to become a “king” then sent to another hive.
High rank royal- male/female with 3 royal traits. Enforces rules and makes sure those of lower rank comply.
Mid rank royal- male/female with 2 royal traits. Enforces rules and makes sure those of lower rank comply.
Low ranking royal- male/female with 1 royal trait. Enforces rules and makes sure those of lower rank comply.
Uncommon warrior- male/female with uncommon trait(s). Patrols hive territories/enforces boundaries, and raids (demolishes) opposing forces when necessary (generally larger and stronger than average).
Warrior- male/female with common traits. Patrols hive territories/enforces boundaries, and raids (demolishes) opposing forces when necessary (generally larger and stronger than average).
Uncommon worker- male/female with uncommon trait(s). Conducts general repairs, expansions and other menial tasks.
Common worker- male/female with common traits. Conducts general repairs, expansions and other menial tasks.
Scout- male/female young adult. Scouts out territories and returns with news and is to assist workers (generally smaller and faster) (if Joey hadn’t had been Royal she would have been a scout).
Miniature- young male/female adult. smaller than scouts and often babied. Ideal for hunting small burrowing creatures. Any adult wyvern less than 4 foot is considered a miniature.
Pup- baby. Produces a foul-smelling liquid from tail tips that can be used as a pesticide. The future.
Hairless adult- filthy hairless that doesn’t fit into the hierarchy, menial tasks are performed, must assist scouts/ miniatures when necessary.
Hairless pup- filthy hairless, to be left with other pups. Produces a foul-smelling liquid from tail tips that can be used as a pesticide.

Reason for ranks:

i'll add this later

Names:
Most false-wyverns remain nameless for their entire life. It is only Royals who start off with a name, and failing to refer to a Royal by their name is a high offence. Names are given to notable warriors and notable wyverns. The reason for a name isn’t always positive.It is possible for a wyvern to have an unofficial name, however, they will only be addressed as such by collared ones and close friends.

Diet:
They pretty much tend to eat whatever they can get a hold of such as plant matter, flesh (which could be in various states of decay), metals, souls/spirits, insects, ores, gems and various types of rocks. An interesting note is that they show a general disdain for vegetables, various plastics, bread, oranges and tilapia. They will, however eat those items in a pinch, though initial hesitance is to be expected. The things they seem to like the most are venison, gems, ores, fish, peanut butter, untainted souls, false-wyvern flesh, and fruit; although it varies per individual the majority favor those items. There have been five recorded cases of false-wyverns being able to consist off nothing but magic. All false-wyverns become sick upon consuming chocolate, and as such chocolate should not be offered.

Feeding habits:
They tend to eat in large, frenzied groups and fight over whatever food is present even if they have an abundance, especially if a kill is fresh. Some individuals and most Royals prefer to eat alone or in smaller groups. False-wyverns only ever pass up an opportunity to steal a meal if a Royal has claimed said meal, everything else is fair game.

It has been noted that different individuals have certain preferences that must be met before eating. This could be some activity/action . Disturbingly enough, it seems that quite a few wyverns like their meals to still be kicking upon consumption. This could be slowly eating the creature bite by bite as it writhes in agony, or just unhinging their jaws to swallow their meal alive. While the swallowing usually occurs when the meal is smaller than the wyvern, a few cases of larger prey and other wyverns have been attempted to be swallowed. 

Specters, spirits and souls:
False-wyverns serve their queen even after death. The specters often can be found dragging outsiders, food and various objects into the hive. Specters have a bit more freedom than the average worker, as they can come and go as they please, however, they are only allowed out for certain amounts at a time. If a specter leaves for any longer than 1 month at a time, it is to be killed again. Specters of Prince and higher rank are allowed to leave forever if they so desire. Specters retain the traits they had when they were alive. Oddly enough, the teeth of specters are quite prominent, and specters have been seen consuming other spirits.

Spirits generally are tasty treats, and along with souls are necessary for survival. A false-wyvern must eat one soul at least twice a week to ensure a healthy life, for if the necessary amount of souls isn’t eaten the lifespan of the wyvern will be shortened drastically. While untainted souls and spirits are preferred because they are sweet, there are individuals who like tainted souls/spirits. Wyverns become particularly ornery after consuming a tainted soul. While wyverns generally see spirits as another food source some are kept around as companions or morale boosters, though this causes said spirit much stress. Unfortunately, spirits and souls tend to get stuck in the hive’s blood and will eventually fade.

The time taken to fade depends entirely on the status of the soul. Some factors include how hard the soul/spirit fights, their purity, maintained damage and the hive’s feelings towards the soul/spirit. While a hive itself doesn’t intend to be cruel, as it only intends to be affectionate to those within, when it finds a spirit/soul it likes it prevents all wear and tear of the soul while separating it from the other souls (imagine seeing others fade away while you remain the same forever).

Reapers:
A false-wyvern reaper is a rather conflicting existence, a goal of reaping souls mixed along with the need to consume said souls. Reaper false-wyverns typically appear malnourished (they usually are) and tend to be rather melancholic about their roles (it is slowly killing them). Reaper false-wyverns suffer from various side effects from a lack of eating souls, including muscle/bone loss, hunger pains that will not fade, extreme insomnia (worse than usual for the species), a shortened lifespan, higher stress levels, and general discontent. While this is not likely the full extent of the suffering, it is all that they will answer. Reaper false-wyverns never actually occurred on home planet, since the role was left for their counterparts, it only occurred after leaving home planet.

Outsiders and collared ones:
Outsiders are often dragged into hives as food sources and/or entertainment. Outsiders are often pitted against each other in arenas within or outside the hives. Other forms of entertainment do indeed occur, despite the rumors of only violence-based entertainment. The wyverns favor gameshow style activities, singing, dancing, and sports. Those who do not comply will be torn apart. Some outsiders will be playthings, servants or pets for Royals or the queen. It is highly recommended to submit to the wishes of the false-wyverns or you will be torn to pieces/tormented.

When a wyvern takes a liking to an outsider, that outsider will be dunked in the hive’s blood. While submerged, a dark collar will form around the outsider’s neck, bonding them to their wyvern (if done without Royal supervision there is a chance that both wyvern and collared one will go mad). The wyvern and collared one will always know where the other one is until the death of the other. The collar gradually increases the affection the collared one feels for the wyvern and vice versa, thus making the collared one desire to please its wyvern (a sort of Stockholm syndrome if you will). If the collared one disobeys the wyvern, the collar begins to constrict until the collared one complies. 

The hive’s constant whisperings will now be heard by the collared one, and the hive’s knowledge will also be shared. Unfortunately, not everyone can handle this constant flow of information and whispering, which causes them to go mad.
Regarding the collars it is possible to remove them though it is difficult because the hive and wyvern the collar is connected to likely will not want to give up its new friend. ways to remove the collar can range from cruel to benign. If one communes with the hive itself, the hive may consider releasing the individual if it does not cause the wyvern to much distress or demand a trade. In the case of a trade, the individual will be allowed to scout out a more suitable “pet”. 

Upon finding a new individual that satisfies the hive and wyvern the collared one can trade places with the other individual by holding the other individual in place as the collar liquefies before solidifying around the new “pet”’s neck, continuing the cycle of agony and enslavement. Magic overload is also possible however, it takes a massive amount of magic to overload and essentially cause the collar to explode. A source of protection is required for a non-lethal release.
When the individual does die their soul is tethered to the hive, therefore, unable to move on without assistance. (reapers) While the soul generally stays around the area of death sometimes, it is forcibly dragged back by wyverns or specters.

When a collared one is rescued one of four outcomes occur: the collar strangles the individual to death as punishment for the individual and their friends and serve as a warning to others. The second outcome is that the wyvern will not rest until its belonging is returned or it takes it back, often causing mass murder and trauma to others. Next as previously mentioned a trade could occur if the wyvern is willing. The final known outcome is rather peaceful, while the collar remains, and the individual is connected to the hive and wyvern it is allowed to live its life as long as it visits and maintains regular communication. However, the individual will be plagued with sickness eventually leading to death should the hive decide to jump realities.

Occasionally, an outsider is collared to become a wyvern’s mate

Social:

False-wyverns are rather social herd creatures, if a false-wyvern is the only one of its kind in the area it will become rather distressed. If not reintroduced to others of its kind depression will follow.

Despite being rather violent false-wyvern enjoy affectionate gestures such as cuddling, hugging, petting and licking. Most however conceal these cuddly desires until they find a special someone or find a companion for collaring. Only a minority of grown false-wyverns actively show these cuddly behaviors to all those they encounter. Pups share their affection with all especially when they sense an individual isn’t feeling well.

As the name of their homes suggests the false-wyverns are indeed part of a large hivemind. How large? It spans over all false-wyverns, all hives and all counterparts within the various multiverses. Counterparts while connected to the hivemind, usually have a weaker connection to the hivemind. A wyvern’s connection to the hivemind and self-view usually is shown within their behaviors and how they refer to themselves. Wyverns who refer to themselves in the first-person recognize that they are separate individuals from the hivemind itself. Third person means they recognize their connection and seperation but still feel close to the hivemind. Those who refer to themselves as we feel the most connected to the hivemind and often do not recognize themselves a separate individual. During moments of extreme emotions, it is quite possible that a wyvern will shut down/ willingly submit to/ be overpowered by the hivemind.

It is possible for individual and the hives themselves to withhold information from others or selectively transmute information. Such instances usually occur when sensitive information is involved or individuals would like to surprise others.
Younger workers may challenge older workers. If they win the older worker is killed, but if they lose the penalty is death.

law of the wild:

Domestics vs. wilds

Courting:
Courting is, like most aspects of a wyvern’s life, considered rather violent, however it is a normal thing for them. Issues occur when a wyvern courts a non-wyvern, though in general they look for a partner of a similar species. When courting begins, a wyvern typically starts by hanging around the individual(s) more often then, which turns to slowly spending all their time around said individual(s). Gifts will follow, which could be as small as a single scale or as large as an entire monster just thrown in front of the individual(s)’s abode(s). This sometimes causes great deals of distress that the wyvern(s) will not understand, and if the gifts are not reciprocated often the wyvern will become hurt/angry/confused which, in turn leads to an aggressive front being held.

After the wyvern is sure the target(s) of affection are aware of its feelings a more physical show of affection will occur. Snuggling, licking(grooming), scratching, and love bites will occur. Biting and licking, however, usually end up rather painful and distressing for non-wyverns (acidic saliva). The depth of the bite is determined by the intensity of the wyvern’s feelings and the individual wyvern, and although it has been noted that the wyverns will avoid major arteries,they will bite the neck, usually deep (mmm, neck meat). There is a chance that, upon tasting the blood, the wyvern will go into a frenzy and eat the object(s) of its affection. Typically, wyverns back off if rejected and act as if nothing happened (a little salt will be added), but some will go so far as to collar the object(s) of their affection to make them reciprocate the feelings, or tear the object of affection into pieces. (LOVE ME DAMMIT!!)

Specters may also exhibit the same behavior but may intentionally kill the object(s) of affection in order for them both to be on the same plane of existence.
When two wyverns become mates the two swap necklaces with custom cut gems hanging from the center. Traditionally if the two have differing scale colors the necklace they receive will have the scale color of their chosen mate. In the case of multiple mates each one receives a necklace from each of their mates and give each of their mates a necklace. In the case of non-wyvern mates the wyvern still gives a necklace with a custom cut gem, there however is a chance that the wyvern and non-wyvern will decide that another charm will replace the gem, usually to symbolize traits the mates like about the other.

Reproduction:

we should all know how this works by now right? but, are you aware that, if a female so desires, she can reproduce asexually? An egg is laid that essentially creates a tiny clone of the female

though, there are extra steps to be mentioned, think of them like an extension to courting. a mating ritual.

something something mating plug... something something live birth

Mammal type?

Sleeping habits:
False-wyverns often have trouble sleeping due to them always being on guard and prepared for a fight. Many will stay awake until they collapse due to exhaustion, this is theorized as one of the reasons why they are so aggressive. Herbalists and alchemists are often dragged into the hive to grow plants and brew soothing concoctions. Those of higher rank always have an alchemist by them to aid with sleep. Now, there is another way for them to get proper sleep and that is being around their counterparts. When a wyvern is near its counterpart both experience a soothing feeling that allows both to gain restful sleep and general happiness (perhaps another reason they are so violent?). When they can properly sleep, it has been noted that half of the population is diurnal, and the other half is nocturnal.

hybrids:

Counterparts:
Every wyvern has a more humanoid counterpart, where things such as age, height, horns, colorations, and ranking are usually different. How do they know who their counterpart is? A general soothing feeling when its near and shared memories (trauma one has experienced will disturb the other possibly causing fears). While wyverns drain away life and magic, their counterparts actually boost both life and magic; as long as there is an equal number of wyverns and their counterparts, the life and magic in the area will remain unchanged. It is possible that a wyvern and its counterpart will not get along, but they will still begrudgingly hang around each other for comfort, confide in each other and express affection for the other (entirely platonic). Sometimes more narcissistic individuals will pursue a romantic relationship with their counterpart.

The void:
Similar to reapers, the void never existed on home planet. It thrives in the lack of magic and life created by the wyverns, and at least one void being lives within each hive, generally taking dead wyverns and collared ones to use as a sort of vessel. While void beings have differing personalities, likes, and dislikes, they are generally affectionate and grateful for the wyverns with a slight distaste for outsiders. They often collaborate with the wyverns when it comes to general maintenance of the hive and hunting.

Traveler’s tips:
Identifying false-wyvern territory is rather simple, both wyverns and the hives drain away life and magic from the area. If the hive has been there for some time the wildlife and magic in the area will be withered/nonexistent, but sometimes certain patches of fruit bearing plants are left alive in order for the wyverns to feed. Other environmental changes are holes in the ground (from digging) and scratched/burnt land/trees. More obvious signs of their presence are, well, the wyverns themselves, as they can be found patrolling, resting, playing and eating within and a little outside the territories.

To safely traverse the territory, one must either be invited or bring offerings. How do they know if you have been invited? Scent, or a document from the Royals. If a wyvern invites someone over, it will rub itself against the guest repeatedly to rub its scent onto the guest. While wyverns of all rankings can invite guests, the lower the rank of the wyvern is, the more likely the guest is to be eaten/enslaved.

Accepted offerings are peanut butter, gems, insects, ore, precious/semi-precious stones/metals, salt rocks (specific to Joey), fish, venison, monster meat (fresh meat is preferred), coins, jewels/jewelry, cigarettes, muscle relaxers, and sleeping aids. Offerings of just bread and/or chocolate will cause wyverns to become violent.

Documents from the Royals generally are delivered whenever possible, it is extremely unlikely to receive an invitation upon request (pestering). Be sure to read the documents completely as there is a possibility that it could just be a debt notice or a passive aggressive/blunt explanation of why one is not allowed entry into the territory.

Other things worth noting:

-False-wyverns are very insistent on the dead either being eaten or used in some form as they find leaving the bodies extremely wasteful. the only exception tothis is if the particular individual was awful in life
- According to false-wyverns, demons smell of strong skunk/dog mixed with rot. The strength of this scent depends on how powerful the demon is. A few individuals of the research team have been outed as being “marked”.
- It seems that beings without scent greatly frustrate and disturb false-wyverns.
- False-wyverns are rather nosy, especially when it comes to rarer species or open wounds.
- Speaking of rarer species, it is recommended that gembounds, gem raptors and manokits keep their distance as they are a “two for one meal deal”. The first two are made of meat and gems, while manokits are meaty and bursting with magic.