All images copyright Alex CF 2014. Please credit and attach a link if used outside this website. 

Species: Homo Vampyrus (Vampyr)  Homo Lupus (Lycanthrope)

Bipedal Carnivores

The relationship between the Werewolves and Vampires of mythology is long established, both in the age of horror film and in the annals of history. These species have terrified us from afar, of blackened creatures lurking in the forests of forgotten continents, in castles shunned and despised by the frightened villages that flank their grounds. 

Yet the truth goes far deeper. It is apparent that Homo Lupus (werewolves or Lycanthropes)  and Homo Vampyrus (The Vampyr) share a common ancestor, not only with each other but with Humans too. It is difficult to ascertain when, but evidence points to both Australopithecus, a diminutive ancestor of humanity, or later in Homo Erectus, once we had left Africa and begun our slow colonisation of the Earth. It is hard to know for sure, but analysis of the blood is undeniable. At some point in the past a group of hominids encountered a virus, a virus that instigated genetic changes, which would lead to these distinct species. Aesthetically they are not alike, but dig a little deeper and the traits are striking. 

Homo Lupus and Vampyrus evolved along different paths which accounts for physiological differences in anatomy. Yet, both Lycanthrope and Vampyr are susceptible to sunlight, due to the effect UV has on the virus prevalent in its cells. Homo Lupus adapted and grew a thick layer of hair over its body, to allow it to walk in sunlight. Vampy are entirely nocturnal. Homo Vampyrus evolved a dislocating Jaw, to allow a larger bite radius, Homo Lupus evolved a longer snout, thus increasing the space for flesh cutting teeth. Both evolved lighter bird-like bones - allowing for increased agility and speed. Both have remarkable healing properties. Both species are dependent on an iron rich diet, to aid metabolism in Viral cells. All these genetics mutations are for this end - to feed the virus. 

Both can transfer the pathogen through blood and saliva, although any infected host will experience a traumatic comatose state in which the virus will instigate these changes. Many die in this process. Both are capable of birthing live children, these are known as “true symbiots” - The viral genetics are blended seamlessly with the host. 

Both are susceptible to silver. Silver has bioactive properties and can act as an antiviral and anti bacterial agent. The virus uses a mutualised symbiosis with bacteria as part of its biology. Wounds inflicted with silver will cause great suffering to silver sensitive hominids. Both also have incredibly high blood pressure, and any significant wound to the heart or major artery will cause death in a matter or moments.

There is some historical evidence to suggest that these two species shared not only physical similarities but also traded in cultural practices. The presence of Lycanthrope imagery in Vampyr art is unmistakable. They may have even gone to war with one another, until the collapse of Lycanthrope culture and the return to a nomadic existence. Research on both species was carried out by Francis Gerber in the 18th century, and later by Edward Harrell and Merrylin himself. This case is a rare example of shared research projects, with information obtained by Merrylin from many colleagues. The central vial in this case contained “Source haemoglobin.” obtained from the earliest Symbiotic hominids. This proved the genetic similarities and thus proof of a shared ancestor.