Cyrin are human-like beings with the genetic potential for Change, sometimes called Metamorphosis. Cyrinism is genetic and caused by the presence and biological manufacture of Metamorphase, more known by the name of its processed structures, Biorase. If one is born with that potential, they have a high chance of developing abilities at some point in their lives. These can develop at any point, from birth to moments before death, though are most commonly developed in late childhood or as a young adult. These abilities vary wildly in variety and form, but, as far as is known, are all physically possible in some way. As an example, telekinesis and variations of such (which constitute many abilities) may be seen, but more fantastical things such as fire immunity or unassisted flight are most definitely not. The necessary bodily modifications to develop and accommodate abilities are facilitated by Metamorphase. When triggered, the Cyrin, who up until that point would have lived and been in every way but genetics a completely normal human, will undergo minor to major physical changes to accommodate their new abilities. Often, this kills them, though the Corynen has done extensive work to reduce the mortality rate of Cyrinism and protect its populace, both human and not. Cyrinism can affect any creature with a central nervous system (including cephalopods similar to octopi) or several types of mycelium, and, rarely, some plant lifeforms, though our focus is on those walking amongst us with this genetic variation. In order to ensure the survival of the greatest possible number of Cyrin, it is important to inform the population of signs to watch out for to indicate your friend or family member might be a Cyrin. This allows our expert medical teams to locate potential Cyrin children and, when their Metamorphosis occurs, to provide them with the support and medication they need to not only survive, but thrive and contribute to our society. If you believe someone you know is an unregistered Cyrin, please register them here!

Genetics

Cyrinism is a co-dominant trait, meaning two versions of the same gene need to be present in order to give a Cyrin the entirety of their traits, but even having a single Cyrin gene results in some changes in the gene’s carrier. Carriers do not undergo Metamorphosis, and generally do not produce the hormones associated with Cyrinism, but their bodies are slightly more resilient, as though their bodies were readying for the Change. On occasion, they will display faint symptoms in times of high stress, as if undergoing a smaller version of a Metamorphosis, but will not develop any abilities. Some may also develop weak abilities, near-undistinguishible from normal variations of heightened talent or skill, without any side-effects. This tendency to create carriers more resistant to disease and hardship, similarly to Cyrin, without any of the drawbacks associated with Cyrinism, is the main reason Cyrinism as a trait has not gone extinct despite pre-Corynen mortality rates.

Metamorphase and Why Cyrin Use Their Abilities

Commonly known as Biorase, a name initially used as a moniker for post-extraction/processed Metamorphase; later becoming a widespread, if incorrect, common name. Though its true nature - whether hormone or enzyme, or both - is disputed among scientists, Metamorphase is, according to its name, ‘officially’ a highly versatile enzyme; its behaviour, however, does also encompass that of a hormone. When that hormone is triggered, through no apparent reliable means (though high stress or emotion is common), it in turn triggers Change, also referred to as Metamorphosis. The afflicted person, who up until then would have lived and been in every way save for genetics a completely average human, will undergo minor to major physical changes to accommodate their new abilities. Often, this kills them. This possibility of Change is known as Cyrinism, and its hosts known as Cyrin. Further information on the genetics involved can be found under the section above. Metamorphase, and its processed Biorase, varies based on the Cyrin’s ability or abilities. As such, any products created with Biorase will have different effects based on the Cyrin it was processed from. This is why we encourage plasma and spinal fluid donations from registered Cyrin: one’s Biorase could be useful as a flame retardant, helping our firefighter crews, while another could serve to promote self-healing in sick and injured patients. Specialised Biorase can save lives! Through stimulation of dopamine receptors and an apparent interconnection with the body's adrenaline response, the abilities granted by Metamorphase both feel ‘good’ to use, and are often involuntarily used during moments of panic, despair, anger, and other strong negative (or occasionally positive) emotions. Its stimulation alongside adrenaline is likely a defensive mechanism, though can cause significant issues when paired with conditions such as anxiety, where adrenaline is produced in situations where it is unnecessary. In these situations, the hormone can become toxic to the body, and thus very dangerous to trigger. The latter situation makes it extremely dangerous to take any sort of Metamorphase inhibitor, as the body will lose its adaptation to the harsh substance and any missed dose could have severe, even fatal consequences. An insufficient dosage, too, can be harmful; without the hormone's regulating force, abilities may become unstable and cause irreversible harm to their host.