Derek: a fae-human hybrid
Hybrid, also referred to as half breeds, mix-breeds or mixed breeds, is the term for an offspring who is descended from two or more different supernatural/non-supernatural species.
Overview
Hybrids are similar to chameleons due to multiple supernatural genetics that were passed down and manifested throughout previous generations. Unlike chameleons, however, hybrids usually manifest the more dominant supernatural DNA and abilities; the less potent genetics usually manifest with a weaker affinity and power.
For example, a hybrid with dominant vampire genes and fewer werewolf genes can survive on blood and is physically stronger than the average human but cannot transform under a full moon.
Hybrids are known to show weaker powers than those who are their full-blooded fellow supernaturals. However, it is just as possible for them to display greater powers than full-blooded, depending on the potency of their bloodlines; hybrid compositions are known to be somewhat unexpected regarding supernatural powers. Their gifts unusually first manifest in adolescence.
Procreation
When hybrids procreate, the dominant DNA will be passed down to their children, but it is also possible to pass down the weaker genetics.
It is most common for a hybrid to possess two genetics, but it is not unheard of for one person to possess more at the same time. The latest and rarest breed is Lily Chambers, who has the genetics of four species.
Belief System
Some full-blooded species (such as werewolves) frown upon mixed breeds due to their vision of purity and prejudices against other species. In werewolves, if a hybrid shows more common traits and declares loyalty to wolfkind, their hybrid status may be overlooked by the council as they have regard for loyalty.
Awareness
Some hybrids, especially those raised in human families, may not know about their supernatural origins. For this reason, Shadow Falls Academy often have to explain things to their new students when they first arrive.
Half-werewolves with dominant human DNA associate their sensations with the lunar cycle that affects a person's mood and attributes, and may not know about their supernatural heritage. However, It is possible to trigger their awareness by being close to a full werewolf.
Known Hybrids
- Brandon Hart (half-human/part-werewolf/part-fae)
- Collin Warren (half-fae/half-human)
- Helen Jones (half-human/half-fae)
- John (half-shape-shifter/half-human)
- Lily Chambers (part-human/part-witch/part-vampire/part-shape-shifter)
- Ms. Wales (half-human/half-witch)
- Officer Johnson (half-vampire/half-human)
- Sam (half-shape-shifter/half-human)
- Brandon Hart's nana (half-human/half-werewolf/partfae)
- Brandon Hart's mother (half-human/half-werewolf/part-fae)
- Human-witch nurse (human/part-witch)
Note: The first species identity is the dominant side of the hybrid.