[center][h2][b]Metahumans[/b][/h2]
Metahumans are a special class of numan born with extraordinary abilities and powers due to a very rare, double recessive trait called the “Metagene." While they appear mostly human, metahumans may exhibit minor physical mutations such as unusual hair, eye, and skin colors, as well as variations in the structure of their eyes, ears, teeth, nails, and more. The Metagene allows their bodies to evolve and adapt in incredible ways, granting them superhuman powers like flight, super-strength, telepathy, elemental manipulation, shapeshifting, and more.

Overall, metahumans represent the next stage in human evolution. Their numbers remain small, but they play an outsized role in society as both superheroes and supervillains. Feared and revered, metahumans walk among normal humans while possessing uncanny traits and talents, showcasing the remarkable potential of the human genome. Whether using their gifts for good or ill, metahumans have become an iconic part of the modern world.

The metahumans of the world are divided into three distinct castes that exhibit varying degrees of human and monster-like traits.

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[h3][b]Caste A[/b][/h3]
Caste A metahumans appear mostly human, with perhaps only subtle variations like oddly-colored eyes or hair to set them apart. Though they blend in easily with normal humans, traces of their metahuman heritage can be glimpsed in these subtle features.

[h3][b]Caste B[/b][/h3]
Caste B metahumans exhibit more pronounced physical differences that mark them as distinct from standard humans. They frequently have unusual hair, eye and skin colors, and may have variations in eye shape or structure. Elongated ears, animalistic teeth and claws, tails, spines, or even wings are common mutations among this group. Though still bipedal, Caste B metahumans have a more exotic, otherworldly appearance that evokes mythological beings.

[h3][b]Caste C[/b][/h3]
Caste C consists of the most monstrous metahumans, often referred to as “beasts." This group includes orc- and goblin-like beings with hulking bodies, tusks, and coarse features that appear far removed from ordinary humanity. Caste C represents a heavy concentration of animal DNA that manifests in a creature barely humanoid in form. These intimidating metahumans with fierce visages inspire unease in normal humans. Though the most inhuman in appearance, Caste C metahumans possess the same inner emotional life and intelligence as the other castes.

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Together, the three metahuman castes demonstrate a spectrum of human-monster hybridization. While Caste A could pass as human, Caste C is fully embraced as monster. Caste B lies between, exhibiting an alluring mix of human and animal traits. Despite external differences, all three castes share an inner personhood that longs for understanding and community.
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