Saturday, October 10. 2009
FRANCIS
Reading the comments from last week, I see most of you know what the entire world knows by now. Francis Fennec has developed into a human.
I’ll give you the chronology of how my week has gone, beginning with the phone call I got from home. Francis, who had earlier developed human teeth when his baby teeth came in, began showing other signs of becoming human. His ears and tail were slowly shortening, and he was losing fur. Danielle took him to Dr. Caduecus, who couldn’t find any signs of illness.
After the visit the changes accelerated exponentially, and in the middle of a grocery store they became complete. The metamorphosis was caught on a cell phone video made by another shopper, which was soon all over the web.
I arrived home and immediately analyzed his DNA. It was unchanged from that of his birth, and I immediately compared it to the human DNA I obtained from Martha Fennec when she briefly attained human form on this side of the portal. Yes, Francis had been human all along. The fur, ears, tail, paw pads and other non-human aspects had been temporary traits.
I have a theory as to why he was born with them. There’s an old saw in biology that “ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny,” In other words, before birth one retraces the steps taken through evolution. In Francis’s case, he had a larger journey that continued after his birth. He not only had to retrace human evolution but also his mother’s transformation from human to rabbit.
Danielle, George and the rest of the family are taking this in stride. I’ve been especially worried about Gran, who is still deluding herself (against all evidence) that the Danielle to whom she gave birth did not in fact die a number of years ago. (She’s the only one of Gran’s 36 offspring to do so; a tragic loss.)
On the scientific front, this confirms my theory that mere knowledge of humans does not cause instinct loss. Even with global knowledge of Francis, there hasn’t been a single reported case, owing to the current balance between our dimensions. For those of you keeping score at home, Danielle and I are former humans living here, and Ms. Aura and Nigel are former residents of this world residing on the other side.
(There is a dolphin from this world who is now living as a dolphin in the human world, but apparently that doesn’t impact anything; a lateral move.)
So, the question now is, does Francis’s presence change things? He’s had human DNA all along, it just had to completely assert itself. He was conceived and born here, so there was no portal crossing. In short, he belongs here.
Finally, this week’s question cannot be answered confidently by anyone: Will the same thing happen with my offspring?
I’ll give you the chronology of how my week has gone, beginning with the phone call I got from home. Francis, who had earlier developed human teeth when his baby teeth came in, began showing other signs of becoming human. His ears and tail were slowly shortening, and he was losing fur. Danielle took him to Dr. Caduecus, who couldn’t find any signs of illness.
After the visit the changes accelerated exponentially, and in the middle of a grocery store they became complete. The metamorphosis was caught on a cell phone video made by another shopper, which was soon all over the web.
I arrived home and immediately analyzed his DNA. It was unchanged from that of his birth, and I immediately compared it to the human DNA I obtained from Martha Fennec when she briefly attained human form on this side of the portal. Yes, Francis had been human all along. The fur, ears, tail, paw pads and other non-human aspects had been temporary traits.
I have a theory as to why he was born with them. There’s an old saw in biology that “ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny,” In other words, before birth one retraces the steps taken through evolution. In Francis’s case, he had a larger journey that continued after his birth. He not only had to retrace human evolution but also his mother’s transformation from human to rabbit.
Danielle, George and the rest of the family are taking this in stride. I’ve been especially worried about Gran, who is still deluding herself (against all evidence) that the Danielle to whom she gave birth did not in fact die a number of years ago. (She’s the only one of Gran’s 36 offspring to do so; a tragic loss.)
On the scientific front, this confirms my theory that mere knowledge of humans does not cause instinct loss. Even with global knowledge of Francis, there hasn’t been a single reported case, owing to the current balance between our dimensions. For those of you keeping score at home, Danielle and I are former humans living here, and Ms. Aura and Nigel are former residents of this world residing on the other side.
(There is a dolphin from this world who is now living as a dolphin in the human world, but apparently that doesn’t impact anything; a lateral move.)
So, the question now is, does Francis’s presence change things? He’s had human DNA all along, it just had to completely assert itself. He was conceived and born here, so there was no portal crossing. In short, he belongs here.
Finally, this week’s question cannot be answered confidently by anyone: Will the same thing happen with my offspring?
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On the bright side, at least you know what he is now.
As for if this will happen to your children, it's hard to say. There probably are many factors to take acount of. For one thing, Danielle spent most of her life as a human while you spent most of yours as a hedgehog. Also, the speices itself does seem to go 50/50 with a few traites taken from the otherparrent (i.e. Connie's meat eating), so I guess there still is the possablity of having animal-kids. But I'm no export on the subject. (Then agien, I doubt there is) Though it does make me wonder if the same thing could happen in revierse, as in someone from your side coming to our side and having a talking animal kid.
As for if this will happen to your children, it's hard to say. There probably are many factors to take acount of. For one thing, Danielle spent most of her life as a human while you spent most of yours as a hedgehog. Also, the speices itself does seem to go 50/50 with a few traites taken from the otherparrent (i.e. Connie's meat eating), so I guess there still is the possablity of having animal-kids. But I'm no export on the subject. (Then agien, I doubt there is) Though it does make me wonder if the same thing could happen in revierse, as in someone from your side coming to our side and having a talking animal kid.
Someone from domain crossing over into the human world and having a child that transforms into a talking animal would explain many of the werewolf and vampire legends.
Ok, I can see werewolves, but how does this kind of thing explain vampires? It's not like vampires ever were depicteded as intelligent bats, at least on our side.
I'm referring to the bat/human transformation portion of the legend.
You're talking about Vlad, the Impaler, right? Romanian prince vampire bat that insisted on bleeding his war prisoners dry of their blood, then soaking in it before he sipped it, right? Because, he believed it would give him immortality, right?
Because, the only immortality that guy had was found through Bram Stoker.
I mean, seriously, being bitten by a vampire is just more annoying then being bitten by a lawyer mosquito. Won't change you. Might kill you. (The filthy creatures.) But, won't change you.
Because, the only immortality that guy had was found through Bram Stoker.
I mean, seriously, being bitten by a vampire is just more annoying then being bitten by a lawyer mosquito. Won't change you. Might kill you. (The filthy creatures.) But, won't change you.
#1.1.1.1.1
jup-reindeer
on
2009-10-17 02:00
(Reply)
Man, your version of Vlad is *weird*. Over here, he just impaled his enemies on stakes and had dinner in the courtyard while music was playing to their screams.
We did have Elizabeth Bathory, though, who did bathe in the blood of virgins.
We did have Elizabeth Bathory, though, who did bathe in the blood of virgins.
#1.1.1.1.1.1
Sam Blackwing
on
2009-10-17 21:05
(Reply)
Everything that's happened is all very strange and interesting, and I think it all leads to one other question. What would happen to Francis if he were to cross through the portal? If his being human does, eventually, start to pose problems for himself and/or others, it could provide a solution. Especially since the portal's transformative properties can be bypassed. As for your question, there may be a possible way to test for an answer. Namely, checking the DNA in an unfertilized egg cell. It should at least provide clues.
I wonder what the rest of Lindesfarne's world must be feeling. Humans have been imaginary to them - it must be like the coming of Jesus or the Antichrist, not that I'm very religious myself. Once enough sightings of Francis are confirmed (One cell phone image will be called Photoshopped over and over until others join it), it'll become..well.. a barnyard. If the Birds allow Francis to stay, which they may not have a choice in, that Portal isn't going to stay hidden long.
I doubt it would create much more impact than if Bigfoot appeared in the human world. Keep in mind there is a lot of weird stuff on the Internet, so it probably won't create that much of an impact.
You also have to wonder how Francis will develop psychologically.
Eep! I sure hope more humans don't appear in Domain! Would this mean that humanity is going to be on its way to dominating another universe?
We're doing a lousy job of managing this Earth. I don't think it a good idea to have humans who aren't altered DNA in Domain. They might take over and make ANOTHER mess!
We're doing a lousy job of managing this Earth. I don't think it a good idea to have humans who aren't altered DNA in Domain. They might take over and make ANOTHER mess!
Y'know, there is a way around the identification as a human, depending on the veracity of the webcomic archive.
In the archives, it was stated that Coney made Kell's family uncomfortable due to her rabbit appearance. Then she won their hearts by eliminating the family's gnome infestation. She was even shown spitting out a little conical hat.
Was that an actual event, or a bit of humor on the part of the human writers? If gnomes exist in the Domain world, then just get Francis a conical hat and pass him off as a very large gnome. Other humans could be passed off as members of an obscure race of giant gnomes, allowing them to remain anonymous (as long as the exchange between the worlds is still balanced).
In the archives, it was stated that Coney made Kell's family uncomfortable due to her rabbit appearance. Then she won their hearts by eliminating the family's gnome infestation. She was even shown spitting out a little conical hat.
Was that an actual event, or a bit of humor on the part of the human writers? If gnomes exist in the Domain world, then just get Francis a conical hat and pass him off as a very large gnome. Other humans could be passed off as members of an obscure race of giant gnomes, allowing them to remain anonymous (as long as the exchange between the worlds is still balanced).
Well, it may be possible that "gnomes" are a sort of underground club, consisting of small creatures, like mice or moles, that wear pointy hats. Therefore, it would still be impossible to pass Francis off as one. Even so, it might create controversy about his heritage.
Personally, I'm worried about the Fennec family.
Not just because it's a bit of a shock, I'm sure, but mainly because whoever got that cellphone picture got Danielle in it as well. That has GOT to be a bit unnerving for her, and George. I can only shutter in though of what will happen if the press get a hold of the picture and figure out who Danielle is.
And then, who knows? Maybe someone will decide to put two and two togeather and get four: I.E, Danielle died (on your side of the portal) and the one now is the Danielle from our side, or something like that.
In any case, whatever happens, your life just got a heck of a lot more complicated Lindesfarne.
As for your own children, I personally predict that they will be bat/hedgehog hybreed, nothing more. As stated above, you've been a hedgehog your entire life, and there is no reason to predict that your children will end up human or not.
In the end, we'll just have to wait and find out, there really isn't any way to predict that sort of thing. On a side thought tho: maybe a trip though the portal and back though a lead container of somekind would set little Francise back to Animal form? Maybe that's something you should look into Lindesfarne.
Not just because it's a bit of a shock, I'm sure, but mainly because whoever got that cellphone picture got Danielle in it as well. That has GOT to be a bit unnerving for her, and George. I can only shutter in though of what will happen if the press get a hold of the picture and figure out who Danielle is.
And then, who knows? Maybe someone will decide to put two and two togeather and get four: I.E, Danielle died (on your side of the portal) and the one now is the Danielle from our side, or something like that.
In any case, whatever happens, your life just got a heck of a lot more complicated Lindesfarne.
As for your own children, I personally predict that they will be bat/hedgehog hybreed, nothing more. As stated above, you've been a hedgehog your entire life, and there is no reason to predict that your children will end up human or not.
In the end, we'll just have to wait and find out, there really isn't any way to predict that sort of thing. On a side thought tho: maybe a trip though the portal and back though a lead container of somekind would set little Francise back to Animal form? Maybe that's something you should look into Lindesfarne.
Adam wrote: "And then, who knows? Maybe someone will decide to put two and two together and get four: I.E, Danielle died (on your side of the portal) and the one now is the Danielle from our side, or something like that."
Even worse. Those who killed the original Danielle (or ordered her killed) may think they failed and come after this one.
Even worse. Those who killed the original Danielle (or ordered her killed) may think they failed and come after this one.
Yeesh, you have a point there.
Now I'm REALLY worried for the Fennec family...
-Sighs- Well, I suppose it could be even worse... at least the Rabbit Rebellion, (the guys who set up those traps that ended up killing the origional Danielle) are all in jail, for now.
Now I'm REALLY worried for the Fennec family...
-Sighs- Well, I suppose it could be even worse... at least the Rabbit Rebellion, (the guys who set up those traps that ended up killing the origional Danielle) are all in jail, for now.
Adam, I'm a squirrel at heart, though quite human on the outside. So pardon my paranoia in advance. However, jail doesn't stop all criminals in our world. Several continue to "make arrangements"/conduct business from behind bars.
It wouldn't take much in the way of bribery (or whatever they use in Domain) to arrange an "accident" for Danielle and anyone/bun/wolf/whateverelse that gets in the way of said "accident".
It wouldn't take much in the way of bribery (or whatever they use in Domain) to arrange an "accident" for Danielle and anyone/bun/wolf/whateverelse that gets in the way of said "accident".
Hmmm, I suppose I see your point, but then again, George and Danielle are quite capable preditors, Danielle's status as a 'Rabbit'... well, wait, no, that doesn't apply anymore sence she failed the Scampering test... status as a 'long eared rodent' then, does not change the fact that she was once human, so Danielle does have that natural 'human' element of survival in her...
The Rabbits Revenge (finally remembered the name) are in jail, and maybe that will not stop them forever, but then again, there isn't much that can stop anyone when they put their minds to it... well, besides perhaps having your head removed from your body, but that's a diffrent matter.
-Sighs- In the end, there isn't much I can do but wait and watch, offer what advice I can, and hope for the best. The struggles of watching from a outside sorce I suppose.
The Rabbits Revenge (finally remembered the name) are in jail, and maybe that will not stop them forever, but then again, there isn't much that can stop anyone when they put their minds to it... well, besides perhaps having your head removed from your body, but that's a diffrent matter.
-Sighs- In the end, there isn't much I can do but wait and watch, offer what advice I can, and hope for the best. The struggles of watching from a outside sorce I suppose.
#7.1.1.1.1
Adam
on
2009-10-12 17:40
(Reply)
Lindesfarne, there's nothing anyone can say that would end your worrying over your (prospective, for now) offspring. On this side, some humans are born with excessive hair and others are born with vestigial tails. In short, what we would consider on this side to be animal-like traits.
What neither we nor you can know is how much of a genetic difference it takes for humanity to assert itself as it has in Francis. It could be that the additional genetic strain (for lack of a better term) caused by having carnivore and herbivore parents, one of whom used to be human, triggered the change. It might not happen with two parents of the same grouping. That is, since both you and Fenton are insectivores, the additional strain may not occur and your children will be normal. Well, as normal as children with a hedgehog mother and bat father would be otherwise.
My suggestion (not that it will do much good) is to not worry about it. Get married, have your kids and love them, whatever they turn out to be. Kids usually turn out different from what their parents expect anyway: this would just be an extreme example.
What neither we nor you can know is how much of a genetic difference it takes for humanity to assert itself as it has in Francis. It could be that the additional genetic strain (for lack of a better term) caused by having carnivore and herbivore parents, one of whom used to be human, triggered the change. It might not happen with two parents of the same grouping. That is, since both you and Fenton are insectivores, the additional strain may not occur and your children will be normal. Well, as normal as children with a hedgehog mother and bat father would be otherwise.
My suggestion (not that it will do much good) is to not worry about it. Get married, have your kids and love them, whatever they turn out to be. Kids usually turn out different from what their parents expect anyway: this would just be an extreme example.
Here's a late-in-the-thread thought:
The biology of Domain is intriguing. There are a number of offspring that, in our world, would be biologically impossible to exist. A wolf has 78 chromosomes, a rabbit 44, so a wolf/rabbit would not exist in our world. Nor, would a wolf/sheep (78 and 54 chromosomes). A Fennic Fox has 64 verses a rabbit's 44.
Of course, there's examples like mules, with a donkey's 62 chromosomes and a horse's 64, but note the results are almost 100% sterile. That hasn't been noted in Domain.
If, on the other hand, all mammals of Domain have equal number of chromosomes, then there's an intriguing possibility. We know there's dominate and recessive genes. IIRC, blue eyes are recessive and brown dominate, so the offspring of parents with blue and brown eyes will tend to have brown. However, if their offspring marries someone who also had blue and brown-eyed parents, then a parring of two recessive genes can result in a child with blue eyes.
Of course, you all see where this is heading. If one of George Fennic's ancestors was human, and Danielle retains some human genes, and if human genes in Domain are recessive, then Francis could be the result of recessive gene pairing.
The biology of Domain is intriguing. There are a number of offspring that, in our world, would be biologically impossible to exist. A wolf has 78 chromosomes, a rabbit 44, so a wolf/rabbit would not exist in our world. Nor, would a wolf/sheep (78 and 54 chromosomes). A Fennic Fox has 64 verses a rabbit's 44.
Of course, there's examples like mules, with a donkey's 62 chromosomes and a horse's 64, but note the results are almost 100% sterile. That hasn't been noted in Domain.
If, on the other hand, all mammals of Domain have equal number of chromosomes, then there's an intriguing possibility. We know there's dominate and recessive genes. IIRC, blue eyes are recessive and brown dominate, so the offspring of parents with blue and brown eyes will tend to have brown. However, if their offspring marries someone who also had blue and brown-eyed parents, then a parring of two recessive genes can result in a child with blue eyes.
Of course, you all see where this is heading. If one of George Fennic's ancestors was human, and Danielle retains some human genes, and if human genes in Domain are recessive, then Francis could be the result of recessive gene pairing.
I must admit to having seen that photo on the web; and it was quite a shock, after having played around with that fantasy for so long, to see an actual Human.
As for Francis' immediate future, I can only guess that his parents have some very hard decisions to make. Should they cloister him up, to protect him from the rest of the world? Or should they try to brave it out, hoping that the media frenzy will eventually settle down to a tolerable level?
I definitely do not think that they would attempt to "normalize" Francis with long, painful courses of plastic surgery, fur implants, etc. But the fact remains, the poor kit (cub? whelp? pup? What DOES one call an immature Human?) will have a difficult life here; and when he grows up - then what? How will he find a mate? Will he even be able to beget offspring?
Or must they emigrate? While Danielle is familiar with the other side of the Portal, it would be a strange sort of exile for George - if he decides to go.
And what of Portal mechanics? The "adaptive" transformation might very well be disrupted if Francis goes through - or will it?
One can only guess. My heart goes out to the Fennec family.
7@=G
As for Francis' immediate future, I can only guess that his parents have some very hard decisions to make. Should they cloister him up, to protect him from the rest of the world? Or should they try to brave it out, hoping that the media frenzy will eventually settle down to a tolerable level?
I definitely do not think that they would attempt to "normalize" Francis with long, painful courses of plastic surgery, fur implants, etc. But the fact remains, the poor kit (cub? whelp? pup? What DOES one call an immature Human?) will have a difficult life here; and when he grows up - then what? How will he find a mate? Will he even be able to beget offspring?
Or must they emigrate? While Danielle is familiar with the other side of the Portal, it would be a strange sort of exile for George - if he decides to go.
And what of Portal mechanics? The "adaptive" transformation might very well be disrupted if Francis goes through - or will it?
One can only guess. My heart goes out to the Fennec family.
7@=G
Like goats, premature humans are reffered to as 'kids'.
Anyone want to even theorize what the government might do? At bare minimum, Francis may not even grow up, knowing the freedoms we all (are suppose to) share. Instead, having a cage in Area 51. (Let's not think about what worse things they could do.)
However, I truly support three other options...
1) We get a massive support force going that Francis is a promotional stunt for one of the Man Cons that is growing in popularity amidst general society. At least, if folks can be brought to believe that he's some rather realistic 'imitation' of a Human child, then we might get off lucky.
2) Get him to that Human outpost, ASAP. Just have him disappear to insure that nobody does anything harmful. The press is bad enough, already. (Did anyone see the bad rumor that Human's develop fire breath? Please...)
3) As others have been commenting, smuggle him to a Human World portal and attempt to recover his DNA.
However, I truly support three other options...
1) We get a massive support force going that Francis is a promotional stunt for one of the Man Cons that is growing in popularity amidst general society. At least, if folks can be brought to believe that he's some rather realistic 'imitation' of a Human child, then we might get off lucky.
2) Get him to that Human outpost, ASAP. Just have him disappear to insure that nobody does anything harmful. The press is bad enough, already. (Did anyone see the bad rumor that Human's develop fire breath? Please...)
3) As others have been commenting, smuggle him to a Human World portal and attempt to recover his DNA.
Don't worry too much, Lindesfarne. First of all, it'll be a while before you have children, and my theory is there was some residual effect from the portal. If that's the case, maybe by then you'll be in the clear.
Also, IIRC, Danielle was thrown through the portal rather quickly, while I think you floated through slowly, according to the person Ms. Aura is following on the human-side (her records are oddly public). Maybe that had something to do with it.
Speaking of Ms. Aura, she's pretty much come to the same conclusion you have.
Really, I don't think your children will be human, but I'm sure you'll love them just as much if they are, and I'm sure you'll all be just as happy.
Also, IIRC, Danielle was thrown through the portal rather quickly, while I think you floated through slowly, according to the person Ms. Aura is following on the human-side (her records are oddly public). Maybe that had something to do with it.
Speaking of Ms. Aura, she's pretty much come to the same conclusion you have.
Really, I don't think your children will be human, but I'm sure you'll love them just as much if they are, and I'm sure you'll all be just as happy.
What can i say except that something these things happen. don't worry too much about his humanity. as a young child humans are protected by members of their family. they are basically fearless and physically much more hardy then they seem when he's gotten a little older i suggest that you take him across the portal to meat the human Daniel's family. to balance the equation if that's how you want to think about this situation Frances needs to be considered a floater or floating remainder as it were
"ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny" is an interesting thought, but as you pointed out, it applies to embryology. Danielle's transformation was not a product of evolution so it sounds a bit like Lamarcism.
Whether or not it means your offspring will be human . . . well, that depends on the mechanism in play here. In other words, without more data it's anyone's guess.
By the way, while it probably won't play out this way, I can't help but notice that Francis' transformation happened the week of the full moon our time. Do you have legends of werehumans in your world?
Whether or not it means your offspring will be human . . . well, that depends on the mechanism in play here. In other words, without more data it's anyone's guess.
By the way, while it probably won't play out this way, I can't help but notice that Francis' transformation happened the week of the full moon our time. Do you have legends of werehumans in your world?
We have legends of were-predators and were-prey. Like a rabbit turning into a wolf, or vice versa. One story tells of a rabbit losing his wife and half their young to a pack of wolves...so in his grief he turns to a witch (usually a bear) and asks for a way to get revenge. She curses him into becoming a sort of berserker wolf at the full moon. He changes at the first full moon and gets his revenge.
Delighted by this, he reflects on what the witch said. How is this a curse? he wonders. Until the next full moon of course, when he transforms again. In his hunger he doesn't recognize his own kin...and kills all but two of his remaining young. Sanity returns before he consumes them. In some versions of the story, he begs his two remaining young to kill him; in others, he tears out his own heart. The version I learned had vultures eating all the dead the next day while reflecting on the natural order of things.
There's another story told to predators about one who liked to torture his prey...you guessed it, he was cursed to become prey, and got back some of what he was dishing out. I wonder what the legends on the human side of the portal are like.
Delighted by this, he reflects on what the witch said. How is this a curse? he wonders. Until the next full moon of course, when he transforms again. In his hunger he doesn't recognize his own kin...and kills all but two of his remaining young. Sanity returns before he consumes them. In some versions of the story, he begs his two remaining young to kill him; in others, he tears out his own heart. The version I learned had vultures eating all the dead the next day while reflecting on the natural order of things.
There's another story told to predators about one who liked to torture his prey...you guessed it, he was cursed to become prey, and got back some of what he was dishing out. I wonder what the legends on the human side of the portal are like.
I had a thought that when it comes to offspring of former humans that it's not how long you spent on one side of the portal, but what side you went through adolescence on. Danielle grew up on the side of the portal and went through her adolescence as human, therefore her reproductive organs developed as human thus the genes are sort of hardcoded to be human beyond the analytical capabilities of technology.
As was said before you spent your entire life as human, and through adolescence as well, so your reproductive genes are hardcoded as hedgehog. On that note, I wonder what would happen if you ended up going through the portal and having kids over there? If my hypothesis has some basis in fact that would mean they would develop the traits of a Domain hedgehog, such as a primary taste for insects, quills, nocturnal preference and so on. If Fenton went with you would they also develop the traits of a bat, wings for example, and would the traits develop at the same rate that Francis' did or would they hold odd until Adolescence.
I know my knowledge of biology is limited to what I can gather from Wikipedia and trying to keep up to date on events in Domain, but I wonder if my hypothesis has any basis. I hope so for your sake
As was said before you spent your entire life as human, and through adolescence as well, so your reproductive genes are hardcoded as hedgehog. On that note, I wonder what would happen if you ended up going through the portal and having kids over there? If my hypothesis has some basis in fact that would mean they would develop the traits of a Domain hedgehog, such as a primary taste for insects, quills, nocturnal preference and so on. If Fenton went with you would they also develop the traits of a bat, wings for example, and would the traits develop at the same rate that Francis' did or would they hold odd until Adolescence.
I know my knowledge of biology is limited to what I can gather from Wikipedia and trying to keep up to date on events in Domain, but I wonder if my hypothesis has any basis. I hope so for your sake
Actually, a females eggs are produced even before she's born. For that to be true she would've had to come over before her mother was through her first trimester. A males sperm are created newly every day.
like I said, my knowledge of biology is very limited so I'm just trying to think of things that might possibly make sense, as little likely as that is.
Hhhm.
Given that both mothers would be, in fact, origionally human, I'd say the evidence would say so.
So, no, I don't think you'd get to skip giving birth to kid(s) covered in quills.... at least, later, you could hug them.... later than that, it may be tricky if they want to hug you.
Given that both mothers would be, in fact, origionally human, I'd say the evidence would say so.
So, no, I don't think you'd get to skip giving birth to kid(s) covered in quills.... at least, later, you could hug them.... later than that, it may be tricky if they want to hug you.
Why doesn't George Fennec's DNA override any of Danielle's human DNA? Is George possibly rooted in humanity as well?
You might factor in how long both you and Daniel have been transformed.
You've spent practically your entire life in Domain, Daniel is still relatively new. I would have to imagine that since your body matured and developed on the Domain side that your offspring would be relatively normal... Well, I say normal, but I mean normal for your family.
You've spent practically your entire life in Domain, Daniel is still relatively new. I would have to imagine that since your body matured and developed on the Domain side that your offspring would be relatively normal... Well, I say normal, but I mean normal for your family.
Thanks for your words of support, everyone! Fenton and I discussed this at length for the past few days, and we agree that when we're married this won't prevent us from having children.
About George Fennec's DNA: I've analyzed his genome, and he's fully fennec. There are no humans lurking in his ancestry. He is Francis's biological father, but his contributions to his son's genetic profile were all recessive...aside from his Y chromosome.
About George Fennec's DNA: I've analyzed his genome, and he's fully fennec. There are no humans lurking in his ancestry. He is Francis's biological father, but his contributions to his son's genetic profile were all recessive...aside from his Y chromosome.
Hi Lindesfarne!
Up to this point, you allways talked about genetic tests.
Have you ever considered to compare the epigenetics of all "exo-humans" and eventually all other people who have changed in a way which is not explicable by other factors?
Maybe there is something you oversaw, since the genetic code stays stable, but people have changed:
-Rudy got rid of his domestication during orbital sojourn. This condition reappeared when he was back onb earth.
-Instinct loss of many individuals faded away after the balance between our worlds has been restored.
-Everybody who crossed the portal and came back had his usual appearence (except for martha, but this must be considered as another effect). So the Genetic code must have been intact, but "masked" while on our side.
Up to this point, you allways talked about genetic tests.
Have you ever considered to compare the epigenetics of all "exo-humans" and eventually all other people who have changed in a way which is not explicable by other factors?
Maybe there is something you oversaw, since the genetic code stays stable, but people have changed:
-Rudy got rid of his domestication during orbital sojourn. This condition reappeared when he was back onb earth.
-Instinct loss of many individuals faded away after the balance between our worlds has been restored.
-Everybody who crossed the portal and came back had his usual appearence (except for martha, but this must be considered as another effect). So the Genetic code must have been intact, but "masked" while on our side.
Lindesfarne. You should check with the members of your family on the other side of the portel to see what would happen if you should happen to show up one day. Yes I know they may have written you off many years ago. But it would not suprice me if a distent member of your family was responcibale for your ending up where you are.
I realize this is off the subject but this is something that has been weighing on me for some time. Do you know if your other family (meaning your biological human family on our side of the portal) knows that you are alive and well, happy with your family and life in Domain?
I admit I don't keep up with the British royal family. Therefore, if something like this is mentioned in the media, I may not know about it.
I admit I don't keep up with the British royal family. Therefore, if something like this is mentioned in the media, I may not know about it.
Judging by some evidence, Lindy will likely be fine...
http://www.kevinandkell.com/2001/kk0217.html
...unless this was some sort of dream sequence gag...
As for Francis, he'll will probably be fine. Only problem with living in Domain as a human would be his lack of natural protection in a world filled with creatures that kill and eat each other and that has already been taken care of with Coney protecting him.
Of course he likely wouldn't want to hang with his cousin his whole life, or worse get labelled a "defense-less wimp" by others, but that can be fixed. I'm sure Domain has some equilivant to self-defense classes.
Later, when he really matures, it might be best for him to learn the proper way to handle a gun. After that any punk predator who comes across him and starts "feeling lucky" at finding a seemingly easy prey would be quite surprised if he went ahead and "made their day."
http://www.kevinandkell.com/2001/kk0217.html
...unless this was some sort of dream sequence gag...
As for Francis, he'll will probably be fine. Only problem with living in Domain as a human would be his lack of natural protection in a world filled with creatures that kill and eat each other and that has already been taken care of with Coney protecting him.
Of course he likely wouldn't want to hang with his cousin his whole life, or worse get labelled a "defense-less wimp" by others, but that can be fixed. I'm sure Domain has some equilivant to self-defense classes.
Later, when he really matures, it might be best for him to learn the proper way to handle a gun. After that any punk predator who comes across him and starts "feeling lucky" at finding a seemingly easy prey would be quite surprised if he went ahead and "made their day."
If all predation must be anonymous, wouldn't being a celebrity actually HELP Francis? As the only human, he'll never be anonymous...
Here's a thought.
If a human crosses over to your side of the portal, Lindesfarne, would they're DNA change? You compared your own DNA to your relatives in England some years ago and found you were indeed royalty on this side.
As in, a hedgehog.
So what if the DNA of a human who has crossed over to your side gradually changes to fit more into the regular animal inhabitants?
Danielle's DNA may not have completely changed to that of a rabbit's yet since she's only been here for a relatively short time. Yours may have completely changed seeing as how you've been here since soon after your birth.
Perhaps Danielle's DNA is still close enough to a human's to create a human baby.
Meaning, that since you've crossed over completely you should be able to have normal (or as normal as flying hedgehogs are) offspring.
So, you're quite possibly in the clear.
If a human crosses over to your side of the portal, Lindesfarne, would they're DNA change? You compared your own DNA to your relatives in England some years ago and found you were indeed royalty on this side.
As in, a hedgehog.
So what if the DNA of a human who has crossed over to your side gradually changes to fit more into the regular animal inhabitants?
Danielle's DNA may not have completely changed to that of a rabbit's yet since she's only been here for a relatively short time. Yours may have completely changed seeing as how you've been here since soon after your birth.
Perhaps Danielle's DNA is still close enough to a human's to create a human baby.
Meaning, that since you've crossed over completely you should be able to have normal (or as normal as flying hedgehogs are) offspring.
So, you're quite possibly in the clear.
I see a slim chance the paternal DNA will overwhelm the human characteristics, but every day the chance grows slimmer.
Testing a single egg of your own to confirm that the contents are human is a formality.
Any transformed humans better sneak back into the human side to have any kids. The good news is that this one is male, meaning no lingering eggs once a trip over and back. Any daughters would propagate the human traits down another generation.
Humans must not take over domain.
The aggressive attacks that Coney is already having to defend could be a natural mechanism to remove humans.
Testing a single egg of your own to confirm that the contents are human is a formality.
Any transformed humans better sneak back into the human side to have any kids. The good news is that this one is male, meaning no lingering eggs once a trip over and back. Any daughters would propagate the human traits down another generation.
Humans must not take over domain.
The aggressive attacks that Coney is already having to defend could be a natural mechanism to remove humans.
I think that the main thing you will have to consider is if you do have human children how will it affect you, since they won't fly. I think this is a valid thought since it's possible that your children will not be flying hedgehogs (like with Coney looking entirely like a bunny but having wolf characteristics._ Knowing you Lindesfarne this shouldn't affect you a lot. I am sure you will love your children no matter how strange or normal they may be.
I don't think any non-flying offspring of Lindesfarnes would be a problem, as she can't fly herself (she needs Fenton's help for that.) I'm no expert on genetics (and frankly science discussions tend to make my eyes gloss, but I did read Lindesfarne's post as best I could) but I'd guess there's a 50/50 chance already they can't fly, as their mother can't (discounting this "human" stuff.)
Something everyone seems to be forgetting:
George has been through the portal as well. A round trip.
That could have something to do with it.
And, since Fenton has never been through the portal, I suspect that Lindesfarne's future progeny should be flying balls of quills... and working in the lab before they're 2. ^_^
George has been through the portal as well. A round trip.
That could have something to do with it.
And, since Fenton has never been through the portal, I suspect that Lindesfarne's future progeny should be flying balls of quills... and working in the lab before they're 2. ^_^
I believe it was Martha who went through the portal (on her honeymoon with Ralph).......
On a side note, Gran is amazingly lucky. If every rabbit couple had 36 children who survived to adulthood they would quickly crowd out the world in an ocean of rabbit flesh. To have lost only one (and that in a fashion which allows her to remain in denial about the fact) is extraordinary.
One possibility you may think of is genetic engineering. That is advancing at a rapid pace here, and probably on your side as well. By the time you and Fenton are settled in your careers and ready to have kids, perhaps something can be done to make the children be "normal" bathogs or hedgebats or whatever they would be called, instead of human.
One possibility you may think of is genetic engineering. That is advancing at a rapid pace here, and probably on your side as well. By the time you and Fenton are settled in your careers and ready to have kids, perhaps something can be done to make the children be "normal" bathogs or hedgebats or whatever they would be called, instead of human.
Just few comments to the more recent responses.
Fetch: I think you're confused. Fenton has indeed been through the portal, with me. George Fennec never has.
Thomas M.: Research on genetic engineering is proceeding rapidly, but I wouldn't subject my children to that.
Meerkat: That's an interesting theory, but as soon as the new Danielle arrived here I found her DNA corresponding exactly to the DNA of the original Danielle. So, the transformation that occurs at the instant of a portal crossing is 100% complete.
Thanks to everyone who's commented!
Fetch: I think you're confused. Fenton has indeed been through the portal, with me. George Fennec never has.
Thomas M.: Research on genetic engineering is proceeding rapidly, but I wouldn't subject my children to that.
Meerkat: That's an interesting theory, but as soon as the new Danielle arrived here I found her DNA corresponding exactly to the DNA of the original Danielle. So, the transformation that occurs at the instant of a portal crossing is 100% complete.
Thanks to everyone who's commented!
Well this raises the interesting question of how Danielle managed to give birth to a human child if her DNA had completely changed. Perhaps there's some other factor that is dependent on how much time one has spent on the opposite side of the portal from their point of origin? After all, Danielle hadn't been here that long when she got pregnant, had she?
Maybe you should adopt...
Also, I thought for sure that you'd hack into the internet and erase every copy of that picture by now...
Also, I thought for sure that you'd hack into the internet and erase every copy of that picture by now...
Just wondering. No one seems to be looking at the consequences of the human side of the portal. Does this mean that Nigel's offspring might be/become avian?
Perhaps now we know the origin of the X-Man Angel. B-)
Perhaps now we know the origin of the X-Man Angel. B-)
Hmmm, I've long had mental pictures in my mind about how humans looked and how humans acted. Granted, I've never met one before, just gone by rumours, innuendo, and second-hand tales (not tails, apparently humans don't have them!) When the news broke here (and yes, as Lindy makes it out, it was big here), I was actually surprised to see that most of my pre-suppositions about humans was wrong. Interesting.
As to your offspring, I've mainly had my head filled with images of flying hedgehogs shooting their quills like dive-bombers to get anywhere past that, don't throw the whole "human" mix in there too! (Although, humans, I'm pretty sure, can't fly and don't have quills, so it might be better than a flying hedgehog. No offense, Lindesfarne.)
As to your offspring, I've mainly had my head filled with images of flying hedgehogs shooting their quills like dive-bombers to get anywhere past that, don't throw the whole "human" mix in there too! (Although, humans, I'm pretty sure, can't fly and don't have quills, so it might be better than a flying hedgehog. No offense, Lindesfarne.)
Hmmm....
I have some concerns about that "there and back again" idea.
We know from Martha that traveling as a human to the human side of the portal nothing changes, but the way back will change the person into an animal.
But we have to consider the fact that the portal still balances the two worlds in a unknown way, which could lead to a catastrophe when a "unique" person travels through.
Another idea of the instinct loss:
Instinct loss was to monitor during the time whe waste was transfered from our world into yours. The personal disbalace existed in a weaker form for many years without any observable instinct loss. (I count Ralph not as an instinct loss, just as incapable concerning hunting.)
I have some concerns about that "there and back again" idea.
We know from Martha that traveling as a human to the human side of the portal nothing changes, but the way back will change the person into an animal.
But we have to consider the fact that the portal still balances the two worlds in a unknown way, which could lead to a catastrophe when a "unique" person travels through.
Another idea of the instinct loss:
Instinct loss was to monitor during the time whe waste was transfered from our world into yours. The personal disbalace existed in a weaker form for many years without any observable instinct loss. (I count Ralph not as an instinct loss, just as incapable concerning hunting.)
Well, anonymity is not exactly your family's forte, anyway, so hopefully you will all be able to handle yet another exposure to the public eye. I am certainly glad that little Francis has such a loving and accepting family to be a part of. However, fans of "human fiction" and such might be showing up on your doorstep to see him. Also, I'm not sure the whole "no natural defenses" bit is accurate. True, humans lack claws and fangs, but that doesn't mean they are helpless without them, right?
This certainly is disturbing news.
Replying to Elwood Blutarsky on 2009-10-11 01:25
'Later, when he really matures, it might be best for him to learn the proper way to handle a gun. After that any punk predator who comes across him and starts "feeling lucky" at finding a seemingly easy prey would be quite surprised if he went ahead and "made their day."'
Gun usage is seen as weak in Domain, so (hypothetically) he would probably refuse to use a gun. However, I can see him using martial arts, using the very limbs he uses for defense. The human mind, once well educated, can be as powerful as the sharp teeth and claws we humans lack.
Replying to Elwood Blutarsky on 2009-10-11 01:25
'Later, when he really matures, it might be best for him to learn the proper way to handle a gun. After that any punk predator who comes across him and starts "feeling lucky" at finding a seemingly easy prey would be quite surprised if he went ahead and "made their day."'
Gun usage is seen as weak in Domain, so (hypothetically) he would probably refuse to use a gun. However, I can see him using martial arts, using the very limbs he uses for defense. The human mind, once well educated, can be as powerful as the sharp teeth and claws we humans lack.
Humans are predators. Our bite is septic. We have more stamina that most animals and have been known to literally run prey to death. We exploit advantages and aren't above using things such as cliffs to make a kill. With nothing more than knapped flint and spears we have hunted entire species to extinction. We hunt for food, for status, for money, for fun.
As Ralph's experience has shown, firearms are seen as weakness in Domain. While this is a problem socially, you go with what works. If Francis winds up carrying a firearm for self-defense, I suspect the rules are a bit different than for hunting. Or use good old fashioned blade weapons. Some people still prefer to spear hunting. And don't overlook a simple fixed-bladed knife. Heck, there was the minor-league pitcher who killed a grizzly by throwing fist-sized rocks at a his head.
Sure, Francis is defenseless - for now. So are infants of other predator species. But I wouldn't worry about him when he gets older.
As Ralph's experience has shown, firearms are seen as weakness in Domain. While this is a problem socially, you go with what works. If Francis winds up carrying a firearm for self-defense, I suspect the rules are a bit different than for hunting. Or use good old fashioned blade weapons. Some people still prefer to spear hunting. And don't overlook a simple fixed-bladed knife. Heck, there was the minor-league pitcher who killed a grizzly by throwing fist-sized rocks at a his head.
Sure, Francis is defenseless - for now. So are infants of other predator species. But I wouldn't worry about him when he gets older.
I agree. We humans have unfortunately driven several species to extinction (which reminds me, question for you: do you have dodo birds, carrier pigeons, and other species over there that are extinct here?) even though we have "no natural defences". Other species, even "the king of the jungle" has severely depopulated regions because of us. Most animals seem to have learned to fear man despite our "lack of natural defenses." I hope Francis doesn't adopt the same attitudes over there.
Humans also have, compared to most non-sentient beings not in the Domain, huge variations in size. A full grown human can be anywhere from less than 2ft tall to well over 7ft tall. And human muscle build also varies individual to individual, with a human who is extremely large muscled having equivalent strength to a person who works out using the same exercises and same diet having the same muscle strength even though the second individual may appear to be only slightly more "buff" than the average human. Human martial artists are capable of feats that would normally be physically impossible. As example, I present the human "Shaolin Monks".
For what it's worth, whatever your child happens to be (bat, hedgehog, human, 'other'), it would still be your child though, right?
I've just realized something...
Francis has changed into a human on a furry world. So the direct mirror to that here in this human world, would be that someone has changed into a furry. Oh man, so... if it's like that... well.. man oh man.. The human RPers in Domain must be getting a kick out of seeing that photo. Heh.. I wonder if people are already trying to analyze the photo to see if it's a fake or not.
This human and furry world stuff also reminds me of a story universe I read about called 'Winds of Change'. It's about how two universes merge together to change everyone into furrys. However... the children do not experience the change until they are old enough. Somewhat similar to what happen with Francis.
Francis has changed into a human on a furry world. So the direct mirror to that here in this human world, would be that someone has changed into a furry. Oh man, so... if it's like that... well.. man oh man.. The human RPers in Domain must be getting a kick out of seeing that photo. Heh.. I wonder if people are already trying to analyze the photo to see if it's a fake or not.
This human and furry world stuff also reminds me of a story universe I read about called 'Winds of Change'. It's about how two universes merge together to change everyone into furrys. However... the children do not experience the change until they are old enough. Somewhat similar to what happen with Francis.
That won't happen, considering there is no counterpart to Francis in the human world.
As for defense, I doubt weapons will be necessary. As Danielle has no doubt told you already, the greatest strength of humans is adaptability. We're omnivores and, despite what pro-vegetarians will tell you, and we can process most edible materials. Our lack of fur does mean that we can't take cold weather as well as animals, or very hot weather in some cases, but since our clothing makes more a a difference we can adapt our coverings to all but the most severe and dangerous weather conditions.
As for defense, again we lack natural defenses such as very sharp teeth, claws, quills, and so on, but our lack of natural defenses means we can learn many different ways to protect ourselves, armed or unarmed. while domain animals can and have learned to use weapons, including firearms as Ralph demonstrated once, your bodies are more used to relying on natural defenses so the transition, in my opinion, would be more difficult. Not to mention that humans have a greater capacity to gain strength and other such skills, again this is just my opinion. On our side there are humans who make sport of fighting wild animals who have a natural strength greater than our own, and beating them. Humans may start weak but our potential is, on this side at least, much greater than animals.
As I said adaptability is the greatest strength of humans, on this side intelligence is as well, however that's no-factor on your side as all species are intelligent and can be educated, so once he's old enough to learn how to defend himself, I'm sure Francis will find out a way to do so. Personalty I think Martial Arts, or any unarmed combat, is the best choice as it trains the body as well as the mind and lets people rely on their own skills and not the strength of weapons in order to defend themselves, but that's just my opinion.
As for defense, again we lack natural defenses such as very sharp teeth, claws, quills, and so on, but our lack of natural defenses means we can learn many different ways to protect ourselves, armed or unarmed. while domain animals can and have learned to use weapons, including firearms as Ralph demonstrated once, your bodies are more used to relying on natural defenses so the transition, in my opinion, would be more difficult. Not to mention that humans have a greater capacity to gain strength and other such skills, again this is just my opinion. On our side there are humans who make sport of fighting wild animals who have a natural strength greater than our own, and beating them. Humans may start weak but our potential is, on this side at least, much greater than animals.
As I said adaptability is the greatest strength of humans, on this side intelligence is as well, however that's no-factor on your side as all species are intelligent and can be educated, so once he's old enough to learn how to defend himself, I'm sure Francis will find out a way to do so. Personalty I think Martial Arts, or any unarmed combat, is the best choice as it trains the body as well as the mind and lets people rely on their own skills and not the strength of weapons in order to defend themselves, but that's just my opinion.
"There's another story told to predators about one who liked to torture his prey...you guessed it, he was cursed to become prey, and got back some of what he was dishing out. I wonder what the legends on the human side of the portal are like."
-Terri Tiger
In some ways, the legends are very similar.
I'm glad that Domain predators have a strong abhorrence about torturing prey. It's a mark of empathy and is common among hunting humans on this side. The other predatory species can be absolutely horrifying in the treatment of their prey. Prey animals have been recorded eaten alive over the course of hours or even days.
Some examples I've seen include gazelles having their hind-ends and guts devoured by cheetahs over two hours and still screaming and struggling. The worst I know of is an abandoned elephant calf stuck in a mud hole eaten alive by hyenas and vultures over two days.
However, as adaptable, omnivorous sentients, we humans can empathize with other species. The other predatory animals of the Human world do not have empathy for their prey, they can't afford it. Whether the meat is alive or dead doesn't matter as long as it is immobile and not likely to threaten you.
-Terri Tiger
In some ways, the legends are very similar.
I'm glad that Domain predators have a strong abhorrence about torturing prey. It's a mark of empathy and is common among hunting humans on this side. The other predatory species can be absolutely horrifying in the treatment of their prey. Prey animals have been recorded eaten alive over the course of hours or even days.
Some examples I've seen include gazelles having their hind-ends and guts devoured by cheetahs over two hours and still screaming and struggling. The worst I know of is an abandoned elephant calf stuck in a mud hole eaten alive by hyenas and vultures over two days.
However, as adaptable, omnivorous sentients, we humans can empathize with other species. The other predatory animals of the Human world do not have empathy for their prey, they can't afford it. Whether the meat is alive or dead doesn't matter as long as it is immobile and not likely to threaten you.
Everyone seems so ready to discount humans as defenseless - yet the transformed-to-a-rabbit Danielle killed a predator simply by being quick, without being taught to be a hunter, and when not hunting at the time. (http://www.kevinandkell.com/2003/kk1103.html) Humans do not think of themselves as prey, and they do not take to being treated as prey very easily.
On a match-making theme, a few humans in the non-human world (have to come up with a new name now...) will give Francis a selection of dating possibilities in his own species. Not that that stops anyone - obviously, anyone can date anyone. But any human offspring of Lindesfarne would be genetically unrelated to Francis, should they occur, so it is at least a possibility for which to watch.
In the realm of rambling: too many inhabitants of the human world crossing to Domain started instinct loss. I always thought that the human world did not have problems during that imbalance because that side has animals (with instincts) whereas the non-human side did not have any humans. Now, I wonder - if the overbalance had been the other way, would Domain, et al, have escaped unscathed and the human world been the one to experience problems?
On a match-making theme, a few humans in the non-human world (have to come up with a new name now...) will give Francis a selection of dating possibilities in his own species. Not that that stops anyone - obviously, anyone can date anyone. But any human offspring of Lindesfarne would be genetically unrelated to Francis, should they occur, so it is at least a possibility for which to watch.
In the realm of rambling: too many inhabitants of the human world crossing to Domain started instinct loss. I always thought that the human world did not have problems during that imbalance because that side has animals (with instincts) whereas the non-human side did not have any humans. Now, I wonder - if the overbalance had been the other way, would Domain, et al, have escaped unscathed and the human world been the one to experience problems?
I'm still confused. When Rudy had a webcomic about humans, those who read it lost touch with their instincts. My theory is that knowledge of humans has no such effect when the worlds are in balance, but when the balance is off by one, the knowledge exacerbates the effect.
It was Martha & her new husband who took a round trip thru the portel not George. It happened will they where on their Honeymoon. She returned as a human becouse she was sealed in a steel drum. It took a 2nd. trip to turn her back into a fox. I am glad George is taking the change it his son so well. Many a father would have had a hard time with this. As your kids I like to think your being a hedgehog for most of your life means you will have normal kids. At least as normal as can be on your side of the portel.
The drum wasn't steel. Rather, it was lead which is resistant to many types of radiation.
OK Lead is a metal. But the point I was trying to make is it was Martha not George who made the trip(s) through the portel. Its a good thing Fransic has a protector. You can't ask for a better one then Coney
I am also pleased by George's reactions. It is obvious that he really has found his calling in life, in childcare. He is great at loving his child, teaching it, accepting it... Especially considering his earlier ignoring Danielle's origins, I find this a great relief.
Ooh, what if this is permanent, not seasonal or whatever? Kids can be cruel, in the horrible, monsterous, edlrich hallways.... of grade school.
Here's another world, where, while humans are known to exist, they---- ok, unless stated otherwise, always assume it's complicated, and I don't wanna spoil the story. But, anyways; human in a furry world, high school (currently in dream sequence): http://furthiahigh.concessioncomic.com/
Here's another world, where, while humans are known to exist, they---- ok, unless stated otherwise, always assume it's complicated, and I don't wanna spoil the story. But, anyways; human in a furry world, high school (currently in dream sequence): http://furthiahigh.concessioncomic.com/
Eh, I don't like the term 'non-human'. In Star Wars the term non-human is used to refer to all aliens. Aliens do not like being classed as 'non-humans.' Aliens outnumber the human species a thousand to one but there are still way more humans than aliens. I am getting a bit off topic. I think Francis is in serious danger. The fact that he his human will leave him open to attack. Someone could try to kill him or abduct him while he is at his most vulnerable stage of life. Francis may be human and he may be 'defenseless' as far as lacking claws and sharp teeth go but lacking such features has never stopped human beings from waging world wars and laying waste to entire countries. I hope Francis finds a niche because being human in the domain world is going to be more trying than anyone could ever imagine.
Also, we've noticed that, per the quirks of parallel worlds; you got alot of the same ... uh, I use the term loosely, 'celebreties' and pop-culture icons as we do (most often simply anthropormorphized).
They pretty much act the same, have the same personality and baggage and issues. Here, they tend to be ssssssssssssliiiiighty more subtle (again, term loosely), but known simply for the act or issue that currently brings them to light.
The levels of irritance, unfortunatley, remain constant for Jackassery.
They pretty much act the same, have the same personality and baggage and issues. Here, they tend to be ssssssssssssliiiiighty more subtle (again, term loosely), but known simply for the act or issue that currently brings them to light.
The levels of irritance, unfortunatley, remain constant for Jackassery.
...Septic bite?! Yikes, and I thought regular mammal mouths were nasty...
But, Lindsfarne, does that mean that a person's DNA is different on either side of the portal? And what about isolated samples, say...if you plucked some fur, or feathers, or whatever it is humans have, and crossed back over, would the DNA shift although the sample is dead?
Or, could you even, I dunno, send someone over there to get their DNA checked out there, grab the documents, and hop back over to see it here, and compare?
But, Lindsfarne, does that mean that a person's DNA is different on either side of the portal? And what about isolated samples, say...if you plucked some fur, or feathers, or whatever it is humans have, and crossed back over, would the DNA shift although the sample is dead?
Or, could you even, I dunno, send someone over there to get their DNA checked out there, grab the documents, and hop back over to see it here, and compare?
How about she contact Cathertine_Aura & have her send some samples thrugh the portal so Lindesfarne can check them out. Lindesfarne can do the same from her side.
Ugh. Yeah. The human mouth typically has far more microorganisms than most mammals. Not entirely sure why, though.
Indeed, human mouths are filled with something like 600 different kinds of bacteria, likely much more than that and I'm misremembering. Our bites are dirtier than any canine, to the point where any bite that breaks the skin can easily result in severe and painful infections.
It's also a medical marvel that despite a lack of natural defenses or weapons, we are extremely adaptable. This may be of little impact in a world of advanced animals, but on our side it is said that while a horse is easily many times stronger and heavier than a human, the horse is also much more fragile and killed by far less than would take to kill a human.
It's also a medical marvel that despite a lack of natural defenses or weapons, we are extremely adaptable. This may be of little impact in a world of advanced animals, but on our side it is said that while a horse is easily many times stronger and heavier than a human, the horse is also much more fragile and killed by far less than would take to kill a human.
Indeed, seeing as humans can be in a wreck at over 200mph and walk away with minor injuries.
Possibly, the lack of adaptations is a mark of adaptability.
Adaptations tend to develop to a need or niche, but then that adaptation will only be useful for that niche.
Function controlls design; a predator won't have armor plating, because it doesn't need that kind of protection.
But, to an organism that has armor, it becomes a liability when speed or agility is required.
This one primitive proto-fish (and thus, the (probable) ancestor to ALL vertebrate animals) had these armored heads, but the ancestors to modern arachnids/scorpions/lobsters were fast aquatic creatures; they could catch up and hunt our ancestors, because they had to stop and catch their breath for having the evolutionary equiviliant of an iron mask.
While not being adherent to a niche, ahm.... lesse, good analogy...
Soft clay can be molded into anything, but finished pottery can only be used for what it's design allows.
zen pose of badassery
Adaptations tend to develop to a need or niche, but then that adaptation will only be useful for that niche.
Function controlls design; a predator won't have armor plating, because it doesn't need that kind of protection.
But, to an organism that has armor, it becomes a liability when speed or agility is required.
This one primitive proto-fish (and thus, the (probable) ancestor to ALL vertebrate animals) had these armored heads, but the ancestors to modern arachnids/scorpions/lobsters were fast aquatic creatures; they could catch up and hunt our ancestors, because they had to stop and catch their breath for having the evolutionary equiviliant of an iron mask.
While not being adherent to a niche, ahm.... lesse, good analogy...
Soft clay can be molded into anything, but finished pottery can only be used for what it's design allows.
zen pose of badassery
If Francis came across the portal to our world, would he stay human? The portal seems to change individuals who pass through it, yet he is already the dominant species on our side.
(I'm not stating that he needs to come here, there is no doubt that he belongs in Domain! I'm just speculating...)
It would be odd to see a Fennec fox/Rabbit hybrid walking around in our world
(I'm not stating that he needs to come here, there is no doubt that he belongs in Domain! I'm just speculating...)
It would be odd to see a Fennec fox/Rabbit hybrid walking around in our world
I wouldn't think so, As you, being a scientist would know, to create the portal in question would require a vast amount of energies, and obviously the energies allow one to blend into society, however, those energies have to permanent the body, in the case of Danielle, I would assume that it had not firmly rewritten her DNA enough to cause Francis to stay his animal self. If you are, however, concerned the best thing you could do would be test Danelle's DNA, and your own, and look for matching traces, as well as what you can of Francis. If you find correlations, you most likely would have the same issue, otherwise you might not. There is also the possibility of, like your young sister, having a Hybrid. In your case the child could be a human with quills, or wings, or sonar, etc. Granted, your concern should only be about how the world would treat the child, you know how you would treat them.
P.S. I would make sure that he's in class with coney as much as possible when he hits school age, lest one of the other "cubs(?)" consider him "easy pickins" for lunch
P.S. I would make sure that he's in class with coney as much as possible when he hits school age, lest one of the other "cubs(?)" consider him "easy pickins" for lunch
All this talk about Francis' chances of survival in a world full of predators reminds me of something I've always wondered about: What happened to the humans or hominids in Domain's world? In our world humans survived by being the only ones specializing in intelligence and the adaptability that comes with that. But in Domain's world these humans would suddenly have to survive in a world where every prey animal and every predator suddenly (thanks to the birds) was just as smart as they were, while still having all their other natural advantages like teeth, claws, fur, speed, strength etc. For the humans or proto-humans it must have seemed like the world had suddenly turned into a waking nightmare for the short time before they went extinct.
Another thought: given how the two worlds seem to be permanently linked, is it possible the humans in our world somehow caught a whiff of the terror their counterparts in Domain's world experienced before their extinction and were traumatized by it somehow? It might explain why humans are the only intelligent species that seems to consider the world and the animals around them as a threat and an enemy; something none of Domain's many intelligent species seems to do.
Just some thoughts I had... Fortunately Francis is in a better position to survive with all his friends and loving family.
Another thought: given how the two worlds seem to be permanently linked, is it possible the humans in our world somehow caught a whiff of the terror their counterparts in Domain's world experienced before their extinction and were traumatized by it somehow? It might explain why humans are the only intelligent species that seems to consider the world and the animals around them as a threat and an enemy; something none of Domain's many intelligent species seems to do.
Just some thoughts I had... Fortunately Francis is in a better position to survive with all his friends and loving family.
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