DATALOG 851
PARALLEL EVOLUTION

In the twisted aftermath of the Reaper Agent's rampage across human genetics, two distinct yet fundamentally linked subspecies have emerged from humanity's desperate struggle for survival. The Reborn and Demi-mutants represent evolution's answer to extinction—parallel adaptations that blur the line between human and post-human while pointing toward a future where mutation becomes not humanity's curse, but its salvation. Though their origins diverge, both populations carry the same genetic keys to survival, written in nucleotide sequences that may determine whether humanity's children inherit the earth or fade into the toxic mists of the Desolation.

Origins and Gender Distribution

Reborn are the product of spontaneous transformation - human males whose Y-chromosomes have been directly targeted and rewritten by the Reaper Agent. This process is overwhelmingly male-specific due to the Agent's designed affinity for Y-chromosome sequences, though extremely rare cases of female Reborn have been documented when genetic anomalies create susceptible targets.

Demi-mutants result from reproductive unions between mutants (or Demi-mutants) and humans or clones. Unlike the Reborn's transformation-based origin, Demi-mutants inherit their mutations through normal genetic transmission, making them equally likely to be male or female.

Physical Manifestation

Reborn typically display subtle physical alterations that allow for easier integration into human/clone societies. Their mutations manifest as enhanced muscle density resembling steel cable, skin with the protective qualities of organic armor plating, and reinforced bone structures. These changes remain largely concealed beneath clothing and through careful behavioural moderation.

Demi-mutants show greater variability in physical expression. While some display subtle characteristics similar to the Reborn, many exhibit more pronounced mutations including phosphorescent eyes, elongated limbs and leathery armoured skin or even natural armor plating. Their mutations are typically more externally visible and integrated into their baseline physiology.

Genetic Architecture

At the DNA level, distinguishing between Reborn and Demi-mutants proves challenging. Both populations carry identical core modifications from the Reaper Agent: enhanced protein synthesis, reinforced cellular matrices, and accelerated healing factors.

The critical difference lies in implementation methodology. Reborn genomes bear molecular scarring from forced transformation, showing redundant backup systems, stress markers, and evidence of emergency biological adaptation. Their DNA reflects violent integration of incompatible systems.

Demi-mutant genetic profiles demonstrate smooth inheritance patterns with optimized gene expression across generations. Their mutations show fewer transformation trauma markers and function as more seamlessly integrated biological systems rather than forced adaptations.

Social Integration

Reborn maintain higher social acceptance within human/clone communities due to their subtle physical alterations and retained memory of baseline humanity. Their psychological familiarity with pre-transformation human experience allows them to navigate social structures more effectively.

Demi-mutants face greater social stigma due to more visible mutations, though they show no psychological distress about their altered state. Having never experienced baseline humanity, they view their mutations as natural evolutionary adaptations rather than deformities.

Reproductive Advantages

Reborn are highly sought as reproductive partners because their offspring typically inherit resistance to the Reaper Agent while maintaining subtle mutation profiles. This genetic resistance stems from familiarised immune systems that recognize and accommodate the Agent's presence.

Demi-mutant reproduction follows standard genetic inheritance patterns, with mutation traits passing to offspring through normal chromosomal combination. Their children may display anywhere from minimal to pronounced mutations depending on parental genetic contribution.

Evolutionary Implications

Reborn represent humanity's reactive adaptation - survivors of the Reaper Agent's assault who retained cognitive function through biological chance or genetic predisposition. They serve as living proof that consciousness can survive radical physical transformation.

Demi-mutants represent proactive evolution - humanity's forward adaptation to post-Collapse environmental pressures. They demonstrate successful integration of beneficial mutations across multiple generations, suggesting potential emergence as the dominant human subspecies.

Unpredictable Variables

Both populations face genetic uncertainty. Reborn offspring may still undergo secondary transformations despite inherited resistance, while Demi-mutant lineages show occasional regression to baseline human characteristics. The Reaper Agent continues to evolve, finding new pathways through supposedly immune genetic lines.

Neither classification guarantees specific outcomes. Nature will always maintain ultimate authority over genetic expression, regardless of inherited advantages or engineered protections!