Werewolves, Wolfen, Lycans, Lycanthropes, hellbeasts, whatever. They're the same thing. Lycanthropy is actually a magical disease, spread via biting and someone imbuing you with the curse. The curse itself is incredibly old and has been around for many thousands of years. The origins of this curse are not known, but it is speculated that the Embodiement of Disease is behind it. Lycanthropy can affect virtually any sentient race with biological functions and emotions.
A lycan in their beast form usually takes the form of a wolf-like creature, bipedal and having huge, vicious claws and a large, snarling jaw capable of ripping through sheet steel.
Unlike in popular fiction, where the individual transforms at the full moon, around the full moon or even at will, lycanthropic transformation is caused by strong emotion. Any strong emotion, from anger and jealousy to love and happiness can be enough to trigger a transformation. A transformation usually ends with the werewolf killing whatever caused that emotion, or failing that, anything around it. Some elder lycans have learned to control themselves in beast form, but these feared individuals are few and far between. Needless to say, there aren't many lycans produced through sexual means because they usually kill each other.
Most lycans live in small packs, far away from society. Many others, however, have developed a monastic lifestyle similar to that of Buddhist priests. These lycans are fearsome warriors when roused but are seldom ever roused from their mystic isolation and meditation.
Many lycan are part of Hiro's Preternatural Coalition.
