Xenosculpting

0 points

This gives someone nonhuman features, ranging from pointed "elf" ears to an animal-like face or head. Minor cosmetic xeno-features include such modifications as elf- or cat-like ears, tiny horns (too small to do damage), a forked tongue, or a birdlike crest – that is, any features that don’t require bone or nervous system alterations. Adding a small patch of fur or feathers (e.g., to the scalp or ears) is also a minor cosmetic change. Major xenosculpting may include altered facial bone structure, like an animal-like jaw or muzzle, or modifications to skull shape. For claws, sharp teeth and so on, see Xenostriker Grafts. For full-body fur, scales and so on, see Skin Transformation Virus. A bunny tail or a non-functional tail that simply hangs there is a minor cosmetic modification; a tail with bone and muscle that can be wagged is a transplant; see Tail Grafts. Most changes to features like the eyes or nose do not improve senses – they are cosmetic only. (Due to the need to modify the brain as well as the sense organs themselves, improvements to senses require either genetic engineering, cybernetics, or bio-nanotech). An exception is large ears, due to the funneling of sound; these can improve hearing.

Operation: This depends on the extent of the change. Minor cosmetic xeno-features are $1,000 (one day recovery) each. A set of related minor modifications (e.g., giving someone rabbit ears, buck teeth and a button nose) is $10,000 (one week recovery). Altered facial bone structure is $30,000 (and 2+ weeks). LC3.

Statistics: This is a 0-point feature, but may count as Distinctive Features [-1] or even Unnatural Features [-1 to -3] if such biomods are rare or no "real" existing race resembles you. Some changes – e.g., bug eyes and a sucker-like mouth surrounded by writhing tendrils – could also give a negative Appearance or Social Stigma. If you are disguised as a known alien or variant race, this may also qualify as a Secret if you are passing yourself off as one of them. Large ears can provide Acute Hearing +1 [2].