A scratch from a Flerken can cause severe physical damage, including deep tissue injury, scarring, and permanent loss of function.
The Immediate and Lasting Impacts of a Flerken Scratch
Flerkens, despite their deceptively feline appearance, possess formidable biological capabilities, including retractable claws that are far more dangerous than those of an ordinary cat. Should a Flerken scratch a humanoid, the consequences are typically severe and can result in significant, long-term harm.
The primary danger from a Flerken's scratch stems from its ability to inflict severe tissue damage. Unlike superficial scratches, a Flerken's claws can cause deep lacerations and extensive trauma to the skin and underlying tissues.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential effects:
- Severe Tissue Damage: The claws are capable of deep penetration, tearing through layers of skin and muscle. This can lead to painful, gaping wounds and potential damage to critical structures beneath the surface.
- Permanent Scarring: Due to the depth and severity of the initial injury, permanent and often noticeable scarring is a common outcome. These scars can be disfiguring, particularly if the injury occurs on visible areas such as the face.
- Loss of Function: In cases where a Flerken scratch impacts a vital area, it can result in the complete or partial impairment of that body part's function. For instance, a direct claw swipe to an eye has been known to cause permanent loss of vision in the affected eye, accompanied by distinctive scarring.
Understanding the Hazard
While Flerkens might seem like harmless companions, their true nature and powerful defensive mechanisms make them a serious hazard if encountered without extreme caution. Their unique physiology grants them abilities that surpass those of Earth-native species, making any physical contact, especially a scratch, a significant risk.
To better understand the potential consequences, consider the table below:
| Effect Category | Description | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Physical Trauma | Deep lacerations, extensive tearing of skin and muscle, and internal bleeding. | Immediate pain, significant open wounds. |
| Long-Term Disfigurement | Formation of lasting fibrous tissue on the skin, leading to permanent scars. | Visible, often prominent scarring. |
| Irreversible Impairment | Damage to sensory organs or motor functions, leading to reduced or complete loss of capability. | Permanent blindness, limited mobility, or nerve damage. |
It is crucial to maintain a safe distance and avoid provoking these creatures to prevent potentially life-altering injuries.
