Dermachrome
Dermachrome is a bio-metaphysical pigmentation system found exclusively in species of the Volamin (Genetic Architecture). Unlike melanin-based pigmentation in Terran species, dermachrome is encoded through specific Seliquads and expressed via layered chemical-spiritual processes.
It determines **skin coloration**, **texture**, **patterning**, and in some cases, **luminescent effects**. Its variability across hybrid lineages is a key identifier of ancestry, compatibility, and sometimes spiritual status.
Structure and Activation
Dermachrome traits are:
- **Encoded in specific selitypes** associated with dermal layers
- **Activated** only when compatible Seliquads bind via matching Selinectos
- **Expressed** based on dominance hierarchy, distribution ratio, and binding sequence
Each seliquad carries instructions for:
- **Dermachrome Type** (e.g. radiant, mottled, absorptive)
- **Color Signature** (e.g. obsidian, emerald, lunar rose)
- **Expression Strength** (dominant vs. recessive ends)
- **Pattern Modifiers** (freckling, veining, marbling)
Expression Variants
Because dermachrome operates in **modular trait layers**, it supports a vast range of physical outcomes:
Common Variants
- **Monotone Expression** – one dominant seliquad set overrides all others
- **Freckling** – two or more dominant seliquads merge but fail to fully integrate
- **Veining / Marbling** – partially co-expressed dermachrome types arranged in flow lines
- **Radiance Effects** – rare in purebloods, more frequent in quarterblood hybrids (e.g. glowing opal veins)
Hybrid Trait Behavior
In hybrids:
- Dominant seliquads from different lineages may **co-express**
- Patterning often reveals **hidden ancestry** not seen in bone or voice structure
- Bridge Selinectos allow **unexpected trait layering**, sometimes considered miraculous or heretical
For example: > An individual with ¼ Zekerin and ¾ High Valorîin lineage may exhibit dark central dermachrome veining inherited from Zekarin blood, layered over pale radiant skin.
Cultural Interpretation
Dermachrome is culturally loaded:
- Certain tones (e.g. starlight gold, volcanic obsidian) may be sacred or taboo
- Patterning is often used in clan identification, marital rituals, or political inheritance
- Rare traits (like tri-tone spirals or duskglow skin) may mark prophecy, ancestral favor, or spiritual contamination