Darkling
Darklings are an uncommon demon that take the shape of an afflicted human. They are classified as a medium level thread by the NAFZ as they are relatively difficult to identify. They are among the only demons that do not manifest a weak point. The only way to identify a Darkling is by exposure to dangerously bright light, which temporarily forces their eyes to turn a pure black. Before tape became hard to come by, it was easier to find them with exposure to a film camera. Digital technology does not reveal a Darkling. They are both harmed by light and sustain their forms with it.
A human becomes possessed by a Darkling only when their reflection enters total darkness. The creatures are common in caves with abundant water features. The body of the human host is pulled into this reflection, where they remain stuck forever. No one has ever successfully freed a victim taken into the reflections. It is theorized that the Darklings inhabit a realm that is similar to but distinct from Hell itself, calling their classification as demons into question. They do appear more resistant than most to the controlling powers of demon generals, but they are not immune and still cannot resist a direct order for very long.
Among the humans, Darklings cause by their very presence a dimness of lights. They seem to sustain themselves on light they absorb in this way. They take great pleasure in causing paranoia in the communities they haunt, using their ability to manipulate light and darkness to cast blame on innocents. When they have a chance, they delight in inflicting physical suffering as well. People taken by Darklings for this purpose are often kept alive for as long as possible while they suffer unimaginable horrors. This is especially true of those close to the host of the Darkling- the creatures prefer to take the form of children and take their parents captive.
Aside from light control, as dopplegangers Darklings have some limited shapeshifting abilities, including the ability to mend broken bones. For reasons unknown, they are unable to heal injuries to their flesh. Once a "host" is killed, the ghost of the Darkling will attempt to inhabit the nearest reflective surface. If this is a mirror which is then broken immediately, the Darkling can be destroyed forever.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
Demon, Insidious Technofiend
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