Mating Marks

== What is a mating mark? ==
­­­A mating mark is a “proof of bond” formed between two individuals. They are created when an individual, typically an alpha, bites one of their partner’s scent glands. Note: a mating mark can be created on any scent gland.  
== What does a mating mark do? ==
Mating marks, typically between an alpha and omega pair, have multiple effects on the individual who received one. These effects are, but are not limited to, pheromone stabilization, heightened olfactory response to the mated partner, and revulsion to sexual advances from others who are not the mate. These are, of course, only some effects of a mating mark.
== Who can have a mating mark? ==
While mating marks are typically only observed between alpha and omega pairs, there are rare instances where an alpha in an alpha pair may obtain a mating mark from their partner. It’s plausible that mating marks are not restricted to the two genders and can be obtained by any of the adult genders; however, they are most commonly observed with alphas and omegas.
== How does the mating mark work? ==
Inside an alpha’s mouth is a specialized gland that secretes pheromonal exudate. This exudate is a saliva-like fluid that carries a heavy dose of pheromones that react to an omega’s pheromonal hemolymph. Mixing pheromonal exudate and hemolymph creates a genetic imprint, thus creating the mating mark.
== Mating Mark Follow-up Questions ==
The following has been separated into sections and formatted as a Q&A for easy information sharing.
=== Mechanism and Effects ===
How long does it take for the mating mark to fully form after the initial bite?
Mating marks form immediately after the initial bite but heal slowly. Unlike a typical bite wound, a bite between an alpha and omega over a scent gland will create a permanent scar.
Are the effects of the mating mark immediate, or do they develop over time?
Most effects of a mating mark are immediate. Depending on the individual’s pheromonal physiology and condition at the time of marking, some effects may take longer to manifest than others. Effects that tend to take longer to stabilize or manifest are those affecting pheromone stabilization.
Can the effects of a mating mark be reversed or removed, and if so, how?
Unfortunately, mating marks are impossible to remove as the bond between individuals causes genetic imprinting. Mating marks done incorrectly, or if an omega’s body completely rejects the alpha’s pheromonal exudate, may not be as strong and, therefore, can be overridden by another alpha’s bite. This is, of course, a rare occurrence.
=== Physiological Changes ===
What specific physiological changes occur in the individual who receives a mating mark?
Pheromonal and hormonal stabilization occurs when a pair bonds. Pheromones will shift slightly to take on more of the partner’s scent—a mixing of genetics from the imprinting. Mating marks also heighten an individual’s olfactory response to their mated partner and revulsion to sexual advances from others who are not the mate.
How does the pheromone stabilization affect the individual’s overall health and behavior?
When an individual is struggling with pheromone or hormone destabilization, a mating mark aids the body in stabilization. It does so by the genetic imprinting of the partner’s pheromones.
Are there any negative side effects or risks associated with receiving a mating mark?
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=== Gender Dynamics ===
Why are mating marks most commonly observed between alphas and omegas, despite being possible between other genders?
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Are there any cultural or societal reasons that contribute to the prevalence of alpha-omega mating marks?
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Are mating marks considered a sign of prestige, commitment, or something else entirely?
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=== Pheromonal Interactions ===
How does the pheromonal exudate specifically interact with the omega’s pheromonal hemolymph to create the genetic imprint?
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Are there any unique properties of the pheromonal exudate that distinguish it from regular saliva or other bodily fluids?
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=== Detection and Identification ===
Can other individuals detect the presence of a mating mark, either through scent or other means?
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Are there any visual indicators or physical changes that accompany the presence of a mating mark?
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=== Exceptions and Variations ===
What factors might contribute to the rarity of alpha-alpha mating marks?
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Are there known cases of mating marks involving other gender combinations, such as Sigma-Beta or Zeta-Alpha pairs?
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