The 'Shifters

You may have heard stories of werewolves, humans who transform into beast by moonlight. Or perhaps of vampires who turn into bats, or witches into cats. Most believe these to be mere fiction, the thought of humans changing into animals completely outrageous. Then there are some who know the truth.
There are beings out there, ones that can shift from human to animal at will. They are known as Shapeshifters, though often simply called ‘Shifters. They blend in with civilization, hiding their true natures from the world. Your neighbor could be one. Your plumber, the homeless guy on the street, a classmate from school could be one and you would never know.
Though it might seem like a gift, the ‘Shifters live in sorrow and fear of discovery. They are cursed to live in the shadows, running from those who want them dead.