Spirit Eaters

There was no sound, no warning. One moment we were a band of travelers, the next I was alone, clinging to the back of my horse as it ran for its life. Only later did I notice the terrible gash in my leg. Death walked with me that day, and I never saw the beast.
— Sole survivor of the expedition to Solitude attempted in 790 CE
 

A particularly ferocious species of feline that lives in the mountains that separate Solitude from the rest of the continent. It is believed that the pervasive domesticated cat species throughout Aubadeon descended from these fierce beasts. Only a few have seen them and lived. This species is one of the key reasons that the trip from Kingstown to Solitude is dangerous.

Silent and graceful, these giant cats have large paws and long tails. They do not hibernate, finding adequate food even in the deepest winter. Their fur is thick, keeping them warm even in the frozen months at high altitudes. They seem to shed fur seasonally with the new fur growing in as appropriate camoflage for the season.

Mysterious and powerful, these creatures have come to represent the unknown, the mysterious, and the power of death.

They also represent fear, the unseen monster that will pounce from the shadows and destroy you without warning.

Basic Information

Dietary Needs and Habits

They are meat eaters, preferring their food fresh. Their senses are highly atuned to seek out prey, and are not above digging hibernating creatures out of their snow caves. Capable of consuming large meals, they can then go for several days or even weeks without eating.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

There is some imperical evidence that they may be capable of psionic communication within their own species as they hunt in packs in complete silence. Their well organized attacks must require some level of communication, however, no one has reported hearing any vocalization from them prior to an attack.

Their smaller descendants commune with their Draska bondmates. It is believed that this skill comes from their ancestors.

Genetic Descendants


Cover image: by Deleyna via Midjourney

Comments

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Aug 3, 2023 23:21 by G34RS

I love the idea of these creatures, especially the idea of psionic chatter between them. Has anyone ever seen one and made it out alive?

Aug 4, 2023 16:59 by Deleyna Marr

Only a very few times!

Deleyna
Aug 5, 2023 23:38

Why think psionic ability and not tail twitches, ear flicks and body language as is common in many group hunters? Some clue acquired by a magic user or other psychic or just the Light Blessed Cat ability? Surely a fearful hazard for the traveler.

Aug 6, 2023 18:16 by Deleyna Marr

Exactly - there's a reason, building on a character that comes into the books.

Deleyna
Aug 15, 2023 23:42 by Kat Sanders

This is so cool. I love big cats.

Aug 17, 2023 01:19 by Deleyna Marr

Thanks! Cats of any size are delightful.

Deleyna
Aug 16, 2023 09:51

The moment you don't see your doom coming.   Nice idea of a very silent and thus stealthy killingmachine - i like them!

Have a look at my entries for:

-Worldanvils: Institutions of Learning
-Worldanvils: SUMMER CAMP
Aug 17, 2023 01:20 by Deleyna Marr

Thanks! They play an interesting role in the 3rd novel... if I ever get it done!

Deleyna
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