Greater Keras
The Greater Keras is a creature of legend, embodying the untamed spirit of the Thundering Plains. A true behemoth, it stands nine feet tall at the shoulders, a colossus of raw power and natural armor. Its skin is a tough, thick hide, so durable it can deflect arrows and absorb powerful blows. Its body is adorned with menacing spikes that serve as both defense and a formidable weapon, discouraging predators and challengers alike.
The Greater Keras has a unique horn structure that is the stuff of lore. Two mighty horns sprout from the top of its head, splitting into a bifurcated formation, like the boughs of some ancient, gnarled tree. A third, larger horn extends from its nose, imbuing the creature with a singular, intimidating silhouette. This nose horn is often used for both digging for sustenance in the rugged terrain and as a battering ram in conflicts.
In the wild, the Greater Keras is a strict herbivore, subsisting on a variety of nutrient-rich plants that thrive in the Thundering Plains. Their social structure is built around herds led by a dominant Keras, usually the eldest and most experienced. In many ways, the Greater Keras symbolizes the intricate balance of the Thundering Plains ecosystem. It serves as both a grazer and a guardian, maintaining the health of the plains through its foraging while also fiercely protecting its herd and territory.
In Minotaur culture, the Greater Keras holds a place of veneration. The tribes believe that these monumental beasts are gifts from the spirits of the land, encapsulating the attributes of resilience, strength, and unity. Through a process of mutual respect and nuanced communication, the Minotaurs have learned to cooperate with the Greater Keras, using them for various tasks from carrying heavy loads to serving as mounts in battles. The process of bonding with a Greater Keras is a rite of passage for young Minotaur warriors, a ritual that involves days of fasting, prayer, and finally, the offering of a handcrafted talisman to the chosen beast.
The Greater Keras is not just an animal; it is a living testament to the enduring vitality of the Thundering Plains, a creature so intrinsically connected to its environment that it becomes a symbol. For the Minotaurs, the presence of the Greater Keras reaffirms their spiritual connection to their ancestral lands, a constant reminder of their past struggles, present lives, and future aspirations.
Geographic Distribution