Temple Ducks

As the Ba’shal soars in the sky, blessings rain down upon the earth.

Kasharian Proverb

The Ba’shal, colloquially known as the Temple Duck, is a sacred creature highly revered in the land of Aran’sha. It is considered the divine animal of the godess of harvest, the Mother herself. In the local dialect of the southern cities, these ducks are also referred affectionally to as Ba’shaki. This name is derived from the ancient words ‘Ba’, meaning ‘sacred’, and ‘Shaki’, meaning ‘feathered one’.

Appearance

At first glance, the Ba’shal bears a striking resemblance to an ordinary duck, its form echoing the familiar silhouette of its common cousin. However, looking closer, one quickly notices differences: The males of this species boast a stunning feather pattern of sapphire or sky-blue, a stark contrast to the typical emerald green markings of their common cousins.
This vibrant color, reminiscent of the clear blue skies of the harvest season, shimmers in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing sight. Additionally, they tend to be slightly larger in size, their robust stature often associated with their divine status and the bountiful harvest they symbolize.

Behaviour

Behaviorally, the Ba’shal exhibits only slight differences. A curious onlooker however might notice its keen gaze, emanating from piercing blue eyes that are sprinkled with flecks of gold. These eyes,quite unusual for a bird, seem to take much interest in the affairs of people around it. This has led to many folktales and legends about the Ba’shal being the messengers of the goddess, communicating her will to the people, and guiding them towards prosperity.

Habitat

The majority of these Temple Ducks reside in the vicinity of the goddess’s temples, grand structures that stand as testaments to the people’s devotion to her. Here, they are free to roam, their presence adding to the serene beauty of the sacred grounds. They often congregate in the lush temple gardens, feasting on the fruits and grains offered by the faithful. These offerings, a part of the daily rituals performed by the faithful, are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune.

Importance to the people

The people of Aran’sha hold the Ba’shal in high esteem, viewing them as the vigilant eyes and cherished companions of the goddess. The sight of a single Ba’shal or an entire flock taking flight, their blue feathers catching the light and creating a cascade of shimmering colors, is interpreted as a sign of divine favor to the onlooker. It heralds a bountiful harvest in the days to come, a promise of prosperity and abundance.
This belief is deeply ingrained in the people's culture, and the flight of the Ba’shal is often accompanied by vibrant festivals and joyous celebrations, marking the beginning of the harvest season and filling the air with joyous music, laughter, and the aroma of festive delicacies.