Carmadi'oo

Later the Carmadi'oo encountered the pesky Raphyr again - but found him wounded and scared. The small creature quivered, fearing the revenge for its pranks before. But, sensing its distress, the Carmadi'oo approached with utmost care. With tender strength, it wrapped around the fragile Raphyr, providing a protective sanctuary. "Fear not, little one. I do not feel anger towards you, feel protected with me"

from "The Tale of the Patient Carmadi'oo"
Folktale of the Gazeranfolk

The Carmadi'oo is a unique creature dwelling in the sparsely-populated region of Copperwynn, where the clans of Gazeranfolk originate. This medium-sized rodent boasts a sturdy, armor-like backshell that it can curl into for protection. When threatened, it reveals a formidable display of retractable spikes. In the absence of magic, the Carmadi'oo relies on its natural attributes, making it a sought-after quarry for hunters in the area.

Habitat and Diet

The Carmadi'oo, known as the "Rivertide Bonescales" among the superstitious Gazeranfolk, lives along the riverbanks. Here, it carves out its hideouts in crevices, hollowed tree trunks, and under overhanging vegetation. This habitat offers a perfect blend of cover, access to water, and proximity to prey. The Carmadi'oo's burrows are fortified with the bones of caught prey, earning them their nickname.
Skilled in swimming, the Carmadi'oo dives into the river to catch fish and aquatic insects, adapting its living habits to the ebb and flow of the water's rhythm. It thrives in this habitat, not only contributing to the river's ecosystem but also intertwining itself with the mysterious folklore of the Gazeranfolk clans.
The Carmadi'oo occasionally incorporates Aquamalith into its burrows, making them a target for people aware of this.

Cultural Relevance

Protective Talisman and River Guardian

The Carmadi'oo, or Rivertide Bonescales, is seen as a protective talisman among the Gazeranfolk, with its bones believed to possess power against misfortune. It is also revered as a guardian spirit of the rivers, ensuring safe passage during river journeys.

The Heroic Carmadi'oo

Legends depict the Carmadi'oo as a heroic figure, known for its courage and cleverness in saving villages from floods or monstrous river serpents. It inspires bravery and resilience among the Gazeranfolk.

Proverbial Wisdom

The Carmadi'oo's wisdom is embedded in Gazeranfolk proverbs, encouraging adaptability and perseverance. For example, "Be as adaptable as the Carmadi'oo, flowing with the river's current."

Shamanistic Medicine

The Carmadi'oo holds significance in Gazeranfolk shamanistic medicine, with its bones, scales, and parts believed to possess healing properties. It is used in remedies for water-related ailments and for invoking balance and protection.

Name

Carmadi'oo (Rivertide Bonescales)

Classification

Medium-sized rodent

Rarity

Common

Habitat

Riverbanks of Copperwynn

Diet

Fish, aquatic insects

Magical Affinity

None

Abilities

Skilled swimmer, dives to catch prey, adapts to the rhythm of the water

Activity

Diurnal

Territoriality

Low

Domesticability

Not easily domesticated

Aggressiveness

Non-aggressive

Danger Level

Low

Edibility

Edible

Use in Trades

None

Use in Magic

Can be used to imbue fortitude or protection into potions

Uses in Alchemy

Scales, tail, teeth, organs, bones