Owlhound

Biology

Owlhounds are magically created monstrosities related to the ferocious owlbears, as they were originally created by the same council of transmutation wizards. Their bodies are covered in plumage similar to that of an owl, but their exposed parts are also covered in tough plates that provide them a measure of protection. They have tough horns and razor-sharp teeth that they can use to devour small wildlife. They are omnivores and generally too lazy to actively hunt down prey.

Trailblazers

Owlhounds have very limited pyrokinetic capabilities. They cannot breathe fire like a dragon or chimera would, but they can crunch metal and rock and expel it as slag. They can also create small sparks from their claws that they use to leave a noticeable trail for their young, or to scorch their prey and kill it faster.

Intelligence and Social Behavior

Much like owlbears they are territorial creatures, but unlike owlbears they are naturally obedient (something that the transmuters tried to cultivate in the owlbears as well, but failed to do so). They have been extensively domesticated, and they are a particularly common sight in Middenland where they are used in everyday life.
Their exceptional strength makes them powerful beasts of burden, and they are often used to draw carts.They enjoy running and they do not seem to mind dragging an additional burden along the way, which means they are easily trained for this purpose. They are used for races as well in some places, but they often set things on fire in the excitement of such an event.

Guardian Beasts

They are powerful, obedient and loyal creatures which is why they are often employed as guard animals as well. They will defend the one they recognize as their master with their lives and they can be trained to follow simple commands. They are unflinching guards, but not very intelligent and they will fight to the death even if they have no chance of winning. They can also make stalwart mounts or fearsome war beasts.

Statistics

by JessJackdaw

Geographic Distribution

• Eastern Steppes
• Middenland

Crafting Materials

The plates covering an owlhound are prized as they are a decent carrier of fire resistance enchantments that can then be incorporated into sets of armor when a source of elemental fire is applied.
Their claws also occasionally function as minor components for fire enchantments on weapons.