Runehounds

Runehounds are a species of aberrations of unknown origins, whose presence in the Prime Material Plane is believed to be only possible through being magically summoned. Dangerous and aggressive creatures, encounters with runehounds are often deadly, leaving behind mangled, partially dissolved corpses.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Runehounds superficially resemble canines with a long muscular stalk emerging from their back ending in a massive set of fangs; they are virtually symmetric, with their paws being able to freely rotate according to their direction of movement, as well as their stalk. Runehounds' pelts are covered in intricate patterns unique to each pack; these patterns are often mistaken for runes due to their supposed innate magical power and overall appearance, and while they do share many similarities, they are different in operation, purpose, and source.
Their muscle fibers are interwoven in a cross-stitched pattern rather than being overlaid along a single axis; they are believed to control individual fibers and seem to be able to re-weave them in order to quickly recover from traumatic injuries. Runehounds do not seem to have any ligaments or tendons and lack a skeletal structure, excluding the aforementioned fangs; this unique anatomy allows them to quickly turn and rotate with uncanny flexibility, that some have described as "unnerving".
This unique muscle structure also allows them to create internal cavities while applying pressure to a variety of unspecialized glands that fill the cavity with fluids. The fluids are extremely reactive, and can serve as a powerful agglutinating or corrosive agents; the stalk can then also cavitate, creating a structure mostly likened to an esophagus extending into a stomach, allowing the fluids to be emitted through rapid peristaltic movement, to a distance as far as 100 feet.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Though they exhibit typical canid predatory behavior, and could have easily drawn sustenance from their prey, runehounds don't seem to require food or drink, nor do they devour any piece of flesh they tear off their victims; it is therefore unknown for what purpose the corrosive agents are used. It is speculated that runehounds draw energy from the eponymus runes that cover their bodies.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

As they aren't native to the prime material plane, runehounds are only found where they are summoned or where a portal is otherwise present. They are known to roam the Pueblian Free Territory in numerous packs, being summoned there through the actions of Avux for his personal protection.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Runehounds possess enchanced sensory capabilities through an unknown mechanism, as they lack any visible sensory organs.

Scientific Name

Ektropos Lycanimorpho

Average Height

80-85 centimeters (shoulder)

Average Weight

95-110 kg