Aswan Antilope

Steeds of the Serulian hunters

The deer never stood a chance. It raced through the woods, the hunter trailing behind as his mount bounced behind the prey. The rider had no need for reigns- his companion knew exactly where to go. He notched an arrow to his, taking aim as they flew above a bush. With one swift motion, he released the string, and the arrow found its way straight to the deer's heart.

Serulians consider hunting to be one of the most sacred tasks of their day to day life. Taking a life is no small deed, and only those ordained by an Earthling may partake in hunts. A village usually counts one to five hunters. Each works only with their closest companion, the Aswan Antilope.

Place in Serulian Culture

The Aswan Antilope are held in high esteem by Serulians, second only to the Seera Bees. They are prized companions, and to ride one is considered a high honour among Serulians. However, most Aswan Antilope do not become steeds- only the strongest among them will be selected to become a hunter's companion.

The rest are used by Serulians for a variety of purposes- their milk is used for cheese, and at the end of every winter adult Aswan Antilopes will be sheered, so that their fur may be used for blankets, clothes and other items.

Sacrifice

Exceptionally, an Earthling might call for the sacrifice of an Aswan Antilope. This is no light decision, and usually only done as a last resort in dark times. The Earthling will select an animal from the herd after having read the fire. It will be killed during a long religious celebration, where the spirit of the deceased animal will be asked to assist the village from the world beyond.

Death

Following the death of an Aswan Antilope, Serulians will try to make use of as much of their body as they can. Bones and hide will be used to fashion tools and clothing, the meat will be used for food, and anything that cannot find a purpose will be burned as an offering. Aswan Antilopes that served as steeds for hunters will instead be buried in large funerary complex.

Appearance and Biology

The Aswan Antilope is a large antilope, ressembling an Addax. It has long twisted horns and charcoal fur. These animals are quite large in size, easily reaching 180 cm to shoulder for males and 170 cm to shoulder for females.

The average life span for an Aswan Antilope is about 150 years, though it is not uncommon for dedicated Serulian hunters to try and prolong the lives of their companions.