Blazing Horn Ox

This special sub-species of ox is bred by dwarves for their forge. As their name suggests, the horns of this species are constantly afire, providing light, heat and defence. They control the strength of the fire, allowing them to leave only a pilot flame while sleeping, or to create a brasier such that it triggers any sunlight sensitivity and blinds attackers.
While the pilot flame is akin to a passive effect due to the crystallized structure of their horns harnessing the Weave, the flame they usually bolster while awake is made through secreting hydrogen constantly, this is made possible thanks to their acidic blood. This property of their blood also makes it a bit more complicated to butcher them. Lastly, their fiery bursts are made possible by pouches of combustible liquid dispersed throughout their horns and created at the moment the horn was made. Therefore, using this property will consume a layer of horn, reducing it but also revealing a brand-new layer of combustible liquid.
Because of the limited property of this last ability, dwarves that use blazing horn oxes to heat their forges usually use the normal flame, which still heats up to the melting point of steel.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Necessary for reproduction, the blazing horn ox has obtained the ability to resist fire. This is made possible by the active and constant condensation of magic in its fur. The necessity for active condensation has the unfortunate consequence that, once sheared, the fur loses this ability.

Genetics and Reproduction

Because of its horns, this species has become a separate species as per the definition of being unable to reproduce with other ox species. This is due to the fact that small flames appear on the skeleton of the fetuses(mainly its teeth) which isn't well supported by normal oxes. Female blazing horn oxes have developed a special membrane which covers their uterus and protects them from sparks.

Ecology and Habitats

Despite being a "man"-made species, the blazing horn ox is well adapted to surviving in the underworld, thanks to its light bursts allowing both to harm and blind the sun-fearing creatures dwelling there. This allows for dwarves to calmly make rescue missions without fearing for time if a pasture suddenly caves into the Underdark.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Much to the dwarves dismay, these oxes still eat weed and hay. This doesn't stop the dwarves from further trying to make them rock eaters.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

This species, despite living underground, doesn't have night vision because of the constant light provided by its burning horns. It does have however some degree of infrared vision, allowing it to communicate with its brethren through patterns in the flames.