Symbol of Desperation

If you get lost here better pray and if you hear calls for help, then run.

"In your most desperate moment, your darkest hour, an ancient evil will appear to make you a deal. If you agree you turn into a horned beast and lose yourself and all humanity left in you will be consumed. You'll be left with an never ending hunger for blood." ~From "Paranormal Events of our World" by Lexand Here.

Summary

Legend says that if you get lost in the dense swamps of Hato, an ancient creature appears giving you an offer. Either you stay lost and die or you eat your companions and yourself and be able to live for ever. If one should agree they turn into a copy of the being and stalk the swamps for all eternity and are only able to consume human flesh.
These beings are known as "Symbols of Desperation" and described had tall and slender humanoids with elongated limbs and claws. Their skulls resemble those of wolves but bearing giant, unnaturally branched and almost shrub-like antlers. They are so slender that their bones partially pierce their skin. Their skin bears patches of black fur similar to that of bears. After investigating the specimen provided 46 years ago, it appears that these creatures are devoid of any fluids. Their bodies seem to consist of materials of several different species. Even though they have no voice of their own, they can mimic sounds they heard, which they use to lure in unsuspecting travellers by mimicking cries of help of their previous victims.

There are still sightings of these monsters to this day, leading many to believe that there are several of this kind roaming Hato.

Historical Basis

It is thought that this story originally was told to keep children away from the swamp and grown-ups to stay on the path. No actual scientific evidence of this creature was recorded until shortly after the Wave hit, yet this legend can be dated back until the early years of the first era.
Around 46 years ago a small adventuring party lead by a felinae called Dust managed to kill one of these creatures bringing first evidence that it really exists.

Variations & Mutation

In the western regions towards Tumunzar people speak of a giant worm that emerges and eats lost souls in the desert.
Moreover some sailors tell of a curse that binds you forever to your ship and the sea should you get lost on sea and resort to cannibalism.

In Literature

There are several old stories that tell of these creatures. They were also documented in some (pseudo-)scientific books, most recently in "Paranormal Events of our World" by Lexand Here.

Date of First Recording

Dates back somewhere in the first era.

Related Locations