Giant Deer

The giant deer is a creature from west-eghean legends. Some believe these majestic animals once roamed Mystwood before The Pulse wiped them all out. Others believe they are a mere myth. The giant deer is depicted on the national flag of Sajhdula. For them it represents justice, power and wisdom.

Description

As depicted in ancient art, giant deer looked fairly similar to the deer we know today. They were just a lot larger and had a more robust skeleton. The males antlers were also almost indentical to our modern day deer, again much larger in size though. Their coat was a pale sand color with a white belly, legs and head. In art they are often depicted with adorned antlers. From intricate carvings in the antlers to what looks like leaves, nuts, feathers and even moss hung on cords hanging from and between the beams.

A symbol of justice, power and wisdom

The giant deer, more precisely a giant stag, is the national symbol of Sajhdula. It stands for justice, power and wisdom. It can be seen displayed on flags throughout the city, and on the uniforms of the Oracle Guard. The stag stands for justice, as that is one of the tenets on which sajhdulan society is build. It also stands for wisdom. Since the wisdom to do the right thing instead of the wrong thing is very important as well in their culture. Lastly, the giant stag stands for power. The power to withstand adversity and to choose a virtuous path in life.

Myth or reality

Amongst sholars the debate around the existence of these animals is as alive as ever. There are plenty of depictions of these majestic deer on paintings and tapestries all throughout The Golden Light Tower in Sajhdula. The Oracle of Sajhdula herself claims she has been in their presence numerous times before the Pulse. Yet no bone fragments were ever found in the wild. This can not be seen of prove against their existence however, since the Pulse would have turned them all to dust anyway. The Bone Vault in The Frozen City of Ishdal is said to house two skeletons of this species. Yet no one ever got permission to examine them, so they are not seen as scientific proof by some sholars.

EXTINCT

Lifespan

25 - 35 years

Average Height

2.1 - 2.5 meter shoulder height (6 ft 11 in - 8.2 foot)

Average Weight

1000 kg (2200 lb) - 1200 kg (2600 lb)

Geographic Distribution