Rot Hound

Foul magic has malformed nature itself and the rot hound is a testament to this malevolence.

"The once beautiful lands of Emer contained thriving shamanistic cultures that integrated with their jungle environment. The byproduct of these rituals with the now corrupt lands is the symbiotic creature known as the rot hound." ~The Marigold Observance of Emerian Culture
Artwork by: http://brenthollowellart.blogspot.com/?m=1

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Rot Hound is a quadrupedal plant-like organism that has melded with the environment. It is capable of manipulating its body and forming into the Emerian jungles and swamps. It is said that it was transformed from the wolves inhabiting the island during an arcane event nearly a century ago.

Genetics and Reproduction

Rot Hounds breed through conventional methods. The complexity of their mating rituals is not closely studied by scholars as the predatory instinct of these creatures deters them.

Growth Rate & Stages

Rot hounds develop quite similar to the traditional wolf although they do not have to consume meat to survive. The pups are protected by their mother as she hunts and they learn through their parent's interactions. Rot Hounds later in life tend to defend their dens with extreme prejudice during mating season.

Ecology and Habitats

The Rot Hounds have adapted to the Vile Isle of Emer's jungle and marshy habitat. They meld into the underbrush or soft dirt and pounce on prey that gets to close. They have no need for the nutrition from their kill but they revel in the hunt.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Rot Hounds can survive entirely off of the energy from the sun. But adolescent rot hounds have been known hunt for prey to keep their senses sharp.

Biological Cycle

Rot Hounds live to be roughly 10 years old on average. Their life spans are nearly double that of their biological ancestor.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Rot Hounds can perceive creatures far past the range of humanoid eyesight and hearing. Through their attachment to nature and it's rhythms they have gained an innate ability to sense creatures roaming through the undergrowth. In addition, their sight is capable of picking out in the darkest of night.

Scientific Name

Kasabueso

Origin/Ancestry

Native Emerian

Conservation Status

"Through official treatise, we have decided that Rot Hounds (once known to the natives as kasabueso ) are to be exterminated with extreme prejudice. The Marigold Exploration Guild has put a bounty on said creatures at a minimum of 500 GP each body. The creatures if at all possible should be brought back to the guild in near-pristine fashion. Those lucky few who manage to bring a living specimen will be compensated thrice the amount." ~Marigold Manifest