Awakena

"I no longer feared drowning in the harbor, I feared the rescue."

— Broch Mammärl on his teenage encounter with an Awakena

Awakena are large domesticated reptiles used by the Chol as pets, guard animals, and, most famously, rescue animals. Modern Awakena have been selectively bred to be ideal rescuers for potential drowning victims. It is said that they can differentiate the difference between cargo and humans splashing in the water and will instinctively dive in after them. They use their powerful hind legs to swim to their target quickly and use their arm-like forelegs to grab hold of the drowning man or woman. With their target secure they will swim to the surface before turning over to float on their back to ensure that their rescuee has access to air. They will then simply float back to shore.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Awakena have fairly long faces with ridged eye sockets. The animal is also noted for having large whites in it's eyes similar to humans, elves, and dogs, likely selectively bred for to make them more expressive to their human masters.

Average Intelligence

Awakena possess a fair deal of trainable intelligence, ranking only slightly lower than an average working dog.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Awakena have a very good sense of both hearing and smell, which they can use to locate prey and imperilled peoples for rescuing. Their lack of reliance on eyesight has made them able to operate effectively even in the muddiest of ports.

Lifespan

20 years

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Average Height

90 cms at the shoulder

Average Weight

75 kgs

Average Length

250 cms

Average Physique

Awakena are robust and muscular.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Awakena come in a range of colors such as black, green, blue, and grey. Orange and yellow awakena have been bred on occasion as gifts for prominent merchants.