Qukix

Mankind need no longer carry their burdens alone.

— Tichan Zilopnou

Qukix are pack animals found commonly throughout Qet after their initial discovery in the continent of Nqet. Prior to their mass domestication, most of the known world had relied on human porters for transport.

Appearance

Qukix are 5-6ft. tall mammals akin to alpacas, though they differ quite dramatically. They are covered in coarse fur which can vary widely in color and pattern. Their long necks support small heads with two curled horns at the back, and a third horn curls upwards from underneath their chests. They possess six legs, the four frontal ones having three joints— bending forward and back again at the knee— and their hind legs only have two, bending back before bending forward. At the ends of these, their feet split into two large toes with large nails at their ends— rather than hooves.

Habits

In the wild, Qukix are grazing herbivores that roam in herds from place to place in search of food. They will fight amongst one another to establish a pecking order, butting heads or running on their hind legs to hit opponents with their full weight behind the third horn— which is also effective at deterring predators.
Wild breeds are skittish when approached, to the point of running from the smallest movements. They are likely to run away from the untrained tamer the moment they are spotted— making it almost a wonder that they were domesticated in the first place. Breeds produced and raised under humans are much more affable, however.

Man's Legs

Qukix, often nicknamed qeplue yutex or man's legs, have seen widespread adoption throughout the known world as pack animals. Everything from merchant wagons to military carts is often lead by one or more qukix. Human porters are still used somewhat commonly such as with the teuchacapa— especially for smaller loads or when routes are particularly rough.
The horn growing beneath their chests is especially useful for tying ropes or placing yokes— as it seems particularly deep-rooted and better suited for load bearing than say, their necks. The horns at the tops of their heads are often adorned with colorful cloth strips and beads, as it is believed that this allows the stars above to see the rider— and therefore know to show themselves at night so that they may find their way. A bell is often placed here as well so that riders can be heard in the dark. A harness of leather or other strong fabric is tied over their heads, attached to a long rein so that riders may guide the animal as they need.

Kuhk-ish

Habitat & Rest

Qukix originate from the temperate regions of Nqet, in particularly rocky, arid areas. They are however, quite adaptable to other climates— especially if they're fed by their masters.
They are, like most humans, diurnal, and seek out soft ground to sleep on during the night.

Breeds

Over the years, various breeds have come about— some more suited for specific uses than others.
The Aeuto breed, for example, is a veritable weapon of war. They are faster— not too much faster than the footsoldiers around them, but just enough to allow commanders to lead the charge into battle. Their stockier build, too, makes them more likely to survive in battle.
Not to mention the height advantage they give to their riders.
They are sparsely deployed, but are powerful when used.

Lifespan

24-32 years

Average Height

5-6'

Average Weight

330-500lbs

Average Length

4-5'