Baelbone

Baelbones are doglike creatures that have heavily calcified growths on their heads, rib cages, and legs. These growths make it appear as if the Baelbone is wearing the skull and bones of another creature. Often hunting in packs of 3-4 in the wild, Baelbones run like smoke in the wind and ambush their unprepared prey from the shadows. Historically, Baelbones are carriers of various curses that they can pass on to those who are around them. Whether you believe in that or not, the horn of a Baelbone is proven to have properties useful in potion making, and a bite from a Baelbone is said to curse the victim with impending doom.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Baelbones likely evolved from dogs or jackals who were touched by the abyss. Possessing muscular four legged bodies and rows of sharp teeth like their ancestors, they prowl about in search of any meat they can eat. Often preferring to eat carcasses, they have been known to attack smaller targets from time to time. Baelbones however, do have something of a leg up on other canines however. They are covered in calcified, bonelike appendages that act as armor and means to attack. Hard, bony tails and horned foreheads add to their repertoire, and having armor around their ribs and under their neck helps defend against crushing or clumsy attacks.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Baelbones often hunt in packs led by an Alpha.

Domestication

It is often advisable to not keep Baelbones as pets. Some professionals are allowed to keep them, and if bred in captivity and properly trained they have been known to be owned by circuses, zoos, and wealthy families.

Facial characteristics

Hidden by the large skull mimicking different animals, Baelbones all look different. The length and shape of the snout, horns, teeth, tusks, and eye sockets can vary as much as the creature's mane.

Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms

Due to the bone-like nature of their exoskeleton, they often fall prey to Marrowmites, small bugs that devour the bones of carcasses. A single Marrowmite will be excruciating for the effected Baelbone, and can even lead to its death.