Dinosaurs

Origins and Ancient History

Dinosaurs in Ëndria are creatures of mythic and ancient origins, thought to have gone extinct long before the current age. According to legends, these powerful beasts once roamed freely across the material plane, dominating the prehistoric landscapes. However, their eventual disappearance left only fossils and whispers of their existence, relegating them to the annals of history.

The return of dinosaurs is tied to the divine conflict that shook the world. During the The War for Midranor, Faelion, called upon these long-lost creatures to serve as soldiers in her army. Faelion, operating from the chaotic Blooming West, is said to have used her immense power to resurrect or summon the dinosaurs, binding them with primal and divine magic. These creatures became a symbol of nature’s might, standing as towering beacons of strength and ferocity in the war. When the conflict ended, many dinosaurs retreated to the wilderness, specifically to the Veilshade Wilds north of Thelvara, where they thrived in the untamed jungle.

Modern Habitat

Today, dinosaurs are primarily found in the lush and verdant jungles north of the Thelvara. This region, known as the Veilshade Wilds, is a dangerous yet thriving ecosystem where dinosaurs are a notable, but not dominant, feature of the wilderness. The Thar'ziq authorities have taken great care to maintain control over the dinosaurs’ population within this region, establishing the Antediluvium — a massive, secluded basin where dinosaurs are bred, trained, and studied. This controlled habitat ensures that the creatures remain a resource for the Thar'ziq people while protecting the surrounding areas from potential threats.

Dinosaurs in Thar’ziq Society

The Thar'ziq city, renowned for its advanced arcane-powered infrastructure, has integrated dinosaurs into its military and cultural identity. While dinosaurs are not a part of everyday urban life, their presence looms large in the collective consciousness of the Thar’ziq people.

Military Use: Dinosaurs serve as mounts for the Thar’ziq army, providing unparalleled power and mobility on the battlefield. The army utilizes a variety of dinosaurs, each chosen for specific roles:

• Velociraptors: Swift and agile, used by scouts and skirmishers for rapid strikes.
• Triceratops: Powerful and heavily armored, acting as living battering rams and shields for infantry.
• Pteranodons: Airborne units, ideal for reconnaissance and delivering surprise aerial attacks.
• Tyrannosaurs: Rare and fearsome, these massive predators are reserved for the elite riders, serving as symbols of Thar’ziq’s might and dominance.

Bonding Ritual: The integration of dinosaurs into the military relies on the Arcane Bonding Trial, a systematic and regulated process where prospective riders attempt to bond with a dinosaur. This ritual, held within the Antediluvium, is a test of compatibility and arcane aptitude. Candidates use their arcane abilities to form a mental and magical connection with a dinosaur. Those who succeed become riders, while those who fail are reassigned to other roles within the army. This efficient and orderly process reflects the Thar'ziq culture’s emphasis on structure and purpose.

Cultural Significance

Dinosaurs hold a particular significance in Thar'ziq society. The bond between a rider and their mount is deeply respected, seen as a union of intellect, strength, and arcane mastery, and public ceremonies celebrate successful riders and their mounts, reinforcing the sacred nature of this partnership. Dinosaurs also appear in Thar'ziq art and literature, often depicted as guardians or symbols of resilience.

Broader Impact

Outside of Thar'ziq, dinosaurs are both feared and admired. Traders and explorers tell tales of the Veilshade Wilds, warning of its dangers but marveling at its wonders. Some foreign nations have attempted to capture and tame dinosaurs, but none have matched the success of the Thar'ziq, whose combination of arcane technology and cultural heritage makes them uniquely suited to working with these creatures.

Conclusion

From their mysterious origins to their modern role in the Thar'ziq army, dinosaurs remain an awe-inspiring force in Ëndria. Their existence bridges the ancient past with the present, serving as a reminder of nature’s might and the ingenuity of those who seek to harness it. As Thar'ziq continues to advance, the bond between its people and these majestic creatures stands as a testament to their unity and strength.