Viktik

Viktik are encountered in the forests and jungles near the equator of the world. They typically fall upon their prey from above in order to latch onto the host's body to feast upon their blood. They are large enough that sentient beings are able to spot them quickly. It is best to dislodge them from one's body before they latch on, as they can be very difficult to remove. If they are dislodged, it is best to kill them as soon as possible, otherwise they will crawl quickly toward their prey and again attempt to latch on. To kill them, it is best to turn them onto their backs and pierce them through their under regions as it is difficult to pierce the outer shell on the beasts.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The body of a viktik is that of a hemisphere about 1 inch (3cm) across with eight legs toward one side. That side also has a small head centered between the legs with fierce jaws that protrude from the body. The dorsal portion of the creature's main body is a hard shell that is difficult to pierce. When the creature has fully fed, the under portion of the body swells until the main body becomes spherical.

Genetics and Reproduction

Eggs hatch in late winter into larvae which seek out small creatures to attach to and feed off of their blood throughout the year. In the autumn, they fall from the host and spend the winter dormant as their bodies change into their adult form. The following year, the grown viktik climb trees and wait for prey to approach under the tree. Using a combination of mysterious senses, they drop from the tree onto larger creatures and immediately latch on to drink as much blood as possible. Once fully engorged, they fall from the animal, seeking mates so that they can breed more eggs and lay them in a suitable environment.

Ecology and Habitats

Viktiks prefer a warm, moist environment. They are most prevalent in jungles, but the adult forms will also move into forests surrounding jungles to wait for prey.

Origin/Ancestry

Overgrown relative of the tick family.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Dark brown in color, though some have black spots underneath.