Male Hatchling
Name: unnamed
Species: Stiria Hystrix
Birthday: Thursday, February 29, 2024
Owner: Kestrad
Element: Water 
These companions are extremely playful, and not very good at avoiding danger. A bored hystrix hatchling won't hesitate to attack a dragon, or roll off a cliff into deep snow. They cannot be hurt very easily, for at any sign of danger they simply roll into a tight ball. They move into the same position when they fall asleep, so that they are safe when unconscious. These hatchlings will sleep almost anywhere when sleepy, just burrowing into any nearby ice or grass and dozing off. Only their sharp quills are visible at these times, and most predators know to steer clear.
These companions can be found throughout the world, though roughly half of them retreat to the north during warmer months. They are friendly enough in nature, and can be approached freely. Hystrixes are seldom aggressive, preferring to curl up into balls to protect themselves. When they tuck themselves into these spheres, they are completely protected, and cannot be attacked. Should a foolish predator attempt to do so anyway, they will find themselves sporting quills from their paws or faces. Though their defenses are far from ordinary, they are still quite powerful. Silex hystrix companions have quills that grow much like plants, but they are nearly unbreakable. Those with icicles for quills are thestiria hystrix companions, and their defenses can only be injured by great heat. Warmth is one thing stiria hystrix companions cannot withstand, and as summer approaches, they make a slow trip to the north. They thrive in the frigid cold, and have no lack of food to eat. Ice is their favorite food source, but silex hystrix companions will devour just about anything they consider pretty. Shiny pebbles, leaves, or even cupcakes are all considered to be viable meals. Despite their horrible eating habits, hystrixes will not grow in weight, or suffer any harm. Some students have been scolded for feeding them ruined meals or old papers.
Sprite art: Tekla (hatchling) | Description: Damien