Male Hatchling
Name: unnamed
Species: Vanil Shaa
Birthday: Sunday, June 27, 2010
Owner: Calah
Element: Fire 
When born, a unique thing occurs to these little ones. The gem that decorated their shell becomes part of their flesh, burnt into them. These gems trap the energy of the sun, and are what make the shaa invaluable to magi. When young, hatchlings are as small and playful as puppies, though they grow rapidly. They are able to feed themselves at a young age, killing and eating small animals and birds. Even at a young age, these canines are sweet and fiercely loyal to their human companions, following them everywhere and playing alongside the other hatchlings.
These creatures dwell far to the south, in the same regions as temple cats. The native people call them desert dogs, for that is where they make their home. Their dusky skin blends in with the sandy land, save for the bright crystals that warn other animals of their presence. These bright blue gems serve as a caveat to beasts who would attack. Shaa canines possess the unique power of harnessing the energy of the sun. They store the heat in the jewels that decorate them, and if angered, can release these rays, literally burning their enemies alive. Vanil shaa do not do this often, however, as they are more gentle then the dark ones of their kind. Though not as honored as felines in the south, shaa are looked upon with respect and allowed free movement, often offered food by villagers.
Sprite art: GlassWalker (hatchling) | Description: Damien