Frozen Male Hatchling
Name: unnamed
Species: Mountain Tylluan
Birthday: Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Owner: Sunrunner
Element: Light
In general, hatchlings are energetic little things, busy learning and playing. Tylluans seem more somber than most, and prefer to sit still and watch. Their constant gaze is sometimes a little unnerving, as if they are holding some secret. During the day they tend to pick one perch and remain there, sleeping. If disturbed, the hatchling will show their disapproval by snapping at the one who annoyed them. Their beaks are incredibly sharp, and a bite from a tylluan is very painful. These beaks are perfect for catching prey, usually rabbits or small creatures. They hunt during the night, when their excellent eyesight gives them advantage. Sharp talons snatch the unfortunate meal up, and then the bird will swallow it whole. Even at a young age, these birds delight in hunting, flying off into the forest with an elder or two. When first born, a magi must bring them scraps of meat. This endears the little one to you, and it is slightly less cruel to you than to others.
Beautiful though they are, mountain tylluans are not very liked among magi. Nocturnal creatures tend to be more vicious and prone to violence, and these birds are no exception. Scattered bones can be seen around their homes, and they take great pleasure in frightening people. They live in hollowed out trees, and if they see someone walking past in the dark, will swoop out and pretend to attack. They can be totally silent in flight if that is what they wish. Their eyes glow in the darkness, and their hunting call is quite chilling. The only person that mountain tylluans are genuinely affectionate to is their human companion. There are also vague accounts of how these birds have some power over souls, though magi are not foolish enough to believe these ancient myths. Still, there is something odd about these creatures... their wide, knowing eyes follow those are sick with great interest, as if waiting... If their magi companion is ill, the creature will refuse to move from their bedside, guarding the human against all danger. This is not necessarily a helpful thing, as the bird will sometimes attack people coming to care for the sick magi. This is particularly disconcerting for those who believe in the few mysterious rumors about these avians. Old tales tell of how mountain tylluans are kind creatures, who care for and transfer souls to alternate planes of existence. Sometimes your avian companion leaves for a few days, flying away in a perfectly straight line. These times occur when your companion looks more tired than usual, feathers somewhat bedraggled. The creature always returns looking well rested, and is noticeably faster and full of energy. You have no idea what transpires during the animal's absence, as all attempts at tracking it have failed.
Sprite art: Niwer/GlassWalker (hatchling) | Description: Damien