Zentu

(zen-TOO)

Dreams are truly wonderful things. In them, we can be anyone, go anywhere, do anything! To the people of Shengui Guo, dreams are extremely meaningful - not just for what they offer the dreamer, but because they help bring to life the majestic and much-loved zentu. Zentus are connected to dreams in many ways. They have the ability to "consume" dreams, and they will gladly protect their owners from unpleasant thoughts and nightmares with their unique powers. Being close to a zentu assures you will have beautiful dreams every night - however, mistreating one will lead to nightmares and a feeling of hopelessness. In fact, a zentu is so closely tied to the dream and spirit world that it even affects their appearance: zentus born during the night are influenced by people being asleep and dreaming, while those born during the day take the color of a daydream.

Before the discovery of Shengui Guo, zentus were dwindling in number, for with such a controlled population, there was no need for more animals. Now, however, the influx of visitors, tourists, and new residents have given zentus fanatics a chance to increase the population and share their love of this magnificent creature with everyone! Babies are born in the spring, around the same time as the flower-viewing season. Although most zentus have one baby per litter, twins are not entirely unheard of, and several years pass before a mother is ready to mate again. Zentus are extremely large and well-built, standing at 7-9 feet (2.1-2.7m) at the shoulder and weighing anywhere from 4000-8000 lbs (1814-3628kg), with the males being significantly larger than females. Their huge size has made them extremely valuable in Shengui Guo, where they often serve as working animals. A Shengui Guo farmer that is lucky enough to have a zentu is indeed blessed, for zentus are able to carry many pounds of harvested rice and other goods. Because of their revered status, there are many rules involved in keeping zentus for work - although a happy, well-cared for zentu does enjoy the labor! Their manure is valuable in helping the land stay fertile and is sought out especially by tea farmers. They are not particularly known for being ridden, although a well-bonded animal may let its owner go for a short jaunt.

Zentus are highly intelligent and emotional animals. They have the ability to remember zentus they knew in the past, and they can recognize them even years after separation. Many owners will keep a mated pair or siblings for this very reason. They are truly gentle giants, and the bonds they have with their owner are very strong. Although they are generally peaceful, a zentu that feels like its owner or family are threatened will do anything to protect them - whether it is through consuming someone's hopes and desires to proving that their tusks are more than just ornamental.

Zentus are herbivores, and their favorite treats are tea leaves and sakura petals. Owners must have a very large space with plenty of room for a zentu to play, eat, and relax in the sun, as well as a protective shelter. It is said that the best place to have this shelter set up is outside your own bedroom window, where it is easiest for a zentu to keep nightmares at bay and answer your calls for sweet dreams. Many people take to decorating their zentu with jewels and other decoration, to honor them and ensure they continue to send good dreams.