Archan


(ARK-an)

The Saherimos is well-known for its variety of species, both sentient and non-sentient alike. None, however, are as revered by the native inhabitants as the archan. They have long been the native protectors of the land, originally tasked with protecting the ancient Sand Spirits worshiped by the Saheric and later attributed with the same responsibility towards Shinwa. In fact, it is rumored that the strongest archans even have healing properties, though this is mostly speculated and not scientifically proven.

While not as long and lanky as their distant feline cousin, the tigrean, archans are much heavier and overall the larger of the two. Archans tend to fall slightly below the 6 foot (1.8 m) length of a tigrean, but they can reach up to 5 foot (1.5 m) tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 800 lbs (364 kg), with the females being significantly larger. They have extremely large paws, adapted to walking on the surface of the desert sands, and a thick coat that blocks out the harsh sun’s rays, keeps sand away from the skin and helps to warm them when they hunt during the night. Like many desert animals, archans are nocturnal and they have keen eyesight to help aid them in the dark. They eat a diet rich in meat, hunting herds of wild sheetas and neelas - sometimes even bringing down multiple animals in a single hunt.

Archans live in packs known as a congregation due to their religious significance. They are usually lead by the largest and strongest female who keeps the smaller archans in line with her powerful jaws. Though they will all work together to hunt, the queen will feast first, followed by her offspring, and finally the rest of the congregation. Females give birth in the late fall as the weather begins to slightly cool, and they can have anywhere from two to five young a litter. Females are extremely protective of their families, and it is normal for families to stay together for life.

Keeping archans as pets is only recommended for the most experienced animal handlers. Though they are known to be gentle to people, their size alone makes them dangerous - even just a misstep can result in broken limbs or fatal injuries. Still, a few are happily kept in captivity, especially in their native Saherimos. In fact, the most dedicated of archan trainers can even ride the powerful beasts -- though they are quite particular of who is truly allowed to do so! To be granted acceptance to ride is considered one of the highest blessings, and many see it as a sign that they have earned the favor of the gods.


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