The Sharp-Feathered Fox

Intended Difficulty: Easy/Medium

In dense forests, hunters have come across a unique species of canine. They resemble foxes but are much larger and leaner, with disproportionately longer front legs. Oddest of all, the back of their necks are adorned with colorful feathers. With their elongated limbs, they are able to pluck the feathers from their back, at which point they become as hard and heavy as steel. They will then throw their feathers at predators and prey alike.

Muddled Ancestry.

It is unclear where the Sharp-feathered Fox originated. Some think a fox ate a magical bird and absorbed its power. Others believe one day a fox disturbed a nature spirit and was afflicted with an abnormality, which passed on to its offspring. Regardless of lineage, the beast has made a mark of its own. As they their population has increased, they have migrated to more and more forested areas. While they are still extremely elusive, the chances of seeing on by happenstance increase daily.

Trophies.

Sharp-feathered foxes are often hunted for two reasons. First, the extra challenge of taking down a beast that can attack from the same distance as a ranged hunter. Second, their feathers make for valuable trophies. Not only is it proof that one was able to conquer the beast, but if plucked shortly after death, a feather will still harden into a unique, colorful weapon. They are no bigger than a dagger, but their shape is ideal for throwing, and in terms of “design” there are few weapons that can match its beauty.

Nature’s Splendor.

The plumage of this beast ranges in cooler colors. Deep ocean blue, royal Roman purple, bubbling acid green—all appear almost fluorescent across the nape of the feathered canines. But there is one species that is decorated in contrast to the majority. It is so rare that some consider it to be an omen. The red-feathered fox, with feathers so red they appear have been dipped in blood, is a true treasure of nature.