The Hexby Handbook

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig][size=9]T[/tface][/size]he [tface=callig][size=9]H[/tface][/size]axby

[tface=callig]H[/tface]andbook
[tface=callig]T[/tface]he [tface=callig]O[/tface]ghman [tface=callig]Y[/tface]mphozoological [tface=callig]r[/tface]ecord [tface=callig]o[/tface]f [tface=callig]s[/tface]pecies [tface=callig]i[/tface]n [tface=callig]r[/tface]esponse [tface=callig]t[/tface]o [tface=callig]t[/tface]he [tface=callig]e[/tface]xtinction [tface=callig]l[/tface]evel [tface=callig]e[/tface]vent [tface=callig]o[/tface]f [tface=callig]1378[/tface] [tface=callig]D[/tface]. [tface=callig]R[/tface]


[tface=callig]P[/tface]rofessor [tface=callig]C[/tface].  [tface=callig]R[/tface]. [tface=callig]H[/tface]axby
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[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]F[/tface]orward:[tface=callig]B[/tface]iotic [tface=callig]C[/tface]risis.

It is difficult to put into words the horror felt in the wake of Hammer 23rd. Many, such as the bard "Ivan the Godless" of the Ziggurat took it upon themselves to descend into rampant nihilism and denounce the gods themselves. A not uncommon biological response to an entire species extinction.

By standard definition an extinction level event sits in the wake of a cataclysm the likes of which mankind has difficulty comprehending. For simple reference one can consider the collapse of the Netherese Empire such an occurrence on a smaller scale, in which an entire global presence was erased and magic as it was known marred forever. Walking the soil of Ymph it is impossible not to feel the dread that Ivan describes as almost every sentient being descends to madness in the wake of the artificial catastrophe designed by the Lich H'bala.

This biotic crisis known as the Withering has brought about sweeping change in sentient behavior, migration patterns, predatory food chains, and ultimately every aspect of life. Morality has become a shifting measure not of good done in the world but aiding others in not perishing as swiftly as they would without such aid. The human notion of heroism has been erased and in its place a macabre sense of self preservation has taken hold.

Dwelling amongst the last human settlement of the Isle of Ymph I write this piece with singular purpose:

The preservation of Ymph's legacy, in ecosystem and sentient being.

It has been my hope for near a decade and in this decade I have come to love the exotic jungle fauna and the isolated strains of mating that have lead to some of the most beautiful and wondrous creatures I have ever had privilege to lay eyes upon. Now I watch as humans descend into madness, survival comes at all cost, and I fear it shall be the wildlife of Ymph that bears the brunt. For in the wake of extinction humanity is capable of anything if threatened.

From the rationalistic perspective it is all one species can do when it is threatened by extinction to survive by any and all means available.  Humanity has fallen from the apex predator status and instead struggles for its very existence in a matter of three long years of stasis, emerging to a harsh fact of mortality as a species at large.

The high sentient beings will destroy Ymph itself if it is compelled, on the off chance that they may continue to thrive as species.

And it is the low sentient beings that shall be eliminated first.

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[tface=callig]I[/tface]ndex:[/font][/b]

Aberdenn Tracking Hound[/list]

Ymphian Firefly[/list]

Island Grey Wolf[/list]

Island Dire Wolf[/list]

Ymphian Black Bear[/list]

Prismatic Cockatoo[/list]

Wild Deer[/list]

Ymphian Saber Tiger[/list]

Ymphian Boar[/list]

Ymphian Falcon[/list]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]T[/tface]he [tface=callig]A[/tface]berdenn [tface=callig]T[/tface]racking [tface=callig]H[/tface]ound

Born and bred for survival upon the Ymphian island, this domesticated hound has been bred by the Clan of Aberdenn for the sole purpose of surviving a hostile and jungle environment. With a ferocity more inclined toward the canines such as larger wolves this remarkable specimen is unafraid to leap into the fray against panther, Orc, or other foes that a hunting party may encounter.

Be it by chance or by purpose, the unique breeding of these hounds has resulted in a distinctive Aberdenn oak and blonde fur in streamilined patterns, something of a walking emblem of the Clan Aberdenn. For as with many companions it is said they begin to over time take on the traits of their masters and in this case it seems even color itself takes this into account.

Fiercely loyal and resistant to a variety of magics this creature is not one to leave it's companion's side and through the generations of breeding is a boonservant to the Clan of Aberdenn, ensuring that it without pause, may trek and hunt and forage throughout the dangerous Ymphian wildlands.

Specially bred for downing the hostile fauna of the Ymphian jungle this hound has developed instinct for battling foes larger than it, working in tandem with their companion or other hounds in pursuit of laying it low. That the vitals of the prey's throat may be ripped out with powerful canine jaw.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]Y[/tface]mphian [tface=callig]F[/tface]irefly

A stunning little creature with few local abnormalities, the most resounding shift of the Ymphian born is its vibrant cerulean bioluminescence.  Rarely found beyond the Mist, it is entirely possible these floating gems have been influenced in some way or another. It is not unheard of for foreign characteristics to develop based upon habitat and there are few more curious than these mists.

With the reports of psychotic episode amongst the deeper regions it is entirely possible that the Firefly itself -is- still the traditional glowing and vibrant hue of green, and it is merely our minds being tampered with by ancient knowledge or presence within the mist to appear another color. Though it is often times fun to consider such lengthy strains on what is known it is often a fool's errand.

More likely than not some sort of fungus or flora native to the Forgotten Forest and Forlorn Underwood has developed within it this beautiful hue after feasting upoin it.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]I[/tface]sland [tface=callig]G[/tface]rey [tface=callig]W[/tface]olf

Shorter and leaner than the manliand counterpart, the Ymphian Grey Wolf is a cunning predator that I had the displeasure of being ambushed during a forray into the Crossroads of the Forlorn Underwood.

Operating in numbers with supreme tactics to hunt prey of all shape and scope, it is clear to see how such a creature developed locally. Given the underbrush and the jungle terrain of Ymph a cumbersome hunter cannot so easily dash and dart through the brush. Developing shorter, squatter legs and a leaner musculature it has allowed the Grey Wolves of Ymph to develop as one of the more common threats to humans amongst the animal kingdom.

Attacking cattle, caravan, and the wayward Ymphozoologist who gets enveloped in his study of the Ymphian Firefly, these creatures can be found in and out of the mist. It should be noted though that it is a quickly declining species as the Maiden's forces have been seen with undead wolves in tow.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]I[/tface]sland [tface=callig]D[/tface]ire [tface=callig]W[/tface]olf

Amongst the wolves of Ymph the fiercest and strongest survive. Bred with a leg up above the more common fare these massive animals resemble closely their mainland counterpart. The largest difference would have to be that in attempt to dominate the canine food chain these creatures have developed for the Ymphian habitat an elongated snout capable of snapping stick, shield, and even bone in pursuit of wounding its prey.

Orchestrating in tandem with the hit and run tactics of the Island Grey Wolf, the direwolves of Ymph operate on par with field commanders, using a variety of howls to guide the malicious pack instinct of the brutal fare. With a larger more powerful frame it is easily discernable from the island grey wolf by the streak down its back common of dire creature, and the fact that it stands nearly twice as tall.

In the typical pack hierarchy it can be expected to see a trio of Dire wolves in tandem for every five island wolves, though the size of such packs are exceedingly rare in the wake of the Biotic Crisis. If such is encountered it is typically driven by an outlaying force.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]Y[/tface]mphian [tface=callig]B[/tface]lack [tface=callig]B[/tface]ear

A sizable omnivore of typically docile nature, the Black Bear of Ymph is a forestdwelling counterpart of the Mainland ursine. With a distinctive muzzle of brown capped with a black nose, massive black paws capped with uniquely shaped claws, and a prolific sense of smell.

While smaller than its cave or mountain alternatives, the Black Bear is a common sight amongst the Forlorn Underwood and often a favored prey for those who desire a greater challenge than simply hunting deer. I had the privledge to come upon such a creature within the Springs of Mistlocke, fishing with the river tear's tributaries before it attempted to run me down. No doubt presuming me a predator coming to collect its catch of fish or follow it to its nest to locate its young.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]P[/tface]rismatic [tface=callig]C[/tface]ockatoo

A beautiful creature with a distinctive and echoing squawk, the Ymphian Cockatoo is a sublime avian with abundant and astonishing plumage. Favored by some of society for their ecclectic feathers, a true admirer knows that far more treasured is the mimicing sounds of the jungle such a creature can produce.

When unstartled it, like a young child, is able to pick up upon the phrases of the living or the calls of nature itself. Many times I have wondered if the call of other animals- wolves, toads, or even roars of a Ymphian Saber Tiger can be mimiced by such a prolific vocalist.

Surely such wonders of sentience, or at least a mockery there of, is worth far more than one's coat slathered in feathers. The possibilities are numerous and I am left with boundless curiousity- Could a series of these wonderous birds be used to replace the sendings of Muskroot, for more clandestine messages passed from one bird to the next, until it reached a designated individual?[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]W[/tface]ild [tface=callig]D[/tface]eer

Although one of the most common of game, the Ymphian Deer has developed an increased muscule sculpting in some of the swiftest albeit illconcieved places upon the world. One would easily imagine that it was in the vast veldts of the plains or the wide opened hills that the swiftest creatures would dwell. However mistaken they may be the Ymphian Deer is swift beyond compare.

After all, when one is the most hunted meat in one of the most hospitable and frontier lands as Ymph was...coupled with an increase since the Biotic Crisis began, you are left with one of the swiftest sentinet creatures in existence.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]Y[/tface]mphian [tface=callig]S[/tface]aber [tface=callig]T[/tface]iger

Pound for pound one of the most terrifying creatures to encounter amongst the mountainous wilds, the Ymphian Saber Tiger is a pristine and preserved relic of a time long past. When it was not the wisened but the primal that ruled the lands.

With glistening and massive fangs, cripplingly strong paws, and unparalleled hunting prowess the Saber Tiger is the stuff of legend. A novice huntsman's nightmare, an explorer's bane, and an overwhelming force of raw natural sinew.

From what has been discerned there is an entire tribe of Stargazer, prolific hunters and warriors who emulate this massive beast. No doubt worthy if both the primal and civilized alike gift is such resounding acclaim as a gruesome beast.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]Y[/tface]mphian [tface=callig]B[/tface]oar

Along the aberdenn farmplots I discovered a rather sizable boar rooting around. Attempting to break into the fence for foliage, though I know not which morsel it desired so.

With the constant struggle to preserve the life of the withering, the Ymphian Boar has grown in prize and promise amongst the Forlorn Underwood. With its mainland cousin's ability for root grubbing and mushroom hunting, many have taken to attempting to grow the boar in pursuit of the Sylvan Dryroot.

A unique creature, few have ever been able to understand how such roots can be so easily found by their snouts, as all attempts with hound and otherwise have lead to no result as confident or as sure as the Boar.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]Y[/tface]mphian [tface=callig]F[/tface]alcon

A majestic creature and superb hunting avian, this bird of prey matches its mainland counterparts pound for pound in both cunning and speed. The largest difference would be the rate at which the Ymphian Falcon has been driven to canibalizing other birds, with the quantity of small mamals decreasing since the Biotic Crisis.

With abundant brown feathers, a crested head, and a sharpened yellow beak the falcon is easily discerned by its unique shriek and its wingspan less than an eagles, but more jagged than a common bird such as a raven.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]Y[/tface]mphian [tface=callig]S[/tface]and [tface=callig]S[/tface]pider

Feasting upon crabs, seabird, and anything that it can manage to bring down, the Ymphian Sand Spider is oft to dwell within the small cavernous holes dug in the sand.

Swarming a target with a moderate poison, the disruption of such a nest can cause a horrific encounter for a novice adventurer. One well prepared though can fend the swarms with ease, allowing easy traversing of any costal environment.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]R[/tface]ock [tface=callig]B[/tface]eetle

A particularly irksome vermin, the Rock Beetle is a common nuisance amongst underground construction. Utilizing it's potent acidic glands it is able to burrow with great ferocity into the most solid of earth and stone. Many claim similarly that there are potential healing qualities to the glands, though few can say for certain.

What is universally accepted however is amongst the world of infestations it is a particularly crippling one, able to potentially topple an entire keep if undisturbed.[/font][/b]

[Random_White_Guy]

[tface=callig]T[/tface]he [tface=callig]W[/tface]ild [tface=callig]O[/tface]rc

Overlooking the obvious flaw as I have never seen a "Non-Wild" Orc...A brash and savage species, the Wild Orc of Ymph presents a stark comparison to many of its mainland cousins. For the isle of Ymph lends no compassion to the normal, let alone the monsterous seeking survival. Though gone are the days of vast tribes sweeping through the mountains, in the wake of the biotic crisis they have been pushed to the bring of survival. Unlike the Humans lacking the grace of the Mist, the Wild Orc persists to dwell within the mountains battling regularly the Maiden's forces.

A variety of totemic and ritualistic tribes lay scattered across the Ymphian peaks, though on rare occasion will they descend to bring mayhem or seek refuge within the Mist. With the gruesome Chosen of Graathmar, the vile Bloodhowler, the gruesome Whiteclaw, and a variety of other ritualistically enhanced warriors an entire compendium can, and shall be drafted on the Wild Orcs of Ymph.[/font][/b]