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What is a Forest Guardian?
A Forest Guardian is an ungulated equine (Odd-Toed equine) that roams dense forests. These creatures are, mostly, seen with no mane and have a docked tail. Although, rumor has it that there have been sightings of maned and tailed Guardians roaming about these woods! Most Guardians often have natural markings, however, a handful of Guardians have off coloration and might even posses horns! A Guardian ranges between 18-25 hh (hand height) and 415-500 lbs. They have powerful hindlegs that are used for lunging, galloping, and kicking. Their jaws are setup similar to that of a horse.
Forest Guardians mat be wild equines, however, they have almost never attacked anyone that has approached one. These creatures have often been seen "protecting" something, usually an object or a statue or something of that same nature. A Guardian only attacks if it feels threatened, if it is injured, or if something is trying to get to the object it is protecting. Despite it's protective nature, these creatures are rather friendly and playful.
Forest Guardians are usually found alone or in small Herds of between 8-12 Guardians per Herd. These Herds are often spotted in forest clearings or in the wooded areas of mountains. A Herd was once spotted near ancient ruins, however, the Herd has since migrated and has not been seen since. Hopefully the Herd will return again.
A Forest Guardian is an herbivore, meaning it eats plants and other vegetation. They are often seen making a meal of berries and mushrooms and even leaves. If a Guardian is willing, it will use rocks or rear on its hind legs to reach leaves from trees.
A Forest Guardian's behavior can be easily read by facial and bodily expressions:
- Ears up; Interested, Curious, Happy, Content
- Ears down/flopped; Submissive, Scared, Worried
- Ears parallel to ground/back; Angry, Defensive, Warning
- Head high; Happy, Content, Excited
- Leaning forward; Curious, Interested
- Head tucked against neck; Submissive, Backing Off
- Head low to ground; Defensive, Angry
- Light hoof stomping; Happy, Excited, Curious
- Hard hoof stomping; Angry, Defensive, Warning
Forest Guardians communicate by whinnying, grunting, "roaring", and snorting. Based on the tone of the Guardian, other Guardians will pick up on what mood each other are in.