Ketsoma

Among the swamp denizens there’s no creature more irritating than the Ketsoma. Though its food-motivated nature often puts it at odds with farmers and merchants, it’s equally mentioned endearingly as a cheeky trickster. Whatever opinion they may have they can both agree that the Ketsoma presents a unique challenge to any swamp adventurer. Though they’re gluttony can make them seem nonthreatening, a Ketsoma shouldn’t be underestimated. Many a-time have they sewn the fate of less-than-prepared adventurers who took them for granted.

#### Physiology and Anatomy

The Ketsoma are active reptiles with an unusually high metabolism. This metabolism lets them be incredibly active at the cost of a near endless desire to eat. Ketsoma are both nimble and agile, swinging through the mangroves on their long arms. On the ground they gallop on all fours, easily closing the distance with any humanoid. Webbed feet keep them from sinking in mud as they run along the marshland, making them largely unimpeded by their swamp home. Their claws are also designed with the intent to keep them above the surface, whether it be hooking into branches or the dotted pockets of solid terrain on the marsh-floor.

Though their teeth may suggest a diet strictly of flesh, the Ketsoma are true omnivores. They implore the many fruits of the canopy which few can compete with. They’re not particularly strong or durable which makes active hunting of large game unideal, instead Ketsoma opt to harass smaller creatures into giving up their meals. When it comes to sapient races they’re inclined to harass, often putting them at odds with the blades they carry. Recently as the water level has shifted Ketsoma have begun to prey on fish from the riverbanks. Ultimately, the Ketsoma can rely on a varied palette to mitigate the hunger it endures.

Ketsoma develop a great number of spikes and spines along their backs and arms. These aren’t for defense as one might expect but are distinctly display structures. Male Ketsoma have larger spikes than their female counterparts, the largest typically favored as fathers. Keeping these spikes in pristine condition is seen as a symbol of status and advertises the fitness of the male. By contrast, shedding or damaging them demonstrates his inability. Though males typically advertise their strength, on occasion they must prove their worth in a more physical manner. Male Ketsoma have developed their lower canines into sharp tusks which are almost universally used in fights between other males.

#### Psychology

Ketsoma are social creatures, dwelling in ‘squabbles’ of up to ten individuals. They’re led by a lead male who can often be apparent by his larger size and or tusks. These groups are less than organized, the lead male must constantly check his underlings to ensure that none attempt to usurp him. Some Ketsoma choose to do this through force, literally beating submission from his followers. Others choose a different approach, grooming and sharing food to win over support diplomatically. Individual squabbles will vary to the extent that these methods are used but typically finding a balance as to be too polar would result in rebellion.

Ketsoma aren’t particularly intelligent and certainly aren’t openly friendly toward sapient races. They don’t favor active confrontation but may harass individuals, kill livestock, or steal food. Repeat offenders often garner a resentment from swamp locals, as should a lead Ketsoma take part in these actions it may encourage others to do the same. Ketsoma do avoid urban areas or places with an abundance of fire as either are alien to them.