Rangurat

Wyverns are dominant along the Ludwagian continent but are noticeably absent on Kahursa Island. Indeed, beasts that fly are comparatively rare- especially above the treeline. This absence can be directly traced to a single animal, the Rangurat. A beast of truly mythical notoriety; feared by the local and invasive forces present on the island. Their mere presence slows the Umbusan war machine as they’re one of the few creatures rumored to be able to fell an armor-clad giant by themselves. For this they’re spitefully hated by the Umbusan occupants but have garnered significant cultural support from the local natives. The Rangurat, symbol of freedom and defiance against the southern imperial power.

#### Physiology and Anatomy

A giant species of eagle, the Rangurat are endemic exclusively to the Kahursa island. Most of their anatomy is identical to their smaller cousins albeit significantly larger than any known raptor recorded. Despite their enormous size they’re impeccably fast fliers, soaring along the aircurrent at speeds that outpace Wyvern and mage alike; only the greatest of Aeromancers have a chance of catching them. Their gale-inducing wings can knock lesser fliers or projectiles asunder, doom awaiting them as they plummet toward the earth. Rangurat can remain aloft for days at a time by soaring along the high aircurrents but may only be in active pursuit for short stints. Even in these brief incursions of activity they’re incredibly devastating and may recuperate quickly either through a glide or by taking roost at an elevated position.

Upon the Rangurat’s head sit a set of feathers which form orange-yellow eyebrows. These feathers are vitorically charged beyond more mundane beasts- rivaling lesser Draconomorphs like Drakes in power. Through their brows they conduct the whims of **electromancy**, able to fire bolts of electricity from between the two at ampages akin to ***Master Electromancers***. Their conductive feathers also absorb incoming electrical and weather-based attacks, enabling the Rangurat to redirect them at its leisure. Like Electromancers, they possess the ability to alter storm patterns but to a greater extent than a typical master. Indeed, their mood seems to stimulate the localized weather patterns; rage of course causing the frightful thunder storms they’re known for.

*(If the Rangurat’s feathers are collected, they will have shed some of their vitoric properties. Only able to impede the strikes of Expert Level electromancy attacks.)*

As the island's top-order predator, little is safe from the Rangurats’ appetite. They feed on all that they can get their powerful talons and beaks around, instilling a fear felt by all creatures found on the island. Their feeding habits are clear as they craft their nests of the expelled bone and debris they collect amidst their hunts. Rangurat have few chicks but they’re born strong albeit flightless. Even a newborn is an obstacle for most predators. A Rangurat chick is covered in hyperconductive feathers. When disturbed or threatened, they can charge these feathers with an array of shocks to dissuade further attack. Shed Rangurat chick feathers -though they become magically inert- are a common form of jewelry amongst the locals on account of their gold-like sheen.

#### Psychology

Rangurat are solitary birds who only pair up to nest; usually between the spring and summer months. Normally they’re territorial and will attack other Rangurat in violent storm-inducing bouts. These fights are rarely fatal though leave nasty injuries. During their nesting season the two parents will take turns foraging and defending the nest from egg thieves like the Hamurot. Rangurat naturally prefer the larger animals of the island as prey though will settle for anything should their preference not be met. Recently, Umbusan Giants have become part of their diet on account of their large size and relative ease to happen across.

Contrary to propaganda, Rangurat are intelligent birds capable of forming complex hunting strategies. Individual birds have ‘styles’ of hunting that reflect the available prey within their territory. Like the weather, Rangurat can be extremely unpredictable. Interactions with sapient races are reportedly few, however myth from the island locals suggests that they have had frequent and often catastrophic reactions to when those on the ground attempt to push to the heavens. Rangurat do appear able to recall individual organisms and persons and attribute reasonable cause to them. As seen in certain individuals, grudges and bitterness can often lead to intentional attacks without the need for sustenance. A reason why the locals chose to leave them in peace.