{__About the Faytal__}
A large book bound in a strange scale-like material sits on the table. It smells strangely of straw, almost like a barnyard. Filled with curiosity, you crack it open...
Faytal (Equus crocus) are one of the indiginous species of Avryn. They are probably one of the best known species in the world due to their large role in transportation.
Faytal are naturally strong creatures, having survived alone in the mountain cliffs of Avryn since their creation. Because of the amount of climbing, they grew very strong back limbs. Also, Faytal are known for having built their nests high on the cliffs, and have developed stronger backs so that they may carry food up to their offspring.
Since they had been discovered carrying food draped over their backs, the idea came up for Faytal to carry humanoid riders. However, this placed somewhat of a problem. Female faytal are extremely protective of their offspring, and can become violent towards any trespasser in their domain. Even if a female Faytal is not raising young, they are very territorial. The females are the larger of the two genders in the species, especially in muscle mass, and often have featurs such as spikes and larger claws. It is assumed that these features were developed so that females could defend the nests while the males were out hunting or scavenging, as the mountains are full of predatory monsters.
The males of the Faytal species are smaller and more docile. In fact, all riding Faytal are males, due to their gentler nature. Many females, however, also have been domesticated so that breeding herds could be made. The females lay eggs that can number anywhere from two to five per litter. So that the females do not become overly violent to the herd or to human handlers, the eggs are taken away in the first moments upon laying, so that the female does not have time to develop a brooding instinct. Several injuries and deaths have been related to breeders not removing the eggs soon enough.
Faytal are very useful for transportation not only because of their strength, but because of their endurance. Living up in the mountains with inclement weather means that they can go for up to a week without food. They also adjust well to climate changes, having inhabited all altitudes. Faytal are also omnivores, meaning that they are much easier to find food for in the wild. They can travel for long distances without tiring, and are good at jumping and traversing rough terrain.
If you are looking for a good mount for a long trip, I'd definitely suggest renting or purchasing a Faytal. However, due to recent droughts and some instances of hunting, Faytal are beginning to go extinct. Perhaps if we had some more breeders, then maybe their population may increase.
