General Ophern InformationOpherns are a species engineered by the scientific minds of the Rekene Empire, specifically designed to aid in the colonization of Endymion - the 'Dark Planet' - as vehicles would not function on the surface, so the Explorers needed a different form of transportation. They are intelligent, hardy animals that form tight bonds with their handlers/riders.
While the colonization of the planet is only in an early stage, it is expected that Opherns will become an important part of the newly-formed society, and will remain useful as beasts of burden and transportation long after the planet has been explored. All Opherns, no matter their breed, have a pair of wings, two legs, a tail, neck, head, antennae, and a partially-plated body. Their stomachs are covered in a soft, velvety hide that is vulnerable to bladed weapons and the claws of wild animals; Explorers are recommended to create equipment to protect this weak spot before dealing with any dangerous animals. |
Diet: Omnivorous. Can eat pretty much anything. Individuals appear to have their own preferences for food. Size: varies depending on breed, but are large enough to ride. Lifespan: 50-60 years with proper care Intelligence level: Non-sentient, but still quite clever. They are able to recognize their own reflections and appear to have a complex system of communication, made up of a mix of chirps, grunts, bugles, roars, hisses, and purrs. The 'talkativeness' of an Ophern seems to depend on the individual, however; some have 'conversations' with their handlers, while some only vocalize in response to pain. |
Their blood is bright yellow and has an intensely unpleasant scent meant to deter predators. Explorers are advised that Ophern blood washes off clothing easily with a little warm water. Ophern teeth are structured after many species of canines found on Earth, such as wolves and bears, structured for grinding, cutting, and tearing, allowing them to chew tough plants and scaled meat.
There are a few mutations that may present themselves due to the wide variety of DNA used in the creation of Opherns; none of these are harmful, but the Thorny mutation renders riding an uncomfortable experience without a padded saddle. Some may even prove to provide an advantage when dealing with aggressive wildlife, though this has not yet been tested.
There are a few mutations that may present themselves due to the wide variety of DNA used in the creation of Opherns; none of these are harmful, but the Thorny mutation renders riding an uncomfortable experience without a padded saddle. Some may even prove to provide an advantage when dealing with aggressive wildlife, though this has not yet been tested.
Fey OphernsThe Fey are the first breed of Opherns, sent with the initial wave of explorers to help colonize the planet. They are the 'fighter ships' of their species, with unmatched speed and maneuverability.
Fey Opherns require a lot of exercise and engagement to stay happy and healthy, tending to become a bit troublesome if bored. Regular exploration missions, however, should be enough to keep them entertained and not snatching valuable equipment to make their handler run after them. A major weakness of the Fey Opherns is their lack of insulation; they have no blubber or fur, and can't handle cold temperatures for long. Thankfully, the continent the explorers are on now is tropical, but some people on the ground have been working on equipment that will provide some warmth and allow even cooler climates to be explored. |