Species Name: Aelin'dalor
Challenge Rating: 5
Submitted by Tul
Description:The Aelin'dalor, a majestic avian entity, stands as a manifestation of the eternal cycle of water. Enshrouded in the mists and veils of rainclouds, its form remains elusive to the eyes, save for the rare moments when the skies clear, revealing its imposing silhouette riding the thermals, poised as if in search of the next tempest to call home.
Cultural Significance:Within the lore of elvish communities, the Aelin'dalor symbolizes the balance and renewal found within nature's cycles. Its presence heralds the coming of rains and the rejuvenation of lands, making it a revered and honored creature among those attuned to the elements.
Habitat:The Aelin'dalor roams the skies above vast expanses of open waters, preferring regions where the air is laden with moisture and storms brew with intensity. It is seldom seen in lands far from the influence of the sea, for its essence is deeply intertwined with the aquatic realms.
Size:Comparable to the mythological Roc, the Aelin'dalor boasts an impressive wingspan, casting a formidable shadow upon the earth below.
Biome Role:As a guardian of the waters, the Aelin'dalor plays a crucial role in maintaining the delicate equilibrium of aquatic ecosystems. Its presence influences weather patterns, ensuring the sustenance of life and the vitality of the natural world.
Life Cycle:Born from the union of oceanic currents and the elemental energies of stormy skies, the Aelin'dalor undergoes a cyclical journey of rebirth, mirroring the perpetual flow of water. Upon reaching the end of its lifespan, it plunges into the depths, where it is consumed by the currents, within a year a fledgling Aelin'dalor will emerge on a coastal shore or small island where it will hunt and grow for a season before taking to the air. The Aelin'dalor is said to never land again until its death once it leaves its nesting ground.
Resources:The feathers shed by the Aelin'dalor possess potent magical properties, sought after by those versed in the arcane arts for their ability to enhance spells and rituals to effect the weather, mostly to summon rain.
Notable Features:
- Aquatic Aura: A shimmering aura envelops the Aelin'dalor, imbuing it with an ethereal presence that resonates with the tranquility of calm waters, if one were to ride on the back of an Aelin'dalor even within a maelstrom one would experience only minor weather.
- Tempestuous Plumage: Its feathers, adorned with hues of azure and silver, and can be shook free to cascade like raindrops only to cut you to pieces like swords.
Born of water's essence, the Aelin'dalor commands the power of storms and tides, channeling its magic to manipulate the elements with finesse akin to the dance of the waves. Druids who imprint upon this majestic creature gain understanding of storm-based spells and the ability to sense weather systems within 100 miles of their location
Minor Merit:Yes
100 XP - Minor Ability:Hydrokinetic Flight - The Aelin'dalor can manipulate water currents to enhance its aerial maneuvers, granting it unparalleled agility and speed in flight.
250 XP - Major Ability:Aquatic Stormcall - With a thunderous cry that echoes across the skies, the Aelin'dalor summons forth a raging tempest, commanding the forces of wind and rain to assail its foes with ferocious intensity.