CONSIDERABLE

To an outsider from beyond the shores of Karadas, a Terap would appear similar to a common stag beetle found in the woodlands of Europe, with a shiny domed shell, six spiny legs, and tremendous mandibles. But the comparison ends there. Teraps grow up to eight feet in length and can weigh as much as a large blacksmith’s anvil. Despite their daunting appearance, they are surprisingly passive creatures. Be on your guard, however. If overly taunted or threatened, Teraps are known to turn unexpectedly. Once riled, they are almost impossible to pacify, and can inflict devastating injuries to an adversary.

COMPANIONS

Having encountered one another in the Wilandro Jungle many years ago, Terap and the Borini now work together for the greater good of both species. Teraps use a series of transparent cords within their jaws to produce tapping and clicking sounds. Over time, the Borini were able to decipher these sounds to allow clear communication between the two.

A warrior in training will be paired with a Terap from an early age to enable a close bond to form. The giant beetles are at their happiest when saddled and mounted, and will easily carry food, supplies, and weaponry when scouting the local territories or undertaking covert missions further afield.

ATTRIBUTES

Teraps are highly intelligent and quick to learn instructions. They combine unmistakable affection and loyalty, with bravery and a fierce capacity to protect their allies at all costs. As well as possessing fearsome weaponry, Teraps are incredibly strong and can travel at breathtaking speeds when evading danger or wading into a fight. They combine remarkable pace with extraordinary stamina to match even the most impressive stallion.

While all Teraps are endowed with serrated mandibles, a handful are also blessed with impressive horns. These distinctive, sometimes green or red specimens are reserved for the most impressive warriors in the community. Ultra-rare Teraps boasting three horns will only ever be paired with a Royal Guard; the chosen few tasked with personally protecting the Borini Queen. Unfortunately, tri-horn numbers are on the decline. They are in danger of becoming extinct in the near future.

FEEDING

An excellent sense of smell allows a Terap to sniff out all manner of foodstuffs. In the wild, anything from fungus, rotting tree stumps, leaves, fallen fruit, and bark make up their diet—even a fresh animal carcass, occasionally. However, with many Teraps now domesticated and living among the Borini within the city of Galenta, they have grown increasingly fond of sugar bread, and will happily drink a gallon of lemon water in one sitting.

RELATIONS

A smaller, more elusive species of Terap exists around the south-eastern fringes of Giants’ Wood. They are said to be particularly unfriendly. The Narook consider them a major nuisance, especially when they band together under the cover of darkness, raiding the farming region of Silverfields, stripping entire fields of crop and causing widespread damage.