29-04-2023, 11:36 PM
An Observational Report on Maalraas - By Acolyte [REDACTED]
Maalraas, or Nighthunters, are medium sized predators native to the moon Dxun. I will begin by describing the creature’s anatomy, physiology, transition into behaviors, ending with first hand observations and hypotheses. As always, should future information become available, I will return to update this document as needed.
The Maalraas grow to an average length of two meters. They are hairless ranging in color from bright red to dark brown, although white ones are reported to have been seen in the past. Glowing yellow to orange eyes, elongated ears, and large teeth protruding from the mouth. Their necks are elongated as well, quite muscular, more akin to a fifth limb, this allows them considerable flexibility. They are a quadruped with taloned feet, five claws on each limb in the front, three talons on each limb in the back. The tail is long and thin, whip-like. The skin is a thick leathery hide, resistant to lightsabers and presumably blasters as well.
Maalraas are carnivorous predators, Cannoks and other smaller prey their primary source of food. The most noteworthy ability of the Maalraas, no doubt earning them the name Nighthunters, is a limited use of the Force to cloak themselves. They are not only able to visually conceal themselves, but this ability makes them even harder to detect with senses as well. They are exceptionally fast allowing them to quickly overtake their prey before they have the opportunity to react.
Maalraas by all accounts, and observations, are pack hunters. Although non-sentient, they show enough intelligence to coordinate attacks. The ability to sneak up on prey, when engaged they maneuver themselves to surround their targets. Even going so far as to assist one another when in danger. The overpowered and injured Maalraas will disengage and attempt to retreat using their camouflage ability.
Following our hunt and subsequent capture of these beasts I observed that they were particularly amiable to Neophyte Zynn’s attempts to bond with them. Now this of course could simply be a reflection of my lord’s exceptional skills, but I hypothesize that as natural pack hunters, domestication and bonding will naturally be a much easier process. These beasts will have exceptional applications for stealth missions, particularly for assassinating enemy force users. One need simply engage the enemy head on, while your companion Maalraas uses their ability to flank your enemy and move in for the kill.
A large paddock will be required, plenty of room for the Maalraas to run, with jungle foliage to make them feel more comfortable. As pack animals we should keep them under careful observation to determine whether or not the beasts will fight among themselves to establish an alpha. Overall our hunt was a success, acquiring five out of the six specimens encountered. Three were injured, one having a front paw nearly completely severed, another with a large superficial cut, one appeared to cough up blood so examination to fix any internal injuries must be our first priority. We managed to acquire three females and two males so once they are settled in, breeding can begin.
This concludes my initial report.
Force Serve,
-Acolyte [REDACTED]