Post by ThreeDawg on Dec 10, 2012 12:33:59 GMT -5
Imperial Bestiary.
Introduction:
In this book I shall describe, in as clear yet little a detail as possible, a selection of the various species of Nirn (and some of different realms). I will begin with beasts of semi-sentience, or that could be considered Betmeri but for the sake of cataloguing I have not, so for the sake of those without years training amongst scholars I will group them into "Humanoids". I shall then proceed to those species considered beasts, starting with "Mammalian" beasts, then "Reptilian" beasts, "Amphibious" beasts, "Aquatic" beasts, "Avian" beasts and finally a sum of Insects, Arachnids and other arthropods catalogued under "Terrestrial Arthropods".
After I have handled the more mundane species I shall explain, with similarly detailed descriptions, groups of other more monstrous beings or creations beginning with: beings of "Magical" origins, "Lycanthrope" types, "Undead" beings, artificial "Constructs" and finally a group labelled as "Other" for the sake of cataloguing (and keeping this book to one volume!).
Humanoid:
Ogre;
Found in: Cyrodiil, High Rock, Orsinium and Hammerfell (Eastern).
Ogres are a species of Humanoid native to western Cyrodiil, High Rock and eastern Hammerfell. They are dim-witted creatures, forming tribes that scrounge survival from cave systems and wilderness ruins. They have been known to raid villages or farmland when desperate and are openly hostile during these encounters and if they find you within their territory. Ogres are barely civilized, having rudimentary tool usage and the ability to manufacture sparse clothing like loincloths or sandals as well as packs and pouches. They also appear to worship the Daedric Prince Malacath and have been integrated into the Orc kingdom of Orsinium to some extent.
Ogres are a fierce opponent in combat, hitting heavy and staggering all but the largest combatants with their meaty fists. They are slow, however, and sluggish to respond in combat. This means that once an Ogre has struck once, it is usually quite simple to dispatch them in melee as long as you don't get hit first. Ranged combatants should have no problem, provided they can keep distance from the Ogre party or dispatch them quick enough. An Ogre capable enough to use a longbow is rare.
Goblin;
Found in: Cyrodiil, Morrowind (Mainland), High Rock, Orsinium and Hammerfell (Eastern).
Goblins are a Humanoid species sometimes referred to as Goblin-kin along with Ogres, Gremlins and Orcs. They are native to the region of Cyrodiil and main-land Morrowind, with sparse populations existing in High Rock and eastern Hammerfell. They are found in large tribes inhabiting underground cave systems that they usually dig out over generations. Goblins have some semblance of culture, manufacturing their own clothing, keeping domesticated giant rats as livestock and fashioning totems and huts from animal parts. Goblins native to Morrowind have also tamed the Durzog as war hounds. Goblins are also renowned for their ability to salvage and use weaponry made by more advanced cultures, including ranged weaponry. Some cultures, including the Altmer, have enslaved or indentured entire Goblin tribes to work on large-scale building projects. The Orcs or Orsimmer have also allied with a number of Goblin tribes, integrating them into the city and culture of Orsinium.
Goblins are notorious for being territorial and hostile. They will go to war with rival Goblin tribes over trivial things and will unrelentingly attack villages that sprout in 'their' territory. As they are prolific breeders, Goblins come in large groups that can be a challenge to overcome alone but with tactics and company they can be dealt with through most means. However be wary of a tribe's Shamans, female Goblins with the magical aptitude to cast spells and even raise the dead, and War leaders, who are usually tribal leaders that are smarter than simple Goblins and armed and armoured.
Gremlin;
Found in: High Rock, Orsinium and Hammerfell.
Gremlins are small, brown-skinned, Humanoids with small heads and large feet. They are completely harmless, having no wish for combat and no ability to effectively wield weaponry or magicks. They can be found alongside Goblin tribes native to High Rock and Hammerfell and are also integrated into the Orc society of Orsinium.
Gremlins are easily dispatched in combat, not that there is any reason to do so. There is a reason that their nickname is 'Orc Rat', they are harmless and do little but scurry underfoot collecting scrap.
Riekling;
Found in: Solstheim.
Rieklings are small blue-skinned Humanoids that bare a similarity to Goblins, in both cultural and physical aspects. However Rieklings are shorter, bulkier and have a culture formed more around hoarding items. Rieklings are found only on the island of Solstheim, where they make their home in natural cave systems in the mountains or in artificial ones they create in glaciers. In these caves you will find all manner of items, usually scattered haphazardly about. Each Riekling has an obsession with hoarding items and as they have no understanding of value, anything from a wooden spoon to a golden statuette is worthy of hoarding. Riekling's are also known to tame and ride the native, and aggressive, Bristleback Boars.
Rieklings alone are easy enough to combat as long as you are armoured enough to resist their primitive weaponry. When in groups however they can overwhelm and flank an opponent, so keep your back to the wall. Also be wary of mounted Rieklings and those armed with throwing spears, they can be quite deadly in their own ways.
Troll;
Found in: All of Tamriel, excludes the arid sections of Hammerfell and Elsweyr.
Trolls are large furred beasts with three eyes, overly long limbs and the strength to match any man. They can be found in almost any region and usually have highly specialised varients for each of these regions. The regular Troll is brown-green and found in most regions of the various provinces. I can barely consider Trolls as Humanoids, but they seem to show some semblance of intelligence in their actions and can even effectively hunt as a pack although they are usually solitary. Trolls have been domesticated by certain groups, most notably the Dawnguard Vampire hunting group of Skyrim who armour and provide wrist-mounted blades for their Trolls.
Trolls are dangerous to combat, they can take and deal a lot of physical damage and usually have a resistance to frost-based spells. Trolls even have remarkable regenerative powers, regenerating cuts or scratches within minutes and even limbs over months. But this regeneration doesn't include regenerating damage from burns and they also take greater damage from fire-based spells and enchantments, remember this when combating Trolls.
Frost Troll;
Found in: Cyrodiil (Northern), High Rock (Northern), Skyrim and Solstheim (Northern).
Frost Trolls are very similar to the other Troll races of Tamriel, however a number of distinctions make them stand out. They are noticeably larger than most Troll species and this is extenuated by their thicker, snow white, furred coat. Frost Trolls are also different in that they have a love of collecting the skulls of their prey and adorning their glacial caves with them. Armoured Frost Trolls are also utilised by Dawnguard forces in combat
When fighting a Frost Troll use similar principles as regular Trolls, however I would focus more on using fire magicks as their cold-bound nature makes them far more vulnerable to it than regular Trolls. Also, I would recommend being more wary of the size of Frost Trolls, they are noticeably larger than regular Trolls.
Swamp Troll;
Found in: Cyrodiil (South-Eastern), Argonia, Valenwood (South-Eastern) and Elsweyr (Southern).
Swamp Trolls are a smaller, but no less dangerous, sub-species of Troll that can be found in the swamps of Cyrodiil, Argonia and Valenwood. They are usually found in cave systems near natural water sources, although are also present along the external water ways leading from these locations. Their fur is greener than the brown of their other Troll cousins and they harbour more diseases and fungal infections in their hide, blood and claws than other varients.
Combating a Swamp Troll is very similar to combating any other Troll species, however take care of any wounds you receive from a Swamp Troll as if they are left to fester even the smallest wound can be fatal.
Grahl;
Found in: Solstheim (Northern).
A Grahl is a creature native to the glacial valleys and caverns of the island of Solstheim. They are known to the locals as 'ice trolls' on occasions but bare little resemblance to actual Trolls. They do however look like a strange cross between Frost Giants and Frost Trolls, which could possibly be a hint at the Grahl being a related or even intermediary species between the two seemingly unrelated species. Possibly a relic population from Solstheim's split from mainland Skyrim. This is all hypotheses however and all you need to know is that a Grahl is usually found alone and deep within their caves.
Fighting a Grahl consists mostly of dodging the heavy swings of its fists or some may utilise salvaged weaponry, makeshift clubs or even the bones or large animals. Their claws are also rather dangerous, with the ability to cleave flesh from the bone, and do not mistake their tusks as mere accessories as they will utilise these in combat too. Fire magicks will be your friend in this fight, as with most life forms native to Solstheim.
Giant;
Found in: Skyrim, (rare) Cyrodiil (Northern), (uncommon) High Rock, Orsinium, (uncommon) Hammerfell (Eastern) and (rare) Morrowind (Northern).
Giants are a species of possibly Betmeri origin , but I will label them as 'Humanoid' due to their societal level, native to Skyrim, northern Cyrodiil, High Rock and the mountains of northern Morrowind . They are known to have a primitive culture that revolves are the domestication of Mammoth herds for use in building their structures, creating clothing, manufacturing jewellery and of course food. Giants tend only to eat their mammoths on special occasions, or when one dies, as they 'milk' their mammoths as most would do with a domesticated Cow or Ox. This milk is then stored and processed in mammoth-hide sacks to create a cheese which forms the staple of their diet.
Giant culture is mostly nomadic and they tend to stay away from other Mortal races, however select individuals have been known to raid villagers or harass supply caravans and even work alongside bandit groups for a cut of their profit. However they hold little need for hard currency, and instead are easily bought off with a bribe of a simple cow. Some giants are capable of learning and speaking some words of the Imperial tongue, which they use when trading their wares with other Mortals.
Giants prefer to stay secluded in their groups, but when aggravated or on the rampage a Giant is a fierce combatant indeed. They utilise primitive clubs formed from the femurs of Mammoths alongside stone (or rarely metal) heads tied by leather straps. These clubs and the accompanying swing is enough to crush in an Orcs ribcage and will perform such a feet on any other mortal. Thus I would suggest a more dexterous hand when fighting Giants, be it dodging around their attacks or using ranged weaponry to take one down. Be warned however that Giants have a high threshold of pain before they retreat or succumb to injury, they will take dozens of arrows before slowing and even magicks are relatively useless against their thick hide.
Frost Giant;
Found in: (rare) Skyrim and (rare) Solstheim.
Frost Giants are a rare species of Giants most assume extinct. Their culture seems to have largely collapsed due to their lesser numbers and they seem more primitive than their regular cousins. Frost Giants are more monstrous than Giants, having horns jutting from their head and a set of four eyes. However they are not as they seem and can be reasoned with, even traded with. Frost Giant clans roam the secluded glacial valleys of Skyrim and a smaller clan makes its home on Solstheim. This is the extent of the Frost Giant range and most do not even notice their existence in this harsh land, mostly due to their wariness of Mortals and few numbers. Frost Giant clans have been known to breed a species of tamed Frost Saber Cats as guard animals, who aid in protecting their valuable herds of mammoths or their dwindling territory.
Frost Giants are very similar to regular Giants in combat. They fight with more ferocity, though, preferring to use their hands rather than weapons to defeat their enemies. As with glacial varients of most species, Frost Giants are more susceptible to fire magicks and less susceptible to ice magicks. They are usually deemed tougher to kill than regular giants, due to their thicker more hardened skin and the coating of thick white fur that adorns it.
Falmer;
Found in: Skyrim.
Falmer have been steeped in myth and legend for generations of Nord life. Since the extinction of the true Falmer race, they have been blamed for stealing cattle and children throughout all of Skyrim and even northern Cyrodiil. However the species that has been found to be committing such atrocities is not the Falmer of old. Rather this species that some have named 'Falmer' appears to be a Goblin-esque Betmeri species native to the caverns of Skyrim.
Research has suggested that these sight-less beasts are the offspring of the ancient Falmer race, their pointed ears and gaunt skin all that remains of the proud Mer race. Falmer scurry around their underground lairs with a permanent hunch, clawing along the sides of caverns and rarely venturing outside. They are completely blind, so far as lacking eyes yet they retain eye sockets. This is only detrimental to them at a distance however as their hearing is apparently remarkable, which aids them in capturing trespassers in their caves. Their strange culture dictates that these trespassers be served as food for themselves or their domesticated arthropodic species, the Chaurus, or tales exist of Falmer 'slaves' in their deepest pits, doing jobs they refuse to.
Falmer are armed, armoured and very dangerous. They are just as dangerous and clever as any mortal opponent, even more so considering they often have the element of surprise on their hands and can stalk prey for miles in their labyrinthine systems. Their armour and weaponry are constructed of Chaurus chitin, as are their structures and other tools. This chitin is hard, as hard as any metal, when prepared with the method the Falmer use and the chitin is pitch black, aiding in disguising the Falmer in the darkness of the tunnels.
Nymph;
Found in: (rare) High Rock, (rare) Hammerfell (Eastern) and (uncommon) Valenwood.
Nymphs are an enigmatic race of creatures that I would label as Man, Mer or Betmeri if they fit into any of these categories. Instead they appear to be more natural spirits, or a race of ancient creatures that have long since been displaced by our more mortal hands. While few of them remain in existence, relic populations exist in High Rock, Hammerfell and Valenwood. They are said by scholars that have approached them to be the wisest and respectful beings they have ever come across. This is coupled with their (and I struggle to find another word to accurately describe them here) perfect appearance. They appear as women, scantily dressed and with a physique unlike any other. Yet it is not their outward beauty that captivates the trained scholar, it is their smile. An enchanting thing that shows the women are approachable and if you can learn their language, they are conversational too.
Nymphs have a reputation for being seductive creatures that lure men from fields and drain their life away. However this is far from the case as Nymphs are shy, solitary, creatures that hideaway in their hidden grottos and converse with the native animals. They know more about Tamriel's native life forms than the most trained scholars ever could. To approach a Nymph is extremely rare, to get one to remain with you for more than a cursory glance is almost unheard of.
I have no knowledge on combating Nymphs, nor would I suggest you partake in such a murderous trade. I can say this however, Nymphs have the loyalty of nature and all that belongs to it. Nymphs are also highly capable in ancient arts of spell craft unknown to Man, Mer or Betmeri.
Minotaur;
Found in: Cyrodiil, High Rock, Valewood, Hammerfell (Eastern) and Elsweyr (Southern).
Minotaur are a mildly intelligent race of Humanoid forest-dwelling creatures that share a mixed resemblance to well-built Men and bovine species such as the Cow. In layman's terms: a Minotaur has the legs of a Bull, strong and sturdy; the upper body of a muscular man, with the strength to match and a fierce grip; topped in the head and horns of a fierce Bull. Minotaurs can be found roaming the grasslands of southern Cyrodiil and the forests of Valenwood in small 'herds'. The territorial males and the skittish females of their race prefer to stay away from other mortal races. Rare is the story of a Minotaur leaving its herd and venturing into civilised lands to become a mercenary for hire, but clearly they are capable of doing so.
Minotaurs are capable of wielding weaponry with the deft skill of a fresh Orc warrior. They prefer warhammers, which they scavenge from corpses or barter with traders for. In this case, be wary of a Minotaur's strength as a blow from one of these beasts wielding a warhammer is enough to shatter bone, even under plate armour. Unarmed Minotaur are not defenceless, they maintain a strength hardly matched by mortal races and make use of their fierce horns in combat both amongst themselves and against other races.
Centaur;
Found in: High Rock, (uncommon) Hammerfell, Valenwood, (migratory) Cyrodiil (Western) and (uncommon) Elsweyr.
The Centaur of Elsewyr, Valenwood, Hammerfell and High Rock are an ancient race that inhabited these regions long before even Mer reached the shore. An intelligent race that I would consider as Betmeri were they not completely against the ideals of Tamrielic civilisation. Granted, their civilization predates ours and their religions are far older and more primordial than even Merethic religions. Centaur are rarely communicative with outsiders, a Clan often avoiding civilised areas or moving through them as quickly as possible with as little communication with outsiders as possible. Centaur do vary greatly in their personalities, so to do their clans. This is where the vicious, rapacious and bloodthirsty stories arise about this proud species. Warlike clans of Centaur are less common, yet they have marred their entire race. Rarely does a Centaur get a wanderlust, leaving their Clan to enter civilized lands and sell themselves as a mercenary or attempt to integrate themselves (usually with very little success).
The build of a Centaur is majestic in its entirely, the females of the race have an animalistic beauty about their features while the males are built like the proverbial stone wall. These frames are perched atop the body of a horse the likes you have never seen. The lower half of the Centaur's body is Equine in appearance but clearly more well developed than even the finest Imperial Warhorse.
In combat there are few who can stand up to the might of the Centaur. Fine archers, trained to hunt beasts at the high speeds of a full gallop, are implemented in defence of their territory. But even the less precise Centaur make fine swordsmen, their natural strength and the speed provided by their Equine features makes them a devastating cavalry unit as no Tamrielic horseman can control their Horse as well as a Centaur can control their own legs. I wouldn't suggest fighting a Centaur alone, let alone an entire Clan. But if you find yourself in the path of a Centaur raiding party, I would suggest you aim for their legs, the most vulnerable part of their body. Nets and ropes can be implemented in combat to take the Centaur down to the ground, which allows for combatants to pick them off. I have also heard tales of Centaur mages, be warned that a Centaur may have a magical trick or two up their sleeves.
Harpy;
Found in: (uncommon) Valenwood, High Rock (Southern) and Hammerfell (Northern).
Harpies are a race of intelligent beings native to the Illiac Bay area of High Rock and Hammerfell. It is also said in ancient texts that Harpies once inhabited almost every other region in Tamriel but their population is now confined to the Illiac Bay and a relic population in Valenwood. The race has an appearance of a feathered woman, their arms are wings and their legs taper into talons that would make a Hawk blush. Harpies have their own unique language, but most have learnt another tongue to communicate with the civilisation around them. They are social beasts, living solitary yet meeting often and will freely trade with other Tamrielic races.
Some Harpies are territorial or murderous and will not hesitate to assault a 'flightless wretch' like you or I without warning. These harpies can be quite dangerous, their flight and deadly talons making excellent weapons to tear a man apart or drop him from a great height. However Harpies can be dealt with like any other race, a sword blow will maim them and an arrow kills them. Magicks are especially useful against these creatures as very few Harpies are magically enabled.
Imp;
Found in: Cyrodiil, High Rock, Hammerfell (Eastern), Valenwood and Elsweyr.
Imps are small humanoid creatures native to High Rock, Cyrodiil, Elsweyr and Valenwood that are semi-intelligent yet have no civilization other than their shared communities and crude rock-hewn caves. Imps are about a foot in height, winged and usually without clothing. They prefer caverns to open air but perform much of their hunting in the open. Their physique is rather strange as most Imps look quite well built, yet their size diminishes their strength to useless unless used to carry small objects or fight amongst themselves or similarly sized beings. Imps also have their own language and if one learns to speak it they generally respect that knowledge and will be less hostile to speakers of their language.
Imps are highly hostile and very territorial, usually assaulting passers-by without reason to. They don't partake in melee combat and instead use a vast array of magicks that can be quite deadly, depending on the Imp in question. Imps have been known to kill unwary travellers by setting their clothes alight or even electrocuting them. A simple sword swing is enough to fell one of these creatures but the trick is getting to them, their flight makes them harder to hit and their magicks make closing the gap a lot harder than usual. I would suggest magicks in dealing with them, alongside a ward of some sort to dispel their own attacks.
Medusa;
Found in: (uncommon) All of Tamriel, High Rock.
A Medusa is a fearsome, solitary, beast that keep their lairs in the caverns far away from civilisation. They can be found in larger quantities in High Rock but there have been sightings of them in most regions of Tamriel. A Medusa has the lower body of a snake and the torso and arms of a very dark green skinned woman. Beauty is not present in this beast and their eerily glowing eyes fill the heart of many with terror. They are incredibly intelligent, yet wholly malicious and openly hostile to all.
The Medusa writhes around with its lower serpentine body, using its hands to aid in pulling itself along, but it need not use these hands for much as the Medusa's main weapon of offense and defence are its eyes. The eyes are magical in nature and anything they gaze upon is stricken with complete paralysis. This then allows the Medusa to slither along to the poor creature or mortal and snap their neck, leaving them to be devoured as her meal. It is through this that I would suggest using anti-paralysis magicks whenever facing a Medusa but do not think that is the end of it as a Medusa that fails to paralyse her opponent still has her abnormal strength and a devastating group of magical spells.
Lamia;
Found in: (uncommon) Waters of Southern Tamriel, (rare) Waters of Northern Tamriel, Illiac Bay.
Lamia are a type of creature not unlike the Medusa and quite possibly closely related. The primary difference between a Medusa and a Lamia is their choice of habitat. While Medusa prefer their solitary caverns, Lamia are aquatic Humanoids that live in the waters surrounding Tamriel and the large rivers of the continent. Largest Lamia population is in High Rock but they have been found to be present in most other regions too. The more Human portion of the Lamia is far more beautiful in comparison to the Medusa and they are missing the eerie eyes of their land-bound cousin. Instead, Lamia have a barbed tail that they tend to hide under the water.
Lamia are vicious beasts, although they do not look it. They perch themselves out of the water and call to mortals. Most are stricken by their beauty or the magicks they weave to compel their prey towards them. When in distance of their prey, who are so wholly caught by the beast's mocking beauty, they strike with their barbed tail. This tail is a powerful club, yet if the barbs penetrate skin a poison is released that drains their prey of all their strength. Then the Lamia will feast. To avoid becoming Lamia food, ignore their siren's call as best you can and take magical measures to avoid their illusionary magicks, instead choose to destroy them from afar with ranged weaponry or magicks.
Lizard Man;
Found in: High Rock, Hammerfell, Elsweyr and Argonia.
Lizard Men are a humanoid species of reptile that have an appearance that lives up to their name. They are short, around the size of a Goblin, and fill a similar niche to Goblins in the provinces of High Rock, Hammerfell, Elsweyr and Argonia. They are hunched the majority of the time with their wide needle-teethed maws open as if silently panting. Their hands are tipped in sharp claws as are their feet, with their tail tapering into a sharp point and adorned with spikes. Lizard Men are not intelligent in the slightest and it is for this reason that the myth stating they were related to Argonians has been dispelled. Their grasp of language is minimal and is merely used to organise their hunting parties rather than settle inter-species disputes. Lizard Men prowl the forests and caverns of their territory primarily at dusk and dawn, yet in Argonia they are active throughout the entirety of the day.
As well as being weak of mind, Lizard Men are weak of body too. They are more like Goblins in this aspect than in any other. They are poor hitters and their claws are only dangerous to those that are unarmoured. However they have enough knowledge to utilise weaponry, especially clubs and shields but including limited use of ranged weaponry. Lizard Men can be dispatched by most means, but I would suggest being wary of their numbers and knack for ambushing their prey.
Grummite;
Found in: (naturally?) Shivering Isles, (rare) Cyrodiil (South-Eastern), (rare) Valenwood (South-Eastern), (uncommon) Elsweyr (South), (uncommon) Argonia.
Grummites are a species of humanoid amphibians seemingly native to the Daedric Plane of Oblivion known as the Shivering Isles, ruled by the Mad God Sheogorath. Like most of the inhabitants of Sheogorath's realm is it likely that Grummites were taken from a more natural realm, possibly even a different continent on Nirn, and transplanted there for his amusement. This can be assumed because unlike Daedra, Grummites have a life cycle and produce offspring. They have the appearance of a bipedal frog, albeit with glaring eyes and dangerously sharp teeth. Grummites also show a degree of civilization albeit a primitive one. They create tools and even have a grasp of fletching arrows. Reports suggest colonies of Grummites have emerged in the swamps of Cyrodiil, Valenwood, Argonia and even the jungles of Elsweyr. These colonies are not native, very harmful to local life forms and are highly hostile. Their origins are a mystery but it can be assumed they have escaped containment by mages or been purposefully released upon the land.
Grummites prefer to defend their cave systems with their own, crude, weaponry. But while it may be crude, these cudgels, cleavers and daggers are still dangerous in their hands. The Grummite also have archers in their ranks and magus that wield potent destruction and elemental spells. I would insist on utilising group tactics to kill a Grummite group, with multiple swordsmen, archers and preferably a mage or spellsword to deal with the combined Grummite arms. Also, keep Grummites away from water when in combat as they have an uncanny ability to absorb and quickly repair wounds when in contact with it. This includes during rain.
Scalon;
Found in: (naturally?) Shivering Isles, (rare) Cyrodiil (South-Eastern), (rare) Valenwood (Southern), (uncommon) Argonia.
Scalon are a semi-aquatic species of Reptilian humanoids native to Sheogorath's Shivering Isles. Like the Grummite, Scalons are possibly a transplanted species as they appear to be breeding well in invasive transplanted populations in Tamriel's swampy regions of Cyrodiil, Valenwood and Argonia. Like the Grummite these populations appear to be escapees or purposefully transplanted groups. Scalons are tall, hulking monstrosities with very little intellect but a grasp of illusionary magicks that puts them amongst these more intelligent Humanoid beasts. Scalons are hardly seen unless devouring their prey, mating or descending upon the unwary in a flurry of claws and teeth. Their appendages are finned and tipped in sharp claws, their maw is rancid and filthy. It is because of this that the species has a well-earned notoriety for being disease bearers, and a bite or scratch from one often causes fever-like symptoms within a day and possibly death without medical attention.
Scalons are notorious in combat for their ambushing ability. They are known to magically cause themselves to become unseeable to the Mortal eye, a spell not unlike the invisibility used by Illusion mages. This ability is used when a Scalon spots its prey and lasts until the Scalon strikes, but once the first devastating blow has been landed if the prey still survives they have the option to run to a safer distance as the Scalon is slow and cumbersome. I would suggest caution when hunting Scalon as they usually see you first. Always be wary of a strike by them and remember that they cannot disguise their wading through the water nor are they capable of disguising themselves against Dogs. Always seek medical attention or drink potions capable of curing diseases after wounds inflicted by a Scalon.
Mammalian:
Wolf;
Found in: All of Tamriel.
Wolves are a canine mammalian beast present in most provinces of Tamriel in some form or another, bar Argonia and Morrowind. They are social animals that form packs of anywhere between three to fifteen individuals. Solitary examples exist but these are a rarity and usually don't last long as solitary Wolves band together to create new packs. Wolves tend to prey on larger herbivorous beasts native to the regions they inhabit, the reason behind their pack-instincts. Such prey are the Elk herds of Skyrim or the Camelids of Elsweyr. Multiple species of Wolf exist, including ones specifically adapted to survive in the harshest of environments like Hammerfell and Skyrim.
Combating Wolves is quite problematic for untrained combatants, but once taught to wield a sword, shoot a bow or cast a fireball any mortal being can tackle a Wolf head on. However be wary of their packs and the intelligence that makes them run, as ambush tactics isn't below these beasts.
Ice Wolf;
Found in: Skyrim, Cyrodiil (Northern), High Rock (Northern) and Solstheim.
The Ice Wolf is the largest variant of canid animal in Tamriel, where it is exclusive to Skyrim and Solstheim. They are also the most aggressive, yet solitary, of the species. Their pelt is a cold icy white, not the bleached white of snow but with tinges of blue to disguise themselves amongst the glacial crevasses they call their home. It isn't below an Ice Wolf to work alongside or create a pack of regular or even Snow Wolves, but rare is it to see two Ice Wolves working together in anything but reproducing.
Ice Wolves are larger than regular Wolves so they require a special set of tactics for dealing with them. Gone is the simple 'swing and hit' used to fell a Wolf and instead you have to be ever more wary that these Wolves are intelligent enough to bring different species of Wolves together to take down a beast the size of a Mammoth. Ice Wolves can dodge your attacks like a trained warrior and even know the points to attack in order to disarm a man.
Snow Wolf;
Found in: (rare) Skyrim (Northern), (rare) Cyrodiil (Northern), (rare) Orsiniun, (rare) High Rock (Northern) and (uncommon) Solstheim (Northern).
The rare Snow Wolves are slightly larger than their regular cousins and are native to the colder mountains of Cyrodiil, Skyrim, Solstheim and High Rock. Their deep white coat blends them in well with the tundras they inhabit, especially during the winter seasons where thick snow blankets much of the ground.
While Snow Wolves are larger than regular Wolves they are not as intelligent as Ice Wolves, so can be dispatched like one would regularly dispatch a Wolf. However fire-based magicks are a greater threat to these Wolves who tend to be put off by the flames. Rumours persist of Ice Wolves capable of freezing a man solid with its breath, I do not know if this is true but the stories mainly arise from the island of Solstheim.
Timber Wolf;
Found in: Cyrodiil, Skyrim, Orsinium, High Rock, Morrowind (Northern and Western), Hammerfell (Northern) and (rare) Solstheim (Southern)
Timber Wolves are the second largest species of Wolf and the largest species in most Tamrielic provinces bar Skyrim and the island of Solstheim. Timber Wolves reign supreme over their territory as they work in packs of their own species rather than living a solitary life like the Ice Wolf. The grey-red of a Timber Wolf's coat is enough to disguise it amongst the mountainous forests they roam, yet their range has extended further into the lowlands of Cyrodiil, Hammerfell, High Rock, Valenwood, Elsweyr and Skyrim than any other species has. Here they tackle all types of prey both mundane and even to the point of hunting Bears for sustenance.
I would say Timber Wolves are the deadliest Wolves to encounter, not on their own as the Ice Wolf clearly surpasses them but as a group. Timber Wolves are more intelligent than your regular Wolf and more wary of armed combatants. They will use hit and run techniques to harass a group of travellers rather than an outright assault until the travellers are dead, gone from their territory or have slain every last Wolf.
Grizzly Bear;
Found in: Cyrodiil (Northern), Skyrim, High Rock, Orsiniun and (uncommon) Solstheim.
The Bears of Tamriel come in many varieties but few are larger than the deep-brown Grizzly Bear. You can distinguish a Grizzly Bear from a Brown Bear by its size and deeper brown fur which is longer than the Brown Bear. This species of Bear is native to the lands of Skyrim, High Rock, Northern Cyrodiil and Solstheim where it maintains a diet of Elk, other species of Deer and fish. They are large, more so than one would expect from a Bear, but thankfully they are mostly solitary and even then only hostile when provoked or hungry.
To combat this specific type of Bear you have to remember to keep on your toes as a blow from one can stagger a man in plate and at worse take off a limb. They hardly use their teeth, preferring hard hits with their heavy paws.
Black Bear;
Found in: Cyrodiil, Valenwood, Skyrim (Southern), High Rock (Southern), Alinor and Elsweyr (Western).
Black Bears are a smaller species of Bear that is mostly herbivorous in their diet though they are known to scavenge kills made by larger Bears, Wolves or even Trolls. Black Bears are one of the most populous species of Bears throughout Tamriel, having a range that extends throughout the woodlands of High Rock, Skyrim, Cyrodiil, Valenwood, Alinor and Elsweyr. Although they are predominantly black in colouration, their colour can actually range from light brown or "cinnamon" to white.
Because Black Bears are more docile and skittish than their more carnivorous cousins the natives of Tamriel are usually more tolerant of Black Bears inhabiting nearby woods but on occasions a Black Bear may become aggressive. If this is the case, I would suggest combating Black Bears with speed and agility as they still hit just as well as their larger cousins and can reach exceptionally speeds in a sprint.
Brown Bear;
Found in: Cyrodiil, High Rock, Skyrim (Southern), (uncommon) Valenwood, (uncommon) Alinor, Orsinium and (uncommon) Hammerfell (Northern).
Brown Bears are a smaller variety of Grizzly Bear found in almost all the regions of Tamriel bar Argonia, Elsweyr and Morrowind. Here they fill the carnivorous niche left over by the absence of Grizzly Bears in these regions.
Brown Bears are quite aggressive but they aren't openly hostile unless starving, defending a kill or aggravated in any other way. There is nothing to suggest when fighting a Brown Bear that hasn't been mentioned amongst other Bears in this guide.
Cave Bear;
Found in: (uncommon) Skyrim, (uncommon) High Rock (Northern), (rare) Hammerfell (Northern) and (uncommon) Orsinium.
One of the largest bears in Tamriel, this species of Bear is only found in the provinces of Skyrim and High Rock where they inhabit the mountainous regions of these provinces. As their name suggests they are usually found in or around natural caverns that they make their home. These Bears are only dwarfed in size by the Snow Bear and they stay far away from those behemoths by avoiding the glacial regions of Skyrim.
Cave Bears are some of the most territorial mammals on Tamriel. They will attack anything that wanders into their cave and their size makes them far more dangerous than their lowland cousins. Extra care should be taken to avoid being hit by these beasts.
Snow Bear;
Found in: (uncommon) Skyrim (Northern), (uncommon) Solstheim (Northern), (rare) High Rock (Northern) and (rare) Cyrodiil (Northern).
The largest and most dangerous mammalian predator on Tamriel is the Snow Bear, followed closely by the Snowy Sabre Cat. The fur of a Snow Bear is a pristine white, blending it into the glacial valleys it calls home. Snow Bears are mostly found in Skyrim, Solstheim and in smaller numbers throughout Northern Cyrodiil.
These beasts can tear a man's arms off with a single swipe of their paws. I would avoid them if possible but if you insist on hunting Snow Bears, I would suggest utilising fire magicks as they seem to be more vulnerable to these magicks.
Sabre Cat;
Found in: Skyrim, (uncommon) High Rock (Northern) and Orsinium.
Khajiiti legends state that the Sabre Cats of Skyrim are the descendants of ancient Khajiiti warriors known as Rhojiit who fought for the Khajiiti Dragon God Alkosh at a Battle of Red Mountain. If this is the truth or not, I do not know but it seems quite unlikely. Either way, the Sabre Cat is a fast, powerful, beast that roams the tundra of Skyrim alone or in small groups of two or three juveniles. Sabre Cats hunt the native Elk or even aged Mammoths but will gladly prey on any Man, Mer or Betmeri that they come across.
Sabre Cats get their name from their two front teeth, as sharp as sabres and as long as a dagger. These teeth can penetrate leather armour and even weaker chain mail. Repeated strikes can even pierce plate armour, but a strike form their massive paws is also enough to knock a plated individual to their knees. I would recommend avoiding these beasts and keeping up a strong defence if confronted by one. Fight them at range or prepare to dodge their vicious and rapid strikes if they close in to melee.
Snowy Sabre Cat;
Found in: (uncommon) Skyrim, (rare) Solstheim (Northern), (rare) Cyrodiil (Northern), (rare) High Rock (Northern) and (rare) Orsinium.
As if regular Sabre Cats weren't a problem enough to the natives of Skyrim and indeed every other life form in the region, a larger variant of them exists in the desolate glacial regions of the far north. The Snowy Sabre Cat is largely solitary, like their lowland cousin, and their massive white frame is hard to spot on the bleak backdrop that is their native habitat.
When a Snowy Sabre Cat makes itself known it is usually too late. Combating them, if you manage to survive their deadly ambushes, isn't too different to combating the lowland variety as long as you remember that a Snowy Sabre Cat hits harder and can take much more punishment. An interesting difference in combating Sabre Cats and the Snowy variant is that the Snowy Sabre Cat suffers a vulnerability to fire magicks, but a greater resistance to frost-based magicks.
Vale Sabre Cat;
Found in: (exceptionally rare) Skyrim (Location Withheld).
An extremely rare variant of the Sabre Cat species is the Vale Sabre Cat. I have only ever seen one live specimen and multiple pelts and I will refuse to tell you the location of this species or its unique ecosystem. Just know that the beast lives in forgotten glacial valleys of Skyrim, lush with unique life and secluded for thousands of years from the rest of the province. I and those who accompanied me have sworn to secrecy, but I will still describe to you this beast so you may recognise the importance of the location you are in should you discover it.
The beast is as large as any Sabre Cat, but a deep purple in colouration. Their eyes glow with violet light and intricate stripes and patterns across its body glow with the same natural light. This glow is unique to them and persists throughout death, one of the reasons I have stuffed one of the pelts I acquired and placed it not far from where I write this book to remind me of the importance and grandeur of the natural life of Tamriel.
Sabertooth Tiger;
Found in: High Rock, Elsweyr, (uncommon) Hammerfell (Northern) and (uncommon) Orsinium.
Sabertooth Tigers are a carnivorous feline native to the regions of High Rock, Hammerfell and even the distant Elsweyr, both north and south. This would suggest that Sabertooth Tigers once inhabited Cyrodiil or even Valenwood in the distant past, but evidence is sparse. Sabertooth Tigers are a light orange in colouration with black markings that stripe across their body. These beasts are armed with the same dagger-like fangs of Skyrim's Sabre Cats, but the fangs of these beasts are narrower and sharper. The noble houses of the regions the Sabertooth Tiger inhabits have been known to capture and tame the cubs of this species to create a domesticated beast that could be used for guard duties or as household pets.
Wild Sabertooth Tigers are quite aggressive and protective over their territory. They are known to attack travellers on sight and when they do they attack with their wide paws, knocking down their prey before finishing them with a sabertoothed bite to the neck or shoulder. These wounds are quite dangerous, so I would suggest you avoid being hit by one and if staggered to the floor, knock the beast away and keep on your feet.
Mountain Lion;
Found in: Cyrodiil (Western), (uncommon) High Rock, (uncommon) Hammerfell (Eastern) and (uncommon) Valenwood.
Mountain Lions are a carnivorous feline mammal native to the regions of Hammerfell, High Rock, Cyrodiil and Valenwood. The beasts are more common in the mountainous grasslands of these regions but in Valenwood Mountain Lions have adapted well to the native forests. These beasts are large beige-coloured cats that primarily hunt alone but come together in tight-knit packs.
A Mountain Lion prefers to ambush its prey and if it can't it will feed on the carrion of beasts felled by other means. A Mountain Lion rarely attacks a traveller but when they do they are usually ravenous and at their most dangerous. They prefer to pounce upon their prey and bring them to the ground before killing them, which means if you are to combat them remember to keep on your feet.
Rat;
Found in: All of Tamriel.
The Rats of Tamriel are very varied in their distribution and size. The brown rat is the most common, having infested cities and ports across the continent and even further afield through trade ships. This species is also found at wild in almost every province of Tamriel. However due to its small size, place as a pest in society and relative uselessness to alchemists I will merely describe the larger varients of brown rat that have come to exist in sewers around Tamriel from their native homes deep inside cavern systems.
These beasts tend to harbour many diseases, especially the ones that have come to inhabit sewer systems throughout Tamriel. Any trained or even untrained combatants can kill these beasts as they are not very dangerous nor are they particularly hostile. However a trainee in melee, ranged or magical combat may find them a useful training target and there is always a small bounty for beginning mercenaries.
Giant Rat;
Found in: All of Tamriel, except Skyrim (wilderness) and Solstheim (wilderness).
Giant Rats are grey-brown furred rats that are roughly the size of a small dog. These rats are common throughout the mountainous regions of Tamriel, where they inhabit the crags and ravines and feed on the carrion of mountain beasts.
These Rats are not as adaptable as the regular Rats of Tamriel, hence why they are less seen than their smaller cousins. They are still as easily killed as regular Rats and harbour fewer diseases however their bite is far harsher.
Cave Rat;
Found in: All of Tamriel, (uncommon) Skyrim and (uncommon) Solstheim.
Cave Rats are a subterranean variety of Rat present in every region of Tamriel. They are slightly smaller than Giant Rats and live in larger groups, feeding off the native subterranean creatures around them and the carrion of animals that wander into their caves and meet an unfortunate end. Some Goblin clans have captured and domesticated Cave Rats as food, some even going so far as to armour the beasts and use them as war hounds.
Cave Rats are simple to dispatch but the main problem with them is that they tend to hide in the darkness waiting to ambush their prey. Cave Rats are highly susceptible to light as it tends to disorientate them or blind them. Keep a torch alight or use magical illuminations to keep these beasts away or while hunting them.
Skeever;
Found in: Skyrim, Solstheim, High Rock (Northern) and (uncommon) Cyrodiil (Northern).
Skeevers are a black densely furred variant of Rat native to the colder regions of Skyrim, High Rock, Solstheim and Cyrodiil. They tend to keep to caves where the cold isn't as harsh, but can be found inhabiting the sewers of these regions and even out in the open wilderness. Skeever hides and tails are used by local alchemists in creating poisons or to cure diseases. Skeevers are also used as a food source by local Nords, especially isolated mining groups, and the native Giant population.
Combating Skeevers is very similar to combating any other rats and local Nords tackle these beasts from an early age as training. Fire magicks are most affective against these beasts as they shy away from the heat.
Fox;
Found in: All of Tamriel, except Arid regions, Morrowind and Argonia (Central).
Foxes are a species of canid that is known for its superb red coat. Foxes are hunted in most regions for this pelt, which is used in creating fur-lined clothing of a high quality. Foxes in the wild are skittish when confronted and spend the majority of daylight sleeping, only stirring to hunt as the day dies away. Foxes also gather berries and fruits, bringing them back to hide in their dens for the rest of their small family group to feed on.
Foxes are only hostile when defending their den, if they have a litter present. A Fox will not be much a problem to any combatants, being easily countered with a sword swing. However a bite from a Fox can harbour multiple diseases, so keep wounds clean.
Snow Fox;
Found in: (uncommon) High Rock (Northern), (uncommon) Skyrim (Northern), (uncommon) Cyrodiil (Northern) and Solstheim (Northern).
Snow Foxes are a variant of the Fox native to the province of Skyrim and the neighbouring island of Solstheim. They are just as skittish as their lowland cousins yet they are hunted as regularly due to the Septims a Snow Fox pelt can fetch on the right market.
Like regular Foxes the Snow Fox isn't hostile unless defending a den. Snow Foxes are more susceptible to fire magicks, but are less damaged by the frost magicks of mages.
Dog;
Found in: All of Tamriel.
Dogs are the most common canid throughout Tamriel and the neighbouring islands that have been inhabited by Tamrielic races. Indeed the Dog is the most common beast found in presence of a Tamrielic race, but most specifically the various races of Man which seem to have taken more of a shine to it than the Mer or Betmeri of the continent. Dogs come in a plethora of varieties that range from small, ratting beasts used on farms to large breeds capable of hunting Wolves. These Wolfhounds are the most common variety to be found in the countryside and they are a highly loyal breed that will die for their owner.
Dogs are not only used for agricultural purposes or as household pets, Dogs are most often utilised as guard dogs or travelling companions that are intelligent and deadly to those who contend against them. Dogs are easy to dispatch but hard to hit as they are fast and strong enough to cause a combatant to falter in their advance. Combine this with their owners and you are presented with a formidable challenge.
Husky;
Found in: (uncommon) All of Tamriel, Skyrim (bred).
Huskies are a specifically hardy breed of Dog native to Skyrim. They are bred for carrying heavy loads, having well built legs that when unburdened allow them to run at quite a fast speed and attack with an unusual strength. Nords of Skyrim or Solstheim tend to keep these beasts as guard or work dogs, alongside or instead of the Wolfhound breed that is more commonly used throughout the continent. The Husky is defined as heavily furred with multiple layers to its coat, predominantly black, grey or white and stocky.
A group of Vampire hunters known as the Dawnguard use this breed in combating Vampires due to their resistance to the frost magicks inherent to Vampires. They even have manufactured armour for their hounds, something not unique to the Dawnguard but a rarity in Tamriel. Combating these armoured Huskies would be quite hard, due to the breeds natural bulkiness reinforced by the metal armour.
Mammoth;
Found in: (uncommon) High Rock (Northern), Skyrim and (migratory) Orsinium.
The Mammoth is one of Tamriel's largest beasts. Possibly one of the largest land-bound beasts on Nirn. Their fur is a deep brown and shaggy, spreading over its body and dangling to the ground. Its face is left bare but adorning its charcoal black features are two enormous tusks each easily the size of a man and a trunk equally as long. These tusks range in size per Mammoth and typically increases in size when it comes to the dominant members of the herd. Mammoths naturally move in large herds of ten to twenty individuals, ranging across the mountains, tundras and valleys of Skyrim and northern High Rock. The fur and tusks of these beasts are prized throughout Tamriel, mainly due to the effort of hunting such a beast and that most herds are protected and shepherded by clans of over-protective Giants. Mammoth meat is bland to the taste but can feed an entire Nordic village for weeks if prepared correctly.
Taking down a Mammoth is truly a feat of one’s strength. To do so alone without resorting to trapping is nearly unheard of and usually tackling even one is a challenge attempted only by the most hardened groups of hunters. Not only is the hide of a Mammoth thick and almost impenetrable to arrows, bolts and even magicks but Mammoths in a herd will direct all their might if one of their members is assaulted. They attack with wide swings of their mighty tusks, slapping at opponents with their trunks and slamming down with their massive legs. When the tree-trunk sized limbs rise and hit the ground, they can knock it with such a force to knock combatants to the ground, making them susceptible to a trampling or goring. I have nothing to recommend fighting these beasts and wouldn't recommend trying.
Boar;
Found in: All of Tamriel.
Boars are wild furred porcine animals related to the domesticated Pigs that are kept in farms across Tamriel. These animals are found in the wilderness of most of Tamriel's regions and even on outlying islands. They are mainly quite skittish but the males are very hostile during breeding seasons and have been known to quite easily kill a man by boring him with their mean tusks.
Hunting Boars is usually done at range so as to avoid the tusks, but if your shot misses then they can be quite easily dispatched by avoiding their blind charge and dealing swift damage to the back of their skull.
Tusked Bristleback;
Found in: Solstheim.
Tusked Bristlebacks, also known simply as Bristlebacks, are a species of Boar native to the island of Solstheim. They are highly hostile beasts, which makes the native hunters of Solstheim the Skaal all the more renowned for their hunting skills. Bristlebacks have also been domesticated as mounts by Solstheim's other native life form the Riekling.
Bristlebacks are more dangerous due to the four large tusks adorning their face and their unrelenting pursuit of victims through the forests of Solstheim. Bristlebacks are all the more dangerous when they are accompanied by Rieklings who mount them and wield spears or throwing spears from their backs.
Elk;
Found in: Skyrim and High Rock (Northern).
Elk are a species of large Deer native to the cold lands of Skyrim and northern High Rock. Here they roam across vast territory in large herds or small family groups. Most of these regions native wildlife hunt the Elk and that goes too for the native races such as the Nords. Elk are renowned for their large antlers which are present in both sexes but more predominant in males, especially older and more dominant specimens.
Elk hunting usually consists of hunting them from a range and with surprise on your side as Elk are very skittish and one running will make an entire herd flee. Male Elk during mating season have been known to turn their antlers from each other and onto hunters, so beware the Elk during this time of the year.
Deer;
Found in: All of Tamriel, except Arid regions.
Deer are herbivorous beasts native to the woodlands and plains of most of Tamriel's regions which is usually a staple diet of the natives and the carnivorous wildlife. Different varients exist but most have a few things in common. Most varients have horns, but usually it is only the males who have them. These horns can be quite extravagant in size and shape or little more than nubs on the head. Female deer usually lack horns or have the small nubs instead.
Hunting deer is like hunting most game, done at range. Rarely does a deer turn to fight a hunter and most will simply scatter at the sight, or smell, of one.
Vale Deer;
Found in: (exceptionally rare) Skyrim (Location Withheld).
This exceptionally rare species of Deer is found in the same unique locations as the Vale Sabre Cats. As with that species I have seen a number of live specimens and kept a number of pelts for myself. The species is native to Skyrim, but as with the Sabre Cat I shall not disclose where and merely describe to you the creatures themselves. They are shaped like most deer but pitch black or deep purple in colouration. Across their body is the most extraordinary markings of luminescent green that seem to glow up until the creatures death. This is unfortunate as the pelts collected bare the markings but without the glow to neither their fur nor their eyes.
As with most Deer they are skittish to hunt, but I implore you not to do so should you find them as their numbers are unknown but clearly small and the habitat they live in is so fragile that I shall maintain its location to protect it.
Rabbit;
Found in: All of Tamriel.
Rabbits are small mammalian beasts found in most regions of Tamriel. Many varieties exist but most share the same solitary nature while very few of them live in social groups. Rabbits are a staple in the diet of most regions and are the primary food source for most carnivorous beasts. For this reason Rabbits have adapted to breed quite extensively, hence the Imperial saying "Breed like rabbits."
Rabbit hunting is a tough sport, usually performed alongside animals naturally adapted to hunt these beats. Small Dogs can be used but most prefer birds of prey such as Hawks. Generally any Man, Mer or Betmeri hunting a Rabbit will use traps or ranged weaponry alongside ambush or stealth techniques due to a Rabbits skittish nature when startled.
Goats;
Found in: All of Tamriel (Mountainous).
Goats are a type of horned, furred, herbivorous Mammalian beast that comes in many varieties, including domesticated ones for food produce and leather. Goats naturally live in mountainous regions where they have adapted better than a similar, yet unrelated, species known as the Sheep. Here they have adapted to climb the cliff faces of these high altitude regions in their endless search of food and safety. Wild Goats are a staple diet for mountainous villages, including the Orcs who tend to feed primarily off Goat meat and the meat of the gigantic furred worms of their native region.
Goat hunting is a ranged affair, due to the dangerous nature of a Goat's natural range and the skittish nature of the Goats themselves. Some larger species of Goats are quite hostile when confronted and will attempt to fight back against hunters. Simply remember that a Goat's horns are not for show and they can do some serious damage.