Tailing a Mannicyre

This parchment was discovered on the ground. Written by an unknown fanatic of the mannicyre species, a large feline creature in Lithoterria. The Mannicyre is a truly impressive apex predator! A resident of the desert caves within the area of Somatis desert, adapted to surviving within this exceptionally harsh environment. These solitary creatures are highly intelligent and highly aggressive when troubled. I would like to emphasize that these creatures are said to have an intelligence on par with that of sentient species on the archipelago we call home. The feline is an imposing specimen of great size, with sharp claws, fangs, pointed barbs, and a powerful venom, this animal is perhaps the deadliest animal in the desert. Fortunately for this scholar, they are typically solitary creatures, and I have managed to avoid mating season.

A female of this feline species is often larger than their male counterparts, having longer or thicker horns, whereas males sport a more lithe physique, and more a vibrant pattern of spots and stripes. Females are often more passive toward passersby, so long as they keep a distance from their den. Males on the other hand are far more territorial, not allowing any to enter any closer than fifty feet from the internal edge of their territory before intimidating the intruder, finally attacking should they attempt to press forward.

The reports of survivors from attacks by male mannicyres are next to zero.

In my writings on these creatures, I will be studying a female who has just given birth to her cub. Having had aid in preparing a camp by hiring the Kilnsi of Somati, and they arranged a safe distance, so that I wouldn’t intrude. Having acquired copious amounts of anti-venom, and a month’s worth of supplies, I will now relay my more impressive excerpts from my journals.

Day 1

In the early morning I hike for an hour to the den of the majestic creature, keeping a distance of roughly one-hundred feet, and having brought a few provisions. I also have a rather fatty goat leg, and some rope.

To begin I tied the rope tightly to the hoof and waited for the mother and cub to retreat back inside the cave, and I have applied a rather pungent fragrance to my clothing to make my scent known, then placing the leg at the maw of the cave before making my way back to my point of observation as quickly as possible.

From here I observed for the duration of the day, having not seen any signs of the animals reemerging from the den.

I will have to return tomorrow.

Day 7

I have managed to captivate the curiosity of the cub, and the mother is careful, apprehensive, giving me an aggressive glare and keeping her cub at a distance. The cub’s tail seems to be wagging back and forth as it observes me, perhaps curious.

Finally in the late afternoon, after much trial and error they accepted my offering of goat leg. It would seem they prefer a fresh kill, but I have intrigued them by introducing seasoned meat.

Day 15

The Mother is allowing her cub to attempt to play with me, I make no attempts to reciprocate. It has taken to swatting its paws at my writing implements, it’s paws are as large as my palms. This is the fifth time the potent venom has entered my veins and I am certainly feeling the effects. A healer is needzksdkjf;se-

Day 19

I have made my nineteenth trek up to my small observation camp that I have established within the ‘safe distance’ from the cave. I had the idea to bring a small amount of what I could carry, seemingly sparking a curiosity in the mother.

The lamb leg I brought this morning has worked as an offering, and now she is inspecting my belongings with much suspicion, currently sniffing through my satchel. A remarkable testament to her intelligence, she has opened the bag in but a second, unfortunately having cut the latch to my bag.

Day 27

After much observation, the mother allows me to sit at the maw of the cave, so long as I provide offerings of meat. Thus far, I have not been attacked since day 19, and count myself to be quite fortunate, as I have run out of medicine to stave off the toxin. It is quite fascinating at how these animals arrange their dens, arranging mounds of bones at the opening of the cave as a display to any who draw near her den. As for her demeanor, she seems to merely tolerate my presence, as for the cub, he sees me as some sort of playmate or scratching post.

I have had to wear thicker clothing as a result.

Day 1 at the Male Mannicyre site.

I did not make it five feet with my team before the beast was upon us. The male has taken Charlie-, his fate is unknown. Rest in peace Charlie.