Gion

  The gion stands tall at nearly 8 feet, with a muscular build that belies its swift and agile nature. Its body is covered in a thick, protective hide that ranges in color from deep rust to a sandy hue, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the sands of the Rusten Expanse. Its large, reflective eyes are adapted for both the harsh sunlight of the day and the dim moonlight of the night, making it an ideal creature for nocturnal travel.    

Habitat

  The gion is a creature of the Rusten Expanse, a harsh and rocky terrain that it has adapted to with remarkable resilience. Its powerful hind legs end in thick, padded feet, allowing it to traverse the rocky terrain without injury.  

Diet

  The gion is an omnivore, feeding on a diet of small mammals, insects, and the sparse vegetation of the Rusten Expanse. Its sharp beak is capable of cracking open the hard shells of desert insects and nuts, while its long, flexible neck allows it to reach high branches for leaves and fruits.  

Behavior

  Gions are social creatures, often found in small family groups. They communicate with each other using a unique short-range whistles and a hooting call that can be heard over long distances.  

Physiology

  The gion's physiology is a marvel of adaptation. Its lanky, muscular build allows it to sprint at high speeds for extended periods, making it an invaluable asset for the Cadian troupes. Its thick, protective hide shields it from the harsh sun and the cold desert nights, while its large, reflective eyes allow it to see clearly in both bright and dim light.   The gion is thought to have descended from a four-limbed ancestor, as it it does retain vestigial front arms. However, these 'arms' have no structure or mobility and are simply rigid bones that protrude slightly from the chest. This feature allows saddle straps to be anchored in pace.  

Cultural Importance

  The gion holds a special place in the culture of the Cadian troupes. Used as scouts and messengers, their unmatched speed and endurance make them invaluable for passing information quickly. The gion's unique hooting call has been adopted by the troupes as a method of long-distance communication.  

Conservation Status

  While not currently endangered, the gion's population is closely monitored due to their importance to the Cadian troupes. Efforts are being made to ensure their habitats are protected and their numbers remain stable.