Murf

Description

Prior to the arrival of sheep and cattle, the most common domestic livestock in this region was Murfs. Initially tamed by Orcish tribes, this small Horned Koposeran remains a symbol of Kelevan pride. Some live in wild settings, but the majority have been incorporated into the civil society of men: bred for their Murf-Hair, a soft, elastic material much like cotton. Murf-Hair keeps the animal warm but can be routinely sheared to make clothing, textiles, and fabrics. The area of greatest concentration is not the back like it is sheep, but rather the Murf’s face, forming large beards which serve to show age and protect their throats from easy attack.

Although they might lack true weapons, they’re by no means defenseless: with long legs to bolt away with incredible speed (50 mph) and curved hooves to make sharp turns through the thickets. They might not be able to run very long, but they need only dart toward the nearest shelter-whether it be dense foliage or a livestock guardian-to thwart the jaws of death. If they must fight, their bites can draw blood or a flourish of their front legs can leave bruises—though neither has much effect on larger predators.

Behaviour

Both wild and domestic Murf live in mixed herds several dozens in size. Typically there’s around three does to every buck as they become very competitive over available space. The herd itself follows a lead buck, almost always the largest, who suppresses his fellow bucks to the outer rims. His position comes with benefits but not without risk: other bucks may viciously attempt to usurp him by mutilating his beard and he’s responsible for spotting predators before they have a chance to attack. Given their long history with Orcs they naturally don’t fear men, using them or their dogs as a barrier against threats by fleeing behind them.