Nightlights

Creature Description

It has been said when the waters of Goldenwind turned to sand and everything was shrouded in darkness following the destruction caused by the aspect known as the Phoenix, these birds rose from that endless burning. The valleyfolk of Goldenwind were lost following the destruction, the darkness they had been trapped in consuming them as paws now touched dry sand instead of the familiarity of water. It was in that desperation that the Nightlights appeared. Their bodies admitting a brilliant glow, becoming a beckon against the darkness. They guided those lost souls to what is now known as the Skyarch in Goldenwind. From that day forward building an unbreakable bond that would have these two creatures living together symbolically for generations to come. 

The Nightlights are very clever birds, their forms resembling that of a phoenix. Being seen as a symbol and representation of Goldenwind, forever bonded to and protected by them. The topside of Nightlights are always colors reflecting the day and can range from color themes corresponding to the sun or sky colors throughout the day. While the underside of Nightlights is always the night sky, dark blues and blacks to blend in perfectly as they carry a pattern that mimics the stars themselves. Eye colors can range from a wide variety for these birds, while their claws and dewclaw are white to mimic the stars as well. All Nightlights carry a star like marking on their foreheads, alongside a distinctive marking that mimics a shooting star on their eye.

Link to Full Reference 

Location

Goldenwind

Population & Size

The population of these birds are stable but few in number as they are protected, cared for and trained by those in Goldenwind. 

Nightlights are not as big as they appear, being classified as small familiars. Their size similar to that of a Peregrine Falcon, with the ability to grow slightly bigger. Nightlights have a body length of 15-25 inches and a wingspan of 32-50 inches. 

Abilities & Mutations

These birds are often used alongside those in Goldenwind as an extra pair of eyes    and are valued companions. They have resistant feathers and silent speed, 

allowing them to reach heights few can touch. Their resistant feathers protect 

them from extreme temperatures found in both hot and cold climates, mimicking the desert they call home. Alongside their enhanced speed, comes enhanced sight as these birds can spot creatures from miles away, even those under the cover of darkness. To help their fellow companions, these birds have the ability to glow in complete darkness which is how they got their names as Nightlights. Another unique feature is that their eyes always give off a subtle glow.

Albinism and Melanism, while very rare for these birds can happen and carries the same disadvantages and advantages to the corresponding genetic condition. There is also another extremely rare mutation Nightlights are susceptible to which is seen as a warning or omen among those in Goldenwind. This genetic condition will be revealed in due time...

Threat Level

While not a threat to those in Goldenwind, these birds are fierce predators and can hold their own.