Lore24 Apr 26: Hoktar

Hoktar are strange magical beings with limited shapeshifting abilities. Normally they look like horses, but they are usually bigger than any normal horse, large enough that even a human could easily ride them. They usually come in striking colors, such as blood-red, sunset orange, or jet black.

Unlike horses, however, hoktar are strictly carnivorous, and seem to prefer the meat of intelligent beings. Their usual hunting strategy is to pretend to be normal horses, then when the prospective rider gets too close, they transform into their true form, which is still quit horse-like, but features long, sharp fangs, powerful claws, and a jaw that can open to an almost 180 degree angle. Some hoktar like to hunt near bodies of water, where they can drown their victims, others are content to just tear them to shreds.

While it is extremely difficult, it is possible to tame hoktar, and use them as mounts, though this is mostly relegated to myths about demigods, and the most heroic of mortals. Many nomadic peoples use hoktar-rider as an epithet for their leaders or elite warriors, and Sorcerer-Kings are often shown riding hoktar in artwork.

Image by Allison Shaw

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