Gore-Horn (Taurus cruentus)

Gore-Horns are large bipedal predators of Veyrath’s semi-arid savannahs, red-clay scrublands, and open plains. Measuring roughly 7.5 to 8 metres long and weighing well over a tonne, they are recognizable by their deep skulls, paired forward-curving brow horns, vestigial forelimbs, massive hindquarters, and rough ochre-to-rust coloration. They are specialized ambush hunters, remaining concealed until prey enters range before launching into an explosive straight-line sprint. Their speed and acceleration are exceptional, though they turn poorly at full pace.

Despite their lethality, Gore-Horns are considered a manageable large-predator threat by experienced, well-armed expeditions. They are also prestigious quarry for Valessari big-game hunters, particularly as modern rifles have made stopping a charge possible for a prepared marksman. Their dense horns take a fine polish and are highly valued for sword grips, knife scales, cane handles, and other luxury goods, with matched horns from large adults commanding particularly high prices.