Gargdai

Gargdai is a fictional creature originating from the folklore of the nomadic tribes inhabiting the desolate plains of Xylos. Descriptions of Gargdai vary, but commonly they are depicted as quadrupedal beings with leathery skin, sharp claws, and a distinctive, mournful cry that echoes across the landscape. Their eyes are often described as beady and dark, adapted to low-light conditions.

These creatures are said to be elusive, preferring to remain in remote caves or abandoned ruins during daylight hours. Their diet is believed to consist of small desert rodents and carrion, though some legends suggest they are also drawn to the scent of fear. Gargdai are often portrayed as solitary hunters, though tales of small, pack-like hunting parties also exist.

The significance of Gargdai in Xylosian culture is primarily as a symbol of the harshness and unforgiving nature of their environment. They are frequently featured in cautionary tales told to young ones, warning them against straying too far from settlements or venturing out after dark. While not inherently malicious in most accounts, their predatory instincts and the unsettling nature of their appearance have solidified their place as creatures to be respected and avoided. There are no known historical accounts or scientific evidence of Gargdai's existence outside of these traditional narratives.