Karkalas

Karkalas is a fictional creature originating from the folklore of the Aethelian plains. Descriptions of Karkalas vary, but they are generally depicted as solitary, nocturnal beings with a strong affinity for shadow and silence. Their appearance is often described as reptilian or insectoid, with multiple limbs and eyes that are sensitive to low light. Some tales suggest they possess a shimmering, iridescent quality to their scales or exoskeleton, allowing them to blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

The primary characteristic associated with Karkalas is their ability to move with unnatural stealth. They are said to be able to traverse any terrain without making a sound, and some legends claim they can even phase through solid objects, though this is often considered a more extreme interpretation. Their diet is a matter of speculation, with some myths suggesting they subsist on ambient energy or moonlight, while others propose they are hunters of small nocturnal animals.

In Aethelian culture, Karkalas are often viewed with a mixture of fear and respect. They are not typically portrayed as overtly malevolent, but rather as enigmatic entities that are best avoided. Encounters with Karkalas are rare, and those who claim to have seen them often speak of an unsettling feeling of being observed, even when no creature is visible. Their presence is sometimes associated with unusual atmospheric phenomena or a sudden drop in temperature. The origins of the Karkalas myth are unclear, but they are thought to have emerged from ancient stories attempting to explain the unexplained silences and shadows of the vast, open plains.