kphalos

Kphalos is a fictional creature appearing in the fantasy novel "The Serpent's Tooth" by author Elara Vance. In the narrative, kphalos are described as large, quadrupedal beasts native to the mountainous regions of the continent of Eldoria. They are characterized by their thick, scaly hide, which provides excellent protection against both physical attacks and extreme weather conditions. Their diet consists primarily of hardy mountain vegetation, though they have also been known to scavenge carrion when necessary.

Kphalos possess a distinctive frill around their heads, which they can flare out when agitated or threatened. This frill is believed to be a form of visual display, possibly used to intimidate rivals or ward off predators. While generally solitary creatures, kphalos are known to gather in small herds during the mating season. Their reproductive cycle and lifespan are not fully detailed within the novel, but it is implied they are long-lived creatures. They are not inherently aggressive towards intelligent races unless provoked or their territory is encroached upon, though their immense size and strength make encounters with them potentially dangerous. Kphalos are a significant element of the natural fauna within Vance's world, contributing to the rugged and untamed nature of the Eldorian mountains.