LampyreFelis lumin
Miscellaneous
Common name
Lampyre
Scientific name
Felis lumin
Temporal range
Pre-Inturos - Current Day
Diet
Omnivore - Primary diet is Herbivorous
Disposition
Curious, Mischievous, Playful
Size
Weight ranges from 4lb/2kg to 30lb/14kg
Height ranges from 8in/20cm to 2ft/60cm
Habitat/Region
Northern parts of Solaria in summer
Lilika Overlook in Spring/Fall
Southern parts of Solaria in winter
Color Morphs
Every Lampyre possesses a distinct pattern and tuft of hair, making each one truly unique. Their fur typically comes in natural shades and markings reminiscent of house cats, allowing them to blend seamlessly with their environment. Their bulb, cheek markings, eyes, and paws usually share the same hue, though the exact color varies widely from Lampyre to Lampyre. Their glowing bulbs emit a constant light, though the intensity of this glow tends to fluctuate with their mood. While most Lampyres follow these common colorations and patterns, there are rare exceptions born with unusual markings or strikingly different hued pelt.
Lore
During the Inturos era, Lampyres were commonly kept as small household pets, though they were often regarded as particularly challenging to care for. These creatures possessed an innate mischievous streak and an insatiable desire for causing chaos, making them both a source of constant frustration and an endearing presence in many homes. Their unpredictable antics, from knocking over delicate objects to orchestrating playful yet elaborate pranks, earned them a reputation as both a nuisance and a cherished companion.
Despite their troublesome behavior, Lampyres were frequently given to young Inturos as introductory pets, intended to teach responsibility and animal care. However, the reality of raising such spirited creatures often proved overwhelming for inexperienced owners. As a result, a significant number of Lampyres were either returned or passed on to seasoned keepers who had developed the patience and expertise required to manage their energetic nature.
While the majority of Lampyres are known for their small, nimble forms, ancient stories and fairytales from the time of the Inturos speak of a colossal and awe-inspiring being known as the Lampyre King. Unlike his smaller kin, who flit about playfully in homes and forests, the Lampyre King is said to be as large as a house, his immense, rounded form glowing with an otherworldly radiance. His body, described as plump and luminous, exudes a comforting warmth, casting golden light upon all who stand in his presence.
Legends tell of his undeniable majesty, an entity whose very existence seems woven with an ancient and unknown magic. Some accounts depict him as a benevolent guardian, watching over Lampyres and those who cherish them, while others whisper of his mysterious nature, his true purpose lost to time. His glowing form is said to appear in the deep woods on the darkest nights, where only the bravest or most fortunate may catch a glimpse of his celestial brilliance.
While many dismiss the tale of the Lampyre King as nothing more than myth, passed down through generations to entertain and mystify, others remain steadfast in their belief. Some scholars and adventurers dedicate their lives to seeking proof of his existence, scouring ancient texts and following obscure clues in hopes of one day standing before the fabled being. Whether a legend or a hidden truth, the Lampyre King continues to captivate the imaginations of those who long to witness the mystical glow of this enigmatic and magnificent creature.
In the wild
In the many years since the disappearance of the Inturos, Lampyres, while still easily domesticated, have gradually returned to their natural migration patterns. These luminous creatures now follow the seasonal shifts of their environment, spending the warm summers in the northern reaches of Solaria before making their long journey southward to escape the harsh winter. During the transitional seasons of spring and fall, large numbers of them can be found in Lilika Overlook, where they feast on the abundant Applen Blossoms and Fruits, their favorite source of nourishment.
Unlike many other creatures, Lampyres lack a traditional nose. Instead, they possess a unique sensory adaptation—a gland located in their mouths that allows them to perceive scents through taste. This extraordinary ability enables them to locate their preferred foods with remarkable accuracy, detecting the faintest traces of sweetness carried on the wind.
In the wild, Lampyres are highly social creatures, traveling in small, close-knit groups commonly referred to as a Radiance. These packs are led by the Lampyre with the brightest and most radiant glow, a leader known as the Luminant in historical records. Wild Lampyre packs are notorious for their boundless curiosity and mischievous tendencies, showing little hesitation when approaching Kias or Dromas.
Naive adventurers and travelers unfamiliar with the nature of wild Lampyres often find themselves at the mercy of these playful tricksters. It is not uncommon for a Radiance to sneak into a campsite or rummage through a traveler’s rucksack, stealing shiny trinkets, food, or even small tools before flitting away in a dazzling display of glowing mischief. Many a frustrated explorer has been seen sprinting through the underbrush, hopelessly attempting to reclaim their stolen belongings while a group of Lampyres cheerfully evades capture, their luminous bodies flickering like stars against the darkening sky.
In society
Much like in the ancient texts, modern-day Solarians continue to keep these mischievous and spirited creatures as pets. Despite their small size, Lampyres remain a challenge for inexperienced owners, their boundless energy and playful antics often leading to unexpected messes and endless mischief. They have a knack for knocking over delicate objects, sneaking away with shiny trinkets, and causing minor chaos wherever they roam.
However, with patience, proper training, and an experienced handler, Lampyres can become exceptional companion animals. Their intelligence and curiosity make them highly trainable, and with the right guidance, they can learn to assist their owners in various ways. Many Kias and Dromas traveling across Solaria rely on their Lampyre companions for more than just their warm and comforting presence—these luminous creatures have an uncanny ability to sense hidden paths, detect changes in the environment, and even locate lost or misplaced objects. Some seasoned travelers claim that Lampyres can recognize danger before it arrives, their glowing forms flickering erratically in response to unseen threats.
Though undeniably troublesome at times, a well-trained Lampyre is a loyal and invaluable companion, bringing both light and laughter to those who choose to welcome one into their lives. Whether darting through the air in playful spirals or curling up against their owners with a soft, glowing warmth, these tiny creatures remain a cherished part of Solarian culture, much as they have been since the days of the Inturos.
ASSOCIATED Lampyres:
ASSOCIATED MIMICS:
