Mutants
A Guidebook to the Creatures of Valcura
Concept art book by Charlie Goacher, also known as CabinBoy
Part of an ongoing project under the title “Iko and the Toads”
2024
Introduction to Valcura
In the year 2087, the world stopped turning. That is, mankind had run itself dry of energy resources and materials. The ecosystem had been gradually destroyed, with species dying out every day. Eventually, most of the industrial areas had become wastelands, and many factories, offices, and homes were overcome by decay. Plants began to thrive in these areas. Every abandoned home had become a forest.
The following year, the government of Valcura, in a bid to maintain their power and prevent revolt, carried out a re-education scheme which explained the resource crisis as a natural, controlled occurrence, and that they had moved all supply production across seas. They announced the village would receive an allowance each month containing food, seeds, and occasional material goods such as fabrics, and over time people began to believe their lies. Valcura’s village became complacent and hopeless. Most technology had been banned to prevent outside communication and independent, unmonitored innovation (as a result, “innovation” had become a word of taboo and threat within the village). Scientists of multiple fields had been declared missing. Their murder by the government was never announced, but remained a quiet rumour: public knowledge that was never truly discussed.
Organisations both by the now off-shore government (they dared not to interact with the public, the shipments of supplies were delivered by masked men who never spoke), and a rogue underground group known as the Vulture Organisation began to run the village. Food supplies were constantly kept at a low, so that the people in the village would be just scraping by, weakened by their perpetual hunger and malnourishment, which, alongside fear, prevented them from revolting. Secret farms grew underground, and now-hard-to-obtain medicines were quietly dealt out for high prices. Those with enough money and power could afford respirators and protective clothing to fight against the harsh air quality and burning UV rays. The majority, however, simply had to acclimatise.
The Aftermath
Over time, the ecosystem somewhat recovered. The pollution and sudden dramatic change in climate meant animals had to rapidly adapt, leading to unprecedented mutations. Some were passive, others would attack the village people. Five years after the announcement of the government’s re-education scheme, monsters unlike anything people had seen began to emerge. The underground organisation worked for the “Vulture of the Mountains”, who carried out secret lab experiments and created weaponised mutants to terrorise the village. Since the emergence of these creatures, the village has experienced three mass-destruction mutant events, collectively devastating 40% of livelihood. The first and last of these events were caused by the Night Howler (p. 24), and the second by the Exobat (p.54). No one outside of the organisation has ever met the Vulture, but the lab can sometimes be seen in the horizon, when the heavy fog clears. Hopes of stopping the mass-destruction are low, as the villagers continue to struggle in this new world.
Adaptations Overview
The rapid adaptation of the species of Valcura took many forms, but there are some commonalities between them. Increased melanin, particularly on the back, was a feature that appeared across multiple species (see p.22, p.36, p.52, p.64), likely functioning as protection against the increased atmospheric radiation and increased UV rays. Exoskeletons have also risen among vertebrates. The reason for this is unknown, but people have observed many of these species use the exoskeletal features in combat, such as the Pouncing Formido (p.40) using its tail to attack oncoming predators. Exterior bone is also found on the faces of many of these animals, like the Chlorofawn (p.22) and the Night Howler (p.24), which is suspected to aid in ventilation against toxic fumes as well as protect the skin when grazing harsh terrain.
Another observation is that most of these animals seem to have an innate hostility towards humans. Many will attack upon sight, some specifically hunt them. Because of this, most people stay away from areas outside the residential village, the deadliest of areas being the Mountains (p.34), and the Caves (p.44). In this way, animals have reclaimed these natural areas as their own.
(An example of increased melanin on the back of the Chlorofawn.)
Many of the animals share features with other seemingly unrelated species, such as the muscular back legs of the Night Howler (p.24) and the Stilted Grasshopper (p.52), and the exterior rib cage of both the Akiduck (p.18) and Randy of the Woods (p.32). Some believe this is due to the limited extent of their environment, meaning interspecies breeding occurred to create the current animals of Valcura. Other species, falling into the abnormal category, are believed to be mechanically constructed by man. These are believed to be the product of the Vulture in the Mountains.
Potential products of the Vulture Organisation experiments are:
◊ Night Howler
◊ Rabbat
◊ Randy of the Woods
◊ Terror Birm
◊ Avedeus
◊ Cave Phantom
◊ Exobat (confirmed)
It should be noted that the majority of these species are those that reside within the caves. This could have initially been a hideout for subjects of experiment before the lab was completed, or a home to the discarded products that do not function as planned.
OTIO
Species Origin: Common Toad (Bufo Bufo)
A rather helpless looking species with a permanent forlorn expression. The Otio uses its fork-like hands to snip away leaves and thick algae which it then consumes, often via a slurping action. A completely harmless herbivore, this creature rarely leaves its place of rest, adopting a simple, low-energy lifestyle. These toads are often seen in groups- however it has been documented that they appear to keep a distance from each other. This is likely due to them being shy. The Otio toad is rarely attacked due to its strong, harsh smell, resembling rotting plants, though if approached by predators it will use its strong fork-hands to stab at them.
Hostility: the Otio is more shy than hostile, favouring avoidance over conflict. The only hostility observed occurred during an attempt to steal its food, where it attempted to snip at the offender. It was also noted that its smell seemed to worsen during the conflict.
Notable adaptations: strong, unpleasant smell resembling rotting plants, fork-like hands
Habitat: littoral zones of ponds, areas with thick foliage
KEY INFO
Diet: pond leaves, algae, bullrush
Agility: low
Strength: medium
Fighting Style: snipping and stabbing via fork-like hands
Threat to humanity: none
Height: 20cm, Weight: 90g
GLOBUS FROG
Species Origin: Rain Frog (Breviceps)
Height: 8cm, Weight: 50g
The Globus Frog hasn’t evolved much from its ancestors, sharing the ball-like body with the once-abundant Rain Frog. This species is harmless when unprovoked, but emits an acidic toxin from its pores when scared, which causes burns, rashes, and in extreme cases, severe erosion of the skin. Solitary in nature, the Globus stays within its place of birth for its entire life. This is likely due to its ineffective method of travel- consisting almost entirely of rolling from place to place. Found in large families, averaging between 10-20 toads in a group. This low-energy creature is not picky when it comes to feeding, though has a preference for mosquitoes and bottle flies.
Hostility: none reported, though has anxiety towards most living creatures
Notable adaptations: acidic toxin released from pores, extremely round body
Habitat: littoral zones of ponds, surrounding land areas of ponds
KEY INFO
DIET: flies, small insects, pond leaves
AGILITY: very low
STRENGTH: low
FIGHTING STYLE: toxin
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none
MOTHER TOAD
Species Origin: Common Toad (Bufo Bufo)
Despite its name, the Mother Toad is reportedly exclusively male. It coined its name due to the nest-like function, containing its offspring within the skull. An enigma to all, this bodiless head is completely hollow, yet is able to both see and smell, and can snap at oncoming threats. The protruding feelers detect movement and produce a scent which attracts predators, deterring them from its tadpoles, and releases a poison when consumed. This poison causes similar symptoms to rabies, but at a much quicker rate, killing its victims within half an hour of consumption. It appears the Mother Toad has no method of feeding, though some form of photosynthesis is suspected to be its source of energy. Consisting of just a head, the creature cannot move beyond snapping its jaw in quick bursts. It is unknown how they occur or reproduce. Often found in groups of 5-10.
Hostility: clear protective instinct for its contained offspring, though unable to attack. Its glare can be very unnerving.
Notable adaptations: poisonous feelers, bodiless living vessel, possibly evolved due to the increase in attacks against offspring and harsher water conditions for its eggs.
Habitat: pond edges, littoral zones
KEY INFO
DIET: likely nothing
AGILITY: none
STRENGTH: none
FIGHTING STYLE: poison
THREAT TO HUMANITY: low
Height: 10cm, Weight: 20g
AKIDUCK
Species Origin: Mallard (anas platyrhynchos)
Despite their scary appearance, these ducks are harmless if unprovoked. Though gaining its name from the greek term for spike (akida), the spikes on its beak are actually teeth, with the top beak containing holes that they protrude from. These teeth slice through thick algae and leaf growth. Upon confrontation with predators, the Aki will use its teeth and incredible jaw strength to bite its enemy, as well as strike using its wings and claws. It is unknown how this creature is able to survive with its exposed brain matter. This feature is likely due to rapid brain growth and intelligence increase, with the skull unable to match the pace of growth.. They have excellent vision, and can see the entire underwater contents of a lake from great heights, even at night. The Akiduck also has an excellent sense of smell. They are known to migrate in groups of up to fifty ducks, and move from pond to pond every month.
Hostility: none if unprovoked, but very territorial- particularly against humansand will fight anything that crosses it when caring for offspring.
Notable adaptations: spike-like teeth protruding from beak, excellent vision and sense of smell
Habitat: large ponds and lakes
KEY INFO
DIET: small fish, aquatic vegetation, nuts, worms
AGILITY: high
STRENGTH: medium, thanks to its strong jaw and wings
FIGHTING STYLE: snapping with its beak, striking using its wings, scratching via claws THREAT TO HUMANITY: low
Height: 48cm, Weight: 2kg
02 Forest
CHLOROFAWN
Species Origin: True Deer (Cervidae)
Height: 95cm, Weight: 65kg
Despite its threatening appearance, the Chlorofawn is passive and slow. The bones on its face help protect against harmful sun rays and allows it to graze from thick, harsh terrain that other species may avoid. The fungi that grows on its back serves as food for insects- much like an olden-day sloth- who release rich nutrients into the fungi-blanket, nourishing the Chlorofawn and deflecting harsh atmospheric chemicals. These creatures are usually seen alone. Upon conflict, the Chlorofawn will opt for a flight response if able, but will use its thich facial bones to headbutt its enemy when necessary.
Hostility: none, will often run away from other species
Notable adaptations: exterior facial bones, increased melanin, fungi-blanket on back
Habitat: deep woodlands
KEY INFO
DIET: grass, leaves, various branches, thorns
AGILITY: medium
STRENGTH: medium
FIGHTING STYLE: headbutting
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none
02 FOREST
NIGHT HOWLER
Species Origin: unknown, likely to be a result of the laboratory experiments carried out by the Vulture Organisation
Also known as the demon of the woods, this formidable creature is known for its deafening, shrill, horn-like cry that torments its neighbouring villages. Incredibly large, heavy, and destructive, this creature is responsible for the devastation of the Southern Village in 2092, where it tore through homes and crushed 90% of its residents. The reason for doing so is still unknown, and the people of Valcura live in fear of the day it decides to visit again. Its head and back are constructed of multiple thick layers of bone, accompanied by an extremely dense muscular structure, meaning it can crush almost anything and run at speeds reaching 100 km/h. It also has a long, protruding snout with a seemingly excellent sense of smell. Those that have survived their encounter with this monster have reported an aura of omniscience, other-world-ness, and pure evil, with many likening it to a phantom.
Hostility: extremely high. Encounters with this creature are almost always fatal.
Notable adaptations: layers of exterior bone on the back and face, extremely high muscle mass, heightened sense of smell. Habitat: deep woodlands
KEY INFO
DIET: large mammals, humans
AGILITY: very high
STRENGTH: very high
FIGHTING STYLE: crushing with its legs, slamming its body, and clawing with its bird-like feet
THREAT TO HUMANITY: extreme
Height: 4m, Weight: 5000kg (est.)
RABBAT
Species Origin: European Rabbit (Oryctolagus Cuniculus)
Not much is known about this creature- it keeps itself hidden from humans, so sightings are very rare. The Rabbat has significant climbing abilities thanks to its strong claws made from pure bone. Its eyes are fairly useless, not serving much purpose beside detecting changes in light, however its ears are equipped with echolocation abilities to compensate. It cannot fly, rather glide long distances, often jumping between trees. It eats small rodents and squirrels, which it covertly stalks, then swoops down and sinks its claws into the neck of its prey, leaving it paralysed.
Hostility: none reported
Notable adaptations: bat-like wings, echolocation, strong bone claws
Habitat: woods, high trees
KEY INFO
DIET: small rodents
AGILITY: high
STRENGTH: medium
FIGHTING STYLE: pounce attacks using gliding ability and claws
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none
Height: 12cm, Weight: 2kg (est.)
SPORESKULL
Species Origin: European Rabbit (Oryctolagus Cuniculus)
Known for its lethal attack, the Sporeskull contains a flower within its skull which, when approached, opens up and releases devastating spores. When the spores are ingested, its victim will mutate into a terror-inducing half-formed Sporeskull, often undergoing complete bone restructuring and growth of the ears and body hair. Records of such transformation are forbidden by the Valcura government, deemed too horrifying to allow the public to see, and areas where this creature resides are avoided by humans at all costs. It is believed that this mutation reaction only occurs within humans. Adding to the danger, the ability to hide this dangerous flower means this rabbit seems normal at first glance, its only identifying feature being the tendon-like patterning on its face, making it difficult to avoid until too late. The Sporeskull has been known to eat mice, hedgehogs, and smaller species of rabbit. Due to risk, not much is known about this creature’s living habits, though it is assumed that they are solitary.
KEY INFO
DIET: mice, hedgehogs, small rabbits
AGILITY: medium
STRENGTH: unknown
FIGHTING STYLE: deadly spores
THREAT TO HUMANITY: high
Hostility: very hostile, should be avoided at all costs
Notable adaptations: skull containing a flower which expels deadly spores. Tendon-like formation of the face.
Habitat: woodlands, underground burrows, bushes
Height: 40cm, Weight: 5kg (est.)
DOUBLE-HEADED DOG
Species Origin: Rottweiler (Canis Lupus Familiaris)
A bloodthirsty, excellent at hunting, but otherwise unintelligent species. Having two consciences proves to be a disadvantage, as it often becomes confused on which direction to move. That said, this dog is still dangerous, charging at high speeds and devouring any creature it fancies without difficulty, thanks to its tooth-covered tongues. This is a creature to be avoided as it will often attack humans and will usually hunt in packs making the chances of surviving an encounter very low.
KEY INFO
DIET: any living creature it finds, with a preference for humans, large rodents, cats, and amphibians.
AGILITY: very
STRENGTH: high
FIGHTING STYLE: charging, biting, clawing
THREAT TO HUMANITY: high
Height : 75cm, Weight: 80kg (est.)
Hostility: while it will attack humans, this creature isn’t necessarily hostile, with its hunting appearing to be more of a game than an attack. Fatal, nonetheless. Notable adaptations: two heads, tongues lined with teeth, thick bone spikes protruding from back
Habitat: woodland
02 FOREST
RANDY OF THE WOODS
Species Origin: Unknown, suspected to be a result of the laboratory experiments carried out by the Vulture organisation
With only one reported sighting, it is unknown if this creature is its own species or an underdeveloped form of an existing species. Locals coined the name “Randy” due to its human-like form and haunting aura. It lacks both hands and feet, travelling via dragging itself with its small limbs. Its eyes and mouth are seemingly hollow, and it has exposed valves on its neck, making it uncertain whether it survived beyond being sighted. The bones protruding from Randy’s chest are thought to protect its vital organs when dragging itself from place to place. It is most likely this creature originated from the Vulture Organisation laboratory experiments, perhaps a discarded failed attempt at controlled mutation.
Hostility: none
Notable adaptations: hollow skull, exterior bones protecting chest, exposed valves
Habitat: deep woodland
KEY INFO
DIET: unkown, if anything
AGILITY: very low
STRENGTH: believed to be low
FIGHTING STYLE: none observed
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none, though the legendary status has caused fear among the villagers- particularly the children
ANDROMADEER
Species Origin:White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
The Andromadeer holds an ethereal status likening it to something closer to that of a mythological creature rather than a mutant. Residing quietly in the mountains, sightings are rare. Some groups within the village have begun worshipping the creature, praying to the Andromadeer for prosperity and healing, and carry out rituals involving dance, banquets, and light in honour of it. Only the few brave enough to explore the mountain region have managed to witness this spectacle species. Even other mountainous species seem to respect the Andromadeer, with creatures as threatening as the (tiger) bringing food to the deer. Seemingly, this creature has no predators. It is believed the fur of the Andromadeer holds medicinal properties, which may explain the lack of predators. No human has been able to get close enough to confirm this. While evidently not needing it, the Andromadeer has a thin, decorative exterior bone layer on its legs and neck, as well as an incredible sense of smell. It is thought that its nose can detect temperature disparities. It is assumed that this creature is unable to fly.
Height : 200cm, Weight: 80kg
Hostility: none
Notable adaptations: large wings, double tail, exterior bone armour
Habitat: mountains
KEY INFO
DIET: grass and mountain foliage, though it will eat meat brought to it by other species
AGILITY: medium
STRENGTH: high
FIGHTING STYLE: unkown
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none, it may even be beneficial
03 MOUNTAINS
CRYING MOUNTAIN ELK
Species Origin: Rocky Mountain Elk (Cervus canadensis Nelsoni)
A slow moving but powerful creature, descendant of moose, which coined its name due to its piercing “cry”, which it performs during hunting. The sound has been likened to that of a siren, and with a flute-like quality. It is unsure what the purpose of this cry is, but many have theorised the frequency may disorientate smaller animals, making them easier to attack. It feeds on small deer-like creatures and large rodents, which it attacks via stomping, kicking, and sinking its tusks in. Extremely good at traversing difficult mountain terrain, and difficult to attack due to its thick armour made from dentine- a hard, dense, bony tissue. Its main predators are the Pouncing Formido and the Giant Mountain Rat, who often attack the exposed skin on the legs and abdomen. They travel in herds. The Crying Mountain Elk is passive when not feeding but will react to aggressive movements, and can charge at threats, similar to a bull.
Hostility: none if unprovoked
Notable adaptations: armour made from dentine, large layered muscle, thin, sharp tusks
Habitat: high mountains
KEY INFO
DIET: small mammals, large rodents, smaller deer species
AGILITY: medium
STRENGTH: high
FIGHTING STYLE: stomping, kicking, piercing with its tusks
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none if left alone
Height : 190cm, Weight: 680kg
POUNCING FORMIDO
A deadly hunter, with incredibly large lungs and powerful muscles in its back legs. The Formido attacks its prey by pouncing, often stalking it for an entire day- sometimes just for fun. It cannot run fast due to its weighty body, but the large lungs mean it can often outlast its prey over long distances. Using its weight to collide with the prey, this creature then uses its tail made solely of bone to whip its victim, knocking it unconscious. The Formido is also known to feast on its prey alive, finding killing it to be unnecessary. Its small back paws improve agility, while the larger front paws provide enough power to launch itself across long distances. With a shell of exterior bone armour protecting most of its body, the Pouncing Formido has few predators. They often hunt alone, but rest in groups of 10-20.
KEY INFO
DIET: crying mountain elk, large mammals
AGILITY: high
STRENGTH: very high
FIGHTING STYLE: poucing, whipping with tail
THREAT TO HUMANITY: small, will not attack unprovoked.
Species Origin: Bengal Tiger (Panthera Tigris Tigris)
Hostility: mainly hostile towards its prey, will leave humans alone if unprovoked.
Notable adaptations: tail made of bone, increased muscle mass of the back legs, bone armour covering most of the body
Habitat: mountains, mountain caves
Height : 125cm, Weight: 400kg (est.)
GIANT MOUNTAIN RAT
Species Origin:White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
A large, bloodthirsty rodent. Extremely territorial, and will attack anything that comes near- even attacking creatures twice its size. Its relatively small stature makes it able to overcome large prey with speed: climbing on the body of its victim and sinking its teeth in, releasing deadly venom which works by constricting the muscles, inducing paralysis. It then feeds by burrowing in its prey, eating it from inside out. The Giant Mountain Rat is a solitary creature, and will often fight members of its own species, sometimes even eating them. They are rife in the mountains, and even the largest predators fear it. They are often likened to hyenas as they will consume every part of its prey, and will eat anything it can kill.
KEY INFO
DIET: any living thing, preference for Crying Mountain Elk
AGILITY: very high
STRENGTH: low
FIGHTING STYLE: fast attacks, venom
THREAT TO HUMANITY: medium, but would be high if they moved to residential areas
Hostility: extreme
Notable adaptations: teeth containing venom, large size compared to other species of rodents
Habitat: mountains
Height : 21cm, Weight: 1kg
Caves
TERROR BIRM
Species Origin:White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
A terrifying, vicious predator that will kill anything in sight. The terror birm earns its name by being incredibly large, fast, and extremely skilled at killing its prey- which it does so by constricting and ripping apart using its beak, lined with razor sharp teeth. It doesn’t just kill to eat, often hunting for fun and playing with the corpses. Despite its top-heavy appearance, this creature is very agile, and its body lined with eyes means it can see from all angles. The protruding spikes detect the slightest movements in the air, meaning it can detect potential prey even when asleep. The Birm is expected to be highly intelligent. Humans should avoid this creature at all costs, as interaction will induce almost-certain fatality.
Hostility: extreme
Notable adaptations: multiple eyes along the body, feelers protruding from neck, razor teeth lining the beak
Habitat: caves
KEY INFO
DIET: anything in sight, with no noticable preference
AGILITY: extremely high
STRENGTH: very high
FIGHTING STYLE: constriciton, ripping apart using teeth-lined beak THREAT TO HUMANITY: potentially very high
Height : 1980cm, Weight:270 kg
04 CAVES
AVEDEUS
Species Origin:Unknown, suspected to be a result of the laboratory experiments carried out by the Vulture organisation
Similar to Randy of the Woods, the Avedeus (a name deriving from “Bird-God”, due to its mysterious origin) is an enigma. With only one proven sighting, it is believed that the Avedeus is a singular creature derived from the Vulture Organisation’s experiments. It is suspected that this creature was originally human, and there is debate as to whether this was an attempt to create weapons-grade enhancements, or simply a punishment to an unfortunate lab worker. Because of this harrowing possibility, the people of Valcura remain compliant to the Organisation, terrified to become the next victim. The Avedeus has been witnessed feeding on worms, small rodents, and large insects. It hides within deep caves, traversing aimlessly. Witnesses described the creature to have an air of hopelessness to it.
Hostility: none suspected, avoids humans
KEY INFO
DIET: worms, small rodents, and large insects.
AGILITY: medium
STRENGTH: unknown
FIGHTING STYLE: unknown
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none suspected
Notable adaptations: bird features including a beak, feet, and feathers covering 70% of the body
Habitat: deep caves
Height :182cm, Weight: 86kg (est.)
04 CAVES
CAVE PHANTOM
Species Origin:Unknown, suspected to be a result of the laboratory experiments carried out by the Vulture organisation
Likely a result of the Vulture Organisation experiments, the cave phantom’s survival is an enigma. With exposed organs and brain, and seemingly no stomach or no way of feeding, the source of the Cave Phantom’s energy is unknown. Yet, the species thrives within the caves, with population reaching thousands per cave. Many describe this species as an escaped soul, doomed to haunt the caves, while some believe it feeds on fear. That said, the Cave Phantom possesses no apparent danger to humans. Still, its threatening appearance is enough to keep visitors at bay.
Hostility: none suspected
Notable adapations: face made primarily of exterior bone
Habitat: all areas of caves
Height : 18cm, Weight: 380g
KEY INFO
DIET: unkown, rumoured to be fear
AGILITY: low
STRENGTH: unknown
FIGHTING STYLE: unknown
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none suspected
04 CAVES
STILTED GRASSHOPPER
Species Origin:White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
A giant grasshopper-like creature with incredibly strong legs and a cage of bones protruding from its back. Frantic in nature, the Stilted Grasshopper will often charge at speeds reaching 30 m/h in search of food. Its eyesight is poor, so it relies on scent, which it detects using the long feelers on its face which also function as its mouth and nose. These feelers, equipped with millions of miniscule, sharp hairs, can also pierce through skin and release a venom that kills by slowing the bloodstream to a halt. Once the prey is defeated, this creature feeds by sucking the blood from its victims. Its favoured prey is rodents, though it has also been known to kill snakes. They often battle with the Terror Birm, as well as its own species. The red areas of the Grasshopper are scalding hot, deterring predators. It is unknown how this creature generates such temperatures, nor endure it. Peculiarly, the creature has an adaptation of increased melanin of the skin- particularly on the back- which suggests it may have originally resided outside the caves, perhaps having moved to the caves where its prey is abundant.
Hostility: medium, usually will not charge at humans but there is still a risk
Notable adaptations: scadling hot areas of the skin, venemous feelers/ snout, protutruding cage of exterior bone, increased muscle mass
Habitat: all areas of caves, favouring those with vegetation
KEY INFO
DIET: small rodents, lizards, snakes, newts
AGILITY: medium
STRENGTH: high
FIGHTING STYLE: charging and kicking, injecting with venom
THREAT TO HUMANITY: low, medium if they leave the cave
Height : 182cm, Weight: 150kg
04 CAVES
EXOBAT
Species Origin: Giant Golden-Crowned Flying Fox (Acerodon jubatus)
The only confirmed product of the Vulture Organisation Experiments, due to the villagers’ success in capturing it after the 2093 attack- the second of the mutant attacks. Upon examination, signs of limb removal and body modification were evident, and it is assumed that elements of a bat, rat, and an owl were integrated during its construction- though elements of other unidentified species have also been found. During the attack, the Exobat used its double layered beak to swing at buildings and devour humans. Luckily, it quickly grew tired after ingesting 3 people thanks to its underdeveloped, partially exposed digestive system, and the increase in weight rendering it unable to fly, leading to its capture.
Hostility: high, though it is thought to lack the intelligence to truly be hostile, instead appearing more like a killing machine than a living being Notable adaptations: doublelayered beak, exposed internal organs, sheer size
Habitat: darkest areas of caves
KEY INFO
DIET: humans, large rodents, small snakes
AGILITY: medium, but quickly turns to low after consuming prey
STRENGTH: high
FIGHTING STYLE: swinging and biting using its beak
THREAT TO HUMANITY: high
Height : 170cm, Weight: 250 kg
04 CAVES
PITCHER CORAL
Species Origin:Tropical Pitcher PLants (Nepenthes)
Height: 210cm, Weight: 90kg
A deadly, sentient form of coral. Secreting medicinal liquid from its red “pools”, many sea creatures rely on the Pitcher Coral to live. However, many which attempt to extract this liquid will reach a tragic demise, as the carnivorous plant closes in on its prey and releases an acid, slowly devouring it. Those not requiring the medicinal properties are instead drawn in by the protruding bones, which emit a sweet smell that induces a drug-like state. The Pitcher Coral is an invasive species that often grows in “bouquets”, and is rapidly taking over the sea beds.
KEY INFO
DIET: most fish, shellfish
AGILITY: low
STRENGTH: high
FIGHTING STYLE: trapping its prey and dissolving it via acid
THREAT TO HUMANITY: potentially high if it continues to take over the seabeds and contaminate the sealife
Hostility: high
Notable adaptations: rapid growth rate, bone spikes, ability to emit luring smell
Habitat: all seabeds
WISE SEA-FERN
Species Origin: Unknown
An all-knowing aura emits from this creature. Legend says an interaction with it will allow you to see your own future. The Wise Sea-Fern is extremely rare, meaning not much is known about its development or feeding habits, though those that have come across it report it having a very comforting, almost forgiving energy. It has excellent night vision, with eyes that emit a warm glow. Some say that it sings, its song sounding like soft bell chimes and warbling bass, and a soft steel drum. It is incredibly peaceful, and has been labelled as a protected species. There is hope to learn more about the creature, though great care is vital to ensure no harm comes to this ethereal species.
Hostility: none
Notable adaptations: glowing eyes, song
Habitat: deep sea, warmer regions towards the South
KEY INFO
DIET: unknown
AGILITY: none
STRENGTH: unknown
FIGHTING STYLE: none suspected
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none, may even be beneficial
Height :75 cm, Weight: 80 kg (est.)
MUDFISH
Species Origin: Shrimp (Caridea)
Once a healthy species, the Mudfish is now merely a shell for its host, the Beelee parasite. This parasite resides in the Mudfish’s tongue, sending electric signals across the nervous system which prompt the creature to breed at a rapid rate, creating an abundance of homes for the parasite to thrive. Any creature that consumes the infected Mudfish will also consume the parasite, spreading it further. As a result, most underwater species know to stay away, keeping the parasite safe from any predators. Fishmongers in Valcura also have to take care, checking every fish they catch to ensure humans do not consume the Beelee parasite. The Mudfish and its host prefer warm waters and feed of coral and plankton.
Hostility: high
Notable adaptations: bone covering across body, strong horns protruding from head
Habitat: warm areas of the sea
KEY INFO
DIET: coral and plankton
AGILITY: medium
STRENGTH: low
FIGHTING STYLE: parasite
THREAT TO HUMANITY: medium if ingested by humans
Height: 10cm, Weight: 120g
COMMON MUTATATED FRY
Species Origin: Common Toad (Bufo Bufo)
KEY INFO
DIET: coral, underwater ferns, sea sponge
AGILITY: high
STRENGTH: low
FIGHTING STYLE: none
THREAT TO HUMANITY: none
An unremarkable species, with only small differences to the fish that preceded it. The Common Mutated Fry’s four eyes allow for almost 360 degree vision, and its long feelers detect vibrations in the water, meaning the Fry is surprisingly agile against predators. While not providing much nutritional value on its own, it is often used as bait for larger fish. The Fry is also a popular pet among the villagers, thanks to its remarkable colouring, and easily pleased nature. The Common Mutated Fry often swims in schools of over one hundred.
Hostility: none
Notable adaptations: feelers which detect vibrations, double eyes on either side which allow for almos 360 degree vision.
Habitat: all areas of the sea
Height: 4 cm, Weight: 90 g
GACHA CRAB
Species Origin: Common Toad (Bufo Bufo)
An unintelligent creature that feeds on small fish and plankton. The Gacha Crab gets its name from its less than graceful method of transport resembling that of an escaping gashapon, and the hollow noise made when it often crashes into things. Due to its buoyant body and wide set eyes, its movements are difficult to control and it often gets dizzy and confused when travelling, which it does so by slowly “bobbing” in the general desired direction, flapping its fins to propel itself. The Gacha Crab travels in small groups up to 5, feeding on underwater plants. Thanks to its lack of agility, this crabhas many predators. Dolphins have been witnessed playing a form of catch with the Gacha Crab, its buoyancy resembling that of a beach ball.
Hostility: none
Notable adaptations: spongey coating on the shell, perhaps for protection against collisions.
Habitat: most areas of the coast
Height: 22cm, Weight: 250g
KEY INFO
DIET: small fish, plankton, underwater plants
AGILITY: low
STRENGTH: medium
FIGHTING STYLE: attacking with pincers
THREAT TO HUMANITY: None
Mutants in Descending Order of Height
Night Howler - 4 m
Pitcher Coral - 2.1 m
Andromadeer - 2 m
Terror Birm - 1.98 m
Stilted Grasshopper - 1.82 m
Avedeus - 1.82 m
Exobat - 1.7 m
Pouncing Formido - 1.25 m
Chlorofawn - 95 cm
Randy of the Woods - 91 cm
Double-Headed Dogs - 75 cm
Akiduck - 48 cm
Sporeskull - 40 cm
Gacha Crab - 22cm
Giant Mountain Rat - 21 cm
Otio - 20 cm
Cave Phantom - 18 cm
Rabbat - 12 cm
Mother Toad - 10 cm
Mudfish - 10 cm
Globus - 8 cm
Common Mutated Fry - 4 cm
All illustrations, words, and concept by Charlie Goacher, also known as CabinBoy
