Kargaan Raptor

Raptors are one of Pentland's symbols and rampant raptors figure prominently on many banner-poles.

Pentland once had a full scale dinosaur population but only a few species remain in large numbers. The wingless, two-legged raptors are among the smartest. They have tough scales covering very strong, fast-twitch muscles. Raptors chase down their prey with bursts of speed, long and high jumps. They will often thump their tail against the ground if someone tries to provoke them. Besides using their teeth, they will kick with their powerful, clawed legs, while resting on their tail.

The horizontal bodies of the Pentlander raptors enable riders. It takes some doing to bring a raptor's temperament in line to take commands but the raptor cavalry makes a fearsome addition to the empire's standing forces once fully trained and armored up.

The Kargaan rangers tame the raptors as part of their usual activities. Fully trained mounts fetch a high premium both on the open and black markets. Eggs of pedigree raptors are often sold with decorations painted on.