Mo-Ox

Mo-ox are a sturdy bovine that live in the far eastern part of Ophion and beyond. They are known primarily for their good parenting skills, being strongly associated with motherhood.

► Basics

Mo-ox live in herds numbering in the thousands for part of the year. They give birth to two calves every other year, and young mortality rate is relatively low. This is due to the mo-oxen's incredible maternal instinct. Mothers will go to great lengths to protect their calves, and the uniquely giant herd structure helps with this goal.

Mo-oxen's horns have very wide bases, covering most of the forehead and partially down the nose. The horn is duel lobed and comes to a point above each eye. These horns are primarily used by sparring males and protective mothers. Their large hump is filled with fat-covered bone, said to be quite delicious.

► Human Interactions

Humans have long used the mo-oxen herds as a way to predict the next year's crops, weather, and fortune. When mo-oxen gather during dry seasons, their hooves stir up exceptional amounts of dust. By monitoring this dust, scholars can create guidelines for the year. Because of this extensive field of research, many laws have been created to prevent poaching.

On rare occasions, humans and fairies alike have given Mo-oxen as gifts. They are quite popular as royal dowries.

Here is a mosaic from Optera depicting the first Mo-ox in the kingdom. This young female (named Apperia) was a gift for Queen Alela from King Cabahol of the Ophion kingdom. She is said to be the ox that prevented a war.

► Extra