The Kin (ID: k-in)

Grouping: Elemental, Aquatic

Tephrals are social, aquatic apex predators that grow very large. Though they seem reptilian, these creatures are actually fish, and as such are unable to breathe when removed from water. This creature is covered in a hard metalloid mineral dubbed Tephralite, which moves through water without resistance as if it was air. Because of this, Tephrals are extremely fast and agile swimmers, despite their great size and bulk. However, Tephralite that leaves the water and is exposed to air rapidly corrodes, a process which turns the normally blue-green material into bright oranges and burnt browns, as if it is burning. If left out of water, the mineral will eventually disintegrate into dust. Replacing the water will stop the process, and if it's still attached to a Tephral, eventually reverse it.

Tephrals live in small packs which act and communicate as a hive-like social structure, with the ability to coordinate with extreme proficiency while chasing prey. Tephrals can outspeed all but the most agile of fish due to their armor's properties, and have an incredible bite strength. They also posses the ability to spray heated steam from their mouths, which not only grievously injures most prey, but also corrodes the armor of an unfriendly member of its own species. Therefore, Tephrals typically avoid confrontation with one another, and will opt to leave other packs alone if possible.

Artwork: Keileon