Native to the ancient continent of Kalimdor, Sabers are a fiercely intelligent species with an affinity for the Kaldorei that spans millennia. Due to naturally occurring regional mutations as well as magical manipulation, Saber breeds are widely variant across modern Azeroth.
Distinct among larger felines, Sabers are characterized by canine teeth that extend downward past the lower jaw. With a long frame of lean musculature, the Saber is gifted with the same speed, dexterity, and razor-sharp talons of other big cats; however, Sabers have larger heads and up to 120 degrees of jaw extension to support the additional weight and size of their massive canines. Their agile bodies are supported by heavy paws with additional layers of tissue on the metatarsal and digital pads, granting unusual stealth to their lethal movement. Because the species is reared almost exclusively in densely forested regions, they have a competitive edge in close-quarter combat. And with exceptional vision and thunderous roars, Sabers are both respected and feared.Â
Breeds and Personalities*
Nightsaber
The perfect nocturnal predator, Nightsabers are infamously difficult to track and even more difficult to conquer. Because their ebony and silver stripes offer flawless camouflage beneath a moonlit night, the Kaldorei believe Nightsabers were made by their lunar goddess, Elune. Their night-dark coloring also makes them the premier choice for Sentinel Ambushers and Huntresses, who rely on shadows to surprise their enemies; and though the Kaldoreiâs proficiency in bonding makes Nightsabers a standard companion, the dangerous process still takes years to achieve. While the felines are renowned for their unfaltering devotion and courage, their loyalty comes at a price: The breed bonds only once in its lifetime and at the death of their Rider, they return to the wilds.
Frostsaber
Owing in part to their unforgiving environments, the Frostsaber is an uncompromisingly savage breed. With thicker canines and bulkier frames, the breed is perfectly adapted to arctic regions. This heavier physique requires significant nourishment, however, making the Frostsaberâs appetite legendaryâeven earning it the nickname âDragon Bellyâ in Darnassian. While solid coats signify an ancient lineage, common patterns range from spotted to stripped, allowing Frostsabers to blend effectively into their snow-covered hunting grounds. Despite having the longest lifespans, Frostsaber bonding begins at infancy and is cultivated through decades of shared hardship. Though ruthless in nature, the breed respects patience and strength, making them a traditional choice for Priestesses of Elune. Disclaimer: Frostsaber cubs are adorable in freshly fallen snow.
Moonsaber
Undoubtedly the rarest breed of Saber on Azeroth, the Moonsabers are revered by the Kaldorei for their shimmering, moonlit coats and vibrant amethyst eyes. Unlike most Sabers, this breed does not stalk its prey from the shadows, instead preferring to run down its meal beneath the revealing starlight. There, the Moonsaberâs blessed speed can be fully unleashed; with a long body, flexible spine, and incredibly slim frame, the Moonsaber is believed to be the fastest Saber known to the Kaldoreiâits sprinting form reaching unbelievable speeds. No written knowledge exists on bonding with the mysterious feline and most who journey in search of its companionship return only with stories of grounded shooting-stars fading in the distance. One thing is known: Woe to those who threaten its bonded Rider, for the Sisterhood has witnessed moonlight bend to the Saberâs vengeance.
Stormsaber
With an outgoing personality and compassionate temperament, the Stormsaber is considered the most gregarious of Saber breeds. The athletic felines are covered in striped and spotted fur that is double-layered in vibrant sapphire and ivory shades. As they mature, the breedâs azure eyes lighten and dull before fading to seashell white; though not fully understood, their unrivaled vision is attributed to the biological phenomenon. Rarely found alone in the wild, Stormsaber companions perform best in groups and decline quickly when isolated. Given their name, the breed is often associated with Malfurion Stormrage, though records indicate the designation predates the Archdruid. And in bonding, Stormsabers seldom attach to the magically inclined, preferring to partner with Wardens and Sentinels.
Runesaber
Hidden from view for thousands of years, the Shenâdralar claim Runesabers are native to the ley lines stretching across Azeroth. Enhanced by the raw power of pure arcane energy, these magical creatures have avoided capture for millennia. They venture from their protected shelters only when their magic is depleted, searching endlessly for new springs of power. The Kaldorei argue extensive exposure to the arcane eroded the calcium in their bodies, removing their once proud fangs; but the Sabers have never been recorded exhibiting traditional caninesâin fact, stained glass found recently in the Ruins of Narâthalas depict fangs of arcane energy extending from their upper jaws. Many mysteries surround the Runesaber but multiple bonds have been recorded since the re-discovery of Suramar, giving hope knowledge on the breed might yet be obtained. Â
Dawnsaber
For millennia, the gentle-natured Dawnsaber was considered an ill omen due solely to its light-colored coat. Ostracized by the Kaldorei, the breed has developed a singular ferocity rooted in deep-seated distrust and sorrow. With cerulean eyes and vivid coats ranging from warm honey to radiant gold, the breed is as beautiful as it is endangered. In the rare occurrence a bond is cultivated, the Dawnsaberâs true nature blossoms, revealing a daringly independent, amiable, and unfailingly protective companion. Due to its historical treatment, the breed becomes anxious in crowded environments and does poorly in cities or large settlements. And while the Dawnsaber struggles in the chaotic setting of large-scale war, it shines in solo combat and is rumored to be undefeated in territorial disputes with its night-favored kin.
Mistsaber
Queen Azshara once spent a single, passing breath in praise of Moonsabers, sparking a Highborne frenzy to artificially create the exceedingly rare breed to win her favor. Through artificial selection and arcane manipulation, the Highborne of Zin-Azshari succeeded in producing an entirely new Saber but fell short of replicating the moonlit characteristics of their desired breed. Cruelly discarded, the Mistsabersâso named for their grey coats and cloudy lavender eyesâwere adopted by the Kaldorei of Hyjal. Adored for their dignified personalities, ease of taming, and unusual intelligence, the altered breed slowly earned its place amongst its natural kin. And though they are slender in build and slighter of frame, Mistsabers remain the most perceptive of all Saber breedsârumored, in fact, to foresee danger before it arrives.
*This is 95% head-canon ^_^~
** Big thank you to Olathanâar, Rhenelle, Saelyla, and Azo for gif posing!