#longma

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Longma; 2026

I guess it does go to show how confusing it can be to classify True Dragons and Dragon Beasts, mainly for those that do have that reptilian appearance. For creatures that are clearly mammalian, insect or other things, I feel it should be clear that those are not True Dragons. But when you get to stuff that have scales, or looks like they have scales, the line sort of blurs. You already see people baffled when you have things like scaled mammals or reptiles that look like they have a mane or fur, now mix that in with the already messy dragon classification. I bring this up because I am far more knowledgeable about these sort of things than the average person, and sometimes even I am surprised! The Longma is a good example of this, because honestly I didn't even imagine a dragon would take on such an equine shape. But obviously that is more fault of my imagination than anything else!

The Longma is a member of the True Dragon family, one that fits neatly in the category of "dragon horse." I mean, it should, because from what I have learned "Longma" literally means "dragon horse." As their name should make clear, it is essentially a draconic beast that has taken on the general anatomy of an equine, shedding its wings and bulky body for something a bit more elegant. The hooked claws and savage strength have been abandoned for legs built for running. The claws have altered themselves into hooves, now meant for sprinting instead of slicing! Of course, this means that this True Dragon has taken to a terrestrial lifestyle, remaining firmly on the ground. But that doesn't mean they are any less graceful or incredible to see! Such speed!

Longma have different social setups depending on their gender, as females tend to stay in groups while the males go solo. From what I have gathered, these herds are typically matriarchal, with an elder female leading them. The others in the group are lower females, the young and immature males not yet ready for the loner life. But once the males reach maturity, they will leave the herd, sometimes driven out. They will roam the wilds by themselves, though technically there is still a social structure in place. Territories are claimed by the elder males, patriarchs of the land where the herds and individuals dwell. They seem to make the rules within a region, that the lower males must follow, and they tend to have first dibs on the female herds when the breeding season occurs.

However, this role as emperor of the land does not come for free, as the patriarch of the territory is tasked with keeping the region prosperous and peaceful. When competition comes in to chow down on their food source, it is up to the leader to drive them away. When predators come into the territory looking to feed on the young and sick, the patriarch steps in to fight. And this entire time, they must face challenges from lesser males, looking to steal the top spot. As a result, the patriarchs are temperamental, cautious and watchful. It should be no surprise that these specimens give the Longma the role of guardian and protector in many local beliefs.

I am sure some folk would probably be surprised to hear that the Longma is an herbivorous beast. A dragon that eats grass?! Preposterous! Or maybe people will think it normal, what with it being more like a horse. Regardless of how shocking the news may be, the Longma indeed is a grazer. Vegetation is consumed, and their sharp hooves can help dig up shallow roots or bulbs. Researchers wonder if the Longma's fire producing organs may be repurposed into helping digest tough plant materials, creating potent stomach acid and a gut biome more suited for breaking down the fibers and such. That said, they can still belch fire, but it is more for show than actual damage. It is a warning sign for attackers, and a show of health when males are fighting. Though this isn't their real weapon, a Longma's strength, speed and sharp antlers are plenty for dealing with threats.

What these dragon horses are known for is their incredible speed. When they get open areas to cut loose, they can really haul it! Incredible sprinting speeds that could knock you off your roots when they zip by! This speed with their acute senses can explain why the patriarchs or matriarchs are so good at appearing when trouble arises! And when the herd goes running, you best get out of the way! It is a stampede you barely see coming, only hearing a rumble and getting a "what's tha-" before you are trampled into dust! This incredible ability adds to the mythical feel of this species, as they are said to be a beast that cannot be caught. A creature that vanishes in a flash, and can run like the very wind!

Like I mentioned, the Longma is seen as a sacred beast in local legend, a guardian of the land and a symbol of divine power. It is believed that they can sense the good or evil within one's heart, and dispense proper justice against those who harm their lands. This may bring about the idea of evil doers being smited by heavenly fire or divine retribution, but typically angering a Longma means getting stomped to death or gored on its antlers. Their scales, "hair" and antlers are incredible materials that are valued religiously and monetarily. They are goods fit for royalty, and are said to make incredible potions. However, this sorta leads into their secretive and rare nature, as past hunts for these items have made Longma very wary of man. Spotting one is difficult, as they typically sense you well ahead of time and bolt. This makes sightings rare but also fortunate, with it being a good sign to any who see them. In legends, it is said that rightful rulers will see a Longma during their ascension, proof that the heavens approve. Sad to say, your favorite dryad is not going to be heading any empires soon, as I am having an absolute mess of a time even seeing one! But I also know plenty of other dryads who would be pleased to never witness a Longma, because the combination of plant eater and fire makes them a bit wary. Can't say I have that fear, but once again, still haven't seen one! That may change if I come face-to-face with one, and it decides my head is a tempting delicacy!

As a creature called a "dragon horse," it brings about the obvious question of if you can ride one. The answer is: most likely not. At least not for you. Longma are secretive creatures and hard to even catch in the first place. That and they are incredibly smart, meaning they won't take well to training or being contained! Even then, some folk have said that raising a Longma from an egg creates a bond with the master that would allow them to be ridden. How you get an egg is beyond me, as you have to find their nest and then return without being stomped to death. But of course, that doesn't stop people from trying. Emperors and nobles offer rich rewards for those who can capture a Longma or bring them a viable egg. Because, of course, they are absolutely slavering over the idea of having one as a steed. Can you imagine? Riding a blazing dragon horse across the land? Practically flying with its incredible speed, its colorful mane like flame and a mouth spewing divine fire? .......yeah, that does actually sound pretty cool. Confound it....

Chlora Myron

Dryad Natural Historian

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Returning to the world of Beast Fables, the world of werebeasts and mermaids, another batch of Chimeras, featuring the horse and other equids!

vulture culture wealthy man that likes to collect rare and exotic things--primarily remains-- to which he often uses to create nauseating displays of art that he either sells at underground auctions or keeps for his personal gallery.