Denizens of the Mighty Dry #3
“Sorry, friendo, you have glimpsed the ritual. This is unfortunate, friendo, because Legasil liked you and appreciated your friendship. The Word is hard to bear.” Legasil Plesegul, General Trader
Name: Besagul
Habitat: Everywhere
Lifespan: 15 – 35 years
Appearance: The Besagul are rotund, almost comically spherical folk resembling large rodents. Their prehensile tails act as a balancing mechanism for the ungainly creatures as well as an extra limb to hold things in. Unlike true rats, they have six pairs of eyes and their mouth (usually filled with large, flat teeth) opens to reveal a second orifice occupied by rapidly vibrating serrated fangs. Their skin hangs in gross cascading flaps about them and when excited the skin folds tense up and emit a short squelching sound (researchers believe it is sweat related).
Lives: The Besagul are a much-liked race, spread far and wide across the scorched lands of the Mighty Dry. They are traders, entertainers and entrepreneurs. They are often affable information brokers and lovers of gossip, gathering hidden facts and daily tidbits like others gather wild berries. It is an essential part of their existence.
The Besagul practice a religion unique to their species. Each Gathering’s matriarch owns a book called the Word. Although there are some similarities between them (in terms of deep mythology and symbolism), most such tomes differ to a great degree. Theirs is a deeply personal faith most concerned with honouring the dead and remembering the names of their Mothers.
The Besagul can be found anywhere there are communities, though they prefer to stay in small family groups.
Surprisingly, they are capable fighters and have been known to venture out as adventurers, caravan guards and explorers.
Dark rumours persist that Besagul harbour strange secrets and rituals in which they eat the organs of sacrificial victims, but most pay little heed to these fringe ideas. It is difficult to reconcile the image of a jolly Besagul with such a harsh accusation.