species [Lore] Minotaurs

[Imagination]

Minotaur - The King Bulls

 

 

If a pony were to read an old storybook about the mighty Minotaur, they would find tales about guardians of treasure and knowledge. They stand vigilant and uncompromising against adventurers and travelers alike, smoke emitting from their nostrils and eyes bright with fury. They are depicted in an almost evil light, though in reality, Equestria's Minotaurs are more neutral in disposition. Their aggressive nature usually tends to come out to outside races only in instances of territory defense, or a direct challenge of strength. They can be found in the mountainous areas of the Forest of Leota, though they generally tend to stay confined to that area. These rugged creatures have a tribal affinity, often spread throughout villages and commutes as different 'herds'. They are isolationists by nature, and extremely territorial. Most Minotaurs make their living accomplishing various tasks for the good of the tribe, such as maintaining shelters, foraging, mining and forging.

 

The physiology of a Minotaur is consistent with ancient lore: The head of a bull and a bipedal body. They have hands much the same as monkeys do, their appendages made for fine motor movement and manipulation of objects. The primary distinction between a male and female Minotaur is the head: Males will have more pronounced horns and broader shape than their female counterparts. Females will have more pronounced chest and hip regions. The height difference between the two is often negligible. Save for appearance, there does not seem to be much difference between male and female Minotaurs in terms of their representation in their society, both genders filling all billets and jobs.

 

The Minotaurs, while self-sufficient, can still be seen as crude and barbaric. The semi-literate mountain-folk have some speech capabilities in more educated villages. Of most recorded encounters, minotaurs are able to communicate on a basic level. For instance, many will use simple words and/or speak in the third person. It is rare for Minotaurs to have an academic interest, however these few are often kept as advisors and archivists for larger tribes. These are the most likely to be literate and open to communication with outside creatures.

 

They are an aggressive race, and have more respect for tests of might rather than words or wisdom. Incredibly territorial, however they will often be hesitant to attack more peaceful creatures such as ponies or woodland creatures, quite simply because they see no challenge in them. They are more apt to contest amongst their own people, or a more aggressive race (such as Diamond Dogs). For example, the leaders of tribes are often selected by a show of force and prowess, a prospect challenging the current leader and his/her cadre of advisors in a last-Minotaur-standing wrestling match.

 

Another example would be a Minotaur's right of passage into adulthood, where he/she is given minimal supplies and sent into the mountains to live on his/her own. While on this journey, they must often call upon skills and survival methods picked up in childhood, such as preparing food, fighting sickness, building shelters, tracking, navigation, and self defense. Once they complete this one-month rite of passage, they are welcomed back into the tribe with open arms, reveling in the stories the young Minotaur has to share. It is often commemorated with a great feast. Should a Minotaur give up or return too soon, they can sometimes be banished by their tribe leader, though it varies from place to place. Should a Minotaur not return from their journey at all, they are assumed lost to the mountains.

 

Minotaurs can often be found in the fearsome regions of the Knight's Peak, though these Minotaurs are often tribe warriors tasked with defending their homes. That, or they are a young Minotaur on their rite of passage. It is highly unusual for Minotaurs to venture into those dangerous regions, or anywhere else in Equestria, for any reason, though every rule has its exceptions. If a pony should encounter these creatures, one should keep an open mind and not be offended by their assertive nature. If a pony is thinking of venturing into their domain, they should keep in mind the territorial behavior of these creatures and plan accordingly.

~Equestrian Bestiary Vol. VII