species [Lore] Longma

[Dubstep]

Longma - Spirited as the Sun

 

(Art by community artist Zeig)

 

Long Guo, a sprawling and radiant land filled with beauty and mystery. Many legends have spawned from this far Eastern land, and tales of its natives are no exception. Take for instance the Longma, a strange but elegant race that takes from both Pegasi and Dragons.

 

Like their cousins the Qilin, Longma on average have a more lithe and agile form when compared to other pony races. They also sport various draconic features, such as patches of scales across their body, including a uniform set of scales on their underbelly. Another feature shared with the Qilin is their elongated horns, though while Qilin often have straight or deer-like horns, Longma horns tend to come in a far greater variety; short and nubby, long and curly, or anything else in between.

 

The defining trait setting the Longma apart from the Qilin are their wings. Closer to a Pegasus’ wings than a dragon’s, Longma are easily capable of keeping up with their scaleless counterparts and have the innate magic to walk on clouds. However, they lack the weather control that their pony cousins boast. Where a Pegasus' downy feathers would be, the Longma sport light dragon-like scales that give their wings an extra layer of protection from the elements.

 

Though their magical dragonbreath is not as strong as the Qilin, Longma are just as capable of the feat. While most schools in Long Guo focus more on cultivating their flight capabilities, young Longma are still taught the basic dragonbreaths. Those that show an aptitude for magic often go on to master the more advanced abilities that tie into their talent.

 

When compared to their Qilin cousins, the Longma are often seen as more brash, warrior-spirited, and full of energy. This assumption often sees them painted as rushing headlong without thinking about the solution nor the consequences. And while not every Longma leads a life of hyperactivity and excess, there is always a hint of truth in every myth. This contrast between the Qilin and Longma are just part of what make Long Guo a more exciting and mysterious nation.

 

Note: Due to linguistic and regional factors, both Longma and Ryuma are acceptable spellings.

~Journey to the Dragon Kingdom

Ashley 'Ash' Ravencrest

 

Additional concept art by Zeig:

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