Krikeyami

The krikeyami, meaning “Mountain Krike” in Ximi, is a wingless bird native to Ximizhlum’s mountains, with the highest population being in the Heartlands region. It’s about 140 centimeters tall and its body is covered in brown feathers. It has distinct “wings” on its

head, coloured yellow. Its eye region is blue.

The most important part of its body, however, are the tail wings. These are coloured light green with red “eyes” at the tip. These are the very same feathers that were used in the making of Ximizhle’s crown.

According to legends, one day, Ximizhle was traveling the countryside, when she spotted these birds on a mountain. Enamored by its feathers, Ximizhle approached the bird. Noticing the birds’ penchant for singing, she suggested a trade; each of the krikeyami would give her one of its tail feathers and, in return, Ximizhle would give them the power to control the echos and sounds they produce.

While the birds were confused and cautious, one decided to accept the lady’s gift. Ximizhle plucked one its feathers and cast a spell on the beast.

The bird opened its mouth and sang, its voice traveling great distance across the mountain. It was amazed!

The other krikeyami soon joined in and soon enough Ximizhle had plenty of feathers for her crown.

Since that day, the krikeyami are believed to be the source of echoes and voices coming from mountains.

Due to their relation to Ximizhle, krikeyami are generally a protected species and not hunted. That doesn’t stop poachers from killing them and selling the hunt on the black market, where their meat is believed to help heal throat and lung problems.