Jotunaq

The Jotunaq (yo-ton-OCK) is an arctic megafauna. A large species of tusked caniform, many describe them as a cross between a mammoth and a polar bear. They are considered a close relative of the snow bear - far removed from polar bears.

Ice Giants have domesticated the Jotunaq, using them as war mounts, worksteeds, defensive units, and traveling companions. The animals' deaths also provide valuable food and crafting resources. Though amicable to their handlers, they are aggressive to others and especially so to non-giant outsiders. Loyal beasts, those born within Ice Giant tribes have a natural affinity towards giants. Those belonging/attached to important members are adorned with armor, decorative ornaments, and have their tusks intricately carved or fitted with trinkets or implements of war; the more regalia on the Jotunaq, the more important the Ice Giant. While the species is predominantly attached to Ice Giants, abandoned or lost Jotunaq roam the frigid wastelands, as well as wild herds - and, very rarely, couples and bachelors. Travelers fear Jotunaq, anxiously watching for their silhouettes in the distance.

Towering over 20 feet tall, the Jotunaq are incredibly powerful; they are able to take down a single, mature Ice Giant in one-on-one combat, and more challenging opponents with the element of surprise. Covered in shaggy white fur, their black hide is hidden and blends the behemoth among the ice and snow. Their skin color helps absorb heat and its blubber insulates their body, preventing Jotunaq from freezing. A muscular body, the animals are bulkiest around the shoulder; long distance treks, strong swipes, and high carrying capacities are possible due to these specific muscles. One might think that their claws and teeth are primary weapons - but this is not so. While teeth and claw can cause great harm, teeth are mainly utilized for tearing meat from carcasses and claw for traversing ice. The Jotunaq's tusks are their main combative feature.

A fearsome, well-adapted predator, Jotunaqs have one significant disadvantage: their eyes. Unable to see far or underwater, those that use this weakness against them have the upper hand. Sharks are the primary predator of Jotunaqs; slow, inefficiant swimmers, their poor sight provides the perfect opportunity for animals like Megalodons.