Carbuncle

Carbuncles are small feline creatures with large fluffy ears. Their colours and markings vary, with some being spotted like a leopard (pictured). Most tend to be solid shades of orange, brown or grey. They are nimble creatures, capable of climbing trees and jumping to tremendous heights, and extremely timid which means they are rarely sighted.

The Carbuncle's most famed and distinctive feature is the gemstone encrusted in its forehead. This stone has magical properties; one of which allows the creature to sense corrupt motives within those it encounters - this makes it vulnerable to poachers. If the Carbuncle senses greed or ill-temper, the gem will shine bright; temporarily blinding its foe. If the Carbuncle senses no ill-motive, it will bow and drop its gem willingly. Only a person who wanted the stone to keep it, but not abuse it, would be able to receive it. The gemstone can be crushed and used as a valuable ingredient to cure blindness and impaired sight.