STARKINS
Gorge Worms
Gorge Worms are a vital part of the cave system ecosystem. Using their strong trap jaws, they tear and break apart even the densest of stones. This creates habitable caverns for both them and Starkin alike. Their crest both creates an interesting shape within the caves and provides a way of packing the ground above them to be sturdy. Their bodies are covered in a strong and hard hide with loose skin between that can stretch or contract based on the needs. These worms don't make a great meal for predators as they're mostly muscle, but it would be a harder task to take one down than it would be to eat it. Without natural predators or being one themselves, Gorge Worms are fairly harmless despite their massive length ranging from 10-30ft for adults.​
Art by LoftyTrex
The Destalpa have domesticated these creatures, not that they were hostile, it's more like they put them to work. Once a cavern chamber has fulfilled its purpose or one needs expanding, these worms are donned with a saddle and reign and led through the new layout. Being docile towards Starkin, the worms don't seem to mind this. They get fed, and the Starkin get their chamber how they want it to be.
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This tactic is also useful when searching for precious metals. Usually it ends in the Gorge Worm used getting a cut of the deal. After all, gems are a beloved snack to them. It helps their rough hide become stronger and, in rare instances, contribute to the shine or hue of said hide. This usually requires a fair deal of gemstones though. More than the Zeoddrians are willing to part with. So typically, Gorge Worms have natural browns and grays on their shells while the segments between have a dull peach color.
Lifespan
Gorge Worm eggs are laid in clutches of groups of ten to twenty. These eggs are round and hard like stones. If it weren't for their perfectly circular shape and color, one could easily mistake them for just that.
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The larva are born with a small mouth, but still one strong enough to break through their hard shell. They've also already formed their hard shell, that will only become more dense as they grow. Their soft flesh is completely hidden at this point and their crest mostly unusable. At this point, they eat little rocks and dirt. They will often follow the fully grown worms in order to clean up the rubble behind them as well as get a full meal.
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Once they go through a few instar phases and grow into a juvenile, their segments move out awkwardly, exposing their flesh. It's not as elastic as the adults just yet, which leaves their weaker segments vulnerable. However, their jaws and crest have strengthened at this point. They will often dig themselves little holes in the walls to keep themselves protected while having a little snack at the same time. When they aren't resting, they stay close to the adults and Starkin caretakers. They often keep them from injuring themselves on particularly sharp rocks.
How to Obtain
Gorge Worms are free to make! That means you may make as many as you would like. They must follow the guidelines stated in this page. There's no approval process for these, so have fun!