On Hellhounds

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Hellhounds display an uncanny intelligence beyond that of any dog. They appear to comprehend speech as well as dark, evil-born concepts such as hatred and revenge. Yet they know nothing of loyalty, and they refuse most commands, unless those commands happen to align with their own desires. Much like the vrakhiri, they hunger for blood; if left starving, they will slaughter one another until only one remains.

This hunger can be taken advantage of to control them. Regular offerings of blood seem to forge a connection in the hound’s mind between feeding and the presence of the keeper. As long as the blood keeps flowing, the hound will follow, and show no aggression towards, the one who feeds it. More than that, it will protect them.

The risk: if blood is not provided on schedule, the hound may lash out and kill its owner.

Whether it perceives this failure as betrayal, a nuisance, or simply a sign that the owner is no longer useful, remains unknown. One thing is certain: no friendship can be forged between them and us. Only a cooperation of convenience, always teetering on the edge of bloodshed.