Anatomy of the Wind—Introducing Grassland’s Kite Banshee
The defining feature of the Grassland planet’s temperate climate is the constant presence of wind. The breeze blows steadily across the lush landscapes, tying the planet’s ecosystem to a persistent cycle of transformation and rebirth. This dominant force unites the flora and fauna on an evolutionary path built around speed and communication. While all of the Grassland species harness wind for their unique purposes, no creature uses it quite like the kite banshee.
The delta-shaped wings and minimal bone density of the kite banshee allow it to glide upon the currents of the middle atmosphere throughout its life. That life begins on its father’s back, where hatchlings remain until they grow their characteristic rainbow-colored plumage. Thereafter, constant flight, including when feeding, mating and sleeping, protects its fragile bone structure against the dangers of the plains below.
The Grassland’s air currents, distinct to each region, create a unique imprint on the birds based on their habitat. Their beaks display this imprint through delicate patterns that have been carved over generations of flocks having spent their lives in a specific current. The wind flowing across the beak’s intricate channels creates an ever-present flute-like whistle.
Subspecies of the kite banshee are therefore recognized by their songs, which in turn provide insight into the region’s air currents. At night, when flight formations tighten, this anthem amplifies between the birds to create a soothing, melodic blanket of sound over the area, a phenomenon that gives kite banshees their nickname, the sleeping ghosts.