These exotic animals have something the others don’t. It’s the blessing of the forest, don’t you see? When they die, their remains return to the forest to give life to another exotic animal, and they only remain in the memory of those lucky enough to have seen them alive
– Clay, describing the animals of Crimson Crest
The exotic animals, or special animals, are a group of creatures that originated in the Crimson Crest mountain, as the result of the release of the Xankus in the region.
Unlike common animals, these exotic animals display several peculiar traits that distinguish them from others: unusual fur coloration, increased size, heightened intelligence, or in very rare cases, natural growths emerging from their bodies—such as the case of the deer Pagor, which displayed branches and flowers sprouting from its antlers.
In all cases, an exotic animal is unable to reproduce, as the Xankus renders them sterile. Furthermore, they lose their fear of human presence.
The Crimson Crest birds are the most popular example of exotic animals, being two-colored birds that are slightly larger and more intelligent than their ordinary counterparts.
The inhabitants of the village of Armasa consider these animals as gifts from the mountain, believing them to be a sign of gratitude from the mountain itself for protecting it.
Although an animal infected with Xankus is almost certain to develop mutations of this kind, this is not always the case. Some animals simply absorb the organism and take advantage of the abilities it grants.
Before the events of CRIMSON CREST, any exotic animal that left the mountain would lose its peculiar appearance, reinforcing the belief among the locals that they were indeed a gift from the mountain—when in truth, it was something very different.
Some specimens that have been recorded in the mountains are:
- Crimson Crests: Two-colored, intelligent birds and the emblem of the mountain.
- Pagor Deer: A deer with green fur and natural growths sprouting from its antlers.
- Color-Mutated Animals: The most common mutation, in which the animal’s fur or skin changes color. Rabbits, squirrels, foxes, and all kinds of insects have been sighted by tourists.
- Giant Animals: The second most common mutation. Lizards, birds, and insects have been reported to grow to abnormal sizes.