Xients are found in the wastelands of the Wandering Roams on the northeastern part of the continent of Ai. They travel in nomadic bands, following floating sky gardens that rain "manna" down now and then, and scavenging for sustenance. Adult Xients stand about 3-4 feet tall, and there are marked differences between the males and females. Males resemble armadillos, their backs being covered in leathery plates of natural armor. The females, however, resemble porcupines, their backs covered with sharp quills. Both males and females are capable of curling up into a ball, and are able to roll considerable distances that way. (It should be noted that while this works just fine in the open plains, it would be awkward at best in civilized lands, since it's hard to see where you're going when you're curled up in a ball.) Xients have their own language, Xient, though dialects vary from tribe to tribe. Some of them may also know the hooting language of the Hookas, using musical instruments to communicate with the odd creatures.
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