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Desert Mothcats are a type of [[Mothcat Breeds|Mothcat breed]].
== Flare Ring ==
[[File:Library of Xandeera Intro Comic.png|thumb|Library of Xandeera introduction comic, illustrated by {{DA|cathedrais}} on DeviantART.]]
The flare ring, also known as the ''Phoenix's Wedding'', is a natural phenomenon that occurs when the moon does not fully cover the sun during a solar eclipse. This event is significant in certain cultures of the Mothcats world, particularly in the regions near the equator.
In the Xandeera Desert, solar eclipses signify the start of a Mothcat's rite of passage. During the eclipse, Xandeeran (Desert) Mothcats between the ages of 1-2 years venture into the outside world in search of knowledge, leaving no stone unturned for the duration of their journey. While any solar eclipse is acceptable for Desert Mothcats to begin their journeys, it is customary among Xandeerans to wait for the flare ring, which is believed to be a symbol of good fortune. These journeys can last anywhere from a few months to several years, and Desert Mothcats will return home on the nights of a lunar eclipse, signifying the ends to their journey.
== Xandeeran/Desert Mothcats ==
[[File:Desert Mothcat Concept.png|thumb|First concept of Desert Mothcats|left]]Mothcats who have adapted to the harsh environment of the desert are called Xandeeran Mothcats (or more simply, Desert Mothcats). They have long tufted ears and thick scaly wings, which protect the Mothcats from the extreme temperatures of the desert. These specialized wings typically come in the form of beetle or "feather" wings. Beetle wings are more commonly found among Mothcats in the northern desert, while feather wings are seen more often in the southern desert. While Desert Mothcats are able to use magic to fly much like other Mothcats, their flying abilities are limited due to the weight of their wings which are more suited for physical protection than flight.
Desert Mothcats, as a society, are scholars who live in large holes located in the Xandeera Desert. Their capital is centered around the Library of Xandeera, a grand library that contains knowledge accumulated by many generations of scholars. Each city has a spiral path that leads Mothcats up and down the holes, with individual tunnels leading to homes and storage space. The sandstone walls are decorated with stories of their beginning, acting as a constant reminder for why the Desert Mothcats were forced to lead lives underground.
== Rite of Passage ==
[[File:Zoku Mothcat Concept Design.png|thumb|Concept sketch of Zoku, the first Desert Mothcat designed. Presently owned by {{DA|floramisa}}.|left]]
All Desert Mothcats have to go through a rite of passage before they are acknowledged by society. When they set out to the world, Mothcats are expected to research unknown topics and write books based on what they discovered. The rite of passage is complete when the Mothcat returns to their home and presents their work to the leading scholars of their city. If the work is accepted, the Mothcat earns their first earring and is given permission to travel as they please, whether it is to do further research or live elsewhere - that is up to them.