Keen-rin (Patreon)

This is interesting, as this creature is the most obvious in terms of finding out what inspired it.

The Qilin 麒麟 (pronounced chî-LIN) is a sort of Chinese unicorn, from ancient Chinese texts pre-dating Chris​t in the Western calendar.  Said to only appear during times of great significance, the elusive and deity-like Qilin came to represent wisdom, righteousness and nobility and is oftentimes associated with Confucianism, morality and virtue.  Many carvings and statues adorn Chinese places of worship to this day.

The Kirin キリン (pronounced Ki-rin, not to be confused with the Japanese beverage company of the same name) is considered an Elder Dragon (despite its horse-like appearance) and therefore is a rare creature in the Mon​ster Hunter universe.  Solitary by nature and avoidant of interacting with other creatures, Kirin’s peaceful behaviour belies how fiercely it defends itself from Hunters.

Kirin can super-ionise the air and ground to channel summoned lighting strikes, or use its powerful body to charge into the Hunter directly.  Its hide is very tough (so its materials make for highly coveted gear and armour) and there’s even a Kirin variant with ice powers.

Kirin’s only known adversary is the ape-like Rajang, which in Iceborne (an expansion of World), won a fight against Kirin and ate its unicorn-like horn in order to gain lightning powers.  🤔... that gives me an idea…

Anyway, this was a tricky one to do because I’m not used to depicting so much in one instance --- long manes, stripes, equine features, a leaner physique and a coral forest… but hey, can’t improve if I don’t challenge myself, right?

Enjoy in the Patrons’ Choice folder.    And thank you to everyone who continues to support these.