Draven the Kirin: A Magical Creature from Ancient Legends

In Eclipse’s Secret, we learn Draven is a kirin. But what exactly is a kirin? Let’s step into the world of myths and legends to find out.

What is a Kirin?

A kirin (pronounced “kee-rin”) is a magical creature from East Asian mythology. In Chinese stories it is called qílín, and in Japan it is called kirin. People have been telling stories about the kirin for thousands of years.

The kirin is often described as looking like several animals all in one. It might have the antlers of a deer, the scales of a dragon or fish, the tail of an ox, and the hooves of a horse. Sometimes artists show it surrounded by fire or glowing light. Even though it looks powerful, the kirin is not a scary monster. It is known as a gentle, kind creature that brings good fortune. In The Unicorn Shore, Draven is a part unicorn and part dragon.

When Does a Kirin Appear?

Legends say a kirin only shows up during very special times, such as when a wise ruler is born or when a great teacher arrives in the world. Because of this, people saw the kirin as a sign of peace and goodness. If a kirin appeared, it meant the land was either or soon to be ruled with fairness and justice.

One famous story tells that the great teacher Confucius was said to have been born when a kirin appeared, which made everyone believe he was meant to bring wisdom. That shows just how important this creature was in people’s imaginations.

What Makes the Kirin Special?

 The kirin is known for its gentle nature. Stories say it will not even step on a blade of grass if it can help it, and it avoids harming any living thing. Even though it may look fierce and ready to fight, it chooses gentleness and peace instead. That is part of what makes it magical, it uses its power with care.

The kirin is also thought of as protectors. In some stories it guards people from danger. In others it serves as a sign that goodness will overcome evil.

Fun History Fact

Hundreds of years ago, a Chinese emperor was given a giraffe from faraway lands. Because it looked unusual with its long neck and gentle eyes, people thought it might be a real kirin. From then on, some languages even used the word “kirin” for “giraffe”!

What Does This Mean for Draven?

Now that we know the kirin’s background, we can see why Draven being a kirin is important to the story. It means he is strong, yet wise, and is tied to a moment of significant transition for the Unicorn Shore. Like the kirin of legend, Draven represents goodness, strength, loyalty and balance that shows up when their world most needs it. He may look frightening, but his true strength is how he uses his power carefully, to protect rather than destroy.

References: 

Aronson LLC. (n.d.). Qilin, the mythical beast. Retrieved from https://www.aronson.com/qilin-mythical-beast/

Gotheborg. (n.d.). Qilin (Chinese unicorn). Retrieved from https://www.gotheborg.com/glossary/qilin.shtml

Smithsonian Magazine. (2017). The peculiar story of giraffes in medieval China. Retrieved from https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/peculiar-story-giraffes-medieval-china-180963737/

Wikipedia. (2024). Qilin. In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qilin

World History Encyclopedia. (2016). Qilin. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/Qilin/