Aspyrean

Aspyreans are the equine equivalent of Half-Espers, being the product of a union between any of the various horse-like Espers or summoned beasts, and a mortal horse. Such creatures are prized as mounts because of their above average intelligence and magical ability. While, in theory, it is possible for these creatures to have occured in other Dimensions, the most well-documented occurences are all from the Gate Dimension.

In Gate, the first recorded instance of an Aspyrean mount was the case of the Guardian knight Cadmus, who in the year 1100 AD quested in El Nido to redeem the sword Masamune and return it to Guardia. He acquired the friendship of an Aspyrean named Peerless, and in the course of their adventures together, Cadmus learned that Peerless was sired by a summoned unicorn.

Since Cadmus' time, few Knights have been blessed enough to attain the trust and companionship of an Aspyrean steed. The most recent is the Guardian knight Sir Ankiseth, whose mount Mephisto has served him since shortly before the Cleansing Wars.

Most Aspyreans are pure white, since their celestial parentage is often owed to summoned unicorns, though Peerless was said to have a mane and tail of sky blue. Aspyreans generally do not inherit spellcasting ability from their supernatural heritage; however, they do gain greater intelligence and a number of innate magical abilities -- such as enhanced speed and strength, greater durability and a psychic rapport with their riders.