Xark

Xark is a liquid used by the Kilrathi, consisted specifically of fresh blood drawn from a species of Kilrah, that used to be their main prey eons ago (before their expansion to space). Just smelling xark awakened a Kilrathi's basic predatory instincts; some warriors carried a soaked piece of cloth in battle so as to heighten their killing instincts; it was drank hot, and its scent caused one's mane to bristle.

After the assembly held on 2634.155 in preparation for the McAuliffe Ambush, the Crown Prince Gilkarg nar Kiranka served xark to the nobles and commanders: a Varni slave offered goblets of steaming hot xark drink on a tray. Soon many burst into battle chants and pounded fists around to cause a thundering sound. The atmosphere, and the scent of the xark, also quieted Lord Vakka's complex thoughts, and savored the taste of the blood and the kill lust, allowing himself to bury for the moment all the misgivings and worries.