What is the importance of the Elgort in the novel, Zahrah the Windseeker?

The elgort represents everything Zahrah has to overcome throughout her journey. Retrieving the elgort egg tests everything Zahrah has learned about herself, the jungle, and her powers. She must combat her fear to keep herself from passing out due to the whip scorpion poison. Retrieving the egg requires immense patience and perseverance as she waits for the elgort to leave and finds the egg just before it gets back. Even as it chases her, Zahrah overcomes her fear of heights by flying to safety. All of this shows that she has truly overcome the weaknesses that plagued her in the beginning of her journey. By escaping the elgort, Zahrah proves to herself that she is strong and capable of handling anything life gives her.