Sionhai

Sionhai are a foreign race of anthropomorphs of a vulpine appearance, who migrated to Le'raana for a reason that even their own scholars debate.

Physiology

The Sionhai are an anthropomorphic race of a vulpine appearance. The males typically stand at about 5 feet, 11 inches, while females stand at 5 feet 8 inches. The Sionhai generally have orange or red fur, with colors such as black and white being rare. While an entirely different species than humans, they have relatively the same internal organs, and organ placement. The only difference between the two as far as organs go is that the Sionhai don't have an appendix.

History

The Sionhai are native not to Le'Raana, but to an ancient continent known as Ve'rusha. It was home to several other races, such as the Damhnait, who also migrated to Le'raana. The reasons for this mass exodus are unknown, but some point to a massive war, others say it was a natural disaster of epic proportions. Whatever the cause, survivors of both the Dahmait and Sionhai migrated to Le'Raana in hopes of finding a new life. However, they were met with mixed welcomes. As members of both races had strong magical abilities, in places such as Connlaoth they were and are treated with suspicion. In other places, such as Serendipity, they recieved a warm welcome, and lived in relative peace.

Powers/Abilities

The Sionhai don't have set magical abilities. Some may have a natural affinity for fire, others water, and others still might have no magical abilities at all. All Sionhai, however, seem to have a love of music, and often make excellent composers, bards and musicians.

Lifestyle

The Sionhai are religious, to say the least. At least once a week, generally on the seventh day of the week, they gather and worship their god. These worship sessions are generally lead by a priest, although there is nothing against a regular worshipper leading the session.

As far as trades go, some work as composers, bards and travelling musicians. Most, however, work an honest job, as they cal it, such as being a miller, a cooper, a blacksmith, or fisher. Some might work for a lord, or lady, others might be an independent worker, and do jobs for those who want their wares.

Formal Relationship Types

Generally, marriages are not arranged in Sionhai society. Rather, the parents let their children find their own partner. When they want to get married, they have to go to a priest, and give a ccinfession. After that, there is a simple, but lengthy, marriage ceremony. Unlike human marriage ceremonies where a ring is placed on the finger, there is a band placed at the base of both of the newly-weds' tails. Also, unlike humans, there is no divorce. Once you are married, you are married, and can't undo that knot.

Diet

While the Sionhai are omnivores, there are certain foods they won't eat. Any kind of pork product is unacceptable, as they believe that pork brings disease and is thus unclean. Beef, however, is perfectly fine. Another aspect of their diet is a love of rice, as often they will have many dishes using rice as an ingredient. They often cook things that don't require a spoon; they don't make a lot of soups. That being said, they do use sauce on many dishes, often using honey and meat juices to make their sauces.

Lifespan/stages

The Sionhai are very similar to humans as far as life stages go. At age 13, they begin puberty, which ends at 19-20. During this stage, they, like humans, grow into adulthood. At age 20, they are considered adults, and may leave home if they so choose. Most, however, stay at least in the same town and look after their parents; some families have lived in the same town for centuies. Most Sionhai live to be 150, which is exceptionally longer than most humans.

Social Structure

In areas where the Sionhai are the majority of the population, there is a theocratic democracy. They are ruled by a priest or priestess, but that priest or priestess is elected to be their leader. In other areas, they're ruled by the local duke or baron. Most Sionhai, if given the oppurtunity to rule over their own people, won't take it unless they're elected by the people, as democracy is very important to the Sionhai. Poverty, strangely enough, is quite rare among the Sionhai, as beggars and tramps are given care, and given another chance.

As far as social ranking goes, it is as follows: Bishop Priest/Priestess Monk/Nun Commoners Beggars

Views on gender equality

Women and men in Sionhai society hold a relatively equal position. However, women are still expected to be home-makers, and care for the chldren. As such, unless she is either barren or single, a Sionhai woman can usually be seen at home.

Views on sexuality

The Sionhai are very conservative with sexuality. They believe that homosexuality is a sin, and while they won't stone the offender(s), they won't communicae with them until they repent.