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 Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 3:24 pm
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Please do not post in this thread! <3
Do not direct link any images from the info threads!
OOC Owners: Quaji
IC Rulers: Empress Ting Lan (wooga Paes) and Emperor Miàndùi Tiǎozhàn (Safaia)
Founded By: Mila Farrell and wooga Paes
Super big thanks to: PhiferWolf, Safaia, Nerpin, Nuxaz, Ary Keeyara, demon_pachabel, Twiddle
Welcome to Tianxia!
A pride loosely inspired by Chinese lore and mythology, Tianxia is a price located in a fictionalized Ethiopian Highlands, located far to the north, away from a majority of the other prides in SoA. The pride is unique in that is is divided into four main Houses; the North, South, West, and East, with a fifth House, the Central House, being the ruling entity of the pride.
In this thread you will find the knowledge to gain an understanding of the pride. There is a lot of information in this pride, here to help diversify roleplay ideas and give potential character development. Additionally, it is safe to assume that traditions, such as introductions to Overseers, House festivals, marriage ceremonies, religious gatherings, etc., continue to happen in the background even if there are no formal roleplays are being done for them.
For information on how to join the pride, go here!
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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 4:26 pm
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 Here is a little map of Tianxia! If you click it, it will lead you to a larger picture!  For a pseudo-topographic map, click here. For a map illustrating the vegetation, click here.
Pride Territory
The Tianxia is a large pride, claiming an expansive territory of plateaus, grasslands, mountains, and cliffs its own in no small part due to how the pride's internal affairs are divided. Occupying the rough equivalent of three prides, it sits in a similar location as the Ethiopian Highlands, although it is a fictional interpretation of it with liberties taken with the pride's climate, flora and fauna. A vast majority of the pride is located at high altitudes, at least 1000m above sea-level, although it climb easily to 3000m, with the highest peak being located within the Central House at 4550m. These varying altitudes create a natural deterrent as the pride's territory can be quite a challenge to traverse without knowledge or a guide.
Climate
The Tianxia use the seasonal patterns of the northern hemisphere when referring to the pride's passing seasons. The pride also utilizes a modified calendar for seasonal rains and contrasting dry seasons that are as rooted in realism as possible, but modified heavily to allow for fantasy. This creative liberty is taken to help compensate for relatively loose standards in the past as well as make room for player growth by having something consistent, yet familiar.
Following the strange happenings throughout the world, Tianxia was not spared lasting effects, although they avoided any damage to their territory. Snowfall and colder temperatures have become the norm within the higher elevations ("Above 3000m" on the pseudo-topographic map), with much of the North and Central Houses blanketed in year-round snow that varies dramatically in depth based on the precipitation they received during the year. This alteration to the pride's landscape has made traversing these locations treacherous, but beautiful. Mercifully, only a a few inches cover the ground as
In the lower altitudes, Tianxia is a rather pleasant 50°F, with that temperature dropping or rising throughout the year; dry in the grasslands and savannah, and humid in the forests. As one ascends to higher elevations, that temperature drops to averaging 30°F within much of the Central and North House, only rising during Summer, where the snow begins to melt away, swelling the streams that feed the watering holes scattered throughout the pride.
Seasons
Spring: March, April, May
Summer: June, July, August
Autumn: September, October, November
Winter: December, January, February
Weather Patterns
Spring: Characterized by little rain and sunshine, spring is an overall pleasant season.
Summer: The highest temperatures of the year are observed here, as well as scarce rainfall. Snow in higher elevations has a chance to melt.
Autumn: Characterized by heavy rainfall, high winds, and even potential flooding in the lower altitudes, autumn is generally fairly cool, albeit wet.
Winter: The lowest temperatures of the year are observed here, as well as scarce rainfall.
Vegetation
Tianxia is mostly made up of grassland, bushland, and thicket. However, a big portion of it, particularly in the higher altitudes (mountains and plateaus) there is a big deal of moorland! In the lower altitudes, there are a few closed-canopy forests, very hot and rich.
Below are a few basic descriptions, just to help get a better idea of things.
Grassland – Exactly what t sounds like! Large extensions of land covered in grass, with a few shrubs here and there, but no trees.
Savannah – Very similar to the grasslands, however, trees occasionally dot the savannah.
Forest – The forests in Tianxia are closed-canopy forests, populated by evergreen coniferous trees. The forests can get quite thick in some parts, and getting lost in them isn't too unlikely.
Moorland – The moorland is characterized by low-growing vegetation growing on acidic soil, and frequently covered in fog.
Fauna
One of the big challenges of living in Tianxia, particularly the further north one goes, is adapting to the very different kinds of prey. While zebras, antelopes, gazelles, and giraffes can be found in the savannahs and grasslands of the West, South, and East Houses, most of the pride relies on a rather different type of game! And this different game is made up mostly of species of smaller primates, hares, rodents, and birds [usually non-raptors]. Larger game is rare, however, occasionally hunters can get their paws on ibexes or the rarer still mountain nyala. As such, small meals are common in Tianxia, while large meals are quite a delicacy! Although the hunters of the Central House are quire adept at hunting the Walia ibex, a species unique to the House.
A lot of the prey in the lands is quite difficult to catch, either because they are animals well capable of defending themselves or very evasive. As such, hunters need to be precise and will try to avoid hunting on their own.
Here are some species found throughout Tianxia, hunted as prey with varying degrees of success:
Wattled Ibis
Secretary Bird
Blue-winged Goose
Olive Baboon
Common Duiker
Guereda
Guenon
Gelada Baboon
Giant mole rat
Marabou Stork
Aardvark
Bushbuck
Red river hog
Nubian Ibex
Mountain Nyala
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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 4:41 pm
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Each House of Tianxia is its own unique entity that rules independently of one another by a Lord and/or Lady that descends from one of the founders of the pride. Every one of them specializes in one primary ideal, valuing specific talents, and is structured to aid those of equal mind on their journey to better their careers. Above the four Houses is the Central House, the head of the pride, ensuring peace and stability within Tianxia.
Central House
(The Central House is represented by the element of earth and the color yellow. Their Cardinal Beast is the Golden Qilin.)
The Central House is, for all intents and purposes, the head of the pride. It functions rather differently than the other houses, with much fewer members and a smaller territory located aptly at the center of the pride. In it the main power of the pride is focused, the Emperor and the Empress. Here, great scholars, diplomats, artists, and warriors thrive under the pressure to aid in the growth and stability of Tianxia. The true amount of retainers the Central House employs is small and reserved for selected individuals. Most of its population consists of the imperial family and those who attend them.
The North House link
(The North House is represented by the element of water, the season of winter, and the color black. Their Cardinal Beast is the Black Tortoise.)
Home of Tianxia's formal army, the North House values strength and courage, mimicking the strong and rugged terrain that they call home. While tough and unforgiving, their lands hold a calming sort of beauty in the snow-covered peaks and mists. Seeing a soldier pass by or training themselves on the peaks is quite a common sight, as are the monks that often call the tranquil mountains home.
The South House link
(The South House is represented by the element of fire, the season of summer, and the color red. Their Cardinal Beast is the Vermillion Bird.)
The home of Tianxia's diplomats and lawmakers, the South House values cleverness and speed in their House as they carry news across Tianxia. Beside many nobles, stand a former member of this House, trained in politics and adept at negotiations. Gossip is carried as fast as the wind across the South Houses' relatively flat and uniform terrain, making this a focal point for many looking to find themselves within the social circle of the elite.
The West House link
(The West House is represented by the element of metal, the season of autumn, and the color white. Their Cardinal Beast is the White Tiger.)
The arts are alive and thriving in the West House where creativity is put up on a pedestal, for it keeps the mind sharp and allows for impressive innovation. Pleasure and entertainment are prized here, giving rise to bards and storytellers, who weave impressive words together, and the performers who act in retellings of epics and tales of glory, love, and loss before the painted trees or stones by the House's many painters. Crafters dream and stitch, forming beautiful garments and jewelry worn by everyone from the lowest hunter to the highest royal. The entirety of the West House is loud and elegant in a way not found in any of the other Houses.
The East House link
(The East House is represented by the element of wood, the season of spring, and the color green. Their Cardinal Beast is the Azure Serpent.)
Within the East House, the most important tenant is the pursuit, collection, and sharing of knowledge with all those in Tianxia. A large focus is placed upon rational, practical thinking, a stark contrast to the West House's loud, expressive nature. Within the grasses and forest of the East House, one can find philosophers debating a plethora of subjects, doctors examining patients, and historians of both the pride and the wider world. Additionally, those in pursuit of such lofty titles.
 Central House Memberlist
Rank | Gender | Species | Common Name & Image Link | Tianxia Name | Parents
Emperor | M | Lion | Hanjari | Miàndùi Tiaozhàn | Safaia | Simi x Tufah
Empress | F | Lion | Ari | Ting Lan | wooga Paes | Ahali'bagawa x Afu
Crown Princess | F | Lion | Avani | Long Di | Quaji | Hanjari x Ari
Emperor (Retired) | M | Lion | Ahali'bagawa | Wei Gang | wooga Paes | ? x ?
Empress (Retired) | F | Lion | Afu | Tzu Hsi | Mila Farrell | Daka x Miye
Prince and Princess; Ahali'bagawa & Afu's Reign
Prince | M | Lion | Adin'ukali | Zhi Qiang | Vashtya | Ahali'bagawa x Afu
Princess | F | Lion | Malia'sauda | Lien-hua | surreality | Ahali'bagawa x Afu
Prince | M | Lion | Tyro | Ozai | Mila Farrell | Ahali'bagawa x Afu
Countess | F | Lion | Arya | Zhu Yan | wooga Paes | Ahali'bagawa x Afu
Prince and Princess; Hanjari & Ari's Reign
Prince | M | Lion | Akuji | Long Fengwei | Safaia | Hanjari x Ari
Prince | M | Lion | Enitan | Long Ying Ru | Sherlolly | Hanjari x Ari
Princess | F | Lion | Msumari | Long Xiuji Daji | Puhterodactyl | Hanjari x Ari
High Guardian | M | God | Misimu | Jìjié | Mushkeli x Nquma
Royal Guard | M | Lion | Kweli | Yong Zhi | SilverLutz | ? x ?
Royal Guard | F | Lion | Pupitar | Jian | wooga Paes | ? x ?
Royal Guard | M | Lion | Rasul | Hong'lei | Andranis | Mahewa x Kasdeya
Royal Guard | M | Lion | Ryger | Bai Lan Laohu | Safaia | ? x ?
Falconer | M | Lion | Hati | Lan Yueliang | Mia Sharra | Hadaya x Zsaria
Messenger | F | Cheetah | Zyanya | Ai | wooga Paes | Makani x ?
Ambassador | M | Cheetah | Mao | Mew | ? x ?
Hunter | F | Lion | Etain | Bai Hudie | Safaia | Kereng'ende x Mrengo'angaa
Hunter | M | Leopard | Usiku | Ye | wooga Paes | Keone x Karama
Hunter | M | Leopard | Xian Poo | Quan | wooga Paes | ? x ?
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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 4:42 pm
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First Reign - Emperor Wei Gang (Ahali'bagawa) and Empress Tzu Hsi (Afu)
Emperor Wei Gang and Empress Tzu Hsi founded the pride along with their first lords and ladies: Moto'vianzio and Mwana in the North, Zahi'jyotsna and Mio in the West, Zagaa'Tamanio in the South, and Yua'Lopoka Mila and Tui'lian East.
Together, these founders actively worked to establish the pride, formalizing their territories and outlining the structure that would come to dominant the pride, ensuring its functionality. Thankfully, there were no other prides settled in the area, or even colonies of other species, and so these plans went over incredibly smoothly and without conflict. Their largest challenge was growing accustomed to a very different land than there most of their members came from. This period is regarded as one of conquest, the founding days of the great Tianxian Empire. All of these founding lions are well-remembered and respected for their efforts.
Second Reign - Empress Ting Lan (Ari) and Emperor Miàndùi Tiǎozhàn (Hanjari)
Empress Ting Lan, the crown princess of Tianxia, took the seat of her mother alone, while her parent were still living. For an extended period of time, she ruled alone, seeking wisdom from the former imperial couple. Eventually she wed Miàndùi Tiǎozhàn, a prince from the Pridelands, solidifying an alliance between the two great prides. Their focus had ever been on making Tianxia a stronger, more formidable pride and expanding diplomatic relations to others while also focusing inward. Many of their days were spent between the Houses, visiting the lords and ladies of each to keep themselves aware and known to all Tianxians. This period is well known as a time of peace and general calm, but also stagnation as many of the pride's members died, dispersed, or lost their drive. Some Houses even saw their numbers dwindle, although measures were taken to help recruit more to them.
Present Times
Princess Long Di has been named the crown princess of Tianxia after her elder brother was formally passed over and his title as heir was removed. Such a move should have come as a shock, but it is hardly a scandal as rumors had been circulating for years following the attempt on his life and subsequent injury on his suitability to rule as he was confined to the Central House. The crown princess has been seen making herself known to the rulers of each House and rumors speak of a foreign tour.
Law
Law began to be spoken of and was officially established in the Second Reign. It functions as a sort of code to help keep the pride in order and maintain balance, as well as make members aware of their rights and the consequences of committing crimes. Law in Tianxia is transmitted orally, with the lack of any sort of written language, and not all members know all the laws. Law is best well known by High Class members, and in particular by Royalty, Overseers, and Magistrates. Typically, These laws apply to the pride as a whole, there are no laws specific to a particular House.
Listed below are known laws, as told by Royalty and repeated by the pride. (As an OOC note, laws aren't actually "numbered", and don't go in any particular order. Below they are listed that way for organization purposes only.)
Keep in mind! The word of the Emperor and/or Emperor is law throughout the pride, regardless of what is listed below. They can ignore or change the rules if they so desire, but they might not be very popular for it. The same applies to a Lord and/or Lady within his or her House, so long as not overruled by the Emperor and/or Empress. The Heir of Tianxia may also question the judgment of a Lord and/or Lady, and demand they get the opinion of the ruling couple before taking action.
1. Any new member of the pride should be introduced to an Overseer within their House as soon as possible. In the absence of an Overseer, to the Lord and/or Lady of their House.
2. Cubs born within Tianxia must be introduced to an Overseer in their House by the time they are walking and talking. In the absence of an Overseer, to the Lord and/or Lady of their House.
3. Stealing is unlawful. This includes stealing items and prey, as well as taking credit for another’s work.
4. The murder of pride members is forbidden, unless as part of an execution. Accidental deaths, during fights, for example, warrant investigation.
5. Those who leave with no good reason to are not welcome back and are considered exiled. Exiled SoA should be driven away immediately. There are a few ways to leave without being considered an exile:
spacea. As an ambassador
spaceb. As part of a mission
spacec. As part of an arranged marriage with an allied pride
6. The abuse of children is prohibited. This only means serious abuse, no one will bat an eyelash at swatting an unruly cub as a disciplinary action, such practice isn't really uncommon. Injury during rough play is also acceptable. Rule of thumb: if they're constantly limping and bleeding all over the place, someone will notice. Psychological abuse is harder to detect, but if found guilty of it, an individual is liable to punishment.
7. Divorce is permitted, however, both parents must still remain responsible for the upbringing of their cubs if they have any.
8. Single parents have the right to request help raising their cubs from their House, and the House has a duty to comply if it has the means.
9. A mother may refuse to disclose the identity of the father of her cubs, and this decision should be respected.
10. Abandoning known children is forbidden: parents must take responsibility for their cubs.
11. Leaking information to outside parties can bring trouble back to the pride.
12. Members who linger where they shouldn't are liable to be forcibly removed! Those doing the removal, however, should pay attention not to cause serious bodily harm.
When breaking the law... Your SoA won't necessarily get caught. Depending greatly on the crime, some things may simply not be noticed or not proven. More serious crimes, of course, are more likely to get your SoA in serious trouble. Physical evidence is preferred, but hard to come by, so judgment is usually passed based on accounts of those involved. OOCly, if you have your SoA keep getting away with crimes, we may notice and ask you to stop.
Forms of Punishment
The manner in which an SoA is punished for not abiding by the law varies, as sentenced by a member of Royalty or a Magistrate. This isn't to say every law broken warrants punishment, and occasionally SoA will only need to be reminded of certain things.
Confiscation – Depending on the type of crime, one form of punishment is to simply remove or confiscate goods. Confiscation may also consist in the removal of cubs from parents deemed incapable of raising them or who have abused them, in which case the children will be placed within the care of someone more able.
Death – A rare form of punishment, death needs to be approved by Royalty. There is no 'typical' method, as this has yet to happen.
Demotion – A SoA may lose his or her rank within the pride as a result of bad choices and actions. Though it may seem of little consequence, demotion can be rather humiliating!
Exile – A SoA is chased out of the pride lands, and kept out by any means necessary. Exiles are typically branded in some fashion to make them easily identifiable by border guards should they attempt to re-enter the pride.
Physical – Short and sweet, offenders get a beating. No claws or teeth may be used for this sort of punishment, as no permanent damage should be done. It's actually one of the least harsh of punishments since usually all offenses are [officially] considered forgotten afterward, without any long-term consequences.
Servitude – This form of punishment consists of being labeled as a Criminal for a certain amount of time, or in some cases for life. Criminals are forced to work in exchange for nothing. For more info, see 'Criminal' below, in the ranks.
Note: Adulthood starts officially at adolescence. Adolescent SoA are subject to all the same rules, and liable to all the same punishments as adults. Cubs and juveniles who commit crimes are less likely to be punished, but they may be watched more closely.
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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 4:45 pm
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Names
Members of Tianxia have two names. The 'common' name is either an SoA's original name or a pet name given from parent to child. This name will fit the normal SoA naming guidelines. A 'proper' name is considered their actual name within Tianxia; typically in Mandarin (Cantonese is possible but uncommon). The utilization of the two names varies; some members considering them merely a distinguishing feature of the pride, while others think of them as a tool to disguise themselves from potentially harmful outsiders.
How an individual views these proper names vary from one to the other but generally use of the proper name is considered polite among members of the pride. SoA born into the pride usually associate their proper name more closely with themselves than their common name, while outsiders may find it difficult to adjust to. It is rather rude for a member to refer to another with their common name in public, but it may be used between good friends or lovers without much caring.
When introducing themselves to foreigners, members should use their common name, and avoid using the proper one. The exception is with visitors from other prides that are vastly outnumbered by pride members. For example, a visitor comes for a wedding, in which case it is fine to use one's proper name.
Common vs Proper Names
Common names are informal, and considered "childish". They are often only used with outsiders.
Proper names are formal, and are considered "polite". They are often only used with other Tianxia members.
Surnames
Surnames for the proper name have become a rather popular trend in Tianxia lately. Members are not required to have them, and for the time being, most still don't. They are becoming more common among the upper classes, as many enjoy the fact that a surname makes their family stand out from the others. Because they are not yet commonplace, there is no formula for the inheritance of a family name. Some parents go with the name of the father for the children, some with the name of the mother, and some like to come up with all-new names for their kids, sometimes even for every litter.
Restricted Names
The following names are exclusive to specific families of the Tianxian ruling or influential families and may not be used in either their common or proper names without connection to the associated family.
This restriction is not retroactive and any member of the pride prior to October 18th, 2022 will not be asked to change their name.
Lóng Family - The ruling family of the Center. Founded with the birth of Empress Ting Lan and Emperor Miàndùi Tiaozhàn's children. The name is used in the proper name.
Zhōng Family - The ruling family of the West. Founded by Lord Zhōng Xióngwei and Zhōng Rén. The name is used in the proper name.
Mila Family - The ruling family of the East. Founded by Lord Yi Min. The name is used in the common name.
Shòujiè Family - A prominent family of the North. Founded with the birth of Duke Shan and Duchess Shen Xue's children. The name is used in the proper name.
Shān Family - A prominent family of the North. Founded by the goddess of Mountains, Shan Furen. The name is used in the common and proper names.
Values
Though different Houses have their own main focuses and qualities they value the most, there are some values that are common throughout Tianxia as a whole.
Family
Devotion to one's pride and then family is the driving force in Tianxia. A strong Empire results in wealth, comfort, and protection for everyone to varying degrees. Criticism of the leadership and noble houses is expected, but outward aggression is not. In that same nature, an insult to someone's honor is taken very seriously, and it isn't unheard of for situations of the sort to become a little violent. Tianxia members have a tendency to take pride in themselves, their family, and their House. Ancestors are also cherished, and called upon to help give guidance to their descendants that request it.
Offspring
Cubs are also greatly valued in the pride, as they continue on family lines and offer new strength to each House. Each House has nannies and guards to keep an eye on the cubs, and they are only permitted to play in known safe areas. Cubs are kids, and they do wander off and explore into nooks and crannies that are harder for adults to find them. However, cubs are also trained and educated to avoid trouble, as well as what to do should they run into danger. This means kidnapping is extremely unlikely. If you would like to run a plot involving this, just ask.
Contribution to the Empire
Everyone is expected to contribute to the evolution and growth of the empire. There are no positions where one may merely sit on a rock and watch others work. Even the children of nobles are expected to work, learning skills and trades that will grow their knowledge and strengthen their bodies to protect their House.
Those of middle-and-lower ranks are usually given more menial tasks like hunting food, gathering supplies, cleaning common areas, watching over cubs, relaying messages, and keeping the borders safe. It is possible for one to work their way up to higher-complexity jobs if they desire it.
Those of higher ranks are expected to complete complicated education and take on more complex roles like ambassadorship, understanding and executing empire law, devising new battle plans, and assist in arraigned marriages.
If one has been deemed a competent contributor, the Emperor and Empress may decide to allow them to retire, and enjoy the rest of their days in comfort.
Manners
Formality is an essential trait in the Tianxian Emprire. It is essential that you are polite to each of your fellow citizens, including offering a thanks for a meal prepared, a greeting before each meeting or trade, and to take any potential conflicts to the Lord/Lady of your House.
Conflict does arise, and it is not unusual to see formal duels to determine victors. Use of political power and gathering allies for gain are also common; to wield an unseen dagger and strike your foe with only words is a desired skill within the higher classes. If there is no true evidence, you can get away with nearly anything short of murder.
Honor, dignity, loyalty and integrity are all qualities smiled upon. However, in such a large empire, some shades of grey are inevitable.
Marriage and Breeding
Marriage is common in Tianxia; it is a way to develop family ties, to climb the class ranks, and to solidify love. Arranged marriage is common, as is two who choose to marry out of love. Many higher classes will arrange marriage to keep their family lines strong and gain political allies.
Marriages may be arranged with other prides to form alliances with the Tianxian Empire. When such marriages are arranged, they will often be made in pairs, with one couple staying in Tianxia, one within the other pride. These kinds of arranged marriages are typically reserved to members of royalty, but once prides are established allies of Tianxia, arranged marriages between members of all Classes can become more common. This is one of the only ways to leave Tianxia without being considered an exile.
To be sure the future couple will get along, most families try to arrange marriages early on, and encourage the cubs to spend as much time together as possible, through play dates or trips. Usually children are told they have been arranged to marry around the time they are juveniles, if they have not been made aware until then, regardless of whether or not they have already met their future mate. It is not unheard of for parents to arrange marriages for their adolescent, or even adult children, though far less common.
Divorce
Divorce is more common within the middle and lower classes of Tianxia. It is never something that is recommended, and reconciliation between parties and matchmakers is required before a divorce is finalized.
Divorce in the higher classes is extremely rare as it is seen as a dishonor to one's family and ancestors. It is possible, but great pressure is put on the parties to never remarry.
Flings & Unmarried Unions
Flings are allowed in the pride, and to a degree fairly common in middle to lower classes. Both parents are expected to help raise and feed their children, with assistance from the House. If the mother doesn't reveal the identity of the father, or the father is from outside the pride, assistance will be provided by the House. Flings are particularly scandalous when high ranking members and royalty are involved; b*****d children have happened. If the father (or mother) ignores their children and does not claim them, they will not be considered as part of that family.
As a general rule, marriage is vitally important for higher class members and nobles. Middle and low class members are typically free to do however they please as far as romance goes. Gossip may fly about flings and single parents, but no one will be punished by royalty.
Because of the large value placed on family and children, couples are encouraged to breed early on, though usually after marriage. For OOC breeding info, see here.
Non-lions
Tianxia is a lion dominant pride, it gladly welcomes other species! Hyenas, Leopards, Wild Dogs and Cheetah are all welcome within the ranks, and accepted as full members of the pride. All familiars are accepted within the empire. Hybrids are an uncommon sight, but welcome for their hard work.
Sadly, it cannot be said the pride is free of prejudice. It is not unheard of for some to be looked down upon because of their species, or even because they were not born within Tianxia. That prejudice is starting to change as more outsiders join and settle within Tianxia, and the empire grows because of their work.
As far as ranks go for non-lions, there is bound to be some "typecasting", with certain species more commonly falling into certain ranks. Wild dogs are, for example, regarded as excellent messengers and scouts due to their stamina. Cheetahs also commonly fall into the messenger role, but are unlikely to be sent on long-distance endurance assignments. Hyenas are thought to make excellent guards, while a leopard's stealthy and ingenious hunting ability is considered well-suited for the Highlands.
Changing Houses
Members can switch Houses twice, for reasons that include the growth of their career or for love and/or marriage. Loyalty to a House is extremely important, so one would not switch homes without a clear reason for the need. This is important to keep in mind if you are trying to give your SoA a career! If for more drastic plot reasons you need to change a house again, please contact Quaji.
Leaving the Pride
Leaving the pride without solidifying ties to one's family is considered self-exile. Should they attempt to return, they are to be chased away and denied entry within the lands, even to visit family! Families may chose to shun or simply ignore their exiled members. At times a caring family member may try to meet with an exile in secret, but don't get caught.
No one is considered exiled if they go on an excursion for possible alliances or scouting out new members. But they must gain permission to leave for a set amount of time. If they do not return in time, they will be considered deserters and branded exiles. Longer trips are harder to get permission for, and usually only happen as part of a SoA's job or a mission.
There are a few ways to permanently leave the pride, or leave for an extended period [into the years!], but not be considered exiled, which means they are free to come home and visit if they wish. Ambassadors, for example, often spend a very long time away as part of their jobs, as well as Scholars out to learn useful techniques or about the history of allied prides. Arranged marriages are perhaps the most common way to gracefully leave, so long as the prides are allied and/or agreements are made between them. The Emperor/Empress should always be consulted!
Trade
With the understanding that different individuals have different skill sets and knowledge, trade generally works by an exchange of services and favors.
This takes place by exchanges offered beyond one's duty. For example, a hunter may be required to feed certain members of the pride, but in addition hunt for certain choice prey in exchange for classes, lessons, apprenticeships, or even jewelry.
It is common for SoA to trade in order to receive a better education, protection, and training or even to arrange marriages for their children. Art is also used as a form of exchange, be it through the production of items or providing entertainment.
Ceremonies
Midsummer Gala
A large event that happens within the Central House is held in the summer, in the days following the Summer Festival in the South House. It is a gathering of the pride's high class, typically to speak on concerns, expansion, stability, and even courtships between the Houses and allies.
The Midsummer Gala is a large, extravagant affair hosted by the Central House in the days following the South House's Summer Festival. It is a gathering of the pride's most prestigious members, giving them a chance to rub shoulders with members of the other Houses when they may not receive many other chances throughout the year. As all of the major aristocrats will be present, security is tight with only approved members allowed entrance, with the additional blessing of two overseers. The whole event lasts two days, with the third day devoted strictly for the emperor and empress to converse with the lords and ladies of the Four Houses after all of the other guests have departed.
As the Summer Festival is visited by dignitaries from other prides, those Tianxia is allied with will often be extended an invitation to the gala.
Seasonal Festivals
Each House within the Tianxia hosts a festival during their representative season. During these times, many of the pride migrate temporarily to the hosting House, where they reside for the duration of the event before swiftly returning. Although specific events that occur vary and are traditionally representative of each House, hosting these events is considered a great honor for a House and is seen as an extremely important time of year as they are able to showcase their talents for the entire pride to see. Typically these festivals last only a few days, but the travel times involved vary from a week to two depending on their home House. You can find more information about these events in their corresponding House threads.
The Spring Festival occurs in the East House.
The Summer Festival occurs in the South House.
The Autumn Festival occurs in the West House.
The Winter Festival occurs in the North House.
Religion
There is no official religion or solid belief system within Tianxia beyond the Cardinal Beasts. For information on religion in Tianxia, click here.
Members of all classes may create their own religions or cults, so long as those beliefs do not stir the heart of the Tianxian culture. Do not expect ritualistic SoA sacrifice to be accepted.
Funeral Rites
While the exact rites performed vary based on family, their pride of origin, and final wishes, the generally accepted funerary rites include burial in their House while facing toward the sun. A representative of the Central House attends, often a relative of the emperor or empress, but sometimes will be one of the ruling family if the deceased is particularly influential. Additionally, an overseer will always be present.
Superstition
Despite not having a solid religion, there are many superstitions that members practice. One may offer a strong name to a cardinal beast to bless their child; another may offer a prayer for good fortune in their hunting. Wishing for luck and fortune is common, and their is honor in seeking it for the well-being of empire and family.
One must also honor their ancestors; small offerings of herbs and shiny baubles brings respect and honor to families, and it is believed that ancestors will help bless and protect their descendants. Belief in ghosts and spirits isn't uncommon, some good and some full of tricks. Omens are also seen in natrual phenomenons, as well as the pattern of clouds and how the fish swim in the streams.
Items that provide protection and blessings are commonly made in the West House, and constantly traded to other houses. Common areas are decorated with good luck charms as well as acknowledgements on ancestors and past ceremonies/celebrations.
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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 4:47 pm
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Working under the belief that friendly relations with other prides can be extremely useful, Tianxia strives to establish alliances. The idea is to learn more about other cultures, including practical knowledge that can be used for progress, and in the event of war, support.
These alliances are usually formed through politics, and sealed with a kiss. Quite literally! It is common practice to arrange a marriage between members of royalty, typically offspring of the rulers, after working out an agreement between the two prides. It is also not unusual for two marriages to be set up so that one couple will stay in Tianxia, while the other will go to the other pride. This marriage is often simply a gesture of friendship, but those involved may become Ambassadors for their respective birth-prides, or future rulers if arranged to the heir of either pride.
Some prides maintain stronger relationships with one House in particular, rather than Tianxia as a whole. The Central House is always aware and somewhat involved, however. Any alliance with a specific House automatically includes the Central House, but not necessarily the others.
Pridelands (Allies, Tense)
The marriage of Empress Ting Lan with a Pridelander established an extremely friendly relationship between the two prides, despite the distance. The prides are quite far apart, and it can take three and a half weeks or more to journey from one to the other. Members from each pride are welcome to make the journey and visit each other, so long as not too often or for too long. Pridelanders are welcome to visit Tianxia to study and may remain for up to about three months. The prides guarantee each other military support as well as a refuge if needed and feasible. Arranged marriages can pop up quite frequently between the prides in all classes.
In the aftermath of the Starfall that befell the Pridelands, the Tianxia failed to offer their support as news took weeks to reach them. Communication between the prides has been scarce and now news of Tau, son of Emperor Hanjari and Empress Ari, abdicating his throne has reached the Tianxia. Relations between the prides seem to be crumbling.
OOC: Please use some common sense here! If your SoA is from Tianxia, it shouldn't have most of its RPs in the Pridelands, and vice-versa. Otherwise, your SoA should probably just consider relocating. Members of Tianxia must still keep in mind that leaving on a whim will result in exile, as in not-welcome-back-ever, even for family visits. But because of the friendly relations, if an SoA's departure for the Pridelands is discussed and approved beforehand, they get a pass.
Mwezi'Johari (Allies)
This pride is most closely associated with the West House, and so it only really has a standing relationship there, not interfering with the other Houses. As a whole, Mwezi'johari members are still treated well throughout the pride and allowed to wander, they're just more warmly welcomed in the West and Center House. In the future, a more firm relationship may be established between the prides. For more information on this alliance, please go to the West House thread.
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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 4:59 pm
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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2023 5:01 pm
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