The northern ki'rin are warm blooded, and mammalian, though one variation of the species is scaled. They are termed to be an outlander species, as they are an evolutionary sub-species of the ki'rin living in Sationala that has adapted to living in colder environments. The founders of this race were originally from Sationala. It appears that they were a rebel group that was outcast across a Realm Line that connected Sationala and this land, and has since now disappeared. The true ki'rin language sounds similar to tapping glasses with a fork, though they can teach themselves the native language of a place. The original ki'rin homeland is a long stretch of plain, bordered by trees on one side and cliffs on the other, the northern ki'rin have take to similar environment, only they deal with cooler temperatures. This species is sentient.
And being sentient, the original ki'rin have long established cities and created their own buildings and homes in the side of the rock walls, using for the most part special tools that are clipped to the hoof. The sub-species is rumored to have a similar settlement in the north. Ki'Rin are largely omnivorous and will eat anything from grass to bird's eggs, and often go through careful rituals to prepare meals. Like humans, some ki'rin base a career of their food-preparation talents. Meat is rarely eaten, though when food is scarce or prices are running high, they will stoop to small mammals, though the practice is largely frowned upon.
Traits
Like their cousins, the northern ki'rin tend to appear to be a mixture of some type of equine and dragon. They were not created magically in any way, shape, or form. Rather, they evolved this way. Variations don't tend to be dramatic, but also arguably denote aspects in a personality, as zodiac sign or hand of favor can in human beings.
There are both subtle and noticable differences between the original ki'rin and the northern race. Though the original species had both lion and draconic tail types, the northern ki'rin have lost the lion tail trait. The horn traits have remained the same. Ki'Rin either have a single, unicorn-like horn, or two that curve back, the appearance of which can depend on gender. All northern ki'rin have heavy fetlocks, unlike their cousins. The sub-species also maintains the trait of the different hides, either scaled like the dragon ancestors, or furred, with nature equine or the occasional feline pattern. Scales are even more recessive in the northern race than in the original. Surprisingly, there is little or no discrimination between the two, though theory points to scaleds having better skills in mathematics and physics, while furreds are more adept at languages and art.
The Kichei
The northern ki'rin keep with the traditions of the original race, at least in times of pairing, mating, and the like. Ki'Rin pair off when adult, usually with a small ceremony involving the chelna, also known as the kichei leaders. Usually a few couples group up with a few others in a deep friendship called a kichei. These groups are optional, but very much encouraged, as it's seen as a healthy environment for a foal to grow up in. When bad times befall one pair, the others will support them. Once in a very great while, a single mare or stallion is accepted into a kichei before they are mated, in an effort to support them. This is a great honor for the chosen ki'rin, as it imples great friendship between them and the other members.
The birth of a foal is a gigantic deal for ki'rin, even more so than for humans. For a few days after the foal's birth, all other matters are put on hold for even a few ki'rin outside the kichei. Foals are born slightly smaller than normal equines, but grow more quickly, with help from the entire kichei. Usually one member from the group takes on a job that seems to suit them. For instance, one mare might enjoy storytelling, while a stallion whose strong points were in mathematics may tutor in that. Foals from the same kichei are raised as siblings and have very close relationships. It is considered morally wrong for these foals to pair off, as their family connection is nearly as strong as blood.
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Backgrounds By Ann