ITHENIAN CULTURE
Jan 11, 2015 11:23:56 GMT -8
Post by ᴇʀɪsᴇᴅ on Jan 11, 2015 11:23:56 GMT -8
GENERAL INFORMATION
The name Ithenia refers to the North and the South. Technically they are a unified land, but the two countries have split over time.
NORTH VS SOUTH
It is important to note, as a general rule, that the Northlanders and the Southlanders do not get along. If any strange horse is found on the Northern territory, they are taken straight to the King for questioning. There is the possibility for cordial relations and alliances between certain bands and the North, but they too would need to see the King.
THE RIVER ITHEN
The River Ithen is the dividing line between the two lands. It is a fast-moving body of water, approximately half a mile wide. Not only must a horse swim that, but they must also brave either the cliffs of the South or the desert of the North, depending on which way they're coming or going. Few ever make the treacherous journey from one land to the other, and those who do must have some great purpose.
POWER STRUCTURE
Varies between North and South. The North is a moderate patriarchy. Names are passed down through the male line and so leaders are more commonly stallions, but mares are certainly not prohibited from holding positions of power. Although the leaders tend to be male, all other rankings are equal in terms of gender representation (warriors, guards, etc.) The South has no set government. The herds that do form are free to run as they please.
REPRODUCTION
All Ithenian mares come into heat during either the summer or winter months. Birthing occurs in autumn and spring, when conditions are less intense and foals have a better chance of surviving. Monogamy is encouraged in the North in order to pass on the family name, but it is common knowledge that few horses are ever loyal to just one other. This is especially true of the royal family, and many secretly question the true purity of their bloodlines.
