Animal Companions
Canines are not the only sentient forms that walk the land, though other species tend to adopt a less aggressive role in their pursuit of life. To the Nomads, companion animals are more aids to the sentient than pets to coddle over. They act as essential tools to aid through tasks and provide a kind of comfort that may not be found with other like beings. Understanding this, Sangi’lak allows the bonding between wolf and their chosen companion but with a few minor conditions.
Novelty Companions
While it is nice to have a rare or unique companion, they may not be practical for use within the pack. Creatures like snakes, spiders, and even frogs are more a part of nature and lack the sentience to be useful in daily life. These are qualified as ‘Novelty companions’, and though they are not unacceptable, they are frowned upon if too much time is spent catering to them rather than the family.
Practical Companions
- Large companions such as felines, equines, and birds are more useful companions, in that they can assist the pack either through hunting or labor-intensive tasks. This is not to say the animal can or will be used just for that. In regards to felines, it is rare for a mountain lion to coincide peacefully with a wolf, however if a member took a companion of this nature it is expected that some kind of compromise be made for their involvement in pack life.
Note: While taking on a creature ICly is rare, it is welcomed by Sangi’lak. As long as the creature is practical and some kind of a compromise is made ICly by the characters involved, they are ALLOWED to join under a special circumstance. - Birds especially fall under the acceptable category for companion animals, mainly due to their versatility. They can be used as scouts, small game hunters (depending on the size), spies (provided they are of an inconspicuous nature), and even ‘instruments’ during celebration. Nothing is as unique as a bird’s particular song!
Note: If a member intends to capture a bird companion for themselves but needs help, there is a resident falconer! X’yrin would gladly assist in finding or taming any desired bird, as well as helping the member and companion communicate!
With any companion animal, be sure to specify on your profile whether or not your companion is allowed to be utilized or referenced ICly. You may have a companion that someone would like to use for a time, but it is better to be upfront with the extent of how the companion can be referenced In Character.