Fox

Overview

The fox, or Olahani, is a domesticated dog-like animal of great importance to the Orhinr.

History

Foxes were first domesticated very early on in Orhinr history, with the process probably beginning only a few generations removed from the arrival of the Laorena. Since that time, they have shown up prominently in both Orhinr and Gahusnr folklore.

Appearance

Foxes have many patterns, colors, and distinguishing marks. Although it most commonly features an orange pelt, foxes can also be silver, black, and white. Each of these colors comes in several morphs with varying patterns, leading to the physical appearance of foxes varying greatly from one to another.

Behavior and Partnership with Humans

Foxes are monogamous animals, typically mating in the spring, raising pups together, and then seperating till the next year. They are omnivorous and able to consume a wide variety of foods, including some that are poisonous to humans.

Hunters will work with foxes to scare up prey such as rabbits, small birds, and even geese. The hunters can then drive these animals towards traps or shoot them down. Foxes have also fished with humans, either using a similar method to scare fish towards an awaiting net or simply by catching the fish in their mouths.

One of the most beneficial abilities of a fox for the Orhinr is their strong hearing, able to detect noises under many feet of snow. Teams of foxes are trained to detect survivors of an avalanche and alert rescuers.

Cultural Impact

The Olahani constellation has a variety of different fox-related myths surrounding it. Stories told by the Orhinr generally depict the fox as friendly to the Tulusailej constellation, helping her fish and keeping a watch over her catch, while Gahusnr legends usually present the fox as a foil to the fisher and as a thief.

The foxes ability to sense the magnetic field has led to a method of determining direction. In the Orhinr varient of Tanali, northeast translates to Olahayonsir (Fox's place.) Foxes generally hunt best when facing northeast.