Newsforum 20010624news3¶
Message 4 on news:
From: Japes
To: news
When: 3:48 pm, Sunday, June 24, 2001
Subject: Background Information on Dogs
Background Information
Three of the most well-known breeds of dogs are available in the gameworld.
Iridine
The Iridine hound, as its most often referred to, is the most common breed in and about the Republic. It is easily recognizable through its long head, pointy black nose, and long but narrow jaw. Its scruffy fur also identifies it, usually being in shades of brown or light grey. The Iridine hound is
slightly more aggressive than other dogs, with a keen sense of smell, a hardy tendancy to survive, and a vicious pack instinct. They are as commonly seen in the city alleyways rummaging through garbage as the local urchins, and are
often an annoyance to city officials. However, they have also been known to be very loyal companions, if one can win their trust and friendship. The Iridine hounds are also nicknamed 'Hawk's hounds' due to the habit of the first consul, Valstaron Martius, of keeping several of them around wherever he went.
Astraean
The breed of dog referred to as 'Astraean' is said to be descended from much larger and furrier mountain wolves which inhabit the Kelestrian mountains. Which is not to say that the Astraean breed isn't large and furry in its own right. The thick wavy fur covering the entire body is a characteristic of these dogs, who are very resistant the cold and ill weather. Astraeans are known for their big, heavy bodies and for their stubborn natures. This has resulted in many crude jokes comparing this breed of dog to the nearby Aestivans (and how that relationship came to be). To mention one of them while
in the territories of the League is a sure way of getting your nose broken.
Setarine
The Setarine is a breed of dogs named after one of the noble families of Remath. It is said that this population of dogs came about through centuries of careful breeding and selective mating. Indeed, a Setarine with the right pedigree can be worth a fortune to the right person. The reason for the Setarine's uniqueness is the unusual stripes which streak across its fur.
These stripes form various patterns, the rarest ones creating beautiful living tapestries on these much-prized pets. Some of the more common forms of Setarine are available in Iridine for less outrageous sums, and a few patricians have inherited the taste of breeding and showing off rare dogs.