Appearance & Species
Appearance: The Kuuza have no restrictions on color, or appearance. However, that does not mean that those with “softer” coat colors/patterns (pinks/flowers/etc.) won’t be ribbed from time to time.
Species: Whether they be canine or feline, all are welcome to the Kuuza. So long as they are able to pull their weight and keep up, physical appearances matter little.
Familiars
General Stance: All familiars are welcome, though predators are preferred. Others may run the risk of becoming prey if they are not careful. They must belong to a member, as those who are not will be viewed as food. Larger familiars will have to go through some form of training as well, since most will be in the field with their bonded.
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Religion
The general consensus of the pride is that the Gods have long since lost whatever power they held over mortals. Mercs stand for themselves and their brethren; what need have they for Gods that have never once answered their prayers? Should an individual choose to follow a particular deity or religion, they will not be scorned so long as said religion doesn’t get in the way of their duties.
Marriage & Breeding
Marriage: Mating is viewed as a temporary state in the Kuuza, and is not generally recommended. While the love held between members is celebrated, a permanent mating often leads to heartache once one of the pair inevitably dies in action. It is because of this that love bonds are not restricted to one species, nor to opposing genders, and may be varied between partners. The love between two females, for instance, even with one being a hyena and the other a cheeton is of no concern to the pride so long as it remains positive for both parties.
Breeding: Breeding is always open within the Kuuza, but restricted to adults only. Adolescent breeding may be allowed on a case by case basis if there is plot behind it, but it should be known that the affected youths will be penalized for it. Adols are seen as not being old enough to look out for their best interests, let alone that of a cub, and will have their offspring stripped from them to be raised by another family.
Breeding with outsiders is recommended from time to time to bring in new blood. However, it should be noted that if a female is caught with cubs sired by an enemy male she will be punished. The cubs will be sparred, since it was not their decision, but the female will be placed on the lowest rank/exiled if information gets out.
Values & Traditions
Rehema’s Blessing: Since the foundation of the modern day Kuuza revolves around the cultural system set in place by the cheetah Rehema, black sclera is seen as a blessing from the former Big Mama herself. As she carried the trait, all those born with it are said to be gifted and even prophesied to carry weighty positions in their later years. (perhaps even leadership!)
Training: All members, no matter their rank, will be taught basic defensive fighting styles. This is to ensure their continued safety, as well as others, in times of crisis. Members that have found their career callings will be expected to actively prepare for upcoming events. Examples of this are sparring for Venturers, collecting of herbs for Sawbones, endurance training for Snoops, etc.
Community: Unity is beyond important to the mercenaries. In the Kuuza, each member is part of your family and nothing should stand in the way of familial safety. Any fool stupid enough to put their brethren's very way of life in jeopardy will be met with swift punishment.
However, the concept of unity brings about more joy than pain. It simply means that Kuuza members assist in the raising of cubs from all litters, teaching them as if they were their own, and helping out whenever possible. (Scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours). With an ever changing populace the Kuuza cannot afford to have dissension in the ranks.
