Post by ☽ zoketi ☾ on May 25, 2015 14:51:34 GMT
Traditions
First Hunt
When an adolescent takes on the rank of hunter, they are sent out on a single hunting mission. This can last for a few days, until they bring back some form of prey. (Usually warthog or small antelope). Upon their successful return, the pride will gather around and congratulate the youth. They will be initiated as a full hunter with a Rising of Rank ceremony.
Ceremonies
Mateship
Should two lions want to become an official couple, this ceremony can be performed for them. One of the high-ranking medics will paint designs on each lion's face, as pictured below. They will say vows and the gathered pride will shower seeds and flower petals on the couple to represent life and love. The ceremony usually takes place at either dusk or dawn, when the light is fading or growing. A medic will act as leader of the ceremony, directing the vows. Afterwards, the two newly-mated lions spend the rest of the day or night alone, away from the pride.
Arrival of Cubs
When a lioness leaves to give birth, the medics prepare a feast of the new mother's chosen prey upon her return. She and the medic who accompanied her will return after the cubs can walk, and they will be greeted firstly by the lioness's mate and the dominants of the pride. Then they partake in a feast, while the rest of the pride gathers to congratulate and fawn over the new cubs.
Rising in Rank
When a lion or lioness is deemed worthy to step up to another higher rank, this ceremony is performed for them. The member will stand upon the ledge in camp with the dominants, and will repeat an oath of loyalty. A few marks of paint (below--same for both genders) are drawn on the face by a medic, and the pride calls out the lion's name in congratulations.
Punishments
Camp-Grounded
A light punishment given to those who've made minor disobedient actions. The member is required to stay in camp all day, under guard of another. They will be last to eat that day.
Beat-Down
Physical abuse is tolerated in this pride, and is made use of in this punishment. Usually for smaller things. The member will be smacked to the ground by a designated lion, usually of high rank. Blood is not drawn.
Slavery
This is a more extreme punishment. A member will be de-ranked and set as a slave for what they have done. Slaves are always under watch. However, if the member proves their worth again and shows remorse for their mistake, they may be ranked up.
Exile
If a member has committed a terrible crime such as murder or betrayal, they will likely be exiled from the pride. After a small trial, they will be chased by the whole pride until they are out of Roho lands.
Execution
Only in rare cases will Roho kill their members. Likely, if one has done something truly awful, or if they have resisted another punishment, then there are chances they will be sentenced to execution.