Dacha

One of the seven noble Houses of Thera'Dor.

The Dacha are a clan of semi-nomadic maned wolves. Their holdings are a loosely defined territory of grazing lands for the enormous herds they maintain. The clan is divided into many branches, each branch tending to a chosen herd of animals ranging from cows to horses to reindeer, even great hunting animals. The Dacha are very proud of their animals. It is said that a Dacha warhorse is the only horse a king may ride to battle if he wishes to be victorious. It should be noted that the ruling Dacha are Maned Wolves, but the people of the Dacha include many different beings.

Dacha Animals

The Dacha do not think of their animals as livestock, but as family. While their animals are used for work and for wool or similar products, they are never sold or butchered. Dacha animals are considered partners, not property. Those who tend to animals without a designated rider are called Keepers, and their beasts are treated as younger siblings. Once an animal has been claimed by (Or laid claim to) a rider, then the rider is the only person who may tend to the needs of that animal. Once the bond is made, the chosen rider is known as a True Rider among the Dacha. In fact, most animals will accept no handler but their chosen rider. Dacha animals are uncommonly intelligent and form lasting attachments.

On rare occasions, an outsider may be gifted a young riding animal. This happens only as a rare gift, or in exchange for a great service rendered. The outsider is permitted to go among the Children (Young, unclaimed beasts) on the outside chance that one of them will choose him or her. It is a great honor, and any True Rider is given great respect among the Dacha.

Notable Members

• Headman Alvin of the Dacha: The current Head of House for the Dacha clan.