Alces
The Alces tribe of Ochae'nafod are bonded to the moose and inhabit eastern North Thiskel and North Kalesten. They are among the largest of the Ochae'nafod, but reclusive. They live within the range of the moose, which live in the northeast regions of both continents. In Thiskel, this is primarily in the Eldir and Itray forests, and in Kalesten, forested areas of the Lands of Kaius, Samonight, and Emkal.
Appearance
Among the tallest of the Ochae'nafod, males of the Alces tribe can be as tall as 7' in height, but average between 6'7" and 6'9". Women are between 6' and 6'5". Kalesten tribes tend to be taller on average. The Alces build is often lanky and lean, despite how heavy their bonded species can be. Due to the weight of moose antlers, Alces tribes do not often shift antlers onto their natural form as some deer tribes do.
Their facial structure tends toward long faces with long noses, sometimes with a subtle hook. Their ears are long and tapered, but tend to angle downward rather than directly outward. Alces skin coloration is typical of humans and other races in the region, but as most are found in the Lands of Kaius and forests of North Kalesten alongside the Idayn, Alces tribespeople are most commonly fair skinned. Their hair color is dark brown, though it can be lighter or even auburn colored in youth. Eye color is brown.
Culture
The Alces are a large but placid people. They are unafraid of human interactions, as their size makes them so intimidating, so they usually rely on that intimidation and bold diplomacy to protect their habitat. Their culture is marked by patience and calm, and they are largely pacifistic, as opposed to the Cervus who are sometimes as aggressive as a carnivoran-bound people in defense of their habitat. The Alces are also wholly vegetarian despite their size and cultivate the local plantlife to produce enough to feed them.
They live in maternal clans in small villages deep in the wilderness, but make little effort to conceal their settlements. Each individual maintains a small hut, as they appreciate their privacy. Romantic relations occur between clans and are often carefully arranged for any individuals interested in bearing a child, rather than spur-of-the-moment connections. Alces rarely show a strong drive for sex, instead devoting more of their time and energy to their spiritual life.
