Raiju

The raiju are large felines that live in the forest of Vitala-loka’s Gate. They have long, slender bodies and sleek black fur with gray stripes. Wild raiju are the top predators of Vitala-loka’s Gate that eat all kinds of animals, from fish, birds, snakes, and other mammals. Some are sultidued hunters that feed off smaller animals. Most form small packs to take down larger game.

Raiju posses simple forms of aura manipulation. They can increase their sped with their aura as well as coat their bodies with lightning. With their abilities, they can stun and paralyze their prey to take them down.

Some raiju have been bred by the fey and aes sídhe. These raiju are used by these two races during travel. Horses and other pack animals make poor traveling companions in the untamed dense jungles of Vitala-loka’s Gate. The earth is too swampy and full of obstacles for any large hoofed animal. The raiju are quick on their feet and able to navigate the thick jungle undergrowth with ease. They are also excellent swimmers and climbers when the situation calls for it.

The raiju are deeply respected by the fey and aes sídhe alike as animal spirits. These animals are believed to be the cause of storms. When lightning strikes, it is said to be a raiju spirit traveling between the physical and spiritual plane.

Lifespan

45-55 years

Average Height

1.4-1.6 Metes

Average Length

2.2-2.5 Meters

Geographic Distribution

• Vitala-loka’s Gate

Related Ethnicities

• Aes Sídhe
• Fey

Raiju From Japanese Lore

Raiju is the companion of Raijin, the kami of lightning. Its body is composed of lightning and often takes the form of a dog though it can also take the shape of many other animals, sea creatures, or even insects. It flies through the sky as a ball of lightning causing and sounds the cry of thunder. Raiju sometimes sleep inside a person’s navel, usually those sleeping outdoors. Raijin shoots lightning arrows to wake the sleeping Raiju. This also hurts the person in which navel Raiju is sleeping inside. To prevent Raiju access, many people would sleep on their stomachs during harsh storms.