Shay'a'chern is a Tayledras term for same-sex orientation. These relationships are fully accepted among the hawkbrothers. In Valdemar, the shortened term Shaych is commonly used, and still retains the original meaning of Shay'a'chern.
The Shin'a'in equivalent is she'chorne.
Under the harsh priestly regime in Karse, being Shaych is punishable by death.[1] In the Kleimer Region of Valdemar, same-sex relationships are frowned upon.[2] But among the Holderkin, there are lots of "special friends," probably due to the excess number of females.[3]
Among mercenaries, a same-sex partner is called a shield-mate. In contrast, a same-sex platonic partner is a shieldbrother or shieldsister.[4]
Notable characters[]
- Vanyel
- Tylendel
- Stefen
- Firesong k'Treva
- Keren
- Ylsa
- Sherrill
- Silverfox k'Leshya (bisexual kestra'chern)
- Moondance k'Treva
- Starwind k'Treva
References[]
- ↑ "Dawn of a New Age" by Dylan Birtolo in Tempest, Valdemar Anthology, volume 10
- ↑ Magic's Pawn
- ↑ Arrows of the Queen, Chapter 7
- ↑ The Oathbound