They do look better digitigrade like that - they're based on chimeras, so it makes sense for them to have a more bulky (lionish) upper body and slender legs (with large hooves to support their weight). Their coloration is always two different colors split left-right; they're very seldom actually black and white, but tend more toward shades of gold and silver. This particular guy is either a sailor or longshoreman (or possibly both as needed); Meracchia is a heavily maritime sort of place, with a tall lighthouse that's the city's most prominent landmark.