Darkness Rising (PTU)

[Arcran]

Moghu starts as Ithgar appears, before calming as the man begins to explain the situation. Have you found the attacker? Moghu asks, focusing on solving the immediate problem. Or are they still on the loose? At Eira's mention of the omen, Moghu nods again. Two of us have seen Absol. Something is coming.

When Ithgar mentions that the next trial is simple combat, Moghu grins savagely, looking at both Felt and Malta. A chance to prove himself against a Paras' hunter could not be wasted, and, despite their help in the trials, Moghu was still annoyed that Felt had nearly put them in a difficult situation.

[CateranEnforcer]

Jayce ducked low when Ithgar popped out of hiding, but straightened up when he realized it was not the ambush they were just talking about. It was something of a relief that they were not solely responsible for solving this problem that seemed quite larger than just a misplaced trap. Still, there was something about what Ithgar sid that bothered him, though he was nervous to bring it up.

"With respect, without Felt and the rest being at the right place at the right time, the little ones might have been killed. We made a plan and stuck to it, even if it was a compromise. Maybe it was the mixture in styles that helped us today." He nodded to Felt, but wasn't sure enough to meet Ithgar's eyes. He was eager to get to simpler trial, even if he was not sure how it would go, he knew that there wouldn't be any major twists.

Well except for the omens.

[Llyarden]

Velitus jumped just as much as the others when Ithgar popped out of nowhere. "Why does everyone have to keep doing that..?" he complained, quietly. The revelation that this wasn't what had been planned for the first trial was hardly a surprise.

Despite the situation, he gave a slender grin at Jayce's comment about the two groups working together. After all, that was precisely how Clan Comfey worked, and those principles had led them to greater success than either group could've managed alone. It would be a fine story to relate to other Clans who were more sceptical of their methods.

"More than that, Absol's omen seemed directed at the Clansmeet itself. If we're returning to the Clansmeet, should we warn the others there?" he asked Ithgar.

[CosmicOccurence]

Afraid that this message was the first one sent, so nobody knows yet. If we head back on the river, we it won't take that much longer than sending another bird, and we can travel a pack, Ithgar said. His wolfish sense of humor had evaporated. Soul clan has enough shamans that we can ward the clansmeet against some of the more obvious things, but the more on the lookout, the better. It's doubtful we can stop whatever the Absol is warning about, but taking some time to prepare certainly won't hurt.

As for the killer, he said, responding to Moghu. I was following this one when Eira arrived to pick her up. He nodded to Yueh, who looked surprised. So you found this scene before I did. We'll let the Chespin Clan know and send help when we can. I'd stay myself, but I don't feel comfortable sending you lot home without an escort at the moment. You're not bad, so far as pups go, but outside the trial you're my responsibility to keep safe.

Spoiler

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I wasn't sure if you all wanted to do anything more here or timeskip forwards

[CosmicOccurence]

It didn't take long for your group to alert the leader of the Chespin Clan, a middle aged man with a massive oak club, of the danger. Ithgar assured them that Soul Clan members would be coming to assist with the search of the forest, and he lent your group a raft for the return to the Clansmeet.

As you poled down the river, some of you butchered the Victreebel, Gumshos, and broke down the Nidoqueen horn into usable parts. As the ones who took down the beasts, the four of you got all the best parts, and some of your pokemon certainly enjoyed the fresh meat leftover at the end of the process.

You arrived at the Clansmeet in the late afternoon, and Ithgar released you, sharing that the next trial would begin shortly after dawn the next morning. I will ensure that word gets around, but you should share what happened with your mentors and any of the rest of your clan who came with. We've only one day till some of you pups head up to the Stone Circle to petition Jirachi, and I'd rather not have any nasty surprises before then.

Spoiler

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Feel free to do any RP with your mentors, each other, NPCs of interest, or even take a look at the pit before you hop on the raft!

Loot: I've attached 'tags' to these to help with using them if you use them for more narrative stuff. These can be bartered, used as scrap for crafting, or used creatively!

Jayce and Eira
4 Units of Victreebel Acid (acidic, alluring, $250 scrap each, can be used as bait)
1 Sturdy Vine (Strong, flexible, $500 scrap)
2 Razor Sharp Leaves (bladed, lightweight, $250 scrap each)

Moghu & Velitus
1 Gumshoos Pelt (warm, sturdy, $600 scrap)
4 Pieces Jerky (salty, filling, $200 scrap each, can be used as a Hearty Meal)
Gumshoos Fangs (Small, Sharp, $400 scrap)
Gumshoos Skull (Foreboding, Ominous, $200 Scrap)

If someone wants the Nidoqueen Horn instead of something on their loot, sub it out for something (or somethings) worth between $400-600 and give it an equivalent value with the labels 'Potent, Poisonous, Regal). If multiple people want it, we can say that you all split it in half or something, keeping the values equivalent.

[Arcran]

Before the group gets on their way, Moghu stops by the pit, hoping to find some final clue. If nothing else, learning what bait would attract a Nidoqueen would be a useful lesson in what to avoid.

---

Moghu worked to part out the Gumshoos as the group traveled, before making small, useful piles of the various pieces of the creature. Velitus, you helped with the hunt. Take what you wish; my Pokemon cannot eat the jerky, so I have little preference, Moghu states, trying to keep himself from staring too obviously at the Gumshoos fangs. They would make excellent tips for spears, but he wanted Velitus to have the first pick.

I killed the beast, so they know Paras are strong. But I share the spoils, so they know Paras are generous, Moghu thinks to himself, hoping that he makes enough progress to impress Inneq.

[Zelphas]

Eira had gone along to look over the pit; as much as she wanted to get back, all the information they could get seemed important at this point, so they may as well look.

---

Once they are back at the Clansmeet, Eira says her farewells to the others for now, though she is willing to meet with anyone who wishes to do so between now and the second Trial's beginning. She finds her way back to Reith and reports the news of the day, flipping the Nidoqueen's horn idly in one hand. I've never favored weapons before, but this might be worth turning into something, she thinks to herself, careful not to touch the tip of the horn. "With two omens, it seems like something big is going to hit the Clansmeet, and with the attack on the bird and the strangeness around the Nidoqueen I don't think it will be an assault from Nature," she finishes her report, uneasiness showing on her face. The similarities between this situation and her own Clan's concerns are hard for her to ignore; strife seems to be coming to places of historic peace and harmony.

"In any case, the Clan Soul Trial is tomorrow," she states abruptly, forcing herself to switch gears. "I wonder how these battles are supposed to work? If I can discover my opponent before tomorrow, I could make it so they can't compete tonight; that seems like a much better use of my time than facing them out in front of this burning sun and betting my victory on a 'fair fight.'"

[Llyarden]

"Neither of mine eat meat either," Velitus responded to Moghu. "But I think I could find some use for the jerky, so perhaps if I take that and...maybe the skull? That would leave you with the pelt and the fangs, if that's acceptable?"

"Oh, the offer I made earlier still stands, by the way," he added, to the raft in general. "I have some healing herbs and such with me, if any of you or your Pokemon suffered wounds you don't want to bother your Clans about."

---

Once they were back at the Clansmeet, Velitus...didn't actually go straight to seeking out the other members of his Clan. He'd just get scolded for interfering with them. So instead he ended up mostly ambling around, making polite conversation with other Clans, occasionally picking through the area for the occasional stray quill or piece of fur that went into his assortment of trinkets - though once they were all back and separated, he did go to track down Felt to try to talk with her.

[CateranEnforcer]

Jayce agrees with others when it comes to investigating the pit trap. He had va burning desire to know now, and maybe learn to be more aware in the future.

To Velitus he replies, "Yes I think now may be a good time to check what this vine did to me." He gestures with his choice prize from the kill. Could be useful, perhaps. He undoes his own bandages slightly to help show where he was injured.

--

Back at camp, Jayce makes his way back to his Guru, as requested. As he had said, only a small party of his Clan attended the Clansmeet and he was to make sure Darius got back to them safely. Only then could he maybe attend to any other business.

[Arcran]

Moghu nodded at Velitus' response, sliding over the jerky and such to the other boy, before taking the pelt and the fangs. At the renewed offer to get his wounds patched, Moghu shifts his injured leg under the other, attempting to hide his wound. He would not show weakness. The wound is fairly minor, after all, and would be fine by tomorrow.

---

Upon arriving back at camp, Moghu nodded to his new companions before making a beeline back towards Inneq and his camp, doing his best to hide his slight limp as he walked. He needed to warn Inneq about the Absol, and maybe seek out the elder Flame-Hunter's advice on what to do. By the time Moghu had walked back he barely noticed the dull pain in his calf, and was walking normally.

When he returned to camp, Moghu glanced around to make sure he and Inneq weren't being watched, before directing Rella around the camp to make sure everything was appropriately fireproofed.

We passed, and even got a trophy, Moghu says, placing the Gumshoos remains down. However, two among us saw Absol. We need to get word back to the clan, there could be another fire coming, Moghu states, speaking quicker and much more obviously frightened than he had been earlier.

Spoiler

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Going to Drain 2 AP to remove my injury.

[CosmicOccurence]

All

An investigation of the pit, accompanied by the Pitmaster that some of you had visited, showed that there were signs the pit was not on of Chespin's make, with signs that human tools had helped dig it. You also find poisonous berries from the nearby glade that would appeal only to Poison Typed pokemon, who could digest them safely.

Spoiler: all

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Assume that you all used a Pokemon Center during your night and you + your team are fully healed and ready for tomorrow!

Moghu

Inneq nodded in approval at your accomplishments. I knew that you would be able to succeed in these trials, and I have no doubt that you will be successful in the combat tomorrow.

At the mention of the Absol, his Poliwrath began to wet the area around the fire pit once more as food cooked slowly. If the Absol is showing itself here, then our lands are probably safe. It appeared in the direction of the clansmeet, yes? If so, then only we are in danger, not the Great Mother.

And while losing you would be a loss to the future of our clan, the Flame Hunters are expendable. This would only give the Spore Speakers an excuse to call you back prematurely, Inneq said with a wince. The statement, acknowledging that he had gone against the wishes of many other clan members, clearly had caused him some pain.

And if there is a fire here ... well there are none who would be better suited to the task than us. We shall ensure it does not spread to the north, though I doubt it would reach the Deep Forest if it started this far south.

Eira

Reith had finally shed his Sphealskin jacket, surrendering to the heat of these southern lands. He listened calmly to your words, taking his time to work through everything you said before he began to formulate a reply. For a Weavile Clan member, he was remarkably slow to come to decisions sometimes, compared to the rapid action that many in the clan adopted.

Division seems to be spreading throughout this world, he said. I thought what was happening to our clan was unique, but it seems that darkness has been rising across the forest, the mountain, and even in the desert oases. Perhaps this Absol is only bringing to light what we should have seen many moons ago.

He offered you some southern food, lightly spiced berries and boiled grain wrapped in a leaf that had been smoked. As for the trials, in the past they would often pair you up with an opponent from your first trial. What do you know of the capabilities of those whom you worked with? It is doubtful you will get to select your opponent, but a bit of investigation wouldn't be amiss. Fair fights are for those who have the luxury of living in these soft, southern lands.

Velitus

There were several impromptu trading markets where goods were exchanged. Many of the clans came just to obtain materials they could find nowhere else, such as the obsidian from the mountains or the sunstones harvested by many of the desert clans. The islanders from the Oricorio Clan had honey that they claimed had fascinating effects depending on which island it was harvested from.

You found Felt at the archery range. Several caricatures of humans, Deerling, and larger beasts were constructed out of bundles of foliage carefully woven together and stuffed. She was practicing her archery, each arrow sinking deeply into its intended target. She was so focused that she didn't seem to notice your arrival.

Jayce

Your Guru had been taken care of by another who had come with you, an apprenticed Shaman named Polsk. He had a long way to go before he became a Guru, but he was respected enough to look after Guru while you were at your trials.

On your way to the riverbank cave where your clan stayed though, you saw something that stopped you in your tracks. The sun was just beginning to set, sending pink and amber waves across the sky. And silhouetted in the distance was a figure that you recognized as an Absol, its white fur and black horn unmistakable.

And this time, it wasn't between you and the Clansmeet that you'd just left. Instead, it stood between you and the Stone Circle, where Jirachi had slept for hundreds of years.

Other than that, your journey went well. You were greeted by the smells of the familiar Darumaka Stew, a delicacy in your clan that was rarely made. Some had been sent along for the journey to make it a bit easier to be so far from home.

Welcome back Jayce, Darius said as soon as you took a step inside the cave. In true caves, he could tell the footsteps of every tribe member apart from a great distance away. I hear you come bearing trophies with you. I take that to mean that the Trials were successful? You must tell me everything about it! It is a night for celebration indeed! Darius was not normally this jovial, nor this straightforward. He, like many Gurus, tended to cloak himself with mystique and sage advice.

[Llyarden]

Velitus obligingly tended to Jayce's wounds - mostly just using a mixture of crushed herbs and berries to help soothe the pain, since Jayce had already bandaged himself perfectly proficiently in any case. He did glance at Moghu, but he didn't bring it up in front of the others.

Spoiler: OOC

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I know it's somewhat pointless with us getting proper rest and care from the Clansmeet, but Velitus will Drain AP to use his First Aid Kit to do a little bit of healing on Jayce, Hana and whoever else wants it.

Velitus waited for a few moments, watching Felt's display of skill. He'd never really attempted archery - that was the discipline of the red petals, after all - but he knew enough to guess that not every archer could strike so proficiently. At first he was assuming that she knew he was there and was just concentrating on her routine, but when she kept going he cleared his throat, somewhat hesitantly. "Um...Felt? Could I talk to you?"

[CosmicOccurence]

Velitus

When you interrupted her rhythym, Felt cast you a glance for only a second. Then she stalked out into the field and collected her arrows. Carefully she unstrung her bow, oiled the string with Combee wax, and separated the now-imperfect arrows for recycling. Only when she was done did she give you her full attention.

Twin Petals, she said gruffly. You are party with Ineya, yes? She is the best archer north of the river in the Open Forest. I have never seen her miss a shot. You weren't entirely sure if Felt had a point with saying this, but it was clear that, her bow stored, that she was willing to talk with you.

[Zelphas]

Eira grins in agreement to Reith's assessment of fair fights, taking a suspicious bite of the Southern meal before eating it with more enthusiasm. A moment later, a slight frown creeps over her face as she thinks. "I know less than I would like," she admits after a moment. "There was a Paras Clan boy, obviously built as a brawler; he talked a lot about the dangers of fire, and he had some burns, but I couldn't tell if he fears it or hates it. A boy from Clan Comfey with a lot of charms and things; he didn't look like much of a fighter himself. The boy from Clan Zubat had good fighting instincts and good senses; he could be trouble in a fight. Those three and me are the only ones I know were in an actual fight today, and I only saw Jayce--the Zubat boy--actually fighting.

"As for the rest... a girl from Clan Mightyena who talked a fair bit about hunting and seemed to have the instincts for it, a boy from Clan Chespin with little self-esteem or presence, a Clan Chingling girl who had a way with Pokemon but rang like a bell every time she moved, a Clan Rhydon boy who clearly took after their namesake," Eira pats the Apricorn with Pebble inside fondly as she states that, "And then a girl from Clan Oddish, a Clan Fennekin Girl, and a Clan Fearow girl. Those three went their own way almost immediately, and seemed unsurprised by the Absol's appearance--though they were frightened by it. The Clan Fearow girl held a bow like she knew how to use it and had all the confidence of a Chubchoo with its mother behind it, but she doesn't seem to have much shamanic ability herself; she was asking the Clan Oddish girl to do... something for her in response to seeing the Absol, but I don't know what."

As night falls on the Clansmeet, Eira pockets the Nidogueen horn and gets up from her place by the sheltered fire. "I'm not too tired yet, so maybe I'll wander the Clansmeet and see how the other Trial members are doing," she says with a transparent air of nonchalance, giving Reith a sly grin. "Maybe I'll get to play with their bows and spears a little--but you know clumsy me; who knows what might happen to them then?" Waiting a moment to gauge her elder's approval (or lack thereof) for her planned course of action, Eira slips away from the fire. It might not be worth it to break anything, she reasons with herself as she creeps around and towards the camp, the night fitting around her like a comfortable cloak, But more observation won't hurt anything--as long as I make sure to get enough sleep to function tomorrow myself.

Spoiler: OOC

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Stealth to sneak around the camp and spy on people (since it's night time, Eira's Skill Stunt triggers): (3d6+10)[18]

Eira isn't looking for anyone in specific; she's assuming that at least some of the Trial members will want to train before the day ahead, so she'll seek out good places to train near the Clansmeet and look around there before actually going into the camp itself.

[Llyarden]

Velitus waited patiently for Felt to finish sorting out her bow and arrows - he might not have used a weapon himself, but that didn't mean he didn't understand the need for careful maintenance. (Though the memory of that strange energy he'd released in the fight with the Gumshoos came swimming back, and he reflected that maybe he did have a weapon, albeit one he didn't really know how to use.) "I'm sure she'd be honoured to hear you say that," he responded, politely ignoring the fact that Felt didn't seem to have bothered to learn his name.

"What I wanted to say was...I don't agree with how Ithgar treated you and your companions. I know Jayce spoke up at the time, but...those children would have gotten hurt if you hadn't been there. The only reason things worked out as well as they did is because we worked as a team."

"With that in mind - when we were all dividing our spoils, I ended up with the meat from the Gumshoos Moghu slew, and to be honest I don't see much point in keeping it all for myself, so...would you be willing to share it with me once it's cooked tonight? And Uldeen and Malta, of course."

Spoiler: OOC

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Charm to try to avoid coming off as pitying by mistake: (3d6)[5] This looks like it's going to go round about as well as I expected...

[Arcran]

Moghu nods, taking over tending the cooking fire as he sees Inneq's wince. In that case, we will stay, Moghu states, trying his best to project confidence and hide his fear, not just for himself, but also for Inneq. The last time he'd been caught in a fire, Inneq had nearly died because of it. While Moghu had trained to make sure that never happened again, there was still that hint of fear that he wouldn't be good enough again.

There was a Fearow Clan and some sort of Fire-type Clan in my group, Moghu continues, trying to change the topic slightly. Gumshoos are not the most impressive prey, but it should give them some pause when attacking us, Moghu states confidently. Did the Spore-Speakers tell you anything about the second trial? I understand it to be simple combat, but if that were the case the Spore-Speakers should have been sending us all along, Moghu says, preparing himself for whatever backlash the Great Mother would have at that statement.

[CateranEnforcer]

Jayce was a little taken by surprise by Darius' demeanor and how it was different from his own mood. Something good must have happened, he supposed.

"The trial seemed like was going well for a little bit there. I got to make use of some of my caving knots. We were responsible for restoring balance to the area." Jayce retold the tale of the Nidoking and Queen, the dead trap maker, and the suspicious circumstances. "Me, Ivan, and another hunter fought a great plant pokemon, and I claimed it's vine and acid as a prize. But it wasn't over yet, even after we reunited the family." He tells Darius about trying to figure out how this could have happened. "Someone killed the messenger pokemon warning the Clansmeet of a bad omen. That's when our trial ended. There's been at least three Absol sightings, I even saw one on the way. I think it was indicating something near Jirachi. That's really bad isn't it? What can it mean? Maybe the trials shouldn't continue. I'm not sure I'm ready for all this. Jayce puts his head down. It was enough pressure to be here to begin with, and now it seemed like something bad was drained to happen. Great.

[CosmicOccurence]

Eira

Reith said nothing as you slunk into the night, which was all but a tacit endorsement on your actions. You slipped through the woods on the way to camp. Most of the larger groups of folks from out of the Open Forest settled around the edges of the Clansmeet, and the Fennekin clan had brought quite the contingent. Much like the cooking center, their camp was organized around a massive bonfire, which arced and twisted in bizarre and entrancing forms. You saw several shamans and one large reddish pokemon standing on two legs chanting and clearly working their magic on the flame.

And then there was Malta. She carred a long stick in her hand, not as thick as a club, but not as thin as a spear. She was sparring with a slender reddish pokemon with a long pointy nose that was quick as a Sneseal hunting prey. Malta seemed to be a relatively straightforward fighter, favoring powerful overhand strikes to break down an opponent's guard. You watched for a while before she stored her batons in a pack and the two headed to the river to get a drink.

Velitus

Felt stiffened when you offered her part of the Gumshoos meat. I am not so desperate as to need the trophies of another's hunt. The horn of the Nidoking is trophy enough for us.

Felt drew herself up, storing the bow on her back. And if I were looking for the opinion of a mere storyteller were of interest to me, I would have asked it on the raft ride. I proceeded to the second trial, and that is all that matters. Considering our next trial is combat, I would have thought that you would spend the time in preparation. Considering what happened to the last storyteller Ineya worked with, I would have assumed she would have chosen a replacement who was more practically minded. Perhaps my estimation of her skill, and yours, were off.

As she glared at you, she took a breath. She held her breath for a second, closing her eyes. Perhaps I was too harsh. In my clan it is a deadly insult to offer something like this. I know that not every clan shares this custom. And like a Fearow, my temper is ... sharp. I did not believe today that you all would succeed, and it was not fair for me to insinuate that you would die like your predecessor. She hadn't actually apologized, but you got the feeling that apologies were not something that were particularly common with Felt. Whether that was a personal issue or a clan tradition though, you weren't sure.

Moghu

Your tattoo did indeed twist at your mention of the spore speakers, and you grew temporarily faintheaded. Inneq clearly was experiencing similar symptoms, and he groaned. I hate being this far from the Great Mother. Everything is more difficult when away from her he growled.

The second trial is indeed something that we should excel at, he said. But the first trial is one that is uniquely suited to the Spore Speakers. Oftentimes their connection with the Great Mother provides insight on the behavior of other pokemon. As Inneq was talking, Podax crawled into your lap, rolling onto his back for some belly scratches.

The third trial is the tricky one for our clan, and where we usually fall short. It changes every year, but it is meant to test the individual spirit. Other clans do not understand that we exist in harmony with each other, not as individuals. A fungus is connected to all its brethren deep within itself, after all. We are linked by the Great Mother. Our Clan Souls are as strong as the redwood, but our Name Souls are as flexible as a willow, bending to the needs of the Clan.

But this is the other reason I selected you. Not only are Flame Hunters often more independent, but your tattoo has shrunk far enough that I think you may have the best chance of passing the third trial of any Paras Member in generations. I know it has been a curse for you, but I hope that some good will come of that catastrophe.

Jayce

Darius considered your words for what seemed like a millenia. The other members of your clan had gone very, very still at the mention of an Absol. I trust the Soul Clan with the Sound Within My Bones, the Guru said. If the trials must be cancelled, they will know. The other members of the clan seemed to accept that, but there was still a tension in the air.

But! he said abruptly, patting the ground next to him. He made you a bowl of stew, saying Eat! You sound like the echoes of a pebble snoring from a mile away. The food will do you good after such a long day.

Once you started to eat, he picked up the conversation again.I worry that there is a lesson that has not yet sunk in, yet it is perhaps the most important lesson I will ever teach you. Have I ever told you of my first day as a Guru?

[CateranEnforcer]

Jayce was reassured for the most part so he sat to enjoy the delicious food. Ivan hopped out of the carrier harness he carried on his back to help keep the short legged pokemon contained comfortable while Dao took a cross legged position like Jayce had. He was eager to hear about a new lesson and a new story.

"I don't think you have. And I haven't seen you so happy before. Did something good happen today?" Even eager, he still had some good things he wanted to share. "I've been trying to meditate and listen a lot recently and I think it's helped. Beshelt of the Mightyena Clan seems to want to be friends. And I worked well with Eria of Weavile really well. And Felt is bold and impressive. I'm not sure I measure up the same physically. So keep at my exercises. Anyways sorry, I want to hear the lesson!"

[Zelphas]

Eira watches Malta for a while, interested. Fire is definitely a thing for her, but she isn't using it now; saving it makes sense, she thinks, slightly uneasy; she is not the best against fire, though living in the North and Pebble have been able to mitigate that in the past. She's fast, but she isn't very versatile; if I can throw her off, I might create a decent opening on her.

As she and the odd Pokemon head to the river, Eira follows at a careful distance; this is one of the three that were whispering together about the Absol and wanting to do something, after all, so there is at least some chance that a midnight rendezvous may occur. Should nothing major happen at the river, Eira plans to continue on and catch at least a few more people before going to bed; there's no guarantee that Malta will be her opponent, after all.

Now, if I can get her away from that baton... Eira thinks, creeping after Malta and her Pokemon. They look almost too short and flimsy to be useful weapons in general, but added with magic they might be potent.

Spoiler: OOC

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Just for fun, Pokemon Ed on the Pokemon with Malta: (2d6)[2]

[Arcran]

Moghu went silent as Inneq confirmed what he had long suspected: because his tattoo had shrunk, his connection to the Great Mother was less than others. The boy absentmindedly scratched Podax's belly, focusing on the areas where the Sandshrew's tattoo was sparse. Having his greatest fear confirmed so nonchalantly stung, even though Moghu knew Inneq had meant no malice with the statement.

Still, despite that, a new thought crept into Moghu's mind. Perhaps this was the Great Mother's will? That by weakening our bond, I could achieve something new for the clan? Moghu thought to himself. It must be her will, or else Inneq and I would have been cast out. Those with larger tattoos than mine have been cast out, after all.

In that case, the first is done and the second should go smoothly, Moghu says, focusing on not showing either the pain or new hope he had just experienced. I'll prove the worth of the Flame-Hunters in the last trial, and perhaps more of the Paras can complete the trials in the future, Moghu states, with a momentary flash of pride. Thank you for your wisdom, but I have another question: Do you know the Name Soul trials of the past? Perhaps I can prepare, make sure that I can succeed.

[CosmicOccurence]

Jayce

Today was a good day. While we made some progress in our search, I got to meet an old friend today. In your life you will meet people who you know someday will return like an echo. Some of those bring pain and heartache, but others bring joy. This echo brought a symphony of memories. I have not seen my friend since I was but a boy ... but that is a story for another day.

Darius settled in, and many in the cave crowded round. Apparently this was not a story that many had heard. My first day as Guru was not meant for me. I was the fourth choice for such an honor. The first went insane during his cleansing meditation in the echo chamber. The second died the day before her initiation in a Diglett raid. The third withdrew her name from consideration, feeling the position was cursed.

And so it was put to me to fill the role of the elder who had passed into The Great Silence. I was young, only twenty-four summers, but the Gurus assured me that everything would be fine. That they would be there to help as the Echo Chamber showed me glimpses of futures and pasts beyond the rippling veil.

On that first day, I saw the end of our clan. Or at least the possibility of it. And I saw that the demise of our people, no matter how slight a possibility, was the fault of another Guru. Someone I looked up to, had trained under, and respected immensely. And I knew that no matter what I said, the words of a child on their first day hearing the echoes of the world would not be enough to convince them of a danger from within.

And so I worked tirelessly, feeling hopeless as I struggled to find the moment when everything went wrong. And to prevent that moment from happening at all costs. Somehow, I succeeded, no matter how much I blundered along and made a mess of things. Had the same thing happened now, no doubt I would have handled it better, interpreted the signs more precisely, and come to a resolution without spending every waking moment of a year of my life on the problem. But life called, and I had to listen.

He sighed, taking another bite of the stew. You say that you are not prepared for these trials. That you are not ready for them. You are correct.

You say that your brother was stronger, better suited for this role. You are correct about that as well.

But your brother was not ready either. Nor was our Chief when she took over. Nor was I on that fateful first day. Life is what happens when the world calls your name. As long as you listen, you will find your way.

And you Jayce. You are one of the best listeners I know.

Eira

You were fairly certain that the Pokemon was some sort of fighting type based on its humanoid shape, but honestly these southern pokemon just weren't sensible. Such a long nose would surely get frostbite quickly in a colder climate, and it didn't have enough fat or fur to keep it warm.

The only thing of note that happened while you observed Malta and the Fennekin Camp was when the tall pokemon, who you assumed to be an evolved form of the Clan's totem, pulled what seemed to be a three pronged fork out of the fire before it disappeared in a flash of fire, which sent all the shamans into a tizzy.

You slunk through the Clansmeet, seeking out the others. Jayce was nowhere to be found, but then again none of the Zubat clan seemed to hang around at night, much like yourself. You spotted Felt and Velitus talking near the archery range, Felt clearly angry about something. Moghu sat near the river, talking with his master, who was even more burned than Moghu himself was.

Uldeen was tending to what seemed to be several large bags of earth with plants growing in them. The fabric of the bags was woven with runes, and she carefully harvested a few berries from one of the plants before adding them to a stew. She began chanting over it, and the liquid began to glow with a bright greenish light.

Beshelt was nowhere to be found, but the Mightyena Clan were more watchful than the others, and there were many, many more of them here than of most clans. You thought you might be able to sneak in, but it would be a risk. Petra was already asleep, an elderly woman holding his hand and caring for two small birds that flitted around him. Yueh was in deep conversation with an elder, small pink puffball at her side.

Moghu

The trial of the Name Soul, he said. Changes from year to year. It depends on which members of the Soul Clan are in residence at the Stone Circle, and which are tending to the Cave of the World Spirit or to the Shrines to the Sacred Siblings. The Soul Clan not only kept the sleeping Jirachi safe, but also guarded Arceus and the shrines to Latios and Latias.

There was one year when they requested the same mushrooms that you took to Uwale yesterday, and one of their members delved into the memories of those who made it to the third trial. Another year a member used the mixed scents of Bayleef and Meganium to heighten the emotions of every applicant before asking them a series of questions on morality. More than a few years a member who used to belong to the Medicham Clan read the auras of the applicants, but I heard he is in the desert right now, trying to calm some strife between clans. Everyone knew that the desert clans squabbled often, usually over water.

Of your examiners, I think it likely that the woman will lead the Trial of the Name Soul. Sheketh, their leader.
The one with the big spear and the Cacturne? He's definitely not one for subtlety, but the woman I've not seen before. Her magic seems to be connecting with Pokemon from what I can read of her tattoos, so perhaps one of her Pokemon can read minds or aura, and she will see through them.

Regardless of what the trial is, do not try to lie or deceive. They will know. This was another reason I sent you to Uwale yesterday.
I thought the first time someone dug around in your brain, questioning your relationship with the Great Mother should not be during the trial. Even the Soul Clan does not truly understand what it means to be Paras Clan. None of our own have ever joined them, after all.

[Zelphas]

Eira pauses at Uldeen, watching carefully for a long moment. Felt asked her to do... something, and the Absol was apparently pointing at the Clansmeet... After a minute or two of watching, she shakes her head and withdraws. Don't eat anything but our own food, and watch out for magic if I face her tomorrow, she decides firmly, looking for the next Trial member she can find. That's the only conclusion I can come to, at the moment.

---

Finally deciding that sneaking into the Mightyena Clan just on the off chance that Beshselt might be doing something interesting was too much of a risk, Eira sighs silently and begins the circuitous route back to her camp, just in case she had unseen pursuers. I know a little more than before, but not much, she thinks, unsatisfied. I may just have to take my chances tomorrow... as terrible as that is.

[Llyarden]

"Ineya didn't choose me," Velitus retorted, more sharply than he'd truly meant. And how many times have I wished that they did have the choice of mediator, rather than being assigned one by the Clan? "As far as preparing for tomorrow goes, I'm not a warrior like you. There wouldn't be much point me training with a weapon any more than there would be a point in you trying to look for the kinds of tokens I need." He sighed. "It wasn't my intent to imply you needed a gift from me. I'm sorry. I just thought...just because we will be competitors tomorrow, and may even be opponents, that doesn't mean we have to be enemies."

"Sorry for bothering you."

[Arcran]

Moghu nods throughout Inneq's explanation, wishing that he could have been selected for the trials a few years sooner to try Uwale's mushrooms. It would have been much easier as well. Still, questions about morality would be simple, right? Moghu was confident in his stance there; always defend the clan and the Great Mother were simple tenants, but ones that he followed closely. Unless the morals of the Soul Clan varied heavily, he should be alright. However, the thought of having to answer questions while another was within his mind was extremely unsettling. There were Paras secrets within, and Moghu didn't want to be the one that let that information out, even to the Soul Clan.

It sounds like I've been prepared as best I can be then, Moghu says, thankful that Inneq had sent him to speak with Uwale first. The experience had been unsettling, and he likely would have failed the trial due to it. If they ask questions about us, about the Great Mother, should I answer? Moghu asks, partly to Inneq and partly to his own tattoos, hoping for an answer.

[CateranEnforcer]

Jayce was quiet for a while after Darius finished. He sat still, his head a swirl with his thoughts. It was a side of his Guru that he hadn't seen before. A side that wasn't full of seemingly endless wisdom. He was pretty curious about this friend of his but that really wasn't his focus. He couldn't stop thinking about his brother. Three months with no signs of him returning. Maybe it was some kind of sign or something that Jayce's time had come, but he wouldn't know it.

Before finally speaking Jayce sniffs and rubs away a tear from his eye. "Thank you for sharing that story. I guess it just doesn't feel like that right now. Now all I feel is the pressure to preform well, in front of all the clans. And with all the omens, not just the Absol, but Chespin clan reported the whole of the woods had noticed something. Something big may happen soon, something bad. How do I prepare for the unknown? What does it mean for everyone. What if Jirachi awakens this time? I just wish for an ordinary year with nothing going on, so that if I bumble around, no one notices. But now, after seeing the omen so close, I'm little scared."

[CosmicOccurence]

Eira

Reith was snoozing when you got back into camp, and you were quiet enough that you could avoid waking him unless you wanted to: Weavile Clan were trained from an early age to be light sleepers.

Velitus

One thing you learn very quickly in my clan is that there are predator, and there are prey. It is a matter of immense shame to be the latter for one of us, Felt said. But I suppose we shall learn tomorrow which role each of us fills one way or another. You took your separate ways, and your team had already gone to sleep for the night. Unless you chose to wake them and share the news about the Absol, you could fade into sleep easily enough.

Moghu

At your question, the tatoo twisted painfully on the back of your neck, and your vision swam for a second. Inneq, however, simply said: You should answer based on your convictions. If you were to answer the way I told you, you would have failed the trial already. He too, looked like his mark had not enjoyed that answer of his, and he grimaced at the Great Mother's admonition of his statement.

Jayce

Fear is the absence of complacency, Darius said, reverting back to his normal self. Too much or two little of either would be a bad thing. If you had seen an Absol and not felt fear, then I would be worried for you.

However, I should meditate. Even outside the Echo Chamber, I can see glimpses of futures that might become. He stood and went to the back of the cave, where he sat next to a place where water dripped inexorably into a puddle, proving a steady sound to focus on.

All

After any preparations you made the next morning, you returned to the foot of the Stone Circle for your next trial. It was the day of the Spring Equinox, the day where, should you pass the next two trials, you would ascend and make a wish of Jirachi.

The crowd was bigger today, with matches being public. Small children without other responsibilities seemed especially prevalent. Many were already sparring with blunted weapons taken from a crate set up near the edge of the open area. It seemed deadly weapons wouldn't be permitted.

Several arenas were set up and marked by colored posts connected by woven cord. One was filled with tall grass, another featured bushes filled with berries, another had large posts that looked like they could be toppled, and a final one consisted of rafts floating on the river.

However, there were fewer contestants than yesterday. One of the groups, it seemed, had not passed their trials. In addition to your group, the one that had received instructions from the female soul clan member were present. Sheketh's group however, had not shown up today. According to gossip you heard in the crowd, the successful group had navigated successfully to an island shortly off the coast as their task through choppy waters that had some nasty creatures in it. That group had quite a few islanders present, which had likely contributed to their success. Meanwhile, Sheketh's group had apparently failed to collect all the necessary components for a Shaman's potion after failing to navigate a particularly nasty encounter with a Pinsir.

Spoiler

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Feel free to say hi, chat with your mentor, do morning things, whatever. Unless people have stuff they want to do that's significant though, we'll probably start our matches up in my next post!

[Zelphas]

Eira smiles to herself as she gets back to camp. It's never a bad thing to prove you can sneak up on the elders, even if they have to be asleep for it to work.

---

Probably a good thing I wasn't in that other group, even with all the mess about the Absol, Eira thinks to herself, looking over the other grouping that succeeded the day before and remembering her encounter with the sea. Unless the Ocean is more forgetful than Winter, I should probably avoid the sea for some time yet.

She nods to the rest of the people she met the day before, looking over the arenas available and flexing icicles onto her fingers reflexively for a moment. The tall grass seems best for my team, out of all of them, she decides. Plenty to hide in, and Omen can set fire to the entire area if need be. Looking over at the river arena, Eira wonders idly if the matches had to remain within their borders; if so, simply cutting the moorings of the rafts and forcing her opponent to float away downriver or jump into the current could be effective. Uldeen may wish for the berries, she considers idly, remembering the strange stew from the night before.

Her eyes sweep over to the children playing with padded weapons, and she smirks, though the expression has less bite in it than it could have. This truly is a soft land; they guard their lives so jealously, as though they were fully in their hands. She twitches restlessly, unable to fully settle herself. The Absol brought disaster, everyone knew that--or, if Velitus was correct, it forewarned of disaster, which is basically the same thing. Two people had seen it; so when would the disaster hit? Eira could almost smell it, like the tang in the air before a blizzard, and she couldn't help but wonder when the first snowflakes would begin to fall.

Trying to distract herself, Eira spots Velitus in the crowd. Maybe I can get a fun reaction out of him, at least; he doesn't seem like he likes to do much fighting. Slipping over to the Clan Comfey member by weaving through the crowd, Eira slips into his shadow. "So," she says somewhat loudly, walking next to him and indicating the assembled people. "Any preference?"

Spoiler: OOC

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Stealth to spook Velitus, because this is definitely a thing she would continue to do: (4d6+4)[18]

[Arcran]

Moghu coughed uncomfortably at the last twist of his tattoos. Thank you Inneq, for everything, the boy stated, trying to catch his breath. For my own sake, I should probably try to get some rest. May the Great Mother watch over you, Moghu stated, before gently shaking Podax awake before making his way to the tent, trusting Inneq to handle the campfire.

---

Moghu tested the weight of a few of the padded spears before finally selecting a handful similar in build to the ones he used. He'd rather use his real ones, but it did make sense that the Soul Clan would like to avoid the blood of a half-dozen clans on their hands. Besides, the handicap of a few off-weight spears would not be enough to defeat him.

Despite the ill-omens yesterday, the Great Mother had clearly watched over him for the first trial. If Moghu had been forced to set out on the sea he would have been nearly useless, especially with his team. Fortunately, the arenas today seemed far more favorable for him, although the tall grass seemed a bit too flammable for his liking, and the rafts were fairly alien. What concerned Moghu more was the number of people fighting with true magic. While he'd trained against Pokemon, he had rarely encountered a true magic-user, and was a bit less confident in his abilities against one.

Moghu scanned the group, hoping to find Kurtack. In this sea of new sensations the other boy's simplistic strength was grounding for Moghu, and would serve as a good reminder of what he was up against. When he finally found the other boy, Moghu made his way over, displaying his blunted weapons. Were you were able to find a good replacement?

[Llyarden]

Velitus didn't wake the others to tell them about the Absol - though he did tell them in the morning once everyone was awake, before he went out on what was becoming his usual route around the Clansmeet looking for spiritually interesting objects. (He figured either he'd be scolded for waking them or scolded for not telling them the night before, so of the two options he went for the one that let him get more sleep. Plus that option meant he had more time to figure out how to explain the changes to his Clan tattoos.)

He'd just found a particularly rare prize - a handful of cast-off quills that positively radiated with the energy of the natural world - which he was in the process of carefully tying together with what looked like a few of his own hairs, his staff awkwardly tucked under one arm, when Eira ghosted up to him, eliciting a probably predictable "Agh!" He scowled at her. "Could you at least not do that when I'm holding sharp objects?" he complained.

It took him a moment to focus on her actual question. "After yesterday? I think I'd be satisfied with 'not a Gumshoos or Victreebel.' Although Fire would also be best avoided for me." If he realised he was sharing his weaknesses (or at least one of them) with a potential opponent, it didn't seem to bother him.

Eira might have noticed, if she was paying attention, that Velitus seemed to have acquired from somewhere a circlet made from a strange mix of rounded pebbles and feathers, all tied together with some long, red hairs, that he definitely hadn't been wearing yesterday.

Spoiler: OOC

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Velitus will use Crystal Artificer to make a Bug Booster from 4 Green Shards, and now that his player has remembered that I actually have two sets of recipes from Artificer and not just one, he'll also use Crystal Resonance to make a Special Attack Focus from 2 Blue, 2 Violet and 2 Yellow (as a Head slot item), and a Special Attack Booster from 4 Orange, 1 Violet and 1 Yellow (which Hana will hold). And then he'll convert his two Red Shards into Fairy Gems. And he'll also recreate his Threaded gadget.

Akari will retain her Grass Booster and Heavy Suit.