The heavy jungle went on forever, heavy vines draped over colossal trees, leaves dripping with dew. Strange birds with feathers that shone like jewels cried out to each other, and the distant growl of unseen hunters sent its echoes through the leafy canopy.
Kael guided the party down a single-lane dirt road, scents of wet soil and wildflowers and the subtle musk of the jungle hanging heavy in the air. The party's new destination: Stormclaw Village, a Beastman village with famed hunters and archers, nestled deep in the jungle.
"Take a look at this place," Kael breathed, staring widely. "It's. alive.
Rina Stormclaw, her feline ears perked up at each noise, smiled. "This is home. My father might not approve of me departing, but this is my world. You'll see, it's lovelier than you think."
Lyrielle's fingers followed the vines as they went by. "I've heard of Beastman habitats, but to see one up close… the blending with nature is amazing."
Azrak grinned. "Harmony, eh? Let's just hope that the creatures don't decide to dine on us beforehand."
Elira gripped her staff more firmly. "We must show them respect. One wrong move could be hazardous."
Stormclaw Village appeared in a glade, constructed of treetop houses supported by ropes and interconnecting catwalks. Lion, tiger, and wolf wooden carvings decorated railings and gates. Cooking fires sent smoke into the air, blending with the jungle's damp smell. Children laughed and played along the catwalks, and hunters played archery and spear-throwing games with unparalleled accuracy.
Rina's father, Tharok Stormclaw, a giant lion-beastman with scars on his face, appeared at the village entrance. His eyes were narrowed as he saw his daughter in the company of strangers.
"Rina… what is the meaning of this?" he grumbled. "You shouldn't be roaming with humans and… demons!"
Rina took a step forward, tail lashing defiantly. "Father, I need to leave. I have to grow, learn, and fight. I won't be left behind any longer."
Tharok's gaze softened slightly, though he did not relent. "If you insist, you must prove yourself. Only then will I allow it."
Kael stepped forward, hand on his sword. "We'll support her, whatever it takes."
The Trial of the Hunt was each young Beastman's rite of passage, a blend of intelligence, skill, and bravery. The jungle was the battleground, traps lined the ground, and the beasts were wild and trained.
Rina took the party to a secret training area, a huge clearing peppered with mechanical obstacles, climbing plants, and painted-over pits. Glowing rune-studded stone totems demarcated edges, indicating the commencement of the trial.
Rina's inner dialogue sped along: I have to succeed. Not only for my father, but for myself. I can't fail. not now.
Kael realigned his sword, watching. One step at a time. We can't take the terrain lightly. Whether Rina lives or dies also rests on our plan.
Lyrielle murmured, studying runes on the totems. "These are magical markers, sensing movement and setting off traps. Clever… very clever."
Azrak smiled in the shadows. "I adore jungles. So many shadows to work with… and humans to defend."
Elira let out a sigh. "Let's just hope that no one dies before the trial is over.