The thick brush of the forest climbed between the two Ulla trees to form a wall. This was a common thing to find in the Reha Wood. In these small obscure walls birds would build nests that blend in to the scenery.
I climbed up to a large Ohva bird's nest and gathered the large eggs that were a common delicacy in my village. Then the whole wall shook; I heard a small growl. I jumped off of the wall started to run as a Hyrian bear burst through the wall sending debris and birds flying out in all directions.
I ran as fast as my legs could carry me. I dodged small trees while the bear's massive body knocked them down and it's tusks ripped through branches like they were nothing. There was a ledge off into the distance. I ran for it with all of my strength. The bear followed.
I jumped off and twisted; pointing a loaded arrow in my bow at the bear. I waited until it was ready to jump and then released the arrow as it's chest raised up.
I landed on the ground and rolled as the bear landed on it's side. Then I walked up to it and stabbed into it's heart with my blade; insuring that the creature is dead.
I went to work carving into it's oak brown fur that was graying. After I had removed the skin and discarded the entrails; I took strips of meat and laid them into carefully wrapped Bya leaves to ensure the meat will stay fresh until it returns to my village. Then I cleaned the bones; keeping a rib bone to be fashioned into a bow and a toe bone for a hilt.
My stomach started to rumble. The adrenaline of the hunt must have taken more energy then I had expected. I gave into my hunger and started a small fire. I cooked a small piece of meat. Once it was done I bit into the juicy meat and had a dark foreboding feeling. My hunger fought it off and took control of me.
Once I was finished and the fire was out; I took the skull and placed it on the ground. The heart was placed inside on a pile of leaves; I left a bird egg there too. This was my offering to the Gods of the hunt and life; to give thanks for the kill and to allow the bear to pass on into a better, happier life.
I collected my spoils- the strong, soft hide, the wrapped meat, the two bones, the two long tusks, and the sharp claws - and started my hike back to the village.
The village was barren when I walked up to it. This was strange. I slowly walked through the main path that laid between a couple rows of wood and foliage houses; some were built up in the tall Goda trees. I didn't see a soul; this was alarmingly odd.
I walked into the Shrine of the Gods; the center point of our community. Everyone was here; huddled around the center.
I passed through them like water; they parted and let me through easily. I saw someone lying on the table. When I recognized them, it was Aaina, my heart stopped.
Aaina is the girl I'm in a courtship with and I planned to spend the rest of my life with her. I dropped everything and ran to her side; landing on my knees. "Aaina?" I said.
Her eyes were closed and she was running a fever. I looked up to our Shaman and asked, "What happened?"
"She awoke with a strong fever unlike anything I have seen before. I've had to use a Ircagus potion to sedate her. I do not know what could have done this to her, nor do I know a way that I am certain will heal her," He said.
"Is there anything I can do?" I asked.
"No, I'm sorry Krevin but there is not," He looked at my full pouch, "You were successful in the hunt?"
"Yes Shaman," I replied.
"Did you properly carry out our rituals?" He said raising an eyebrow.
