Kaleeth nodded to Janius, though already, she looked like she had some concerns. [i]"Yes, for the rite of endurance. It's the one I chose."[/i] She answered, though Zharanthixil was quick to pick up where she left off.

[i]"Kaleeth attempted other rites, and failed a few times. They are not easy, and not always safe. The rite of endurance can be the easiest, or most deadly depending upon how the Hist wills to test the apprentice. The apprentice is led far from the village, and left alone, with no belongings nor weapons. Unlike the other rites, there is no definite opponent to defeat, but they must show that they are able to survive on their own, forage and hunt effectively, and be able to follow their trail back to their home without losing it. They are taken far enough that it can require upwards of a week to return. If they return alive, they receive the mark of the vine, and become a hunter." Zharan explained, glancing down at Julan. It was certainly not an encouraging description, Julan did show some of his nervousness.

Zharanthixil continued. [i]"There are also three other rites. The rite of might shows that an apprentice values strength and ability in combat. And that their skill is beyond average. It requires that they are able to defeat a hunter beyond their years in single combat. It is not a fight to the death, but the weapons used are real. It is no simple sparring match. These hunters receive the mark of the leviathan. The rite of wit is a magic-focused test, and naturally appeals to hunters who fight with their minds as well as their bodies. I was never the one to administer it, so I am not completely familiar with all of its details, but it requires several magical tests, and a magical duel. Succeeding grants the hunter the mark of the wamasu. Finally, the rite of the predator requires tracking and killing sufficiently dangerous prey, then presenting the body to the Master-Hunter for inspection. The apprentice must hunt alone, but can use any weapons or strategies to make their kill. Their prey must be challenging to kill, so the Master-Hunter inspects the prey afterwards to make sure that the apprentice did not choose an already sick or injured target. These hunters receive the mark of the viper. For Julan, passing a rite would mean receiving his marks, and being accepted as a hunter of our village."[/i]

[hr]

Although Gwindir and S'nashi did take turns repeating their "goodbyes" at least three more times, they did eventually allow them to take their leave. Ahnasha and Fendros headed out of the inn, with Rhazii in tow just behind them. Ahnasha kept glancing back towards the inn several times, just to make sure that her family did not follow after them before she finally allowed herself to relax. She released a long breath, releasing much of the anxiety she felt being around her parents. "Fendros, I think I [i]will[/i] take Rhazii on a hunt tonight. I could really use the distraction. Would you mind keeping an eye on things here in the city?"