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 Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2023 8:36 am
Welcome Urika to Tendaji!
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Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2023 8:36 am
Congratulations to Urika for growing to Youngling!
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Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2023 8:56 am
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Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2023 6:33 am
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2024 9:12 am
Congratulations to Urika for growing to Prentice!
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2024 9:33 am
[ Learning About The Amazons ]
[ 1,361 words ]
Each of the Aishan children went through a series of classes, and the hybrids were no different. While they didn't get taught on the isles, they still had their own set of instructors in the many villages dotted in the Jauhar forests. Urika and her sister lived close enough to Ast where they were required to travel in for lessons, and the older they got the more they learned. Now, as she was coming in to her adolescence, Urika was beginning to learn the ways of the Aishan classes with the hopes that she might be able to make a decision toward her future.
There were few choices: The Amazon warrior class, the Sacred Heart magical class, and the Guardian beast class were the main options. But she could potentially explore a blacksmith path, or even forsake her history and do more of an Earthling choice. Yet, Urika knew from her upbringing that the Aishan classes and lifestyle were something she hopes she could fall in to, even with her hybrid heritage. And the first step was to participate in introductory classes of each class to see if one might be a fit. Unfortunately for her, this class she was brought in to was more observational, and she was left without her sister by her side to discuss what she was seeing before her. Therefore, Urika was on her own with her first lesson: the Amazon warrioresses of the Aishan sisterhood.
Urika watched with a mixture of curiosity and trepidation as the Amazon instructor, a fierce and battle-hardened warrior named Lirael, demonstrated the art of combat to the group of aspiring initiates. Her heart pounded in her chest as she gripped the practice sword in her hand, feeling the weight of it and the unfamiliar sensation of anticipation that coursed through her veins. She had never considered the chance of being such a strong warrior, despite her body being larger than most. No, her confidence was lacking, even with her Aishan heritage and the traditions of the sisterhood placing her in this very this moment.
The training ground was a vast expanse of green, nestled within the tranquil forest surroundings of the Aishan community. Tall trees swayed gently in the breeze, and the soft hum of nature's magic filled the air. It was a stark contrast to the harshness of the physical training that awaited them.
Lirael's voice rang out with authority as she addressed the group, "Welcome, initiates, to the path of the Amazon. In our sisterhood, we are sworn to uphold the ideals of strength, honor, and protection. Today, you will begin your journey to becoming a formidable warrior, capable of defending our people and our way of life."
Urika exchanged nervous glances with the other initiates, some of whom appeared more at ease with the prospect of combat than she did. She was keenly aware of her own uncertainty, but she had resolved to give this path her best effort. She owed it to her Aishan heritage and the mothers who had brought her into this world.
Lirael moved with a grace and power that seemed almost otherworldly as she demonstrated various combat techniques. Her movements were fluid, and the way she handled her weapons was a testament to her skill and experience. Urika found herself captivated by the Amazon's every move, her anxiety momentarily forgotten in the face of such expertise.
"Now, watch closely, initiates," Lirael said, her eyes scanning the group. "We begin with the basics. The Amazon is a fierce warrior, but she is also a protector of nature. We draw strength from the earth, and our connection to it gives us power beyond mere physical prowess."
Urika listened intently as Lirael explained the principles of the Amazon class. It was not just about brute force; it was about harnessing the energy of the natural world and channeling it into their attacks. It was about defending the weak and standing up for justice. It was about embodying the ideals of the sisterhood. That was something she found inspiration within, and she was drawn to the idea of protecting others and being their sword, their shield, and their canopy of peace.
As the training session continued, Urika found herself paired with a fellow initiate, a confident and skilled young woman named Thasa. Thasa wielded her practice sword with a natural grace, striking with precision and strength. Urika, on the other hand, felt awkward and uncoordinated in comparison. She struggled to mimic the fluid movements she had seen Lirael perform.
Thasa offered a reassuring smile as she observed Urika's struggles. "Don't worry, Urika. It takes time to get the hang of it. Remember, we're all here to learn and improve."
Urika nodded, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She appreciated Thasa's encouragement, but she couldn't shake the feeling that perhaps she was out of her depth. She had always been more inclined towards introspection and observation, and the physical demands of the Amazon class were pushing her out of her comfort zone. She felt uncoordinated and awkward in her larger body, her muscles and bulk seemingly working against her and leaving her with more pain and shame than she expected.
Despite her initial doubts and uncertainties, however, Urika persevered through the training session. She stumbled, she fumbled, and she occasionally missed her target, but she pushed herself through it. She knew that her mothers had faith in her, and she couldn't let them down.
As the day wore on, Urika's body ached from the exertion, and she was covered in sweat and dirt. Yet, there was a sense of satisfaction that welled up within her. She had pushed herself beyond her limits, and she had survived. Maybe this was an opportunity she could learn from, to build confidence from. Maybe, just maybe, she could make something out of this, sweat and all.
The sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the training ground. Lirael called a halt to the training, and the initiates gathered around her. She looked at each of them with a knowing gaze.
"You've all made a good start today," Lirael said, her voice filled with pride. "Becoming an Amazon is not an easy path, but it is a noble one. Remember that our strength comes not just from our physical abilities but from our unwavering commitment to our ideals. for those of you who are just sitting in, I hope to leave you with this. The path of the Amazon is a hard one, one fought with both our bodies and our souls. It's not made for every sister, but those who decide to walk this path will find themselves living a fulfilling life."
Urika listened to Lirael's words, her heart swelling with a newfound sense of determination. She had doubted herself at the beginning of the day, but now she understood that being an Amazon was about more than just physical prowess. It was about embodying the values of the sisterhood and protecting the world around her. It was her first chance to sit through such a training, and she found her nervousness all but gone. This wasn't about being shamed by her weakness, but instead about learning through it, and seeing the potential and opportunity she had to give back to her sisterhood.
As she walked back to her home, Urika couldn't help but reflect on the day's events. She knew that she had a long journey ahead of her, and she still had doubts about whether the path of the Amazon was the right fit for her. But one thing was clear - this was an opportunity that allowed her to learn more about her sisterhood and herself. She couldn't wait to tell Corra all about it.
With each step, Urika felt a growing sense of purpose and a glimmer of self-confidence. She may have been docile and quiet by nature, but she was determined to find her own strength and place in the sisterhood. She owed it to them. The journey had just begun, and Urika was ready to embrace it with all her heart. Now she just needed to see if the other classes were as rewarding as this one.
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2024 9:33 am
[ Learning About The Sacred Hearts]
[ 1,204 Words ]
After her experience with the Amazons, Urika found herself excited to explore the other types of classes available to the Aishans. While she wasn't certain exactly which class she hoped to follow, she did believe she was doing right by herself and her family to follow such classes. Yes, this was the right decision, and so learning about the Sacred Heart was logically the next step in her journey.
As she stood amidst a group of initiates, her heart became heavy with a sense of anticipation and unease. This would be a much different journey than the one she took as an Amazon—the path of the Sacred Heart. It didn't help that this was also the class Niabi followed, and she had felt a strong pressure toward it, driven by her desire to honor her heritage. But would it be the right decision, especially to one who had not yet felt the pull of magic?
The training ground for the Sacred Heart initiates was a stark contrast to the one she had visited for the Amazons. Instead of the lush greenery and a physical combat stage, the Sacred Heart training ground was a serene glade bathed in soft, ethereal light. The air was filled with a subtle, enchanting melody, and the scent of blooming flowers and herbs wafted through the air. It felt like a magical energy hummed throughout the space, and Urika was suddenly reminded of her lumbering, oaf-like size compared to the other sisters who had joined her.
Their instructor, a seasoned Sacred Heart named Seraphina, appeared almost as an extension of the natural surroundings. She had long, lush dreads that seemed to shimmer like moonlight and deep eyes that held the wisdom of ages. Once she began her instruction, the atmosphere seemed to shift as if the very essence of magic permeated the air.
"Welcome, initiates," Seraphina said, her voice melodic and soothing. "For those who follow the way of the Sacred Heart, we become guardians of the arcane arts, protectors of the mystical realms, and healers of the wounded soul. We harness the power of magic and infuse it into our weapons and spells. Today, you may just find yourself beginning your journey into the realm of spells and enchantments."
Urika listened intently, her curiosity piqued by the idea of wielding magic. She hadn't really been drawn to the mystical arts, despite her mother following such traits, but this class seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore that side of herself and see if it was a possibility. She watched as Seraphina effortlessly conjured a shimmering sword made of pure energy, the blade dancing with otherworldly light.
"Now, initiates, we shall begin with the basics of spellcasting," Seraphina said, her hand moving gracefully through the air as she cast a simple spell that created a burst of radiant energy. "Magic is a force that flows through all living things. It is the essence of creation and transformation. To harness its power, one must have a deep connection to the natural world and the elements."
Urika nodded, trying to absorb every word Seraphina spoke. The initiatives wouldn't actually cast spells, but instead work on meditation to try and find their magical cores. It was something Urika had no idea where to begin, and as she closed her eyes, she found herself more uncomfortable than relaxed, shifting and adjusting each time she tried to slow her breath.
As the training session continued, Urika found herself surrounded by the initiates, each of them attempting to channel their magic in different ways. Some conjured a soft breeze of wind, while others created flickers of fire or shimmering glitter. Urika, however, struggled to connect with the magic around her. She focused her energy, her hands trembling slightly as she tried to pull a simple spell. But nothing happened. The air remained still, and her hands felt empty and powerless. Frustration welled up inside her, and she glanced around to see the other initiates making progress with their spells.
Thasa, her friend from the Amazon class, noticed Urika's struggle and came to her side. "Urika, it's okay," she whispered, offering a reassuring smile. "Magic takes time and practice. Don't be too hard on yourself. Some of us don't ever feel the pull, while others seem to wield it out of control. Aisha works in mysterious ways."
Urika appreciated her friend's support, but she couldn't help but feel a sense of inadequacy. She had connected as an Amazon, but this new path was proving to be a formidable challenge. She longed to connect with the magic that flowed around her, to feel the power that might help her relate further to her mother, Niabi. Urika's frustration grew. She tried different spells and incantations, but each attempt yielded the same result—nothing. It was as if the magic refused to respond to her, and she felt like an outsider in a world where everyone else seemed to be flourishing.
Seraphina noticed Urika's struggle and approached her with a gentle smile. "Do not be disheartened, young one," she said, her voice filled with compassion. "The path of the Sacred Heart is not an easy one, and magic can be elusive to those who seek to wield it. It takes time, patience, and a deep understanding of oneself."
Urika nodded, her eyes welling up with tears of frustration and disappointment. She had hoped that this class would be her calling, but it seemed that magic was beyond her grasp. She felt like a failure, even if no one exactly said it.
As the training session came to an end, Urika knew that she had a difficult decision to make. She had been excited after her Amazon training to approach the Sacred Heart class, but it was clear that she did not possess the natural aptitude for magic that others did. It was a painful realization, but she knew that she had to be honest with herself.
That evening, as she sat beneath the starry sky, Urika reflected on her day. She had tried her best to follow in her mother's footsteps, to honor her heritage, but she had come to understand that sometimes the path we choose is not the right one for us. She had excelled as an Amazon, and perhaps that was where her true strength lay. But still, there were other options she needed to explore, and soon she would be challenged to join the Guardian class.
With a heavy heart, Urika accepted under the starry sky and lush canopy that the Sacred Heart journey was not one meant for her to follow. She was fearful that she might disappoint her mother, she she would keep the decision quiet for now. Maybe Corra would know best how to approach the subject with the stern Niabi. It wasn't that Urika was afraid of her mother, but simply she had the self-pressure to always please and never wanted to disappoint.
Yet, as she made her decision to walk away from the world of spells and enchantments, Urika felt a sense of relief and liberation. She may not have become a Sacred Heart, but she felt the small sense of being true to herself was a reward in itself.
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2024 9:33 am
[ Learning About The Guardians ]
[ 1417 words ]
The last few weeks had been filled with an interesting assortment of training and exploration. The observation training with the Amazons had been an exciting experience for Urika, as she easily found herself able to move and hold her own. Yet the Sacred Heart training had been a set back. She struggled to find her connection with magic and thus with her mother. At least that's the pressure she put on herself. Now, Urika was approaching the Guardian classes, and she tried to set her mind at ease. Her conversations with her sisters and peers reassured her that it was ok to not be perfect at everything, and she had her own place in the world. So why not take heart in trying something new yet again - plus the guardian class was more about the physical side of things which she seemed to do well with.
So, as Urika stepped onto the training grounds once more, she tried to keep her heart filled with a sense of curiosity and excitement. What had happened with her training as an Amazon the Sacred Heart was over, and now it was time to learn about the Guardians. This class, focused on riding and fighting alongside powerful creatures, was unlike anything she had experienced before. They had seen a few guardians travel through their small village, but most stuck to the open lands and thus the young teens hadn't had a chance to see such warriors up close. That and it was discouraged to interact with the 'working' creatures that were their mounts.
The training grounds for the Guardians were a vast open space, dotted with pens and enclosures housing various beasts. There was an air of energy and anticipation as the initiates gathered, their eyes filled with wonder as they took in the sight of these magnificent creatures. Their instructor, a seasoned Guardian named Kael, exuded confidence and authority. He was a Shifter hybrid with a rugged appearance, with weathered skin and a twinkle in his eye that hinted at a deep connection with the creatures under his care.
"Welcome, initiates," Kael said, his voice carrying the weight of experience. "For those that choose the way of the Guardian, we forge bonds with the beasts of the land, sea, and sky. These creatures will become our companions and our allies in battle. Today, you will have the opportunity to meet and learn about some of the creatures we ride and fight alongside."
Urika watched in awe as Kael introduced them to a variety of creatures - some she recognized and many she did not. Most of the pens were filled with Radaku, known for their whip like tails and tendency to be difficult mounts if not trained from an early age. Most of them ignored the prentices, who admired their crystal horns and coloring markings.
A Kinfa was perched further away, it's bright plumage stark against the Jauhar trees as it preened at the attention. It was clear that the creature would easily carry an Aishan with how large it was, and it showed a sense of intelligence that awed Urika.
Another pen held a Janarim, which Kael explained was a rare beast few were able to tame outside of Oba. It was because they were fiercely loyal, something that was clear with how it growled and grumbled at the attention from the group.
Finally, in a small pool of water on the outskirts of the training grounds was a large scaled snapptrotter, a lizard like creature with sharp teeth from Matori. Few seemed interested in such a beast, mostly because it excelled in water which was not quite immediate in the area. Though Thasa pointed out discretely to Urika that they might make great sentries around the waterways between the mainland and the isles.
Each beast had its own unique abilities and characteristics, and Urika couldn't help but be drawn to their beauty and strength.
Kael's instructions were clear and thorough as he explained the basics of riding and caring for these creatures. He demonstrated how to mount and dismount, how to communicate with them through both verbal commands and body language, and how to form a bond of trust. It was a quick lesson, but one that everyone was eager to learn - even if one didn't follow the path of a guardian the value of taming a mount was clear.
Urika's was filled with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. She had never been close to animals, let alone ridden one into battle. Sure her mothers had creatures, but mostly it was an old Scorra that Amarone used to travel with more than anything. The idea of forming a bond with such majestic creatures was both thrilling and intimidating.
As the initiates were paired with different creatures, Urika found herself standing in front of the sleek and powerful Snapptrotter. Its scales were a deep shade of ebony, and had eyes that sparkled like sapphires. Kael had described them as swift and agile, perfect for hit-and-run tactics in battle.
Urika approached the Snapptrotter cautiously, her hand outstretched in a gesture of trust. The creature regarded her with a mixture of curiosity and caution, its nostrils flaring as it sniffed her hand. Slowly, she began to stroke its scales, feeling the texture of it beneath her fingertips.
Kael observed the interaction and nodded approvingly. "Good, Urika. Building trust is the first step in forming a bond with your companion. Now, let's see if you can mount and ride it."
With Kael's guidance, Urika managed to mount the Snapptrotter, though her inexperience was evident in the way she clung to its harness for dear life. The beast moved beneath her with a grace that belied its size, and Urika felt a rush of exhilaration and fear as she held on.
As the initiates practiced riding, Kael continued to educate them about the different roles of Guardians. Some were tasked with protecting the land and its inhabitants, while others were scouts, patrolling the borders of their territory. Urika listened attentively, her mind racing with thoughts of the potential paths she could take within this class.
However, as the day progressed, Urika couldn't shake the feeling that she was out of her element. The creatures were magnificent, and the bond between Guardian and beast was undeniable, but she couldn't help but wonder if she had the natural affinity for this path. Unlike the other initiates, who seemed at ease with their companions, Urika struggled to find that connection.
When it was time to dismount, Urika couldn't help but feel a sense of relief as she stepped away from the Snapptrotter. It had been an exhilarating experience, but it had also been a stark reminder of her own limitations. She approached Kael with a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty.
"Thank you, Kael," she said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "Meeting the creatures and learning about the Guardians has been an eye-opening experience. But I can't help but wonder if this is the right path for me."
Kael regarded her with a thoughtful expression, as if he understood the inner turmoil she was experiencing. "It's important to follow your heart, Urika," he said. "The path of the Guardian is not for everyone. It requires a deep connection with these creatures and a willingness to put their needs before your own. If you feel that your heart lies elsewhere, it's best to honor that."
Urika nodded, her heart heavy with a sense of both disappointment and relief. She had been drawn to the idea of the Guardians, but she now understood that it was not her true calling. It was a path for those who felt a natural bond with the creatures they rode, and she had to acknowledge that she did not share that connection.
As she left the training grounds that day, Urika knew that she had explored three different paths, each with its own challenges and rewards. She had excelled as an Amazon, struggled as a Sacred Heart, and marveled at the world of the Guardians. But through it all, she had learned something invaluable—she had learned more about herself and where her true strengths and passions lay.
The journey of self-discovery was far from over, and Urika was ready to embrace whatever path lay ahead. She had come to accept that not every path was meant for her, but that didn't diminish her worth or her potential. It simply meant that she was one step closer to finding her true destiny.
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2024 9:34 am
[ Class Choice ]
[ 779 Words ]
Urika sat beneath the shade of a towering tree, her mind filled with thoughts and doubts. The sun dappled through the leaves, casting shifting patterns of light and shadow on the ground. The soft rustle of leaves and the gentle chirping of birds filled the air, creating a tranquil backdrop to her contemplation.
She had spent the last few weeks exploring the paths of the Aishan sisterhood—training as an Amazon, delving into the mystic arts of the Sacred Heart, and experiencing the world of the Guardians. Each path had offered its own unique challenges and opportunities, but now she faced a crucial decision.
She thought back to her time as an Amazon, to the rigorous training and the camaraderie she had experienced with her fellow initiates. The physical demands had pushed her to her limits, and there had been moments of doubt and exhaustion, but there had also been moments of triumph and exhilaration. Her body had felt strong and she had walked away with the feeling she could accomplish something and protect others. It had been uplifting, inspiring, and she had felt good.
Urika remembered the feeling of wielding a practice sword, the rush of adrenaline as she faced off against her fellow prentices, and the satisfaction of knowing that she could become a formidable warrior. She thought of the ideals of strength, honor, and protection that had drawn her to this path in the first place.
As she pondered her decision, Urika thought about the Sacred Heart class and the allure of magic and mysticism. It had been a world of wonder and enchantment, a realm where she had hoped to unlock the secrets of the arcane. She remembered the beauty of the spells and the potential for healing and protection. Yet, she also recalled the frustration of her own limitations, the struggle to connect with the magic that flowed through her. It had been a path of uncertainty and self-doubt, and Urika had come to accept that it was not where her true strengths lay. As disappointing as it may be.
Finally, her mind drifted to the Guardians and the awe-inspiring creatures she had encountered. The thrill of riding alongside these majestic beasts had been exhilarating, and the bonds between Guardian and creature had been undeniable. She had marveled at the potential for adventure and exploration. But Urika knew that her connection with the creatures had been fleeting, and she had not felt the deep resonance that the other initiates seemed to share. It had been a path of wonder, but not one that spoke to her heart.
As she sat in the dappled sunlight, Urika closed her eyes and listened to the whispers of the wind in the leaves. She knew that she had to make a choice, and it was not a decision to be taken lightly. It was a decision that would shape her future and define her path within the sisterhood.
After her deep reflection, Urika opened her eyes and felt a sense of clarity wash over her. She knew where her heart truly belonged. She had been drawn to the Amazon class from the very beginning, and despite the challenges and uncertainties, it was the path that resonated with her the most. With a determined smile, Urika made her decision. She would become an Amazon, a protector of the ideals of strength, honor, and protection. She would embrace the physical challenges and the sisterhood that had welcomed her with open arms.
That being said, she figured eventually she might see about getting a familiar to fight along side her, or at least help her travel across Tendaji. It seemed valuable, even if she decided she would not be following the ways of the Guardian. There were so many beasts that it might be nice to get one or two, even one for her sister Corra depending on if she was going Guardian or not.
As she stood up from her spot beneath the trees, Urika felt a sense of purpose and resolve wash over her. She was ready to embrace the path of the Amazon with all her heart, to train and become the warrior she had always known she could be. With her decision made, she knew that her journey within the sisterhood was just beginning, and she was eager to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Now, all she had to do was let her mothers know what path she hoped to take, and make the final commitment to become a Blade. Smiling, Urika found herself ready and determined, her future path clear and her heading one that would lead her to protect those she cared about and more.
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Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2024 6:25 pm
Congratulations to Urika for growing to Blade!
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Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2024 6:25 pm
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