055 [Voice]

[mountain_sage]

[Saleh has kept his routine of wandering and patrolling the forest. However, recently, he began to notice something strange. It wasn't unusual to see the occasional dead animal here and there, but suddenly finding more with no clearly visible wounds was strange to the sage. He didn't think much of them at first...until he spotted more and more of them, especially as he came closer to the lake.]

[What is happening to these creatures? Saleh can't quite wrap his head around this, but the village ought to be warned. His voice is filled with uncertainty, knowing that something is out there...but he has no idea what.]

There is something out here in the woods, affecting the wildlife. I'm encountering an increasing number of dead creatures. Their bodies seem intact, though their faces are pale. All of a sudden, the forest feels so...lifeless. Should anyone come out here, be on guard.

Comments

[Voice]

[mistlegacy]

That goes for you, too, you know. I don't think you should be investigating that alone.

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

Of course...I don't plan on investigating it. [Though perhaps he should.] I just happened to come across this...

[Voice]

[mistlegacy]

Moro's still out there, isn't she? I wouldn't want to be anywhere nearby, when she finds out.

[Written]

[dragoon_pride]

I'll keep wary, although I wouldn't mind the challenge if there's some strong predator out there.

[ written ]

[deceases]

Something is killing animals in the forest, is that what you're saying?

[Voice]

[geniustheveil]

[The simplest solution is the one to begin with, isn't it?]

Could it be other animals?

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

Moro? I haven't seen her in some time.

[He does find it odd that he hasn't run into her more often, as often as he's out here.]

But you're right...perhaps I should head back now.

[This whole thing is scaring him more than he'd like to admit.]

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

[Oh Kain, you and your challenges.]

All right...I'll have to keep an eye out myself. Right now, I can't even tell if it's a predator or something else entirely.

[ written ]

[mountain_sage]

Something is. I can't tell what it is, however...

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

Other animals? It's a possibility, I suppose...but I don't know of any animal that can kill their prey so...cleanly.

[Voice]

[geniustheveil]

It's strange if there's more than usual, but it may just be a new arrival, who enjoys hunting. [It's a rational thought, but it sounds lame even to her: A hunter wouldn't leave them like that, would they?]

[Voice]

[mistlegacy]

You're welcome to stop by the house and tell me more about it there. I can make us tea.

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

I'll do that. Thank you. There is...something else I would like to discuss.

[Making his way back to the village now.]

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

It is likely a new arrival, considering this is only beginning to happen. Or perhaps a new experiment from the Malnosso.

[Voice]

[geniustheveil]

A new experiment... I suppose it has been awhile. [Usagi. Will she be alright during whatever it could be?]

For the time being, it only seems to be animals attacked. We should be careful to keep warning the people, too, though.

[Voice/Action]

[mistlegacy]

Very well. I'll see you soon.

[And she'll start getting that tea ready, listening for his knock.]

[Action]

[mountain_sage]

[Saleh takes his time walking back to the village, keeping an eye out for more dead animals or their mysterious predator. Once he enters the village, he makes haste for Rydia's place, knocking on the door.]

[Action]

[mistlegacy]

[Departing the kitchen, she heads over to open the door as the kettle begins to whistle.]

Good timing! Come in, Saleh.

[Written]

[dragoon_pride]

I suppose it would be difficult to tell, without seeing it... but if it does prove to be a true threat I'll offer assistance.

[Voice]

[rutagraveolens]

I've seen them too, the animals. What would do such a thing?

[Action]

[mountain_sage]

Thank you...oh!

[He steps inside as the kettle whistle alarms him.]

[Written]

[mountain_sage]

Thank you.

[Speaking of assistance...]

Actually...may I ask you something?

[voice]

[doubleppk]

I'd heard there was a lot less in the forest to hunt this winter too. Would that be related you think?

[Fujiko actually sounds scared about it.]

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

Yes...that was the whole purpose of my message.

[Voice]

[mountain_sage]

I can't say. The only thing even remotely similar to this was during an experiment revolving around a holiday called "Halloween." Though I don't think that now is the time for that holiday...