Chapter 01   Big Winds Mesa
(difficulty recommendation: Peaceful)

Narrator:  Upon their sixteenth naming day, youths of the tribe are sent to Big Winds Mesa, to fast and meditate.  Those who will become warriors have visions, and few may return with a spirit companion.  Others do not return  they disappear into the Western sands.  You have spent three days on Big Winds Mesa without food or water.  Staring into the fire, the words of Chief Red Cloud echo in your memory

Red Cloud:  Albarel, son of my son, child of Meredith Rising-Moon.  Albarel, of the two peoples.  Raised to know the ways of both people, now seeks to become man in the eyes of our tribe.  Open your heart and mind to the spirits.  Three handfuls of angered earth to feed the flames.  Pass through the fire and into the spirit world.  Take nothing with you.  In the spirit world, you will face several trials.   But be vigilant, and do not be tempted from your path.  Keep watch for the sign of your spirit companion.  Every mans vision is his own  I cannot guide you further.  

Narrator:  You have prepared yourself as Red Cloud instructed.  For three days, you fasted and dug a deep pit.  At sundown, you remove your leathers and toss three handfuls of red powder into the flames.  The powder gives off an acrid smoke that seems to scratch its way into your eyes and lungs.   Your mind wanders again, until you notice a strange hum fill your mind and a purple color dances among the flames.   Enter the fire and begin your journey!
