233.8

Viv is silent for a long time as you sit in meditation together. Finally, she opens her eyes, peering at you as though in amazement. "Your arrival is no coincidence, that much is sure. The ancestors are urging me to share a tale. One which I have kept close to my heart for a very long time."

Curious, you nod and agree to hear out her story. She takes in a wavering breath. The words seem difficult for her to find. "It was many years ago, now. I was on a hunt with my husband. We found ourselves at the mercy of an atrox. We didn't see it until it was almost too late. But just then, an elk came charging at the atrox. Not just any elk—a being made out of shimmering rainbow light."

Viv pauses to gather herself, then continues. "My husband, he…he was closer to the atrox when it happened. The elk's antlers struck him. The atrox fled and the elk pursued, but the damage was already done. That was the day he died. I did not know it then, but I was pregnant with Oz at the time. Since his birth, I have seen the elk several times, but I have kept my distance."

You ask if it is a spirit, and she shakes her head. "Spirits act in accordance with their nature. But this elk does not. It is the bane of predators in these parts, seeking them out as though taking revenge for some past wrong."

Viv inches closer, clasping your hand in hers. "Please. Whatever this elk is, find it and bring peace to it. I forgave it for its part in my husband's death long ago, but according to the ancestors, there is more to this story. And I believe you are the ones to discover the truth. Will you help?"

Rangers Choose

A) Agree to track down the strange elk and figure out what it is.

Gain the TRUE COLORS (PRISMATIC ELK) mission. (Reminder: search the Valley set for Prismatic Elk and attach it facedown to the mission card.) Discard Viv.

B) If the ancestors will it, I will find time another day.

Discard Viv. Each Ranger soothes 2 fatigue.