Vulsh

Attunement process

One who wishes to attune to the Great Predator must climb inside the Claw of Vulsh, a large three-taloned dragon's hand that rises from the marshes of Southern Vulshik. Upon entry, the claw slams shut, attempting to crush the one in its palm. Those who are strong enough to fight their way out are attuned, and welcomed into the Vulshik family. Those who fail are crushed to death by the Claw.

Perhaps alone among continental cultures, the Vulshik also use their pillar as a method of execution. Those who are deemed unworthy--war prisoners, cowards, and the like--are thrown one by one into the Great Claw. If they survive, Vulsh's judgement is honored, and they are given a new lease on life, either reaffirming their attunement or forgoing their own pillar in favor of attuning to the Great Predator. Those who do not, or cannot, die.

Although Vulsh has a reputation among his people as The Father, his true nature is rather apathetic. He wasn't bothered enough to return and aid his son Chracio in the battle against Shul.

Mercayen reveals that while black dragons are very powerful, they are also very cowardly. She claims that Vulsh was an exception to this.