Training

In order for Algolope to produce stronger kits in breeding, do better in activities, and to access to Dungeons, they have to complete Training. Training is specific art or literature done with prompts to increase an Algos individual base stats by RNG 1-3 points.  These activities teach the young animals to survive and instill trust and understanding toward their riders or just teach them the ropes of survival. While they are not required to participate in activities, trained Algolopes can bring back more items or have better odds and can access [Dungeons].

Training can be completed by both Wild and Tamed Algolope!

Trained stats can improve an Algo's results in activities by applying bonuses to their score. Higher scores have a chance to rewards more items or rare items. Higher stat Algolope can also produce better stat offspring, with a small chance that the offspring have stats higher than both parents.

Training submissions count for Rank Points, and earn an additional +1 Rp. More info can be found on the [Rank Points] guide.

Algolopes have 7 stats,  Strength, Speed, Constitution, Dexterity, Agility, Stamina and Intelligence. You can review what each stat does on the [Stats Guide]. Algos can be trained at any age, but usually training is completed while young.

Rules

Training images must depict fullbody or 6+ sections of the Algolope. You can review sizing guides on the [Rank Points] page.

At minimum the drawing must be fullbody flat colored, cleanly sketched, with at least a simple background. (9 RP base points)

Literature submissions must be at least 800 words for the first algolope, with an additional +400 words per extra algolope.

You can only train a max of 3 algolopes (4 with Guide), your word count must be at least 1600 (800 base +400 words each extra algo, ). 

• A max of 3 Algolope can be in each training submission (4 with Guide).

• Starters may be used in place of 'riders'.  These Algo do not count against the total featured. You must include 1 rider/starter per training entry if listed in the prompt.

• Training submissions should be separate for each prompt and cannot be combined into one image. Training can be completed in any order and may be 'submitted' for training approval all at once or as pieces are completed.
  
  All submissions must include the following form:
  
  [Import Link] (List the name and link the import to the text)
  [Tracker Link] -> Must link to your copy of the Official Algolope Tracker Google Sheet.
  RP Breakdown
  Total: +# RP
  Notes: (add links to breakdowns or anything else, remove if not applicable)
  Rider: Link (if using a rider for RP bonuses or featured in a group)
  Add Links to riders (Riders must be submitted to the Riders Folder to count for RP)

Speed Training:

An important skill for any Algo to have, speed allows an Algo to catch its prey, and for domestics, how to effectively race. While a young Algo cannot support a rider it is important to teach it how to run or chase, depending on desired discipline later in life. Training methods can vary, some riders set up decoys that zip along tracks and others wait til their Algo is older and larger to begin riding it in breezes or quick runs of short tracks. Algo can also be lunged or let out to run in the fields against their litter-mates or an older individual. A tried and true method is also acting as 'bait', with a rider or handler running away from their Algolope, if the Algo likes you enough they'll take chase! Algolopes are also fond of chasing bugs like dragonflies, though they hardly catch the fast critters. Wilds like to train their speed with mock hunts, outrunning the 'humans', or playing chase with their packs. Some may race birds, leaves or even other creatures.

Constitution Training:

Training constitution generally begins once an Algo is a yearling, specifically to build its resistance and hardiness. This training is usually accomplished by saddling the Algo in question with a medium or heavy load, or setting them up in an unfamiliar climate. The climate doesn't have to be extreme, such as letting the Algo outside in the snowy winter, the Algo staying outside its den for longer, or traveling from the plains to the mountains and doing some small workouts like trotting or riding. Algos must be accompanied by a rider or seasoned Algolope, and may be buddied up or led by another Algo. At training centers Algos can be put in hot walkers or in aquatic pools for brief swims. Wild Algos often accomplish this training by surviving the hardships of the wilderness, be it outrunning a hungry bear, avoiding the angry jackdaws pecking their hides, or even navigating harsh terrain! Some like to practice swimming or diving for fish, holding their breath as long as possible.

Dexterity Training:

Dexterity is the ability of an Algo to use its claws and natural weapons like it's stinger in a hunt. Generally a small animal hunting exercise. It's not a competition, so for the safety of younger Algos and the inexperienced it's recommended to have an Algos first hunt be small game such as rabbits and foxes. Algos can also be trained at facilities by using dummies and decoys that an Algo can practice pounding or tail attacks. Algos can hone their dexterity in others tasks as well, such as climbing steep slopes, trees, ledges, obstacle courses, or using its tail for balance on beams and other narrow passages. Some more out of the box methods are simply having an Algo try to manipulate object in its semi-dexterous paws, like treat boxes. Wild Algos often train by practicing climbing trees, rock faces, opening shells and clams, jumping manmade posts and fences, or even practice hunts with their parents and pack.

Agility Training:

This skill is best trained by allowing an Algo to compete in obstacle courses or anything requiring quick movement and precision. Algos can practice their acrobatics in jumps, leaps and any task that requires a combination of balance and reflexes! Common training facility tools include small pole jumps, weave poles, tunnels, jumping though hoops, and quick stopping with riders. (Think reining with horses)
Wilds often learn agility in hunting, dashing through dense forests without hitting trees, or even rock hopping over raging rivers. Some have more thrill seeking tendencies, but there's a variety of methods for Wilds.

Stamina Training:

Stamina is tied to the endurance or how long or far an Algo can travel. Most riders and trainers accomplish this by taking their Algos out for ridden or led hikes in mountains or trails, or by extended distance rides. For Algos used for hunting and fishing, packing the Algo with heavy loads or having it practice carrying large prey or hauling gear over distance suffices for the training.  Wilds often increase their stamina by long hunts, tracking prey, climbing uncharted mountains, or even digging dens. It's hard work making the world their home.

Intelligence Training:

Algolopes are generally intelligence creatures and can complete most tasks in a competent and seasoned manner, however some Algos can benefit decently  by partaking in training. Intelligence training is always up to the owner, rider or Algolope mentor, though some methods including having the  individual scout out a specific prey, track a person or animal,  locate hidden items or navigate complicated routes generally unassisted.  Algos can also be tasked with manipulating puzzle-type activities to gather treats or toys, or manipulate simple objects by navigating a narrow space with a large branch or pole in mouth. 

All Training Descriptions are basic ideas and suggestions for the training, all members are free to expand on the idea or get creative with how they train their Algolope. However they must at least tie in somewhat with their respective stats. Submit all training images to the training folder, submissions will be compared against the general quality of a member's gallery, and any training submissions deemed to lack effort will be placed in the misc folders and not count for that training stage. 

Submitting Training:

As you complete each training you can submit it to the training thread or submit all at once.

Once a training is completed, comment [HERE] with the following:

Only 1 Algolope per comment.

Import: (link to the import)

Tracker:

Training: (link submissions) - stat type

ex: [image] - Speed training

If approved, the training comment on the import will receive  a response with the SP earned between 1-3 and the import will be updated with the new stats as well as a black star '★ ' to indicate completion of that skills training. 

Training Deaf and Blind Algolope.

If you wish to have a blind or deaf Algolope hunt, fish or scavenge, you must complete the following special training.

Requirements:
Fullbody colored and shaded with a simple background, with rider or group starter present. 

or
600 words written, rider or group starter must be present. 

Sound/Sight Conditioning: A blind Algolope must be taught to rely on their hearing to hunt, while a deaf algo must rely on their sight. Draw or write about training the animal to better use the respective sense. 

Trial Run: A Blind or Deaf Algolope must complete 2 trial runs, these trials will not be rolled for items. They will be testing out a mock hunt, or having a generally unsuccessful effort, but what's important is learning to identify their prey, how to locate fish or to navigate the terrain by their other senses.

First Hunt: The first official hunt for a Deaf or Blind Algolope. Must only go after small or medium game or fishing in a small creek, brook or pond. This Training will be rolled for hunting or fishing. 

Once all the special training is complete, comment [HERE] to have it made official. Admins will post the training in the training log and you'll be able to use them for activities!

art by empiredog