Greebeast Hunt
The greebeast hunt is the hunting tradition among the Greefolk, who navigate the volatile waters of The Boil in dirigibles to harvest Greebeast—the lifeblood of the economy of Awarth. Hunting crews operate Boil Runners, smaller skiffs that skim the surface to engage these massive creatures. The hunt fosters pride and community within Greefolk clans, who view it as a test of endurance, communal strength, and survival. Beyond industry, the hunt is steeped in ancestral rites, with each successful catch solidifying a clan’s legacy and deepening their bond to The Blast.
History
The origins of the greebeast hunt stretch back to the early days after Big Boil, when the desperate people of the Isles discovered that Greebeasts might hold the key to their continued survival. Early hunts were perilous, but the resilience of the Greefolk clans turned hunting into a thriving tradition. Over generations, the hunt became both an economic necessity and a cultural cornerstone. Today, the greebeast hunt remains a symbol of Greefolk identity, blending industry, survival, and ritual into one dangerous endeavor.
Execution
A greebeast hunt begins with dirigibles scouting The Boil for signs of Greebeast activity, such as Boil Overs or disturbed waters. Once a Greebeast is spotted, Boil Runners—fan-powered skiffs—are deployed to engage the creature. Armed with harpoons, nets, and explosive Gree-charges, the crews must work in unison to subdue the beast before it escapes or retaliates. The captured Greebeast is then processed aboard the dirigible or at clan facilities, with every part of the creature used. Ritual chants mark each successful catch, honoring ancestors and The Boil’s chaotic will.
Components and tools
The Greebeast Hunt relies on specialized tools to endure the dangers of The Boil. Boil Runners are sleek, fan-powered skiffs designed to navigate turbulent waters quickly. Harpoons, often tipped with reinforced bone or metal, are used to pierce the tough hides of Greebeasts. Nets and gree-charges are deployed to restrain or incapacitate the beasts. Crews carry Tines, traditional blades used for cutting through the dense cartilage of a Greebeast. Dirigibles, particularly Leviathan-Class airships, serve as mobile hunting platforms, equipped with cranes and holding tanks for harvested gree.
Participants
Every Greebeast Hunt is led by a Principal, the captain of the dirigible, who oversees the entire operation. The Second manages crew assignments and morale. Specialists, such as navigators, quartermasters, and surgeons, handle essential support tasks. The Boat Lead commands each Boil Runner, selecting Runners—volunteers from the crew—to join their skiff. Each role is crucial to a hunt’s success, and Greefolk value experience and camaraderie above all, believing that trust between crew members is what keeps them alive on the deadly waters.
Observance
The Greebeast Hunt is more than a practical endeavor; it is a sacred tradition for the Greefolk. Before each hunt, crews participate in The Call, invoking their ancestors for protection and guidance. During the hunt, clan symbols are displayed as talismans against misfortune. Upon returning with a successful catch, the crew holds a feast, sharing the spoils and recounting tales of the hunt. These rituals reinforce the communal spirit of the Greefolk and remind them of their enduring bond with The Boil and its dangers.
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