Yauar Initiation Rites

Despite their cities and famed fighters, the deadly marshriek nevertheless presents an ever-present threat to the Yauar tribespeople. It is because of this that it is the target of Yauar initiation rites, a test in which a hunter must seek and kill a marshriek without aid. With deadly venom, a scream capable of disorienting the most seasoned hunter, and the sheer physical ferocity to kill a person without, slaying a marshriek requires incredible skill and planning. Rare is the hunter that can take one down with no preparation; it requires both cunning and strength, and usually a hefty amount of traps.

Should the hunter succeed in their task, they must return with the head of the marshriek. Upon their return, a two-day long celebration is held, attended by all in the city. Filled with music, dancing, and retellings of the deeds of great tribe members, it culminates with a specially prepared dish. Made from the tongue of the marshriek, it is believed to gift the hunter with the call of the marshriek, in addition to great magical powers. After this, a necklace made from the fangs and teeth of the marshriek is laid around the hunter's neck. Most often the necklace is prepared and given by the hunter's mentor. Upon receipt of both, the hunter is welcomed as a full protector of the tribe, and the Yauar people.

Execution

When of age, if physically capable, a Yauar tribesperson undertakes the hunt for a Marshriek. depending on the season and the nomadic marshriek's recent feedings, the hunt can take anywhere from a day to several weeks. Warding sigils and blessings are written upon the hunter in paint, to aid them in their journey.The hunter must return with the head of the Marshriek, or else forfeit the test. If successful, a feast is held in their honor, and a special dish of Marshriek tongue prepared solely for the returning hunter. The hunters consumption of the dish marks the fulfillment of the test, and purportedly bestows upon them the gifts of the Yauar's magic. The celebration culminates with a necklace of the Marshriek's teeth and fangs being laid around the hunter's neck.

Components and tools

The hunter takes only their weapons and a week's supplies with them; all else must be scavenged from the environment along their way.
Amidst the ritual celebration, everything from statues to trophies to myriad instruments are present, depending on the specific region. The only truly integral parts are the tongue of the Marshriek and its fangs, used in the initiation rites.

Participants

The hunter attempts the trial alone. The celebration, however, is attended by all in the local society, with many from neighboring tribes and cities often attending as well.