General Description
There is an initiation that takes place across Roth Island for those coming of age to prove themselves ready and worthy to join the ranks of the Dark Tide, the faction currently controlling Zimroth and surrounding areas. Whilst seemingly quite simple, this process often results in severe injury or death, especially for those with poor physical ability and stamina.
The Ritual
Those considering taking on the trials must first register their intent with Tide Keepers who will decide whether they may compete and if so, assign a guardian who oversees the climb and reports back if they have been successful or not.
The journey begins at the base of Galeroth, an active volcano on Roth Island. The initiate then has to reach the crater to begin the next stage of events. Some parts of the climb are incredibly challenging and feature many sheer rock faces and patches of loose gravel.
Upon reaching the summit, the guardian will perform an ancient rite of blood magic, marking several surface-level cuts on the initiate's chest with a ceremonial dagger before casting it into the volcano. This process marks the individual forever as they form a blood bond with the Dark Tide, the wounds will heal but leave a blackish discolouration in the scarring.
Next, they must seek out and recover a large quantity of
Basalt Bee Honey, a dangerous act as the bees furiously protect it. They must then cover themselves from head to toe in honey and begin descending the mountain towards the village of Coalgrove where the ritual ends. This last stage is deceptive, as the scent of honey often attracts hostile creatures while also starting to set in the much cooler temperatures, affecting the ability to climb.
Once the initiate arrives in Coalgrove, there is a feast held in their honour as a celebration of joining the Dark Tide.
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