Initiate Trials

Artwork by Jan Schlegel

The Initiate Trials refer to a set of challenges put forth to the public by Knights of Mystic Fire, with traditions extending back to the times before the Lost Age. In the modern era, it is considered an early part of the Sunburst Festival, an appetizer for the games and tournaments yet to come.

History

The exact beginning of the Initiate Trials are largely unknown, as it is a ritual that existed well before the Lost Age, and are thought to be as old as the Knights themselves. That being said, the Trials have changed numerous times since their founding, particularly after the arrival of the Wizard King Kesil. While a millenia ago the Trials were regarded as incredibly dangerous and mythically complex, under the Swords of Absalom the challenges are far more safe, with deaths being incredibly rare, focused on the aspects of an applicants character over their raw magical potential, known as PAST (Proficiency, Adaptability, Sense, Tenacity).

Execution

When it comes to an single instance of the Trials, their nature is entirely decided by the Judicant, who is selected at the beginning of the year and is given six months to design to challenge. Their chosen terrain is constructed in the city's central stadium with great secrecy, and any found attempting to peek at the test are forever banned from participating, and may even face criminal charges.
The Judicant's design is revealed to the applicants and the public at the same time, and begins immediately after. Historically, challenges have ranged from a singular free-for-all combat all the way to an hours-long circus of puzzles and riddles. As long as these challenges test an applicant for all element of PAST, the design is approved by the Knights, no matter how outlandish it may be on the surface.
Because of the Trials mercurial existence, there are very few rules, most of which are common to other coliseum-style entertainment venues. No interfering with the crowd, leaving the arena, or soliciting help from non-participants. While harming other applicants is frowned upon, it is not always explicitly banned. Other crimes, such as murder, are still enforced while the Trials are in session, and may result in an applicant's immediate removal and arrest.
Those who pass the Trials are intiated into the Knights of Mystic Fire on Sunset Day, after the winner to the Sunburst Tournament is crowned in the eyes of the public.

PAST

PAST, as previously mentioned, is defined by four important aspects required by a Knight -- Proficiency, Adaptability, Sense, and Tenacity. While the exact reasonings behind the selection of these aspects is shared with the public, Kesil has elaborated on the grading mechanism with the following descriptions:

• Proficiency: Be able to use the weapon you choose well.
• Adaptibility: Be able to use the things around you to your advantage.
• Sense: Know when to fight and when to run. Know your enemy and yourself.
• Tenacity: When you must fight, do not stop until you have won. Push yourself beyond your limits.