Kynareth's Ascension

Pilgrimage to the Peak of Kynareth

  Few men and women have ascended the Coldbarrow Mountain all the way up to the Peak of Kynareth. And even fewer have seen its inhabitant. Though many try, the mountain proves too treacherous to conquer for the vast majority of challengers. Legend says it was originally taken by King Noel and his entourage. There it was that Kynareth whispered the name King Noel shall give to his new kingdom. And it was shouted below. A spire in honor of the King of legend and the goddess Kynareth is said to be built there in splendor and defiance to the elements. The path up leads along very narrow paths and cracks and requires agility, cunning, and strength alike.    To ascend the mountain peak one must either spiral around it along the safer, longer road that was taken by King Noel originally in a challenge of patience and endurance. Though most chose to attempt cliff climbing to the peak, trading safety for speed. Many have given their lives that way, or chose it to be too risky and returned down. Failing to ascend to the peak is not regarded as a shame or shunned, and most means to arrive on top are acknowledged. Only the use of magic is outlawed when attempting to reach the top.   The pilgrimage to the Peak of Kynareth is regarded as a great way to show one's devotion to the goddess of wind and is very liked by those who seek the thrill of rock climbing and extreme hiking. Those few that have succeeded in the path are usually honored in the tome of the peak which is displayed at the beginning of the pilgrim's path and holds a reward of wealth. Even though unconventional at the time, previous winners of the challenge have erected well-spaced sanctuaries and caves for their fellow climbers to try and reach, to make the path up a little more lenient at the very least.