The Emberscale Trials

What would eventually become the Emberscale Trails began uring the Drakai's tribal era, where it was simply part of a rite of passage for newly initiated warriors meant to honour Vauthra, the Emberscaled (the closest thing to a war deity in the Draceist faith). During this time, the Trails were limited to one or two challenges, which varied between tribes based on their environment. Some time after the nation of Dranya was established, these trials were grouped together into a single, lengthy series of challenges, and adopted by the Dranyan Legions for use as training exercises for the legions. As Dranya expanded and advanced, these military exercises would be used as a display of their might, as well as a method of drawing in new recruits for the legions.

The Trials open with a ceremony involving the lighting of a large brazier, which is performed by torchbearers meant to represent the ancient tribes of Dranya's past. Following this, the first of the Trials commences, which consists of a race along a trail cutting through the mountain pass known as the Spine, a trek that takes about 3-4 days to complete. This trial is meant to test the endurance of its participants, and there are a number of waystations along the path. The following day after this trial, the second trial commences, which consists of the participants being grouped together into teams to skirmish against each other (objectives can range from capturing a specific point, to eliminating the opposing team). The final event consists of one on one duels among particants, typically based on "points" gained from scoring successful strikes on the opponent. At the end of the Trials, a ceremony is held to honour those who've shown particularly exemplary performance in the trials.

The key components of the opening ceremony of the Trials include a large brazier, and a torch to light it. For the actual trials themselves, key components include supplies for the trek across the Spine, armour, and blunted weapons for the combat trials.

Any Drakai can participate in the Trials, provided they can provide evidence that they're physically fit enough to do so.The Trials are overseen by the High Command of the Dranyan Legions, as well as the Keepers, who both organise the Trials and judge those who participate. Beyond that, anyone is welcome, and ecouraged, to observe the Trials.

The Emberscale Trials are held annually during the second week of Summers End.