The Trek

History

Coming about due to the intense nature of trade on Niafell, The Niafell Genasi that reside there decided to create a ritual for the next generation. Upon reaching the age of man, designated between ages of 18-20, these young men will join the trek across the wasteland of Niafell to the trade port of Bleakbrook. Happening three times a year, this is a very special occurance for the young Genasi, each trek can take upwards of two months total. Even longer if there were delays by the traders coming via ship.

These young Genasi usually will be three per Trek, accompanied by the more experienced trekkers. In addition, this is also a special journey for any elder Genasi, as their last Trek. The Trek represents more or less, the full cycle of being a man in their society, after their coming of age ceremony, they will continue and replace those on the Trek where this is their last. To balance the groups, usually 3-5 will journey of a range of experience levels. Rotating out who goes, so the same members aren't gone the majority of the year, they help with the crops during their off cycles.

Observance

While there is no set time of year that this will trigger, but rather when the young Genasi becomes of age. Ranging from 18-20 to become eligible, they will usually undergo a small "training" program to prepare them for the journey. Harsh both physically and mentally, it isn't for the faint of heart, which is why there is a range of ages that this can take place, some Genasi might need longer to become acustomed. The night before the new Genasi will leave on their trek, a special, small ceremony is performed. Lighting a large fire, they will pass around a bowl of dye ground from the Dragon-Fyre Blue harvested during their birth cycle. The elder most Trekker will draw a line on the young men's forhead and down their shoulders.