On the sixteenth of Elient, The Chapterhouse of the Radiant Heart unveiled a new training ritual, blending ceremony with combat as a test of skill and endurance. The night prior, a number of sturdy wooden bases were assembled, creating a raised bridge spanning the center of the courtyard, four feet off the ground. By dawn, the preparations were complete, and hopefuls and initiates gathered in the open courtyard, their armor polished to a shine, adorned with whatever limited finery they possessed.
As the first rays of sunlight crested the hills, banners unfurled from the walls, displaying a skeletal hand gripping a scale — the newly recognized symbol of Kelemvor, Lord of the Dead. The somber emblem of balance and judgment fluttered in the morning breeze, a clear reminder of the order's ideals.
There was a quiet hum of discussion among the chapter members before the grand outer doors were cast open, a silent invitation for visitors and passersby to witness the day's events.
One by one, the junior members and hopefuls took to the bridge, facing off in a contest of arms high above the ground. Their every move reflected the intense training of the past weeks, a disciplined display of balance, stamina, and focus. The assembled crowd cheered for each combatant, the courtyard echoing with the clang of steel on steel and the encouraging shouts of their comrades.
The contest, a welcome reprieve from the grueling, often merciless training that had dominated their days, continued as the morning wore on. When only the senior squires remained, a new element was added: fire. Flames flickered below the bridge, curling hungrily at the edges. With the heat rising, there was no room for retreat — no surrender. Contestants were forced to leap from the bridge to avoid the flames, or suffer burns if they hesitated. One squire nearly tumbled into the inferno below, choosing to endure the heat rather than admit defeat. The crowd's excitement mounted with each clash, their cheers rising into the sky, while sweat and soot smeared the faces of those still standing.
As the sun climbed higher, only two contestants remained. A break in the contest was called, and all were invited to partake in a midday meal. The local farmers and visitors who had gathered were offered a simple yet hearty stew, along with fresh loaves of bread. None were turned away, as the Chapterhouse extended its hospitality to all.
After the meal, and with renewed vigor, the final two combatants prepared for the concluding match. But before they could resume, Squire Sean stepped onto the bridge, his presence commanding the attention of all in attendance.
"Welcome, one and all," he began, his voice ringing out over the crowd. "Today, we have set aside our usual training for this contest of skill, strength, and endurance. To each of you who took part, well done. Tempus thanks you for your spirit in battle!" He raised his fist in salute, prompting a chorus of cheers from the onlookers.
His expression grew more solemn as he continued, "Two years ago today, Bhaal, the Lord of Murder, was struck down on Boarskyr Bridge. The killing blow was delivered by none other than Cyric, the Prince of Lies. But there was another present that fateful day — a man whose name is now revered. Kelemvor, the Judge of the Dead, stood his ground and held the far side of the bridge, ensuring that Bhaal could not flee and was brought to justice."
Sean paused, his gaze sweeping across the gathered crowd. "Kelemvor’s deeds did not end with Bhaal’s defeat. In the time that followed, he ascended, taking up the mantle of the God of the Dead, offering redemption where Cyric promised only torment and deceit. It was Kelemvor who reclaimed the honor of death, who stands now as the judge of all souls. Cyric, in his arrogance, threatened to bind all who opposed him to eternal torment, yet even this power was stripped from him, defeated by the same man who halted Bhaal’s escape.
"Today, we honor Kelemvor’s steadfastness at Boarskyr Bridge with this contest — a tribute to his strength, his resolve, and his victory over one of the greatest evils. May this event grow in the years to come, a lasting reminder of the balance he restored and the righteousness we strive to uphold.”
With his final words, Sean stepped aside, the cheers of the crowd following him. The contestants took their places once more, their eyes focused, ready to finish what had begun. The flames roared below, and the final match of the day was set to begin.
