Blade-rite

The ritual of Blade-rite is an elven ritual that involves the drawing of a magical sword to determine the worthiness of its wielder for a given assignment or position among the hierarchy of the elves. It is most closely associated with the drawing of the famous Elfblades, used to determine the Coronal of Cormanthyr, and his two Defenders, the Arms-Major and the Spell-Major.

Nature of the Rite
The potent and ancient Blade-rite is always attended and closely governed by two elven High Mages. During the ritual, the sword's magic is enhanced by the High Magic, creating a powerful test for any potential ruler. The testing challenges the practical skills, his reasoning, and his character, and these tests occur completely within the imagination of the candidate, privy only to himself and the two High Mages. Should the elf pass all three tests, he or she rises to the rank befitting the blade. Should he fail, certain consequences will befall him or her as befitting the blade he or she has drawn.