MMOexp POE2: Trial of the Sehkemas

What Are Ascendancy Classes in POE2?

Each core character class in Path of Exile 2 can branch into POE2 Currency several Ascendancy subclasses, which provide powerful passive bonuses, unique mechanics, and specialized identity for your build. This system enables players to push their characters beyond basic stats and tap into high-tier abilities that define endgame performance.

Unlocking these Ascendancies is not automatic. Instead, players must earn them by completing Ascendancy Trials—high-stakes challenges that test your knowledge of the game’s mechanics and your character’s combat readiness.
Starting the Journey: Trial of the Sehkemas (Act 2)

The first step to unlocking Ascendancy begins in Act 2, after defeating a key boss known as Balbala, The Traitor, found in the Traitor's Passage. Balbala drops the Barya Coin, which is necessary to access the Trial of the Sehkemas.

This trial presents players with seven brutal rooms, each filled with unique traps, hazards, and debuffs. Navigating the entire trial demands precision, planning, and strong survival instincts.

The key mechanic here is the Honour system, which acts as a shared life pool across all rooms in the trial. Each time you take damage, your Honour is reduced. If Honour drops to zero, you fail the trial and must start again from the beginning.

Pro Tips for Surviving the Trial of the Sehkemas:

    Equip high-evasion or high-resistance gear.

    Use mobility skills to dodge traps.

    Focus on defensive passives if you’re under-leveled.

    Upgrade Flasks beforehand for better healing and utility.

Complete all seven rooms, survive the boss encounter, and you’ll unlock access to the Altar of Ascendancies, where you can choose your subclass and earn your first two Ascendancy points.
Continuing the Path: Trial of Chaos (Act 3)

With your initial Ascendancy chosen, the next step is to enhance it by completing the Trial of Chaos in Act 3. To begin this trial, defeat Xyclucian, the Chimera in the Chimeral Wetlands, and collect the Chimeral Inscribed Ultimatum. This item serves as your entry key to the Temple of Chaos, where the trial is held.

Unlike the first trial, this one introduces a twist: negative global modifiers. Before entering, you must choose one modifier (such as reduced healing or increased enemy speed) that will apply to every room in the trial. This creates a high-risk, high-reward environment.

Survival Tips for Trial of Chaos:

    Pick modifiers that least impact your character’s strengths.

    Utilize damage-over-time skills to safely handle mobs.

    Consider party play to balance weaknesses.

    Use POE2 Chaos Orbs to purchase gear that mitigates selected modifiers.

Completing this trial grants two additional Ascendancy points and allows further upgrades within your chosen subclass or the ability to pivot to buy POE 2 Divine Orbs a different one if needed.