Earth Born Dwarfs are a unique race of beings that are born from a rare clay-like substance known as Khorite. This substance is mined from the earth and then moulded into rough, dwarf-like figures by a sacred order of Dwarfs. These figures are then placed in front of the Great Forge, where they slowly cure over time. The Great Forge is the most sacred site for the Earth Born Dwarfs, it is where the life energy of deceased Earth Born Dwarfs is returned to, to be reused for the creation of new Dwarf figurines.
Physical Characteristics
Earth Born Dwarfs have a rough, earthy appearance due to their origin from a clay-like substance. They do not possess any predetermined gender, however, they will develop all the traditional aspects of gender based on how they identify. This process is not a conscious decision and usually happens within the first 2 years of a Dwarf's life. They possess a unique durability that allows them to live for eons and withstand a great amount of physical influence.
Culture and Society
Earth Born Dwarfs are known for their strong emphasis on artisan skills, craftsmanship, and knowledge of metallurgy and mining. They have a strong connection to the earth and fire, valuing the preservation of their knowledge and skills for the benefit of their community and tradition. They are typically seen as stoic, hardworking, and dedicated, but also possess a strong sense of tradition and loyalty. They have a deep respect for the natural world and the elements, and their connection to the earth and fire is reflected in their art, culture, and society.
Earth Born Dwarfs have a unique creation process which makes them unable to reproduce sexually, instead, their population size is static, and their population can only grow when the life energy of a deceased Earth Born Dwarf is transferred to one of the curing figurines at the Great Forge. This process is considered sacred, and the Great Forge is the most sacred site for the Earth Born Dwarfs, it is where the life energy of deceased Earth Born Dwarfs is returned to, to be reused for the creation of new Dwarf figurines.
Upon emerging from the Great Forge, Earth Born Dwarfs embark on a journey known as the "Journey of Awakening". During this journey, Earth Born Dwarfs will typically travel to different dwarf clans across the world, where they will be welcomed and given the opportunity to learn about different cultures and ways of life. This allows them to gain a greater understanding of their own race and the different roles they can play in society. They will also spend time learning about the different skills and trades that are practiced within each clan, and will often choose to apprentice with a master of a particular craft or trade.
'Birth' of a Dwarf
The process of moulding a Dwarf 'Vorm' in Khorite is a sacred and complex process that is carried out by acolytes of The Forge, under the guidance of elder shaman. The process begins with the mining of the Khorite, a rare and sacred clay-like substance that is found deep within the earth. This material is considered the physical embodiment of the earth's power and is believed to be imbued with the essence of the earth and fire.
Once the Khorite is mined, it is then transported to the Great Forge, where the acolytes of The Forge begin the process of moulding the Dwarf 'Vorms'. The acolytes, under the guidance of the elder shaman, use their knowledge of metallurgy, mining, and craftsmanship to shape the Khorite into rough, dwarf-like figures. This process is a sacred one, and the acolytes must follow strict rituals and protocols to ensure that the figures are moulded correctly.
Once the figures are moulded, they are then placed in front of the Great Forge, where they slowly cure over time. The Great Forge is the most sacred site for the Earth Born Dwarfs, it is where the life energy of deceased Earth Born Dwarfs is returned to, to be reused for the creation of new Dwarf figurines. The elder shaman, who is responsible for overseeing the curing process, must ensure that the figures are positioned correctly and that the fire of the Great Forge is burning at the correct temperature.
The curing process can take several months, during which time the figures slowly take on a more lifelike appearance. Once the curing process is complete, the figures are then ready to be imbued with the life energy of a deceased Earth Born Dwarf, thus creating a new member of the race.
The Journey of Awakening
Forge Shaman
Playing an Earth Born Dwarf
Characteristics and Traits Summary
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