House of Caveforged
The story begins with Durin Caveforged, the former thane of the Caveforged Clan, Durin and his kin were forced from their homeland by the oppression and raids of the Dark Elves nineteen years ago. Though distinct for their white light skin, and taller stature, one may be mistaken for a human if not for the short and kind stature. The Caveforged, sharing bonds and blood for centuries, have strong connections to each other with tight knit traditions as well as a duty to not leave any man behind. The Caveforged pride themselves on their long history of detailed Dwarvish architecture, as well as their deep and intricate systems to extract as much ores and minerals from the ground as they can get their meaty hands on. Not only for mining, but the Caveforged in history have been known to yearn for blood, not of their own kin, but of the Elves which they have deep rivalry and hatred for instilled at a young age. This hatred can be traced back to the old feuds and wars that displaced the ancestors of the Caveforged from the forest into the mines.
The Caveforged like to be completely self-reliant when it comes to daily life, barely shopping out of the family when it comes to basic necessities like food, water, and weapons. Caveforged children are raised with the thought of self reliance, shown through the demonstration of a wide variety of skills throughout childhood and adolescence, along with a mastery in few based on desire of the child. Much is not known about the Caveforged, even from their own kin as they look to start a new life in Aevos, far from what they are used to before.
Physical Traits
Light Skin
Uncommon to normal dwarves, members of the Caveforged lineage tend to have lighter, while still rough skin. This has generally been caused by the fact that Caveforged dwarves tend to spend much more time outside of the caves than normal, which overtime has lightened the color of their skin. Their complexion is fair but do not let this distract you from their ability to survive the mines, albeit the looks.
Dark Hair and Eyes
More akin to the average dwarf, caveforged dwarves do not stray from the normal darker colored hair and eyes of that of a normal dwarf or human. While there is no blonde, on rare occasions members of the Caveforged clan tend to have lightish brown hair but can vary to jet black.
Taller Stature In terms of dwarves, Caveforged tend to be some of the tallest with an average of around 4 '10-5 feet in height. Some caveforged dwarves even tend to be mistaken for short humans from time to time due to their tall stature, but dwarves most still fall in the upper 4’s. Despite this fact dwarves still maintain a 250-350 bodyweight.
Traditions and Values
Family Security and Secrecy
Members of the Caveforged family tend to be almost reclusive in terms of interactions with other members of society. The Caveforged are most definitely a tight knit group that is hard to gain the trust of. Along with this, when attacking one member of the Clan, it is treated as if you attacked everyone although most Clans could align themselves with this practice.
Feast of the Forge
A grand monthly celebration where the entire clan gathers to honor the forge, share tales of legendary craftsmen, and showcase the finest creations. It is a time of joy, reflection, and communal bonding. Held every last day of the month to showcase the progress that was made. Many types of food and drink is presented, similar to a potluck.
Mining Competitions
Dwarves hold friendly mining competitions to determine the most skilled miners among them. These contests showcase the clan's mining prowess and foster a spirit of healthy competition. Can be held in good spirit or to settle a dispute among members of the clan. Winner is decided by the Clan Elders, a dispute between Elders is decided by the Thane.
Rite of Passage - Stone Carving
Young dwarves undergo a rite of passage where they must carve a meaningful symbol or image into a stone. This act symbolizes their connection to the earth and their entry into adulthood. Every Dwarf that is welcomed into the clan, or raised within will make one when they turn eighteen.
Adoption
Adoption is fairly common in Caveforged lineage, with records going back hundreds of years it is fair to say it does not go against family values to reach outside for new members. That being said, the new member will be subjected to rigorous trials by the elders of the clan and judged thoroughly.
Clan Organization
Thane
Thane, otherwise known as the Clanmaster is the head of all affairs within the Clan and seen as a Father figure to most. The Thane is not only someone with immense knowledge of world lore and skills. But also a skilled fighter, leader and diplomat able to resolve disputes with other clans.
Protector
The Protector is second in command to the Thane and seen as an heir, despite not always being the Son or Daughter of the Thane. The Protector is delegated tasks by the Thane to carry out over a wide array of tasks along with administrative duties.
Oathbearer/Elders
The Elders and Oathbearers of the Clan are the leadership all designated a high position. These men are all personally entrusted by the Thane to complete their delegated tasks as an extension of his own power. Some of these positions may be Steward, General or High Priest.
Longbeards
Longbeards are the upper class and best warriors of the Clan that share in the spoils of war. This status is usually earned after prolonged excellent service to the clan. The status of Longbeard constitutes a ceremony where a feast and games will most likely be held for the lucky few that obtain this rank.
Warriors
Warriors make up the brunt of the Caveforged Clan and are given to new members after a short period of time. Warriors are required to fight in wars as well as give exemplary service to the Clan in return for membership. The status of Warrior is more than likely given to a Beardling after they complete their trials in which they are assimilated into society.
Beardlings
Beardlings are the individuals that have joined recently and not yet passed their trials. Once they have completed their trials a Elder or above will grant them membership to the clan and the title of Warrior.
Clan Trials
Trial I - Trial of the Forged Oath
Prospective members must craft a personal oath that reflects their dedication to the clan. The oath should be inscribed onto a piece of stone or metal, symbolizing the enduring nature of their commitment. The clan elders assess the sincerity and depth of the oath.
Trial II - The Hammer's Rhythm
Each candidate is given a raw piece of ore and tasked with forging a basic weapon under the guidance of a master blacksmith. This trial assesses not only their skill with the hammer but also their ability to absorb the rhythm and techniques of dwarven blacksmithing.
Trial III - Loyalty
Candidates are assigned a secret mission to test their loyalty. This mission may involve assisting a fellow dwarf in need, uncovering a potential threat to the clan, or recovering a lost artifact. The ability to navigate this quest without revealing its nature to others is crucial.
Trial IV -Ancient Tales
Prospects must demonstrate their knowledge of dwarven history, traditions, and lore. They are quizzed on the clan's ancestry, famous battles, and the significance of key artifacts which are kept secret by the three clan elders. This trial ensures that new members understand and respect their cultural heritage.
Trial V - The Climb
Simply put, climb to the highest peak of the mountains surrounding Urguan, this is meant to test endurance, pathfinding and climbing and will prove useful in the future in any endeavor.
Once these five trials are completed and proctored by a clan elder, the new Beardling will be given the status of “Clan Warrior”
Clan Roster
Clan Thane - Grozmog Caveforged (viscousbus)
Clan Protector - Thror Caveforged (kennethii)
Clan Elder - Nori Caveforged (cambo602)
Dm either one of these three on discord to start the application process.
Caveforged Discord
