mateolog

ᚏᚐᚔᚈᚆᚏᚓ The Constitution of Hefrumm ᚏᚐᚔᚈᚆᚏᚓ Year 204 of the Second age Due to the constitutional crisis in Hefrumm causing some of the village to move and some to stay in the village a new constitution needs to be created that can contain all forest dwarves within it. A constitution is an aggregate of fundamental principles or established precedents that constitute the legal basis of the polity of Hefrumm. This constitution will define the nature of any government that claims the name of Hefrumm, and showcase the direction and relationship between the government of Hefrumm(s), the village(s), and any entity they might be attached to like a larger Kingdom, Union, Federation, etc. Additionally, they cement the constitutional rights of the forest dwarves, and the duties of those in office. It is a document cemented in the past precedent, laws, and teachings of the High Chiefs of Hefrumm, with an emphasis on the work of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood, the First High Chief. ᚓᚐᚌᚆᚂᚐᚉ Preface ᚓᚐᚌᚆᚂᚐᚉ In light of the current crisis dividing Hefrumm, it has become clear that a new constitution is essential to preserve the unity and identity of the forest dwarves. With some of our people no longer residing in Urguan and others remaining within its borders, Hefrumm now exists in multiple forms. To address this, the constitution must reflect these changes while safeguarding the rights, traditions, and ways of our people. As Keeper of Hefrumm, it is my duty to ensure that our constitutional framework adapts to these realities. It falls upon me to draft this constitution for the protection and future of all forest dwarves, wherever they may reside. This document establishes a minimum framework for Hefrumm’s governance, ensuring our shared heritage and way of life are preserved. Individual villages are free to build upon this foundation, drafting their own charters to suit their specific needs and relationships to the nations they reside within, as long as they remain true to the core principles that bind all forest dwarves together, with the hope these can also lead to wider dwarven unity. ᚓᚐᚌᚆᚓᚐᚌ Article I - The Rights of Forest Dwarves ᚓᚐᚌᚆᚓᚐᚌ Section.1 Forest dwarves must have the right to life like all dwarves. Section.2 Forest dwarves must have the right to vote for their leaders and representatives, be it a High Chief, a King, a Grand King. Section.3 Forest dwarves have the right to be treated as dwarves. Section.4 Forest dwarves must be granted the ability to live in areas that are natural to them like forests, meadows, lakes, etc. Section.5 Forest dwarves must have the ability to worship in the same way that their ancestors have worshiped. Section. 6 Forest dwarves must be allowed to self organize in accordance to tradition and ways. Section 7. Forest dwarves have the right to access justice and to defend themselves legally, with equality before any court in Hefrumm or external governing bodies. ᚆᚂᚐᚉᚆ Article II - Hefrumm ᚆᚂᚐᚉᚆ Section.1 Hefrumm is a Tribal Confederation of different forest dwarf clans, tribes, and families. Section.2 All land outside the caves and the mountains are ancestral forest dwarf land and hence open for Hefrumm to inhabit if the environment seem open to it. Section.3 Hefrumm creates villages as hubs for its peoples to reside and come together as community. Section.4 Hefrumm is a flexible entity that can exist even without villages in a nomadic mode as many forest dwarf clans and tribes have existed in the past. Section.5 Hefrumm can exists in multiple villages at the same time, each lead by a Chieftain or the High Chief. Only the one who bears the Crown of Paragon Bjor can be High Chief as the crown bears the knowledge of the previous High Chiefs. ᚆᚏᚓ Article III - High Chief ᚆᚏᚓ Section.1 The role of the High Chief is to mediate the Folk Councils and the councils of the forest dwarf community they happen to be in. The Chieftain has the same role if they are in a village where there is no High Chief. Section.2 The High Chief is elected through first a nomination of candidates nominated by the forest dwarves, then by general election of all forest dwarves of the continent. Section.3 The main duty of the High Chief is to ensure the preservation of the forest dwarf way of life and to ensure the rights of forest dwarves are respected. Section.4 The High Chief is part of the Chiefs’ Council of Hefrumm and is tasked with keeping the peace in this council. The High Chief has as much of a vote in the Chief’s council as the other Chiefs in the council. Section.5 High Chiefs are given the relics of the High Chief passed down from High Chief to High Chief. It is the duty and responsibility of each High Chief to take care of them and to pass them on to the next High Chief. ᚏᚓᚂᚐᚉ Article IV - Chieftains ᚓᚂᚐᚏᚉ Section 1. Chieftains mediate Folk Councils in their respective villages or communities and ensure harmony. Section 2. Chieftains may represent their village in larger assemblies within any nation that hosts them, upholding the interests of their people. Section 3. Chieftains are responsible for implementing decisions made by the Chiefs' Council within their villages, maintaining order and tradition. Section 4. In times of leadership disputes or emergencies, Chieftains serve as temporary “High Chiefs” until a new election is held. Section 5. Since the Chieftain is a role locked to the village they are in the nomenclature can differ from place to place. ᚂᚏᚉ Article V - Chiefs and Clan Fathers/Mothers ᚂᚏᚉ Section 1. The Chiefs and Clan Fathers are the historical and traditional leaders of the individual forest dwarf clans and tribes. Section 2. The role of clan leaders in Hefrumm is to assist in maintaining the forest dwarf community and ensure the ways of their clan are not lost. Section 3. Clan leaders make up the Chiefs’ Council the body of Hefrumm that deals with external matters to Hefrumm. Chiefs do not have to reside in the same village to be in the Chiefs’ Council, as the Chiefs’ Council is meant to represent the will of the forest dwarf clans. Section 4. Clan leaders are charged with safeguarding the forests and lands of Hefrumm, ensuring sustainable use and protection of natural resources. ᚋᚒᚄᚉ Article VI - The Folk of Hefrumm ᚋᚒᚄᚉ Section 1. The Folk of Hefrumm are the amalgamation of all forest dwarves that live in one village or in the continent. Sections 2. When it comes to internal village matters the Folk of Hefrumm make collective decisions and vote, with all votes being equal among forest dwarves. Section 3. When a new High Chief needs to be elected the Folk of every village vote on the High Chief of all Forest Dwarves. Section 4. The Folk can come together under Folk Councils to make internal decisions about their village or community and how it is to be run. Sections 5. In times of crisis when there is no working Chiefs’ Council the Folk Council of Hefrumm with the constitutional consent of the Keeper can take over the duties of the High Chief Collectively. ᚋᚒᚄ Article VII - The Keeper of Hefrumm ᚋᚒᚄ Section 1. The Keeper of Hefrumm is the forest dwarf charged with mantaining the constitution of the forest dwarves. Section 2. It is expected from section 1 that the Keeper of Hefrumm ensures the proper transition of power between High Chiefs. Section 3. The Keeper is elected by each High Chief once they become High Chief. Section 4. The Keeper can be removed by the Chiefs’ Council with a majority of the Clans. ᚉᚐᚔᚈ Article VIII - Hefrumm villages ᚉᚐᚔᚈ Section 1. Hefrumm villages are able to exist within a nation aslong as the constitutional elements allow for it. Section 2. Hefrumm villages will never fight against other Hefrumm villages or dwarven nation(s). Section 3. Hefrumm villages keep the teachings of Bjor alive and believe in the concept of dwarven unity as a wider part of forest dwarf unity. Section 4. Hefrumm villages are allowed to participate in the organisations of nations they are a legally linked to. Section 5. Hefrumm villages are expected to assist each other in a form of mutual aid and in accordance to the principles of collective greed. ᚈᚐᚔ Article IX - The Duties of Hefrumm ᚈᚐᚔ Section 1. Hefrumm must strive to reconnect all forest dwarves, ending their exile and fostering unity among all clans and tribes. Section 2. Hefrumm is responsible for promoting and improving the forest dwarf way of life, including education, cultural preservation, and community well-being. Section 3. Hefrumm must ensure the protection and sustainable use of natural environments inhabited by forest dwarves, promoting stewardship over the land. Section 4. Hefrumm must resolve internal conflicts through mediation, upholding peace within and between villages and clans. ᚕᚑᚔᚋ Article X - Conflict Resolution and Justice ᚕᚑᚔᚋ Section 1. Disputes between clans, tribes, or villages shall be resolved through the mediation of the High Chief or Chieftains, with oversight from the Chiefs' Council if either the High Chief or Chieftains are unsuitable. Section 2. Any individual or leader violating the constitution is subject to removal through a majority vote of the Chiefs’ Council or a vote of no confidence by the Special Folk Council of Hefrumm. Section 3. Judicial matters linked to the land the village is on is handled by the law of the lands they are on, unless they are granted legal autonomy to apply the Tribal Courts. Section 4. Tribal Courts are handled by the elders of the clans for the sake of division of powers in Hefrumm. The Tribal Court needs atleast two elders to serve as judges. And they must agree on the decision. ᚕ Article XI - Economic Structure ᚕ Section 1. Resources within Hefrumm territory are communal and must be managed for the benefit of all, promoting fair distribution and sustainable use. Section 2. Hefrumm villages are encouraged to engage in trade with external entities to sustain their economy, provided it does not compromise the autonomy or traditions of the forest dwarves. Section 3. Hefrumm villages and communities are encouraged to find the best economic agreement when it comes to housing and taxes between them and the nation they inhabit. -Signed- Khazaefron Keeper of Hefrumm, Chief of Clan Blackroot

Announcements of the Keeper of Hefrumm on Constitutional Breach A Declaration from the Keeper of Hefrumm Khazaefron Dwarven unity stands on the brink of collapse, as the Crown of the Grand Kingdom of Urguan, under the rule of Grand King Ulfar, threatens the integrity of Hefrumm’s autonomy. The actions taken by Ulfar Starbreaker constitute a flagrant violation of the Constitution of Hefrumm—the very document that cements our relationship with the wider dwarven realm. Hefrumm was founded on principles of self-governance and freedom from outside oppression, even before Urguan was restored thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Grandaxe Kingdom of Kal’Bogrin, the Confederation of Hammers, and Hefrumm, and these principles are now under attack. The Constitution, rooted in the teachings of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood and the history of Hefurmm and the forest dwarves, was created to ensure that the forest dwarves of Hefrumm could govern themselves, free from the oppressive hand of external forces while still being part of the new Urguan. It is a solemn pact, not only with the Grand Kingdom but with our ancestors and the future generations of forest folk. However, the Crown of Urguan through Ulfar, and through a series of unconstitutional acts, has breached this pact, violating Hefrumm’s right to exist as an autonomous community. This threatens Hefrumm’s existence, the existence of the forest dwarf way of life, and of the constitution that Ulfar’s predecessors had signed with Hefrumm. As Keeper of Hefrumm, it is my duty to defend the Constitution and uphold the will of our people in their choice of High Chief. It is now clear that Grand King Ulfar’s actions jeopardize the very existence of Hefrumm as an independent community. Therefore, a response is required—decisive and resolute. ᚁᚏᚐᚔᚈᚆᚏᚓᚁᚏᚐᚔᚈᚆᚏᚓ [!] Depiction of High Chief Paragon Bjor Cottonwood. Breaches of Hefrumm's Statutes by the Current Goverment of Urguan Breach of Article I - Statute of Autonomy The decision by Urguan's High Courts to banish Alaric Grimgold and interfere with Hefrumm's leadership is a direct violation of Hefrumm’s autonomy. The Constitution of Urguan contains no provision granting the Crown the authority to overrule the internal governance of Hefrumm. The High Chief of Hefrumm must be chosen by the Folk of Hefrumm and answer only to Hefrumm's Chiefs’ Council, not to the Crown. By imposing its will on Hefrumm, the Crown of Urguan seeks to strip us of our hard-won self-governance. Article II - Institutional Organization The Constitution of the forest folk explicitly grants the Chiefs’ Council the authority to manage external relations, including negotiations with the Grand Kingdom itself. The Grand King’s demand for decisions from Hefrumm’s leadership, bypassing the Chiefs’ Council, undermines this article. Furthermore, the High Chief is empowered only to speak on behalf of Hefrumm at gatherings such as the King’s Court, and even then, the Chiefs’ Council must deliberate on major decisions. Urguan’s attempt to dictate Hefrumm’s external dealings without consulting our Council is an attack on the sovereignty of our governing body. Article III - Legal Powers of Hefrumm Hefrumm’s Tribal Courts are designed to handle internal legal matters, with only limited interference from Urguan’s High Courts. The Constitution grants us the power to enforce our own laws, provided they do not conflict with Urguan’s Supreme Law. In the case of Alaric Grimgold’s banishment, Urguan’s High Courts have overstepped, ruling on a matter that lies within the jurisdiction of Hefrumm’s Tribal Courts. This overreach is a violation of our legal autonomy and a disregard for the judicial processes established by our constitution. Article IV - Legislation The legislative power within Hefrumm rests primarily with the Chiefs’ Council. Urguan’s right to challenge constitutional amendments does not extend to making decisions about Hefrumm’s internal governance. The Crown’s attempts to dictate leadership changes and appoint a new High Chief directly interfere with the Council’s right to govern. These actions represent a profound breach of Hefrumm’s right to self-governance and a violation of the mutual respect that should exist between our communities. Article V - High Chief Succession The Constitution clearly defines the process for selecting and removing a High Chief. This process is internal, carried out by the Chiefs’ Council and the people of Hefrumm. The Grand Kingdom’s demand for the removal of High Chief Dralvon and its imposition of a “more suitable” leader violates this article. Urguan’s interference in the leadership of Hefrumm is an affront to our self-determination and a clear breach of the legal framework that governs our people. Article VI - Tribal Courts Hefrumm’s Tribal Courts are tasked with handling legal matters within our community, with Chiefs and the High Chief acting as judges. The Grand Kingdom’s decision to bypass our Tribal Courts and issue banishments without proper legal process within Hefrumm is a direct violation of our judicial autonomy. No legal proceedings were initiated within Hefrumm to address the accusations against Dralvon, Velkon, and Ragram. Urguan’s actions disregard Hefrumm’s right to manage its own legal affairs. Article VIII - Ownership of Land The Constitution grants Hefrumm control over its ancestral lands, with the Chiefs’ Council overseeing land use. Urguan’s interference in land matters, particularly the settlement of the Halflings, is a violation of this article. Decisions regarding land use rest with Hefrumm’s council, not Urguan’s Crown. The Grand Kingdom’s attempts to reprimand Hefrumm’s leadership over land decisions show a disregard for Hefrumm’s sovereignty over its own territory. Article IX - Religion While not explicitly mentioned in the constitution, the accusations of "brathmordakin-hating" levied against Hefrumm’s leadership suggest a religious element to Urguan’s interference. Hefrumm’s constitution allows for religious freedom within the Brathmordakin faith, and any attempt by the crown of Urguan to impose religious conformity would be a violation of our spiritual autonomy. ᚉᚏᚑᚌᚐᚉᚏᚑᚌᚐ [!] Depiction of Grand King of Urguan Garedyn the Emerald Mossborn by Dhaen Grandaxe. The Keeper’s Decission on Legal Grounds for Declaration of Temporary Full Autonomy Grand King Ulfar’s unconstitutional actions have left Hefrumm with two choices: either submit to the demands that break the constitution completely or to declare temporary full autonomy from Urguan. Temporary full autonomy would not be a secession, but a necessary measure to protect our people, our culture, and our Constitution from further violations by the Crown, currently held by Ulfar. Hence, Hefrumm will be able to govern itself independently of Urguan until such time as a new king is elected and the constitutional breaches are resolved. This legal autonomy is temporary, but it is also a clear message: Hefrumm will not stand idly by while its rights are trampled. From the Keeper of Hefrumm to the Goverment of Urguan As Keeper of Hefrumm I hereby notify the Grand Kingdom of Urguan that, in light of the recent unconstitutional actions by the Grand King, Hefrumm is granted the legal ability to declare temporary full autonomy. This is a protective measure to safeguard the sanctity of our constitution and our way of life as the alternative forced on our people is complete legal subgigation. The Constitution of the forest folk, following the guidelines of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood, was created to ensure that no forest dwarf would ever again be subjugated or forced into exile by external forces. It guarantees our right to self-governance, to manage our own affairs, and to live according to the traditions of our ancestors. The actions of Grand King Ulfar, however, have made it impossible for Hefrumm to continue under the current arrangement. As Keeper of Hefrumm I ensure that the Constitution of Hefrumm is followed in the most complete form possible. Right now due to the actions of the Grand King the only way to counter an overreach of power is to grant legal powers to Hefrumm that would enable it to keep the spirit and word of the Constitution of the Forest Folk alive. This also means that Hefrumm would return to Urguan once it’s government is able to once more stand by the rights of the forest dwarves, as dwarven unity is the main imperative of our people. As Keeper of the Constitution I will remain in the village, to guarantee the possibility of Hefrumm returning to Urguan once the rights of the forest dwarves have been guaranteed. However, Hefrumm is its people, not the physical village, and the village was clear on who they wanted to represent them as High Chief. It is not the place of the Keeper to deny the Chiefs’ Council or the Folk’s Council the right to action in an environment where the legalframework has been breached. I am open to meeting with the government of Urguan to solve this crisis for the betterment of the Dwarven Race. ᚈᚓᚐᚌᚆᚂᚐᚉᚆᚈᚓᚐᚌᚆᚂᚐᚉᚆ [!] Depiction of Grand King Levian’Tol Grandaxe and High Chief Yazmorra Blackroot. Message to the Folk of Hefrumm Urguan’s crown’s interference in Hefrumm’s leadership, land management, and judicial processes has onesidedly broken the constitutional order of Hefrumm. The Grand Kingdom has overstepped its bounds, and until a new king is elected and balance restored, Hefrumm is granted the right to govern itself fully autonomously. To you this will not change the framework of Hefrumm, the Folk’s Council is still incharged of internal matters, Chiefs’ Council of external matters, and all constitutional provisions applicable only to Hefrumm are still in place. The Constitution of the Forest Folk is still a legally valid document. This declaration of autonomy is not intended to sever our relationship with Urguan but to protect the integrity of Hefrumm until Urguan is able to have forest dwarves living as part of it. Once stability is restored and a new king is chosen, Hefrumm will consider returning to the fold of the Grand Kingdom, provided that our autonomy is respected. Under this temporary autonomy, I, the Keeper of Hefrumm, will oversee the creation of a new constitution that reaffirms our right to self-governance and preserves the teachings of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood. The new constitution will be guided by the principles of Paragon Bjor. This constitution will center on the duties of Hefrumm and the rights the forest dwarves have under Hefrumm. Personal Message Though Hefrumm might declare temporary autonomy, our commitment to dwarven unity will remain. We believe in the unity of all dwarves, but that unity must be based on mutual respect. Hefrumm will not be coerced into submission by a Grand King who disregards our rights. We seek only to protect our way of life, and we remain open to rejoining Urguan once constitutional order is restored. I urge Urguan and our fellow dwed to recognize this autonomy as a temporary measure, a necessary response to the unlawful actions of the Grand King. Let us work together to restore balance, to ensure that Paragon Bjor’s vision of unity and respect among dwarves endures. ᚌᚆᚂᚐᚉᚆᚌᚆᚂᚐᚉᚆ [!] Depiction of Bjor Cottonwood and Utak Ireheart. On Alaric Grimgold My personal perspective on Alaric is clear. However, Alaric Grimgold could be anyone. That this dwarf is hated by many does not give the crown of Urguan to trapple on the Constitution of the Forest Folk. ᚌᚆᚌᚆ [!] Depiction of a Covenant Meeting between the Clergy and the Seers. Documents of Relevance: Legal Context The Constitution of the Forest Folk of Hefrumm - Hefrumm - The Lord Of The Craft DECLARATION OF THE CROWN AND COURT - Grand Kingdom of Urguan - The Lord Of The Craft Tome of the Keeper of Hefrumm - Village Laws and Decrees - The Lord Of The Craft Sociohistorical Context History of the Forest Dwarves - Tome of Hefrumm - Hefrumm - The Lord Of The Craft The Tome of our people : In dedication to the brave souls of the Confederation of Hammers - Hefrumm - The Lord Of The Craft

Khazaefron reads the note and clips to it a wooden slab using his epiphyte powers to form it with remarks. It reads: "Your interest in the Seers of Hefrumm is clearly seen. However, I will correct you on some of you work here for the betterment of your education. There are 7 trials per Brathmordakin, plus 1 extra to train against Khorvad, the fallen Brathmordakin. They are meant to test your soul, body, and mind. In your text you mix Urguan with what I assume you meant to say, which is Da Kirkja Dverga, the dwarven clergy, which indeed exists in the Capital of Urguan. The Seers and Da Kirkja Dverga are different yes, but not in regards to magic particularly, but in regards to ritual, tradition, and organization. Our rituals and traditions are ancestral to us forest dwarves because we have existed apart from the mainstream dwarven society since the first forest dwarf. When it comes to organization the Seers of Hefrumm have an horizontal form of organizing where all the seers that have completed their training have an equal rank, with their knowledge and experience speaking for themselves. On the other hand the Kirkja Dverga of the capital is a vertical organization with a clear head followed by elected elders that can be removed and placed at will by the leader of the organization, and priests under the elders." Elder Seer Khazaefron

Council of Seers’ decision on the Anbellic League The Seers of Hefrumm… After invitation and discussion the Seer Council of Hefrumm has decided the Seers of Hefrumm will join and support the Anbellic league. We do so as the Anbellic league shows at it's core the main tenants of Anbella, and hence is an organization that is crucial to Anbella's Balance. In addition, because this organization shows that it is focused in maintaining Anbella's balance, it is also primordial to the protection of Yemekar’s balance. With these two factors in consideration the Seers of Hefrumm see no reason not to be in this organization. Of course, the seers of Hefrumm is an association that guides Hefrumm in religious matters and we understand that this League is a holistic approach to achieve the aims of nature’s balance. This means that the goals must be achieved through fields not limited to faith alone like governance. That is why If the government of Hefrumm decides Hefrumm as a politi should join the organization we as the seers will only get involved through guiding the politi with our advice, and participate in so far as Hefrumm participates. As we are meant to lead of folks in religious, cultural, and moral matters, and that is done through education not subterfuge. -Signed- The Seers’ Council [!] Depiction of the Seers' Council deliberating.

The Anbellic League -Preface- The Anbellic League bears its name in honor of the dwarven Brathmordakin of nature, peace, family, and the hearth. Anbella and her balance stand for the protection of the natural order and the protection of those that cannot protect themselves. In such spirit this Coalition is created from groups, nations, clans, kingdoms, and organizations that stand with the same values. Despite the motives for the actions being religious for some of the signatory members the Anbellic League welcomes all faiths aslong as they abide by the Articles of the Anbellic League. - ARTICLES OF THE ANBELLIC LEAGUE - Article I - Anbellace Balance, the preservation of the natural order All members of the League agree to maintain the natural balance to the best of their abilities. Article II - Home and Safety All members of the League agree to welcome the other signatory groups in case that their lands are destroyed or are forced to relocate. The safety of home is Anbella’s gift and no sentient being and community of creation should be deprived of it. Those communities that are welcomed should be allowed to act in the same manner of autonomy as they did back in their homeland so that they can develop their community and not vanish. Article III - Healing The Coalition agrees to offer medical assistance to any and all beings of creation, no matter their background. Article IV - Family The Coalition will take up the duty to house any lost or orphaned being in the land of one of their members, preferably in the most suited for the individual. Article V - Peace The Coalition will take up the duty of preserving peace among the descendant races to ensure a united fron against the true enemies of creation. This does not mean that the signatories will not defend themselves, nor that individual members of the signatory groups will not come to each other’s aid out of principal. It does mean that officially the signatories will aim for neutrality and peaceful resolutions. Article VI - Protection of the Hearth The hearth is the home of individuals, one’s culture and ways are essential for the hearth to exist as one’s home. The members of the Anbellic coalitions stands for the preservation of the cultures of its members and will do its best to help their communities persevere. - ARTICLES TO JOIN THE ANBELLIC LEAGUE - Article I - Joining Any group can request of be invited to join the Anbellic league. If a groups is invited to join they can declare their action through a signed document (make a post and link this post to it and use the sigil above as the sigil of the Anbellic League). Article II - Expulsion from the Anbellic League Not following the Articles of the Anbellic League will lead to expulsion from the League. A vote of the signatories will take place and if over half agree the member will be removed. -Signatories- Mousi Kingdom - King Patches of Babblebrook Clan Blackroot - Chief Kazaefron Blackroot [!] Depiction of King Patches of Babblebrook and Chief Khazaefron Blackroot.

[!] In the libraries of Hefrumm one would be able to find wooden tablets bearing the title “Teachings of Paragon Bjor”under the sigil of the High Chiefs of Hefrumm it is but a copy but the care and art in each tablet is clearly visible, each carved in a unique way showing reverence for Paragon Bjor Cottonwood. The letters would be carved in simple runic text for any dwarf to be able to read as opposed to the cryptic seer runes usually used for forest dwarves’ religious texts. Showing that despite this text being of forest dwarf origin it was open to all chosen peoples of Yemekar. Each chapter would be decorated with tiger eye gems. The Teachings of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood Preface: The Life of the Paragon Bjor Cottonwood According to the age of Bjor when he was made know to the dwarves Bjor was a dwarf born in the year 1498 FA. Some believe this means he was a dwarf born in Vailor. However, the only memories Bjor had when he was made known to the dwarves was the forests, making some believe that he was the last remnants of the original forest dwarves of Atlas. The truth however is lost to time. Bjor is the first Paragon of the forest dwarves, recognised by both the dwarves of the capital of Urguan and the Tribal Confederation of Hefrumm. Bjor represents unity, kinship, and respect for nature. Bjor Cottonwood was the founder of Hefrumm, ending the eternal exile of the forest dwarves s since Gloin Treebeard. Additionally, he was a key player in the Confederation of Hammers and by proxy the process of the restoration of the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. Thanks to the work of Bjor Cottonwood the dwarven race was truly united for the first time since the time of Urguan Silverbeard. I “Eerika* [1] ruled in the image Bjor had for Hefrumm, focussing on the communal bond of kin.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The virtue of Forest Dwarf Collectivism The so called Curse of Greed represents it self as collective greed in the forest dwarves. This blessing has allowed the forest dwarves to survive the blood age as scattered collectivist clans, and has allowed Hefrumm to survive AND to thrive during the reigns of the High Chiefs. This Collective Greed is the highest of Forest Dwarf virtues, a virtue that should be exemplified by all forest dwarves. *[1] Eerika was the third High Chief of Hefrumm and wife of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood. II “Though the idea and vision was created many years prior, it was with the formation of the crown that Bjor founded Hefrumm with that very name, a unity of forest dwarves so that no more their kin would be looked down upon, would need to live in solitude or turn to other races for residence.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. Protection of Forest Dwarf Culture and Forest Dwarf Unity Paragon Bjor ruled and lived most of his life during the times that the mountain dwarf and cave dwarf call “The Unstable years”* [2], in this time the cave dwarves and the mountain dwarves experienced the same fate that the forest dwarves had experienced since the times of Gloin, being without a home, forcing them to create settlements where they could or join a Kingdom that for the most part was antagonistic towards them*[3]. “They take care of each other and share their land with their kin, for that is how Bjor had envisioned it.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. *[2] The period of the Unstable Years constitutes the time from the slaughter of the senate in 1612 FA by the Frostbeards to the Fall of Kaz’Ulrah in 1692 FA. *[3] Kaz’Ulrah was a Kingdom formed through the destruction of Urguan by the Frostbeards in 1636 and led by them. III “The forest dwarves live off the fat of the land that Anbella has blessed them with, be it through farming or the art of the hunt” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. Anbella’s Balance Paragon Bjor taught to live in accordance with Anbella. For the Forest Dwarves, this concept extends to their way of life, from sustainable farming and hunting practices to a deep spiritual connection with the land. This balance also applies to the internal community and the resolution of conflicts through diplomacy and peace rather than violence, reflecting a more harmonious and mindful approach to life. IV “He was the current Chief of the Cottonwood clan, though this was an empty title, for he had seen little of his kin in general for many years. The thought of his kin feeling the same solitude as himself would rush through his troubled mind as he would stand up convinced it was time for a new age for his forest dwarf kin.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Duty of forest dwarves to welcome those that are lost Paragon Bjor’s pity towards those that roamed was what led him to create Hefrumm. It was knowing what it was like to be lost and alone that led him to welcome cave dwarves, mountian dwarves, and his lost forest dwarf kin into the lands of the Confederation of Hammers. Welcoming the outcastes is a tradition that predates Paragon Bjor, but one that he embodied with his heart and soul. If it were not for this tradition the forest dwarves would not have evolved the way we did. Additionally, it pleases Belka the Brathmordakin of travelers to welcome both the traveler and the lost wanderer. If we are to praise Paragon Bjor and the Brathmordakin Belka, it is important to be kind and welcoming to the folk of the road. “over the years of the stubborn minded forest dwarf carrying on, he did find more and more of his kin, as lost as he once was without his current quest. The dwarf offered his kin his bulky palm and a warm home for them to rest and live among their own kin.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. V “Fair elections were called under the eye of Anbella, in which Bjor naturally participated, running against Entfar Oakhand and with the vaste majority Bjor was crowned first High Chief of the forest dwarves.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Will of Anbella being the Democratic will of the Forest Dwarves In the same way that the will of Yemekar is represented in the democratic will of all the dwarves by the fact that the dwarves are the chosen descendants to keep his balance, so too are the Forest Dwarves the chosen to keep Anbella’s Balance. The Forest dwarves are the chosen wardens of Anbella’s domains, it is Anbella’s will that crowned Bjor as High Chief of the forest dwarves. Anbella’s choice of High Chief can ever only be known through a democratic decision of the forest dwarves. For this reason even when the forest dwarves and Hefrumm are to welcome all it does not mean that all are wardens of Anbella’s domains. Because of this a forest dwarf should be mindful of granting control over Anbella’s domains to a non-forest dwarf that can cause harm to her balance and in the process damage Yemekar’s Balance. VI “They refused to follow Bjor back to the founding lands of Cotton as Bjor had reformed the Cottonwood alliance with the Confederation of Hammers. Determined Thelnir stood his ground upon the matter setting up a small outpost within Garrond's Vale in the lands of Kaz'Ulrah where he and his followers stayed with him. Disappointment struck Bjor, not because they did not want to live under his leadership, but because only a year later these dwarves would scatter once again, for unknown reasons.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. Hefrumm as the end of the Eternal Exile The life of Paragon Bjor and the knowledge forest dwarves have of our history indicate a clear teaching, that Hefrumm was and is the key to then end of Gloin’s exile. Gloin’s Exile has plagued the Forest Dwarves for millenia and it is only the creation of Hefrumm that started to end this era of darkness. It is a historical fact that all other groups or settlements created outside of Hefrumm by other forest dwarves always failed in less than two years (two irl weeks). Hefrumm was made by Anbella for the Forest Dwarves to be able to grow and thrive, a gift to end the Eternal Exile, and the keys to this gift were given to Paragon Bjor to open it for all Forest Dwarves. “Even after Bjor’s ruling these dwarves, referred to as ‘lost ones’, found their ways to Hefrumm through forest and river.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. “During these times Bjor turned to the Hearth Mother for guidance, and this call is rumored to be answered. With a new-found booming growth of Hefrumm, more and more of his lost kin would hear of the name, set foot on their own travels to the Cottonwood valley. One of these individuals would be the great Mossbeard, a druid of unknown age who, with his druidic magic, formed the legendary crown of Hefrumm, which to this day is still being passed from High Chief to High Chief. It is rumored to have some magical properties as the bright green feather on the crown would shimmer slightly under the darkness of the night.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. “Hiding from the hate of the blood age. The depths of the forest provide us safety and comfort, though just as well they may hide us from our kin… and from the dangers of the realm we inhabit. Now, the blood age is over, and all dwed must find strength in each other. It is for these reasons that centuries ago the Paragon Bjor Cottonwood chose to answer Anbella’s call.” - Excerp from High Chief Tuzic the Ember’s call to the Forest dwarves. VII “Bjor was left solely with the name, the land and the old tales told by the mountain dwarves of Azgaryum*[4] ” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. *[4] Azgaryum was the Capital of the mountain dwarves of the Confederation of Hammers. *[4] Azgarym before becoming the capital of the Kingdom of Agnarumm was composed of Hammerforged, Silverveins, Metalfists, Steelhearts, Stormfists, and Emberveins. All these clans being branches of the Frostbeard and Grandaxe clans. The former which was raiding (and building forts around) the confederation on a constant basis, and the later which later joined the Confederation of Hammers to create the Kingdom of Agnarumm, the predecessor Kingdom to the Underrealm of Urguan. Ties of Frieship Throughout his life Paragon Bjor embraced the dwed fellowship between his forest dwarves and the mountain and cave dwarves of the Confederation of Hammers. This resulted in Hefrumm having a debt of Friendship towards the Clans of the Confederation of Hammers and their values of Friendship among all dwarvenkind. If it were not for the bonds of friendship that tied forest dwarves together to other dwarves, Hefrumm would of been crushed by Kaz’Ulrah long ago. Paragon Bjor teaching the watering of friendships as if they were the most valuable of crops. VIII “Though at the time no warriors, the forest dwarves of Bjor stood their ground worthily of stubborn dwarves yet with the element of surprise the beasts were able to overrun the village. The forest kin were called to pull back into the forest. There they set camp and helped the wounded.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Hefrumm Virtue of Fighting Against the odds Paragon Bjor led Hefrumm like the Confederation of Hammers led itself. With virtue of perseverance. While other forest dwarf settlements gave up and turned back to their nomadic ways Bjor led Hefrumm with stubbornness to protect what was theirs. He would order a retreat when needed but would never give up a fight, until the very end Bjor preferred death to faultering on his values. IX “Being a dwarf of ale and feast he did not prepare his warriors for such threats. This shortcoming of the High Chief is believed to later have resulted in the formation of the Thorns of Hefrumm.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Need for Hefrumm to be able to Defend itself As a mortal dwed Paragon Bjor had faults and fell to shortsightedness at times. This was by his own admission, which allowed him to expand and learn more through the years. One of the things Bjor learned was the need for Hefrumm to be ready to fight. Years of attacks by the Frostbeards, and then the sudden invasion of Hefrumm by the Alars made it evident that the forest dwarves if they wished to have a community would have to take up arms to be able to defend what, by the grace of Anbella, was theirs. X “During the golden age of Bjor, the forest dwarves gathered in unseen numbers, forming their own military force, medical institute, market, and library.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Establishment of Autonomous institutions as a symbol of prosperity Paragon Bjor was very proud of seeing Hefrumm grow and become self reliant. He saw the ability of the village to run itself as a sign of the health of the village. XI “Horns were blown and it was then that the mountain and cave dwarves of Agnarumm answered Hefrumm’s call, charging the battlefield.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Virtue of Dwarven Unity Despite living in a time when dwed were often killed by other dwed Paragon Bjor did not give up on the idea of dwed unity. To him this did not mean being subjugated to another group of dwarves or being part of one nation or the other. It meant simply that a dwarf is to answer the call to aid of another no matter what. This is a Pillar of Hefrumm borrowed from the Confederation of Hammers, and a break from the ancient traditional way of the first dwed of leaving those that exiled them to fend for themselves. XII “When the dwarves stormed out of the tunnels they had realized that Entfar Oakhand hadn’t made it. Distracted by the heinous sight he had been slowed down and captured by the foul creatures, who had taken him to present to their queen. Bjor immediately called for a rescue mission, which would be the cause of his mournful fate.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Collective does not leave anyone behind Paragon Bjor lived a life in accordance with the forest dwarf way. If it were not for the collective nature of the forest dwarves we would not have survived the Eternal Exile. This collective nature is nurtured through the caring of any forest dwarf as if they were ourselves, or even more than that. Risking one’s life to save another forest dwarf is the noblest thing a member of this subrace can do. XIII “He broke the silence, ‘Narvak oz Urguan… Narvak oz Hefrumm”. The High Chief stood at the roots of their holy tree of ancestors, with his kin crying at his feet, he looked both over his land and kin with a warming and ever proud grin curling under his mustache.” - excerpt from The Unity of the Forest Dwarves. The Last Words of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood Paragon Bjor was not raised in the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. It was an entity that was completely demolished. None the less, in his later years the Grand Kingdom was recreated and so were its institutions while keeping the Spirit of the Confederation of Hammers alive within them. To Paragon Bjor Urguan meant what it meant to the Confederation of Hammers, an institution that welcomed all dwarves as family. Urguan was to the dwarves what Hefrumm was to the forest dwarves. Urguan was the father of all dwarves and all dwarves should be welcomed in its embrace. And it is this caring and fatherly Urguan that Paragon Bjor glorified in his last worlds. “Long live Urguna, Long Live Hefrumm” These last words signal the essential relationship from Hefrumm to be Hefrumm, and for Urguan to be Urguan. For Urguan to truly live up to the name of the father of all dwarves it needs to be welcoming of the forest dwarves and their ways, and for that it needs Hefrumm, meanwhile Hefrumm exists to be the community of the forest dwarves and is thanks to building bonds to other dwarves that Hefrumm was able to exist and develop. As long as Hefrumm exists Urguan will exist. XIV “Mossbeard opened Bjor’s eyes for the young Cottonwood was constantly looking to the destination of his travels and the ambitious goals that drove him, that he had forgotten to give an eye to the very path he was walking on and the beauty of Anbella’s creations around it.” - Excerp from Beorn Cottonwood’s Bjor’s Notes - Mossbeard, The Root Druid. The Sin of Individual Ambition Despite being the closest thing to it, dwarves are not perfect. Ambition, Khorvad’s main source of power over the dwarves, linguers in the hearts of all dwarves. The forest dwarves are able to over come this trap of corvad by relying in their collectivism that brings them closer to the Brathmordakin, but even then the individual ambition of dwarves in such collective can harm the whole. Sometimes it is necessary to ground oneself to avoid Khorvad’s ambition from taking you away into sinful behaviour. XV “Thick clouds of mushroom spores filled this tunnel causing those who’d enter the grove to often hallucinate, adding to Mossbeard’s mystic appearance and tales.” - Excerp from Beorn Cottonwood’s Bjor’s Notes - Mossbeard, The Root Druid. The use of psychedelics to open one’s self to the wisdom of the Brathmordakin Paragon Bjor was an active practitioner in traditional forest dwarf rituals using psychedelics. A forest dwarf should never shy away from such substances if they seek to understand the world around them, and seek deeper truths. “Being one of the first to stay with Bjor’s cause, Bjor often approached Mossbeard for his wisdom and lessons though they were always hidden in his madness and tales.” - Excerp from Beorn Cottonwood’s Bjor’s Notes - Mossbeard, The Root Druid. XVI “Eventually, he is handed a wooden Crown and made King of the Forest Dwarves, under this image with the name 'Bjor' would be carved.” - Excerp from Beorn Cottonwood’s Bjor’s Notes - Mossbeard, The Root Druid. The Duty of the High Chief to live by Bjor’s Example. When the Crown of Hefrumm was given to Bjor it was given to him bearing his name. Bjor knew he was going to be the First in a line of many and that he had to be the best example possible of a High Chief. In this way it is the duty of all High Chiefs to live up to Bjor’s example and try to be better in any way possible. XVII “They sat there for days until Bjor saw the will of Anbella through the eyes of the creature. Blessed Bjor left and taught the farmers how to grow their crops without angering the hearth mother.” - Excerp from the The Legend of Bjor and the Great Boar of Atlas. Anbella’s Virtue of mercy and conflict resolution Paragon Bjor was wellknown as a dwarf with very few enemies, this was thanks to his great skills in conflict resolution and his stalwart personality. Anbella’s balance is not a zero sum game, and mercy can be an action that brings rewards down the line. Mercy towards your enemies is forgiveness, mercy towards the weak is assistance, both bring their own fruit in time. The best leaders are those that do not have a need to take up arms against other beings, those leaders that can lead a thriving community through diplomacy and bonds of friendship and love. XVIII “Paragon Bjor is a symbol of oness with nature and the descendants. Do not let yourself be swallowed by the moment and let the surroundings feel your soul. Only then will you be able to truly see the world that has been gifted to you.” - Excerp from the The Legend of Bjor and the Great Boar of Atlas. The Forest Dwarf Virtue of Serenity and Mindfulness Paragon Bjor’s message emphasizes a deep connection with nature, a calm and centered presence, and an awareness of one's surroundings without being overwhelmed by the moment. This reflects the virtue of serenity, where one maintains inner peace and clarity amidst external circumstances, and mindfulness, where there is an intentional, non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. It is of importance to not be consumed by fleeting emotions or distractions, but instead being fully present, allowing the surroundings to resonate with one's soul. This ability to perceive the world clearly and appreciate its gifts requires a calm, focused state of being, reflecting both serenity and mindfulness.

Announcement on the new High Chief Last Folk Council the Folk of Hefrumm decided to commence the proceedings to elect a new High Chief. The process started with the compilation of willing candidates to run as High Chief of Hefrumm. Normally this process would be followed by an election period where candidates would showcase the reasons why they should be High Chief. However, during the compilation process only one name came up for High Chief, that is the name of Dralvon “Torchbearer” Blackroot. Due to Dralvon “Torchbearer” Blackroot being the only dwed the forest dwed nominated he will be the next High Chief, the Thirteenth High Chief of Hefrumm. In this way the dusk of the age of the Twelfth High Chief Tuzic Mossborn starts bringing forth the dawn of the the rule of the Thirteenth High Chief. The age of the Twelfth is not yet done, the age of the Thirteenths High Chief will only commence once he is crowned as High Chief of Hefrumm by one of the Seers of Hefrumm. Until then High Chief Dralvon “Torchbearer” Blackroot will be serving as High Chief still while High Chief Tuzic Mossborn gathers the relics of the High Chiefs to be passed on to High Chief Dralvon “Torchbearer” Blackroot. The Torch of Eversummer will be given as a new High Chief relic to Dralvon “Torchbearer” Blackroot. The relic was meant to be the Club of the High Chief, a relic of Paragon Garedyn Mossborn, sadly due to his untimely death the relic could not pass properly through the line and was temporarily lost. The relics include; The Tasset of the High Chief This relic is a tasset made out of the hide of a great bear which took the hand of Karl Cottonwood, later to become the High Chief Karl Blackroot. The bear being the symbol of Hefrumm makes this tasset invokes Hefrumm whenever the High Chief is present. The Ring of the High Chief This ring is a symbol of the power of Hefrumm. The relic dates back to Atlas when Edel Silvervein, a kinslayer and traitor and Clan Father of the Silvervein clan, threatened to kill Paragon Bjor. An elven mage, friend to Hefrumm and the High Chief found the threat unacceptable and chared the Clan Father leaving only ashes. These ashes were gathered by the Folk of Hefrumm at the time and forged within a ring. Now the ring is the onlything left of the Silverveins and a constant reminder of the cost of betraying and seeking to harm a fellow dwed and to Hefrumm. The Crown of the High Chief Without a doubt the most important of the relics of Hefrumm dating back to the formation of the Tribal Confederation of Hefrumm. It was with the creation of this crown and with the placing it on Bjor’s head that Hefrumm was created and that the first High Chief was born. No other object in Hefrumm is filled with more mystery and legends than the crown. All know that the crown allows for inspiration of the past High Chiefs to guide the wearer. The wooden crown appears to be made out of a single piece of thick tangled dark oak root. It has two distinctive sides, one looks fresh and green, the other seems to be a bit decayed and covered in moss. On the front side there appears to be a story carved into it - A dwarf coming from the woods, who will then work the land, eating the fruits he grew. More other dwarves will begin to gather around him. Eventually he is handed a wooden Crown and made King of the Forest Dwarves, under this image with the name 'Bjor' be carved. In honor and through the guidance of the Past High Chiefs of Hefrumm... ...Paragon* Bjor Cottonwood, First High Chief... ...Thorin Treebeard, Second High Chief... ...Ozneat Treebeard, Third High Chief... ...Eerika Cottonwood, Fourth High Chief... ...Beorn Cottonwood, Fifth High Chief... ...Ordvair Emberhorn, Sixth High Chief... ...Karl Blackroot, Seventh High Chief... ...Yazmorra Blackroot, Eighth High Chief... ...Qrue Grasswhistle, the Ninth High Chief... ...Celeste Blackroot, the Tenth High Chief... ...Paragon* Garedyn Mossborn, the Eleventh High Chief... ...Tuzic Mossborn, the Twelfth High Chief... ....May the Reign of Dralvon Blackroot, the Thirteenth High Chief, be prosperous. This was an announcement of the Keeper of Hefrumm Khazaefron * [ooc: Due to the divergent evolution of forest dwarf society and custom the Paragons of the Forest Dwarves do not necessarily align to those of the Clergy of Urguan.]

THE CASTE SYSTEM OF HEFRUMM The Coffer/Vault of Hefrumm The Coffer of Hefrumm is the collective hoard of the village of Hefrumm. In every continent the village of Hefrumm has had a place where the village has stored its resources for the use and wellbeing of the village. The purposes of the Castes is both to replenish and to use the resources in the coffer for the upkeep and development of Hefrumm. The Coffer of Hefrumm is a physical representation of the Forest Dwarves collective greed. Primarchs The title "Primarch" is bestowed upon the leaders of all the Castes. Although each has a specific title related to their duties, it is their shared title that grants them commanding authority. The Primarchs are elected by the Folk Council of Hefrumm. However, their election can be vetoed by the members of their Caste members if more than half of them reject the selected candidate. All Primarchs have the power to promote, demote, remove, and add people to their Caste. Castes The Forest Dwarves exist as they do thanks to the existence of their collective greed, a phenomenon that has been known since the time of Gloin Treebeard. While other subraces of dwarves possess greed that manifests in their individual self, Forest Dwarves manifest their greed through their collective. As mentioned previously, this is manifested in the Vault of Hefrumm. The Castes are the organizations that fill, use, protect, and ensure the Vault’s health. The Caste system in Hefrumm has existed for centuries since the rule of High Chief Karl Blackroot, later remodeled into the Rings of Hefrumm by High Chief Garedyn Mossborn. This new remodeling of the Castes would learns from both. The Castes of Hefrumm offer the best way for clanless Forest Dwarves along with non-Forest Dwarves and non-dwarves to have a say in the Village. Through their hard work and dedication, they earn the right to be heard and to influence its decisions. Rank Levels Rank levels signify the political privileges tied to each tier within Hefrumm's society. All castes are categorized into three ranks, with Rank III representing the leaders and Rank I consisting of those who engage at the most fundamental level. Given their inherent privileges, forest dwed have the opportunity to strive for the highest rank, securing a voice in the Chiefs’ Council. However, for non-Forest Dwarves, the caste system offers a crucial pathway to attaining greater political influence and recognition within Hefrumm's intricate hierarchy. RANK I: Those under this rank have the ability to speak during Folk Councils, however, they do not have voting rights, unless they are a Forest Dwarf. RANK II: Those under this rank have the ability to speak and vote during the Folk Council. They cannot vote however when it comes to external relations during a Special Folk Council. RANK III: Those under this rank have the ability to speak and vote in the Folk Council and the Chiefs’ Council. Forest Dwarf Voting Privilege Clauses The votes of non-Forest Dwarves can never be more than the amount of voting Forest Dwarves. Non-Forest Dwarves cannot run for High Chief nor vote in the High Chief elections. If the wellbeing of Hefrumm is ever put into danger by an excess of ratios of Forest Dwarves to non-Forest Dwarves the High Chief, Chiefs’ Council, Folk Council, or Keeper can disband the castes. The Fox Caste The Fox Caste is the working caste of the Barkeeps, brewers, cooks, tax collectors, and stewards. Bread and Games Hefrumm has a rich tradition of food, drinks, and feasts. The tavern has been a pillar of the village from the times of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood. One could say that the tavern is the pumping heart of the village. Members of the Fox caste lead the village in food and recreation. Coin and Housing All descendants need to sleep, and Hefrumm needs to pay its taxes to the Grand Kingdom. Who can one trust to give them a place to crash for an affordable price more than the people that take care of the tavern and serve your drinks? Ranks Korodumm [RANK I] Korodumm (Grim Folk), are the Tax collectors and wardens of Hefrumm. They find housing for people and ensure that they pay their taxes in time. Answering back to the Ale King on who has and has not paid their taxes. Balkarumm [RANK I] Balkarumm (Joy Folk), are the cooks, innkeepers, and brewers. They are responsible for an active tavern that is filled with drink and food. Hands of the King [RANK II] These are all dwed in the caste that are both Kordumm and Balkarumm, and that are trusted by the Primarch of the Fox Caste. [Mandatory Rank] Ale King - Fox Primarch [RANK III] The Ale King / Silver King / Fox King, the monarch of the tavern, the Thrummaz-Beoir (King Ale in dwed). The lord paramount of ale and fun. Dedicated at all moments to their subjects the monarch of the drink ensures that there are rooms available for resting, that there is food for feasting, and that there is drink for drinking. The Bear Caste The Bear Caste is composed of farmers, guardians, miners, lumberers, and all others jobs that require the recollection of resources. Collecting for the Hoard While the Fox Caste collects wealth that is used to pay those that force Hefrumm to pay for the use of its lawful lands, the Bear Caste collects the wealth that is true to the Forest Dwarves, resources and food. Protection of the Hoard The Bear caste are also in charge of the protection of the hoard, they do this mainly by keeping the law of Hefrumm. Hefrumm as an entity exists to protect the Forest Dwarves, which exist due to the collective greed of the Forest Dwarves. The protection of the Forest Dwarves in their village is protecting the hoard, and protecting the hoard of Hefrumm is protecting the Forest Dwarves. RANKS Hefjhor Akvel, Bear Guard [RANK I] The beard guard are those that apart from working in recollecting materials in the mines or fields they also help guard the gates of Hefrumm and patrol the village to ensure Hefrumm law is followed. Aindar Hefjhor, Field Bear [RANK I] The Field Bears are those individuals that work the fields, mine the mines, or herd the animals. All those that in the name of Hefrumm work to gather resources for the village. Hefjhor Rik , Bear Lords [RANK II] The Beard Lord apart from working in recollection, and in guarding the village also dedicates their time to making sure the resources of Hefrumm are flowing to the other castes and those in Hefrumm that need it. They are trusted by the Primarch of the Bear Caste and can be relied on to help the Caste thrive. [Mandatory Rank] Hefjhor Thrummaz, Bear High Lord - Bear Primarch [RANK III] The Bear High Lord is the individual that leads the Bear Caste, in charge of Hefrumm’s security, and productivity. Dolphin Caste The Dolphin Caste is composed of traders, scouts, messengers, diplomats, and most labor that requires a Forest Dwarf to leave the lands of Hefrumm. Scouting and trading The Dolphin Caste is meant to ensure the trade network of Hefrumm is healthy and working. The shops need to be stocked and the gains brought back to the village. Contacting and diplomacy The Dolphin caste is dedicated to finding out and contacting the groups of the continent so that Hefrumm is able to know who composes the lands of the descendants. This helps Hefrumm establish possible threats, allies, trade partners, etc. When needed the Dolphin caste is sent as envoys of the Chiefs’ Council or Special Folk Council. RANKS Talagjorumm (Messanger) [RANK I] These are the individuals that scout the lands, their duties are to map out which groups exist in the continent and when necessary contact and learn who they are. When needed they are the ones to be sent to deliver messages. Bergukli (Merchant) [RANK I] These are the individuals incharged of making sure the shops that are owned by Hefrumm to be filled. These include those inside and outside of the village. Trurumm (Trusted Folk) [RANK II] Those that are trusted by the Primarch of the dolphin caste due to their good work can be granted the Trurumm rank. This rank can delegate duties or do tasks themselves. [Mandatory Rank] Ein’a’Bak (Prince) [RANK III] Officially Bergukli Ein'a’Bak (Merchant Prince), is the leader of the Dolphin caste. They are in charged of recording any and all trade agreements between Hefrumm and external entities, be it a dwed clan, a dwed institution, a foreign nation, a house, a tribe, etc. When asked to do so by the Chiefs’ Council or a Special Folk Council (a Folk Council that has been granted the powers of the Chiefs’ Council) the Ein’a’Bak is obliged to relay messages personally or through members of the caste to other entities outside Hefrumm for political or economical goals.

Decisions of the Special Folk’s Council of 194 SA Recorded by the Keeper of Hefrumm Khazaefron On the Missing High Chief... High Chief Tuzic has been missing for two years (two weeks) this has left Hefrumm in an uncomfortable situation. The Keeper of Hefrumm following the law of Hefrumm gave the Folk Council special powers until the situation blows over. The Spcial Folk’s Council has agreed to wait until the end of the stone month to deliberate again on the matter of leadership. Until then Hefrumm will be led by the Special Folk Council which will decide on all matters regarding internal and external policy. This decission was unanimous On the New Ambassador of Hefrumm... Despite the issue of leadership being temporarily solved, the issue of representation in the capital of Urguan needed to be addressed. The solution that was found was to create the role of the Ambassador of Hefrumm. The Ambassador’s duty is to represent the will of the Folk Council to the external entities outside of Hefrumm, and to report back to the Folk Council. The Special Folk Council has decided that Dralvon Blackroot shall be the Ambassador of Hefrumm, effective immediately. This decision was unanimous. On the War with Aaun... The Grand King explained the situation with Aaun and the possibility of war with the human Kingdom. The possibility that Aaun had intentions of restoring Oren was mentioned. It was agreed that the formation of Oren would be against Yemekar’s Balance as Oren’s formation would inherently mean the subgigation of all other human nations and peoples under Oren Imperialism. However, there were doubts as to Aaun’s abilities to become Oren or if it had to drive for it. Hence, it was decided that Hefrumm shall remain neutral in the case of war with Aaun, none the less, it will assist healing those in need. If there are any signs that show that Oren is being recreated Hefrumm will fufill its dwarven duties to the Brathmordakin in keeping Yemekar’s Balance and fight against Aaun. At the same time Hefrumm allows any of its citizens to freely join the Legion to go to war with Aaun if they so wish. On the Undead threat... The undead threat in Hefrumm has been growing non stop these past stone weeks. It was decided that Hefrumm shall bring back its militia and will request aid from fellow forest peoples and historic friends of Hefrumm to help locate and deal with the undead threat. The pillar infront of Hefrumm has been assessed as a posible beacon for undead activity. This beacon will be analysed with the help of allies and friends once the time comes. On the Bears of Anbella... The policing force of Hefrumm has shown to be underfunded and too weak to deal with the undead attacks and unable to prevent internal conflict in the village as we have suffered both undead attacks and an attack by an Olog in the same day. To try to fix the issues with the Bear Guard Ragram was given command of the Bears of Anbella. THIS IS THE WILL OF THE FOLK OF HEFRUMM. [!] A Human’s rendition of Hefrumm’s folk Council

Applying the Ordavair Precedent 1st of The Amber Cold Year 193 of the Second age The Ordavair precedent denotes the circumstances that need to be set in place for the Folk Council, the internal decision making body of Hefrumm, to take the responsibilities of the Chiefs’ Council. These are three circumstances: (a) A High Chief that is missing or unable to fufill their functions (b) A Chiefs’ Council that is unable to fufill its duties under the laws of Hefrumm (c) A situation of peril that Hefrumm finds itself in which requires action It is to note that the precedent has never been called before. None the less, the existence of this precedent is one of the basis for the written rule of law of Hefrumm and many of its institutions. It must be legitimate as it is the basis for every decision taken in Hefrumm after the election of Ordavair Emberhorn. Events that established the precedent: In the events that established the Ordavair Precedent the High Chief of the time, Ordavair Emberhorn, went missing a few days after his election as High Chief. He left the position without telling anyone and left Hefrumm in all practical sense without a High Chief. During this time the Chiefs’ Council was composed of the Emberhorns, Cottonwoods, and Blackroots. Ordavair remained as Chief of the Emberhorns while he was chief so their seat on the Chiefs’ Council was just as vacant as the seat of the High Chief. Additionally, the Cottonwood clan was having an internal crisis that left their clan without a clear Chief to call to the Chiefs’ Council. This left the Blackroots as the only clan with a Chief in the Chiefs’ Council. While this all was happening there were growing encroachments from the government of the Under Realm of Urguan, the liminal state between Agnarumm and the current Grand Kingdom of Urguan, to force Hefrumm into establishing formally (in written form) its laws and its relation to the Kingdom. This resulted in extraordinary powers to be given up by the Chiefs’ Council to the Folk Council. Not doing so would mean that the Chiefs’ Council would of become a tyrannical one clan government over all of Hefrumm, going against the unwritten tribal laws of the time of Bjor Cottonwood and the pillars that founded Hefrumm. Applying the Ordavair Precedent to the current Undead Crisis, war, and the High Chief’s absence: While the precedent has not been called for in the past since Ordavair it is none the less required now. While the three requirements have individually happened in the history of Hefrumm since Ordavair Emberhorn, they have not happened all together, which is essential for the precedent to be called. The absence of the High Chief while there is a working Chiefs’ council is not an existential risk to Hefrumm, neither is it an existential risk if the Chiefs’ Council is not properly working but the High Chief and the Folk council are working, moments of crisis are not a problem when Hefrumm is generally working. It is these three factors together at the same time that create an existential danger for Hefrumm and calls for the precedent to be called. Showcasing the current state of affairs: High Chief Tuzic Mossborn has been missing for a good amount of time and no one seem to know where he is. Because we know he is an honorable and dutiful dwed we assume he is absent due to a force greater than he is and not out of cowardice like with the case of Odhavir Emberhorn. None the less, this still applies as a High Chief being missing or unable to fufill their fuctions. Hence, event (a) to apply the precedent is applicable. At this very moment the Chiefs’ Council only has the Blackroot clan as a representative. The seat that is of the Mossborn is still Tuzic, as he is both the High Chief of Hefrumm and the Chief of the Mossborn. This means that if the Chiefs’ Council were to decide to operate without the High Chief it would become a one Clan rule. Unacceptable based on the binding principles of Hefrumm since Paragon Bjor’s founding. Hence, event (b) to apply the precedent is applicable. Hefrumm is currently threatened by war. Furthermore, it is threatened on a daily basis by undead and forces of Khorvad that have appeared right infront of its door. This has placed Hefrumm in a crisis situation. Hence, event (c) to apply the precedent is applicable. Implications of the Ordavair Precendent: The application of this precedent will immediately grant the powers of the Chiefs’ Council to the Folk Council of Hefrumm. This means that the Folk Council will now be able to legislate not only on what it normally legislates over, but also what the Chiefs’ Council normally legislates over (if you have questions about what powers these are ask the Keeper or read the constitution). This is a decision that will take effect immediately as decreed by the Keeper of Hefrumm Khazaefron under my obligation to keep and apply the rule of law of Hefrumm. Khazaefron Keeper of Hefrumm, Seer of Hefrumm, Chief of the Blackroot 1st of The Amber Cold Year 193 of the Second age

Paragon Bjor’s Boar Festival In honor of Paragon Bjor Cottonwood, the first Paragon and founder of Hefrumm, we will celebrate the Boar Festival ceremony. The aim of this ceremony is to collectively partake the active care for the wild creatures around our territory with the aim to do our part in the maintenance of Anbella’s Balance. During the event wild boars will be wresseled and covered in ointment to get rid of any parasites they might have, every wresseler will receive the Paragon’s blessing through his relic. Additionally, the tale of Bjor and the Boar of Atlas will be retold. At the end of the event people will be given the chance to request blessing from the Paragon’s remains and to give offerings. We hope to see all the faithful dwed of the lands in Holy Hefrumm for this joyful event. THE EVENT WILL BE HELD ON THE SIXTH STONE DAY OF THE YEAR. [Saturday at 10:00 AM EST (16:00 PM CET)]

Official decision of the Keeper on the opening of the gates of Hefrumm For the past couple of stone weeks, the gates of Hefrumm have been closed by decree of the High Chief Tuzic Mossborn using the legislative body of the Folk Council to do this. This was done to bring in the people of Hefrumm to decide whether the gates of Hefrumm should be kept open or closed, as there was an undead threat and it could hinder Hefrumm's security to keep it open. While it is understood by the Keeper of Hefrumm that these were times of necessity and that the Chiefs’ Council was not in the best shape to make a decision, the attempt was not made. This is still something done in an emergency and it is considered. However, as the Keeper of Hefrumm, it is my responsibility to ensure the rule of law established in our constitution is followed and that all decrees passed by the Folks’ Council or Chiefs’ Council follow the constitution and the legally valid decrees that came before them. Due to this, I must state and enforce the decision that the action to close the gates was invalid for not following the Constitution. This motion will take effect immediately. As Decreed by: Seer Khazaefron Chief of the Blackroots and Keeper of Hefrumm Tome of the Keeper of Hefrumm - Village Laws and Decrees - The Lord Of The Craft

The Blackroot Chief Khazaefron discusses and writes to his fellow seers about the news. "Woi cant tha capital folk get along? 'ope that tha religious crisis they are going through right now es solved. As Seers and keepers of tha faith en our lands we should make sure this crisis does net affect 'oly 'efrumm. May Paragon Bjor and Paragon Garedyn guide us."

Khazaefron, the clan chief of the blackroots, eldest of the dwed epiphytes, Keeper of Hefrumm casts his vote for Thurgrimbindal. "Ney otha sensible choice."

Khazaefron hears the news of the passing of the young seer of the Mossborn "Et be a shame, anotha one ef our folk falls. Soon there will be little that stands en between tha folk and tha vultures...we must act. May tha Brathmordakin claim Kierd as his life was dignified."

The Proverb of the Twins of Wealth By Khazaefron, Seer of Hefrumm Foreword and Seer anylisis of the Proverb of Greed This tale is Inspired by the The Proverb of Greed Written by Bazian Grandaxe [The Proverb of Greed ]. As old as this text is it has many issues that would make someone reading it get the wrong idea of our faith. The most glaring issue is the placement of Armakak as a morally superior Brathmordakin than Grimdugan, which is falso. All Brathmordakin hold to their own sets of codes and ethics, sets which fall under Yemekar’s wider ethical norms. Placing the ethics of one Brathmordakin over the other is wrong. Another issue with the original proverb is the use of the chosen of Grimdugan as a thief that would steal from another dwarf, without the story addressing the issue in a dwarf stealing from another dwarf. Instead, the story condems stealing all together which the dwarven faith does not see as a sin in itself. Another issue is giving the theme of the mines to Armakak instead of Grimdugan. Beyond the present theological stance where Grimdugan is the patron of miners not Armakak, it makes no sense that the brathmordakin of the sun and trade is connected to the collection of minerals. The brathmordakin of shadows, and secret wealth is much better set to be the patron of miners as he is. Another issue is that the story places the worshiper of Grimdugan as someone consumed by greed to the point he dies. The story takes one of the dwarven virtues that pushes our society forward and turns it into something negative. The Proverb of the Twins of Wealth One crisp mountian morning, the two dwarven gods Grimdugan, the Lord of Avarice, and Armakak, the Merchant Father, looked down upon Yemekar's world and saw two young beardlings. Grimdugan turns to his brother and says, "Look at these two brothers run about, they are but a double-edged axe, one is no different than the other. Nothing could be said about these two that is different than the other." Armakak looks down on the world in agreement, he could not refute his brother's claim. Being the rivals that these two brothers are, Grimdugan proposes a challange. "Look brother. Let us wager them so that we may see whom is the master of the mint, true lord of wealth. I will teach the lad Kili as you teach the lad Bili. The lad that has the most coin after three days is the victor." Unable to resist a challenge from his brother, Armakak accepts saying. "Aye brother, you will see that the art of the trade and merchants is the way to earn true wealth." So, on the First day, the two great gods taught the beardlings and prepared them for the next day. Armakak gave Bili a caravan which he used to fill his stall with materials from around the realms. Grimdugan gave Kili an obsidian dagger and a pickaxe. He used the pickaxe to mine deep into the core to find Grimdugan’s treasures and the dagger to both defend himself from thieves and to take from those that he deemed worthy of stealing from. At the beginning Bili was still in debt not having paid what his caravan cost him while Kili had already a chest full of wealth Grimdugan laughed. "Look brother, my pupil has much more coin than yours, surely you should give up now." Armakak just smiled and said, "Just wait brother and see." [!] Depiction of Kili raiding a trade caravan. On the Second day, Bili went back to the mines and saw Kili and other miners working lining up to go into the mines. Bili started to buy the ores from the miners taking their ores to foreign places where he could charge triple the price for the dwarven ores. Once he had enough money he found a mine and sealed it. Instead of selling the ores he decided he would be selling the access to the mine. On the third day, Kili went to mine but he saw that Bili was charging miners to use the mine. Enraged Kili took the obsidian dagger and threatened Bili “How dare you take the gifts of Grimdugan hostage to sell to your fellow kin? Give me the money you gained from such sinful behaviour” Said Kili pointing his blade at Bili. Bili would push the blade aside with his trade documents “You call my actions despicable? What type of dwed tries to steal from another dwed?” Kili would stab Bili’s table with his blade “You are the one stealing from the dwed through your actions!” [!] Depiction of Kili (left) and Bili (right). As the conversation was getting heated two entities started appearing, one from the shadows of the caves and another from the bright rays of the sun. They both seemed to be laughing at the two brothers “Do not fight lads, you sound like beardlings!” said the voices in unison. It was Grimdugan and Armakak. “It seems that our game has reached its conclusion brother, we would not want these two to become embittered towards each other.” Said Grimdugan. “You are very correct, this game went far enough. Let us see then who is the victor.” Said Armakak. The two dwed stopped their bickering, looking in awe at the Brathmordakin and handing them over all their gains. After counting and recounting they saw that both had reached the same amount of wealth. “Well…that does not answer us at all!” Complained Grimdugan. “Mmmm…” Armakak pondered “perhaps we could toss a coin for it?” Grimdugan laughed “A coin toss? That would answer who is the true Brathmordakin of luck, not who is the true lord of wealth!” “True. But are you not curious to find out anyway?” Answered Armakak Grimdugan looked at the two dwed that were about to gut each other over the competition between him and his brother, hed let out a sigh “Fine…” hed say. “Lets toss that coin.” Armakak would take a golden coin from Bili and a Silver coin from Kili fusing them both into one. Grimdugan called tails and Armakak called heads. They would proceed to toss the coin into the sky and around the sun until it returned and landed on the ground. The coin had landed on heads. Armakak smirked "You see now brother? Diligence and strong will leads to wealth.” Grimdugan shook his head “What the **** are you talking about!” he said. “Nevermind brother! But it is clear, that I, I am the luckiest of the Brathmordakin.” said Armakak as he polished the coin and handed it to Bili “Keep this to remember that fact.” [!] Depiction of Bili and the Coin of Armakak

Guardians of Yemekar's Balance: Understanding the Domains of the Brathmordakin and the duty of dwed within them. By Khazaefron, Seer of Hefrumm This is a public work on the domains of the Brathmordakin, their associated magics and beings, and what the role of the dwed is among them. This is a matter that has been shown to be little understood by some individuals in our larger dwedmar communities and must be addressed with urgency, as it is core to our duties to the Brathmordakin. This text is written from the paradigm of the Seers of Hefrumm and our understanding of the faith through generations of lived forest dwed experience and knowledge of the Brathmordakin. As members of the community of the forest dwed we welcome differences in viewpoints as this enables those that seek deeper knowledge to find it and develop it. THIS SAID, if you are not a forest dwed and these writings speak to you, welcome. Ongrahad smiles upon you. Synopsis/Introduction In our understanding of the faith relating to Yemekar's forge and the Brathmordakin, the cosmos finds its genesis, where primordial chaos (Olkodran) yields to divine creation (Yemekar). From the taming of Olkodran emerges Yemekar's forge, infusing the realms created through this forge with magic and diverse entities. The Brathmordakin, arbiters of balance, assert dominion over these energies, confronting malevolent forces like Khorvad, whose corruption breeds dark magics and a form of corruptive chaos that are antithetical to creation. As stewards of Yemekar's Balance, dwedmar bear the duty of upholding creation and the Brathmordakin's domains, framing engagements within their divine context to resist corruption and preserve cosmic harmony. Olkodran and Vuur'Dor “When being had not yet become and the only existence was Vuur’dor and the primordial forces within it, there was no purpose, there was no design. There was only chaos.” These are the words on the smithing of creation by Yemekar written and then rewritten by the likes of Norli Starbreaker. Reading this one can misread and believe that where voidal magic comes from is Vuur’Dor. But that is not correct, Vuur’Dor is the void in the sense of the emptiness, all things that are not the primordial forces. Olkodran is the voidal chaos, the primordial chaos that Yemekar had to tame to make his forge, and where all magic comes from. It is because of this that magic is linked to all aspects of creation. It is said in the same texts that souls that are not bided upon are tossed into Vuur’Dor, back into the emptiness. It is then that Yemekar reclaims the soul and returns it into his forge [the reformed Olkodran] to recycle it into a new being. This is the only logical thing to do, Yemekar is the perfect smith, no smith would waste material when it can be reused. It is also possible that in the time that it takes for Yemekar to take the soul to be recycled into the forge that entities like Khorvad could claim them in the Vuur’Dor explaining the existence of demonic creatures, beings that are not undead, but instead seem to have been reforged beings that have been turned into a mockery of Yemekar’s creation. The Brathmordakin and the Transpiration of Yemekar’s Forge After the creation of the great forge of Yemekar out of the primordial chaos of Olkodran enabling balance in the cosmos Yemekar set forth to the creation of the realms. When the world was first forged out of the great forge, the energies of the Olkodran transpired through creation ,this is what led to the appearance of some specific types of magic and entities like the aengul, daenmons, spirits, and many more, they are manifestations of the Olkodran that have passed through the forge changed in essence. They are like the water within a ceramic base that transpires the same water outside of it. This water is purer than what it was before but it must not be taken for granted that it is clean. This event of transpiration in creation is what led to the necessity for the creation of the Brathmordakin. With the creation of the Brathmordakin, all the beings and magics that transpired into Yemekar’s creation became part of a dominion which could be placed under the influence of said Brathmordakin, or confronted if the entity that transpired through creation became malevolent towards Yemekar’s creation itself, as was the case with Iblees[who was corrupted first Ibliss or Khorvad, that is something that won't be discussed here. The corruption of one of the Brathmordakin in the form of Khorvad explains the existence of dark magics and why they are so corrosive to creation itself. While voidal magic affects negatively parts of Yemekar’s creation like natural energies like fae magic, dark magic has a destructive effect on all things that touch it and leaves a scar on creation itself. In essence, while voidal magic is chaotic energy from the Olkodran that has transpired from the forge (the most unchanged of magics) and is able to be used by those that can use it responsibly, dark magic is chaotic magic that has transpired from the forge as well but has also been filtered through the Khorvad making it essentially toxic to creation. It is possible that before Khorvad was corrupted by his own ambition that the dark magics we know today were in turn not corrupted. Khorvad’s corruption of the realms also seems to be linked to the corruption of magics, with new dark magics appearing in the realms and new corrupted creatures appearing in the lands that we settle. The Brathmordakin and the contestation of their domains by Khorvad When it comes to other Brathmordakin we see their domains and oversight more clearly with the Anbella, Belka, and Ongrahad. With Anbella we see that she has control and dominion over the beings of nature and the magics related to it. We see that the aspects and fae magic fall in line with the morality of Anbella and ensures that the non-dwed of Yemekar’s creation fall in line of Yemekar’s balance, ensuring they do not fall to corruption. With Belka we see the same thing with beings like Wyrvun that fall under her domain, here too Wyrvun is used as a being that exists that non-dwed like the snow elves look at for guidance and keeps them within the broad lines of Yemekar’s creation. With Ongrahad we see that he oversees the tradition of mages ensuring that they do not use the chaotic void to disrupt the balance. These three cases serve as examples but many more can be found. With these three cases we can also find what happens when Khorvad is able to contest the dominion of the Brathmordakin and the impact that has on the magics and on the material creation of Yemekar. These three cases have also been under different levels of contestation: With Anbella we have experienced the September Prince, a corruption of Anbella’s domain through Khorvad’s attempt at claiming it. We saw then that the powers of nature were at war with each other between the good nature overseen by Anbella, and the evil nature overseen by Khorvad. These manifested themselves in the physical world with the druids and uncorrupted fae beings that did not side with the september prince knowingly or not remaining in Anbella’s embrace and by proxy Yemekar’s plan, and those that became corrupted and sided with the September Prince a physical representation of Khorvad’s attempt to gain dominion over Anbella’s domain. With Belka we have the ancient example of the corruption of Wyrvun. Wyrwun was a being venerated by many mountain dwellers and worshiped by some like the Frostbeards and the snow elves. His corruption was also an example of Khorvad encroaching into the dominion of Belka and very nearly succeeding. If it were not for the purification of Wyrvun by the hands of Paragon Igor Ireheart it is possible that Belka would have lost part of her realm. This is a pivotal point that shows the dwed purpose and what keeping the balance means. We as dwed have the power to bring back the balance lost, and to keep the realms in line with the BRathmordakin. Having other beings worship the Brathmordakin is irrelevant as their role is to be in balance with them. It is we the dwed that must know how to worship, as it is our purpose to keep these realms in balance with Yemekar. Failure to do so will bring the doom of creation, not just chaos as it was in the primordial times, but an antithesis to Yemekar’s work, Khorvadic destruction. With Ongrahad we have seen the contestation to his domain through the blood runes and the corruption of the traditional dwed arts. These were exemplified during the reign of the Ironborn. The corruption of a part of the dwed population allowed for the arts of the dwed to be turned to be used by Khorvad. This contestation is ancient and needs to be tackled as there is things that have been normalized in the past that are clear corruptions of Khorvad that have been passed through the generations as normal. This is the case with the binding of souls into golems against their will. Enslavement is against the dwed ethos, something we have been against from the beginning of time, and something that the Ironborn practiced due to their links to Khorvad. The forceful placement of a soul into a golem is akin to the enslavement of an individual and is very likely something that has been passed from the time of the Ironborn without society noticing it due to the lack of transparency for most of our history when it came to this magic. We as the dwed have passed laws that made this practice illegal and this is also a way we keep Yemekar’s Balance and ensure Khorvad does not corrupt the domain of Ongrahad. What this means for the dwed and the beings we protect when it comes to our stance on magic We the dwed are the protectors of Yemekar’s Balance, it matters not our clan, or our subrace, we are all charged with the protection of this balance. This is a fact that we have known since Urguan walked the earth. We also know that all dwed are not made the same, clan and subracial differences exist in the physician and cultural level, this must not be a coincidence and must be part of Yemekar’s design for the dwed. We are at the end of the day the wardens of Yemekar’s creation and of the domains of the Brathmordakin that keep balance in said creation. This means that the use of the magics and connections to the beings of these realms and understanding of them is not just moral but also a duty of the dwed. WE MUST participate in these, BUT we must always do so in the framing of the Brathmordakin not like the other descendants. Failing to frame our works in these realms and with these beings through the Brathmordakin can lead those that are walking these paths to be susceptible to the corruptive powers of Khorvad. We however must not fear Khorvad, as we are the ones that were created to combat threats such as him, we cannot let the beings in these domains exist without the dwed as they do not understand Yemekar and the Brathmordakin and without us they will be blind. Concluding remarks As Seers we are the torch of knowledge and spirituality for our people. We can show them paths to take but at the end of the day it is their choice the path that they take, Belka’s roads are not the same for all. We accept that. We also welcome criticism, building on, and contestation of our work, theories, analysis, and observations among our fellow members as that is what makes the Seers what we are. Additional Sources of information [OOC: SOME OF THESE SOURCES CANNOT BE ACCESSED BY NON-SEERS]: The 'Birth' of Yemekar and the creation of The Forge: According to the Dverga eron da Kirkja Rhun The Essence Trinity Thryhaefron; The Silver Tree and dwed Cosmology [III] : Planes of Khorvad Thryhaefron; The Silver Tree and dwed Cosmology [II] : Planes of Civilization Thryhaefron; The Silver Tree and dwed Cosmology : Tribunal Planes Proverb of the Soul

OOC: RP decission of the Council of Seers the head religious organization of Hefrumm based on the events that transpired. If you have questions about the forest dwarf perspective on religion, history, culture or general worldview I can send some posts you way.

Khazaefron looks upon the will and shouts towards the moon "Garedyn the Green Emerald! Paragon of Yemekar! Yer name will not fade awat from the memory of our folk! May you be welcomed into Kaz'A'Dentrumm with the grandest ef 'onors! May Yemekar allow ye to work en 'es forge and craft tools nevah before seen by dwed eyes!"

RAISING OF GAREDYN THE GREEN EMERALD MOSSBORN TO PARAGONHOOD By the powers bestowed by it by the forest dwedmar, the Holy Covenant of the Faith of the Brathmordakin, and the Brathmordakin.... [!] Depiction of Garedyn the Green. ((Art by Dhaen)) ...The Seer Council of Hefrumm declares Garedyn Mossborn to be raised to the ranks of Paragon as Paragon of Yemekar with the title of Garedyn ‘the Green Emerald’ Mossborn. May he join the ranks of Bjor Cottonwood as one of the great Paragon of our people. ᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅ Garedyn’s deeds have shown great worth, valor, and honor. The eleventh high chief of the forest dwedmar has shown signs of being blessed by Yemekar noticeable by his ability to govern as clan father of the Mossborn, High Prophet, Grand King of Urguan, Seer of Hefrumm, and High Chief of Hefrumm. ᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅ During his rule as clan father the Mossborn thrived and became an official clan of Hefrumm. Additionally, his work allowed the Mossborn to become the fourth dynastical clan of Hefrumm, currently having two of its members achieving the rank of High Chief. He brought the Mossborn up from a lost clan in exile from the blood age like many forest dwedmar clans still are, to a clan of prominence and primordial to Hefrumm and its ways. ᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅ As High Prophet he was able to get rid of the Rhun cult heresy, defeating its leaders in single combat. Additionally, he spearheaded the reforms of the Kirkja Dverga to enable freedom for the rest of the religious organizations of the dwedmar. This led to a prosperous coexistence between the different religious groups of the Faith and a unity in Faith not seen before in forest dwedmar history. ᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅ As Grand King of Urguan, Garedyn kept the forest dwed safe and protected from the most extremist sectors of the outlander communities like those loyal to the Rhun heretics. Additionally, he ensured the right of dwed epiphytes guaranteed in Hefrumm were also expanded to the rest of the Grand Kingdom. During his reign lost relics from the blood age were recovered. Alongside these domestic successes, Garedyn also led the dwedmar people through war successfully. His rule was a true example of how a Grand King should act in their role of Grand King of the keepers of Yemekar’s balance. ᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅ As Seer of Hefrumm Garedyn fulfilled his responsibilities and more. He learned from the elders of the order and applied the knowledge to his own practice, in turn creating a unique perspective of the theology. This insight will be cherished by the order for centuries to come so it can be contrasted and debated upon among the rest of the theological perspectives amassed by the Seer Council. ᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅ As High Chief he successfully carried the legacies of the previous High Chiefs white creating his own innovations to Hefrumm like the rings of Hefrumm, an overhaul of the castes of Hefrumm that used to be the main labor organization of Hefrumm. Garedyn kept Hefrumm’s autonomy, political alliances and power in peak form during his rule allowing it to have many domestic and external allies that ensured the Confederation of forest dwed tribes of Hefrumm to thrive. ᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅᚌᚐᚏᚓᚇᚔᚅ Additionally, he showcased his blessing of Yemekar through his great skills in smithing and dwed arts. This was showcased by his mastery of golemacy and the discovery of mythril. For these reasons, the Seer Council of Hefrumm declares Garedyn the ‘Green Emerald’ the new Paragon of Yemekar. -=- Signed and decreed by the Council of Seers of Da Seers Eron Hefruth -=- Seer Tuzic, Chief of the Mossborn and High Chief of Hefrumm ᚈᚒᚎᚔᚉ ᚋᚑᚄᚄᚁᚑᚏᚅ Seer Khazaefron, Chief of Clan Blackroot and Keeper of Hefrumm ᚊᚆᚐᚎᚐᚓᚃᚏᚑᚅ ᚁᚂᚐᚉᚊᚏᚑᚑᚈ Seer Beorn, Elder of Clan Cottonwood ᚁᚓᚑᚏᚅ ᚉᚑᚈᚈᚑᚅᚒᚒᚑᚑᚇ Seer Celeste’Tol, Elder of Clan Blackroot ᚉᚓᚂᚓᚄᚈᚓᚈᚑᚂ ᚁᚂᚐᚉᚊᚏᚑᚑᚈ Seer Renlak, Elder of Clan Blackroot ᚏᚓᚅᚂᚐᚊ ᚁᚂᚐᚉᚊᚏᚑᚑᚈ

[!] All the Seers of Hefrumm would receive a letter to their location. Written in the dialect of the Seers of Hefrumm the documents would not be able to be read by anyone not educated as a Seer of the order DUTY CALLS TO THE SEER COUNCIL OF HEFRUMM ᚁᚂᚐᚉᚊᚏᚑᚑᚈᚄᚁᚂᚐᚉᚊᚏᚑᚑᚈᚄ [!] Depiction of Garedyn the Green. ((Art by Dhaen)) This is a letter to the fellow seers of Hefrumm in the Council of Seers. We, the Seers of Clan Blackroot have been touched by the recent news of the passing of Garedyn the Green who ruled as the Eleventh High Chief of our people, and watched over the outlander folk and all the lands of Urguan as Garadyn the emerald. Garedyn was a dwed of great worth, valor, and honor. He showed signs of being blessed by Yemekar himself through his skills in smithing, his discovery of mythril, his successful leadership, his mastering of golemancy. Additionally, Garedyn fulfilled his role as a forest dwed, keeping up to Paragon Bjor Cottonwood’s Legacy and creating his own with the Mossborn becoming through him one of the historic clans of Hefrumm. His push in the lands of Urguan to give epiphyte rights and work through to dismantle the power structures that threatened with creating cultural hegemony of the clergy over forest-dwed traditions. For these reasons we propose to the Seer Council of Hefrumm Garedyn the Green Emerald be made Paragon of Yemekar. ᚁᚂᚐᚉᚊᚏᚑᚑᚈᚄᚁᚂᚐᚉᚊᚏᚑᚑᚈᚄ -Signed the Blackroot Seers- Seer Khazaefron, Chief of the Blackroots ᚊᚆᚐᚎᚐᚓᚃᚏᚑᚅ Seer Celeste’Tol Blackroot, Elder of the Blackroots ᚉᚓᚂᚓᚄᚈᚓᚈᚑᚂ Seer Renlak Blackroot ᚏᚓᚅᚂᚐᚊ

Khazaefron hears the news of the death of his friend. Solemnly he would reject the idea of sorrow for his death. "A great forest dwed died todeh, bat a legend that will be carried by our folk for centuries will remain. May ye watch weth Bjor and all that otha fallen high chiefs as our folk prosper. Hefrumm will nevah forget as long as et stands, and Hefrumm will nevah diem" ASketil would think of his memories with Garedyn "he Wes like a fatha to meh. Ah will nevah forget all he ded fer me and 'ow 'e raised meh to be." Mao would look saddened at it all "a dwed's life cut short too early...we take solace en knowing tha 'es deeds were great and tha thanks to 'es actions tha maneh outlanders changed much ef their waes en relation to es. Bless be tha Green. Et seems like yesterday tha we ferst met en tha pirate island" Karl would sternly look upon the moon wondering when he will be welcome to the halls of the Brathmordakin "Ah nevah got to talk to ye lad...A' 'ope one day A' will get tha chance...all tha 'igh chiefs ef old sitting en presence ef tha Brathmordakin telling our tales and looking upon the results ef our labors... A' cannot wait fer that day."

[!] The following is personal character information, that would not be known to anyone. Do not metagame. Khazaefron walked through the fae gardens of Hefrumm. The beautiful colors of the forest brushed the vision. The smell of the flowers filled the air, it was as smelling the fragrance of Belka’s hair. As they continued the walk Khazaefron came upon an old tree, this was no ordinary tree however, this tree was the tree of a fellow dwarven epiphyte of the Blackroot clan, one that was now dead and gone. When their comrade died they did not come back in a new form, their tree just slowly died out. “Anbella has released you of service sooner than expected eh?” Khazaefron would place their hand over the tree. “Yer service to Anbella es at an end kin, may ye enjoy tha eternal reward en her realm.” As he did this a surge of sorrow and anger flowed through them, the idea of loosing another clan mate fogged their mind. Khazaefron would slam their fist into the dead tree cracking the old bark opening a layer that was still not as decayed yet. The breach started to leak resin onto their fist. A reflection of themselves shone through the resin but it was not the face of Khazaefron that was looking back at them, it was the face of Karl Blackroot. “Is this what has become of my clan?” He said. “Is this what has become of me?” “Is this worth tha deaths our forest dwed brothas and sistas?” “We rebuilt their kingdom knowing fullwell et wes nevah fer us to rule, tha es woi we stayed ‘efrumm.” “Es ‘aving a forest dwed wearing tha crown ef tha outlanders worth tha state of our folk?” Khazaefron shook their head. “No, et be neccesareh fer tha forest dwed to choose their own path.” Karl would stare through the sap into Khazaefron his image slowly turning into Mao’s. “Is this the fate that you will allow to come to our uncle’s project? Are you to allow Hefrumm to slowly die? Let its roots dry out? What will happen when the Blackroots, the roots of Hefrumm, the roots that connect what was is and will be, what happens when these roots dry out?” Khazaefron frowned. “A’ will net allow et to ‘appen. A’ will serve ‘efrumm, we will always be ‘ere to ‘elp our folk remembah whot wes, our memoreh will nevah banish.” “Will you tho?” answered Mao. “Have you not already forgotten your fallen epiphyte dwed, all those that died because of the hatred of the outlanders towards us? Towards the forest dwed wae ef life.” “A’ ‘ave net forgotten, a’ will nevah forget.” Khazaefron lashed back. Asketil’s image would appear over Mao’s in the resin. “Aye…we will net forget.” Khazaefron would snap out of their vision. With a new found determination they would drain the resin from the dead tree. In their work place they would go over the books of Karl looking for anything and all things for inspiration, with Karl’s determination and imagination they though and imagined the old arts of the forest dwed, those arts lost in the blood age due to the genocide and cultural extermination of the forest dwarves. “Amber…” said Karl in Khazaefron’s mind. “We could recreate the gifts of Anbella which is found in Grimdugan’s depths.” Responded Mao. “Weth tha dwed foundries and Mossborn smithing, we surely ‘av tha technologeh and skills to recreate et!” Answered Asketil. Through the roaring fires of the dwed forges and intense pressures created by their machinery Khazaefron formed the resin into a gem like substance, a copal material. They would lift the material above their head being able to look at their own reflection through the transparent material. In the copal he would see a young Karl Cottonwood in his non-epiphyte form being touched by the lady of the forest and turning into an epiphyte and the first Blackroot High Chief, they could see the gifts of the depths of Grimdugan being granted to the young Mao for his faithful thievery, they could see the Asketil’s training under the Mossborn smiths. All of them coalesced to reflect Khazaefron’s image back to them. For four years Khazaefron would work on the project, from the material creating an armor. It was amber in appearance, that treasured gem in Grimdugan’s realm gifted to him by the blood of Anbella’s trees. It was certainly not the strongest material just as strong as silver or gold. But just like these materials the amber held the power of the Brathmordakin, the power of symbolism and ideas. By this armor Khazaefron would make a vow one to their clan, Hefrumm, and the Brathmordakin, a vow to continue the Hefrumm project, to assist any and all those seeking to build upon it. Lastly, they also cut their palm and made a blood oath upon this armor. “By this blood that is also the blood of the Paragon, A’ swear tha a’ will see ye again uncle, and when a’ do a’ will stare ye en tha eyes as an equal. A’ will create a path tha will allow our forest kin to reach yer ‘ights so tha our folk can reach further beyond!” “Under these oaths, we place our purpose, undah thes armor we place our singulariteh. We be multiple, and we be one, a world made ef worlds, one en reflection ef Yemekar’s creation an ef Anbella’s Balance.” [!] Depiction of amber armor [!] Depiction of the different personas making up Khazaefron, including themselves.

Charter of the Cottonroot Parties: The Cottonwood Clan Represented by Beorn Cottonwood The Blackroot Clan Represented by Chief Khazaefron Blackroot Purpose: This treaty outlines the formal agreement between the Cottonwoods and the Blackroots for the purpose of preserving the Cottonwoods while keeping it as a distinct clan within the larger community of Hefrumm. Article 1: Representation and Hierarchy 1.1 The Cottonwoods shall be represented in the chiefs council and political matters by the CHief of the Blackroot. 1.2 The day-to-day affairs and experiences of the average dwarf within the Cottonwoods shall remain unchanged. This includes the preservation of their name as Cottonwoods. Article 2: Herald Rank 2.1 A new rank, known as the Herald, shall be established to ensure the autonomy and identity of the Cottonwoods within the Blackroots. 2.2 The Herald shall be responsible for safeguarding the Cottonwoods against full annexation, thereby maintaining their distinct cultural and clan characteristics. 2.3 The individual appointed as the Herald, currently Beorn Cottonwood, shall serve as the contact person for inquiries related to Cottonwood history and culture. Article 3: Responsibilities 3.1 The Herald is not expected to actively lead or manage Cottonwood affairs but is designated as a protector against assimilation. Article 4: Implementation 4.1 This treaty shall be effective immediately upon mutual agreement by both parties. Article 5: Review and Amendment 5.1 The terms of this treaty may be subject to review and amendment by mutual consent of both clans. 5.2 The treaty can be abolished at any time unilaterally by either clan through a vote of the members of the clan or by one of the individuals that have signed this treaty. -Signatories- Cottonwood Clan Clan representative of the Cottonwoods: Beorn Cottonwood Blackroot Clan Clan Chief of the Blackroots: Khazaefron of the Blackroots High Chief (presided over the Convention): Tuzic Mossborn twelfth High Chief of Hefrumm.

Charter of the Cottonroot Parties: The Cottonwood Clan Represented by Beorn Cottonwood The Blackroot Clan Represented by Chief Khazaefron Blackroot Purpose: This treaty outlines the formal agreement between the Cottonwoods and the Blackroots for the purpose of preserving the Cottonwoods while keeping it as a distinct clan within the larger community of Hefrumm. Article 1: Representation and Hierarchy 1.1 The Cottonwoods shall be represented in the chiefs council and political matters by the CHief of the Blackroot. 1.2 The day-to-day affairs and experiences of the average dwarf within the Cottonwoods shall remain unchanged. This includes the preservation of their name as Cottonwoods. Article 2: Herald Rank 2.1 A new rank, known as the Herald, shall be established to ensure the autonomy and identity of the Cottonwoods within the Blackroots. 2.2 The Herald shall be responsible for safeguarding the Cottonwoods against full annexation, thereby maintaining their distinct cultural and clan characteristics. 2.3 The individual appointed as the Herald, currently Beorn Cottonwood, shall serve as the contact person for inquiries related to Cottonwood history and culture. Article 3: Responsibilities 3.1 The Herald is not expected to actively lead or manage Cottonwood affairs but is designated as a protector against assimilation. Article 4: Implementation 4.1 This treaty shall be effective immediately upon mutual agreement by both parties. Article 5: Review and Amendment 5.1 The terms of this treaty may be subject to review and amendment by mutual consent of both clans. 5.2 The treaty can be abolished at any time unilaterally by either clan through a vote of the members of the clan or by one of the individuals that have signed this treaty. -Signatories- Cottonwood Clan Clan representative of the Cottonwoods: Beorn Cottonwood Blackroot Clan Clan Chief of the Blackroots: Khazaefron of the Blackroots High Chief (presided over the Convention): Tuzic Mossborn twelfth High Chief of Hefrumm.