Nooblius

From the Desk of the High Preceptor : Of Kin and Clergy ~ 2nd Edition, 15th of Snow’s Maiden, 1759 ~ First off; I promise this one will be far less long and it is with a lighter heart than the last edition of this publication that I write from my desk again. The focus of this letter is moving forward and our future plans as clergy, and what the wisest members of our ranks have discerned regarding the signs from the Brathmordakin. Divination and Prophecy The Priests of the Holy Order have met to discuss recent events and how the will of the Brathmordakin may be involved in them, and what that means for us to do. We analyzed the events that had occurred during Athera, namely the reclamation of ancient clan relics and the diminishing resources of our mines. After discussion, it was determined that the relics were a blessing of the Brathmordakin. Well, the natural extension of such an assertion is why would the dwarves be blessed particularly now? We came to the conclusion that because the dwarves went back to study their past culture united as Urguan, that it pleased the Brathmordakin and it was for that reason that we were rewarded with ancient clan relics. It is forseen that there will be times of prosperity ahead based around our connections to the past. However, it seemed the Brathmordakin were not pleased in other aspects. Grand Prospector Bodmer Goldhand has reported fewer resources found in the mines as of late. It seemed that the dwarves had lost the favor of Grimdugan, the god of greed, patron of hidden wealth and darkness, and our mines thus run less prosperous. What could we have done to lose the favor of Grimdugan? To Bodmer it seemed clear; too long has Grimdugan been continually misrepresented by the dwarven public and clergy as different to the other gods, too long has he been disregarded as the patron of petty thieves and goons. The Holy Order is taking action to make sure Grimdugan is properly honored in the future, more details to come later. A Call of Clans As mentioned in my last edition of this publication, I wish to hear from representatives from each Clan to go over specific and unique cultural beliefs so that any cleric or priest teaching a beardling from this clan can do so properly according to their customs. The next meeting of the Holy Order will be in five stone days, and I ask that all clans that don’t have a member of the clergy already send their own scholar to share the clan’s view. Not only that, but I call each clan to be vocal about concerns they may have with the Holy Order so they may be resolved. Rituals and Blessings The members of the Holy Order have been working on a new initiative to force more activity from priests and clerics in dwed culture and society. Specific duties, such as performing blessings and rituals in public, preparing tributes to our gods, will be organized and forced upon members of the Holy Order to ensure they are doing their divine tasks. Too long have the priests of the Holy Order sat in our high rooms contemplating the will of the Brathmordakin but not delivering their blessings among their chosen people. I will take extensive measures to ensure that Priests and Clerics are doing their duty. Baldin Ironside… Again A quick note on the situation regarding the last edition. Baldin Ironside had come forward to me and sought resolution, and he had removed his assertion of his claims being authorized by Yemekar and instead made it clear they are his own decisions, and had agreed that he had misinterpreted and misrepresented what has happened in the Holy Order of the dwarves with his words. The 35 Theses will be taken down from the entrance to the Temple and placed on the notice board alongside my response for the scholarly if ever they wish to find it. Reformed Literature Policy It has come to the attention of the Holy Order that many of its public documents are outdated and poorly written, and have been for many generations of leaders now. As High Preceptor, I sincerely apologize for this. Many projects have been in the works in the past under previous leaders within the clergy but all have been abandoned. I will make it a top priority to reform the religious literature, consulting with those within the kingdom Ogradhad has blessed most to make a compelling list of stories that are consistent and mirror the beliefs of the Holy Order. Know that disagreeing with a writer is by no means heresy, it is disagreement with core ideas of our faith that is such. Progress already has been made and will be available to be viewed at the clergy meeting, if any scholars are interested. If you cannot make it, reach out to me for a copy. Norli Starbreaker High Preceptor eron da Kirkja Dverga

High Preceptor Norli Starbreaker leans on the railing of the cruiser, a letter dangling from his hand, looking off to Athera as the ship leads him away from it. He sees the silhouette of the bridge leading to Kal’Karaad, and knows beneath it that Baldin’s first wife Talia is buried. He thinks of all of his interactions with Baldin, all the events and confusion that led to their relationship now. He inhales deeply, letting his head sink, and lets out a long sigh. Of despair, relief, mourning? One could not tell, although the wisest onlooker would not say all is impossible. He looks back up, a solitary tear dropping from his eye, as he mumbles some words as prayer. “Enn’Brathmordakin rikk othok oz narvak. It’s good you’re retiring, old friend. I believed your time was over, your age had taken its toll on you. Stay safe and in peace within the Grace of Anbella.”

High Preceptor Norli Starbreaker works on a cliff in Athera on the outskirts of Kal’Karaad. He holds in his hand a hammer and chisel, working away on the stone, writing in dwarven a prayer to the Brathmordakin to send someone, a champion, to help hunt heresy and bring purity to Urguan. As he finishes the words, he looks out to to the deep night sky, looking at the stars glittering like gemstones in a cavern, and the moon, Khaz’a’dentrumm, he can’t help but smile, as he feels his prayers may have been answered. He chuckles as he gets up and walks away to the encampment.

“Nae way ye read it already lad.”

From the Desk of the High Preceptor : Baldin Ironside Earlier this stone week the temple to the Brathmordakin in Kal’Evraal, the capital of the Under-Realms of Urguan, was defiled. Nailed to the entrance was an essay written by Baldin Ironside. He outlined what he believed to be the failings of the current iteration of da Kirkja Dverga and its leader the High Preceptor, myself, and then a list of what he believes are the core tenants of the faith in the Brathmordakin, and the leadership of that faith. Many have been led to believe that I have disagreed with all of these tenants, which is absolutely false. I have supported a vast majority of these ideas, and am insulted that they would be laid out in this way to push the idea that I would ever question such essential ideas such as the supremacy of the Brathmordakin over false gods, the importance of Yemekar, and many more. May Ogradhad give us all his blessing as we seek to understand the truth of this debacle, and may everyone who read this look past their initial bias, and not dishonor Ogradhad by blindly believing the first thing we are told. Context First I should like to outline the context of Baldin’s words. It was several stone months ago that I spoke frequently in the old tavern about the Brathmordakin and wished to ensure my preaching was correct, so I reached out to Baldin, then Frostbeard, to join so I may surround myself with scholars who I could learn about the Brathmordakin from. It was then and always has been my philosophy that you should question things in order to better understand them, something I applied to the faith as well as other aspects of life. This philosophy is based off of what I believe to be the greatest wisdom that the grace of Ogradhad has revealed to me: that the greatest knowledge is in knowing how little you know. Because of this I made a habit of questioning established ideas in order to purify inconsistencies and help purge heresies. One such heresy that I am proud to have assisted Baldin in eliminating from the public opinion is that of half-bred damnation, that those who are the victims of interbreeding parents are damned and to be slaughtered. Although I would agree the act itself of interbreeding and those who partake in it are inherently sinful and a heresy, I would NOT say that those who are if anything the victims, the children who cannot truly and perfectly fit in either culture of their parents, should be slaughtered. When Hekkaes “Anvilaxe” Goldhand proposed the idea of hald-bred damnation to me as one of the founding ideas of his resurrection of ar Yemarin Anaros, a past iteration of the clergy based heavily although not uniquely in Kaz’Ulrah, I was quick to strike it down. This was not out of a lust for power, but a lust for Truth. I did not want the most sacred name of the Brathmordakin to be used to encourage slaughter sons of Urguan, and in truth I do not believe that Hekkaes wanted it. I engaged in discussion with Hekkaes, and he decided to abandon the venture. It was during this time that I was appointed the successor to Baldin by himself. It seemed to me proof, then, that it was Ogradhad’s will to question established ideas to ensure their validity and purity throughout the ages. Later into my administration, I began to feel that the system of hierarchy within da Kirkja Dverga was flawed, as many of the Preceptos were silent and lazy. I began to write up a draft for a new organization of da Kirkja Dverga, based around the idea that Preceptors should be active leaders of the faith and orders dedicated to it, not people who reach a certain point in their career then step down. An exception to this rule was made for the High Remembrancer, who would always be recognized as a Preceptor as they are a significant leader of dwarven cultural values, and that further exceptions would be made with other crucial dwarven cultural institutions. The Preceptors would then be removed and given an opportunity to earn their positions back. This was met with agreement and approval of two of the three sitting Preceptors at the time, Thorin Treebeard and Kazrin Starbreaker. Baldin, now Ironside, however, was adamant and against it. He felt that Preceptors shouldn’t have to be leaders of the faith but simply the recognized wise scholars of the clergy, however, after years of discussion, Baldin Ironside gave his approval, and I began to write up the official document. In the process of officially and publicly making the reforms, Baldin Ironside resigned, as can be seen in an attached copy of his letter here. (( https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/187866-letter-of-resignation/?tab=comments#comment-1749196 )) Time went by, members of da Kirkja Dverga came and went. During this time, I engaged in many debates and discussions with Baldin and other members of da Kirkja Dverga. One of which being that of the term Aengul-Daemon being used in description of the Brathmordakin. Me and Baldin discussed for long, others piping in their ideas as we went along, and many ancient records from centuries past were brought up to question if the term was ever intended to describe the Brathmordakin. I had asserted that the term was a yrrok one, and improper to use to describe the Brathmordakin, who should be described as the Brathmordakin and the Brathmordakin only. Baldin Ironside disagreed strongly, and began to condemn my inquisitive nature, claiming that my actions would lead to the failure of da Kirkja Dverga. However, with my persistent search for Truth I found an ancient record in the libraries of Arcas, a transcription of writings of Kazraden Starbreaker, one of the founding scholars of the Brathmordakin, supporting my point that the Brathmordakin were not always considered Aengul-Daemons, and opening the question as to why we should consider them Aengul-Daemons. Once again, I saw proof that inquisition was a holy gift from Ogradhad, and that it allowed for the purity of ideas by weeding out ideas that have a weak ideological foundation, and for those ideas which when questioned are still true are strengthened, their every mystery explored and thoroughly understood. (( https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/65724-~~~-the-hudinmenthalvalir-~~~/ )) Hopefully anyone who has read the above would understand my philosophy, and understand that when I question something I do not completely deem the idea void and null, I only am beginning a process to better understand the idea. Inquisition, I see, is a holy and righteous thing, done out of a desire to strengthen faith, not to stir doubt. This does not, however, mean doubt everything, but try to better understand why things are what they are. If there is no answer to a question, it is always better to side with tradition. Through this process, I feel the foundational beliefs of the faith of the Brathmordakin can be discerned, and heresy purged. Baldin Ironside not a stone week ago invited me to a mountain peak in the Hefrumm to witness a lesson on what he referred to as divination. I was fascinated by it, since it seemed an interesting way to discern the will of the Brathmordakin, by understanding how they impact the world. When I arrived, Baldin Ironside had set up a campfire. He tossed a rock into it, it broke into six pieces. Then Baldin Ironside took six small engraved stones from a bag, with strange symbols that supposedly meant various things, and tossed them on the ground. Supposedly, we would interpret the will of the Brathmordakin based on the meanings of these symbols. He called them ancient runes. I, naturally, inquired about the symbols and their origin. Baldin Ironside, in his great wisdom and patience, swore myself out, calling me a ***** for doubting him and his process. This stirred a great deal of many thoughts into me at once, and I was bewildered, at a loss of words even. The lesson ended, and I did not have the time to ask him about it in private since I had to attend a Council meeting in Urguan to help ensure a peace between Mynebor and Urguan. In the council, after I had my proposal amended and accepted, I had a great deal of time to ponder the events that had let up to Baldin Ironside’s sudden outrage and burst of anger. In the days leading up to it, Baldin Ironside had begun to call himself the Chosen of Belka, something I advised against strongly as it could lead to one assuming they know the will of the Brathmordakin absolutely, something nobody should claim. He came to this conclusion based on the regrowth of his right arm, and the partial restoration of his youth, notable in the recoloration of his beard. Baldin Ironside is young again, and I had wondered if he was correct, that perhaps Belka had given him his youth back as a thanks for his service, for his bringing of unity to the dwarven faith, for his sacrifices he has made throughout his life for the Brathmordakin. The reason that Baldin Ironside had lost this youth so early in the first place was due to his practice of dark magic, a secret he revealed, albeit foolishly, while me and him were hunting for dark mages in Llyria. Baldin Ironside was a practitioner of mysticism, and that is what had drained his youth for so long. It is also what he had used to power a spectral arm before. The fact that Baldin Ironside had turned to dark magic to replace his arm has disturbed me greatly, and the fact that he had studied the power to intervene in the processes of Dungrimm and speak to spirits is borderline heresy. The only thing that has stopped me from coming out with this information before is the belief that Baldin Ironside did all this in an effort to honor the Brathmordakin, to aid in his search of other dark mages who would praise the dark god Khorvad and his servants for their power. I respected Baldin Ironside greatly at the time, and he did not ever speak of it outside of that stone week, so I looked to forget it and focus on his positive aspects. Looking back now, I fear if it was another force that Baldin had earned the favor of, not Belka. Worse yet, however, was yet to come. Baldin Ironside approached me when I was a priest under him, and told me to meet him in private in the caves. While there, he told me an idea he had for bringing yrrommar into the faith. I have always been more open to yrrommar joining the faith, although I was adamantly against altering the core ideas of dwarven culture to better suit the yrromar, and let only those who were willing to live as a dwed does join us. Baldin Ironside, however, had different ideas. He told me his plan for introducing new lesser gods for the faith, collectively referred to as the Thrummavos. They were lesser beings that he fabricated to better mold other cultures with dwarven values. One was Noril, a Daemon who was chaotic and meant to appeal to the orkos with their bloodlust. Of the Wood Elves there was Nysea, the protector of the forests and the power in charge of the druidic aspects. There were other beings but these are the only two we discussed in person, and I cannot locate in my notes the names of others. These beings, mind you, do not exist, and I was quick to take note of such when he showed me his writings. He asked me what I thought, and I told him I could never support such a concept as adding gods to the dwarven faith if I could not explain their existence. Baldin Ironside was determined to the idea for a couple stone weeks, but eventually became preoccupied with other ordeals, and the idea was forgotten. But ever since then I was more critical and weary of Baldin Ironside, as one does not lightly forget a scholar who would purposely deceive the populace. I assumed then that he did not have any foul intentions, and thus is why I extended the mercy of Belka and did not hold it against him, although I would not forget it either. A few stone days ago I confronted Baldin Ironside in the temple and had a discussion with him. He began to accuse me of making the clergy a personality cult when I pointed out his inconsistencies and asked him to stop practicing this divination until he laid a proper foundation for it. I became a bit annoyed, and raised my voice when I told him that he should not attempt to create new methods with no basis for interpreting the will of the Brathmordakin. People entered the temple curious as to the comotion, and I asked Baldin to make an oath to the Brathmordakin that he would not claim to interpret the will of the Brathmordakin through divination and not claim to be the Chosen of Belka. He was not forced, however. Baldin Ironside had the choice to walk away at all times. I never had asked anybody to draw weapons, and even told people to put away weapons. Despite this, Baldin Ironside claims I had forced him to swear an oath in a grudge, thus lying and defaming on the most sacred book of dwarfdom. Baldin Ironside’s Preamble “Though claiming to be a religious leader that wants to understand the meanings behind the religion of the dwarves, the High Preceptor has imposed during his leadership a number of dogmas that stop any argument that he does not agree with for personal reasons.” Name one dogma, Baldin Ironside, that I have ever instated to stop those who disagree with me on personal issues. Do you mean my requesting for you to stop your divination which you have made up and have no basis for? That is not a personal reason, that is a theological reason. “He has also removed all Preceptors but his fellow clan member; the wise Kazrin Starbreaker. This removal of all representation of Mountain and forest dwarves decent has put the clergy at risk of becoming a dogmatic institution of Cave Dwarf ideals and beliefs.” This is a lie, outright. Firstly, I did not remove the Preceptors Thorin Treebeard and Baldin Ironside against their will. As I discussed earlier, Baldin Ironside resigned from his position before my reforms were even made official. I offered him the position back and gave him ideas for orders and things he could do to gain it, but he was not interested. Baldin Ironside is not a Preceptor of his own accord, not because I forced him. Thorin Treebeard, during the reform writing process, asked to be removed as Preceptor, and demoted all the way to Initiate, so that he could re-earn the position, feeling he had failed the clergy in his inactivity. The only Preceptor who remained then was Kazrin Starbreaker, not because he was of my clan, but because part of the reforms was to guarantee the High Remembrancer a position on the Preceptor Council, since they led an order that has religious and cultural significance. Baldin Ironside, Thorin Treebeard, and Kazrin Starbreaker all agreed to these terms after discussion. None of it was me acting without restraint to secure my power, but a unanimous decision to encourage leaders within da Kirkja Dverga. As for the assertion that I removed all representation of Mountain and Forest dwarves, that’s completely preposterous. There are numerous mountain dwarves within the clergy and in close contact with it, and three forest dwarves working within the clergy. Although I wish there were more forest dwarves, it is difficult to encourage a great number of them due to their smaller demographic in regard to Urguan’s larger population, although I will cede I could be making a more active approach to recruiting their kin, and will strive to do so in the future. But the assertion that I am intentionally leaving out other groups of dwarves is slander and outright manipulative. “As of late the High Preceptor Norli has shown a lack of understanding of the faith and a weak sense of leadership.” In what way? Was it my delving into the most ancient records on the history of our faith to verify a fallacy that others have wrongly believed for years, and that you stubbornly refused to accept as any other way? Is it by expanding the clergy’s activities to incorporate spirituality with more aspects of dwarven culture? Or perhaps this is your way of complaint since I have expressed disagreement with your views on the faith before. “Out of love for the Brathmordakin, the truth, and from desire to elucidate it; I Baldin Ironside former High Preceptor of Da Kirkja Dverga make the following statements. Charged as we are by Yemekar.” And I say to you, Baldin Ironside, that I, the sitting High Preceptor Norli Starbreaker have been blessed truly by Belka, for I have been given a great capacity for mercy. I have looked past your faults and borderline heresy for long out of respect for you as my predecessor, but no longer. Now Belka has gifted me with a new blessing, that of great divinely inspired passion, and it is with great passion that I will defend the Truth of the Brathmordakin, da Kirkja Dverga, and my own name and dignity, all of which you have dishonored and slandered through your lies and manipulation. You have clearly and intentionally outlined these assertions in a way to imply I have broken them, those of them that are true. I will make it clear beyond a doubt that I hold no heretical and selfish stances in the next section. Baldin Ironside’s 30 Theses 1. The Brathmordakin are divine and above all others and Yemekar the maker is above them. I agree. 2. Yemekar told Urguan to create the Dwarven Clergy to allow all the dwarves to follow a code of ethics and routine that would allow them to reach Khaz'A'Dentrumm and be bidded on by the Brathmordakin. This is not correct, Urguan was not the founder of the clergy. For the sake of mythology, storytelling, increasing national identity and instilling morals into beardlings, I can understand this idea’s roots, however it is not founded in fact, but a desire to pretend that the beliefs of the clergy are absolute and can absolutely never be questioned, something that you accuse me of trying to purport. 3. Khaz'A'Dentrumm is located on the moon and Dungrimm is its Lord. This is correct, although it is good to emphasize the importance of all of the Brathmordakin in the bidding process. 4. The Beard is a holy gift from Yemekar and shaving it or damaging it is heresy. Agreed, the beard is sacred, and to remove one's beard is a dishonor to the Brathmordakin. 5. Cutting the beard of an individual is heresy. I personally dislike this form of punishment, although I do understand how it came about. It is done by dwarves who wish to punish people who they feel are such a disgrace to dwarfdom that they should not be considered a dwarf anymore, so they shave off the very symbol of the dwarves. I would not say it is a heresy as much as it is a shame to the Brathmordakin, however, if we are to argue semantics. 6. Killing a heretic is not heresy. Once again, a slight semantics issue on the term ‘heresy’, but I assume you mean to say it is not bad to kill heretics. This is something I have thought about for a long time. I have come to the conclusion that it is sometimes necessary to kill unrepentant heretics who stubbornly deny and dishonor the Brathmordakin, but I feel a vast majority of the time inquisition and re-education is a more honorable method of dealing with heretics. To surmise, I feel it is something that can be avoided but can be necessary, but in truth I cannot say with anything near certainty how the Brathmordakin view killing of heretics, but sometimes the faith must be protected with extreme means, and if a dwarf would seek to undermine the faith of the Brathmordakin and refuse to repent than I would agree it would become necessary to end their heresy. 7. The Dwarven race is the holy race created and chosen by Yemekar, killing another dwarf with intent and not out of self defense is heresy. I cannot help but feel this contradicts your feelings about killing heretics, but I would holy agree the dwarves are the chosen people of Yemekar, and can write an entirely separate essay regarding the subject and why that is, and of course I am against the murder of dwarves. 8. The Dwarven race has been chosen by Yemekar to fulfill Yemekar’s Balance denying such truth is heresy. It is bad theological scholarship to claim such a thing. Any scholar who would bother themself with minimal research would know the idea of Yemekar’s Balance is a philosophical concept regarding the world and Yemekar’s design of it. It is not the core belief of the faith and should not be treated as such, and should not be deemed unchallengeable. Both scholars of da Kirkja Dverga and ar Yemarin Anaros would agree with such. 9. The dwarven race has had many religious leaders and Paragons, destroying their legacy is heresy. The dwarves do not choose the Paragons, the Brathmordakin do. Disagreeing with Paragons and previous religious leaders is not a heresy under any circumstance, and were we to make this the law of the faith we would see our faith crumble, as established religious leaders would have unchecked power and can simply call anyone who ‘destroys their legacy’ a heretic. I wonder, Baldin Ironside, if you intend this, as you are an established religious leader. 10. The Dwarven race has been gifted the art of Golemancy by the Brathmordakin. 11. The Dwarven race has been gifted the art of Runesmithing by the Brathmordakin. Agreed. 12. The Dwarven race has been gifted the art of divination by the Brathmordakin, and all dwarves are able to use it. Divination? I have not heard about this until a stone week ago where Baldin Ironside made up his own process and denied anyone to ask questions about it, you cannot just claim that it is a core and essential belief of our faith in the Brathmordakin. This is perhaps one of the most absurd of the 30 theses Baldin Ironside has put forward, the clear purpose of it is to give validity to his ideas, and trick people into thinking they are established and sacred. Woe to Baldin Ironside, who would purposely lie and manipulate the dwarves to fulfill his agenda. 13. The Brathmordakin allowed the clergy to have a leader so he/she could balance the religious beliefs and cultures of the different subraces, ignoring this and allowing only the supremacy of one is heretical. I would agree completely, although something tells me Baldin Ironside would wish to accuse me of doing such. I would have the dwarves know that there are far more mountain dwarves and forest dwarves in da Kirkja Dverga than there are cavern dwarves. It has been Baldin Ironside who has wished to shove mountain dwarven ideas, or even more accurately his very specific view of mountain dwarven ideas, on all dwarves. 14. The faith depends on knowledge and the correct practice of prayer, ritual, and sacrifice, not on dogma established by the leader of the clergy. I would agree.The correct practice of honoring the Brathmordakin however can be discussed by the clergy and all of its members, including the High Preceptor. If we were to refuse to question or discuss it, then we could easily fall to grave heresy. Baldin Ironside alludes to this idea that I am forcing dogma on the people, which is simply incorrect. Anyone who would have a religious discussion with me would know I am incredibly open to new ideas and wishing to hear them. It is Baldin Ironside who in my early days of leading the clergy encouraged me to ignore old religious leaders that disagreed with us, and when Hekkaes Goldhand brought up his disagreements he discouraged the idea of open debate, not wanting to give Hekkaes Goldhand a platform. I agreed with it then, and have regretted it deeply, for I feel a more open discussion would have not created the divide between the clergy and certain clans, and Hekkaes would have eventually come to agree with me after talking. 15. That the leader of the clergy tries to centralise the leadership of the clergy into their own clan should be an issue to all dwarves. This is one of Baldin Ironside’s points that makes it clear he is targeting and accusing me. I find it frankly insulting how blatantly wrong it is. The system I designed for reformation clearly tries to decentralize the leadership of the clergy into orders of duties to a specific god of the Brathmordakin, rather than having all the clergy’s duties be under my exact decision. As for allegations of favoring the Starbreakers, another lie. Kazrin Starbreaker is only a Preceptor because he is the High Remembrancer, as all the Preceptors, including Baldin Ironside, agreed on. He is given the rank of Preceptor out of respect for the organization of the Remembrancers, a valuable order dedicated to Ogradhad and the culture of the dwarves, and that it deserves to have representation in da Kirkja Dverga. 16. That the leader of the clergy attempts to impose dogma upon the dwarves is heresy. Also just a blatant lie, when have I ever rode up to the Hefrumm and torn down their Tree of Anbella? When have I put a tax on all shrines not done in the exact way that I want? When have I ever forced my personal beliefs on other dwarves? If he suggests that me having a conversation with another religious leader, himself, where I assert something contrary to him is imposing dogma on the dwarven population, then I suppose I have. I apologize to the sons of Urguan who I have wronged so deeply by… talking to scholars about scholarly topics. 17. The faith is a source of social order that unites different clans with different cultures. I would agree completely. 18. The Brathmordakin have the ability to manifest themselves in the physical world and take different forms. Although such things do not happen often in the physical world, I would agree that it is absolutely within the ability of the Brathmordakin to do such, although I doubt their desire to do so. 19. The Brathmordakin are able to bless individuals. I would agree completely. 20. Khorvad is the fallen Brathmordakin claiming he does not exist and/or that he is not something the dwarven race should fight against is heresy. I would agree completely, although there’s an interesting story as to why Baldin Ironside has included this. I brought up to him the point that many early writings of the Brathmordakin faith have excluded his mention, and I mentioned to Baldin that there could be a couple reasons for this. I said it was most likely that they frowned upon even saying his name, although I entertained the idea a moment that perhaps early scholars did not know of his existence. He took this wildly out of proportion it seems, and now has taken to claiming I think he doesn’t exist or shouldn’t be needed to worry about, or at least is clearly trying to allude to such an accusation. This is, mind you reader, an absolute lie, I have never said that Khorvad does not exist. 21. The King or Queen of the Dwarves has been elected democratically by the dwarven race and hence has been chosen by Yemekar to rule as the combined will of the dwarves is surely also the will of the Brathmordakin. Absolutely not! If the will of the Brathmordakin can be said to be equal to that of the majority of dwarves, the will of the masses, then our entire culture would crumble. Dwarves are not perfect, and even as a whole can often make mistakes. There have been many corrupt and evil kings among the dwarves, to assert that the Brathmordakin has favor with someone who has the popular vote of the dwarves would be to say the Ironborn kings and kinslaying kings are those who have the favor of the Brathmordakin, which is an absolutely absurd idea. 22. The spouse of the King or Queen of the Dwarves has no authority to rule, unless it is as Regent because of the absence of the spouse. What? This has nothing to do with the faith, and is completely out of left field. I would advise any dwarf to not grace the fleeting thought of a child with any more words. 23. No individual dwarf can know without doubt the will of the Brathmordakin even if he/she is the leader of the clergy or any other organization. I absolutely agree, and find it quite humorous that you begin your list of theses by hypocritically asserting “as charged by Yemekar:”, doing the very thing you condemn later. My entire philosophy is based around self doubt and thorough discussion before decision, it is in fact Baldin Ironside who has taken to claiming the will of the Brathmordakin with certainty. 24. That the leadership of the clergy attempts to act as a king is blasphemy against Yemekar and an insult to the position. I don’t. A King runs a nation, I run a temple. A King leads the dwarves, I teach and preach to the dwarves. I have nothing more to say, because there is nothing more to say on such a baseless accusation meant only to slander my name. 25. Anbella and Belka communicate through nature with the forest dwarves, assuming this is false or heresy is heresy onto itself as it ignores the culture and tradition of the forest folk. I believe that all the Brathmordakin often speak to all the dwarves through their domains. Surely a smith feels the inspiration of Yemekar as he works his art. I do not deny this at all. What I do deny is the strange process of divination that Baldin had done, as it was not based on nature, but making a strange set of circumstances to give himself religious authority again. If there are other means of divination, I do not wish to consider them void without reason, but Baldin Ironside’s divination is nothing more than the mad ramblings of a dwarf who has lost the power he so clearly craves. 26. Ignoring the fact that Dungrimm and Grimdugan have blessed the mountain dwarves with prowess in battle and thirst for glory and gold in war is blasphemy and an insult to all those that fought for the dwarven race. I have not done this. The only thing I can think can even be related to this is discourage common thievery and brutality that is like the culture of the ork more than it is that of the dwed, and I will stand by that. This does not mean using might and greed is wrong, but these gifts are to be used honorably. The greatest example of honorable fighters with a very non-cavern dwarf culture can be found in the Irehearts, a clan that I have always respected for their loyalty to the Brathmordakin and history of making great leaders and Paragons. 27. Ongradhad and Armakak have blessed the cave dwarves with a keen mind for trade and scholarship, assuming this is false is blasphemy and an insult to the most respected scholars of the dwarven race Ogradhad*. 28. Dwarf Druids worship the aspect of Anbella, believing this is false is heresy towards Anbella and blasphemy against our paragons. Dwarven druids do not worship Anbella as an aspect, they view the aspects as spirits beneath her, or so I have been informed by them. I don’t know why you would assert this if it is untrue. 29. All clans should be allowed to deal with their dead as their customs dictate, trying to stop them from doing so is a n act of heresy. I would agree. There is an order dedicated to Dungrimm in the works, involving the maintenance of the tombs, and one of the key ideas is working with clans to do their burial rights, only offering assistance, never imposing. 30. Interrupting the funeral of a dwarf for petty rivalries is blasphemy. I would absolutely agree, although blasphemy is perhaps not the right word. I would even go so far as to say those who would do this are to be punished and admonished for their grave actions. A Final Word Some may say that this is a disproportionately aggressive response to what one meant to be only rules of the faith, but that is incorrect. If Baldin Ironside had meant these to be rules of the faith, he would have included far more. What Baldin Ironside did is purposely portray me as betraying these ideas, many of which are false in foundation. He has purposely attempted to make a divide between the subraces of the dwarves and cause not just a faithful but cultural schism in Urguan. He has purposely created a narrative that myself and the cave dwarves are working to undermine mountain and forest dwarf culture, when I have done nothing of the sorts. He labels me as close minded and imposing when I have been nothing but open minded and accepting whilst he has insisted on forcing his ideas on myself and all dwarfdom. The only correct accusation is that da Kirkja Dverga has had a falling out of sorts with many clans. I have decided action must be taken to fix this, and will call a meeting soon with all clan leaders soon to ensure that more perspectives are considered in declaring the doctrine of da Kirkja Dverga. Please, for those clans who perceive strife between us, I would wish nothing more than to heal any wounds, and I apologize for any that I have caused. Look out for another letter soon regarding the subject. Let us take a look at the actions of Baldin Ironside within the last stone month. He has become adamant and arrogant of his ways, he has refused the position of Preceptor, he has severed ties of his clan with the clergy, he has begun calling himself the Chosen of Belka, he has made up a ritual with no basis in order to interpret the will of the Brathmordakin outside of the clergy with himself at its center, he has a history of practicing dark magic, a history of theological inconsistency and borderline heresy, has made plans in the past to reinvent the faith with no basis, and now he has come forward with what he claims to be charged by Yemekar the core ideas of the faith that must be adhered to whilst throwing accusations at myself. It is clear to me as it should be to anyone Baldin’s intentions: to cause a schism in the clergy and reinstate himself as the dominant religious figure since I would not strictly adhere to his interpretation of the Brathmordakin. This is not a dwed hero fighting passionately for reform; this is a cold and calculated move to reassert himself, and it is a disgrace to the Brathmordakin and to da Kirkja Dverga that Baldin Ironside has dragged us into a political argument. Baldin Ironside, you have lied and deceived the public in your actions, and as the world shall see I will not respond lightly. You are to take down your 30 theses yourself, as they are imperfect and flawed in the manners I have described. You are to apologize to the dwarven people for lies and manipulation. You are to take the Slayer oath to the Brathmordakin to redeem yourself for your great injustice against the dwarven people. You are to rescind your false grudge and make pure again that most sacred book of dwarfdom. Dwarves of Urguan, may Ogradhad bless you with an ability to read, so that you may see the absurdity and hypocrisy of Baldin Ironside as I have highlighted in my letter and decide with the full story. But equally importantly, you are to show him mercy of Belka should you realize that he is wrong, for I do not believe Baldin Ironside intentionally undermines dwarven culture and dishonors the Brathmordakin, and he should be shown mercy. Narvok oz Brathmordakin Norli Starbreaker, High Preceptor eron da Kirkja Dverga

High Preceptor Norli Starbreaker looks over the document, scoffing. ”Nothin’ but lies and deceit. I had expected better o ye Baldin. Know dat da dwedmar will nae escape from Ogradhad’s grace, and they will have the wisdom ta see through yer deception.” He clicks his tongue, ”At least bother ta spell da name o da god ye claim I am dishonorin’.” He opens the door, and walks past to his office to prepare a thorough rebuttal, grumbling as he does, ”I’m tired o’ bein’ gentle with heretics.”

((this is the type of thing I wish people made more. not necessarily about their characters’ fears and inner demons, but character growth posts. Too much of the dwarves sub forums is just political ****. I’ll take a page of your book and write some more myself soon, fantastic job salty! :D))

High Preceptor Norli Starbreaker sits at his desk when he gets an envelope from a cleric, within it a letter from the Urguanite Crown that the letter was published. He waves the cleric away, and stands up, cracking his knuckles and stretching. ”Good ta see da peace has been made. Time ta make sure Kal’Orvul and Balrog, do nae stray ta da path o Khorvad again, and dat da light o da Brathmordakin keeps with them always...” Norli begins to hum a tune as he sits back down at his desk, pulling out a piece of parchment from a drawer with a seal already stamped on it, as well as a title just below it. Only one word is written: Inquisition.

A dwarven postman walks into Norli’s office, dropping off the letter. The High Preceptor dons his glasses as he examines the final letter, a few emotions going across his face. He feels sadness for the end of a competent leader’s reign, fear for what could have scared Jorvin away, guilt if he was at fault, but at the end of it, Norli knew one thing. He was happy for Jorvin, for he knew Jorvin wouldn’t leave if Jorvin felt he was still needed, and now finally his Clan Father could rest. Norli Starbreaker puts down the letter, and pulls out his own paper and puts the ink to parchment as he writes a song promised long ago to a worthy leader who surely if anyone would earn Yemekar’s bidding.

DA KIRKJA DVERGA ~ ᛞᚨ ᚴᛁᚱᚴᛃᚨ ᛞᚡᛖᚱᚷᚨ ~ Da Kirkja Dverga is the most crucial cultural institution within dwed society, the foundation on which all dwed traditions are built. It is the supreme authority on the seven sacred hosts of Khaz’A’Dentrumm, the Brathmordakin. The institution involves itself with all things cultural to the sons and daughters of Urguan, hosting festivals, teaching traditions, conducting rites and other methods of service to the Brathmordakin. DA NOZAGAR’KRON The core purpose of da Kirkja Dverga is to ensure the faith of the dwedmar and be its teaching authority. Although often done through sermons, teachings and rites, the main method by which dwed faith is preserved is through the body of writings known as the Nozagar’Kron. This contains teachings of the Brathmordakin, excerpts on Paragons and Heroes, myths and legends, and a collection of all sermons and letters. However not everything within the Nozagar’Kron is available to all dwarves, more complicated theories withheld to avoid confusion and chaos in the masses. BRATHMORDAKIN The Brathmordakin consists of seven gods, each patron to certain themes of creation. The Brathmordakin were created as YEMEKAR forged the world, a result of the divine craft. They reign from Khaz’A’Dentrumm over all creation, guiding the forces and themes that shape our lives. YEMEKAR, God of Creation [Link] ANBELLA, God of Life [Link] GRIMDUGAN, God of Greed [Link] ARMAKAK, God of Trade [Link] BELKA, God of Passion [Link] OGRADHAD, God of Wisdom [Link] DUNGRIMM, God of Death [Link] CREATION MYTHOS The tale recanting the creation of the world by YEMEKAR. With every step in the process of shaping reality did each host of the Brathmordakin come into being, manifesting alongside the themes of his design. Described then is the shaping of the souls, the creation of Krug, Malin, Horen and Urguan. [Link] THE PARAGONS AND HEROES There are those dwedmar who live their lives filled with honor and dedication, who earn such a prestigious rank as that of Paragon or Hero. These dwedmar have shown to be examples of honor and worship of the Brathmordakin, especially the Paragons who are elevated to a position greater than all dwedmar in Khaz’A’Dentrumm, assisting the Brathmordakin in leading it. [WIP: No link outside of portfolios] KHAZ’A’DENTRUMM When a dwed soul must part the mortal world, DUNGRIMM carries their soul carefully to Khaz’A’Dentrumm. Should they have been dishonorable and rejected the teachings of the Brathmordakin, should they instead have taken on the teachings of the Betrayer and his servants, they would fall from DUNGRIMM’s grasp and be cast into forever the darkness of Vuur’dor. Should DUNGRIMM’s grip stay true on an honored soul, they are brought to Khaz’A’Dentrumm where they are auctioned by the Brathmordakin, and live a life of eternal happiness and honor with their ancestors and their gods. [WIP: No link] DA KHAZ’UR’KIRAKMAR Da Khaz’ur’Kirakmar, dwed for Temple, refers to the structure of da Kirkja Dverga itself. With the sons and daughters of Urguan moving between several lands, countless shrines and holy structures falling to the enemy, it is not the construct itself but the organization of da Kirkja Dverga that is the source of holiness. The structure of the clergy is divided in two, higher leadership and lower ranks, and overall offers higher ranks to people with more developed understandings of the Brathmordakin. DA RHADAV’KARAAD Da Rhadav’Karaad is the title for the leadership of da Kirkja Dverga, the innermost sanctum. It comprises the highest authorities on the Brathmordakin, retired and acting. Dwedmar who have dedicated their entire life to service of the Brathmordakin. Led by the High Prophet, da Rhadav’Karaad dictates clergy structure, religious doctrine, and other decisions regarding the faith of the dwarves. High Prophet The greatest authority on the faith, the High Prophet leads da Rhadav’Karaad, and with their assistance da Kirkja Dverga. He cannot alone discern the will of the Brathmordakin, and can only decide official doctrine with guidance of the other Prophets and Priests. Prophets Among the highest authorities on the faith, in order to earn the title of Prophet one must establish themself as a grand authority on the faith, demonstrate exceptional loyalty to the Brathmordakin, and hold devotion to help lead the clergy through thick and thin. In council led by the High Prophet, the Prophets hold supreme authority over all matters of faith, although they can choose to relinquish that power for a priest-wide vote. Scholars Scholars are retired Prophets and leaders of the faith who have retained extensive wisdom but are no longer active in leadership of da Kirkja Dverga. They hold a greater religious understanding than many Prelates, but due to being less active in their studies and devotion to the Brathmordkain, do not maintain any higher leading authority. They are consulted by the Rhadav’Karaad, but have no actual power besides this. Prelates Prelates are those who are designated authorities on a specific member of the Brathmordakin and are tasked with leading worship dedicated to that god. This does not mean however they are to forsake reverence for the rest of the seven, but simply that for organization they are to manage the duties of one god. Prelates are a strong authority on the faith and on the clergy structure itself. In decisions regarding clergy structure and all external dealings, the Prelates have voting power alongside the Prophets. DA VATHMARAVOS Da Vathmaravos is the term referring to the standard ranks of the clergy, composed of people who have begun their journey of dedication to the Brathmordakin. It is entirely common for members of da Vathmaravos to hold ranks outside of the clergy, such as in guilds or within their clans. Although these members have professed their dedication to the Brathmordakin and da Kirkja Dverga, it is not yet expected of them to devote themselves fully to it. Priest A Priest is the first rank of the clergy that holds any particularly strong religious authority. In order to become a Priest, a Cleric must have first performed at least 7 teachings/sermons, and written one original writing to add to the Nozagar’Kron, then he must choose at least one god to officially declare an oath to. Priests can be sworn into as many Brathmordakin as they want. Once they have been sworn in, they are able to conduct the rituals of that god. Should the Prophet Council choose so, certain religious doctrinal decisions are made on a priest wide vote. A priest must hold two sermons per month as well as uphold all vows made to the Brathmordakin. If any are broken, they risk demotion and punishment. Cleric A Cleric is the most basic and standard rank of da Kirkja Dverga. Clerics are able to perform sermons and work on clergy projects, but cannot lead rites of the Brathmordakin. In order to become a Cleric, an Initiate must have scribed or written three different documents, proving their extensive study of the Brathmordakin. Once they have proven themselves, an Initiate then must be blessed by a member of the Rhadaav’Karaad to become a Cleric. Having reached the rank of Cleric, the member continues to perform sermons, create writings, and do overall service to the Brathmordakin until he is ready to be made a priest. A Cleric must hold two sermons per month, and should they fail to risk demotion and punishment. Initiate An Initiate is someone who has just begun their journey of service to the Brathmordakin within da Kirkja Dverga. In order to become an Initiate, a dwed must prove a basic level of understanding of the Brathmordakin. One must then take an oath to the Brathmordakin in the Temple, overseen by a Priest of YEMEKAR. After their initiation, Initiates tend to apprentice to and accompany many Priests to learn more during their clerical trials.

Noobert#4534 regions of ruin looks cool

RP Name:: Norli Starbreaker MC Username: A_New_Noob Discord: Noobert#4534 What Nation Are You Affliated With?: Urguan Why Do You Wish To Come?: To see the lands of his ancestors, to learn the religious traditions of old clergies, and to find inspiration for writing songs and poems. What Skills Can You Bring?: Norli has had experience fighting in the past, and has a good understanding of history, including Athera. But most useful is neither of these, but instead Norli’s famous musical talent! Having made countless songs and ballads, Norli will surely be able to give inspiration through his music to those with him on the voyage, and will make great songs and tales of the actions taken by the descendants in Athera.

grr have regenerating ore veins scattered along mountains But for now this is good

[!] High Preceptor Norli heads to the meeting to sign the document, only to see his arrogant preceptors writing out massive signatures. He sighs. He signs. [!] Norli Starbreaker High Preceptor eron da Kirkja Dverga

[!] Nailed to the bulletin board of Kal’Evraal, plainly now for everyone to see in contrast to the first letter, is a response from Morag Goldhand. It reads as follow. [!] -=- In Response to a Hypocrite -=- I am Morag Goldhand, son of Marguan Goldhand son of Pinki Goldhand son of Finki Goldhand son of Alfados Goldhand who is of course a direct descendent of Tungdil Goldhand. Armakak praising, dwarven goods trading GOLDHAND blood runs through my veins. To my very core I am a Goldhand. However, two stone days ago I had written a letter I had been reluctantly planning for some time. It was posted one every Clan possession of the Aurokanar Kazamar. It was a rejection of the leadership of Hekkaes Anvilaxe as Clan Father of the Goldhands. In it I outlined and layed out the reasons I have distaste in his leadership, and explained what I would do moving forward. I said, and I maintain this now, that I would keep the name Goldhand for it is my name, although I would not work with Hekkaes under any circumstances, since he had pushed me away from the clan. I made a reasonable argument, and kept it as much as I could between my clansmen and Hekkaes. He responded like a child, tearing down all the letters I had posted and hiding it from our clan, controlling the information. He then proceeded to make his own letter condemning me, one that was public and spread across the Under-Realm. He manipulated the information available to our kinsmen to control the story, accusing me of lies, and hiding my actual letter to stop people from checking his accusations. I suspected he may try to control the narrative of the story, but to this extent? Hiding my responses, tearing down flyers, and grudging me under false grounds? Hekkaes Anvilaxe, ye Hypocrite, who would call me liar and slanderer and deceive your supposed own clan. In my letter I assert that Hekkaes is power-hungry, and only returned to Ulrah when he knew he was being given leadership of Clan Goldhand. He denies this, then continues to repeat what I said. His only defense was that Thoak offered him the leadership... which I never asserted was false. Yet by taking away my letter he controlled the spread of information, and set me up to be a liar when I said no such things. I had also asserted that he broke an oath by leaving the Goldhand clan to make his own Clan, Anvilaxe. This is also true, which he confirms, yet he backs it up by saying he beat Morug oz Brathmordakin in a duel, so it is void. It is true, by the nature of the grudge filed, that the grudge was voided. But that does not change the fact that he had left the clan, and only rejoined when given leadership. It was a fair deal, yes, but that does not stop the truth of the matter that Hekkaes only came back for his personal gain. He also claims that I lied about the death of Dargur Goldhand. This is also absurd, being how it is an indisputable fact he had killed Dargur. Yes it was done in an honor-duel, but such an honor-duel should never had happened, since there was a sentence that Dargur was expected to serve to redeem himself. Instead, by rushing an honor-duel, Hekkaes only insured that his clan member would die a slaver. I have thought much on that occurrence, questioning why Dargur had agreed to honor-duel, and have come to the conclusion that in guilt, Dargur had wished to escape from the world. He knew what he did was wrong, and deeply regretted breaking such a basic rule of our faith in the Brathmordakin. In this case, he should have been put on a suicide watch and helped to redeem himself. Instead, Hekkaes pushed him to die. I suspect this was to make sure that the clan’s public image, and by extension Hekkaes’ money making ability, was not impeded. Now as much as we are a clan of merchants, we should not forsake our kinsmen who are in need and debt, and let any wrongs of theirs go unresolved just to save ourselves of the hassle. I do not consider you worthy of the punishment a kinslayer should face, but by no means do I consider your decision making competent and with the Clan’s best intentions in mind. Lastly, the grudge placed against me. I believe the grudge should be considered void since I broke no oath. The oath dictates to say loyalty to the clan, and I have remained loyal by not leaving, to show respect to clan elders and fathers, and to not get greedy and trick other dwarves, especially goldhands. One may argue that I broke the promise that I am to respect the clan’s elders and father by making my letter, but I would respond by saying Hekkaes forcing me not to work with a certain organization over his own personal squabble and demanding I only work independent or with the clan broke the oath first, because he is acting greedy and manipulative with me. No Goldhand should have his praise of Armakak and trade business should be impeded. I have not spread lies, for everything I said was true and confirmed by yourself in your rebuttal. Therefore by the reasons I have outlined here, I find your grudge void. But I do wish to resolve this problem, and I have such faith in the veracity of my position I will fight for it. Despite your grudge being nonsensical and filled with misconceptions out of a desire to end this conflict, I will fight for my honor and accept the duel. I know that you would dedicate your entire being to ruining my life if I do not respond, so you force my hand. I apologize to my Clan if they are being dragged into this conflict, and implore you, Hekkaes Anvilaxe, to not force our kin to take a side. I will meet you under the watch of a Remembrancer as a Judge of our fight to make honorable this conflict, and will fight with weapon and armor to defend myself in this honor duel you launch against me. May our ancestors smile upon the honorable and Dungrimm guide the righteous weapon. Narvak oz Armakak Narvak oz da Aurokanar Kazamar Signed Morag Goldhand -=-

[!] Morag notices Hekkaes take down the flyer, and as well the cave dwarf put them back up. He rushes to stop the cave dwarf, telling him there was no need to get into Goldhand business, although the gesture was appreciated. Morag now looks back at the door of the Clan Hall, disgruntled and angry. He takes the copy that the cave dwarf had put up and brings it with him, annoyed that his message is being censored from other Goldhands. Exactly what he feared would happen, Hekkaes manipulating information to the dwarves, was happening.

Nailed to the door of the Goldhand Fort in Sutica, the door of the Goldhand Clan Hall in Kal’Evraal, and the door of Goldhand Manor in Kal’Evraal is the following letter. There is no copy on the Bulletin Board of Kal’Evraal, although it is not impossible that a passerby of any of the listed locations may view it. It is a sad state of affairs when a dwed feels they are being pushed to leave their Clan Father, but tis the state I find myself in. I am Morag Goldhand, son of Marguan Goldhand son of Pinki Goldhand son of Finki Goldhand son of Alfados Goldhand, who is grandson to Tungdil Goldhand. My blood runs with pride and passion for trade and for the Merchant Father Armakak, and my ancestors' blood before me. The Clan is currently led by Hekkaes. And although I wish no ill to Hekkaes, for I still consider him a friend even if he wouldn't consider me one, he has pushed me away from his leadership. In the past he has slurred the race of the clan's ancestors. Even farther in the past he has abandoned the clan, as anybody who looks at the Grudgebook would know. I have been tempted for a while to voice openly my distaste with Hekkaes' leadership of the clan, but decided not to out of a desire to keep the clan united and strong. But that changed recently, for Hekkaes pushed me over the edge. He now has placed regulations and rules on who we may and may not trade with, banning me from joing a guild designed to praise and honor Armakak over a petty squabble he has with a weakly associated organization to it. Hekkaes, the once deserter of the Clan, has threatened to expel me, who's ancestors have lived for this clan and the will of Armakak since Tungdil himself, over a personal squabble he has with a guild not even associated with Armakak's Coin. But this disagreement is not about my joining of the guild, it is that he would threaten to expel someone over something so small, so mundane. It speaks volumes of his nature, and reveals him for the master of deception he is, not the facade of an honorable and hard-working merchant he puts on for the world. He has used the Clan to grow his own coffers and push his own personal views since his leadership began, as is evident by a brief analysis of his actions as leader. He left the Clan in the first place, breaking an oath, for his own benefit. He rejoined it only when he knew he’d become leader of the Clan. He killed Dargur Goldhand, a convicted slaver, so to save face for himself and the clan, rather than try improve Dargur to become a more honorable dwed. He has slurred the race of the ancestors of the Clan to further his political agenda and align himself closer with other mountain dwed clans, rather than contribute anything meaningful to them. He has insisted that all business a Goldhand does goes either to themself or the Goldhand Clan, which is of course managed by him, only deepening his own coffers. I will not be threatened by a trickster, I will not let my praise of Armakak be stopped by anyone, let alone the very people who should encourage it. May I make it clear, I have no ill will to any Goldhand, they are my kinsmen. But I will not recognize the authority and legitimacy of a Clan Father who has left the clan, killed members of our clan, slurred our ancestors and inhibits the praise of Armakak. Therefore I reject the status of Hekkaes as Clan Father of the Goldhands, but I do not claim it. I've not the wisdom nor experience to claim it. Instead I shall conduct my praise to Armakak and business on my own with my family. I do not ask of the rest of the Clan to take a side, in fact I encourage them not to. I love you, for you are my Clan, regardless what Hekkaes may say. I say to you my fellow Goldhands to stay with Hekkaes if he does not impede your worship of Armakak. This conflict is not between me and the Goldhands, simply me and Hekkaes. The only reason I go public is because I know the nature of Hekkaes, and know he will do everything in his power to warp this against me. Hekkaes Anvilaxe, I know that you read this. You may to attempt to expel me from my name, but I simply do not care what you say. I am a Goldhand through and through even if you dare deny it, and I will love my Clan and Armakak even if you deny it. Narvak oz Armakak Narvak oz da Aurokanar Kazamar Signed Morag Goldhand

High Preceptor Norli Starbreaker makes his way to the most carefully watched chamber within Urguan, where both Remembrancers and their guards vigilantly stalk that most sacred book in Dwarfdom, the Dwarven Book of Grudges. Following him are the two Preceptors, who had both given their approval on what was to be done. He approaches the book, and carefully grabs the quill pen, looking once more to Preceptor Baldin, his second in command, Herald of Yemekar, and then to his mentor and friend, Preceptor Thorin Treebeard, as if to give one last chance to discuss. A brief moment passes, but no words are said. The leader of Da Kirkja Dverga turns his head back to that most hallowed book, and puts down the pen to the paper to make known the sins of the Onyx Sanctum and its leadership. [ THE WRONGED ] THE BRATHMORDAKIN [ THE ASSAILANT ] Dark Elves of the Onyx Sanctum. Dak’ir Des’Nox and Daichia Jusmia. [ THE WRONG ] Desecration of Dwarven Ruins. Release of Monsters in Dwarven Lands. Refusal to negotiate or discuss with Dwarven Leaders. Mockery of the Brathmordakin by worshipping false gods in Dwarven Lands. [ TERMS OF SETTLEMENT ] Capture of Dak’ir Des’Nox and Daichia Jusmia to be tried before the the Court of Urguan or da Kirkja Dverga. Tribute offered to the Brathmordakin and submission to the true gods of the Under-Realm. High Preceptor Norli Starbreaker put the pen down, and turned to the Preceptors. Again, nothing was said, and a mutual understanding was held between the three. But there was not time to dwell on the situation, much work was to be done, and the three made their way out of the hall of that most sacred book, and towards the tavern. Norli led the clergy-leaders into a private room where he wrote down a public statement from the Preceptor-Council to be pinned to every bulletin board in dwarven lands and further. “As both the ever vigilant and the dull have both heard, not long ago a group of dark elves took to creating a home for themselves within the cavern networks of the Dwarven Under-Realm. Urguan had sent a diplomat to discuss the relationship of the dwedmar and the people of the Onyx Sanctum, for that is what this forsaken hold the dark elves inhabit is known by, for of course it is the righteous duty of the dwedmar to ensure that the lands of our ancestors and dead kinsmen is not inhabited by dishonorable folk. Since then, the people of the Onyx Sanctum have desecrated dwarven ruins and burial grounds, released monsters into our caverns, and arguably the most heinous crime, worshipped false gods in the lands of the true gods of the Brathmordakin. Both Clan Starbreaker and Clan Irongrinder already have made grudges against the sinful perpetrators of these crimes, as well as a continuation of the infamous Holy War of the Cha Cha Slide against evil led by the Legion of Mercy, which da Kirkja Dverga shall give its full support and deem legitimate. As the protector and main body in charge of dwed culture, da Kirkja Dverga, is taking even further action to bring honor back to the lands that have been tainted where once the Onyx Sanctum stood, who’s people now flee rather than diplomacy or face consequences for their crimes. The Dwarven ruins and burial grounds that the dark elves had desecrated will be refurbished and our ancestor’s land honored. The monsters that the dark elves had let loose upon the caverns will be hunted down and purged. Any heresies or false beliefs found in the lands of the dwarves will be eradicated. Those who brought forth such chaos in our lands will be tried in court of Urguan law or by Preceptor Council. These promises we make to the Brathmordakin, and as They as our witness shall we make honorable the lands made sinful by the Onyx Sanctum. Narvak oz da Brathmordakin” Norli Starbreaker High Preceptor eron da Kirkja Dverga Baldin Ironside Preceptor eron da Kirkja Dverga Herald of Yemekar Ironside Patriarch Thorin Treebeard Preceptor eron da Kirkja Dverga Treebeard Clan-Father

Well dwarves are objectively the master race, of course, but it depends on your playstyle and what kinda character you want.

Morag Goldhand prepares his documents for what will be an interesting trial. As a Goldhand he had a deep passion for private property, and he would work to make sure his clients’ property would be protected.

Norli sits at the Sutican docks grumbling, oblivious to what happened as he missed the boat ride to the fight.

- Velrak Yemarin - - Holy Command - - Preamble - No doubt the most defining part of dwed culture is our faith in da Brathmordakin. It influences our foreign policy, our livelihoods, and inspires us. But a problem we face now is a slight lack of organization, where we do not know who believes and what they believe within Urguan. This lack of organization has led to many problems, and the clergy has decided that not only will increased organization allow us to make sure beliefs are homogenous throughout Urguan, but also give the faithful a way to interact in da Kirkja Dverga. - Action - In order to solve this problem, da Kirkja Dverga has set out to design a ceremony in which the believer may profess their faith in da Brathmordakin, bringing the faithful closer in understanding relationship with da Brathmordakin as well as allowing da Kirkja Dverga to take note of who in Urguan has a good understanding. In order to take place in the ceremony, one must fulfill certain requirements: Proven a basic understanding of da Brathmordakin with a Priest. Willing to do the ceremony of their own accord, not forced to by another. Old enough to be mentally mature, 60 years for a dwarf. - Procedure - The faithful is to be invited to a shrine to da Brathmordakin. Any family who would wish to attend may do so. The faithful is to pledge their faith in the Brathmordakin, and to promise to live a life so that their soul is in balance, exactly as Yemekar had intended. To reject the ambition of Khorvad and to put Yemekar’s creation first. “I humbly offer my faith to the Brathmordakin, led by the All-Maker and Forge-Father Yemekar, who on the Ruhn-Anvil forged all souls and all lands, and to live a life of balance just as Yemekar intended for his creation. I reject all heresy and temptations of Khorvad, and swear to live as Yemekar designed for my soul.” The faithful must add to the end of this pledge a few words of their own design, regarding how they believe they will do service to the Brathmordakin, be it as an artist, smith, or warrior. Ex: “I will honor Yemekar through my craftsmanship and creation, and with divine inspiration will I forge great works.” Ex: “I will honor Armakak in my work, and bring great wealth and prosperity to my people through fair trade.” If both announcements of faith and service to the Brathmordakin are done properly as deemed by the priest, the priest is to give a blessing in the name of da Brathmordakin. Part of the blessing is the same throughout all ceremonies, while part of it must be made by the priest in reflection of the words of the faithful. After blessing is given, the priest offers a Ring of the Faithful, and the ceremony is complete. All of these actions are to occur in the name of Da Kirkja Dverga and da Brathmordakin which it serves. Norli Starbreaker High Preceptor of Da Kirkja Dverga

Oh no syb and my dwarf friends are arguing mom pick me up im scared

Norli Starbreaker would grunt, finding the wording extremely flawed. “So here’s the problem with the treaty, it’s wording is vague. Conflict or aggression towards a nation could mean either a conflict occurs or there is aggression towards one of the nations, or it can mean conflict and or aggression towards one of the signing parties. The council interpreted the latter. If Irrinor had not slaughtered messengers or made the declaration of war themselves I have no doubt every dwarf would have been eager to help. But in the eyes of the dwarves, the only justified war is one that preserves balance in Yemekar’s creation, and if you would be the aggressive force and cease negotiations to declare war, without asking for the input of your allies, you should not expect them to assist so easily and happily. If the war begins to go in Oren’s favor know that we will all be there to help you.” Norli gives a respectful bow, then would mjander away.

Norli Starbreaker sits in the Ruined Runesmith, calmly sipping on some Dr Beard(TM), before he hears some rumor spreading, hearing words slip past the thin veil of secrecy over the gossip. “...Starbreaker...grudge...” Norli was mid sip of his delicious cold Dr Beard(TM) when he hears this, his eyes shooting open, and his grip of the drink slipping, the bottle crashing against the wood table. The two gossipers turn to see who dropped it, only to barely catch Norli sprinting towards the Library. ”No,” he vainly calls out repeatedly, “No no no no NOOO!” He makes his way after dashing up the spiraling road to the library, panting as he spies the book. “Please, not again, for the love of Anbella please don’t tell me my clan started ANOTHER random grudge over nothing.” He finally is close enough to read the words, and his eyes squint as he reads the paper of this most hallowed book. His expression changes as he realizes for once that a grudge wasn’t over something stupid, but changes back to concern as he realizes that several of his clansmen are injured. “May we honor Dungrimm in our courage, and bring peace to Yemekar’s creation. Narvak oz Urguan, Narvak oz Kornazkarumm.”