Brul (/bʁuːl/)
Translates to "Hill" from the original Dwarvish into Common.
Brul dwarves are a unique group of dwarves with distinct physical attributes. They are known for their stout and tough build, possessing strong muscles and tanned skin. Although they are less agile than other dwarves, their physical strength is unparalleled.
On average, Brul dwarves stand at around 4 feet tall, and they are as heavy as a full-grown human. They possess light brown or tanned skin, which is significantly darker than that of most dwarves. Their distinguishing features also include brown or hazel eyes and black, gray, or brown hair, which fades to light gray as they age. Brul dwarf males and some females have the ability to grow beards, which they carefully groom and grow to great lengths. These beards are a symbol of pride and honor within their clan.
Brul dwarves are a unique group of dwarves with distinct physical attributes. They are known for their stout and tough build, possessing strong muscles and tanned skin. Although they are less agile than other dwarves, their physical strength is unparalleled.
On average, Brul dwarves stand at around 4 feet tall, and they are as heavy as a full-grown human. They possess light brown or tanned skin, which is significantly darker than that of most dwarves. Their distinguishing features also include brown or hazel eyes and black, gray, or brown hair, which fades to light gray as they age. Brul dwarf males and some females have the ability to grow beards, which they carefully groom and grow to great lengths. These beards are a symbol of pride and honor within their clan.
Culture
Shared customary codes and values
The Brul dwarves have a culture that is unique in its relaxed and open attitude towards the outside world. Unlike other dwarven cultures that rely on the protection of mountains to keep them safe from external threats, the Brul dwarves use their intuition and insight to guide them in their relationships with other peoples. They frequently form defensive pacts with nearby communities to offset any disadvantages that come with their lack of geographical protection.
Although Brul dwarves highly value the skills of their best artisans, they understand that diplomacy and trade are key elements in the survival of their clan. They appreciate the importance of creating high-quality goods that they can trade with others, not only to enrich their clan but also to form bonds with their neighbors.
Brul dwarves take great pride in being the true keepers of dwarf culture. They can sometimes come off as haughty and prideful, but they lack the fatalistic pessimism that can be found among other dwarven cultures. They are deeply conservative and root their values and beliefs in traditions that have survived for millennia, even as the world around them has changed.
From infancy, gold dwarves are taught that their life is determined by tradition. They are instructed on what their profession should be, who they should marry, and other important aspects of their life. This emphasis on tradition helps to ensure that the values and beliefs of the Brul dwarves continue to be passed down from generation to generation, thus ensuring the survival of their clan for years to come.
Although Brul dwarves highly value the skills of their best artisans, they understand that diplomacy and trade are key elements in the survival of their clan. They appreciate the importance of creating high-quality goods that they can trade with others, not only to enrich their clan but also to form bonds with their neighbors.
Brul dwarves take great pride in being the true keepers of dwarf culture. They can sometimes come off as haughty and prideful, but they lack the fatalistic pessimism that can be found among other dwarven cultures. They are deeply conservative and root their values and beliefs in traditions that have survived for millennia, even as the world around them has changed.
From infancy, gold dwarves are taught that their life is determined by tradition. They are instructed on what their profession should be, who they should marry, and other important aspects of their life. This emphasis on tradition helps to ensure that the values and beliefs of the Brul dwarves continue to be passed down from generation to generation, thus ensuring the survival of their clan for years to come.
Common Etiquette rules
Common etiquette among the Brul dwarves includes a deep respect for tradition and a strong sense of hospitality towards guests. They are formal and polite in their interactions with others, and often use formal titles when addressing elders or those in positions of authority. Additionally, they value honesty and direct communication, and tend to be straightforward and blunt in their speech. Brul dwarves also place a high value on personal space and privacy, and often take offense if someone invades their personal space without permission. Finally, they have a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards their clan and community, and are willing to make sacrifices for the greater good.
Common Dress code
The Brul dwarves are known for their exceptional care of their facial hair. They take great pride in their well-groomed and oiled beards, which serve as a symbol of their cultural identity. Aside from their beard care, Brul dwarves are also known for their appreciation of artistry and wealth. They have a rich history of mining precious gems and minerals from the depths of the earth, and they use these treasures to create stunning works of art. From intricate jewelry to ornate garments, Brul dwarves flaunt their fortune through their lavish and glittering attire. Their sense of style and love for luxury is not just a display of wealth, but a strong connection to their past and a celebration of their heritage.
Art & Architecture
Brul dwarves are known for their exquisite craftsmanship in fashioning minerals from the earth into beautiful objects. They take great pride in their work, with Brul dwarf guilds spending centuries to perfect their techniques and distinctively mark their creations as their own. However, this level of detail is not limited to just their more intricate works, as even the most simple tools bear detailed runes and carefully shaped flairs.
In terms of their geography, Brul dwarves tend to dwell in regions that do not have towering peaks like those preferred by their mountain-dwelling kin. Instead, they build stone fortresses that begin above ground but tunnel deep beneath the surface, ending in chambers that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
A typical Brul dwarf clan's settlement is a sight to behold, featuring stout walls and a sturdy gate that provides ample protection. Inside, visitors will find an array of living quarters, community areas, and a well-protected treasure vault. Despite the practical nature of these settlements, they are also quite beautiful, reflecting the Brul dwarves' dedication to craftsmanship and their appreciation for the natural beauty of the earth.
In terms of their geography, Brul dwarves tend to dwell in regions that do not have towering peaks like those preferred by their mountain-dwelling kin. Instead, they build stone fortresses that begin above ground but tunnel deep beneath the surface, ending in chambers that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
A typical Brul dwarf clan's settlement is a sight to behold, featuring stout walls and a sturdy gate that provides ample protection. Inside, visitors will find an array of living quarters, community areas, and a well-protected treasure vault. Despite the practical nature of these settlements, they are also quite beautiful, reflecting the Brul dwarves' dedication to craftsmanship and their appreciation for the natural beauty of the earth.
Common Customs, traditions and rituals
The Brul dwarves are known to be fond of having small lizards as pets, and they also keep a variety of livestock and beasts of burden, including the specially-bred Brul dwarf mules. In addition to their affinity for animals, Brul dwarf warriors are equipped with a vast array of finely crafted weapons and armor, often imbued with powerful runes that add to their effectiveness in battle.
Interestingly, the Brul dwarves are not as superstitious about magic as many other dwarven communities. While they still exercise caution in its use, they are more accepting of it and even develop their own unique spells. This could be partly due to their frequent use of enchanted weaponry, but it is primarily a result of the Brul civilization's long and storied history, which has given rise to several magical traditions.
Despite their relatively open attitude towards magic, divine spellcasters remain more prevalent among the Brul dwarves. However, it is worth noting that Brul dwarves tend to be less fervent in their religious beliefs than other dwarven groups. That being said, the priests of the gods hold great prestige within Brul dwarf society, particularly those who work as genealogists and guardians of tradition.
Interestingly, the Brul dwarves are not as superstitious about magic as many other dwarven communities. While they still exercise caution in its use, they are more accepting of it and even develop their own unique spells. This could be partly due to their frequent use of enchanted weaponry, but it is primarily a result of the Brul civilization's long and storied history, which has given rise to several magical traditions.
Despite their relatively open attitude towards magic, divine spellcasters remain more prevalent among the Brul dwarves. However, it is worth noting that Brul dwarves tend to be less fervent in their religious beliefs than other dwarven groups. That being said, the priests of the gods hold great prestige within Brul dwarf society, particularly those who work as genealogists and guardians of tradition.
Birth & Baptismal Rites
The Brul dwarves place great importance on tradition and family, and as such, the birth or baptism of a newborn is a significant event. The ceremony typically takes place in the clan's hall, with family members and close friends in attendance.
The newborn is presented to the clan's elders, who offer blessings and prayers for the child's health and prosperity. The parents, in turn, pledge to raise the child in accordance with the teachings and traditions of the clan.
After the formal ceremony, there is usually a feast where the clan members come together to celebrate the new addition to the family. Gifts are often given to the child, such as a piece of jewelry or clothing crafted by the clan's artisans.
The baptismal rite among the Brul dwarves is a solemn affair. It is typically performed by a priest of their clan's patron deity, with the parents and godparents in attendance. The priest offers blessings and prayers for the child's spiritual growth and protection, and the parents pledge to raise the child in accordance with their beliefs and traditions.
After the baptism, there is often a small celebration with family and friends, where the child is presented with gifts such as a piece of jewelry or a special talisman to commemorate the occasion.
The newborn is presented to the clan's elders, who offer blessings and prayers for the child's health and prosperity. The parents, in turn, pledge to raise the child in accordance with the teachings and traditions of the clan.
After the formal ceremony, there is usually a feast where the clan members come together to celebrate the new addition to the family. Gifts are often given to the child, such as a piece of jewelry or clothing crafted by the clan's artisans.
The baptismal rite among the Brul dwarves is a solemn affair. It is typically performed by a priest of their clan's patron deity, with the parents and godparents in attendance. The priest offers blessings and prayers for the child's spiritual growth and protection, and the parents pledge to raise the child in accordance with their beliefs and traditions.
After the baptism, there is often a small celebration with family and friends, where the child is presented with gifts such as a piece of jewelry or a special talisman to commemorate the occasion.
Coming of Age Rites
Among the Brul dwarves, coming of age is marked by a ritual ceremony that is steeped in tradition and culture. When a young dwarf reaches the age of 50, they are considered to have reached adulthood, and they are expected to undergo a series of trials that will test their strength, endurance, and wisdom. These trials are designed to help them develop the skills necessary to become a productive member of their clan and contribute to the greater good.
The trials themselves are varied and can include tasks such as crafting a piece of armor or weapon, navigating a treacherous mountain path, or negotiating a trade agreement with a neighboring community. The young dwarf is expected to complete these tasks on their own and without any outside assistance, demonstrating their self-reliance and ingenuity.
Once the trials are completed, the young dwarf is welcomed back into the clan with great fanfare and celebration. They are officially recognized as an adult and are given a new name that reflects their accomplishments and their newfound status. The coming of age ceremony is a significant event in the life of a Brul dwarf, marking their transition from childhood to adulthood and their readiness to take on the responsibilities of their clan.
The trials themselves are varied and can include tasks such as crafting a piece of armor or weapon, navigating a treacherous mountain path, or negotiating a trade agreement with a neighboring community. The young dwarf is expected to complete these tasks on their own and without any outside assistance, demonstrating their self-reliance and ingenuity.
Once the trials are completed, the young dwarf is welcomed back into the clan with great fanfare and celebration. They are officially recognized as an adult and are given a new name that reflects their accomplishments and their newfound status. The coming of age ceremony is a significant event in the life of a Brul dwarf, marking their transition from childhood to adulthood and their readiness to take on the responsibilities of their clan.
Funerary and Memorial customs
Funerary and memorial rites among the Brul dwarves are deeply rooted in their cultural traditions and beliefs. When a member of the clan passes away, their body is washed, anointed with fragrant oils, and wrapped in a white shroud. The body is then interred within a specially constructed tomb, which is adorned with intricate carvings that depict the life and achievements of the deceased.
Following the burial, a period of mourning ensues, during which time the family of the deceased remains in seclusion for several days. During this time, they are visited by members of the community, who offer their condolences and express their support to the grieving family.
After the mourning period has ended, a memorial service is held to honor the life and memory of the deceased. The service is typically held in a sacred space, such as a temple or ancestral shrine, and is presided over by a priest or priestess of the clan's god. During the service, the priest or priestess offers prayers and blessings for the deceased, and members of the community share stories and memories of their time with the departed.
At the conclusion of the service, the family of the deceased is presented with a stone tablet, upon which is inscribed the name of the deceased and a brief summary of their life and accomplishments. The tablet is then placed within the tomb, where it will remain as a permanent memorial to the deceased and a reminder of their contributions to the clan.
Overall, the funerary and memorial rites of the Brul dwarves are a deeply significant part of their culture, reflecting their reverence for their ancestors and their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage for future generations.
Following the burial, a period of mourning ensues, during which time the family of the deceased remains in seclusion for several days. During this time, they are visited by members of the community, who offer their condolences and express their support to the grieving family.
After the mourning period has ended, a memorial service is held to honor the life and memory of the deceased. The service is typically held in a sacred space, such as a temple or ancestral shrine, and is presided over by a priest or priestess of the clan's god. During the service, the priest or priestess offers prayers and blessings for the deceased, and members of the community share stories and memories of their time with the departed.
At the conclusion of the service, the family of the deceased is presented with a stone tablet, upon which is inscribed the name of the deceased and a brief summary of their life and accomplishments. The tablet is then placed within the tomb, where it will remain as a permanent memorial to the deceased and a reminder of their contributions to the clan.
Overall, the funerary and memorial rites of the Brul dwarves are a deeply significant part of their culture, reflecting their reverence for their ancestors and their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage for future generations.
Common Taboos
Among the Brul dwarves, there are several taboos that are considered to be highly disrespectful and even punishable by exile. These include:
Refusing to groom or maintain one's beard, which is seen as a sign of disrespect to one's heritage and culture.
Speaking ill of the clan or its traditions, which is viewed as an act of treason and betrayal.
Wasting resources or showing a lack of appreciation for the earth's bounty, which goes against their beliefs of conservation and sustainable living.
Disrespecting the gods or showing a lack of reverence for their power and influence, which is considered to be a grave insult to the entire clan.
Engaging in dishonest or dishonorable practices, such as cheating or lying, which goes against the Brul dwarves' code of honor and integrity.
Ideals
Beauty Ideals
The Brul dwarves place a high value on physical strength and toughness. However, they also consider thick, well-groomed beards to be attractive, as they symbolize honor and pride within their culture. Furthermore, their appreciation for luxury and artistry has led to a focus on ornate and glittering attire, with fine jewelry and intricate garments being highly prized.
Courtship Ideals
Courtship among the Brul dwarves is a formal process that is steeped in tradition. It is typically initiated by the male, who first seeks the permission of the female's clan elders before approaching her directly. If her elders grant permission, the male will then present the female with a gift, often a piece of jewelry or a finely crafted item that showcases his skill and dedication to his craft. If the female accepts the gift, she will then wear it as a sign of her interest in the male. From there, the two will engage in a series of formalized meetings and conversations, overseen by both sets of elders, until they decide whether to proceed with a more serious commitment.
Throughout the courtship process, the couple is expected to maintain a certain level of decorum and respect for one another. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and the focus is on building a strong emotional connection through shared experiences and conversations. Once the couple decides to formalize their commitment, they will exchange vows in a ceremony that is attended by both clans. The ceremony is usually conducted by a priest of the Brul dwarves' gods and involves the exchange of symbolic gifts that represent the couple's commitment to one another. After the ceremony, the couple will live together in a home that is typically located within the male's clan stronghold, where they will work together to build a life and a family.
Throughout the courtship process, the couple is expected to maintain a certain level of decorum and respect for one another. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and the focus is on building a strong emotional connection through shared experiences and conversations. Once the couple decides to formalize their commitment, they will exchange vows in a ceremony that is attended by both clans. The ceremony is usually conducted by a priest of the Brul dwarves' gods and involves the exchange of symbolic gifts that represent the couple's commitment to one another. After the ceremony, the couple will live together in a home that is typically located within the male's clan stronghold, where they will work together to build a life and a family.
Relationship Ideals
For a Brul dwarf, a strong relationship is built on trust, respect, and a shared appreciation for tradition and craftsmanship. They value loyalty and dedication, and expect their partner to be supportive of their work and ambitions. A Brul dwarf would appreciate a partner who is hardworking, practical, and shares their love for the finer things in life. They tend to be slow to open up emotionally, but once they do, they are fiercely loyal and committed. A successful relationship for a Brul dwarf is one that is built on a strong foundation of mutual respect, trust, and appreciation for one another's strengths and weaknesses.
Comments