Dwarf
Title of the People
Deep mines, far-spread education, and knowledge far beyond their lifespans are traits of a people who are larger than life, greater than singular contributions, or a single lifespan. While it may be simplest to tie such successes to a race, these people see it differently, they see themselves not just as a race of people, but as a way of life and beliefs that define wholly lives dedicated to their people and their god. For them, what they are called is an honor, one not to be given to just anyone, but one to be shared with those who are like-minded and willing to pursue knowledge and skill in the name of progress and what could be for the greater good.
The title of Dwarf is not one earned, often noted as more difficult to receive than the coveted title of Adamantine Smith. To be granted such a title is to become a Dwarf, be part of the Dwarven Kingdom, and share in their success and progress. To not uphold the rigorous standards required of these people is to fail your fellow kinsmen and bring dishonor to those that rarely, if ever, truly cast aside one of their own. Being a Dwarf is to share camaraderie and knowledge, a similar mindset, and a way of living that transcends races and peoples.
Qualifications
The qualifications to be named a Dwarf are not written out anywhere as this title is one that is granted by the Dwarven King on a case-by-case basis. A variety of people have been granted this title over the millennia based on different criteria as decided by each King. It is said that King Maximus Thunderbeard III has been the most willing to grant this title during his tenure, giving it to a large variety of races.
Adopted children are the most common recipients of the title so they are afforded all that the Dwarven Kingdom offers to their citizens. In most instances, children have to live with their adopted families for a least a year and be raised with the beliefs of the Dwarves to be welcomed into the fold. This is rarely an issue as very few children adopted into Dwarven families choose to forsake the kingdom and people who welcomed them with open arms.
Others who have entered the Dwarven Kingdom may gain the title of Dwarf but their criteria are far less strict and predetermined. Many who receive the title have some skill that they have offered in service of the kingdom, such as smithing, academic knowledge, or a variety of crafts. The choice to give the title is dependent upon the King and historically, the Dwarven Kings have been very welcoming to all.
Appointment
A special ceremony is held for those who have been granted the title of Dwarf, but it is not nearly as large as those held for newly named Adamantine Smiths. This ceremony is often small, with only a few in attendance. A regal dinner is held with the King and his court, honoring those who have been given such a gift. The honored guest will be gifted with a small adamantite object as a token of their new position.
Cultural Significance
The title of Dwarf is one not taken lightly in the Dwarven Kingdom as it brings with it a sense of kinship but also rights given by the law. All Dwarves are allowed certain rights as granted by Dwarven Law, such as access to education and a great deal else. As an outsider, being given the title of Dwarf allows one the same rights and grants them citizenship as part of the Dwarven Kingdom.
In any way that matters, Dwarves see those who have been given this title to be of their own blood and kin. Beyond just rights under Dwarven Law, the title gives outsiders a family and a way of life that created great success in terms of craftsmanship and academia. While mostly seen as a legal title, there is more to being a Dwarf that is defined by the culture.
Dwarf
The title of Dwarf is one not given lightly. All manner of people can be given this title but it is one only granted by the current Dwarven King. Once given, the title allows a person certain rights as part of the Dwarven Kingdom.
I really love that Dwarf is a title that can be given to people of any race. It's such a unique thing to your setting.
Explore Etrea