Righting the Scales

History

Dwarves are quick to acknowledge favors received and repay debts as quickly as possible. However, this isn't because dwarves are uncomfortable with the thought of remaining in debt to someone for fear they may have power over them, as is often the case with other races. Rather, it comes from a desire to correct an imbalance--a favor one dwarf provides another tips the scales, and the other party feels obligated to reciprocate to return the material plane to a state of equilibrium.

Righting the scales is a Dwarven tradition that reflects their deep respect for Kord, god of stability, balance and death.The custom's exact origins are unknown.

Execution

The initiator kneels before the beneficiary with hands held outward, palms facing up, and the left hand higher than the other. The gesture visually resembles an unbalanced scale. The beneficiary touches the right hand (the lower of the two) and says, "Balance is restored", after which the initiator may stand up.

Observance

Dwarves right the scales to formally acknowledge the receipt of a significant favor and/or to repay a significant debt. It isn't performed with every single such occurrence. Instead, a dwarf subjectively chooses to perform it according to the importance they assign to a particular debt or favor.

Dwarves very rarely right the scales with other races; as such, a dwarf who does so is non-verbally declaring their utmost respect and loyalty to the other party.

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