Steinhault

Old Jotun for "Skin of Stone," the steinhault is a condition brought on by old age in the dwarven race. It has been likened to the arthritis experienced by more short-lived races such as orcs and humans, except in a much more severe form. When a dwarf reaches old age, their skin begins to harden until it resembles stone granite. This is known to cause severe discomfort as the joints lose their flexibility, and towards the end of a dwarf's life, they are often rendered completely immobile as their body slowly transforms into granite.

Causes

Dwarven legend states that the first dwarves were carved from the very stone of the Gold Peaks, and that as a dwarf reaches the end of their life they return to the same stone that gave them life.

Symptoms

As a dwarf reaches their third century, their skin begins to take on the color and complexion of granite, a process which causes no small amount of discomfort and, in later stages, extreme stiffness in the joints. In the later stages, the steinhault can cause partial or complete paralysis of limbs. If a dwarf dies a violent death, such as dying in battle or (just as likely) an industrial accident, their entire body is near-instantly transformed into granite. On the battlefield, this usually results in the killing weapon becoming encased in the now-stone body.

Prognosis

Steinhault can occur anytime after a dwarf's 300th year, after which their typical life expectancy is between 40 and 60 years. Most dwarves are still able to make a living until roughly 25 to 30 years after the steinhault sets in.

Cultural Reception

Dwarves afflicted with the steinhault are greatly respected, having lived a long life full of hard work. A dwarf whose steinhault has progresses so far that they can no longer work is typically cared for by their family until their passing. After a dwarf passes, their now-granite body is interred in a family tomb or, for members of especially venerated dwarves, displayed in a place of high honor such as a palace or temple. In the dwarven city of Dhulria, the throne room of the palace is said to be lined on each side with the body of every king to ever have ruled there.

Type

Physiological

Affected Species

• Dwarves