Dwarven Inspiration

Dwarves tend to be very diligent, but sometimes this diligence is overridden by something called Inspiration. Once afflicted by Inspiration the dwarf refuses to take part in any part of normal life outside of the construction of a single item, This item can be something as simple as a beer tap.
Usually the created items are much more sophisticated, from weapons, tools and instruments to statues and other furniture. The one thing that all these items have in common is that they are, in essence magical. They have their own personality and strive to fulfill their task. It is virtually impossible to find an item better than an item constructed during inspiration.

Causes

It is unclear where Inspiration actually comes from. Many have theorized that it is the most pure expression of dwarven nature, while others maintain that it is Arbor and Grodus blessing dwarves that adhere to their tenants. It might well be a mixture of both.

Symptoms

It is very difficult to realize when a dwarf is becoming affected with inspiration. Fortunately Dwarven Inspiration can be avoided for about one week before it becomes inevitable. The symptoms include a social dissidence extreme even for the most reclusive dwarves, muttering and designing blueprints in every free minute.

Treatment

If the inspiration is recognized early it is possible to remove the dwarf from any work related to his desired construct. If this is done he will soon calm down and the item will slowly fade from his mind. This must be done before the dwarf claims a workspace.
Normally this is not done though, as Inspiration is seen as the purest essence of what it means to be a dwarf. It is advised by the dwarven leaders of the clan to always have at least one dwarf watching the afflicted and carefully listening to the mutterings, as these are usually also the resources the dwarf will need. If they contain any dangerous, forbidden or morally inadmissible resources, such as dwarf bones, it is required by law to restrain the dwarf and keep him from work with any means possible.
If the workspace has been claimed by the dwarf there is no way to treat the Inspiration. The dwarf will either finish the construction, or die in the process.

Prognosis

When a dwarf begins dreaming of a single item they slowly begin muttering strange words. He loses interest in any social contact and prepares blueprints for his work. After about a week he will search for a workshop and, once finding one, will claim it for his own. He will guard against prying eyes through temporary walls.
Once the temporary walls have been set up a note is attached with the materials he needs for the construct. Depending on the preparations needed the dwarf will remain within the workshop for three days to a few weeks. He emerges and then searches for the materials. If they are not made available he will leave and stop at nothing to attain what he needs.
Once everything the dwarf needs has been procured he returns to the workshop. He will remain within until whatever he is building is finished. It is highly advisable to leave the dwarf alone as he reacts extremely aggressive to any disturbances. Food placed at the entrance to the workshop will be taken. During the affliction the dwarf does not actually need to eat, but if not fed the dwarf will emerge highly malnourished.

Sequela

While not certain, dwarves once affected by inspiration will often fall into depression many months after they have completed their task. They realize, no matter how much they may try, they will never make anything that could even compare with what they had just made. As a result many of these dwarves stop making anything and switch into teaching or leadership roles.

Affected Groups

While all dwarves can theoretically be afflicted, Inspiration almost exclusivly affects the most skilled and respected craftsdwarves. In a few cases less reputable dwarves or non-craftsdwarves were afflicted, but they later proved themselves to be more than capable.

History

The first known case of Inspiration was shortly before the unveiling of the statue of Grodmolim Stormguard. Jondred Lightforge began acting erraticly. His respected position saved him from being killed for his behavior, but when he reamerged he had made Stormfury.

Cultural Reception

Dwarves afflicted by Inspiration are regarded with special reverie. They are seen as the pinnacle of dwarven ideals and, regardless of what item they actually create, are treated with the utmost respect. They often become leaders within their respective clans or great teachers. Even on the great table of the clan meeting a dwarf that has had Inspiration holds a special position and will always be listened to.

Type

Divine

Origin

Divine

Cycle

Short-term

Rarity

Extremely Rare

Affected Species

• Dwarf