Halls of the Dead
May Myrkra's darkness protect you for all time.The Halls of the Dead are large crypts constructed by the dwarves as a final resting place for the remains of their departed and their ancestors. The dwarves are laid to rest in tombs specifically engraved for the departed dwarf.A dwarven final rite
Location
The Halls are typically built into the existing mines constructed by the first dwarves aeons before. These tend to be located at the base of mountains around established dwarven settlements. The halls have been expanded several times through the ages when there is a requirement to do so. Typically the old mines go much further down than the halls.Body Preparation
Many dwarves specialise into tomb engraving as their profession. Their job is to engrave the lid of the tomb to the likeness of the dwarf. This can be somewhat problematic if the departed dwarf died in battle and the body retrieved is difficult to work with so the tomb engraver may need to take some artistic improvisation with input from associates of the dwarf. Once the engraving has been completed the body is the prepared for the burial ceremony. Usually this means making the body presentable for the carrying to the tomb. The dwarves tools of his profession are also placed with the body, whether it be picks, chisels or swords and axes. Runes with Myrkra's sigil are also placed upon the body, typically on the forehead to allow Myrkra to guide their spirit to the afterlife.Burial Ritual
The burial ritual consists of a ceremony held at the entrance to the Halls where the majority of dwarves paying the respects will congregate. Once the procession begins, the dwarves will approach the body place their left hand upon the body and pay their last respects. Usually this consists of a small prayer asking for Myrkra's blessing but it is also a time to forgive any misgivings they may have had with the departed. It is considered bad fortune to hold onto a grudge to one who has departed. After the last respects have been paid the body will then be carried into the Halls and down to the tomb. Only the closest of family, friends, the head of the clan and the Hallkeeper will join the carrying. Each dwarf will take with them a single candle (usually of the clans favoured colour) with them. The Hallkeeper will lead the carrying as he will know the location of the tomb and how to get there. The carrying is made in silence in the dimmest of lantern light as Myrkra watches over the halls in her darkness. Once the body has arrived at the tomb it is then placed inside the tomb. The candles are placed around the body inside the tomb and lit. Each member of the carrying will then be able to pay their last respect, again with their left hand placed upon the body to ask for Myrkra's blessing and guidance and to forgive any last misgivings. This will all be completed in silence and once each member has paid their last respects the lid will be slid shut and the members will make their return journey.
Type
Crypt
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