Living Stone

The mystery of growing stone has fascinated Dwarves for centuries after it was brought to them as a gift from the Coastal Elves.

History

As Dwarves rarely leave their mountainous homes, they have very little exposure to the outside world, content to expand down rather than out. However, when one dwarf discovered a network of sea caves, they came face to face with Sea Elves. The Elves, upon seeing the Dwarves' mastery and love of stone, offered them a gift of Living Stone. It grew in the shallow regions of the coast, in a range of bright colours. Dwarves, being creatures as dense as the stone they live in, would never have found it on their own even if they ventured into the open coast. As such, the Living Stone is now a symbol of friendship between the Dwarves and Sea Elves, as well as the beauty and mystery of the outside world. After this gift, there was a dramatic increase in dwarves in the surrounding foothills, spreading into and discovering Kaeoma.

Usage and Significance

Living Stone can be found growing in tanks in cultural spaces, as well as dead pieces adorning walls and clergy attire. Additionally, smaller pieces can be found in homes, as decorative additions. Living Stone has become crucial to the mindset of the dwarves, reminding them to keep an open mind to the world around them, reminding them that even stone can grow. This is often one of the factors that encourages dwarves to venture out of the mountains and into the world beyond.

Festival of Alcyon

It is unknown whether Alcyon is the name that the Sea Elves gave the Living Stone, or if it was the name of one of the elves, but that doesn't stop dwarves celebrating the anniversary of their gift. The festival goes for 8 days, both for the 4 dwarves and 4 elves that were present during the gifting of the Living Stone, and the 7 colours coral can come in, and the white it goes when it dies. During the festival, other cultures are invited to exchange items among themselves. It is one of the most famous festivals in Kaeoma.