Durrul
Being a Durrul is one of the most honorable roles for a dwarf. This position involves looking after the Ukom bear, a species at risk of extinction. The Ukom Bear are considered sacred by the dwarfs due to their remarkable ability to create cave systems and tunnels within the mountain ranges where the dwarfs reside.
The primary duty of a Durrul is to ensure that no one hunts these bears or excessively disturbs their natural habitat. The dwarfs understand the importance of the Ukom bear in maintaining the expansion of their caves and locating precious materials. Moreover, gaining the bear's trust and respect is like getting the mountain's and their ancestors' approval. The bear is the heart of the mountain, and the Durrual is expected to keep it safe.
To become a Durrual, an individual must first participate in the traditional Turu Ceremony. This ceremony is organized by the existing Durruals when a vacancy arises. Dwarfs aged between twenty and sixty-five are eligible to apply for a spot. Applicants must travel to the Ukom Bear's territory, located in the Sere Mountain Range, near the capital of Oblon, Nun Thoram.
The Turu Ceremony takes place on the first Friday of spring. During this event, the Durruals carefully check all applicants to ensure they do not possess weapons or items that could harm the bears. The tryouts commence once the rules are clear and all participants have agreed to abide by them. It is important to note that the ceremony can be dangerous, particularly during spring when the Ukom Bear is looking for a mate. This timing is significant, as candidates must be able to approach the bear even during this period.
During the tryouts, participants walk through the Ukom Bear's territory, waiting for a bear to approach them. If a bear leaves or behaves aggressively, that applicant is not selected as the next Durrual. Conversely, if a bear approaches and bows, and the participant bows back, they are then permitted to ride the bear, which indicates their selection as the next Durrual. If the bear bows but does not allow the participant to ride it, this signifies trust, but not enough to designate it as its protector fully.
Once the Ukom Bears have selected one or more candidates, depending on the available spots, the Turu Ceremony concludes. The newly chosen Durruals are then regarded as holding a rank equivalent to the Leader of the Clans.
Durruals play a critical role in the care and protection of Ukom Bears, encompassing a variety of duties and responsibilities. Their primary function is to oversee the birthing process of female bears, ensuring the mother's and her cubs' safety during this vulnerable time. Once the cubs are born, Durruals maintain a safe distance, monitoring for illegal hunters until they reach the age of seven, at which point they can defend themselves.
During harsher seasons, Durruals are responsible for ensuring the bears have adequate food supply for hibernation. They are also tasked with keeping detailed logs and reports on daily activities to track any irregularities or issues that may arise.
When a Ukom Bear falls ill or sustains an injury, the Durrual must provide medical care and healing. If a bear dies, the Durrual must adequately handle the burial, adhering to rituals that honor the deceased. Moreover, Durruals are guardians of the Ukom Bears' territory, and if they observe the bears moving beyond their designated area, it is their responsibility to investigate the cause.
Trespassers are not welcome within the Ukom Bears' territory, and anyone wishing to pass through must possess approved documentation. This policy is fundamental to protecting the bears' habitat from disturbance and preventing illegal activities such as poaching. Overall, the Durruals' responsibilities are predominantly centered on the well-being and protection of the Ukom Bear species.
Removal or dismissal from Durrul's position can occur under specific circumstances. A Durrul may be removed if they have harmed the Ukom Bear or engaged in poaching. Additionally, a Durrul can face dismissal if they allow individuals to enter the Ukom Bear's territory without the proper documentation. It is important to note that being removed or dismissed from this role results in the loss of the title and entails exile from The Sere Mountain Range.
The City of Ukom was established with The Ukom Bear at its core, serving as a vital resource for the dwarfs in constructing their intricate mountain cave systems and tunnels. Over the centuries, Ukom evolved into the kingdom of Oblon, during which elemental magic began to flourish throughout Aurin. As a result, the Ukom Bear became essential not only for the burgeoning kingdom of Oblon but also for the survival of the dwarfs. The bear was crucial in helping them navigate the Sere Mountain Range and discover new minerals and jewels.
However, this growing reliance on the Ukom Bear led to increased greed among the dwarfs and outsiders, who sought more minerals and jewels. In their pursuit, some resorted to stealing bear cubs from their mothers, often resulting in the deaths of these young bears, to fulfill their greed. The first Durruals emerged to combat poaching in response to this alarming situation. Under the leadership of Gwara Highsteel, the inaugural Leader of the Clans, they established the title known as Durrul. The primary mission of the Durruals is to protect the Ukom Bears, as Gwara emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and safeguarding what is valuable, particularly following the conflict with Long Xae.
The Turu Ceremony
Duties and Responsibilties
Removal or Dismissal
History
Type
Civic, Honorific
Alternative Naming
Bear Guardian
Length of Term
Lifetime
Reports directly to
Related Locations
Related Organizations
The Five Rules of The Durrul
- There can only be five Durruals at a time, but no less than three
- The bear's safety comes first
- Always check for approved documentation
- Only the Durrul can wear the symbol of the Ukom Bear
- The Durrul answers only to the leader of the clans
Clothing and Equipment
The Durrul are known for their distinctive attire, which consists of simple robes and armor in shades of black and brown. Each member wears a brooch featuring the Ukom Bear, symbolizing their title and community status.
In terms of armament, the Durrul carry a spear and a few knives for personal protection in close combat situations. Additionally, they are equipped with various medicinal herbs, specifically for treating the Ukom Bears, and food items like berries and honey to nourish them.
Each Durrul carries a logbook to maintain detailed records of the bears' daily activities. This practice ensures that any unusual behaviors are promptly noted and addressed.
Furthermore, the Durrul also possesses options that allow them to verify the authenticity of documents required for individuals seeking to cross into the territory of the Ukom Bears.
These measures reflect their commitment to the bears' welfare and the safety of their domain.
Benifites
Becoming a Durrul offers individuals the highest honor among the dwarfs, distinguished primarily by the prestige associated with the title.
One of the unique aspects of this role is the opportunity to study and care for the Ukom Bear, which is considered a significant reward for those who attain this position.
The responsibilities and experiences of being a Durrul elevate one's status and provide invaluable insights into managing and understanding such a revered creature.
The Durruals Residence
The Durrul resides in the Durrul Caves, which are located near the border of the Ukom Bears' territory.
Their proximity to this boundary allows them to monitor for poachers and trespassers effectively. While the caves are modest, they provide adequate shelter for all five members.
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