Drakdodare

“Despair no longer for our ancient songs have come to life. Let not the great tales be forgotten. They are here among us. Fear be gone, we are frightened no more. Take up the hammer and take up the axe. Let our enemies see and let them fear. The Drakdodare is here!”

The Drakdodare is an ancient dwarven title given to someone who slays a dragon. These are great warriors who have overcome impossible odds and found a way to be triumphant in the end. They are beloved by the people and heroic to the end and in many instances they don’t always survive the ordeal. Those who do live on have fame and glory for the end of their days, but most decline that aspect, for each telling of their tale is a constant reminder of those dear companions who did not survive the brutal encounter.

Qualifications

Any dwarf or citizen of a dwarven settlement may be eligible to become a Drakdodare. Any species may attain this title but nondwarves are very rare as they have no strong tie to the city and often abandon it at the first sign of trouble.

Requirements

The only requirement need in order to attain this title is that of slaying a dragon. Incontrovertible proof of the dragon’s death is needed as are multiple reliable witnesses.

Appointment

For better or worse there is quite often a great feast or celebration after the slaying of a dragon. It is common for the leaders of the community to then formally confer this title upon the slayer at the beginning of the festivity with a lot of pomp and circumstance. A great speech is proclaimed and it is often accompanied by grand music and songs of heroic deeds. The recipient is called forth and is embraced by the leaders and given a special token that expresses their appreciation and the new title.

Duties

The Drakdodare is obliged to always be on the lookout for draconic dangers to the dwarves and peoples of the surrounding areas. When dangers do arise they are expected to give immediate counsel to the city leaders and prepare the populace for any potential threats that may arise. They are also expected to stay and fight any and all dragons who attack.

Responsibilities

The Drakdodare are responsible for analyzing the defensive and offensive capabilities of the settlements and notify those in charge of the strengths and weaknesses that are found. They are then expected to begin strengthening those weaknesses and develop multiple plans for any possible confrontation with dragons.

Benefits

There are no official benefits to receiving this honor. However once one is granted this title they are immediately welcomed into and become a part of the Drak Dovrah. This is an exclusive organization that consists only of dragon slayers. All members here are equals and have access to the great libraries, armories, and invaluable knowledge of its members. They have authority over everything dragon related and are the first called upon for advice when dragons are nearby.

Accoutrements & Equipment

A great pin with the symbol of the Drakdodare is presented to the recipient. They can wear it anywhere that they desire but it is usually worn above the heart in the center of the upper chest so that all might see it. The symbol is also embroidered or sewn boldly on the cloaks of the slayers so that all may see who it was that amongst them. It is said that when the people see these symbols they gain hope and that hope leads to victory.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

This title is earned by the completion of slaying a dragon and that monumental task can never be taken away from anyone. This title is permanent no matter what the slayer does. The only way to remove this title would be if it was later found out that the slain dragon had lived.

History

To receive this title is a very rare event as there are very few who can claim to have slain a dragon. These amazing warriors were much more common in the ancient days when dragons roamed the skies and hunted for treasure. As those horrible dragons vanished across the worlds so too did the Drakdodare slowly vanish as well, as did their tales and songs sadly fade from the memories of the people. With no dragons today, there can be no dragon slayers and sadly no new tales of inspiration.

Cultural Significance

Those that recognize the symbol of the Drakdodare understand that a great feat was accomplished and have enormous thanks and respect for those who wear them. They see them as ancient heroes reborn in spirit if not in flesh. Their confidence is bolstered and believe that anything is possible despite overwhelming odds and circumstances.
Great songs are sung and fantastic tales are passed down from parent to child about the heroics of the Drakdodare, planting the seeds of hope so that future generations my harvest its promise when needed.
Those who do not know of the Drakdodare quickly learn, often to their detriment. Onlookers are quickly made believers after a short battle and enemies never get a chance to tell the tales of their misfortune.

Type

Civic, Military, Generic

Status

This is an ancient dwarven title that has not been used since the disappearance of the last dragons.

Equates to

Only when it comes to matters involving dragons does this title become equivalent to that of a general.

Source of Authority

Dwarven Kingdoms

Length of Term

This title remains with the holder for their entire life.

Past Holders

• Dal Hammersong

Notable Holders:

• Dal Hammersong - Aurum Dwarf who slew the red dragon, Zinnoberood in Guldhuset. Awarded posthumously in 1695 B.S.
• Crag Wedgebreaker - Sharbon Dwarf who slew the green dragon, Borovice in Dorgan Daar.

"The Drakdodare are not just warriors, they are the living embodiment of our indomitable spirit, our refusal to yield to any foe."

— Thane Grimnir Axebreaker