Rune-branded skin and an
invaded mind. The Outcasts are those that have suffered greatly in the name of justice. In dwarven society, theft is a crime punishable by exile to the
lower levels of a city without repeal. One can become an Outcast for a number of reasons but theft is most common. There’s a clear correlation between resource depletion and number of outcasts being recorded but the regal classes of the cities conveniently ignore this statistic. As such, those that have a harder life only end up in the lower regions of the city. Being able to forgive is not a common trait amongst dwarves and the justice system reflects this. If you steal some dried meat one too many times, you’re simply discarded.
The Outcasts of each city are often forced to work in labour camps in the lower depths. Often they are fed and clothed with the leftover scraps of those from higher layers. Often these Outcasts are made to face some of the more volatile environments that life underground has to offer. A breakthrough into a water chamber can cause mass flooding. A magma pocket can generate blistering heat that rips through regions until it’s brought under control.
Rockquakes cause disruption to the outer walls, giving openings to everything that lies outside of the cities walls.
They’re forced to be labourers. One that is malnourished and without energy or supplies
They’re forced to be militia. One that is unprepared, untrained and scared.
They’re forced to be the first line of defence. One that is easy to break.
They’re little more than generators of wealth for those willing to exploit them. Other than that, they’re an alarm system for when the horrors outside manage to claw their way in.
But they are Dwarves. When they call upon the gods for strength, I hope that they receive the answer.
This is a submission for my first ever Summer Camp in 2024 - I hope you enjoy my writings and I'm looking forward to hearing your feedback!
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