Hillish Customs

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Naming

A Hillman name consists of three elements: the name given by the father and mother, jointly, to the child; a name given by the father; and a name given by the mother. Following these names is the typical suffix, "of Clan X." Many adopt Davite names given by missionaries for reasons of faith or simply to fit in better if they visit the city. The bowmaker Aslaug Syn Edda of Clan Hoenir may choose to simply go by Aslaug Hoenir, or properly Lithmorranize as Alison Bowyer.


Ancestor Weapons

When a clan member dies, they are typically cremated on large pyres laid to create as large a pillar of smoke as possible in hopes it will elevate the deceased's soul to the aether, or more recently, to the Fountis. If the deceased Hillman was a particularly great warrior, their ashes are reforged into their own weapon and passed down to their first heir. The weapon a Hillman carries may have been reforged many times as many generations of predecessors were smelted into it.


Song-stories

As Hillmen have a strong oral tradition, Clan histories and records of events are passed on as song-stories: epic, sung sagas. While Hillmen are often viewed as an inarticulate and awkward people, Hillish song-stories are complex and poetic, beautiful to listen to.


Fighting

Contributing to the popular brutish Hillman stereotype, Hillmen frequently enjoy good-natured bouts of fighting, whether it's brawling in the field or ceremonial wrestling in the village square. Hillmen do not consider such fighting to be immoral, and, in fact, trial by combat is considered an honorable method of conflict resolution.


Hunting animals

Hillmen are known for their prowess as hunters, and those among them who do hunt will often train large birds of prey to aid them, as birds have an easier time navigating the treacherous ridges of the hills than dogs. Golden eagles are favoured, though smaller-bodied hunters and children may use a few different varieties of hawk to hunt. Hill-bred Tarnlands ponies are notable for their thick, insulating coats and surefooted step on rocky passages.


Body Decoration

Despite the Lithmorran stigma on body modification, it's fashionable for Hillish men and women to wear multiple piercings of blackened steel, cord, and bone, as well as elaborate tattoos on the upper arms and back.