Dear [Applicant's Name],
RE: Regretful Response to Your Application
Hail and well met, [Applicant's Name]. We, the proud denizens of the Iron Hills Dwarves, extend our gratitude for your expressed interest in joining our esteemed community. Your aspirations to become part of our rich tapestry of skilled craftsmen and craftswomen are duly acknowledged. However, with heavy hearts and in adherence to the ancient customs of our noble lineage, we must convey our regretful decision to decline your candidacy at this time.
As children of the mountain, we dwarves hold our traditions dear, guided by the echoes of our ancestors and the ancient prophecies etched upon the stone. Your application, though revealing glimpses of potential, has fallen short in capturing the essence of what it means to be a true dweller of the Iron Hills.
Upon careful reflection, it came to our attention that your application omitted any reference to your mastery of the sacred art of rune-crafting—an endeavor that lies at the core of our existence. The forging of our runes, symbols of our heritage and spiritual connection, calls upon the profound knowledge of ancient sigils and the wisdom of our forefathers. Your oversight in this regard has regrettably impeded our ability to assess your worthiness as a candidate.
Furthermore, we, the guardians of the mountain's treasures, were dismayed to discover the absence of any mention regarding your acumen in the meticulous art of gemcutting. The ability to perceive the hidden radiance within precious stones is an innate talent bestowed upon us by the very depths of the earth. Without the knowledge of gemstone appraisal, we are unable to gauge your aptitude for this vital facet of our craft and cultural identity.
Lastly, as keepers of the dwarven flame, we are renowned for our unyielding dedication to craftsmanship and the sanctity of the written word. Alas, the grand tapestry of your application exhibited several aberrations—subtle misalignments of ink, irregularities in parchment texture, and an imbalance in the artistry of calligraphy. These deviations, however insignificant they may seem to others, speak volumes to us, revealing a divergence from the meticulous attention to detail and the disciplined precision that is the hallmark of our kind.
We, the sons and daughters of the mountains, embrace our heritage with steadfast resolve and an unwavering commitment to the ancient ways. It is with solemn respect for our ancestral bonds that we have arrived at this decision. Your inability to demonstrate proficiency in rune-crafting, gemcutting, and the mastery of meticulous artistry has led us to conclude that your candidacy does not align with the exacting standards upheld by the dwarves of the Iron Hills.
We extend our deepest appreciation for your ardent desire to join our ranks, and we recognize the ardor with which you endeavored to submit your application. We, however, must guide you toward other paths that may better suit your aspirations and qualifications. May the echoes of the mountains guide you as you traverse the uncharted roads of destiny.
With sincere regret,
[Name]
Recruitment Committee
The Iron Hills Dwarves