Dwarves

Patron Deity

The patron deity of dwarves is Eldanox, God of Craftsmanship

Dwarves are a stalwart and enduring race that find their origins in the Age of the Ancients, shaped by the stone and fire of their mountainous homes. Standing shorter than most other races, they average between 4 and 5 feet tall but possess broad and muscular builds. Their skin often reflects the earthy tones of their environments, ranging from granite-gray to deep bronze. Beards are a matter of great pride, and both male and female dwarves frequently style their beards into intricate braids adorned with metal clasps, with shades ranging from fiery reds to coal black. Their eyes shine like polished gemstones, in hues such as amber, emerald, and sapphire.
Dwarves are renowned for their unyielding determination and pragmatic outlook. They are fiercely loyal to kin and community, driven by a sense of honor and duty. While they can be stubborn and slow to trust, once a bond is formed, it is unbreakable. Dwarves possess a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and excellence, often working tirelessly to perfect their skills. Despite their serious nature, they are known to enjoy revelry, particularly when it involves ale and tales of heroism.

Culture

Culture and cultural heritage

Dwarven culture is rooted in craftsmanship, tradition, and the worship of their patron deity, Eldanox, God of Craftsmanship. Their cities are marvels of engineering, with grand halls carved into the mountains, supported by towering stone pillars and adorned with intricate carvings depicting their history and myths. The forges of dwarves are legendary, producing weapons, armor, and artifacts that are unmatched in quality.
Family and clan are central to their society, with each dwarf bearing a surname that reflects their lineage or craft specialty, such as Ironhammer or Stonecarver. Celebrations often center around milestones like the completion of great works or the victories of their heroes. Music and storytelling are integral, often involving rhythmic chants and the deep resonance of drums.

Funerary and Memorial customs

Dwarven funerary rites are a solemn and reverent affair, deeply rooted in their connection to stone, fire, and their belief in the afterlife governed by Jarnos, God of the Afterlife. Upon a dwarf's passing, their body is interred within the mountain halls of their ancestors, symbolizing their return to the embrace of the stone from which they were forged.
Before the burial, a ceremonial pyre is often lit, representing the purification of their spirit and the release of their essence to the afterlife. The ashes from this pyre are mixed with molten metal to create a small commemorative artifact, such as a pendant or plaque, which is given to the family as a token of remembrance.
The burial chambers, called Hallows of Memory, are vast, intricately carved catacombs that honor the lineage and achievements of the deceased. Each burial site includes a detailed stone epitaph recounting the life and deeds of the individual, ensuring their legacy endures.
During the Rite of Reflection, the family and clan gather to recount stories of the departed, often accompanied by somber songs and the rhythmic pounding of hammers against anvils, echoing their contributions to the community. It is believed that this collective memory strengthens the bond between the living and the ancestors, who are thought to guide their kin from the beyond.

Common Myths and Legends

In the Age of the Ancients, when the world was still young and unshaped, the creator god Eldanox looked upon the rugged mountains and envisioned a people who could bring beauty and order to the raw materials of the earth. From the molten core of Aethria, Eldanox forged the first dwarves, imbuing them with resilience and the spark of creativity.
Legend tells of The First Forge, where Eldanox shaped the proto-dwarves from molten ore and stone, tempering their spirits in the flames of creation. He entrusted them with the sacred task of crafting wonders that would honor the divine harmony of the world. It is said that the dwarves' natural affinity for stone and metal stems from this divine origin, as does their unwavering devotion to hard work and craftsmanship.
Eldanox also imparted the Great Commandment of Creation: "Let no work of your hands be made without purpose, and let each creation be a testament to your spirit." This commandment remains the cornerstone of dwarven ethics and creativity, guiding them to craft with intent and honor.

Parent ethnicities

• The Sentient Races