Hill Dwarf

Lore

Hill Dwarves, also known as Holbar Dwarves or Gold Dwarves, originate from the Dwarven Free City of Holbar. Known for their friendly nature and artistic pursuits, these dwarves are deeply rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of community. Holbar is renowned for its impressive architecture, skilled craftsmen, and thriving economy. Hill Dwarves are generally considered friendlier and more approachable than their mountain cousins, with a greater emphasis on artistic endeavors.

Physical Characteristics

• Height: Typically stand between 4 and 5 feet tall
• Build: Short and stocky, with broad shoulders and muscular builds
• Hair: Often styled in elaborate braids, with colors ranging from black and brown to red and golden
• Eyes: Shades of brown, hazel, or green
• Skin: Tends to be lighter than their mountain-dwelling cousins, ranging from pale to a deep tan

Society and Culture

Holbar Dwarves are known for their rich cultural heritage, which emphasizes honor, loyalty, and hard work. Their society is organized around strong family ties and clan loyalty, with each clan tracing its lineage back to ancient ancestors. They are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, though they remain fiercely protective of their secrets and traditions.

Key Aspects

• Craftsmanship: Master craftsmen renowned for their skill in metalworking, stone carving, and gem cutting. Their weapons, armor, and tools are highly sought after for their durability and intricate designs.
• Martial Prowess: Skilled warriors trained in the use of traditional dwarven weapons such as axes and hammers. Their combat style emphasizes strength, defense, and tactical acumen.
• Artistic Pursuits: More artistic in their pursuits compared to mountain dwarves, they excel in creating beautiful works of art, intricate jewelry, and elaborate architectural designs.
• Traditions: Include elaborate feasts, storytelling, and festivals that celebrate their history and achievements. Beards are a significant cultural symbol, with their length and style often indicating social status and accomplishments.
• Trade and Alliances: Engage in extensive trade with other races, exchanging expertly crafted goods for resources they cannot produce themselves. They form alliances based on mutual benefit and respect.

Relations with Other Races

Holbar Dwarves are generally well-respected and have strong relationships with humans, elves, and other dwarf subraces. They are known for their fair and just dealings and often act as mediators in disputes. However, they have a deep-seated mistrust of goblins, orcs, and other traditionally hostile races.

Race Traits and Abilities

• Age: Mature at the same rate as humans but can live to be over 250 years old.
• Alignment: Typically Lawful Good
• Size: Medium (similar in height and build to humans)
• Speed: 25 feet
• Darkvision: 60 feet
• Dwarven Resilience: Advantage on saving throws against poison, and resistance against poison damage
• Dwarven Combat Training: Proficiency with the battleaxe, handaxe, throwing hammer, and warhammer
• Tool Proficiency: Proficiency with artisan’s tools (smith’s tools, brewer’s supplies, or mason’s tools)
• Stonecunning: Whenever making an Intelligence (History) check related to the origin of stonework, considered proficient and add double proficiency bonus
• Languages: Common, Dwarvish

Encompassed species

• Dwarf