The Great Clans, Dwarves

Basic Information

Anatomy

This race is only slightly shorter than the average human. They are however much more broad.

Genetics and Reproduction

Dwarves reproduce in a similar manner to all other humanoid races. They have a slower gestation period of 13 months, with a live birth.

Growth Rate & Stages

The average Dwarf is considered young until their 50th year. They age very slowly and retain much of their strength well into their 3rd century.

Ecology and Habitats

This race is well adapted to subterranean life. Their short build allows them to fit into some of the shallower places underground, and their eyes allow them to see in the dark with relative ease. Their strength is legendary and has been honed by generations of mining.

Dietary Needs and Habits

The dwarven diet consists of hunted creatures as well as numerous fungi. Some settlements even have procured the use of Sol Crystals, commonly known as artificial suns.

Additional Information

Social Structure

To a dwarf clan is everything. The dwarven clans have a very clear-cut hierarchy with the most influential clans at the top. All dwarves are beholden to the Karkthum. This clan court speaks for all dwarves within Dimfell.

Facial characteristics

To the average onlooker the first features to be noticed are usually the nose and the beards. Male and female dwarves alike share the tendency to have bulbous noses. The male dwarf will grow his beard with pride, constantly maintaining and grooming it until he draws his last breath. Their hair is very thick and usually coarse with shades of brown, black, red, and blonde.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Dwarves can be found in all major cities, but they prefer the mountain ranges of Zitor and Ossiroth.

Average Intelligence

The average intelligence of a Dwarf is comparable to that of a Human.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Being accustomed to living underground, Dwarves have the ability to see in the dark.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Every dwarf has a given name and a clan name. Their clan name does much to tell another dwarf who ranks higher.

Average Technological Level

Dwarves have created the most efficient methods for tunneling and mining. Their city, which was rebuilt from the ruins of Old Ossiroth, is a marvel of stone craft. They also discovered blasting powder which can be used as a tool for mining or for weaponry. The armories of Ossiroth are still studying ballistics in an effort to improve the survivability of their hunters in the Underdark.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Dwarves are taught to speak and read in Dwarven and Common from an early age.

Common Dress Code

Leather, metal, and heavy cloth make up the vast majority of dwarvish clothing. They have a tendency for using orderly and geometric designs in all their crafts.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

Those dwarves who have gained legendary status are enshrined within the Gilded Halls. Such an addition to the halls is a celebration of a century, complete with feasting and great displays of skill and magic.

Common Taboos

Some weapon crafting practices have been deemed to dangerous to be used. Violators of this ordinance are exiled, and their work is seized for destruction.

History

It was the Stonecrags, a small clan of dwarves, that found Tendark, the Maw of Flame, within the rubble of Old Ossiroth. For a few generations they hid this knowledge until Gruumor Stonecrag came to be leader of the clan. Numerous other clans had begun exploration into the Great Chamber and Gruumor decided that he would greet these newcomers. Before he could make contact however, two of the clans had started fighting. The sounds of battle echoed throughout the Great Chamber and the adjoining tunnels, drawing vicious beasts from the dark. Gruumor rallied his clan which came to the aid of the others. The battle was hard fought, but all three clans came out victorious. The other two stopped their fighting, vowed to serve Gruumor for his valor and honor. Three clans became one, and Gruumor was the first Goldenthrone.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Dwarves are usually a serious bunch and can be seen as a drag to other species. However, those who have gained the friendship of a dwarf, will never see that friendship betrayed. They have long memories and are slow to trust, but they are loyal to a fault.

Scientific Name

Dwarf

Origin/Ancestry

Humanoid

Lifespan

350-400 years

Average Height

4’-5’

Average Weight

150 lbs.

Average Physique

Dwarves are solidly built, with square shoulders and a stout physique. They are as durable as the stone they mine, boasting more constitution than any other race.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The majority of dwarves are fair skinned due to lack of exposure to sunlight. Those who do venture outside will develop a ruddy complexion.