Duergar
The Duergar, also known as the gray dwarves or deep dwarves, are an ethnicity of dwarf native to Crestfall's Underdark, predominantly within the region of Scar Valley. As a consequence of their subterranean lifestyle, Duergar are visually distinct from surface-dwelling dwarves due to their pale skin, milky eyes and gray/white hair.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
In addition to retaining their own version of the core dwarvish language, most Underdark-dwelling Duergar are also familar with the language of Undercommon, particularly as it pertains to trade and commerce with other subterranean races such as the Drow.
While interaction with surface-dwelling races is generally more limited, many Duergar have at least a rudimentary knowledge of Common as well, due in part to its shared root language of Undercommon.
Common Dress code
Due to the lack of available light sources within the Underdark, Duergar fashion tends toward drab and utilitarian designs, favouring black and gray garments to better blend in to the shadows and stone of the subterranean region. Occasional flourishes of colour are occasionally conveyed in the form of jewellery crafted from brightly coloured gemstones, this jewellery is typically worn as a display of reverence to the dwarvish god Admas (see below).
Common Myths and Legends
According to the mythology of the dwarvish religion, the Duergar are the descendants of the early dwarves who refused to join the First Fathers Petram and Ferrum in the World Above, instead deciding to remain within the familiar caves and tunnels of the World Below. For this reason, the Duergar chiefly worship Admas, the youngest sibling of the First Fathers, who is said to have remained in the World Below with the Duergar's ancestors while his older brothers took the remaining dwarves to the surface world.
Among the Duergar, those who are born with innate psionic abilities are believed to have been divinely blessed by Admas himself, reflecting the dwarven god's mastery of ancient secrets pertaining to the powers of the mind.
Encompassed species
Related Locations
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