Dwarf
Dwarves were, in the Era of Darkness, one of the most prominent races in Kodor, with their lands also stretching into the Corridor of Beards, in Tembra. No dwarven societies existed outside of these kingdoms, though some dwarven individuals travelled the world or migrated elsewhere.
Typical dwarves are short, sturdy, and aggressive to outsiders. Isolationists who value military strength and physical prowess, dwarves have a typical lifespan of 200 years and bear grudges that last as long.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
First names are given at birth and are usually only two or three syllables. Dwarven names tend to be harsh and blunt, with plosives common.
Second names were, up until the Age of Resurgence, quite different. Initially, dwarves took no surname until they achieved a great feat or reputation, upon which they would receive a moniker as their name. For example, Vakree Eagle-eye was simply 'Vakree' until his proficiency with a bow became widely revered. Any dwarf who reached the age of 100 without receiving a name was seen as a disgrace and informally exiled.
During the 2nd century ATD, the leadership of the Dwarven Freehold and its constituent kingdoms began to formalise various processes, including rules regarding families and noble houses. This called for a new naming system far more like that seen of the humans of Tembra. Dwarves, although sometimes known by their nicknames, now had legal surnames that tied them to their dynasty.
History
The dwarves keep a proud and detailed history, dating back to the creation of Blivera and of their race, at the hands of their god, The Mason. With his powers of sculpting, he produced life itself in his creations. He lived in harmony with his people for nearly a millennium until he disappeared without a trace.
Thus, the Great Sculpting ended, and on came the age of dwarven independence from their creator. The original lands of the dwarves went no further than the entrances to the caves they called home, but after The Mason left they dared to venture out, establishing a multitude of kingdoms in both Tembra and Kodor. Harmonious life across the species ended as dwarf turned against dwarf until a new status quo was carved with blades.
Following this brief period of construction, the dwarves faced a new and external threat: the Black Queen and Karakar. Here began the Age of Recession, when the dwarves fell to their weakest point. Under the leadership of Harlaw Metalbreath, king of Heredar, the dwarven kingdoms in the Corridor of Beards formed the Dwarven Freehold, a pact created to defend against the Forces of Darkness. By this point, all of the kingdoms east of the Krazak-Khal Mountains had perished in the war.
Through the mechanised warfare employed by King Harlaw, the Dwarven Freehold successfully withstood the Karakan onslaught, and its forces were pivotal in achieving victory for the Forces of Light. Following the Black Queen's defeat, the dwarves began to reconstruct their domains, choosing to continue the Freehold. With Harlaw remaining as president, the Age of Resurgence began. It continued long after Harlaw's death, eventually coming to an end in 698 ATD.
After the dwarves had successfully consolidated their domestic situation and global position, they took a far more pessimistic look at the world than they had done in the days of Harlaw. With King Crion Braxenbrake serving as president, he considered the derision of the elves and the cruelty of men. His conclusion was to instil complete seclusion upon his people, cutting ties to those outside of dwarf kind. Thus began Isolation.
Lifespan
200 years
Average Height
4'6"
Average Weight
150 lbs
Geographic Distribution
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