Pahmet

The Pahmet, also known as sand dwarves, are a dwarven culture native to Osirion. They are distinguished from other dwarves by their dark bronze skin.
According to their legends, the Pahmet were messengers from the gods. However, many believe they were more likely servants or slaves. Rumor holds that the Pahmet guard the royal tomb of an entire Osirian dynasty.[2]
Regardless of the legends and mysteries that surround the sand dwarves' origins, pharaohs of ancient Osirion sought advice from the long-lived Pahmet. Goodly and compassionate pharaohs who earned the Pahmet's respect also gained their service as courageous and competent bodyguards.
The sand dwarves claim underground parts of Osirion's southwestern mountains between Mount Osiki and Kho-Rarne Pass as their sovereign territory and are hostile toward disrespectful or threatening outsiders, allegedly on the orders of an ancient dwarven pharaoh of which no known records exist.[2][3] This ancient and complex code is known only to the Pahmet and often befuddles outsiders. The hostile Brazen Frontier is rife with gnolls and slavers, both of which the Pahmet meet in battle.[3] Most, however, help others in need, and otherwise simply pray and perform rituals near the tombs and necropolises of the ancient pharaohs they once served. Many of these Pahmet hold the sanctity of these honored dead above all else.[1]
Many Pahmet in the southwestern mountains dwell near the monastic city of Tar Kuata. Tar Kuata is home to the dwarves' wise brothers, the Ouat, and the place where they study their ancient fighting style, an unarmed version of the Pahmet's hammer mastery.[4][1] An Pahmet settlement with no known name is near Oxjaw Falls, off the Crook River.[3]
Sand dwarves also live in parts of the Inner Sea region where ancient Osirion once held sway, including Katapesh, Thuvia, and Rahadoum, with some settling near lairs of sphinxes whose counsel they seek. Some especially honored emissaries from Pahmet settlements to sphinx lairs learn to share a love for riddles, puzzles, and ciphers.