Dwarves

Squat and often bearded, Dwarves are among the most populous of races found across Cruseryx, often falling into the tropes of travelling merchant or stubborn mountain dweller.

Cultures

Mountain Dwarves are a strong and hardy stock who have carved out the very earth to create their mighty kingdoms. Mostly focused in the Ebonmount ranges, they bridge the Mundane World and Underdark with tall cities reaching from the highest points of their Mountain homes, to the deepest depths of the world below.

Hill Dwarves are known for their keen senses, strong intuition and their knack for finding a good deal. They have mostly moved out from their ancestral mountains and have integrated more with the wider world. These are the folks you will more often find in the large towns and cities throughout Cruseryx.

Deep Dwarves, sometimes referred to as Duegar, are the grey-skinned and grouchy flavour of Dwarf than can be found in the world. They scarcely leave their Underdark kingdoms, and have engaged in hot and cold conflicts with the Mountain Dwarves for centuries.

Origins

Hailing originally from the deeps of the world, they have slowly worked their way upwards towards the surface. Whilst the ancient Dwarven kingdoms spent much of their time warring with each other, they have transitioned to frequent conflict with the Drow and other intelligent races of the Underdark.

Appearance

Short and stout, Dwarves have a much shorter statute than most races and share many features with Humans with rounded ears and fair skin complexion. Dwarves may be considered short amongst most races, they still stand noticeably taller than the Smallfolk races, at around 5'.

Religion

Dwarves are typically aligned to Gods based on their specific lineage. Hill Dwarves typically lean towards Mekash, with their thrifty and mercantile tendencies, whilst Mountain Dwarves tend to revere Dulgram, Rhurdiwynn and Skolgal for their affinity to their mountain homes and great mineshafts.

Homeland

The great stronghold of Ebonmount serves as the main homeland of the Dwarves. Many do find themselves also committing their loyalty to one of the five Lesser Kings, who command the smaller realms that surround Ebonmount.