Description:
Dwarves are thought to have originated from the frozen northern continent of Thalruhn. There shorter and stockier builds are well adapted for such cold climates, and as such are less susceptible to cold temperatures. While dwarves appear to be very similar Humans and Elves, they do not share a heritage or common ancestor. Their origin is yet to be discovered, though myth and folklore would tell us they simply came from the earth and stone.
Djúprbyggvir dwarves, known commonly as mountain dwarves, live mostly in mountainous areas in deep cave networks. Often living in ancient labyrinth-like cities. Such settlements are mostly found in Thalruhn and the northern areas of Illenfar there are some far to the east, and are even recorded living in the western mountains of Kairenya and as far as [Xandoral].
Dwarves appeared to have reached a cultural schism at some point in their history, estimated some 2000 BF, dived into a separate distinct clan and lifestyle; Grasbyggjar, or more colloquially known as lowland dwarves are those who prefer to live above ground in warmer climates, such as grasslands or forest, though they are known to live all over the world.
Appearance:
- Hill dwarves average 4 - 5 feet tall. Mountain dwarves tend to be smaller and broader.
- Hill dwarves tend to have shorter beards,
- Mountain grow their beards as long as possible, including the women.
- HIll dwarves often sport various runic tattoos
Characteristics
- They are a hospitable people, taking a sense of honour in welcoming guests and have immense pride in their homes no matter their means. To refuse hospitality is considered insulting, unless it is because another has already offered it.
- Both mountain and lowland dwarves favour a social system of owing debts and repayment. They will keep ledgers of debts and favours owed, and to both offer favours or repay a debt is deeply respected by many dwarves. Those who do not freely offer help, or have many longstanding debts are seen as untrustworthy.
- Mountain dwarves often live in clan communes, sharing resources, cooking and dining, child and elderly care. There are often hundreds of such communities in the larger cities.
- Mountain dwarves have a deep connection to stone, metals and the mountains they hale. Many have an innate ability to detect movement and small vibrations through it.
- Lowland dwarves however tend to be more integrated with the wider culture of where they live.
- Lowland dwarves , similar to Mountain dwarves, have the ability to detect movement through soil and earth.