DWARVES
Character Specifications
Abilities:
Dwarves are possibly the hardiest races on earth, able to withstand hours of
physically draining work, high amounts of pain, and hours of torture and
torment. They are usually patient but once their anger has reached a breaking
point, beware. Dwarves can lift nearly double their weight in a fight, and can
do up to double normal damage with their melee weapon of choice. Because of
their size, they are capable of hiding in smaller places, leaving their taller
party members to find other methods of concealment more quickly. When compared
to other races, dwarves are more able to overcome temptations, especially to
immoral acts or illegal activity, and are even more resistant to charm spells.
That is not to say that they do not indulge in either, rather they are more
resistant, as a part of their moral code.
Weaknesses:
Unfortunately, even the most moral of races has their flaws. Once they are
charmed or addicted, they fall deeply into it headfirst, until it becomes
obsession. The need to conceal their indiscretion from their society often
yields varying types of mental illness. Many times those with addictions develop
multiple personalities: the dwarf as individual, and the addiction itself.
Additionally, because of their attachments to the earth, many dwarves maintain a
paralyzing fear of heights, which would greatly reduce their ability to fight.
Many are also allergic to seafood.
Some Origins:
While dwarfism had always existed before the first and
second waves, it was never so prominent as it is now. They are hard workers and
the stature and structure of their bodies are muscular and lends to the labor of
their work, as though they were cut out for that task alone. Dwarves are
intelligent and rambunctious and when they aren’t working hard, they are playing
hard. Dwarven men, much like the Amish, boast long, well groomed beards to
commemorate and honor their marriage vows. Younger male dwarves remain unbearded
until the day they are wed, and women do not possess unusual facial hair at all.
Women commonly wear their hair in braids of varying types. Like the other races,
dwarves tend to prefer their own company, however, dwarven hospitality cannot be
beaten anywhere, and most are excellent cooks. This leads to many cooking
competitions and contests, which dwarves are quite made for as they can consume
ludicrous quantities of food. They are often the friendliest of races, and are
not easily taken advantage of.
The Rebirth of Magic:
The dwarves converted easily into the age of magic, doing as many always had:
taking interest in each other, and forming groups of support. Because their
culture is resistant to corruption, they lead simple lives. Those dwarves who
have succumbed to their addictions are separated from the society, but not
barred from it. Often the Afflicted, or so they are called, choose to separate
themselves for the preservation of society. It is very rare that this separation
causes anger or resentment. Dwarves, unlike the other races who are centralized
in certain countries, live anywhere they please, in whichever climate suits them
at the moment.
Dwarves and Religion:
Dwarven religion is diverse across the board, but usually the groups of dwarves
that live together share the major religion of their community. They are not
zealous, but they abide very closely to their beliefs, as they are part of their
way of life and have integrated it into their society.
HOW OTHER RACES VIEW DWARVES:
Humans: "I don't have a bad word about them,
except maybe the restaurant bills. Still, you get enough food for three people.
I guess it’s worth the money."
Elves: "How can you not like seafood? I mean...its seafood! And why the
fear of trees? Crap, now I have a headache."
Trolls: "Next week, eat pie contest!"
Orcs: "their society is a little strange, but I think they have a better
union than us."
Fae: "I got stuck in this one dwarfs beard once. and it was dark...and I
was scared...so I braided it!"
Drow: "They are almost the perfect size and shape for a decent punt, in
my opinion. They're a diminishing race anyhow."
Vampires: "Ok...Elves are to ambrosia, as dwarves are to a nice fat
steak...steak..."
Sidhe: "Dwarves? They're alright I guess. Why are you asking me all these
questions?"
