Dwarves

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The **dwarves**, or *dwarva*, as the dwarves refer to themselves, are one of the major humanoid races of the *Dragon Age* setting. Strong, stocky, and shorter than any other humanoid race, the dwarves are skilled builders and boast a long tradition of courage and martial skill that has served them well in their millennia-long battle against the darkspawn.

They once developed a huge, great empire which spread across vast underground networks of twelve great thaigs that spanned the breadth of Thedas with its population outnumbering both the humans and the elves. However their world was all but destroyed during the First Blight, and they are now a race in decline.

The single-mindedness of the dwarves is credited for the race's survival. Their ability to dedicate their efforts to a cause helped them survive in conditions that no other race would have long been able to and gave rise to a level of technology that far surpasses anything else in Thedas.

Dwarves are known to be increasingly infertile due to their proximity to the darkspawn taint, a situation which has given rise to anxiety for the future of the race, as well as the invention of noble hunters to bolster the children born to noble houses.

Dwarven Religion: The dwarves of Orzammar have no use for gods. To read more about it visit the page on Dwarven Beliefs.

## Naming Conventions:

Dwarven society is made up of various houses, each of which comprises a group of families. A dwarf has a given name and a house name. The house name is sometimes used as a last name and sometimes as part of a title. A dwarf might call himself Bhelen Aeducan or Bhelen of House Aeducan, for example, depending on the situation.

**Sample Female Names:** Althild, Branka, Ethelwid, Hildred, Jarvia, Orta, Peada, Sigge.

**Sample Male Names:** Eadrek, Gorim, Kerdik, Legnar, Oerik, Oswulf, Roshek, Vengest, Witred.

**Sample House Names:** Azagale, Cadash, Dunnharg, Gundaar, Korkill, Kitrik, Moratin, Ortan, Tethras, Varen

## General Appearance:

### Height:

Dwarves are notably shorter than humans and elves, typically standing around 4 to 4.5 feet tall. This compact stature is a defining trait of their race.

### Build:

Dwarves have a sturdy and robust build, with a natural strength that belies their smaller stature. Their bodies are well-adapted to the harsh conditions of the Deep Roads.

### Facial Features:

#### Dwarven Facial Structure:

Dwarven facial features often include strong, broad features. They have square jawlines, prominent brows, and a stocky neck. Facial hair is common among male dwarves, and beards are considered a symbol of honor and maturity.

#### Eyes:

Dwarven eyes are usually dark and expressive, set beneath thick eyebrows. Eye colors can range from deep browns to dark blues.

### Hair and Beards:

#### Hair:

Dwarven hair comes in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, and gray. Dwarves take pride in their hair and often groom it meticulously.

#### Beards:

Dwarven males, in particular, grow thick beards, and the style and length of the beard can convey information about the dwarf's age, status, and achievements. Female dwarves may also grow beards, but it's less common.

### Skin:

#### Skin Tone:

Dwarven skin tones vary, with shades ranging from fair to ruddy. Their skin is often weathered, reflecting their subterranean lifestyle.

#### Tattoos and Scars:

Dwarves may bear tattoos or scars, often earned through battles or significant life events. These markings can be sources of pride and tell stories of the dwarf's experiences.

### Clothing and Style:

#### Dwarven Attire:

Dwarves often wear practical and durable clothing suited for the harsh conditions of the Deep Roads. Earthy tones and functional designs dominate their attire.

#### Armor and Accessories:

Dwarven armor and accessories are renowned for their craftsmanship. Dwarves are skilled blacksmiths and take pride in creating intricate and highly effective equipment, including weapons, armor, and jewelry.

### Distinguishing Features:

#### Stone Sense:

Dwarves possess a unique ability called "stone sense," allowing them to navigate and sense their surroundings in the dark, subterranean environment of the Deep Roads.

#### Dwarven Runes:

Dwarves often incorporate runes into their clothing, armor, and weapons. These runes have magical properties and are used for protection, enhancement, or identification.

#### Practical Clothing:

Dwarven attire is often designed for practicality, with an emphasis on functionality rather than elaborate ornamentation. This reflects their focus on craftsmanship and survival in their underground homes.

## History

### Ancient Times:

#### The Dwarven Empire:

In ancient times, dwarves once had a vast underground empire known as the Dwarven Empire, with their capital city, Kal-Sharok. The dwarves were skilled miners, architects, and craftsmen, and they held a powerful position in Thedas.

#### The Deep Roads:

The dwarven empire expanded through the Deep Roads, a network of tunnels connecting the dwarven thaigs (underground cities). The Deep Roads were also home to dangerous creatures like darkspawn.

#### The First Blight:

##### Fall of the Dwarven Empire:

The rise of the darkspawn during the First Blight threatened the dwarven empire. Unable to hold back the onslaught, the dwarves faced internal conflicts, and many thaigs were lost to the darkspawn.

##### The Last Great Thaig:

Orzammar, the capital of the Dwarven Empire, became the last bastion of dwarven civilization. The doors of Orzammar were sealed to protect against the darkspawn, but this marked the beginning of a long isolation for the dwarves.

#### Current Era:

##### Orzammar's Isolation:

In the current Dragon Age era, dwarves primarily reside in Orzammar, the last remaining major dwarven city. Orzammar is ruled by a king or queen, and the dwarven society is organized into strict castes, with the nobility, warriors, and casteless each having distinct roles.

##### Surface Dwarves:

Some dwarves, known as surface dwarves, have chosen to live above ground. However, they often face discrimination from their underground counterparts and are considered outcasts.

#### The Caste System:

##### Noble Caste:

The noble caste includes the ruling class of dwarves. The king or queen leads the noble caste, and they are responsible for making major decisions for Orzammar.

##### Warrior Caste:

Dwarven warriors and soldiers belong to the warrior caste. They defend Orzammar from threats within and outside the city.

##### Casteless:

Dwarves who don't fit into the strict caste system, either by choice or circumstance, are considered casteless. They live on the fringes of dwarven society, facing discrimination and limited opportunities.

#### Dwarven Merchants and Smiths:

##### Trade and Craftsmanship:

Dwarves are known for their expertise in trade and craftsmanship. They are skilled miners and blacksmiths, producing some of the finest weapons and armor in Thedas.

##### Surface Trade:

Dwarven merchants engage in trade with surface dwellers, establishing connections and contributing to the economic well-being of Orzammar.