Dwarves

Dwarves are one of the Old Races, that have been present in Wösterkhan since the Elder Days.

More than any other race or group of people (with the possible exception of orcs), dwarven culture has remained largely unchanged over the millennia. They regard themselves as the greatest of the peoples, and veneration of Wösterfuv as the hero king of old propagates this ideology. Tradition is the bond that unifies dwarves, along with a rich oral history. Ceremony and decorum are of the utmost importance in dwarven society. Respect for authority centers on the king and his officials, while disrespect  or dissent is dealt with harshly. Dwarven weapons and armor are sought after as the best in the world, and dwarven warriors are known for their discipline and competence in battle. Most dwarves are deeply religious. Dwarf society is very patriarchal.

When Wösterfuv reigned over the continent, he founded five dwarven cities under the mountains in his realm. These Dorrhüm (“deep citadels” in dwarven) are the capitals of the dwarven nations and their political, economic, and ceremonial centers. Three of the cities are now lost. Even if a dwarf was raised in a foreign land, he would still consider himself a citizen of one of the Dorrhüm.

Kastinorok-the largest and the most influential of the Dorrhüm, ruled by King Rofterrek, who styles himself High King of all the dwarves. Kastinorok took part in the War of the Princelings.

Donkholdur-in the Forge Mountains, these dwarves have a small kingdom and prefer to remain isolated from the affairs of elves, humans, and gnomes. It is said their forges make the finest steel, fit for the gods themselves.

Melthiöd- many generations ago this Dorrhüm was lost to a dark, unspeakable evil. Since then,  Melthiöd dwarves have lived in exile, most living in the area surrounding Kastinorok.

Dwarves are stereotypically tough and stubborn,  valiant in war and can tend towards obsession in mundane activities or hobbies. Most dwarves value their heritage and cultural eccentricities.