Dwarves

A fierce, clan based society in the mountains and foothills of the Gol’Gak region of Estra. To the east of Arenda. (Think Norse or Viking) Kingdom of Mor-Anduin

Description
Dwarves are usually no more than 4’ tall, and no shorter than 3’. They usually weigh between 200 and 300 hundred pounds. They have long hair and mid-length beards, usually blonde, red, or brown. Dwarves usually live for 200-300 years.

Religion
Dwarves can trace their lineage back at least five generations, they pray to their ancestors and worship their dead. Dwarves hold their elders in very high esteem.

Customs
Four major clans, clan Ardak, clan Arga, clan Karrik, and clan Midra, ruled by an elected high king. By the end of the year after the king dies the leaders of the clans chose a new king. Dwarves value family above all else; if a dwarf counts you as a brother or sister you are counted as one with all dwarves of his clan, this is a high honor and is not ever given lightly, usually given for avenging the death or saving the life of a family member.

Armies
Dwarves fight with ax and round shield, two-handed axes, and shortbows, wearing chainmail into battle. The clan crests are painted on their shields. Usually fighters, clerics, and a few rangers. Have only just recently started fighting in an ordered rank and file in the last 500 years.

Histories
War/raids with humans, goblins, orcs, and cat-folk, love of gold and riches, herd great goats and mammoths.

Origin
5000 years ago the first dwarves came from a forgotten land over the Eastern sea, no dwarves can remember the name or how far away the land is.