> [!success] Dwarf > ![[dwarf.png]] > ## General Information > > [!question] Other names > NA > > > [!question] Origins > [[Thalnor]] > > > [!question] Languages > [[Languages|Dwarven]] > > ## Biology > > [!question] Height > 4½ to 5½ ft > > > [!question] Weight > 140 to 170 lbs > > > [!question] Lifespan > 200 - 250 years # Description The dwarves of Kald are as secretive as the Eil are spiritual. They bear a strong resemblance to humans, though average under five feet in height. They are stocky and possess strength unusual for their size. As a group, they tend to be materialistic, jealous, stubborn, and clannish, but they are also polite and have a strong sense of racial and personal honor. Beards are often elaborately styled and adorned with precious gems. Dwarves may live 200-250 years and in that span will rarely forget friend or foe. Dwarven males outnumber females almost three to one and outsiders find it difficult to distinguish the sexes from one another, though it's somewhat of a non-issue as females are rarely seen. Most dwarves never marry and as a species they are not particularly fertile. ## Rituals and Death Dwarves have a unique approach to death and the afterlife, intrinsically tied to their mountain cities and societal structure. Upon death, a dwarf's body undergoes a ritual transformation into stone, a process known as "petrifaction." This transformation is considered a rite of passage into a new form of existence and civic duty. The resulting Ancestor Stone—a perfect, stone replica of the deceased—is incorporated into the architecture of the dwarven city. The placement of an Ancestor Stone is determined by the deceased's status and achievements in life. Highly honored dwarves may be placed in crucial structural or defensive positions, for example. Because of this, death is viewed as a transition rather than an end. Dwarven cities can often be considered living entities, housing the collective wisdom and protection of countless generations and young dwarves will often seek guidance from their city's Ancestor Stones. ## Worship In dwarven culture, [[The Arborist]] is more commonly known as The Cycle, reflecting their unique perspective on life, death, and the passage of time. Due to their deep connection to their mountain homes, dwarves recognize the slow but constant changes in stone as part of The Cycle's influence.