Dwarf (race)

The dwarves of Ashenfall are known for their masterful craftsmanship, particularly in smithing. Though they are not common in the region, their history is intertwined with the lore of powerful weapons and enduring traditions.

Dwarven culture

Dwarven society, as evidenced by mastersmith Doric and the Imcando dwarves, places a high value on skilled labour and tradition. Imcando dwarves, for instance, are renowned for their ability to create exceptional weapons, although they prefer the forge to the battlefield. Their creations, like the warhammer, are formidable tools of destruction, yet they are a people whose primary identity is tied to their craft.

The path to becoming a mastersmith is a tradition and requires a series of trials, one of which involves crafting a granite maul with an ornate maul handle, imbued leather wrappings, and an imbued granite maul head. This emphasis on trials and mastery speaks to a culture that values hard-earned skill and acknowledges the dedication required to achieve it. Doric, a master smith from the dwarven capital of Keldagrim, went on a journey to Ashenfall in pursuit of knowledge and new materials. His presence highlights a dwarven drive for innovation and a deep respect for ancient techniques and blueprints, which are seen as valuable treasures.

The dwarves also find joy in simple pleasures, like the kebab, which is a favourite of the drunken dwarves. Beyond being a delicious meal to the dwarves, the kebab is also a "time-honoured remedy" for certain poisonings, showcasing a practical side to their culinary traditions.

Weapons

While they are masters of metalwork, dwarves also exhibit a pragmatic and resourceful approach to combat. The granite maul, for example, is a legendary weapon that defies conventional expectations, proving that raw power can be just as effective as refined metal. This weapon's origin story, created out of frustration by a dwarf fighting gargoyles, illustrates dwarven ingenuity and their ability to adapt to difficult situations. This raw power, however, comes with risks, as the weapon's creator was injured by its recoil, showing that even dwarven innovations have their limits.

The presence of a lone Imcando dwarf in Ashenfall also highlights a more personal, emotional side to dwarven combat. This dwarf, driven by vengeance, wields an enormous warhammer, and her fury is as potent as her weapon. This serves as a stark reminder that while they may prefer the forge, dwarves are capable of great ferocity when their loved ones are threatened.

References

↑ Journal entry of Iron Warhammer, RuneScape: Dragonwilds. "Imcando dwarves preferred the forge to the battlefield but were not afraid to join the frontlines when their aid was needed."
↑ Journal entry of Ornate Maul Handle, RuneScape: Dragonwilds. "A dwarf capable of crafting such a piece is acknowledged to have completed one of the trials required to be a master smith."
↑ Journal entry of Doric, RuneScape: Dragonwilds. "Now, Doric comes to Ashenfall in search of new metals, lost smithing techniques, and the blueprints of ancient weapons."
↑ Journal entry of Kebab, RuneScape: Dragonwilds. "The Drunken Dwarf delights in the humble Kebab, offering it to any who might grab his attention."
↑ Journal entry of Kebab, RuneScape: Dragonwilds. "For those afflicted, or self-inflicted, with particular poisonings, the Kebab is a time-honoured remedy."
↑ Journal entry of Granite Maul, RuneScape: Dragonwilds. "In frustration, one dwarf took the biggest hunk of granite he could find and turned it into a legend."
↑ Journal entry of Iron Warhammer, RuneScape: Dragonwilds. "In the rare times the dwarf spoke, she simply mentioned that she was looking for someone the goblins had taken, and she would never rest until she got them back."