Plain Dwarves

Plain Dwarves

The Koropokkuru, or Plain Dwarves, are a remarkable dwarven subrace native to the continent of Igochi, embodying a unique blend of tradition and adaptability. Unlike their mountain-dwelling cousins, the Plain Dwarves have chosen the open plains and fertile valleys as their home, forging a peaceful yet disciplined society in the lowlands. Their settlements are often found near rivers and lakes, where the land is flat and the air crisp, the perfect contrast to the rugged mountains that still play a vital role in their lives.

Though the Plain Dwarves have distanced themselves from the subterranean strongholds of traditional dwarves, they remain tied to the mountains in one crucial way: their need for raw minerals. Their love for fine craftsmanship runs deep, and the mountains provide the ores and metals necessary for their intricate work. Thus, their towns often dot the valleys at the base of towering peaks, where the plains meet the highlands in perfect harmony. In these valleys, Plain Dwarves settlements rise, orderly and meticulously planned, as every building, path, and structure is positioned with purpose.

Life among the Plain Dwarves is guided by an unwavering appreciation for order. In their society, everything has its rightful place, and every action is performed at its proper time. Whether they are crafting delicate tools or maintaining their farms, the Koropokkuru follow time-honored practices with an almost ritualistic devotion. To outsiders, their lifestyle may seem rigid, but to the Plain Dwarves, it is the embodiment of harmony—a reflection of the natural world’s balance and precision.

Their craftsmanship is legendary across Igochi. Though they are known to keep to themselves, the Plain Dwarves' finely crafted goods are sought after by merchants and nobles alike. They create tools and works of art with unmatched skill, valuing practicality and beauty in equal measure. From shimmering jewelry to sturdy farming equipment, every piece they craft is a testament to their dedication and the precision with which they approach life.

Despite their preference for isolation, the Plain Dwarves are no strangers to interaction with other races. They understand the importance of trade and cooperation, seeing it not as a necessary evil but as a way to ensure fairness and mutual benefit. Strangers visiting their settlements are often met with a reserved but respectful welcome. Though trust is not given lightly, the Plain Dwarves hold a deep belief in fairness—any guest will be treated justly, and agreements made with them are upheld with unwavering integrity.

In a world of chaos and unpredictability, the Plain Dwarves offer a glimpse into a life where balance and order reign supreme. Their society, shaped by the tranquil plains and the shadow of the mountains, reflects their desire for harmony—within themselves, their community, and the wider world.

Description

The Plain Dwarves share the characteristic stature of their dwarven kin, standing short and stout with a broad build that speaks to their strength and endurance. Males tend to be slightly taller and heavier than females, though both possess a sturdy physique honed by a life of labor and craftsmanship. However, where their mountain cousins bear rugged, chiseled features shaped by a harsher environment, the Koropokkuru have softer, more refined appearances. Their faces are round, with almond-shaped eyes that give them a more approachable, serene expression, setting them apart from the sterner countenance typical of other dwarves.

Their skin tones vary from warm tans to lighter shades of white, often reflecting their exposure to the sun of the open plains. Their hair, dark brown or black, grows long and straight, with a natural volume that gives it a full, majestic appearance. Both males and females take great pride in their hair, keeping it neatly tied and adorned with ornaments, often small, intricately carved pieces reflecting their craftsmanship. Males also grow long, straight beards, which are equally well-groomed and ornamented, seen as a mark of pride and status within their communities.

The eyes of the Plain Dwarves are most commonly brown, with shades ranging from deep, earthy tones to lighter hazels, though a rare few are born with striking green eyes—a trait that is often seen as a sign of fortune or special significance in their culture.

The Pain Dwarves are known for their love of fine clothing, a reflection of both their appreciation for beauty and their connection to Igochian culture. Their garments are typically adapted from the traditional styles of Igochi, blending the elegance of flowing robes and structured layers with practical designs suited to their lifestyle. Even in daily life, Plain Dwarves dress with meticulous care, their attire always neat and adorned with subtle details that showcase their craftsmanship and cultural pride. Whether it be delicate embroidery or finely crafted accessories, their clothing is a constant reminder of the balance between beauty and function that defines their society.

Where They Live

Plain Dwarves have long made their home in the serene and fertile plains of Igochi. Unlike their subterranean kin, they build their lives in open valleys nestled between mountains, where clear rivers and pristine lakes provide an abundance of fresh water. These hidden valleys, protected by towering peaks, are the heart of Koropokkuru society—quiet, self-reliant communities where the Plain Dwarves can live independently, relying on the bounty of the land and their own craftsmanship. Here, they cultivate a life of harmony, untouched by the constant demands of the outside world.

Their settlements, though small, are exquisitely designed. Every home and workshop reflects the Plain Dwarves' love of fine detail and their reverence for order. They favor building with natural materials, using wood and stone to create structures that are both sturdy and graceful. The architecture mirrors their own balanced nature—solid but refined, modest yet intricate. Stone foundations are often adorned with delicate carvings, while wooden beams are polished to a high sheen, every element serving both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Pathways wind through these villages, carefully laid out to reflect the natural flow of the land, giving their towns a tranquil, orderly feel.

Though most Plain Dwarves are content to remain in their secluded valleys, some venture beyond their homeland, drawn by curiosity or the opportunity to share their renowned craftsmanship with the world. These Plain Dwarves who settle among other races, particularly humans, often become known for their masterful work with wood, metal, and stone. They integrate themselves into the societies they join, yet always maintain the traditions and values of their homeland.

Remarkably, a number of these adventurous dwarves have even overcome their natural aversion to the sea and crossed the ocean to the distant continent of Eldenvar. There, in the northeastern regions, small communities of Plain Dwarves have taken root, living among humans while continuing to practice their traditional crafts. Though far from their ancestral lands, they carry the spirit of Igochi with them, enriching the cultures they encounter with their refined craftsmanship and sense of balance.

Society

A Plain Dwarven Village

The society of the Plain Dwarves is one built on a foundation of discipline, harmony, and a deep-seated appreciation for order. Every aspect of their lives is guided by a structured rhythm, where every task, ritual, and interaction has its rightful place and time. From the way they manage their homes to the precision with which they craft, the Plain Dwarves live by the belief that order brings peace and prosperity. Their society thrives on the principle that when all things are in balance, the community flourishes.

At the heart of Plain Dwarven life is labor and craftsmanship. Known for their meticulous and elegant creations, the Plain Dwarves pour their souls into their work, whether it be crafting delicate ornaments, forging tools, or shaping wood and stone into artful designs. Each of them is taught from a young age that work is a form of expression and an offering to the community. As a result, they hold their artisans in high regard, with master craftsmen often rising to positions of leadership and influence.

The Plain Dwarven mastery of craftsmanship extends beyond their renowned tools and fine goods—it is also evident in their architecture. Every settlement is a reflection of their deep appreciation for order and beauty, where practicality is blended seamlessly with artistic expression. Their buildings, though small, are intricately designed and constructed with precision. Using a combination of stone and wood, the Plain Dwarves create homes and communal structures that are both durable and elegant. Carvings of natural motifs, such as flowing water and mountains, often adorn their walls, while carefully fitted stonework and polished wood beams speak to their meticulous attention to detail. Even the simplest of homes is a masterpiece of design, and the layout of their towns reflects their belief in balance and harmony, with streets and pathways flowing naturally with the contours of the land. Through their architecture, the Plain Dwarves demonstrate that beauty, functionality, and craftsmanship are all interconnected, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who visits their settlements.

Their social structure is defined by mutual respect and responsibility. While there are no rigid castes or aristocracies, those who have shown exceptional skill or wisdom naturally become respected elders or community leaders. Elders, in particular, are seen as the keepers of tradition and are often called upon to resolve disputes or guide communal decisions. Despite their emphasis on discipline, the Koropokkuru are not overly hierarchical; respect is earned through deeds rather than birthright, and fairness governs all aspects of social interaction.

Though the Plain Dwarves prefer to live by themselves, they are far from isolationist in mindset. They understand the importance of trade and alliances with other races, not only for the exchange of goods but also for the mutual benefit of shared knowledge and protection. While they may seem reserved or distant at first, the Plain Dwarves value fairness and honesty in all dealings. Strangers are treated with respect, and agreements, once made, are honored without question.

A unique aspect of their society is their connection to the land. Though they do not worship the land in the same way that some elven cultures might, the Plain Dwarves view their surroundings as a partner in their prosperity. The rivers, lakes, and valleys where they settle are meticulously maintained, and they are careful not to overextend their resources. This stewardship of the land is not only practical but also symbolic of their philosophy of balance and harmony.

Ultimately, the Plain Dwarven way of life is one of quiet strength and disciplined peace. They place great value on self-sufficiency, believing that a well-ordered life leads to happiness and prosperity for all. It is this balance between their love of isolation and their understanding of community that defines them, making the Plain Dwarves a unique and respected race within the world of Igochi and beyond.

Economy

Plain Dwarven miners

The economy of the Plain Dwarves is as diverse and balanced as their way of life, structured around the needs of their small but self-sufficient communities. At its core lies the Plain Dwarves' unparalleled craftsmanship, a tradition shared with their dwarven kin. Masters of metal and stone, they produce items of the finest quality, from weapons and armor to tools, jewelry, and intricate works of art. Their skill in shaping raw materials is renowned across the land, and their creations are highly sought after by those who appreciate the fusion of functionality and beauty.

In addition to their traditional crafts, the Plain Dwarves have honed skills in areas less common among other dwarves, most notably textile work. They are adept at weaving and spinning, working with a wide variety of fibers to produce high-quality garments and items. Their textile craftsmanship is as precise and detailed as their metal and stone work, with beautifully woven fabrics that reflect their refined sense of aesthetics. These skills, while unusual for dwarves, allow them to stand out and diversify their economic activities.

Beyond crafting, extractive activities play a vital role in sustaining their economy. The most important of these is mining, as the Plain Dwarves seek valuable ores and metals in the mountains near their settlements. Their mines, though small in scale, are highly efficient, extracting just enough material to fuel their craft without overburdening the land. For the Plain Dwarves, the mountains are not only a source of raw materials but a symbol of balance between the earth and their needs.

To meet the daily needs of their communities, the Plain Dwarves also engage in farming, fishing, and herding. These activities, while modest, are crucial to the sustenance of their towns. Farms, often located near rivers or lakes, provide crops and livestock to support their small populations, while fishing from the lakes and rivers supplies fresh food for the community. Each of these activities is carried out with the same meticulous care that defines all aspects of their society, ensuring that nothing is wasted and everything has its proper place.

Finally, trade is an important aspect of their economy, allowing them to exchange their finely crafted goods for raw materials and items they cannot produce themselves. Though they prefer self-sufficiency, the Plain Dwarves understand the value of external commerce. Their goods, from expertly crafted tools to delicate textiles, are highly valued in the trade networks of Igochi and beyond, making their towns small but important hubs of commerce. Through trade, they maintain a connection to the outside world while preserving the integrity and balance of their self-reliant communities.

Arts and Culture

The arts and culture of the Plain Dwarves reflect their deep connection to both meticulous work and order, weaving together aesthetics, function, and a profound sense of harmony. Every aspect of their culture is an expression of balance, where beauty and purpose coexist in perfect unity. From their finely crafted tools to their modest yet intricate architecture, the Plain Dwarves view creation as a way to honor both the natural world and their heritage.

At the heart of their artistic expression is their craftsmanship, which extends beyond mere functionality. Whether working with stone, metal, wood, or textiles, the Plain Dwarves approach their creations as works of art. Their metalwork is renowned for its precision and beauty, producing not only weapons and armor but also decorative pieces, intricate jewelry, and finely engraved tools. Their stone carving is equally impressive, often featuring geometric patterns or natural motifs that honor the surrounding landscape. Even the simplest tool or household item is crafted with care, bearing the mark of a skilled artisan.

Perhaps most unique among their crafts is their textile work. Unlike many other dwarven cultures, the Plain Dwarves have developed a mastery of weaving and fabric arts. Using natural fibers from the animals they herd and plants they cultivate, they create richly patterned fabrics used for clothing, blankets, and tapestries. These textiles often feature designs inspired by the natural world—waves of water, towering mountains, and the orderly flow of time—reflecting their belief in balance and precision. Plain Dwarven garments are both practical and elegant, further showcasing their attention to detail and pride in their craft.

In music and performance, the Plain Dwarves maintain a quieter, more contemplative tradition. Their music is often instrumental, featuring flutes, drums, and stringed instruments made from the materials of their homeland. The melodies are soft and reflective, designed to evoke the flow of rivers, the wind through the valleys, and the steady rhythm of a working life. Dance and storytelling play an important role in their festivals, often performed in a structured, ceremonial fashion. These performances are not grand spectacles but communal acts that reflect the values of order and respect for tradition.

Their architecture, while modest, is also an expression of their cultural values. Homes and public buildings are crafted from stone and wood, with intricate carvings and detailed designs that celebrate their connection to the land. Roofs are often adorned with subtle carvings, and doorways are framed with geometric patterns. Even the layout of their towns reflects their emphasis on structure and balance, with carefully arranged streets and buildings that harmonize with the natural environment.

Education

Plain Dwarven education is a methodical, disciplined, and highly structured system, much like every other aspect of their ordered society. In their small, close-knit communities, the education of the young is entrusted to the elders, who are revered as the keepers of wisdom, tradition, and skill. Each village typically has one or two schools, run by groups of elders responsible for guiding the next generation of Plain Dwarves. These schools are not just places of learning but centers of discipline, respect, and community development.

Education begins early in a Plain Dwarven child’s life, combining both oral lessons and hands-on experience. Elders gather the young to teach them the rich history and traditions of their people, as well as the environment that sustains them. The children are also taught the basic tasks essential to the survival of their settlement, such as farming, fishing, and herding. This early education instills a strong sense of responsibility and connection to the land, ensuring that the young understand their role within the community from an early age.

As the young dwarves grow, the focus shifts to craftsmanship and martial training, two cornerstones of Plain Dwarven society. It is the elders who carefully observe and evaluate each child, identifying their individual strengths and potential. Some may excel in metalwork or stone carving, while others might show aptitude in textiles or farming. Once a young dwarf's strengths are recognized, they are paired with a master who will guide them in their chosen craft. These masters are highly skilled artisans or experts in their trade, and under their mentorship, the young dwarves hone their abilities through rigorous, hands-on training. This apprenticeship continues until the young dwarf is fully prepared to contribute to the community with their craft or trade.

Education is also structured with a significant emphasis on martial training. Though peaceful by nature, the Plain Dwarves understand the importance of being prepared to defend their land and people. Martial training, much like their crafts, is approached with discipline and order, ensuring that every member of the community can defend themselves if necessary. The young dwarves practice physical techniques alongside lessons in strategy and defense, ensuring a well-rounded approach to combat training.

Plain Dwarven schools operate with the same strict discipline as martial schools. Students are expected to show utmost respect to their elder teachers, and while failure is not met with harsh punishment, there is a clear expectation for each student to give their best effort in every task and lesson. This atmosphere of respect and dedication creates a culture where every young dwarf strives for excellence, both for personal growth and for the benefit of the community.

In the end, Plain Dwarven education shapes not just skilled artisans and capable farmers, but also disciplined, thoughtful individuals who understand their place in society and the value of hard work and tradition. It is a lifelong commitment to learning and mastery, guided by the wisdom of the elders and driven by the unwavering dedication of the young.

Military and Warfare

A Plain Dwarven Warrior

The martial tradition of the Plain Dwarves is as structured and disciplined as every other aspect of their society. While they are a peaceful people by nature, they have a deep understanding of the need for readiness, especially given that their small, open settlements are vulnerable to external threats. For the Plain Dwarves, defense is a duty every community member must be prepared for, even though they do not maintain a standing army.

From a young age, martial training is an essential part of education. As part of their disciplined upbringing, all Plain Dwarves are taught the fundamentals of combat, strategy, and defense. The emphasis is not on conquest but on readiness and the ability to defend their people and homes if needed. Every member of the community is expected to be prepared to stand and fight when the time comes, and martial training ensures that, even in times of peace, they are vigilant and ready to act.

During conflict, leadership naturally falls to the elders, the same wise figures who oversee training and the education of the young. These elders, respected for their experience and judgment, act as commanders, organizing the community’s defense with the assistance of captains—the most skilled and experienced warriors in the community. These captains also serve as advisors, helping to shape strategies during combat and guiding others with their knowledge.

In battle, Plain Dwarves favor hit-and-run tactics, using their knowledge of the terrain and the importance of mobility to their advantage. Their primary goal is always the protection of their people, and while they hold their homes and settlements in high regard, they know that buildings can be rebuilt if necessary. Their focus is on safeguarding their population and ensuring that enemies cannot cause significant harm to their community. Fortifications are often constructed in nearby mountains, serving as secure retreats in times of great danger, where the dwarves can regroup and defend from stronger, more defensible positions.

Though their reputation suggests that they only fight in defense, enemies quickly learn that this is not always the case. Plain Dwarves will act offensively if they identify a serious threat, and when they do, they do so with precision and strategy. They strike quickly and decisively, using their hit-and-run tactics to catch enemies off guard.

The combat styles of the Plain Dwarves are varied and practical, tailored to their small stature and the need to outmaneuver larger enemies. For ranged combat, they favor crossbows, which provide powerful, accurate strikes from a distance. In melee combat, they employ a variety of polearms, with the Guandao, a variant of the glaive, being a favored weapon. Its long reach helps compensate for the dwarves' smaller size when fighting larger opponents. For close-quarters combat, they wield the Dadao, a heavy, curved broadsword that delivers powerful, sweeping strikes. The armor of the Plain Dwarves is finely crafted, much like their weapons, though somewhat simpler in design compared to the more elaborate styles of their Igochian neighbors. It is built to be functional and durable, providing the protection needed while allowing for the mobility necessary for their hit-and-run tactics.

When they enter combat, Plain Dwarves rely on teamwork, strategy, and precision. Their martial training emphasizes coordination, with fighters working together in tightly organized units. They value honor and mercy, treating even their enemies with respect. After a battle, they show mercy to the defeated, believing that true strength lies not just in victory, but in the way they conduct themselves on and off the battlefield.

In all aspects of warfare, the Plain Dwarves demonstrate the same level of discipline, order, and respect for tradition that they apply to their daily lives. Their martial skills are not just a defense mechanism but an integral part of their cultural identity, ensuring the protection of their people, values, and way of life.

Social and Family Structure

In Plain Dwarven society, family is held in high regard, and the bonds between relatives are treated with great respect and reverence. The elders, as the heads of family units, are looked upon as the keepers of wisdom and tradition, guiding their kin through the intricacies of life. Ancestors are similarly revered, their legacy honored in quiet ceremonies and daily rituals, ensuring that the values and lessons of the past remain alive in the hearts of the living.

Yet, unlike other dwarven subraces, the Plain Dwarves do not place the same emphasis on family identity or clan allegiance. While they acknowledge their lineage and take pride in their heritage, their society is built around a broader sense of communal unity rather than individual family ties. The structure of their communities is not defined by clans but by the needs of the collective. Each member, regardless of family background, plays an essential role in the functioning and well-being of the whole. This gives rise to a strong sense of communal responsibility, where every individual is valued for their contribution to the common good.

In the strictly organized society of the Plain Dwarves, everyone knows their place and purpose within the community. Whether they are craftsmen, farmers, or warriors, each dwarf performs their role with dedication and precision, understanding that the success of one depends on the success of all. This shared sense of duty fosters a deep interconnectedness among the Plain Dwarves, creating a society where communal ties are as strong as, if not stronger than, familial bonds.

Though there is respect for certain family lineages—particularly those with a long history of service to the community—the Plain Dwarves have no concept of nobility. Their society is deeply egalitarian, where merit and contribution define a person's standing rather than birthright. There is no aristocracy, no elite class; all dwarves are seen as equal in their responsibility to the community.

At the heart of this social structure are the elders, whose wisdom and experience are trusted by all. It is the elders who guide decision-making, resolve disputes, and provide counsel. Their authority is not questioned, as it is built on centuries of accumulated knowledge and a profound understanding of what is best for the community. The people trust their judgment implicitly, and decisions made by the elders are followed without hesitation, for it is believed that their wisdom ensures the continued prosperity and harmony of Plain Dwarven society.

Names

The naming tradition of the Plain Dwarves reflects the importance of both heritage and community in their society. Every name consists of three distinct components: a first name, a family name, and finally, the community name. Together, these names serve as a connection to the past, the present, and the collective future of their people.

The first name is chosen from family ancestry and holds deep meaning, often linked to the deeds and accomplishments of those who came before. These names are selected with great care, as they represent the pride and legacy of the individual’s lineage. A Plain Dwarf wears their first name as a badge of honor, knowing that it is tied to their family’s history and the values they strive to uphold.

Following the first name is the family name, a symbol of tradition and continuity. Much like the first name, the family name is a nod to the ancestors and the longstanding values of the family unit. However, in daily life, the family name is rarely used. Even when dealing with outsiders, it is kept within the community, as the emphasis is placed more on the collective identity rather than individual lineage.

The most important aspect of a Plain Dwarf’s name, especially when interacting with the outside world, is their community name. This name identifies the settlement or region they come from and is a point of pride when dealing with others. Plain Dwarves take great pride in their communities, and this part of their name tells others where they belong and what part of the greater dwarven society they represent. For the Plain Dwarves, the community is more than just a place to live—it is the heart of their identity. Thus, when introducing themselves, it is the community name that they emphasize, offering outsiders a clear sense of the strong bonds that tie them to their home and people.

Adventurers

In the structured and disciplined world of the Plain Dwarves, becoming an adventurer is an uncommon but respected path, one that blends their deep-rooted sense of duty with a spirit of exploration and discovery. While most Plain Dwarves are content to serve their communities through traditional roles—be it as craftsmen, farmers, or defenders—there are those who feel a calling to venture beyond the familiar valleys and plains of their homeland. These individuals, driven by curiosity, a desire to protect their people, or a quest for knowledge, step into the world of adventure, carrying with them the values and traditions of their people.

Adventurers among the Plain Dwarves are often those who have shown exceptional skill or a unique aptitude that goes beyond the needs of their community. They might be warriors who have mastered the martial arts of their people or craftsmen whose talents lead them to seek out rare materials and techniques in distant lands. Some are scholars or historians, eager to uncover the lost knowledge of their ancestors or to learn from the cultures of other races.

Before setting out on their journeys, Plain Dwarven adventurers undergo extensive preparation. Elders and community leaders, recognizing the potential benefits and risks of such ventures, ensure that these individuals are well-equipped not only with physical gear but also with the wisdom and guidance needed to navigate the wider world. This preparation is both practical and spiritual, as adventurers are reminded of their duty to uphold the honor and reputation of their community in every action they take.

Once on their journey, these adventurers carry with them the values of discipline, order, and respect that are central to Plain Dwarven culture. They are often seen as paragons of their people’s virtues, showcasing the same meticulous care in their actions as they would in their crafts or daily tasks back home. Even in the most chaotic and unpredictable situations, Plain Dwarven adventurers strive to maintain their sense of balance and purpose, treating allies and even enemies with the honor and fairness that their upbringing instilled in them.

Despite their adventures taking them far from home, Plain Dwarven adventurers remain deeply connected to their communities. They are known to send back valuable resources, rare materials, or even knowledge that can benefit their people. Some eventually return to their homeland, bringing with them new skills, stories, and a broadened perspective that enriches their community. Others may settle in distant lands, forming new bonds with other races while still maintaining the ties to their roots.

While the path of an adventurer is not the norm among the Plain Dwarves, those who choose it are seen as ambassadors of their culture, embodying the strength, wisdom, and values of their people in every step of their journey.