To a Dwarf his clan is his family, and that family is a close-knit and inclusive society. Forges and mines have always surrounded you and so you have even a little understanding of how they operate. Perhaps you are the child of a member of the leading council or a lost orphan that they took in as their own. When you choose this background, work with your DM to determine the nature of your clan, are you still in contact with them, have you been cast out for past crimes or have they been killed and scattered to the winds. You can also determine the culture of your clan, were they a mere gathering of outcasts or a nation in their own right; did they enforce study or work or did they simply keep the peace?
- Skill Proficiencies: As you grew to come of age, the sounds of Pick and steel were your lullaby, the sparkle of gems and gold surrounded you and history was engraved on every wall.
You have proficiency in History and Investigation. - Tool Proficiencies: The Halls of your clan were filled with the tools of their work, and as such, you learnt a thing or two of how to use them.
Work with your DM to determine what toolset your clan would have specialised in. - Languages: Whether you are of Dwarvish blood, or an adopted member of the clan the gutteral sounds of the Dwarvish language have filled your ears for many years.
You are able to speak, read and write Dwarvish.
What place did you take in your clan? Every member does their part to further its aims, but what was your Part?
| d6 | Clan Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | Miner |
| 2 | Elder |
| 3 | Smith |
| 4 | Jeweller |
| 5 | Leather Worker |
| 6 | Sage |
You will always have a place to stay amongst your clanmates. If you are in need of a hot meal, shelter or favour; the members of your clan will always try to support you. You can find a place to rest and recoup under their rooves and unless you have shown yourself a danger to them, your kin will work to protect you from the law but not if it puts them in danger.
*See: Rustic Hospitality in PHB*
Suggested Characteristics
Most of the Dwarvish clans push upon their members a deep-seated sense of honour and loyalty, especially towards their kin. Thus clan members tend to be lawful and good, though there will always be exceptions.
All members of the clan are expected to do their part to further its goals meaning most clan members have some sort of bond with their clan elders.
The almost insuppressible love of earth and stone that many dwarvish clans hold often rubs off on its members, your flaws will often have something to do with greed whether that be greed for gold or knowledge.
Contacts
So long as your clan exists and you are welcome among them, you will always have contacts and friends to call upon.
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