Homebrew Longbeard Dwarf Species Details

Longbeard Dwarves (Durin's Folk) are the most noble and prominent of the dwarven clans, descended from Durin the Deathless, the eldest of the Seven Fathers of the Dwarves. Known for their long, well-kept beards, which are a symbol of their lineage and honor, the Longbeards are skilled warriors, miners, and craftsmen, particularly in the art of metalworking and stonecraft. Their halls, like Khazad-dûm (Moria), are legendary for their beauty, vastness, and the quality of the treasures found within.

Longbeard dwarves are typically stout and broad-shouldered, standing around 4 to 5 feet tall. Their hair is usually dark brown, black, or even gray with age, though some have golden or reddish hues. Their eyes are sharp, often deep brown or gray, and seem to reflect the strength of stone and the fire of their forges. They carry themselves with a sense of pride and stubborn determination, traits that have carried them through centuries of hardship and triumph.

Despite their gruff exterior, Longbeards are deeply loyal to their kin and hold strong ties to their ancestors. Honor and tradition guide their decisions, and they place great value on oaths and family bonds. They tend to be slow to trust other races but will forge lifelong friendships with those who prove themselves worthy. However, their love for gold, gems, and precious metals can sometimes lead to greed, a trait that has caused conflicts with other people, especially Elves.

Longbeards are also known for their martial prowess, wielding great axes, warhammers, and finely crafted swords in battle. They don heavy armor, often adorned with runes of protection and designs that reflect their deep connection to the earth. In combat, they are fearsome, relying on their strength, resilience, and centuries of tactical knowledge passed down through generations.

Though many Longbeards have suffered great losses, such as the fall of Khazad-dûm to the Balrog and the dragon Smaug's destruction of Erebor, their indomitable spirit persists. They rebuild, reclaim lost kingdoms, and pass down their history through songs, stories, and meticulously crafted records, ensuring that the legacy of Durin endures.

Longbeard Dwarf Traits

Longbeards, or Durin's Folk, are the most revered of the dwarven clans, known for their indomitable will, unparalleled craftsmanship, and unwavering loyalty to kin and tradition.

Age

Dwarves mature slightly slower than humans and can live for several centuries, often reaching 250-350 years. Some may live longer, especially those of royal blood.

Size

Dwarves stand between 4 and 5 feet tall but are stocky and broad, weighing as much as humans. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 25 feet. Dwarves are not slowed by heavy armor.

Ability Score Increase

Constitution +2, Strength +1, Wisdom +1

 

Darkvision

You can see in dim light within 60 feet as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

Dwarven Resilience

You have advantage on saving throws against poison, and you have resistance to poison damage.

Dwarven Armor and Combat Training

You have proficiency with light and medium armor, as well as Warhammers, Battleaxes, and Great Axes.

Tool Proficiency

You gain proficiency with one artisan’s tool of your choice: smith’s tools, brewer’s supplies, or mason’s tools.

Language

You can speak, read, and write Common and Dwarvish. The Dwarvish language is ancient and full of hard consonants, often reflecting their culture's rigid and practical nature.

Legacy of Durin

You gain an advantage on saving throws against fear and charm effects.