Homebrew Duergar (Olvara) Species Details
Duergar, or Dark Dwarves, are born not from some separate bloodline, but from ordinary dwarves touched by unnatural forces during conception or birth—twisted ley lines, exposure to the Far Realm, infernal influence, or dead magic zones. Considered cursed or ill-omens by traditional dwarven society, they are often exiled or enslaved, raised apart from their kin in bleak settlements or militant enclaves. Their connection to supernatural interference grants them an unnatural resilience and brutal focus. Many survive by becoming warriors, mercenaries, pit-fighters, or monks seeking inner control of the darkness within.
Duergar (Olvara) Traits
As a duergar, you have the following racial traits.Creature Type
You are a Humanoid. You are also considered a dwarf for any prerequisite or effect that requires you to be a dwarf.
Size
You are Medium.
Speed
Your walking speed is 30 feet.
Vision
You have Deep Vision
- You can see in Bright Light as normal.
- You see Twilight as if it's bright light.
- You see in Darkness as if it's Twilight.
Iron Surge
When you take damage from an attack, you can use your reaction to absorb and redirect it. Reduce the damage by an amount equal to twice your proficiency bonus, and immediately move up to 15 feet without provoking opportunity attacks. Your next melee attack before the end of your next turn deals an extra 1d6 force damage.
Iron-Bound Hide
Your body is partially calcified or iron-hardened. While not wearing heavy armor, your AC equals 14 + your Constitution modifier.
Whispers of the Deep
You hear faint whispers in moments of silence—echoes from your unnatural origin. Once per long rest, you may ask a yes/no question of the whispers. The DM will answer truthfully, cryptically, or not at all, depending on the nature of the question.
Unshaken Will
You gain advantage on saving throws against being charmed or frightened. If you succeed a save against either, you gain temporary hit points equal to your Constitution modifier (minimum 1).
Grudge-Fueled Endurance
When you are reduced to half your hit point maximum or less, you gain resistance to bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage until the end of your next turn. You can use this ability once per short rest.
Obsidian Form
Once per long rest, you can fully embrace the power of your altered form for 1 minute:
- Your size becomes Large if you have space.
- You gain temporary hit points equal to twice your level.
- Your melee attacks deal an extra 1d6 psychic damage.
- You are immune to being frightened or restrained during this time.
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