Vardalgr

The Vardalgr are master smiths and metallurgists, renowned for their unmatched skill in crafting alloys, forging tools, and creating magical infusions that elevate their works to legendary status. On Encara, their forges burned brighter than any other, fueled by a relentless curiosity and reverence for the secrets of metal and stone. Their artisans and merchants were not only creators but also shrewd traders, spreading their influence and products far and wide, from the grand halls of kings to the bustling markets of commonfolk.

When the diaspora brought them to Thaedros, the Vardalgr mourned the loss of the forges and mines of their homeland. But they quickly discovered that Thaedros offered a wealth of new possibilities. Among the mountains of Arakol, veins of unfamiliar minerals awaited their tools, and one material, in particular, caught their collective imagination: eldrite, a remarkable ore with unparalleled conductivity for magical currents. This discovery set the Vardalgr aflame with excitement, and they threw themselves into the exploration of Thaedros' untapped resources.

Today, the Vardalgr are pioneers in this new world, carving out mining towns along the central mountain range and establishing themselves as both artisans and entrepreneurs. Their settlements are alive with the sounds of hammers striking anvils and the hiss of molten metal, as they experiment with alloys and infusions that promise to reshape the magical and material sciences. Although they have no central authority, their strong sense of independence and clan loyalty has fostered an expansive network of forges and markets, each one vying for renown.

In Yldan, the Vardalgr have quickly risen to prominence. Their wealth and craftsmanship have earned them influential positions among the city's elite, and their sponsorship of the Yldanian Surveyor's Guild has made them key players in the exploration of Thaedros' uncharted territories. This is in no small part thanks to the legacy of Yldan's first queen, a Vardalgr dwarf whose political acumen laid the foundation for the nation's cooperative spirit. Though politics do not come as naturally to the Vardalgr as forging does, they have begun to see its value in a world where alliances are as vital as the strength of steel.

The Vardalgr are a people defined by their reverence for metal, seeing in it reflections of their own nature. Metal can yield and adapt when tempered, but it can also be unyielding and implacable when hardened. The Vardalgr embrace this duality, using it as a lens through which they view the world. Their culture is rich with parables and proverbs drawn from the forge, offering lessons in resilience, adaptation, and the value of striking while the iron is hot.

For the Vardalgr, Thaedros represents a world of endless potential. It is a place where fortunes can be made, where new wonders can be created, and where their craft can achieve heights undreamed of in Encara. While some may see the dangers of Thaedros as insurmountable, the Vardalgr see it as another challenge to be met with fire and steel.

Racial Traits

Special Abilities

Forged in Fire Your people's resilience has been shaped by generations in the forge. You have resistance to fire damage, and you gain proficiency in Smith's Tools or Alchemist's Supplies.

Master Artisans You gain expertise (double proficiency bonus) in one tool of your choice from the following: Smith's Tools, Tinker's Tools, or Jeweler's Tools. Additionally, crafting mundane metal items takes you half the usual time.

Magnum Opus At 5th level, you may craft a signature weapon, armor, or tool of exceptional quality, granting it a minor magical property (DM's discretion) or reducing attunement requirements by one level. The process takes one week and requires access to a forge and rare materials.

Indomitable Will Once per long rest, when you fail a Strength, Constitution, or Intelligence saving throw, you can choose to reroll it and take the second result.

Basic Traits

Languages You can speak, read, and write Common and Dwarvish.

Speed Your base walking speed is 25 feet. Your speed is not reduced by wearing heavy armor.

Size Vardalgr dwarves average 4 to 5 feet tall and are built with sturdy frames. Your size is Medium.

Age Vardalgr dwarves mature at the same rate as humans but are considered young until they reach 50. They often live for 300 years or more.

Backgrounds

Guild Artisan

You were raised within the great halls of a crafting guild, where your skills were honed by generations of master artisans. Whether as a blacksmith, jeweler, or alchemist, your trade is both your livelihood and your legacy.

• Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, History
• Tool Proficiencies: Smith's Tools, Jeweler's Tools
• Languages: One of your choice (Elvish or Gnomish recommended)
• Feature: Master's Eye - When inspecting a crafted item, you can determine its origin, approximate age, and any hidden properties with a successful Intelligence (Investigation) or Wisdom (Perception) check.
• Ability Score Increases: +2 Intelligence, +1 Constitution

Eldrite Prospector

Thaedros is rich with unknown minerals, and you were among the first to uncover its secrets. Your expertise in mining and refining eldrite has placed you at the forefront of a new industrial age.

• Skill Proficiencies: Investigation, Survival
• Tool Proficiencies: Tinker's Tools, Alchemist's Supplies
• Languages: One of your choice (Primordial or Draconic recommended)
• Feature: Eldrite Infusion - Once per long rest, you can imbue a mundane item with eldrite energy, granting it faint magical properties (such as glowing dimly, humming softly, or repelling dust and dirt).
• Ability Score Increases: +2 Constitution, +1 Intelligence

Steelbound Merchant

Not all Vardalgr spend their lives in the forge—some are traders, dealmakers, and savvy entrepreneurs, ensuring that their people's work finds its way to the highest bidder.

• Skill Proficiencies: Persuasion, Insight
• Tool Proficiencies: Navigator's Tools, Calligrapher's Supplies
• Languages: One of your choice (Orcish or Halfling recommended)
• Feature: Merchant's Network - You have advantage on Persuasion checks when negotiating trade agreements, and you can always find a friendly merchant or contact in major settlements.
• Ability Score Increases: +2 Charisma, +1 Intelligence