Beyond the searing deserts, far to the north where their tall dunes and sand turn to mountain and stone, lies an even greater inferno. These mountains, whose flames have been burning since long before the rise of sentient life, are believed to have shaped much of the continent of Ralador. While an eruption has not been seen in millennia, the magma within them still flows bounteously, and for ages past, a unique species of intelligent life has made their home in this fiery realm. Known by humanity as the Dwarves, these hardy creatures with a propensity for creation have carved out entire cities deep within the mountains. Utilizing the boundless heat of the volcanic magma, they were likely the first beings to bend metal to their will, forging powerful tools and weapons that defended their civilization against all threats. The art of smithing is a time-honored tradition among these stout folk, infused into their very blood and culture.
Even today, dwarven smithery is renowned throughout the lands as the highest quality. Their work is their lifestyle, one that transcends the scope of mere metalwork, and even a dwarf who does not specialize in the craft finds it easy to produce an item of equal or greater worth than a human who has dedicated years to mastering it. Those dwarves who do devote themselves to the forge do so for centuries, and these true masters of metal are capable of creating legendary tools, weapons, and armor of unparalleled caliber. Knowing the weight of their great skill, the dwarves maintain a strict code of honor, refusing to export any crafts for war that could tip the scales of conflict. Any creature who desires an item of dwarven craftsmanship must undertake the journey to the mountains and request it directly from a smith, just as the first king of Asteria did long ago.
