Architecture/Living

Dwarves live in underground chambers connected by tunnel complexes, often with limited routes to the surface. These settlements can vary from a single level up to ten or more. They often have small speaking tunnels between levels. There are also false tunnels that can be sealed from behind to trap enemies. Some areas are secured by large circular stone doors (weighing up to 1000 lbs.), which can be rolled into place. Small, perfectly round holes in these door’s centers allow defenders to spear invaders while maintaining a secure perimeter.

Dwarves live in units as follows:

• Extended family units (married couples (and sometimes their parents) and dependent children)
• Bachelor Units (once a dwarf reaches adulthood—about 25 years old—they move into the appropriate male or female unit)
• Functional Units (military, mining)
• Individual dwellings (only the wealthiest, and they have servant living areas)

Air flow and management is a closely guarded secret, but there are widely known facts. Levels close to the surface often have small air tunnels. In some areas the surface is carved into a downward funneling spiral that directs wind into the tunnels. Air is also moved mechanically, by water-powered fans. Fresh air flow can also be assisted by natural rock crevices and differential temperature gradients. Giant halls and other open spaces also help with air management. Fresh air is also created by fungi or lichen. In some cases, fungi-filled water pools create fresh air bubbles. One underground concern is “damps,” which are pockets of dangerous air. Hung sheets and other methods to direct air are used to diffuse them.

Torches and other ignition-based light sources are rarely used underground. Instead, a light-producing fungus has been cultivated. This fungus can be found throughout the settlements—in public areas, dwellings, along corridors, and being carried. They are said to need constant tending, or their light diminishes.

Clothing

Dwarves fashion most of their clothes from specialized fungi. The fungi sheets are cut into flexible leather-like clothing, pouches, pants, and even durable furniture which can be dyed any color. It can be as hard as enamel and shell-like, or as soft as a sponge. It is also waterproof and fire-resistant. Thickness varies from thin as paper (dresses or window coverings) to incredibly thick—and is remarkable flexible and strong. Chicken feathers are sometimes used as stuffing. Wool clothing can also be found.

All levels of dwarven society tend to dress similarly, with of course appropriate vocational/clan markings and quality differences. Ostentatious clothing displays usually involve ornamentation with precious gems and metals.

Dwarves tend to not have seasonal clothing, since their underground complexes have consistent temperatures. Dwarves that visit or work on the surface (often called “topsiders” or “sunsiders”) wear appropriate clothing, including wide-brimmed fungi-leather hats.