Duergar

Duergar, also known as gray dwarves, are a subrace of dwarves that dwell deep within the Underdark. Unlike their surface-dwelling kin, duergar have been shaped by the harsh and unforgiving environment of the subterranean world, resulting in their distinct features and sinister reputation.

Physically, duergar resemble their dwarven counterparts but are noticeably darker in complexion, ranging from a deep gray to charcoal black. They tend to be slightly taller and slimmer than other dwarves. Duergar have a stern and brooding appearance, with piercing red or fiery eyes that reflect their innate connection to the elemental plane of fire.

Duergar society is organized around strict hierarchies and militaristic structures. They are known for their discipline, efficiency, and a relentless drive for conquest and domination. Duergar cities are often fortified and well-guarded, with impressive underground complexes and vast mines where they extract precious minerals and forge powerful weapons and armor.

One notable trait of duergar is their ability to magically enlarge themselves, growing to twice their normal size. This ability, known as “enlarge self,” grants them increased strength and resilience, making them formidable warriors in battle. They are skilled in various combat techniques, favoring axes, hammers, and other weapons suited for close-quarters combat.

Duergar are known for their psionic powers, a rare trait among dwarves. They can manipulate and project their mental energies to create illusions, enhance their combat abilities, and influence the thoughts and emotions of others. These psionic abilities, combined with their combat prowess, make duergar formidable adversaries.

While duergar are often depicted as ruthless and malicious, not all of them embrace their darker tendencies. Some individuals strive to break free from the oppressive culture of their society, seeking redemption or pursuing their own goals outside of conquest. These duergar outliers may ally themselves with other races or work to forge a different path for their kind.

Encountering duergar in the depths of the Underdark is a perilous affair, as they are suspicious of outsiders and quick to resort to violence. Their mastery of underground environments, combined with their formidable combat abilities and innate psionic powers, makes them formidable opponents to any who venture into their realm.

Special Abilities

Duergar Resilience

The duergar has advantage on saving throws against poison, spells, and illusions, as well as to resist being charmed or paralyzed.

Sunlight Sensitivity

While in sunlight, the duergar has disadvantage on attack rolls, as well as on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.

Actions

• Enlarge: For 1 minute, the duergar magically increases in size, along with anything it is wearing or carrying. While enlarged, the duergar is Large, doubles its damage dice on Strength-based weapon attacks (included in the attacks), and makes Strength checks and Strength saving throws with advantage. If the duergar lacks the room to become Large, it attains the maximum size possible in the space available.
• War Pick: Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage, or 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing damage while enlarged.
• Javelin: Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage, or 9 (2d6 + 2) piercing damage while enlarged.
• Invisibility: The duergar magically turns invisible until it attacks, casts a spell, or uses its Enlarge, or until its concentration is broken, up to 1 hour (as if concentrating on a spell). Any equipment the duergar wears or carries is invisible with it .