Ordin Nurduum

Ordin Nurduum
Homeland	Glitterdelve, Deep Realm
Gender	Male
Race	Shield Dwarf
Age	64
Class	Fighter
Deity	Moradin
Alignment	Lawful Neutral
Allegiance	Skullcleavers

Ordin was born into the artisan (non-noble) House of Maegar Stonefinder, Chief Mining Engineer of clan Nurduum of Glitterdelve, deep under the stone to the east of the Great Rift. His mother was truly blessed by Berronar, bringing great honor to her House, for she bore no less than three sons. Such a feat had been a rare one for many ages, but the Thunder Blessing has caused tumultuous times in many of the older dwarven realms. Ordin was born Thirdson of his House, a thing protocol scarce allowed for for in his tradition-bound clan.

Despite showing promise as a miner, he became aware that as Thirdson he would find it hard-pressed to match his father's deeds and rise to a position of authority in Glitterdelve. Ambitious and driven to succeed, he sought a second period of duty in the Deep Guard of his home beyond the first that is traditional and expected. He served as a Vault Warden, bearing tower shield in the first rank of the soldiers who are expected to hold passageways against the enemy, with others bearing warpike or polearm behind.

Historical Background:

Mightiest of all the dwarven realms, the Great Rift has endured unconquered for many ages. The Rift is but part of the Gold Dwarf holdings, which extend many miles under the surrounding lands. Mainly to the North and East, this extended kingdom is known as the Deep Realm.

The Gold Dwarves have yet escaped the doom wrought upon so many of the old realms. They lack the arrogance (and arcane strength) that lead to the fall of Netheril. And they never spread their strength so thin in the manner of the Shield Dwarves of the North, remaining close to their fastnesses and each another.

The Thunder Blessing of DR1306 has seen their numbers swell. Expeditions have been sent north and new holdings established in the Smoking Mountains. And the Army of Gold has marched west to the ruins of the lost kingdoms of Shanatar in the Underdark deep under Tethyr. There they contest with the Duergar Army of Steel to reclaim the long-lost halls.

But, challenged by few serious threats for many years, they have become aloof and over-prideful. Their military remains strong, and the fortresses well-guarded. But within their holds disunity breeds. The nobles spend more time contesting for power than worrying about outside threats. A threat that would require the entire Rift and Deep Realm to work together may yet find them wanting.