Baile Gnomes

Okay, I can make you a system that would percolate your plot by spindrifting droplets at high pressure over a rotary semi-vertical 65° angle. Give or take."

— Snozzy Gibmle

With some gnomes leaving for the forests, and others for the hills, there were those who instead went to seek refuge with the other races inhabiting the plains, towns and cities. These gnomes became the rural and urban offshoot of their race, establishing themselves as Baile - the "City gnomes". Over time, as the gnomish race diversified, it fell upon the baile to maintain most of the old gnomish beliefs and traditions. While many among them declare to be agnostic when it comes to their culture, they still nurture and spread the tales of old gnomish folklore, such as those of Ol' Finvarr who sees all, or Fir Dearg, the fire-bearded inventor and arcane savant, or say a small prayer to Tianin Glyberfin before embarking upon a long journey. It is almost ironic that those gnomes who inhabit more natural environments have left behind their folklore, while those that remained in cities are the ones who still retell those tales.

The baile are instrumental to operation of many of the largest cities on Asphodel. They make for perfect bureaucrats and scribes, and their efficiency is second to none. Otherwise, they seek employment as messengers, tutors, librarians, or shopkeepers, to name a few. Their talents are many, and most famed are their linguistic and mathematical knowledge. It is not unheard of for baile gnomes to be found doing more menial or seedy labor, but those instances are much more uncommon than one would think - somehow they often find themselves in position to pursue their natural talents, given the opportunity.

RPG Stats

Show spoiler

Traits

Ability Scores. +1 Charisma, +2 Intelligence, -2 Strength

Size. Small

Speed. 25 ft

Features

Darkvision. Accustomed to life in the gloom and darkness, Baile have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. They can see in dim light within 60 feet of them as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. They can't discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

Gnome Cunning. Baile have advantage on all Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws against magic.

Gifted Scribe. Baile are proficient with calligrapher’s supplies and the forgery kit. When they make an ability check using either one of these tools, they can roll one Intuition die, a d4, and add the number rolled to the ability check.

Whispering Wind. Baile know the cantrip Message. Intelligence is their spellcasting ability when casting it.

Extra Language. Baile can speak, read, and write one extra language of their choice.

by Graey Erb

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Gnomes

Origin/Ancestry

Gnomes

Language

Gnomish