Gnome - Deep
Stone-skin Gnomes, Shadowwalkers, Gloomgnomes
Basic Information
Anatomy
Deep Gnomes possess compact and sturdy bodies adapted for survival in harsh subterranean environments. With lean musculature that facilitates agility over raw strength, their skin is often textured like rough stone, an adaptation for blending seamlessly into their environment. Their hands and feet are strong and slightly webbed, optimizing both their grip on slick, rocky surfaces and their quiet movement. Eyes are proportionately larger than other gnomes’, allowing them to absorb even the faintest glimmers of light.
Genetics and Reproduction
Svirfneblin reproduce similarly to other gnomes, with a gestation period of roughly eight months. Unlike surface gnomes, deep gnomes have developed thicker, stone-like skin through generations in the Underdark, a genetic trait that aids both in camouflage and physical durability. They are typically slower to mature, reaching adulthood around 60 years of age, reflecting the cautious nature of their society.
Ecology and Habitats
Deep Gnomes favor rocky caverns and underground fortresses, making Kaspax an ideal settlement with its cold stone halls and sheltered chambers beneath the Whispering Alps. They harmonize with their environment by creating hidden tunnels, concealed doorways, and fortified nooks for defense. Kaspax’s proximity to the Vaults of the Ordning gives them both purpose and danger, as they navigate both the ancient treasures and the perils of these giants' storied vaults.
Behaviour
Deep Gnomes are cautious, pragmatic, and sometimes wary of strangers due to their experiences in the perilous Underdark. They value patience, endurance, and ingenuity, prizing resourcefulness and vigilance. Their natural tendency towards quiet and guarded behavior often leads others to mistake them as unfriendly, though they are fiercely loyal to those they trust. In the company of allies, they may reveal a dry humor and a fondness for story-sharing.
Additional Information
Average Intelligence
Above-average, especially in matters of stealth, mining, and magical resistance
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Due to life in near-total darkness, Deep Gnomes possess highly refined night vision, seeing up to 120 feet in the dark as if it were dimly lit. They are sensitive to even subtle vibrations in the ground, allowing them to detect approaching creatures. Additionally, they possess the Gift of the Svirfneblin, enabling them to cast Disguise Self and Nondetection spells, which aid in remaining concealed from predators or threats.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Deep Gnomes favor names grounded in their surroundings, like “Stonefoot” or “Echoeye.” Surnames often reflect family trades or accomplishments and are used sparingly outside their community.
Beauty Ideals
For Deep Gnomes, beauty lies in resilience and practicality. Weathered skin, sharp, reflective eyes, and hands calloused from the earth’s depths are highly esteemed. Ornamentation is rare but practical, with family or guild emblems worn subtly.
Gender Ideals
Svirfneblin society is highly egalitarian, valuing the skills and traits of each individual over traditional gender roles. Men and women alike are trained in survival, crafting, and stealth.
Courtship Ideals
Romantic courtship is often subtle, involving gestures like shared tools or secretly polished stones. A rare romantic “event” might involve exploring newly discovered tunnels together, as trust and mutual discovery are integral.
Relationship Ideals
Deep Gnomes value loyalty and reliability, often forming small, tight-knit family units or clans. Marriages are typically private affairs with only close family present, and bonds between partners are usually lifelong.
Common Etiquette Rules
In Svirfneblin culture, silence is respected and often preferred. Greetings involve a silent nod or brief gesture, and loud voices are seen as unnecessary and disruptive. Trust is earned through consistency and actions over time rather than declarations.
Common Dress Code
Deep Gnomes dress in tones that help them blend with rock or shadow, favoring dark grays, browns, and greens. Their clothing is durable, practical, and often handwoven, with pockets sewn inside garments to store tools and valuables.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Their heritage includes songs about the ancient paths of the Underdark, and many of their customs honor those who survived its treacherous depths. As a people, they celebrate their adaptability and resilience.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
One revered custom is the “Gloaming Ritual,” performed in silence at dusk to honor those lost in the Underdark. They also share a ceremony called “The Veil,” where they tell the story of their journey to the surface and their hope to establish Kaspax as a permanent sanctuary.
Common Taboos
Open displays of fear are considered taboo, as are excessive material possessions. Deep Gnomes pride themselves on needing only what they can carry, and they deeply respect the humility of their lifestyle.
History
The Deep Gnomes of Kaspax are newcomers to this alpine settlement, drawn by the hidden Vaults of the Ordning and its potential riches. Their migration from the Underdark came with the Duergar, and together they have begun to restore Kaspax, seeing its strategic value. They continue to strengthen ties with the Duergar, though some whisper of secrets beneath Kaspax that even the Deep Gnomes hesitate to explore fully.
Common Myths and Legends
A tale told among them is of the “Great Shadow,” a spirit that guards the most treacherous tunnels. This shadow spirit is said to appear before those who seek to defy tradition or venture into forbidden passages, urging them to turn back and preserve the secrecy of their ancient homes.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
Svirfneblin Subterranea
Lifespan
up to 500 years - they mature slower than surface gnomes
Average Height
3-3.5 feet
Average Weight
40-45 pounds
Average Physique
Compact, lean, and durable, favoring agility over brute strength
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Grayish to stone-toned skin, occasionally mottled with darker spots. Their eyes are shades of gray, silver, or blue, appearing almost gem-like under light. Hair, if present, is sparse and typically white or gray.
Comments