Gnome - Forest
Basic Information
Anatomy
Forest Gnomes are small, nimble humanoids, typically standing between 3 to 4 feet tall with a slight build. Their bodies are naturally suited to their forest habitat, with deft fingers and agile limbs allowing them to navigate the dense underbrush and hidden paths of the Savage Grove. They have slightly pointed ears, similar to those of elves, but shorter, and their eyes are notably large, adapted to low-light environments. Forest Gnomes have thick, wiry hair in shades of brown, green, and even the occasional earthy orange, helping them blend seamlessly into their surroundings.
Genetics and Reproduction
Forest Gnomes are a long-lived species, reaching maturity around 40 and living an average of 350 years, though some have been known to reach 500. Their genetic makeup includes a high resistance to magical influences and a pronounced propensity for illusion magic. Forest Gnome families are typically small, with one to three children per family, each carefully raised with a deep respect for the forest’s ecosystem and traditions.
Ecology and Habitats
Forest Gnomes are deeply attuned to the wild, untamed magic of the Savage Grove. This ancient, primal forest is the ideal environment for them, providing natural cover, a wealth of resources, and a spiritual connection they hold sacred. They live harmoniously with their surroundings, maintaining a delicate balance by only taking what they need and using camouflage and illusion magic to avoid the Grove's larger predators. Their main settlement, Drakrarroth, is a fortified and well-hidden refuge, carefully constructed to blend into the landscape and defend against external threats.
Behaviour
Forest Gnomes are inquisitive, creative, and remarkably adaptable, with a culture that values wisdom, harmony, and resourcefulness. They possess a natural curiosity, especially toward anything magical or ecological, and spend their lives exploring, learning, and innovating. Gnomes are lighthearted and prone to playfulness, often using harmless pranks to defuse tension or bond with others. This playful demeanor extends into a love for life and laughter, which is central to their interactions within their community and with other woodland beings.
Additional Information
Average Intelligence
Above average, particularly in fields of magic and nature lore
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Forest Gnomes possess remarkable night vision, able to see in dim light as if it were daylight within a radius of 60 feet. Their perceptive abilities are enhanced by a keen sense of smell, allowing them to detect subtle scents left by animals, plants, and even magical presences within their forest home. They also have a unique extrasensory capability, allowing them to understand and communicate simple ideas with small animals through sound and gestures—a gift they use to stay alert to danger and gather information on their surroundings.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Forest Gnomes use names that reflect their environment, such as Briar, Moss, and Willow. They typically have a second name reflecting their profession or a notable trait, like “Greenthumb” for herbalists or “Swiftfoot” for scouts.
Beauty Ideals
Gnomes value practical beauty, favoring natural colors and materials. Braided hair, decorated with small leaves, feathers, or stones, is seen as a mark of skill and attention to detail
Gender Ideals
While Forest Gnomes value individual strengths over strict gender roles, certain tasks, like weaving protective illusions, are commonly entrusted to those considered “spiritually attuned,” often women or elders.
Courtship Ideals
Courtship among Forest Gnomes is a subtle affair, with gestures of respect, gifts crafted from natural materials, or shared discoveries serving as romantic overtures. They believe that building a connection to their surroundings is essential for building a connection with another person.
Relationship Ideals
Relationships among Forest Gnomes are founded on mutual respect and a shared love for life’s mysteries. Most unions are formed with the intent of shared exploration and discovery, and Forest Gnomes often travel or work together to deepen their bond.
Common Etiquette Rules
Politeness and curiosity define Gnome etiquette. It’s customary to exchange information about forest conditions, share recent discoveries, and respect others’ privacy, particularly in matters of magic or personal craft.
Common Dress Code
Gnomes wear simple, well-crafted clothing made from soft fibers and leather, often dyed in the greens and browns of the forest. Their clothes are adorned with tiny charms or trinkets symbolizing protection and harmony with nature.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Their culture is steeped in the lore of the Savage Grove, the magical practices of the Fey, and a respect for the natural world. Forest Gnomes pride themselves on being stewards of their environment, passing down ancient rituals and ecological knowledge through generations.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
Forest Gnomes have various festivals, most notable being the “Festival of Roots,” honoring the forest and their ancestors with dancing, feasting, and storytelling. Seasonal celebrations are also common, with each one marking the cycles of life within the Savage Grove.
Common Taboos
Forest Gnomes hold that the forest must never be exploited or damaged without need. Acts of waste, greed, or any harm to the Sacred Heart—the oldest tree in the Savage Grove—are seen as deeply sacrilegious and bring shame upon the perpetrator.
History
Forest Gnomes are said to have first settled in the Savage Grove after the Realmshatter, finding safety and purpose in its deep woods. They formed close bonds with the forest's fey creatures, learning much of their magic from the spirits of the forest itself. Their relationship with Kobolds blossomed in recent centuries, leading to the establishment of Drakrarroth, a shared haven for these two resilient communities.
Common Myths and Legends
Among the most cherished legends is that of the Ancient Heart, a massive tree said to hold the essence of the Savage Grove itself. It’s believed that those who touch the Ancient Heart gain insight into the mysteries of nature, though only a select few have attempted to approach it. The Forest Gnomes speak of ancient forest spirits, the "Elderkin," who once walked the Grove and blessed their people with the knowledge they use to protect their home.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
Gnomus Silvaticus
Lifespan
350 (occasionally up to 500 years)
Average Height
3-4 feet
Average Weight
40-50 pounds
Average Physique
Slender, agile
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Skin in earthy tones (tan, brown, green hair in shades of brown, green, or orange
Geographic Distribution
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