Gnome

Lore

When most folk talk about gnomes, they usually mean Rock Gnomes. Unlike their shy forest cousins, the inquisitive and irrepressible Rock Gnomes have integrated themselves into the society of other races, offering their services as tinkers and teachers. Surrounded by peoples taller and stronger than them, gnomes often resort to living exclusively among other gnomes for their own security. Among virtually all gnomes, great value is placed on one's ability to avoid trouble and stay out of the way of others. Children's games often involve elements of stealth, and among adults, drawing attention to oneself is considered a breach of etiquette. Most gnomes try to remain inconspicuous and quietly leave the scene of a fight. The few legends of gnomish heroes are not of powerful warriors but of subtle tricksters, who sneaked past or tricked their opponents rather than vanquishing them in combat.   Gnomes have a deep-seated love for life and all its curiosities. Their small stature and playful nature hide a fierce intelligence and an insatiable curiosity that drives them to explore and understand the world around them. This thirst for knowledge and new experiences leads many gnomes to become inventors, scholars, and adventurers. Their homes are often filled with intricate mechanisms, clever gadgets, and various works of art that reflect their creativity and ingenuity.   Despite their generally peaceful and reclusive nature, gnomes are not without their own forms of strength and resilience. They are naturally adept at magic, particularly illusions and enchantments, which they use to protect themselves and their communities. This magical affinity is a source of great pride and is often passed down through generations, with young gnomes learning the arcane arts from their elders.   Gnome society places a high value on community and cooperation. Family and friends form the core of their social structure, and they often live in close-knit groups where everyone contributes to the well-being of the whole. This sense of community is also reflected in their interactions with other races. While they are cautious and prefer to avoid conflict, gnomes are known for their generosity and willingness to help those in need. They form strong bonds with those who earn their trust and are fiercely loyal to their allies.   The diverse environments gnomes inhabit have led to the development of distinct subraces, each with its own unique traits and customs. Rock Gnomes, for instance, are master tinkerers and mechanics, living in bustling workshops and cities. Forest Gnomes, on the other hand, are reclusive and have a deep connection to nature, living in harmony with the animals and plants of their forest homes. Deep Gnomes, or Svirfneblin, are hardy and cautious, thriving in the dangerous depths of the Underdark.   Throughout history, gnomes have contributed significantly to the cultures and advancements of the lands they inhabit. Their inventions and magical discoveries have often provided solutions to complex problems and have been crucial in times of need. Gnomes' ability to blend into different societies while retaining their unique cultural identity is a testament to their adaptability and intelligence.   Overall, gnomes bring a unique blend of joy, creativity, and magical prowess to any community they are part of. Their inventive nature and love of life make them beloved and valuable members of many societies across the world, embodying the spirit of exploration and innovation.  

Types of Gnome

     
  • Forest Gnomes are secretive and deeply connected to nature and the fey. They live in harmony with forests and are skilled in natural magic.
  • Rock Gnomes are inquisitive and industrious, known for their skill in invention and craftsmanship. They integrate well into other societies as tinkers and teachers.
  • Svirfneblin are resilient and resourceful, thriving in the Underdark. They are known for their stealth and survival skills in harsh subterranean environments.
  • Gnome Features

    Ability Score Increase

    Gnomes Intelligence score increases by 2.

    Age

    Gnomes mature at the same rate humans do, and most are expected to settle down into an adult life by around age 40. They can live 350 to almost 500 years.

    Size

    Gnomes are between 3 and 4 feet tall and average about 40 pounds. Gnomes size is Small.

    Speed

    Gnomes base walking speed is 25 feet.

    Darkvision

    Accustomed to life underground, you have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. Gnomes can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. Gnomes can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

    Gnome Cunning

    Gnomes have advantage on all Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws against magic.

    Languages

    Gnomes can speak, read, and write Common and Gnomish. The Gnomish language, which uses the Dwarvish script, is renowned for its technical treatises and its catalogs of knowledge about the natural world.
    Related Ethnicities

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