Svirfneblin

Lore

Svirfneblin, or Deep Gnomes, are a subrace of gnomes known for their resilience and resourcefulness in the harsh environments of the Underdark. They are adapted to life underground, living in well-hidden, fortified communities. Deep Gnomes are secretive and cautious, using their skills and knowledge to survive the numerous threats of their subterranean world.

Physical Characteristics

• Height: Typically stand between 3 and 3.5 feet tall
• Build: Compact and muscular, built for endurance
• Hair: Usually grey or white, often kept short or bald for practicality
• Eyes: Dark shades like grey or black, adapted to low light
• Skin: Stone-like grey, providing natural camouflage in their rocky environment

Society and Culture

Svirfneblin society is centered around survival and mutual protection. They live in small, tight-knit communities hidden deep within the Underdark. Their settlements are heavily fortified to defend against the dangers of the subterranean world. Deep Gnomes are skilled miners and artisans, especially known for their gem-cutting and stonecraft. They are cautious with outsiders but deeply loyal to their kin and trusted allies.

Key Aspects

• Survival Expertise: Deep Gnomes are experts at surviving the perils of the Underdark.
• Stealth: They are adept at remaining unseen and avoiding detection.
• Artisanship: Renowned for their work with gems and stone, creating items of exceptional quality.
• Community: Strong communal bonds and a deep sense of loyalty to their kin.

Relations with Other Races

Svirfneblin are cautious and reserved around other races due to the dangers of the Underdark. They respect Drow and Duergar for their strength but generally avoid contact. They maintain good relations with other gnome subraces and are open to alliances with surface dwellers who prove trustworthy.

Common Traits

• Stealth and Cunning: Known for their ability to remain unseen and avoid confrontation.
• Survival Skills: Experts in surviving harsh and dangerous environments.
• Resilience: Despite their small size, Deep Gnomes are hardy and resourceful.
• Darkvision: 120 feet, allowing them to see in the dark depths of the Underdark.
• Stone Camouflage: Advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks to hide in rocky terrain.
• Gnome Cunning: Advantage on Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws against magic.

Race Traits and Abilities

• Age: Mature at the same rate as humans; lifespan of 250 to 300 years.
• Alignment: Typically Neutral, often leaning towards Neutral Good.
• Size: Small (3 to 3.5 feet tall).
• Speed: 25 feet.
• Darkvision: 120 feet.
• Stone Camouflage: Advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks to hide in rocky terrain.
• Extra Language: Undercommon, in addition to Common and Gnomish.
• Gnome Cunning: Advantage on Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving throws against magic.

Encompassed species

• Gnome