Deep Gnome

The Svirfneblin

Deep Gnomes, also known as Svirfneblin, are a subrace of Gnomes that reside in the underdark regions of Eldaivyr. Unlike their surface-dwelling cousins, Deep Gnomes are adapted to the harsh, subterranean environment, making them skilled survivors and cunning defenders of their hidden enclaves. Known for their stone-gray skin and reclusive nature, Deep Gnomes are less whimsical and more somber than other gnome races, shaped by the perilous world they inhabit.
Origins and History: Deep Gnomes trace their lineage back to ancient times when magical cataclysms forced their ancestors to flee into the depths of the earth. Over centuries, these gnomes adapted to their new underground home, developing unique abilities to thrive in darkness. Historically, Deep Gnomes have maintained a cautious neutrality in conflicts, focusing on their survival and the preservation of their secretive communities against the threats of the underdark.
Society and Culture: Deep Gnome society is tightly knit and highly structured, emphasizing clan loyalty and communal survival above all. Their communities are usually hidden and heavily fortified, reflecting their constant vigilance against underdark predators. Deep Gnomes value privacy and discretion highly, and their cultural expressions often revolve around stonecraft, gemcutting, and the creation of defensive artifacts. Their celebrations and social gatherings tend to be subdued, focusing on strengthening communal bonds and passing down survival skills.
Physical and Psychological Traits: Physically, Deep Gnomes are similar to other Gnomes but tend to be sturdier with less pronounced features. Their skin tones range from deep grays to earthy browns, helping them blend into their rocky surroundings. They have large, dark eyes adapted to low light conditions, and their senses are acutely tuned to detect the slightest disturbances in their environment. Psychologically, they are serious, pragmatic, and incredibly resilient, often appearing aloof or secretive to outsiders.
Relations with Other Races: Deep Gnomes are inherently distrustful of outsiders due to their harsh experiences in the underdark. They have tense but respectful relations with Dwarves (especially the Gray Dwarves) and tend to avoid larger races like Humans or Elves unless necessary. Their interactions are usually driven by necessity, such as trade in minerals or magical goods. Within the underdark, they maintain a cautious neutrality, avoiding alliances that could draw them into larger conflicts.
Religion and Beliefs: Religion among Deep Gnomes is a private affair, focusing on ancestor worship and the veneration of deities who embody stealth, survival, and craftsmanship. They have a particular reverence for gods who protect them from the dangers of the underdark and who offer strength in times of crisis. Religious practices are simple and direct, with an emphasis on personal meditation and small, familial rituals rather than large public ceremonies.
Language: Deep Gnomes speak Gnomish and Undercommon, with a unique dialect that includes terms related to mining, stonecraft, and survival in the underdark. Their language is filled with jargon and code, reflecting their secretive nature and the need to communicate discreetly in a dangerous world.
Names: Deep Gnome names are often short, clipped, and sound harsh to surface ears, reflecting the stark environment of the underdark.

• Masculine Names: Belwar, Gurnik, Rikhek, Thibbledorf, Xarn.
• Feminine Names: Belissa, Durnn, Kriik, Nalra, Senni.
• Family Names: Duskmire, Glimmerstone, Rockshadow, Shardaxe, Tunnelfist.

Adventurers: Deep Gnomes become adventurers out of necessity, driven to leave their hidden enclaves to secure resources, forge alliances, or thwart threats looming over their communities. As adventurers, they often serve as scouts, Rogues, or Wizards, utilizing their innate stealth and magic to navigate and survive the perils of the wider world. Their motivations are typically pragmatic, focusing on the safety and well-being of their kin rather than personal glory or wealth.

Encompassed species

• Gnome

Personal Characteristics

Personality Traits

• "I trust actions over words, for in the depths, every false step can be deadly."
• "My emotions are carefully controlled; showing too much can attract the wrong kind of attention."
• "In the silence of the stones, I find my peace and my purpose."

Ideals

• Secrecy: "The safety of our community depends on our ability to remain hidden and unknown."
• Resilience: "Adversity is to be overcome; endurance is more than survival—it’s a way of life."
• Craftsmanship: "Our work in stone and gem is our legacy, reflecting the depth of our souls."

Bonds

• "The tunnels of my homeland are my responsibility; their secrets must be kept and their paths protected."
• "I owe my life to my clan; their welfare is my utmost priority."
• "An ancient gem was stolen from our vaults; I must recover it to restore our honor."

Flaws

• "I am overly cautious, sometimes to the point of paranoia."
• "My suspicion of outsiders can prevent me from making valuable allies."
• "The isolation of my upbringing makes it hard for me to trust or open up to others."