Gnomes
Appearance
Although often confused with short, slender Dwarves, Oberon Gnomes are actually native of the Fae realms and are distant relations of Elves. The average Gnome is about 0.9 – 1.1m (3 feet) tall. Their small size naturally gives Gnomes some advantages in stealth but also limits them to using “Small” equipment (one size category less than “Medium”).
Other than their diminutive stature, the two main physical features that distinguish Gnomes from very small Humans are their noses and their eyes. Gnome noses are disproportionately large for their faces. Gnome eyes are very, very dark. Some even have no discernible irises.
Lifespans
Gnomes are relatively long-lived humanoids, although not on the same level as Elves. A Gnome in good health matures at around 30 years and can live to be nearly 300.
Origins
Gnomes first appeared on Oberon at about the same time as Elves (about 38,000 years ago). Many Gnomes claim that they too were fleeing from Eladrin oppression, although given the time that has passed since this, and their short lifespans relative to Elves, it is impossible to find any Gnome able to back this up with evidence.
Gnomes love magic, nature and exploring, but most of all they love a good story. This is why many Gnomes become Wizards, Rogues or Rangers. Gnomes are not a physically strong race and rarely become Fighters (or at least not as their main class).
Over the centuries, Gnomes have split into two distinct groups – the “Forest” Gnomes who retain their affinity to the Fae realms and the “Rock” Gnomes who have embraced civilisation and technology.
Religion
Culture
Gnome culture cherishes inquisitiveness and individualism above family ties and hence Gnomes of both sub-types are highly likely to travel and/or become adventurers.
Gnomes have no specific homeland of their own but tend to settle near to Elven towns and cities. They can be found throughout the Empire in fair numbers though.
In addition to “High Merebian”, Gnomes start with proficiency in “Gnomish” (actually a language called 'Cubitl').
Gnomes
Gnomes believe that the length of their names are important. Although they have short forenames their surnames are often six to ten syllables long.
Outlook
Gnomes appreciate Dwarven crafts but resent being mistaken as their relatives. Typically they treat Elves with respect, ingrained from millennia of deference whilst in the Fae Realms. Gnomes find Humans fascinating and actively seek their company. They tend to be neutral to Tieflings, who they feel a little sorry for. Gnomes and Ymirkin share a culture of oral history and storytelling and so usually get along just fine.
