Deep Gnome

Deep Gnomes of Caith Murain

Deep gnomes, known as Svirfneblin in ancient texts, are a hardy and resourceful species adapted to the dangers of life underground. Related to surface gnomes, they share the ingenuity and cleverness of their kin but are tempered by the harsh realities of the Underspire and other deep cave networks. Cautious and pragmatic, deep gnomes are experts at survival, their friendliness tempered by suspicion bred from constant exposure to danger.

Physical Traits

• Lifespan: Deep gnomes live slightly shorter lives than surface gnomes, reaching 250–300 years, as the rigors of the underground world take their toll.
• Appearance: They are smaller and stockier than their surface cousins, with ashen gray or earthy brown skin that helps them blend into the rocky environment. Their eyes are often large and adapted to low light, glowing faintly in shades of blue, green, or amber.
• Distinct Features: Deep gnomes often have wiry, white, or silver hair, and their clothing is practical, crafted from tough materials like fungal fibers or woven minerals.

Cultural Traits

1. Practical Caution

Deep gnomes are naturally cautious and deliberate, their lives shaped by the treacherous environment of the Underspire. They value preparedness and rely on their keen senses to anticipate threats.

2. Community Through Adversity

While slow to trust outsiders, deep gnomes are fiercely loyal to their own. Their communities are tightly knit, emphasizing cooperation and mutual support to navigate the dangers of their environment.

3. Masters of Stone and Shadow

Deep gnomes are unparalleled miners and stonecrafters, capable of shaping tunnels and creating intricate underground dwellings. They are also adept at moving unseen, using their natural camouflage to evade predators.

4. Resourcefulness and Ingenuity

Surviving in the Underspire demands innovation. Deep gnomes excel at finding uses for the unique resources of their environment, from glowing fungi to rare minerals.

Cultural Diversity

1. Crystalkin Clans

• Overview: Deep gnomes who mine and trade precious crystals and gemstones, often serving as merchants in underground markets.
• Values: Precision and craftsmanship; they believe beauty can be found even in the darkest places.
• Challenges: Their wealth often makes them targets for thieves and rival groups.

2. Mushroom Keepers

• Overview: Gnomes who cultivate fungal farms, providing food, medicine, and materials for their communities.
• Values: Sustainability and balance; they see themselves as caretakers of the underground ecosystem.
• Challenges: They often clash with creatures like Myconids or other predators who encroach on their farms.

3. Warden Guilds

• Overview: Deep gnomes who patrol and defend their communities, specializing in ambush tactics and traps.
• Values: Vigilance and protection; they take pride in keeping their people safe.
• Challenges: The constant threat of monsters and raiders wears heavily on their members.

4. Relic Seekers

• Overview: Adventurous deep gnomes who explore ancient ruins and lost caverns, searching for artifacts and forgotten knowledge.
• Values: Discovery and curiosity; they believe the past holds the key to surviving the future.
• Challenges: Their explorations often lead them into conflict with other subterranean species or the Flux.