Gnome

Gnomes

The Threefold People

Gnomes are one of the most versatile and vibrant races in Wakodia, known for their ingenuity, curiosity, and resilience. Though small in stature, they have made significant cultural and technological contributions to the world. Gnomes are divided into three distinct ethnic groups: Ironspire Gnomes, Greenfoot Gnomes, and Umbravine Gnomes, each with their own traditions, strengths, and histories.

Physical Characteristics

• Appearance: Gnomes stand between 3 and 4 feet tall and weigh around 40–45 pounds. Their features and coloration vary significantly between ethnic groups.
• Lifespan: Gnomes live 300–500 years, aging gracefully while retaining their zest for life well into old age.
• Height and Build: Gnomes are petite and lean, though their builds often reflect the demands of their environments.

Ethnicities

Gnomes in Wakodia are divided into three ethnic groups, each shaped by their environment and history:

Region: The gnome city of Hobblehavenmostly and some are still in the Mountainous areas of Jernfjell, once living alongside dwarves in Vexalhime.
Appearance: Pale or ashen skin, often freckled, with hair in shades of copper, iron gray, or soot black.
Culture: Industrious and inventive, Ironspire Gnomes are renowned for their technological advancements and practical craftsmanship. Their resilience has allowed them to adapt and flourish despite the challenges of their history, such as the Vexlhaim Disaster.

Region: Forested areas of Stonefell, often near Albionite settlements.
Appearance: Earthy skin tones ranging from tan to light brown, with auburn, chestnut, or mossy green hair.
Culture: Greenfoot Gnomes act as intermediaries between nature and civilization, thriving in harmony with the wild while integrating into human and elven settlements. They value exploration, tradition, and fostering connections between races.

Region: The Crescent Wastes and its subterranean regions.
Appearance: Dusky skin tones with silvery or pale hues, dark hair, and vivid eyes in shades of violet, green, or blue.
Culture: Resourceful and enigmatic, Umbravine Gnomes excel in stealth and subtlety. They are masters of survival in harsh, shadowy environments, often blending seamlessly into their surroundings. Their communities prioritize secrecy and adaptability.

Culture and Society

• Community-Oriented: Gnomes place great value on collaboration and mutual aid, whether in close-knit underground societies or bustling forest settlements.
• Relations with Other Races:
  • Ironspire Gnomes: Share strong historical bonds with dwarves while carving out their own distinct identity.
  • Greenfoot Gnomes: Integrate with nearby human and elven communities, fostering diplomacy and cultural exchange.
  • Umbravine Gnomes: Maintain guarded alliances and prefer isolation unless survival demands cooperation.

Religion and Beliefs

Gnomes are not inherently religious, often focusing on practical matters and community over spiritual devotion. However, when they do follow a faith, it often reflects their unique experiences and environment:

• Theris: The Whispering Mind: Revered as a god of intellect and innovation, Theris is the most widely followed deity among gnomes. Those who worship Theris often seek guidance in problem-solving or creative endeavors.
• Ironspire Gnomes: Tend to worship Theris or, depending on the reason for prayer, turn to dwarven gods associated with craft and resilience.
• Greenfoot Gnomes: Occasionally follow Okenfell, the god of nature, or adopt the faiths of the Albionites in towns where they live.
• Umbravine Gnomes: The least religious of the gnomes, they often feel abandoned by the gods due to their historical subjugation by the drow. While some still follow Theris, others have recently begun worshipping Lagnia, seeking solace in the goddess of love and beauty.

Role in History

Gnomes have played a pivotal role in shaping Wakodia's history. From the Ironspire Gnomes’ innovations to the Greenfoot Gnomes’ cultural diplomacy and the Umbravine Gnomes’ survival during the Arcane Cataclysm, they are integral to the world's development. Despite their differences, gnomes share a legacy of resilience and creativity.

Relationships with Other Races

• Humans: Greenfoot Gnomes integrate seamlessly with humans, while Umbravine Gnomes remain wary. Ironspire Gnomes appreciate human ingenuity but often find them impatient.
• Elves: Gnomes admire elven artistry and wisdom, particularly among Greenfoot Gnomes.
• Dwarves: Ironspire Gnomes share a history of camaraderie and collaboration with dwarves, though their technological rivalry remains good-natured.

Legacy

Despite their small stature, gnomes leave an enormous impact on Wakodia. Whether as inventors, diplomats, or shadowy survivalists, they embody the power of creativity, curiosity, and perseverance. Their unique contributions ensure their lasting place in Wakodia’s history and future.