Gnomes
Base 8, Intelligence +2, Bonus Skill Points: 2
Gnomes are varied and diverse but all tinker, and many become scientists and engineers. Their irrepressible curiosity borders for some, on madness. It is obvious to some that Gnomes represent The Creator’s love for the act of creation itself. Gnomes tend to see the world as if colors are brighter, the wildlands are wilder and there’s always something new just around the corner. As a result, they are widely regarded by the other races as alien and strange.
Physical Description
Gnomes are one of the smallest of the races, generally standing between three and four feet tall. Their hair tends toward vibrant colors, such as the fiery orange of autumn leaves, the verdant green of forests at springtime, or the deep reds and purples of wildflowers in bloom. Similarly, their flesh tones range from earthy browns to floral pinks, frequently with little regard for heredity. Gnomes possess highly mutable facial characteristics, and many have overly large mouths and eyes.
Longevity
While Gnomes rarely sit still long enough to be counted or queried regarding their age, they mature quickly and reach adulthood by sixteen years of age. But that is where Gnomes seem to cease aging, living adult lives for two hundred or more years until they simply stop. Age does not change their appearance in the same ways it does other races, leaving many to regard them as perpetual children.
Language
It is uncommon for a Gnome to speak only one language, typically speaking the common trade language of their lands and Gnomish. Many learn the languages of those they encounter, if the time spent in their company was memorable enough to be worth the effort.
Society
Gnomes often travel alone or with temporary companions, ever seeking new and more exciting experiences. They rarely form enduring relationships among themselves or with members of other races, instead pursuing crafts, professions, or collections with a passion that borders on zealotry.
Relations
Gnomes have difficulty interacting with the other races, on both emotional and physical levels. They get along well with Halflings and Humans, but are overly fond of playing jokes on Dwarves and Half-Orcs, whom most Gnomes feel need to lighten up. They respect Elves, but often grow frustrated with the comparatively slow pace at which members of the long-lived race make decisions.
Religion
Although Gnomes are impulsive tricksters, with sometimes inscrutable motives and equally confusing methods, their hearts are generally in the right place. They are prone to powerful fits of emotion, and find themselves most at peace within the natural world.
Adventures
Gnomes’ propensity for wanderlust makes them natural adventurers. They often become wanderers to experience new aspects of life, for nothing is as novel as the uncounted dangers facing adventurers.
