Gnomes

The world of Chronicle > D&D 5th Edition compatible > Races

Gnomes are creatures with an insatiable thirst for knowledge.  The children of Gyb, the god of magic and science, Library Gnomes are always pouring over research, looking for lost knowledge, or on the brink of a new discovery.  They would rather be holed away in a library or workshop than socializing.  As a result, gnomes are widely regarded by the other races as alien and strange.

Physical Description

Gnomes are one of the smallest of the common races, generally standing just over 3 feet in height. Their hair tends toward the usual browns and blacks, although it is not uncommon to spot a gnome with a radical hair color, most likely due to an experiment gone wrong. Similarly, their flesh tones range from pale pink to nut brown. 

Society

Unlike most races, gnomes do not generally organize themselves within classic societal structures. Gnomish society is divided into Bureaus of Knowledge.  These Bureaus cover every type of craft, knowledge, or profession conceivable.  After basic education (which all gnomes are given), a gnome chooses their field of expertise.  At that point, the gnome leaves its family behind and becomes part of its new Bureau at the Great Library, a massive citadel of learning and innovation high in the northern mountains. Even inside the Bureaus, they rarely form enduring relationships among themselves instead pursuing their field of expertise.

Relations

Gnomes have difficulty interacting with the other races, on both emotional and physical levels. Given the close proximity of Jaxstein to the Great Library, the gnomes and dwarves maintain a strong trade agreement.

Alignment and Religion

A typical gnome is Lawful Neutral.  Gnomes tend to adhere to a very strict order about life.  Rules and procedures make for efficiency and "keep the cogs greased."  However, gnomes have trouble relating to any sense of moral obligation.  This often frustrates other races.  

Many gnomes are non-religious, devoting themselves to their work above all else.  However, there are still just as many religious gnomes who mostly follow Gib, the god of Science and Magic.  Those that do are often rewarded for their devotion and their work is blessed by the clerics of Gib.

Adventurers

Studious creatures at heart, they typically travel alone or with temporary companions, ever seeking new knowledge and more fascinating discoveries.  Gnomes make excellent wizards (though mostly unaffiliated with the Brotherhood) and sorcerers.  They are also the race best suited for Alchemists and Gunslingers.

Library Gnome

Rock Gnome. Library Gnomes are identical to Rock Gnomes found in the Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition Player's Handbook except for the additional trait below.

Obsessive Academician: Every Gnome chooses a field of study, which determines which Bureau they belong to.  Your gnome chooses either proficiency with one additional skill (Intelligence or Wisdom) or proficiency with one tool of your choice that would apply to that Bureau.

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