In the modern era, where bustling cities and technological marvels dominate the landscape, a race of extraordinary beings known as Gnomes continues to thrive, embracing their ancient roots while adapting to the advancements of the present age. These diminutive creatures, as elusive as ever, can be found tucked away in hidden enclaves, blending seamlessly with urban environments or retreating to natural sanctuaries that have withstood the march of progress.

Gnomes possess an innate affinity for machinery, contraptions, and arcane devices, making them natural inventors, engineers, and tinkerers. With their keen intellects and nimble fingers, they unravel the secrets of clockwork mechanisms, quantum mechanics, and cybernetics with unparalleled prowess. Their workshops teem with intricate gadgets, glistening with intricate gears, glowing enchantments, and pulsating energy sources that hint at their ingenious craftsmanship.

Although they may lack the brawn of their larger counterparts, Gnomes compensate for their size with swift reflexes, cunning wit, and a deep well of arcane knowledge. Wielding spells with precision and grace, Gnome spellcasters bring forth a dazzling display of elemental forces, illusionary trickery, and hypnotic enchantments. Their magical prowess extends to the manipulation of technology, effortlessly interfacing with computers, cyberspace, and virtual realities to achieve feats that blend the boundaries of magic and science.

While Gnomes embrace the marvels of urban life, they remain in touch with their naturalistic origins. Deep within ancient forests or nestled amidst craggy mountain ranges, hidden Gnome communities flourish. These secluded realms become vibrant havens of nature's magic and unspoiled beauty. Gnome druids commune with the spirits of the land, harnessing primal forces to heal, protect, and manipulate the natural world to their advantage.

Despite their affinity for invention and the arcane, Gnomes are renowned for their convivial nature and love of festivities. Their zest for life and unabashed curiosity make them joyous companions and fierce allies. Their laughter echoes through taverns and gathering places, accompanied by tales of daring exploits and mythical creatures. Gnomish celebrations often blend traditional revelries with modern entertainments, creating unforgettable experiences where ancient folklore dances with neon lights and electronic music.

Gnomes, both as individuals and as a collective, are driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, ever pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Whether they be tinkering in their laboratories, deciphering ancient scrolls, or embarking on epic quests to unravel the secrets of the multiverse, Gnomes stand as beacons of ingenuity and adaptability in the modern world. With their indomitable spirit and a touch of enchantment, these extraordinary beings ensure that magic and wonder persist, even in the face of an ever-evolving realm. 

GNOMES

• +2 Constitution, –2 Strength.

• Small: As a Small creature, a gnome gains a +1 size bonus to Armor Class, a +1 size bonus on attack rolls, and a +4 size bonus on Hide checks, but he uses smaller weapons than humans use, and his lifting and carrying limits are three-quarters of those of a Medium character.

• Gnome base land speed is 20 feet.

• Low-Light Vision: A gnome can see twice as far as a human in starlight, moonlight, torchlight, and similar conditions of poor illumination. He retains the ability to distinguish color and detail under these conditions.

• Weapon Familiarity: Gnomes may treat gnome hooked hammers as martial weapons rather than exotic weapons.

• +2 racial bonus on saving throws against illusions.

• +2 racial bonus on any computer security check

• Add +1 to the Difficulty Class for all saving throws against illusion spells cast by gnomes. This adjustment stacks with those from similar effects.

• +1 racial bonus on attack rolls against kobolds and goblinoids.

• +4 dodge bonus to Armor Class against monsters of the giant type. Any time a creature loses its Dexterity bonus (if any) to Armor Class, such as when it’s caught flat-footed, it loses its dodge bonus, too.

• +2 racial bonus on Listen checks.

• +2 racial bonus on Craft (alchemy) checks.

• Automatic Languages: Common, Gnome and one programing language. Bonus Languages: Draconic, Dwarven, Elven, Giant, Goblin, and Orc. In addition, a gnome can speak with a burrowing mammal (a badger, fox, rabbit, or the like, see below). This ability is innate to gnomes. See the speak with animals spell description.

• Spell-Like Abilities: 1/day—speak with animals (burrowing mammal only, duration 1 minute). A gnome with a Charisma score of at least 10 also has the following spell-like abilities: 1/day—dancing lights, ghost sound, prestidigitation. Caster level 1st; save DC 10 + gnome’s Cha modifier + spell level.