Deep Gnomes

Deep Gnomes, also known as svirfneblin, are set apart from the other dwarven races by massive cultural and religious practices and geographic location, as the majority of Duergar are found deep beneath the surface of Runetalras in the Underdark, or have recently migrated to the surface world or its upper crusts.
The deep gnomes were once rock gnomes like any other, however, they were forced into the Underdark during the Darkquake, with the dwarves who became the Duergar, and captured by the illithid. It seems the deep gnomes were not as interested in experimenting upon the deep gnomes as they were on the Duergar, but what experimentation did occur altered the gnomes changing their appearance and leaving them with a connection to magic.
The deep gnomes are one of the few Underdark race not considered outwardly and irredeemably evil.

Physical Description

The deep gnomes appear much like their kin throughout much of Runetalras, save for their skin which tends towards deep purples and blues, as well as greys.

Abilities

While any other Gnome has a kind of dark vision that may well suit them, deep gnomes instead have exceptional eyesight which has adapted from their millennia living in the Underdark. Also as a result of the experimentation of the illithid, the deep gnomes have an innate connection to magic.

Homelands

The vast majority of the deep gnomes live within the Underdark, with the majority of their cities and towns being a part of the Precious Alliance, which seek security from the countless and abundant threats of the Underdark through unity.
Since the Wars of Undeath many more deep gnomes have begun to make their homes within the subterranean lands of the dwarves and the surface of Runetalras.