The Invisibility Factor

There isn't any magical vanishing act (with the exception of certain gnome illusionists), but both gnomes and halflings have inherent talents at "blending into the woodwork," so to speak--at least, in situations where they desire not to be noticed. This is not so much a matter of size as it is of skill; a skill they take time to cultivate (it's significant that the favorite game of both gnome and halfling children is "Hide and Seek"!).

In woodland settings, this trait is illustrated most effectively by the halfling's ability to literally disappear among the underbrush. While gnomes aren't quite so adept at this, their keen sense of hearing and ever"present diligence generally allows them to hear someone approaching and take shelter before they are discovered.

In more social circumstances, the small folk are adept at directing attention away from themselves, whether in a city street, crowded tavern, or elegant dinner party. By moving quickly and smoothly, the diminutive characters will often cause a human or elf to react with "I could have sworn there was a gnome there! Where'd he go?" And when others are asked, it turns out that no one saw him leave or arrive, but they all have some vague memory of his presence! Under most circumstances, it's possible for a gnome or halfling to slip away with little or no warning.

One skill developed by both of these races is the art of diversion, often in very subtle forms. With a quick glance off to the side, a slight widening of the eyes, or sharp intake of breath, many a halfling or gnome has successfully diverted the attention of another character. Halflings use the time thus gained for some quick picking of pockets or other sleight of hand and to escape from potentially sticky situations, while gnomes use it to buy time and to set up elaborate practical jokes.

Table of Contents