Dragonborn - Gem

Born from the legacy of Sardior, the Ruby Dragon, Gem Dragonborn embody the cosmic power and wisdom of gem dragons, with scales that shimmer like precious stones: amethyst, crystal, emerald, sapphire, and topaz. A rare lineage among Dragonborn, they are attuned to the metaphysical mysteries of Astrium, particularly its moons, under which many Gem Dragonborn are said to have been "forged by the heavens" through unique astrological alignments. Their abilities resonate with the powers of their ancestral dragons, granting them heightened mental prowess, psionic capabilities, and a distinct connection to the universe’s unseen forces.
The Gem Dragonborn walk the line between worlds seen and unseen, embodying cosmic forces and lunar energies that set them apart as some of the most mysterious and visionary beings in Astrium.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Gem Dragonborn have highly reflective scales that resemble polished gemstones and glow subtly under moonlight, each subspecies varying in hue.
Their frames are lean but muscular, with a refined physique emphasizing mental strength over brute force. Their eyes are luminescent, often in hues matching their scales, with facets that give them a gem-like appearance.

Genetics and Reproduction

Gem Dragonborn exhibit recessive gem traits, typically inheriting their ancestry from one or more gem-dragon lineage parent. Gem Dragonborn children are usually born under significant celestial alignments and have gem-like features that become more pronounced as they age. Despite their gem ancestry, their offspring's gem color can vary, embodying the qualities of their closest celestial influence. Reproduction follows the typical dragonborn gestation period, though many Gem Dragonborn are considered “moonsworn” at birth, carrying blessings that increase their likelihood of wielding psionic abilities.

Behaviour

Gem Dragonborn are introspective and visionary, highly valuing intellectual curiosity and insight. They are natural philosophers, scholars, and strategists, often delving into abstract or arcane studies. However, they can appear aloof or detached, a result of their profound inner worlds and preoccupation with the unseen forces of the cosmos. Though generally peaceful, Gem Dragonborn are known to intervene directly when threats to Astrium or cosmic balance arise, relying on mental tactics and precise strikes. They value honor and seek balance, often avoiding physical confrontations when possible.

Additional Information

Average Intelligence

Highly intelligent, with a natural affinity for scholarly and psionic pursuits.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Gifted with enhanced sight, Gem Dragonborn can perceive faint traces of psionic energy and sense emotions and intentions more acutely than other beings. Many also possess minor telekinetic abilities and an intuitive ability to predict or read movements, enhancing both combat and social interactions. Their connection to Astrium's moons further amplifies their senses, especially during certain lunar alignments, granting them brief glimpses into probable futures or alternate possibilities.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Gem Dragonborn are given draconic names to honor their lineage, often incorporating words related to clarity, insight, or strength in Draconic or Celestial. Names might include: Amethyst: Zurael, Shardis Crystal: Lysiria, Caelum Emerald: Vaelan, Emarel Sapphire: Indarion, Kaldren Topaz: Solyaar, Rethari

Beauty Ideals

Gem Dragonborn admire clear, faceted scales and luminescent eyes. Strength of mind and clarity of purpose are seen as equally important, with intellectual prowess often viewed as the pinnacle of attractiveness. Additionally, ceremonial etchings or fine jewelry are used to accentuate their natural beauty.

Courtship Ideals

Courtship among Gem Dragonborn centers around intellectual compatibility and mutual discovery. Partners may engage in a “bond of insight,” a traditional exchange of wisdom and philosophies. Small, personal challenges or riddles serve as courtship gifts, symbolizing mental alignment and shared curiosity.

Common Etiquette Rules

Politeness and intellectual respect are vital; interrupting a Gem Dragonborn is seen as a grave offense. They value mental space and are slow to trust but loyal once bonded. Discussions on philosophy, the cosmos, or self-discovery are cherished, while gossip or frivolity is generally shunned.

Common Dress Code

Most Gem Dragonborn wear robes or tunics of minimalistic design, adorned with small gemstones or runes representing their gem ancestry. Ceremonial attire is often elegant and minimalist, marked with subtle draconic symbols and charms attuned to Astrium’s moons.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Their history is tied deeply to Sardior and the celestial alignments of Astrium’s moons, which they believe connect them to the Ruby Dragon’s memory. They see their role as guardians of cosmic knowledge and remain deeply involved in matters concerning Astrium’s fate and mysteries.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

The Celestial Convergence: A gathering held every few decades during unique lunar alignments, where Gem Dragonborn meditate, study cosmic lore, and share visions of the past and future. Sardior’s Vigil: A yearly tradition in which Gem Dragonborn fast and meditate to honor Sardior and seek guidance from the cosmos, believed to strengthen their psionic powers.

Common Taboos

Gem Dragonborn avoid excessive material accumulation, which they see as detracting from spiritual purity. Wastefulness and ignorance toward the celestial order are seen as offensive.

Common Myths and Legends

Gem Dragonborn believe Sardior will one day return as the “Keeper of Balance,” a guardian to restore cosmic harmony if Astrium faces annihilation. Legends tell of a hidden library known as the “Vault of Stars” where all knowledge from their ancestors is stored, revealing truths about the universe when the need is dire.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Dragonborn

Scientific Name

Draco sapiens astriana

Lifespan

140-180 years

Average Height

6-7 feet

Average Weight

200-280 pounds

Average Physique

Lean, with an emphasis on dexterity and mental endurance.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Varies by subspecies, often accented by subtle runic markings and light-enhancing facets.
Amethyst: Deep violet hues, resonant with gravitational manipulation and space-time awareness. Crystal: Translucent, shimmering white, reflecting the energy of pure light and insight. Emerald: Brilliant green, signifying the power of mental acuity and psionic empathy. Sapphire: Rich blue, symbolizing resilience and control over the force of will. Topaz: Yellow and honeyed gold, imbued with the energies of decay and vitality.