Gem Dragonborn

Lore

Gem Dragonborn are distinguished by their vibrant scales and mystical abilities, reflecting the enigmatic powers of gem dragons. With scales that shimmer in hues of amethyst, crystal, emerald, sapphire, and topaz, these Dragonborn are attuned to the wonders of the mind and the force of will. They possess abilities that evoke insight, discovery, and mental fortitude. Gem Dragonborn are revered for their intellectual prowess and the radiant light of their insight, yet they also carry the potential for despair and disillusionment.
Their connection to gem dragons grants them unique powers and affinities, allowing them to harness the psychic and elemental energies associated with their ancestry. While their origins are as mysterious as the gem dragons themselves, Gem Dragonborn are known for their wisdom, introspection, and affinity for the psychic forces of the universe.
Gem Dragonborn are rare, and it is believed that they often live in seclusion, residing in remote and hard-to-reach places around the world. This reclusive nature, combined with their scarcity, makes them enigmatic figures in the wider world. Although they are not as heavily distrusted as Chromatic Dragonborn, they still face suspicion due to the role of dragons in the Dragon War. Many races are uncertain of their intentions, given their psionic abilities and ties to the mysterious gem dragons.

Physical Characteristics

• Height: 6 to 7 feet tall.
• Build: Slender and graceful, with a refined presence.
• Scales: Amethyst, crystal, emerald, sapphire, or topaz.
• Eyes: Glowing with the color of their ancestry, often reflecting their inner clarity and wisdom.
• Horns and Frills: Elegant and refined, with crystalline patterns that enhance their mystical aura.

Society and Culture

Gem Dragonborn often form small, secluded communities that prioritize knowledge, wisdom, and mental discipline. They are more contemplative than their chromatic and metallic cousins, valuing insight and understanding. Their societies often choose leaders based on intellectual and psionic capabilities rather than physical prowess.
In their communities, Gem Dragonborn encourage the pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery. They believe in the power of the mind and the importance of exploring the mysteries of existence. While they may seem aloof or detached to outsiders, Gem Dragonborn form deep bonds through shared intellectual pursuits and psychic exploration.

Key Aspects

• Psionic Abilities: Skilled in telepathy and mental disciplines.
• Intellectual Pursuits: Valued for wisdom and insight.
• Mystical Connection: Strong affinity for psychic and elemental energies.
• Seclusion: Prefer isolated communities in remote areas.

Relations with Other Races

Gem Dragonborn are often viewed with curiosity and cautious respect due to their psionic abilities and gem-like appearance. While they are not as heavily distrusted as Chromatic Dragonborn, their association with dragons and their role in the Dragon War still lead to some suspicion. Many races are unsure of their intentions and view them as enigmatic outsiders. However, those who demonstrate their wisdom and neutrality can earn the trust and respect of other races. They are often valued as mediators and advisors, known for their calm and objective perspective in conflicts.

Common Traits

Breath Weapon: Replace one attack with a 15-foot cone of elemental energy (Dexterity save, DC = 8 + Constitution modifier + proficiency bonus). Deals 1d10 damage (2d10 at 5th level, 3d10 at 11th level, 4d10 at 17th level), half on a save. Usable a number of times equal to proficiency bonus, recharges on a long rest.

Draconic Resistance: Resistance to the damage type associated with their ancestry (e.g., radiant, psychic).

Psionic Mind: Telepathically communicate with any creature within 30 feet. Creatures must understand at least one language, but a shared language is not required.

Gem Flight: Starting at 5th level, manifest spectral wings as a bonus action for 1 minute. Gain a flying speed equal to walking speed and can hover. Usable once per long rest.

Race Traits and Abilities

• Age: Mature at the same rate as humans; lifespan up to 80 years.
• Size: Medium (6 to 7 feet tall).
• Speed: 30 feet.
• Breath Weapon: 15-foot cone of elemental energy (Dexterity save, DC = 8 + Constitution modifier + proficiency bonus). Deals 1d10 damage (2d10 at 5th level, 3d10 at 11th level, 4d10 at 17th level), half on a save. Usable a number of times equal to proficiency bonus, recharges on a long rest.
• Draconic Resistance: Resistance to the damage type associated with their gem ancestry (e.g., force, radiant, psychic, thunder, necrotic).
• Psionic Mind: Telepathically communicate with any creature within 30 feet. Creatures must understand at least one language.
• Gem Flight: Starting at 5th level, manifest spectral wings as a bonus action for 1 minute, granting flying speed equal to walking speed and hover. Usable once per long rest.
• Languages: Common, Draconic.

Encompassed species

• Dragonborn