stoneborn

Stoneborn are a humanoid race distinguished by their stone-like integument and mineral-infused physiology. They inhabit rocky regions, from high mountain fastnesses to subterranean cave cities, where they carve settlements directly out of the surrounding bedrock. Their culture centers on geology, mineral wealth, and the endurance of stone against time.

Physiology: Their skin resembles flaking basalt or polished granite; their bodies metabolize minerals from ore; they heal slowly but gain strength when in contact with stone. They possess heightened tactile and seismic senses, enabling them to detect tremors and vibrations through rock. Many stoneborn can manipulate loose rock or small stones through disciplined geomancy, or through trained artisanship called stonecraft.

Society: Stoneborn governance tends to be clan-based, led by senior geologists known as Stoneward or Rockwarden. Clans organize in guilds focusing on mining, masonry, metalworking, and gem-cutting. Social status is tied to skill in stonecraft and custodianship of ancestral quarries. They prize endurance, loyalty, and a calm, patient approach to long-term projects.

Culture and history: They maintain long memories and preserve records by inscribing runes into stone pillars. Their religious practice often regards mountains as alive and protective, with seasonal rites tied to mining cycles and rock formation events. Historically, they traded with surface kingdoms for metals and grain, while defending ancient quarry sites against intruders. Conflicts have arisen over quarry rights but seldom escalate beyond controlled feuds.

Language and names: Their language, sometimes called Terran or Stone Tongue, uses consonant-heavy phonology and is frequently inscribed in rock glyphs or channels carved into stone. Personal names often reference geological features, such as Granite, Slate, or Embercrag, sometimes joined with clan names.

Notable settlements: Stonehold is the capital fortress perched at the edge of a basalt plateau; Deepcarb lies within an extensive cavern system; Gravenspire serves as the scholarly heart of geomancy. Stoneborn communities are generally wary of open plains until they have secured footholds in the rock.