Rockborn, also called earth genasi, were a type of Genieborn Mortalkind whose bodies bore the mark of elemental earth. Though some appeared very physically similar to other smallfolk, others looked more magical, with skin in shades of stone, clay, or soil, ranging from pale granite gray to deep brown or mossy green. A rockborn's hair might resemble thick strands of earth or metallic threads, sometimes appearing as crystal-like growths or gravelly textures. Their eyes could glint like polished gems, shimmer with veins of ore, or show the dull luster of unworked stone. Some rockborn carried a solid weight in their step, creating audible tremors in the ground as they walked.
The abilities of the rockborn reflected the elemental power within their bloodline, possessing a darkvision that let them see without light. Resisting physical damage came naturally to rockborn, along with an instinctive talent for earth-based Spellcraft. Many could shape the ground beneath their feet, cause the soil to tremble, or merge with surrounding earth to hide. Their ancestry often traced back to the Dao, the mighty earth Genies of the Elemental Realm of Earth; some lines drew from lesser earth Elementals or other planar beings steeped in stone and mineral. This connection gave them an affinity not only for rock and soil, but for the enduring and unyielding nature of the earth itself.
The temperament of rockborn was often shaped by their elemental heritage, as they innately understood and spoke Terran. Many shared the steady, patient, and enduring nature of stone; slow to act, deliberate in their choices, and difficult to sway once their mind was set. Some embodied the crushing force of the earth, capable of sudden and overwhelming action, while others reflected its sheltering and fertile qualities, providing stability, protection, and support to those around them. Whether fierce or steadfast, most rockborn carried a quiet strength in their demeanor; an ever-present reminder of the elemental power that flowed through their veins.