Spellstain

Spellstains are a form of magical birth mark which affect people whose ancestors were followers of Swynwyr at the time of her murdering of Dewin. As such, they can appear on a Dwarf, Elf, Gnome, Halfling, Half-Elf, Half-Orc, or a Human. They are more intricate than a birthmark and more distinct than a tattoo. There are twelve types of Spellstains. In addition to being a status symbol in the Magocracy of Swynwyr, the Spellstains provide the bearer with magical talents.

A human with a prominent Spellstain

Spellstain Tattoos

Spellstains are passed through bloodlines, but when a person without one joins Our Lady's Eyes and becomes a Reincarnated, they are tattooed with a crude version. The Spellstain Tattoo does not manifest the same way each time, so it is possible for two individuals with completely different looking marks to produce the same magical effect using the mark. Although those with Spellstain Tattoos are held in higher regard than those with no Spellstain at all, they are still viewed as of a lower caste.

A human with a Spellstain Tattoo

Manifestations

Spellstains typically appear in the bearer's adolescence as they pass through puberty, but this is not exclusively the case. When the bearer grows through adulthood, mark changes somewhat reflecting an increase in potency. As the Spellstain gains power it will expand in size and complexity rather than forming a different mark. Often the mark will manifest first as the least mark and through study and focus the bearer increases their power and with this increase, the Spellsain also increases, granting additional abilities.

History

As the wizard Swynwyr gained power, she amassed a wealth of followers from the major races of the world. Most were elves, humans, and half-elves, a lesser number were gnomes and halflings, and fewest of all were dwarves and half-orcs. When Swynwyr slew Dewin and claimed his place, the followers of the new goddess were scarred with the first Spellstains.

Type

Magical