The Mark

Roughly one out a hundred among humans, dwarves, and man'di are born with the Mark, a connection to the conduit of power in the heavens known as the Girdle of the Gods. Though the most famous expression of this ability is wizardry, different peoples and schools have applied this power in numerous ways, including martial, magic in a more prana sense, or even entirely different pursuits. It should be noted that every single elf is born with a Mark.
The Mark manifests as a gem, most often in the third eye position but occasionally elsewhere (one palm or somewhere on the spine perhaps), and one out of a hundred Marks is sub-dermal, meaning that some of the Marked live their lives without ever discovering their blessing, which some view as a good thing. The Marked are often called upon to fight or serve some higher authority or institution, though many would prefer to be left alone with a quiet life.
In addition to drawing power from the Girdle, the Marked can channel it in devastating displays of magic, use it in more subtle ways, or augment their bodies. The ability to draw energy has its limits, and practitioners must carefully build up their resistance and stamina to undertake such efforts; those who draw too much too quickly are likely to burn themselves out. This happens quite often with those who are gifted Marks, for these links may be bestowed upon others if the right rituals are known. Marks carry the memories of their bearer, and most serve as a database in libraries after the Marked is deceased.