Summary

The Marked are a cursed race descended from mortals touched by the corrupted god Ghor. Recognisable by their horns, tails, and often blackened eyes, they carry an irreversible corruption in both body and soul. Though many resist its influence for as long as they can, the Marked live their entire lives in a constant battle against the pull of Ghor’s will. The more they draw on their inherited powers or expose themselves to Ghor’s corruption, the more it spreads—altering both their physical form and their mind. Those who fully succumb become the Revenari, servants of Ghor.

Origins & Mythology

The first Marked were not born, but made—mortals who survived direct exposure to Ghor’s corruption, whether through forbidden rituals, cursed places, or the influence of his creatures. Their bodies and spirits were permanently altered, and this taint became hereditary. Over generations, the Marked emerged as a distinct people. While new Marked can still be created in rare cases, most are born into ancient bloodlines that trace back to the first who fell under Ghor’s touch.

Physical Characteristics

• Average Height: 1.6–1.9 m
• Build: Varies, often matching the mortal ancestry of their bloodline
• Lifespan: Similar to their unmarked kin, though severe corruption can shorten it
• Distinct Features: Horns of varying size and shape, prehensile or decorative tails, black or solid-coloured eyes, skin tones ranging from human norms to unnatural hues

Culture & Society

• Habitat: Scattered across Eonil; often in hidden communities or among tolerant populations
• Social Structure: Some Marked form tight-knit enclaves with elders guiding the young in resisting corruption; others live isolated or hide their nature
• Traditions: Rituals of discipline to restrain the corruption, oaths against drawing too deeply on their powers, commemorations for those lost to the Revenari
• Economy: Skilled in diverse trades; some lean toward magic or martial work, though suspicion often limits their opportunities

Subraces & Variants

• Born Marked: Descendants of corrupted bloodlines, marked from birth with horns, tails, and other traits.
• Newly Marked: Mortals transformed later in life after surviving direct exposure to Ghor’s corruption; often more volatile and prone to rapid descent.

Notable Facts

• The Revenari: Marked who have fully surrendered to Ghor’s corruption, becoming his servants in body and soul.
• Corruption is irreversible; resisting it requires constant vigilance, and using it hastens the descent.
• While many view the Marked with suspicion, some have become celebrated heroes for their stand against Ghor’s will.