M is for Marks of Magic and Gods

In the Old World, magic and miracles are real.

A powerful wizard may pull on the ropes of color energy known as the Winds of Magic to cast a spell and a pious priest may utter a practiced prayer to invoke his god's blessing or curse. In each practice, enough wielding of the winds or the touch of a god will mark the individual.

Some believe these marks not to be a symbol of power or blessing, but a sign of corruption, and for the magic user and priest these marks may earn them a sentence of cleansing by fire in the town square.

For the Celestial, or Blue, Wizard, the mark may manifest as an Aura of Tranquility or more commonly Disturbing or Alarming Visions with no context or meaning. A Celestial Wizard may also be enveloped the scent of fresh air; an advantage in the dung filled streets of an Imperial City, but disturbing to animals and many denizens.

For the priest, similar marks may appear. A priestess of Myrmidia for example may become vengeful to a fault. Develop a kinship with or the eyesight of eagles.

In both, the highest order mark is that of the rune or sacred symbol appearing on the body of the magician or priest. Such marks can easily be misinterpreted at the worse time by a Witch Hunter.