Mutations
The world of Pannotia bears deep marks of its history, particularly from the lingering magical anomalies born of the Great Equilibrium. While many physical changes are tied to specific curses like Vampirism or the Aurumvitae, or emerge from excess magical exposure, the populace occasionally manifests spontaneous genetic mutations that do not strictly belong to a known bloodline or arcane order. Please note that mutations should not cause a character to break racial height constraints without being part of a special permission!
Common Manifestations
Across the millenia, scholars have recorded several recurring mutations within the diverse peoples of Pannotia. These traits often appear without warning during adolescence or are present from birth, diverging from standard racial norms.
Amorphic Dimorphism
One of the more documented mutations is the ability to shift one's physical sex presentation at will. This trait is naturally occurring and universal among the Infernals in particular, allowing them to maintain a flexible comfort in their appearance. However, this "gender swapping" ability has also been observed in non-Infernal individuals, where it is regarded as a rare anomaly. Those with this mutation possess an anatomy that allows for a total reconfiguration of their physical sex at will, often used as a tool for personal expression or social fluidity.
Keratinous Corona
Certain individuals in Pannotia manifest prominent physical traits reminiscent of bestial or infernal origins, specifically the growth of horns and spaded tails. While biological transmutation magic can temporarily mimic these features - granting wings, claws, or other features - true mutations result in permanent, biological structures integrated into the skeleton.
- Horns: Typically keratinous growths from the skull, these can range from small nubs to elaborate, curved structures.
- Spaded Tails: These muscular extensions of the spine often terminate in a sharp, triangular or spade-shaped tip, providing an additional means of balance or expression.
- Spine Spikes: Small bone formations along the back of the spine jutting out from the vertebrae, these are amongst the rarest manifestations.
Luminous Aniridia
A striking visual mutation often encountered is the presence of strange, pupil-less eyes that emit a faint, constant glow. Unlike the deep crimson eyes of a Vampire or the shifting metallic irises of an Empyrean, this mutation preserves the natural iris color of the individual's original race. The eyes appear as solid orbs of color without a visible pupil, yet they do not seem to hinder the individual's sight. In low-light conditions, they provide a soft luminescence similar to those of some Cursed. This may also manifest alongside small antlers, in rare cases.
Comparative Overview
| Mutation Type | Physical Indicators |
|---|---|
| Amorphic | Fluid sex presentation |
| Keratinous | Horns, Spaded Tails |
| Luminous | Pupil-less glowing eyes |
Arcane Manifestations
Direct interaction with concentrated potentia represents a significant catalyst for the manifestation of mutations, capable of altering an individual’s physiology well into their adult years. These anomalies are never spontaneous, invariably necessitating a direct arcane stimulus to trigger, and the subsequent transformation is often a profoundly harrowing experience.
Mage's Mark
While major mutations are the most striking, many mages manifest lightweight arcane anomalies as their connection to potentia deepens. These traits, such as a permanent icy chill to the skin or eyes that appear as glowing spots of light within the sockets, often signify a body that has begun to display permanent marks of the unnatural influence of their magics. Such manifestations should always be in line with the character’s Mystic School.
Kaymer's Pox
Kaymer’s Pox is a violent, mutative disease that ravages those exposed to extreme amounts of potentia, typically through Cymrinite. The resulting manifestations are incredibly unpredictable and varied, frequently disregarding natural physiology or racial norms. For more information, refer to the Kaymer's Pox page.
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