The Tainted

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Eons ago, a race of planar creatures arose in Sigil. Their blood was mixed, with parentage of both celestial and demonic sources, which both reviled them. It is unknown as to the true source of their birth, whether through a demon forcing itself upon a celestial, or by some misguided attempt by a celestial to "cure" a demon of its nature. Regardless, it became apparent that this new race was causing great strife within the City of Doors, and the Lady of Pain herself exiled them and all discussion of these half-breeds was considered in bad taste. The physical characteristics of the Tainted are similar to that of a muscular demon. They are asexual in demon form, though most can assume humanoid form through magical means. They are quite physically strong and have a complex system of unique spell-like abilities. Furthermore, they are very difficult to kill, as each carries have a spirit gem that allows ready resurrection. The Tainted will refer to themselves as such, but they have called themselves by other names. Sigil's Lost or Children of Pain are common labels, sometimes used by the various philosophical factions within their race. Most common is simply "The People" when referring to themselves. They have made a home for themselves in a small plane adjacent to the Outlands, borrowing much of the architecture from Sigil itself. The single city of the Tainted is known as Omelas, a sprawling collection of buildings of all shapes and sizes. Lifecycle Tainted in their adult form are unable to create offspring. Instead, they first live a mortal life to bear children, and upon their death are reincarnated into their adult form. In some families, their children remain in Omelas, creating complex relationships between mortal parents, children, and the "grandparents" who are full-blooded Tainted. For this reason, you will see a variety of non-Tainted races living in Omelas, as they are the children and family of those in their mortal cycle. Some children are sent away as youngsters, in part to protect them from faction violence that flares up. Others feel that the experience of a mortal life away from Omelas enriches their life when they return. When a mortal Tainted dies, their spirit is sent outward to Omelas and reborn in the communal birthing grove. It has been rumored that someone has found a way to trap some of these spirits upon their return, possibly to use their spirit gem as a source of income. Spirit Gems Each Tainted, when born, has a spirit gem grasped in their hand. It contains their life essence and their sanctuary. When a Tainted is slain, they will return there to be reborn. It is also a convenient place to keep supplies and equipment, or simply work in peace. One should be cautious with their spirit gem. If slain within your own gem, it is permanent. Also, if an unscrupulous Tainted were to obtain another's spirit gem, they can get great use from it. This makes gem theft a risky but lucrative business. A new spirit gem is barren of substance. The gem's owner has powerful control over its appearance, shaping its form according to their will. Rooms can be added to the keep over time, though it requires a certain amount of energy in the form of spirit coins. Spirit Coin Though gold is passed around as common currency, spirit coin is the true money of the Tainted. Spirit coin is used for rituals, the brewing of tinctures, and the creation of devices. At times, is the only currency accepted for certain transactions. A spirit gem generates spirit coin over time, and certain steps can be taken to increase this natural production within the gem. Stocking one's gem with items of great beauty or power creates harmonious resonance within the gem, leading to greater energy output.