Candlefolk

Candlefolk emerge from celestial heritage, their bodies marked by an otherworldly luminescence that sets them apart from ordinary mortals. Their numbers have increased steadily since The Fade began pulling the celestial realms further from the material plane. Many see their growing presence as heaven's response to the world's darkening.

Physical Characteristics

Candlefolk skin resembles melted wax, taking on a translucent quality that allows inner light to shine through. Most display the distinctive features of partially melted candles: faces with sunken cheeks, stretched or drooping features, and skin that appears to have pooled and reformed. Eyes often sit asymmetrically, noses may be flattened or elongated, and mouths frequently appear too wide or positioned incorrectly. A fortunate few show minimal deformation, appearing almost normal save for their luminescence.

Most emit steady glows in pale gold or soft silver, though rare individuals display cooler blues or gentle lavender hues. The luminescence fluctuates subtly with strong emotions but remains generally consistent, never blazing dramatically or disappearing entirely.

Their eyes carry the same inner radiance, which can deeply unsettle those meeting them for the first time, especially when combined with their asymmetrical positioning. The soft light tends to blur their deformed features somewhat, but rarely enough to pass for normal human appearance.

Candlefolk stand at typical human heights and share similar lifespans to their mortal cousins. They mature at the same rate but often seem to carry themselves with careful, measured movements, whether from natural temperament or years of managing unwanted attention.

Culture and Governance

Candlefolk follow the political structures of whatever communities accept them, integrating into existing systems rather than forming separate institutions. However, their growing numbers create loose information networks that span multiple settlements, sharing knowledge about which towns welcome their kind and which employers value their abilities.

Unlike other peoples who might face simple discrimination, candlefolk often find themselves channeled into specific roles. Communities expect them to serve as healers, spiritual advisors, or mediators in disputes, regardless of their actual talents or interests. Many excel in these positions due to natural healing abilities, but others struggle with expectations they cannot meet.

Religious communities generally welcome candlefolk as evidence that divine power still touches the world, though some orthodox groups question whether true celestial heritage would manifest so strangely. Their increasing numbers since The Fade deepened in 400 ANE has led some scholars to theorize they represent heaven's direct intervention in mortal affairs.

Divine Purpose?

Are candlefolk heaven's response to The Fade, or something else entirely?

The pattern: Their numbers have grown dramatically in recent generations, just as divine power has weakened elsewhere.

Is this coincidence, compensation, or part of some larger pattern? What does their increasing presence really mean for the future of faith in The Crescent?

Relations with Other Peoples

Most mortals treat candlefolk with cautious respect, but this tolerance comes with complicated expectations. People assume they possess wisdom, healing powers, or prophetic abilities they often lack. Desperate individuals seek them out for miracles they cannot provide, leading to disappointment and sometimes hostility when reality fails to match assumptions.

Religious Communities: Most temples welcome candlefolk as living proof that the gods remain active in the world. However, strict orthodox sects sometimes question whether authentic celestial blood would produce such obviously marked offspring.

Mortals Generally: Common folk often expect candlefolk to solve problems beyond their abilities. When they fail to provide expected healing or spiritual guidance, initial reverence can quickly turn to suspicion about their authenticity or worthiness.

Fallen Angels

When candlefolk fail to meet spiritual expectations, when they're petty, selfish, or simply human, the disappointment cuts deep.

Communities that welcomed them as divine blessing may turn cold when reality doesn't match hope.

A candlefolk character who makes mistakes or acts selfishly might face harsher judgment than others would, as people struggle to reconcile their flawed behavior with their celestial appearance.

Character Creation Notes

Candlefolk cannot hide their supernatural nature, making privacy nearly impossible when emotions cause their glow to fluctuate. This constant visibility shapes every aspect of their existence. Some embrace the attention and develop commanding presences, while others seek ways to minimize their luminescence and retreat from public scrutiny.

They excel as clerics, paladins, sorcerers, and bards, with natural affinity for divine and radiant magic. Their supernatural heritage suits roles requiring spiritual authority or inspirational leadership.

Regional Backgrounds: Rural communities where rarity breeds reverence and they're treated as divine messengers. Urban centers where diverse populations focus on abilities rather than appearances. Wandering healers whose literal light guides travelers through dark places.

Cultural Integration: Candlefolk navigate both worship and suspicion, often serving as bridges between mortal concerns and divine mysteries they barely understand themselves.

Key Motivations: The weight of others' spiritual expectations shapes most candlefolk experiences. Consider what burden your character carries for their unwanted holiness, whether they embrace or resist assumptions about their divine nature, and how they handle the gap between what people expect and what they can actually provide.