For as long as there have been shadows in Dragongrin, the Mord have operated from within them, exacting their will – benevolent and otherwise – while hiding in plain sight. Originating from the mystical frontiers of Varnholme, the most ancient and misunderstood people of Dragongrin are most peripheral to – and the closest to understanding – the unfathomable but dwindling power of Imminence. For untold millennia, the gray-skinned Mord have integrated themselves into the cultures of Dragongrin, tightening their political grasp, playing a complex game with ever-moving pawns. Now they stand as staples among the various regions of Dragongrin, serving in roles as diverse as collectors of the Tenth, political advisors, and scholars.
The Mord perceive everything in the scope of eternity, regarding the events of decades as a lesser creature might regard the passing of a day. This manifests in many strange ways, leading the Mord to seem alien, aloof and perhaps cruel. This shows most clearly through one of the prime philosophies of the Mord, called Essentialism. This school of thought teaches that there is a weakness inherent in all things, and that through careful study of one’s own actions, and the trends of history, it is possible to see this weakness in yourself and in others. Colloquially called the weakness in all, it is the dedication to this philosophy that has seen the Mord ahead of the curve throughout all of recorded history.
The Mord’s exposure to Imminence and the strange Elderstones grants them unnaturally long lives. Through a strange ritual, their skin turns to an ashen gray, and their lives span centuries or even millennia. With lives of such length, they are able to execute schemes and plans that seem labyrinthine and impossible.
The Mord gain the following benefits:
Ability Score Increase: The Mord have astounding memories and are often intelligent and well-spoken. Choose two from Dexterity, Intelligence, or Charisma and increase both scores by 1.
Eidetic Memory: The Mord excel at knowing their history, and can often cite specific events from eons ago as if they occurred just moments ago. You gain proficiency in the History skill and make Intelligence checks to recall a text or object you have personally seen with advantage.
Cunning Influence: Your innate drive towards positions of authority or influence has led you to refine your methods of controlling others. You gain proficiency in the Persuasion or Intimidation skill. Additionally, you gain Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks when determining whether another agrees with your own line of thinking.
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