Marking
Diagrams coming soon
The practice of Marking Volitionists originated with the reopening of Volitional activity in YA 96 after the Necromaniac Tragedy. When an individual seeking instruction in Volition comes to Advarsel for the first time, they must register at the Institute of Justice. There, faculty will place certain Marks on the student’s right eye and right arm.
The mark overlaying the eye imitates the Blight Scar of a Voracious Sprite, and represents the perceived degradation of the world by Volitionists-a sentiment held by most of the general populace, and nurtured by the Institute of Justice. It is also symbolic of the idea that Volitionists are tainted by their practices.
The shoulder of the individual's right arm hosts the emblem of their primary Discipline, and below that a signifier of the individual's Grade-or Echelon, representing their level of mastery. A newly registered Volitionist most often lacks this final Marking. As they progress in their studies and increase in mastery, they must report to the Institute of Justice and receive updated Markings.
Most Volitionists hide their Markings when in public to avoid aggression from townspeople. Others wear theirs openly, almost like a badge of sorts. While even non-performing Willwright faculty receive Markings, many common folk react to any Marked individual with either fear or distaste.
What is the history behind Marking? I am curious how it became a normal practice, and why Volitionists accept it?
The practice of Marking is a result of compromise between the common people who wanted all Volitional activity to be outlawed following YA 93, and Volitionists who wanted to continue ethical practices. In return for agreeing to be documented, tracked, and Marked, Volitionists are free to operate within regulations. The original system (which system's acceptance was the basis for the continuation of activity to be allowed) was actually proposed by leading Volitionists at the time, though over the years it has seen major changes. Namely, the original system didn't dictate that practitioners would receive any Marking on their faces, or that they would be under constant supervision. Campaigns to direct public sentiment have given the IoJ more leverage to use against Volitionists as well, such as demands for increased surveillance. For many who practice Volition, it is a major part of their identity and life. So given the choice was between compliance with the public's demands or cessation of activity (or attempting to practice in secret and risking punishment at the ruling power's discretion) most would rather cede to the requirements and be left in relative peace. They certainly wouldn't want to provide grounds for further oppression by refusing to comply. There's nearly as much pressure to comply from inside Volition-based social circles as from outside. While it may seem that Volitionists as a whole have given up and surrendered the situation, there are some who aren't content to be pushed around, and who hope and strive for improvement. I should probably write this all in. XD