Fae Overview
Fae creatures are mysterious humanoids greatly connected to nature and their environment. Many have the ability to control or influence their natural surroundings, fly, or what humans would consider "magical" powers. Often, these beings are minuscule in size ( several in. - 1 ft tall), have pointed ears, and bodies that change with the season and match their surroundings; some fashion clothes and live similar to humans, while others survive more like wild animals. Each type of fae has a distinct purpose in life: from protecting nature to reducing populations. Additionally, most fae do not reproduce as other creatures do, and the number of those in existence remains the same throughout time.
Brownie
Brownies are viewed as benevolent fae. Oftentimes they can be found living in old houses, or those that are located in rural or remote regions. Brownies secretly do housework in the human residences they live in; however, humans do not always see their activities as helpful. Inside of human residences, brownies make their own clothes, build homes, and objects for everyday life by using discarded and/or lost items of human households. They despise loud noises, change and pets, though some animals are befriended (except cats). Brownies have small, furry, pointed ears and round noses; certain species may share other animal-like traits. These fae are mostly responsible for superstitions and magical potions.
Duidae (DEW-uh-DAY)
Duidae are fae with lives, bodies, and/or reproduction methods similar to those of animals. They may also resemble animals or multiple animals in appearance, as well as be benevolent or malicious towards humans. Most duidae are protectors of nature and have some magical abilities.
Elf
Elves are fae with the greatest number of magical abilities and the strongest powers; they have small, pointed ears and are notoriously elusive and temperamental. Their size can range from 6 in. - 5 feet, depending on the species. Unlike other fae, their appearances do not always mirror nature; some have vibrant skin and hair in hues not naturally/commonly found in the environment. Usually they are beautiful and human-like in appearance, though some may have more animistic forms.
Faery
Faeries are small, winged fae that morphs with the seasons. Their bodies often mimic vegetation, like leaves, flowers, and mushrooms. Faerie species develop for each unique habitat/environment, resembling local flora, as well as caring for them. Faeries do not usually grow larger than 6 in.; they appear more plant-like than human-like. Their abilities and powers intensify with each new life they assist in bringing into the world. This type of fae brings in the spring and assists in making the flora obey seasonal trends.
Gnome
Gnomes are small fae obsessed with treasure (usually shiny, rare, & valuable objects, though the definition of treasure varies from gnome to gnome). These fae are short and plump, with long, floppy ears, large, wide noses under ever-alert eyes, and snaggle-toothed mouths. Walking with a waddle, gnomes can be found indoors and outdoors, if there is something interesting nearby. Gnomes are known to trade with other fae (usually brownies and sprites), as they are not knowledgeable or dextrous enough to craft things like clothing, tools, etc.; it is also common to see them dirty or in worn clothing, as they are constantly traveling from place to place. They are usually responsible for creating magical items.
Imp
Imps are destructive, horned, and sometimes winged fae. Often times, their goal is to destroy human possessions or bodies, but some also enjoy terrorizing the environment and its non-human inhabitants. Imps have magical powers; their size and appearance depends on the type of abilities/personalities they possess.
Naesse (NAY-suh)
Naesse are fae that are friendly towards humans and curious of their lives, though they live in their own communities located in remote or wild regions. Oftentimes, they lend a helping hand to humans in need or trouble. Naesse have very human-like appearances and heights; some have magical abilities, but all can disappear from view if they wish. These fae cultivate gardens, have feasts/celebrations, and engage in other activities that humans also do.
Nymph
Nymphs are beautiful, nature-oriented fae that change with the seasons they can transform into any species of creature they have come into contact with, or take half of an animal form, and half of a human’s. The largest of the fae species, nymphs are responsible for the spawn of several halfling/chimerac creatures, who serve the fae’s will or a distinct purpose. These beings will do most anything to protect their natural environments.
Puck
Pucks are evil fae that always try to bring harm to any and all creatures. They usually have deathly or sickly forms, with long, thin, pointed ears, limbs, and phalanges. Oftentimes, their strength and magic is connected to the amount of pain or death they have caused in their lifetime. Unlike some fae, who help bring about life and care for local fauna/flora, pucks help bring about necrosis, assist in the breakdown of the dead, and harken in winter.
Sprite
Sprites are tiny, human oriented fae that live right outside or under human dwelling places. They prefer to live near active households and help keep yards free of pests, gardens bountiful, and dropped items out of sight; they are usually seen as benevolent, though their actions can also be met with annoyance. Some sprites build their own homes out of found items or natural materials, as well as other things, like tools, furniture, and clothing. These fae have large, rounded eyes, bright, wide eyes, and nose-less faces. Most types of sprites enjoy animals and pets (except birds). Like brownies, they fear loud noises and do not like drastic changes in their environment. They are often responsible for enchanting human owned items, buildings, etc.
Vyridae (VAHY ・ ri ・ DAY)
Vyridae are fae with lives, bodies, and/or reproduction methods similar to those of plants. They may also resemble animals or humans in appearance, as well as be benevolent or malicious towards humans. Most vyridae are protectors of nature and have some magical abilities.
Susurrus: the Language of the Fae
According to legend, fae share a language that whispers like the rustle of leaves, howls like the wind, is as calming as a gurgling creek, yet able to conjure fear like the thunder of lightning. Susurrus (SUHS-ER-us) is said to be the language the fae use to cast magic, and if any know its words, they too may shape nature with practice and conviction. Lesser fae, or those that have lost their connection to nature and ancient knowledge, are unable to speak or understand this speech; human oriented fae, like sprites and brownies, often do not know Susurrus, but the Nunnehi (whose lives constantly intermingle with human’s) have kept and remembered its sounds. Some halflings, like Fairfeet, are also born knowing how to speak this language; the Stonemen were also taught certain words and phrases which they use to alter the earth.
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