Faerim

Faerim are related to Okkurim, seemingly the smallest and weakest of the supernatural creatures of Derkomai, as compared to Dryadrim or Naiadrim. There are apparently many different kinds of Faerim, with varied appearances and abilities - fairies, sprites, nymphs, pixies, leprechauns, and many others - but they are all very small, no more than a foot (30 cm) tall, with a generally Human or Elvirim appearance. Many, but not all, have wings resembling those of a butterfly or a bat and are able to fly, and most appear as female in form, though there are some that appear to be male.   Like their larger Okkurim relatives, Faerim are said to be protectors of nature. They are associated with beautiful and magical places in the world, but given their small size and weaker magical powers, they often rely on trickery and deception to discourage other species from intruding into their domains or damaging the natural features which they are bound to protect. When other creatures trespass into or damage places protected by Faerim, they are often harassed by the Faerim with theft of small items and seemingly accidental mishaps. They are especially fond of stealing one of a pair of socks, moving keys from where they were left, imitating the sound of water dripping from a faucet during the night, and other such mischief. They love things that are colorful and shiny, so they steal coins, jewels, ribbons, and other decorative or valuable things. Some of the more angry and malevolent Faerim, however, are known to be dangerous, leading travelers off their path until they are lost and even killing small children and babies.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Faerim are very small, no more than 12 inches (30 cm) tall and humanoid. Most appear as female in form, but some appear male; however, their appearance is not related to reproduction, as they are semi-immortal and do not reproduce. Most also have wings like those of a butterfly or bat and are able to fly. They are often quite beautiful to human eyes, but some Faerim are shape-shifters, so their appearance is likely a matter of their intentions more than their actual physical form.

Genetics and Reproduction

Faerim are semi-immortal beings, so they do not reproduce, nor do they grow and mature. They can be hurt or even killed, but not easily. Hurting or killing a Faerim generally results in whomever did so coming to a painful end.

Ecology and Habitats

Faerim can be found most anywhere on Derkomai. They tend to be found in areas of natural beauty, near Elvirim villages and near where other Okkurim, Dryadrim, and Naiadrim are found.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Varies, but often very beautiful. Again, their appearance is usually whatever they intend, not their actual physical form, which can be most anything they want.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Throughout Derkomai in areas of great beauty or magic.

Average Intelligence

Like their Okkurim relatives, it is debatable whether or not Faerim are intelligent as it is usually understood. They are sentient, more or less, but they do not share the same goals and desires of mortal species. They do not reproduce, and being immortal, they do not fear death. They have no need for writing nor for calculation. They exist to protect the natural features of Derkomai that they were bound to protect at their creation, and that is what they do.

Civilization and Culture

History

The Elvirim say that the Faerim, like Okkurim and all other creatures, were spoken into being by Eia’au. No other legends, history, or explanation is known for their existence.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

The Faerim hate Orkrim. Orkrim trespassing into Faerim-protected places are set upon relentlessly, pelted with stones and attacked with Faerim's small magic. Anything the Orkrim are carrying is stolen or damaged when opportunities arise.   On the other hand, Faerim like and respect Elvirim, though not usually Drow Elvirim. Some of the Elvrim elders even have a Faerim companion that watches over them.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Lifespan
Immortal
Average Height
Varies, but generally not more than 12 inches (30 cm)
Average Physique
Varies, but usually small and slight. Those that appear female can appear voluptuous, but their appearance is probably more a matter of their intentions than their actual physical form. Most are shape-shifters; however, they seem to be limited to changing their appearance. They cannot become much larger or smaller than their actual size, and those that have wings usually cannot hide them.


Cover image: by Peter Nelson (Zero Sum Games)

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