- Nymphai -

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      Nymphs, known as nymphai, are magickal creatures of Greek mythology

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Nymphs, known as nymphai, are magickal creatures of Greek mythology. Luckily for us, they're very real. Despite their unproven connection to their earth-Gods- primarily Apollo, Pan, Demeter, Poseidon, Artemis, Hermes, and Dionysus- their history all derives in Hellenic mythology. Scientists and historians have a hard time tracking their origins and how much of their history is lore versus real. Regardless, their power goes undisputed and, when dealing with the Nymphai, their Gods are highly respected.

Nymphai are entirely female and are environmentalist creatures. They work only with their environment and live amongst themselves. They live primarily in the Mediterranean region. There are different tribes of Nymphai with different specialties. The tribes include, but are not limited to:

Acheloids (of the river Achelous)

Alseids (of groves)

Aureads (of the breezes)

Dryads (of the forests)

Hamadryads (of the trees)

Hydriads (of water)

Leimoniads/ Epimelides (of meadows)

Meliads (of ash trees)

Naiads (of springs and rivers/freshwater)

Napaea (of valleys)

Nereid (of the Mediterranean)

Oceanids (of the oceans)

Oreads (of the mountains)

These creatures work with ancient magick, indicating their survival through centuries and even millennia. They are one of the oldest species known to magicians. Their male counterparts- Satyrs, Panes, Tritons, and Potamoi- have not been around as long as the Nymphai, but are included in the list of the longest surviving species. Despite their survival throughout time, Nymphs are not usually immortal (typically living around 5,000 years), although it is possible. Usually, they live extended lives, only being granted immortality at the whim of their Gods. Due to the longer life spans, their history and culture have remained relatively unchanged. Their societies are able to pass down their beliefs and traditions better than almost anybody.

Nymphai are peaceful creatures, keeping to themselves in regards to governance and personal lives. Regardless, they do have a seat on the world council and are regarded highly. They usually inject their ideas on eco-friendly practices, to scold humans- mortals and magicians alike- for the ever-changing climate, and to lobby for the protection of their habitats. They sometimes disguise themselves to lobby mortal governments as well. Though, this is usually unnecessary as they blend in with magicians, having relatively mortal qualities. Their ears can be slightly pointed but are usually rounded. They have beautiful and smooth skin, sometimes appearing as though they glow. However, even if they glow, they have no magickal signature. They are considerably more powerful than magicians, thus they are incredibly dangerous if angered.

      There are also a few cases in which a mortal woman, through metamorphosis, becomes a Nymph

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There are also a few cases in which a mortal woman, through metamorphosis, becomes a Nymph. This is rare, and, usually, a gift bestowed by the Nymphai themselves, or as they say, by the Gods. As it is understood, mortal women only achieve metamorphosis because of their key role in the assistance of a hero during their trials, or because of some important act of motherhood. Women who sacrifice themselves for their children, die during childbirth, or have provided for many (taking in children or bestowing love upon them) are usually the types turned into Nymphs, however, as stated, this is extremely uncommon and most simply receive an Amaryllis flower at their graves or doorsteps.

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