Fjell (F-yell)
Fjell, or mountain/sky elf as it directly translates to, are a branch of the Alfr species who are attuned to the sky itself.
The Fjell are instantly recognizable by their distinctive physical characteristics. Standing at an average height of around 4 feet, they are known for their slender and almost frail appearance. Their bodies are adorned with sharp, bony spikes on their elbows, and they possess large, eagle-like eyes which have a second eyelid, and of course most notibly are their wings and tail (which helps for flight).
One of the most remarkable features of the Fjell is that they have large bird wings on their back, whose shape and pattern are distinct to their family line. The patterns on their wings influence their overall appearance from skin tone, to hair and eye colors. Their wings can also vary in shape, and these differences dictate the Fjell's flight capabilities. Some Fjell being equipped for silent, stealthy flight, while others are built for speed and agility.
Many of the Fjell possess an innate connection to the Storm Domain. The majority of Fjell are born with this magical affinity, with only rare cases where one is born without one. Many Fjell take pride in their innate magical abilities, viewing it as a divine gift passed down through generations.
Within their society, to be without a connection to the Storm Domain, also known as being "Stormless", is considered a disability as it prevents you from participating in many of their cultural and religious practices. however while this belief is widespread in their society, there are factions and groups who challange this doctrine, as some of the "Stormless" Fjell seek to learn and harness magic of their own accord, or simply learn to live without it.
Fjell communities primarily dwell in the lofty heights of the mountains. Their villages are often carved into the cliff sides or nestle beneath the underhangs of canyons. These unique architectural choices enable the Fjell to remain closely connected to their mountainous habitats while capitalizing on the advantages of their wings. The homes are interconnected by rope bridges, creating a web of structures
Most Fjell villages are up in mountains and they especially prefer to build their homes on cliff sides or the underhang of a canyon (with the excepiton of their southern cousins, some of whom live in tropical forests). Their villages are built into the stone and hang from them, with open platforms that have plenty of space to land and take off from, and are all interconnected by rope bridges used by their young and by travelers who cant fly. Many monasteries and temples are found in these mountains and other mortals will sometimes venture to these Fjell dwellings in search for enlightenment
One of the most remarkable features of the Fjell is that they have large bird wings on their back, whose shape and pattern are distinct to their family line. The patterns on their wings influence their overall appearance from skin tone, to hair and eye colors. Their wings can also vary in shape, and these differences dictate the Fjell's flight capabilities. Some Fjell being equipped for silent, stealthy flight, while others are built for speed and agility.
Many of the Fjell possess an innate connection to the Storm Domain. The majority of Fjell are born with this magical affinity, with only rare cases where one is born without one. Many Fjell take pride in their innate magical abilities, viewing it as a divine gift passed down through generations.
Within their society, to be without a connection to the Storm Domain, also known as being "Stormless", is considered a disability as it prevents you from participating in many of their cultural and religious practices. however while this belief is widespread in their society, there are factions and groups who challange this doctrine, as some of the "Stormless" Fjell seek to learn and harness magic of their own accord, or simply learn to live without it.
Fjell communities primarily dwell in the lofty heights of the mountains. Their villages are often carved into the cliff sides or nestle beneath the underhangs of canyons. These unique architectural choices enable the Fjell to remain closely connected to their mountainous habitats while capitalizing on the advantages of their wings. The homes are interconnected by rope bridges, creating a web of structures
Most Fjell villages are up in mountains and they especially prefer to build their homes on cliff sides or the underhang of a canyon (with the excepiton of their southern cousins, some of whom live in tropical forests). Their villages are built into the stone and hang from them, with open platforms that have plenty of space to land and take off from, and are all interconnected by rope bridges used by their young and by travelers who cant fly. Many monasteries and temples are found in these mountains and other mortals will sometimes venture to these Fjell dwellings in search for enlightenment
Basic Information
Anatomy
- Wings: The most iconic feature of the Fjell, their wings, are as diverse as their abilities. The shape of their wings plays a significant role in their specific form of flight. Some are built for silent gliding, while others excel in active soaring and speed. The patterns on their wings, unique to each family line, impact their skin tone, hair color, and eye shade.
- Tail: A long, feathered tail with specialized feathers at the end is a vital component of Fjell anatomy. This tail enhances mobility in flight, providing balance and control, especially during intricate aerial maneuvers.
- Bony Elbows: As hatchlings, Fjell use the sharp, bony spikes on their elbows to break free from their eggs. As adults, these spikes serve as a form of defense, providing them with a means of protection.
- Taloned Feet: Fjell have digitigrade legs equipped with large, sharp taloned feet. These feet, with two to three talons in the front and one at the back, allow them to perch with ease, making them adept at landing on precarious cliff edges or branches. These talons are also valuable in aerial combat and hunting.
Genetics and Reproduction
Fjell have a unique reproductive system that enables them to reproduce within their kin regardless of wing type or pattern. Offspring born from such unions often inherit one of these traits, either the wing type or the pattern, and occasionally exhibit a mix of both.
In the case of reproducing with individuals outside their kin, Fjell pass on their dominant traits, which include their wings (t8), tail (t6), and physical size (t6). However, there is a chance that these offspring may be born without one or more of these traits, potentially leading to disabilities.
Growth Rate & Stages
Egg Stage: Fjell begin their lives in eggs, roughly 1 foot long and 0.5 feet wide. Females carry these eggs for two months before giving birth, after which they incubate for an additional three weeks before hatching. Hatching is facilitated by using the sharp elbow spikes to break free.
Hatchling Stage: Hatchling Fjell are unable to fly for several years, during which time their wings fully develop, and their feathers grow. This phase usually lasts for six years.
Adulthood: A Fjell is considered a fully recognized adult at the age of 16, but they continue to grow until they reach their full size at 19 years of age.
Life Span: Fjell are remarkable in their long life spans, often reaching up to 200 years, with some individuals living as long as 280 years before succumbing to old age. When they approach the end of their life span, their wings molt, rendering them too weak to fly. These elderly Fjell are typically cared for in sacred places within their clans until their passing. At death, their bodies rapidly decay into clay, and their spirits ascend as Storm Spirits. These spirits are believed to reside in thunderstorms before moving on to the afterlife. Thunderstorms hold immense spiritual significance for the Fjell.
Ecology and Habitats
Fjell are a species uniquely adapted for an aerial existence, thriving in high-altitude habitats. They favor locations such as mountaintops, tall trees, cliffsides, and canyons. Some clans engage in migratory practices, maintaining multiple homes and shifting between them based on the seasons. Other Fjell live as nomads, embracing a lifestyle that allows them to traverse the realms as they please.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Fjell are omnivores, making the most of the resources available to them in their diverse environments. Their diet includes a wide range of food sources, reflecting their adaptability as a species.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
The Fjell's unique biological connection to the domains, particularly to clay and storms, results in their feathers and blood being potent with storm energy. These materials can be employed in alchemical practices for harnessing powerful electrical magics. However, the use of such alchemical practices is often stigmatized and even prohibited in many societies due to ethical concerns.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
While a substantial number of Fjell prefer the rugged landscapes of mountainous regions, their adaptability allows them to thrive in various locales, including canyons, environments with giant trees, and sometimes within other societies as nomads.
Average Intelligence
The Fjell are renowned for their impressive intelligence. Many of their kind are philosophers or astronomers. In some cultures, they establish grand monasteries and temples, where scholars and sages contemplate existence and the cosmos. Their wisdom often attracts other races in search of enlightenment.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
With large eagle-like eyes featuring two foveae per eye, the Fjell possess incredibly sharp vision, enabling them to observe even the smallest details from extreme distances. This exceptional visual acuity is essential for their life in the skies and the mountains.
Lifespan
200-280 years
Average Height
around 4ft with the tallest being almost 5ft tall
Average Weight
the body of a Fjell is very light, with a fully grown adult weighing around 70-90 lbs. it is believed that this may be in part due to their bones being hollow.
Geographic Distribution
Related Ethnicities
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