What do Fae value?
The Fae are immortal creatures, some having lived since the very first breaths of the universe itself. What then, do these creatures hold up as valuable? Precious metals, such as gold, hold far less intrinsic worth to those that have walked the Realms for eons. Compound interest becomes ridiculous over the course of their lifetimes that the separation of the Haves and Have Nots would be so great it would offend even the greediest of Fae sensibilities. The Fae value life, beauty, the arts, and the preservation of all the Realms. Thus, the concept of money is not what the Fae values.
The Fae value two things: reputation and uniqueness.
Reputation
Over the course of lifetimes measured on scales unfathomable to mortals the Fae earn for themselves a reputation that encompasses a number of factors. Their contributions to society as a whole, their skill at their chosen profession(s), the friends and family they have cultivated, and much more. Contributing to the overall improvement of life for Fae as a whole is the primary indicator of this.
The architect of a large housing building that gives all the residents lots of open space, natural light, and fine amenities, and then the craftsman who build such a place, are highly regarded in Fae society. They provided lovely homes for dozens or hundreds of Fae. The baker, so focused on improving their craft that they have become a master of sweet and savory delights, will not charge for their food. The reputation they gain as a Master Baker is what they gain from their efforts.
How does one get ahead in this society then?
Uniqueness
The seamstress that sews a dress so finely adorned, so richly embroidered, so masterfully crafted that it cannot be repeated, even by the same seamstress, will be highly valued among the Fae. The smiths of the Forge who create masterwork weapons are granted great boons by their compatriots and other Fae. The uniqueness of a piece is its value. The more unique, the more rare, the harder to obtain an item is for the immortal fae, the greater its value becomes.
The scale of uniqueness is there as well. While the Fae do not intrinsically value something like the United States Dollar or a gold coin they are often traded about anyway in the same way one might use loose change or extra bills to acknowledge someone’s service. As an example, those that find serving in a restaurant would often receive these trinkets for excellent service. While these trinkets are not necessarily unique, they are valued for being a rarer gift than something they might otherwise have received such as kind words.
Each According to Their Need
Much in the way that Fae values reputation, no Fae would let another starve, or live on the streets (unless that is their desire!). To do so would be to mar one’s own reputation. No Fae goes hungry or is homeless. Housing is plentiful, as is food, and with the magic wielded by the Faerie, even tougher times during famine or drought everyone is seen through to the other side. Fae’s basic needs are provided such that all can try to pursue more creative, culturally-inclined interests.
