The Fallen

Each of the Fallen is unique, as unique as any other creature found in Xùyì. Like humans, they are bipedal, though they rarely grow taller than a foot. Each of the Fallen holds a striking resemblance to frogs, though the degrees of similarity depend on how powerful the creature is. Some others appear more reptilian than others, both physically and mentally, foregoing the cloaks that others have fashioned for themselves upon arrival. Despite the connection drawn to frogs and toads, the appearance feels primordial, regal, in a twisted way. Something meant to be forgotten in history.

Their appearance makes them remarkably distinct, yet the reason why remains uncertain. Their inability to speak, unlike others that have come from above, is another oddity. Some, depending on coloring, are more methodical with their approach to humans. Others, with skin like a confused tiger, are reclusive. There is, however, no scientific backing for this, and many are open to interpretations and experiences with them, the information gathered contradicting itself under examination. The closer someone comes to a conclusion, the more confusing the whole situation becomes.

Common beliefs concerning the Fallen, ironically, come from dreams and waking visions. Within their heaven, the Fallen need not eat, for their needs are met by the life-giving energy of another, higher-ranking creature among them. In this alone, there is contention. The Trel claim that it is the Heavenly Emperor who provides their sustenance, while the Kjurvog believe they hold no value, an anomaly. Their small size makes them seem unskilled, yet there have been rumors of them fighting off carrion birds, lapping greedily at the blood of the recently fallen. Certain groups have tried to harness the power of these little fiends, without much success. Gifts of food and drink are often rejected, fueling the suspicions that they need not eat at all.

The Fallen are considered mean-spirited and little more than a nuisance by most. Their very proximity turns dreams into nightmares, thoughts of love into obsession. Yet, for the depravity they see within the hidden thoughts of others, they are unfazed, drawn in by something. Around their own kind, or similar creatures, they resort to making an odd hissing sound until the other leaves. Rarely, if ever, do they engage in physical confrontations.

• The Fallen can be used for mundane jobs, though it isn't recommended. Crops tend to wither and die when they're tasked with watching over them. Allowing them into houses is asking to be robbed.
• Warlocks and all those who interact with spirits will often seek out these little creatures, hoping for them to act as an additional source of power. These creatures are believed to increase magical potency.
• Because of their innate ability to sniff out souls, adventurers sometimes use these creatures as a compass of sorts. However, unlike a Dwarf, the souls they discover are indiscriminate. It is believed that a Fallen was responsible for the discovery of the Under-Dwellers. Similarly, they are adept at finding magical artifacts.

The Fallen are originally carried into this world wherever magic is performed that pierces through their heaven. However, once they are summoned, they will instinctively begin moving towards the north, stopping wherever others are present. Ironically, larger cities sometimes have fewer Fallen, despite the population. Still, their numbers are relatively low in any given settlement, rarely reaching past a dozen. Some Fallen will follow the person who summoned them around, though they are often seen as a sign of bad luck.

Many of the Elder Races had forged world-shaking spells, none more so than the Elves. The fallen creatures, intended to be their servants and guardians within the afterlife, had their paradise destroyed and exploited through magical experiments. Weapons, bound to the souls of their master, are those which these claim to care for, maintaining their excellency, for the Elves have lost their ability to reach their gods. When these weapons are drawn into the mortal realms, many of these creatures are captured alongside them, flung through what remains of the Great Plan until they reach Xùyì.

With no known way of returning to their original homes, these creatures wander the lands, observing the ways of this world from the shadows, hated and reviled by almost all.

The Fallen have an aversion towards Elves, showing their detest without fear or remorse. They avoid the majority of other races, attempting to harvest their life-energies from the shadows. The Fallen, unlike other denizens of that heaven, were free spirits. Feeding on emotions, especially among the Dreamers, the Fallen will often encourage or manipulate the emotions. Dreams fall apart, and the victim wakes up experiencing a euphoria of oftentimes conflicting feelings, some awoken by their own laughter, though genuine tears wet their pillow.