Aelar Faefolk

# Aelar, the faefolk of Sylvaryl

### Body

The Aelar are tall species, with an average height ranging from 1.80 meters to 2.40 meters. Although, they can get as tall as 2.60 meters, and a few of them (mostly grown up far from the Lifstar tree) can get as small as 1.60m. They possess a slender and athletic build, ideal for navigating the vast coniferous forests where they reside, usually keeping their shape by helping their cities grow.

### Lifespan

Their lifespan is still unknown, as they stop aging around 30 years old, owing to their profound connection with nature and the celestial bodies. They usually mature at age 30, and get to the end of their lives at eight hundred years old, when they believe that their souls join the stars.

### Diet

Aelar are predominantly herbivorous, favoring plants and fruits as their primary source of nourishment. They don't usually practice farming, but collect their food from the nature. However, they can adapt and consume blood when faced with an urgent need, or if feeling threatened.

### Physical Attributes

#### Skin Colors

Their skin exhibits a range of earthy tones, encompassing shades of wood-like browns, greens, muted purples, reds, and blues, mirroring the surrounding forest landscape. It ressembles human texture in touch, but are colder and softer.

#### Eye Colors

Aelar's eyes are strikingly vivid, with colors including golden, silvery, emerald green, and deep blue. During magical practices or rituals, their eyes radiate a celestial light. When confronted by strong emotions, their eyes shine almost as lanterns, and their sclera turns deep black.

#### Hair and Tail

They have long hair, often in vibrant shades such as fiery red, aqua blue, or leafy green. Their tails may feature feathered tips, matching the color of their hair and subtly shimmering, or pointed, demon-like ones, in the tone of their skin.

#### Celestial Horns

Prominently, the Aelar possess horns that emerge from the top of their foreheads. These horns are usually consistent with their skin color and often resemble lamb's horns, symbolizing their connection to nature and the celestial realm.

Aelar have a unique tradition regarding their horns that reflects their connection with nature and celestial influences. As the Aelar grow, they develop the habit of tying their horns, allowing them to encourage the desired curvature and shape. This practice is considered an art form, with Aelar often ornamenting their growing horns with intricate designs, carving symbols that are deeply significant to them, and adorning the horns with vibrant gemstones and charms.

In Aelar society, the attractiveness of male and female Aelar can be associated with different horn styles. Males are often deemed more attractive if they possess large, bulging horns, reminiscent of those seen on goats, while preferring fewer curves in their horn structure. In contrast, females favor horns that are thin and curve backward. Some females take it a step further by choosing to cut their horns in half during growth to encourage the development of multiple points. In this context, having more curved and slender horns is considered a "feminine" ideal.

For those who identify outside the traditional male and female gender roles, the practice of horn shaping and ornamentation offers a canvas for self-expression. Nonbinary Aelar might choose horn styles that combine both the masculine and feminine ideals, creating a beautiful and distinctive fusion. They are free to carve, decorate, and adorn their horns in ways that reflect their unique journey of self-discovery and self-expression.

Another intriguing aspect of Aelar horn culture involves the placement of pendants. These pendants serve dual purposes, with some worn for religious significance and others to enhance personal attractiveness. They can include symbols of celestial deities, representations of constellations, and other meaningful motifs.

In times of war, Aelar soldiers take further precautions with their horns, attaching metal "thorns'' to them before heading into battle. This serves the practical function of preventing enemies from grabbing their horns during combat, ensuring the Aelar's safety on the battlefield.

### Species Abilities

* Stellar Magic: The Aelar possess a unique connection with the stars, enabling them to use stellar magic to communicate with celestial deities. They can foresee celestial events, heal with starlight, and channel constellation energy for magical purposes, like crafting illusions and safeguarding the forest. However, their magical capabilities are adapted to align with the constraints of the Minecraft RPG setting.
* Enhanced Physical Traits: Aelar exhibit above-average agility and strength, making them skilled hunters and guardians of the forests. Their athletic abilities also make them adept at climbing, leaping, and moving silently.
* Communion with Nature: The Aelar can communicate with the animals inhabiting the forest and possess an innate understanding of the local flora and fauna. This unique ability allows them to coexist in harmony with the natural world.

### Religion

The Aelar's religious beliefs are deeply intertwined with the celestial bodies. They view the gods of the stars, sun, moon, and constellations as the arbiters of destiny and the harmony of nature. Their rituals include nightly meditations under the stars, ceremonial dances under the moon, and offerings to the forest, paying homage to the celestial deities.

### Culture

The Aelar culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of celestial reverence and the radiant warmth of their souls. Living amidst the majestic coniferous forests, the Aelar embrace a culture that embodies the harmonious coexistence of the celestial and the earthly realms.

* The Warm Embrace: The Aelar are renowned for their welcoming and hospitable nature. Guests are greeted with open arms and hearts, as the Aelar believe that everyone, like the stars, has a place in the cosmic tapestry.
* Cultural Exchanges: The Aelar take joy in cultural exchanges with other inhabitants, sharing their celestial rituals and festivities while eagerly learning about the customs of others.
* Vibrant Arts: Aelar artistry is marked by the intricate depiction of celestial symbols, creating vivid tapestries, sculptures, and jewelry. Music, dance, and storytelling play a central role in their culture, with tales often centered around celestial deities and nature.
* Festivals of Celestial Joy: Aelar festivals are occasions of celestial joy and inclusivity. They celebrate celestial events like meteor showers and eclipses with grand gatherings, where music and dance under the stars unite the community.
* Guardians of the Land: The Aelar see themselves as the guardians of the land, deeply committed to protecting the natural world. Their society places high value on sustainability and coexisting harmoniously with the forest.
* Unity with All Living Beings: Aelar believe in the interconnectedness of all living beings and extend this belief to animals. They communicate with and care for the animals of the forest, forging bonds of trust and unity.

Aelar culture is a testament to the harmony of celestial and earthly elements. Their warmth and welcoming nature are a reflection of the celestial energy that infuses their daily lives, fostering unity, inclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to the balance of nature. Visitors to their city are not just guests; they become part of the cosmic family that is the Aelar culture.

### Background and Origins

The Aelar's origin is rooted in a mystical tree known as the "Lifestar." This magical tree grew exceptionally large due to the presence of a unique space ore that appeared during a rare astronomical event on their land. The Aelar consider the Lifestar a sacred symbol and central to their culture and spirituality, as it embodies the beauty and harmony of the celestial and natural world. This miraculous event paved the way for the creation of the Aelar, who embody the spirit of life and the celestial constellations.