Fey Court

*"... and it is imperative that those who journey into the Deepwoods understand the dangers of angering the fey, even if it might seem like mere superstition. It is also worth noting that the fey are known for their love of games and trickery. While some may offer to play games or make deals with travelers, it is important to be cautious. The fey are not bound by mortal laws and can change the rules or outcome of a game at will."*
―Excerpt from “Responsible Travels Through The Deepwoods (2nd Edition, 1891)” by Field Chronicler Armyn Stynài
**The Fey Court** is the collected rites and beliefs often practiced by the denizens of the Deepwoods. Not a religion in the classical sense, as the fey are not considered divine or objects of worship. Rather, it is a collection of stories, traditions, rituals, and rites employed to avoid angering the Fey, or how to appease them.

# History & Theory of Origin

The denizens of the Deepwoods had to constantly be mindful of the Fey, and their emotions. Over the millennia that have passed since the burning of the world tree by Castan Beastbane, a complex system of rites, traditions, and rituals were developed by the wood elven cultures, in order to co-exist with the courts. These are often supported by folklore or stories in which an unwise traveler fails to appease the fey and is subject to misfortune.

The Fey Court as such is an artificial term, meant to encompass all of those oral traditions and rituals practiced by Deepwoods natives, and no real central authority or oversight exists apart from local druids, ritualists, and fey-marked Pactseekers.

A very common misconception is that the fey are malevolent or harmful. This is not the case, and it usually stems from stories of their misdeeds. But in reality, the fey is just like any other culture and should be approached as such, and the vilification done by stories or pulp fiction media actively harms relations and conceptions of the fey.

## The Courts

### The Seelie Court

The Seelie court emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment. They may be more open and expressive, valuing celebrations, festivities, and indulgences. The Seelie Court is often associated with light, life, and joy, and is known to embody a way of life that emphasizes pleasure and joy as the primary aims of life. They are also seen as benevolent, kind, and protective of nature, and are often sought out by travelers and those in need of their help. It should be noted that the Seelie Court is not “good” by our standards, and can be just as cruel and vicious as their Unseelie counterparts.

For those seeking to form a pact with a Fey from the Seelie Court, it is important to remember that they are not bound by the same laws as mortals and their motivations are often inscrutable.

It is recommended to approach with caution and not to become lost in the revelries and pleasures of the Seelie, as you become very susceptible to their pranks or accidentally insult them.

### The Unseelie Court

The Unseelie Court, often seen as the counterpart to the more benevolent Seelie Court, is known for its more somber and disciplined approach to the world of the fey. The Unseelie Court adheres to embracing emotional detachment and self-control, as well as viewing the world with a jaded and skeptical eye.

These fey are often seen as darker and more unpredictable, with a reputation for playing tricks and causing mischief. However, they also value strength, determination, and perseverance, and may view those who anger them as weak or unworthy. The Unseelie Court fey are also often obsessed with the idea of not being forgotten or fading away, which influences their actions and motivations. This means that they might act in ways that are ruthless or cruel, in order to secure their place in the memories of others and ensure their legacy.

To avoid angering the Unseelie Court, it is important to be respectful, and cautious, and avoid making promises one cannot keep. If one does accidentally anger the Unseelie fey, it may be necessary to make amends through a task or quest or to offer a sincere apology.

Pacts with the Unseelie Court are not to be taken lightly, as they demand a great deal of devotion and may require one to make significant sacrifices. However, they can also offer great power and rewards to those who fulfill their obligations.

### Common Rituals and Rites

The following is a list of some of the most common rituals used to appease or avoid angering the Fey. Please note that these rituals have varying effectiveness depending on the Fey, individual, and region, and should not under any circumstances be used as a guide. It is recommended to seek the help of a knowledgeable individual or to consult with a specialist in fey magic before making a pact with a fey:

* Offering gifts such as flowers, food, or small trinkets at the base of a tree or at a crossroads.
* Making a low bow or curtsy when passing by a fey ring or mounds.
* Speaking politely and avoiding sarcasm, proverbs, or insults in the presence of the fey.
* Singing or playing music as a form of tribute.
* Treading lightly and avoiding disturbing the natural surroundings.
* Painting symbols of protection or good luck on one's skin or clothing.
* Carrying a talisman or charm that represents good luck and protection.
* Avoiding picking flowers or fruits in the Deepwoods without asking permission from the fey first.
* Speaking a specific rhyme or chant.
* Acknowledging fey presence with a nod or a whispered blessing.

> *The Order of Chroniclers hereby discharges any responsibility for any and all harm, loss, or liability that may arise from the use of the information provided above for purposes other than informational or educational in nature. The Order of Chroniclers does not endorse any actions taken based on the information and will not be held accountable for any negative consequences that may result from its utilization.*
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