Feng Harpy

*"The easternmost and perhaps most mysterious of all flocks, Feng Harpies are known for their incredible martial prowess and their mastery over wind manipulation. For centuries they terrorized invading forces, be they Harimari, Elf, or Hobgoblin, utilizing the thick jungles of the Xianjie and the terrifying efficiency of their arts to devastating effect. They retain an incredible and unique linguistic and martial culture found nowhere else among Harpykind."*
―Except from "The Nature of Harpies (1903)" by Field Chronicler and Bureau Supervisor of Bulwar, Hydiranya Kindwing
**Feng Harpies** are an ethnic group of harpies that live within the Xianjie region of Haless. They originate from flocks of Siadunan harpies that fled east following the collapse of the Siadanlen Queendom.

### History

The Feng harpies originated from Siadunan harpies that fled Siadanlen following its collapse. Early accounts say that they first settled in Phokhao range and for a time lived in relative isolation. Their first real encounters with Halessi humans, namely the Yan, were violent. Following this, numerous reports of "winged women" raiding and kidnapping appeared, and this would continue for about a century, until an unknown monk order attempted to strike a deal with the harpies, with the financial support of several surrounding villages. The monks of the order were capable of manipulating wind, and so they were able to successfully fend off the attacking harpies, until they were finally able to reach and speak to the matriarch. The leader of the order, who was known for his love of spreading his fighting style to those who wanted to learn, offered to teach this style to the harpies, and in exchange they would end their raids and kidnappings. As part of the deal, the leader also requested that the harpies descend from the mountains, and instead settle in his territory and become his disciples. The matriarch, aware of how exhausted her people were and how easily the monks had defeated them, accepted his offer.

During Harimar's invasion of the Xianjie, many orders fought in a disorganized front against their advance, however in the end Harimar was able to subdue the human monk orders. The harpies were mostly spared, opting to defend in some of the deepest jungles of the Xianjie, being able to effectively utilize hit-and-run tactics to force his forces out. Following Harimar's death, a harpy warrior rallied the remaining forces to drive out the remnants of Harimar's army, earning the harpies a significant a far more significant role in the governance and rule of the orders. It was during this that for the first time in the Xianjie's history that a harpy rose to lead an order of monks.

During the Second Invasion of Xianjie by Jaher, the surrounding villages had been occupied, and harpy resistance mainly took place deep within the jungle. Sun Elven garrisons left behind to defend the occupied territory would be constantly harassed and attacked by both harpy and human forces. Following the ascension of Jaerel and the creation of the Eastern Phoenix Empire, the harpies quickly joined the numerous revolts that were occurring, striking supply lines, and clashing with other orders who were more sympathetic to Jaerel. The jungles and surrounding villages were eventually completely liberated. It was during his 12 years of rule that harpies would be seen in a much more positive light among the other orders, as they were the ones who had liberated and defended them. During Jaerel's rule, the harpy leader of the order at the time also created an elite core of warrior monks whose purpose was to defend against any invader.

### Culture

Feng Harpies primarily follow the Righteous Path, and prefer to reside deep within the jungles of the Xianjie. They were described as "spiritualistic and disciplined," and are known for their proficiency with special staves that aid in their wind manipulation. They dress in attire similar to a monk's robes, and are respected within the Xianjie for their role in fighting against invaders. They also are known for hosting large dance festivals in the jungle, with both humans and harpies partaking in a form of martial arts to dance. It is from these festivals that they derive their name, "Feng." They were also known for being a popular destination for those seeking to study their technique and hone their martial skills.

### The Way of the Dancing Breeze

The Way of the Dancing Breeze was utilized by the Feng harpies, who combined the unknown monk orders unique fighting style and wind manipulation, with their sharp talons and own ability to fly. Over time the style gradually began to be more associated with harpies as opposed to its original human users. The style is notable for it's ability to deflect bullets, as well as being greatly respected and feared due to the Feng harpies wind manipulation allowing them to quickly move and dodge attacks alongside their ability to fly.