| One of the greatest mysteries of Narvidia is the people known as the
Alfyrians. They are elvish in appearance, and are classified as fey creatures, though they are
unlike any creatures Narvidia has ever known. They have often been referred to as a type of
nymph, due to the fact that they have been known to manipulate pure earth-metals, just as
different breeds of nymphs are able to manipulate their element. They have also been compared to dwarves because of their metal-lore and domain far in the mountains.
Alfyrians, as recorded in histories, are said to have "descended from the heavens in great flying
ships, unlike any crafts that have sailed upon the waters of Narvidia." Also, the Alfyrians themselves
have commented that they come from "a land beyond the stars." Although most have dismissed
this as too strange for fact, the technological edge of the Alfyrian race is undeniable. The
Alfyrains brought to Narvidia the marvels of the steam engine, gunpowder, and explosives. These
technologies have been used exclusively in Alfyrian society, as other regions of Narvidia fear
these new inventions and deem them as black and unholy magic.
Alfyrians are tied to the minerals of the earth as sylphs are tied to the air and undine are tied
to the water. Each Alfyrian is born under a certain metal, referred to as their "birthmetal", which
they, with practice, can manipulate by force of mind. The birthmetal that an Alfyrian is
born under is determined by a year-cycle of climate and weather. Often, a child's birthmetal
is known before the baby is actually born. In addition to manipulation, Alfyrians are dependent
upon their birthmetal. If an Alfyrian is not near or does not make contact with his birthmetal
for a prolonged period of time--usually around a week--, he will weaken and, in some
cases, die.
Alfyrians appear mostly elvish, with longer, flatter ears. They tend to be taller and have more
natural strength then elves, being built more like humans. Also, their eyes--which are always
yellow-green in color--are extremely sensitive to light. They are able to see in even the
darkest conditions, as they can see infrared-heat waves.
As a general rule, Alfyrians are devout Virtuists. Often, one sees a symbol of Virtuism tattooed
upon their foreheads as a symbol of their beliefs. They have even composed a calendar of
Virtues that are associated with their birthmetal, so that their Virtue can be enforced from
birth.
Seen as outcasts to the rest of Narvidia, and being dependent upon the metals of the
earth, it comes as no surprise that the Alfyrians have made their home up in the secluded and
mineral-rich mountains in the north. They rarely venture out of their territory, and are
rarely visited by the other people of Narvidia. They remain an illusive and secretive race,
both respected and feared by the other races. |
