By Colin Chapman (col.chapman@virgin.net)
For all the evils perpetrated against them, the Nymphs find violence and aggressive action difficult, preferring to frighten off interlopers. Many live as recklessly and carefree as ever before, perhaps hoping to forget the death that looms ever closer. Growing up as mortals, just like changelings, the Nymphs find themselves 'called' by a deep felt urge; lured to a place of great natural beauty and peace. These areas of natural wonder become their glade, and they usually awaken to their fae nature there, bonding with the glade as their new home, abandoning all ties with their previous lives. They become the heart of these isolated refuges, and protect them as best they can.
Found throughout the globe, Nymphs are known by many names. Those of the land include the Dryads (of forest and tree), Napaeae (of glens and groves), and Oreads (of cave and grotto). Those of the water include the Crenae (of springs), Limnads (of pond and pool), Naiads (of stream), Potamids (of the river), and Nereids (of the sea). Nixies are the Crenae and Potamids of Germanic lands, Gwragedd Annwn are the Limnads of Wales, and Undines govern water in Britain.
Extremely comely, they disdain clothing, and resemble graceful and beautiful people with pointed ears. They take on the elemental form of whatever they are near, becoming translucent when in watery environs, or having bark-like skin and green leaf-like hair while emerging from a tree for example.
Wilder Nymphs are fond of dance and mischievous love, and often watch trespassers with great curiosity.
Grump Nymphs are extremely rare, most preferring to scare off strangers as soon as possible.