Oilliphéist

River Wyrms

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Oilliphéist possess long, serpentine bodies with reptilian heads, with sharp fangs, horns and finlike ears. A ridge of fins extends the entire length of their backs and tails, ending in forked fins. They are covered head to tail in shimmering scales.

Ecology and Habitats

Also called Lake Wyrms, Oilliphéist are believed to originate with Tomhaidhm (Lake-Burst) Bleeds, spontaneous creations of large lakes, rivers and other bodies of water that erupt as a result of magical instability, but have since spread to other fresh-water river sources, provided they are deep enough to support the creatures.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Oilliphéist were first recorded in Sionna's River, the largest river on Emain Ablach, but the species spread to Albia and the Armorican Peninsula, then to Southern regions of Kornôgel.

Civilization and Culture

Common Taboos

The Oilliphéist greatly dislike music, and will either attack the player or retreat in an attempt to silence the sound. They are especially perturbed by bagpipes

Common Myths and Legends

The creature is rumored to have been created by the primordial witch Caoránach. The gods attempted to slay the witch, but her body tumbled into Sionna's River and was lost. Her bones shattered on the rocks below, staining the rocks red and releasing a small worm which drew from Sionna's river and grew to its monstrous size

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Wyrm

Scientific Name

Taniyn Nahr

Conservation Status

It is unclear how many Oilliphéist exist throughout Alvez, existing in deep rivers and lakes across both Bedouar and Faerie.

Geographic Distribution

• Fortunate Isles