Sprites

The largest country in Desmunda is Flutterhum, and it is only so large because its people are so free. Not only are their laws that govern sprites loose at best, but they are not even limited to the ground or the low speeds those that walk down there are used to. Their stunning wings of many different colours and their Sky tethers are everything to them. Archaic legends tell of sprites being born from the Sky the same way humans are born from Psyche, or elves from Life, or goblins from Flare. This idea is especially popular among foundationists, however not universally agreed upon within that sect. Whatever their ancestry, sprites have mighty advantages over other races when most have the ability to glide and fly - some even without being Sky-tethered - and those sprites with Sky tethers may have powerful aptitudes that make their flights astonishing to watch.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Sprites are almost indistinguishable from humans, or at least they would be if not from the wings extending out from their backs from the shoulder blades. These wings can vary in size from a wing span of a metre to almost four. The former is too small to allow for flight and the latter has so much strength to beat the air it is simply angelic.

Biological Traits

The type of wings a Sprite has on their back is dependant on their bloodline, and some strains are far more respected than others for different aspects of society. The common varieties of wings are that of: birds, insects, dragons, and bats.

Growth Rate & Stages

Sprites have a more drawn out development than humans, but lack the near–immortality of elves. Only forty to fifty years after birth can a sprite be considered adult, possessing wholly mature wings of vibrant colour. Triple digits is where everything starts crumbling away: Wings grow tired, wither, and shrink. Other bones ache and groan and go stiff. Tethers fade away.

Civilization and Culture

Beauty Ideals

Commonly vibrant wings with mesmerising patterns are the most desired and sought after, for they represent joy and artistry. On the other hand, some may be drawn more towards exotic wings that are styled like those of a dragon, in order to display power and ferocity.

Gender Ideals

Because male sprites are generally larger and stronger than females they are more likely to be found in laborious or dangerous jobs, but there is no expectation for it. Instead of set gender roles Sprites believe in the power and demand for loving, compatible relationships. As long as two sprites can form an affectionate bond, get along, and work together to make up for each other's short comings, everything is pleasant.

Common Etiquette Rules

One's wings should always be tucked when it is not necessary for them to be out as to spread one's wings without reason is a seen as aggressive, lacking manners, and brutish. And even with the class-ism created by different dynasties, an insult to one's wings is an insult on their very being and is taken deathly seriously.

Common Dress Code

Flying means carrying as little weight as possible so sprites that can fly tend to show a lot of skin though complete nudity is frowned upon. Anything worn on the torso will have a large opening on the back to account for wings of the user and those that can afford it will have this opening custom fitted for them.

Common Taboos

To a sprite anything that induces the thought of having their wings damaged is highly distressing, to the point where sprites cannot participate in combat in an arena without armour covering and protecting their wings.

Lifespan

65 years

Average Height

1.5 - 2.0 m

Average Weight

45 - 70 kg