Swanmay
Basic Information
Anatomy
Swanmays appear as beautiful, graceful humanoids, typically feminine in form with heights ranging from 5'6" to 6'. They possess an ethereal quality that hints at their fey nature. In their natural form, they have fair skin that often seems to have a subtle pearlescent quality, especially in moonlight. Their hair typically ranges from platinum blonde to pure white.
Their most distinctive feature is their ability to transform into magnificent swans. In swan form, they maintain their intelligence and awareness while gaining the natural capabilities of these graceful birds.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Swanmays are omnivorous, with a preference for foods found near wetlands and forests. They particularly favor water plants, fish, and various aquatic creatures. In swan form, they maintain similar dietary preferences to natural swans.
Behaviour
Swanmays are characterized by their dedication to protecting natural spaces, particularly wetlands and forests. They are typically solitary or gather in small groups called sororities. Their dual nature makes them excellent mediators between the civilized world and wilderness.
They possess a strong sense of justice and are invariably good-aligned, taking their role as protectors of nature seriously. Swanmays are selective in revealing their true nature, typically only doing so to those who have proven themselves worthy of trust.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Swanmays possess keen eyesight and an innate connection to natural environments. They have low-light vision and can communicate with various animals, particularly waterfowl. More experienced Swanmays develop the ability to speak with both animals and plants.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Favor names that reflect natural elements, particularly those associated with water and air. Often incorporate syllables that can be easily pronounced in both humanoid and swan form. May take new names upon joining a sorority
- Cygnara (Swan-song)
- Linnaea (Lake-heart)
- Plumara (Feather-grace)
History
Swanmays trace their origins to Fionnghuala, a human ranger who sacrificed herself defending King Oberon of the Seelie Court from the Queen of Air and Darkness. In recognition of her selfless bravery, Oberon resurrected her as a demigod, while Queen Titania granted her a magical white feather that transformed her into the first Swanmay.
Following Fionnghuala's ascension, the Seelie Court established the Order of the Swan, a secret society dedicated to protecting wilderness areas. The order carefully selects its members, accepting only those who demonstrate both the capability and dedication to serve as guardians of nature.
The transformation into a Swanmay is a form of induced lycanthropy, but one that maintains harmony with both natural and fey forces. Each new Swanmay receives a magical token - often a feather, ring, or garment - that enables their transformation.
Over time, Swanmays have established themselves as guardians of various wetlands and forests throughout the realms. They maintain a particularly strong presence in areas where the Material Plane intersects with the Feywild, often serving as protectors of these transitional zones.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
Cygnus'quessir (Swan People)
Origin/Ancestry
Created through blessed transformation by the Seelie Court
Lifespan
300 - 500
Average Height
5'6 to 6' ( humanoid form )
Average Weight
120 - 160 pounds ( humanoid form )