Myrial Birds

Overview:

The Myrial Birds were a unique and vibrant species of avian creatures native to Teralt.
Myrial Birds were most commonly found in secluded and non-populated regions, particularly in dense forests or near hidden mountain springs. They are considered one of Teralt's natural wonders, and their rare appearance has given rise to various legends.
Rare artifacts such as their preserved feathers or skeletons are considered priceless treasures, many hidden away in Heyvus, the Hoarder's collection.

Appearance:

• Size: Medium to large, with an average wingspan of 3 to 5 feet.
• Feathers: Their plumage is what sets them apart, displaying an almost magical array of colors that seem to shimmer and change with the light. These colors often reflect the natural surroundings of their habitat.
• Eyes: Large, expressive eyes that mirror the hues of their feathers.
• Beak and Talons: Delicate but sharp, adapted to their predominantly insectivorous diet.

The Myrial Birds were an extraordinary species of avian creatures native to Teralt. With vibrant feathers that shimmered in a spectrum of iridescent colors, these birds were not only breathtakingly beautiful but also possessed a unique ability to mimic complex sounds, including the melodies of instruments and even human speech. Their songs were considered ethereal and enchanting, often described as music that could soothe the soul. Some ancient texts even attributed mystical properties to their songs, claiming they could heal the wounded or guide lost travelers safely through treacherous landscapes.

Behavior and Habits:

Primarily insectivorous, Myrial Birds have a preference for butterflies and moths, but will also consume berries and fruits. They build intricate nests in tall trees or hidden crevices, decorated with natural materials like moss, stones, and their own iridescent feathers, attracting their prey.
They are known for a hauntingly beautiful song that varies between birds, their emotions, and their surroundings. It is said these songs are the source of human creativity, and when they begin their elaborate dances during mating season, those that witness are gifted with good luck and are touched to their core.

Cultural Significance:

Frequently featured in traditional art, poetry, and folklore, these birds have inspired countless works and expressions of admiration. They had an incredible impact on the artists of yore, and their imagery is frequently seen in ruins. Much of Sireneon's Andron artwork is inspired by the dance of the Myrial Birds.
Their loss is deeply felt and mourned by many cultures. Some believe that hidden populations may still exist in the most remote parts of Teralt.

Symbolism

Known for their ethereal beauty and dazzling array of colors, Myrial Birds were once symbols of purity, elegance, and the untamed beauty of nature. They often represent a connection to the spiritual or mystical.
They were often associated with grace and majesty, but have become a poignant symbol of Teralt's lost innocence and natural splendor, and their absence is mourned by poets and naturalists who still remember their songs and beauty.
Bards across Teralt have adopted the Myrial Bird as the symbol of their profession, representing the creative mind and their purpose— to prevent the loss of treasured tales.

Decline and Extinction

The demise of the Myrial Birds was a slow and tragic process, tied to the changing landscape of Teralt. The invasion of the Traveling Parent and the subsequent rise of the Ancients led to significant alterations in the world. The spread of mutated giant beasts, deforestation, and the rampant use of Ancient Elixir and Imustones altered the ecosystems where the Myrial Birds thrived.
Poaching for their beautiful feathers and mystical songs further contributed to their decline. Their nests and eggs were sought after as exotic treasures, and many Myrial Birds were captured to be kept as coveted pets. Over time, their numbers dwindled, and the Myrial Birds became a fading natural wonder. Eventually, they were presumed extinct, their songs silenced, and their brilliance lost to the annals of history as they passed into legend.

Legends and Myths:

Myrial Birds are central to various myths, often linked to divine beings or celestial events. In some tales, the appearance of a Myrial Bird is considered an omen of good fortune or a sign from the divine.
It is said the birds were dreamt into existence by The Gaean, as a gift to his lover, Andromeda.
Legends also tell of an everlasting Myrial Bird living at the peak of The Mountain of Living Winds, awaiting those worthy enough to hear its songs.
Their haunting melodies and iridescent beauty continue to live on in the collective memory of historians and bards, a bittersweet echo of a time when magic and nature danced in harmony.

Lifespan

50 years

Average Height

1.5 feet or 45 cm

Average Weight

7 lbs or 3.1 kg

Average Length

4 feet or 1.2 meters

Geographic Distribution

• The Heartwood Forest