The Creature Compendium

Nymphs, a cousin to the dryad, are nature spirits found in bodies of water. Native primarily to the Mediterranean, they are fierce when provoked.

Category: Aquatic

History

Nymphs are a type of demigod from Greek mythology, nature spirits that represent bodies of water. Nymphs are all female; their male children frequently become heroes or demigods in their own right, female children are born as nymphs.

Traits and Behavior

Nymphs appear as humanoid women in their prime when seen. Their coloration resembles the body of water in which they dwell, and their hair will often appear as seaweed or other plant-life. Nymphs rarely leave their body of water, but can do so if needed. They cannot go more than a few yards away before they begin to dry out, as their bodies consist largely of water. When submerged entirely, many nymphs are bioluminescent.

Unlike some other aquatic creatures, nymphs generally remain close to shore, living in underwater caves or rocky outcroppings. They prefer large groups, often made up of several generations. While long-lived, nymphs are not immortal and their life-span on average ranges between 2-5 centuries. Oceanic nymphs generally live longer, but an increase in pollution plays a roll in lowering their lifespan.

Nymphs have a degree of control over the water, especially the water of their own home. While one nymph may be able to drown one individual using this ability, their true power comes in groups. A group of nymphs can create and control storm systems up to hurricanes and typhoons. They are known to have sunk entire fleets of ships when truly enraged. Despite this, nymphs are typically quick to calm down afterwards and retreat to their dwelling once the storm has passed.

Areas where nymphs reside are difficult to differentiate from unoccupied bodies of water. They will have fresh clear water, minimal to no trash, and there may be spaces cleared for the nymphs to sit above water, but little else. Nymph water has some cleansing and healing factors, depending on the number of nymphs residing in the area. Their waters are usually in remote areas, and are known to make a person uncomfortable if approached or entered. Most report the feeling as foreboding, and the urge to leave the area immediately is common.

Weaknesses

Nymphs will dry out if removed from their body of water for long periods of time, especially in the heat or strong sun. Any water access will temporarily keep them alive, but only their own waters are sufficient for long term survival. A nymph can move their waters, but only through traveling with it, either along a stream or through rain.

Pollution or any damage to their waters ecosystem will cause severe health effects and can eventually cause death. If the nymphs of an area die, their waters will dry out entirely.

Nymphs are at their most dangerous when angered, but are quick to calm. A heartfelt apology will be of some benefit, and they are fond of gifts from inland places they cannot visit if a gift or offering is needed to soothe them. Nymphs are generally angered by trespassers or threats to their waters.