Glamor is the word used for the magickal abilities that are always attributed to Faeries. Much of it stems from the Faeries own mutable nature. Although always very small naturally, most Faeries can change from their form to appear any size or shape. This is usually some clue that lets a careful observer tell that a creature might be a Faerie in disguise. For instance a horse might have that spark of intelligence in its eyes that an animal just shouldn't have. Faeries masquerading as humans usually have some exaggerated feature or abnormality, such as pointy ears, a long nose or club feet. A Faerie may of course try to hide such features. Certain Faeries are known to prefer certain forms, the Hyter sprite for instance, commonly takes the form of a Sand Martin.
Although often portrayed in their natural forms as possessing wings, these appendages are not needed by Faeries to fly. In addition of being highly mutable in nature, they are also in their normal form quite insubstantial as well. By letting themselves become almost gaseous in consistency, a Faerie can float through the air with ease. Taking it even farther, Faeries can become so insubstantial, that they are impossible to see. Humans who are busy with much more important concerns are not likely to see a Faerie in its true form, and if they do, will probably just catch sight of something out of the corner of their eye, then lose it again. Most animals being much more alert and perceptive than humans are not as easily as fooled by the wee folk. Dogs, cats and horses will often become agitated by the presence of invisible Faeries. Humans are able to see invisible Faeries when they apply a special ointment to their eyes, this ointment is made only by Faeries who will be quite upset by its misuse.
Some Faeries posess an even stronger Glamor. They are able to affect objects other than themselves. Many of these are Trickster Faeries, who use these abilites to create mischief. These abities most often include illusions, which can distract or confuse men. Faerie food or gold are not to be trusted for they are seldom what they seem.
Many Faeries use Glamor as a means of instantanious transport. Just before departing a place many Faeries are heard to utter "Horse and Hattock", or some other magickal phrase, occasionally including the destination as well. Bold mortals are sometimes able to tag along with the Faeries by repeating the same cry. They may however, end up in an unusual place. |
