LOVELY '23 - Fairies!
In Aqualis folklore, Fairies are known as benevolent spirits. They are said to be able to pick out the tiniest of details, and in the afterlife, will scrutinize your every behaviour from your previous life--integrity is key. If you see one, it's said to be lucky, as they are watching the demons to make sure you won't be tricked!
In reality, Fairies are often a little tricky themselves. Many can't help themselves but to, well, notice the nice shiny buttons you have on your brand new button-down, and they might just take one so they can remember you forever. At least they'll think of you, right?
Fairies typically live near coasts, or places with water, so they can swim and glide. Small, secluded ponds or creeks can attract them, because they like having lots of space to themselves. Shifters may make "fairy gardens" and hang small houses in trees for them, or make a small stone pond (like a bird bath, called a Fairy Pond) because they are seen as good luck. They typically live in little groups, termed Clusters. Fairies are pretty selfish when it comes to their space or belongings, though, so it wouldn't be uncommon for them to be alone. They like collecting items and it is often you'll see them toting around a small trinket they've just pickpocketed.
Every fairy has at least one Shrimp Body trait, a pair of Aquatic Wings, and Minuteness!
"SHRIMP BODY" TRAITS
Exoskeletal Body: Encased in sturdy exoskeleton, the Shifter's organs are duly protected quite a bit more than human skin might provide. This can be anywhere on their torso, from their shoulders and neck, to their pelvis!
Shrimp Arms: Instead of arms, these Shifters have, well, their shrimp version counterparts! Perfectly lightweight, these bad boys might appear as anywhere from 2 to 8 little arms!
Shrimp Legs: Nimble as ever, Shrimp Legs help take a lot of weight off of their owners during flight--if you don't mind giving up a bit of balance.
AQUATIC WINGS (LOVELY VARIANT)
Separate: Built for gliding, these wings are built into the Fairy's back, and the membrane often stretches down their spines.
Arm: Fresh out of the Fairy's shoulder sockets are Arm Aquatic Wings. They're perfect for gliding, but include an extra little hand at the end for climbing - or pickpocketing!
OTHER TRAITS
Minuteness: Shifters with Minuteness are just about the size of your palm! In shrimp form, they're about the size of your average, human-world shrimp.
Finned Shrimp Tail: A proper aid, the extra fins on this tail helps with both swimming and gliding!