Fae

Etymology
“Fae” is a derivative of the word “fairy,” whom are a type of mythical being or legendary creature in European folklore, a form of spirit, often described as metaphysical, supernatural, or preternatural.

Origin
The Fae are categorized into three types: the Seelie Court, the Unseelie Court, and the unaffiliated. They can be found throughout the world in various forms and species.

Characteristics
Fae come in all different kinds of shapes and forms, some appearing to be of material flesh and blood, while others may be more spiritual or supernatural, although they are represented by the Sidhe, with a human-like features and strong affinity for magic.

Sidhe
The Sidhe (pronounced Shee) are the current-day Fae, characterized by their human-like appearance and their strong affinity for magic. They are generally shorter in stature when compared to humans.

Dullahan
The Dullahans are spiritual beings that come from the Otherworld. Recognized as headless riders, they are tasked to maintain order by collecting the souls of the departed and taking them to the Otherworld to be judged.

Mare
Mares are spiritual Fae that take the form of various animals, appearing as if made from an oily, black substance. They share a mutual relationship with the Dullahans, acting as their mounts.

Values
The Seelie Court are the Fae best recognized for their kind nature, willing to seek help from others, to warn those who have accidentally offended them, and to return kindness with favors of their own. Seelie Court Fae expect courtesy and favors to be fulfilled; otherwise, they demand retribution and avenge what they see as insult or offense.

The Unseelie Court consists of the darkly-inclined Fae. Unlike the Seelie Court, no offense is necessary to bring down their assaults. As a host, they can appear at night and assault travelers, beating them or forcing them to commit acts against their will. The Unseelie Court is typically seen as the "nastier" of the two courts in comparison to the Seelies, mostly because the dark acts of the Unseelies are done more openly.

Like the beings of the Seelie Court who are not always benevolent, neither are the Fae of the Unseelie Court always malevolent.

Gan Caenn
Best known as the Headless Horseman, Gan is the most well-known of the Dullahan riders, his title being synonymous with Death. He is the leader of the Dullahans and recognized as the head of the Unseelie Court.